Riyu presses a cool compress to my forehead. I meet his gaze. His long lashes sweep down and to the side after he regards me for a while.
“I made you a bath.” He says after long moments. “Come.”
He doesn’t give me a chance to protest — simply sweeps me into his arms.
Sitting me on his lap, he pulls the sweltering pajama top over my head. The fabric grazes my tender nipples, and I bite back a wince.
“Here, let me get these off, then you can take a nice long soak.” He helps me step out of the bottoms pausing a hard moment before his eyes turn to me in question.
I gasp, seeing the crimson stain. Trembling fingers cover my lips.
The material falls to the floor as he pulls me into his arms.
“It’s okay, love. I’m here. Just let me take care of you.”
Strong arms hold me as my worst fear comes to life.
Afterwards he runs morewater to allow me time alone. He disappears for what I can only assume is the time he needs to process the disappointment.
“I made you some conjee,” his tone is soothing as I’ve ever heard it. Still, I’m shocked.
“You made it?” Not for a second believing it.
“We weren’t allowed servants when we attended university. Haha thought it would build character.” Is the self-deprecating response.
“I can do it.” Trying to take the spoon but stilling when he cups my chin with a slight shake of his head.
“Allow me the honor of serving you, little wife.” The solemnity of his words make my hand drop and seal my lips of any words of protest.
To say I devoured the comforting rice dish would be an understatement.
“Your mom was right, you know. You turned out to be a pretty good cook.” I praise him. Just as he leans over the doorbell chimes.
“I called our family physician to come check on you.” He says to my questioning stare.
I nod, proud of myself for holding it together. I didn’t know I was pregnant last time, and I was utterly alone, which made the experience extremely traumatic. Now, Ryu is here supporting me through this, and it’s made a world of difference. My husband is my fortress in every way that matters.
“Ev, this is Dr. Yashogi, she is Flower’s physician.” I nod from the bed as the woman gives me a slight bow before approaching the bed and bowing again.
“Mrs. Takeda, it is my pleasure to be of service to you.” Comes the dulcet tones of the petite woman. I don’t let any of that fool me though. Familiar with her through some interactions with Flower, I know she is one of the best OBGYNs in the world. Akchiro would tolerate nothing less when it came to the care of his wife.
“Thank you for seeing me at this hour.” I say knowing we are well past dinner at this point.
“I’m used to it I assure you. I would like to do a quick examination to confirm your suspicions and ask a few questions. I’ll need to wash my hands before we begin.”
“It’s right through the double doors.” I nod in the direction of the bathroom.
Neither of us speak. The air between us is tight with dread.
“Shall we get started?” Moving over the where the equipment is, she snaps on her gloves.
“O-okay,” Stammering when Riyu seems to be on the verge of leaving. “Can my husband stay?”
His head swings around and he doesn’t hesitate or wait for her acquiescence before he’s posted up by my side. Sitting besideme on the bed, he takes my hand, sandwiching it between his much larger ones.
Giving a slight nod she begins taking various items out of the bag she brought placing them on a nearby.
“When did you discover you were pregnant?” Clasping her hands in front of her as she waits for my answer.
