Distant Shores 2: Waves Of Time

Ready For A Family

Edward is looking at you with concern; your face must be showing your shock. You're not sure how to tell him. On one hand you both knew it was going to happen and you feel excited to start a family. On the other hand you're scared. The curse isn't broken yet and while there seems to be a pause on the compass glowing and trying to take you back, you don't know how long it will last. Until the curse is broken you're at risk of getting thrown back to your time. Not only would you be leaving Edward, you'd be leaving your child and fuck that! You won't let that happen.

You take deep breaths to try to calm down, but it doesn't seem to be helping. Edward grabs your hand and gently pulls you down so you're sitting on the bed next to him. He starts rubbing soothing circles on your back.

"Coral, please talk to me. What is going on?"

You look into his blue eyes and begin.

"Are you still excited for the future we saw together in Magdalena's temple. The adventures, the explorations, the...family?"

He gives you a soft smile.

"The family is what I'm looking forward to the most. I know in my heart you'll be an incredible mother, and I can't wait for that journey with you."

Before you can think through anything else, you just blurt out,

"Well I guess we'll find out in seven months."

He lets out a gasp and you wince for not finding a smoother way to break the news. Before you have a chance to respond, he kisses you, with so much love and passion that you think your heart is going to burst with happiness.

You feel a swirl of emotions and before you realize it, your eyes are welling up with tears; joy or sadness you can't be sure. Edward takes his hand and brushes the tears away from your cheeks.

"Why are you crying, Coral? Isn't this wonderful news?"

"Of course it is. I love you so much and I want to have a family with you. It's just the curse isn't broken yet. Until it is, I'll be in danger of getting thrown back to the 21st century. I can't leave you again, and now with a child in the picture... If I get sent back now, it'll destroy me. I couldn't handle it."

He wraps his arms around you and soon your sobs subside. He gives you a determined look.

"Then we break this curse as quickly as we can. The sooner we get to Atlantis, the better."

Out of the corner of your eye you see the ruby glow again. At least it seems to think you're on the right track.

"Now what do we say we focus on happier things? All this stress cannot be good for you or the baby."

You smile at him.

"You're right. Well, do you think the crew will be excited for us?"

"Aye. I have no doubt they will. Our child will grow up knowing what a true family is. But let's tell them tomorrow. I want to enjoy this night with just the three of us."

"I couldn't agree more. Actually, you know what sounds really good right now? Coconut milk. Do you think Henry has coconuts in the galley?"

You start to get up, when Edward shakes his head, throwing his coat on.

"I'll go get it. You just relax."

An hour later, after you and your baby are content with the coconut milk, you find yourself falling asleep with Edward's arm around you. He gently places a hand on your stomach.

"I love you both so much. I'll make sure we have our happy future."

You reply sleepily,

"We love you too."

You wake up early the next morning, noticing the spot next to you on the bed is empty. Edward must already be awake. You get dressed and start towards the door when you hear voices right outside. It's Edward and Charlie, and they're talking in hushed tones. You get the feeling that whatever they're talking about they want to keep it a secret.

"St. Sylvian's right on the way towards the north. We wouldn't be long. I just need to talk to John about some news from London."

"That's fine, Charlie. Actually I need to stop there too. I need Tripp's help crafting something for Coral."

Their voices fade as they walk down the hallway, away from the door. You hear Charlie faintly say,

"I knew it! But don't worry, she's going to love it."