Nova's Universe

Chapter 3 (1999)

Nova

"Sometimes I'm grateful for Silencing Charms," Charlie chuckled, collapsing beside me with a happy sigh. Laughter still danced in his voice.

"Calling me loud?" I teased, a playful smirk on my lips.

"Not exactly quiet, love," he admitted, winking before nipping at my bottom lip. "Not that I'm complaining." His voice dipped, a husky undertone creeping in.

"It's not my fault you were making me scream like that," I countered playfully, raising an eyebrow. "Maybe unlock the door? Just in case Aoede wakes up and wonders why we sound like a couple of teenagers in hiding."

We broke apart for a moment, the playful tension thick in the air.

"Alohomora," Charlie murmured, flicking his wand at the door before returning to my lips.

"Speaking of spells..." He trailed off, a knowing smile playing on his lips as I watched the blush creep up Charlie's neck.

There was a certain look he got - that sheepish grin combined with flushed cheeks - that always told me he had an idea he wasn't sure how I'd react to.

"Yes?" I prompted gently.

"Aoede's turning three in a few weeks," he began, fidgeting slightly. "Things have settled back to normal, and we're doing great... so I was wondering..." He trailed off again, avoiding my gaze and doodling absent heart shapes on my shoulder with his finger.

"Mmm-hmm?" I hummed encouragingly.

"Maybe we could... stop using the Protection Spell?" The words tumbled out in a rush as if he expected me to scold him.

A slow smile spread across my face. "You mean, start trying for another baby?" I clarified, lifting his chin so he'd look at me.

"May...be?" he mumbled, looking like a kicked puppy and scratching the back of his head.

I let out a hearty laugh. "Are you offering to carry this one for nine months, Charlie?"

He blushed even deeper. "I would if I could, love."

"You know what..." I started, feigning deliberation and tapping my finger on my chin. I loved teasing him a little, drawing things out when he was nervous. "That idea actually doesn't sound so bad."

A grin broke out on his face, the relief clear in his eyes. "Really? I thought you might think it's too soon, or..."

"Or that I wouldn't want any more children after that...memorable pregnancy experience with Aoede?" I finished his sentence with a laugh. "If another baby came out half as wonderful as Aoede," I continued, pressing my lips to his again, "I'd endure morning sickness for another nine months. She's an absolute angel." I gave him another kiss.

"Truth be told," I added, pulling back slightly, a soft smile playing on my lips, "I've been thinking the same thing. I think we're ready for another child."

Charlie's eyes lit up, as bright and happy as they always did when Andrei told him about a new baby dragon hatching. "You are?"

"I am," I confirmed, squeezing his hand. "And I think Aoede will be the most amazing big sister."

"The best," Charlie agreed, pulling me into a tight hug.

"Why so nervous asking me this?" I asked, snuggling closer and resting my head on his chest.

"Honestly, it feels like I'm finally myself again," he began. "We're both back at work, Aoede's an absolute joy, and seeing you two giggle together just...fills me with so much warmth. I guess the desire to grow our family just kind of snuck back in." He offered a sheepish grin.