Mat and Fiona were sitting on the bed, a quiet tension hanging in the air as Mat finally voiced a question that had been lingering in his mind.

Mat glanced at Fiona, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "When we first did it," he began hesitantly, "did you know—or not care—that I'd get you knocked up?"

Fiona looked back at him, her gaze steady and thoughtful. She took a moment to consider her words, not wanting to dismiss Mat's concerns but also wanting to be honest.

"I knew there was a risk," she admitted softly, her eyes meeting his. "But I didn’t go into it thinking about consequences or trying to trap you. I was focused on the moment, on being with you. I wanted to be close to you, to connect with you in a way that felt real and meaningful. I wasn’t thinking ahead to what might happen."

Mat’s brow furrowed slightly as he absorbed her words. "But didn’t it worry you, even a little? I mean, the idea that you might get pregnant?"

Fiona reached out, gently taking Mat's hand in hers. "I wasn’t reckless, Mat. I knew what could happen, but I also knew that whatever did happen, we’d deal with it together. I didn’t want to scare you or make you feel pressured, so I didn’t bring it up. Maybe that wasn’t the best choice, but it felt right at the time. I wanted to trust that we could face whatever came our way, and now... well, now we’re here."

Mat looked down at their intertwined hands, his thoughts swirling. "I just... I wish I’d known. Maybe I would’ve been more careful, or maybe I wouldn’t have let things go so far."

Fiona squeezed his hand gently, drawing his attention back to her. "Mat, we can’t change what’s already happened. But I don’t regret any of it, not for a second. We’re going to figure this out together, just like we’ve been doing. You’re not alone in this."

Mat’s eyes softened as he looked at her, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I guess I just needed to hear that. It’s a lot to take in, you know?"

Fiona nodded, her expression full of understanding. "I know, Mat. But we’re in this together, every step of the way. And whatever happens, we’ll face it as a team."

Mat leaned in slightly, his voice quiet but full of sincerity. "I’m glad I have you, Fiona. I don’t know what I’d do without you."

Fiona smiled warmly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his lips. "You don’t have to worry about that, Mat. We’re in this together, and we’re going to make it work."

Mat's expression grew more serious, his brow furrowing with concern as he met Fiona's eyes. "If you'd known I was a loser, that I was bullied, that I hung in the air like dead meat... would you have still... you know?"

Fiona's heart ached at the pain in Mat's voice, the vulnerability behind his question. She reached out, placing a gentle hand on his cheek, her eyes filled with empathy.

"Mat," she began softly, "what happened to you doesn’t make you a loser. It doesn’t define who you are now or the person you’ve become. If I had known all of that back then, it wouldn’t have changed how I felt about you."

Mat looked at her, doubt still lingering in his eyes. "But why? Why would you want to be with someone like me, someone who’s been through all that? I’m not strong like you, Fiona. I’m just... me."

Fiona shook her head, her gaze unwavering. "You’re not ‘just’ anything, Mat. You’ve been through so much, and you’re still here, still trying, still caring. That takes strength—more than you realize. I didn’t choose to be with you because of some ideal or because you were perfect. I chose you because of who you are, because of the person I see when I look at you."

She leaned in closer, her voice firm but gentle. "The fact that you’ve been hurt, that you’ve struggled, doesn’t make you any less worthy of love or happiness. If anything, it makes you more deserving. And yes, I would have still wanted to be with you, even knowing everything you’ve been through. Because I see the good in you, Mat. I see the strength, the kindness, the resilience. That’s what matters to me."

Mat’s eyes searched hers, looking for any sign of doubt or hesitation. But all he found was sincerity and warmth, and slowly, he began to believe her words.

"I just... I don’t want to let you down," he admitted, his voice tinged with fear.

Fiona smiled softly, leaning in to press a tender kiss to his forehead. "You won’t, Mat. We’ll face whatever comes together, and I’ll be by your side every step of the way. You’re not alone anymore."

Mat let out a shaky breath, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders as he leaned into her touch. "Thank you, Fiona. I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but I’m going to do my best to be the person you see in me."

Fiona’s smile widened, her heart swelling with affection. "You don’t have to be anyone but yourself, Mat. That’s more than enough for me."

As they sat together on the bed, the world outside seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, connected by a bond that grew stronger with each passing moment. Mat still had his doubts and fears, but with Fiona by his side, he felt like maybe, just maybe, he could start to believe in a future where he wasn’t defined by his past, but by the love and support he had found in the present.

Mat looked at Fiona, his eyes searching hers with a mix of confusion and lingering doubt. "Even after my full confession, my history, you’d still have risked it—getting pregnant by me?"

Fiona met his gaze, her expression unwavering and full of warmth. She took a deep breath, wanting to make sure her words came across with the clarity and sincerity she felt.

"Yes, Mat," she said firmly. "Even after everything you’ve told me—your past, your struggles—I would still have made the same choice. I knew what I was getting into, and I wasn’t afraid of it. You’re not defined by your history, Mat. You’re so much more than that, and I see the person you are now. The person who’s trying, who cares, who wants to do better."

She gently took his hand, squeezing it reassuringly. "I didn’t make this choice lightly, but I also didn’t make it out of fear or uncertainty. I chose to be with you because I believe in you, and I believe in us. And yes, I would have still risked it, because I knew that whatever happened, we’d face it together."

Mat’s expression softened, but there was still a trace of disbelief in his eyes. "But why? Why would you take that chance with someone like me, knowing everything?"

Fiona’s eyes softened as she brushed a strand of fur away from his face. "Because I see the good in you, Mat. I see the strength it took for you to survive everything you’ve been through, the courage it took for you to open up to me about it. And more than that, I see the future we can build together. I’m not afraid of that risk because I believe in what we can create together—our family, our life."

She leaned in closer, her voice tender yet resolute. "You’re worth that risk, Mat. And I’m not going to let your past or your fears dictate our future. We’ll figure this out together, just like we have been."

Mat felt a surge of emotion welling up inside him, a mixture of relief, gratitude, and a newfound sense of hope. He didn’t fully understand why Fiona had chosen him, why she was willing to take this leap with him, but her unwavering belief in him was something he couldn’t ignore.

He nodded slowly, his voice trembling slightly as he replied, "I’ll do my best, Fiona. I don’t know how to thank you enough for believing in me, but I’ll try to be the person you see in me."

Fiona smiled warmly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his lips. "You already are, Mat. And we’re going to do this together, one step at a time."

As they sat there, close and connected, Mat felt the weight of his past start to lift, replaced by the promise of a future he never thought possible. With Fiona by his side, he realized that maybe, just maybe, he could finally believe in the love and support she was offering—and in himself.

Mat looked at Fiona, his eyes filled with uncertainty as he asked, "We’ve only slept together for one night. Was it worth it?"

Fiona held his gaze, her expression softening as she considered his question. She could see the doubt and fear in his eyes, the way he was searching for reassurance in her response.

"Yes, Mat," she replied gently, but with conviction. "It was worth it."

Seeing the flicker of doubt still lingering in his eyes, she continued, "That night wasn’t just about the physical part of being together. It was about connecting with you, about feeling close to you in a way that goes beyond just one night. It was about sharing something real and meaningful, something that brought us closer together."

Fiona reached out, placing a hand on his cheek, her thumb gently tracing the edge of his jaw. "I don’t regret it, not for a second. Because that night, I saw the real you—the person who’s been through so much but still has so much to give. And that’s what made it worth it to me."

Mat’s brow furrowed slightly, still trying to process her words. "But what if things had turned out differently? What if... what if you ended up regretting it?"

Fiona shook her head, her voice steady. "I don’t believe in living with regrets, Mat. We made a choice that felt right for us in that moment, and I’m standing by it. What’s important now is how we move forward from here, together."

She leaned in closer, her eyes full of sincerity. "I’m not going to dwell on what-ifs or second-guess the decisions we’ve made. What matters to me is that we’re in this together, that we’re building something real. And that’s worth everything to me."

Mat let out a slow breath, feeling a bit of the tension in his chest ease at her words. "I guess I just... I just needed to hear that."

Fiona smiled warmly, her hand still resting on his cheek. "And I’m glad you asked, Mat. Because I want you to know that this—what we have—is real. It’s not just about one night, or any single moment. It’s about everything we’re going to build together."

Mat’s lips curved into a small, tentative smile as he nodded. "I’ll try to believe that, Fiona. I really will."

Fiona’s smile widened, and she leaned in to press a tender kiss to his forehead. "That’s all I ask, Mat. And remember, no matter what, we’re in this together."

Mat looked at Fiona, his voice tinged with lingering hurt as he asked, "What about Kelvin and all the kids that laughed at me, calling me a pathetic loser?"

Fiona’s expression softened as she heard the pain in his words. She reached out, taking his hand in hers, her thumb gently tracing over his knuckles.

"Mat," she began gently, "what they said to you, how they treated you—that was wrong. Those words, those actions, they were meant to hurt you, to make you feel small. But they don’t define who you are. They don’t have power over you unless you let them."

She squeezed his hand a little tighter, her voice filled with warmth and reassurance. "Kelvin and those other kids—they didn’t see the real you. They didn’t see the strength it takes to keep going when the world tries to tear you down. But I see it. I see the person you are, the person who’s kind, caring, and stronger than they’ll ever know."

Mat’s eyes were filled with doubt and lingering pain. "But how can I just forget it? Those words still echo in my head sometimes, making me feel like maybe they were right."

Fiona shook her head firmly, her gaze unwavering. "You don’t have to forget, Mat. But you also don’t have to let those words control you. They were wrong about you. The fact that you’re here, that you’re trying to build something better, proves that. You’re not a loser, and you’re not pathetic. You’re someone who has faced more than most people could imagine, and you’re still standing."

She leaned in closer, her voice softening as she continued, "Kelvin and those kids—they didn’t know your story, your struggles. They only saw what they wanted to see, and that was their mistake, not yours. You’ve grown so much since then, and you’ve found people who care about you for who you really are."

Mat looked down, his voice quiet but still heavy with doubt. "But what if I still believe them, even a little bit? What if I can’t get past it?"

Fiona cupped his face in her hands, gently lifting his chin so he would look at her. "Then we’ll work through it together, Mat. You don’t have to do this alone. I’m here for you, every step of the way. And I’ll keep reminding you of the truth until you start to believe it yourself."

Her eyes were full of sincerity as she continued, "You’re not who they said you were, Mat. You’re so much more than that, and I’m proud of the person you are. You’ve come so far, and I know you can keep going. Don’t let their words hold you back from the life you deserve."

Mat swallowed hard, feeling the weight of her words settle in his heart. He knew it wouldn’t be easy to shake off the years of hurt and self-doubt, but Fiona’s unwavering support made him feel like maybe, just maybe, he could start to believe in himself.

"Thank you, Fiona," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I don’t know how I’d do this without you."

Fiona smiled softly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his lips. "You don’t have to, Mat. We’re in this together, and we’ll face whatever comes our way as a team."

Mat gently touched Fiona's belly, his fingers tracing over the slight curve with a mix of wonder and worry. "Maybe your feelings will change," he murmured, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Once you start throwing up and having weird cravings, then you might regret letting my seed in."

Fiona looked down at his hand on her belly, then back up at him, her eyes softening with understanding. She could sense the fear behind his words, the deep-seated anxiety that he might not be enough, that she might come to regret their decision.

She placed her hand over his, squeezing gently as she met his gaze. "Mat, I know this is all new and scary, and there are going to be moments that are tough—moments when things aren’t easy. But that doesn’t change how I feel about you or the choice we made together."

Her voice was steady, filled with a quiet strength as she continued, "Pregnancy comes with its challenges, sure. But I’m not going to regret this, not for a second. We’re creating a life together, something beautiful and meaningful, and that’s worth whatever comes our way."

Mat looked at her, still uncertain. "But what if it gets too hard? What if you start to hate me for putting you through all this?"

Fiona shook her head, her expression firm yet tender. "Mat, this isn’t just something that happened to me. It’s something we chose together. And I’m ready to face whatever comes with you by my side. The morning sickness, the cravings, all of it—it’s part of the journey, and it’s a journey I want to take with you."

She leaned in closer, her hand still resting on his. "You didn’t put me through anything, Mat. We’re in this together, and I’m not going to suddenly change my mind or wish things were different. I chose you because I love you, and because I believe in us. No matter how hard things might get, that’s not going to change."

Mat’s eyes softened, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I don’t know how you can be so sure, Fiona. But I’m really grateful that you are."

Fiona smiled back, her eyes filled with warmth. "We’ll figure it out as we go, Mat. One step at a time. And I’m not going anywhere."

As they sat together, Mat felt a bit of the fear that had been gnawing at him start to ease. Fiona’s unwavering support and love gave him a sense of stability he hadn’t felt in a long time. He still had his doubts, his worries about the future, but with Fiona by his side, he knew they could face whatever challenges came their way.

Mat laughed, a playful glint in his eyes as he looked at Fiona. "Even if you want to eat fish, meat, fruit, ice cream, and corn starch all in the same bowl like some freaky blend of gross?"

Fiona chuckled, rolling her eyes good-naturedly at his teasing. "Even then," she replied with a grin. "I mean, I might need you to make sure I don't actually go through with that particular craving, but if it happens, we’ll just laugh about it together."

Mat’s laughter softened into a warm smile as he looked at her. "I’ll definitely be here to stop you from making any culinary disasters, but it sounds like we’re in for an interesting ride."

Fiona smiled back, her eyes full of affection. "I wouldn’t want to take this ride with anyone else, Mat. Weird cravings and all."

Mat felt a warmth spread through him at her words, the lightness of their banter easing some of the lingering tension he had been carrying. "I guess we’ll just have to see what kind of crazy combinations you come up with," he said, still smiling. "And maybe I’ll even try a bite—just to see what all the fuss is about."

Fiona laughed, shaking her head. "You’re braver than I thought if you’re willing to try that."

Mat shrugged playfully. "Well, someone’s got to keep things interesting around here. And besides, who knows? Maybe you’ll discover the next big food trend."

Fiona rolled her eyes again, but her smile was bright. "I’m not sure the world is ready for that, but at least we’ll have some fun with it."

They both laughed, the light-hearted moment a welcome relief from the heavier topics they had been discussing. As the laughter faded, they sat quietly together, the bond between them feeling stronger and more solid than ever.

Mat smiled, feeling more at ease as he continued the conversation. "Okay, so maybe fish, meat, fruit, ice cream, and corn starch all in one bowl is a bit much. What cravings are okay then?"

Fiona chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Well, let’s see. I think I can handle some more normal combinations. Maybe pickles and ice cream? Or how about peanut butter and bananas?"

Mat nodded, still smiling. "Pickles and ice cream sounds pretty classic. And peanut butter and bananas are always good. What else?"

Fiona thought for a moment, her smile widening. "I’ve heard some people crave really spicy food when they're pregnant. I could go for some spicy noodles or maybe those hot wings I like so much."

Mat raised an eyebrow playfully. "Spicy noodles and hot wings? You might regret that one at three in the morning, but I’ll keep a stash ready just in case."

Fiona laughed, leaning in closer to him. "I’m sure we’ll have some interesting late-night adventures. And who knows? Maybe I’ll surprise you with some cravings that aren’t so weird."

Mat squeezed her hand gently, his smile softening. "Whatever you crave, we’ll figure it out together. And if it’s something really out there, I promise not to judge. Much."

Fiona grinned, her eyes filled with affection. "I’ll hold you to that. And remember, you promised to try a bite of whatever crazy combination I come up with."

Mat laughed, nodding. "I did, didn’t I? Well, I guess I’m in for an interesting ride. But as long as we’re doing this together, I think I can handle it."

Fiona leaned in and kissed him gently. "Thank you, Mat. For being here, for making me laugh, and for being willing to go on this crazy journey with me."

Mat kissed her back, feeling a surge of warmth and love. "There’s no one else I’d rather do this with, Fiona. Weird cravings and all."

Mat grinned, a playful spark in his eyes as he teased, "Are the bananas for you or the rabbit in your womb? You are a ferret, after all."

Fiona laughed, the sound light and genuine. "Good question," she replied with a smirk. "Maybe it’s a little bit of both. Who knows, maybe our little ones will end up with some interesting tastes, considering they’ve got a mix of ferret and rabbit in them."

Mat chuckled, shaking his head. "I guess we’ll find out soon enough. I just hope they don’t inherit too many weird cravings."

Fiona smiled warmly, resting her hand on her belly. "Whatever cravings they have, I’m sure we’ll handle them together. And if they end up liking bananas, I suppose that’s not the worst thing."

Mat leaned in closer, his playful tone softening into something more affectionate. "Bananas or not, I’m just glad we’re in this together. I can’t wait to see what our little ones are like."

Fiona’s eyes softened as she looked at him, her heart swelling with love. "Me too, Mat. Whatever they like, whoever they turn out to be, I know we’ll make it work."

Mat's playful tone took on a hint of concern as he looked at Fiona. "I guess you'll tear my heart out once you scream from them coming."

Fiona's smile softened, and she reached out to take his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "It’s going to be intense, no doubt," she admitted, her voice gentle but steady. "But tearing your heart out? Not a chance."

She looked into his eyes, her expression full of warmth. "I know it’s scary to think about, Mat. But we’ll get through it together, just like we’ve gotten through everything else. And when it’s all over, we’ll have two little ones to show for it. I think that’ll be worth any screaming that happens."

Mat chuckled softly, though there was still a trace of worry in his eyes. "I just hate the thought of you being in pain, even if it’s for something this important."

Fiona leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to his forehead. "I know, and I appreciate that. But I’m tougher than I look. And with you by my side, I’ll have all the strength I need to get through it."

Mat smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "I’ll be right there with you, every step of the way. Screaming and all."

Fiona grinned, her eyes twinkling with affection. "Good. Just don’t pass out on me, okay?"

Mat laughed, the tension easing as he shook his head. "I’ll do my best. But if I do, I expect you to forgive me."

Fiona laughed too, the sound bright and full of love. "Deal. And don’t worry, Mat—we’re going to get through this together. I promise."
