Avery Kane Deveraux walked into the bustling mall with Janice by her side, their laughter mingling with the lively chatter of other shoppers. The air smelled of coffee and freshly baked pretzels, and the mall was already decked out with spring decorations—bright flowers and pastel banners welcoming the season.
“So,” Janice said, adjusting her oversized sunglasses, “we’re officially on nursery duty today. Have you thought about a theme yet, or are we winging it?”
“I’ve been thinking about a woodland theme,” Avery replied, smiling. “You know, soft greens, blues, and little animals—foxes, deer, maybe some owls.”
Janice clapped her hands together. “Oh my God, I love that! Let’s make this the cutest nursery in the history of nurseries.”
Avery laughed as they headed into Baby Haven, a store known for its high-end baby furniture and adorable décor.
The first section they explored was the cribs. Rows of pristine white, natural wood, and painted options greeted them. Avery ran her fingers over the edge of a sleek, walnut crib with soft edges and a minimalist design.
“What do you think of this one?” she asked Janice.
Janice tilted her head, inspecting it like a true furniture critic. “It’s nice, but… I think we can find something cuter. Your little boy deserves a crib fit for a woodland prince.”
They continued down the aisle until Avery stopped in front of a crib painted in a soft sage green, complete with tiny carved animal footprints along the sides.
“This is it,” Avery said, her eyes lighting up. “It’s perfect.”
Janice grinned. “You have impeccable taste, my friend. Now let’s find the matching changing table.”
They found a coordinating piece in the same sage green, with drawers that had brass knobs shaped like little acorns. Janice immediately declared it a must-have.
The next section was filled with nursery decorations. Avery was drawn to a set of wall decals featuring a whimsical forest scene—trees, animals, and a glowing moon. She held it up to Janice.
“Too much?” she asked.
“Are you kidding? It’s adorable,” Janice said. “This, plus some fairy lights, and it’ll be magical.”
They piled their cart with soft animal plushies, a mobile featuring tiny felt foxes and owls, and a cozy green area rug shaped like a tree leaf. Avery picked up a set of soft blue curtains decorated with little silver stars and held them out for Janice’s approval.
“These or plain ones?” Avery asked.
“Definitely these,” Janice said without hesitation. “You’re going for woodland wonderland, not ‘boring beige basics.’”
After hours of shopping, the two women headed to the food court for a much-needed break. Avery sipped on a mango smoothie while Janice munched on a pretzel.
“So,” Janice began, “has Ryan been involved in any of the nursery planning, or is he leaving it all to you?”
Avery laughed. “He’s been great, but he keeps saying, ‘Whatever you think is best, Aves.’ I think he’s just scared to make the wrong choice.”
Janice smirked. “Classic Ryan. But I mean, he did throw himself into that gender reveal like a champ, so he gets points for that.”
“True,” Avery said, grinning. “And he’s already talking about how he wants to paint a mural on one of the walls. Something with trees and a night sky.”
“That’s so sweet,” Janice said, her expression softening. “You two are going to make amazing parents.”
“Thanks, Jan,” Avery said, reaching across the table to squeeze her best friend’s hand. “I’m lucky to have you by my side, too. You’ve been my rock through everything.”
Janice shrugged, though her eyes were bright with emotion. “That’s what best friends are for.”
Feeling re-energized, they returned to the store to finalize their purchases. Avery picked out a rocking chair upholstered in soft cream fabric. As she sat down to test it, she sighed contentedly.
“This is so comfortable,” she said, gently rocking back and forth. “I can already imagine late-night feedings here.”
“You’ll look so serene,” Janice said dramatically, pulling out her phone to snap a photo. “Future Instagram caption: ‘Mom goals.’”
Avery rolled her eyes, laughing. “You’re ridiculous.”
“And you love me for it,” Janice quipped, putting her phone away.
Before leaving, they stumbled upon a shelf filled with personalized items. Avery’s eyes caught a small wooden sign shaped like an arrow that could be engraved with the baby’s name.
She picked it up, running her fingers over the smooth surface. “We haven’t settled on a name yet, but this would look perfect above his crib.”
Janice peered over her shoulder. “Any frontrunners for names?”
“We’ve been tossing around a few ideas,” Avery said. “Ryan likes ‘Elliot,’ and I’m leaning toward ‘Noah.’”
“I love both,” Janice said. “But don’t forget—you’re the one pushing this little guy out. Your vote holds more weight.”
Avery laughed. “I’ll remind Ryan of that when the time comes.”