The Circle of Cushions

Willow shifted on her plush purple cushion, her eight-month belly making every position uncomfortable. The Pregnancy Club's gentle lighting cast warm shadows across the circle of expecting mothers.

"Alright, everyone," she said with a grin, her green eyes sparkling. "Who wants to share their week's adventures?"

Sarah raised her hand. "My husband bought seventeen baby blankets yesterday. Seventeen!"

The group erupted in giggles. Willow laughed too, though something twisted in her stomach. Not the baby—something else entirely.

"That's nothing," Maya chimed in. "My mother-in-law sent a list of 'proper' baby names. All forty-three of them start with the letter M."

More laughter filled the cozy space. Willow touched her belly absently, wondering what her own baby would be called. She had picked three names, but somehow none felt right yet.

"Before we start today's yoga," Willow announced, "remember that every journey is different. Every story matters, even the uncertain ones."

The Unexpected Delivery

The yoga mats were spread in their familiar circle when Willow felt the first sharp pain. She breathed through it, thinking it was just another Braxton Hicks contraction.

"Let's start with our breathing exercises," she said, settling onto her mat. The other women followed her lead, but Maya noticed Willow's face.

"Are you okay?" Maya whispered.

Another pain hit, stronger this time. Willow's green eyes widened. "I think—"

Her water broke right there on the purple yoga mat.

"Oh my goodness!" Sarah jumped up. "The baby's coming!"

Chaos erupted. Someone called an ambulance while Maya grabbed towels from the supply closet. Willow found herself surprisingly calm despite the mess.

"I can't believe this is happening here," she laughed between contractions. "Of all places!"

A jogger passing by the window stopped and knocked. "Do you need help? I'm a nurse!"

The woman rushed in, taking charge immediately. "What's your name, honey?"

"Willow," she gasped. "And I don't know who the father is, but right now I don't care. This baby wants to meet the world!"

The jogger smiled. "That's the spirit. Let's deliver your little one."