After the sweet prenatal training, Aldrich believed that the tension between him and Maggie had been resolved. However, come nighttime, Maggie still insisted on sleeping separately.
The towering Aldrich carried Maggie into their bedroom and pleaded, “If you have any grievances with me, please tell me.”
Maggie widened her eyes and replied, “Aldrich, why would you think that? You haven’t done anything wrong.”
“Partners only sleep apart when they’re arguing or facing a breakup.”
“No, that’s not what I mean.”
“Then we shouldn’t be sleeping apart.”
“Aldrich, listen to me…” Maggie lowered her voice, trying to find a suitable excuse. “I have trouble sleeping.”
“Dear, do you need me to remind you? As your partner, I know how you sleep better than anyone.”
“I might get up at night, and you’ve already had a tiring day. I don’t want to disturb you.”
“At times like this, a partner’s support is even more important. During pregnancy and childbirth, a man’s responsibility is not just providing sperm; the support and care for a woman later on become even more critical. It’s my duty and obligation.”
Maggie couldn’t come up with a valid reason to refuse Aldrich. No matter how tricky her thoughts might be, she finally relented, saying, “I don’t want to be apart from you.”
However, Aldrich casually smiled, “So who does Maggie want to see? I can get a custom mask so that I can be there with you.”
Reluctantly, Maggie raised her hands in surrender, letting Aldrich take care of her and help her get ready for bed.
Days went by, and their routine was established. Aldrich would cuddle with Maggie, their bodies entwined, forming a protective cocoon around their unborn cubs. The atmosphere in the room was quiet, with only the moonlight seeping through the curtains, casting a soft glow. It was a sanctuary filled with love and anticipation.
The cubs continued to nestle within Maggie’s womb, becoming restless. Their tiny voices echoed in Aldrich’s mind, revealing their mischievous and impatient nature. They yearned to taste delicious dishes, which had become a cherished memory.
Aldrich had heard the cubs express their longing for food several times, which left him puzzled. He turned to Maggie for answers.
“Maggie,” he inquired, “why do the cubs continuously yearn for food?”
Maggie met Aldrich’s gaze, seeing the genuine curiosity and concern in his eyes. In that moment, she realized that he truly was a loving father, wholeheartedly dedicated to their unborn cubs. She couldn’t find a reason to continue sleeping separately from Aldrich, and the matter of the Energy bead had been postponed repeatedly. It was time to break this impasse.
“Aldrich, will you protect me and our children forever?” Maggie asked, sounding fragile.
Without hesitation, Aldrich replied, “Of course.”
“Swear to the moon goddess?”
“Of course. I, Aldrich Barrett, solemnly swear to the all-powerful moon goddess that I will protect Maggie Nelson and our soon-to-be-born twin infants forever. If I betray this oath, may the moon goddess punish me and strip me of everything I possess.”
“Everything signifies Aldrich’s healthy body, noble lineage, brilliant mind, and even his life. He has given his all in exchange for Maggie’s trust.”
“Aldrich! This oath is too heavy!”
“Even without this oath, I would do the same for you, Maggie. Don’t you understand my heart?”
Maggie could clearly see her reflection in Aldrich’s eyes, as if there was only her in his world. The brightness, determination, and trust in his eyes made all her worries dissipate.
Maggie took a deep breath and softly said, her voice tinged with vulnerability, “Aldrich, I have a special Energy Orb. It allows me to absorb the essence of the moon at night to aid in our cubs’ development.” Maggie paused, hesitating, and didn’t continue.
A mix of joy and disappointment flickered across Aldrich’s face. He was glad to discover that Maggie had taken steps to provide the best for their cubs, but a hint of sadness lingered because he knew there were still secrets between them. He couldn’t help but reflect on his past actions, realizing that his initial treatment of Maggie might have made her hesitate to fully trust him. He was determined to make amends and, from that moment on, vowed to be a better partner and father to her and their cubs.
Night fell, and the world was shrouded in a tranquil darkness. In their shared, quiet space, Maggie retrieved the Energy bead, preparing for her nightly ritual of transferring energy. Aldrich stood by her side, like a vigilant guardian on watch. As the Energy bead emitted a soft glow, he gazed at it with awe, its ethereal radiance captivating his senses. It had an inexplicable allure, but Aldrich knew it was best not to succumb to its temptation. It was designed to provide nourishment for their cubs.
“This Energy bead is very similar to the Elder Council’s Energy Orb,” Aldrich couldn’t help but comment.
Maggie didn’t shy away from it. “Yes, I have a similar feeling about them.”
“It’s truly amazing!” Aldrich wanted to ask Maggie where she got it, but he realized she wanted to keep it a secret.
In the span of half an hour, Maggie practiced diligently, pushing her limits, beads of sweat forming on her forehead. Aldrich worried about her health. “Maggie, you should take a break,” Aldrich suggested. But Maggie gave him a faint smile and continued, immersing herself in intense training. Her determination fueled her, propelling her forward at every moment.
An hour passed, and Aldrich’s concern deepened. He called out again, urging Maggie to rest, but her focus remained unwavering. She was completely absorbed in her pursuit, her body and mind entwined in the dance of devotion.
Ninety minutes elapsed, and Aldrich’s anxiety reached its peak. With a sense of unease, he reached out to establish a connection with their unborn cubs, hoping to find solace in their happiness.
“Sweethearts, can you convey your mother’s condition to me?”
“Shh, Dad, please don’t disturb us!”
“Mom is now filled with energy, feeling like we are surrounded by incredibly pure energy. It’s such a wonderful feeling!”
Their response both surprised and relieved him. He could sense their joyous energy, as if eagerly absorbing the essence of Maggie’s practice.
Two hours passed, and Maggie finally concluded her practice. As she emerged from her trance, Aldrich was amazed by the transformation he had witnessed. The energy flowing through her not only nourished their cubs but also revitalized him. Fatigue was replaced by strength and vitality. His gaze was filled with longing as it locked onto Maggie.
“Maggie, even I can feel that incredible pure energy,” Aldrich said. Despite her accomplishments, all Maggie could say was, “I’m so tired.”
Aldrich gently cradled Maggie in his arms and helped her take a soothing bath. Her skin ignited desire within him, and he tenderly explored every inch of her body. His fingers glided along her graceful neck, soft breasts, sensual waist, and finally rested on her round, pregnant buttocks. Her derrière had become plump and full due to pregnancy, and the sight nearly drove him to the brink. He needed to ensure he didn’t exceed his boundaries.
In the quiet bathroom, steam and intimacy enveloped them. Aldrich’s hands moved with purpose, caressing and tending to Maggie’s weary body. Maggie felt Aldrich’s touch, combined with the perfect water temperature, making her feel so comfortable that she wanted to fall asleep.
As the water poured down from their bodies, the weight of their experiences lingered, intertwining their souls, deepening their connection. In the extended moments of the shower, their eyes met, silently conveying unwavering loyalty and commitment. They knew their journey was far from over, and challenges would continue to test their determination. But as they stepped out of the bathtub, they were infused with renewed vigor, armed with a new understanding – the belief in the power of love to conquer any obstacles ahead.