Chapter 2 – Confirmation and Announcements

Two lines.

Positive.

Three pregnancy sticks were sitting near the bathroom sink – all showing two distinct lines. Athena looked at her husband with tears in her eyes. The sound of her own heart leaping with joy combined with Simon's overflowing happiness almost made Athena cover her ears. It was loud but such a beautiful sound – she would never forget it. She had never seen or heard Simon so happy – apart from when he was cleared of all charges regarding the UR-1 incident and their wedding day. His smile was unusually big. It was raw, genuine happiness and coming from Simon, that was significant. Athena couldn't help but love him more as she hugged her husband tighter than ever.

Ema could barely wait around for the results to show up. Klavier was calmly sitting on the bed – at least, he appeared to be calm. He was sweating slightly and his hands were either clasped together, thumbs twiddling, or they'd be on the bed, tapping an unknown rhythm impatiently. Ok, maybe he didn't really look that calm, but he looked more calm than Ema who was pacing very fast around the room, muttering to herself. Klavier wondered if the same nervousness and excitement was happening to Prosecutor Blackquiil and his wife, who they had briefly seen at the same shops. They had been walking out of the aisle with what suspiciously looked like a couple of pregnancy tests when Klavier and Ema said hi. They had looked a little too happy to be just be casually buying groceries… and pregnancy tests, in Klavier's opinion. He had the feeling that they were in the same boat as himself and Ema.

When the timer that Klavier set went off, Ema practically squealed and ran the 2 steps to the bathroom to check the results of the two pregnancy tests that they had bought. Klavier walked in after her to find her simply staring at the tests that she now held. She didn't turn to him as he put his hand on her shoulder. He looked at the two test sticks sitting in Ema's hand.

One line.

Negative.

'That doesn't make sense. You haven't had your period and it's the second Saturday.'

'Well, obviously the tests say I'm not pregnant, so clearly my body is doing something else.' She met his eyes with tears, her voice shaking. 'I'm… sorry, Klav. I was so sure…' A tear rolled down her cheek as she placed the tests on the sink.

'Shhh. Ema. Don't worry about it. We can always try again.' She nodded slowly. He held her – her head against his chest as she sobbed gently. He hoped she didn't feel the couple of tears that slowly rolled off his face onto her hair.

'Hey, Maya…'

'It's negative, isn't it. It's always negative, Nick. Maybe we should just-' He stood in front of her and held up the test stick.

Two lines.

Positive.

'No… no way…' A smile formed on her face as Phoenix kissed her. She leant in but then pulled away.

'What if it's a false positive? It's been known to happen.' Doubt covered her face.

'Objection! I highly doubt that after a year of negative tests, you get a false positive. Positive means yes. Finally.' He smiled as he rested his forehead against hers. 'Personally, I hope it's a boy. We could do with more men around here.' Maya giggled and looked in his eyes with a glint of defiance.

'No way, women are better and stronger.' She put her hands together, 'Ooh, Pearly and Trucy will be so pleased!' Phoenix ran his hand through his spikes and laughed.

'Yes they would. But for now, I want to share this special day with my wife who is currently carrying my child.' A thrill went through Phoenix as he said that.

'Ooh say that again, I got a tingle down my spine as you said that. It's so unreal.'

'Say what? That you're my wife?' He stepped closer. 'The one who is carrying my child?' Maybe it was the way he said it, in a low voice but there it was again – the thrill through his body and the tingle down her spine. He put his hands on her hips as she put her arms around his neck and stared into his grey eyes. There they both stayed until Maya's stomach growled with hunger. A mischievous smile spread across Maya's face.

'Come on, Nick. Let's go grab a celebratory burger. You can't starve your child and your wife.' Phoenix started to protest.

'Ah, I thought you were feeling sick and nauseous.' It was a feeble attempt to try and dissuade Maya.

'Oh please, Nick. I am never feeling sick or nauseous enough to refuse burgers.' And with that she grabbed his hand and dragged him out of the apartment.

Mia sat beside Diego on very comfortable chairs in Grossberg's office. He held her hand, comforting her. She was trying not to bite her thumbnail in anxiety but it was hard. Grossberg walked in and sat down at his desk, eyes peering over small glasses. He coughed loudly and the mustache spoke.

'Well, what can I do for two of my best attorneys in the office? Is there an issue in the office or anything?'

'Not at all, sir. Everything is as usual in the office, if not better.' Diego spoke with confidence, his usual smug smile on his face. Mia had to admire the ease with which he presented himself even though they both knew this meeting would surprise Grossberg.

'Well, whatever is wrong then?' He carefully looked between Diego and Mia. He knew of their relationship but it hadn't affected the quality or efficiency of work from either of them since they had become official 6 months ago. 'It's not to do with your relationship, is it? I haven't noticed it affecting either of you here in the workplace, and you know how I like to maintain professionalism in the workplace. But if you're having relational issues, then I am hardly the last person to- '

'Sir, please.' Mia had to stop him before Grossberg started on a long monologue which would inevitably lead to some complaint about his hemorrhoids. She glanced at Diego, who just winked. 'That… is not why we're here. It's about something… a little more important.' She looked at Diego to continue. He cleared his throat.

'It's simple really, boss. Mia and I are expecting.' Grossberg raised his eyebrows in question.

'Expecting… what, exactly, Diego?' Mia had to hold back a laugh as Diego's smile faltered slightly.

'Expecting a baby, sir.' Grossberg's eyes widened in surprise and he stood up. Mia was afraid for a moment that he would tell her that she wouldn't be able to work as much, now that she was pregnant.

'This is simply… excellent news!' He walked around from his desk and shook Mia and Diego's hands, as they glanced at each other with mild surprise. 'Yes, yes, this is wonderful! Oh, I am so happy for the both of you! Who else knows?'

'Uh, no one else yet. We had to tell you first in case it… affected my work.' She looked away but continued. 'I'm yet to tell my family back home.'

'Oh come now, Mia. I would never let something so precious as pregnancy get in the way of doing the job you love, even though it is a significant event in your life. Naturally, you'll get maternity leave and Diego will get paternity leave. Although, when the time comes, the office will miss both of you.' The happy couple looked relieved. 'Well, I expect to be kept updated on your progress.' He cleared his throat loudly. 'But, I do have work to do, so if that's all, then…'

'Just one thing, boss.'

'Yes, Diego?'

'Try and keep this as quiet as possible for the moment. We, uh, don't want everyone knowing just yet.'

'Of course.' Grossberg nodded warmly and went to sit behind his desk. Diego smiled, smugness all over his face.

'Did I ever tell you what an understanding man you are, sir? Truly inspiring.'

'Yes, yes, Diego. Back to work now.' And Grossberg waved them out of the room, unfazed by Diego's comment. Mia couldn't stop smiling as she followed Diego out – it had been hard to hold in her laughter after hearing Diego's flattery towards their boss. They both went into Mia's office. Mia immediately picked up her work phone and started dialling a number, before putting it on speaker. As the dial tone rang, Diego merely raised his eyebrows at her.

'I've got to let my sister know that she's going to be an aunt. Just stay quiet until I tell her-'

'This is Kurain Village, Mystic Morgan speaking.'

'Hello, Aunt Morgan!' Mia had been hoping that Maya would answer, but her aunt would be able to fetch Maya hopefully. Whenever her aunt answered the phone, Mia always pretended to sound cheerful and not in the slightest bit disappointed that her sister didn't answer. She was in such a happy mood this time, that she didn't have to pretend. Realising that she'd almost shouted her hello in excitement, she had to take a breath and speak more calmly. 'Is Maya there? I want to… ask her something.'

'Unfortunately, Mystic Maya is in her lessons. Would you like me to ask her the question for you?' Mia was disappointed and annoyed at herself. She should have known that Maya would be in lessons, but she couldn't tell her aunt that she was pregnant when she wasn't yet married. It wouldn't do to come back to Kurain one day and have the village gossiping and the elders disappointed in her, more so than when she'd decided to leave the village.

'Ah, no, it's alright, Aunt Morgan. Just… tell Maya to ring my mobile when she's out of lessons. She knows my number.' There was silence and Mia was worried that Morgan had hung up.

'Of course, Mia. How is the big city?' Mia knew this question was purely for politeness, to keep up the 'good family relationship' appearance.

'I am loving it.' She smiled at Diego who had been silent and watching her the whole time. 'But I am busy with work and… life. I just had a question for Maya that I wanted to ask before I forget, but I'll just write it down to remind myself for when she rings me back.' It wasn't a great excuse but it would do. 'Don't forget to tell her, alright? I have to go now. Goodbye!' She hung up before Morgan could ask any more questions.

Athena was always nervous when she went with Simon to visit Aura in prison. It was a few years since the UR-1 retrial and Aura's imprisonment, and while she was relieved that Simon was still alive, it had taken some time for her to become nicer to Athena. While she now knew that Athena was not the killer, seven years of hatred is not so easily undone in a couple of days. Aura had been more than a little surprised when Simon had visited Aura with Athena tagging along as his girlfriend. It had been difficult at the start, rebuilding their relationship, when Athena reminded Aura of Metis in almost every aspect. Athena easily forgave Aura for blaming her for the murder but she was always wary that Aura's deep hatred for Athena was still there underneath their repairing relationship. It didn't make things easier when Athena could hear exactly how Aura felt.

Aura had been less surprised when Athena and Simon visited her, proudly showing off Athena's engagement ring. Athena remembered hearing the slight spark of joy in Aura's voice, despite her neutral expression. It was enough for Athena and it was more than enough for Simon. But, Athena still wasn't sure how she'd respond to news of a baby. They sat down, waiting for Aura to come and sit on the other side of the glass. Athena looked at her husband, he squeezed her hand as he gave a small smile. He was nervous too.

Aura came and sat down opposite them.

'Simon.' There was a shadow of a smile on her face.

'Aura.' Simon nodded back. To anyone else, it would seem odd to see siblings act so indifferently, but Athena knew better. The indifferent façade hid so many unsaid emotions from so many years apart and underneath their greeting, Athena knew they were both pleased to see each other.

'Princess.'

'Aura.' Athena smiled – her old nickname once used in spite, was now a gentle tease. 'How are you?'

'Not much has changed since last time.' Athena nodded and silence fell between the three of them. Athena and Simon were staring at the desk or the floor, smiles still on both of their faces. Aura noticed this.

'Why are you two smiling? I haven't said anything.' Athena looked at Simon. He took the hint and cleared his throat.

'Well, there's something we wanted to tell you.' Aura tutted.

'The last time you said that, you got engaged. That makes me think that this is something important.'

'You could say that.' The small smile was still on Simon's face. 'What we came here to tell you is… you're going to be an aunt.'

There was silence as Aura looked between Simon and Athena – their giddy smiles now making sense.

'I'm… an aunt?... That means… Oh…' A smile formed on her face. 'I didn't know my brother had such good swimmers.' Simon's smile quickly changed to a scowl.

'Shut up, Aura. We give you exciting news and that's all you have to say? I can't say I'm not surprised.'

'Oh, don't get me wrong, I'm pleased for you. But, children aren't my thing… so Aunt Aura won't be their favourite person, I can tell you now.'

'I think you'd be surprised, Aura. I know we're both going to change when the baby comes and I think this little one could change you too.' Athena smiled. There was nothing more that Athena wanted than for Aura to become a part of the child's life. Aura would be out of prison by the time the child would be walking and talking. 'I want you to be part of their childhood, Aura. You can make them little robots, playmates - inspire them to be engineers. Show them you. I think Aunt Aura will be a favourite.'

'Athena. I don't mean to trample your little fairytale, but I have no desire to be a big presence in your child's life. Who would want a convicted aunt as a relative? We all know I'm not the most loving person. So please. Leave me out of the perfect childhood. I'll only taint it. Now go, live your happy little domestic life. I still want to meet the little darling though, so come back when it's born.'

'Aura. You can't be serious.' Simon stood up as she stood.

'Actually, Simon. I can. I've already ruined other people's lives. There's no need for me to ruin yours when you are so happy.' And with that she turned and walked out of the room. Simon looked at Athena, slightly annoyed.

'Well, at least she wasn't angry at us or sad that we're starting a family.' Athena pointed out and Simon hummed in agreement.

'She'll come around. She always does. I bet she'll melt when she sees our beautiful child, I bet.' Hand in hand they walked out together.

It was the Friday after Ema had tested as negative for pregnancy and the day before her wedding. Her period still hadn't come and there was no reason why. She sat nervously on the closed toilet with two pregnancy tests on the bathroom sink, waiting for the results to appear. Her scientific mind knew that the only conceivable reason she didn't have her period but wasn't on contraceptives was that she had to be pregnant. Even so, she was worried that maybe she was mistaken. She closed her eyes.

Klavier wasn't here – he was rocking in court, doing his thing. Ema didn't tell him that she got more pregnancy tests, she didn't want to build his hopes up and break them again. She could only just tolerate doing it to herself, but she could not do it to Klavier. She decided to get a test of the same brand to what they had already used and a test that was an entirely different brand. Her heart pounded as she opened her eyes and looked at her watch. The results should have shown up by now. She slowly walked over to the sink and braced herself for what she would see.

A pink plus.

Two lines.

Positive.

Ema's heart leapt. She squealed. She grabbed her phone, ready to call her fiancée as she heard a single knock on the door. It was Klavier – home early. He only ever knocked once and then opened the door. Before she knew it, he was in their room.

'Schatz? I'm home…' He saw Ema in the bathroom, beaming. 'What's up, Ema?' She kept beaming as she thrust the two pregnancy test sticks into his hands. His face lit up when he saw the results.

'For real? Definitely?' Ema nodded as Klavier picked her up and swung her around, laughing. 'Ema, I… am so happy. This is perfect! You are amazing.' Ema couldn't stop smiling. 'We are amazing.' Ema squeezed his hands.

'So, who are we going to tell first?' Klavier's smile disappeared and he became very serious.

'No one.' Ema looked almost horrified.

'No one? But-'

'At least, not yet. This is… the best thing that's happened in my life. Apart from our wedding tomorrow, but so far this moment rocks harder than the moment the Gavinners' went platinum. I don't want any public or press knowing about our precious secret.' Ema thought about this – it made sense that Klavier would want such a huge announcement hidden from the press for as long as possible. While the Gavinners were no longer around, the press still followed Klavier to a degree and while he enjoyed the public eye, there were certain things that he liked kept private.

'Can I at least tell Lana and make her promise on her life that she won't tell? She would murder me if I started showing and I didn't tell her.' Klavier nodded. 'Well then, how does it feel to have the best secret in the world?' Klavier grinned.

'Almost as good a feeling as realising how beautiful our children will be – my beautiful hair, your sparkling eyes and sass, my beautiful skin… We are having the most badass beautiful child the world has ever seen, Ema Skye.' Ema rolled her eyes as Klavier winked.

'I really hope our child doesn't inherit that wink. Or your playful arrogance.' She walked out of the bathroom and grabbed her phone off her bed. 'Now, future father, I'm going to tell my sister that she's an aunt but if she tells anyone, her future brother-in-law will murder her. Now that would attract the press.' It was Klavier's turn to roll his eyes as Ema dialled a number. The phone rang three times.

'Lana? It's me, your favourite sister. Listen, I've got some news to tell you, but before I do, you must promise not to tell a single soul unless I say you can – otherwise Klavier swears that he'll find you, hunt you down and kill you. Ok?' She didn't really wait for a reply. 'Alright then. Here comes the bombshell.' Klavier braced himself.

'I'm… pregnant.' Ema had barely said it but she immediately held the phone an arms distance away. Klavier could hear Lana's scream of excitement from the bathroom.

Phoenix had never been hugged so tightly until he told Trucy and Pearl at the same time, that Maya was pregnant – the day after he and Maya had found out. They were both small but they managed to wrap him in their arms and squeeze and somehow manage to drag Maya in on the group hug. It was loud, with Trucy and Pearl screaming in joy and Maya laughing. He made a mental note never to tell Trucy and Pearl something important at the same time. He left the girls to chat with Maya as he headed to the office – vaguely hearing something about Trucy telling Maya how she needed a new assistant in her magic shows while Pearl was adamant that this child would be an amazing spirit medium before asserting that the child was just absolute proof that Phoenix was Mystic Maya's special someone (as if marriage hadn't proven that), as he walked out the door.

Five minutes later, Phoenix arrived at the office. It was mid-morning – the city bustling with people awake with things to do and lives to live. He never arrived when the office opened – Apollo and Athena were always on open – but he always closed. Thankfully the office was empty of clients, with Apollo and Athena who each sat at their desks, paperwork stacked but a conversation ongoing anyway. It was nice having Apollo back from Khura'in. There had been a big hole in the office while he was gone and Athena had taken up so much extra work. It was almost two years since he came back to LA, having spent a couple of years in Khura'in and the office had become a little less frantic. He gently closed the door behind him as he entered the office.

'Boss!'

'Mr. Wright!' A wave from Athena and a handshake from Apollo every day always put a smile on Phoenix's face and today was no different. He leaned back against the door as his two colleagues stood in front of him, smiles on their faces.

'I have some news to tell the both of you.' Apollo looked mildly concerned but Athena just smiled, Phoenix knew she could hear the happiness in his heart.

'Maya and I… are having a baby.' That earned him a hug from Athena and another handshake from Apollo.

'Congratulations, Mr. Wright. That's so exciting! How's Maya feeling?' Apollo couldn't contain his excitement – he knew that Mr. Wright and Maya had been trying for a while.

'She's good – she's got a bit of morning sickness and all that, but actually falling pregnant has boosted her mood, after so long of trying.' Phoenix looked at Athena who was beaming but silent. She looked like she would burst if she didn't say something. 'Athena, you're oddly quiet. What's up?'

'Ah… well… I've got some news of my own boss…' She nervously played with her wedding ring. 'I'm pregnant too.' She blurted out. At once, Apollo and Phoenix hugged her with shouts of congratulations. Athena couldn't help but laugh and try not to wince at the particularly loud sound that Apollo's heart made. Apollo looked amused and thenslightly annoyed.

'Hang on, Athena, we were just talking for two hours and in all that time, you couldn't tell me then?' His arms crossed. Athena looked sheepish.

'Believe me, it was hard to keep it from you, but I thought I'd wait until the boss arrived at work.' She smiled. 'I can breathe a lot easier now that I've told you. I was worried that I'd burst. Anyway, enough about me – who else have you told, boss?'

'Just Trucy and Pearl and you two. But I do plan to tell Larry sometime soon. Oh, and Edgeworth when I next see him.'

'I bet $10 that he'll smile.' Apollo smiled confidently.

'Well I bet $10 that he won't smile but he'll shake Mr. Wright's hand.' Athena answered back without missing a beat.'

'Ha! You're on.' Phoenix just shook his head. He had no worries about what kind of father he'd be – he had lots of practice looking after these two.

A/N: I realised that apart from the Miego bit, this is set after SoJ – hence why Apollo is back in LA. The Miego bit, while being Pime!Taradox, isn't set in the same time as the other three – here it's pretty much Mia and Diego still working with Grossberg until Mia eventually sets up her own firm. Hope that makes sense! I may try and write another chapter before uni starts again, but can't promise anything. As always, reviews are helpful!