Burning Hearts [SEQUEL INCLUDED]

Chapter 21

Ace

It's been 6 months since my pregnancy. I found out from the old geezer, through a transponder snail call, that I was born as a hermaphrodite. I was curious and asked Curiel. He explained it to me and I nodded lightly. Anyway, back to the current situation. My stomach was getting bigger and the baby inside was a feisty one. They made me eat vegetables for a whole month and they kept kicking. I walked to the galley, helped by Marco, and sat on the bench. Curiel noticed my big stomach and chuckled.

"What is it?" I asked.

"Nothing. I assure you, you'll find out on our next appointment in a few weeks," Curiel answered.

I was confused but shrugged and ate my diet of vegetables and rice.

A few weeks later

Today's my second appointment with Curiel. I was nervous for the results of the checkup but I know the baby's healthy and growing up if my womb's big. Though, my appetite grew as much as my stomach did. I ate more than usual and I feel more tired as well. I told Curiel about the problem and he laughed.

"What is it? Is something funny?" I asked.

"Yes. It's the fact that you're not expecting one but two babies," Curiel answered.

I looked at him, my mouth wide open. "What?!"

3 months later

I told Marco about him being a dad to twins and he was even more elated than me.

"We're having twins! Well done, me!" He self-praised.

I laughed at his comment and the others were speechless with him. Pops expected it because the only time a big womb appears is when the pregnant one's having more than one baby. Still, he complimented me for having twins. When the Straw Hats visited my ship, they were surprised at the update. Also, Sanji's baby boy had turned 6 months and I could already see the resemblance. Green hair like Zoro, curly eyebrows like Sanji's. They talked to us about the problems faced in caring for the child and how Luffy almost killed the child. Luffy really regretted that.

"Oh, right. You're due next month. Next month is Zoro and Sanji's first wedding anniversary. It's sad you can't attend because you would be busy with your kids." Nami said, disappointed.

"I'll ask someone to attend on our behalf then. And look, he's coming this way." I said as a boat sails toward us.

Then, the boat stopped and Sabo got off.

"Yo, everyone. How's life?"

A few minutes later

"Eh, congrats, you two. And Sanji, your baby is cute. Well, invite me to their birthdays, yeah?" Sabo asked jokingly, making everyone laugh.

"Say, I heard you're attending our anniversary on Ace's behalf?" Zoro asked.

"Yeah. Since my big bro's gonna be in labour, I couldn't refuse the offer. Besides, I'm bored. This month is just awfully dead. There was no activity around headquarters lately and it's scaring me because the Marines might be planning something," Sabo said.

"Grandpa told us that they were so busy they couldn't oversee the pirates' movement. Coby and Helmeppo also adopted a child. You know, after I become King of the Pirates, we could all live our lives in peace. I'll make sure of it!" Luffy said, grinning.

Everyone smiled at his remark. Of course, Luffy. Of course.

End of December

"Marco, help me. I can't get up." I said.