Chapter Five
Leia could hear Adelyn's cartoons playing, even from her spot in the home office. The little ones giggles echoed through out the house, as she laughed at the various characters on the screen. Her daughters laugh could warm any mood, even Leia's current stressed state. Looking down to her data pad, she noted the time of the small conference. She didn't have any problem talking publicly, even with the press. She had been doing this too long to still be nervous about speaking publicly. But she was a little worried about the announcement. Leia honestly wasn't sure why, she didn't care how they reacted, but maybe part of her held on to the memories from the first time. She'd been busy, of course she had been so very busy. The war was going strong, but it didn't stop her from hearing the whispers or the looks. After everyone found out about Adelyn, things started to change. She changed, no matter the looks or the stares she focused on the baby and ending the war. But the names and comments about her and Adelyn both, stung. Until eventually making her block it all out, and saying to hell with all of them. Chewie and Luke had been helpful in that aspect. Distracting her mind, or Chewie offering to rip anyones arms off that dared call her a smugglers whore or Adelyn the Bespin bastard. While she had declined his offer, it had made her smile. Now, she knew times were different. What was there to whisper about this time around? She was married, publicly with Han and was a mother to a little girl the Galaxy loved.
Her emotions were getting the best of her, some unknown anxiety about announcing this pregnancy. She suspected it had something to do with her dream last night. It had felt so real and the emotion was raw. She had been in her present life, but the dream took a dark turn when she realized Han wasn't with her. He was just gone, and she couldn't find him. Adelyn continued to ask her where her father had gone, but Leia didn't have the answer. The dream continued to pull at her emotions and her fears, as her stomach grew, she realized more and more that Han was gone and that she would be doing this all alone again. Adelyn's usual smile was gone from her dream, instead was replaced with a tearful stare. She begged to know where Han had gone, and Leia couldn't speak. She couldn't answer, all she could do was clutch her stomach. There were voices yelling at her, the same voices from all those years ago. The ones that called her a smugglers whore, or told her she would be alone forever. It soon all blurred together, and all she could do was focus on the kicks coming from inside her.
She'd woken with a start after that. Her heart was pounding and tears were threatening to fall down her face. One simple glance to her side, proved that Han was not gone. He was laying beside her, and his hand reached out for her. His hushed voice asked if she was alright and she had nodded, before laying back down in his arms. She'd stared at him for hours after that, her dreams making a fear rise up inside her.
"You look like your thinking hard," Leia heard Han say, as she looked up at him. He rested against the doorway to her office, staring in at her.
"I am," She nodded. with a sad smile.
"Anything I can help with?" He asked, moving to step in the room and take a seat bye the side of her desk.
"I'm being ridiculous."
"What's wrong Leia?" Han asked her.
"I'm being stupid, thinking about a different time. Different circumstances," she explained.
"Like what?" He asked, reaching over and running his hand over her cheek.
"We make the announcement tomorrow. It's a small setting, just a small conference," She explained, but he already knew this. Han nodded, waiting for her to continue. "Why am I so worried everyone will react badly. I don't care what they think! I just don't want the hassle of it all again…"
"The hassle of being pregnant?"
"No, the hassle of listening to everyone whisper behind my back like I can't hear them!"
"Oh," Han mumbled.
"It's not the same now, and I know that. I think my emotions are getting the best of me. We're not in the middle of a war and these babies aren't that much of a surprise. We're married and everyone knows about us, you're here. You're here with me! So why am I being so ridiculous with these thoughts from years ago?"
"You're allowed to be worried. I gotta agree, things are different, nothing bad will happen after the conference."
"I know…" She sighed. "My mind…It's playing tricks on me."
"Maybe you never really dealt with all the things that were said, or the way people treated you back then. You just pushed it down and focused on other things. Now that your pregnant again, its bringing those memories back?" Han suggested.
"Maybe, I'm still being stupid," She huffed.
"You're not stupid," He said, leaning over and kissing her forehead. "This have anything to do with your dream last night?" He asked her softly. Leia stayed quiet, looking down to her lap. She thought he had been too sleepy to remember that, but clearly he had heard her wake from that nightmare.
"Maybe…"
"What was it about?"
"It will upset you," She sighed.
"You're upset, so I need to know," Han pushed.
"I dreamed the conference went bad and suddenly you weren't here."
"Leia…" He sighed.
"I know you're here. It's just my mind toying with me. You were just gone and I didn't know where you were. Adelyn kept asking about you and crying for you. I didn't know what to do. I felt…I felt so alone Han. I could feel the babies kicking and I just kept thinking over and over that I would have to do this all over again, by myself," Leia explained with a wince. She didn't want to hurt Han, or make him feel bad. But she also knew she needed to tell someone about her dream. It was ridiculous and she knew that Han wasn't going anywhere. But those past memories were coming back so strong these days. Maybe Han was right, she had pushed so many of those feelings away, they were escaping now.
"Leia, look at me," Han whispered, lifting her chin and looking into her eyes. "I'm not going anywhere…" He promised her, and she smiled softly.
"I know that. I know it, I don't know why I had that dream. Or why I keep thinking about it…"
"I'm not an expert Leia. But I think it's normal to think about your previous pregnancy. For you it wasn't a positive time. So now you're comparing it to this one," Han said running his hands over her stomach.
"I don't want to feel anxious or negative about this," She said, circling her hands over her belly.
"You don't, you just want to protect them. The same way you protected Adelyn from all of that. You're a good mom Leia."
"I try," She sighed.
"You are, and listen I'm here with you. I'm always going to be here, and no one will change that. See what happens if someone calls you names this time around," Han warned and Leia laughed.
"You're so terrifying," She mocked.
"I am," Han said with a nod.
"I don't care if they call me names. I don't care about them at all, I really don't. I just want my mind to stop making me feel this way, whatever connection I keep making…It's not how I want to feel. I don't want to have nightmares about losing you again, it hurts too much."
"Should you talk to Luke about it?"
"Maybe…I don't even know if its force related. With my luck it's probably just hormone related," Leia sighed.
"Doesn't matter, we should make sure you can't like…meditate on it?" Han suggested, question in his tone. Leia smiled up at him. He was so funny when he tried to talk like a Jedi.
"Meditate on it?"
"I don't know what you and Luke do," He added with a shrug.
"I'll mention it to him, he'll be here after the conference."
"You told him about the twins yet?" Han asked with a smirk. Leia shook her head no and stood up.
"He'll be way too excited for me to handle," She said rolling her eyes.
"He's a happy Uncle! Chewie was happy," Han told her.
"I know, I know. Neither one of them will be waking up with two babies in the middle of the night."
"Yeah, well. I'll take most the shifts, how about that?" Han asked, running his hand over her growing middle.
"I'll hold you to that," She whispered, leaning in and kissing his chin. Her eyes fell closed as Han's arms wrapped around her. She felt safe in his hold, it calmed her thoughts or memories from her dreams.
"I'm not going anywhere sweetheart," He reminded her.
"Good."
—-
The room was a decent size, not too big but not too small that everyone felt overcrowded. There were a handful of members from the press and a few officials that had insisted on being there. She wondered if they were more interested in the publics reaction then supporting her. It didn't matter, she'd made a lot of statements in her career as a politician and this would be no different. It was straight and to the point. Han was probably more worried then she was. He didn't like when everyone was staring at him, and he had insisted on standing on the stage with her for this. Chewie and Luke were in the back room with Adelyn. The little girl wanted to go out on stage with her parents, but they had decided against it. The press was always fascinated by her, and sometimes they were too interested in her and it scared Adelyn. She'd never admit it, Adelyn insisted on being strong like her mother, like her family. But she was still a little girl. The screams and the questions, all the flashing images around her, perhaps she would get used to it as she grew up, like Leia had. But for now Han and Leia would only work to protect their daughter from all of that.
As they stepped out on the stage, Han took hold of her hand as the flashbulbs started going off. Leia's long dark dress swayed around her with each step they took. The layers of purple fabric helped to disguise her rounded middle, and keep the announcement a bit of secret. At least after today she wouldn't have to worry about which dress would conceal her current condition or how many layers she needed to wear. One less thing to worry about. Glancing out and around Leia nodded and smiled at the group. Everyone was calling their names, but Han chose to focus on his wife instead of the people out in front of them. She looked beautiful, and that lovely glow she had been denying was shining bright today. Han always thought his wife was beautiful, she was the most beautiful girl in this galaxy. But there was something special about her current pregnant self. Glowing beauty perhaps. Han wasn't sure what it was, but he liked it and understood just how lucky he was to have her as his wife. The beaded fabric around her neckline caught the lights around them and only added to the glow that Leia seemed to have. She caught his gaze, her eyes full of nothing but love. She offered him a soft smile, as she stepped up to the microphone.
"Good afternoon," Leia said to the crowd. "Thank you for being with us today. This conference will be short, I know we all have busy days. My husband and I wished to make a public statement for you all today. As you know Captain Solo and I are blessed with an amazing daughter," Leia said, squeezing Han's hand and offering him another smile. Han nodded, urging her to continue. "In the coming months we will be growing our family," Leia started, as questions immediately started coming in.
"Ambassador! Are you expecting!?"
"When are you due?"
"Are you adopting?"
"How are you growing your family!?"
"Princess Leia! Captain Solo!"
"As I was saying," Leia said waving them off and silencing their questions. " Our family will be growing in the coming months, today my husband and I are announcing my pregnancy."
"When are you due Princess?!"
"Is it a boy or a girl?"
"Was this baby planned?" The questions continued to shout out.
"However I will not be announcing when I'm due, or further details on the pregnancy. I'm sure you can understand, we would like to keep some things private," Leia explained. "My husband and I are very excited to be growing our family and welcoming this pregnancy."
"Captain Solo are you excited to be here this time around?!"
"Yes! Han are you ready to handle a baby?" The questions hit Han and he swallowed hard. He didn't want to react, no matter how much the question hurt, he knew Leia could handle it and would speak a lot better then he could. Leia glanced to her side, looking over to make sure he was alright. Her eyes showed nothing but care and love, a simple gesture that reassured him she could handle it all. Slowly her voice answered for both of them.
"I'm very pleased that Captain Solo has the choice to be by my side this time around. He is a wonderful father to our daughter and will no doubt be an amazing dad to our new addition. I am very lucky to have him as my husband," Leia answered softly, looking to Han. He nodded and grinned back at a her. She knew how to speak to the public so well. He'd rather she do all the talking.
"What does young Adelyn think?" Someone called out.
"My daughter is very excited to be a big sister. We are all very pleased to be growing our family."
"Will you be continuing to work?" Some asked.
"Yes, for now nothing will change for my position or my duties. At the appropriate time I will take leave as most women do. For now my health and the baby's health are both well, and that's whats important."
"Did you work through your first pregnancy Princess?" Some asked, curiosity getting the best of them. It wasn't as if she was making statements back then. Everything was based upon rumors in those days.
"I did work through out my pregnancy with my daughter."
"During the war?" Some asked a bit of shock in their voice.
"Yes, clearly I was not allowed on the front lines. But I didn't hide away through out the nine months."
"Captain Solo, would you have allowed the Princess to work in the war if you had been around?" Someone asked, and Leia held back an eye roll. To Leia's surprise she heard Han's voice speak out.
"Leia doesn't need my permission to do things, clearly I would have been by her side back then through out whatever decision she made," Han said quickly but sternly. Leia smiled towards him, her mind silently chanting how much she loved him. I love you Han Solo.
"Are there any other questions?" Leia asked.
"Is it a boy or a girl?" Someone called out again, but Leia only offered them a smile.
"Thank you for joining us today, I'm sure we'll share more information about our family when the time comes. Have a good day," Leia said softly, before tugging on Han's hand and walking out of the room. The questions continued, even as they were out of sight. Han pulled Leia closer, his hand resting against her hidden bump. His face leaned into hers, as he gently kissed her.
"That went well," Han whispered against her lips.
"It did go good," Leia agreed. "I love you, you know?"
"I do know," Han nodded, tucking a bit of her hair behind her ear. Leia stared up at him, her hand falling over top of Han's on her stomach.
"How are you feeling?" He asked.
"I'm glad that's over, and I might want a nap," She admitted, with a short laugh.
"We'll make sure that happens," Han nodded, as both Han and Leia turned to the sound of their daughters voice.
"Mom!" Adelyn called skipping towards her parents.
"Hi baby, did you have fun with your Uncles?"
"I was watching you and dad," Adelyn explained, her head leaning in close to Leia's middle. She was growing more and more interested in politics, Leia's position and press conferences. Leia wasn't sure if that scared her or made her proud. "Hi babies," Adelyn whispered to her belly. Han smirked, and leaned over to pick up his daughter.
"How'd we look kid?" He asked her. Adelyn pretended to think about it for a moment before a giggle escaped her.
"Mom looks pretty," She said softly.
"What about me?" Han asked, looking offended.
"Daddy's pretty too," Leia spoke up.
"I'm pretty?" Han questioned.
"You're handsome," Leia suggested instead.
"I thought I was hot?" Han said with a smirk as they started to walk towards Chewie and Luke.
"Sometimes," Leia muttered.
"You thought I was last night," Han teased, and Leia pinched at his side.
"Good speech," Luke said offering his sister a hug.
"It was hardly a speech, Luke," She said hugging him back.
"Still good, I don't know how you talk to that many people without being nervous."
"I hide my nerves," Leia said with a shrug.
"Still very good Princess," Chewie added.
"Let's get you home," Han said ushering everyone out and towards their speeder. They could continue the family gathering in more private settings. Besides Leia had something she wanted to tell Luke.
By some miracle they weren't rushed as they left the building and were able to make it to the speeder and home without much hassle. Leia assumed all of the press were busy writing their new articles about her pregnancy. She wondered what the headlines would be, but she didn't dwell on it. She was trying to distance herself from those false thoughts her dreams had offered her. This was a time for her to be happy and enjoy the time. Not be constantly worried.
Stepping inside their home, Adelyn rushed to her room, eager to show Luke some of her new drawings. She was always thrilled when her Uncle visited Coruscant.
"She'll keep you busy," Leia said with a sigh as she plopped down on the couch. Pulling at the layers of her dress, Leia let the panels of purple fabric fall against her sides, as the main dress hugged her stomach. Running her fingers over her rounded belly, she looked up to see Luke staring at her. "What?" She asked.
"You're…never mind," He said dismissing the thoughts and moving to sit beside his sister.
"What is it?" Leia questioned.
"I don't want to offend you," Luke sighed.
"Gods Luke, what is it?"
"Your belly is getting bigger a lot faster this time around? Isn't it?" Luke questioned. He was trying to remember back to when she was pregnant with Adelyn, and she was able to keep that quiet for several months. Maybe his math was wrong, but it seemed like Leia's pregnancy was progressing a lot faster this time around. Perhaps this was something that happened with second pregnancies? Luke wasn't sure, and he was not an expert on pregnancy or pregnant women for that matter. It was just something he had noted, and carefully told his sister. Leia tried to offer him a stern look, pretending to be mad at him, but she couldn't hold it. She let out a small laugh and Luke looked at her like she was crazy.
"I'm not offended," Leia said waving him off.
"You're not?"
"No, you're right, I'm bigger this time and there is a reason," Leia said softly, running patterns over the soft fabric that covered her. "Han?" She called, assuming he was in the kitchen with Chewie.
"You alright?" He asked, stepping behind her on the couch. Leia's hand reached behind her and grabbed hold of Han's hand.
"Luke wants to know why I'm already so big," Leia explained softly, as Chewie let out a snort kind of sound.
"That is not a nice thing to ask your sister," Chewie reminded Luke.
"She said she wasn't offended!" Luke protested and Leia laughed again.
"It's alright Chewie. So Han and I have something to tell you," Leia said turning her attention back to Luke.
"Baby ok?" Luke asked fear evident in his voice.
"Just fine, both of them," Leia said, the words rolling of her tongue in a way that almost made Luke miss them.
"Both of them?" Luke questioned, looking for Leia to Han and back down to her stomach.
"Both of them, kid," Han agreed.
"You?…" Luke started but stopped.
"I'm pregnant with twins," Leia said and Luke's smile erupted on his face.
"Really!" He practically shouted, making Leia jump. "Leia! Thats great!"
"I told you he would be excited," Leia mumbled to her husband.
"Clearly," Han chuckled.
"They're both healthy?" Luke asked.
"Of course, just taking up more room," Han added, reaching over to touch Leia's stomach.
"Leia, that's great! Do you know what you're having?"
"It's a boy and a girl," Leia told him and his face continued to light up.
"Leia!" He shouted, making Leia jump once more. He grabbed her hands and squeezed them. "I'm so happy for you. Twins must run in our bloodline!"
"Perhaps," Leia said with a soft sigh.
"You happy?" He asked.
"I am, I think I was just surprised."
"Of course, you weren't expecting it, But you don't have to worry about anything," Luke said with a shrug.
"No? I figured two screaming babies was something to worry about?" Leia teased.
"I just mean…Han's here with you," Luke stressed. "I'm really glad you're here buddy," Luke added looking up to Han with a bright smile.
"Me too kid, wouldn't miss it. Even when both of them are screaming," Han smirked, kissing the top of Leia's head, and moving back to the kitchen with Chewie.
"You're excited?" Leia assumed.
"I'm always happy for you Leia. Gods, I was happy for you when you told me about Adelyn. It was a stressful situation of course, but I knew you'd be a good mom…." Luke trailed off, his mind darting to possibilities.
"What's on your mind?" She asked.
"Do you think they'll be able to feel each other like we do?" Luke asked, his Jedi Master mind taking control, and thinking about what this meant with regards to the force.
"I suppose. I think it will be the same for everyone in our family," She shrugged. "Adelyn can feel them. Perhaps its simply to do with siblings," Leia suggested.
"Maybe, You can feel them too?"
"Not at first, well…I could feel the pregnancy but I didn't realize there were two, It's more clear now."
"Something with being their mother perhaps, It's all fascinating," Luke said with a nod.
"Don't turn me into a force experiment," Leia warned and Luke laughed.
"Nah, I wouldn't do that. Don't wanna be on your bad side. You're better with a blaster then I am," Luke shrugged.
"You have a light saber!"
"I think you could handle me."
Leia smirked at her brother, while she doubted that was true, it was nice that he thought it. Then again, she was a damn good shot.
"Can I?" Luke questioned, looking to her belly. Not wanting to overstep.
"Yes Luke," She smiled, reaching out and resting his hand over where her children rest. Luke stayed quiet for a moment, closing his eyes and clearly focusing his mind. Leia watched him, as another smile formed on his lips.
"They feel strong Leia."
"They do," She agreed.
"Lots of love," He added and Leia smiled. She wanted them to feel love, so much love.
"Leia you want something to drink?" Han called from the kitchen.
"A cup of caf would be great!" She called back. Just like her first pregnancy she had been craving Corellian Caf like crazy.
"No!" Han and Chewie both called back to her and she smiled. They wouldn't let her, said their was too much caffeine in it for her and the babies. But she still tried every morning and craved that dark tastes against her tongue.
"You should know better Leia," Luke added with a grin, remembering how she tried it last time as well.
"I can try, Its just a cup of caf."
"That Corellian stuff is powerful,"
"Spoil my fun," She sighed, laying back against the back of the couch. Maybe she could use that nap now.
—-
Adelyn skipped forward, her mother not far from her. They walked up towards the steps of the school, another bright and early day for the both of them. But Leia was feeling amazing today, she hadn't been sick this morning and had woke up with a great amount of energy. Adelyn was always a bubbly child in the morning, and made Han and Leia both smile even on the days when they were exhausted. It was a warm day today, and Leia was grateful she could openly were simple outfits again. She didn't have to worry about layers or hiding the belly any longer. So today she was taking advantage of that and was wearing a flowy light green dress. The fabric was comfortable and soft against her skin, but gave her enough movement to allow for her growing belly. Much more casual then she had been wearing lately, but she didn't have to go in to work today. So she decided to be comfortable and relaxed for a day. Even her hair was more relaxed today. She left her simple wavy locks down and opted for a simple braid along the back. Nothing too fancy, and loose enough to give her scalp a break from the constant hairstyles she insisted on wearing. It was a nice feeling, being simply relaxed for a day and enjoying her current state.
Looking back to her mother, Adelyn smiled and ran back to her side. She clutched her mothers hand and squeezed. Touching at her mothers dress slightly, Adelyn grinned up at her. Leia couldn't help but think she looked like Han when she used that specific grin.
"I like when you take me to school," Adelyn told her and Leia smiled. For years, Leia had been the one to drop her off at school, or Chewie. But since Han had come back into their life he had taken up the job. Adelyn loved it as well, she loved spending time with both of her parents, but walking forward with her mother was always a calming activity. Han was at work this morning, so Leia was happy to drop her daughter off and see her off to her classroom. She was growing so fast, and Leia wished she could pause these moments. She was so proud of the girl her daughter was growing into. Even at this young age, Leia knew she was becoming an amazing person. She only wished things would slow down. Why did time have to move so fast? Before they knew it the twins would be here and then they would start to grow just as fast. Time moved far too quickly in this galaxy.
"I like it too sweetie," Leia agreed.
"Where's dad?"
"He had to get up super early and sort out a few more things at work," Leia explained, remembering his kiss against her cheek this morning as he rolled out of bed. Her hands had tried to keep him in bed next to her, but he insisted he had to get up. She let him go, after a few, alright several deep kisses. She had heard him laugh as he got out of bed and Leia rolled back over to sleep again. These twins were definitely taking her energy from her. But now she felt amazing and energized, maybe it was Han's early morning kisses that had done the trick.
"Boring," Adelyn said rolling her little eyes and Leia laughed. Adelyn wasn't overly interest in Han's business. Han didn't mind, she was still very interested in the Falcon and helping him fix the old ship up, and he'd take that over boring business any day. She looked forward to the day when her father would teach her how to fly the Falcon!
"Your dad doesn't think so,"
"Dad is silly sometimes."
"But we love him."
"Of course we love him Mom," Adelyn said, surprised she would think otherwise.
"You gonna have a good day at school?" Leia asked her.
"I think so, Gwen and I have art class today,"
"Good, you'll create another beautiful picture to hang up at home?"
"I think so," Adelyn nodded, her confidence refreshing. Leia hoped she kept it as she continued to grow.
"Alright baby, give me a hug, Dad will pick you up after school."
"Ok Mom," Adelyn nodded hugging her tight and resting her face against her mom's growing belly. "Bye twins," Adelyn whispered to them.
"Have a good day baby," Leia said waving her off. She watched as her daughter ran off and into her school. Leia smiled and turned to leave when a body stopped her.
"Oh Leia!" She heard the high pitched voice say. Looking up Leia sighed, and tried to control her eye roll, Just like her mother had taught her.
"Oh Abree, nice to see you," Leia said softly.
"You too Leia, you look lovely," She said looking down to her swollen middle.
"Thank you, Are you dropping Gwen off?" Leia asked, assuming her daughters best friend was already inside, now she only had to handle her mother.
"I am, it's my week with her," She explained with a shrug.
"Well it was nice seeing you," Leia said trying to walk around her, but Abree's hand stopped her.
"So Leia, I can't believe you're pregnant again," She started, and there it was. Leia tensed and tried to relax the muscles along her jawline.
"It's pretty evident now," Leia said with a shrug as she rested her hand on her stomach.
"Oh I know! I mean you look really pregnant already. I saw the press conference! I just couldn't believe you would have more children,"
"Why's that?"
"Well one was enough for me, and I would have thought you would have wanted more time with your husband."
"Han and I are happy to be growing our family," Leia said slowly.
"I see, I suppose Captain Solo missed out the first time around…must want to know what it's like. Did you use nannies with Adelyn?"
"No I did not."
"Oh you should this time around, you are older and Han…he is quite a bit older then you isn't he?" She asked, the stings trying to come through, but Leia refused to react to them.
"Can't remember," Leia said starting to walk away.
"I just mean…Captain Solo, he's barely been back," She said with a dark smile.
"Meaning?" Leia questioned.
"He barely had time to readjust before you were forcing him into the life as a father and then your husband ,and now you're doing it all over again. I thought you would have been looking out for someone you love a little better."
"Han is perfectly happy being a father and my husband."
"Oh I'm sure, Just some thoughts really…"
"Why do you do this Abree?" Leia questioned, her restraint slipping.
"I'm sorry?"
"Pick and add commentary to my life? You did it years ago and now here you are still doing it today."
"I don't know what you mean Leia," She said with an uncomfortable shrug.
"Yes you do. My family and I are perfectly happy but you insist on finding something wrong with that. You called me a smugglers whore, only to ask Han to go out for caf with you when he returned. You joked about Adelyn being a bastard and now I'm married and adding to my family and you still have to try and insult that! It's not working, no matter what you say or do my family isn't changing to please you."
"Leia…"
"No, you needed to hear it. I'm tired of being polite to you, when you are nothing but rude to me. You're daughter is a sweetheart and your ex is a kind man. I'd much rather deal with them then to have another conversation with you."
"I think you're hormones are a bit out of control!" Abree snapped back and Leia smirked.
"You're probably right, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm happy, and I don't think you are Abree. Maybe you never were, and that's why you and your friends felt the need to try and bring me down. It didn't work and it's not working now."
"I don't know what you mean," She bit out, Leia's words clearly effecting her.
"Of course you don't. It doesn't matter, I've said it and you know what I mean. I hope you can find that happiness you're clearly missing out on, so you can stop trying to invade mine, excuse me," Leia quickly said, as she stepped away from her and left her to handle that sting of her own.
—-
Han heard the Falcon open, as he looked up from the paperwork spread across the chess table. He heard footsteps walking on to his ship and he smiled as his wife turned the corner. He had saw her very early this morning, but it was for a short time. He assumed she had just taken Adelyn to school. Han was pleased she had decided to stop by the ship.
"Morning," He said with a smile, taking in her relaxed look. She looked beautiful. He couldn't help but enjoy the way her dress swayed around her body and fell of her shoulders.
"Good morning," She sighed, stepping forward to him and standing beside his seated spot.
"You aright? He asked, rubbing her belly, before pulling her to sit down in his lap.
"I'll survive."
"What happened?"
"I ran into Abree…"
"And?"
"We shared words."
"Is that the political way of saying you had a fight?" Han asked with a chuckle.
"Not a fight, I didn't yell at her! I didn't hit her! Or pull a blaster out!" Leia insisted and Han let out a loud laugh.
"What was it about sweetheart?" He asked, his fingers moving up to massage her neck and her shoulders, her dress allowed perfect access to her bare skin.
"She tried to make it sound like I was forcing this life on you," Leia bit out.
"What life? What did you force on me?"
"Fatherhood, being my husband and having more children."
"Leia," Han laughed. The idea was absurd and he hoped Leia knew that.
"I know, Its stupid, But I just snapped. She doesn't know anything about you or me, us or our family."
"She doesn't, she's jealous," Han added.
"I all but said that,"
"You didn't?" Han laughed.
"I may have told her to find her own happiness and stop focusing on mine," Leia shrugged.
"Hmm I like when your feisty," Han whispered, kissing her bare neck. Leia laughed, his kisses tickling against her skin.
"I'll regret it later, when I realized what I said."
"Nothing to regret! She's been being a bitch to you for far too long, Leia! You were bound to snap at one point," He assured her, kissing her shoulder.
"I'm too heavy…" She told him, moving to stand from his lap, but his arms tightened their hold on her.
"Nah, I like you right here like this. You have work today?" He asked, nipping at her neck and to her ear.
"No?"
"Good," He said, quickly lifting her from his lap and setting her on the chess table. She let out a yelp, looking down at all the papers she was sitting on. Han stepped between her legs and ran his hands up her thighs, pushing the light fabric up her legs. Leaning in, Han pressed his lips against hers and she sighed. She hadn't come here for this, but she wasn't complaining now. How was it possible for his kisses to get even better, every time he kissed her it was new, yet familiar. She could easily kiss this man all day long and die from lack of air, she'd still be happy. His fingers continued their dance on her thighs, the combination of the soft fabric and his rough hands against her skin was driving her crazy.
"Did you shut the ship?" He questioned, and Leia shook her head no. Han quickly stepped away from her and moved down the hall. Leia tried to catch her breath, she was sure her cheeks were flushed now, as she waited for Han to return. He had a constant smirk across his face as he walked back towards her and found her knees to rest his hands on.
"What's gotten into you?" She whispered, her voice still out of breath from their kisses.
"That was some kiss this morning, been thinking about it all day."
"Oh yeah?"
"Mmmhmm," He mumbled, kissing her again. "Been thinking about a couple other things too," He added.
"Like what?"
"Bespin," He whispered.
"Why?" She asked, her hands moving up his chest and wrapping around his neck.
"Hmmm this table…good memories."
Leia looked down at the table and let a blush fill her face. She knew what he meant now, she remembered it. She actually remembered it vividly. Their late night adventure to find some food, which led them to this table. Han had lifted her up on top of it, very similar to how he just had. She'd only been wearing his shirt, it barely covered her legs, which only urged Han on. She'd tried to suggest they go back to his cabin, but he had insisted it would be good here, like this. And he didn't disappoint. It had been an amazing night, right up until Chewie had walked out and interrupted them.
"I couldn't look at Chewie for days," Leia reminded her husband and he laughed.
"He got over it, and besides he's not here right now."
"He's not," Leia agreed.
"You look really good today…" Han whispered against her ear, dropping kisses on any bare skin he could find.
"Do I?"
"Yes…wear this dress more often.."
"I thought you'd want me to wear nothing more often," she teased and he groaned against her neck.
"That too!"
"Aren't you working?" She questioned, looking back at the stack of papers.
"You're more important."
"Am I now, I feel loved."
"You should always feel loved, or I ain't doing my job right," He mumbled against her lips, grabbing the back of her head and deepening their kiss. Her eyes fluttered open to look at him, before settling down and closing again. Her fingers moved down his chest, pulling at the buttons of his shirt, searching for any bare skin she could find. Finally pulling them open, she continued kissing him, as her fingers drew patterns over his chest and down his stomach.
"Leia," He moaned, pulling away from their kiss and looking down at her.
"Hmm?"
"I wish you knew how beautiful you were sometimes…" He told her, a fresh blush covering her skin. "and Hot…sexy," He added against her lips. She couldn't hold back the loud groan that had been hiding at the back of her throat, her fingers worked his belt open and pulled at his pants. She must have been moaning his name, because his voice replied each time.
"Now! Han…" She practically demanded, pulling him by the loops of his pants and further against her. Han smirked and kissed her softly, cupping her face in his hands, just staring down at her. He loved when he had these ideas, they always worked out for the best. He was just glad Leia had wore this dress, it gave him so much access to her neck, her shoulders and it so easily slipped up her thighs and over her hips.
—-
The night was quiet, they had a great day. To say the least, Han and Leia had both enjoyed a bit of alone time a board his ship. They'd picked up Adelyn together after school and enjoyed a nice family meal to end the night. Now they all relaxed back as some music played through out the room. Leia was leaning into Han's side, as she closed her eyes and listened to her daughters voice. Adelyn was laying against Leia's other side, her soft voice reading from the data pad she had in front of her. It had been her idea and the first time she had asked, Leia almost broke into tears. Damn hormones! It had turned into a bit of a tradition now, at night Adelyn would crawl up beside her mother and read to her siblings. Her soft voice was sweet and kind as she told them stories and whispered against her mother's belly. Tonight Han joined them, wanting nothing more then to be beside his girls and his twins. Leia's eyes had fallen shut, but his were still wide awake, as he watched Adelyn read and talk to his other children. Han wondered if they could hear their big sister and if they would come out knowing her voice. He often spoke to Leia's stomach as well. Mostly when he was alone with Leia, as they lay together in their bed. He didn't know if it did anything, but Leia assured him it was sweet.
Han was excited to meet the twins, he couldn't imagine anything greater then his little family here and now, but he knew the twins would bring even more love when they arrived. He and Leia had barely discussed names, he wasn't sure what Leia was thinking. He knew Adelyn was traditional to Alderaan. Would their twins be named after Alderaan as well? Would she want their twins to have similar names? Was that something you did with twins? They had to rhyme or start with the same letter? He didn't know the rules to any of this. Should he be looking into Corellian names? Gods he should probably ask Leia what she was thinking for their new children, but not now. Her breathing was slow, and he wondered if she had fully fallen asleep against him. Adelyn continued to read to her brother and sister, focused only on the words in front of her. He'd gladly take more nights like this. It was something he never knew he wanted, but could never give up now.
"Dad?" Adelyn said softly.
"Yeah Princess?"
"Is mom asleep?" She asked, looking up at her sleeping mother.
"I think so, she needs extra sleep while your brother and sister are in her tummy," Han explained.
"I want to meet them," She whispered, her finger lightly tracing over Leia's belly.
"Me too sweetheart. They still have some growing to do,"
"Alright…I haven't held a baby before, Will I get to hold them?"
"Yeah you will, I'm sure Mom will help you. You wanna know a secret?" Han asked her.
"Yes!" She said with a bright smile.
"I haven't held a baby before either," Han said.
"Really? But you're old."
"I am not old!" He protested as Adelyn laughed. "I've never been around babies before."
"Mom will help you too, Dad." Adelyn assured him.
"I'm sure she will. You know Princess…" Han said but his words slowed. Swallowing heard, he stared at her.
"What is it daddy?"
"I would have held you, I would have been one of the first people to hold you…" He said slowly, wondering if his little girl understood what he meant, or if it was over her head. She stared at him for a while before smiling.
"I know that dad. You would have been with Mom and me if you could," She assured him, her soft innocent voice meaning so much to Han. He knew Leia had told her that, her entire life, but hearing the words come from her little mouth meant so much to him.
"I love you Princess."
"I love you too dad."
Thank you all for reading! I did post some photo references to this chapter on my tumblr, for those interested in Leia's dresses. ravens23princess .tumblr .com or I'm tagging it as Time Continues HL
Thank you for reading! This chapter wasn't in my original outline for this story, so I hope you enjoyed it! More chapters coming soon!