Parenthood

Over the next few days, you and Maya stumble your way through the beginning of parenthood. It’s a journey made immensely easier by the small army of eager helpers that is your family. Add in some advice from an amused Kallista and Sella via communication mirrors, and you probably have the least stressful first few days of parenting possible.

It doesn’t hurt that Kari and Sira are happy, adorable babies. And with the healing magic available, Maya’s recovery was a matter of hours, rather than days or weeks. In the end, the whole experience only served to make Anna, Lynn, and the other pregnant girls even more excited. And of course, everyone takes turns cooing and smiling at the tiny dragon girls. As expected, they even have tiny wings like Maya has.

In the midst of the excitement, Rachel finds time to catch you for a quick conversation. Pulling you aside, she smiles at you. “You look so happy! From the first day you and Maya met, I could see that you two were meant for each other. Thank you for letting me be a part of all this.”

You give her a hug. “Thank you for being a part of everything. You’ve always been there for us, even before you were one of us.”

She laughs. “You make it sound like a cult!”

You chuckle. “Nicest cult I’ve ever seen. But seriously, you’ve always been family, we just took a while to realize it!”

Rachel nods. “You’re right. But, speaking of family, how does it feel to be a father now?”

You shrug. “I think my experience is a little different than most. Maya and I have so much help!”

Rachel laughs. “That’s true. We’re basically a small army. It’ll get a little crazier when Anna and Lynn have their kids. Have they said if they’re having girls or boys?”

You shake your head. “Maya is the only one who was willing to say. The rest will be a surprise.”

Rachel nods, and looks a little nervous as she speaks. “So, speaking of surprises, all this baby stuff…it’s gotten to me.”

You raise an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

She blushes and looks away. “Well…I think I want one too.”

You chuckle. “Are you sure?”

Rachel nods. “I’m not getting any younger, and I’m in the happiest relationship I could dream of. If it was just you and me, I’d be scared to do it, but…with the family, it’s comforting. So yes, I’m sure. I want you to make me a real mommy, Josh.”

You smile, and kiss her. “You say that like it’s a big chore. I just have to do the fun parts!”

Rachel laughs and smacks you playfully. “Shush, or I’ll be calling you ‘daddy’ from now on!”

You groan. “That’s a low blow, Rachel.”

She grins. “No, that happens later…”