Chapter 26: Rivalry's Embrace

One Week Later, Monday. Xena sat in her office, taking a much-needed break. The clients all went easy on her since she was expecting, doing their exercises without needing too much correction. Alot of the women mainly wanted to chat about the baby and her pregnancy instead of working out, since they've come to like her. Someone asked today what she was going to name the baby. She hadn't thought of a name yet but she was waiting for Ares' return so they could discuss it. She looked at her calendar, he would be back Sunday.

~XA~

Hercules walked inside of Godly Gains wearing a pair of well fitted jeans, a button down-that he left mostly open, and a pair of shades that were pulled up in his long hair. He stopped at the front desk, where he was greeted by Emma.

"Why hello muscles, how can I help you today?" Emma flirtatiously asked while leaning over the counter, smiling seductively. Hercules smirked at her. She was a bold one.

"Does my brother know you greet his members like this?" she straightened up slightly. Brother? So this was Ares' brother. Wow, good genes ran in the family, although she preferred Ares.

"Mr. Ares is not here right now, if that's who you're here to see." She confidently stated, avoiding his question.

"Good. I'm actually here to see Xena. Could you point me to her office?" Her pleasant smile turned into a frown at the sound of her name. Why was he here to see her when Mr. Ares was not around? Maybe he had his brother watching over her while he was gone? That was probably it, family business.

"Right this way." She swayed her hips side to side as he followed behind. She stopped and pointed at Xena's door and left. Hercules knocked softly, hoping she was in there since her blinds were closed. Xena opened the door and invited him in.

"I brought you lunch, I hope you haven't eaten already." He sat the food down on her desk and began to unpack the items. The aroma smelled wonderful.

"No, I just got done with a client and won't have another one for 2 hours. I blocked this time off for my lunch and to recover. Food smells amazing." Xena was unsure how Hercules knew what time her lunch was, but she was grateful none the less. She sat at the loveseat and Hercules took a seat next to her. They ate their food together, as Xena told him all about her day as Hercules listened attentively, both enjoying each other's company.

~XA~

Friday. Hercules, Xena, and Gabrielle sat on the couch, eating popcorn while watching a movie. Hercules sat next to Xena, of course. She lazily rested her back on the arm of the couch while her legs were sprawled over Hercules lap. Gabrielle noted how relaxed they were around each other now. She silently wondered how all of this would play out once Ares returned. Deep down, she hoped he never came back. She was perfectly ready to help Xena take care of her baby and was confident Hercules didn't mind either.

Xena playfully tossed popcorn at Hercules. Gabrielle could tell he was growing on her. He was there for Xena all the time, where she didn't have a chance to miss Ares. He faithfully brought her lunch, that they shared in her office. The only reason Hercules knew what time Xena's lunch was, was because she told him. She would gladly help Hercules over and over again, ease his way into Xena's life. Once their movie was over, Hercules massaged Xena's feet as he spoke...

"Ladies, tomorrow I have something planned for all of us. I'll pick you both up at 4. How does that sound?" Both of them eagerly agreed. They both wondered what he had up his sleeve, but they were off work and available.

~XA~

Saturday. It was nearly 4pm and Xena was putting the final touches on her look. She wore a simple mid-thigh baby blue dress, which accented her features. She walked out of her room and noticed Gabrielle was already gone. Her phone went off. It was a message from Gabrielle...

Xena, I had to make a quick run. I will meet up with both of you once I finish this errand. Pls don't cxl or wait up on me.

She put her phone into her tote just as there was a knock on her door. She already knew who it was. She made sure she had all her belongings and met him outside. When he asked where Gabrielle was, she let him know that she had an errand to run and requested that they don't wait up for her. He escorted Xena to his car and opened the door for her. Once she was situated and buckled, he drove to their surprise destination.

They pulled up to a cozy house, on the other side of town. Xena had never been to these parts before. Xena looked at him with a questioning eye. He smiled and went to open the door for her and grabbed her bag. He led her to the front door with his other hand.

"Xena, welcome to my place." As Xena stepped into Hercules' cozy house, she immediately felt its warmth and simplicity. The exterior, surrounded by lush greenery, had vibrant flowers adorning the front porch. Once she entered, she discovered a living room filled with earthy tones, comfortable furnishings, and large windows that allowed in an abundance of natural light. The decor, a blend of rustic and modern with wooden accents, complemented the neutral color palette.

The living room seamlessly connected to a small yet well-equipped kitchen, where the aroma of a fragrant, home-cooked meal lingered in the air. Hercules had a hobby of collecting unique souvenirs from his travels, and these treasures were displayed on shelves and walls, adding character to the space.

The single bedroom was a haven of dreams, featuring a plush bed adorned with cozy blankets and pillows. A large window opened up to the views of the backyard. The room was adorned with subtle, nature-inspired decor, creating a peaceful retreat.

Outside there was a well-maintained garden, calling for Xena to take a stroll, and a hammock swayed gently beneath the shade of a tree, offering a perfect spot to unwind. Hercules' house, though modest, had reflected a charming and inviting atmosphere, making Xena feel right at home during her visit.

She sat at the table in his garden as he brought their dinner outside and carefully arranged the items on the table. They ate a delectable meal at the patio table. The tantalizing aroma of grilled vegetables, seasoned to perfection, wafted through the air. The main course featured succulent grilled chicken, marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. Hercules showcased his culinary skills with a side of roasted potatoes, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The refreshing breeze carried the savory scents of their feast, enhancing the delightful atmosphere of their outdoor dining experience. The garden's vibrant foliage and the soft glow of string lights overhead added to the calming ambiance, making it a truly magical evening for the two friends.

After finishing their delightful meal, Hercules suggested taking a refreshing stroll around the beautiful surroundings. They engaged in heartfelt conversations, sharing stories and enjoying each other's company in the tranquil beauty of the night. The gentle rustling of leaves and the fragrance of blooming flowers contributed to the romantic ambiance as they explored nature.

Once their festivities were done, Xena casually sat in the kitchen while Hercules tidied up. The mood was very light between them. She got up to pass him the last of the items that needed cleaning. Hercules touched her hand as he gently took the items from her. He sat it down and pulled her into his embrace. He felt her baby kick against him. He pulled back from her and dropped down to his knees.

"Hey, it's Uncle Herc. I can't wait to see who's been kicking me." He rubbed her belly lovingly and gave it a light kiss. Xena's heart swelled. It felt great knowing that her baby was already loved by more than just her. She ran her fingers through his hair. He stood back to his feet and rubbed the side of her face with the back of his hand. Her skin was soft and warm. She looked so beautiful to him and that dress she wore really made her eyes stand out, capturing his soul again.

She had her lips slightly parted. Hercules couldn't resist her any longer. He leaned in slowly towards her, taking his time, hoping he wouldn't run her off. To his shock, she closed her eyes, in anticipation. The kiss started off soft, just a sweet peck. He brought his hand up to the back of her head and pulled her more into his mouth. She parted her lips to give his tongue access. Her moans were driving him wild. He tried to maintain control, but it was a losing battle. She wrapped her arms around his neck, accepting his actions. He took his other hand and placed it underneath her dress, gradually running his fingertips up her inner thigh, never breaking their kiss.

He made it to her center and felt she had soaked through her underwear. She gasped at his touch. Staring in her eyes, he pulled her underwear down. She stepped out of them. Next, she undid his belt buckle and pulled his pants down his hips. His member plopped out, standing firm. Hercules gently turned her towards the cabinet, carefully bending her over. He took his foot and spread her legs by pushing her feet apart. He slowly lifted her dress, exposing her body to him.

He walked between her legs and placed a hand above her belly, careful not to push her into the cabinet, keeping his hand there as a form of protection. He used his other hand to lift her hips towards him. She arched her back to give him better access. He leaned his body down onto her back and pushed himself into her. She moaned loudly, as she felt her knees weakening.

Hercules just laid there on her back, not moving. He had to get it together before he came too soon. She was so wet, his member was sliding out of her on its own. He smoothly began thrusting in her, mindful of her belly. Both of their moans of delight filled the house. He felt so good inside her that she could only focus on filling her need. Her hormones were raging. She raised her chest from the cabinet and sat back against his hips, grinding on top of him. Hercules held onto her firmly, nearing his orgasm. Suddenly, Xena called his name..

"Uh Hercules, ssst stop."Hercules didn't hear her clearly, lost in ecstasy.

"Stop, stop, stop Hercules." He pulled out of her immediately, worried he had hurt her.

"Are you okay, did I hurt you?" Xena turned towards him and placed a hand on his chest.

"Hercules, we can't do this, not like this." She struggled to catch her breath.

"I accepted Ares' proposal. I am his fiancé. I can't do this behind his back. I know you understand." She tried to convince him with a pleading voice. He grabbed her hand and brought it to his chest.

"Ares doesn't deserve you. You are free until you say I do."

"Hercules! I am carrying HIS child." She rubbed her belly lovingly.

"And I am perfectly ready to be your child's father." Her eyes enlarged at his statement.

"What are you saying?" She whispered in a low voice.

"Xena, marry me instead. You know I am better for you. You know I could treat you better than he ever could. Love you and this baby as if it were my own." Tears streamed down her face. He wiped them as he continued to speak,

"Ares is war. War cannot love. He can only tell you things you want to hear. Do the things that he thinks you would want him to but to really feel love, he's unable to do that. He's a god Xena! He can't feel what we feel." Hercules stressed to her. Xena was speechless. She didn't want this to be happening now. She looked at the clock. It was getting late, and she knew Ares would be back soon. She needed to prepare for his arrival.

"Hercules, please just take me home."

Once they made it back to her house, Hercules walked her to her doorstep. Before she walked in, he hugged her tight in his embrace.

"Just think about it Xena," was all he said and left. Xena walked in the house and just stood there with her back against the door. Gabrielle greeted her but then noticed the saddened expression on Xena's face. She pulled her into her embrace.

"Xena, what's wrong? What happened?" she asked as she led her to the couch to sit down.

"And what happened to you?" Xena angrily asked. Had Gabrielle had been there, like she promised, none of this mess would have happened. Gabrielle stuttered her reply...

"I..I..I got done too late and just came back here." Xena could tell she was lying. She had no intention on meeting them today. She wanted her alone with him!

"Hercules...," she ran her fingers through her hair, "...proposed to me tonight." Gabrielle covered her mouth.

"By the gods."