Chapter 35: Seeking Wisdom

Usagi stood by the kitchen window, staring out at the vibrant colors of the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The lively laughter from the celebration still echoed in her ears, but beneath her joy lay an unusual tide of nerves bubbling to the surface. Twins. A boy and a girl. It was everything she had dreamed of, yet the reality of motherhood was starting to sink in. What did she know about caring for two babies at once? What if she couldn’t do it? The questions filled her mind as her heart raced. She remembered her mother’s reassuring words from years past, how she had seamlessly navigated the challenges of welcoming Usagi and Shingo into the world. "Mom would know what to do," she thought, her resolve solidifying. A gentle wave of determination washed over her. She wasn’t alone in this; she had a source of wisdom right at her fingertips. With her heart still fluttering, Usagi grabbed her phone and dialed her mother, her fingers fidgeting nervously. After a few rings, she heard her mother's familiar voice on the other end, warm and inviting. “Usagi! How are you, my dear? I hope the party went well!” “It was amazing, Mom! Everyone had such a great time,” Usagi replied, forcing a smile that she hoped her mother could sense even through the phone. “And how are you feeling?” Usagi took a deep breath, unsure of how to convey the mixed emotions swirling within her. “I’m excited, but also really nervous. It’s just...with twins coming, I keep thinking about delivery and how I’m going to take care of them. I wanted to ask you for some advice.” “Oh, sweetheart!” her mother exclaimed. “It’s completely normal to feel that way. You’re going to be an amazing mother; I have no doubt about it. When it comes to delivery, just remember to trust your body and listen to your instincts. Every birth is different.” As her mother spoke, Usagi felt a sense of calm begin to settle in. She could hear the confidence in her voice, the unwavering love that sought to cradle her in reassurance. “What if I get overwhelmed? I mean, taking care of two babies sounds so daunting,” Usagi confessed. “Just take it one step at a time, Usagi. Lean on your support system. Your friends will be there for you—don’t hesitate to ask them for help. And remember, you and Rei are in this together. It’s a team effort!” her mother said cheerfully. “Plus, I’ll be right by your side.” Usagi smiled, feeling a warm glow of gratitude. “Thank you, Mom. I feel a bit better now. Your words always help.” “And be sure to take care of yourself, too! You need your strength for the little ones,” her mom added, chuckling lightly. “Make sure to rest, eat well, and stay happy!” “Of course! I’ll try my best,” Usagi promised, her heart fluttering in a mixture of nervousness and excitement. As they spoke more about preparations and what she might need for the babies, Usagi looked around her apartment at the remnants of the party. The room, once filled with joy and laughter, now felt like a sanctuary where dreams were about to unfold—a space where she would nurture and grow a new chapter of her life. “I love you, Mom,” Usagi said, feeling reassured and connected. “I love you too, sweetheart. Always.” With a final wave of warmth, Usagi ended the call, allowing her mother’s advice and love to envelop her like a comforting blanket. Turning back towards the window, Usagi watched in awe as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow inside the apartment. She rested her hand on her belly and whispered to her twins, “I can’t wait to meet you, little ones.” The nervousness still lingered, but now it danced alongside hope, filling her heart with promise.