The Pink Pillow Plan

Cece stared at her reflection in the pregnancy club's bathroom mirror, adjusting the pink pillow stuffed under her designer sweater. The fabric stretched awkwardly over the fake bump.

"This is ridiculous," she muttered, smoothing down her wavy blonde hair. Her blue eyes sparkled with annoyance. "Mom and Dr. Peterson think this will help me lose weight? Pretending to carry five babies?"

The bathroom door creaked open. A woman with curly red hair and kind green eyes peeked in.

"Oh, sorry! I'm Sarah. Are you new to the club?"

Cece turned sideways, displaying her pillow bump proudly. "I'm Cece. And yes, I'm expecting quintuplets."

Sarah's eyes widened. "Five babies? Wow! That's incredible. How far along are you?"

Cece's mind raced. She hadn't thought about details. "Um, four months?"

"You must be exhausted. Come on, let's get you some herbal tea. The other moms will want to meet you."

As they walked toward the cozy lounge area filled with expecting mothers, Cece felt the pillow shift uncomfortably. Something strange tingled in her stomach.

The Tea Circle Truth

Sarah led Cece into the main lounge where a circle of comfortable chairs held six other women. A smart woman with short brown hair and caring brown eyes looked up from her knitting.

"Everyone, meet Cece! She's expecting quintuplets," Sarah announced cheerfully.

The women gasped and gathered around. The short-haired woman, who appeared to be in her thirties, set down her knitting needles. "I'm Dr. Martinez, but call me Elena. I'm a pediatrician and also expecting my first." Her dark eyes sparkled with professional interest. "Five babies is extremely rare. Who's your doctor?"

Cece's stomach dropped. "Um, Dr. Peterson."

Elena frowned. "I know most obstetricians in town. Where's his practice?"

The other women leaned forward expectantly. Cece felt the pillow shift again, and that strange tingling sensation grew stronger. Her face flushed pink to match her sweater.

"He's... new," Cece stammered, backing toward the bathroom. "Excuse me, I need to adjust something."

She hurried away, leaving the circle of women exchanging puzzled glances. Sarah followed her, concerned.

"Are you feeling alright, honey?"