Asbel dropped the day's catch on a ledge just across from the cottage's front door. He walked into the living room and stepped around the couch to find Cheria half-asleep in her seat. A throne of pillows supported the extra weight on her back, and one of her hands nestled protectively over her swollen belly. The light from the fireplace reflected off the narrow slits of her sleepy eyes.

The latest results of Cheria's handiwork were strewn across a nearby table. While most women spent this point of their life knitting socks, this particular mother-to-be kept herself occupied sharpening the kitchen knives. It was a feat only she could pull off while still being the demure housewife Asbel had grown to love.

Asbel invited himself to an empty spot just beside Cheria, kissing her neck and whispering in her ear to let her know he was there.

"Hey."

Cheria offered a shy, sweet smile along with her own greeting.

"I missed you, Asbel."

Asbel wrapped one arm over her shoulders as his opposite hand traveled to her bulging stomach. Cheria lifted her own hand just enough so his palm could touch her belly, allowing him to caress his unborn son.

"How's Pythagoras feeling?"

She leaned across his chest and tucked the top of her head under his chin. She seemed to be drifting to sleep even as she spoke.

"Not as tired as me. It feels like he always has something to do, kind of like someone I know."

Her fingers tenderly closed around his so mother, father, and child could closely embrace. She remained silent for several seconds to cherish the moment, then quietly spoke again.

"So what's the plan for tomorrow?"

Asbel gave her forehead another kiss. He used his free hand to massage her weary back.

"Staying home with you. I brought enough to feed all three of us for the next few weeks. I don't want to keep leaving you by yourself when you're this far along."

Cheria giggled lightly to herself. She gave her husband's shoulder a playful nudge.

"And here I thought you were looking for an excuse to get away from me because I was turning into a blimp."

Asbel responded with his own teasing grin. His gaze drifted toward the fireplace as he reminisced on all the adventures they had shared together.

"I guess I grew up a little."