Archive of Our Own

Lou Binghe could feel how slowly his body was waking up as consciousness was steadily returning to him. However he was simply too comfortable to want to get up just yet. So he simply turned within his bed as his arms instinctively reached out until they found what they were looking for. A soft and warm body, which he gently pulled closer to himself, hugging the omega in his arms from behind and burying his face in that sweet smelling neck.

He was completely content in that moment, holding the love of his life in his arms and being in that comfortable state of being half-asleep as the first rays of sunlight were peeking in through the curtains and were filling the bedroom with a warm hue.

For a sudden and very noticeable shift on the mattress to halt Luo Binghe from drifting off to sleep again, followed by a sudden weight finding itself on his body. “Baba, up.” little hands shook Luo Binghe by the shoulder, “Hungry.”

Finally opening his eyes, Luo Binghe found himself greeted by the sight of Shen Yuan, his now two year old stepson, sitting on top of him in his pyjamas.

Yawning and stretching himself to shake off his lingering tiredness, Luo Binghe reluctantly loosened his hold on the other person in bed, his wife Shen Jiu, to instead sit himself up and pet the toddler on his head, “Morning, Yuan-Er.”

The disturbance from the toddler also made Shen Jiu wake up from his sleep and made him move to sit himself up. However he was a lot slower with sitting himself up than Luo Binghe had been, as the omega was heavily pregnant with the couple's second child.

“Good morning, A-Yuan.” Shen Jiu's voice was slightly slurred from lingering tiredness, as he leaned over towards the toddler to kiss his head. However while the omega was sitting upright now, his eyes struggled to stay open.

Luo Binghe then turned towards his wife with a soft smile, where he then gently kissed him. “Good morning, A-Jiu.”

“Good morning.” Shen Jiu replied, his voice still slurred as he lightly leaned against Luo Binghe, who in return gently scented the pregnant omega.

Only that Shen Yuan found himself impatient and this time tugged on Luo Binghe's shirt to regain his attention. “Baba, hungry.” he repeated his words with the conviction of a man on a mission. That mission being getting breakfast.

Which made Luo Binghe smile. “Alright.”

Turning towards Shen Jiu he gave him another kiss, this time on his forehead, “You sleep a bit longer, while I go make us all some breakfast.” To which Shen Jiu simply hummed tiredly, as he let Luo Binghe help him lean back to lay down once more and go back to sleep for just a bit longer, pulling the various blankets from the nest that had been filling their bed for the last few months over the pregnant omega for extra warmth and comfort.

Ever since Shen Jiu reached his third trimester, the omega had been much more tired and spend a lot of time napping during the day.

Luo Binghe however turned towards his stepson. “So, who wants breakfast?” he asked, before playfully throwing the toddler over his shoulder as he got out of the bed, which earned him the most delightful laugh. “How about Baba makes Yuan-Er into his breakfast?” he asked as he left the bedroom – being mindful to close the door quietly behind himself – and playfully pretended to bite into the toddler's side, “Baba is going to eat Yuan-Er!”

Shen Yuan however laughed and giggled loudly as he kicked his little legs, “No! Baba no eating Yuan!”

“No eating Yuan-Er?” Luo Binghe asked with a silly voice as he entered the kitchen and sat Shen Yuan onto his designated chair at the little kitchen table, “Then what does Yuan-Er suggest we have for breakfast instead?” he made sure to keep his voice exaggerated for the amusement of his child, who continued giggling brightly.

However the question made Shen Yuan light up, as he understood that he got to make the decision. Something that always was the most amazing thing ever for the little kid. “Scaion Pancakes!” he declared with enthusiasm, even throwing his hands up to emphasis his decision.

Luo Binghe had to hold in his laugh at the inability of the toddler to say 'scallion', but at least he understood what the other wanted. “Scallion Pancakes sounds like a great idea. Thank you, Yuan-Er.” he petted Shen Yuan's head, “How about Yuan-Er helps Baba with making breakfast? Then we can surprise Mama with it.”

At the suggestion Shen Yuan's eyes widened. Before he jumped in his seat, “Yes! Making breakfast!”

“Then let us do it and surprise Mama.” Luo Binghe grinned as he picked up his son and both got to work together.

Soon enough the two of them were standing in the kitchen together – Shen Yuan standing on top of his little step stool from the bathroom so that he could reach the kitchen counters – as they prepared their breakfast together. Of course Luo Binghe did most of the work and only let Shen Yuan do things that were actually safe for someone so young, but luckily the toddler was as happy as one could be as he proudly made breakfast for his beloved mother.

Before eventually a mouthwatering scent filled the entire house as they carefully placed the food onto the table. Just in time for Shen Jiu, a bathrobe draped over his body, to enter the room.

“Ah, good timing. I was just about to get you.” Luo Binghe walked up towards Shen Jiu, his hand finding his lower back as he walked him towards table where he held the chair out for him. “Yuan-Er has made this breakfast specifically for you, A-Jiu.”

At hearing his name, Shen Yuan then proudly nodded to what his stepfather had said, “Yes. Yuan made breakfast!”

“Did you now, A-Yuan?” Shen Jiu smiled at his son as he lifted him onto his lap, mindful of course of the pregnancy belly, to give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you very much, A-Yuan. This looks really tasty.”

While Shen Yuan smiled happily, Luo Binghe however pouted from next to his wife. “Where is my kiss? This husband had helped.”

Shen Jiu however only narrowed his eyes at him in a joking manner, “I am not sure if you deserve a kiss for just helping.” he teased. Which only made Luo Binghe pout harder, even if the amusement was evident in his eyes.

However Shen Yuan, who did not yet understand the nature of sarcastic teasing, declared, “Then Yuan kiss Baba.” as he leaned over towards his stepfather to give him a big kiss on his cheek in his mother's steed.

“Aww, thank you, Yuan-Er.” Luo Binghe cooed as he leaned over to give his stepson multiple kisses on his little face. “Baba loves Yuan-Er so so much.”

Smiling like the sun and giggling with every new kiss, Shen Yuan kicked his little feet in glee. “Yuan loves Baba too.”

Lifting him up into his arms, Luo Binghe gave him one final kiss on the cheek. Before he turned towards Shen Jiu, who was watching them with a soft smile. “And this husband loves A-Jiu as well.

“Well, I guess I love you too, you little beast.” Shen Jiu smiled as Luo Binghe leaned down towards him and they shared a kiss between them. “But now sit down you two. A certain someone inside of my belly is getting hungry, so let us have breakfast before it gets cold.”

Sitting Shen Yuan down onto his chair, which had a booster cushion to allow him to reach the table top, Luo Binghe than also sat down as he served them all their breakfast as the family of three chatted about their plans for the day. Or in Shen Yuan's case, about the his current favourite cartoon.

“I was thinking,” Luo Binghe started as he for a moment placed his chopsticks down, “since I have the day off and the weather is going to be good, how about we go to the park together today?” he asked to his family, “We could even take some food with us and have a picnic.”

Instantly Shen Yuan's eyes widened with excitement, “Going to the park!” he cheered happily from his seat. The reaction was not surprising to either of the two adults, as the young child was a highly curious one and loved nothing more than to explore everything outside. His favourite hobby had become to look at animals, bugs and any kind of critter he could spot.

“First you have to finish eating your breakfast.” Shen Jiu told his son, who quickly returned to eating his food. He then turned towards Luo Binghe, “It does sound like a nice idea to go out for a bit today and the park is not too far away either. A bit of fresh air will probably do us all some good.”

“Then this Binghe will get everything ready for it after breakfast.” Luo Binghe was pleased at the positive reaction to his idea. While with Shen Jiu being on maternity leave the couple had more time at the moment to spend together as a family, with the progressing pregnancy and having to prepare everything for when the baby would come they did not actually have the chance much to just have some outings as a family. So such a day where nothing had been planned and where they were all free was a too good of a chance to let pass.

Once everyone had finished their breakfast, Shen Jiu took Shen Yuan to occupy the toddler for a while, all while Luo Binghe went to prepare everything for their little trip to the park later that day.

As he was making various cold dishes and healthy snacks – fitting for both a toddler and a pregnant person – that they could take with them, he could hear his family within the other room. And he could not help himself from having a peek, where he spotted Shen Jiu sitting on the sofa, while Shen Yuan was moving around the room to put his favourite toys into a little basket that he must have gotten from some closet as he told his mother about all the important things that were needed on a picnic. Which seemed to be toys, especially the toy food the toddler had from his little toy kitchen where he would often intimidate his stepdad with. All while Shen Jiu nodded along to what his son was babbling with adoration in his eyes.

And all Luo Binghe could do was think how lucky he was. He was endlessly lucky to have met Shen Jiu and Shen Yuan and having been given the honour of being part of their family; to be allowed to love them and to be loved back by them just as much.

“Is something the matter?” Shen Jiu then asked him with curiosity, having noticed Luo Binghe standing in the doorway and watching them.

“Nothing.” Luo Binghe shook his head. “I am just thinking about how lucky I am.”

While Shen Jiu did not reply to this beyond of a roll of his eyes, his eyes curved upwards with a smile and his scent was filled with the sweetness of pure and open content. Which made Luo Binghe chuckle in return, as he once more returned to the kitchen.

It was then a few hours later that the small family of three left the house together, Shen Yuan sitting in a stroller that was pushed by Luo Binghe, while Shen Jiu walked along side them. With a new member of the family joining them soon, the family had moved out of Luo Binghe's old apartment and had instead bought a house with more bedrooms and a garden. Which however was not far away from where they had used to live together ever since the fire that had brought Shen Jiu and Shen Yuan into his life, and as such the walk towards the local park was not far.

The park was filled with people. Joggers who were making their regular routes around the scenic rout, people taking their dogs for some exercise in the big open fields, and families who just like them came to enjoy the nice weather.

After a bit of walking the small family then arrived by one of the many lotus ponds within the park, which was surrounded by luscious bamboo and gave the entire area an almost mythical feel. However they did not bother with the pavilion this time around, as Luo Binghe instead spread out their blanket for them to sit on. Ever since Luo Binghe had first considered the idea of taking Shen Jiu and Shen Yuan here for a picnic, way before he and Shen Jiu had even been dating and let alone became mated, they had come here many times since. He had been right on the mark about his assumption that Shen Jiu would probably like this area of the park the most, as the omega would come here fairly often for walks.

Once the blanket was placed down, Luo Binghe then helped Shen Jiu sit down on a pillow he had brought along for the pregnant omega for extra comfort. Before, once Shen Jiu was seated and comfortable, he then let Shen Yuan out of his stroller as well, allowing the toddler to join his parents on the blanket as Luo Binghe began to unpack the first few things. All while Shen Yuan, who had brought along his little basket with toys, did the same. Where soon enough the blanket was decked out in various snacks, drinks, and of course toys.

Shen Yuan quickly began to happily nibble on the various cut fruit his stepfather had made, while Shen Jiu decided on the omelette rolls and some of the various buns Luo Binghe had made.

“How is the food?” Luo Binghe asked, feeling happy how well received his food seemed to be by his family.

“It's good.” Shen Yuan declared, only just managing to swallow before speaking, “It's a bunny.” he held up one of the apple slices that had indeed been cut to look like a rabbit, as he made it 'hop' in the air with a giggle.

“Yes it is.” Luo Binghe also picked one up as he also made it 'hop' up towards his stepson, before reaching Shen Yuan and holding it in front of his mouth. “Say 'ah'.” he said and once Shen Yuan did was he was told, he placed the piece between his teeth to feed him.

“You are spoiling him.” Shen Jiu warned him from where he sat, but his voice had no bite to it whatsoever as he clearly did not mind it in the slightest at that moment and simply said it out of principle.

“I am sorry.” Luo Binghe played along, “Here, let this husband make it up to you.” he then stated as he picked up another slice of apple and held it up to Shen Jiu this time, “Say 'ah'.” he repeated the same words as before.

“You are unbelievable, little beast.” Shen Jiu replied with a faked huff, as he easily enough relented and let himself be hand fed by his mate.

Eventually the family had their fill as Shen Yuan began playing in the open field as he looked for bugs, of course while staying within clear view of his parents as he had been made to promise. All while Shen Jiu and Luo Binghe had gotten comfortable on the blanket, with Shen Jiu leaning against his mate as he read a book, while Luo Binghe happily occupied himself with gently rubbing his mate's back and enjoying the nice weather.

Luo Binghe could barely believe that once upon a time he sneered at the thought of ever having such a life. A life where he would go on picnics with his mate, cuddling in the sun as they just enjoyed the moment without doing anything special, while his child was playing close by. And a life he would not give up for anything in the world.

From within his arms Shen Jiu then suddenly gave a small little jolt, as he closed his book for a moment to instead cradle his stomach. “Someone seems to be awake.” he sighed with a small smile, as he rubbed the baby bump to sooth the baby again.

“Oh.” Luo Binghe lit up at this, as he slightly moved so that he could reach the large stomach. “Is our little baobei moving again?” his hands found the omega's stomach, while the omega moved his own hand away to make more room for his mate, and sure enough Luo Binghe felt a kick against his hand from their baby. And instantly he was filled with nothing but wonder and elation. No matter how many times he would feel their baby move, it would never stop being the most amazing thing in the world for him. “Hello baobei.” he whispered against the bump with deep affection, “Do you want to say hello to your mama, baba and gege again?”

“Your little spawn certainly likes to 'say hello' a lot lately.” Shen Jiu sneered jokingly, “That is certainly your child. Just as attention seeking as you are.”

“Our baby just can not wait to greet the world soon.” Luo Binghe smiled as he continued feeling for the small movements underneath the skin that was their yet unborn child.

“I just wish the 'wanting to greet the world' would not involve kicking my organs all the time.” Shen Jiu kept up the act, even if it was clear as day to anyone that the omega did not mind in the slightest and how much he already loved their baby.

Looking back at the bump Luo Binghe then whispered against it, “Come on, go back to sleep and let your mama rest a bit. Soon enough you can move around as much as you like, but for now be good for your baba.” he continued rubbing soothing circles along the skin until he felt the movements underneath lessen more as their unborn baby began to calm once more, “That's it.”

“Seems to be asleep again.” Shen Jiu eventually commented after the kicks subsided again for the time being.

“Seems like it.” Luo Binghe nodded along, as he slowly removed his hands from the stomach. “But it will never stop amazing me when I can feel our baby move. I just can't believe that this is our baby underneath my hand. It makes me really emotional feeling the small movements and knowing that our baby is right there, alive.”

“At least you aren't crying every time any more.” Shen Jiu teased. And it was true. The first time Luo Binghe had felt their baby move many months ago, feeling their little kick against his own hand, he had become so overwhelmed with emotions, with pure joy and love, that he ended up crying openly and without shame. “But I guess I can not blame you. I was no different when I had first felt A-Yuan kick, because suddenly it clicked for me that I was having a baby. That I was going to have a family of my own for the first time and that it was real.”

Smiling Luo Binghe then leaned back up towards his mate to kiss him, “And soon we are both going to have an even bigger family. You, me, A-Yuan, my parents and cousin, and our little baobei.”

“Yes, we are.” Shen Jiu smiled back at him, his happiness open for the world to see.

Eventually the small family had to however pack up their belongings and make their way back home for the day. The time for Shen Yuan's nap was getting closer and after all the excitement of going to the park the toddler was getting visibly tired. So once they had everything packed up again and the toddler securely sat down into his stroller, the family made their way back home for the day.

However when they arrived at their house, they found another car parked within their driveway alongside their own. Where upon opening their front door a figure walked up to them.

“We were so free to let ourselves in with the spare key.” Luo Tianlang walked up towards the young family, “So where is my favourite son-in-law and my grandchild?”

While Shen Yuan had been dozing off inside of his stroller, he instantly peaked up when spotting his grandfather. “Yeye!”

“There is my little Yuan-Er.” the older man happily lifted the young toddler out of the stroller and into his arms, where he placed a kiss onto his cheek, “You seem to get bigger every time I see you. Soon your old yeye won't be able to pick you up any more.”

Luo Binghe however looked much less pleased to see his father, than his stepson was about seeing his grandfather. “Hello A-Die. What gives us the honour of your sudden visit?” he asked his father, as he helped Shen Jiu remove his coat and shoes.

Bouncing the toddler in his arms, not showing any of that supposed strain at the weight as he had claimed, he then answered, “Xiyan-Er and I have been cleaning out the attic and found a few of your and your cousin's baby stuff and decided to bring them over. Only the good stuff of course.”

“Oh, that is very kind of you.” Shen Jiu replied to his father-in-law. “Is Xiyan-Jiejie here as well?” he then asked with interest, it being clear as day that he was pleased about the potential chance to spend some time with his long time friend.

“Yes.” Luo Tianlang nodded, “She is in the living room, sorting through a few of the things that we had brought along.” he gestured towards the direction of said room. Before he then added, “Although Zhuzhi didn't come today, but he sends his regards.”

Luo Binghe then turned towards his wife, “How about you go to A-Niang, while I bring Yuan-Er to bed for his nap?” he suggested, knowing how close Shen Jiu was with Su Xiyan.

“Oh, I can put little Yuan-Er to bed, so you go to your mother.” Luo Tianlang then offered, “Can't leave her waiting after all and this way I get to spend a bit more time with my favourite grandson.”

“Then thank you, A-Die.” Luo Binghe nodded at his father, as he then lead his wife into the living room where Su Xiyan was waiting, while Luo Tianlang went upstairs to put Shen Yuan to bed.

“Jiu-Er. Binghe.” Su Xiyan got up from where she had been kneeling on the floor, among multiple bags and boxes of what could only be the mentioned baby stuff, to approach them. “It is so good to see the two of you.” she placed a kiss each on their cheeks.

“It is lovely to see you as well, Xiyan-Jiejie.” Shen Jiu greeted her back, while Luo Binghe joined in.

“It really is. How are you doing, A-Niang?”

“I am doing very well.” she smiled up at them both, before her attention went towards the visible baby bump, “And how is the little one doing?”

“Growing steadily.” Shen Jiu replied, before musing, “Though I can not wait until the mini beast is finally out.”

This made Su Xiyan laugh brightly. “I know what you mean. The last stretch is always the hardest. But also the most fulfilling in a way.”

“That it is.” Shen Jiu could only agree. As much as he did complain about the back pains, the swollen feet, the constant tiredness, and the morning sickness, he was more often than not in a state of constant joy ever since he had found out that they were expecting.

But then Su Xiyan changed the topic slightly. “Anyway, let us get you sat down. Me and A-Tian brought you a few things that I wanted to show you.” she helped the pregnant omega to sit down, before pulling the baby stuff closer. “Of course you don't have to keep the things you don't need or don't like. Whatever you don't want me and A-Tian will donate to charity.”

“That is really kind of you.” Shen Jiu smiled at his big sister-at-heart and now also mother-in-law with genuine gratitude.

“How about I make us all some tea and when A-Die put Yuan-Er to bed, we can all go through the things.” Luo Binghe then offered, to which both dams nodded.

“That would be lovely.” Su Xiyan nodded, “Thank you, Binghe.”

Luo Tianlang returned at the same time his son placed the cups down on the coffee table, as everyone picked one up to drink. While the two generations of the family began to look through all the things the older pair had brought along.

There were some toys, including a rocking horse that surely Shen Yuan would love to play with, some old clothes that were still in top shape, the pair of baby sized hanfu were an especially favourite of Shen Jiu when he spotted them, and a ton of children's books for both babies and toddlers.

One of the books Luo Tianlang held up to his son. “I used to read this a lot to your cousin, when Xiyan-Er had been pregnant with you.” The book he was holding up was titled 'I will be a big brother' and the book itself looked worn, as if it had been read multiple times over. “It's basically about teaching young children about a new baby coming. Although I of course replaced the 'big brother' with 'cousin'.” he then handed the book over to his son. “Your cousin really loved this book and had me read it to him all the time when we had been waiting for you to be born and I thought little Yuan-Er might also enjoy it.”

Luo Binghe looked at the book, going through the many colourful pages, and it did look really lovely. It taught young children about pregnancy and the changes that would come when a new baby joined the family, all in very child friendly and happy terms. “Thank you very much, A-Die.” Luo Binghe accepted the book, “I will try reading it to him.”

“You are welcome.” his father replied, as he patted his son on the shoulder. Before they then all moved over towards the next box to look through it.

The grandparents ended up staying for dinner as well. Much to the joy of Shen Yuan, who spend the afternoon after his nap playing with his grandparents. Which allowed Shen Jiu some time to relax and take it easy, while Luo Binghe did some chores around the house.

But eventually the day slowly had to come to an end. So the grandparents took their leave for the day, while Luo Binghe and Shen Jiu moved to get their toddler ready for bed. Bath time was as per usual a mostly calm affair, where Shen Yuan was happily occupied with playing with some toys as he got washed by his parents and soon enough the pair had their toddler cleaned, dried off, dressed in his pyjamas and tucked into bed.

“Ready for your bedtime story, A-Yuan?” Shen Jiu asked as he sat down on the edge of the small bed, while Luo Binghe sat on the other side as both flanked the toddler.

Instantly Shen Yuan was filled with excitement at the prospect. “Story time!” he kicked his little legs in joy, as he quickly got more comfortable and hugged his favourite plush – a wolf – tight in his arms. The reaction was both endearing and also not surprising to either adult. Shen Yuan certainly came after his mother in that aspect that he loved books a lot. Especially fairytales with cool and strong heroes and funny monsters were his favourite.

Pulling forth the book they had gotten from Luo Binghe's parents, Shen Jiu then leaned a bit closer to his son. “You got this book from your yeye and your nainai, so make sure to thank them next time we see them.”

“From yeye and nainai?” Shen Yuan looked up towards his mother with big eyes. Before he then nodded, “Will say thank you.”

“Good boy.” Shen Jiu gave him a kiss on the head. “But now let us read your new book.”

Opening the book and revealing the first illustration within Shen Jiu then began to slowly read the story in a soothing and even voice. The story began with the main character, a toddler just like Shen Yuan was, being told by his parents that they were expecting another baby. Where during the course of the story the fictional family did many of the same things they had done, like preparing another nursery, going to the ultrasound appointment, and watching the mother's belly slowly grow over time. Until the baby got born almost through magic and the rest of the story continued with the big brother interacting with their baby sibling and learning to be a responsible big brother. The little book was very cute and heartfelt, and also very easy for someone as young as a toddler to understand and learn about what was going on.

As Shen Jiu reached the end of the small book, Shen Yuan was already dozing off. However his eyes were still open just enough as he looked at the final picture in the book of the big brother carefully holding his baby sibling. “Yuan also big brother?” he asked tiredly.

“Soon.” Luo Binghe replied. They had of course long explained it to the toddler that they were expecting another child, but it seemed to still make a different between being told something and being shown it. “The baby is still in your mama's tummy, just like in the picture book. But soon the baby will be here as well and you will be a big brother. Then Yuan-Er has to be a responsible gege and be nice to the baby, just like the gege in the book.”

Shen Yuan's tired eyes went over towards his mother's stomach, where he then for a moment sat himself up to hug the baby bump. “Yuan is responsible.”

“Yes, you are.” Shen Jiu smiled at him and petted his head.

“Yuan is the most responsible.” Luo Binghe agreed, as he moved to lower his stepson back to laying down properly and pulling the blanket up to his chin. “So now be a good and responsible gege and go to sleep.”

Struggling to stay awake Shen Yuan simply hummed in agreement. “Night night.”

“Goodnight, A-Yuan.” Shen Jiu gave him a kiss on his forehead, as he got up from the bed.

“Goodnight, Yuan-Er. Sleep tight.” Luo Binghe gave him a pet on the head, before quietly the two adults left the toddler's bedroom for the night.

***

Ever since having been gifted the toddler book, Shen Yuan had become determined to being 'a responsible gege' for his future baby sibling. He insisted on doing absolutely everything and helping out wherever he could. Which of course was not much what a toddler could do and usually involved his parents helping him, like lifting him up so that he could hand over the money for their shopping to the cashier or holding onto things he was carrying when they were cleaning up.

Shen Yuan had also begun telling absolutely everyone he met with the greatest joy that he was going to be a big brother soon. From the people at the shops when they went shopping, their friends whenever they saw them, the other kids at daycare, and even his own grandparents. They had also run into the nice granny who had once helped Luo Binghe out when he had first babysat his now stepson, who was ever so delighted to hear the news.

However the thing that had become the by far most endearing new habit of the toddler was his habit of talking to the baby bump, something he had copied from both of his parents after seeing them often do it during the last few months. He would babble with the bump at every opportunity, telling the unborn baby about his day, about all the games that they could play, and that he loved the baby. Often Luo Binghe would come home from a jog or from a quick trip to the shop and found his mate and stepson inside of the omega's nest, while the toddler would babble with the bump as if the baby was long born and right next to him and it never failed to warm Luo Binghe's heart.

The small family of three was out for a trip to the shopping centre, as Shen Yuan had needed a new coat with the change of seasons approaching and the family needed a few more things as well that they planned to get while they were out anyway.

Finding a new coat for the toddler proved a very quick affair when the toddler spotted a coat that had little spikes on them that made him look like a tiny dinosaur, something that instantly captivated the little child. The hardest part had actually been to convince Shen Yuan to not wear it yet, as it still was a tiny bit too warm for it and they also still had to pay for it as well.

However as they were looking around the clothes store, Luo Binghe could not help himself having a look at the baby clothing.

“Look at how cute this little onesie is.” Luo Binghe cooed as he held up a little baby onesie towards Shen Jiu, “The flower pattern is just really adorable.”

“It is.” Shen Jiu agreed as he looked at the onesie held out towards him. But then his eyes went back towards his mate with a stern expression, “But you are aware that A-Yuan's old baby clothes are all still perfectly serviceable, right? We do not need to buy more baby stuff.”

“I know.” Luo Binghe admitted, but then he put on his best puppy eyes, “But I was not there when A-Jiu was pregnant with Yuan-Er to get to enjoy any baby shopping back then, so please let this husband indulge a bit.” he said with a pleading look, before then reaching back to the rack to pull out another clothing article, this time it being a little shit, “And look, they have matching shirts with the same pattern. So Yuan-Er and the little one can match.” he held up both the onesie and the little shirt towards Shen Jiu.

All while Shen Jiu's resolve, as iron as it usually was, was visibly struggling. Until he could not hold himself back any more as he took both articles and put then into their bag to buy once they finished looking around. Making Luo Binghe grin with satisfaction as he continued looking through the baby clothing and picking out things that caught his interest. While Shen Jiu and even in one case Shen Yuan joined in.

Eventually however the family decided to call it quits with the clothing shopping, as Shen Yuan was beginning to get bored and as such restless. So they went to pay for their purchase and left the shop to go to the next one on their list.

“I would suggest that we go to the painting supplies shop next and then we could have a sit down for some lunch.” Luo Binghe suggested, “Is that fine with you or would you rather take a break now and sit down for a bit?” he asked Shen Jiu, wanting to make sure the pregnant omega was still fit enough on his feet. When having to carry all that extra weight around and struggling with swollen feet a lot, the alpha always wanted to make sure that the other was comfortable. He knew how much Shen Jiu did not like to admit on his own when he was not feeling well or up to something and that he often needed encouragement to open up.

“I only need a few new paints, which should not take long. So we can go there first before having lunch.” Shen Jiu replied after a moment of consideration. Making Luo Binghe nod as the family moved along the shopping centre.

However then Shen Jiu suddenly stopped walking. “Oh, I think we forgot to get that book your father asked us about.” he stated as he turned back towards the direction they had come from, where the shopping centre's book store was further down the path after they had already passed it.

Luo Tianlang had asked them the day before if they could be so kind to pick up a book that was newly released after he had heard about the family's plan to go to the shopping centre, as he himself had a few appointments and would not have time to go to the book store to pick it up himself. To which the family had agreed to.

Luo Binghe was more than happy to quickly go back and get the book, but before he could offer someone else beat him to it.

“Yuan get it.” Shen Yuan spoke up from where he sat in his stroller, “Yuan responsible gege.”

Just how could Luo Binghe deny his little one's generous offer, when the toddler was so determined to help? However the problem was that Shen Yuan was still very much a toddler and could not be trusted to walk around a shopping centre on his own, let alone buy a book. Neither could he read nor was he legally allowed to purchase things yet without his parents being with him. So they had to go with him.

“I will go with A-Yuan.” Shen Jiu then offered, “I want to go to the bathroom anyway, which is close by anyway. So would you wait here with the bags please, Binghe?”

While Luo Binghe would rather have Shen Jiu wait, best by the benches a few steps further down so that he could rest, there was no reason to deny the suggestion. If the omega needed to use the restroom it made much more sense for him to go with Shen Yuan, so Luo Binghe nodded. “Okay then. You two get the book, while I will wait by the benches.” he pointed at the seats.

“See you in a bit then.” Shen Jiu then turned around with the stroller, “Come A-Yuan, you can help A-Niang find the book for your yeye.”

“Book for yeye!” Shen Yuan cheered as the two then walked off into the direction they had come from.

With nothing else to do than to wait for a few minutes Luo Binghe then moved to the benches to sit down, while placing the various bags he had been carrying down for now. Most of the important stuff they already had by this point and only had a few more shops to go to get a few more small things. With how far into the pregnancy Shen Jiu was by this point such trips were getting a bit more rare these days, due to the omega's higher need to rest and take it easy with the due date moving closer by the day.

Luo Binghe could sometimes barely believe that soon he would become a father again, this time while experiencing a birth as the father. It was incredibly exciting that soon he would get to experience all these things that he had missed out on with his stepson, due to not having met Shen Jiu when he had been pregnant with Shen Yuan and had given birth to him. But now it was different. He was going to be there and he was going to experience all these things with the new baby, when he was going to be the father of two wonderful and beautiful children.

“Binghe, is that you?”

Hearing someone call his name made Luo Binghe stop his train of thoughts as he then instead looked around to spot the source of the voice. Where he then saw a woman approach him with a smile on her face.

“Oh my, Binghe, it really is you. I haven't seen you in ages.”

Looking at the woman, Luo Binghe's eyes widened slightly in recognition. “Haitang, it has been years. I did not know that you are back in town.”

The woman that approached him was Qiu Haitang, one of Luo Binghe's many changing ex-partners from when he had still been a playboy that had refused to be tied down. The woman was slightly older than him by a few years and they had been seeing each other quite often a few years back, until she began a new job and had moved away, where contact had eventually stopped over time.

“Oh, I am just here for a visit. An old school friend of mine is getting married, so I am staying in town at the moment.” Qiu Haitang explained to him, “And how have you been? You look good.”

“I have been doing really great, thank you very much.” Great was in fact a huge underestimation of how he was doing. Ever since they had last seen each other years ago so many things had changed for the better in Luo Binghe's life. He had met the love of his life, got married, got a son, and was now expecting another child. He could probably study the highest forms of literature and learn from all the masters throughout history and would still not find the right words that would do justice to how much he loved his life and how happy he was all thanks to Shen Jiu and Shen Yuan.

“That is wonderful.” Qiu Haitang sounded genuinely pleased, as she sat down next to him, “I have also been doing really great. I had recently gotten a promotion at work.” she began telling him as they caught up for a bit.

However as she talked about her life as for late, Qiu Haitang then slightly leaned closer towards Luo Binghe. “Say Binghe, do you have anything planned for today?” she asked him suddenly, her eyes filled with interest as he looked up towards him from beneath her lashes, “I was thinking that we could catch up a bit more. You know, like in the old days.” she now almost purred as her hand moved closer towards him, her fingers reaching out towards the alpha, “I don't have a date for the wedding yet either, so maybe we could go together and enjoy a few drinks there?”

Before however the woman could reach him with her advances, Luo Binghe leaned away to get a much more respectable distance between them again. “Oh, I am flattered, Haitang, but I am married now.” he explained to her as he held up his hand that was adorned by a wedding ring. He had meant to mention it before something like this could happen, but he had not actually managed to get a word in beforehand.

Qiu Haitang's eyes widened in surprise at the sight of a wedding ring on Luo Binghe's finger. Which he guessed was a fair reaction, as only a few years back he had been adamantly against being tied down to anyone. So most of his past partners had been surprised when they had first found out about him settling down.

“Oh my, I am sorry.” she quickly apologised with a flustered expression.

“Oh, no worries.” Luo Binghe waved her off, “Can't blame you for not having expected that. Many don't.” he made a small laugh at his own expense, as it was true.

“I guess that is fair.” she also made a small laugh, before looking at the ring once more, “To think that someone had actually managed to tie the famous stallion Luo Binghe down. Must be quite the catch then.” she mused. She did not seem upset about it, but there was a hint of displeasure in her expression at her past regular fling being off the market for good now.

“He is.” Luo Binghe nodded with a dreamy expression. Shen Jiu was more than just a catch. Truth to be told, he could still not believe that Shen Jiu had actually deemed someone like Luo Binghe worthy of him.

But as the two of them talked, another voice peaked up.

“Yuan has yeye book!” it was Shen Yuan, who was proudly holding up the book from where he sat in his stroller.

Lighting up at seeing his mate and son return, Luo Binghe got up to approach the two of them, while Qiu Haitang turned from where she sat to look at the two new arrivals as well.

“You did so good, Yuan-Er.” Luo Binghe crouched down next to the stroller to pet his stepson on the head for his hard work. However due to being distracted with the toddler, Luo Binghe had failed to notice how Shen Jiu had stopped dead in his track as dead silence overtook the scene.

A silence that was then broken by Qiu Haitang. “You…”

Noticing that something was wrong with the weird tone of voice from the woman, Luo Binghe raised himself up again. “Haitang?” he looked at her confused.

However Qiu Haitang hardly seemed to notice him any more, as instead she just stared with a tight expression. “What are you doing here?”

She was looking straight at Shen Jiu.

Shen Jiu, who in return seemed almost frozen on the spot.

Something was very wrong and Luo Binghe did not like it one bit, making him move a bit closer to his mate. “This is my mate Shen Jiu, and our son Yuan-Er.” he introduced them, “Is something the matter?”

“Shen Jiu is your mate?” Qiu Haitang asked for confirmation, her voice tight with disbelieve. Before suddenly her voice got much louder, almost shrill, “This fucking lying bitch is your wife?!?”

Luo Binghe could hardly believe his ears. “Qiu Haitang, how are you talking to my wife?!” he was completely enraged and in disbelieve.

“I am talking to that whore like he deserves!” she roared back, making multiple people around them turn towards them. “Shen Jiu is nothing but a lying piece of shit!” she snarled, “I bet he never told you that he is my cursed foster brother and that he had caused my brother and father to go to jail with his fucking lies!” she began accusing him, not caring to hold back and who would hear, “That fucking witch made up some crazy lies and ruined my entire family and then just ran off! And now that bitch dares to play happy family with you?!”

During her entire tirade Shen Jiu simply stood there, looking absolutely shell-shocked and not managing to mutter a single sound, making Luo Binghe quickly move to support the heavily pregnant omega. All while Shen Yuan began to cry from fear at having a strange woman yell at his mother.

“Qiu Haitang, you better shut your mouth in front of my family, do you hear!” Luo Binge now began to growl.

“Your family? That I don't laugh.” she sneered at him, “As if that lying scum is loyal. Just look at that little brat, he looks nothing like you. I bet Shen Jiu fucked every sire he found and just claimed that bastard is yours.”

Luo Binghe was close to exploding. Bad enough that this woman was insulting his wife and mate, but now she was also going at his son and tried to make Luo Binghe believe that he was some kind of illegitimate child of his. If Luo Binghe cared to exchange even one single further word with that woman, he would point out to her that Shen Yuan was his stepson and not biologically related him. However all he cared about was to get rid of her. “Haitang one more word about my family and you will regret it. Be lucky that my pregnant wife and child are here or I would have long made you shut up.” he growled at her in warning. As much as he wanted to punch her to make her eat her disgusting words of slander, he could not get violent when his family was watching.

Once more Qiu Haitang moved to open her mouth, not caring at all how close Luo Binghe was to physically making her shut up. Only that two more people joined them, moving between the raging woman and the small family. It was two security officers.

“We have been called, because a verbal assault taking place.” one of the security offers said, their eyes very much on Qiu Haitang in warning. “What is going on?”

“She has been assaulting my wife and even my son just now.” Luo Binghe explained to the two security officers, as he continued glaring at Qiu Haitang in rage.

“As if that bitch didn't deserve it for what he did!” Qiu Haitang however growled back in return, pointing accusingly at Shen Jiu and looking ready to actually physically attack him if she could.

“Miss, we have to ask you to leave this property, right now.” the other officer told her, giving her not room to talk back.

Only that she tried. “Why? Shen Jiu has started it with his slander! I am just defending myself!”

It was then another voice from a bit further away that spoke up. “'Defending yourself', that I don't laugh.” it was another dam with child, “I have seen you try to flirt with that young man and then suddenly explode at that poor omega and child when he rejected you.”

Where another dam, this much older that she could have been someone grandmother, joined in, “Yes. You have been the one who has suddenly been raging at that poor family. You should be ashamed of yourself, young miss, making a poor child cry like that.”

There had in fact been multiple dams and a few sires that had gathered, all looking disapprovingly at Qiu Haitang and probably also having been who had gotten the security to help out.

Being heavily outnumbered and having the security officers towering over her, made Qiu Haitang then finally relent. “Fine, I will leave.” she snarled, but she turned one last time towards Shen Jiu, “Don't you lying bitch dare to show your face around me again or I will make you pay!”

“That is it.” one of the officers grabbed her by the arm and began to physically drag her away, “You are being handed over to the authorities.” they took her along to the office and away from the family.

Finally things settled down again, as the other officer turned towards Luo Binghe, “Is your mate alright?” they asked in concern at the pale state of the pregnant omega, “Do you wish for us to call an ambulance?”

As much as Luo Binghe would have liked to have Shen Jiu checked over just in case, he knew his mate and how little he liked to be seen when feeling vulnerable. So letting strangers get too close to him might just upset him more. As such he shook his head, “It should be fine. I will take them both home now. But thank you very much for your help.”

“You are very much welcome.” the security officer nodded, “Do take care.” they then also took their leave to help their colleague with Qiu Haitang.

While the officer had left, another person took their place. It was the dam with the child that had defended them. “If you want, me and my daughter can help you bring your shopping to your car?” they offered with a genuinely kind and concerned voice, which touched Luo Binghe deeply.

“That would be very kind. Thank you very much.” With how much Shen Jiu was trembling from his clear shock, Luo Binghe did not trust to let him walk on his own. So an extra set of hands was very helpful. So while he moved to help Shen Jiu walk, the daughter of the dam began to push the stroller with Shen Yuan inside while the mother took the bags and they all went to the car park. Where they helped Shen Jiu into the car, followed by Shen Yuan. Before putting everything else into the car as well. And after a final thanks for the kind help, Luo Binghe drove his family home to just forget everything that had happened.

***

“Yuan-Er fell asleep before I even put him into his bed.” Luo Binghe said with a mild voice as he entered the bedroom. “I guess this incident today really powered him out.”

His eyes went towards the bed within the centre of the room, where Shen Jiu was sitting inside of, one of the many blankets from his nest wrapped around him like a protective cocoon as he looked down onto his lap in silence.

Walking up to his upset mate, Luo Binghe joined him within the nest and wrapped his arm around him. “Do you want to talk about it, A-Jiu?” he asked him, offering him his support and comfort.

For a moment Shen Jiu was simply silent, but after a moment of Luo Binghe wondering if Shen Jiu rather not talk about it just yet, he did speak up. “Why?” he asked, his voice low, “She already said everything that you need to know.” His voice was dismissive and upset, as if he already decided that Luo Binghe would believe these awful accusations Qiu Haitang had made.

“She did not, because I have yet to hear your side of the story.” Luo Binghe replied to him, “So this husband will listen to everything A-Jiu has to say. So will you talk to me?” he gave him a gentle squeeze to reassure him.

Despite the reassurance however, Shen Jiu stayed silent and simply continued looking down at his lap. But Luo Binghe refused to budge or give in, as he instead stayed within the nest with his mate, holding him in his arms in reassurance.

Before at long last Shen Jiu gave a long sigh. “I still can't believe that from all the people who manwhore could have slept with, it had to be Haitang.” he made a jab at Luo Binghe, either in a weak attempt to make the alpha budge after all or to simply comfort himself.

“What can this dumb husband say. I was hopeless before meeting A-Jiu.” Luo Binghe replied, not minding the little jab at him. “But I guess that means that you and Haitang have really known each other beforehand?” Luo Binghe remembered from when he had still been seeing Qiu Haitang that she had once mentioned having had a foster brother, alongside a blood related brother. Only that she had nothing good to say about the former foster brother, just like she had today. But as she had never mentioned the name, only saying that he had ruined her life, Luo Binghe had never even considered that it could have been Shen Jiu.

Instead of answering the question, Shen Jiu then asked a question in return. “Say Binghe, have you ever wondered why your mother has a friend like me, who is so much younger than she is?” he suddenly asked, making Luo Binghe stop to consider it for a moment.

Truth to be told, he had been curious when his mother had first mentioned Shen Jiu to him when she had asked him if he could take the young mother in after the fire. Because Shen Jiu was indeed quite a bit younger than her, which was not the most common friendship when they had met back in school. However he had never thought to actually ask before, as it never had been relevant.

As the question was more rhetorical, Shen Jiu did not bother to wait for an answer as he then continued talking, his eyes still downcast. “You know how I am an orphan and have been given away right after my birth.” he started explaining, mentioning his past and how he had never even met his birth family. “However while I ended up never getting adopted by anyone, I had actually once been taken in by a foster family for a while.”

Going by what Qiu Haitang had said earlier that day in the shopping centre, it was not hard to guess who that had been. “I guess it was the Qiu family that had taken you in?” Luo Binghe asked, simply for confirmation.

“Yes.” Shen Jiu nodded. “You know Yue Qi and how he and I had been in the same orphanage and all.” he mentioned his brother-at-heart, with whom he had quite a bit of a complicated relationship with after a huge falling out a few years back. “Well, he had been taken in by a family eventually, but despite his pleads to have them take me along they did not want more than one child. And oh boy have I been jealous of him, even if I had been happy for him at the same time. I was really glad that he got to have a family, but I was upset that I had continued being stuck in the orphanage, now entirely on my own.”

Luo Binghe remembered how Shen Jiu had mentioned that he had struggled greatly to make friends as a child and often found himself more alone than anything else. Something Luo Binghe had always been able to relate with, as he also had often been ostracised by other kids back when he had been a child. But he did not say anything and simply continued to listen as he did not want to disturb Shen Jiu as he opened up, due to knowing how hard these things always were for the omega.

“However one day, I got told that a family was interested in taking me in.” Shen Jiu then told him, “And I was so elated, because finally I could also have a family like my Qi-Ge had. Finally someone wanted me.” while he said these things that usually were something wonderful, his voice was low and anything but joyful. It was dark and foreboding in a way that it made Luo Binghe swallow hard as a bad feeling filled his gut.

“Well, turned out that what they had wanted was not a son or a brother.” Shen Jiu then finally said.

Luo Binghe had to actively stop himself from growling in anger and going to find the Qiu family to make them pay for what they did. However he had to be there for Shen Jiu right now. “What did they do to you?”

Shen Jiu however only shook his head at the question, not wanting to speak about it. “That is in the past.” he set a clear boundary at this and Luo Binghe would respect it, no matter what.

Shen Jiu then instead continued talking, “But that is how I have then met your mother.” he started to continue the story, “She had found me one day hiding after school and crying because I did not want to go back 'home', or what should have had been my home, where she had seen the bruises.” he said and as if out of habit his hand began to rub along his arm, as if these injuries from all these years back were still there. At least until Luo Binghe took his hand into his own, holding it and intertwining their fingers, reassuring him and showing him that he was there for him no matter what.

“What happened then?” Luo Binghe then asked him carefully, showing his support.

“She helped me get help and get away from the Qiu family.” Shen Jiu then answered him. “The Qiu family had been rich and powerful back then and have threatened me that I would pay if I dared to act out or resist and that no one would believe me anyway. And I had been too afraid to do anything, because I indeed could not imagine that anyone would have believed an unwanted orphan like me over the esteemed Qiu family.” he admitted his fear that had been haunting him for who knew how many years during his youth, as the young and innocent child had silently suffered through the abuse of the people that were supposed to love him.

But then Shen Jiu finally looked up for the first time ever since the incident at the shopping centre as he then looked at Luo Binghe, “But your mother had believed me.” he said, “I had broken down into her arms about what was going on, even if I had not expected her to believe me or to even care. But she did. And not only had she believed me, but she had helped me. She had taken me with her to the police to report my former foster family for all these horrible things that they had done to me and she then had taken me with her to her apartment that she had shared with her room mates back then, who had all helped take care of me and protect me during the entire process of the trial. She had even bullied your father, whom she had only recently started dating at that time, into helping out by pitching in to pay for a good lawyer to make sure that the Qiu family's super expensive lawyer could not pull something and let the family walk off scot free.” he finished his tragic tale that was his childhood and the abuse he had suffered under. “Your mother, Xiyan-Jiejie, has saved my life. I do not know what might have happened to me if she had not found me that day, or what I might have done in a desperate attempt to get away from that family.”

Hearing all these tragic things that Shen Jiu had to suffer under during his childhood filled Luo Binghe with endless heartbreak for him and he pulled his mate into his arms and lifted him onto his lap, embracing him and holding him close. “I am so sorry what has happened to you. That should have never happened to anyone.”

Shen Jiu in returned leaned against his mate, finding comfort in his embrace. “Are you not upset with me for not having told you?” he asked him, his voice weak and vulnerable, “Or are you not worried that I am simply making this up and that Haitang had said the truth that I had lied about her family?” his voice then shook, “Are you not disgusted?”

Reaching up, Luo Binghe took the omega's face into his hands, holding him gently and making him look him into the eyes. “No.” he answered plain and simple. “I would never be upset with you about not telling me something and even less would I ever believe that you would be lying about something so serious.” he explained to him, his voice firm and clear. “I love you A-Jiu. I love everything about you, which includes the you that you are now, the loving mother and witty wife that I have the honour to know, and the child that you have once been who had been stronger than anyone could ever be to survive through everything, and nothing will ever change that.”

A single stray tear found its way into Shen Jiu's eye and silently ran down his cheek, which Luo Binghe gently wiped away with his thumb. Before he then leaned up towards his wife to kiss him tenderly, putting every ounce of his love into it so show Shen Jiu that he meant every word that he had said; that he would love him forever and that he would love everything about him, the good and the bad, for as long as he lived.

The two ended up talking for much longer, as they cuddled in bed together. Shen Jiu told him much more about his childhood back then that he had never told anyone about before now. How for a while he had been living at the other side of the country to study music and train for his current career. How he had been going to therapy for many years after what had happened, due to the trauma and his resulting temper issues that he had suffered from for many years. How he had toured the country to play his music, before settling down to become a music teacher and eventually a mother. And even how he had ended up meeting various people whom Luo Binghe had happened to also know, from Liu Qingge to Shang Qinghua and many more.

While Luo Binghe also told Shen Jiu many things from his own childhood. How he used to get bullied a lot from other kids back in school, ironically including one of Shen Jiu's students at the music school, and never fit in. How he had been really clumsy and had often found himself in trouble or got himself hurt. And even how it had come to be that he had turned into such a playboy for multiple years, as he slept with anyone who had caught his eye without any care about commitment.

They had talked into late at night and Luo Binghe had never before felt so connected to anyone in his life. He never had been much of a sentimental type or much of a romantic like his father was, but with Shen Jiu he felt like he had truly found his other half; his soulmate. And as he laid in bed with Shen Jiu, his mate sleeping peacefully in his arms, he knew that he wanted nothing to ever change in his life because he was the happiest and luckiest he could ever be.

***

After that incident the family had not heard of Qiu Haitang again. However to be on the safe side Luo Binghe had stayed with his wife every time the omega had left the house and if he had been unavailable one of their friends would take his place. Which also doubled as a safety measure with the upcoming due date, in case anything were to happen.

Shen Yuan luckily also easily jumped back after that incident, as such young kids often did. However Shen Jiu and Luo Binghe had still talked to him the day after the incident about what had happened and made sure that the toddler was not too frightened from it. Although they of course kept it as child friendly as they could so that the toddler could understand what had happened and they also did not mention what history the couple had with Qiu Haitang other than knowing her from the past. When Shen Yuan was much older they might tell him, but that time would not come for many more years.

So soon enough the family returned to their daily rhythm as the days passed faster than Luo Binghe could keep up with them.

Laying in bed during yet another comfortable early morning as the first rays of sunlight were peeking in through the curtains and began to fill the bedroom with a soft hue, Luo Binghe could feel his consciousness slowly return to him. Only that he did not yet want to wake up, due to how comfortable he was. As such he snuggled back into his pillow, trying to sleep just a bit longer.

Only for him to find himself being woken from his comfortable half-asleep state by being shook on the shoulder.

“Binghe, I think I am going into labour.”

Never in his life had Luo Binghe woken up so fast as he sat himself up and jumped out of the bed faster than an arrow and looked at his mate, who was sitting upright within the best and was holding his stomach with a quickened breath. “Do you need anything? Should I call an ambulance? The doctor? Are you alright?” despite only having woken up, Luo Binghe had instantly went into overdrive as panic overtook him.

However despite the discomfort, Shen Jiu was as calm as one could be. “Calm down, little beast, the baby is not coming right now.” Shen Jiu moved to sit himself at the edge of the bed, with Luo Binghe's help. “Go and call your parents and ask them to please come and pick up A-Yuan and then go wake him up and get him dressed, while I call the doctor.”

“Yes, of course.” Luo Binghe nodded fast, “But are you sure that you are okay?”

“Yes, I am sure. This is not the first baby I am having.” Shen Jiu replied to him, “Now go.” he then shooed him along, making Luo Binghe very reluctantly leave his side as he went to fetch his phone to call his parents and wake up Shen Yuan.

Luckily Su Xiyan had always been an early riser and had been awake when Luo Binghe had called. So she had been able to quickly drive over and pick up Shen Yuan to babysit him until the baby was born. In the meantime Shen Jiu had telephoned with his doctor and after some measuring of the contractions, the pair then also had made their way over to the hospital.

It somehow felt like things dragged on much too slow and yet also were going to fast. So one moment Luo Binghe had been pacing up and down the room he and Shen Jiu had been assigned to, asking his mate a million times over how he was doing and if he needed anything even if Shen Jiu hardly had seemed bothered from the entire situation aside from the occasional contraction. And in the next moment and before Luo Binghe could even truly register it they suddenly found themselves within the delivery room as it was time for the baby to come.

Shen Jiu, despite his incredible pain tolerance, was now screaming from the pain as he clung onto Luo Binghe for support. While Luo Binghe did everything he could to support his mate, holding him, helping him to breathe evenly, reassuring him that he was there for him, telling him how wonderful he was doing and how much he loved him, as he kissed his temple, his hair, his cheek, being there for him during this painful and scary and yet beautiful moment.

And then suddenly it was all over as a shrill scream filled the room.

Everything had went both too slow and too fast. But now it was as if time itself had stopped as Mu Qingfang, Shen Jiu's doctor who had also helped with Shen Yuan's birth, gave Luo Binghe the scissors to cut the umbilical cord.

“Congratulations.” the doctor said, “It's a healthy girl.” he announced proudly as he carefully laid the freshly born baby onto Shen Jiu's bare chest.

Shen Jiu had never been one who cried much. Even when he had reunited with Qiu Haitang that one day and many of his old scars had been laid bare only a single tear had escaped him. But now he was crying openly and without any shame. “She is beautiful.”

Luo Binghe also noticed his vision blurring as he quickly blinked his tears away. “She is.” his voice was wobbly and weak as he had become so overwhelmed with emotions that he could barely hold in. “Hello, Chunhua. I am your baba and this is your wonderful mama.”

Their little baby, their little Luo Chunhua, cried and hiccuped as she rested on her mother's chest, safe in the shared embrace of her parent who held her close as their newly born baby slowly settled down after the scary experience of being born.

“We have another baby.” Shen Jiu whispered, his eyes still being glued to the small head of their daughter.

“I still can barely believe it.” Luo Binghe admitted. He had known about that eventually this was going to happen. But it was much different to having experienced it and seeing it; seeing their little daughter alive and well and being part of this world now. It was magical in a way he could never describe. “A-Jiu, you really made me the happiest man in the world. You gave me your love, you gave me a son with Yuan-Er, and now you even gave me a daughter in Chunhua, and I can never thank you enough for any of these. For loving me and for letting me be a family with you and our two wonderful and beautiful children.” once more he felt his eyes sting as tears ran down his face, “I love you so much, A-Jiu.”

Shen Jiu also once more began to tear up, his emotions simply being too strong for him to control any more. “I love you too, Binghe. More than you could ever imagine.” he replied, his voice filled with his every emotion he felt, with joy, with happiness, with love. Making Luo Binghe lean down towards him to kiss him sweetly, before leaning his forehead against his mate and staying like this as they enjoyed the moment of closeness between them.

It was some time later when Shen Jiu and Luo Binghe, together with their daughter Chunhua, had been moved back into their patient room. Where then their family all arrived to meet the new baby, where Shen Yuan had even joined his parents and baby sister in the bed, same as many of their friends who had all come to give their congratulations to the family. The room filled with many people and various gifts, as everyone shared in with the joy of a new baby.

But eventually their friends all left with promises to visit once again, once Shen Jiu and Chunhua would be able to go home. Where in the end only their direct family stayed behind.

Luo Binghe sat on the bed, while Shen Jiu was napping in his arms, with both of their children cuddled safely between them. His parents and cousin had left the room for a bit to have some a bite to eat and to give the exhausted omega some time to rest after the birth.

It was quiet within the room as Luo Binghe simply watched his family rest, while he watched over them and kept them safe.

When Shen Jiu had told him about his painful past all these weeks ago after they had run into Qiu Haitang, Luo Binghe had wished that he had met Shen Jiu much earlier than he did and maybe could have helped him. That he could have been there for him when he had been struggling finding his place in the world. That he could have been by his side when Shen Jiu had been alone and felt like no one had wanted him. That he could have helped him when he was scared and frightened with no one to turn to.

But as he looked at his family now, he was glad how things had turned out. Because if they had met any earlier, then they would not be here in this moment. Then they would not have Shen Yuan and neither would they have little Luo Chunhua. They might not have even had each other.

But right now, things were perfect. This was the life Luo Binghe wanted to live, together with the love of his life and their two wonderful children. He loved them more than anything and he would forever thank the gods, thank fate, and thank his mother for her having given him this chance at happiness.