Page 65 of Possessed By the Leonid King

“Maybe. But your surge is very definite and noticeable, and you’ve felt some strong side effects.” Marcus gave her a bright smile. “Shall we see what a blood draw next week brings?”

“What do you think is making the surge so high if it’s so early?” Layla whispered, unable to put her thoughts in order.

We did it. Pregnant. Us!

Ru’s crying on my shoulder. Happy tears. I love him so much.

Thank God I’m not sick.

Oh, holy shit, I’m pregnant.

I’m so horny. How are we going to have sex when I’m all puffed up like an inflatable ball?

Marcus is a genius! Oh, all those happy couples in the Lynxian community!

Pregnant!

Marcus’ voice seemed to come from far away. “Multiples. Given human capabilities, I’m not expecting a litter by the traditional Leonid definition. Twins seem possible. You two have had a streak of luck a light year long—even finding one another was a one-in-the-galaxy chance. I see no reason why your streak shouldn’t continue.” Marcus’ stoic speech ended with a shrug, and then his expression softened.

“Twins!” Rupex made as if to squeeze her, and then stopped, lightly nuzzling her cheek. “Do you think so, Marcus? Truly?”

“I’m a medical professional. I only lie off-duty, and I’m very much on the clock.” His smile widened. “I’m getting paid for making you two so happy. By Bastet! Rupex, do you know what this means?”

“You’re a genius,” Layla answered, standing up and walking into his open arms. “Your research, your little ‘study’ in your free time might save your species. Or at least give it a big boost.”

“It’s too soon to say. I’ll feel better when I hear heartbeats.”

“My God. Heartbeats. They have hearts! And tails. Will they have tails?”

“All in good time, I imagine.” Marcus patted her arm softly.

“Hey, you made it happen—no matter what happens next,” Layla said firmly, squeezing the graying paw. Please let everything be okay. “I bet you have some big science-y reports to write, right?”

Marcus’ eyes glazed over. “Ooh. I suppose I do. Oh, I do! I have evidence. Layla, we need to—”

“In a little bit, Marcus. In a bit.” Rupex took hold of the other Leonid’s shoulder and steered him out of the room. “What should Layla do? Remain resting? Fluids? What should I bring her?”

“Can we have sex?” Layla piped up.

Marcus frowned. “I honestly don’t know. Leonid Queens certainly experience a surge in libido after conception. And you seem to share that trait if yesterday’s impromptu love fest on the command deck was anything to go by.”

Layla’s cheeks flushed, and she fanned herself. “But will it hurt the baby? Or babies?”

“I don’t think so. To be on the safe side, you might want to avoid anything with penetration or vigorous...uh... actions. Just for a month or two.”

Layla sat down heavily on the edge of the table in her quarters. “A month or two?” Her voice was an agonized whine.

“We’ll be fine, my Layla. There are so many things we can do to pass the time.” Rupex winked at her and his tail snaked around his own ankle in a silent reminder of just how much fun they’d had exploring each other.

“Rest, good nutrition, and avoid stress. You’ve been taking prenatal supplements, Layla. Keep it up.” With a little wave, Marcus vanished through the sliding door.

Left alone, Layla walked slowly into Rupex’s arms. “Hey. That was fast.”

“It didn’t seem fast. It seemed like a lifetime of waiting for you.” Rupex pressed his head to hers.

“Couldn’t agree more. But... I am a horny, shaky, dehydrated mess. Want to cuddle me and get me some juice?”

“I intend to have you within arm’s reach at all times for the next seven-to-nine months.”

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