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Neve and Juniper had been together for seven years and married for two of them, taking a very long time until they officially settled down. They wanted to wait for the right moment due to Juniper’s declining mental health at the beginning of the relationship, leading to moments of uncertainty between the two of them. Thankfully, Juniper managed to get the help she needed and ended up proposing on Low Tide beach after five years of being together. Then, they got a beautiful home in Dock Town and got married in the backyard, enjoying the time together as a newly married couple for about two years now.
The house had a personal office / study for where Neve could do her work and a studio for Juniper’s craft making. It was the perfect space and the two of them couldn’t wait to live many years here with their three cats. Children had been discussed before, but the two of them hadn’t brought it up since due to the topic being a bit of touchy subject to Neve. The detective never personally saw herself carrying children or becoming a mother in any form, but those thoughts all came racing back one morning where Neve felt off.
Neve rolled over in bed, feeling a pit of nausea in her stomach and sighing to herself. She’d felt sick off and on for a few days now, trying to brush it off as just being a small bug she caught, but it was more persistent as the days passed. The mage wasn’t so sure she’d even make it out of bed due to how ill she felt, trying to take deep breaths to settle the nausea swirling in the depths of her stomach.
With all the strength she could muster up, Neve sat up and took a shaky breath, trying not to throw up on the spot. She managed to get her prosthetic on and made her way to her and Juniper’s personal bathroom, falling to her knees and losing last night’s dinner into the toilet. She felt fine the night before, so why was she suddenly so sick?
Neve wished Juniper was here to hold her hair back and rub her back, but the warrior was on a Grey Warden mission for the past couple days. She’d be back tomorrow, but Maker she hoped tomorrow would come sooner. After a few more rounds of heaving into the toilet, she got up to brush her teeth and finally get ready for the day.
Typically, Neve would never call off work because she was sick or felt under the weather, but today was a different story. Her entire body just felt fatigued and exhausted while her stomach was upset, too. There was no way she’d make the walk to the agency, especially not in this condition. With that, she reluctantly reached for the sending stone on her bedside table and pressed it, waiting for Rana to pick up.
“Neve?” Rana spoke from the sending stone, “I’m on my way to get coffee now. I’ll see you at the agency in a bit.”
“No, Rana. You don’t have to do that. I’m not coming in,” Neve said, her voice sounding weak, “I think I’ve come down with something.”
The Templar’s brow furrowed, Neve could be deathly ill and she would still come in, so what was different this time? “Are you okay? You never call out.”
“I know. I don’t think I can get out of bed this time, though,” The mage laughed dryly, “Will you be able to take care of today’s work? I don't want to overload you with case notes.”
“It’s fine, Neve. I’ve got it under control. Get some rest and I’ll keep you updated if I need some extra help,” Rana told her, “Talk to you later.”
Neve turned off the sending stone and rolled back over in bed, grabbing the stuffed animal that Juniper had given her as a present and tucking it under her chin. She missed her wife so much, wishing she was here to help take care of her in this state. With a long exhale, she eventually fell back to sleep.
After a couple hours, Neve woke up to the sound of her cat— Misty, jumping up on the bed. She sat up and petted her for a while before the sound of her stomach growling interrupted her. Even after throwing up earlier, she somehow managed to be hungry. She decided to take a quick trip to Hal’s fish stand, knowing that the fresh Dock Town air would make her feel better.
The mage got herself freshened up for the day and left the house, taking her usual route down to the docks. She saw some familiar faces along the way and exchanged a few words with each of them, wanting to get to the stand as quickly as possible since she was starving, almost feeling like she hadn’t eaten in days. Finally, she got to the stand and asked for her usual order— but with extra seasoning this time.
With a smile, Hal wished her a good day and gave her the fish, insisting it was on the house. For once, Neve didn’t argue and took the fish free of charge, finding a seat near the docks and enjoying the view as she enjoyed her lunch. Each bite was like heaven on her tongue, swearing Hal’s fish had never been this good before. It was exactly what the detective needed after being sick off and on.
She finished up her fried fish, throwing out the scraps and taking her seat to admire the ocean before heading back home. But suddenly, that all too familiar nausea swirled in the depths of her stomach, meaning she had to get going— now.
With a few deep breaths, Neve stood up and took a few steps forward, quickly realizing she wasn’t going to make it home and turning to the nearest dock, sprinting towards it and holding her own hair back as she lost the remains of her lunch into the ocean, trying her hardest to be quiet and not bring attention to herself. Venhedis. Why did she have to get sick in the middle of Dock Town?
She threw up a few more times before deciding she was done, taking a shaky breath to regain her composure. As she was about to turn around, the familiar voice of Hal startled her; “Bad batch?”
“Kaffas, Hal. You scared me,” Neve laughed dryly, still feeling a bit ill, “No, no. The fish was fine. I just… haven’t felt well these past few days. I thought I was over it after this morning,” she sighed, wiping her mouth.
“Let me fetch you some water, then I can walk you home,” Hal offered.
Neve followed the older elf back to his stand, taking the cup of water offered to her and sitting down as she drank it. She was thankful he was there to help her, and that nobody had witnessed her getting sick.
“You don’t look well at all, Neve. Take some time before you go back,” Hal tells her, making sure the detective drank every last drop of her water.
“I can make it back just fine, Hal. But I appreciate your concern,” The mage smirked and shook her head, “The water did help. Thank you.”
“Are you sure? I know I’m old, but I can walk just fine,” The fish salesman teases, winking at her playfully. Neve laughed and shook her head, assuring him she’d be okay.
“Alright. Take care of yourself,” Hal smiled warmly, letting Neve walk off on her own. He kept an eye on her until she was out of view, going back to his stand shortly after.
Neve made it back home safely, but already felt like she was going to throw up again. She quickly made her way to the bathroom and threw up the rest of her lunch into the toilet, heaving and shaking as she continued to throw up many times over. She felt awful but couldn’t figure out why, wishing this horrible feeling would just go away and she could go on with her day. She reached over and flushed the toilet once she was done, trying to keep her breath steady as she lifted herself up and went into the kitchen, pouring herself a glass of water.
She took slow sips, not wanting to make herself sick again. Neve brought the glass over and placed it on the coffee table, sitting down to take off her prosthetic and put it to the side so she could take a quick nap. It wasn’t surprising that she was exhausted after being sick but still, she’d never felt this tired before. The mage typically never took naps, but it was almost like her body was forcing her to. Once she laid down, it wasn’t much longer until sleep consumed her.
[…]
Throughout the remainder of the day, Neve felt well enough to make herself a simple recipe her and Juniper had come up with together, then took the time to give herself a bath and then to bed afterwards. Unfortunately, the detective woke up feeling awful and found herself in the bathroom throwing up last night’s dinner again. She was thankful that her wife was coming back home today, needing the comfort of her to get her through this sickness.
She managed to get herself dressed and freshened up for the day, hobbling her way down the stairs and into the kitchen to try and find something that would agree with her stomach. Her attempt was unsuccessful, finding everything repulsive. She stumbled over to the sink and pulled her hair back, throwing up the remaining food that was in her stomach. As she was spitting into the kitchen sink, she heard the door unlock and open.
Juniper stepped into the house, not noticing Neve at first. She was still in her armor and was covered in dirt and blood from the retreat she was on. Thankfully, it wouldn’t take too long for her to clean up.
“Maker, am I happy to be home. It gets a bit claustrophobic in those catacombs,” the Warden chuckled dryly, then noticed her wife slumped over the sink while coughing and gagging. Her eyes went wide, putting her shield and sword to the side before rushing over to her, “Neve?! What happened? Are you okay?!”
The mage tried to get the words out, but the mix of the blood and dirt scent paired with Juniper’s musk only made her feel worse, throwing up into the sink once more, “m’ fine, Juniper. Please just go get changed and showered. You stink.”
Juniper was taken aback, but Neve was right, she did smell, “Alright. I’m going to get cleaned up but then I’m taking you to a healer. You don’t look well at all, honey.”
“I know,” Neve grumbled out, stumbling her way back to the couch and plopping herself down. She tried to take deep breaths to relieve any lingering nausea in her stomach, but it did nothing to help. She leaned back against the couch cushions and closed her eyes, hoping to get some relief by taking a quick nap.
Juniper put her armor, weapon and shield on their appropriate stands, going upstairs so she could take a very needed shower. Once she was done, she made sure the perfume she applied wasn’t too strong so it wouldn’t make Neve sick again. She went downstairs and saw that the detective had fallen asleep sitting up on the couch, and it broke her heart knowing she had to wake her up.
“Amata?” The warrior nudged her wife gently, “We should get you to a healer. I know you just want to sleep, but you’ll feel better once they provide something that can help.” She said gently, kissing her forehead lightly.
Neve groaned in response, letting Juniper help her up onto her feet. She knew she didn’t look good, but didn’t have the energy to wash her face or brush her hair. With an arm around the mage’s waist, the two of them left to go find a healer that wasn’t at the Shop. The detective insisted she didn’t want to go there, not wanting her colleagues to see her in this state.
They arrived at a small, tucked away clinic that seemed to tend to the less fortunate of Dock Town— which was always a pleasure to see. It didn’t take long for Neve to be seen, being accompanied by Juniper into another much more private room.
The healer was a Qunari who was only three inches taller than Juniper, being relatively short for a Qunari non-man. They seemed concerned for Neve, making sure she had a cup of water before asking her a series of questions to see what the problem was.
“There you go, sweetie. Slow sips,” They instructed gently, “My name’s Faden. I’m going to check you over today, but take your time. I don’t want you to pass out,” They said, watching as Juniper rubbed the woman’s back to keep her grounded.
Neve finished her cup of water, letting Faden take it and throw it out, “What’s your name, honey?”
“Neve,” the detective said simply, her voice hoarse from throwing up.
“Last name Gallus? I’ve read about you in the papers,” Faden said with a small smile, receiving a small nod from Neve, “Great. What are your symptoms and how long have you been feeling this way?”
Neve didn’t have the strength to speak full sentences, leaning against her wife and mumbling out a “Juni…?” while glancing up at her. Juniper nodded and turned to Faden, “She’s been throwing up for a few days now, is fatigued all the time and has been having odd smell and food aversions. Was there anything else, honey?”
“A couple headaches,” Neve murmured, “Not bad, but they’re noticeable.”
“Okay. Any fever?” Faden asked.
Neve shook her head, she did find it odd that she didn’t have a fever or anything, but didn’t think much of it. The Qunari scribbled down a few things on a piece of paper, then placed it down, “When was your last monthly cycle?”
Neve thought for a moment and realized that it had been over two months since her last cycle, her eyes going wide at that realization. She’d never been late before, and her and Juniper weren’t exactly careful in the past few months. She bit her lip nervously, realizing it could be possible that she was pregnant, “… It’s been about two months.”
“Okay. I’d like to check and see if you’re pregnant. No need to take a test, I have the magic to do so.” Faden said, “Mind laying down for me?”
The mage laid down, having Juniper hold her hand as she rolled up her shirt for the Qunari. Carefully, they hovered their hand over Neve’s stomach and casted their magic, awaiting the results patiently. Once they got what they were looking for, they pulled their hand away and smiled warmly.
“Congratulations, honey. You’re about eight weeks along. You’ve been experiencing typical first trimester symptoms, that’s why you’re so sick,” Faden explained, “I can provide you with some herbs to help with the nausea. You just put it in some tea and it’ll make the taste more manageable.”
Neve choked back a sob, sitting up and leaning into Juniper as she began to cry softly. She couldn’t believe she had missed this, how could she be this stupid? She had noticed some spotting a couple weeks prior, but thought she’d just gotten a lighter period than usual. The Warden rubbed her back and assured her everything was going to be okay. Juniper had always wanted kids, but had no idea if Neve wanted to go through with this or not.
“I know, love. It’s overwhelming. I can step out for a bit to give you two a moment,” Faden offered.
“That would be great. Thank you, Faden,” Juniper said with a small smile, tending to her wife after the Qunari had left the room.
“Neve, honey? It’s okay, you can talk to me. We’ll figure this out,” The warrior told her, “What do you want to do?”
“I- I don’t know, Trouble. That’s the thing,” Neve sniffled, wiping her eyes, “I want to have this baby with you, Juniper. But I’m so scared of messing up. Too many things in our lives have gone sideways and I… I can’t let this go wrong, too. I just can’t.”
“It won’t, Amata. We’re a team, remember? I’ll be right with you the whole time.” Juniper reassured her, “I know some days will be harder than others, but I’ll be there to help you. I promise.”
“I’m going to need you more than ever,” The detective murmured against her wife’s neck, “I’m terrified, Trouble.” She admitted, brushing her thumb over Juniper’s knuckles, “How am I going to have a baby?” She couldn’t help but laugh.
“You’ve lost a leg, sweetheart. A baby’s got nothing on you,” Juniper says playfully, twirling a piece of Neve’s hair in her fingers. The mage chuckled— but this time, it was much more genuine. The Warden leaned in and shared a passionate kiss with Neve, feeling her wife smile through the kiss.
“You really want to do this?” Juniper asked as she pulled away, her eyes softening as she cupped Neve’s cheek, “If— if you change your mind, I understand—“
“I do, Juniper. I’ve never wanted anything more than this,” the mage quietly admitted, moving Juniper’s hand to her currently flat stomach, “I don’t think I’ll ever stop being scared, but… I’m okay as long as you’re here.”
“Okay.” Juniper let out a sigh of relief, kissing her again, “I love you so much. I’m so excited.” She said softly, her eyes getting misty with tears.
“I love you too.” The detective couldn’t stop smiling, “Could you ask Faden to come back in? I have a few questions.”
Juniper nodded, opening the door and letting Faden come back into the room. The warrior sat back down with Neve, holding her hand as the mage took a few deep breaths to compose herself.
“We’ve decided to go through with the pregnancy,” Neve told the Qunari, “You said there’s herbs you can give me to help with nausea?”
“That’s right. Just mix them into some tea, the taste alone isn’t very pleasant.” Faden explained, “I know from experience.”
“Oh, do you have children of your own?” Juniper asked out of curiosity.
“… No, I don’t. It’s a long story,” The Qunari brushed off the subject quickly, then went back to Neve, “One cup a day should ease your nausea. But if it doesn’t, just swing by and I’ll give you something stronger. Are you alright with me coming by your house in a month to give you another checkup?”
“That’s fine, thank you,” Neve said, “Are you going to be my midwife? That’s the term, right?” She asked.
Faden chuckled, “Yes, that’s the term. I’ll be here throughout your entire pregnancy, up until birth and even after to make sure you’re healing properly. Is that alright? Or would you prefer someone else?”
“No, no. That’s completely fine,” The mage replied, shaking her head, “Thank you for your help, Faden. You’ve relieved my anxieties a whole lot.” She said with a genuine smile.
“It’s my pleasure, sweetheart. Just give me a call if you have any more questions or if you need anything, alright?” The midwife said, “It was lovely to meet the both of you.”
Neve and Juniper said their goodbyes, then left the clinic and headed home. The two of them still couldn't wrap their heads around the news they’d just received, and would take a bit of processing for it to fully hit them. The detective did feel a lot better at the moment, asking Juniper to make her something to eat— but requesting it be light so it wouldn’t upset her stomach.
[…]
After lunch, Neve had stepped outside to get some fresh air in the backyard. She still loved the Dock Town air after all of these years, and could even tell when it was going to rain from just the smell of it. The Warden didn’t notice that her wife had gone outside until seeing her standing near their garden, admiring the flowers that had just bloomed recently. Quietly, Juniper walked outside, making sure not to startle Neve in the garden.
“What’cha doing out here, love?” Juniper asked, putting an arm around the mage’s waist, “It’s going to rain soon.”
“I know. I wanted some fresh air, I was starting to feel nauseous again,” Neve chuckled dryly, “I suppose I have to get used to that for the next few weeks.” She sighed sadly.
“I’ll take care of you the whole time, I promise.” Juniper leaned over and kissed her wife’s forehead, “Do you need water or anything? Maybe some of those herbs mixed in tea?”
The detective giggled, “No, Trouble. I’m okay, I’m already starting to feel better.” She said, brushing a gentle hand over her stomach. She still couldn’t believe there was a baby in there, and they were so tiny, too.
The warrior noticed Neve brush her hand over her stomach, quietly reaching out, “May I…?”
“There’s not much there, but sure,” Neve took Juniper’s hand and placed it on her stomach, closing her eyes at the warmth of her wife’s palm, “I didn’t think I could ever love something so tiny, but life’s full of surprises, isn’t it?”
“It sure is.” Juniper agreed, “I’m so excited, Neve. I didn’t think you wanted kids, honestly. What changed?” She asked.
“I came to the realization that I did want children, as long as it was with you. I was going to bring it up, but… this little one seemed to beat us to it.” Neve looked down at her flat stomach with so much love in her eyes, then back up at Juniper, “Funny how these things happen.”
“It’s almost like they knew in a way,” The Warden pointed out, chuckling. “Do you want to keep this between us for a few weeks? I know it can be nerve wracking to tell people.”
“I’d like that,” the mage nodded, “Surely Rana will figure it out somehow, but I can handle that.” She says, knowing her long-time friend wouldn’t go and tell anyone without permission.
“Okay. If my mom or brother come over, we’ll keep it on the down low. Don’t you worry,” Juniper reassured her, “I love you so much. I can’t wait to raise a baby with you.”
“I can’t lie, Trouble. I’m terrified, but I’m excited, too.” Neve leaned forward to kiss her, “You’ll be here for me the entire time, right? I’m going to need you more than ever.”
“Of course, sweetheart.” Juniper said without hesitation, “We’ve got this.”
Neve leaned against her wife, feeling small raindrops pelt against the top of her head. She felt so at peace with Juniper. Knowing that as long as she was here throughout the entire pregnancy, she’d be okay.
[…]
Later that night, the couple had gotten ready for bed and proceeded to lay down together while Juniper was reading a book. Neve was snuggled up against her wife’s side, tracing fingers on the warrior’s bare stomach while being deep in thought. The detective couldn’t believe that there was a tiny unborn baby in her body and would stay there for the next eight months.
“Something on your mind, Amata?” Juniper asked as she put her book aside, turning to face the mage and stroking her fingers through her hair.
“You mean besides the fact that I’m growing an entire person in my body?” Neve joked lightly.
The Warden laughed, “Well, yes. But is there something else? You haven’t changed your mind, have you?” She asked, her voice slightly wavering with worry.
“No, Trouble. I’m fine, don’t worry.” Neve reassured Juniper, pecking a soft kiss onto her lips. “I’m just… worried about fitting into my clothes as my body changes. It’s silly, but all my clothes are tailored to me and I want to keep it that way.” She explained.
“I understand that,” Juniper reached out to brush her thumb against the detective’s cheek, “We’ll figure it out. We can always go to the tailor in town and get your clothes tailored to your liking. But if the worst comes to worse, we’ll go shopping and try to find some maternity clothes you’ll like. There has to be something out there that catches your eye.” She says.
“I hope so. If I can’t find anything, I suppose I’ll have to borrow some of your shirts for a while.” Neve smirked.
Juniper laughed, “You already do that, honey. But if that’s what’s comfortable for you, go for it. Plus, you look amazing in my clothes.”
“Do I now?” The mage raised a brow, pulling the warrior in for a deep kiss, burying her hand in Juniper’s hair. Once she pulled back, she sighed wistfully and snuggled up against her wife, feeling the other woman’s arm wrap around her waist.
“You do,” Juniper hummed in agreement, pressing herself against Neve’s body, “I love you so much, you know that?”
“I do,” Neve murmured, feeling herself start to get sleepy, “I love you too, Trouble.”
Juniper reached over and shut off the lamp, brushing another kiss to Neve’s forehead before promptly shutting her eyes and falling asleep.
[ten weeks pregnant]
Over the past couple of weeks, Neve had to take a few days off of work at a time due to her horrible morning sickness she was dealing with. From the moment she woke up until she drank her tea, she felt terrible and couldn’t keep anything down, not even water. She kept telling Rana that it was a cold she couldn’t seem to shake, but knew that excuse wouldn’t last long and she’d eventually have to come clean about why she had been so sick.
It’s not like Neve didn’t want to tell Rana, she did, but due to being so early on in her pregnancy, she worried about the worst case scenario happening and losing said pregnancy after telling her close friend. Still, despite that lingering fear, she just wanted to come clean and be open about why she wasn’t feeling well.
The mage was curled up on the couch like she usually was nowadays, trying to get a little bit of rest to conquer the nausea she was feeling. She felt too weak to get up, put on her prosthetic and get to the toilet every time, so she simply had a bucket in close range for whenever she felt the need to throw up.
Juniper came over to check on her wife, brushing some hair out of her face to get a good look at her, “Hi, honey. Do you need anything?” She asked softly.
Neve shook her head, not having much energy to talk. She managed to mutter out that she was fine and just wanted to sleep, but thanking the warrior for checking in on her. Juniper kissed the mage’s forehead and let her be, going into her studio space with the door cracked so she could work on a project and keep an ear out for Neve.
In the Warden’s studio, she was crocheting a plush toy for the baby. It was something small and simple— a tiny little halla, which she was very familiar with and could get done quickly. She wanted to surprise Neve with this since she’d been feeling so sick and it was weighing on her mental health a tiny bit. Due to that, Juniper wanted to do something nice for her and hopefully cheer her up.
As she was crocheting a part of the horn, there was a knock on the door. She put down her work and saw that the detective was still asleep despite the knocking. Quietly, Juniper went to the door and opened it, revealing Rana with a couple of pastries in hand.
“Oh. Hi, Rana. What brings you over?” Juniper asked.
“I came to check on Neve. How is she? Is she still feeling sick?” The Templar asked, peeking inside, “Can I come in?”
“Of course. I’m sure Neve will appreciate the company once she’s awake,” The warrior said, “Do you want anything to eat? Or some water? Let me know and I’ll get it for you.”
“I’m fine, Juniper. Here, I brought you a pastry,” Rana handed the paper bag over to Juniper, “It’s a chocolate croissant.”
“Thank you, Rana. I’ll take this into my studio. I’m working on something while Neve rests,” Juniper explained, “You’re free to sit in any of the recliners, but leave the couch to Neve. She’ll kill you if you’re sitting next to her.” She said with a nervous laugh.
“Alright then,” Rana sat down in the recliner closest to the couch, putting the pastry bag down on the coffee table. It was a gooseberry croissant for Neve, but she wasn’t sure if she’d even want it.
About a half an hour later, the mage woke up and sat up slowly, turning to see Rana sitting in the recliner, “Rana?” She murmured out, rubbing at her eyes.
“Neve. You look awful,” The Templar was taken aback for a second, “Sorry.”
“I know,” Neve chuckled dryly, “Did you come to watch me rot on the couch? Because that’s what you’re getting out of me.” She said lightheartedly.
“I figured you could use the company. I brought you a pastry if you want it,” Rana offered.
“Later, maybe. I still feel awful,” The detective laid back down, but maintained eye contact with her friend, “I do appreciate the company, though. Thank you. How’s the agency holding up?”
“A bit busy, but I’d rather you stay home and rest than spread whatever sickness you’ve been dealing with,” The Templar said, “It’s nothing I can’t handle on my own.”
The detective bit her lip, knowing her ‘sickness’ wasn’t exactly contagious. She didn’t want to come clean right away, though. She trusted Rana with this information, but wasn’t quite sure on how to tell her she was expecting.
Neve continued to lay on the couch as Rana explained one of the cases she was currently working on. As the Templar spoke, the mage felt that familiar swirl of nausea in the pit of her stomach building up. She tried so hard to hold it back but ultimately ended up grabbing the bucket by the edge of the couch, leaning over it and weakly throwing up the lack of contents in her stomach.
Rana quickly noticed this and went to hold Neve’s hair out of her face. The detective appreciated the gesture, letting her friend help her lay back down after being sick— even grabbing her a glass of water to sip slowly afterwards.
“Maker, Neve. You don’t look good. I’d ask if you’ve been to a healer, but that would actually mean admitting something is wrong,” Rana said,
“Very funny,” Neve replied dryly, though she couldn’t hide the quirk of her lips. “I have been to a healer. I’ve got special herbs to help with what I’m dealing with.”
The Templar raised a brow, “Special herbs?”
The mage took a sip of water before replying with an amused chuckle. “Yes. I’m not sick, Rana. I’m pregnant.”
Rana seemed shocked at first, but after a moment of thinking— it all finally clicked. The exhaustion, emotions and the nausea Neve was dealing with— were all symptoms of the first trimester. She never expected Neve to want kids, but with Juniper, anything seemed possible.
“Well. I suppose congratulations are in order, then,” Rana said with a smile, sitting down next to Neve. The two exchanged a brief hug, then went back to conversation, “How far along are you?”
“Ten weeks. I found out a couple weeks ago and it’s been brutal ever since,” The detective said, “The herbs help, but even paired with the tea Juniper makes… I don’t like the taste very much. They’re bitter and leave a sour aftertaste,” She sighed.
“Have you tried chasing it with Hal’s fish?” The Templar joked.
Neve laughed, then shook her head. “Haven’t thought about it. But I haven’t been able to have Hal’s in two weeks. It made me sick the first time I tried,” She sighed sadly, “I’m surprised he hasn’t knocked on my door to check on me yet.”
“I’ll let him know you’ve been sick. I’ll send over his regards,” Rana said, “I won’t tell him about your situation until you’re ready.”
The mage smiled, “Thank you. I plan to tell him the next time I see him— whenever that is,” She hoped she could get out of the house soon, being cooped up inside was making her a bit miserable.
“Soon, I hope. Or else Hal’s going to report you as a missing person,” Rana joked, causing another laugh to erupt from the detective.
[…]
Rana stuck around for another hour before heading out, wishing Neve well and even giving her congratulations to Juniper, too. After the Templar had left, Neve had another bad round of morning sickness, causing her to holler for Juniper. The Warden came out of her studio space and held the mage’s hair back as she threw up into the bucket, soothing her as best as she could through the nausea.
Once Neve was done, she felt and looked awful. She leaned back on the couch cushions, trying to take some deep breaths to subside the lingering nausea. Juniper rubbed the detective’s upper back to comfort her, but Neve was already in tears.
“I can’t— I can’t do this,” Neve sniffled, wiping at her eyes, “I feel horrible, Juniper. I just want this to be over.” She whimpered.
“I know, sweetheart. I’m sorry. It’ll be over soon,” The Warden brushed some hair out of Neve’s face, “You’ll be out of the first trimester in a couple of weeks, that’s when the morning sickness is supposed to stop— right?”
“Yes, but it could last longer than that, Trouble. It’s not guaranteed to stop at twelve weeks,” The detective said sadly, “There’s women who are sick their entire pregnancy. I don’t want to have to deal with that.” She said, breaking down into tears once more.
“You’re in good hands with Faden, sweetheart. They’ll give you stronger herbs if it gets any worse or if you continue to be sick in the second trimester. I can even go pick them up while you rest at home,” Juniper offered.
“I don’t want the stronger herbs,” Neve began sobbing even harder, “They taste awful and I can barely get them down even when you put them in tea. It feels like there isn’t a point in taking them anymore.” She admits through her fits of crying, leaning against Juniper as her wife rubbed her back and soothed her, “Venhedis, I hate this.” She whimpered out sadly.
“I know. I’m sorry,” The warrior said, “I wish there was more I could do to make you feel better.”
Neve managed to smile despite her tears, “You being here makes me feel better.” She sniffled.
“I’m glad I can help in some way, then.” Juniper smiled, “I may have something else that will make you feel better.”
“Is it a spell that’ll make the time go by faster so I won’t be sick anymore?” The mage asked dryly.
Juniper shook her head and laughed, “No, honey. I’m sorry. Wait here and close your eyes.”
Neve chuckled and shut her eyes, patiently waiting for her wife to come back. The Warden grabbed the miniature stuffed halla she had just finished crocheting, bringing it out and sitting down, “Now hold out your palm.”
“What are you doing, Trouble?” The detective laughed, sounding more genuine this time.
“Just open your eyes, it’s alright,” Juniper reassured her, “I promise it doesn’t bite.”
“It better not,” Neve smirked, opening her eyes and seeing the tiny plush halla in her palm. She smiled warmly, being able to tell that Juniper had made this, “Is this for the baby?” She asked, her eyes softening at the thought of their future baby engaging with said stuffed animal.
“Yeah, it is. But you’re allowed to hold onto it too. Maybe they’ll help you feel a little better when you’re sick,” The warrior said with a smile, leaning over to kiss Neve’s cheek.
“It’s already helping.” Neve murmured, leaning against Juniper. “Thank you, Trouble. You’re making this easier to get through.”
“I’m glad I can help,” Juniper wrapped her arm around her wife, “I love you so much. It won’t be much longer till you’re out of the first trimester.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” The mage held the stuffed halla close to her chest, “I’ll make it through.”
[twelve weeks pregnant]
A couple weeks later, Neve was still feeling pretty run down from her morning sickness. Although it had improved a little, she still struggled with vomiting, nausea and fatigue nearly every day. But, the mage and Juniper had been invited to visit Vivian and Hyacinth— the warrior’s mom and brother, and Neve was willing to make the trip despite not feeling her best.
Neve drank her tea with herbs before going walking over to Vivian’s place with Juniper. Once they’d gotten to the house, the detective needed a minute to catch her breath.
“Neve? Are you okay?” The warrior put a hand on her wife’s lower back.
“I’m fine, Trouble. Just a little out of breath.” Neve replied, wiping sweat from her brow. “Give me a minute to collect myself.”
Juniper nodded, and after a bit, Neve felt ready to go up to the door, “Alright. Let’s do this.”
“We don’t have to tell them, you know. My mom wouldn’t be offended if we waited a couple more weeks.” Juniper reminded her.
“But I want to, Juniper. I need someone else than just Rana to know.” The mage said, “The idea of waiting any longer to tell your family makes me antsy.”
The Warden smiled, “Okay. Let's do it, then.” She kissed Neve on the lips quickly then knocked at the door, awaiting a response.
Vivian greeted Juniper and Neve at the door, bringing them inside to sit down. Hyacinth was in the kitchen preparing food to cook for everybody, but first went to say hello to both his sister and sister-in-law.
“It’s been way too long since I’ve seen you both. How are things? How’s the agency, Neve?” Hyacinth asked with a smile.
“Busy, actually. Rana and I have it under control, though.” Neve said, “How’s Arlathan doing? Tell Bel I say hello, as always.”
“It’s how it always is, really. Lots of unstable artifacts that us Veil Jumpers need to take care of.” Hyacinth explained, “But Bellara’s good, too. Seems a bit distracted though, I’ll say.”
Neve chuckled, “I know why she’s distracted. It’s because of her new partner. She’s in love.” The mage said, “Cut her some slack.”
“Are you ever distracted because of me?” Juniper batted her eyelashes.
“Always, Trouble.” Neve leaned over and kissed her wife’s cheek.
“Why don’t you three take a seat? I’ll make some tea everyone.” Vivian said, “Then Hyacinth and I can get lunch ready.”
Juniper, Hyacinth and Neve all took a seat at the dining room table. The detective was grateful that today was one of the days she wasn’t feeling as nauseous as she usually was, but worried that the lunch would disagree with her stomach.
Once Vivian put the cups of tea down, Neve took the opportunity to ask what she was making for lunch and if she was going to need any help. With a smile, the older elf answered her, “Oh, Junibug called me and requested we make something to your liking. We’re going to be making a Nevarran flat bread.”
“Perfect. Thank you.” Neve felt satisfied with that, sipping some of her tea as she listened to Hyacinth and Juniper talk.
Under the table, she kept a hand on the tiny bump she had— if you could even call it that at twelve weeks. She was excited yet nervous to tell Juniper’s family, knowing Vivian would be over the moon about a grandchild on the way. That fact comforted her and lessened her anxieties about the situation as a whole.
Hyacinth had finished his tea and went to go help Vivian cook lunch, leaving both Neve and Juniper at the table. The warrior moved her hand to her wife’s tiny bump, making sure her mom and brother couldn’t see, “You ready to tell them?”
“As ready as I’ll ever be, Trouble.” Neve hummed in approval, “Let’s eat first then tell them the big news, alright? The little wisp and I are hungry.”
“Little wisp?” Juniper’s eyes softened at the nickname, “I love that.”
“Me too.” Neve murmured softly, “This baby is going to be so loved, Juniper. It’s almost overwhelming to think about.”
“I know. We’re going to have a ton of support, love. Everybody around us has already been so supportive and helpful.” Juniper says, referring to the fact that Rana had gone grocery shopping for them recently and Halos’ had sent a get well package for Neve, resulting in the detective writing back to him and inviting him over for dinner, then telling him the big news. She’d even told her colleagues about the pregnancy as well, and they’d been helping her out in the way she had wanted.
“Yeah, we will.” Neve looked down lovingly at her stomach, seeing Vivian and Hyacinth coming over to plate lunch out of the corner of her eye. Quickly, the mage put her arm around Juniper and acted nonchalantly while a plate was placed in front of her, “Thank you. This looks amazing.”
“I put extra cheese on it, Juni told me you’d been really into cheese dishes lately.” Vivian smiled, taking a seat across from Neve. “How is it?”
“Great as always, Viv.” Neve hummed as she took the first bite, thankful that the baby within agreed with this dish so far. She ate and chatted with everyone at the table, eventually getting up for seconds once she’d finished. Once she had finished that, everybody cleaned up and sat back down to talk more.
“Neve and I have something to tell you guys,” Juniper said once getting the approval from Neve to lead the conversation. Her hand held her wife’s under the table, giving it a squeeze once feeling her tense up from nerves.
“Oh? What is it?” Vivian raised a brow, curious on what the news was going to be.
Hyacinth gave Juniper a look, not sure what his sister was about to say, “Go on…”
The warrior was about to go on a long ramble, but stopped herself and smiled wide, “Neve’s pregnant. We’re having a baby.” She said, her voice warm and full of love as she wrapped an arm around the mage.
Vivian gasped, her eyes softening, “Oh Maker. Really, Juni?! You’re not lying to me, right??”
“Nope. She’s not. Why do you think I’ve been sick for a month?” Neve chuckled, “I have morning sickness, Vivian.”
“Holy shit. That’s amazing, Juniper! I’m gonna be an uncle!” Hyacinth jumped up excitedly from his seat, rushing over to give his sister a hug. “I’m so proud of you.”
“Aww, thank you, Hyacinth.” Juniper smiled, “Neve’s the one carrying the baby, though. Go give her a hug too.”
Hyacinth and Neve exchanged a hug, giving his congratulations and sitting down. Vivian had finally gotten up, giving Neve and Juniper a tight hug as she held back tears of joy.
“I’m so excited for the both of you.” Vivian’s voice wavered as she spoke, “You are going to make incredible parents, this little baby is going to be so loved by the both of you.”
“I love them more than words can describe and it’s only been twelve weeks.” Neve said, her voice warm with affection, “I can’t imagine how it’ll feel when they’re actually here.”
“It’s a love like no other.” The older elf said with a smile, “I have piles of old baby clothes and toys in storage. And a lot of products to help with aches, pains and itches. I’ll send you home with some.”
“You’re sweet, Viv. Thank you.” The mage thanked her, “You may have to teach me a few things about babies. My knowledge is pretty limited.”
“Oh, I’ve got a few books to help you out.” Vivian said, “I’ll send you home with one of those too.”
[…]
Later that night, Neve and Juniper were in bed while Neve read a book about the stages of pregnancy and then about the baby themselves. The detective was taking notes on each week of pregnancy, along with noting important information about newborns and how they acted. Even though it was late and Juniper was getting tired, the warrior watched her wife with half-lidded eyes as she took notes efficiently.
“Tired, Trouble? I can move into my office.” Neve offered.
“No, no. It’s fine. Take your time.” Juniper said softly, “I like having your company.”
“I’d hope you do, we’re having a baby together.” Neve teased, taking a couple more notes. “I’m getting tired, though. So you’re in luck.” She said, putting the books and notes aside for tomorrow.
The Warden reached over and turned off the light, letting Neve snuggle up to her. Juniper brushed some hair out of her wife’s face, looking her in the eyes.
“We’re having a baby.” Juniper said quietly, “I still can’t believe it.”
“I don’t think I’ll believe it until they’re actually here.” Neve admitted, burying herself deeper into the warrior’s chest, “You promise you’ll be here for me the whole time? Even when I’m bitchy and mean?”
“I promise, honey. There’s no ounce of me that cares about you being mean at some points— I mean, you’re growing a whole person. You have the right to be a little mean.” Juniper chuckled.
“I sure do.” The mage smirked, letting out a yawn. “I love you.”
“I love you too, Amata.”