Chapter 34: Sharing the News

Ryan pulled up to Erica's house, a smile on his face as he thought about seeing Ashley. They had talked earlier that day, but she had mentioned she was going to Erica's, and he wanted to surprise her. He grabbed his phone and dialed her number, waiting for her to pick up. "Hey," Ashley said, her voice cheerful on the other end of the line. "Hey, where are you?" Ryan asked, already knowing the answer. "I'm at Erica's," Ashley replied. "Okay, I'll be right there," Ryan said, hanging up the phone. Twenty minutes later, Ryan pulled up to Erica's house and walked up to the door. He knocked a few times, and Erica answered, a smile on her face. "Hey, come on in," Erica said, stepping aside to let Ryan in. Ryan walked into the living room, scanning the room for Ashley. He spotted her on the couch, a big smile on her face. "Hey," Ryan said, walking over to give Ashley a kiss on the cheek. Ashley laughed and pulled back, her eyes sparkling. "I have some news to share with you," she said, her voice barely containing her excitement. Ryan sat down beside her, his eyes locked on hers. "What is it?" he asked. Ashley took a deep breath, her words tumbling out. "The doctor says we can start trying in about three months," she said, her face alight with excitement. Ryan's expression didn't change. He simply stood there, his eyes fixed on some point in front of him. Ashley felt a flutter of unease in her chest. She looked over at Erica, who was watching the scene with a concerned expression. "Ryan?" Ashley said, her voice hesitant. But Ryan still didn't say anything. He just stood there, his face a mask. Ashley felt a growing sense of discomfort. What was going on? Why wasn't Ryan reacting? She looked at Erica again, who raised an eyebrow and shrugged. Ashley didn't know what to do. She waited for Ryan to say something, but he just kept standing there, silent and still.