**Chapter 17: The Countdown Begins**

The days that followed were a whirlwind of activity as Charlie, Jon, and Emily worked tirelessly to prepare for the baby's arrival. The nursery was finally complete, with soft, pastel colors and adorable wall decals that made Charlie giggle with delight. Emily had also taken it upon herself to organize the baby shower, and she spent hours sending out invitations and planning games and activities. As the big day approached, Charlie couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness. She had always envisioned a small, intimate baby shower with close friends and family, but Emily had other plans. "The more, the merrier!" she exclaimed, as she showed Charlie the long list of guests who had RSVP'd. Charlie's eyes widened as she scanned the list, her mind racing with thoughts of all the people who would soon be gathering in their home. "This is going to be crazy!" she exclaimed, feeling a little overwhelmed. Jon, who was sitting on the couch, chuckled and put a reassuring arm around her shoulders. "Don't worry, we'll be fine," he said. "We'll just roll with it and make the most of it." The day of the baby shower arrived, and Charlie's nerves were on edge. She had spent hours getting ready, trying on different outfits and doing her hair and makeup. Jon had even offered to take some time off work to help with the festivities, and he was now standing in the kitchen, expertly flipping pancakes and making conversation with the guests. As the doorbell rang, Charlie's heart skipped a beat. It was showtime. Emily flung open the door, and a stream of friends and family poured in, bearing gifts and well-wishes. The party was in full swing, with laughter and chatter filling the air. Charlie was overwhelmed with emotion as she opened gift after gift, each one more thoughtful and beautiful than the last. There were onesies and toys, books and blankets, and even a gorgeous handmade quilt from Jon's grandmother. As the afternoon wore on, Charlie began to feel a sense of gratitude and love for all the people in her life. She was so lucky to have such a wonderful support system, and she knew that their baby was going to be spoiled rotten. Just as the party was winding down, Emily stood up and cleared her throat. "Okay, everyone," she said, "it's time for the big reveal. Charlie and Jon, are you ready to find out if you're having a boy or a girl?" Charlie's heart skipped a beat as she looked at Jon, her eyes shining with excitement. They had decided to have a gender reveal party at the baby shower, and they had chosen a creative way to find out - a cake that would be either pink or blue inside. Jon nodded, and Emily handed them a large, white cake with a big smile on her face. "Let's do this!" she exclaimed. Charlie and Jon looked at each other, took a deep breath, and then cut into the cake together. The room fell silent as they waited for the reveal, and then suddenly, blue frosting spilled out, covering their faces and clothes. "It's a boy!" Emily exclaimed, as the room erupted in cheers and applause. Charlie and Jon looked at each other, both of them beaming with joy. They were having a baby boy, and they couldn't wait to meet him.