When 3 turns into 4

Two futures

The nightlight cast soft shadows across the wall as Lucy cuddled into her pillow and Eli sat upright, fidgeting with his blanket.

I sat on the edge of Lucy's bed, Ric settling beside Eli across the room.

The room was quiet, warm, safe.

"Mummy," Lucy whispered, "where are the babies going to sleep?"

"Probably in our room at first," I said gently. "So we can take care of them at night."

Eli frowned. "But what if they cry all the time?"

"They probably will," Ric replied, honest. "Babies do that."

"What if they need you all the time?" Lucy asked. "Will you still have time for us?"

My heart cracked a little.

I reached out and tucked her hair behind her ear.

"Always," I said. "You and Eli were my first babies. That never changes."

Ric added, "And you two are the only ones who get ice cream for dinner when Daddy's in charge."

Lucy giggled. Eli grinned.

"But it's okay to feel nervous," I said, voice soft. "Even a little unsure."

"Do you feel nervous?" Eli asked.

I smiled. "Sometimes. But I also feel really lucky."

Lucy reached out and touched my belly. "Me too."

Ric leaned over, held my eyes across the room.

And I knew — they were okay.

⸻

The Next Morning – Arsenal Women's Facility, 10:03 AM

The kids were off at school — smiles wide, cereal on their cheeks, bouncing with excitement.

I walked into the women's side of the Arsenal training ground, greeted with familiar warmth.

"Look who it is," Katie called, already in her warm-up gear.

"She's glowing!" Viv teased, coming in for a hug.

Renee waved me into her office. "You look... peaceful."

"Finally," I laughed. "Well, mostly. It's twins."

Her eyes widened. "You're kidding."

"Nope."

She grinned. "I'll start designing your double maternity plan."

We chatted briefly about my training timeline, adjusting upcoming matches, and keeping things flexible.

Supportive. Empowering.

Exactly what I needed.

⸻

Later That Morning – Arsenal Men's Training Pitch

I crossed over quietly, making my way to the sideline with a few other partners already gathered.

One of them smiled and offered a seat on the bench.

"You're Riccardo's partner, right?"

"Elenora," I nodded, sitting beside her.

"I'm Layla," she said, pointing out her fiancé mid-drill. "And that's Alana. Her husband's in midfield."

Alana waved. "We've heard so much about you."

"Oh no," I laughed. "All good things?"

Layla smirked. "All lovesick things."

Ric caught sight of me between drills — winked, then tripped slightly trying to show off.