35 Chapter 35 Familial Circumstances

Rudy [pov]

Time slips by when you're having fun.

It's been a couple months since we finished our little gardening stint, and I must say… they sure are looking plump.

Their bodies meaning-wait, that's not better! Argh…

…I meant in the sense that they're getting ready to give birth.

…as ever, I am eternally grateful they can't read my mind. My survival instincts just kicked in, and I feel I might have died if I worded those thoughts out.

Is this what you call a premonition?

Anyways, not plump, glowing; is what I meant to say. It's hard to tell how far they are into their pregnancies without the proper technology, but Zenith is about nine months give or take two weeks, and Lilia is about a month behind her.

This family's size is about to increase by two. Any second now I am going to become a big brother.

I have soooo many emotions. Excitement, happiness, nervousness, anxiety, nostalgia, worry, hope. So, soooo many emotions. I am a complete mess at the moment.

Any day now I am going to be a brother. I mean… I'm going to be a brother! I mean; I'm going to be a brother?

"Whew, what to do?"

Three years. That's how much time there is left for the teleportation incident to happen. That's how much time I promised myself I'll be here, but… damn is it tempting to stay.

The previous Rudy was kicked out before anything could happen, the decision being taken away from him. Never becoming the brother he wanted to be. Not until much, muuuch later, but that's a different tale, and at such a different time, I can not expect the same path to be before me in the future.

Me? I've got the liberty to choose. To be selfish, but… all good things must come to an end, and play time must soon come to an end. This bird will have to leave the nest soon.

The point is; I'm exploring new territory, and I am both terrified and excited.

"Three years…"

Three years of completely new territory. I wonder what life will bring.

I managed to push it to the back of my mind, but never out of it, there is still the threat of the human god, Hitogami, but… maybe… just maybe, I can avoid it all, and just be a family man.

I mean the only way I appear on Hitogami's radar is if I have a kid with a certain Bluenette, but I haven't seen her in years now, so I'm probably in the clear. Just keep taking care of my family, move away on the eve of my tenth birthday, and find a nice girl to settle down with. Maybe even visit Millis far in the future

…or maybe that's asking too much?

So many worries.

Time stands still for no man.

So despite how comfortable I've gotten in this new life, my heart is still as convoluted as always.

At least I got two beauties by my side.

In these months my, no, our life's have improved in many ways. Me and Zenith have become inseparable. Attached to the hip!

By that I mean we hug a lot.

In all seriousness we've become closer than we've ever been, that if I were any other child I would be a little worried with how much pampering I'm getting.

But since I'm not… Go nuts!

Then again I indulge her as well so… equivalent exchange?

I love that woman. Platonically of course. Kind of…

Honestly… My feelings are a mess. I do not know what they are, but.. I do know I don't want to see her cry. That said, confusing feelings aside, I can't see me doing that would threaten this peace. So a little cuddling is fine.

Probably.

"I don't know why I torture myself with these questions. No one would answer me."

I am clearly not a normal child, but I don't get any complaints from her, so everything is fine.

I am thankful for her slight lack of common sense.

Hey I lack it too. Who needs it! Common is boring!

Lilia is more or less the same as well there except… there is a slight bit of… tension I'm not accustomed to, not the bad kind, but… If I'm not reading too much into this. I swear her touches are lingering a bit, and… she sometimes reaches out to me unconsciously when we're near together.

Not that I dislike it.

Polygamy is legal… Maybe in the future I could find a nice kind girl, and… an open minded Maid at my side.

That sounds nice~

Alright, put a cap on that. I'm starting to sound like Paul. No one wants to see that.

Although… he did have a harem…

BEGONE evil thoughts. You can't tempt me… PROBABLY!

Harems are what man dreams are made of so I can be forgiven for fantasizing a bit. Hopefully in three years time I'd figure out things with Lilia and me. Things are great, but they can always be greater. Hopefully that's my heart talking, and not just delusions.

The human heart is an insatiable thing. It's greed knows no bounds.

…three years can't come sooner.

At this rate we will… well… knowing my own quirks, including my impulsiveness, and the fact that puberty should hit me in about three years time…

Things are going to get… complicated.

Am I going to die?

At this rate I might die of stress.

I got reincarnated in another world, but why is my isekai a korean drama?!

…that hurt. It was a little too close to home.

"Hahhh… Life is pain. Should I take up swimming again?"

The weather has started to warm. If I want to, I could go cool off. Unfortunately, It's too far from home. Right now I'm needed here, and can stray too far from it.

Should I build a pool?

"Maybe later. For now I'll go seek my quick fix. Where's my Zenith fix? I need a pick-me-up. Now, where oh where could my charger have gone?"

When I need to recharge I would usually go to Sylphy. She is a breath of fresh air.

Oooh, that's good, gotta remember that. I wonder if she knows she's named after a wind spirit?

In any case I usually enter an impromptu training/playing seccion with her, and let my worries be blown away. That or monster slaying. But… we've hit a small snag. I can't go too far from home right now as the baby is almost due. Now that it is the final month of Zenith's pregnancy, I've put my training with Sylphy on hold. My decision, no one else's, but I did set my priorities, and right now it's my family.

Unfortunately I didn't word it properly.

She's not talking to me.

She can still come and visit, but I made it clear to her I would be spending the next two months exclusively at home as I help the two, four? Ladies of this household.

I don't think it's anything serious. As it's only been a few days, and I'm sure she understood where I was coming from, but that doesn't mean she has to be happy with it.

I hope I see her soon. The weather is perfect. We can have a surfing seccion.

Am I cuddling her? When did she become so spoiled?

Wait! Is it me? Am I spoiling people too much?!

"But I like spoiling… I'll just have to work extra hard to make it up to her. Hell, the next time I see her there will be two freshly born babies around the house. I'll just show them their beautiful cuddly faces, and make it up to her. Who can be mad at the presence of such cuteness."

No one! That's who!

Stepping outside, I go through the garden where the household Lilies are blooming.

Well time to recharge my soul.

///

If only I knew then how exhausting my day was going to be. I would have at least liked a shower, or even a good breakfast, as I needed every little bit of energy for the rest of my day.

Hindsight is twenty twenty. But it is what it is. Life is chaos. Whether it's your first or your last.

Time passes quickly when you're having fun, but slowly when you aren't.

///

Paul [pov]

Something isn't right.

"I felt a bump," Rudeus said while resting his head in the middle of his mom's stomach, and a hand on top of Lilia's own.

Currently I'm taking some time off. I've taken a leave from my duties, and decided to put my focus on what matters. Now that my wife is in her final month of pregnancy it's important I'm here. Probably.

Sometimes I wonder if they even notice I'm here.

Hey, you'll know I'm here right?

The village head was quite accepting of my break. Apparently word of my earlier doings reached his ear, and he said; 'feel free to take the next three months if necessary. The early months are the most difficult.'

Good guy. Personally I think three months is a little too much, but I won't say no to some more time off. Taking care of Rudy wasn't that difficult the first time around. How hard could it be?

That said; three months of being by my wife's side. No interruptions. No excuses.

It looks like I have much to look forward to.

That said; certain things are… odd.

I continue to stare at Rudy, in the middle of the garden, kneeling, with his head between my wife and maid.

When did they all get this close?

"Yeah… she's becoming more lively," Zenith said.

"Ah," Rudy, tilting his head up, looks towards his mother, "so you're finally accepting that it's a girl?"

"Well… I always wanted a daughter," she puts a finger to her lip as she thinks, "but if it's a boy that's good too. I've just gotten into the habit of calling my baby a girl since Rudy is dead set on having one. Honestly," she puffs her cheeks, "who knew you wanted a sister this badly?"

"Indeed," Lilia interjects, rubbing her stomach. "Master Rudeus has been calling this little one sis for some time now," she adjusts her glasses. "I believe it all started ever since he set up the play," a coquettish smile slipping her usual taciturn features.

She's smiling at him again. Troublesome.

Why do I have to be a witness to this?

"Was it the dress? Worry not master. We will not be dressing you up in women's clothing ever again."

"Nope~" Zenith said.

Before Lilia and Rudy turned in her direction.

"What? Rudy was such a cute princess. It would be a crime, nay a sin, not to meet 'her,' again."

"...I'm not doing that again. Besides," he shuffles his body over to Lilia's side a little more, his head laying on Zenith's right side of her stomach, "I already sold the dress. I gave it to Alice in exchange for a book about fairy tales."

"Awww, that's a shame, but Alice not Sylphy?" She asked.

"I thought about that, but I'm a little bigger than Sylphy so it wouldn't fit her right now," he shrugs, "I figured giving it to Alice would be the next best bet. She can sell it, make a good buck of it, or wait 'till later, and give it to Sylphy when it suits her better. Either way, everyone wins."

"...but Rudy's princess gear…"

"Like I said; everyone wins."

I don't. What are they talking about?

It leaves a bitter taste of how they can just get stuck in their own little world. Do they honestly not see me here at the side?

Can I come in?

Standing in the garden I am the outsider looking in as these three continue to ignore me. My wife is sitting in a chair under the shade of her favorite tree, enjoying the morning breeze. While Lilia stands stoically close by a hand on Rudy's shoulder as he's kneeling placing his head on Zenith's belly. All the while Rudy's right hand is patting Lilia's stomach as well. It is an odd sight.

Aren't they a little too close?

"Hey there everyone! How is the love of my life, and children!'"

"Oh, hello dear. Back so soon?" My wife was the first to acknowledge me.

This is the result of me charming my way back into my wife's heart. It's been a tough road, a few setbacks here and there, but I've gotten here. I finally have my spot back, right by Zenith's side. There was a little tricky spot where I had to be careful finding the right words, and Zenith was particularly moody against some of my early flirts, but ultimately I managed to sneak my way back into her good graces.

Thanks to Rudy.

…I think?

Rudy is insufferable, but… he's also the reason my relationship with my wife is as good as it is. It's confusing. He is both my strongest ally, and my greatest enemy.

At first, I was kind of worried that he might be trying to make me look bad. Lord knows that every time I tried to get into her good graces, he just showed up next to me and one upped me or at least tried to. He's really good at getting in the way.

I know all boys are supposed to favor their mother's over their fathers, but it honestly felt like he was sabotaging me. It doesn't help that he has the benefit of being an adorable child. Everytime he tries to sabotage me it just strikes my wife right in the heart.

How am I supposed to compete with that?!

You don't!

Rudy! You had your turn. Share your mama please!

But… you can ride his coattails.

Let Rudy do the heavy lifting.

I can't say for sure whether he was trying to undermine me or not, but I quickly figured out that after Rudy's antics, my wife was in her best mood, and using that to my advantage I would work my way into her heart with my own.

It wasn't the original plan, but it worked.

That said though it helped out in the long run. After seeing my wife's charming smile I got it.

It is as they say; Learn not as I say, but as I do.

And I did.

Ah… now that I think about it, would that make Rudy my wingman?

Good work son!

Perhaps this is what he meant when he said he would help me, and this was all just Rudy helping in his own strange way?

…yeah, I doubt it.

Well, who cares. Meddlesome son or not. As long as my wife is smiling then everything is going perfectly. That, and as long as I'm next to her to see it.

A wife's smile is a husband's treasure!

"I've taken a break, remember?" I pound my chest. "For the next few weeks I'm going to be where I needed most. By my wife's side!"

"Oh I know, but you can still go around the village if you want to, can't you? I mean," she runs her hand through Rudy's hair, his eyes closing while she does so, as well as a smile spreading over his face.

What are you a puppy?

"Rudy is right here. You don't need to be here right now. You can continue with your rounds as usual if you want to."

"...but I want to be here."

"Hmm~" she taps a finger to her chin with her free hand as she looks to the sky. "I'll allow it."

She's joking, but as usual her jokes are a bit… off. She's also gotten in the habit of being bossy as of late.

Rudy what have you done?

Well, it's all in good fun. I hope so.

Besides, at least she noticed me. That's more than I can say for the other two. No more turning her head away from me in an angry huff, or slapping my hand away.

Although, my hand still gets slapped if I reach for the more fun parts, but that was to be expected. It's like we're lovers all over again. All we need is a beast lady or elf to come and visit us and it would be exactly like the good old days.

"May I?" I reach out my hand.

She smiles, before turning her head back to Rudy.

"Rudy, can you…" she says with a dejected expression.

"Yeah, yeah… I got it…" turning his head he heads towards Lilia. "Lilia?"

"Yes, master," bowing her head she walks alongside my son, and go towards the household walking side by side, shoulder to shoulder, nearly touching, keeping a steady pace.

There they go.

Just a few months ago she was keeping a distance as ordered, but… in my absence she went from walking behind him to walking by his side. I don't like it.

I never did find out why she would make a move on my son, but it doesn't matter. So long as I live and breathe I won't let that happen, but first I have to get my standing up.

I know my own value, and I can tell with the way things are at the moment, her standing in my family is higher than mine. It's a testament to how badly I screwed up, but why does the woman that seduced me have preferential treatment over the husband and father.

Oh, that's right… Rudy.

…definitely my greatest ally and enemy.

I don't think she's ensnared her claws into my son, but he's obviously been given her better treatment over me. She is… if she wasn't bearing my child I would have convinced Zenith to get a new maid.

This whole family dynamic needs fixing. For now let's focus on my wife.

"Dear?" Zenith tilts her head as she's looking at me.

It's fine. Focus on the battles in front of you. For my babies!

Besides…

I look at my beautiful wife, with my baby in her stomach. Looking as beautiful as always. Life is good. The future can wait. I'm not letting the present pass me by.

"Sorry dear, just lost in thought."

"Right~ just lost in thought… in the direction of Lilia's rear…" she looks at me unamused.

"Hey! It isn't like that!"

"Then how is it like?"

"It's! It's… it's…"

Well… damn…

I'm sorry sweetheart I was too busy wondering how I should separate Rudy from his maid, before that woman lays her claws into him.

She'll never believe that… would she? That… and I did take a glance, but only a glance, the dress pressed tightly against her rear.

"...I'll try not to look…"

"As long as you get it," she raises her chin proudly.

"Soooo… how are my babies doing?" Changing the topic, I knelt down on a knee, copying my son, and placing my head against her belly.

In here, this is my second chance. The start of something great. I'll do it right.

"We're doing fine. Little one right here," she patted her stomach affectionately, "has been getting lively lately. I think she's tired of being all cooped up. She wants to be born and see her big brother with her own eyes."

"So we're all set, it's going to be a girl?"

"Of course!"

"What about her daddy?"

"Hmm," she puts a finger to her chin, "I'll think about it."

"Sweetheaaaart?!"

"I'm joking. She can meet her daddy too."

It was just a joke, but it still stings.

Dear… when did you become so brazen?

My kind wife has always had a bit of a temper to her, but I only see it when I do something bad. Lately though I feel like she's been seeing her getting more and more brazen. It's not to the point of being rude, but it is… different.

I think it's just her way of getting a little revenge, but it's still surprising.

She hasn't run me this ragged since before we became a couple, and I was trying my best to get under her skirt, or get her out of her skirt. Whichever was easier. Both were difficult. Now I'm just trying to get into her bedroom. Extremely difficult. Unfortunately I can't just sneak under her covers. Shame.

Husband is lonely…

Dear, can we sleep in the same room yet?

This is our new normal. My wife is as radiant as ever, if a little more fiery. Rudeus seems to be growing more and more spoiled, and has become a mama's boy in my absence, and Lilia is… well she's there. I fought tooth and nail to get into my family's circle, and I succeeded, but it's different then what I remembered. I knew things were going to be like that, but I didn't think they were going to be 'this' different. It's like I've entered a new family. I feel like a stranger in my own home at times. So despite no longer being on the outs with my wife, the scene I just witnessed puts a bitter taste in my mouth. Whenever Lilia is around things become… uncomfortable. She is my wife's best friend. She is my son's… maid. She is also, unfortunately, a part of this family.

It's like I managed to sneak into someone's bed only to realize it's the wrong room. Not a pleasant experience I'll tell you… well, except when it is… but that's a completely different matter.

A tale of two beauties, and one lucky brat. Sounds familiar.

Tch! So this is how people felt by looking at me. I don't like it. Well, I don't like being on this side of things. It makes me uneasy, and puts a bitter taste in my mouth.

So this is why people whispered for me to die.

Son… you are walking a path that leads to death.

Joking.

It's only his mom and maid. It only leads to headpats, and cuddles.

If it were anyone else I might even be jealous. I'm not. Definitely not. Why would I be jealous that he's being pampered? I'm not!

Well… maybe a little. But only a little! I mean look at him; it's like I'm looking at some young noble getting spoiled by two beauties. So unfair!

Still though, it's impossible to be completely jealous of him.

After all, one of those beauties is poison.

That's not something I'll ever envy.

Where was I?

"Dear?" A voice calls out to me.I turn to look at the source of it. There's only one person here.

"Ah, my bad. I got lost in thought. Just a lot on my mind."

"Hmm~ that's new. I didn't know you thinked."

"Dear…"

My feelings…

"Hai hai, I got it. I'll cut down on the jokes. This is our bonding time. Soooo…" she puts her hands together, and stretches towards the sky, arching her back, "anything you want to share."

"Yes, but it can wait. Like you said; this is our bonding time. We can leave the unpleasant stuff for later."

She looks at me quizzically, a brow raised.

Me and Zenith can now talk to each other like an honest couple, and don't have to be worried, me specifically, but it took a lot of work, deals, and bribes to get this far. Last thing I want is to throw that out the window, by reminding her about my mistake.

If only I could get rid of 'her.'

"Hey?"

"Yes Paul?"

"How are you and Lilia?"

"We're great!" She shined beautifully as her voice raised an octave, and her smile broadened. "I know I said this last time, but Lilia was a godsend. If it wasn't for her the first time around, who knows how difficult it would be, but this time it's been better. Having Lilia around from the very beginning really does help out. Now only do I get a few tips, like on sleeping or diet, but it helps having a friend going through the same thing you're going through. We're like sisters. Oh, well I suppose we were always like sisters, but I suppose we're now, like, even more sisters. Best sisters? Really it's been the best, just the other day…"

My wife loves to talk when she's excited.

In simple terms; they're close. Back to being best friends.

"I see…"

My instinct was right. Her standing is higher than mine. Way higher. It's a good thing I didn't address the Lilia issue. It's a losing war.

I didn't say anything about the details of our infidelity back then, because well… everything. The reality of everything was so absurd that If I had attempted to bring it up back then It would only be seen as slander, and ignored. It would have even brought my own standing even lower. After all, between me and Lilia, who would you believe? Lilia has the less spotty record. No one ever suspects the maid. I didn't, but because of that, the details of her little dirty secret has gone unheard..

It's annoying that I'm the only one that knows her true colors.

To think her taste would be so… young.

I should have put two and two together when she started hanging over him. She was a royal maid. Lord knows about their habits.

I thought she would have been more professional, but it seems some of the royal's habits might have become ingrained into her.

Subtlety is the key here…

My word is not worth what it used to be. If I'm to have any success in putting a divide between those two, I'll need to be careful. This could all just as easily blow up on my face.

I could probably give a hint or two, but in the end I have to let Zenith find things out on her own.

Wow… I almost sound like a noble. My father would be proud. Only one problem. Subtlety isn't my thing.

Well, I got this far just by talking. How hard could saying a few words be?

"Zenith… don't you think Lilia spends too much time around Rudy, shouldn't she be here along your side?"

Preferably at all times. At least until I figure out how to set him up with Sylphy. Then I can rest easy.

"Now now, dear, don't be like that. Lilia needs to rest too. You're sounding a lot like Rudy. Let Rudy take care of her."

"That's what I'm afrai-wait! What did you just say?!" I jerked up, moving away from her stomach and standing over her.

"Dear?!"

"Ahem," I cough into my fist.

I lost my composure there for a moment.

"Sorry, you just caught me off guard. I thought you just… never mind. Can you repeat what you just said?"

Just gotta calm down. She doesn't know. No need to overreact.

She looked at me puzzledly, "...I'm saying to let Rudy take care of her. Rudy is helping Lilia around with the house work right now. Just let them be."

Like hell I will!

Hold it… hold it in…

"Eh… um… is that really necessary, how hard could housework be?"

She glares at me.

"...I'll pretend you didn't just say that, but Lilia's a pregnant woman just like me. It doesn't hurt to have a helping hand." She elbows me in the ribs.

Why?!

"Besides," she shrugs her shoulders, "a little magic goes a long way. He's been using water magic to clean the floors, fire magic to burn the waste, and wind magic to air out the building. Have you noticed!" She looks at me with a shine in her eyes. "The house smells like flowers doesn't it! It's great!"

"I-I got it."

She's getting excited again.

"Anyways," she calms down, "He's been a real…" she snaps her fingers and points to me, winking as she does so, "miracle worker!"

She… jokes?

"Ha… ha… I get it," I forced a laugh, causing her to pout.

"...Rudy would have thought it was funny…" she turns her head and says under her breath.

I'm sorry sweetheart, but we can't all have the humor of a seven year old.

"It was funny! I swear!"

"Liar…" she mutters.

"...sorry."

"It's fine… that's what Rudy and Lilia are for," she pouts. "Now let them be,.and let them enjoy themselves while we enjoy ourselves"

"Fine. And they're doing… what exactly?"

"Something about doing some spring cleaning. I think Rudy said they were going to take out the trash, but they said it would be best to do it when you're not around.

"When I was- Why should that matter?!"

She covers her ears with her hands.

"How should I know?" She releases her hands from her ears. "Probably, because you're loud. What was that?"

"N-nothing-"

Just a little on edge.

"Don't nothing me. This isn't the first time you've been like this."

"It's like…" she looks at me as if I'm scum.

"S-sweetie."

"Are you that intent on having her by your side?"

"T-that's not it at all!"

"I see," she closes her eyes and looks away. "I'll trust your word… for now…"

"Hai…"

She turns, opening her eyes, and giving me a raised eyebrow.

"Yes, I know what that means. I cracked you and Rudy's magic language. You can only say the same gibberish so many times before you figure it out."

That said… I still don't know some ot the things that come out of his mouth. What does Raichu or Sheeneh even mean?

"I see, well I hope you," she snaps her fingers, turning back to a jovial tone, "can just sit down and relax then. This is supposed to be our wife and husband bonding time."

I like the sound of that.

"Hai. I'll do my best!"

"You're yelling again~"

"...hai, I'll do my best…" I whispered.

"Your best? Damn. Well… I guess it'll have to do," she says.

"Hai…"

She looked at me once, before looking down again, "...that was a joke…"

"..."

…maybe I haven't cracked their code just yet.

"Ahem." she coughs into her fist, her eyes closed, and her cheeks rosy. "Anyways, just sit back, and enjoy your time with your queen, while Rudy gets to play housekeeper with Lilia. It's not every day everyone gets to relax like this."

I open my mouth to interrupt.

"Yes, I'm including Rudy. Believe it or not, he's a very caring child, he loves helping around the house. Just let them be. Did you know he quilted us a couple of small blankets for the babies? I wonder what else he's gotten ready for."

"Yeah, I know."

He stole those from me! That little backstabber. I'm the one that taught him!

I didn't think the blankets he was making were for the kids, but for himself and/or Sylphy.

You took my moment Rudy!

"That's my son for you. So…" I struggle to finish the sentence. Opportunistic?

"Astute?" Zenith offered.

"That's one way of wording it."

"Yup, he's really stepped it up quite a bit. Just look around," she made a show of the garden we're sitting in.

"I see?"

"Do you? What's so different?"

"..."

"Sigh, you know, I know, you don't know a thing about gardening. You don't have to pretend you know what's different," she says.

"Sorry," I bowed my head in apology.

"Well as long as you get it. Lying is bad. Anyways, as I was saying. Rudy has made some improvements around the garden. Do you see the fence?"

"Ah, I do… but-"

"It's rhetorical, dear. No need for pretending. It's already been established that you don't know. Now as I was saying, the plants along the wall are among the more stubborn types, so Rudeus tied them to a stick so they can grow straight, instead of spreading everywhere, and fight each other off."

"Oh well that was nice of him."

"Of course. I even taught him my magic touch."

"You taught him your what?"

Is that a joke?

"Well… I tried to, but it didn't quite work out. Still though, we still help each other flow our mana through the ground. Did you know his reserves are gigantic. I'm already working a sweat after one round, and Rudy is barely breathing hard. Our efforts paid off greatly though.The garden is so lovely now." She made a show of the garden once more.

"Oh? Ooooh! So that's what you meant."

Language dear.

"What do you mean?"

"No nothing it's just-sorry just stupid thoughts."

God dammit Elinalise. Why did you have to sprout into my head right now of all times? Magic touch… that can mean a completely different thing in certain circles.

"Anyways, everything is so green and lively now. It reminds me of back home a bit. What a beautiful sight?" she smiles as she pats her stomach. "Our baby is really lucky. This time around, both of us," she looks me in the eye, "both of us are ready. She's going to be born into a loving household. Let's not make a mistake shall we?"

"...was that a rhetorical question?" I questioned.

Her eyes sharpen, as she gives me a stoney look.

"I'm joking, I'm joking! But you're right," I reach out toward her hand and hold it. "This time around we're ready."

I'll make it so.

Fatherhood was difficult the first time around. So excited, so nervous, so a lot of things, but I couldn't wait for Rudy to be born. There wasn't a doubt in my mind at the time that I was going to be a good father. That I was going to be everything my father wasn't.

I definitely wasn't my father. I didn't make his mistakes.

I made my own.

Honestly, I didn't know what I was getting into. Parenthood, the first time around was not what I expected. I kept behaving as I usually did, and winged it, trusting my instincts, and hoping it would work out. It usually did, and for a time being it worked.

But when it comes to women… Those same instincts betrayed me.

I thought I had mastered my self restraint, but… when I looked at Lilia back then, and saw her smiling, it woke up feelings in me I haven't felt in years. I was reminded of someone long ago, and got greedy and reached for more.

Only to get stung when I did.

I didn't like her much back then, she was always the bossy wallflower of the Garidia household. She was always ordering me to train more despite having already surpassed her in talent. She was spirited, smiling, hard working, and… untouchable. Despite that though, I would still say I was interested in her.

I tended to think a lot with my lower head, then my higher one back then, at least more than I do now.

She was like an idol back then, shining brightly and smiling. She never shared that smile with me, so… when I saw her like that, so close, and within my reach. I got greedy.

I reached out, and took a bite of her fruit.

She was not what I expected. Maybe she never was, or maybe she changed over time, but now… now she's spoiled goods. The expression sweet poison comes to mind.

This time it will be different. I know the value of what I can lose, and I have no intention of reaching for spoilt fruit.

"Honey," I put a hand under her chin, "may I?"

Tilting her chin I point it towards my face, and get closer reaching her lips. There is no need to reach for other fruit, there is something just as sweet right here.

Getting closer, and closer, I am upon her lips. I can feel her breath on me, and…

Smooch. I kiss her… cheek.

She turned her head away from me at the last second.

Well… better than last time…

"So… we're not there yet."

…so close…

"....I'm sorry… just… not yet," she whispers, her face hidden as she's looking down. "I don't… it's just… it's just not right at the moment."

"Well, a kiss is still a kiss so that's a win in my book," I kiss her once more on her forehead.

I'll take what I can get. Just being able to do this much is a step in the right direction.

She gives me a bashful smile. That's a win in my book. She turns back at me with a raised eyebrow. "A win of what out of curiosity?"

Walking around the chair until I'm standing behind her I wrap my hands around her, resting them under her breast, and chin upon her shoulder, inhaling her scent. "You'll see…" I say into her ear.

"Hah…" she tilts her head to the side, "I liked it better when you were walking around eggshells."

I still am. I'm just better at noticing the eggshells.

"Hey dear…" I whisper.

"Hmm?"

"How about a little massage? Like last time, for old times sake."

Big breasted women have back problems. Pregnant women have back problems. And Zenith falls under both.

Last birth, when things were more peaceful we had a lot of fun until Rudy's birth. Zenith's switch was flipped, and she was quite raunchy at the end of it. Everynight after a good massage, she would say I'm too tired, but eventually with a little convincing we'd have a little fun. Everyone wins. She got a massage, and I got her.

It's a shame we didn't get to do some breast play this time around, but I can still set up for the future, right? Right?!

You know… eventually.

I waited this long. What's another month or two?

"Like old times…" she looks at me with a glare.

Ah… I hope she doesn't remember how those old times usually end.

"Um… you know, just a nice massage…"

"..."

She turns away, and moves her hair aside, exposing her nape. "...if you let your hands wander. You're sleeping outside again," she turns her head to the side, giving me a side glance. "Well?"

"Yes ma'am!"

Thank god for my instincts. Guess they haven't let me down just yet.

Putting my hands on her shoulders, I started massaging her neck.

"Mmh… ah, that's it… mmm… that's good…" She moans a little as she arches her neck a little as I massage her shoulders.

It's too bad she's sitting.

If we were in the bedroom, I could convince her to take off her gown, and massage her back. I'd still be banned from letting my hand wander into more intimate areas, but I'd at least have a nice view.

Looking down though… I can see my wife's breast going up and down as her breathing becomes more erratic. Erotic. Pregnancy is a good look for her. Her already large breast are even larger.

The fruit is ripe for the picking.

This position has its own benefits as well.

"This is nice isn't it," I whisper in her ear. "Just you and me, and nature. Isn't this great?"

"Is that a rhetorical question?" She asks, "but yes… mmh, it's nice. It's almost as… mmh… almost as good as Rudy's…"

"Huh?"

Wait… what?

I freeze.

"Paul?" she questions, turning her head, and giving me a side glance once more, "why did you stop?"

"...nothing, it's just. Did you say Rudy?"

"Hmm? Yeah, I told you, didn't I? Rudy's been very attentive lately. Well~ he's been giving me massages every night before we go to sleep."

"Of course he has," I sigh, recontinuing to rub her shoulders.

Because why not. Of course he will rub your shoulders. Every-single-time. Rudy this, Rudy that. Is there anything he can't do? How the hell is he one upping me without being here. Just give me a win already! Argh, that son of mine sure is a headache, and here I thought we finally had a moment to ourselves.

"For how long?"

"Mmh… about two months."

"He really is a mama's boy isn't he. You know you can tell him no, right? You don't need to humor him. He's fighting all my battles, and here I thought we finally had a special moment."

"Are you complaining about having your hands on me?"

"No, I'm complaining about not having you all to myself."

"Well too bad! You're just going to need to get used to it. I'm a mother of two now."

"It's not that. It's just," I leaned in closer to whisper it near her ear, "I thought I could do something for you without Rudy competing against me. Lord knows how much time he spent with us. Always cuddling his way next to you. I swear he's gotten overly attached to you. Don't you think you're spoiling him too much. I mean he's seven years old, he's going to need to leave the-"

"No."

"...sweetie?"

"No I don't. He's my baby, and always will be. He'll never be too old to be spoiled. Besides…" she plays with her hair, twirling it, as she looks off to the side, "he's been spoiling me way more than I've been spoiling him," she whispers.

"Yeah, but all birds have to leave the nest. He can't just sleep in your bed till he's fifteen. He'll have to-"

"Why not?"

What?

"Why not? What do you mean why not? What kind of boy sleeps in their parent's bed 'till they're fifteen. Even seven is pushing it. You're cuddling him a bit too much. Besides, wouldn't you rather sleep with me than with Rudy."

"..."

"...sweetheart?"

"What's wrong with wanting to cuddle next to your loved ones?" She turns her head looking in the distance.

"No, there's nothing wrong with it, but all birds have to leave the nest. At this rate he'll grow up to be a useless adult."

"He's anything but useless! He takes care of the garden. He takes care of Lilia. He takes care of his family! It's only natural that I would take care of him in return."

"Even if you say that. There's a limit. You're just spoiling him."

"It's called love!"

"It's called babying!"

"..."

It's called denial is what it is.

I smartly keep my mouth shut, less I get pinched again. I know what she's saying, but I can't agree with it. I can't let him make my mistakes. It's a little late, but it's time to have a heart to heart.

"Sweetheart I know I screwed up, previous mistakes aside-"

She opens her mouth ready to retort, but I can't let her interrupt things now, or else we might just start fighting again.

"Mistakes aside!" I put a hand on her shoulder. "I know I screwed up. I have messed up a lot in my life… but that just makes it easier for me to avoid certain mistakes, and I can see what's going on here. I'm not wrong. Rudy… I see a lot of myself in him. He's pushing Sylphy away, and dedicating his life to you… to her, and it's admirable, but… you can't be his everything. All birds have to leave the nest, but first they have to want to leave. If you keep cuddling him, you're going to stunt his growth. He's had the talent for sword and magic since he was young, but what good is all the talent in the world if you don't use it? A bird that can't fly is just food. He needs to soar somewhere else."

She slaps my hand away.

"...stop talking down to me like that. I'm not a fool. So stop treating me like one. I know all that. I know he is going to grow. That he's going to be an adult. But he hasn't. Not yet. Do you even listen to yourself? He's seven years old for Millis sake. These are his boyish years. I'm supposed to spoil him. I want to spoil him. I'm going to love him. I'm going to hold him. And yes I'm going to sleep in the same bed with him. Because unlike certain others, he doesn't make me so frustrated that I can't sleep calmly next to him. He doesn't lie to me. He doesn't make me cry. He doesn't make me worry about the future… about our future." She gives me a stern look. "He makes me happy. It's all just simple." She stands up in a fervor. "Do you want to know why I spoil him? Because I can! One day he's going to be embarrassed that I hugged him too much. One day he's going to not want to be spoiled so he can prove how independent he is. One day he's going to be embarrassed that he slept in his own parent's bed for so long, and too big to receive hugs from his mother. But that day isn't today! Sooo! Yes, I'd rather sleep with him than you."

Turning her back to me she settles her blouse as she turns her back to me. "We're done here. I'm going to go for a walk. We'll have dinner in a few hours. Do as you please."

She walks away.

Looking at her figure disappearing in the distance, I can't help but be at a loss for words.

"...what just happened?" I think out loud. "I'm… I'm not wrong… am I? This is… this is a problem isn't it."

I massage my forehead.

"I'm gonna need to have a talk with Rudy again aren't I?"

Truly my greatest ally… and my greatest enemy.

Looking around, I'm all alone.

Standing in the middle of the garden. I'm alone... again.

"I need a drink."

///

Lilia[pov]

"How about here?" I pointed to a wall. "No, here!" I scurried to the opposite wall in the room, "or maybe…here?" I turned to look at the window, and put my hands together forming a rectangle as I formed an imaginary canvas with my hands. Moving my hands around, I move from wall to wall, as I try to find the best picturesque setting for my child to sleep in. I want to bring the image in my mind into reality.

I can't decide. I've been running around the room like crazy, moving back and forth, trying to figure out the best place for everything.

"um… Lilia… wasn't this where I had it originally?" Rudeus queried, while holding a cabinet in his arms.

"Oh…"

It was.

"M-m-my apologies master. I'm just a little… excited."

"Yeah, I can see that," He walks over a few feet to the doorway, and places it down, "feel it too," he exhales and rolls his shoulders. "How about we put it here for now? You know… until we've made up our minds where to place it."

"Sorry…"

"It's fine. I get it. You're about to be a mom, and you're a little bit nervous. It's just…" he glances at me, raising an eyebrow, "different. I didn't expect you to be so… lively. It's refreshing," he shrugs, "if not a little bit exhausting."

"Is there any mother that wouldn't be excited to see their newborn?"

"True~ but…"

"But?"

"You're usually so… stoic."

Stoic? That's one way of saying it… I'm just so…so… SO! I don't know. Jubilant? I am jubilant. It feels odd to think, let alone say, even to me, but the most appropriate.

I am gleeful? No, that's not right. How about… ecstatic? I am ecstatic…

"Pfft-" Rudeus snorts as if hearing my thoughts. Looking away from me he leans against the cabinet. "I-I'm s-sorry, you're just looking so cute right now you're catching me off guard."

Ah… there he goes again. Another accidental confession.

He's slipping.

More and more lately, occurrences like this have become a regularity. It's an unexpected change, but not an unwelcome one. A peek into Rudeu's heart.

I don't know how much Rudeus is aware, but lately he's been more and more honest to who he is. He always was, as he never hid anything from me, but there was a… distance. A wall within him which no one could cross. Not even me. As if he had an unconscious barrier around his heart, where he just didn't show certain aspects of himself to anyone. Always so careful. Even through his impetuous facade.

I won't go so far as to say his actions were disingenuous, but more that it felt like he was always thinking. Too busy living in the future to live properly in this one.

Madame will never know. No one will. As this version of Rudy is the only version of Rudy they've ever seen, but as someone that's been with him since the beginning, at his worst, and at his best, I can feel the difference.

It is slight, but it is there.

The old Rudeus would not have called me cute. He would have called me beautiful, and that wouldn't have been the end of it. He would have grabbed me in a princess carry, and carried me away to some preplanned destination, and talk, or try to, talk his way into my heart. Only after such a grand display would he start speaking naturally.

Honestly, he didn't need to try that hard, but then again… it's only because he tried that hard that I even gave him a chance. So maybe I did…

The me from then is also different from the me of now.

In any case, because of all the thought he put into such plans it made catching him off guard all the more effective. Everything had to go perfect. Always. Everything always had to go according to plan.

At least that's my image of him.

As if he had a script written inside his head, and if one were to deviate from that…Like a rookie actor making a performance, he would… improvise.

The results would vary, and I can't deny that at times I might have followed his pace, but it doesn't always have to be a grand scheme. Sometimes I just want to sit next to you.

Luckily that seems to be in the past as lately… lately the cracks has started to show. The barrier around his heart is finally going down, and he's talking freely. Less, and less thinking, and more doing.

Usually such things would be seen as a demerit. Such impetuous behavior usually does nothing, but brings ruin to oneself or to others.

Example paul.

Another… myself.

But in everyday life interactions such as this; it's perfect. I get to feel the genuine feelings that Rudeus hides. No one second pauses as he figures how to woo me. No thought out plan. No lost look where he's obviously thinking hard on what to do next.

Just an unfiltered impulsive response.

And right now he thinks I'm cute.

…cute…

"You're not so bad yourself…" I muttered.

…and I might have gotten in the habit of playing along with him… again.

Perhaps I am the one not thinking.

We've been here before, but it's different now. This time I... I am not against… anything.

"Did you say something?"

"N-Nothing, just admiring the room."

"Well," he looks around, "I did put a lot of effort into it. I'm glad it's finally going to good use."

"Indeed."

"It's too bad about Paul though," he says.

I looked at him with a dubious gaze, which he returned with a reserved expression, only for it to break soon after, his juvenile smirk sprouting forth.

"Ok, maybe not. I'd say turning his room into a nursery is appropriate."

"In that we are in agreement."

Currently Rudeus, and I are in the guest room. Otherwise known as Paul's room, and we have been redecorating it. By redecorating I mean moving his stuff out. It is to be the baby's room after all.

With Madame's permission that is.

It is currently quite desolate, having put most of our energy in clearing it out, and having difficulties figuring out where to put certain furnishings. As such, except for a small pile of nurseries and fairytales, laid by the wall, and the cabinet blocking the doorway, the room only has the main accessory that all nunneries should have. A crib. It's quite homely.

The hard part I would say was clearing out the room, but truth be told, I didn't do much. Rudeus' did all the heavy lifting. With the baby's birth nearing ever closer, Rudeus has been more and more overbearing, and refused to let me carry anything heavy.

Although…

An overbearing Rudy has its own appeal.

Soon… soon this room will become quite lively.

I can't help, but think as I try to picture the future in this room. Me, my child, madame's child, and Rudy visit from time to time. It's all so homely.

Truthfully speaking we didn't need to clean out the guest room. This is still a noble household at the end of the day, even if it's more modest than what you would expect from a noble, it's still on the larger side. There's still space for the children. That said Paul agreed to it anyway.

He seems to be under the impression that with all the rooms taken, and things improving with him and madam, that we'll be clearing out this room, and with his former room vacated, he would be reentering the master bedroom.

It is a reasonable deduction. It is also false.

Rudy has been sleeping in Zenith's room for the last month so there's one more empty room in the household besides the guest room, and that is Rudy's old bedroom.

I wonder why he thought he would be moving back into the main bedroom?

All I said was; that the Madame is looking toward the new sleeping arrangement. I wonder what could have been misconstrued from that?

Well, it doesn't matter. It's only Paul.

Tee-hee?

I wonder if that's how you use that phrase?

I glance at Rudy.

…he'll tease me if I ask.

"Something on your mind?" he asked me.

I whip my face away before he can read it. "No, nothing at all."

"Suuuure."

He walks towards the middle of the room, looking all around him, before a wide smile starts spreading on his face. A habit I've seen come more naturally to him. "It's almost time isn't it?"

"Indeed."

I pat my stomach.

Even without looking at my face he can read my mind.

I can't wait for her to be born.

I take a glance at the crib made.

It is not the most beautiful of amenities, but it was made with care. Paul also made one, and I loathe to admit… it is better made than Rudeus's, but…

I'd rather my child sleep in something made from Rudy's love than Paul's.

Incidentally Paul's cradle has been placed in Zenith's room instead, and that is what I meant by sleeping arrangement, but oh well. It's only a small misunderstanding.

Perhaps Paul can sleep in the crib? Tee-hee…

…perhaps I've spent too much time with Zenith.

That room is for the head of the household. The true one. As such only Rudy, and whoever he wants in that room, can sleep in that room. Even if on paper Rudeus is 'technically' not my master. In my eyes he is. Rudeus's word is law as far I'm concerned.

But I'll refrain from telling him.

He'll get a big head.

"You don't think you're overdoing it master. I think Sylphy was sad when you told her you won't be playing that much with her these next few months."

"Overdoing what?"

"You know. The effort, the moving," I directed my neck to this room in question, "the everything. You can still enjoy yourself with your friend."

"I am enjoying myself, besides I'm not gone. I'm just setting my priorities. She can still come and visit. I just can't go out and play for a couple months. It will flash by in a second."

I see.

'In a second…'

"Lilia?"

"Yes?" I'm broken from my stupor.

"How about these?"

"Those are…"

The series of tiles he made earlier for Zenith for the hangman game. It was only just yesterday. Time sure passes. Regardless of people's wants. It is a fun game, but… the implications are rather morbid. I don't feel it's a game suited for toddlers.

"I don't think such a gruesome game is appropriate for children, Rudeus."

"…it's not gruesome… but just to be safe, I took out the hangman pieces. Without it, it's just a set of tiles with pictures attached to them. It will help them learn their alphabets."

"I see… regardless, I think it's best that the set stays in the living room for now. Please move it later. After all, the children won't be able to read for some time."

"Ah…" his cheeks turn rosy as blood flows to them, "you're right. Guess I'm getting ahead of myself… again," he scratches at his cheek with a finer.

"It's fine Rudy."

I'm used to it.

It's a shame to admit, but… in these later months, I've started to understand Zenith's claim about wrapping Rudeus around your finger. Ordering him around is a little… intoxicating.

…just a little…

This is just conjecture, but… If I were to tell him that it would be good for the baby if he… if we… um… slept in the same bed. Platonically of course! It would promote healthy growth for the baby. He would probably do it.

Of course I won't ask it though. That goes a little beyond a simple tease. But I do think he would fall for it.

However…

"Master Rudeus, can you move that crib a little away from the wall? I don't want to risk something falling over, and into the crib."

"Ah right." he starts to move the crib. Sliding it a foot away from the wall.

"A little more centered. I want the sunlight to be able to illuminate it."

"Sure."

Shamefully I must admit, the ability to push him around is a little… fun. Madame was right.

How cute~

"Lilia… you're enjoying yourself aren't you," he looks at me with steady eyes.

Ah. Did it show on my face?

"Even I can get excited at times, you know. This is a joyous occasion."

"You're definitely right about that," he says. "That said, we finished earlier than we thought we would. What do we do for the next hour?"

I looked at the word tiles he brought over.

"Hangman?"

"How gruesome! What did I do to you?!"

"..."

"Well, I thought it was funny."

"Pf… pfft… pha ha ha ha…" After trying to hold it for a second, I started laughing heartily. Tears escaping from the corners of my eyes. It's all so ridiculous.

"Um… Lilia… you alright?"

"I'm f-fine… everything… is just," I glance at him, my cheeks hurting with how strongly I'm grinning, "...perfect."

To be here. To be with him. To be joking, and teasing. It's all… more than I could have hoped for.

"You really are lively today."

"Thanks to you."

If this was us just four months ago, I would be worried about bringing a baby into this world, but now…

Gathering my courage I walk up to him, and reach out running my hand through his hair while looking into his eyes. He has his father's emerald eyes, but unlike him, I actually enjoy looking into his. They're vibrant, and filled with so many hidden emotions.

If it's for an hour, I can easily spend my time diving into his soul.

"The current me is really looking forward to bringing a baby into this world. My earlier anxieties are over with. As long as you and Zenith are here. I'm confident she'll be born into a happy household," releasing Rudy's hair. I reached for his hand, and placed it upon my stomach, "I can't wait for you to meet her."

I wonder if she'll have green eyes as well, or will they be lilac like mine.

"So you think it's going to be a girl as well?"

"Indeed."

"Because of me?"

"You are only confirming what I already knew?"

"Oh, and how's that?"

"It's simple." I adjust my glasses. "It's maid intuition."

'Tis but a fact. A good maids attends to her masters. A great maid prepares for them.

"Maid intuition… sounds scary."

"Very. It allows me to see my master's future actions, and be ready for them."

"Is that so? What am I going to do next?"

"You're going to be insufferable."

Although, I don't need any special skills to predict that. It's simply a fact. Removing Rudeus's Rude tendencies is removing the Rude in Rudeus. He would simply be… eus.

"You've gotten quite cheeky haven't you."

"I'm also right."

"Ha ha, right are you? Well, we wouldn't want you to be a liar. In fact…" He looks up at me, and narrows his eyes, before…

Placing his head upon my stomach.

What is he-

I felt his head upon my stomach, and was confused for a moment, before I looked down on him and noticed his devilish smirk.

Ah… he's feeling challenged… and when Rudy feels challenged. He does something-

He starts ruffling my dress, reaching for the folds, and starts working the lining. Finding the buttons he starts unbuttoning them…

-crazy.

"Eh? R-Rudy?!"

For a moment I regain my bearings, and call out his name. All I need to do is to tap him on the head, and he will cease. He will… cease.

Time freezes and we are looking into each other's eyes.

We ceased, but… I haven't taped him.

Is th-this it. Is this happening?!

"Hah… hah…"

I, should I-

And before I can even think. The decision is taken away from me. A devilish smile sprouts on Rudy's face, and time resumes.

He moves his hands ever so slowly unbuttons a fold, and reveals my stomach, exposing my belly to the world. His hands run over my belly slowly… sensually, as if he's giving me a massage like the days that have passed us by. There is no warmth from magic, but there is heat. My body warms, and my skin begins to sprout goosebumps as his gentle touch drives my body into a state of confusion. Bending his head, ever so slowly, he nears my now exposed stomach, and… kisses it.

"...mch…"

A short while later, only the sound of lips parting is heard, as the wet kiss he gave me is released. It was but a second. It was simple. It was…

"Well… did you see that coming…" he looks at me with a fire in his eyes. A fire I haven't seen since… our date.

Crazy…

Gulp. I swallow my breath, and… desires… This is dangerous.

"Hah… no… I didn't…"

The more you try to understand Rudy the less you do.

No, I always knew he was spontaneous. This was always his natural reaction, but just because you know someone is spontaneous doesn't mean you know what that spontaneous action will be.

It's like predicting where thunder will strike.

I've been struck.

I can see the clouds, but all I can do is weather the storm, or… be caught in it.

Blinking his eyes repeatedly he comes to a realization of what he just did, and slowly steps away. His demeanor changed as suddenly as it first turned, his face turning red, and he now looks bashful as he holds an arm to himself, looking into empty space.

He's back to being a tamed cub.

I can tell by looking at his red face that he's extremely embarrassed by his own actions, but he did it anyway. I can read him well enough that I can see the gears turning in his head, as he thinks on the repercussions of his actions.

He is difficult.

Now that I think about it… Madame did say, it felt like he was competing with his father. That she felt Rudy just might be the competitive type, and be competing for her affection.

It should have been obvious, and I do know him the best, but… he is like lightning.

If you know Rudy's buttons… one really can push him, and… he'll push back. If I were to push him a certain way, and… he would push back… I would… let him push…

…I should stop this line of thinking. Mixing Hormones with actual feelings leads to 'complicated' emotions... and even more complicated scenarios.

My face is on fire.

"M-Master, p-perhaps we should rest. I-I have been running you ragged."

"Ahem," he takes the lifeline, and coughs into his fist, "ah y-yeah. You're right. I could-we could, use a moment… to um… cool our head."

Walking side by side we sit by the windowsill, we sit, resting our shoulders against each other.

"..."

"..."

We can both be difficult. I can shamelessly admit.

"Sorry… about um… 'that.' You know how I sometimes, um… get carried away. You can slap me if I do something you don't like."

I never said I disliked it.

"I'll remember that."

"Soooo, Maid intuition, that's a powerful skill." He scratches his cheek as he changes topics. "Does it tell you anything else; like what color hair your daughter is going to have?"

It took him all but two seconds to raise his barrier back up.

"Probably red I suppose."

"She'll be very lucky if that is the case," he reaches for me, his hand outstretched, before stopping, and lowering it.

He's thinking again.

Reaching out I seize the opportunity and grab his hand before he can change his mind, and lock palms with him, intertwining our fingers.

Stop thinking will you. Just do…

"It's also telling me," I put one hand under his chin, "you wouldn't mind me being a little bit selfish, and do this," leaning closer, I close my eyes and kiss him on the side of his face. Pressing my lips to his cheek, and holding it for as long as I can, for a second isn't enough.

"..."

Pushing away from him I open my eyes and see his calm composure as he sits stock still.

It is a farce.

My hand is still under his chin, and I can feel his pulse beating.

I must shamefully admit. I like the idea that I can set his heart ablaze with, but a kiss.

"...scary," he mutters. Looking down a small flush is starting to spread on his face.

How unexpected. How fun.

"Thank you."

A second is a long time if you use it properly.

Going back to the tranquil silence we sit next to each other enjoying this moment of bliss. In this quiet solace no one can see us. I can act without impunity. And all I want… is to be next to him. We can simply stay here for an hour doing nothing. That is fine as well. Let's rest our weary hearts.

"She's going to love it here," he states.

"Yeah…"

My daughter; I wonder what I should name her? Should it be fitting a noble, or should I name her after someone I knew? Who would that be? The head maid responsible for my training? My grandmother? Would naming her after Zenith be too much? Or… should I?

I look towards Rudy by my side.

"…"

When in doubt, trust your heart.

"Rudeus, you're confident it's going to be a girl that is going to be born aren't you."

"Yup."

"I see, then you must have put quite some thought into girls' names."

"I have…"

"Then would you…" I lean in closer, pushing my shoulder against his, getting his attention, "would you help me come up with a name for her?"

"You… Want me to come up with a name for her?" He looks me in the eye asking for confirmation.

There's nothing to think about. It is obvious.

"Yes."

"I… have a few ideas, but is it alright? Wouldn't you-"

"I would love it if you named her," I place my hand on top of his.

This is what I want.

"Oh… ok," he blinks a couple times as I've been keeping him off guard, "well… if it's alright."

"It is."

"Aisha," he looks away, "I think If she's a girl, Aisha would be a good name."

"Aisha…" I test the name on my lips.

That's the name of the head maid that trained me. How… fateful.

"I like it. I'm sure she will too. Thank you Rudy."

"Don't mention it. I'm sure you would have come up with a name just as good."

"Maybe," I lean on him, "but it wouldn't be the name you've chosen."

He turns to me, and we stare into each other's eyes one more time and…

It happened.

His barrier is down…

Just like that. It fits. It all fits. At that moment, there is no need to think. No more barriers. We just… are.

His hands move towards me, they cusp the sides of my face, and bring me closer to him. As we lock lips. His breathing is upon me. His heartbeat, my heartbeat, their racing, and I can't tell whose it is anymore. I don't care anymore. It doesn't matter. We press on. Our souls intertwine through our lips.

And like that it ended.

After an eternity in a second. He releases me, and we're free to look at each other once again. Breathing slightly off, and eyes focus intently on the other.

It was just a chaste kiss. Nothing like our first, which was an overwhelming cocktail of emotions; lust, worry, confusion, fear… love.

This was… pure.

We simply wanted to express our feelings.

We weren't trying to figure out an answer to a question.

We were the answer.

"Rudeus…"

"Lilia…"

We stay there next to each other staring into each other's eyes waiting for the other to move. Our hearts are beating rapidly. I know it. It is simply my intuition, but I only need to look into his eyes to know that he feels the same as I. Everything is so complicated, but this is our little solace, and right here it's fine to be ourselves.

Right here, no one can hear us.

Perhaps this was fate.

"I-"

"Lilia, my shoulders are a little stiff," before I can start my sentence Rudeus acts first.

"Indeed."

"I heard massages are a really good way to relieve stress."

"Indeed."

Grabbing my hands, he holds them while looking me in the eye. "Can you give me a massage?"

"...indeed."

When in doubt, trust your master. Let him make the first move. I've already decided to follow, and I… want to.

At least that's what my intuition is telling me.

Or is it my heart?

Separating our hands, he stands, stepping a couple feet away from me, before proceeding to take off his shirt, revealing his sweaty chiseled figure, his chest rising up and down as his breathing settles down. His body is more mature than it should be. His eyes still focused on me. The eyes of a wolf.

Will I be devoured?

"Whew," he exhales, before throwing his shirt to the corner, and turning his back to me "should I lay down, or turn around?"

"Whichever you prefer."

"Well… we don't have towels to lay down. So I'll stand this time."

"This time?" I get closer, laying my hands on top of his shoulders, and proceed to kneading his muscles, and tendons, loosening them.

"This time," he holds his hand over mine, gently, as he whispers, "Your next."

Indeed.

///