“My nicer outfits never even made it to Verrian,” Ancelin admitted.“I had one decent dress there.I definitely need to shop.”
“Fair warning: you’ll be swamped by photographers.They can’t get enough of the Vallex family, especially Krevan.We’re hoping none are waiting today—the military’s limiting access to approved friends and family only.”Ancelin felt her cheeks flush at the thought of a press mob.
“I wish Krevan had grabbed another bag of my things.I had no idea he was such a public figure.”
“He is,” Vida confirmed.“His overturned conviction was huge news.It’ll take time for the frenzy to die down and for people to adjust to you.”
Just then, Krevan returned with a plate of food, his face alight with excitement at being home.“Tomorrow, after I take you to the doctor, Father and I meet with Triaxen and Earth officials.While we’re in that meeting, you can shop with my mother and sisters—they’re eager to meet you.But brace yourself; they can shop anyone under the table.”He shot his mother a teasing glance.
Ancelin laughed, rubbing his arm.“I’ll love shopping—especially with your money.But are you worried about me?Is that why we’re seeing the doctor right away?”
“I want to know why you’ve been so exhausted.You slept nearly four days straight and, when awake, barely moved.In my medical opinion, you’re far more fatigued than a typical pregnant woman.It’s best for you and the baby to get checked.”
“Fair enough, Dr.Vallex.I trust your judgment.”
The captain’s voice crackled over the intercom.“We’re about to land at Triville, Triaxe Military Base.A large crowd awaits outside the secure area to greet the Vallex family, and regrettably, the press has slipped through our barrier—someone must have tipped them off.We’ll try to escort reporters away before you disembark, but it may cause delays.Triaxen soldiers will accompany you to the Vallex estate.The power crystal remains Mrs.Ancelin Vallex’s property, and its final transfer will be negotiated at the upcoming meetings.We’ll continue protecting your family and the crystal per Command’s orders.On a brighter note, the weather here on Triaxe is lovely—warm and beautiful compared to Verrian.Welcome to Triaxe, Mrs.Ancelin Vallex.Our home world is your home world.”
Chapter 18
One year later
Krevan's lips brushed against Ancelin's ear."Time to wake up, love.The boys are hungry again."His voice was soft in the dim morning light."Alyssa's still out cold.We need to be ready for the Symposium by noon, but Marta can handle the triplets' baths after they've eaten."He pressed a gentle kiss on her warm cheek."Everyone made it in last night—Derrick's whole crew.And Lena's shuttle lands soon.Kurvec's already gone to meet her."
Ancelin's eyes flew open."You sent Kurvec?Of all people?"
"I made him promise to smile," Krevan said, the corner of his mouth lifting.
"That won't help.She can barely handle you—your brother will terrify her."
Krevan's smile faltered."I thought Lena and I got along well during her last visit."
"You did, but Kurvec is...Kurvec."Ancelin shook her head."God help her if he's in one of his moods."
"He ships leaves next week," Krevan said quietly."Try to be kind."
"I'm always nice to Kurvec."Ancelin's lips curved upward as she gazed at Krevan.
"They'll join us at the Symposium.Sydney's grown so much you'll hardly recognize her.She's blossomed, and Derrick beams whenever someone mentions her."
"I've been counting the days," Ancelin murmured, her voice thick with sleep.
Morning no longer belonged to just Krevan and Ancelin.The triplets had claimed those early hours as their domain.At barely three months old, the infants operated on their own demanding schedule, their tiny stomachs dictating the household rhythm.Like their father, they seemed to require only brief moments of rest before they were alert again, eyes wide and searching.
"Everyone's eager to meet our little ones.I told Kellie to prepare for a proper Vallex shopping excursion."Krevan's eye twinkled."And Derrick's family has settled into our Verrian home—Kellie especially loves it there."
"I'm glad.Would you bring Andrew and Adam first?Alyssa will wake hungry by the time they're finished."Ancelin shifted against the pillows, preparing for the familiar weight of her sons.The triplets had been a shock at her first doctor's visit—one that had sent Krevan into proud proclamations while leaving Ancelin quietly stunned.Her final trimester had confined her to bed, with Krevan's family attending to her every need.After the births, Lena had become her constant companion for six weeks, a presence Ancelin hadn't known she needed until it was there.
"I need to assist Nanny Greta with the triplets, then visit two patients at the hospital.I'll return before you finish your shower, you have my word."Krevan vanished from their bedroom only to reappear moments later cradling two wailing infant boys against his broad chest.Ancelin's gaze softened as she watched her Triaxen husband deliver their sons, tiny duplicates of himself down to their distinctive eyes.
"Your breakfast awaits, little ones," he murmured, carefully arranging them in Ancelin's arms."Your mother is both nourishment and treasure."A piercing cry erupted from down the hall."Ah, it seems our daughter has discovered her brothers' absence.I'll retrieve Alyssa and help you settle them all before I depart."
"Thank you, Krevan.I don't know what I'd do without you," Ancelin said, adjusting one of the babies at her breast."Did Lissa bring my dress by?I'm worried the alterations won't be enough for..."She glanced down at her chest with a rueful smile.
Krevan's eyes followed her gaze, his lips curving upward."Trust me, they're perfect."He reached over to brush a strand of hair from where it had fallen across her skin."Lissa came after you'd fallen back asleep last night.She couldn't resist peeking at the little ones.Said she'll see you at the Symposium."His voice softened."Everyone's excited to watch you present the crystal.Your parents would have been so proud."
Ancelin blinked rapidly."That's what I'm afraid of.Every time I practice my speech, I end up in tears.These hormones are making me a mess."
"Mother's coming to help you get ready," Krevan said, his fingers lingering at her temple."And the babies' outfits are handled—Nanny Greta and I will dress them at the last possible moment."He pressed a kiss to her forehead."You'll be magnificent.And I'll be right beside you the entire time."
