These Violent Delights

by thelogladyslog

Adora has the perfect life-the perfect wife, the perfect kids, the perfect job. So why does she keep getting the feeling that something's wrong? The trees aren't where they're supposed to be in the Whispering Woods, the animals aren't acting right, even she isn't quite feeling her usual self. But if anyone can figure out the problem, it's Adora.

1. Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Living the Dream

"These violent delights have violent ends

And in their triumph die, like fire and powder,

Which as they kiss consume."

-William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

"You are so predictable."

"Mmm I?" Adora said before swallowing down the rest of her fully loaded garlic bread. "Sorry, am I?"

"Ya but don't worry, it's a good thing," Catra said, sidling up next to her, "It makes finding you so much easier."

"I was just about to find you actually, after I had a few more of these," Adora said while eyeing the dwindling appetizers.

"I don't believe that for one second. You'd stay here all night if you could." Before she could get another, Catra grabbed her hand and pulled her along, "Come on, let's dance. We've barely had any time to ourselves."

As Catra dragged her along, she couldn't help but notice the incredible array of partygoers mingling in Bright Moon's biggest ballroom. People from all corners of the galaxy had come for this gala, hoping to reinforce or begin a partnership with Etheria. She recognized many of the faces. In fact, she'd spoken with a vast majority over the last few days. Most were hoping for increased trade and military collaboration on behalf of their planets. And Glimmer and Bow were more than happy to initiate negotiations. Which meant that both she and Catra had been working overtime these past few days to fit in meeting after meeting, which was fine except for the fact she was hearing way too much about defence alliances and way too little about her family's various happenings. But hopefully things were winding down a bit.

Still, all of these people here were nothing short of amazing. Even after years and years, it was hard to believe that not only did other planets exist but that they also wanted closer relations with Etheria. And while these agreements and alliances were always mutually beneficial, it was a rush that Etheria entered almost every one in a position of power. Yes, she and all her friends were trying to get on the good side of important people but they didn't have to compromise to the same extent that other planets did. It was incredibly satisfying.

As soon as Catra found a spot on the dancefloor, she turned around and pulled Adora closer. She swung her arms around Adora's neck and clasped her hands together behind her head. Adora placed her hands on Catra's hips, enjoying the feeling of lithe muscles under her palms. They started swaying along to the slow beat of the music. Catra was looking up at her, eyes bright and curious. No doubt she wanted to hear what information Adora gathered during her rounds at the gala. But Adora simply had zero appetite for that right now. She kinda just wanted to talk about anything other than work.

"Usually, I'm the one dragging you somewhere," Adora pointed out.

"True but I gotta keep you on your toes somehow. We can't have Princess Adora, Lord Commander of the Etherian Military, getting too complacent with things, now can we?"

"How did I know you were gonna bring up our titles? Jealousy isn't a good look on you," Adora said with her best grin.

"Oh please. I'm happy with my Princess Catra, Director General blah blah blah bullshit."

Ignoring her, Adora lifted her hand and snagged some loose hair framing Catra's face. She ran her fingers through the strands, admiring their softness. She flicked her eyes back to Catra's, her expression now intense and her eyes searching. "Speaking of good looks on you, this suit and hair is just..." Adora tried, her mouth suddenly running dry. "You've been driving me crazy all night, you know that? Glimmer's gonna be pissed because I wasn't paying any attention to who I was supposed to."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah." Catra had been periodically showing up all evening to slide an arm across her back or brush a hair out of her face while they had a quick strategy talk. And those slight touches were driving her up the wall. Whether she'd meant to have that effect on Adora was known only to her and the Spirits. Though Adora suspected she knew exactly what she was doing. "So what do you say we get out of here?" Adora said, "The kids aren't supposed to be back for a while."

"Tempting, very tempting. But I want to dance, Princess. We did not come to this gala only to eat appetizers and chat up diplomats."

"We didn't?"

"Well, not all of us came here for that. I want to dance and just, you know, enjoy each other's company."

"Your wish is my command," Adora said, snagging one of Catra's hands in her own and holding tight. Catra did not mess around when it came to dancing and Adora wanted to make sure she was fully prepared to be mercilessly twirled around.

After a few upbeat songs and unrelenting dancing demands from Catra, they both breathed heavily, their faces flushed. They leaned against each other and swayed slightly to the beat. Catra's head pressed against Adora's chest with her right ear somewhat smashed against her. Their arms were around each other, holding the other tight.

"Your heart is racing," Catra murmured.

Instead of answering, Adora brought a hand up and started scratching one of her ears, enjoying the slight rumble of a purr that accompanied it. She looked down in hopes of catching Catra's eye but they were closed and her face was relaxed in an expression of pure peace.

Adora's shoulders slumped as the weight of the last few days lifted. It'd been awhile since she'd just enjoyed the moment. There was always another mission. Always someone that needed something. But this was hers and Catra's to keep. It was like the worlds and games they created decades ago. Hidden from the world and shared only with each other. It was nice.

But these things never lasted. Her responsibilities were a marathon, not a sprint. A second of peace was bought with a million completed tasks. Tasks that occupied too many of her thoughts and time. Tasks that only seemed to keep her away from Catra and the kids.

"Alright, what's wrong?" Catra asked, cracking her eyes open a bit.

"Nothing. Why would you think something's wrong?"

"Because I know you like the back of my hand?"

Adora let out a long suffering sigh that bordered on overly dramatic. Catra rolled her eyes but remained silent. After a moment, Adora said, "Do you think I'm a good mom?"

Catra's smooth movements tripped up a bit as she lost the rhythm of the song. Her eyes widened and her eyebrows shot up. Maybe she shouldn't have said anything. "This was the last thing I expected you to ask. Honestly. I think I would've been less surprised if you asked me about the mating habits of the Bharus."

"Is that a good or bad thing?"

"Adora, you're an amazing mom. I'm surprised because I guess I thought you knew?"

"I just...I don't know. The thought is always in the back of mind. Am I paying them enough attention? Am I emotionally available? Am I protecting them but also not smothering them? You know?"

"I do."

"And you're just so good at it. You always know what to say. Always know what to do. It amazes me," Adora said while shaking her head a bit. It was true. Every word. Almost everyday, she found herself admiring Catra's parenting skills. "And I love it. Love to see you with them. It's always the best part of my day. Besides when I'm actually interacting with them, of course. So you're an excellent mom, no doubt in my mind. And I just worry I'm not like that."

"Oh my sweet, wonderful, oblivious Adora. I have no idea where you got such a warped view of yourself." A beat passed before she added, "Okay, so maybe I do. But, point is, you have nothing to worry about. Which, I know, is easier said than done. Especially for a chronic worrier."

"Really?"

"Really. You're their hero. And not because you're She-Ra or you save the galaxy annually or anything like that. It's because you're just so...you."

"I have no idea what that means."

"I'm really gonna have to spell this out for you, huh?"

"Preferably."

Catra ran her hands up and down her arms in a slow, soothing pattern. "Hmmm, where to even begin? Ah, I know. You always eat my cooking without comment and you always defend me when Finn starts to complain about it. Now that's heroism."

"Well, that's easy because I do like your cooking."

"And you're relentlessly kind, if that's anything to go off of. But on a more serious note, you're our rock. You know? Always so steady and just...strong. I know I can always count on you and so do the kids. You're our go-to person."

"You think so?"

"I know so. And you know what? That doesn't even do you justice. I think I could write a book about all your good qualities. And one chapter would be titled, 'Why Adora Kicks Ass at Being a Mom.'"

She could count on one hand, maybe two, how many times she'd cried happy tears in her life. The kids' births were on the list, as was her wedding day, but beyond that she couldn't think of any other instances of good crying. But that could be changing in the next few minutes. "I can't believe you're about to make me cry in front of all our friends and every diplomat in existence."

Catra reached up and stroked her thumbs against her wet cheeks, brushing the tears away. "Let me save you from the mortification of other people knowing you have emotions."

Adora leaned down so her forehead pressed against Catra's and their noses slightly touched. Catra lightly caressed her cheeks and gave her a look that absolutely melted her heart. "Thanks," Adora whispered before adding, "You know, I could probably write a few vignettes about your good qualities. Maybe a novella if I really tried."

Catra gave her shoulder a light shove and pulled back from her with a scoff. "It's so hot when you ruin moments."

"Thank the Spirits I'm so good at it then," Adora said while grabbing Catra's hands and pulling her back in. She settled back against Adora and they started swaying to the music. They stayed like that for a few songs, not particularly caring that the dance floor started to fill up and that the tempo of the music was swinging upwards as the party drunkenly roared forward.

"And for the record, you're mine too," Catra said after a while.

"Your what?"

"My hero."

"Catra." Adora gripped her shoulders and pulled her away so they could make eye contact. She searched her face seriously before saying, "That is so corny."

Catra threw her head back and laughed, her shoulders shaking. "Ya, well, thirty years with you and the Princesses and I've gone completely soft."

"That's definitely true." Adora leaned in for a quick peck on the lips.

After they separated, Catra let out a content sigh and surveyed the room for a few seconds. Her eyes scanned the crowd, almost like she was looking for someone. Adora tried to follow her gaze but no one in particular caught her attention.

"What are you thinking about?"

"Hmmm, so much. Which I know you can't possibly understand," Catra said, turning her attention back to Adora with a grin.

"Always such a brat." Adora let her hands fall to her sides and tried her best to sound upset but was no doubt undermined by a growing smile.

Catra reached out and recaptured her hands with a gentle grip. "Sorry, you know I can't resist."

"Good thing I give as good as I get."

"True."

"So what were you just thinking about?" Adora said, "When you were looking around the crowd?"

Catra looked up at her with slightly narrowed eyes before saying, "Did you ever think we'd be here?"

"Like this gala specifically? Because, yes, I did. It's been on our schedule for months."

"No, no. Not this gala specifically. I mean did you ever think we'd reach this point in our lives? Being married, having kids, being gainfully employed?"

"Like in general? Or being married and having kids together?" Adora said.

"Both."

As a kid and then as a teenager, Adora had never dreamed of being separated from Catra. There simply was no world in which Catra wasn't a given, a constant. They'd climb the ranks together. They'd rule Etheria together. While Adora hadn't quite realized at the time what this all meant, she still never pictured a future without Catra by her side. So maybe she wasn't quite thinking about marriage and children but she was considering what a life together would look like.

Then when she left the Horde and her relationship with Catra disintegrated, she stopped thinking of the future entirely. Maybe it was the pressure of the war or the loss of her most cherished relationship. Maybe both. But Adora didn't consider what lay ahead for her. Only in hindsight, did she realize how her long-term hopes and dreams had disappeared. Later, as the war waged on, she began to operate under the assumption that she had no future. This she did kinda, sorta recognize at the time. Whereas before she didn't really think about the future, she shifted into more consciously recognizing that her life was rapidly coming to an end.

When Catra joined the Rebellion, she began thinking about what this meant for them. How'd they'd move forward together and how they'd mend their relationship. The possibility of these things not happening never crossed Adora's mind. Of course they'd figure things out. It was just a matter of how.

This was also when she started thinking about the future again. While her ability to picture the future reemerged in the Heart of Etheria, its true origins came from the moment she reconnected with Catra. Once again, she hadn't consciously recognized her paradigm shift at the time. Only during introspection and reflection had she realized that Catra's presence reignited something that long since burned out.

Things really started to solidify in her mind after the defeat of Horde Prime. When she slowed down a bit and started to view herself and Catra in more concrete terms. She'd always been a constant in Adora's life, one way or the other, but there were new terms and responsibilities being placed on their relationship. New expectations. And Adora didn't mind one bit. She'd taken a leap of faith in some ways but she hadn't done it alone.

"Etheria to Adora. Adora, come in," Catra said, interrupting her thoughts.

"Sorry, I was just thinking back over things and trying to remember what I thought. And I guess what I thought is kinda hard to articulate. But I'll give it a shot since you asked." She grabbed a hold of Catra's suit's lapels and let her arms rest against Catra's chest. "I think if we went back in time to nine-year-old Adora, I'd be like 'What? First of all, what's marriage? And secondly, I have kids? And with Catra? Gross.'"

"Nine-year-old you was a little shit."

Adora laughed before continuing, "If we talked to sixteen-year-old me, I think she'd be confused. And then she'd blush. And then she'd say something really embarrassing like, 'Oh, I guess that's what those dreams meant.'"

"Your teenage dreams in the Horde involved getting married and having kids?"

"Well, they definitely involved you but were nowhere near that wholesome."

"I like where this is going," Catra purred, her hand trailing up Adora's back.

"I'm sure you do, but I'm not done answering your question. I think if you'd asked me when I was in the Horde, I think I'd be genuinely surprised about how things have turned out. I always thought we'd be together for, well, I guess forever. I really, truly didn't even consider the possibility that we'd ever be separated. So I think us being together wouldn't be that surprising but us being together would be. And not because I didn't love you. I just didn't realize it at the time. I had no vocabulary or context about what any of those feelings meant. But honestly, I don't know if I would've been surprised for long. I mean if you think about our relationship back then for like a couple minutes hopefully things would've started to connect in my mind."

"I think you may be giving your past self way too much credit," Catra said, "I was practically throwing myself at you for years and nothing registered in that dense head of yours."

"And I am not disputing that but if I had someone to lay things out for me and explain what was happening between us, I think I would've caught on quickly. I mean and Bow and Glimmer were basically like, 'Hey the Evil Horde sucks and here's why.' And I was like, 'Wow, you're right.'"

"Ya, okay, fair enough," Catra said, "I see where you're coming from."

"If you asked me when I was around eighteen or nineteen, when I joined the Rebellion and you were still in the Horde, I think I would've been stunned. Like genuinely shocked into silence. Maybe not when I first left but certainly as the years dragged on. I, well, I thought I lost you there. So I'd be shocked but I also know I'd be beside myself with happiness. I didn't know if you'd ever come around but I never gave up hope. To find out that we're married and have kids? I don't even know if there are words to describe how happy that would've made me...Even if everything would need to be explained in excruciating detail."

"No doubt it would have to be," Catra said.

"But sometimes I didn't see a future for myself. Not really consciously but I just didn't think past the next fight or the next disaster. During those moments, I definitely wasn't thinking about getting married and having kids. And speaking of kids, there's no way I would've believed we had any. Until we changed our minds, I either didn't think about it or thought I didn't want any. So, ya, the kids I would be really surprised about."

She and Catra talked about having kids over the years. When they were younger, they came to the conclusion that they were both too messed up to responsibly have any and that they didn't particularly want them either. But as their childhood continued to disappear into the past and they moved forward in healing, both as individuals and together, they both felt like growing their family.

"So, I guess to answer your question, I'd say that it's complicated," Adora said, "At certain points, I didn't see a future for myself, let alone being married and having kids with you. But when I was thinking about the future, I never imagined it with anyone else. Does that make any sense?"

"It does. And I know I probably say this way too often but I'm so impressed with how easily you can talk about your feelings these days," Catra said, "The difference between now and even like ten years ago is astounding."

"Thank you, therapy."

Catra laughed, the sound light and raspy. She laced their fingers together on one hand and placed her other on Adora's waist. Fully expecting another round of intensive dancing, Adora put her free arm on Catra's back and held on for dear life. But instead Catra led her around in a mild dance. She seemed preoccupied with something. Something that Adora would get to the bottom of.

"What about you?" Adora asked, "Did you ever think you'd be here?"

"You know, I've kinda been thinking about this question for the last couple of days. I was digging through some boxes recently and I found my old mask. The red one. And it got me thinking. Would I ever have imagined that this would be my life? I mean I tried to burn this very castle to the ground several times. And now here I am at Bright Moon Castle, dancing in your arms at some stupid galactic gala. It boggles the mind. I never, ever would've believed someone if they told me this was in my future. At least for the first twenty-one years of my life."

Whenever Catra found some memento from her Horde days, she tended to get introspective at best and stuck in her own head at worst. Hopefully this time leaned more towards introspection.

"So, no. I wouldn't believe it and I certainly never expected it. But you know what? Thank the Spirits. Thank every god, goddess, and deity that we can think of that things did turn out this way. There's no other life I'd rather be living."

Was she really about to cry happy tears twice in the same evening? Judging by the tears welling up in her eyes, that was a yes.

"I can't believe I made you cry twice today," Catra said. She reached up and wiped Adora's tears away with the pads of her thumbs. When she looked down at Catra, she saw that tears were also forming in her eyes. "Are we really about to start sobbing in the middle of this fucking thing?"

"No?" Adora said, more tears spilling down her cheeks. "What are we even crying about?"

"We're crying 'cause we did it, Adora."

"Huh? Did what?"

"We made it. That's what we're crying about. Despite everything, we made it. And you know what's even better? We did it together. And there's no one I'd rather do it with."

Unable to resist, Adora said, "You're the only person I wanna do it with."

"Dammit, Adora." She leaned her forehead against Adora's chest and shook with laughter. She wrapped her arms around Catra and laughed along with her. Once their laughter subsided, Catra looked up at her and said, "You're the only person who can make me laugh and cry at the same time."

"You should know that I take this power very seriously."

"Good." Catra laid her head back against Adora's chest and they started moving to the slow beat. While the music had mostly been swinging up in tempo, this song was a calming change in direction led by a voice crooning for lost love.

When the next song began, Catra stretched upwards and whispered in her ear, "Hey Adora." She skimmed her claws lightly over a patch of bare skin on Adora's back. "What were you saying earlier about how I was driving you crazy?"

Adora shivered and tried to reel in her rapidly disappearing thoughts. "Maybe we should get out of here and I'll tell you more."

Catra's tail wrapped around her waist before she pulled Adora's head down to give her a kiss. As soon as their lips touched, a bolt of electricity shot through her and made every nerve stand at attention. "I do like the sound of that," Catra said while moving away from their embrace, "I'll get our coats."

A rational thought flittered through Adora's mind and she had no choice but to acknowledge it. "Wait, maybe we should stay a little bit longer? Bow and Glimmer might get mad if we leave too early."

"We have been pulling treaties out of our asses all week for them. If they get mad at us for leaving early, I'll restart the war."

"Damn, we better get going."

...

The slow, steady rumble of Catra's purr hummed through Adora's body. The weight of her body partially on top of hers pushed Adora down into their bed, at least as much as the hard mattress allowed. One of Catra's hands lazily traced the outline of her Heart tattoo and her head was tucked under Adora's chin. Her tail was wrapped around one of Adora's legs and their legs were tangled together under the covers half-pushed down the bed. She rubbed Catra's back and luxuriated in their togetherness. They were around each other almost constantly, at both work and home, but so rarely anymore were they alone together. Which was mostly fine. But perhaps selfishly she liked having Catra all to herself every now and then.

"We should have another kid."

Adora's eyes slammed open and she jerked her head back to get a better look at Catra's face. Her mismatched eyes were staring up at her and her hand was still tracing the lines of her tattoo. "What?" Adora said.

"We should have another kid."

"Oh."

"That's it?"

"No, that's not it. You just surprised me is all. What makes you think that?"

"Well, you're an amazing mom and I'm even better, obviously," Catra said, lips curling into a smirk, "It just seems like a crime to deprive the world of our excellent parenting skills. And, besides, we make very cute babies."

"We do make very cute babies," Adora admitted, "How old is Reyna now? Six, right?"

"Ya, six."

"And Finn is twelve. Why do we keep having a kid every six years?"

"Because that's how long it takes me to forget how shitty the miracle of birth is."

Adora threw back her head into the pillow and started laughing so much that her eyes watered. After she regained some semblance of control, she wiped off her face with a swipe of her hand and refocused her attention back to Catra.

"If I'd known that'd make you laugh so hard, I would've made that joke years ago."

"No, no. That was perfect timing," Adora said, "But seriously, what prompted this? I don't get the feeling this was a spur of the moment thing."

Catra looked down and away, seemingly focusing on a spot on the wall. "When I went to the doctor's a couple of weeks ago, I asked if she thought I could have another baby and she said she'd be surprised if I had any problems. Even at my age. She said that since the magic of Etheria was released, everyone was staying, for lack of a better term, younger. And that my body was aging even slower than most."

"Wow, really? I know that Etheria's magic is lengthening people's life spans but I had no idea that you were so impacted."

"That's what she said. And I mean, we do look like we're twenty years younger than we really are so I'm inclined to believe her."

"So she's not expecting any complications?" Adora said.

"She didn't seem to think there was any high-risk. She also said she didn't think we'd have much trouble conceiving."

"Well, that all sounds good." Despite Catra not answering her question about how she realized she wanted another kid, Adora decided to stay silent. She'd get there sooner or later.

"Are you happy?" So sooner it was.

Adora didn't even have to think before answering, "Definitely. I love my job and I love being married to you and I love being a mom. Thanks for making me one by the way."

"You're welcome but it does take two."

"Ya, but you still did the hard parts."

"I'd say we're both still doing the hard parts," Catra said, "Specifically, making sure that two people don't turn into assholes."

"Hard to disagree there but it helps that they're both kinda the greatest."

"All thanks to us, I think."

Adora laughed before asking, "So what about you? Are you happy?" An expected bloom of worry made her stomach churn. What if she said no?

Catra scooted up Adora's body until they were practically face-to-face. After rearranging her tail to lie across Adora's stomach, she settled back down against her side with one arm loosely looped around Adora's chest and neck. She nuzzled her jaw and rubbed her cheek against Adora's for a while. Maybe too long? She shouldn't have minded the wait, especially when it was tempered by cuddles, but she did. She really, really did. With every passing second, her stomach clenched tighter.

"More than I ever thought possible," Catra said finally, her breath tickling Adora's ear.

"Really?" The rising tension only slightly subsided.

She felt Catra nod.

She let out a deep breath and felt her chest grow lighter. "You have no idea how happy that makes me." Truer words had never been spoken. Catra's purr kicked up another notch and it reverberated through her until it was the only thing Adora could hear. "It sounds like a spaceship is about to take off in here."

"Sorry, I can't help it," Catra said.

"You don't have anything to be sorry for. I like your purr. Scratch that. I love your purr."

Catra stopped rubbing against her cheek and pulled back enough that Adora could see her face. Her eyes narrowed and it seemed like she was waiting for Adora to say something.

"What?"

"I can't believe you just made a cat pun and didn't make a big deal out of it," Catra said.

"What cat pun?" She thought back over her words. "Scratch that? Wow, I really did say that without realizing...Am I losing my touch?"

"We can only hope."

"Hey, you like my puns," Adora said, "Especially my cat puns. So do the kids. The kittens. The kiddy cats."

Catra let her head fall forward against Adora's shoulder before letting out a muffled groan. "You know how I said I was happy? I take that back."

"Sorry, you can't. You've already said it. In the immortal words of your younger self, 'No takesie backsies.'"

"You're just the worst."

"And yet here we are discussing how you want to have another child with me."

"I suppose I can't argue with that," Catra said before adding, "Do you remember when we first discovered we'd both changed our minds about kids?"

One day, when they were around thirty-five, they were sitting together on the couch and enjoying their morning tea and coffee in comfortable silence. Catra seemed a bit nervous so she'd decided to give her space. Eventually, Catra said something like, 'I think I want kids. And I know how much you love plans, so I've been-'

And then Adora had said something like, 'Ya, I think I want them too.'

Catra hadn't seemed to notice however, so she just continued rambling about a Pros and Cons list, and various books on parenting, and how she didn't want to pressure Adora into having kids if she didn't want any and that she was still in it for the long haul even if they didn't have kids. It was all very sweet and she appreciated the effort Catra took to organize her position in a way that meshed with Adora's ways of approaching the world.

When she was done, Catra looked at her a little hesitantly. Like she was going to say no. But Adora just said, 'Sounds good to me.'

As long as she lived, she'd never forget Catra's face. Just pure shock. It was funny enough that Adora had burst out laughing. Then she'd said, 'I know we're already a complete family. Me and you. But I've been feeling like we have room for more. And you know what? I think we'd be good at it.' After Catra had recovered from her initial shock, she said she'd been feeling the same way.

"Oh yes, I do. I still remember the look on your face when I agreed after your long-winded speech," Adora said, bringing her hand up to scratch Catra's head.

"Heh, ya. I still remember how surprised I was. I thought we were gonna have to analyze the shit out of everything but you were just like, 'Ya, okay.' Anyways, I guess I feel the same way we felt back then. Like there's room in our family for one more."

"Why stop there?" Adora asked, "Why not pull a Bow and Glimmer and have five."

For that remark, Catra pulled back from her nuzzling and fixed her with a glare. "I hope you're joking."

"Don't worry, I am," Adora said while massaging the inside of Catra's right ear, "But can you imagine? We'd still be parenting at like ninety. I'd lift a baby up and immediately break both arms."

"Sounds like someone needs to be drinking more milk," Catra said while settling down again. She went back to rubbing her cheek against Adora's jaw. "You don't have to decide now. We can talk about it some more. And don't feel like you have to say yes. I'll be perfectly content if you want to keep it to two."

"I feel like I want more but I think we should...I don't know? Plan it out some more. Check our finances and consider what taking off work for at least six months would mean for us. And most importantly we need to ask Reyna and Finn what they think. We can't just spring this huge life changing thing on them without making sure they're okay with another sibling."

"I completely agree," Catra said.

Adora glanced over at the clock on their nightstand and felt a rush of urgency fill her previously sated body. "Crap!"

Catra jerked in her arms, eyes wide as she met Adora's gaze. "What?"

"They'll be back any minute. But let's finish this conversation later." She disentangled herself from Catra and rolled to the side of their bed. Clothes were either getting thrown on or tossed to the other side of the bed depending on who they belonged to. In just a few minutes, Adora was dressed in her evening gown and she turned to find Catra similarly ready.

The ringing of their doorbell jolted both to action as they went to leave their bedroom. "Wait," Adora said, "Your hair." Her hands flew to Catra's hair and she smoothed out the parts sticking up.

Melog let out a loud meow from somewhere in the living room, no doubt wondering what was taking so long.

"Just a sec," Catra called. She then followed suit, combing her hands through Adora's hair until the ruffled mess became somewhat respectable. She also adjusted her diadem so it rested comfortably on her head. After they were satisfied, they made their way to the living room and then the front door.

Catra gave Melog a quick pat on the head before Adora swung the door open, revealing Reyna, Finn, and June. Reyna immediately ran over with her arms outstretched and a huge smile plastered across her face. "Mommy!"

Adora plucked her off the ground and into her arms, which was easier said than done these days considering how big she was getting. "Hello, my Little Lion," she greeted, hugging Reyna close.

Finn turned to June and said, "Thanks for letting me come over today, Mrs. Taylor. Hopefully Sarah can still come with us to the creek tomorrow?"

"You're welcome. And yes, of course. I know she's been looking forward to it all week," June said with a warm smile.

"Me too," Finn said.

"Ya, thanks for taking them tonight," Catra echoed, "We owe you guys one."

"Don't even worry about it. I'm sure Sarah will be over more than enough to make up for it," June said, "And speaking of Sarah, I better be getting back. But I hope you all have a good night."

"Good night," came the chorus of voices. Adora closed the door with one hand and followed Catra and Finn into the living room. They both sat down with a heavy sigh and leaned their heads against the back of the couch. Their movements were so alike that she had to bite down the urge to comment. Once she made the observation about how similar Finn and Catra were but it seemed to annoy Finn so now she kept those thoughts to herself.

She sat down on the carpet in front of the couch with Reyna and looked at Catra. Usually she was the one to start these sort of family conversations.

"You look so pretty," Reyna said, her little hands grabbing at her white dress.

"Why thank you," Adora said, "Do you think I look like a Princess?" She took off her diadem and handed it to Reyna. Her eyes lit up as she took it and brought it close to her face like she was inspecting it for quality.

"Yes and so does Mom." She was still so focused on her investigation that she didn't bother to look up as she answered.

"Thank you, Reyns," Catra said.

"Did you have fun tonight?" Adora asked.

"Yes! Clarissa and I played, Fight of the stables." I brought over Silver and Maple and she had Thorn and Robert. And we were trying to defend the stables from the evil Thunderstrike. And-"

Adora tried to follow what she was saying. She really did. But between the incredible political intricacies of Reyna's horse figurine world and her hold up on the fact that one of the horses was named Robert, Adora just couldn't keep it all straight. So she nodded and said the right thing when it seemed like Reyna was expecting a comment.

She was also trying to listen to Catra and Finn's conversation, which was decidedly lacking in political intrigue and constant backstabbing by Maple.

"So how do you like Sarah now?" Catra asked, "I know you said she was fun in class but weren't sure how you'd like hanging out outside of school."

"Honestly, I had a lot more fun than I expected. Sarah's really…" Finn smiled for a second before continuing, "I don't know. She's really thoughtful and stuff. And I like her mom too."

"And how about Clarissa?"

"Oh, she's fine. She and Reyna were kinda doing their own thing with their horses so I didn't talk to her much. But they all seem nice."

"That's good. And seeing her again tomorrow isn't too much?"

"Nah, she's got this way about her that's just...I don't know. I feel like I could talk to her all day and still not get bored."

Catra shot Adora a quick look that Finn didn't seem to notice. It seemed Finn had a little crush, whether or not they knew about it.

"-And that's when Tornado came in and saved the day and then her mom came in and told me it was time to go home and we had to stop," Reyna said. She remained silent and looked up at Adora.

"Thank the Spirits for Tornado," Adora said. Hopefully Tornado was a good guy.

Reyna nodded while stroking her chin. "That's what I said."

"But I bet neither Tornado or Thunderstrike have a super secret weapon that only I know of."

Reyna's ears perked. "What is it?"

"Come closer and I'll tell you."

Reyna did as she was told and crawled a little higher in Adora's arms. As soon as she was situated, Adora leaned in close and yelled, "It's the tickle monster!" Reyna laughed and shrieked as she tickled her sides, and she couldn't help but laugh along with her. Her cute face was scrunched up as she continued laughing and her tail lashed around with reckless abandon. When she started to try and wiggle away, Adora stopped and put her on the ground. "Bet you weren't expecting that."

"No, but how 'bout this?" Reyna said before pouncing on her. She hadn't planned on wrestling a six year old in her nice, rather expensive gown but she was never one to shirk her motherly duties.

Catra cleared her throat and she turned her attention back to the pair on the couch. She tapped her wrist and raised an eyebrow at Adora. A glance at the kitchen clock confirmed that it was already way past Reyna's bedtime. "Sorry, kiddo, but it's time for bed," Adora said, "We'll have to save wrestling for tomorrow."

"Aww, but I was just about to win. Are you making me go to bed because you were losing?" Reyna's eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"You know me too well." Adora winked. "But seriously, it's past your bedtime and we have a big day of adventuring ahead of us. Please go get ready for bed and then Mom and I will come and say goodnight."

"Okay," Reyna said while walking upstairs to her bedroom, dragging her tail behind her. Adora somehow suppressed a laugh at the dramatic scene but she heard a low chuckle from Catra.

After she left, Adora stood and said, "It's probably a good time for everyone to go to bed. We really do have a full day tomorrow."

Finn yawned and nodded before saying, "Ya, I'm really tired. Goodnight." They gave both her and Catra a quick hug before heading upstairs.

"It seemed like you two were having a good conversation," Adora said while picking her diadem off the floor, "I was trying to listen in as best I could but didn't catch everything."

"We were. I'll fill you in after we say goodnight." Interesting. That usually meant Catra had some insight into the kids she wanted to discuss.

Catra started up the stairs and she followed close behind. As soon as they walked into Reyna's room, her heart melted at the sight of their daughter clutching her stuffed white unicorn Reggie.

Unlike Finn, it was harder to tell that she sired Reyna. While Finn had the same blond fur and hair color as Adora and their pale blue eyes matched almost identically, Reyna shared no obvious features with her. She looked a lot like Catra despite being a couple shades darker brown and her hair was black rather than brown. Insecurity wasn't quite the right word but she kinda wished they looked more like each other. They did have the same nose. At least they had that.

"Moms," Reyna greeted from under her pink covers. A wide yawn showed off her one adult fang and various missing kitten teeth.

How was she already six? It felt like she was born only yesterday.

Adora stopped a few feet away while Catra sat on the edge of Reyna's bed and brushed some hair out of her face. "I'm glad you had so much fun today with Clarissa," Catra said, "Hopefully she can come over soon. Would you like that?"

"Yes. We didn't finish the final battle for the stable so we need to do that. We can't just leave everyone to defend themselves. They have no idea what Thunderstrike can do."

"You definitely can't just leave those poor horses to fend for themselves," Adora said, "If you can help them, you must." There was probably a better, more subtle way to teach Reyna life lessons than just out and out saying them but other methods alluded her... Maybe she needed to pick up another parenting book.

"You don't have to worry," Reyna said, "I always do the right thing, no matter what." So maybe some of those life lessons were getting absorbed.

"And we're so proud of you for trying to be the best person you can be," Catra said, "How was school by the way? We haven't talked much today."

"We've just been doing letters but that's been really boring. I tried to tell Ms. Anne that you already taught me them but she said that I needed to follow along with the class."

"And you need to listen to her, Reyns," Adora said, "Rules are important and so is listening to your teachers. They're both there to guide you."

Catra gave her a look which meant she needed to reel the intensity back in. Which was easier said than done. She didn't have the gentle touch that Catra possessed in spades. The thing that allowed Catra to make her point with an easy, comforting kindness.

"All that's true but perhaps there's something that can be done so you aren't bored in class. I'll have a talk with Ms. Anne on Monday and see if she has any ideas. Does that sound good?" Catra said.

"Ya, I don't wanna keep having to do letters every day," Reyna said before turning her attention to Adora, "But I'll be better about listening to her."

"That's what I like to hear."

"Alright, kiddo. It's time for you to get some sleep. Sleep tight and we'll see you tomorrow," Catra said. She kissed Reyna's forehead and stood up.

Adora followed suit and kissed the top of her head before saying, "Sweet dreams, my Little Lion." She walked after Catra before flicking Reyna's light off.

When they got back into the hallway, Adora said, "Night, Finny."

"Goodnight," Catra added.

A muffled, "Night," came through their door.

She followed Catra down the stairs and back into the living room. She knew Catra wanted to discuss the kids now, probably in the privacy of their bedroom, but something compelled her to instead walk to the sliding glass backdoor. She looked out and searched the backyard but the night yielded nothing out-of-the-ordinary. But that didn't necessarily mean anything. Her night vision was far less superior than Catra's or either kids'. She could-

A hand landing on her shoulder made her jump and her heart rate skyrocket. Despite knowing it was Catra, her heart still hammered away when she turned to face her wife. "Woah, jumpy," Catra said.

"Do you have an...I don't know? A weird feeling in your stomach? I've felt a little off this whole night."

"No, but I also didn't eat forty-five thousand calories in garlic bread."

"You got me there."

"You probably just need a good night's rest," Catra said.

Adora glanced back through the door to the backyard again. She knelt down by Melog, who was patiently waiting at her side. "Do you sense anything?" She gave them a scratch behind the ears for good measure.

They meowed and Catra translated, "They said they haven't seen or heard anything strange."

"That's good, I suppose. You'll let us know if that changes?"

They meowed and Adora didn't need a translation to know they'd alert her if something was wrong.

"Thanks," she said before giving them a final pat on the head. She stood and let Catra take her hand and lead her to their bedroom. Once inside, they both started taking off their various accessories while Melog got comfortable in the world's largest cat bed at the foot of the room's biggest window.

Why she felt the need to wear about a million bracelets and various rings was currently beyond her. When she was getting ready, they all seemed necessary and beautiful but now it felt like a little much. She carefully removed everything, save her wedding ring, and vowed that the next dance/gala/celebration would be simpler. Maybe she'd just wear her uniform and call it a day.

"So what were you and Finny talking about?" Adora said while also trying to undo the clasp of her necklace.

"Mostly we were talking about Sarah. How cool she is and how funny," Catra said from directly behind her. She brushed Adora's hair over one shoulder and undid her necklace.

"Thank you." She put her necklace away before turning around to face Catra. "So they like her? Like, like her I mean?"

"Oh definitely. I just don't think they know it yet. Did you see the smiles and the blushing? It was very cute and very obvious."

"They get the obliviousness from me." Adora shimmied out of her dress and then brushed past Catra to hang it up in the closet. She started pawing through one of their drawers to find a sleep shirt. Once Catra asked why she didn't just sleep naked and she told her that she wanted to be ready in case something happened in the middle of the night. To which Catra had said that a naked She-Ra was probably the most terrifying thing an intruder could see and they'd run away far before any fighting occurred. And maybe she had a point.

"I wasn't gonna say anything but…" Catra started.

"Ya, ya. I know I'm right. Hopefully they get better at recognizing their feelings."

"I think they will. But anyways, all this got me thinking that Finn is getting to the age where they need to have The Talk."

"The Talk?" Adora asked, pulling her shirt down over her head.

"You know, the one about love and sex and relationships." Catra was struggling to unpin Adora's former belt buckle and her current marriage broach from her shirt so Adora brushed Catra's hands away and undid it for her. She placed the broach right next to Catra's collection of bow ties, on top of the dresser closest to the door. Its usual spot.

"Do parents usually do that?" Adora said, "Because I gotta be honest, I was hoping the school would show a video or something."

"Well, they might but I still think we need to talk with them as well. Actually, more specifically, I was hoping that you'd talk with them."

The whole world stopped spinning at that precise moment and Adora froze. Talking about feelings and love and all that with anyone was like pulling teeth. Talking about it with her own child? That felt next to impossible. Defeating Horde Prime was easier.

Catra burst out laughing and she kept going until tears appeared in her eyes. Of course Catra was just messing with her. She wanted to be mad but she felt mostly relieved and also it was kind of funny.

Adora crossed her arms and aimed Catra with her harshest glare. "You just aged me about fifty years."

"I'm sorry but it was worth it to see the look on your face," Catra said between laughs, "It was great. I don't think I've ever seen you look so panicked."

"Cruel, so cruel. And I hope this means that you're actually planning on having The Talk with them."

"I am. Don't worry. I've been reading up on the topic," Catra said. She stepped towards Adora, her hips swinging suggestively and a smirk on her face. "And I'm sorry for aging you prematurely. I'll, uh, do anything to make it up to you." She unfolded Adora's arms and placed them over her shoulders before sliding her own hands around Adora's waist.

"Anything?" Their bodies were pressed against each other and their faces were only a few inches apart.

"Mmmhhhmm."

She leaned in and watched Catra's eyes flutter shut. Right before their lips were about to meet, Adora said, "If you do the dishes, all will be forgiven."

Catra opened her eyes and scoffed. She stepped away from Adora, put her hands on her hips, and arched an eyebrow. "Not exactly what I had in mind."

"What? The dishes are piling up."

"Fine, I'll do the damn dishes," Catra said. She intended to look grumpy but succeeded at looking cute. "But that's not because I like you."

"Love you too." Adora placed an arm around Catra's shoulders and pulled her tight against her side. She started to walk out of the closet, bringing Catra with her. "I don't know about you but I am beat. How often do we have to attend about a gazillion meetings, be charming at a gala, and entertain the kids all in one day?"

"Umm, pretty much every day?"

Adora laughed before turning Catra in her arms so they were in a loose hug. "When you're right, you're right." She placed a kiss on Catra's forehead before stepping out of the embrace and heading to her side of the bed. They both climbed in at the same time and settled so that Adora was spooning her from behind as they laid on their sides.

As a general rule of thumb, Catra's hair always somehow got in her eyes or mouth or both. It was just a part of life. And right now was no different. She brushed it downwards as best she could so it wasn't fanning out across her pillow. She accepted her fate when some hair tickled her nose. After getting as comfortable as possible, she slung an arm across Catra's waist and said, "Goodnight."

"Goodnight." Catra's hand found Adora's and she brought it up to rest against her chest.