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Though Frank and Mel loved their townhouse, they knew, after a year of marriage, it was time to upgrade into a larger family home.
Becca had transitioned to independent living, but still needed her own space during visits. Tanner and Millie, now 8 and 6, originally shared a room on Frank’s weekends, but that wasn’t a permanent solution.
Both being attendings, they had a solid budget, though Mel was more determined to stick to the lower end of it than Frank. Eventually, they found the perfect place: 4bed/4bath, large basement, big kitchen, nice backyard, same school district, reasonable commute to PTMC. Needing some TLC, pre-move in construction, without kids and Noodle the goldendoodle underfoot, was ideal.
They finished the basement first, building a playroom, laundry room, and Becca’s bedroom and bathroom.
Painting was next. For their rooms, Millie wanted an undersea theme, while Tanner chose superheroes. Though Mel would normally suggest DIY to save money, they hired professionals. Exposure to most paints isn’t pregnancy-safe (they hadn’t wanted to jinx it, but expanding their family was also a reason for upgrading).
Millie’s mural turned out beautifully, jellyfish and various sea creatures adorning the walls. Tanner’s walls featured giant superhero decals.
As Frank pulls into their new home’s driveway, he takes a moment to be grateful that this is his life.
Tonight, Tanner’s at a sleep over. Mel’s helping Millie decide on furniture placement before next week’s move-in.
Coming upstairs to greet them, Frank’s surprised to hear sniffling, pausing on the landing.
Mel’s voice is soothing, “It’s okay, change is hard, being sad is normal.”
“That’s not it,” Millie whimpers.
“Can you tell me why you’re sad, then?”
Millie hiccups, “Will you and Daddy still love me? When the new baby comes?”
Mel’s surprised, “Of course, honey! Why wouldn’t we?”
“Sophia from school said when her baby brother came, her mommy only played with him. Since she’s not a baby, her mommy didn’t want her anymore.”
Frank knows this is normal, but it’s still hard to hear. He sneaks closer, seeing Mel snuggling Millie in her lap.
“Sweetie, having a new baby doesn’t mean we love you any less. Just the opposite! More people means more love!”
Millie wipes her nose, sniffling, “Really?”
Mel kisses Millie’s hair, “Of course! Your dad and I love you and Tanner very much! A baby can’t replace you, you’re one of a kind!”
Mel shifts gears slightly, “The baby will get a lot of attention at first. Daddy and I have to do everything for them, they can’t do big kid things like you and Tanner. Does that make sense?”
Millie ponders momentarily, then nods. Mel continues, “It’s a big change, but I know you’ll be a great big sister.”
Millie seems satisfied. “I love you, Melly.”
“I love you too, Millie. Always.”
They’re a dynamic duo, his girls. Millie and Melly, two peas in a pod, soon to be joined by a new baby sister.
Frank’s heart is so full. He truly couldn’t be happier.