Loki had been having strange dreams, and one night he nearly jumped as he started to wake, only to realize he was in fact being touched. "Darling? I... I think something's wrong." he said, nearly panicked as he shook Laney gently.

Laney grumbled and opened her eyes blearily. "What is it Loki?" She murmured, half asleep.

"You-your stomach... it's moving." He said, sounding not only shocked, but also scared.

She chuckled as she felt the baby kick outward once more. "It's the baby Loki," Laney said softly.

"That is little star? Are you certain?" He asked, calming himself.

"I've been hoping she would kick around you," Laney replied softly. She took his hand and placed it on her swollen belly just before the baby delivered a hard kick to her side, making Laney grunt.

"Is she hurting you?" Loki asked, quickly growing worried. "Do you need a healer?"

"It's not comfortable when she kicks hard," Laney replied as she rubbed her belly. "But no, she's not hurting me. Not on purpose."

Loki moved down so he was eye level with her belly, then gently caressed the spot the baby had just kicked. "Please settle down sweet girl, it hurts mommy when you kick like that." He said in a soft and soothing tone.

Laney felt tears well in her eyes as she moved her hand to run it through Loki's hair. She felt her kick again, but it was softer, which made her chuckle.

"That's better, thank you sweet girl." Loki said in the same soft tone, then pressed a kiss right where the kick had been. "I'm so happy I can feel you now."

"She likes your voice," Laney whispered, now looking down at Loki.

"Do you really think so?" Loki asked, glancing up at Laney. "She just kicked my hand! Do you think she can feel me like I feel her?" He asked excitedly.

Laney chuckled and nodded. "She can feel you if she kicks you and she can hear you."

"She can really hear me?" He asked, in awe. "Daddy loves you so much sweet girl." Loki said softly and kissed her swollen belly.

A tear rolled down Laney's cheek as she watched the moment unfold. "We love you too," she whispered.

Loki laid there in silence for a few minutes, just hugging Laney's belly and feeling the baby kick. The gentleness of the baby's movements nearly lulled him back to sleep.

The warmth Loki created made Laney relax. She ran her fingers across his forehead, then his cheek. "I can't wait to marry you," she murmured.

"I am working to make that happen as soon as possible darling." Loki said truthfully.

Laney smiled down at him, starting to feel sleepy again. "Could I tempt you into giving me a kiss?"

"You tempt me all the time." Loki playfully accused. Moving back to his normal place beside her, he gently cupped her cheek and pulled her into a loving kiss.

Laney slowly returned it before she nuzzled against his cheek. "I love you so much."

"I love you too darling, more than anything." He said softly, letting his hand rest on her swollen belly again.

She kissed the tip of his nose, then his lips, then his chin. "I will be forever grateful that we've been able to be together again. I don't know what I would do if I lost you."

"You will never lose me darling, I promise. If I could go back in time, I would have gone to Yamir the moment your reply was late. I wanted to tell you then how I felt..." he said truthfully. "I should have come to see you, but I thought I had lost you."

"I never stopped loving you," Laney whispered. "Even when I thought you were dead... I wanted to join you in the afterlife."

Loki looked down at her with slightly narrowed eyes. "You cannot ever think that way darling, please... I am not an easy one to kill. Even when others assume I am dead, it is more than likely I am alive. Always remember that... please." Loki said, the emotion evident in his voice.

Tears welled in Laney's eyes once more as the memory surfaced. "I actually tried... Desi found me sitting in my tub with cut wrists and legs. She told me I was lucky." Her voice sounded hollow as she recalled the memory of finding the blade. "I could only think of being with you."

Loki instantly pulled Laney into a tight embrace. "No... I would have died for real had you succeeded," He said, unable to hold back his own tears this time. "During that time... all that kept me alive was the thought of seeing you again someday."

Laney gripped onto him for dear life as she buried her head in his neck and cried. "Don't ever leave me," she whimpered, "please don't ever leave us."

"Listen to me darling, you and little star are my world. I will never, ever leave you. You have my word." He vowed, still holding her tight.

She nodded and kissed his neck with open mouthed kisses, wanting to taste his skin. "You're my world too."

Loki sighed softly at the feel of her kiss. "Should anything ever happen, I will send word to you myself, alright?"

"Yes my Loki," Laney murmured as she ran her hands down his back, then around his ribs to run up his chest.

"Starting to feel playful darling?" He asked with a little smirk.

Laney bit her lip, then slowly licked his neck. "I just want to be close to you in any way I can."

"How close do you want to be?" Loki asked with a little grin. When he pulled her into a kiss, he ran his tongue along her bottom lip to ask for her to part them.

Laney moaned softly and let him explore her mouth eagerly. When he pulled away for air she nipped his bottom lip. "As close as possible."

"We can be joined, if you like... if that won't be too much with the baby." He replied, talking against her lips.

She smiled and kissed him gently. "You can't hurt her. They say it's actually healthy to stay active and can help you go into labor when it's close enough time."

"Will it make you go into labor this early?" Loki asked, scared of doing anything that might hurt the baby.

Laney shook her head. "It's safe, I assure you."

"Alright darling." Loki said, trusting her. He slid his hand from her belly down to rest between her legs to tease her through the fabric of her gown.

Laney smirked at him, then gently captured his lips while she ran one hand down his chest to run along the waistband of his boxers. "Eager to play?" She whispered.

"If you recall, this was your idea." Loki chuckled, then pulled her gown up to tease her through her underwear.

"I know, but it's nice to tease you now and then," she retorted, then nipped his bottom lip. Loki gave a soft moan then slid his hand underneath the fabric, feeling her warmth. Laney sighed at the feeling of his warm fingers against her. "I think you're excited too," she continued to tease.

"You know it's easy to get me in the mood." Loki grinned, then started kissing her neck while he worked two of his fingers into her.

"It's easy for me as well lately," Laney replied, then moaned as Loki curled his fingers.

"I have heard that can be normal during pregnancy?" Loki asked, trying to remember but having trouble focusing as he plunged his fingers deeper into her.

Laney moaned and arched her back while her hand slid beneath his waistband and grasped his shaft. "It can be," she breathed.

Loki gasped, then moaned, already aroused. "How much of me do you want?"

She ran her hand along his shaft before she began to slowly stroke him. "As much as I can get."

"Gods that feels good." Loki moaned. He pulled his fingers from her and pulled her underwear off completely. Laney smiled and pushed his boxers down so she had more room. She made sure he watched her before she licked the palm of her hand, then returned to stroking him.

Loki bucked his hips into her hand to get more contact. "I want to be in you..." he moaned softly.

"How do you want me?" Laney asked softly as she ran her thumb over the tip of his shaft.

"Do you maybe want to try your hands and knees? It might make it easier with your belly." He suggested.

Laney nodded and leaned forward to kiss him deeply. "I'm open to anything, love."

He returned her kiss. "Or you can just move to the edge of the bed if you want, that would also work. Whatever you're more comfortable with."

"What if I stood and leaned over the bed?" Laney suggested.

"We can try, but if it's too much pressure on your belly, I want you to tell me..." Loki told her.

"Of course sweetheart," Laney murmured, then kissed him gently before she sat up.

Loki got out of bed then helped Laney up. He pulled her into a loving kiss before helping her turn to face the bed.

Laney braced her hands on the bed and pivoted her hips outward as much as she could. "I'm ready for you Loki."

He stood behind her and lined his shaft up with her entrance. As he eased into her, he moaned at how the angle had changed. "You're so tight."

The breath left Laney's lungs as she tried to back herself up against him. "That feels amazing."

"Are you ready for me to start moving?" He asked her, giving his all to holding his hips still.

"Gods... please," Laney breathed.

"Not the gods, just me." Loki teased. He pulled out nearly all the way then plunged himself back into her to the hilt, groaning at the pleasure.

Laney gripped the blankets tightly and let her head fall forward with a low moan. "Loki... please." He leaned down and kissed her lower back, then moved his hips in slower but powerful movements. "That... oh..." Laney couldn't think as her body coursed with pleasure. She tried to meet him for each thrust but the baby was making it a little harder to do so.

Loki gently but firmly held her hips as he held his pace. "Gods Laney... you feel amazing." He moaned.

"I'm... already... close," Laney gasped, feeling her legs begin to tremble.

Loki helped support her as he started to thrust a little faster. "Don't hold back." He moaned in reply.

Laney cried out in pleasure but felt just on the edge. "I'm right there... oh..."

"I'm so close." Loki moaned and moved his hips faster. She widened her legs a bit further, which helped Loki angle a different way, causing Laney to moan loudly as her climax washed over her. "Loki!" She cried, feeling that her legs wanted to give out.

Loki gave a loud moan as he spilled inside Laney. Once their passion ebbed, he pulled out and helped her lay down before her legs gave out. "That was amazing darling."

Laney gasped for air as she lazily looked up at her beloved. "You're amazing," she whispered.

"Not nearly as amazing as you are." Loki smiled then kissed her softly.

She returned his kiss, then looked out their open balcony doors. "It's close to daybreak."

"Do you want to try to sleep a bit longer?" Loki offered.

"I'd like to try to. It won't be long until we will be losing sleep," she said quietly.

"Alright darling, sleep as long as you want." He said as he climbed into bed and pulled the covers over them again.

Laney snuggled back against his chest and smiled when he rested a hand on her belly. "I love you Loki."

"I love you too Laney." He said, then moved his hand across her belly. "And I love you, little star." He added softly.

She rested her hand on top of his and soon fell asleep.

Loki slept in a little later than usual. When he finally woke up, he carefully left the bed, not wanting to wake Laney. He went to the bathroom and on his way back he saw a letter on the small table in the corner. After quickly reading what turned out to be the denial notice from the council, he made it vanish so he could be certain Laney would hear it from him.

Meanwhile, a rough kick to the ribs roused Laney awake as she rubbed her side and her stomach. "Star, please don't do that," she grumbled. Laney slowly sat up and continued to rub her belly to calm the rowdy baby.

Loki heard Laney speak and walked back to the bed. "Please relax baby girl." He said softly, leaning down to rub her belly. "I know you're a strong little one."

Laney smiled down at him. "Strong like her daddy."

"She will only grow stronger and that worries me. Her kicks already hurt you." Loki sighed softly, then kissed her belly.

"She's not injuring me," she replied softly.

"But it does cause you pain darling. Perhaps it would be better for me to stay here today?" He asked, worried about leaving her.

"You can stay if you like. I know you were going to help Thor."

"I was going to help him, but if you need me here, I will stay." He promised her.

Laney relaxed once the baby moved into a better position. "The little one is really running out of room in there. I'll be relieved to have my space back."

"Only a few more weeks darling." Loki promised. "Do you need me to stay here?"

"You know I'm just going to tell you to stay if you wish to, Loki. It's getting hard for me to stand up."

"It really isn't that easy darling... you know I always wish to stay with you... but I don't want to disappoint my brother either." Loki said truthfully.

Laney nodded and reached out to caress the side of his face. "Desi will be here and I can always call on Frigga if I need to. If you want to help your brother, then go. I don't mind you spending time with him."

Loki leaned into her touch. "You can always have word sent for me, we will only be down in the market." He promised her, then pecked her lips. "Do you want to stay here in our chambers?"

She nodded. "I think I'm going to lay in bed today when I'm not walking around."

"If it's hard for you to get up, I'm not sure walking is such a good idea... but Desi will know for sure and I trust her." He agreed. "We won't be gone long, I promise."

"I still need to get up to use the bathroom and to make sure my circulation is alright," Laney replied. She leaned up and pecked his lips. "Don't you go buying a bunch of things while you're out."

"I won't, I promise. We are on a very specific trip this time." Loki promised her. "Getting up a little bit is alright, I just don't want you to push yourself."

Laney nodded and reached out to hold his hand. "Try not to be gone long. I feel anxious when your not close by."

"We won't be, and if you send word, we will come back early." He vowed. "Desi will help you relax."

"Okay sweetheart." Laney kissed him once more. "You better go before I pull you back into bed."

"I am not going anywhere until Desi is here with you. There is no way I will leave you completely alone right now." Loki told her, then kissed her once again.

Laney nodded and let Loki deepen the kiss, opening her mouth for him to explore. When she pulled away she could see her breath as she exhaled. "I like when you do that."

"Which part of it? The deepness or the cold?" Loki asked curiously just as there was a knock on the door. "That will be your company... do you need help to clean up?" He asked as he got back to his feet to quickly dress himself.

"Please, Loki. Dressing isn't easy with this round belly." Laney scooted to the edge of the bed. "But to answer you, it's both."

Loki helped her move to the edge of the bed, then shifted her into a comfortable sundress, so she wouldn't have to move as much. "Do you want me to carry you into the sitting room?"

"I really have to pee before I do anything," she replied.

He nodded and carefully helped her to her feet. Using a quick spell, he unlocked the main door for Thor and Desi. "I know the bathroom isn't far, but I can carry you..." he offered.

"I don't mind walking," Laney said softly. "I can't always be carried."

"Alright, I will just help you then." Loki promised and kept his arm around her as they walked to the bathroom.

Laney kissed Loki's cheek before she took care of what she had to do. When she was finished, she met him back at the bathroom door. "Ready to go to the sitting room?"

"I'm ready if you are." Loki said with a smile, then helped her into the sitting room. He was happy to see that Desi had brought breakfast for her and Laney.

"Morning Desi," Laney said with a smile as she sat on the sofa and got comfortable.

"Morning! We brought breakfast, snacks, and tea. I figured that would be enough to last until the guys get back." Desi said happily.

"Thank you. That's sweet of you," Laney replied.

"I know it's hard for you to get around now, so I just wanted to make it easy." Desi said truthfully.

"We will be back soon darling." Loki told Laney and bent down to kiss her softly.

Laney returned Loki's kiss. "Be safe Loki." She looked back over at Desi with a smile. "Thanks that means a lot."

"Always darling." Loki assured her, then left with his brother.

Laney reached over to the tray and grabbed a piece of fruit and popped it in her mouth. "How did things... go yesterday?" She asked.

Desi blushed slightly at the suddenness of the question. "It went good... I dropped the spells, so we just have to wait and see now." She said, picking up a piece of fruit for herself.

"Yup! I'm not gonna lie, it'd be kinda cool for my little one to grow up with a friend," Laney admitted.

"I think it would be great! It's just such an odd feeling, not knowing. I think it would have almost been easier to be surprised like you were." Desi admitted.

Laney nodded in understanding. "I think it would be a different feeling if you were actually trying."

"What do you mean? We are trying..." Desi said, confused.

"I mean the waiting versus being surprised, like you were saying," Laney clarified. "I think it would feel different."

"You have to be at least a week along to confirm, so I could technically be pregnant now... the waiting to know for sure is brutal." She sighed, then picked out a different piece of fruit.

Laney grabbed another piece of fruit and took a large bite. "It will pass if you keep yourself busy," she assured.

"I know and finally having time off isn't helping." Desi chuckled. "What about you? How are you doing?"

"I'm okay. I just feel like a giant ball anymore," she replied.

"I've been trying to find out if there is anything we can do to lessen the effects of the baby's density, so it's easier for you... no luck so far." Desi said, disappointed.

"Thank you for trying. The way things are going I'll have to be stuck in bed before too long."

"I'm not going to give up trying in case you have more children in the future." Desi promised. "Gall has reached out to some friends of his on Jotunheim as well, to see if they know of any tricks."

"Awe, I miss Gall. Is he still supposed to be visiting?" Laney asked.

"Yep, he's planning another visit soon. I think he will be here within the next week. He is going to send word when he knows the exact date." She said happily. "He has asked if we will watch the baby again for an evening or two, so he can take his wife out." She added.

"His little boy is adorable. I hope little Star and Bran end up being friends," Laney said with a smile.

"I'm sure they will be. Maybe all three of them will be... if things go well for us." She said, blushing softly. "Dia might also be coming for a visit." She added happily.

Laney beamed. "I would love to see Dia! It's amazing how I still feel so attached to that little girl."

"I know your reasons, but I still can't believe you didn't adopt her. Her mom says they might visit just because Dia has been missing you." Desi explained.

"I couldn't. Not with the news of Loki at the time."

"I love her family, but I still wish there was some way you could adopt her." Desi said truthfully.

Laney shook her head. "Dia is happy with her family. I wouldn't want to take her from them."

"I'm not suggesting anything like that, just saying that I wish it would have worked out. I'm sure they would love to get all the kids together for play dates though." She said, changing to a happier topic.

Laney grinned. "That sounds like a great idea when the little one is old enough."

"I think it could be a lot fun to get everyone together for beach days and such!" Desi said excitedly.

"Oooh, the beach... I might see about getting in the bath tonight. I know it can't be hot, but the bath is deep enough where it could give me some relief."

"Do you want me to help you? Or there's the indoor pools. If you have a swimsuit that fits, we could hang out in the pool for a while." She suggested.

"Not much really fits anymore unfortunately. My underwear even went up a size so I could relieve some discomfort," she explained.

"It's fairly private in the pool, so one of Loki's shirts and underwear would be fine." Desi pointed out.

Laney let out a long breath. "If it's not very far to walk, I would love to."

"It isn't, and there is a bench along the way." Desi said, then stood up. "I will go get the clothes for you!" She said, then walked into the bedroom.

"Thank you Desi!" She called after her.

Desi returned a few minutes later with one of Loki's larger Midgardian shirts. "Do you think this will fit? Your fiancé is frustratingly skinny." She joked.

Laney chuckled. "It might. That's one of his night shirts."

"Let's try it then." Desi said and helped Laney move to the edge of the couch, to try the shirt on.

"Sure." Laney slipped out of the robe she was wearing, revealing her nightgown. "I'm sorry I'm still in my sleep clothes," she said softly.

"Since when do you think I would care about that?" Desi chuckled. "After all the sleepovers we've had, it doesn't bother me. We've even changed together at the clinic." She said, not bothered by it.

"I know. I think we've seen all of each other on more than one occasion," Laney commented with a chuckle as she started to slip the gown over her head.

"All of us? Are you suggesting you've seen Thor naked?" Desi asked, amused.

Laney narrowed her eyes at her friend while she let her help put Loki's shirt on. "No, you goofball. I meant you and me."

"Good, I can't have you falling in love with him." Desi teased, giggling. "How does it feel?" She asked, once the shirt was on.

Laney shrugged. "I'm comfortable. It's not squeezing me or anything, which is good."

"Alright, are you ready to go then?" Desi asked.

"As long as this shirt's long enough to cover me decently," Laney answered.

"Let's take a look." She said and helped Laney up. "Do you have any shorts? It doesn't cover the front as well."

Laney nodded and pointed back towards the bedroom. "I have a pair of sleep shorts. They should be by the bed, on the floor."

"Didn't keep them on very long?" Desi teased, then walked back to the bedroom to get the shorts, bringing them back a minute later. She knelt down and helped Laney put them on.

"I normally don't sleep in them, then put them on in the morning," Laney explained.

"That's not what I meant, and you know it." Desi chuckled. "Alright, you are fully covered now. Are you sure you're up for the walk?"

Laney nodded. "I am. I also know what you meant, and I cannot help when the feeling hits me right now."

"Laney... I was just teasing." Desi sighed, then started walking with her, letting Laney set the pace.

"I know. But it's true. It just hits me and there's times I really feel sorry for Loki because of it."

"Sorry Laney, I just can't see Loki getting upset over you wanting sex." Desi giggled and opened the door for them.

Laney laughed. "I guess you're right, but I still feel bad for jumping him. We need to work on the nursery too. I'm not sure how we're going to connect rooms or make a room."

"Have you talked with Frigga about the rooms?" Desi asked curiously, helping Laney walk down the hall.

Laney shook her head as they rounded a corner, getting close to the pool. "No, I haven't had the chance with the wedding being postponed and now the gift feast is coming up."

"Do you want me to send word for her? She might enjoy the break as well." Desi suggested.

"You can if you'd like. I've never seen Frigga ever want to swim though," Laney said just as they entered the large steamy pool room. "I hope the water is cool."

"She doesn't have to swim; she can sit on the side. It would still be a break." Desi pointed out. She stopped long enough to ask the guard to send word to Frigga. "If you want cold, it's that pool." She pointed to their left.

"I don't want it frigid, but cool and soothing," Laney explained. "What is it set to?"

Desi walked over and felt the water. "It is a little warmer than the lake." She told Laney. "It feels really nice, but I can always change the temperature."

"I'll try it. The lake was fine when we swam last," Laney said as she carefully walked down the steps and into the pool. She let out a sigh as the weight became lighter, removing her discomfort.

Desi pulled her dress off, leaving her just in her undergarments. She walked down the steps after Laney and sat down in the water. "This does feel nice."

"I'm a lot more comfortable," Laney agreed.

"That's good. It might be harder for you when you first get out though, and all the extra weight comes back." Desi said, just so Laney would be prepared. She looked up when the door opened, and smiled when she saw Frigga walk in.

"Perfect timing, I was looking for an excuse to leave that meeting." She chuckled as she walked over to them.

Laney furrowed her brow. "What meeting?" She asked curiously.

"There was a healer conference this morning. It is a standard meeting where we discuss boring statistics, where to improve, and so on." She explained and sat in a chair near the edge of the pool.

"Oh. I'm sorry that I never really got to start my position. This baby has grown so fast."

"That is fine dear and was never an issue." Frigga said sweetly and truthfully. "Each month, the head of each healing group comes together to discuss how their group is doing. It is very generalized. If there have been any minor advancements, that is also discussed." She clarified.

"That's interesting," Laney replied as she let herself sink down to her neck in the water.

"I would be even more interested to hear what's on your mind." She said with a soft smile.

Laney shrugged. "I wonder about the wedding and the giving feast. As big as I am now, I wouldn't want to wear a fancy dress or anything."

"The feast can be anytime, and you can wear whatever is most comfortable for you. Fancy or not, we have a very good tailor that can make a perfect fit." She promised.

"I wish I was still small for my wedding," Laney said softly. "Do you think my body will remember how to look normal again?"

"Of course it will, dear. Would you rather have the wedding after you recover from the baby?" Frigga asked curiously.

Laney moves to rest her arms on the edge of the pool. "Even though I want to marry Loki as soon as I can, I'm starting to think that would be best."

"He will understand dear. We will plan it for after the baby is born." Frigga promised with a soft smile. "Do you want to wait for the gifting feast as well?"

"If the gifts are for the baby, I'd like to get them before she is born. As long as I am comfortable, it should be fine."

"I think the dinner should be fine if we do it soon. Perhaps tomorrow might work. I will see what I can do." She promised.

Laney nodded. "That sounds lovely. Opening gifts is always fun."

"Tomorrow it is then!" Frigga said happily. "We will change things a little for your comfort, but it will be a lovely event!"

"Thank you, Frigga. I'm excited to see what we will get," Laney said happily.

"After the shopping spree, I will make a note that she has enough clothes." Desi joked.

Laney chuckled and nodded. "I will have to agree with you."

"There is a little contest tradition between the realms though. Has Loki told you about it?" She asked curiously.

"No he has not. What is it?" Laney asked.

"A noble from each realm will be present. The realm who sends the best gift at the end of the gift opening, you announce which realm that is, and for the remainder of the feast, you and Loki wear something traditional to that realm." She explained.

Laney grinned. "That's so unique. I've never done anything like that before."

"It is a fun tradition. The hardest part is picking your favorite gift." She chuckled. "Some of the realms take this very seriously, but it always stays peaceful."

"Well, I am sure Loki and I will look forward to participating," she said with a smile.

"I think you will enjoy it. I will make sure they take your comfort into account with whatever the winning realm picks. And don't worry, it is never anything objectionable. Whatever they pick is always to honor their realm." Frigga assured her.

Laney took a couple of steps back and ran her hands through the water in sweeping motions. "I'm excited to see what we will receive and which realm will win the contest."

"All will be revealed tomorrow." Frigga promised. "Is there anything you would like to know?"

"Who all is being invited?" Laney asked curiously.

"I will be sending invites to the friends you had listed for the wedding, then the usual invites to nobles, and to each realm for them to send their ambassador. The gifting is a smaller event than weddings." Frigga replied.

Laney nodded. "That sounds good. I'm sure Loki will be happy to hear about it this afternoon."

"I was going to let him know, but I will wait if you like to tell him." She offered.

"He's at the market with Thor, so it will have to wait either way," she replied.

"I know dear. I just didn't know if you wanted to be the one to tell him." Frigga said with a soft smile.

"Oh. Well, it doesn't matter. If you'd like to tell him, you can," Laney assured.

Frigga nodded. "Alright dear. Is the water helping you?"

Laney nodded. "It's a lot of relief to feel a bit weightless for a while. I'm enjoying it."

"I spent a decent amount of time in here when I carried Thor. He was big even as a baby." Frigga chuckled.

Laney grinned. "I think this little one is small, but her density makes her seem a lot heavier. Although Desi says I'm also carrying more water than normal too."

"That might be because she's a Jotun." Frigga pointed out. "She clearly has her father's density."

"I know. It's just odd to me how she can be more than half Jotun. I don't have any Jotun bloodline in my family," Laney said.

"She technically is only half Jotun. The Jotun traits are just extremely strong." Desi explained to Laney.

Laney nodded, taking the information in. "I hope she won't seem overly heavy to hold."

"She will be heavier than babies her size that aren't Jotun. But when you factor in the water weight and so on, I think you will be able to hold her just fine." Desi assured her.

"That's a relief. That's actually been on my mind if I'm honest," Laney replied.

"She will actually be small when she's born. I don't know why. She is perfectly healthy and developing right on schedule. I can only guess it is the same as whatever made Loki small." Desi replied.

"Small makes me hope that delivery may be easier," Laney admitted. "I'm worried about the pain."

"Delivery shouldn't be any trouble for you at all, not with the size I expect she will be. For you, the last few weeks is what will be the worst of it. Then keeping her fed. That might be tricky as well." Desi explained.

"I will try to breastfeed her, but I don't know if it will be enough," she replied.

"You should be able to, she will just need a supplement. I have already ordered everything directly from Jotunheim." Desi promised.

Laney smiled as she rubbed her belly just as the little one decided to kick, making her wince. "I'm getting to the point where I want her out."

"If needed, we can deliver her early, but you would still need to wait a few weeks." Desi said, giving Laney the option.

Laney nodded. "I will speak to Loki about it. I think I'm just ready."

"Let me know and I will get it all worked out. I will need you on the Forge again though, for a more in-depth scan." Desi told her.

"Sure," Laney replied, "Just let me know when."

"I will need to know what you and Loki agree on first. If you decide to have her early, I will arrange everything right away." Desi promised.

"I have to speak with him first," Laney replied. "I hope they aren't gone much longer."

"Do you want me to send word for them?" Desi offered.

"I wonder if they're finished with what they needed to do."

"Not yet dear, but they already plan to return by lunch regardless." Frigga told them.

Laney nodded and relaxed in the pool. "This feels amazing, but I'm starting to feel hungry, and I have to use the bathroom."

"There is a bathroom in the corner of the room, and I can have food brought here if you want." Frigga offered.

"Can you help me Desi?" Laney asked. "I'll be weak getting out."

"Of course. Are we just going to the bathroom, or going back to your chambers as well?" Desi asked, moving closer.

"I think I'd like to go back to my chambers too. I would like to rest," Laney replied.

"I will stand by to help." Frigga promised as Desi helped Laney out of the water.

"Just stand here for a moment to adjust to the weight." Desi told her.

Laney swayed and held onto the railing as she stood just outside of the pool. "This feels really heavy."

"I know. Let's just focus on getting to the bathroom and back to your chambers, alright?" Desi asked, trying to encourage her.

"Alright." Laney took a couple deep breaths, then began to slowly walk towards the bathroom.

Desi and Frigga walked on either side of Laney, helping her into the bathroom and right up to the toilet. Then, they turned around to give her privacy. When she was finished, they helped her out of the large pool room and down the hall to her chambers.

Laney sat back on her large sofa with a huff, feeling out of breath. "That... is more of a workout... than it should be."

Desi sat down with Laney and Frigga took their lunch tray from the maid that brought it. "How do you feel otherwise?" Desi asked her.

"Tired, but I'm not in pain," Laney answered. "So that's a good thing."

"That's a very good thing." Desi smiled, then looked over when Frigga set the tray down, to hand out plates. "I know it's something you and Loki need to agree on, but what are your thoughts on having her early?"

"If she is healthy and it's safe, I do not see any issue in having her early," Laney commented.

"It is a lot to arrange, so I will start when they come home. I know Loki will respect your wishes." Desi said truthfully.

"We'll have to wait and see what he says."

"I know, I just want to be ready. Just let me know right away, alright?" Desi told her, then poured each of them a cup of iced tea.

Laney nodded and took the cup when Desi offered it to her. "Of course I will. What do you think the guys are up to at the market today?"

"I honestly have no clue. When we were all here yesterday, Loki said he was helping Thor with something, but last night, Thor said he was helping Loki." Desi replied, giving a little shrug.

"I wonder what those two are up to," Laney said with narrowed eyes, then chuckled. "They have to be up to something."

"I know they wouldn't directly lie to us, so with their conflicting answers, I figure it's either a surprise for one of us, or both of us." Desi explained.

"Gods, I hope Loki isn't buying something huge for this little girl," she said with a laugh. "She already has so many things. We still need to bring a crib into the bedroom and decorate the nursery."

"Maybe he is getting a crib? I honestly can't see it being anything for me, so it must be something for you or baby." Desi pointed out.

Laney shrugged. "I have no idea Desi. I really don't."

"I guess we just have to wait until they return." Desi said, handing Laney a plate of food, all of it being from Jotunheim.

"I guess so." Laney replied, then ate a bite of bread with fruit on top.

"What should we do until then?" Desi asked, picking up her plate as well.

"I'm not sure. What would you like to do?" Laney asked, then took another bite of her food.

"We could decorate the nursery if you want. You can tell me what goes where, and I can handle the rest." Desi suggested.

"That sounds like fun," Laney replied. "It's next door but is really way too big for a nursery. Loki or Frigga have not connected it with a door yet."

"I can connect the rooms, if you want." Frigga offered, having just been listening to them contently.

Laney looked over at Frigga and grinned. "If you don't mind doing so, that would be lovely," she said.

"I don't mind at all." Frigga said happily. "Where would you like the door?"

"Could it be in our bedroom?" Laney asked. "We might move it as she gets older, but for now, that's where I'd like it to be."

"Just give me a few minutes." Frigga set her plate down as she stood, then disappeared into the bedroom.

"I kind of wish I had magic like you all have." Desi admitted.

"Using magic isn't easy," Laney commented. "Frigga taught me everything I know, but those years in Yamir really set me back. The healers there tried to teach me things, and I learned some. But not like I would have learned under Frigga's teachings."

"You are lucky to have independent magic though. Healer magic is so restricted, and then there's people like me who never even managed to master the healer magic." Desi said, still embarrassed about that.

"If you want, I'm sure Frigga could help you with your magic," Laney stated. "She knows healing magic too."

"I could never ask her to do that. She is so busy as it is..." Desi said, not wanting to admit she was too nervous to ask.

"I assure you; she would not mind Desi. Before I got too big, she was helping me and Loki with our magic a couple nights a week."

"It's different with you and Loki though. He's her son, and she practically raised you too. She doesn't owe me anything." Desi pointed out.

Laney rolled her eyes just as Frigga returned to the sitting room. "The door to the nursery is complete. Shall we decorate?" she asked.

Desi stood up and helped Laney up. "Can you make it in there?" She asked, growing worried for the strain Laney was under.

Once Laney was on her feet, she let out a breath of air. "It isn't far. I normally walk around these whole chambers for exercise while Loki does errands during the day. Although if he knew that, he'd kill me."

"He's just trying his best to take care of you. I think it's really sweet how he's so attentive to you... I even get a little jealous over it at times." Desi chuckled, then helped Laney walk into the nursery.

Laney smiled as they walked into the large room. It was bare except for a changing table, a rocking chair, and a crib, all in a dark oak wood. "Frigga... did you put these in here?" she asked.

"No dear, I didn't. This is what Loki has been working on while he's made excuses to be away." Frigga told Laney.

Tears welled in Laney's eyes as she waddled to the rocking chair and sat down. "This is so pretty. I love how dark the wood color is."

"I'm not sure if he wanted you to know this... but the reason it has taken so long... he made this all without magic." Frigga added.

Laney's eyes widened. "What?" she murmured. "He hand built all of this? It would have taken months. He had to have some help from someone."

Frigga nodded. "He has had the help of two others. One would be easy to guess, but the other might be quite shocking."

"Okay, so Thor helped," Laney stated as she sat back in the chair and looked around. "Who else?"

Frigga nodded and watched as Desi took a closer look at the furniture, now that she knew Thor had helped. "Your father helped them." Frigga told Laney.

"My... my father? Why would he even want to help after everything he's done?" Laney asked, shocked.

"He has attended court several times over the last few weeks, and I believe he is truly remorseful. It was Thor's suggestion to seek his help, and Loki was the one who went and asked him." Frigga told Laney.

"I'm surprised Loki agreed to talk to him," Laney admitted, then furrowed her brow as she used magic to change the color of the room to a light grey.

"Not really... he has not had much of a father figure, so it doesn't surprise me that he would want to help you keep your father." Frigga explained, then looked around. "Why grey?"

Laney shrugged. "Was just trying a color." She switched it to a pale pink, then grimaced. "I think that's too girly."

"What about a soft blue? Like a periwinkle? Or would that be too close to her skin tone?" Frigga asked.

"I don't know what her skin tone will be," Laney said honestly. She switched it to a navy blue and felt her shoulders relax. "It's almost like the night sky. Do you think it's too dark?"

"It might be a touch dark, but I like the idea you're going for... what about a soft sunset to get the pinks and oranges in there?" She suggested.

"On one wall?" Laney thought aloud before she waved her hand and a sunset wall quickly showed itself on the wall opposite of the crib.

Frigga looked at the wall and smiled. "It's beautiful! If you do each wall different, she can be surrounded by morning and night!"

Laney looked over at the dark blue wall where the crib sat, then she smiled softly before she silently added stars all around her crib and onto the ceiling. "Perfect."

"I love it! Now when Loki tries to surprise you, you can surprise him!" Frigga chuckled happily. "In the next few days, he should have the dresser finished and moved in, to hold all her clothes."

"I love it too," Laney said softly as she rubbed her overly round belly. "I'll have to get Loki to get the stars to glow at night. I think it'd be pretty if they did."

"Do you want me to enchant them for you? I don't mind at all." Frigga offered.

"I'd love that," Laney replied, just as she heard the distant sound of a door shutting. "Do you think they're back?"

"They could be, and they best not find us in here. Are you ready to move into one of the other rooms?" Frigga asked Laney.

Laney looked around, finding it hard to want to leave the nursery. "If I must," she said with a sigh, then smiled. "This room makes everything feel more real."

"It will be very real in a few weeks when the baby is here." Frigga smiled and watched as Desi quietly walked over and helped Laney up.

"Darling? Are you here?" Loki called out from the main door.

"In the bedroom!" Laney yelled as Frigga opened the door to the nursery.

Desi helped Laney to the bed as Frigga closed the door to the nursery behind them. A moment later, Loki walked into the bedroom. "Are you feeling right darling?" He asked, walking over to Laney.

Laney smiled at seeing Loki. "I am fine. I'm just tired. We went to the pool today, which gave me some relief."

"I wish you would have waited for me, in case you needed to be carried, but I'm glad it helped." Loki said, then leaned down to kiss her softly.

She returned his kiss and caressed his cheek before she pulled away. "I had Desi and your mother to help me."

"That is the only reason I am not upset about it. I just worry when I'm not here to help you." Loki said truthfully.

"I know. I'll be needing your help for a while after the little one is born too," she replied.

"I will be by your side to help in every way possible." Loki promised. "Even once you've recovered, I will always help."

Laney smiled up at him and quickly stole another kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too." He kissed her again. "Will you be alright while I step out and talk with mother for a minute?"

"Yes, I will be fine. I might fall asleep," she answered.

"Sleep as long as you need darling. I will just be in the sitting room, and I will be back in a few minutes." Loki promised, then stood and tucked her in. When he left, he left Desi with her, just in case.

Laney yawned and rubbed her eyes. "I am feeling quite worn out," she said softly.

"Go ahead and sleep. I'll stay with you until Loki comes back." Desi promised.

"Okay," Laney mumbled, then rolled onto her side and did her best to get comfortable before she fell asleep.

Meanwhile Loki waited until he was sure Laney was asleep, then he took the letter out and handed it to his mother. "They ruled against me..." he said softly, not meeting her eyes, or his brothers. "I'm going to tell her later... but I wanted you to know first."

Frigga looked over the letter with a growing anger. "Denying my own son... this is despicable. Loki, I am not happy they did this. I can have it overruled."

"As I said before, this isn't your fight. They made it quite clear it was about me personally... my prison sentence and such, as well as my bloodline." Loki said sadly. "Once I've told Laney, I will find out what she wants for the wedding."

"Are you sure Loki?" Frigga asked. "I know Laney will marry you with or without the title. She loves you with her whole heart."

"I'm sure. I wanted her and our daughter to be granted the title of princess... as well as the gifting feasts, royal wedding, announcements, and so on... but if I can't hold my title on my own, I can't truly pass it onto them." He replied. "This is why I hate being a Jotun." He added angrily.

"Loki, my son, I can make sure she still gets all of those things. The gift feast is tomorrow evening, and it will still happen as planned," Frigga stated.

Loki shook his head. "That is considered a royal event. It's listed right there in the letter. They were extremely thorough in listing every single thing that falls under the royal titles." He said, very frustrated by that, since it left him no loopholes.

"They will not deny me in holding a gifting feast for my future daughter in law Loki. I will put my foot down," Frigga said sternly.

"I don't want the council to cause trouble for you. I could barely get them to agree to you and Thor even attending our wedding." He said, struggling to not hate himself again as much as he used to.

Frigga shook her head and grasped his hands in hers, causing the letter to fall to the floor. "It will not be any trouble. We can play some baby games, give gifts, and enjoy good food. Let me at least give this to you son."

"For Laney's sake, I will agree that we can do something just within the family. No lords or nobles or anything, alright? I can't handle another month-long battle with those idiots." Loki said sadly.

Frigga cupped Loki's cheek with one hand as tears welled in her eyes. "I'm so sorry Loki. Truly, I am. But just know, this will always be your home. You and your family are not going anywhere, okay?"

Loki gave a little nod, then hugged his mother tight, sniffling against her shoulder. "I feel like I've failed her. I know she's not with me for the titles, but she deserves them."

"You have not failed her son. That I can assure you of. You have been with her through this whole pregnancy, and it hasn't been easy for either of you. Your little one will be here almost at any time, and I am so happy to see you like this," Frigga praised quietly.

Loki calmed himself after a few minutes. "Sorry mother, I didn't mean to... it's just been so stressful and so disheartening." He said, drying his eyes.

"I understand darling. I would be upset too," Frigga replied. "Let's just hope that things go for the best and that Laney has a peaceful delivery. Then we will worry about the rest."

Loki nodded. "Alright, I will work on making a new plan with Laney. I haven't told her about any of it yet, because I didn't want her sharing all that stress while pregnant." He said truthfully. "Carrying a Jotun child has been hard enough already."

"Hey," Frigga chastised. "None of that Loki. I mean it. Laney is very proud to be having your baby. You can see it on her face."

Loki took a deep breath, feeling horrible the moment he said it. "I know... and I love our baby already... I just hate that everything about my lineage makes life harder for her. She is absolutely amazing to stay with me through all of this."

Frigga smiled at him softly as Thor patted his shoulder in comfort. "You will make it through this Loki," he said. "I have your back, mother does too."

Loki gave them both a small smile. "Thank you, both of you. It means so much to me." He said sincerely. "The worst part of all this is having to tell Laney." He admitted.

"I think she will take it well. She decided today to wait until after the baby has arrived to get married. She's a bit cumbersome and is worried about comfort," Frigga stated.

"I was hoping she would opt to wait. I want to be wed to her, but not at any risk to her." Loki said truthfully, somewhat relieved. "That will give more time to work on the nursery."

Frigga grinned knowingly. "I am proud of you for doing that for her and your little one. Have you two thought of names?"

"We are still working on names." Loki answered, then turned to his brother. "Do you want to do something similar for your nursery?"

"Thor's nursery?" Frigga questioned.

"Oh... sorry... I thought you already told her." Loki told his brother sheepishly, sincerely apologetic.

Thor rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "Desi has agreed to try to start a family with me." He told his mother.

Frigga's eyes widened. "Why is this the first I am hearing of it?"

"We only talked about it and agreed yesterday. I had planned to tell you this evening, because we had very important business to attend to today." Thor said, then took the ring from his pocket to show her.

"Oh! Thor... she will love it," Frigga praised then brought him in for a tight hug. "I'm happy for you son."

Thor returned her hug, then put the ring away. "She is the only one I want as my queen."

Frigga smiled proudly at him. "I am happy for you Thor. I told you that you would find your special someone."

"I had some trouble believing it for the longest time, but when Des had to leave for that week... it really changed how I felt about all of it." He admitted.

"I'm happy for you Thor. I think she will accept your proposal," Frigga replied.

Thor gave a nervous chuckle. "I hope she does. I know it is quite soon, but my most trusted advisor told me that it isn't always about the amount of time." He said, giving his brother a little grin.

Frigga chuckled. "I would have to agree with him."

"So... you approve of her as my queen and the mother of some of your grandchildren?" He asked, hopeful for her approval.

"Yes Thor, I approve. She's from a good family and has brought out a lot in you in just a short time," Frigga answered.

Thor beamed at her. "Do you think father will also give his approval?"

Frigga nodded and smiled. "Yes, I think he will."

"I will ask him in the next day or two, before I ask her. We have planned that for a few days from now." Thor told his mother.

"I am happy for it," Frigga replied. "Why don't you grab Desi and let Loki and Laney relax dear? We've been here all day."

Thor nodded. "I have missed her today and look forward to spending time with her." He said truthfully, then turned to his brother. "Yes, when the time comes, I would like to give her the best nursery possible."

"I will help in every way I can." Loki promised, then returned to his room to nap with Laney, sending Desi out.