Chapter Five: The Baby Shower

The backyard of Vinnie's house had been completely transformed. Twinkling string lights hung between trees, casting a warm glow over the guests mingling around pastel blue decorations. A massive "Welcome Baby Milo" sign stood next to the dessert table, where cupcakes with tiny teddy bear toppers sat neatly arranged. Balloons in shades of blue, white, and gold swayed gently in the breeze.

Coraline stood near the gift table, watching in amusement as Jett and Mia argued over who brought the better present.

"Dude, mine is obviously better," Jett scoffed, holding up a neatly wrapped box. "A mini basketball hoop for his crib? He's basically set for the NBA."

Mia rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. "Okay, but mine is practical. I got them a baby bottle warmer so they're not struggling at 2 AM."

Jett smirked. "Yeah, but mine's fun."

Vinnie strolled over just in time to hear Jett's argument and shook his head. "Bro, he's gonna be like two feet tall—he's not dunking on anyone anytime soon."

"Details," Jett shrugged, handing the box to Coraline with a grin. "You'll thank me later."

Coraline laughed, placing the gift on the table before linking her arm with Vinnie's. "I still can't believe you guys pulled all of this together."

Vinnie looked around, taking in the decorations, the people who had come to celebrate, and most importantly—the way Coraline was glowing, her happiness evident in every smile. "You deserve it," he said softly, pressing a kiss to her temple.

Just then, Vinnie's mom walked over, holding a plate of food. "Alright, Coraline, have you eaten yet?"

Coraline groaned. "Not you too."

"Yes, me too," his mom said, placing the plate in her hands. "You're carrying my grandbaby, so you better be eating."

Vinnie smirked. "Told you she'd be on you about that."

Coraline shot him a playful glare but took a bite anyway. "Satisfied?"

His mom smiled triumphantly. "For now."

A sudden pop sounded behind them, followed by a squeal. Everyone turned to see Mia clutching a popped balloon, her eyes wide with shock. "WHY DID NO ONE WARN ME THAT WAS A CONFETTI BALLOON?!"

Jett burst out laughing as blue confetti rained down on her. "You literally helped set them up!"

"I forgot!" she huffed, shaking confetti from her hair.

Coraline giggled while Vinnie shook his head. "This is why we don't let Mia near party decorations."

Mia stuck her tongue out at him before dramatically flopping onto one of the patio chairs.

Vinnie looked over at Coraline, who was still laughing, her hand absentmindedly resting on her belly. His heart swelled. This—this—was the kind of moment he would remember forever.

"Alright," his mom clapped her hands together, "time for presents!"

Vinnie groaned. "Do we have to?"

Jett smirked. "Oh, we absolutely have to."

As they moved toward the gift table, Vinnie couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. He had been nervous about becoming a dad, but with Coraline by his side and this chaotic but loving group surrounding them, he knew one thing for sure—

Milo was already so, so loved.

@VinnieHacker posted on his story

@Caroline.M posted on her story

To Be Continued...