**Chapter 26: Unexpected Visitors**

The hospital room, once a sterile and impersonal space, had begun to transform into a cozy sanctuary. The soft glow of the candles Joe had brought in cast a warm ambiance, and the gentle hum of the portable speaker filled the air with soothing music. Brooklyn snuggled deeper into her pillows, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. But just as they were starting to settle in, her phone buzzed again, this time with a call from her sister. Brooklyn hesitated for a moment before answering, her eyes locked on Joe's. "Hey, Em," she said, trying to sound cheerful. "Hey, sis," Emily replied, her voice bright and bubbly. "Mom and Dad are on their way to visit. They can't wait to meet the new baby and give you a big hug." Brooklyn's eyes darted to Joe, who was watching her with a concerned expression. She mouthed "Mom and Dad" and raised an eyebrow. Joe's face softened, and he nodded encouragingly. "I know, Em, but..." Brooklyn trailed off, unsure of how to finish. "But what?" Emily asked, sensing her sister's hesitation. Brooklyn took a deep breath. "I don't know if I'm ready for that many people yet. The hospital room isn't exactly... private." Emily chuckled. "I know, but they're your parents. They just want to be with you and meet the baby. Besides, they're bringing a bunch of get-well flowers and a huge cake. You can't say no to that." Brooklyn sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. She loved her parents, but she wasn't sure if she was ready for the chaos that came with their visits. Joe, sensing her unease, squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Tell you what, Em," Brooklyn said finally. "Can they please call me before they come? I need to, uh, get ready." Emily laughed. "I'll let them know. But don't worry, sis, I'll make sure they're on their best behavior." As Brooklyn hung up the phone, Joe turned to her with a questioning expression. "What did Emily say?" Brooklyn filled him in on the conversation, and Joe's face grew thoughtful. "Don't worry, we'll handle it together," he said. "We'll make sure you're comfortable and ready for your parents' visit." Just then, Rachel poked her head into the room. "I see we've got some visitors on the way," she said, a knowing smile on her face. "I'll make sure to give you a heads-up when they arrive. In the meantime, I'll make sure to tidy up the room and get everything ready." As Rachel bustled out, Brooklyn turned to Joe with a mischievous glint in her eye. "You know, I think we should make a bet." Joe raised an eyebrow. "A bet?" Brooklyn grinned. "Yeah, I bet you that my parents will bring at least three different get-well gifts, and that they'll stay for at least an hour." Joe chuckled. "You're on. But if I win, you have to sing in the hospital chapel tomorrow." Brooklyn's eyes widened in mock horror. "Deal!" she exclaimed, laughing. As they waited for Brooklyn's parents to arrive, the hospital room seemed to shrink, filling with anticipation and a touch of nervous energy. But Joe and Brooklyn were ready, armed with love, laughter, and a makeshift honeymoon suite that would soon be put to the test.