FSE

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It wasn't a particularly sunny morning. The weather report had said it would be a dreary day, such was the expectation for late spring. A light rain coated the city in a soft sheen, leaving everything to glisten. The air was just chilly enough to give a person with a thinner pelt a bit of a shiver. It was a perfect day to simply stay in bed. That was exactly what a certain coyote and jaguar of deepest black thought. Unfortunately, the alarm clock had other plans.

A horrid, shrill, pulsing beep filled the smallish bedroom, waking the couple. The dark feline reached across his beloved canine, yawning an annoyed little yawn as he tiredly slapped the clock to shut it off. His arm fell limp as the sound died. Oh how he wished he didn't have to go to work today. The weekend was far too short in his opinion. It wasn't that he hated his job, he actually thoroughly enjoyed the environment and the work itself was honest enough. He was displeased because he would be away from his coyote.

"Nngh... Another Monday, another week." The black cat rose as his lover moaned into the pillow. The canid refused to greet the day as readily. While the jaguar milled drowsily about the room, the tawny canine slowly began to pull away from Morpheus' embrace, the god of dreams unable to fight the power of the coming day. His ears twitched as he heard the familiar sounds of teeth being brushed in the adjacent bathroom. Carefully he sat up and let his legs dangle to the floor. A hand moved to his stomach as he suddenly became aware of his condition once again. Jake peeked back out into the bedroom to find his boyfriend sitting up and fawning over his tummy. The sight of the feline brought a smile to the coyote's muzzle, albeit a sleepy one.

"Good morning, honey."

"Morning. Why don't you lay back down and rest. You don't have to get up with me, Noah." Jake's desire to see his lover taking things slower was a sweet gesture, and a well-founded one too. The tan canid shook his head as he tried to stand.

"Nah, need to treat it like a regular work day or I'll end up getting soft. Besides, if I stay in bed, I won't get to kiss you goodbye when you leave," With a bit of difficulty the coyote managed to climb to his feet, swaying unsteadily for a moment as he acclimated to his current state. He had only a few short weeks to go. Silently, he wished it would be longer. Curiously, he found himself relishing the changes he had undergone so far, "I'll go get us some breakfast made while you finish getting ready. And don't tell me to take it easy! I'm perfectly able to handle myself."

Jake sighed quietly as he recognized an argument he could not win. Quietly, he went back to his grooming ritual. In the kitchen, Noah set about scrambling some eggs the way his boyfriend liked them. Over the course of his cooking, the jaguar emerged from their bedroom and wrapped his arms about the canine, just a few inches shy of a full foot taller than the tan fellow. His nose pressed into the short braid hanging down between Noah's shoulders as he spread his palms over the smaller male's swollen abdomen. Just a few weeks more and that beautiful bump would be gone. Jake had to soak it up while he could.

"That smells good honey."

Noah nodded as a quiet little love-growl rose from his throat, leaning back into the larger cat's embrace.

"Just the way you like them. They'll be ready in just a bit." It amused him that Jake refused to let go right away, instead clinging to the pregnant coyote to drink in his presence as long as he could.

"I'm gonna miss this belly when the baby comes. It's only made you more adorable."

Noah snickered and turned his head to plant a soft kiss on his beloved's cheek, pulling the pan off the heat.

"I'm gonna miss it too, honey. Who knows, maybe someday we'll have another baby. Now go sit down, the eggs are ready."

The embrace was hesitantly undone and the dark cat settled at the table where his breakfast was soon served. Jake made short work of his meal, finding a piece of toast quite useful in absorbing all the tasty residue left by his eggs.

"Delicious as always love. If you need me for anything while I'm at work, my cell will be on," He stood as did Noah, the cat taking his lover into his arms for a quick kiss goodbye. He then dropped to his knees and addressed the copious swell he had grown to love doting upon, "And you better behave in there. I know you're anxious to see the world but all in good time. Be good for your daddy while I'm gone." The jaguar of black then pressed his lips to the coyote's navel and held there. Noah sighed a happy little sigh before coaxing his boyfriend back to his feet.

"We'll both be fine honey, now go on. Don't want to be late. And don't forget your books, you've got class after work today."

Jake's eyes widened softly as he was reminded of his other responsibility.

"Oh! Right! Almost forgot! Thanks honey." He darted away to quickly collect the books in question. He then returned to the door where his companion waited.

"Take care, Jake. Hope you have a good day," The gravid coyote paused as he was struck by the full weight of their parting, "I'll miss you."

Another loving kiss was the cat's response.

"I'll miss you too honey. Try not to go crazy keeping busy today. I'll see you tonight," And out the door he scurried, calling back quickly, "Love you!"

"Love you too! Drive safe!"

And with that, Noah was alone. The door found its way closed as the canid turned and looked about the lonesome apartment. It was the first time in three years they would not be riding to work together. Sure they had a fine reason for the separation but it was a separation none the less. Just as the expectant father sighed in his lover's absence, so too did the more discretely lonesome Jake as he closed the door to the car. The empty passenger seat was a void he would have to get used to for several weeks. Noah meanwhile would have a greater adjustment ahead of him.

He was on paternity leave. Roughly three months away from work. Maybe longer if they couldn't find a nanny they both approved of. All that time without the regular interaction he enjoyed at the office, not to mention lunch every single day with his boyfriend.

"Come on little one. Daddy's got work to do." Noah caressed his domed abdomen thoughtfully before diving into his to-do list.

The day began with a bit of light cleaning, a good dusting of the book shelves lined with Noah's favorite bits of lore, as well as Jake's various hand built model cars. There were quite a lot of them, and even more in storage along with much of the coyote's library. Once the level of dust had been reduced to an acceptable amount, attention was turned to culinary experimentation. He had a new cookie recipe he was eager to try out.

The preparations were made and put in the oven. The used dishes were cleaned and put away so that the canid could focus on a bit of reading. Luckily he had forethought enough to set the timer for less than the recipe called for, taking into account the time it would take for him to get back up once seated. Unfortunately, Noah's usual love of literature could not hold his attention. The excess leisure time left him feeling overanxious to be of use to someone. Doing nothing would be the end of him!

It was a fact he had been dreading for quite some time.

---

"I really wish I could work right up until my due date! I don't see why I have to be kicked out! It's not like it's the worst place to go into labor, it's probably one of the best!" The flustered canid nibbled away on a piece of cake as his coworkers celebrated his last day before going on leave. A blond woman of jade scale gave him a pat on the shoulder as she laughed.

"Just because it's an obstetrics clinic doesn't mean it's a good place to give birth. You'll find something to keep you busy, I'm sure." Alice had always been a good friend. Her slightly gruff demeanor had always been something of an endearing quality.

"I suppose you're right. There are a few things I've been meaning to do since we rearranged things back home."

The reptilian nodded with a broad smile. Noah could never quiet place her species, too embarrassed to think of her as a 'generic lizard'.

"There ya go! Now you're gettin' it! Just don't push yourself too hard. I had better see good results when I come for your next examination. If I find you've been doing too much, I'll confine you to bed rest! Now enjoy your party!" Alice gave his shoulder another light slap before moving on, approaching Jake to offer him congratulations and continue the ever growing string of virility jokes.

Noah turned his attention to his other coworkers, smiling and conversing openly, even letting a few feel his tummy as the baby kicked. It had been only days since his at-work baby shower marked the start of his leave. To the auburn fellow, it felt like longer. The emptiness of a day bereft of activity worried him. He didn't want to soften or fall into a pattern of behavior that would end up giving him bad habits. He liked structure and so much free time would be maddening!

As the party continued on, Noah's coworkers all offered their congratulations while chatting him up. Eventually, Jake made his way over to the coyote, unable to stand keeping his distance any longer. The two conversed with their friends as a few gifts were given. Already there had been two actual baby showers and much of what the baby would need had been given. What few items were handed over were odds and ends that weren't crucial but still thoughtful. One in particular seemed to strike a chord with the canid.

"'Winter's Father'... is this-"

"The sequel!" An excitable hare bounced lightly on her feet before adjusting her glasses, looking about as bookish as Noah, "They finally approved it as the official sequel to 'The Left Hand of Darkness'! The earthlings that arrived on Winter... one of them had something of an affair with one of the native people! It's all about their son and how he struggles to survive being more male than everyone else!"

The tall, dark cat furrowed his brow as the two bookworms set about their frothing over a new read.

"I'm a little lost here. More male?"

Noah back peddled a bit to clarify for the confused feline.

"On this world, everyone's one gender and temporarily develop as male or female to reproduce, sort of like going into heat. They view earthlings as perverts, always male or female, always 'in heat' so someone born of their people associating more male or female would probably be looked down upon." He couldn't finish his explanation before the bouncing lapine interrupted again.

"He even manages to end up pregnant!"

The coyote hissed to his rabbit friend, displeased with unsolicited sharing of information.

"Shh! Spoilers!"

Jake snickered quietly as he watched the two interact. Like brother and sister they were.

"Sounds interesting. You'll have to read it to me."

Noah nodded with a smile before turning to thank the floppy-eared girl.

The rest of the party came and went. Towards the end, the expectant father began pumping his reptilian doctor for information. Alice knew he was just excited and nervous but ultimately could not stand such questioning. A couple of half-hearted, mostly harmless teasing threats put an end to his anxious chattering. Jake scolded the coyote for such behavior and bid everyone goodnight. The ride home was more quiet than usual for the pair. Noah spent much of it staring off into space.

"You're not as chatty as usual, honey. What's wrong?" The jaguar reached over and took one of the canid's hands in his, the other remaining safely on the wheel as he drove. The gravid fellow sighed softly and squeezed the large, black paw in his.

"I'm just going to miss working, chatting with everyone, having lunch with you every day. I'm even going to miss the commute. I just feel like it's all changing too fast." The tone of his voice suggested no panic or fear, but perhaps a tinge of regret.

"Are you having second thoughts about the baby?"

"What?" Noah turned to look upon his companion, hearing concern in his words, "No! No, of course not. I'm just not looking forward to being alone with my thoughts all day. I'm going to end up worrying about every little thing."

Jake chuckled and lowered his palm to press against the motherly swell of their child. Their child. His and Noah's. He adored how that sounded.

"You'll be too busy making sure the baby's room is perfect to worry about anything. You heard Alice. Everything reads like it should, by the book. One of the healthiest babies she's ever seen!"

The canine lowered his gaze to his tummy, smiling softly. A hint of a tingle passed up his spine as he felt the baby move and begin to kick.

"Yeah, one of the healthiest. By the book."

---

That familiar sensation of activity caught Noah's attention as he lounged on the couch. His lips tugged into a thoughtful smile as he watched that smooth, perfectly round dome reveal soft impressions of a hand or a foot, the whole of the sphere rising and falling as it was distorted gently by its occupant. He set aside his copy of 'Winter's Father' to focus his attention on the baby. His hands cupped gently against his swollen belly, all too in love with the condition. It wasn't just the physicality of it; the sensations, the weight, the size, though it did play a big role. What Noah relished most was the idea that soon, this hidden little bundle of joy would be born. He would be a father, and a proud one.

He pressed his fingers against the odd lumps forming on his tummy, constantly thanking 'this is my child, not someone else's, not a transplant, mine, I did this, I made this' as his eyes tracked his abdomen's movement. There had been some of the usual problems associated with carrying, but Noah didn't mind at all. He took it all in stride. It made it more real for him.

"Soon enough little one. Soon I'll get to meet you. Your daddy and I are going to love you so much. We already do, and we don't even know what you look like yet."

If only Jake could be there to drink it in with him. If he would be able to relish the experience so freely as it arose like this, then maybe it wouldn't be so bad being off work for so long. A sharp ding broke the silence as the kitchen timer reached the end of its cycle. Noah grunted as he struggled carefully to climb to his feet.

Who put the oven so far away from the couch in the first place?

---

"C'mon honey, just two more laps, nice and easy." Jake offered his encouragement amidst the sounds of splashing and swirling water. They still made time for their visits to the local in-door pool. Thankfully their gym was well funded enough to have installed heating elements to keep the water from turning unpleasantly frigid during the colder months.

"Okay, two more and then we rest! I'm not exactly aquadynamic right now!" Noah panted softly, eager to stay fit but reaching his limits even on the less intense training regimen. He tried several different strokes during these sessions but they all felt somewhat awkward with his motherly shape. At present he was giving the backstroke a leisurely try. His dark feline kept close, able to keep up easily just in case any problem might arise.

"You're doing great honey. You're almost there. Just a bit further." As his efforts to coach his tawny pelted lover on flowed so freely, he took careful stock of the coyote's physical state, watching for any sign of the father-to-be pushing himself too hard. Such a sign came just as they reached the far side.

"Ow! Ow, cramp!" Quickly Noah righted himself in the water and stood in the tree-foot-deep swimming lane. His hands sought out the source of the discomfort. Naturally, the jaguar was concerned.

"Okay! That's enough for one day! Where does it hurt honey?" The dark fellow stood as well; ready, willing, and able to sweep the canine off his feet and rush him ashore. Thankfully it didn't appear to be so dire.

"Just under my left shoulder... ow, ow, ow!" The canid winced, unable to properly reach around behind himself, "Right on top of the shoulder blade!"

"I told you we should have brought your water bottle. You're not drinking enough." Without a second's hesitation, Jake began to knead softly against the tight knot in his lover's back. The coyote's whimpering continued as no relief came until they were interrupted.

"Help him twist his hips back and forth," It came from another male, an otter in a similar state as the cramping canid. He reached out with one arm, stretching in a specific fashion to demonstrate, "And pull your left arm across your chest as far as you can. You need to try and stretch the muscle back out."

The two boys nodded as they began taking the otter's advice. The going was slow but it did begin to work the bundled tissue back out into a looser, flatter state. Noah groaned as he panted softly, rotating the affected shoulder after the pain subsided.

"Thanks. I think that helped."

The otter bobbed his head softly as he smiled.

"Always glad to help a fellow expectant father. Name's Sid. When are you due?"

The dark feline pulled his lover into his arms protectively, not to defend against a stranger but to keep his other half from overexerting himself.

"I'm Jake, this is my boyfriend Noah. We're due in about twelve days. Nice to meet you Sid."

"We? Does that mean you're pregnant too?" This was a decidedly feminine voice chiming in, belonging to a lovely, tan rabbit. She wore a simple swimsuit stretched out by her own distended tummy and a broad smile.

"Well, no," Jake simply blinked, "Just him."

"Well then you can't honestly say 'we' now can you? It's very cute though. I'm Cally, nice to meet you both." The hare extended a hand warmly, which was taken by Noah as the otter moved to wrap an arm about the lapine. Clearly they were together. The sight of two so far along in a relationship made the coyote blush as he giggled.

"A pleasure. And I have to say, this is something of a surprise. You're both expecting, together, at the same time? How'd you manage that?" The canid was genuinely curious. There were many things he knew about the mechanics of one ending up with child but simultaneously... that was a new one on him. Sid simply chuckled and pressed a hand to his swollen middle, not quite so far along as Noah.

"Good timing mostly. We've each had kids before, two each. We finally decided to try and pull it off both of us at once." He was stopped there by his wife, the rabbit continuing the tale.

"I had our first child. Sid had number two after the whole experience piqued his curiosity. After that, he had enjoyed it so much that he wanted another. I had enjoyed it quite a bit myself and I could let him out-do me, so I had number four. Once we both had a clean bill of health again, we decided to try for this. We talked to our doctor about how we could synchronize ourselves and have the best shot of pulling this off. We just kind of got lucky. So what about you? How many is this for you?"

Four children with two on the way? They must have wanted a big family! Jake and Noah were both just a bit stunned by the couple's persistence. The coyote chuckled and gave his tummy a soft pat as he finally responded.

"Oh this is our first one. It's been quite an adventure!"

"Your first huh?" Sid grinned, recalling his own first time, "How are you doing so far? Are you enjoying being pregnant?"

Noah blushed deeply, averting his gaze as he chuckled and smiled, suddenly bashful for some reason, but not enough to hesitate to answer.

"I love it. I've never felt anything like it. I'll miss the sensation once the baby comes."

Sid just waggled his eyebrows and reached forward, pressing a webbed palm against the first-time father's tummy.

"You could always have another one."

Cally stopped him there with her own thought.

"Now hold on, honey. What if Jake wants a turn?" The bunny turned to look to the sizable black cat, "We could give you two some tips on how to sync up your conceptions."

The jaguar chuckled nervously, smiling through it all.

"Heh, we're not even sure we'll be having another one yet, and I'm not sure it would be wise for me to try. My job includes a lot of manual labor. But thank you for the offer."

The gravid mustalid nodded, giving his wife another little squeeze. He wasn't quite done pitching ideas.

"Well you're both just in time. We're just setting up for six o'clock aquarobics for expectant parents. Give us about fifteen more minutes and we'll be ready to start. You're both welcome to join in."

"Six o'clock!?" Noah spun about quickly, "Alice said she'd be over at seven for dinner! I still haven't started anything!"

Jake nodded before turning his attention back to the married couple.

"We'll have to give you a rain check on that. We had dinner plans with a friend from work. How often do you hold these classes?"

"Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at six. Feel free to drop by." The hare offered the happy couple a warm smile and a wave. It was a pleasant little meeting, one that both jaguar and coyote seemed to relish. As they drove home, they agreed they would give the next class a visit.

Back in their apartment, Noah set to work quickly assembling the evening meal while Jake arranged the table and tidied up about the living room a bit. Alice was her usual punctual self, arriving just as the expectant chef was finishing his preparations. Dinner was served in short order and the reptilian lady provided her compliments.

"I hafta say Noah, that was amazing. Where did you lean to cook?"

The tawny fellow politely touched his napkin to his lips, having continued to eat well after the other two had finished. Oddly enough, it was just one more thing he loved. It just reminded him so much of the fact that he was pregnant; the cravings, the appetite, the fact that he was always last to finish, he adored it.

"I'm pretty much self-taught. Had to learn to survive in college. I didn't want the typical dorm-life diet. I had to get creative. The food channel was a big help.

"Well you clearly mastered the talent. I bet it helped reel in a big, handsome guy like Jake here."

The comment caught the feline's attention, making him chuckle.

"Actually, it was how adorable he is when he's reading to me."

Alice grinned hearing this, suddenly quite curious about the coyote's orations.

"Oh so you read aloud to him? Like a bedtime story or something?"

A soft blush filled the canid's cheeks as he finally cleaned his plate for the third time. Suddenly revealing one of their shared pastimes flustered him a bit.

"Well, I don't read to him after he's been tucked into bed if that's what you mean. It's one way we unwind at the end of the day.

"You should hear him when he really gets into it! He's quite the little actor!" Jake just grinned, quite certain of the level of embarrassment he was inflicting on his lover. Their guest was now utterly enthralled.

"Oh it's a whole production! I gotta see this!"

Noah's cheeks flushed again as he hesitated.

"Oh I'm not very good. I just did a little acting back in high school."

"You're better than you give yourself credit, honey. Go get your book and read us a few lines! Alice'll get a kick out of it!" The black cat clearly had his mind set on the idea. His boyfriend relented, bowing to the wishes of their guests and the dark feline.

"Okay, okay... a few lines, but only a few. I'm not going to read a couple of chapters," From there, the round-bellied canid slipped out of his seat, Alice and Jake following to settle on the sofa. Noah returned with their current book, clearing his throat before slipping into an appropriate accent, "Far back in the mists of ancient time, in the great and glorious days of the former Galactic Empire, life was wild, rich, and largely tax free."

Quickly Alice found herself horribly entertained. Encouraged by the scaled lady's smile, Noah continued on.

"Mighty starships plied their way between exotic suns, seeking adventure and reward among the furthest reaches of Galactic space. In those days spirits were brave, the stakes were high, men were real men, women were real women and small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri were real small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri. And all dared to brave unknown terrors, to do mighty deeds, to boldly split infinitives that no man had split before--and thus was the Empire for-oof!" Quickly the thespian canid moved a free hand to his stomach. The interruption caught the attention of the two spectators, the male especially.

"What's wrong honey?"

Noah's brief and mild grimace melted quickly to a broad smile.

"The baby's kicking."

The doctor amongst the three stood and moved to collect the dark leather hand bag she had brought with her.

"I think baby's saying it's time for daddy's ultrasound. Where do you wan to do this?"

"The bedroom is fine, and thanks for making a house call." Noah put the book down and began making his way toward the room in question. The large mattress welled up before the coyote and he oh so carefully eased down onto it, laying out on his back. His hands explored the lively dome, unable to suppress a happy growl. Jake slid in next to his beloved and pressed a hand gently against the shifting sphere.

"I can only imagine what it feels like for you."

"Indescribable. One of the single most awe-inspiring experiences of my entire life. I wouldn't trade this for anything."

"What if I told you..." Alice paused as she set her bag down and began rummaging through it, "...there was a treatment, just one simple injection, that would delay going into labor for a maximum of three months with no harmful side effects to you or the baby?"

Both Noah and Jake blinked, suddenly sent off into a realm of mental creativity. The smaller of the two stuttered at the notion.

"R-really!? You... you can d-do that!?"

The jade lady's earnest look quickly dissolved into an expression of pure amusement, laughing at the reaction.

"Nah! I'm just pullin' yer tail! But there for a second, you were really thinkin' about it!" She pulled her portable ultrasound device from her bag and prepared her patient for the examination. The dusty-colored father-to-be folded his ears back indignantly.

"That was kind of mean, getting me to believe that. You know how much I've been enjoying being pregnant."

"Okay, I'm sorry Noah. But, to make it up to you, how 'bout I show you what your baby looks like?" She began running the device across the coyote's still active belly.

---

"Alright now we'll just put some jelly on your stomach, it's going to be a little cold," The young nurse squeezed a bottle of the runny stuff needed to perform the ultrasound. Noah shivered softly as that slippery goo chilled his slightly domed tummy. He was about eighteen weeks in and everything had been going smoothly so far. The wand was traced across the hint of a bump as the screen began to display images, "And here we go. Now if you look closely, you can see something that looks an awful lot like a baby."

Both expectant parents watched as the image of their unborn child took shape, startling them. The coyote took his jaguar's hand and squeezed it tight.

"There it is... there's our son or daughter. I can see a head and arms... and a pair of little legs!"

Jake chuckled quietly and nodded, mesmerized by the screen. He was struck by the same level of awe claiming his tan lover. Neither could look away from so powerfully moving a sight.

"Do you want to find out what it is? Or do you want to be surprised?" He wanted very badly to know himself, but the dark cat stood by Noah's decision.

"I think I want to be surprised. Just one more thing to be giddy over when the day comes."

The nurse nodded and remained discrete with her examination. The whole experience was quiet eye-opening for the pair. On their way home, the canid getting a bit round about the middle continued to stare at the still images they had been given. A single hand rest just over his navel, shivering softly as he felt the latest of the first few stirs of the child he carried. It was terrifying, but wonderfully so, sailing into the unknown all first-time parents faced.

"It's happening. It's actually happening! Before it was just some strange, tiny little thing that didn't really look like a baby. But today... oh wow! I've got a little person inside of me!" Noah closed his eyes and shivered as he felt that tiny life turn about once more, making itself known.

"I know! It just..." Jake fell silent for a moment, overcome by the gravity of the day's revelation, "It just feels more real! I'm so excited, honey! I'm so excited I can't sit still!" Such was the feline's exuberant personality. While he was ready to bounce off the walls and shout from the rooftops, his coyote was oddly still. There he sat; eyes closed, a hand on his stomach, and a warm smile tugging at his lips. Something about this all felt so very right to him. He felt peaceful and serene, centered. That would likely change in the coming months, but for now, it granted the happily expectant canid a brief moment of clarity.

"We're going to need a room for the baby."

That night the two lovers gazed longingly into the spare bedroom of their apartment they had used as their study. Shelves filled with books lined one wall while dozens of model cars, planes, and even the odd boat or two decorated another. There was a small couch at one end and a work table at the other with an illuminated magnifying lens resting atop it. This was their haven, their sanctuary, their place of joy and unity. They had spent hours here, pursuing their hobbies, sharing time with one another. Circumstances required a change.

"I think we have to, honey. As much as I hate to say goodbye to our little patch of heaven, at least it's for a really, really... really good cause." Noah leaned back against his boyfriend's chest, finding such comfort in his arms.

"I hate to do it too. It was perfect for this. It'll take a lot of work to make it perfect for nursery. Maybe once I get that promotion we can move into a bigger apartment... or even a house."

The coyote chuckled and just signed in Jake's embrace. So much was changing, but at least the tall, dark cat wasn't. He wasn't going anywhere and that comforted the smaller fellow.

"We should get started on shopping and moving things around. We might even have to put some stuff into storage," It was a bittersweet moment for them, one that marked the end of an era, and the beginning of a bright new one. As they turned to head to bed, Noah paused, "You think we should get married?"

---

The latest ultrasound complete, Alice departed, leaving the happy couple with only good news and a better idea of what their baby looked like. Again they stood looking into the second bedroom, now converted into a wonderful home for their coming child. Again they were struck by the reality of what was at hand, and they drank it in.

"Just a few more days. That's all, and we'll be parents." Jake could hardly contain himself. Again, Noah was quietly reserved, silently delighted and thoughtful. His hands cupped against his tremendous abdomen, taking the moment to etch this wondrous experience into his memory and never let it fade away.

"A week, that's all. One week. It's almost surreal how fast it's gone by." His ruminations brought forth a nod from the dark cat, shivering fondly at the touch of those large palms slowly brushing over the heavy swell, feeling the restless infant inside kicking away, "Jake, you remember that talk we had?"

"You mean about if we should get married?"

Noah shook his head, amused by where the jaguar's mind went.

"No, I'm happy with what we decided on that. I meant about names for the baby. I'm not so sure about what we picked. They just don't feel right."

"Then let's come up with some others. We still have time."

---

The doorknob to the couple's apartment turned after a series of clicks sounded, a key working the tumblers of the lock until it permitted entry. In swung the door and after it followed the jaguar and coyote, already in the heat of literary discussion.

"I'm just saying it's upsetting seeing him go through all that crap and not have anyone to really fall back on. Look what happened in the first one, he loses that one girl he hooked up with because she had to run away with her hybrid baby. The second one introduces the partner we already knew was going to die based on the fact that he was already dead in the first book. Then there's the lady who was the spokesperson for the cult. She was actually falling for him until she died in a pit of fire. Then in the third book, his first true love back from years of separation due to his own mistakes and she drowns when her yacht is destroyed by a bomb. Then he finds out a long time lady friend of his built and placed the bomb. She disappears after he confronts her about it. This guy is just... I don't know how he's still sane after all of it!" The dark feline set a few bags of groceries atop the counter while Noah lapped at what was left of his ice cream cone.

"Well, they say a good writer can't be afraid to torment his characters, otherwise it doesn't make the story terribly strong."

Jake opened his mouth to respond but was cut off by his cell phone buzzing away. It was a simple text reading 'It's time. Mom is two days away. Can you come?' and it made his heart sink.

"Lisa just went into labor."

The canid lit up with a grand smile.

"That's great! You get to be an uncle! Tell her congratulations for me and to take plenty of pictures of the baby for us!"

"Her husband is stationed overseas and mom can't make it until the day after tomorrow. She's pretty much alone."

The coyote's elation dipped into concern and mild confusion. To him there was but one clear answer.

"Well? What are you just standing there for!? Go pack a bag and get gone! I'll buy you a plane ticket while you're getting ready!"

Jake frowned, hesitant in the extreme.

"I can't just leave you... you're too far along to fly and it's too far to drive." His protests were touching but ineffective. Noah was putting his foot down.

"Your baby isn't due for another five days. You fly out to be with your sister, then come back once your mom shows up. Now scoot!" He gave the tall feline a shove to get him going. Once Jake relented, the heavy canid waddled over to his laptop and began working on his travel arrangements. In only a few short moments, he had booked the cat passage on the next available plane, "You're on flight 283 direct. It leaves in an hour and a half. If you leave now, you'll be able to get through security just in time, but you'll have to hurry!" He quickly printed the confirmation page and shoved it into his lover's pocket as he emerged from the bedroom.

"I guess we'll have to celebrate the promotion later. Don't push yourself while I'm gone, and call me if anything happens."

"We'll both be here when you get home. I promise. Now scram!"

The jaguar took his expecting companion into his arms, squeezed tight, and pressed the coyote's head to his chest, burying his nose in those rusty locks. He didn't want to leave.

"I love you, Noah. Don't ever forget that."

The canid squeezed back just as tightly, honestly not wanting to say goodbye either, even for just a few days.

"I love you too, Jake. I always will. Now go, and call me when you land," Reluctantly, the two separated and the dark fellow ran for the elevator. Noah closed the door again and leaned against it, holding his gravid belly, "Don't worry little one, daddy's gonna be home soon."

Time stretched out for both of the distant lovers, seeming so empty with the other absent. The brief contact they had after Jake's plane landed was welcomed, but clearly not enough to fill the lonely gap between them. When it ended, it just reminded them of how far apart they were. Just two days was all it would last. They would be together again soon enough.

While the dark jaguar was busy offering his aid to his sister, his beloved coyote spent his time trying to keep himself occupied. Dinner was a good option, as was a bit of light reading. He dared not continue their current book while apart. 'To Kill a Mocking Bird' was their favorite, and they always read it together ever since the first time Noah introduced Jake to it. It made him smile recalling the cat's face as he listened to the canid weave the tale of the court room and how a single, honest lawyer fought to defend the innocence of the field hand. Perhaps it was because Tom Robinson, the hand wrongly accused was a black jaguar like Jake. Maybe it was just how Atticus presented himself. Whatever the case was, it was one of the absent fellow's favorite scenes. No, they would continue when he returned home. The motherly canine had lost count of the times they had reread it.

They would need a new copy soon. Theirs was starting to fall apart.

Just as the tan father-to-be began to sit up after another hour-long session of watching his belly move, hypnotized as if it were a lava lamp, the phone rang. He knew who it was, having given his soul mate a unique ring-tone.

"Hey honey, how's Lisa?"

There was something oddly calm about the jaguar's voice.

"She's sleeping. It's a baby girl. She named her Teresa, and she is beautiful."

Noah smiled, melting into the couch as he listened.

"Wish I could see her. I bet she is a precious little thing."

"Oh, Noah," The big cat leaned forward against the glass of maternity ward, forehead pressed against the window with an arm just above, his eyes locked on the newborn, "Oh Noah... you should be here. It changes everything. I've been bouncing off the walls I've been so excited but... knowing it's going to be like this... It's indescribable." He sighed as he watched the infant stir softly in her sleep. She was a little angle in his eyes.

"I'm so glad you could be there, honey. Are you still happy about us having a baby though? You sound different."

"If this trip has taught me anything, it's that what we're doing, starting a family, it's the right thing to do. There isn't a doubt in my mind. We are meant to do this. I knew it from day one."

A quiet, happy sigh escaped the coyote. From day one; he knew from the start. Anyone would be nervous about telling their boyfriend, and he had stood by him the whole way..

---

"Thank you for coming. Have a wonderful day." Noah watched as the latest patient left, fawning over her round belly. He deeply enjoyed his job. It wasn't prestigious but it was satisfying. Filing, copying, typing, verifying insurance and the like paid the bills easily enough but that wasn't why he loved working here. He loved seeing all the pregnant ladies, as well as the men, who came to see the doctors of his clinic. Funnily enough, that was one of Jake's favorite things as well, patrolling the halls in his janitorial uniform. That little fact in common between them is what brought them is what brought them together in the first place.

But the passing bellies of the lads and ladies were not having any impact on him, occupied by other thoughts. The last few days he hadn't quite felt like himself.

"Hey! Noah! Bring me the file on Sarah Calloway would ya!? I asked for it fifteen minutes ago!" Alice was in quite a mood today for some reason. Ever since lunch she had been riding him as if he were a chronic problem employee. He sighed and stood from his desk, almost stomping his way back to the gruff lizard's office.

"Okay, look, that damn file is right there on your desk! What has gotten into you today!?" As he stepped in, he found the door shut behind him and a strangely gleeful look on the jade woman's face.

"You're gonna have a baby!" She squeezed him tight, those tae kwon do arms just a notch below stranglehold. Noah was taken aback by her sudden change in mood.

"I'm sorry, what?"

"I saw how you've been feeling these last couple of days so I thought I'd run the test for you. I ran it twice, it came back positive! Congratulations! C'mon, let's go tell Jake!"

All the coyote could do was stare blankly, trying to take it in.

"I'm... I'm pregnant? Wait, how did y-"

"I have my ways," She grinned, "Now come on! I wanna see how Jake reacts to finding out he's gonna be a daddy!" She began to tug on the canid's arm but he refused.

"No! No, no I can't. Not here, not like this."

Alice frowned and gave her friend a nudge, puzzled by this reaction.

"What gives? You two stare at every belly that walks in these doors!"

"Yeah, but that's just a little ogling." Even as he said the words they didn't feel quite right.

"So you're saying all the times you said you were curious about it, you weren't serious?"

Noah blushed, sliding into one of Alice's chairs, suddenly feeling trapped between two emotions.

"No, I was. I'm... I'm excited and all... But what if Jake isn't? He'll pretend to be happy in front of everyone but he might be faking it. No, I'm not going to do that to him. I'll tell him when we get home so he can be honest with just me to see."

Suddenly that canid's logic made sense to the scaled doctor. She saw his fears and sympathized. Her pressure to rush to tell the jaguar melted to nothing.

"Okay honey. I'll let you handle it your way. I'm sorry for being so mean today. I wanted to throw you and everyone off the scent, keep it a surprise."

Noah nodded and offered the surprisingly kind woman a hug. They parted and went back to work for the remaining hour. Soon the obstetrics clinic was emptying out and Jake was walking along, an arm wrapped about his boyfriend. Their car came and began the trip home with them in tow, the coyote oddly quiet.

"Everything alright honey? You've hardly said anything."

The coyote bit his lower lip, still unsure of himself.

"Just... just a long day at work. And I'm hungry. Can we talk after we get something to eat?"

Jake nodded and didn't press the issue any further. He leaned over and pressed his lips to the tan fellow's cheek quickly.

"Sure. Food first, then we can talk," He was so understanding, so loving. It broke Noah's heart just imagining losing him over all of this. Some oriental take out was collected brought home. It stunned the cat how much his boyfriend ate, "Wow, I guess you really were hungry!"

The coyote nodded.

"I've been more hungry lately."

"I noticed!" He sounded amused, "Now, what's on your mind?"

This was it, the defining moment in their relationship. Either it would bring them together or split them up.

"Well... today Alice was-" A loud, shrill ring interrupted him, forcing him to stop. Jake grumbled quietly as he began digging for his phone.

"Ack! Sorry honey. It's my sister. I gotta take this. After I hang up I'll turn it off and I'm all yours!" Hastily he answered, wanting to try and get through the call quickly, "Hey sis, can't talk long. What's up?" He listened as the cat on the other end passed on her news, his eyes widening and his lips pulling into a wide smile, "What!? Really!? That's great! Hey Noah! Lisa's pregnant! I'm gonna be an uncle!"

The coyote nodded, taking a breath before just going for broke, afraid there might be another interruption.

"Yeah. That's great. I'm happy for her. Tell her she's going to be an aunt too."

"Hah! Yeah! Noah says you're gonna be an aunt too!" It took just a moment but it stuck in the cat's mind, "Wait, what?"

The nervous canid offered a sheepish grin and explained, expecting the worst.

"Alice tested me today. I'm pregnant."

"R-really?" Jake's eyes slowly widened as his lover nodded, "Lisa... Noah's pregnant..." He was stunned, quite deeply. Clearly his sister was too, "Yeah, that's right. Noah's pregnant. Noah's pregnant! My boyfriend is pregnant!"

An audible shriek of glee came through the phone even as it was dropped. In a flash, the coyote was out of his chair, hoisted skyward by the deliriously ecstatic jaguar, spinning about the room. It was a good sign, but the smaller fellow wanted to be sure.

"So... you're pleased?"

The room stopped spinning as Jake ceased their little dance.

"What!? Of course I am! I'm gonna be a father!" He rushed to pick up his dropped phone, "Lisa, I'll call you back later! I'm gonna be a daddy!"

The rest of the evening was spent in celebration, fantasizing about what Noah would eventually look like and allaying the fears of the new father-to-be. As the night wore on, the pair of lovers retired to bed, the great cat not letting his canid boyfriend out of his arms for much of the night. One found sleep quickly, the other did not. Something gnawed at the jaguar's mind, something he had considered before but only lightly and in passing. It troubled him so much that it ultimately pulled him from his bed, from holding the canine that carried child. Off he slipped to the study, needing to find answers, and needing to think.

By the time Noah rolled over and felt Jake wasn't there, the feline's place had grown cold. A new knot formed in his stomach. The coyote rose from the sheets and set about looking for his lover. Thankfully it was a short search.

"Hey, couldn't sleep?"

The black cat shook his head, sighing quietly as he stared at the laptop screen before him.

"No. I couldn't. I thought I'd go over our finances. With how much we both make, it's going to be hard affording a baby without dipping into our savings as well as our retirement savings." He had been concerned about the cost of giving their baby a good home, not just the bottom line. Noah could hear it in his voice.

"We'll make it work honey. We will."

"It's cutting it a little too close for comfort. So I've been doing some reading. What if I got a better job?"

The coyote sighed and moved to stand behind the thoughtful feline.

"There's nothing to be ashamed of what you do, honey. It's honest work."

A soft growling purr rose from Jake as he felt his lover's hand on his shoulder. He wasn't done.

"I know... but we have a baby on the way now. That baby deserves better and so do you. I have more to offer than sweeping floors and carrying out trash. I've been thinking about this for a while actually. The clinic is looking to train a new medical equipment technician to replace Gary when he retires. The qualifications are pretty steep, but I'm already halfway there," He pointed to the list of requirements on the screen, "I'll hafta get certified and study pretty hard, but I could do it. I could."

"If that's what you want to do, then go for it. I'll support you no matter what you decide." The hand on the feline's shoulder squeezed, gripping the strong, dense muscle hiding under the black luxurious fur. Jake sighed.

"When our child goes to 'What Does Your Parent Do' day at school, I want them to be able to be proud of their dad. No kid wants to go up in front of their class and introduce their dad, the janitor."

Noah snickered.

"Unless it's the janitor from 'Scrubs'," That seemed to get something of a chuckle, "If you think it'll make you happy, then go for it. I'll help you study."

Jake turned the chair about and pulled his coyote into his lap, holding him close. They would make it work, no matter what happened.

---

"I'm glad to hear that. Come home soon honey. Your baby wants to meet you. Been kicking hard."

"I will. Have a good night. I love you, Noah."

The coyote smiled.

"I love you too, Jake."

---

It was a particular chilly day, the last strong cold front of the season leaving sprinkles of snow that vanished on contact. "Winter's end" some called it, even though they were deep into spring. It didn't much matter to Noah. He was content to stay in out of the cold, keeping warm with a nice, long shower. Delicately and fastidiously he scrubbed his short braid before moving on to the rest of himself, being sure to focus heavily on the belly he loved so much. All day he just couldn't get warm. The shower was the perfect way to relax.

The coyote had been feeling anxious, restless, and his appetite seemed to have dropped off some. He chalked it up to Jake being away and figured he would feel better once he was home. With his shower finished, Noah settled comfortably on the lid of the toilet to enjoy the still steamy atmosphere, drawing little doodles on the fogged window. Eventually his mini-sauna was interrupted by the distant cat's ring-tone. The canid smiled and collected his cell to answer.

"Hey Jake. How's the trip going?"

"It's almost over. I'm about to board. We're hoping to take off before the snow hits. Should only be a couple of hours away."

The pregnant fellow nodded and looked to his abdomen, caressing it oh so softly.

"Sounds good. The two of us will be here waiting for you."

Such talk made the jaguar smile.

"I'll call when I'm on the ground again."

Just as the call was about to end, Noah frowned softly. His stomach had tightened, turning fairly rigid. After a few moments it relaxed again. It wasn't uncomfortable but it did catch his attention.

"Jake... I think I just had a contraction."

"You... you did!?"

'Yeah, I think so," Again his tummy flexed, acting on its own. This time it brought with it an ache, not unlike using a muscle that had already been used quite a bit. It made the gravid canine groan softly, "Oh yeah... I'm having contractions alright! Jake, the baby's coming!"

The dark feline suddenly felt quite helpless. There wasn't anything he could do to hasten his arrival.

"Okay, okay... just breathe honey. Remember what we practiced. I'm gonna get on the plane and I'll be there quick as I can. Just hold on."

"Hurry Jake. I need you." He was already just a little out of breath. It worried his lover.

"I'm already on my way. I'll see you soon."

The call ended and Noah passed lightly, taken by surprise by how much just those two events had taken out of him. He didn't have much time to get ready. With Jake not there to help, he would have to set up alone. Once he felt he could stand, he left the bathroom and hurried to the nursery, spreading out a plastic mat over a nest of pillows to make a sort of bowl. Over it he draped a piece of cloth that would be disposed of after this was all over.

There he settled, still panting as he looked to the mirror across from him. He had looked at his gravid form in its reflection many a time, but now he needed it to make sure he could see what was happening below. Without his lover, he was going to have to watch for signs of trouble himself.

"Jake! I need you!" Noah cried out that name in a labored moan, the contractions growing stronger. He knew there would be pain, but he expected it to be sharper than this. Maybe he would be able to get through it after all. Still, he wanted his jaguar.

An hour passed as he shifted in his seat, only getting up to gather some ice from the freezer. It helped to keep cool and it gave him something to munch on as he waited. Alice's advice echoed in his thoughts, remembering what to expect. She had explained how his particular 'plumbing' worked and what to do to try to keep discomfort to a minimum.

Jake would have been a good thing to have.

The more powerful the contractions became, the heavier Noah panted, falling limp as each one ended. It felt like he was running a marathon with his stomach. The big question was, when would he cross the finish line?

It wouldn't be long.

"Oh boy!" He shivered as his eyes widened, suddenly feeling 'the main event' approaching, now worried should something go wrong, "Just remember what Alice said... the cord detaches on its own... I'll stretch easily enough... just push when the time comes... The time's here! Oh god! Here we go!"

He leaned forward and flexed his abdomen as tightly as he could, gritting his teeth and grunting noisily. He resisted the urge to squeeze his eyes shut, watching in the mirror. Deep inside, he could feel movement, progress. In the reflection, he saw his sheath bulge, not from arousal, but from the baby's head pushing through! The swell continued to grow, stretching his groin into the odd shape it was becoming. Larger and rounder it grew until he had to stop, panting furiously. The coyote's fingers traced over the alien lump, shuddering as it turned just ever so slightly inside him.

"I... I know little one... I wish you could stay too... but... but we don't have a choice!" He moaned again, a few little tears beginning to pool in the corners of his eyes. Another good push saw that great round swell slip free of the fur hiding it, the baby still concealed by Noah's length. He howled quietly, certain he was disturbing his neighbors, offering another stern push from inside. His hands cupped under the distension of his length, trembling as he rest one more time. This next push had to be it.

Noah took a deep breath and put everything he had into the last big shove, transfixed on the mirror as he growled. A pair of dark little nostrils peaked out of the end of his member, the opening spreading as his jaws parted from so very strange a sensation. Slowly, an infant muzzle emerged, followed by eyes, then ears, and the rest of the baby's head. With the hard part cleared, a good portion of the child slipped free and the coyote flopped back, completely out of breath. He only took a few pants before reaching down to finish the job.

With great care, he collected the portion of his baby outside him and pulled, daintily tugging until he felt a pair of tiny feet slip from his grasp. The little thing complained and began to cry as it felt the cool air for the first time. A towel was collected and used to wipe the newborn clean before a fresh one was wrapped about the new little person.

It was over! He had done it!

But then, really, it was just beginning.

Noah cradled the infant against his chest, his cheeks wet from exertion. It was a physical impossibility to stop smiling. Jake was right. This did change everything.

"Nice to finally meet you, sweetheart. Your daddy is going to be so thrilled to see you," The coyote paused as he let another thought pop into his mind, "I think I know what to call you."

Once he had finally settled enough, Noah set the baby aside and dealt with the natural progression of the birthing process. He quickly cleaned himself and folded the plastic sheet up around what had been left behind. From there, it was just a matter of waiting for Jake.

The tall black cat streaked through the airport, racing to his car. The engine complained of the cold as it turned over and soon he was away, speeding home as safely as he could. The apartment building in question came quickly enough and he rushed up the stairs. He shoved his key into the lock and turned, shoving the door open.

"Noah!?" It was oddly quiet, "Noah! Where are you!?" He asked in spite of knowing the plan. In a flash he was at the door of the nursery, frozen by what he saw.

There, in the rocking chair sat his coyote, an open button-down shirt on, holding a bundle in his arms. The canid gazed down at the child with a peaceful smile, slowly looking up at the other new father.

"Welcome home, daddy. Would you like to meet your new son?"

"Jake blinked softly, dropping his bag to the floor as he slowly approached, the shocked expression melting into unfettered joy.

"It's a boy!?" Indeed it was, looking quite content as he nursed on one of his tan father's nipples. It looked as though Noah didn't have anything to give, but he and the baby both knew better. He had a little black face, quite feline in shape with a pair of small round ears laying limp against his head. They would perk up in time.

"Jake, say hello to your son, Atticus." As the baby stopped nursing, Noah lifted him into the large cat's arms. The name sent goose bumps across the proud father's skin.

"Atticus... It's perfect," As the two felines were united for the first time, the baby gazed up at Jake and startled him, "He's got your eyes... he's so beautiful... You both are amazing."

Noah smiled, closing those hazel pools as he managed to truly rest for the first time in hours.

"If we ever have another, you're going to be here for the birth."

Jake nodded softly.

"And for everything that follows..."