Alasse and Aragorn had decided to remain in Eryn Lasgalen for a month after the wedding before returning home to Gondor. They wanted some bonding time with Thranduil and the servants, and just enjoying the quiet time before they would once again be swamped with royal tasks awaiting them at home.
Alasse was barely showing at all, but she grew more hungry and to her chagrin, moody, and more easily tired than she could ever remember. Aragorn was very patient with her and sometimes teased her about being moody. That did not score points for him with Thranduil! Or with Alasse. She would either get defensive or just cry. At first, then she would apologize for being snappy.
Before Elrond returned to Rivendell, Alasse requested that he fully examine her and the child. She really hoped she was doing a good job taking care of the baby! Elrond smiled after taking his gentle healing hands from her stomach. "It is still fairly early in your pregnancy, but the child is growing properly, and might I add, quite happily." Elrond said in his wise voice.
"Oh, that is good to know!" Alasse breathed with relief. "I do want everything to be alright."
"Not to worry, child. You are doing an excellent job. And Aragorn is equally to be commended for how he is looking out for you."
"He can get pretty fussy. But he's not as overbearing as I have heard of some husbands. He lets me do things and actually get up on my feet! Of course, that might change once I am farther along." Alasse sighed sheepishly.
"No doubt of that." Elrond chuckled.
"Uhm, did you...were you able to tell what the baby is? A girl or a boy?" Alasse asked nervously.
"I did." Elrond grinned fondly. "Would you like to know?"
Alasse thought quietly for a moment. "No. To be honest, I would rather not." She answered softly, smiling wistfully. "That is half the joy of it."
"Ahh, then I will not tell you." Elrond said.
"Feels unfair though that you know already whether you are having a granddaughter or grandson."
"I assure you, either one will be greatly welcomed and loved." Elrond touched her shoulder.
Aragorn met Alasse later in the afternoon and they walked into the gardens. Alasse suddenly tugged Aragorn by the arms as she lowered herself to the ground. "What are you-" Aragorn sputtered before Alasse kissed his mouth. He returned it gleefully. Alasse was on her back in the flowerbed with Aragorn hovering over her. "Not that I'm complaining, but what is the cause of this sudden outburst of affection?"
"I just love you so much, Estel." Alasse murmured. "You're such a good man, and the best husband. I hope you know that I don't take it for granted."
"Aww, my love, you do not need to worry about that. I know you love me. But it is good to hear it. Sometimes I feel our subjects get more of my attention than you!"
"Such is the life of a royal," Alasse quoted Thranduil. Aragorn snuggled next to her on the ground, with his palm gently rubbing her pregnant stomach. "Mmm. I wish this moment could be forever."
"So do I." Aragorn agreed.