Nova's Universe

Chapter 3 (2003)

Charlie

Nova's voice, heavy with exhaustion, called out from the bathroom. "Sorry to interrupt your playtime with Luna, DeeDee, but it's time to pack for your trip to Bill and Fleur's."

This pregnancy was definitely the toughest on her. Constant fatigue, lingering morning sickness, two hospital visits for bleeding scares, and the relentless need to use the restroom – Nova was being pushed to her limits.

"Not that I'm not excited about going to Uncle Bill's," Aoede said, carefully settling next to her mum on the sofa and patting her leg gently. "But why can't Dora come? I'll miss playing with her."

Thankfully, Luna Dora, while full of energy, didn't jump on Nova like Aoede. We'd easily explained the need for extra care around Mum – no roughhousing, sitting politely instead of climbing on her lap, and softer hugs. Aoede, however, struggled to grasp the changes. Why couldn't she run around with Mum anymore? Why couldn't they draw on the floor together? Why did I have to be around so much for Mum to rest?

We understood how much Aoede missed their usual routine. Their bond was heartwarming. Several times, I'd found Aoede stroking Nova's hair and humming a lullaby as she slept on the sofa. It melted my heart but intensified my worry. When Nova explained the situation to Aoede, using words like "fragile" and "careful," I yearned for a pep talk myself. I'd confided in Dad and Bill, but their reassurances couldn't quell my anxieties. We wanted another child, but this was overwhelming. Morning sickness with Aoede and fatigue with Luna Dora were a breeze compared to this. Nova seemed to weaken by the week, and we still had over a month to go.

"It's because Luna Dora's a bit younger, DeeDee," I explained, taking the pressure off Nova. "A whole week away from us might be a little overwhelming for her."

"Remember how it went when you two first stayed overnight at Shell Cottage?" Nova added gently. After the New Year's celebration at the Burrow, Bill and Fleur offered to take the girls for a few days. We were curious to see how they'd react, especially Luna Dora. The morning after their visit started, I was already on the phone with Bill, Luna's cries for Mum echoing in the background.

"Ugh, don't remind me," Aoede groaned, rolling her eyes. She clearly felt her sister had ruined her stay with their aunt and uncle.

"That's why you're going to Bill and Fleur's for a bit," I continued. "You'll get some peace and quiet, and your mum, Luna Dora, and I will stay with your grandparents until it's time for Mum's hospital visit. Then, once she gets back..."

"I'll come back to the Burrow with Bill and Fleur and finally get to see the baby!" Aoede's infectious grin wiped away my worry momentarily.

We were relieved that despite her initial resistance, Aoede had warmed up to the idea of a new sibling. She'd been peppering Nova with questions, and every mention of meeting the baby soon brought a wide grin and excited clapping – just like Luna Dora.

"Exactly," I said, patting her head proudly. "Now let's get packing. Bill will be here any minute."

"Can I take Dora with me to pack?" Aoede pleaded, unleashing her signature puppy-dog eyes – an inheritance from her mother that she knew I couldn't resist.

"Of course, sweetheart," Nova replied before I could. "Char, could you keep an eye on Luna heading upstairs?"

She managed a weak smile before closing her eyes again. A fresh wave of worry washed over me, and I longed for the end of this exhausting period. With a sigh, I stood and hurried towards the stairs, where my girls were already waiting for me.

Nova reached out a weak hand as I settled back onto the sofa, and I gently lifted her head to rest on my lap. "Hey," I murmured, kissing her forehead.

"There's something I've been thinking about, Char," she whispered. "I wanted to run it by you."