Gold smiled. The sounds of Archie's soft snores floated into his ears. He found it a delightful welcome home. Cane clacking gently on the floor, he walked to the living room. As he expected, Archie was sat on the sofa, head slumped back against the cushions. His hands were clasped on top of his belly. A book was beside him, where he'd obviously fallen asleep while reading it. Pongo laid at his master's feet, though he whined welcomingly when he saw Gold. Gold shook his head fondly. He picked up the book and straightened out the pages before setting it down on the coffee table. Then he sat down on the sofa and gently shook Archie's shoulder.

"Wake up, love."

Archie groaned, blinking awake blearily. "Mm. Hello. How was your day?"

"Slow. Boring. How are you feeling?"

"Ask me when I've had a chance to wake up a little." Archie mumbled, still blinking the sleep from his eyes.

"And the nausea?"

"Much more manageable than it was two months ago. I wasn't sick at all today. Actually, I thought I'd starve if I didn't get my toast for breakfast."

"I'm glad to hear that. Is there anything I can get you?"

Archie shook his head. "No. You've only just got home, I'll make you some tea."

He made to get up, but Gold tugged him down by the hand.

"No, no. You need to rest more than I do. You heard what the doctor said."

Archie sighed in frustration, but he leaned his head on Gold's shoulder all the same. "I did, but I had today off so I don't think making you tea is going to impact my health."

"But I would be very remiss in my duties as a partner and a father if I let you strain yourself at all."

Gold pressed a kiss to Archie's cheek and stood. He padded into the kitchen and made one cup of tea and one hot chocolate, complete with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. He set them on a tray and added a plate of biscuits. Archie chuckled as Gold made his way back to the living room.

"You're spoiling me." He huffed.

"You're carrying my child," Gold shrugged, handing over the hot chocolate, "I think you deserve some spoiling."

"You're sweet."

"An opinion not shared by many, I can assure you."

"They don't know you like I do."

"That's the idea, grasshopper."

Archie smiled, leaning into Gold's side. Gold rested his chin on Archie's head, his free hand resting on Archie's belly. Archie's met it there, roaming over the swollen bump.

"They've been active today. I think they missed you," Archie said, "They're quiet now."

Gold smiled. "They're taking after you already."

Archie hummed in response, settling in Gold's embrace, sipping his hot chocolate.

"I hope they're like you," Gold said wistfully, "Kind and sweet and always seeing the best in everyone."

"Mmhmm."

"Archie love, are you falling asleep on me?"

"No..?"

"You don't sound sure."

"I'm fine." Archie mumbled, nuzzling into the crook of Gold's neck.

"Why don't you have a little nap and I'll get dinner ready. What would you like?" Gold said.

Archie leaned his weight more heavily on Gold. "Pie. But it can wait a little while. The baby isn't the only one who's missed you."

"Of course." Gold smiled.