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November 19, 2022 | Atlanta Georgia
12:16 P.M.

That weekend, Rashad pulled into the driveway of Ebony's house, his palms slightly sweaty as he gripped the steering wheel.

The weight of the moment pressed down on him—meeting Solar's mom and stepping into a space he had no idea he'd ever be invited to.

He glanced at the small bouquet of flowers he'd picked up from the florist that morning and sighed.

It felt like a small gesture, but it was all he could think to bring.

He stepped out of the car, adjusted his shirt, and walked up to the front door.

Before he could knock, the door opened, revealing Ebony who stood with her arms crossed but wore a polite smile.

"You must be Rashad," she said, her eyes scanning him like a protective mother.

"Yes, ma'am," he said, his voice steady. He extended the flowers toward her. "I brought these for you. I know it's not much, but I wanted to show my gratitude for everything you've done for Solar."

Ebony raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised, but took the flowers with a nod of appreciation. "Thank you. Come on in."

He stepped inside, taking in the warmth of the home. The walls were adorned with family photos, many of them featuring a younger Solar with her mother. There was a distinct coziness to the space that put him slightly at ease.

"Solar's in the living room," Ebony said, motioning toward the door down the hall. "But before you go in there, let me say something."

Rashad turned back to her, standing a little straighter.

"I don't know much about you, but I know enough to know my daughter's been through a lot these past few months," Ebony said firmly, her eyes narrowing slightly. "She's strong—like me—but that doesn't mean she doesn't need support. If you're serious about stepping up, then you need to be all in. No half-measures, no disappearing when things get hard. Do you understand me?"

"Yes, ma'am," Rashad said without hesitation. "I understand completely. I don't plan on going anywhere. I want to be there for Solar and my daughter. I mean that."

Ebony studied him for a moment, her sharp gaze softening slightly. "Good. Because if you don't, you'll have to answer to me."

Rashad gave her a small smile. "Understood."

With that, Ebony stepped aside, letting him pass through the hallway and into the living room.

Solar was seated on the couch, her legs propped up on a pillow. She was wearing a loose red sweater and black leggings, her hand resting on her growing belly as she flipped through a baby book.

When she looked up and saw him, her expression shifted—part surprise, part curiosity.

"You made it," she said softly, closing the book.

"Of course," Rashad said, stepping further into the room. "I told you I'd show up."

Solar gestured for him to sit in the armchair across from her, and he did, his nerves settling as they fell into a more familiar rhythm.

"How are you feeling?" he asked.

"Tired, but good," she said, rubbing her belly absentmindedly. "The baby's been active this morning. I think she's ready to meet the world already."

Rashad chuckled, glancing at her belly. "She's got some energy, huh?"

"Yeah," Solar said with a small smile. "She'll probably take after me."