Everyone has been wondering why Ashlee Simpson continues to be so coy about confirming her pregnancy - she remained mum even after Ellen DeGeneres rubbed her belly during a recent appearance. Part of the reason for staying mum, perhaps, is that she’s featured on the cover of Shape magazine in a string bikini and looking as toned as ever.

Ironic or just awkward, you be the judge, but Simpson told the magazine, “Now I’m in shape. I never thought I’d be on the cover of a magazine in a bikini but now is the time and place to show the world how I’m feeling about myself.”

Interestingly, Simpson left her fiancé, Pete Wentz, out of the interview entirely, but she did show signs of domesticity when she revealed her desire to become a better cook. Once a month, she and her girlfriends have dinner parties and everyone makes a dish. “Last month my friend showed us how to make the most delicious glazed carrots to go with baked chicken,” she told Shape.

Newly engaged couple Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz have more good news to share: the two have a baby on the way, according to OK! magazine.

A friend of Simpson’s confirmed to the magazine that Simpson is due in October, and that they are now putting together their wedding as quickly as possible, with nuptials planned for May. Simpson, 23, will also be juggling the demands of her pregnancy with the promotion of her new album “Bittersweet World,” which drops on April 22. Her line of shirts for Wet Seal hits stores the same day. Wentz, 28, who is part of the band Fall Out Boy, also just released a new CD, “Live in Phoenix.”
The couple appears to have plenty of support from friends and family.

“These two love each other so much, are so happy about becoming parents and are fortunate enough to have really supportive families on both sides. They’ll figure it all out,” the friend told the magazine.

Jessica’s best friend and former assistant concurs. “Pete’s great. He’s a good guy and he loves her to death. Ashlee’s always been like a little sister to me. I’m so excited for her.” Simpson’s rep did not respond to requests for comment.