What You Wish For

by karasel

Rodney had wished, just once, that he could be taken prisoner by the sexy alien. The rest of the team regret he ever said this when it actually happens to them. Mature themes.

11. Chapter 11

What You Wish For – chapter 11

"Hey, Doc," Sheppard greeted Keller the next morning as he and Teyla walked into the infirmary. He wanted to confirm his suspicions as to why the LSD was working in Teyla's grasp last night. He wasn't sure if Teyla realized the significance of it since he hadn't really told her that Rodney hadn't adjusted the device for non-gene carriers.

"Good morning," Jennifer returned and looked curiously at them. Colonel Sheppard never showed up in the infirmary for no reason. "Is everything okay?"

John cocked his head in one direction to indicate they wanted to talk to her privately. She ushered them into her office and closed the door. She then turned and waited for them to speak.

Teyla was also fairly puzzled at why they had come here; John had not really informed her just headed in this direction on their way to the mess hall.

"Well, it's been a while Doc, and I figured it might be a good time to do a pregnancy test," John suggested.

Jennifer looked at Teyla. "So, still no period?"

Teyla shook her head and Keller reasoned, "It could just be the stress of the recent situation. That could cause your cycle to be off."

"Just humor me, will you?" Sheppard asked.

"Sure," Jennifer agreed and went about taking a blood sample and putting it through one of her machines. John and Teyla just stood quietly nearby, holding each other's hand. John was squeezing it so tight that Teyla actually winced at one point. John looked down and his eyes grew horrified that he had hurt her. He lifted her hand and kissed it then held it much gentler.

After a short while, Jennifer turned back to them and said with a straight face, "I have the results."

Her eyes were concerned as she looked at the faces of the couple standing in front of her. She nodded her head slightly. "They're positive. You are pregnant, Teyla. And by the levels of hCG in your blood, I'd say at least four weeks."

Jennifer glanced cautiously up at her friends and was more than surprised to see Colonel Sheppard's face split by a huge grin. She knew he had been adamant about not doing anything to get rid of a baby before they knew for sure but she wasn't sure he would be rooting for this to happen if there was a possibility that it could be a false alarm. But looking at his face, she could tell he was more than ecstatic at the news.

He pulled Teyla in close and leaned his face close to hers. "Hey, we're gonna have a baby!"

Teyla still seemed a bit unsure but as she saw Sheppard's overjoyed expression, hers seemed to come more to life at the thought. Her hand reached up to touch his cheek. "Yes, it would appear that way. You were aware this test would be positive somehow?"

"When you picked up that LSD last night and it turned on, I had a real good idea that you were carrying a little something with the Ancient gene. There was no other reason for it to work."

"You guys are okay with this?" Jennifer questioned. "I mean it wasn't exactly planned."

"No," John grimaced, "It wasn't exactly planned. But thinking about it for the past few weeks, I've kind of gotten used to the idea of having a kid. And I think I'm excited at the prospect."

"It will definitely be an interesting challenge," Teyla added. "I will admit to being somewhat nervous. I am not sure that I will be a good mother."

John's eyes opened wide. "What are you talking about, Teyla? You'll be the most amazing Mom this kid could ever have. He, or she, will be lucky to have you; you have such a loving heart."

"And you will be a wonderful father," Teyla supplied with a twinkle in her eye. "You are still such a child yourself."

"Hey!" he cried teasingly and grabbed her around the waist. "I should refute that but … it's … probably true."

Jennifer smiled at the two and their playful banter. But she knew they had serious things to talk about, too.

"I'll need to set up a regular schedule for exams and you'll need some prenatal vitamins, which I don't really have on hand but I can put a few things together that will work the same. I'll give you a list of things to avoid and a list of things that you might find helpful."

"And I'm taking you off active duty for now," John added quickly wondering if he was going to get hit for that.

Teyla did round on him quickly but her hands stayed at her sides. "John, I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself. I am pregnant, not injured or ill. Please tell him, Jennifer."

Jennifer shrugged. "Pregnant woman are fairly capable of doing most things they've done before especially before they start showing. And it'll be a while before you actually look pregnant."

John took a deep breath and slid his hand into Teyla's hair, on the back of her neck and pulled her closer. He gave her a quick kiss and said, "If something happened to you or the baby while we were out on a mission, I'd never be able to forgive myself. And I know I'd worry about you all the time and not be as cautious for myself. And then I'd end up hurt, or worse and this baby wouldn't have a father. Do you understand? I don't want to take the chance of that happening."

It was Teyla's turn for a deep breath. "I do understand what you are saying but that does not mean I have to like it."

John snickered and said, "Good, life would be too boring if you agreed with me all the time."

Jennifer smiled at the apparent affection these two had for each other. "When do you plan on telling Sam?"

John made a face at this suggestion but answered, "I suppose we should tell her soon. She'll be kind of pissed if we keep it from her for too long. Not sure how she'll be about us being together, either. You're not military but you are under my command. See, maybe that's another reason to take you off active duty. This way you're not on my team and no one can cry fraternization or any of the other military protocols that some of these diehards like to follow. It could get messy otherwise."

"I suppose you have a point, although I do not understand some of these rules your people feel they need to follow."

John snorted, "You wouldn't be the only one. Why do you think I'm in trouble with the big brass so often?"

Jennifer made arrangements for Teyla to come in and have a complete physical in another few weeks and both she and John left the infirmary. As they made their way to the mess they decided to let Ronon and Rodney know before they actually told Carter.

Rodney was already at their usual table with a heaping pile of pancakes in front of him. Ronon was just finishing up in the line, stocking up on sausages and eggs. They waved to him as they got their food, Teyla, fruit and a muffin and John, cereal, eggs and toast, then joined them at the spot overlooking the ocean.

John took a few bites of his meal and more than a few sips of coffee before he began his little disclosure.

"So, Teyla and I just came back from seeing Keller…" he trailed off.

"Everything okay?" Ronon questioned his eyes taking in Sheppard's mysterious expression.

John's mouth widened in an enormous grin and he told them, "Everything is absolutely amazing."

Rodney looked up at that comment and asked, "What's so interesting in the infirmary? She didn't want to give you back any of that fruit we got, did she? I know I don't want to even think about that stuff again."

"I believe she destroyed all that we brought back," Teyla admitted.

"Although, I still can't believe that you guys…"

"McKay!" John snapped at his friend. "What we wanted to tell you both is that … Teyla … is gonna have a baby."

McKay's face was horrified and he groaned, "Oh God! What are you gonna do? Jennifer mentioned that procedure…"

Rodney flinched when Ronon smacked him and John growled, "That's my kid you're talking about doing away with."

"Rodney," Teyla touched his hand as she addressed him. "John and I are not distressed at the news. We know the circumstances surrounding this child's conception were not ideal but we want to embrace the fact that we care deeply for each other and will now have a child to show that love."

"Really?" McKay squeaked. "You guys are happy about this? I mean a baby is a great thing. Well, it wouldn't be for me because I'm not really a baby kind of guy but for you, maybe it will be a great thing. But you don't want me to babysit or anything, do you? Because I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be good at that at all. Even Jeannie wouldn't leave Madison alone with me and she's like four or five. I mean Madison's four or five, not Jeannie, obviously…"

"McKay," Sheppard interjected, "Teyla's not due for another eight months. I don't think we're gonna worry about babysitters for a while."

"I'll babysit!" Ronon said enthusiastically. "I love babies."

"Thanks, Chewie, but I think we'll have this kid before we start scheduling anything. You'll be first on our list, though."

"Good!" he responded then added, "You know Ronon's a great name, boy or girl. You got one picked out yet?"

Teyla and John laughed and Teyla said, "We only found out this morning that there even was a baby." She narrowed her eyes and continued, "Although John seemed to realize last night."

"What do you have some voodoo magic?" Rodney snarked.

"No, it's just that Teyla picked up an LSD and it turned on. She's carrying her own little Ancient gene now."

McKay's eyes bulged with excitement. "Whoa, are you serious? She's got the Ancient gene now?"

"I do not, Rodney," Teyla sighed, "but the baby carries the same genes as his father and therefore possesses it also."

"The baby's father," McKay repeated. "Wow, that sounds so weird when we're talking about you, Sheppard. How do you feel about becoming a Daddy?"

A crooked smile appeared on John's face. "You know I've actually been thinking about it a lot lately, ever since we found out Teyla could be pregnant. And for some strange reason I think I'm okay with it. I've been picturing this kid in my head and what I'll do with him."

"So, you want a boy," Ronon stated.

Teyla looked at John wondering what his answer to this question would be. He had apparently given the whole baby thing much more thought than she had. She had been trying to keep herself occupied at all times so she would not have to think about it. The few times she did, she had been torn between wanting John's child and being terrified at the prospect of being a mother.

John just shrugged. "I don't think it really matters; just as long as this kid is healthy and okay in every way. I'm already thinking about all the things I could teach a kid."

"Like how to take apart and clean a machine gun, the right amount of C-4 to use for every occasion, things like that?" Rodney quipped.

Teyla rolled her eyes but John kept a straight face as he answered, "Those are all important things, McKay but I was thinking more along the lines of surfing, skateboarding and playing golf. That's the good stuff."

Teyla lowered her head into her hand. Ronon snickered loudly. Rodney looked at his watch and gulped down the last of his juice.

"I've gotta get to the lab before my minions blow the place up. They do that sometimes when I'm not there to supervise." He picked up his tray and started to leave then paused.

"Congratulations!" he said seriously and moved away.

Ronon moved his head closer and asked, "You tell anyone else yet?"

Teyla shook her head. "We wished to tell you and Rodney first. You are our closest friends and our family. It is only right that you are the next to know after us."

"Well, and Keller, obviously," John chuckled. "But I think we really need to go and talk to Carter. Let her know what's up."

Teyla nodded but not very enthusiastically. She was somewhat concerned. Sam was a fair and reasonable leader and Teyla enjoyed her command style immensely. But that did not mean she would embrace the fact that two of her people had conceived a baby during an away mission and she had had no knowledge of their even being together.

John didn't seem in a rush to finish his breakfast either so they took their time but eventually knew they couldn't put off heading to the control room any longer. As they got up to leave, Ronon nodded in their direction and wished them good luck.

Sam was in her office when they got there so there was no need to ask for a private conversation. John was glad as he really didn't want the rest of the gate crew to start gossiping about what they were potentially talking about. Although he knew it was going to happen sooner or later, especially once word got around that Teyla was pregnant.

"Sam," Teyla addressed softly as they stood in the doorway of her office, "Would you have a few free moments for us?"

"Of course," Sam assured them, "Come on in."

They did and John closed the door behind him before they sat in the chairs in front of Carter's desk.

"What can I do for you?" Sam asked curiously. "Is everything all right?"

"Um…" John started a bit nervously, "We've got a bit of a situation we thought you should be aware of."

He took a deep breath and glanced at Teyla who was sitting there apparently calm, although he'd known her long enough to know there was a tension underneath the serene exterior.

"When we were gone for that week and a half, you know we were under the influence of that wacky fruit and it made us do some things that we might normally have thought twice about doing."

Sam smiled and reassured them, "If you've come to confess something, I wouldn't worry about it. Believe me; I've had more than my share of doing things out of the ordinary while under the influence of something alien."

"We appreciate your understanding, Colonel," Teyla said addressing the woman more formally as it was during working hours. "However, there have been some consequences of these actions that you should have knowledge of."

Carter stayed silent, waiting for them to continue.

John cleared his throat and decided to just plunge right in. "Teyla's pregnant."

Whatever Sam was expecting, it wasn't that. She sat quietly for a minute absorbing the information then looked at Teyla and implied, "So, you and one of the villagers…?"

"No," John interrupted, "The baby is mine." He wasn't sure what else to say so he stayed quiet.

"Oh!" slipped out of Sam's mouth then she stayed quiet, too. She glanced back and forth between the two people sitting with her who seemed to be holding their breath.

She finally sat forward and said, "Well, should I say congratulations? I take it you've had this confirmed by Dr. Keller?"

Teyla nodded and confirmed, "Yes, just this morning."

"And congratulations would be real good," John admitted his eyes still more than a little worried. "It's better than screaming and kicking us out of your office."

Sam's eyes narrowed. "How do you two feel about it?"

Teyla spoke softly. "I am still a bit apprehensive about being thrust into motherhood but John," she looked tenderly at the man, "he is very excited about the idea of becoming a father."

Sam looked and confirmed this from the smug expression on his face. "Really? So this thing between you two, was it sudden or …" her words dangled not really knowing how to say what she was thinking.

"We hadn't been having a fling if that's what you mean," John supplied.

"However," Teyla picked up the conversation, "John and I have harbored strong feelings toward one another for quite some time. We have just never acted upon them."

Sam's smile was melancholy. "Believe it or not, I know exactly what that's like. So the fruit made you forget about the boundaries you'd set up for yourselves?"

John eyes flicked back and forth. "Yeah, that's a good way of putting it. But we should also let you know that it wasn't just a one night stand. Now that we've explored these emotions, there's no going back. We can't just pretend to be friends."

The wistful look on Sam's face made John wonder who his CO had cared for and been unable to have. Maybe this situation would work to their advantage and she would be very supportive. Only one way to find out.

"So, any thoughts on the matter? Oh and I've already taken Teyla off active duty although she's not very happy about it." At this last thought he glanced over at her to find her face a bit tenser than it had been.

Sam's eyes were floating around the ceiling like she was deep in thought then she looked at them and said, "Taking her off active duty was a good idea. And that could work to our advantage. The SGC is going to need to know about this, although not necessarily right this minute. But if we say Teyla hasn't been under your direct command for a while, and she hasn't really been since you've been back because you haven't gone on any real missions, then there's no problem with fraternization. And she's not military or even from Earth so I think we may be covered in any other protocol there might be for this situation."

She continued to look thoughtful as she nodded her head. "But she won't be able to go back to your team officially. However, that doesn't mean she can't accompany you on some missions unofficially."

Sam nodded her head and smiled, "Yeah, that should work okay."

John stared at her cautiously. "So, you're fine with us being together?"

Sam's smile got bigger as she finally gazed straight at them. "Yes, I think it's wonderful. Both of you are extremely hard workers and your expertise and experience are invaluable to Atlantis. We really can't afford to lose you. But one of the problems about an off-world base like this, is lack of a real social life. The SGC can't really expect people to put their lives on hold forever while they work here. And we'd be hard pressed to find someone with your knowledge of this place, John, not to mention your ability to handle Ancient technology. And Teyla, you're irreplaceable with your connections and knowledge of the Pegasus Galaxy. I suppose having you two hook up is one way of making sure John stays here in Atlantis. You do plan on staying here and not moving back to Earth with the baby, don't you?"

"We hadn't really talked about it," John admitted. "But I like it here and really wasn't thinking about going back to Earth permanently, not any time in the foreseeable future."

Teyla sighed and reached for John's hand on the armrest of his chair. "I am relieved to hear you say that."

John gazed back and squeezed her hand and Sam noticed for the first time the special look on their faces as they spoke to each other. She recalled other times in the past that they'd looked at each other that way but her interpretation was a bit different now. She was glad that they had been able to finally express how they felt to each other and actually get together.

She wished she and Jack had been able to do that but their situation was slightly different as they had both been Military and Jack had been her direct commander. Of course he wasn't now but she was more than a galaxy away so it didn't really matter. She got up and walked over to Teyla as they stood up.

"Congratulations both of you!" She smiled and gave Teyla a big hug then shook John's hand. "I really think it's great. I am wondering though about living arrangements. Have you two still been staying in your own quarters and are you planning on staying that way or did you think you'd want something bigger for when they baby comes?"

John moved closer to Teyla and put his arm around her shoulder. "Would it be terrible to admit I haven't slept in my own quarters since we got out of the infirmary?"

Sam just smiled and nodded her head. "So maybe some bigger quarters are in order. You don't have to move now of course but when you have a little extra time, John, you might want to check the data base and see what's out there. So much of the city has yet to be explored."

John's eyes roamed around the room guiltily. "I've found a few places that could have potential; a few bedrooms, little kitchen, balcony overlooking the ocean. There are some definite possibilities."

Teyla looked up at him and teased, "You have been keeping these to yourself, have you? Were you planning a move without offering me one of these larger locations?"

John pulled her in closer and planted a kiss on her lips then moved his lips to her hair. "Lately I've been thinking about offering you quite a bit of space, right beside me."

Teyla leaned in to him for warmth and Sam scolded, "Okay, too much mush in here for the middle of a work day. You need to go and get some work done. Have you told anyone else yet or are you planning to keep this to yourself for a while?"

"We informed Rodney and Ronon this morning after we found out but I am not sure it needs to be shared at this point with the entire city," Teyla told her.

John just nodded his agreement and Sam replied, "Well, I won't say anything yet. Although they'll probably want to know at the SGC but I think we can wait a few months. It's not like Teyla's going to all of a sudden start showing. I assume she's not that far along."

"The Doc says about a month or so."

Sam's eyes narrowed a bit. "So this happened pretty much right when you got on the planet."

John gave a crooked smile. "We were hungry and grabbed a few pieces of the fruit even before we met the natives. I think it's why we didn't even realize what was happening until we didn't care anymore."

"All right," Sam acknowledged. "Well get back to work. Teyla I need you to talk to Edison's team and let them know the best way to deal with the people of Balkan. They need to know if there are any rituals and customs they should be aware of that might make our treaty with them more difficult. And John, I know you have a million things to do but I really need you to get the quarterly budget done. The IOA is screaming for it. I told them we'd have it by the end of the week."

She made a face. "I'm still working on mine as well."

"It's almost done," John assured her. "I just want to make a few adjustments after reading the last few mission reports. I'll have it by the end of the day today."

Sam rolled her eyes and jokingly instructed, "Well, don't be too quick about it or you'll show me up because I know I won't have it done by today."

Teyla inclined her head. "Then we will allow you to get back to your work. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us and for understanding our situation."

John nodded. "Yeah, what she said."

Sam just laughed and said, "Go!"

John and Teyla walked out of the room and John went straight into the control room where he checked on the status of several teams that were out and a hive ship that was showing up on deep space sensors, thankful that it didn't appear to be heading in their direction. Teyla asked about Lt. Edison's team and made arrangements to meet with them in one of the smaller conference rooms.

As they went about their business, Chuck kept a close eye on them. He'd been watching them while they'd been in Carter's office. They had seemed a bit nervous when they went in and he had a million different scenarios going through his mind at what the discussion could be about. But then he had seen Teyla reach for Sheppard's hand and Carter hug her. Then Sheppard had actually kissed Teyla. It was a very small kiss as kisses went but those two had never had any romantic ties before.

Chuck thought back and knew that many people had made bets over the years as to when Sheppard and Teyla would actually get together. He'd had a few dollars placed as well, especially after the whole Phoebus and Thalen fiasco. Chuck had been the one to pick up the transmission of Colonel Sheppard on the security camera when, possessed by the alien entity and facing execution by Teyla, he had said that Sheppard cared for her more than she knew. Only a handful of people had seen that transmission so he had a little inside scoop. But that had been a few years ago and nothing had ever come of it. Until now, he guessed. He might just have to reopen the betting again.

sgasgasgasga

"So, what do you think about this place?" John asked as he and Teyla stood on the balcony of one of the apartments on the Northern end of the city. The view looked out over the ocean and they could see the sun setting off to their right.

Teyla leaned back in his arms and sighed. "It is absolutely beautiful and extremely relaxing. Yes, I think I could get used to retiring to this view every evening, especially if your arms are around me when I do it."

"I thought you might like it. There are a few others I could show you but this is my favorite and definitely the largest."

The apartment had a huge living space that opened onto the balcony. It had a small kitchen area with a dining section and had three rooms down a short hallway that could be used as bedrooms. John had spent much of his free time over the past few weeks scouting the city trying to find a suitable place for him and Teyla. This building was just about deserted with only a few of the botany labs located about ten floors down from them. Certainly far enough away so they wouldn't bother each other.

"Do you want to see the others?" John asked but hoped she'd say no. He really liked this one.

"I will trust your judgment, John," Teyla said and John's heart soared. "The serenity of this place is perfect. It would be very soothing to an infant."

John's hand lowered to Teyla's stomach as it had so often lately. It was still extremely flat but sometimes in his overactive imagination he could swear he felt the Ancient gene in his child humming to him. Man, he was becoming soft. Luckily he was good at controlling his emotions, especially in front of the troops. They'd managed to keep things under wraps for now but he wondered when the shit would hit the fan and people would start finding out.

He tucked his face into Teyla's shoulder and said, "What do you think, Junior? Do you think Mommy and Daddy should move in here?"

Teyla chuckled and asked, "Do you truly expect the child to answer you? You have been speaking to my stomach for the last few weeks and I do not think you have received an answer yet."

John's hands ran across her stomach yet again. "I just want this kid to know the sound of my voice so that when he's out, he knows who I am."

Teyla turned around in his arms and slid her hands up his chest to his shoulders. "The child will know his father as you will be right by my side, will you not?"

John's eyes turned very serious. "Always, Teyla."

He took a deep breath and gave her a tender kiss on her lips then her nose then her forehead. "I know I haven't really said it much but I love you, Teyla, and not just because we're having a baby together. Maybe what happened on the planet is what gave us the push to actually get together but I want you to know I want you, Teyla, with me forever and ever. Baby or no baby, I want you by my side in everything."

"I have always been by your side, John," Teyla told him.

John kissed her again. "I know you have, Teyla. But I want you by my side all day and all night. Well, maybe not literally as sometimes we have jobs to do but I um… oh, man, how do I say this? I want to make a commitment to you so you'll know you can always count on me. I don't want us ever to think that we can run away from each other just because we're having a tough time."

John rolled his eyes as he continued, "And I'll be honest with you, Teyla, I'm probably not the easiest person to be with. There will be times when you'll want to just smack me and toss me out the door. And I know Ronon mentioned to you that I've been married before. It didn't work out obviously although I'd like to think it was more because I had too many secrets from Nancy and I was never home. But I can honestly say I also put my career before my marriage and Nancy couldn't handle being second."

John looked down at Teyla and took another deep breath. She was just staring up at him with a tiny smile on her lips. "I don't want to put you second, Teyla. You and this baby need to come first in my life but I know there will be times when we have a crisis that I need to take care of or work that needs to be done here in the city or off-world and I'll need to do it."

Teyla finally moved her hand up to caress the side of John's face. "John, I am aware of the importance of your job and the work that you do. It is why I left my people to stay here to live. I feel the work we do is extremely vital to our very survival. You need not explain that this could potentially come before us. I would never assume that it meant we were less important. But your job helps to insure that we remain safe and well and that is why sometimes you will need to do your job instead of spending time with us."

Huge amounts of relief flowed through John at Teyla's explanation. How could she possibly understand this so well? It was exactly why he needed to stay here in Atlantis and work so hard. The very lives of the people of this galaxy depended on what he did. And hadn't he been responsible for waking the damned Wraith earlier than they should have been? So he worked extra hard to assure that as few people as possible were affected by it.

"You're amazing, you know that?" John gazed deeply into her eyes. "So what do I do to make sure that you always stay here with me?"

Teyla's eyes twinkled with delight. "If you are truly interested in making a permanent commitment, my people have a small ceremony where two people declare their devotion to the other and unite and pledge their souls to one another. Halling has performed these ceremonies before. I am sure he would be happy to do so again."

John looked thoughtful then humor lit his face. "I don't have to do some weird dance or strip naked in front of everyone, do I?"

"A dance, no," Teyla denied. "Although you will need to hold me in your arms as we make our pledge to each other. And I am hoping that you will strip naked after the ceremony is complete as we need to stay in the unity tent for the night. If you are clothed, it would make it difficult for me to ravish you. But all that is done in private. No one else is around."

John's arms tightened around her and he confirmed, "Hold you in my arms, like this? Because this I can handle."

"Yes, just like this," Teyla's smile was infectious.

John nodded. "When do you want to do this?"

"You are certain, John?"

He nodded and kissed her sweet lips one more time. "Yeah, I'm certain. We should have Ronon and Rodney there and maybe Keller since she knows about the baby and you seem to be pretty friendly with her. And will all the Athosians be there?"

"The ceremony is performed in an open air tent and all are welcome. I can make arrangements with Halling whenever you feel ready."

"Do it! Soon," John insisted. "I don't want anyone thinking I'm only doing this because of the baby. Although I'm sure plenty of people will be counting the days once they find out you're pregnant."

Teyla just nodded and John turned her in his arms again so they were both gazing at the waves rippling on the vivid blue ocean. Yeah, this felt right. He probably should just ask Teyla to marry him but they were in the Pegasus Galaxy and he felt like he should do things the way they'd do things here. And this child of theirs would be of Earth descent but it would also be Athosian. So his mother and father should commit to each other in the traditional Athosian way. Maybe someday if they got a chance to visit Earth they could run off to Vegas and get married there.

His arms around Teyla, his hands moved back to where their child rested. He and Teyla would pledge their commitment to each other soon and he couldn't think of anything he'd rather be doing.

sgasgasgasga

"You seen Sheppard?" McKay asked as he hustled into the control room with a data pad in its usual position in his hands. His eyes were of course looking at something on it.

Lorne looked up from the console he was standing at and replied, "He and Ronon are in the gym training a group of the new Marines. He'll be there most of the afternoon. Do you need something?"

McKay looked harried as usual, then actually noticed it was Major Lorne and his eyes perked up. "Ooh, you have the Ancient gene. You could help me."

Lorne backed up a bit and said, "Oh, no, Dr. McKay. I'm not helping you with anything Ancient related. My eyebrows still haven't grown all the way back in from the last fiasco. Go find some other guinea pig to do your experiments on."

"Come on, that wasn't my fault and you know it. I…" McKay stopped mid sentence and then snapped his fingers a half dozen times. "Teyla! I can get Teyla."

Chuck gazed up from his spot at the front console and said, "I thought you said you needed someone with the ATA gene? Teyla doesn't have it."

"No, no," McKay waved him away absentmindedly, seemingly already working on the next problem in his mind and on his data pad. "I know she doesn't. But that little package she's carrying does and if the kid can already turn on an LSD then there shouldn't be any problems with the device I'm working with."

McKay looked up and asked, "Do either one of you happen to know where Teyla is?"

The looks of confusion he got from both Lorne and Chuck made him realize what he'd just said and that maybe he shouldn't have said it. His eyes widened when that realization struck and he backpedaled.

"Oh, uh, yeah, you're right. What am I thinking? Teyla doesn't have the gene." He started backing out of the control room and gave an awkward smile.

When he was gone Chuck looked at Lorne and asked, "Did he just insinuate what I think he did?"

Lorne knew the insinuation was that Teyla was pregnant and carrying a baby that possessed the Ancient gene. Knowing that there were less than a dozen people on the base that had a natural gene, not one given to them by the doctor, which would be the only ones to be passed on genetically, that left very few options for fathers. And Lorne knew the biggest possibility would be Colonel Sheppard. And it would explain why she had been removed from active duty over a month ago.

A slow smile spread across his face at the thought of his very controlled CO and Teyla getting together romantically and having a baby. And if it was true he would be happy for them. They were both great people and he always thought they seemed a lot closer than the typical teammates.

He looked down and saw that Chuck had a similar grin on his face. But he also knew that Sheppard and Teyla wouldn't want this news broadcast all over the city either so he composed his expression to something much sterner and ordered, "Don't even think about spreading that rumor until there is complete confirmation from a reliable source and we're told it's okay to share. Do you understand?"

Chuck gave a deep sigh and conceded, "Okay. But man, I sure could have made some big money on this you know."

Yeah, he did know. The gossip mill and betting pool in Atlantis was huge, mostly because there weren't a whole lot of other things to do here. They had movies and the gym and the rec room where you could play pool, fooseball, darts and a number of other games but you couldn't exactly get "off-base" often and that made people resort to other forms of entertainment like betting on gossip.

He was very curious himself about Sheppard and Teyla's relationship but never noticed anything out of the ordinary in their daily interactions. That is until about two weeks after McKay had made his little slip. Lorne was heading to the office he shared with Sheppard and hadn't even thought to knock as he never had before. But this time he realized maybe he should have.

The door opened for him and he knew right away that the Colonel hadn't thought he would be there soon. Colonel Sheppard was leaning against his desk, his legs slightly apart and there, standing right between them was Teyla. Her arms were wrapped around Sheppard's neck and Sheppard's hands were on Teyla's back and in her hair. Their mouths were moving passionately over each other and it was a few seconds before they registered that the door had opened allowing someone to enter.

Lorne turned around immediately with a muttered, "Sorry, Colonel," and started to leave but Sheppard eased Teyla away and stopped him.

"Lorne!" Sheppard called out and when the Major turned around he saw a distinctly uncomfortable Sheppard wiping his hand over his mouth and taking a deep breath. Lorne stopped and faced his CO again but kept his eyes lowered to the floor.

Sheppard cleared his throat and started again. "Major, come on in, close the door. I guess we should fill you in on what you just saw."

Lorne did as he was told and stood awkwardly in front of the two people he had just interrupted.

Teyla moved closer to Sheppard and slipped her hand around his elbow. The Colonel covered her hand with his and then smiled down at her with such adoration that Lorne had no doubts about how the man felt.

"As you probably just figured out, Major, Teyla and I are in a romantic relationship. We haven't really shared the fact since, honestly, it's nobody's damn business what we do in our private time." Sheppard rolled his eyes and smirked. "Although I suppose right now is work time and we really shouldn't have been doing what we were doing."

"It's not a problem, Sir, and I'm sorry I just barged in," Lorne apologized. "I should have knocked and I'll make sure next time I do, Sir."

Sheppard shook his head. "It's your office, too, Lorne. There's no reason for you to knock. If we really didn't want to be disturbed we could just lock the door. And you know I don't even have to walk across the room to do that."

Lorne snickered knowing that he meant using the mental ability of the Ancient gene. He could do it too and had to admit it was kind of cool. But remembering what McKay had said, he wondered about Teyla's ability. He wasn't sure he should ask about that.

His confusion must have shown on his face because Sheppard tilted his chin up and said, "What is it, Lorne?"

"It's really none of my business, Colonel," he replied then his gaze dropped subconsciously to Teyla's mid-section. "It's just that a few weeks ago Dr. McKay was looking for you to use your Ancient gene and when you weren't available, and I simply refused to help him, he made a comment about Teyla being able to use Ancient tech now that she was carrying around a little Ancient bundle. Is it true? Sir?"

Sheppard let out a huge sigh and Teyla leaned her head against his arm then looked up at the Colonel with the same adoration he'd seen in Sheppard's eyes a minute ago.

"Yes, Major," Teyla's soft voice carried across the room. "I am expecting a child. And this child carries the Ancient gene like its father, Colonel Sheppard."

Lorne didn't miss the grin that Sheppard tried to hide when Teyla talked about her condition. The man was obviously happy about the situation. Loren thought that was great. He let them know.

"Well, congratulations! That's wonderful! You'll both make great parents. How far along?"

"About ten weeks," Teyla supplied wondering if the man would start 'doing the math' as John had insisted people would. Sure enough she saw Lorne's eyes go up in thought then understanding crossed his face.

"That's when you were missing. The fruit, huh?"

"Yeah, the fruit," Sheppard grumbled but when Teyla ran her hand along his back he settled. "But actually it made us take a second look at our relationship and how we really felt about each other. And it gave us this little present to look forward to," at this Sheppard moved his hand to Teyla's middle and the look of love appeared again.

Lorne's smile grew bigger at the apparent affection these two had for each other and the new child they had created. "You don't have to worry, Sir, I won't say anything unless you want me to. Your secret's safe with me."

"Thanks, Major," Sheppard returned but made a wry face. "But apparently it's not with everyone since Rodney seems to be going around blabbing. I told you he can't keep a secret."

This last bit was aimed at Teyla. She merely smiled her typical serene smile and patted his arm.

"It is fine, John. We will need to share the news soon as I will not be able to hide the fact much longer. My pants have already begun to feel very tight at times."

Sheppard chuckled affectionately. "I think that's the second dessert you keep having every night."

Teyla's eyes widened in pretend anger and she defended, "The second one is for the child. At least I have an excuse. What is your reason for a second dessert every night as well?"

Sheppard's eyes filled with mirth. "Just trying to be supportive." He started to lower his head to kiss her then realized Lorne was still standing in front of them.

"Actually, Major," Sheppard continued. "The week after next, Teyla and I will be taking a short trip to New Athos. It'll be just a few days but I'll need you to stay and cover for me. Make sure we go over the mission schedules and you'll be available to stay here for that time period."

"Yes, Sir," Lorne replied. "Is this a military visit or just none of my business?"

Sheppard chuckled but Teyla was the one who responded. "John and I will be participating in a ceremony with my people showing our devotion and commitment to each other and our desire to unite our souls."

"So this is kind of like…?" Lorne trailed off.

"Marriage, yeah," Sheppard finished for him. "Can't have my kid thinking his parents weren't crazy about each other. It's just the Athosian version of a wedding, I guess."

Lorne continued to grin. "Well, congratulations again, Sir, Teyla. Is there anything I can do for you? Have you decided where you're going to stay? Whose quarters?"

"John has found us a beautiful place in the Northern end of the city. It has several bedrooms and a large balcony in which we can observe the sun rising and setting each day. We will attempt to move there hopefully before the ceremony however our obligations here have kept us quite busy of late."

"Yeah, and if we're going to take a few days off for this thing, I won't be able to take much time for moving my stuff beforehand. But we'll get it done eventually."

"Why don't you leave that to me, Sir. While you're on New Athos I can get some of the Marines to pack up and move you both. I'll get a few of the female ones to do Teyla's possessions. That way you don't have to do a thing. I know they'd love to help. Of course, we'd have to tell them why you two are moving in together; that you're getting married, I mean, not about the baby."

"People will definitely need to know, I guess," Sheppard grumbled. "Might as well start with a few Marines who help us pack and move. Thank you, Major. I think we'll take you up on that offer. As for letting everyone know about out little Athosian ceremony, I figure the easiest way to get that information out is just tell Chuck. He's the eyes and ears of this place and knows all the gossip there is."

Lorne just smiled thinking that Chuck wouldn't even need to be told. He'd probably already know.

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