Two new members in the FBI (Rewritten)

Chapter 22

Previously on Two new members in the FBI

Jackson's Pov

As we continued to talk and plan, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the life we were building together. The road ahead would undoubtedly have its challenges, but with Stiles by my side, I knew we were ready to face whatever came our way.

Eventually, we drifted off to sleep, our hands still resting on my belly as the gentle movements of our baby lulled us into a peaceful slumber. The future was uncertain, but for now, we were content with the knowledge that we had each other and the promise of a new life to look forward to.

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Jackson's Pov

24 weeks pregnant

At 24 weeks, I was officially in the second half of my pregnancy, and the reality of it all was starting to sink in. Each day brought new developments, both for me and for our little boy, who was now about the size of an ear of corn—approximately 12 inches long and weighing about 1.5 pounds. It was incredible to think that he was growing steadily inside me, his body developing in ways I was only beginning to understand.

My belly had expanded significantly, a visible roundness that turned heads and elicited smiles from strangers. I could see the occasional stretch mark beginning to form, faint lines across my skin that told the story of my body's transformation. I had been using lotion diligently, hoping to minimize their appearance, but in truth, I wore each mark with a sense of pride. They were a testament to my journey, a reminder of the incredible life I was nurturing.

Physically, I was experiencing a mix of discomforts and joys. My back ached more than ever, a dull throb that seemed to intensify by the end of the day. I had learned to manage it somewhat by using heat packs and taking breaks to stretch, but it was always there, a constant reminder of my weight. My hips felt loose and achy, and I often had to adjust my sitting position to find relief.

In the mornings, I found it increasingly challenging to get comfortable in bed, wrestling with pillows and blankets as I tried to settle into a position that wouldn't leave me sore by dawn. It was a nightly battle, but as soon as I felt those first gentle kicks in the early hours, I knew it was all worth it.

One morning, after a particularly restless night, I found myself slumped on the couch, cradling a mug of herbal tea. Stiles was busy in the kitchen, preparing breakfast, and I could hear the soft sounds of clattering dishes mixed with the aroma of scrambled eggs wafting through the air.

"Hey, sleepyhead," he called out, glancing over his shoulder. "How are you feeling this morning?"

I sighed, rubbing my belly absentmindedly. "Tired. I didn't sleep well at all. The baby kept kicking, and I couldn't get comfortable."

Stiles turned off the stove and came over, concern etched on his face. "I'm sorry. Want me to help you with anything? A back rub? Extra pillows?"

"That would be amazing," I admitted. "But honestly, I just need to accept that sleep will be elusive."

He sat down beside me and took my hand, squeezing it gently. "You're doing a fantastic job, Jackson. You're growing a whole human. It's okay to be tired."

"Thanks," I said, feeling grateful for his support. "I just wish I could find a position that doesn't feel like I'm wrestling a bear every night."

Stiles laughed, his eyes sparkling with warmth. "If anyone can figure it out, it's you. You've handled everything thrown your way so far. Plus, you're almost halfway there!"