Back at the palace…

Cody sat by Rex till he finally woke up.

"R-Ruby. Where is she?" Rex coughs having smelt her scent a bit.

"Still not here Rex, Nicol went to check on her. She brought you a note though." Cody smiles giving it to him.

"He still won't let her near." Rex looks at it sadly.

"He knows the truth Rex. Kix and Gus went and talked to him. He just doesn't want her here while you're sick, especially with the cub." Cody explains.

"She says he's letting us talk. There's a holonet connection on here." Rex coughs looking over the note that smells faintly like her.

"I'll get you a tablet. Now no trying to escape." Cody glares at him as he goes to find one.

'Where am I going to go?' Rex sighs to himself.

Not long after Cody comes back and says "I'll give you two time to talk. I'll be right outside." With that he headed out.

"Thanks." Rex calls to him.

"REX! How are you? Is the fever bad? Can you talk?" Ruby calls worried.

"I'm fine. Just… cough cough. A bit out of it." Rex coughs into his arm. "How are you two doing?" he looks at her lovingly.

"We're okay." Ruby smiles. "Oh, there's something I want to show you. Tada!" she shows him the toy.

"What's that?" Rex lifts a brow.

"Our little troopers' trooper." Ruby smiles hugging it.

"That nickname is really sticking isn't it?" Rex sighs then coughs.

"Are you really okay? We can talk later." Ruby's ears droop.

"No. Please, I don't think I can hang up." Rex looks at her lovingly and worried.

"I don't want to either, but we should both get our rest." Ruby smiles at him.

"Alright. I love you amour." Rex sighs with defeat.

"I love you too amour." Ruby kisses two fingers placing them on the screen before hanging up.

Outside the door…

Cody brought out the ring again and looked at it with shaking eyes.

It was a small teardrop shaped sea foam green moon stone in a light gold band, and on each side of it were two little diamonds that shined like tiny stars.

"I'll get this to you Nicol. I promise." Cody sighed and then walked back in when he heard the conversation ending.

Back inside…

"So finished talking?" Cody smiles as he enters.

"It doesn't feel like enough." Rex coughs a bit.

"Hey I got some news that might cheer you up. I talked to Jacob about letting you turn one of the rubies into a ring and he said yes." Cody smiles.

"Really? That would be amazing." Rex smiles at that.

"But you won't be able to give it to her unless you get better, so take your medicine and get some sleep." Cody hands it over to him.

Reluctant Rex takes his medicine. He then lays down, his sleep a bit better now.

With the girls…

"You feeling better?" Nicol pats her friends back.

"It was nice to talk. But I want to hug him." Ruby sighs.

"Oh Ruby I'm sorry but not till he's feeling better." Nicol feels for her friend.

"I know." Ruby pouts hugging the toy. "Will you stay tonight? I don't want to be alone." Ruby looks at her with big eyes.

"Sure. I'll probably be staying here for the week, you know make sure you don't try to run off." Nicol chuckles.

The two fall asleep chatting and snuggled close. Jacob smiling at the two like that. Thinking they never will ever change from the cubs he knew so long ago.

The week was coming to an end and Dimitri would be arriving soon. Jacob decided to go meet him on his own to try and explain things, but…

"What do you mean it's off?!" Dimitri yowls ready for a fight.

"Calm down. It was MY misunderstanding. Those boys have done nothing wrong." Jacob tries to calm him.

"You mean aside from getting one pregnant." Dimitri huffs.

"Rex has taken responsibility. And has been sick after getting half of the bridal price. He's a good guy, if a bit reckless." Jacob comments.

'It's true, girls marry their fathers.' Jacob sighs recalling his friend.

"It's still no good. What are they doing letting their men run around drunk? Or picking fights. I left those girls in their care and this is what happens? I can't just sit by." Dimitri's tail twitches angerly.

"Dimitri you do this and you'll lose them cub." Jacob warns.

Dimitri huffs with crossed arms. He goes with him to the palace.

At the palace…

"But I wanna see him." Ruby whines with two guards at Rex's door.

"Sorry Ruby. We're under orders." Waxer blocks her.

"Please understand, this is for the best." Boil looks away from the big eyes.

"Please? Just a quick visit. I won't even go near the bed." Ruby looks at them with clasped hands and big eyes.

'She doesn't fight fair.' The two are about to cave.

"Don't even think it boys." Nicol comes up taking a hold of her friend and dragging her off.

"No! I wanna see my mate! I wanna cuddle!" Ruby wines as she's taken off.

During this time they found out what type of pregnant lady Ruby is. She's a clinger and emotion bomb. Little things set her off and in any number of directions. Being away from Rex has been hard, especially during this early time they're calling nesting. She messes with any room she's in to make it comfy for a cub. Stopping to whine when others don't help or something is off.

In a den…

"It's only for a few more days Ruby, then you can cuddle him till he faints all you want." Nicol drinks some coco.

"I wanna see him now. Now. Now. Now." Ruby pouts turning her back to her with her tail twitching.

"Oh for the days she couldn't talk." Calls a familiar voice.

"Dimitri!" Ruby runs over hugging him. "Wait what did you mean by that? Do you not like my voice? Am I annoying?" she gets ready to blow.

Nearby brothers cover their ears getting ready for the water works. But their halted as Dimitri takes out a small bag of sugar stars.

"Now how can anyone think that of such a pretty voice?" Dimitri smiles patting her head.

Ruby smiles with bouncing ears as she takes one out chumping it. The brothers sighing with relief.

Nicol stiffened at the sight of him and said "Hello Dimitri."

"Hello Nicol." He says back a bit worried.

"Did Jacob talk to you?" Ruby looks a bit worried herself.

"Yes Jacob has talked to me." Dimitri explains.

"So, what have you decided?" Nicol feels her tail twitch.

Dimitri takes a breath and "I've decided that I will not be challenging Rex. He has made himself ill trying to keep his mate and cub. And his men are willing to help him pay for the bridal price. I think he's shown he's worthy."

"That's great." Ruby smiles at that.

Nicol then stood "Then what about Cody?"

She felt her fur stand slightly, she could smell it off of him. He wasn't completely letting this go.

"Your mate, hasn't proven himself yet." Dimitri crosses his arms.

"He has proven himself on several occasions! He's even passed the first trail my parents gave him. How can you say that?" Nicol yowls.

"Cody is a really good guy. One of the best." Ruby nods.

"Nicol I've heard of some of the things that have happened on your trip. I heard how he questioned your instincts, almost lost you to some manipulative prince, and then acted like some feral because of some bath salts." Dimitri points out with his fur standing.

"Rex went through two of those things as well, and you're no longer challenging him. Why Cody, is this because of what happened on Chat?" Nicol growls.

"Like I said Rex has proven himself, Cody hasn't. He can't control his men and for someone to question their mate's instincts…" Dimitri starts.

"There are literally thousands of these guys, he can't control all of them. That incident was partly our fault a well since we didn't tell them that we were with the guys. So you can't blame it all on the boys. And for what happened on christophsis, he's not a Chat Dimitri he doesn't understand. And I had been accusing his littermate. It wasn't something easy for him to take in after already losing one." Nicol explains.

"And because of that Ruby was put in danger. Nicol please, the only way I can feel at ease that he's the right man for you is if you to let me challenge him." Dimitri begs with shaking eyes.

Nicol feels tears "You only want to do this because you're still upset I didn't chose you, is that it?"

Dimitri couldn't look her in the eyes at that then she ran off.

"I'll go get her." Ruby starts off.

"Tell Nicol she needs to go back to the hotel. I'm starting the three-day challenge. We shall compete every day, and I have courting rights till the end of all this." Dimitri starts to walk off.

"This is wrong Dimitri and you know it." Ruby shoots him a look.

"I have to do this Ruby. I just have to." Dimitri feels his ears fall as he finally leaves. Ready to make the challenge.

Not long after in the medbay…

Cody was in shock at this "But I thought he understood."

Jacob looks sadly at him and says "I'm sorry, he understands Rex and Ruby's situation and he respects Rex with how he got himself sick to get the bridal price and he didn't want to separate a family either."

"But he can't let go of losing Nicol to Cody." Rex sighs sitting up in bed.

Jacob sighs "There is more to it. And yes, it is part of what happened on Chat. Dimitri feels betrayed. He asked you both to care for them and when he found out about all those incidents, he become worried. To him this was the last straw. Ruby is his cub hood friend and won't separate her from her mate. But Nicol, she's always been more to him than that and now he feels that he has to fight Cody. To see if you're worthy to be her mate and perhaps he hopes to see if he still has a chance."

"Well it won't happen. I'm winning this no matter what. I am not losing Nicol." Cody's fists tighten.

"It won't be that easy Cody. The challenge lasts three days. You will be tested physically, mentally, and emotionally. Part of the emotional test is that you can't see her during the three days and Dimitri will have full permissions to court her." Jacob sighs.

"What about the instincts choosing partner thing?" Rex lifts a brow.

"Believe it or not Dimitri has matured since you last saw him. He knows he needs to be better prepared to be a leader soon and he's been doing his best at it. So he now has a chance to actually gain Nicol's interest once more." Jacob sighs.

"Wait, no, that can't be possible." Cody looks shocked.

Jacob nods and continues "It can, it's rare but sometimes when a female sees someone who better suites her or who has proven themselves more worthy then her mate, or if the challenging male shows he does truly love her more than her mate, then it can happen."

"This can't be happening." Rex shakes his head at this.

"I'm sorry, I really am." Jacob looks down sadly

"Can I at least send her a message?" Cody pleads.

"Written ones are allowed. Even sending gifts are allowed. It somewhat part of the tests as well. Helps the female know her mate's waiting for her." Jacob pats his back.

Cody nods "Can I have a moment to write something to her?"

Jacob nods and Cody leaves the two alone.

"Is there nothing we can do?" Rex looks at him pleadingly.

"Nothing at the moment." Jacob shakes his head. "But enough of that. How are you feeling?" he looks at him a bit worried.

"Better. Maybe I can be taken off quarantine?" Rex smiles a bit hopeful.

'I really want to hug Ruby.' Rex pictures her and her growing belly.

"Sorry it's for both their safety." Jacob shakes his head.

'Can he read minds?' Rex eyes widen.

"Now that would be interesting." Jacob smiles.

'He can!' Rex coughs from the over shock.

"Sorry. Sorry I was just having a bit of fun. I can't ready minds, but I can ready body language and being away for any amount of time isn't easy." Jacob pats his back.

"You don't need to tell me." Rex sighs looking down at the blanket.

"But we can talk ring. This is the designs the jeweler sent." Jacob pulls out a tablet.

Rex looks over all of them. But they seemed a bit too flashy. Aside for one. A silver band with a ruby in the middle shaped like a heart and two rose quarts on either side in a small wing shape.

"That one. That's the one for her." Rex points to it smiling.

"I'd say so. Anything you'd like added? A design or words?" Jacob looks it over then at him.

"Can they inscribe 'you are my heart' on the inside?" Rex flushes a bit.

"Can do." Jacob nods with a smile getting up to let him rest.

Back at the hotel…

"Can I come in? I have something to show you." Ruby knocks on her door.

Nicol had been crying but looked over "What is it?" Nicol tries to wipe her tears.

"Tada!" Ruby shows her Cody's yellow gloves. "I'm thinking of stitching music notes in the middle with the extra white." She shows the started outline.

"Oh that be great. He's sort of gotten a taste for music lately. Chuckle. What about Rex's gift." Nicol smiles a bit.

"I want to add pompoms to Rex's scarf. But I thought I'd start with this one since it's more detailed. And we can talk about the party, get everything worked out." Ruby smiles sitting on the bed with her friend.

"That be nice. What do we have done so far." Nicol asks sitting up.

"Let's see we have the gifts. And the jedi said we can use the front garden. What else? Oh food! We have the chips and some of their fa- excuse me." Ruby covers her mouth running to the bathroom.

"It's okay Ruby, let it out. You going to be okay?" Nicol asks patting her back.

"No. I can't help on missions anymore and I can't even cheer up my best friend. I'm useless. Moody, fat and useless." Ruby cries with drooped ears.

"That's not true! You have cheered me up and you're not fat, you're carrying another life, and as for missions we can find other things to do to help. You are not useless." Nicol hugs her.

"I… I don't like this. I want my mate. But you do too. I want them to go away. B-but th-there here because o-of us." Ruby yowls feeling really sad about everything.

Nicol frowns at this and just sits there holding her friend close hoping to help her.

Once Ruby was calm she went to sleep and Nicol was given a note by Jacob.

She read it, saying 'Dear Nicol. I miss you and I hope you remember I'm not going to let you go that easily. I'll be waiting for you and fighting to my last. Till then wait for me. Love Cody.'

Nicol felt tears at that and then saw he had put some Jasmines in the note as well. She cried slihglty as she put them in her hair and went to sleep.

The next day was the start of the challenge….

The first challenge would be the physical one. But it wouldn't be until the evening. Till then Dimitri had the right to court her and she wasn't happy with the idea. She locked herself in her room but…

"Nicol you have to go, it's part of the rules. It's just a picnic. You don't even have to stay long." Jacob knocks on her door.

"No! I'm a full grown molly. I don't have to do anything if I don't want too!" Nicol yowls back.

"We're staying in today." Ruby calls.

Jacob sighs and says "Girls I'm sorry but you know the rules. Nicol if you don't go Dimitri can extend the challenge and it will take longer to see Cody. Please if you want to see him as soon as possible then just get it over with."

Nicol finally opens the door and sniffs "Fine but I'm not getting all fancy for this."

"Of course not." Jacob shakes his head.

"Want me to come?" Ruby's ears droop looking at her friend.

"Actually Ruby could you go check on Cody for me and give him this letter? Keep him from worrying. Talk about Darian, that way he can tell Rex everything. I'd feel better he has something to keep his mind off the challenge." Nicol wipes her tears.

"Sure thing." Ruby hugs her.

The girls hug and Nicol heads out in her Defender's uniform. If he wanted to try and win her so badly, he'd have to see her for who she is.

As she got to the park, Dimitri had set up a blanket with a buffet of her favorite foods. He stood up and said "I wasn't sure if you would come."

"I only came so you wouldn't extend the challenge." Nicol huffs.

"Pleas sit down." Dimitri offers but Nicol glares and says "I have something else in mind."

She brought two training staffs out and came to a small field. Dimitri was shocked and came over to her "Nicol what is this?"

"You may have the right to court me, but I have the right to choose the activity. Show me how good you can fight Dimitri." Nicol throws the staff at him.

Dimitri sighs but says "As you wish."

With that they stood about and then began to fight.

Dimitri wasn't the best fighter, in fact he hadn't been trained as a defender. Not having a serious enough personality for the job.

But Nicol was surprised at what she found. He was keeping pace and blocking her moves. The spar went on for quite some time till…

"Oof." Nicol fell as she was tripped and then the staff at her throat. She looked on wide eyed and said "How….?"

"I've been training with the defenders while you two were gone." He brings a hand down to help her up.

She takes it and says "I was todl you were learning to become a better leader, but I never expected you actually go this far. And in such a short amount of time."

"I knew I needed to learn how to defend my people. Especially with what we know in the galaxy now. What kind of mate would I be if I couldn't defend my mate or any cubs I where to have?" Dimitri comes up to pull her hair back, but she pulls back herself.

"She'll be a lucky molly then, but it won't be me." She then walks off saying "That's enough for now Dimitri."

"But the picnic." He calls a bit saddened.

"Enjoy it." She calls back and heads to the hotel.

At the palace…

"This is for you." Ruby hands him the note.

"Thank you Ruby. I can't wait to read it." Cody smiles holding the letter in his hands.

"You okay?" Ruby's ears droop.

"I'm worried. Especially with what Jacob told us. So she had to go out with him today?" Cody asks sadly.

"Yes." Ruby nods.

"I'll do my best to get her back, but if she chooses him…" Cody can't look at her.

"Don't think like that. Nicol loves you. Have faith in her and yourself." Ruby places a hand over his.

"You're right, thank you. So how's the little trooper?" Cody smiles at her.

"Doing well. Though no kicks yet." Ruby touches her tommy happy.

They had also learned their little trooper is developing a bit faster than normal. The doctors believe it's the trooper in him. So instead of three months development it might only be two. This is part of the reason Rex is still stuck, the shock made his fever go up again, so they wanted to make sure he's okay.

'Poor Rex, that really surprised him.' Ruby sighs.

"How's Rex doing?" Ruby looks a bit nervous for him.

"Rex is doing well, he's just anxious to get back to you two again. He tried escaping once today." Cody chuckles.

"I guess that means he's feeling better." Ruby giggles.

"I guess it is a sign he's feeling better but best to be safe. By the way. I have something for Nicol." Cody then brings out a carving of a bird with a jasmine flower in its mouth.

"She'll love it." Ruby nuzzles it.

"I thought she might like it. She always likes little cute things. Chuckle. By the way I don't mind making a few wooden toys for the little trooper. If you're okay with that." Cody smiles.

"I'd love that." Ruby nods with her ears bouncing.

Cody nods but feels some tears in his eyes.

"You okay?" Ruby's ears droop.

"I just miss her and I'm so worried that, that…" He couldn't finish those words.

"Come on Cody, Nicol gave you to me for the day. And I want snuggle stuff." Ruby pulls him off to shop.

It seems to help him to be away for hours. And Ruby really did want snuggle stuff. She found a few fluffy pillows and blankets. She found a quilt she could add stitched pictures to and found that cute.

Later that day…

Nicol was in love with the little bird carving Cody made, she couldn't help but sniff it to get as much of his scent as she could.

Ruby told her about how he wanted to make toys for the cub and she felt like she'd fall in love with him all over again. But when she heard how he was doing she felt her ears fall as much as her heart.

"Hey. It will all work out. Just hang in there." Ruby tries to assure her.

"I hope so. How is Rex doing?" Nicol asks.

"He's doing better. You see…" Ruby giggles telling the story Cody had told her.

Nicol had to laugh at his escape attempt and said "Yup he's getting back on his feet soon."

Then Jacob came in and said "Girls it's time."

They both looked worried at each other and headed off to one of the palace's gardens, which had been made to look like a battle arena. The girls sat down, on one side as the brother sat on the other.

Dimitri and Cody in the middle on either side of Jacob who said "We start the first challenge. Strength. A mate must be able to defend his family and home. For this you each must take a staff, Nicol's preferred weapon, and dual each other."

At that Jacob leaves and when the bell rings the two begin the fight. Many brothers were there to support Cody. Especially Gus and Kix who were still upset about what they caused. Kix was holding up a tablet so Rex could see the match.

"Getting a good view Rex?" Kix asks.

"It's good. Thanks Kix." Rex watches from his tablet.

'I wish I was there.' Rex sighs watching from his little window.

"You can do this Cody." Ruby looks down at them.

"Come on Cody you can do it." Nicol holds her necklace at this.

The two danced around and sparred for quite some time. Cody had gotten better at taking on any Chat tricks since he had sparred with Nicol, so he was doing a really good job at keeping Dimitri at bay.

But as they fought Dimitri swings "Strange this was our first challenge."

"What do you mean?" As Cody block him.

"I mean how Nicol and I sparred this morning." Dimitri throws the staff out of his hand.

Cody flinches at his words but has enough time to roll away from his swing and grab his staff.

Nicol had overheard their talk and growled "Come on Cody take him down a peg!"

"GO CODY! GO!" Ruby shouts through cupped hands.

"Come on Cody! Cream him!" Rex shouts.

His brothers cheered as well telling him to win this.

Hearing that helped him feel confident and decided to make one last move. He rushed at Dimitri who jumped over him, but instead of surprising him Cody just turned about and stuck his staff at his chest and said "I win."

Everyone cheered at this. Jacob saying "Cody wins the first round. Tomorrow is the mental challenge so go and get a good night's rest."

They both nodded at that but before Dimitri left, he whispered "Just remember this, after all the crying she's gone through cause you couldn't protect her, do you really deserve her?"

Cody feels his heart break at that but then as he left his brothers came up to congratulate him and in the crowd he saw Nicol give him a smile and sent him a kiss. It helped him feel better, but still.

'Am I doing the right thing?'

With that he decided to go check on Rex once more before heading to bed.

In Rex's room…

"How are you feeling? You've had a busy day." Rex talks to Ruby with a soft smile.

"We're both fine. How are you doing?" Ruby smiles at him touching her stomach.

"I should be released soon." Rex assures her.

"Oh sorry I'll just leave…" Cody walks in and is ready to leave once more.

"Oh no we're done. Sleep well." Ruby blows him a kiss.

"Night." Rex waves as she signs off.

"So um…." Cody isn't sure how to start but doesn't have too.

"Hey we can talk in a minute. Just let me grab a jacket." Rex heads over to the closet revealing he's dressed.

"What are you doing?" Cody looks surprised.

"I got the all clear after your match. I want to surprised Ruby tomorrow and I still have to get the ring before she clings." Rex smiles at the idea.

"That's great." Cody nods sitting down for a bit.

"Okay what's wrong?" Rex turns to him with jacket in hand.

"Nothing. I'm fine." Cody shrugs.

"Come on you won the fight and I'm free. But you're not making any jokes or teasing about the ring? What's going on?" Rex eyes him as they start heading out.

"It's just. After the fight Dimitri said if I even deserved her after all the times I made her cry, and I'm starting to think if he's right. Am I doing the right thing keeping her here with me, and can I really make her happy?" Cody sighs as he looks down with shaking eyes.

"Are you really going to let a comment get to you? You're fighting like crazy for her and been doing it. What did he do? Make jokes and start working AFTER she was gone." Rex tells him with a serious and loving look.

"But you heard what Jacob said. All that work could make it so that I could lose her. Even if I won this match. Is it right she stay with someone like me if she could be with an heir?" Cody decides to sit on a fountain, not feeling much energy.

Rex motions for him to wait then heads over to a vender. Getting some toasted sweet potatoes then comes back.

"YOU are her love. Not Dimitri. Just have a bit of faith." Rex smiles handing it to him.

Cody smiles at his brother and says "Thanks Rex."

"Anytime." Rex smiles one arm hugging him.

With the girls…

Ruby is looking over all the snuggle things making sure they're right and places them around the room. She couldn't wait for this contest to be over so she could place everything in her room.

Nicol just sat on the bed thinking, not able to get herself into the fun. Ears drooped so low you think they fall.

"You okay?" Ruby sees her friend's drooped ears.

"I'm just worried about Cody. He looked so down hearted after the challenge and with what Dimitri said. I'm worried." Nicol looks at her friend with shaking eyes.

"Cody must just be feeling the pressure. He's talking with Rex now, so it should all work out." Ruby hands her a fluffy blue pillow.

"I hope so. I just want him back." Nicol sniffs.

"I'm sure it will be fine. Just… he kicked." Ruby feels her stomach.

"He did? Can I….?" Nicol points to the belly and Ruby nods as Nicol feels him and he starts kicking again. "Oh so sweet." Nicol smiles.

"See even Darian is saying hang in there." Ruby giggles feeling the little pushes.

"Thanks you two." Nicol chuckles feeling better. 'Hang in there Cody I'm staying with you no matter what.'

The next morning…

"REX!" Ruby hugs him as he comes to pick her up.

"Surprise." Rex hugs her kissing the top of her head.

"Hey what are you doing here. Thought you all would be meeting at the palace." Nicol smiles to see the couple/family together at last.

"I thought we'd go to the palace together. But first I was thinking some breakfast. For all of us." Rex smiles at his mate snuggling his arm.

"Kay." Ruby nods. "Oh before we go…" Ruby places his hand on her stomach.

Rex is confused for a few seconds. Then he feels the little kick and his face lights up.

"When did he…?" Rex looks ecstatic.

"He started last night. Guess he started throwing a tantrum about you not being around." Jacob smiles.

"Well I'm not going anywhere anymore." Rex pats the bump lightly as he pecks Ruby's lips.

"Sorry." Both look over at Nicol.

"It's okay. I understand that you two have been missing each other like crazy." Nicol smiled but her ears are down.

"Come to breakfast with us. The guards told me of this great pancake place by a park." Rex looks at her kindly.

"Oh no I don't want to interrupt your family time." Nicol shakes her head.

"Please. I don't want you alone before you have to go out with Dimitri." Ruby tugs on her hands with downed ears.

"Go on, I have a meeting with the queen anyway." Jacob motions for them to go.

"Well if you're okay with it, breakfast does sound nice." Nicol smiles, ears going up again.

Ruby's ears bounce at that and they head out. Ruby refusing to let go of Rex even a little bit as they drive to 'Stackers.' Arriving they see a familiar face there.

"Hey there you two…Nicol?" Cody looks shocked as he was sitting at a booth.

"Cody? But…" Nicol jumps looking at the other couple.

"Oh no. I completely forgot I asked Cody to join us. Whatever should we do?" Rex says in a clearly horrible act.

"Sneaky." Ruby looks at Rex as if she fell in love all over again.

"I thought you asked me here to talk about making the crib?" Cody raises a brow.

"No, I do want you to make the crib. While we eat we can go over the look and the girls can give impute. And since Ruby won't let go you two will have to sit next to each other." Rex explains his plan.

"You can't get in trouble for eating together." Ruby nods with an ear bounce.

Nicol smiles at that and launches at Cody, taking in his scent. "I've missed you amour."

"I've missed you to song." Cody does the same as he hugs her back sniffing her hair.

After the two snuggled a bit they all sit down and begin to talk.

"Oh I like the round shape." Ruby points out.

"The round shape tends to make the cubs feel more comfortable and safe. Like a den shape." Nicol explains.

"That would make a lot of sense." Cody nods, remembering when the girls went wild.

"Maybe a water style to it." Rex ponders looking it over.

Their food then came, Nicol orders chocolate chip pancakes to share with Cody. Cody usually didn't have a sweet tooth or shared much since he always felt flushed, but he really didn't mind this time if it meant making her happy and he kind of was getting used to it.

Rex got a stack of banana pancakes. Ruby on the other hand has chocolate pancakes with strawberries in it and chocolate sauce on it. And on the side is fried fish.

"Getting cozy there aren't we?" Rex teases his brother.

"Says the man who likes to tease his mate mercilessly." Cody smirks and then gets another bite before feeding Nicol who smiles and has her ears bounce.

"I'm not that bad." Rex flushes eating his.

"I don't mind." Ruby nuzzles him enjoying the family time.

"Oh Cody your nephew kicked last night. Seems he was throwing a tantrum since daddy wasn't around." Nicol chuckles.

Cody laughed "Looks like the little trooper is a daddy's boys."

"Yup." Ruby nods with bouncing ears.

"Please stop with that nickname." Rex sighs sipping his coffee.

"Sorry Rex but it just fits so well. And it's so cute. Oh did Ruby show you the outfits Padme helped us shop for? My favorite was captain cutie." Nicol has to chuckle at that.

"Oh I loved that one too. But I already have a captain cutie." Ruby nuzzles Rex purring.

'She's going to kill me.' Rex flushes trying to hide his face behind his hands.

Cody has a hard time holding in his laughs but Nicol nudges him and said "Watch it Cody or he has every right to tease you when we have cubs."

Cody jumps flushed at that.

"Oh please let me have that." Rex perks up at that.

"Be nice." Ruby gently hits him.

"Nicol about that. When wild you said you wanted four, do you still want that?" Cody asks still severally red.

"Oh no, I think two to three would be nice but four might be a bit much. But we can't really decide that with our people since you know how many we can have." Nicol chuckles.

"That's true." Cody flushes.

"But litters are rare in my family so it's not a high chance." Nicol pats his arm and he sighs feeling calm at the thought.

"A-and you said something about a lot of boys." Rex flushes looking at her.

"I did?!" Ruby reddens.

"Is that what you want?" Rex looks at her curiously.

"I do want a few cubs. But I don't mind a mix." Ruby is bright. "D-do you not want more?" she looks at him ready to cry.

"Oh no. I mean yes. I mean… I'd love a lot of cubs." Rex tries to think of what to say.

"Really? That's great." Ruby nuzzles him again.

'Thank goodness.' Rex sighs with relief.

They all had to laugh at that, but then Nicol's alarm went off and she frowned.

"I'm sorry I have to go. I have to meet Dimitri for a date." Nicol sighs.

Cody holds her hands with worry "Do you really have to?"

"If I don't he can extend the challenge and it will take longer to see each other." Nicol feels her ears droop once more.

"That's just wrong." Rex huffs.

"It is but it's how it is." Ruby's ears droop.

"I'll see you all at the challenge. Take him down for me." Nicol kisses Cody lovingly before she leaves.

Cody sighs but looks on sadly as she goes.

"You okay?" They both look over at him worried.

"I'll be fine. So anything else you two would like me to make for the little trooper?" Cody smiles.

"Is there any way to get rid of that?" Rex sighs.

"No it's never going away." Cody smiles.

"I love it." Ruby smiles with bouncing ears.

'It's really never leaving.' Rex sighs giving up.

"Oh he's kicking again." Ruby feels her stomach.

"Hey there little guy." Rex feels him kick. "Want to feel?" he looks over at his brother.

"I'm not sure…" Cody looks a bit nervous. They'd never really been around baby's even less a pregnant woman.

Ruby gets up sitting next to him and places his hand on her belly. It's nice to see him smile. 'There really is a little life in there?' Cody feels his heart swell.

"We're going for a walk in the park. Want to join us?" Ruby looks at him softly.

Cody shakes his head and says "Sorry but I want to get ready for the next challenge."

"Just remember this is your future vod. And then I get to pick on you." Rex smiles assumingly yet teasing.

"I wouldn't have it any other way Rex. See you two later." Cody nods with a small smile

The two wave, heading off. Ruby clinging to Rex happily and his brother grinning ear to ear.

With Nicol….

She had finally made it to the park once more to meat Dimitri. He smiles seeing her but frowned when he saw how sad she looked.

"Looks Nicol I don't want you feeling like this is a punishment. I really do love you and I want you to enjoy our time together." Dimitri tries to hold her face but she pulls back glaring.

Dimitri sighs and says "Come on I found something you might just like." And walked off.

Nicol sighed and fallowed, a bit curious at what he had planned.

Once they reached the middle of the park Nicol was surprised to see a stage and lots of people getting ready to perform.

"Dimitri what is this?" Nicol looks shocked.

"I heard about a small talent show and thought we could both enjoy it, you know have a taste of home." Dimitri smiles at her.

She just looks on at the stage and thinks 'Well at least I won't be bored.'

The two then go find a place to sit. A few acts go up and they were fun to watch, then something weird happened. Dimitri goes on up and takes the stage.

"This is for a special someone to me out in the crowed. I love you Nicol, please believe it." Dimitri announces.

Nicol feels her jaw drop as several aw and then stare at her, manny saying "Oh how lucky. I wish I had a boy do that for me. She must be so excited."

But all Nicol could think was 'I'm going to kill him!'

Dimitri then took a breath and began to sing.

"Do you remember when I said I'd always be there? Ever since we were ten, baby. When we were out on the playground playing pretend. I didn't know it back then. Now I realize you were the only one…"

Nicol feels her mouth drop as Dimitri looks out at her with heartfelt eyes, but she thinks 'He's serious?'

"This is something like a movie and I don't know how it ends girl, but I fell in love with my best friend. (I think i'm in love x5). I fell in love with my best friend….."

Manny people where gushing at this and she had to hold her face. What was he thinking, it was a sweet act but he just…To do this now of all times.

"Through all the dudes that came by, and all the nights you'd cry. Girl, I was there right by your side. How could I tell you I love you when you were so happy with some other guy…."

She felt her fur stand at this 'Really, is that what this is all about?' she felt herself internally growl and then decided to sneak off.

"It's never too late to show it. Grow old together, have feelings we had before…"

At that Dimitri stopped as he saw she had disappeared. 'Oh no.' He jumps off the stage and goes to track her, the crowed was confused as they couldn't seem to understand why the show ended.

Dimitri tracked her into the forested area and said "Nicol why did you leave I…."

"How could you!" Nicol yowls.

"What do you mean?" Dimitri is taken aback.

"You just made all those people think we're some sort of power couple when we're not even together and never will be!" She yowls again.

"But Nicol I meant every word, please I love you." Dimitri begs.

"If you loved me you leave! But you don't, you're not here because you love me Dimitri. You're here because of a stupide feud. You're mad because you lost to Cody and now you…." Nicol didn't get to finish as she felt a set of warm lips on her.

She pulled back gasping her hands to her heart "What, Dimitri…..?"

"I do love you Nicol. Every bit of you. Please believe that. Please at least take this." He pulls out a locket with images of their time together popping up. "Please at least remember all we've been through."

He puts the locking in her hand and then leaves, ears down.

Once gone Nicol falls to her knees crying. 'How can I face Cody after what he just did.'

At the other end of the park…

Rex and Ruby walk around a bit. The two just enjoying having each other close. Then Rex stops them by a flower meadow.

"Rex? Are you feeling okay?" Ruby looks at him confused.

"I'm more than fine." Rex smiles at her as he sits her on a bench.

'What's going on? He smells nervous.' Ruby ponders.

"I have the bride price and I will always be here for you and our cub. But I want you to know this isn't because of him. I love you Ruby and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. So…" Rex bends down taking out the ring.

"Oh Rex…" Ruby gasps.

"Ruby Shadow, will you marry me?" Rex looks at her hopeful.

"Yes. Yes I do." Ruby has happy tears in her eyes.

Rex smiles placing the ring on her finger then kisses her. The cub kicking at that. They took it as him saying 'Hooray!'

Later on at the hotel…

Nicol walked in to find Rex and Ruby in the living room talking.

"Hey Nicol." Rex waves.

"Nicol. Look. Look." Ruby's ears bounce excitedly wanting to show off her ring.

She didn't pay them any mind as she walked on hazed. She felt so out of it and depressed after what happened that she just headed straight to her room.

"Is she okay?" Rex looks at Ruby nervous.

"I'll go see." Ruby pecks his cheek heading for her.

Ruby came into Nicol's room and found her crying.

"What happened?" Ruby sits next to her worried.

"Ruby… he…" Nicol then explained everything Dimitri had done, specifically the kiss. "How can I face Cody now after that?"

"YOU did nothing wrong. Dimitri is the feral." Ruby growls.

'He did that?' Rex, hidden by the door, snaps angry planning to go to the palace.

In the room…

"Cody's going to hate me!" Nicol cries throwing the stupid locket at the wall, breaking it.

"I'm sure he'll understand. If anything, he'll be mad at Dimitri not you." Ruby pats her back.

"Are you sure?" Nicol sniffs.

"I'm sure." Ruby nods with a small smile.

Nicol nods and hugs her friend, and then she sees the ring "Oh Ruby did Rex…?" Nicol smiles at last.

"Rex proposed when we went for a walk." Ruby giggles with her ears bouncing.

"Congratulations. So is there a wedding soon?" Nicol chuckles.

"We were talking about what to do when you came in. We decided to wait for a party until after our little one is born but we're going to ask Jacob to do the vows before they leave." Ruby smiles rubbing her stomach.

"Really, why like that." Nicol looks confused.

"I think Rex suggested it so I can wear a wedding dress without the baby bump." Ruby feels like she's falling for him all over again.

"Maybe I should ask Jacob to do our vows as well once this is over so there's no issues with anyone else." Nicol sniffs.

The girls then happily chat for a bit. Forgetting about the trooper that was supposed to be outside the door.

At the palace…

Dimitri was talking with Jacob. The two talking about when they'd be leaving and what to bring up to the other leaders. Padme and the queen with them.

"You feral!" Rex shouts fuming.

"Rex what are you saying?" Padme looks shocked.

"Saying what needs to be said." Rex stumps over to Dimitri. "You've been saying how Cody doesn't deserve her but you're the one that should be forced away!" he grabs his shirt collar mad.

"Rex! Let him go!" Anakin calls pulling him off as he had come down the hall.

"Tell them! Tell them what you did you pest!" Rex shouts with his general holding him back.

"I did nothing wrong!" Dimitri growls.

"Rex Dimitri is free to do as he wishes on the dates. If Nicol is upset…" Jacob starts.

"Even forcing a kiss on her?!" Rex shouts glaring at Dimitri.

"No. No that's not." Jacob turns to Dimitri.

"You did what?" They hear Cody say in a low dangerous tone.

They turn to see Cody standing there with Kenobi, whom is stunned himself. It was clear he had been trying to calm him down but with this…

"Is that allowed?" Cody turns to Jacob.

"No it's not. Dimitri you can't force Nicol into something like that, what's wrong with you?" Jacob glares at Dimitri.

"I needed to show her that I love her! How else could I show her that I mean what I'm trying to do?" Dimitri blows.

"By disrespecting her!?" Cody shouts.

"Like you haven't?" Dimitri spits back.

"Those weren't his fault!" Rex shouts still ready for a fight.

"You on the other hand Dimitri have no excuse. You've shamed our people with your actions. For this you are disqualified." Jacob growls.

"Then he should be as well. I smelled it off of Nicol and you can smell if off of him as well, they went to see each other when the rules clearly state…" Dimitri starts.

"Oh please Dimitri everyone knows no one takes that rules seriously. In fact if you don't sneak out to see each other it's a bad sign, plus I know for a fact Ruby and Rex were the ones who set the whole thing up." Jacob rolls his eyes.

"They needed a few minutes together." Rex shrugs very proud of his antics.

"What, but the challenge…" Dimitri asks.

"Is over! You have broken the rules Dimitri. You've dishonored Nicol and you're acting like a feral stray. I think it's time we end this." Jacob snarls.

Dimitri glares at Jacob but the older tom glares back and after a few moments Dimitri looks away and says "Yes sir."

"Good, now I suggest leaving. I have a lot of things to fix here." Jacob crosses his arms.

Dimitri just looks away and walks off, not looking at anyone.

Jacob sighed "I am so sorry to of caused all this trouble."

"It wasn't your fault sir. It was a misunderstanding and he could have called off the challenge whenever but didn't." Cody looks over understandingly.

"Still it's a mess. I have to make a call to Nicol's family and inform them of what happened. Why don't you boys go see the girls? They'll be worried, and I think Nicol will be happy to know this is finally over." Jacob smiles.

Cody smiles at that and says "Yes sir, thank you." And with that he rushes out, Rex right behind him as the others smile at the two's excitement.

Not long after at the hotel…

"Cody?!" Nicol looks shocked at the boys came in.

"Rex told them what happened, and Dimitri was disqualified. Which means…" Cody smiles.

"The challenge is over!" Nicol cheers as she launched into him.

"At last." Ruby cheers.

"It's good to know this is done." Rex kisses Ruby.

Darian begins to kick as well as if saying 'I'm excited too!'

"Looks like someone wants to celebrate too." Ruby giggles feeling her tummy.

They all laughed at that happy.

"Oh Cody, Ruby said she and Rex were going to have their vows done before Jacob left. I was thinking we'd do the same. You know so to keep anything like this from happening again." Nicol looks at him pleadingly.

Cody looks shocked but asks "Don't I need to finish your parents' bride price?"

"Actually since you finished the first part, and also won a challenge, that makes an automatic approval." Nicol smiles.

"Really?" Rex looks over at Ruby.

"Yeah." Ruby nods.

"So we can and that means…?" Cody looks at her shocked.

"Only if you want." Nicol flushes.

Cody smiles as he gets on one knee "I've been waiting a while to give this to you. Now that it's all over… Nicol Runner, do me the honor of staying by my sider forever. If you can stand me." Cody smirks at the last part.

'So sweet.' Ruby smiles with bouncing ears.

'Way to go.' Rex smiles at his brother.

At that Nicol shrieks as she launches at him knocking him down on the floor and kisses him as she says "Only if you don't mind me driving you crazy for life." She purrs as she nuzzles into him.

"I can live with that." Cody chuckles holding her close and kissing back.

"Congrats." They both clap.

"Thanks." They both call back happy, standing up.

Returning to the palace they give their plan to Jacob. He thought it was a good idea. It would make everyone happy and then when they returned, they could just have parties for them.

"I'd be happy to do this for you all." Jacob smiles at the couples.

"I have something else to ask you. I… I know it wasn't easy raising me and I didn't make it much better never calling you my parents. But I was wondering… when we do go back will you walk me to the alter?" Ruby looks at him with big eyes and drooped ears.

"I would be honored." Jacob hugs her with a few tears in his eyes.

Ruby nuzzles him. She may have never called them 'mom and dad' but she always loved them and appreciated what they did for her.

"Is there anything we can do to help?" Anakin motions to himself.

"No, it's just a simple exchange of vows." Jacob shakes his head slightly.

"Oh but maybe we can have a dinner ready. We can make some of your favorites and a cake. And maybe... are you okay?" Padme looks over at a paling Ruby.

"N-no food talk please." Ruby feels a bit ill with ears drooped.

"Deep breaths amour. I got you." Rex pats her back gently.

Ruby nuzzles into him feeling a bit better. She can eat just fine but the talk of food made her stomach flip.

"She's going to be queasy for a while." Nicol tells her.

"Sorry I didn't realize." Padme looks apologetic.

"You couldn't have known." Ruby shakes her head still feeling a bit ill.

"Oh usa all here. Want soma mesa fish cake?" Jarjar, whom had come for the meetings, offers some pie looking thing with a strong fish smell coming from it.

"Excuse me." Ruby heads off for a rest room.

"I better check on her." Nicol looks worried, but Rex stops her with a gentle hold to the shoulder.

"I got her." Rex heads after her.

"Mesa sorry. Thisen helps gungan woman." Jarjar looks sorry holding his treat.

"It was a sweet gesture. But Chat noses are sensitive in general and while carrying… if she smelt too much chocolate she'd run off." Jacob explains.

"Is that true?" Cody looks at Nicol surprised, he'd never expect Nicol or Ruby to ever run from chocolate.

"Sadly yes. It can be hard for us when our senses are on overload." Nicol explains.

With Ruby…

"I'm sorry. We were having a good talk too." Ruby flushes coming out feeling better.

"Hey it's alright. This little one is just making you feel off." Rex gently places his hand on her stomach.

Ruby smiles snuggling him. Rex enjoying having her near.

A few days later it was just about time for Jacob to go. But first was the exchange of vows and the nice dinner. Padme checked the menu with Nicol to make sure it would be okay.

"Sorry. You, Ahsoka, and Padme ended up planning everything." Ruby sighs with drooped ears.

(Ruby is dressed in a pink short sleeved dress that shows off her bump/ white flats/ her hair in the braids with blue roses at the end)

"It's fine Ruby we all know you've been busy." Nicol chuckles patting her friend's belly, feeling Darian kicking for joy.

(Nicol is dressed in a sleeveless seafoam green dress with white flats, and her hair in a bun with jasmines in it.)

"I still feel bad. All that chaos happened because of Rex and I. Then I couldn't even help with anything." Ruby feels a bit down at that.

For the last few days she had felt ill at right about anything aside from fish stew and toasted sweet potatoes. Rex nearly went insane worrying about her. Jacob managed to calm him down saying this can happen during pregnancy especially when carrying a boy.

"Hey, never blame yourself for this. Yeah, we were mad at first, but you guys have a little angle coming your way and now we all have a new future to look forward too. Now let's go get our guys." Nicol smirks.

"Yeah." Ruby nods happily.

Meanwhile…

The guys stand in the room that the ceremony would take place in. Jacob in the middle and the Jedi, senator, and their brothers all sitting around waiting for the big ceremony.

Many of them had finally calmed down when they heard the truth of what was going on and especially what they all went through for each other. And none of them wanted to lose their bothers, their friendship with the girls, and especially the chance to be uncles.

But as the grooms waited, well let's just say the Jedi had to help keep them steady.

"I don't think I've ever sensed you this nervous before my friend." Kenobi smiles.

"I've never been so afraid in my life before. Give me droids, siths, bounty hunters. But a wedding… It's a big step and I feel like I'm going to buckle under the pressure." Cody sighs.

"Really? After everything you two have faced this is the scary bit?" Anakin has a small chuckle.

"Until the cub is born yes." Rex nods feeling week in the knees.

Then the music started. The girls held flowers in their hands, each of their favorites, as they came down the hall.

The brother couldn't help but stare as they thought 'Married women. Married women.'

The girls could smell it off the poor boys and gave them sincere smiles helping them calm a bit. Then they looked at their grooms in their nice shirts and pants.

Cody is a gold button up shirt with black pants and shoes. Meanwhile Rex is in a sky blue button up shirt with black pants and shoes.

Nicol felt almost like on air as she saw her future husband smiling at her with just as much love in his eyes. 'It's finally happening. I can't believe it and yet…'

'It's here, it's really here. Finally.' Cody smiles as he looked at her, his heart beating like a drum as he saw that playful smile hold so much love in that moment.

'Rex…' Ruby smiles happily seeing him.

'Finally. Finally, we get to stay with each other.' Rex feels like he could float off seeing her.

As the two finally got up they held hands and Jacob said "Dearly beloved we are here to join these two couples in an eternal bond, as mates for life. I ask you four do you take your amour to be your mate for life; to protect, to love, to face the storms of life and care for you future offspring as one?"

"I do." The couples say with smiles and some tears.

"Then by the powers invested in me I pronounce you all married and partners for life. You may kiss the brides' gentlemen."

Rex cups Ruby's face kissing her. Ruby's ears bouncing as she leans in.

Nicol looked at Cody and smirked. He knew what that meant and put a hand behind her head and another behind her back as he kissed her deep and dipped her low. Many brothers cheered for the couples, some hooted, and others told them to save it for the honeymoon.

Nicol threw her flowers at that the one who said that last part 'Fives.' And as he caught it his brothers teased him for being the next to marry. Cody laughing at his brothers flushed face.

"Good luck Fives." Rex chuckles.

"Be nice." Ruby playfully hits him.

They then all went to cut the cake, a large chocolate cake that the girls got the chef to help make sure wasn't too rich, so the scent wouldn't bother Ruby.

They then each danced to some music, the brothers getting turns to dance with the brides as well. Everyone giving their congratulations at last. Two of them though were kind of off to the far side of the party.

Kix and Gus weren't too sure what to do and didn't really want to be seen after all the trouble they caused. Rex and Cody noticed this and went to talk to them.

"What are you guys doing hiding?" Rex lifts a brow.

"We thought it was best not to get too close." Kix looks down.

"Yeah don't want to mess anything else up." Gus nods.

Cody sighed and says "Boys, what you two did was wrong. But what we did hurt you both. So we can't really blame you."

The two looked shocked at that.

"But sir, we almost ruined all this." Kix says with a gulp.

"And the way we acted, that's no excuse." Gus looks up with shaking eyes.

"You were hurt. People can act anyway when feeling like that." Rex tries to assure them.

"Do they hate us?" Kix looks up sadly.

"I know Nicol doesn't really want to see me again." Gus sighs.

"They forgive you boys, but they have conditions if you two are going to keep being their friends." Cody glares.

"What you did to help us lessened the sting." Rex adds.

"One of them is that if you two get drunk again they won't let you near ever again. Especially with a cub coming." Cody says in his commander tone.

"And you have to see a councilor about your emotions. All the brothers." Rex adds.

"Finally, and this one is from us. Sharpen up and find yourselves some good girls. Trust us you'll find them someday." Cody smiles.

"And maybe cub sit at times." Rex winks playfully.

The two smile and nod glad to hear that. Then the two grooms drag them off to the girls.

"Good to see you two finally showed yourselves. The boys talked to you?" Nicol raised a brow.

The two nodded at that and explained what they told them.

"Good." Ruby smiles.

"You two do have to set a good example now." Nicol points to Ruby's tummy.

The two flush and rub the back of their heads as the rest laugh. They talk for a while and then Ruby throws her flowers. The flowers are caught by Ahsoka. Many brothers ready to attack any young man that looks her way. The girls found that endearing.

The party lasted a bit and it was fun, but the girls did need rest and Padme had offered her beach house for the couples' honeymoon. The couples flushed at the memory of that place but had accepted it to get alone time for a whole week.

Later at the beach house with the Shadows…

"Finally alone." Rex hugs Ruby close.

"And never parted again Mr. Shadow." Ruby nuzzles him purring.

"I like the sound of that." Rex smiles kissing the top of her head.

The two snuggling that night. Just enjoying being near one another and feeling their cub kick at times.

With the others…

Nicol was flushed as she and Cody came into their room. Really Cody was flushed as well. This was the first time they were in a room by themselves.

"Nicol if you're not ready for this then…" Cody stars when he feels her arms around him and hears her humming.

He took in her jasmine scent and picked her up as they head to the bed, letting the night take them away.

The next morning…

Ruby rubs her eyes seeing Rex is gone. Her ears droop until she smells something nice cooking.

"Morning." Rex smiles stirring a porridge pot.

"That smells really good." Ruby sniffs the bit of cinnamon coming off of it.

"It's apple cinnamon and oatmeal, I thought it might help your stomach." Rex takes the spoon out with a bit in it for her to taste.

"So good." Ruby's ears bounce.

"Glad you like it." Rex kisses the top of her head then fills a small bowl for her.

Ruby sits with a few other things on the table. She then looks over at Rex.

"How early did you get up?" Ruby looks at the toast, jam, and juice on the table.

"I kinda couldn't get back to sleep after you felt sick." Rex rubs the back of his head.

"Sorry." Ruby's ears droop.

"This is my job as your mate, right?" Rex smiles over at her.

Ruby smiles at that nuzzling him a bit.

"Morning." Cody yawns a hello as he and Nicol come out of their room.

"Something smells good." Nicol sniffs the air.

"Morning sleepy heads." Rex smiles over at them.

"There's some porridge and toast." Ruby nibbles some toast she had put strawberry jam on it.

"Sounds good." Nicol nods as she goes to grab some.

"Any coffee vod." Cody goes to take a seat.

"Kinda avoided coffee." Rex rubs the back of his head looking over at Ruby happily nibbling.

"Something wrong?" Ruby looks confused.

"I think he's just stressed. Maybe we should find something to do today to relax." Cody takes a sip of some juice.

"Oh maybe we can go down to the water today. I'd like to dip my feet and let Darian hear the waves." Ruby gently rubs her stomach.

"Oh that be great, and we could play in the sand a bit. Maybe get some ice cream." Nicol purrs at the idea.

"Oh that would be fun." Ruby's ears bounce at that.

"That would be nice. Just relaxing on a beach." Rex smiles at that idea.

"Sounds good to me." Cody smiles as well and thinks 'This will be the first time I see her in a swimsuit.'

Nicol glares at him playful as she caught his scent, but he just smirked.

After eating they get ready for their day at the beach. Rex makes sure a bag is packed with sunscreen and an umbrella. Then a few snacks and water bottles.

"Rex the house is just a ten minute walk from the beach." Ruby looks at his frantic packing in her babybump swimsuit. It's red with white letters on it reading 'Baby Watch.' A cute little thing.

"I just want to be sure we have everything." Rex packs everything in. "Don't forget your cover and hat." He looks over at the large blue long sleeve to her ankles with sunflower buttons then a straw floppy hat with a sunflower on the side of it.

"Rex. Amour, I love you but you need to calm down. Darian is coming in about a month he and I are in no danger." Ruby takes a hold of his shoulders rubbing them gently.

"I know. I know. It's just…" Rex takes a few breaths sitting on the bed. "He was put in danger before we knew about him. And I… I don't want anything to happen. I want to keep you both safe." He looks at the ground sadly.

"And I love that about you. But you can't safe guard us from everything, somethings are needed. Like time in the sun and you resting." Ruby nuzzles against him.

"I'll try to calm it down. But I will be going wild when he's here." Rex smiles over at her.

"I'll be the same." Ruby giggles.

With the Runners…

"Seriously, the first thing that comes to your mind is that?" Nicol laughs as she comes out of the bathroom with a large white shirt, and purple shorts.

"I couldn't help it, we've never seen you girls in bathing suites." Cod flushes.

"And the honey moon stage begins." Nicol chuckles.

"So, when do you think we'll be getting cubs of our own?" He smirks putting his arms around her.

"Not sure. You want them already?" She raises a brow.

"Sorry I just…" Cody flushes.

"I can understand. We'll just let it happen when it happens. That way we don't stress. Deal." Nicol nuzzles into him.

Cody smiles back as he kissed the top of her head "Deal."

At the beach…

Ruby does need a bit of help with getting her back and legs. Rex was more than happy to help. After that she heads to the water splashing about a bit, Rex taking photos to keep calm.

Nicol and Cody decide to swim about, Nicol wearing a lavender tankini with black leopard spots on it, relaxing in the water for a while and then later making a sand castle. Cody had to admit it was really relaxing.

It was going great. Then Ruby coughs from a bit of water in her mouth. Rex almost jumps but Cody drags him off to cool down. After a few minutes he's better.

"This is good." Ruby's ears bounce eating a peanut butter, fluff, and sardine sandwich.

'That's kind of grouse but I guess it's the cravings.' Nicol looks on shocked.

'We've barely even finished breakfast.' Cody looks on amazed at what she could put away.

"Now you know why I packed her food." Rex whispers to him.

"Did you also pack blueberry juice?" Ruby looks through it then her ears go down not seeing them, then looks at Rex with big eyes.

"You really want it huh?" Rex stands brushing some of the sand off him.

"Sorry." Ruby's ears droop.

"Hey I'm at your service amour." Rex pecks the top of her head heading back to the house.

"I'll go with you. We can get a ball to kick around awhile when get back." Cody smirks as he fallows him.

Once gone Ruby looks over at Nicol with a smirk.

"What?" Nicol flushes.

"You two going for a cub?" Ruby smiles with bouncing ears.

"We agreed we'd let it happen when it happens." Nicol nods.

"Maybe you already are." Ruby giggles.

"Oh no don't even joke, Cody would faint." Nicol flushes.

"Sorry. Sorry. I guess I just want another with me." Ruby rubs her belly.

Nicol calms, but then something feels off and she rushes into some bushes to barf.