Same universe as Good News During Hard Times. Originally posted on the week of Father's Day.
A familiar nausea was beginning to wake you up. You swallow heavily and rock yourself back and forth to settle your tummy. Just another hour. That would be nice. It must be early in the morning. It's cold in the room still from the lack of sun. You can feel your husband still spooning you. He's adjusted his sleeping patterns of usually rolling around to stay put to instead to cuddle you. Because he knows you are safe in his arms and can rest easy. His forehead pressed against the back of your shoulder with his front pressed against your back. His arm was slung over you with his hand settled on your middle. It's keeping you warm and comfortable. Enough to almost drift back off... Your eyes began to close again. The rise and fall of his chest moving against your back was oddly comforting. It was easy to focus on it and use it to help you try to get some more sleep.
"Papa." A little voice whispered.
"Hmm..." Jiraiya sleepily groaned. He held onto you tighter and nuzzled his face into the nook of your neck and shoulder. He's very much tuned into the parent instinct. The littlest coo of his baby will wake him up. But that doesn't make it easy if it's really early. Especially if it's in a hotel where he knows it's safe. There's nothing here to look out for, especially when it's this early.
"Papa!" Your little girl whispered again with a bit more of impatience.
"Hm!" He groaned with more displeasure at being awoken.
Jiraiya sighed through his nose and you felt the air brush over your shoulder. He rolled over and you whine as you missed his warmth. He cracked open an eye. There he saw the top part of his daughter's head. Her white hair was messy from rolling in her sleep. Her black eyes were alert and shining with excitement. Her little hands were gripping the mattress to pull it down ever so slightly so she could see a little bit better. She was small and scrawny for her age.
"Hello papa." She grinned.
"Hey baby girl." He replied, his voice husky and grumbly from still being mostly asleep.
With a heavy hand, Jiraiya reached around the nightstand until he felt the alarm clock. He missed the first time and planted his hand on his daughter's head. He playfully felt around and lightly squeezed it which made her giggle. He does smile at her giggles before finding the actual nightstand. He turned it towards him and squinted. Oh the joys of children. His five year old is way more of a morning person than anyone he's ever met. She woke up with the sun most days. And he ain't too impressed.
"Hayami... it's not even six in the morning." He complained. "Go back to bed."
"But papa!" She bounced up and down happily. "You said we're going to a festival today!"
"We are." He picked her up by the back of the shirt. She giggled as he was strong enough to lift her into bed with ease. She enjoyed the feeling of flying for the few moments. He held her against his chest like a teddy bear. "But not for another five hours."
"Papa!" She whined and struggled under his grip. "Papa let me go!"
"No. Beddy bye time."
Hayami continued to giggle and struggle in Jiraiya's arms. He's grinning as she squirms. She's a funny kid. He loves her greatly, but he also likes to relax. And sleep! God damn was sleep so damn precious now that he has an active kid. Most days he prays he wore out his kid enough to sleep in, but that never seems to be the case.
She whines and eventually runs out of energy. Her legs flop down against the mattress. She sighed slowly and held onto his arm. Jiraiya opened his heavy eyes again to look down. His little one was pouting. Her little lips pulled into a frown and brows furrowed. From that look alone he knew she's not gonna settle down. She wants to move. She has too much energy to go back to bed.
"Alright." Jiraiya gave in quickly. He sat up and released his child. She immediately got up and flung herself to the floor. It made a loud thunk that made him cringe. "Honey, the floors are thin. You'll wake other people if you hop around like that."
"I wanna go to the festival, papa! I'm excited!" She protested. She continues to hop and jump. "I'm like one of your toads! Right?"
"One of my toads?" He raised a brow and smiled. He got up and grabbed her under the arms. "Then let's get ready, little toad! Time to hop in the bath."
"Nooo! Baths are for frogs not toads!"
"Toads gotta get clean too!"
You sit up, now awake from all the commotion. You see your husband carrying your wiggly giggly daughter over his shoulder to the bathroom. She waved at you frantically. Jiraiya turned his head just enough to smile at you. He blew you a kiss before shutting the door. The tap to the bath turned on a moment later. You hear pleasant conversation between the two of them. He loved just talking to her and listening to what she had to say. He found her fascinating. Jiraiya never talked about his childhood, yet it seems he's so attentive because of it. He said one little tidbit that gave away that maybe his childhood wasn't very happy.
"I like listening to her... I never really got that as a kid." Jiraiya said a little wistfully one night. There was a hint of bitterness as well as he patted Hayami's head as she slept with her head on his thigh. Not bitter at her. She he loves unconditionally. It's his lacking upbringing that he wished was better. "My parents never had time for me..." The way he looked down at her after saying that was like he was promising her he'd always have time for her. Because he would. She deserved it.
Jiraiya usually knew what to say to his kiddo. Even if it was mostly just listening. She loved to talk. Even as a one year old where she mostly just babbled about nothing coherent. He'd keep her in his lap while he wrote. She'd coo and babble happily as she watched the pencil in his hand write on the paper. He'd hum in acknowledgement and pet her soft hair with his free hand while he worked. They still do that sometimes, but she either draws or writes the sentences he sets out for her to practice. It's a nice peaceful way to spend time with Hayami that he looks forward to.
There was faint splashing along with giggles from both of them. Hayami liked to talk about her hobbies most of all. Jiraiya would laugh and exclaim how cool they are. It kept her entertained and calm while he washed her up. She loves being outside. She likes getting dirty. She runs through and rolls in tall grass. She skips through the wild flowers and chases the bugs that fly off of them. She loved to climb trees and was showing interest in learning chakra control. If only so she could climb things better. But getting an early start on these things aren't a bad thing. You know how excited Jiraiya is to start training with his little one. She's going to be a talented little fighter in only a few years!
These last five years have been so different. Having a baby changes everything. Despite how worried he was, Jiraiya was turning out to be a great father. He was his little girl's best friend. He was fair and kind to her while still knowing when to punish. He's a little overbearing sometimes but he's slowly learning to relax to allow his child to grow independent. She's becoming a big girl now and he's accepting that she's growing up faster than he expected.
You are the rule enforcer of this little family. Jiraiya would hand off most of the punishments to you. You don't lash out or hit, you simply speak to Hayami. You would sit down with your daughter and discuss what she had done wrong. It's a learning experience for everyone. She's a very considerate kid and rarely gets in trouble anyhow. Jiraiya sat in and learned about what to say to in these situations. It's all so different when it's his kid! Other kids he can boss around and criticize, but when it's his own little one that he's gotta give a stern talking to he just can't do it very well. He would probably die if he was forced to actually punish her harsher than a talk. He took away one of her toys once and you could see him grit his teeth as she looked at him with big apologetic eyes that were brimming with tears. It hurt him to see Hayami any kind of upset. It hurt more when he made her upset.
"Don't ever do that again!" He'd tell her with a tone that failed to be harsh. He'd break down into the big old softie he is and hold her and kiss her until she felt better. He's a total sweetheart when it comes to her. An absolute teddy bear that would always be there for his little girl to cuddle. But this teddy bear had teeth and claws to keep her safe. She absolutely idolized him.
A new wave of nausea dazed you. You put your hand over your mouth and the other over your hefty middle. You're pregnant with your second child. Almost eight months along with no issues but one. You are just as plagued with morning sickness as you were with your first baby. Maybe even more. You just sit there until it passed. There's not a lot you can do when you feel this sick. Moving will only make it worse. It's hard to do anything in this condition. You had no idea how long you were sitting there until Jiraiya returned to your side and Hayami was set free.
It's not like you aren't an attentive parent. You are trying. It was difficult when your pregnancy demanded most of your attention. It was hard to think straight sometimes you got so sick. But you have an amazing husband to rely on to help pick up the slack. Jiraiya was a great father despite his inability to really enforce the rules. Today was a day that Jiraiya really wanted to bond and spend time with Hayami to make sure she has a good time. He insisted that she needed to see what happens at a summer festival, so here you are ready to spend a hot day in the sun surrounded by bustles of activity. You're just here for the ride and get through the day as happy as you can with your loving family whilst being a sick pregnant lady.
Hayami is running around in her undies, gathering some of her belongings. She was blissfully unaware of the things happening around her. Your husband had brought the small trash bin out of the bathroom and held it in front of you. You couldn't even thank him as you succumb to your sickness and throw up into it. Jiraiya very lovingly petted your hair away from your face while you hurled. He's become very used to this. You had a milder case when carrying Hayami after all and a lil bit of puke doesn't put him off. He didn't mind comforting you however he could. You are carrying his baby and this pregnancy has been hard on you. You don't complain about your aches and pain, but he does what he can to make you comfortable. Whether it was getting you puke buckets or even the occasional massage.
"I'm good." You tell him while tapping his shoulder, signalling for him to take the bin away.
"Did you want to stay here?" Jiraiya asked. He banished the puke bucket from your sight. He pulled some of the hairs stuck in the corner of your mouth out of the way.
"No. I want a day out with my family."
"Okay." He offered you a small smile. He kissed your sweaty forehead. He put a kiss on your belly too. It won't be much longer until he gets to meet this one. His gaze wandered to the suddenly very quiet girl and he gasped. "Hayami! Draw on the paper! Not the floor!"
He scrambled to adjust the scribbler in Hayami's grasp. She somehow got a marker and was drawing a picture on the wood rather than the scribbler. Which was strange since she only owned crayons. How she got her hands on that was a mystery that only kids like her can create. This is a hotel with old hardwood. Getting marker out will be a chore but that's a problem for tomorrow. She gave her father big puppy dog eyes and a quiet apology. He just sighed and patted her head. He kept the marker and let her to her crayons for a few minutes. Where she drew a stick figure family featuring a tall figure with long spiky hair, a rounded woman, and a small girl in the middle with similarly spiky hair to the tall figure. They were all holding hands and surrounded by giant flowers and the iconic corner of the paper sun that had a pair of shades on.
The eventful morning began to calm down with the rest of the routine falling into place. Jiraiya pulled double duty with helping you and Hayami get ready. It sucks having to rely on him for so much, but you're too big to put your own damn shoes on. He assures you that he doesn't mind. He slid them on for you and pulled out your clothes out for you before turning his attention back to Hayami. He herded his kid onto the bed and got her dressed properly. It was a traditional festival, which meant yukata were encouraged.
While she knew how to dress herself, she couldn't do the nice folds or tie her sash herself. She did as she was told and stood still as Jiraiya asked while he dressed her properly. To keep up with her need for activity, her yukata was cut short to her knees so she can run without a tripping hazard. It was bright red with five petal flowers that were white and pink that patterned the fabric randomly. The sash was a pale yellow which Jiraiya tied perfectly into a bow at the middle of her back. He had quite the secret talent for bow tying which only came to fruition with a little girl that loved having her hair tied in ribbons. You took over and did her hair so Jiraiya could get dressed. He's still in his pyjamas, which were wet from bathing the little hurricane that was his daughter. He wandered into the bathroom with his change of clothes and shut the door to get a moment of peace.
Hayami really was her father's little clone. Her face shape was similar but with the added chubby baby cheeks. Her complexion wasn't exactly like yours, but not quite her father's. It was a true perfect mix of her parent's tones. She has bright white hair that grew incredibly fast and thick. You tucked it away into a ponytail using a yellow ribbon with some hair clips to keep her eyes free of her growing mane. She insisted on growing it out to be just like her papa and she loved having it in a ponytail like he usually styles it.
Most days, Jiraiya does her hair because he can't work up the nerve to tell her no. He not so secretly loved it. All he'd have to do is sit and she'd stand between his knees holding all her hair stuff. He'd get right to it and gently brush her hair free of tangles before tying it up. She often did his hair too. Which he tolerated like a good father. He simply folded his arms and closed his eyes while she braided tangles in his hair and clipped her flowery hair clips in his hair. He'd wear it proudly all day and usually had you detangle it and brush it out before going to bed.
Much to your joy, she did inherit his markings. A set of identical little red ticks were growing under her eyes in the same position as her father's. They were much thinner, eluding to the possibility that they might grow in a little bit differently. It's not uncommon among those with facial markings to have deviations throughout the generations. And oh but of course, she had his eyes. Those pretty black eyes that he never really saw as special. But you love them. He saw them as rather plain while you were the one that compared them to things like gems. He changed his viewpoint once Hayami came around. His eyes, meh still pretty plain. But his daughter's? More beautiful than a starry night sky. You often roll your eyes and remind him the she had his eyes and both contain the same qualities.
It was so funny to see them side by side as she was his little mini me. It included the same goofy wide grin they give you when they want to get away with something. It all matched quite well with their wild white hair that stuck out the same, their mischievous joyful sparkly black eyes, and their red markings curling with their smiles. There was really no doubt whose kid this is. She's going to grow up to be a prettier version of her father.
Jiraiya emerged from the bathroom dressed only a little bit nicer than he usually does. With his red haori lacking a wrinkle and sitting square on his shoulders. For once his usual green kosode and hakama are at their full potential. He tied his clothing properly closed so it's not so open over his chest. The sleeves and ends are flowing. No longer are they tucked under his armour, which he opted not to wear today. That included his forehead protector, which he left on the nightstand. No point in it. It's easier to blend in without all of this stuff on. He and his family are in a neutral territory. One that does not side with any ninja territory or is ruled by any of them. It's very small without a lot to offer so it's not so desirable for such things like take over. It has simple farms for a community to trade and sustain itself with. They had a simple local celebration going on with games and food. Everything that makes a good local summer festival happen. It was going to be Hayami's first festival experience.
Being pregnant didn't give you many opportunities to dress up. You don't like to spend your husband's money without good reason, like on clothing or accessories. He's the only one making money with his book royalties. Even then he doesn't get paid every week or month. It's very sporadic since it's hard for anyone to pinpoint your family's location. So with that in mind, you only have one kimono that fits now. It works well enough. It's summery and bright. It matches your family with red, green, and a simple floral pattern similar to your daughter's. It didn't make much sense to spend money on you when there was about to be two growing children to outfit and feed. It'd be better to save for the future.
No, your family isn't poor. Jiraiya would never allow you or his child to think such a horrible thing. It hurt his pride. He can provide for his family just fine! No one ever missed out on a meal or had a lack of layers. Living like this was more humble nothing more. He is excellent at stretching funds. He knew where to save and what to spend on. Today was a day to spend. It was to give his kid a good time. He'd spend his life savings to make her happy. You too. You are oddly stingy no matter how much he assures you he makes good enough money to have a little fun. He likes spoiling you as much as he does with his daughter. Perhaps after the baby comes he'll get you something nice. You are certainly due for a new set of clothes. There's already enough baby stuff that you saved from Hayami's baby years to have the new one all ready to go. You are the only one lacking something nice. There is plenty of funds saved to splurge for you. Hm.. he might just have to get you something when you are preoccupied with the newborn to notice him slip away into stores.
Traveling around so much was actually fairly cheap. You knew your plants and animals. It's not so hard to live off the land. The most things the money goes towards was the occasional bar of soap and a hotel room, like in this instance. It was a nice change of pace to wash up in an actual shower rather than a river. It was warm. It was intimate. It's uh... maybe how your second child was conceived.
There was something so romantic about a late night shower with your husband with a door separating you from your sleeping child in the next room. You got to caress and hold that beautiful muscly body of his as it was slick with the hot water and soap. His hands wandered over your body and he moved in to make out on that spot on your neck he loves to tease. You held onto him and cried out in pleasure by his ear as he used the shower wall to support your back as he fucked you well into the first lights of dawn. Sometimes he can still feel the scratches that you left on his back that night. He misses it just as much as you did. It had been a while since you and him had a chance to passionately make some love as neither you nor him wanted to scar Hayami. It was certainly hard to stay off of each other for so long. You got so sick right after conception that you couldn't have any extra fun with Jiraiya. He was more than fine with this. He just did what he could to get you through your pregnancy as smoothly as possible.
It took the helping hand of Jiraiya to pull you to your feet. You are carrying much more forward this time around and well... just very large. You can barely get to your feet by yourself. He shaves your legs for you and helps you get pants on with no complaints. He still liked your pregnant look. The big beach ball sized bump you had was still his favourite. He loved it! The newest addition to his growing family is in there and he's excited to meet them! He no longer had so many anxieties about this.
Actually, this time around Jiraiya has been very relaxed. He knew the process and was familiar with babies. He's successfully raising one so how hard can having another one be? This isn't so scary anymore. You are healthy despite some minor issues and he can handle all your pregnancy problems. And what's hotter than his beautiful wife carrying his second little one? Nothing that's what! He'd bend you over and have a go right now if you wanted.
There was a breakfast diner not so far away from the hotel. You wasted some time with your family at the establishment. You had to take your time with your nausea. Hayami was practically dancing in her seat. She ate quickly and asked several times when the festival starts. To which Jiraiya always responded with the 'soon but not yet' answer. He sat on the outside of the booth to keep her blocked in. It didn't stop her from climbing all over him and bugging him with the same questions. To which he answered with patience and understanding. With the help of your husband, you managed to waste plenty of time before the festivities began. It was nice to laze around for a moment since you know you're gonna be on your feet all day. Knowing Hayami, she won't stop at all today.
The streets were soon filled with assembled booths and the smell of a delicious variety of foods. Hayami was overwhelmed. Her eyes went wide and she gasped at all the sights. The games! The food! The scents and sounds astounded her. She tugged on Jiraiya's sleeve and pointed at things she wanted to see. He let her drag him to different booths. You follow with bemusement. She had him wrapped around her little finger. All she had to do was bat her eyelashes and her daddy will get her anything she wants. He bought her the snacks she wanted to try and split it with her so she doesn't overindulge and crash by noon. She'd be cranky all day if that happened.
You stopped and breathed in the scent of something delicious. It was the first thing that really appealed to you since you got pregnant. Since everything made you sick and your pallet even changed, it was hard to keep food down. Things you usually liked only made you sick. You've mostly eaten plain not so flavourful food that's not so nutritious. Like crackers and stuff of a similar paper like taste. You actually lost some weight at the beginning of your term because you threw up everything you tried to eat. It worried the crap out of Jiraiya. He eloquently put it as you are to be big, fat, and happy whilst pregnant with his babies. With his watchful attention, he's managed to get you to be these things. He's been a real champ in making sure you eat a decent amount of food each day. You literally had unflavoured vegetable broth for breakfast today while he kept a close watch on you to make sure you ate every bite. He packed things like chips or wafers for you to eat while on the road. He made plenty of stops for snack breaks for both his girls to make sure they are fed and happy.
"Something get your attention, babe?" Jiraiya asked with a knowing smile. You got that wistful and wanting expression that he learned you get when you crave something.
"Mama want snack?!" Hayami asked with a big grin. She was bouncing with her sugar buzz. She knows that you have been sick. She didn't quite understand why, but she didn't like it. It made her papa upset too. So she was just as enthusiastic as Jiraiya was when she realized her mama was hungry for something.
You take in that delicious smell again and look around. What was it? It was like Okonomiyaki, but with the distinct smell of frying oil along with it. Jiraiya looked around for the source. He'll hunt that booth down to the ends of the earth for his pregnant wife. He spots a booth selling a rarer treat not so common along festivals. Fried Monja. It contains the similar savoury contents as Okonomiyaki but it's rolled up, wrapped in dough, then deep fried. Must be a local treat as the booth was steady with customers. Everyone there looked happy to dig into their freshly made snack. He grabbed your hand and the hand of his child before leading the way.
"It smells really good." You sigh happily at the idea of tasting them.
"Finally, we find something baby wants!" Jiraiya laughs. He orders the largest size for you and he'll make sure you eat it.
It's made to order so you had to wait. Another booth caught Hayami's attention. She squealed and grabbed her father's hand. She dragged him away to a game booth across the street. Jiraiya could only really give you a tired but happy smile as he willingly let his little girl take him away. You waved them off. You'd meet up with them soon anyhow.
It wasn't much longer until you got your food. They were all bite sized Monja that was wrapped in a paper cone for easy carrying. The cone itself was like... giant. It was a cornucopia of deep fried food and you couldn't have been happier to have it. The girl running the booth was enthusiastic and happy for you. She was actually the first person to congratulate you on your pregnancy. It was... odd to hear. Being around strangers all the time meant they minded their own business. Aside from the occasional entitled person that walked right up to you and touched your belly without asking. Jiraiya usually ran interference and snapped at anyone who got too close to you. Yes he had more chill now that he's a father, but he was still incredibly protective. He'd probably break a person's fingers if they touched either of his girls.
You cradled your big snack and thanked the cook. You turn around and waddle in search of your family. You snacked on the Monja happily. Baby was a big fan of these. You feel no nausea while you eat them. It was so blissful to not have the urge to up chuck what you're eating and feel some real energy from good food. You've been so lethargic this whole pregnancy that it was such a breath of fresh air to finally have some real calories in your system. You got some pep in your step now and at full attention as you look around the busy area.
It was easy to find your tow headed family among the crowd. Their bright white heads stand out against most things. But in this case they were side by side as Jiraiya was knelt down. He had one hand on Hayami's back while the other adjusted the dart in her fingers. The game was simple. Hit two balloons on a board with three darts and win a prize! At the moment, Jiraiya was coaching his daughter on how to aim and throw. He fixed her grip to fit her small hand around the dart more naturally.
"You'll feel the weight and trajectory a lot better after the first throw." He told her in a gentle and loving tone as he taught her the bare basics of throwing weapons. He pushed on her back to make her step forward to the X marking the spot players are allowed to throw from. "Don't get discouraged if you don't make the first shot. Just keep trying."
"Okay papa!" She nodded vigorously.
Hayami took that advice to heart. She raised the dart up to the spot she was told to hold it at and aimed. Her tongue stuck out in concentration. Jiraiya bit his tongue on advising further. While he wants his daughter to win, he didn't want to overstep and tell her where to aim. It'll only dampen her learning if she doesn't do it on her own. From his position he can tell the dart will fall short. Honestly this game is easy for a trained ninja. But that's what's making it so fun! It's a great opportunity to teach his kid her first lesson in the art of weaponry.
As predicted, the dart she threw lands short in the dirt at the base of the balloon board. She looked down in disappointment. Jiraiya ruffles her hair before telling her it's alright. He handed her the next dart and fixed her throwing position again. He made a point to raise her wrist a little bit higher.
It's very sweet to watch. Jiraiya wasn't usually so nice of a teacher. But this is his little girl after all. He doesn't have the heart to raise his voice or criticize her in a harsh tone. He hardly ever talks to you like that. Whatever things he taught you was usually taught swiftly and with a certain amount of uncalled for sarcasm. Then again he may only speak to you like that to get you worked up enough to want to spar with him in a different way. You can almost feel him pin you against a tree with your arms above your head. It's hot and sweaty to be near him. His hot breath tickling your skin as he continues to antagonize you in a sultry tone that makes you weak in the knees.
Thunk! Pop!
"Mama! Papa!" Hayami jumped around happily. "I got one! I got one did you see?"
You look up from staring at the back of your husband's head to the balloon board. Hayami hit a balloon at the very bottom of the board. Jiraiya caught her when she fell into his arms for a hug. She held a fistful of his shirt and pointed excitedly at the game board. He congratulated her and kissed her head.
"Good job!" You clap your free hand against your wrist as you balance your paper cone of treats in the other. She squealed and ran to you. She hugged your legs. She knows you can't really bend over so she accepts the head pats you give her with glee. Of course she's a natural at this! She takes after her papa in practically every way.
The man running the booth groaned and rolled his eyes. "Yeah yeah! But you still gotta get one more!" He snapped his fingers. "And hurry it up would you! I got a line forming."
The withering glare he received from both you and your husband was enough to make him shrink back. One does not simply yell at your kid and husband and expect to not get a glare cold enough to freeze lava.
"Don't listen to him, kiddo." Jiraiya dismisses the booth operator. He turns back to his daughter with this next piece of advice. "Take your time. Never strike without thinking."
Hayami nodded. She glanced at the mean man that yelled at her nervously. He's staring at her with a frown. You gently push her back to the X for her to take the last shot fairly. She looks behind her to you. You smile and give her an enthusiastic thumbs up.
"You got this, sweetie!" You encourage her.
She smiled at you before turning back to the board. She raised the dart and took aim. You held your breath in anticipation. Jiraiya watched the board and glanced to the dart to predict it's course. He smirks.
Hayami took the shot. The dart flew through the air towards the board.
Thunk!
It skimmed a red balloon in the middle of the board. It didn't pop. You let out your held breath. Aw well. It's not a big deal if she doesn't win. She tried her best and that's all that matters. She took her first steps in training today. It's an excellent milestone! Plus she got to have fun while doing it. She's a talented kid! She's got good hand-eye coordination. With a little bit of guidance, she'll be hitting bullseyes in no time!
"Aw. Don't get worked up over it, honey." Jiraiya comforted Hayami as she flung herself into his arms. "You did great!" He held her tightly and stood up with her nuzzled against his chest. He knows how much she cares about his opinion and he tries to be positive. She's emotional and small! He still remembers what it's like when he could balance her whole body on his arm when she was but a babe. She still feels that small sometimes. It's so hard not to just smother her with love.
You waddle up to his side and kiss her head. "You did so good! We are very proud of you."
Hayami sighed and sniffled. She did peek out and look at you with her lip stuck out in a pout. Aw your poor sweet girl. You rub her back to comfort her. Jiraiya continues to sway her back and forth to rock her like he did when she was a baby. You turn around with him to leave the booth. Most likely to get a treat you already know your kid likes to cheer her up.
Hiiiiiiiiiiisssssssss!
You look back. The red balloon the dart was right beside was deflating. She hit it! She hit the balloon! If you could jump right now you would. But the human inside of you would not enjoy that. You pat Hayami's back and point back to the board.
"Hayami! Look! You got it!" You exclaim.
"Really?" She sniffled and looked up from the security of her father's chest. She gasped when she saw it. Her face lit up. "I got it! I hit the balloon! Do ya see?" She pulled on the hem of Jiraiya's shirt and looked up at him. "Papa! I got it!"
He laughed and put a kiss on her cheek. "I knew you could do it!"
"I get a prize now! Right?"
"Hell yeah you do!"
You and your family all look at the booth operator. He has his arms crossed and looks unwilling. He scoffs.
"Well since you just grazed the balloon, it doesn't-!" He pauses when he gets the same glare from you that would send a tailed beast cowering and rethinking this whole interaction. He sighed reluctantly. It's best not to mess with the pregnant lady and her big rather strong looking husband. He gestured to the small stuffed animals hanging on display on the ceiling of the booth. "Two shot wins are eligible for one of these prizes." He grumbled.
Hayami looked at them like they were gold. Her eyes big with wonder as she looked the stuffed animals over. To a kid her age it must feel like gold. She won something all by herself and she feels proud of what she did to get her prize. She picked out a pink plush in the shape of a balloon animal. It had a misshapen face and the sewing on the back was poor, but she loved it. She held it with the same pride as if it was a first place trophy. To her, it was a trophy.
She was content to follow her parents as they make the next few stops. Which included a drink to beat the heat and rehydrate. She barely looked up from her new toy to take sips from the cup you held out to her.
Then Jiraiya won you a prize. He tried his luck on a round of Senbonhiki and got a plastic ball. Once he cracked it open, it revealed a small keychain charm in the shape of a cartoony toad perched on a red capped toadstool. He laughed at how perfect the icon was to him and handed it to you. It shall be proudly displayed on your backpack later.
"Do I gotta win you something?" You ask with a cheeky hum.
"No I'd say I already got a few prizes!" Jiraiya said before leaning down to kiss you. He ran his hand over your bump. Then it crested over your wide middle to squeeze your ass.
"Not in front of my baby!" You complain. But it falls short when you angle your head to allow him to peck your neck in kisses. Which he gladly does.
He laughs at your statement before finishing with a kiss on your cheek. He retreated after that. He paid attention to Hayami, who was ready to do more activities. She was still too innocent to really understand the flirty part of your relationship with Jiraiya. She just smiled when she saw her parents get along. You told her that kisses are to be shared with the people you love.
There was a homemade slide that didn't look all that safe. It was tall, like the size of a building. It was wooden and it creaked with the weight of your child on it. Jiraiya waved your concern off and promised to grab his kid if the slide began to break apart. He stood at the end and was knelt down to catch Hayami the moment she got to the end of the slide.
Of course she loved it. It was sanded down and covered in a finish that made the wood slippery. With the lack of friction, she flew down the slide at high speeds. She threw her hands up and shrieked with joy. Which turned into giggles when Jiraiya caught her and lifted her up. He tossed her ever so slightly into the air and caught her again. It got her more excited.
"Again! Again!" She wiggles out of his grasp and ran back up the stairs of the slide.
This slide entertained her for a while. She wasn't afraid of heights. She braved the mountain of stairs for that few seconds of fun. It wore her out but she loved it. Jiraiya made the decision when enough was enough. Hayami was huffing and had slowed down immensely, but insisted on going again.
"Come on, sweets. You need a break." Jiraiya pulled rank and kept his tired kiddo in his grasp.
She sighed and held onto his shirt. It was her reluctant way of agreeing that she wants to take a break. He rejoined you on the sidelines. You reach out and play with Hayami's messy hair. The work you've done on it in the morning was almost completely undone. Her fringe was sticking out at a funny angle. Not that she minded all that much. She yawned and rested her head on Jiraiya's shoulder.
There was an ice cream stall near by next to a sit down area. Perfect! Your feet didn't know they needed a break until you sat down. They were a little achy and swollen. You can't even see them over your belly. You sigh and just try to relax. This pregnancy has felt very long. You are very excited to have a second baby, but goodness if they ain't picky. The heat only made it all harder to handle.
Jiraiya soon returned with ice cream and child in tow. Hayami was a bit more alive as she munched on her cold treat. Jiraiya sat down next to you and sighed. This was more exhausting than expected. He handed you the cone of ice cream he got you. You smile and rest your head on his free shoulder. You shared the cone with him while dozing.
There was plenty of other kids around. So once Hayami has finished her treat, Jiraiya held her still and you wiped her face off. She struggled and whined the whole time. She didn't like being clean. Hence why she had to be held down while you licked a paper napkin and wiped her face off. Jiraiya contained his snickering until he set her on her feet. She hated anything that stalled her from having fun. She took off running the moment she was set on the ground. She ran to go make some new friends for a day. It's pretty amazing how resilient children are. A few moments of rest and she's ready to go again. Her parents however? They are content to rest.
Jiraiya put his hand on your bump again. He rubbed it fondly while keeping an eye on Hayami. You had your hands resting naturally on the top of your bump while you doze. It's been quite the long day. But fun. The opportunity to do something fun like this never comes around. The moment you left Mount Myōboku it's been nothing but traveling. Which wasn't so different with a child. It was a little slower at first with a toddler, but the routine soon fell into a comfortable rhythm.
The only unfortunate thing was there wasn't a lot for a kid to do. Half of the time your family was out in the middle of no where camping. Jiraiya was usually Hayami's playmate since there was nothing else for her to socialize with or do. He feels guilty since he's the one that wants this lifestyle and feels like he's depriving his child of a normal childhood. She doesn't have what he or you had as kids. Like friends or consistencies like a house. Her only real friends are her parents and maybe the occasional toad Jiraiya summons to rope in for a round of babysitting.
"She's growing up just fine." You assure your husband. You hold his hand against your belly. "We're making her a playmate."
"Maybe we can make her a few."
You smile. A big family sounds nice. Busy and challenging, but in a good way. You got plenty of love to share with your husband to nourish plenty of little ones. You share a kiss with Jiraiya. He holds you in it for several seconds, savouring the chance to give you a real kiss. You and him watch over Hayami as she plays with kids her age. She was excited by all the activity and games they showed her. Games that will no doubt be played with all her siblings in the future.
Eventually the sun sets and the final activity that makes summer festivals so fun was going to start soon. All the other kids were being called in by their parents. You call in Hayami and she comes running up. Jiraiya picked her up and set her on his shoulders in proper piggy back ride fashion. She stifles her yawn. It's been a big day for her. But she didn't want it to end! Today has been so much fun!
Your family finds a place along the side of the gathered crowd. Hayami jumps when the first rocket gets launched. The noise was loud and unfamiliar to her. Her eyes follow the stream of glittery light. It explodes into streamers of red and gold. Her mouth opens and she becomes mesmerized by the new sights of fireworks. She's never seen them before. Once the shock wore off, she bust into giggles and reached her hands out towards the streamers of light.
Her excitement was contagious. When was the last time you've seen fireworks and had so much fun? They are pretty! She was ecstatic to see all the different kinds. The colours and noises all so unique and fun. She doesn't blink for awhile to not miss a single thing. Watching her have fun was really rewarding. Your daughter is happy and there's no feeling like knowing you're providing her with a good childhood memory. You feel a hand graze yours. You smile and hold your husband's hand while watching the colours in the sky. You used to go on summer dates like this with him. It's been so long since you've been on a summer date with him. The fireworks and stars make it all so wonderfully romantic.
It was a good long show. With plenty of different fireworks for Hayami to see. She was having a good time. She stared at the sky in vain when there was a big gap of silence. Her excitement faded as it dawned on her that it might have ended.
"Aw... is it over?" Hayami pouted.
"I guess so, kid." Jiraiya shrugged.
"But they were so pretty! Can't they do more?"
"I don't think so. They gotta save some for next year."
She gasped. She leaned over his head to get a look at his face. "Are we gonna come back next year, papa?"
Jiraiya shares a look with you. You shrug and smile.
"I think we can make that happen." You say.
She throws her hands up and cheers. "Yay!" She looks at you with a big grin that was an exact copy of her father's. "And we'll have baby by then, right? So we can show them the fireworks too!"
"That's right!"
Hayami was over the moon at that idea. She was gonna make a great big sister. She's already talking about showing her new sibling all kinds of things. She was excited to have a friend. She was impartial to having a brother or sister. She's just happy to have someone else around. Jiraiya on the other hand was dropping hints that he's hoping for another girl. Having plenty of pretty daughters just sounds so nice! Plus, you and him already got everything to outfit a girl.
Girl or boy, you're down for both. It'd be nice to have another girl since you know almost everything about having a girl. But a little boy would be just as good. Different and new. A sweet little boy that will grow up to look exactly like his father. With the same white hair, black eyes, and red markings. Honestly, let's hope all your children take after their father. The combination of his features are just so pretty. Having a whole family of that will be perfect! All your cute little white haired babies lined up with their white haired father. And those who dared to touch his little nestlings will suffer a horrible fate.
He's just as protective as Gamabunta is of his little ones. Which was on the level of like a mama moose and her baby. God have mercy on anyone who stands in the way of that. It was funny actually, the two had actually gotten along during the year long visit. The chief toad recently had his brood of little ones right after you gave birth. The toad and master seemed to have bonded over the new adventure of fatherhood. Jiraiya even allowed Gamabunta to hold Hayami, which was comical. For one, Jiraiya bristled at the idea of anyone else holding his newborn. It said a lot of the trust he had when he placed his swaddled baby in Gamabunta's hand. Secondly, your baby looked like a grain of rice in the large toad's hand! She looked even more itty bitty than she already was. Instead of any normal gruff comment or sneer, he was actually very nice. He held your newborn in his palm and swayed his webbed hand very gently to sooth her while showing one of his rare smiles.
"We'll have to go back to the mountain." You say thoughtfully. "I'm sure Hayami would like to meet all her extended family again."
It'll be nice to see all the toads again in a relaxed setting. They were very welcoming on their turf. Plus you get to see all of them bond with Hayami again. They all loved her as a baby and grew just as protective as her as Jiraiya was. All of them would hound on an enemy if they dared touched a hair on their master's child. Apparently they were protective like this when Jiraiya was a kid. He turned pink with embarrassment as Shima told you that the older toads had practically adopted him when he showed up on their mountain as a little kid. It will be funny to see Gamabunta reluctantly allow your rambunctious and energetic five year old climb all over him just as he reluctantly allowed Jiraiya to. He would let it happen but will complain loudly to you and Jiraiya as Hayami stepped on his eye or blocked his nose. You would try to tell your kid to play nicely while Jiraiya would grin deviously as his amazing daughter was unwittingly getting revenge on his behalf for all the flack the chief toad gave her papa for so many years. She had immunity and free range to do as she wished while he would have gotten eaten or smacked off the mountain.
"Maybe after you recover from childbirth." Jiraiya agreed. It'd be nice to sit and share a drink with another father he knows. Even if that other father was the size of a four story building. And... well... a toad.
And no... going back to Konoha was still not an option. Maybe one day. When the wounds aren't so fresh. While The Village Hidden in the Leaves has hosted plenty of painful moments, it also holds lots of good ones. One day Jiraiya would like to take his children there to show them where their parents hail from. He'd like them to meet his teacher and show them the places that mattered. Like where he met you or the training ground he always frequented with his team. He wants them to have a taste of what it's like to be raised in a ninja village. Just all the good times that helped form both you and him.
But this was a situation that was far away. You know that one day returning to Konoha will be inevitable. Whether it was to mail his next manuscript or getting summoned by Hiruzen, it was going to happen sooner or later. Showing your kids around the place you grew up did sound good. And hopefully, people will be kind. People were always kinda judgmental there. They never were a fan of you as Jiraiya's wife. With the two popular opinions being you are too low ranking to go for a man like him, or he's too old, perverted, and dishonest to make a good husband. They were all wrong! You are in love with this weirdo and he loves you too. Most of your time being engaged to Jiraiya was spent defending your relationship with him. You'd probably have to do the same when it came to your children. It was nice to be away from that for now.
It's just nerve racking thinking about all this. The inevitability of going back to Konoha was hanging over your family. Both you and Jiraiya are worried about how the village will treat your children. The circumstances aren't good. Jiraiya is obviously worried he'll get verbally hung by the villagers for his hypocrisy. Maybe even have a few rocks thrown at him. He abandoned his responsibility as a godfather and left Naruto in a village that hates him. Then he goes and has a family? They ought to hang him for being such a hypocrite. Meanwhile, you are more worried how your babies will be treated because so many people don't think you make a good partner to Jiraiya. Who knows how they'll take the idea of you being the mother to his children. Or how they'll treat your children. The only comfort you have is that no one there knew you had children.
It won't be that bad. Both you and your husband tell each other that a lot. Life isn't always easy. You were just as scared to take on the responsibility of someone else's child as he was. Then you got pregnant not long after that day. It wouldn't be fair to either child. Parenting was still hard and new. And the mental state Jiraiya was in after learning of his student's death would only damage Naruto more with neglect. He wasn't fit to do much after that day, raising a baby by yourself with your checked out depressed husband would have been too much of a chore on your mental well-being. Both you and him were in a much better place when you had Hayami. Better enough to actually raise a child fairly. And having children made both you and Jiraiya very happy. Jiraiya was especially fond of being a parent to his little girl. He was happy and had a sense of fulfillment in raising someone he helped create. You make this all possible. He knows he'd be much worse off without you here. But he won't ever tell you that. You get upset when he speculates like that.
The journey back to the hotel as a short one. The crowd of festival goers dispersed quickly since most of them were locals. All they had to do is go home. On the way there, Hayami began to fall asleep. Her cheek rested on top of Jiraiya's head and her body limp. Once inside the room, he picked her up off of his shoulders and set her on the other bed in the room. She whined and was dead weight as he changed her into her pyjamas. All she wanted was her rest and having to raise her arms to get her nightie on was interfering with that. She didn't want to cooperate and was a limp doll in her father's arms. She face planted into the pillow the moment she was let go. Jiraiya chuckles at her antics and tucked her in with the blanket all the way up to her chin. He kissed her head before retreating. You put a kiss on her head too.
"Night mama." She whispered. Her heavy eyes opened just barely to look at you.
"Goodnight sweetie." You whisper back at her.
Hayami grinned at you. You take the clips out of her hair so they don't squish her head or pull out painfully in the middle of the night. Her eyes close as you play with her hair. She likes it when her papa does her hair, but she likes how her mama takes it out. It's gentle and soothing as your fingers brush out her tangles. She wraps her arms around her new plush friend and falls asleep.
The sight of your peaceful five year old makes you happy. She looks good and tired so perhaps you can get a good nights rest. You leave her side to let her sleep and sit on the other bed beside the one she's in. Jiraiya crawls on behind you and his hands rest on your shoulders. He presses his thumbs into your muscles and massages them. It felt good. Your eyes close as he worked out the knots you've gained from carrying this baby. He kissed your neck. His hands move on to give your boobs some attention. They grew again much to his joy. They are incredibly sensitive which he also enjoys as you become putty in his hands when he plays around with you.
"Why are you so nice to me?" You sigh happily.
"Because." He paused and kissed the back of your ear. "I love you."
"I love you too."
You sigh quietly with a pleasured relief as he massaged your chest. All of you is sore and tender. Your chest especially since they are preparing to feed a kid soon. The sensation of his hands squeezing them offers some relief. Your boobs just feel heavy. It was nice to have a moment of them not weighing you down. Jiraiya let them go eventually. He did so carefully since he knows the wrong movement could make them flare up in pain. It's both fascinating and weird how much your body changes during these times. Not that he minded. He loves you in all your forms. He slowly moved his hands down to hold your big bump. He kisses the back of your neck.
"How you feeling, my love?" His question was quiet against your skin with his breath pleasantly warm.
"Better." You match his whisper. His tone made you breathless and swoon. The feel of his lips over your neck was sending tingles down your spine. It didn't take much for him to turn you on. Your rapidly changing hormones also helped that along too. "I feel much better since I ate something real today."
"I'm glad." Jiraiya gently squeezed his hand on your bump. He kissed your shoulder. "We found something you and baby like. I'll buy you that everyday if that's what you two want."
"Mm..." You purr and lean your head back. The thought of eating that Monja again sounded like a piece of heaven. It'd be especially lovely if your darling husband hand fed them to you. You turn your face towards his and smile. "That sounds amazing."
He smiles. He lays plenty of kisses on your neck and shoulder before moving around to face you. With his help, Jiraiya gets you laid down into bed. He shut the lights off and quickly checked on Hayami one last time. She's still contently asleep. With her hair already defying gravity from rolling around.
Finally, Jiraiya crawled back into bed to get some sleep. It's been a long day! From waking up at five forty in the morning and taking care of his family all day until close to midnight had exhausted him. He lets out a sigh of relief with another day done. He becomes your big spoon again. With his face against your hair, body pressed against your back, and arm wrapped over your large bump.
You place your hand over his. As if to not be left out, the baby kicked you. Your belly vibrates with the hit. You can feel Jiraiya's smile against your shoulder. The newest addition is eager to come and see the world. Just not too soon. He or she has a little bit of growing up to do still. And their parents aren't quite ready to have them yet. Your fingers interlock in the spaces between his fingers. He squeezes your hand and puts a kiss on your shoulder.
A moment later you hear his soft snoring in your ear. That's one tired father that's cuddling you. He's good at his job as caregiver to both you and your daughter. He deserves some love after the newborn is here, and you'll certainly supply it. It doesn't take long for you to fall asleep as well. Like everyday with Hayami, tomorrow was going to be crazy busy. But you look forward to it. There is plenty to look forward to.