Chapter 7*

Later that night, Rodolphus found it impossible to get comfortable. His stomach felt tight and crampy, and each position he tried seemed to make things worse. Frustrated, he left their bed and wandered into the living room, hoping the couch might offer some relief. He sank into it, but the persistent pain only made him more restless. A particularly sharp twinge caused him to mutter, "Shit," under his breath as he rubbed his abdomen.

Rabastan, who had wandered into the kitchen for a late-night drink, heard his brother's voice. "Rodolphus, are you okay?" he asked, a note of concern in his voice as he poked his head into the living room.

Rodolphus forced a smile, waving him off. "I'm fine, Rab. Just can't seem to get comfy anywhere," he said, trying to sound casual even though his body protested every movement. He hauled himself off the couch, grimacing, and headed back to the bedroom, hoping the familiar space might help ease his discomfort.

Rabastan watched him leave, his brow furrowed. He knew his brother well enough to sense when something wasn't right, but he decided to let it go for now.

The night dragged on, and Rodolphus's discomfort escalated. Four more bouts of pain kept him tossing and turning until the first light of dawn peeked through the curtains. Finally, he gave up on sleep altogether and decided to take a shower, thinking the warm water might soothe his aching muscles. As he pushed himself out of bed, his movement accidentally woke Lucius, who stirred beside him.

Lucius blinked sleepily, his eyes focusing on Rodolphus's tense figure. "What's going on?" he asked, sitting up.

Rodolphus sighed, his patience frayed by the discomfort. "Just need help up," he muttered.

Immediately, Lucius was at his side, steadying him as he got to his feet. He walked with Rodolphus to the bathroom, noticing the tightness in his husband's face, the way he gripped the sink for support as another wave of pain swept over him.

Lucius knocked softly on the bathroom door, concern clear in his voice. "Rodolphus, are you sure you're okay?"

Rodolphus huffed from the other side of the door, the sound of water running masking his discomfort. "I'm fine, Luc. Just need to shower," he insisted, his voice strained.

Lucius waited patiently, his worry not entirely eased. When Rodolphus finally emerged, his hair damp and his face pale, Lucius asked gently, "Feel like eating?"

Rodolphus nodded, though not convincingly. "Something cold. Heartburn's been awful all night," he said, rubbing his chest absently.

Lucius helped him to the dining room, where Rabastan sat nursing a cup of coffee. The youngest Lestrange looked up, his eyes narrowing as he took in Rodolphus's pallor and Lucius's tense expression. "Everything alright?" he asked.

Lucius gave a small, reassuring smile. "Just a bit of discomfort. We're fine," he said, though Rabastan didn't look entirely convinced. He watched as Rodolphus settled into a chair, his hand unconsciously rubbing his lower stomach.

"Stop staring, Rab," Rodolphus snapped irritably, his mood sour from the pain.

Lucius, ever observant, noticed the way Rodolphus's hand lingered over his belly. "Rabastan, could you pass me a glass of water?" he asked, trying to distract his brother-in-law.

Rabastan got up, glancing over at their parents who were also seated, exchanging knowing glances. "Does he have his wand?" Lucius asked softly, more to himself, as he handed Rodolphus a plate of fresh fruit and yogurt, hoping the coolness would soothe him.

Rabastan raised an eyebrow. "Okay, what's going on? Why do you need your wand?"

Their parents exchanged a look, then one of them spoke up. "Rodolphus, it's the twins. They're drawing on your magic. It's common with magical twins. I felt the same way when I was expecting you and Rabastan."

The revelation made Lucius's eyes widen. He turned to Rodolphus, who looked tired but still in control, albeit barely. Lucius took a deep breath, kneeling beside him. "Rod, do you feel them? The twins?"

Rodolphus nodded slowly, his face pinched with discomfort. "Yes, and it's getting stronger," he whispered. A sharp pain made him groan, and he started sliding down the chair, catching himself against the wall.

Lucius was beside him in an instant, helping him stand. "Come on, let's get you back to bed," he said, his voice gentle but firm.

Rodolphus nodded, leaning heavily on Lucius as they made their way to the bedroom. He lowered himself onto the bed, breathing heavily. "This hurts, Luc," he admitted, his voice breaking.

Lucius sat beside him, taking his hand. "I know, love. Do you want a healer?" he asked, even though he knew Rodolphus's answer.

Rodolphus shook his head, his eyes closed. "No, just you. Just us," he said softly.

Lucius nodded, squeezing his hand. "Okay. I'm here," he murmured, leaning in to press a soft kiss to Rodolphus's forehead. The day had barely begun, but they both knew it would be a long and challenging one. Lucius stayed close, his presence a comforting anchor as Rodolphus braced himself for the storm that was coming.