**Chapter 33: New Beginnings**

Ashley headed back to Erica's, a spring in her step and a smile on her face. As she walked in the door, she found Erica sitting on the couch, rubbing her stomach happily. "Hey," Erica said, looking up at Ashley with a curious expression. "How is baby?" Ashley smiled at her best friend, feeling a sense of excitement and nervousness. "It's good news," she said, plopping down beside Erica on the couch. "The doctor says I should be able to start trying in about three months." Erica's eyes widened in surprise, and she let out a squeal of excitement. "That's amazing!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around Ashley's neck. "I'm going to be an aunt!" Ashley laughed, hugging her friend back. "You're going to be an amazing aunt," she said, pulling back to look at Erica's face. "I'm so excited to start this new chapter in my life." Erica grinned, still rubbing her stomach. "I can feel it," she said. "You're going to get pregnant right away, and I'll get to spoil that baby rotten." Ashley chuckled, shaking her head. "We'll see about that," she said. "The doctor says we need to run some more tests to make sure everything is okay, but it sounds like we're on the right track." Erica nodded, her expression serious for a moment. "I'm so happy for you, Ash," she said. "You deserve this. You've been through so much, and it's time for you to have some happiness." Ashley felt a lump form in her throat as she looked at her friend. "Thanks, Erica," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "That means a lot coming from you." The two friends sat in comfortable silence for a moment, enjoying each other's company. Then Erica spoke up again. "So, have you talked to Ryan about all this?" she asked, a mischievous glint in her eye. Ashley blushed, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Not yet," she said. "But I'm sure he'll be thrilled when I tell him." Erica grinned. "I'm sure he will," she said. "He's going to be an amazing dad." Ashley smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. She couldn't wait to share the news with Ryan and start planning their future together.