💘ENTWINED DESTINIES 💘

THE PRECIOUS TIME

💗CH -15💗

Alexander helps Magnus out of the car, his hand steadying him as they make their way into the hospital. Magnus, heavy with pregnancy, moves slowly, each step more deliberate than the last. Alexander notices the way Magnus's breath catches, the way his hand instinctively rests over his belly.

"How are you holding up?" Alexander asks, his voice soft yet filled with concern. Their bond has deepened over time-what started as a friendship has slowly grown into something more, though neither of them has fully acknowledged it.

Magnus gives him a tired smile, but it doesn't quite reach his eyes. "I'm fine. Just... tired."

They enter the hospital, where a nurse immediately takes Magnus's hand and guides him to the examination room.

Alexander follows close behind, keeping an eye on him as Magnus settles onto the examination table. Magnus places his hands gently over his swollen belly, a quiet, protective gesture that never ceases to stir something in Alexander.

Alec checks over the medical records, making notes, then turns his attention back to Magnus. He pulls on his gloves and approaches, his face softening as he begins to examine him.

"How have you been feeling, Magnus?" Alexander asks, his eyes searching Magnus's face. "Any discomfort or concerns?"

Magnus shakes his head but winces slightly as he adjusts himself on the table. "Just the usual aches and pains. But nothing too serious."

Alexander places his hands gently on Magnus's belly, his expression softening as he listens to the steady, rhythmic sound of the twins' heartbeats. The room fills with the comforting, soothing sound that reassures both of them.

"They're strong," Alexander says, his voice warm with approval.

Magnus smiles, a wave of relief washing over him. "That's good to hear."

Alexander studies the ultrasound monitor, his brow furrowing slightly as he examines the image. After a moment, he looks up at Magnus with a soft, knowing gaze. "It's a boy and a girl, Magnus. You're heaving twins "

The news settles over Magnus like a comforting blanket. He had expected to have twins when he's in forest, there he comes to know from very first day through their natural rituals, his heart swells with a mix of emotions-joy, love, and a quiet sense of responsibility. His thoughts drift to the future, to the family they're about to build together.

Alexander watches Magnus closely, his hand lingering on his belly. "Two little ones. They're going to be lucky to have you."

Magnus meets his gaze, a tear threatening to fall from his eye, but he holds it back with a shaky breath. The words feel heavier than usual-somehow, they carry more weight than just a doctor's reassurance. It's the way Alexander looks at him, as if he believes in him more than anyone else ever has.

"Thank you," Magnus whispers. "For everything."

Alexander smiles softly, his hand gently resting on his shoulder. "I'm just doing my job, Magnus. But I'm always here for you."

After the hospital visit, Alec drives Magnus back home, the soft hum of the car engine filling the quiet between them. Magnus leans back against the seat, his hand resting on his round belly, the soft bump now more noticeable with each passing day.

Alec glances over at him, the tiredness evident on Magnus's face, but there's something more-something Alec can't quite put into words. He knows Magnus has been struggling with the weight of everything, and he wants to help, to make this moment better, to bring him some comfort.

"Do you want to head straight home?" Alec asks, his voice soft with concern.

Magnus shakes his head, a faint frown on his face. "Actually... I've been craving something," he admits, his voice a little uncertain. "I don't know why, but I just really want it."

Alec raises an eyebrow. "What's that?"

Magnus bites his lip, trying to suppress a smile. "Something light. But still flavorful. Maybe something tangy and fresh... like a salad with a kick. I know it sounds odd, but I need something with a little zing."

Alec's eyes widen slightly, not quite expecting that craving, but his expression softens. "A zing, huh? Alright, I think I know just the place."

Magnus glances over at him, raising an eyebrow. "Where?"

Alec smiles, the corners of his lips turning upward. "I know a restaurant that does amazing fresh salads. They've got a great variety with citrus dressings and spicy, tangy flavors that I think you'll love."

Magnus's eyes light up with a spark of interest, and he feels a bit more at ease. "I'd love that."

Alec drives them to a small, health-focused restaurant just a few blocks away. It's quiet, with large windows that let in plenty of light, and the calming atmosphere instantly makes Magnus feel at ease. When they step inside, the fresh aroma of herbs and citrus greets them, making Magnus's stomach rumble.

Alec leads him to a booth by the window, where they can relax. Magnus settles into the chair, still rubbing his belly absently as if calming the babies within. Alec sits across from him, ordering them both drinks-fresh fruit juices, one sweet, one tangy. The waiter hands them the menus, and Alec looks over at Magnus, who is scanning the salad options, his eyes focused.

"What do you think?" Alec asks softly. "Something tangy?"

Magnus nods, his mouth watering. "Yes, something with a lot of citrus and maybe a little spice. But nothing too much... I don't want to overdo it. Just enough to make it interesting."

Alec nods and tells the waiter their order. They both settle into easy conversation while they wait. Magnus is quiet at first, but then he begins to speak, his voice light. "You know, I never really thought about how much I'd crave things like this," he admits. "When I was in forest, it wasn't something I ever paid attention to. But now... everything just feels more intense."

Alec listens carefully, his expression soft. "Yeah, pregnancy does that," he says, a small chuckle escaping his lips. "Everything becomes a craving, doesn't it? But you know, you deserve to have whatever you need."

Magnus looks up at him, his eyes full of warmth. "I know. I'm glad you're here."

Alec smiles, reaching across the table and giving his hand a gentle squeeze. "I'll always be here, Magnus. Whatever you need, whenever you need it."

The food arrives moments later, and the salad in front of Magnus looks perfect. It's packed with fresh greens, slices of avocado, crunchy nuts, and topped with a tangy, citrus-based dressing. The flavors are light but bold, and as Magnus takes a bite, he feels a sense of relief-like he's finally found exactly what he was craving.

"This... this is perfect," Magnus says, his voice filled with genuine pleasure. "It's exactly what I wanted."

Alec watches him with a soft smile, enjoying the peaceful moment they share. "I'm glad. I'll make sure to always get you whatever you need."

As they continue eating, their conversation drifts to lighter topics-memories, plans for the future, and the quiet excitement of welcoming their twins into the world. Magnus feels the warmth of the food settle in his stomach, a quiet satisfaction spreading through him. For once, everything feels like it's in its place.

By the time they finish their meal, Magnus is feeling better, the weight of the day lifted a little by the comfort of Alec's presence and the meal they shared. He leans back in his seat, a satisfied smile on his face. "Thank you, Alexander .This... this was exactly what I needed tonight."

Alec smiles, leaning back with him. "Anytime, Magnus. I'm happy to take care of you."

As they leave the restaurant, Magnus's hand naturally finds its way to Alec's, fingers intertwined. They walk out into the night, side by side, the world feeling a little brighter, the future a little less uncertain. Whatever comes next, they know they have each other-and for now, that's enough.

TBC 💙