Scene: Julian’s 20th Birthday – The Beginning of the Curse
Setting: An upscale lounge bar. EDM music pulses through the air, bathed in violet-blue light. Laughter, clinking glasses, perfume, and heat—everything blends together.
I leaned back on the white leather VIP sofa, one arm around a redhead who clung to me like I was her last drink of the night. Another girl sat across from me, laughing with her lips wrapped around a martini glass. Honestly, I’d already forgotten their names.
Earlier tonight, I made out with a different girl on the dance floor. Didn't matter who. What mattered was that tonight was mine.
Tonight… life was perfect.
Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted Cassian. He stood nearby with a drink in hand, watching everything in that quiet, unreadable way he always did.
“How many girls have you swapped out tonight?” he asked, deadpan.
I laughed.
“Three? Or four? I lost count.”
Then a voice cut through the music—cool, sharp.
“Funny. You act like you can’t tell what’s real and what’s disposable.”
I turned my head.
There was a woman standing a few feet away. I was sure she hadn’t been there a second ago. She wasn’t flashy, but there was something about her—like the room shifted just slightly around her. Her black eyes locked onto mine, unreadable, her smile subtle but razor-edged.
“Who are you supposed to be?” I said with a smirk. “Birthday therapist?”
She didn’t respond to me. Just kept staring like she was reading a book only she understood.
“They say alcohol only reveals who you really are,” she said, calmly.
I smirked wider.
“I’m just being honest. Marriage? Kids? That’s not happiness, it’s a trap. The world’s changed. I don’t need to play house with some obedient girl who wants to pop out babies for validation.”
Her gaze deepened. She didn’t look angry—just tired. Like she’d heard this all before and never once found it amusing.
She took a step closer. I didn’t move.
“You mock the kind of woman he dreams of,” she said quietly. “A woman who’s kind, loyal, graceful. Who brings warmth to a home, raises children with love, and satisfies the fantasies he never says out loud.”
Her eyes flicked briefly to Cassian, who stood still—his expression unreadable. Then back to me.
“Very well,” she whispered, voice like glass. “You will become his dream. Let’s see if it still makes you laugh.”
I blinked.
“The hell are you talking about?”
She turned her back to me, her voice trailing behind her like a curse in the air.
“Happy birthday, Julian. I hope you get the life you truly deserve.”
Then came the pain—sharp, strange, deep inside me.
“Cass… I don’t feel good. Can we go?”
Cassian moved fast, grabbing me before I stumbled. I clutched my head, sweat trickling down my back as he helped me walk.
Just before we left the bar, I looked back—
The woman was gone.
Scene – Inside the Car, Nighttime
Julian is still in male form, beginning to experience mysterious pain. Cassian is driving.
The pain hit me again—sharp and sudden, like claws raking through my spine.
I pressed my palm against my temple, breathing through clenched teeth. Cassian glanced at me, brows furrowed.
“You okay?” he asked, voice calm but edged with concern.
I didn’t answer right away.
Because I wasn’t okay. Not even close.
I could still hear her voice in my head—the woman from the bar. “You’ll become the woman of his dreams…” That wasn’t just a curse. It was a damn prophecy.
“Cass…” I muttered. “Can I ask you something?”
He kept his eyes on the road. “What?”
“What’s your… ideal type? Physically.”
Cassian looked at me sideways, like he wasn’t expecting that question.
“Why?” he asked.
I shrugged, swallowing down another wave of nausea. “Curious.”
There was a pause.
“Well,” he began, keeping his voice casual, “she’d be tall. Around 170. Not too tall, but close enough to me so we match.”
I winced as another jolt tore through my lower back. I looked down. My jeans felt… tighter around my thighs.
“Fifty kilos, give or take,” Cassian continued. “Straight black hair, down to her back. Pale skin. Clean, smooth. Oval face. Dimples when she smiles.”
My fingers trembled on my knee. My skin—it looked lighter under the dashboard lights. Too smooth.
“Mmh… eyes not too small, not too big. Blue irises. Well-shaped eyebrows, thick lashes. Full lips. Sharp, high-bridged nose.”
I turned my face toward the window, trying not to panic. My reflection on the glass… my jawline was wrong. My nose looked thinner. And my eyes—was that a faint trace of blue tint in my dark irises?
This wasn’t normal.
Another stab of pain hit, deep in my gut. I gasped, gripping my stomach.
“Julian?” Cassian’s voice sharpened. “What’s wrong?”
“I—just drive,” I said through gritted teeth. “Don’t stop.”
“You look pale. Should we go to a hospital?”
“No!” I barked, louder than I intended. “Just… just take me back to the apartment.”
He didn’t argue, but his grip on the steering wheel tightened.
My breath came in shallow bursts. My chest felt tight. My throat burned. My skin was on fire. Every second, I felt like my body was shifting, pulling itself into something else—something not me.
And every trait Cassian listed…
I was becoming her.
My nails dug into the leather seat. The pain wasn’t constant—it came in waves. But each one felt stronger, deeper, like my bones were bending under invisible pressure.
I could feel it. My skin tightening. My hips… shifting?
But my chest was still flat. My voice, when I spoke, was still mine—low, masculine, rough.
“Cass…” I rasped. “I need to know something else.”
He looked over briefly, concern tightening his jaw. “What now?”
“Tell me…” I winced as a hot pulse surged through my spine. “What kind of person is your dream woman? Not just looks. Her personality. Her life.”
Cassian blinked, surprised by the question. “Julian, this really isn’t the time—”
“Please,” I interrupted, breathing hard. “I… I need to hear it.”
He hesitated, then returned his eyes to the road.
“She’d be… someone amazing,” he said slowly, as if picturing her. “Someone who can cook really well. Not just basic stuff, but real home meals. The kind that makes you feel safe when you walk through the door.”
My jaw clenched. I could almost smell something warm, comforting, in my mind.
“She’d know how to take care of a house—cleaning, organizing… maybe even sewing clothes. Making them from scratch.”
A sudden tug in my lower abdomen made me gasp, and I curled slightly in the seat.
“She’s smart,” Cassian continued, not noticing my pain. “Creative. Knows how to run a small business from home. Manages finances. Keeps everything balanced.”
My stomach flipped. I felt tight around the waistline.
“She plays music. Piano, guitar, maybe violin. Plays classical pieces while pregnant, so the baby can hear. Then teaches our kids music early.”
I squeezed my eyes shut, feeling my hands twitch. My fingers felt… more delicate?
“She paints,” Cassian added. “So she can sit with our children and draw or paint. Nurture their imagination. Be part of their world.”
A quiet whimper escaped my throat. It didn’t sound like me. It was too soft.
“She’s a mother,” Cassian said, voice almost tender now. “Loving but firm. Teaches discipline, respect. Protects and guides them.”
I was breathing harder now, forehead damp with sweat.
“She’s also a wife who… takes care of her husband.” His voice lowered slightly. “Makes sure he’s supported. Sexually too. Someone who enjoys it. Every day.”
My stomach turned, not with disgust—but with something else I couldn’t name.
“She’s modest outside. Dresses with class. But in private…” I looked at him as he smirked faintly, eyes on the road. “She knows how to play. Cosplay. Anime stuff. Whatever drives me wild.”
The words echoed in my skull, heavy like fate being carved into stone.
I was becoming her.
And the scariest part?
A part of me wasn’t fighting it anymore.
Scene – Arriving at the Apartment
The pain peaked.
It wasn’t just pressure anymore. It was heat, pulling, stretching—like something deep inside me was rewriting itself. My breath hitched as I gripped the car door, my knuckles white.
Cassian was still talking.
“…and she’d have soft, full breasts. Like… 32E, maybe. Firm, never sagging—even after nursing children. Always perfect, like she was made to nurture.”
I could feel it. My chest—my flat chest—was changing. My shirt grew tighter, pressing against a rising, sensitive weight that hadn’t been there before. I bit down a gasp as two soft mounds formed beneath my clothes, tender and heavy.
“She’d speak with grace and dignity in public,” Cassian went on, oblivious. “But for her husband… her voice would turn gentle. Sexy. Intimate. Like a melody just for him.”
I opened my mouth to say something—to scream maybe—but what came out wasn't my voice.
It was hers.
Soft. Feminine. Like velvet lined with breathless music.
I froze.
I wasn’t breathing.
Then came the final twist. A surge of heat low in my belly, like lightning unraveling who I was. My thighs clenched. Something was missing—something new was there. My center had changed. Foreign. Sensitive. Wet.
I was—
The car slowed. Cassian cursed softly, parking as fast as he could.
“We’re here,” he said, unbuckling. “Stay put, I’ll help you—”
He opened my door and froze.
His breath caught.
His eyes widened.
“J… Julian?” His voice cracked.
I looked up at him, trembling.
And his gaze—his wide, stunned gaze—wasn’t meeting Julian anymore.
It was locked on the woman he had just described.
Me.
I was her.
And I had no idea how to be anything else.
Scene – Just Inside the Apartment
Cassian practically carried me out of the car. I tried to walk, but my knees were weak, and every step felt like a thousand nerves firing all at once in unfamiliar places.
“Come on, we’re going to the hospital,” he said firmly, one arm supporting my back, the other gripping my arm. His voice sounded distant, like I was underwater.
“No… please, just get me inside,” I muttered, my voice still catching me off guard—halfway between the old me and something… new.
He didn’t argue. We moved up the elevator in silence, and by the time we reached the apartment door, I was drenched in sweat and shaking.
Cassian unlocked the door, guided me inside—and then everything stopped.
Just inside the entryway, right next to the shoe rack and the umbrella stand, was the tall mirror we always used before going out. A glance before school. Before dinner parties. Before job interviews. I had never thought twice about it.
Until now.
I caught the reflection as we stepped through the doorway.
And I froze.
Cassian turned to say something, but I wasn’t listening anymore.
The person in the mirror wasn’t Julian.
She was—
No. I was—
My breath caught. My legs buckled, and I had to grab the edge of the shoe cabinet to stay upright.
Long, glossy black hair fell past my shoulders in soft waves. My skin was pale, glowing, smooth like porcelain. My jaw had softened; my cheekbones were high but delicate. My nose, straight and perfect. My eyes—bright blue, wide, framed with long lashes. Lips full, a little parted in shock.
My shirt was stretched around a full chest—huge, round, heavy breasts that rose and fell with my panicked breathing, forcing the top two buttons undone.
Below that, a narrow waist, and beneath that… wide hips that swayed slightly with every tiny shift in weight.
I looked like someone Cassian would draw in his most private sketchbook.
I looked like everything he’d described.
“Julian…?” Cassian’s voice was soft behind me now, unsure. Concerned. Maybe even something else.
I turned slightly, still gripping the wall. My chest shifted with the motion.
“I…” My voice was soft. Feminine. Terrified.
“I think I’m her.”
Cassian didn’t say anything for a few seconds.
I couldn’t move. I was still staring at the reflection—my reflection.
Then I felt it. His gaze on me.
Not just worried. Not just confused.
Stunned.
“Julian…” he said, barely above a whisper, “What… happened to you?”
I turned slowly to face him, arms instinctively crossing over my chest, trying to hide how much of me was now on display. But the shirt—my old shirt—was clinging too tightly, and it was impossible to hide the obvious.
“I don’t know,” I said quietly, voice trembling. “It started after we left that alley. After she touched me.”
Cassian blinked, his jaw slack. “She?”
“The woman. The one in the alley. She said…” I paused, swallowing hard. “She said I would become your ideal.”
Cassian stared at me like I had just told him the sky wasn’t blue. His eyes swept over me—my hair, my face, my chest, my hips. He looked stunned, yes, but not horrified.
And that scared me more than anything.
“Say something,” I said.
He stepped forward slowly, reaching out—but not touching. Just hovering his hand near my arm. “You’re… you’re her.”
I let out a shaky breath. “You don’t seem surprised enough.”
“I am,” he said, eyes meeting mine. “But I—God, Julia—” he stopped himself, blinking hard. “Julian. Sorry. I mean—”
“No,” I cut in, my voice small but sure. “I think you were right the first time.”
He searched my face, trying to find the person he used to know behind this… new one.
Then, softly, “Are you in pain?”
I nodded. “Not just physically.”
He nodded once, then quietly said, “Let me help you. Please. Sit down, let me get you water.”
I finally allowed myself to be led toward the couch, each step surreal, every sway of my hips reminding me just how far from normal this had become.
Cassian moved to the kitchen, and I sat, arms around my knees, drowning in his oversized hoodie.
And for the first time, I didn’t feel like Julian wearing it.
I felt like her.
Scene – Living Room, Late Night
The whiskey burned as it went down. I didn’t even like the taste—but tonight, I needed the burn. I needed something to ground me. Something that felt real.
Cassian handed me the glass without a word, then poured one for himself. He didn’t drink often, but even he looked like he needed it tonight.
"This is insane," I muttered, staring into the amber liquid. "Completely f—cking insane."
Cassian just nodded, his gaze focused on the floor. The air between us was heavy—like if either of us spoke too loud, reality would shatter all over again.
"You’re taking this better than I thought," I added, bitterness creeping into my tone. "I turn into your dream girl and you’re just… calm."
"I’m not calm," he replied, finally looking at me. "I’m just trying not to freak out because you already are."
I downed the rest of my drink. "Damn right I’m freaking out. I had a d—ck this morning, Cass."
He flinched, not from the words, but maybe from the tone. Or maybe from the truth of it.
"You think I asked for this?" I continued. "Some mysterious chick shows up at a party, you talk about your perfect wife, and suddenly I’m halfway to motherhood?"
Cassian’s lips pressed into a line. He didn’t argue. Just poured me another.
"It’s like she took your fantasies and rewrote me—like I’m a living blueprint of what you want in a woman."
"That’s not fair," he said quietly. "You didn’t deserve this. And I never meant for this to happen to you."
"I know," I whispered. My voice cracked, and I hated it. Hated how soft it sounded. Like it wasn’t mine anymore.
We drank in silence for a while. Two friends. Two strangers. Two messed-up versions of who we used to be.
Finally, I spoke again. "We have to find her, Cass. The woman at the party."
He nodded. "We will. I promise."
I didn’t know what scared me more: staying like this… or what I’d do if I couldn’t go back.
Scene – The Next Morning
I woke up to a strange sensation. The pillow beneath my cheek felt softer than usual… or maybe it was my face that had changed. The room was quiet. No footsteps. No sound of Cassian’s breathing beside me. Just the morning sunlight sneaking in through the curtains.
I took a deep breath… and suddenly, my body felt lighter. Slimmer. But there was a dull ache low in my abdomen. I shifted slightly—and froze.
There was a faint red stain on the sheets.
I stared at it for a moment. My brain was slow to react, but my heart already knew.
I had truly changed.
But surprisingly, I didn’t panic. Not this time. Maybe I’d exhausted all my fear and anger the night before. Maybe… some part of me was curious. “If I really have become the woman Cassian dreams of… what would that life be like?”
I didn’t know why, but my body moved on its own. I got out of bed, wrapped myself in a soft robe, and walked to the kitchen. My hands moved effortlessly—eggs, toast, avocado, coffee. I didn’t even realize I knew how to slice an avocado that fast. It all felt so natural… like instinct.
After placing the breakfast on the dining table, I took a warm shower. The vanilla-scented soap clung to my now-soft skin. I dried my long, straight black hair, and walked to Cassian’s closet. I picked out his charcoal gray suit and his favorite navy tie.
The clock read 7:20 AM.
And for some reason, I wasn’t scared.
I was calm.
Like I was… meant for this.
I rolled out the yoga mat in the living room. The sunlight bathed the floor in a soft glow, and a breeze from the open window carried the faint scent of breakfast. I started with a slow stretch, my body surprisingly flexible. Each movement felt smooth, like I’d done this a hundred times before.
Just as I moved into downward dog, I heard the front door unlock.
Cassian stepped inside, wiping sweat from his brow with a towel. He was in his running clothes, his chest rising and falling with each breath. His gaze flicked toward the table—then stopped.
“…You cooked?”
I looked over my shoulder at him. “Yeah,” I said, as calmly as I could. “Hope you still like avocado toast.”
He blinked, his brows furrowing. Then he noticed the neatly folded suit and tie on the armrest of the couch.
“You… laid out my clothes?”
I nodded, moving into a seated stretch, pretending not to notice the way he was staring. But I could feel it—his confusion, his curiosity, maybe even a little awe.
“What’s going on?” he asked quietly, walking toward me.
I smiled faintly, trying to keep my voice from shaking. “I don’t know. I just… woke up and felt like doing it.”
He crouched beside me, not saying anything at first. Just watching me like he wasn’t sure who I was—or who I was becoming.
I met his eyes and added softly, “Maybe… this is just part of whatever that witch did. Or maybe I’m losing my mind.”
Cassian let out a slow breath. “You’re not losing your mind.”
“Then why does all of this feel so… natural?” My voice cracked just a little.
He looked at me for a long moment, then finally whispered, “I don’t know.”
But the way he said it… I wasn’t sure if he was scared. Or something else.
Scene – Breakfast Table
We sat across from each other at the kitchen table, two plates of toast and eggs between us, and a shared silence that felt too full to ignore. My yoga mat was still unrolled in the living room, and the smell of coffee filled the air.
Cassian had his phone out, swiping slowly.
“You’re sure you’ve never seen her before?” I asked, taking a sip of coffee, my hands slightly trembling even though I tried to keep my face composed.
He shook his head. “No. I thought maybe she was one of your friends.”
“Not mine,” I muttered, then leaned back in my chair. “But someone must’ve known her. She was there. At our party.”
Cassian nodded and opened his Instagram. “Let’s start with the guest list. See who posted what.”
I grabbed my phone and started doing the same. We scrolled in silence for a few minutes, both tapping through stories, swiping through posts. Most were selfies, dance clips, clinking drinks—normal party stuff. But we were searching for her.
A few names in, Cassian muttered, “Nothing. Just Adrien showing off his abs.”
“Of course,” I said with a snort.
Then I paused. “Wait. This one…”
I turned my phone so he could see. It was a blurry video taken from across the room. Just a flash of a long black dress, a pale hand brushing hair behind an ear, and those eerie golden eyes catching the light for just a second.
“That’s her,” I whispered.
Cassian leaned in. “Whose story is that?”
“Olivia’s,” I said, checking the username. “She posted it late, like right before midnight. Caption says ‘mood shift’ with a bunch of weird emojis.”
Cassian narrowed his eyes. “Do you think Olivia knows her?”
“I don’t know… but it’s a lead.” I pulled up Olivia’s profile. It was mostly filtered selfies and aesthetic coffee shots, but maybe—just maybe—we’d find a clue.
Cassian pushed his plate aside and leaned closer. “Let’s message her. Casually. Ask who the mystery guest was.”
I looked up at him, my heart racing. “And what do we do if we find her?”
He held my gaze. “We make her undo this.”
I wanted to believe that was possible. That this… transformation could still be reversed.
But as I caught my reflection in the kitchen window, I wasn’t so sure anymore.
Scene – Three Months Later
It had been exactly three months since that night. The night of the party. The night I became someone else.
The night she cursed me—or gifted me, depending on how you looked at it.
Cassian and I had spent every spare moment since then trying to find her. Olivia. If that was even her real name. We combed through every photo, every tagged guest, every shadowy corner of the internet. But it was like she had evaporated the moment the party ended. No trail. No record. No answers.
Just the memory of her voice in my ear, sweet and cruel.
"Happy twentieth birthday, Julian. Here’s your gift—becoming the woman he’s always dreamed of."
At the time, I thought it was a joke. A weird, cryptic flirtation.
Now I wasn't laughing.
Three months in, I had begun to lose track of who I had been. Julian was a name I hadn’t said aloud in weeks. My reflection had grown more familiar with each passing day, even as my heart rebelled against it. I was softer, curvier, rounder. My hair had grown longer, darker, silkier. My skin had changed—clearer, more sensitive.
And recently… something more.
I had been nauseous nearly every morning. At first, I blamed it on stress, on this absurd, magical transformation. But then the dizziness came. The breast pain. The bloating. The relentless fatigue. My bras no longer fit. My clothes felt tighter around the waist. I couldn’t remember the last time I bled.
Still, I told myself it couldn’t be what I feared. I hadn’t even thought it was possible.
Then, two nights ago, I threw up just from the smell of Cassian's coffee.
Panic gripped me.
I went to the pharmacy and bought a test. Then another. And another.
Twenty. Twenty different brands.
All of them. Positive.
I sat on the bathroom floor for what felt like hours, surrounded by plastic sticks that all told the same impossible truth.
I was pregnant.
And yet… the deeper shock wasn’t the result.
It was the timing.
If I counted back… if I traced it from that night…
Exactly three months.
The night she touched me.
Cassian had no idea yet.
He’d gone into work early, trusting me to rest—thinking maybe it was just a stomach bug or nerves. He had been so careful these past months, not just with me, but with everything else.
When my parents started asking questions, Cassian stepped in without hesitation. Told them I was working on a confidential field research project in a remote village. No signal, no connection. A place where messages couldn't get through. It wasn’t entirely unbelievable—Julian had done fieldwork before.
They bought it. Barely.
And when my mother had a health scare—a surprise pregnancy at forty—Cassian had even flown back to our hometown a month ago to check on her. Told her I was safe. Happy.
I didn’t ask him what else he said. I wasn’t sure I wanted to know.
Now, I stood in the quiet apartment, one hand on my belly, the other gripping a crumpled pregnancy test.
The nausea was rising again, but I fought it back.
I wasn't just Julia now.
I was going to be a mother.
And the woman in the mirror?
She was exactly what that mysterious voice had promised: the woman Cassian had always dreamed of.
Even if neither of us had asked for it.
Scene – Evening, Cassian Returns
The key turned in the lock.
I froze.
Cassian stepped in, setting his bag down and shrugging off his coat with that usual, unbothered ease. His tie was slightly loosened, his sleeves rolled up, and his eyes found me instantly—wide-eyed, standing in the middle of the living room with a trembling hand behind my back.
“Hey,” he said, stepping closer. “You okay?”
I couldn’t answer. I just handed him the test stick.
Then another.
And another.
His brows furrowed as he took them from me, glanced at each one—and then lifted his eyes.
“All positive,” I whispered, voice barely audible. “All of them. I… I’m pregnant.”
The air between us turned thick. He blinked once. Twice.
And then—
A slow, breathless smile.
Not shock. Not confusion.
Happiness.
My heart dropped.
“Julia,” he said gently, voice low, “it’s okay—”
“No,” I interrupted, suddenly pacing. “It’s not okay. I need to go to the hospital. To confirm it. But I can’t—how am I supposed to explain this? I don’t have any legal documents as Julia! My ID is still Julian! My insurance, my records, my entire existence—”
“I took care of it.”
I stopped walking.
“What?”
He walked to the drawer near the desk and pulled out a small folder. Inside—passport, ID, health card, and even a tax registration. All in the name of Julia Evans. All brand new. Legal. Real.
“You… did this?” I asked quietly.
Cassian nodded. “A few days ago. After we talked about your business idea. You said you wanted to start something of your own, but you were worried about not having legal identity as Julia. I knew it was time.”
His voice was calm. Like this was something he’d planned.
And that’s when I saw it—his eyes flicked down to my stomach for just a second.
And he smiled.
Not a forced smile.
Not a nervous smile.
A genuine, full smile.
As if… this was everything he had ever wanted.
As if this—me, pregnant, barefoot in our apartment—was his dream come true.
Something cracked inside me.
“You knew,” I said, my voice low, tight. “You hoped this would happen.”
“Julia—”
“No,” I snapped. “You’re happy. You’re actually happy I’m pregnant. Because this means… I won’t go back. I won’t turn back into Julian. I’ll be stuck like this forever. The perfect woman. Your perfect woman. The mother of your perfect children.”
He looked away, lips pressed in silence.
“You don’t want me to change back,” I whispered. “Do you?”
He didn’t answer.
He didn’t have to.
Because I already knew.
This wasn’t just a coincidence to him.
This was exactly what he’d always wanted.
Scene – The Truth Between Them
“I want to go back,” I said softly.
Cassian’s expression faltered.
We stood in the middle of the living room, surrounded by proof that my old life was fading—IDs, test sticks, the smell of dinner in the kitchen. And his stupid, perfect smile that had disappeared the second I spoke.
“I don’t want this,” I continued, my voice trembling. “I never asked for this. I didn’t choose to become Julia. I didn’t ask to be… soft, pregnant, someone’s perfect wife. That’s not who I am.”
He stayed quiet, his jaw tense.
“I’m twenty, Cassian,” I said, walking past him, needing space. “I wanted to travel, mess around, chase dreams—or even do nothing for a while. I wanted to date women, not become one. Marriage? Kids? That was a lifetime away. Maybe when I was forty. Maybe fifty. Maybe never.”
Cassian lowered his gaze. “I know.”
“Do you?” I turned to face him. “Because for three months, you’ve been treating me like this is what I wanted. Like I’m already yours. You cook with me, you sleep next to me, you touch me like you own me.”
“I never—”
“You never asked! You never asked if I wanted this. If I wanted you.”
Silence filled the room like fog.
He looked at me then—really looked. His voice was gentle. “You don’t think I struggle with this too?”
I narrowed my eyes.
“I fell in love with you,” he whispered. “Not because of the curse. Not because you became some fantasy. But because for three months, you were real. You were strong, vulnerable, chaotic, hilarious, stubborn, and yes… beautiful. Not just outside, Julia. All of you.”
I felt my throat tighten, but I didn’t speak.
Cassian stepped closer, but not too close. “If I could give you your old life back, I would. But I can’t. And maybe this curse… maybe it’s not just about you. Maybe it’s about both of us. About learning something we would’ve never seen otherwise.”
I clenched my fists. “Or maybe it’s just a punishment. For being too free. For never fitting into someone else’s idea of ‘perfect.’”
Cassian reached out slowly, his hand hovering near mine, but not touching.
“I don’t want to trap you,” he said quietly. “But I can’t lie. I do want you. Like this. As you are now.”
I pulled away. “And that’s the problem.”
Scene – Midnight Silence and Morning Rituals
I didn’t hear him come in.
I had cried until my chest hurt, until my breath came in hiccups, until the silence felt heavier than my thoughts. The blankets were clutched in my fists as if they could anchor me to whatever was left of myself.
The door creaked softly, and I turned away, pretending to sleep.
But then I felt it—his warmth, the slow dip of the mattress behind me, the careful way his arm wrapped around my waist as if asking for permission without words.
He didn’t say anything.
He just held me.
I wanted to push him away. But I didn’t. Maybe because I was too tired. Or maybe because, deep down, some small part of me needed that warmth. I didn’t even realize I’d stopped crying until I fell asleep in his arms.
Scene – The Morning After
I woke up before him.
I was still angry. Still confused. But somehow… my body moved on instinct. As if routine had already taken root deeper than logic.
I showered, made breakfast—eggs, toast, orange juice—and laid out his clothes on the couch. Cassian’s usual grey shirt and navy slacks. I told myself I was doing it because it was easier than fighting.
Not because I cared.
Definitely not because I missed him holding me through the night.
When he walked into the kitchen, fresh from his own shower, we said nothing at first. He sat across from me. Ate in silence. The air between us was tight.
Then, quietly, he said, “I’m not going to work today.”
I looked up, suspicious. “Why?”
His voice was gentle. “We’re going to the hospital. You need to see a doctor.”
I blinked. “What about your meeting?”
“Postponed.”
I stared at him. “You don’t have to do this.”
“I know,” he said, looking me in the eye. “I want to.”
For a moment, my chest tightened again—but not from sadness.
I looked away. “Fine. But I’m not holding your hand.”
Cassian chuckled softly. “Understood, ma’am.”
I rolled my eyes. But I didn’t stop the small smile tugging at my lips.
Scene – First OB Visit at the Hospital
The sterile scent of antiseptic filled the air as we stepped into the obstetrics clinic. The nurse handed me a clipboard, but Cassian took it wordlessly and began filling out the forms. I sat down, my hands trembling slightly, the reality still sinking in.
I was pregnant.
With Cassian’s baby.
And I had no idea how to feel.
Cassian sat beside me, his knee bouncing. He looked calm, but I knew him well enough to notice the tension in his jaw and the way he glanced at me every few seconds—like he was waiting for me to run.
When my name was called, we followed the nurse into a private room. A young female doctor greeted us with a warm smile, motioning for me to lie down on the exam table.
Cassian stood near the head of the bed, gently squeezing my hand. His palm was warm, steady. I didn’t realize how cold my own fingers were.
The doctor pulled over her stool and smiled.
“Okay, Julia. First, let’s go through a few questions. When was your last period?”
Cassian tensed beside me.
My lips parted, but nothing came out. I blinked. “I… I’ve never had one.”
The doctor raised her eyebrows slightly, not with suspicion, but confusion. “Never?”
Cassian jumped in, clearing his throat awkwardly. “It’s… complicated. She—uh, Julia—only recently had some major hormonal… changes.”
The doctor blinked, then gave a small understanding nod. “Alright. In that case, we’ll estimate based on your ultrasound. Don’t worry. It’s not uncommon.”
I let out a shaky breath as she turned on the machine and applied the cold gel to my lower belly. The wand moved, and a blurry black-and-white image began to appear on the monitor.
“There,” she pointed. “That’s your baby.”
My heart stopped. A tiny shape, curled up like a comma, flickering on the screen.
Cassian sucked in a sharp breath. His hand tightened around mine.
“And this,” the doctor said, turning up the volume—
Lub-dub. Lub-dub. Lub-dub.
The room filled with the sound of a tiny heartbeat.
It was fast. Strong. Alive.
Cassian’s eyes glistened. I turned my head to him in shock. His lips were parted in awe, his expression open and raw.
And me?
I stared at the screen, unable to breathe.
There’s a life. Inside me.
I wanted to scream. I wanted to cry.
But instead, I just… stared.
Part of me—deep, instinctual—was in awe. The flicker on the screen was mine. But another part of me wanted to rip it all away and scream for Julian, for the freedom I once had.
“Based on the measurements,” the doctor continued, “you’re approximately 14 weeks and 2 days. Estimated due date is mid-July.”
I swallowed hard.
Cassian’s hand was still wrapped in mine. I hadn’t realized I was squeezing back.
The doctor tapped at her tablet. “We also ran your initial labs. Here are your results:”
She read them out, one by one:
- Blood pressure: “Normal, slightly on the lower end—common in early pregnancy.”
- Weight gain: “You’ve gained about 4 kilograms, which is healthy for your trimester.”
- Urine test: “Positive for pregnancy, no signs of infection or protein—great.”
- Blood test: “Your iron levels are slightly low, and your hCG levels are consistent with your pregnancy timeline. I’ll prescribe prenatal vitamins with iron.”
I nodded slowly, barely hearing her.
Cassian did.
He asked questions. Took notes on his phone. Nodded and thanked the doctor like it was his body that was changing.
But he wasn’t the one with a heartbeat growing inside him.
I was.
Scene – Evening at the Apartment
Cassian dropped me off at the apartment before heading back to the office. He didn’t want to, I could tell—but duty called, and I needed space. I told him I’d be fine.
I wasn’t.
The door clicked shut behind me, and the silence pressed in like a weighted blanket. I stood in the entryway for a long minute, staring at the small hospital bag in my hand. It looked innocent enough—just paper and pamphlets, bottles and booklets.
But it held my new identity. My new future.
I carried it to the coffee table, setting it down beside the pregnancy journal, the prenatal vitamins, and the schedule for maternity yoga classes. A small welcome package from the hospital—complete with breastfeeding tips and brochures about motherhood—sat waiting for me like a cruel joke.
I wanted to scream.
Instead, I went into the kitchen.
My hands moved out of habit, chopping vegetables, boiling water, searing chicken. I didn’t need to think. Cooking was safe. Familiar. A place where I could still feel like me, whoever that was now.
Halfway through prepping, I spotted Cassian’s work shirt draped over the armrest of the sofa. One of the buttons was hanging loose. I set down the knife and reached for the sewing kit tucked in the drawer, threading the needle with numb fingers.
Stitch by stitch. Breath by breath.
Afterward, I took a long shower. Lavender again. I didn’t want to cry in front of Cassian when he got home. I didn’t even want him to ask if I was okay.
By the time he arrived, the table was set. Dinner was warm. His pajamas were neatly folded at the foot of the bed.
He stepped inside, loosened his tie, and gave me a soft, unreadable glance.
“Smells good,” he said gently.
I nodded, not trusting myself to speak.
We ate mostly in silence. Just the clink of forks, the ticking clock. He watched me, but didn’t press. I appreciated that.
Then, as he reached for his glass of water, he spoke.
“I heard something today… about Olivia.”
My eyes lifted.
Cassian continued, voice calm but careful. “One of the party guests—he remembered seeing her in Tokyo. Said she was asking about old bookstores and… magic shops. He wasn’t sure, but I’ve started digging. There might be a lead.”
My fingers tightened around my spoon.
Japan.
Far. Complicated. But… hope.
Cassian looked at me, his eyes searching mine. “If she really is there, maybe we can find her. Maybe she can undo this.”
I nodded slowly. Not because I was sure. But because a part of me still needed that possibility to exist.
We finished dinner quietly. I cleared the plates, and Cassian changed into the pajamas I had laid out.
Later, he sat on the couch, staring at his phone. I stayed in the kitchen, wiping a perfectly clean counter, just for something to do.
Neither of us said much.
But when he stood to go to bed, he paused beside me, his hand brushing my lower back in silent comfort.
“Thanks for dinner,” he murmured.
I didn’t respond.
But after he walked away, I placed a hand over my belly… and whispered, “We’ll figure this out.”
Scene – Bedroom, Late at Night
The bedroom was quiet except for the soft hum of the air conditioner and the rustle of sheets as Julia shifted under the covers. Her back was to Cassian, her eyes staring blankly at the wall. Cassian sat beside her, his hand resting on the blanket between them, unsure if he should reach for her.
“Julia,” he said gently, his voice barely above a whisper.
She didn’t answer, but he could tell she was still awake.
“I’ve been thinking,” he continued. “About what I said earlier. About Olivia… and Japan.”
Her shoulders tensed just slightly at the mention.
“I looked it up,” he went on, carefully. “At fourteen weeks, it’s generally safe to fly—if your pregnancy is healthy. We’d just need a note from the doctor.”
Still no response, but she wasn’t pushing him away either.
“I’ll take care of everything,” he promised, more softly now. “I’ll arrange the doctor’s note. I’ll book business class. I want you to be as comfortable as possible. You won’t have to worry about anything.”
She finally turned her head slightly, just enough so he could see her profile in the dim light.
“You want me to fly to another country like this?” she asked, voice tired, eyes clouded with doubt. “With this body. With this baby. I don’t even know who I am right now.”
Cassian exhaled slowly, then leaned forward, brushing a hand gently along her arm.
“I know you’re overwhelmed,” he said. “But I think… maybe if we find her, we’ll finally have answers. Maybe even a way to undo this, if that’s what you want.”
He paused.
“But we won’t know unless we try. And I won’t go without you.”
Julia was quiet for a long moment. Then, softly: “You’d do all that? The doctor’s note… the flight?”
Cassian smiled faintly. “Of course I would. For you, Julia. Always.”
Her gaze lingered on his face—so steady, so sincere—and she hated that part of her heart ached in response.
“…Okay,” she murmured at last. “But only if the doctor says it’s safe.”
Cassian nodded, relief washing over his face. “Deal.”
He leaned down and pressed a light kiss to her forehead. And though she still felt unsure—still felt like crying—Julia let herself breathe just a little easier.
Scene – 4 AM, in the Apartment
The faint buzz of Cassian’s phone vibrated against the nightstand. He stirred, eyes still heavy with sleep, and reached for it quietly so as not to wake me. But the tension that suddenly gripped his posture pulled me from my half-sleep.
“Cassian?” I murmured, blinking in the dim light. “Is everything okay?”
He didn’t answer right away. His eyes scanned the message on the screen, brows drawing together in concern. Then he turned toward me slowly, his voice quiet.
“It’s your dad,” he said gently. “Your mom… she’s in the hospital.”
I sat up, a cold wave washing over me. “What? Why?”
“She’s going into early labor,” Cassian said, carefully choosing his words. “She’s only seven months along, but the baby might come soon.”
My breath caught in my throat. “No… is she okay? The baby?”
“Your dad said they’re doing everything they can. But they’re scared. He said he didn’t know who else to call.”
I pressed my hand to my mouth, emotions flooding through me. “Cassian… please. You have to go. Be with them.”
He hesitated, his hand reaching for mine. “What about you? Japan—”
“Can wait,” I said, shaking my head. “My mom is about to give birth to my little sibling. She needs someone. You’re the only one she trusts right now.”
Cassian’s gaze softened, filled with understanding. “I’ll leave as soon as I can.”
I nodded, squeezing his hand. “Make sure she’s okay. Make sure they're okay.”
Scene – Two Weeks Without Cassian
The apartment felt quieter without Cassian. Not lonely—just… still.
I kept myself busy.
Mornings began with soft music, a gentle stretch of my back before heading into the kitchen. I started cooking more often, testing ideas for the little café business I’d been dreaming of. When I wasn’t in the kitchen, I was reading—books about pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care. I attended prenatal classes at the hospital, sometimes awkwardly alone, but I forced myself to smile and blend in.
In the afternoons, I played my violin. My fingers still remembered the strings, and somehow, the sound felt fuller now, more emotional. Sometimes, I painted—nothing professional, just colors on canvas that helped empty my restless thoughts.
And every evening, I talked to Cassian. Short video calls, text messages, voice notes. He sent photos from the hospital. Updates.
"Your mom’s doing better," he said one night. "She’s resting more. The doctors are hopeful. And your little brother? Strong little guy. Already crying with lungs like a trumpet."
I smiled, warmth blooming in my chest.
A few days later, his voice softened as he shared something else. "Your parents… they were hoping for a girl this time. I think they were really sure. Your dad even bought pink baby clothes."
I didn’t say anything at first. Just held my phone and stared at the soft glow of the screen.
Then, somewhere deep inside, Julian’s voice whispered:
They did get their daughter. I just came a little differently than expected.
When Cassian finally prepared to return, I asked him to bring home a ridiculous amount of food—snacks, meals, sweet soups, and spicy dishes I hadn’t craved in years. My cravings had become oddly specific.
“Tell them it's for your… very hungry housemate,” I joked.
Cassian chuckled over the phone. “My very precious, very pregnant housemate.”
I rolled my eyes but didn’t argue.
Scene – Late Night Reflection
It was almost midnight.
The apartment was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the lamp on the coffee table. Outside, the city breathed in quiet pulses, muffled by the glass windows. I sat curled on the sofa, a cup of warm milk cradled in both hands, one resting lightly over the swell of my stomach.
Fourteen weeks. Almost fifteen.
My body had changed—was changing—in ways that felt both foreign and strangely natural. My hips had subtly widened. My breasts were fuller, heavier, constantly reminding me of my new form. The tiny bump under my palm wasn’t so tiny anymore. There was no denying the life inside me.
But what about me?
Was this really what I wanted?
I used to laugh at the idea of settling down before forty. I wanted freedom, women, noise, risk. Julian had never imagined playing house, folding laundry, carrying a child… let alone cooking dinner for someone every night.
So why was I doing all this now?
Why did I wake up early to make sure the sheets were changed?
Why did I smile when Cassian came home, even on the nights I still felt angry?
Why did my heart flutter when I felt something inside me move—not a kick yet, but maybe a stretch, a flutter, something alive?
Was it because I’ve truly changed…?
Or because I’m becoming the woman Cassian described?
His perfect woman. Obedient. Soft. Maternal.
No. That wasn’t fair to him.
Cassian never forced me. He cared. He listened. He was always… gentle. Patient.
But still—somewhere in the corners of my mind—I kept hearing her voice. Olivia. That mysterious smile when she whispered, “Happy 20th birthday. I gave you what he truly wants.”
Was this all just a spell I was living under?
Or had I, somewhere along the way, started to fall into it willingly?
I leaned my head back and sighed, trying not to cry again.
Because the truth was, I didn’t know anymore where Julia began and Julian ended.
Scene – Reunion at Home
The moment the door unlocked and Cassian stepped into the apartment, something in me shifted.
I had missed him.
More than I expected. More than I wanted to admit.
I didn’t even wait for him to set his bag down. I went straight to him, wrapping my arms around his waist, burying my face against his chest. His familiar scent—warm and steady—wrapped around me like a blanket.
“I missed you,” I mumbled, then quickly added, “I mean… the baby missed you. He’s been squirming all day. Must be your fault.”
Cassian chuckled, pulling me closer. “Oh? So now you’re blaming the baby for your clinginess?”
I nudged him in the ribs, but didn’t let go. “Shut up.”
He kissed the top of my head, his voice softer. “I missed you too.”
I followed him everywhere after that—hovering while he unpacked, standing by the bathroom door like a puppy until he smiled and said, “You might as well come in.” I slipped into the warm shower with him, letting the steam and his hands wash away the loneliness of the last two weeks.
After, wrapped in soft towels and laughter, we sat down at the dining table together. I had already reheated the mountain of food he brought back from my hometown—my cravings had gotten ridiculous, and he’d remembered everything.
We ate too much, giggled like teenagers, and by the time we were curled up on the couch again, I felt full in every way.
Cassian reached into his bag and pulled out his phone. “Here,” he said, swiping to a photo and holding it up.
It was a newborn, tiny and pink, with dark wisps of hair and scrunched-up eyes.
“Your little brother,” he said, smiling. “He’s strong. Already wiggling like crazy. Your mom’s doing better, by the way.”
I smiled. “He’s… cute. Smaller than I expected.”
“Yeah,” he murmured. “Your parents had decorated the nursery for a girl. They were convinced it would be a daughter.”
He looked at me meaningfully.
“I had to help your dad go through the attic, dig out the old baby stuff. Turns out, they kept everything from when you were little.”
My breath caught.
“They kept all your clothes, your toys, your crib. Even your baby photos, neatly organized.”
He handed me another photo—this one of a baby wrapped in a duck-printed blanket, chubby cheeks puffed out mid-laugh.
“You were adorable,” he said gently. “Still are.”
I stared at the photo for a long time. That was Julian. But now, that blanket, that crib, those toys—they belonged to someone else. A new baby. A new boy.
And me?
I was no longer the son in those pictures.
I was the daughter now.
Maybe… I had been for a while.
Scene – Nighttime, Bedroom
The lights were dimmed. Only the soft glow from the bedside lamp lit part of Cassian’s face as he sat on the edge of the bed, scrolling through his phone. I had just finished brushing my teeth, wearing a loose nightgown that now felt too snug around my growing belly.
I paused at the doorway, watching the back of Cassian—so familiar, so steady. After two weeks without him, it felt like looking at home.
“What are you doing?” I asked softly, walking over and sitting beside him on the bed.
Cassian turned, his smile gentle. “Looking at more photos of your baby brother. Your dad sent a bunch.”
I nodded, not saying anything. I leaned my head against his shoulder, letting the silence speak for me. His arm instinctively wrapped around me, his hand patting me gently like he always did when I needed grounding.
“I’m glad you’re back,” I finally whispered.
Cassian kissed my temple. “Me too.”
I shifted slightly, guiding his hand to rest on my belly. “He missed you too, you know.”
Cassian chuckled, rubbing my belly in slow circles. “Such a clingy baby already?”
I pouted playfully but didn’t say anything. The warmth in my chest was too overwhelming.
Cassian laid back, pulling me gently into his arms. I followed without hesitation, curling into his side. But tonight, I held on tighter. I needed him. Not just because of the hormones—but because I had missed him more than I realized.
“I’m still confused,” I murmured, cheek pressed to his chest. “About myself. About you. About everything.”
Cassian’s hand slid up and down my back in comforting strokes. He didn’t push me for more. He just held me. And somehow, that was enough for now.
Scene – Later That Night, Bedroom
Cassian didn’t answer right away. He simply ran his hand along my back and pressed a soft kiss to the crown of my head. His other hand still rested gently over my stomach, like he was silently speaking to the baby growing inside me.
"I know this is hard for you," he said quietly. "You didn’t choose this. But you’ve faced everything with so much strength… even when you think you’re weak."
I said nothing, holding my breath. His words struck deep. And somehow, they made my chest feel even tighter. I wanted to deny everything—wanted to say I wasn't strong, that I wasn't a good mother-to-be, that I was just a 20-year-old guy trapped in a body that didn’t belong to him.
But the truth was… I was still here. With him. In his arms.
"Sometimes I feel like… I’m not me anymore," I whispered. "But the weird thing is… I don’t even know who I am now."
Cassian looked at me silently, then brushed his fingers gently across my cheek.
“If you need time to figure that out, I’ll be right here. We’ll go slow. Together.”
I looked at him, and in that moment, I desperately wanted to hate the soft smile on his face. But I also wanted to cry and cling to him even tighter. I felt exhausted—but safe. Confused—but seen.
I buried my face in his chest, letting the tears fall—one by one. Not out of sadness. Not even happiness. Just… because it all felt too real.
Cassian ran his fingers through my hair in silence. He didn’t say anything else. And slowly, I drifted off to sleep in his arms—with my cheeks still damp, and our hands resting together on the curve of my belly.
Scene – The Next Morning
Sunlight filtered through the curtains as Julia sipped warm tea, her other hand resting absently on the small swell of her belly. Cassian, freshly showered and halfway through buttoning his shirt, glanced her way with that soft look he reserved just for her.
"I’ve been thinking," he said gently, sitting across from her. "We should go to Japan soon. Just a few days, maybe a week. I can handle the arrangements, and we’ll make sure everything is comfortable for you."
Julia paused, her cup hovering in midair. Her heart jumped—not because of the offer, but because she’d already made up her mind about something else.
"I… I’m not sure now’s the right time," she said carefully, choosing her words. "I’ve been feeling a bit more tired lately. And besides…"
Cassian raised an eyebrow. “Besides?”
Julia offered him a small smile, one she hoped didn’t look too suspicious. "I just think I want to focus on things here first. Maybe next week. Or the week after?"
Cassian looked a little disappointed, but he nodded. “Of course. We’ll go whenever you’re ready.”
What she didn’t say was that she had quietly set a launch date for her business: next week, on the exact day of Cassian’s 21st birthday. It felt right—giving back something to the man who had given her so much.
And so, as Cassian left for work, Julia got to it.
She had a busy day ahead: finalizing the paperwork, confirming her business license, selecting decorations, samples, and quietly organizing a surprise for his birthday—one that would also be the soft opening of her very own venture.
All while hiding it from the one person who knew her best.
As Cassian's birthday approached—falling right on Valentine’s Day—the atmosphere in their apartment grew warmer and more tender. Julia found herself wanting to be close to him more often, craving his touch and seeking comfort in their quiet cuddles. Sitting on the couch with her small but growing belly, she leaned into Cassian’s chest, hugging a little pillow as they enjoyed another quiet, intimate evening together.
Despite his busy work schedule, Cassian always made time to accompany Julia to her prenatal classes and pregnancy yoga sessions. He made sure she got enough rest, ate on time, and never missed her prenatal vitamins. Even when Julia felt too lazy to move, Cassian would coax her gently, reminding her it was all for the baby’s health.
Scene – Another Cuddling Night
One night, they sat together in the living room, watching a viral romantic drama. With her head resting on his shoulder, Julia casually slipped in a question, trying to sound nonchalant:
"So... have you prepared anything for your birthday? Or for Valentine’s Day?"
Cassian let out a soft sigh, his fingers still gently stroking her hair.
"I haven’t really thought about it. There are more important things going on this year."
Julia glanced up, a little disappointed. “What do you mean?”
Cassian gave her a small smile and looked toward her belly.
“I’m more focused on our checkup on the 15th. All I really care about right now is you and our baby.”
Julia fell silent. Part of her was annoyed that he seemed to forget how important birthdays and Valentine’s Day could be. But at the same time, a strange warmth bloomed in her chest at his words—his quiet focus on her and the life growing inside her.
That night, Julia didn’t say anything more. She just snuggled closer to him, eyes on the TV screen that now felt meaningless.
Because in the stillness, her heart was conflicted—was she truly starting to care for Cassian... or were her shifting emotions just the result of this changed body and all the hormones?
Scene – Cassian's 21th Birthday
The night before his birthday, I watched Cassian from the kitchen doorway. He was sitting at the dining table, still absorbed in his laptop, fingers flying over the keyboard. I waited a moment, then padded over and gently leaned on his shoulders.
“Hey,” I said softly. “Can I ask you something?”
He looked up, slightly surprised. “What is it?”
“Can you take the day off tomorrow?” I tilted my head. “Just for me.”
Cassian studied me for a second. “You’re being clingy,” he said with a small smirk.
“I know,” I said, shamelessly. “Is that a yes?”
He sighed like he was giving in to something inevitable. “Alright. I’ll clear my schedule.”
The next morning, after we finished breakfast together, I handed him an envelope. He opened it with one brow raised, then read the printed words.
“Your business opening is today?” he asked, blinking. “And… my birthday?”
I nodded. “Two in one surprise.”
He looked at me in disbelief, then a smile tugged at his lips. “You planned all this without telling me?”
“I wanted it to be special. I wanted to show you that I can build something meaningful too,” I said quietly. “Not just run away from my past.”
His expression softened as he pulled me into a long, grounding hug. “You’ve grown a lot,” he murmured. “I’m proud of you.”
That evening, when we returned home, I told him to go rest while I got things ready. By the time he came into the dining area, I was already waiting there, standing next to a small candlelit table—wearing a pink Sakura Haruno cosplay from Naruto.
Cassian stopped in his tracks.
“…Seriously?” he asked, blinking in stunned amusement.
I placed a hand on my hip, striking a confident pose. “What? You once said you had a crush on Sakura when we were younger.”
Cassian chuckled, walking closer. “I thought you were just joking.”
“Well, surprise,” I said, cheeks slightly flushed. “I thought it’d make tonight more memorable.”
He looked me up and down, and for a moment, I thought he was speechless. Then his hand gently reached for mine. “You’re unbelievable.”
We sat down and enjoyed the food I had prepared, laughing, talking, and just being… us. After dinner, we curled up together on the couch. I changed into something more comfortable, but the lingering smile on his face told me the cosplay had made an impact.
And when we finally lay quietly together, his hand resting on my belly, I could feel something tender in his touch—an unspoken affection, a quiet devotion. We didn’t call each other “love” or “darling,” but in that silence, I could feel that we were getting closer to those words, step by step.
Scenes - The Nightmares
It was beautiful, in the beginning.
In my dream, I looked into the mirror and barely recognized myself. Long flowing hair, glowing skin, eyes full of warmth. My body was soft but strong—curves made for cradling life. I was pregnant. Gloriously, visibly pregnant. I wore a pale dress that clung gently to the swell of my belly. I looked… like the woman Cassian always dreamed of.
The scene shifted. I was in a sun-drenched house filled with laughter and cries. Twenty babies. Crawling, crying, cooing, clinging. They were everywhere. Some in cribs. Some in my arms. Some tugging at my dress.
And despite just having given birth to twenty children, I was still beautiful. Somehow. Still graceful. Still glowing. Still… his dream.
And I was smiling.
Until I wasn’t.
The cries started overlapping, louder, sharper, unbearable. I tried to move, but every limb ached. My breasts leaked milk through my dress. My back hurt. My head spun. I felt like I was suffocating under the weight of tiny hands needing me.
I turned—and there was Cassian. He stood at the door, watching with soft eyes and a content smile. He walked toward me slowly and said, “You’re perfect, Julia. Everything I ever dreamed of.”
I wanted to scream. But I couldn’t.
I jolted awake with a sob, my body trembling, drenched in sweat.
Cassian’s arm was already around me. “Julia? What’s wrong?”
Tears flooded my eyes. “I… I had a dream.”
“A bad one?”
“I don’t know,” I whispered. “I was beautiful. Pregnant. With twenty babies. And they were all crying. And I… I couldn’t breathe. And you were there. Smiling.”
His brows lifted with surprise. “Twenty?”
I nodded shakily. “And I was still your perfect fantasy. Still beautiful. Still her. And I couldn’t do it. I was drowning in your dream.”
He chuckled softly. “That doesn’t sound like a nightmare to me.”
My chest tightened. “Of course it doesn’t.”
“What?”
“You got what you wanted,” I snapped. “Your perfect woman. Your big family. Everything you ever dreamed of. And me? I’m twenty. I’m pregnant. I just wanted to live a little before becoming someone’s mother twenty times over.”
Cassian’s expression softened, but his eyes lit up in that infuriating way. “You don’t have to do this alone. I’ll work harder. I’ll make sure our kids have everything they need—food, home, school, love.”
He paused, then added, “Honestly, if you can handle twenty… maybe we could have more.”
I froze. “More?”
“Only if you’re willing,” he said quickly. “I just—Julia, I’ve never had a family. You know that. No one. Nothing. But with you, I see it. I feel it. You’re the only person I could imagine doing this with.”
“And I’m just supposed to give you twenty kids? Maybe more?” I said, voice shaking. “You get your dream family. You get everything. And I…”
I turned away from him, the tears spilling freely now. “I’m just the one carrying it all.”
Cassian moved closer, but I couldn’t bear to look at him.
“You’re not just anything,” he said quietly. “You’re everything.”
And for once, those words didn’t feel like love.
They felt like pressure.
Like being wrapped in a velvet rope I couldn’t untie.
I was still fuming, turned away from him, hugging the pillow like it could protect me from everything I didn’t want to feel.
Cassian moved closer, wrapping his arms around me from behind.
“Julia,” he whispered, his breath warm against my neck. “You don’t have to carry this alone.”
I didn’t answer. My throat was tight.
“I love you,” he said simply, then pressed a kiss to my shoulder. Another one at the nape of my neck. His touch was soft, unhurried.
And somehow, despite everything—my anger, my fear, my resentment—his tenderness found the crack in my armor.
When he turned me toward him and kissed me, it wasn’t demanding. It was gentle. Grounding.
I hated that it worked.
But I kissed him back. Let him hold me. Let myself cry quietly into his chest until I fell asleep again in his arms.
Scene - The Next Morning
The morning sun peeked through the curtains. Cassian was still asleep when I got out of bed.
I didn’t even think. I just went into the kitchen and started making breakfast—eggs, toast, some fruit on the side. He liked it that way.
After that, I set out his clothes. Saime routine as always.
He walked in shirtless, rubbing sleep from his eyes. His lips curved into a sleepy smile when he saw me.
“You’re too good to me,” he murmured.
I didn’t reply, just rolled my eyes as I grabbed my towel. “Come on,” I said. “You’re showering with me. We're running late.”
He grinned and followed me to the bathroom. We bathed together, quietly, with soft touches and warm water washing away the tension from the night before.
After we got dressed, we sat down to eat breakfast together. The usual peace returned, at least on the surface.
Cassian grabbed the hospital folder while I picked up my bag.
Second prenatal visit—week 18.
He held my hand as we walked out the door.
Scene - The 2nd Visit
The hospital room was quiet, save for the gentle hum of the ultrasound machine and the soft tapping of the doctor’s fingers on the keyboard. I lay back on the examination bed, cold gel smeared across my belly, Cassian sitting beside me holding my hand. His thumb brushed soothing circles over my knuckles, but I could still feel how tense he was—how tense I was.
I tried to breathe evenly, eyes locked on the screen, waiting for the familiar thump-thump of our baby’s heartbeat. But this time, something was different.
The doctor frowned—but not in a worrying way. More like... surprised.
“Huh,” she murmured.
Cassian leaned forward. “Is something wrong?”
The doctor smiled then, a warm, startled smile. “Not wrong at all. Quite the opposite, actually. Julia, Cassian… you’re not expecting one baby.”
My heart skipped.
She turned the monitor toward us, pointing at the grainy black-and-white image. “You’re expecting four.”
I blinked. “Four what?”
“Four babies,” the doctor confirmed gently. “Quadruplets. Two boys and two girls.”
My mind went completely blank. I stared at the screen, trying to process what I was seeing—four tiny forms, four fluttering heartbeats. My throat tightened. “That… that can’t be right. We— I only saw one last time…”
“Sometimes it happens,” the doctor said. “At fourteen weeks, depending on position and equipment, not all multiple pregnancies are detected, especially if they’re sharing space closely. But now… it’s very clear.”
Cassian let out a stunned laugh beside me. “Four,” he repeated, as if tasting the word. “We’re having four babies.”
I turned to look at him. He looked overwhelmed—but also glowing. Happy. Genuinely, stupidly happy.
I wasn’t sure what I felt.
Cassian squeezed my hand. “Julia… this is incredible.”
I swallowed. “I’m twenty, Cassian. I was just starting to get used to one baby.”
He kissed my knuckles, his eyes soft. “I know. But you won’t be alone in this. I’m going to work twice as hard. I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure our children—all of them—have everything they need.”
I looked back at the screen. Four heartbeats. Two girls. Two boys. Cassian’s dream of a big family… and now I was the one giving it to him. Whether I was ready or not.
Absolutely! Here’s the revised version with deeper emotional response from Julia, integrating the idea that Olivia is a clue rather than the mysterious woman herself. This version also references a past social media story where the mysterious woman was seen with Olivia. Cassian's response is serious and devoted—promising a trip to Japan within three days, even arranging for a private doctor to ensure Julia and the babies' safety.
Scene - On Our Way Back
I couldn’t breathe properly.
The ultrasound still played in my mind—four heartbeats, pulsing steadily on the screen. Two boys. Two girls. It should’ve been beautiful, magical even. But all I could feel was this tight pressure in my chest. Like I was being wrapped in something I never chose.
Back at home, I sat on the edge of the bed, arms hugging my knees, my hair still damp from the spring rain outside. Cassian stood nearby, watching me with silent concern. I hadn’t said a word since we left the hospital.
“I saw her again,” I whispered.
Cassian looked up. “Who?”
“That woman from my dream,” I said, my voice trembling. “The one with the kind eyes… she was there. Not in the hospital—online. In Olivia’s story. I recognized her. Just her silhouette, her movement. It has to be the same woman.”
He stepped closer. “Olivia from university?”
I nodded quickly. “Yes. Olivia posted a story from Japan a few weeks ago. A little tea house in Kyoto. And in the background… she was there.”
Cassian was quiet, taking that in.
“She’s not Olivia,” I continued, my hands gripping the edge of the bed. “But Olivia knows her. She’s a clue—maybe the only real lead we have to understand all of this. Why this is happening to me. Why I’m suddenly someone who can carry four babies at once, like it’s… destiny or something.”
A pause.
“I need to go to Japan,” I said firmly, looking him in the eyes. “I have to.”
Cassian didn’t answer right away. He looked at me, really looked, and then stepped forward, kneeling in front of me. He gently took my hands, rubbing his thumbs over my knuckles.
“Okay,” he said.
I blinked. “Wait… really?”
“I’ll make it happen,” he said softly. “Give me three days. I’ll adjust my schedule, call the embassy, get approval from your doctor. If necessary, I’ll even bring a private physician with us. I’m not going to risk your health—or the babies’—but if this trip is something you need, I’ll make sure it’s safe.”
My lip trembled.
“You don’t think I’m being dramatic?”
He shook his head. “I think you’re overwhelmed, scared, and holding on to the only thread that feels like it might lead you back to some control over your own life.”
I let out a shaky laugh, tears falling. “Cassian…”
“I meant what I said, Julia,” he murmured. “You’re not alone in this. Whatever you need—we do it together.”
For the first time that day, I let myself believe it.
Absolutely! Here’s the revised version with deeper emotional response from Julia, integrating the idea that Olivia is a clue rather than the mysterious woman herself. This version also references a past social media story where the mysterious woman was seen with Olivia. Cassian's response is serious and devoted—promising a trip to Japan within three days, even arranging for a private doctor to ensure Julia and the babies' safety.
Scene - Take A Relax Bath Together
I couldn’t breathe properly.
The ultrasound still played in my mind—four heartbeats, pulsing steadily on the screen. Two boys. Two girls. It should’ve been beautiful, magical even. But all I could feel was this tight pressure in my chest. Like I was being wrapped in something I never chose.
Back at home, I sat on the edge of the bed, arms hugging my knees, my hair still damp from the spring rain outside. Cassian stood nearby, watching me with silent concern. I hadn’t said a word since we left the hospital.
“I saw her again,” I whispered.
Cassian looked up. “Who?”
“That woman from my dream,” I said, my voice trembling. “The one with the kind eyes… she was there. Not in the hospital—online. In Olivia’s story. I recognized her. Just her silhouette, her movement. It has to be the same woman.”
He stepped closer. “Olivia from university?”
I nodded quickly. “Yes. Olivia posted a story from Japan a few weeks ago. A little tea house in Kyoto. And in the background… she was there.”
Cassian was quiet, taking that in.
“She’s not Olivia,” I continued, my hands gripping the edge of the bed. “But Olivia knows her. She’s a clue—maybe the only real lead we have to understand all of this. Why this is happening to me. Why I’m suddenly someone who can carry four babies at once, like it’s… destiny or something.”
A pause.
“I need to go to Japan,” I said firmly, looking him in the eyes. “I have to.”
Cassian didn’t answer right away. He looked at me, really looked, and then stepped forward, kneeling in front of me. He gently took my hands, rubbing his thumbs over my knuckles.
“Okay,” he said.
I blinked. “Wait… really?”
“I’ll make it happen,” he said softly. “Give me three days. I’ll adjust my schedule, call the embassy, get approval from your doctor. If necessary, I’ll even bring a private physician with us. I’m not going to risk your health—or the babies’—but if this trip is something you need, I’ll make sure it’s safe.”
My lip trembled.
“You don’t think I’m being dramatic?”
He shook his head. “I think you’re overwhelmed, scared, and holding on to the only thread that feels like it might lead you back to some control over your own life.”
I let out a shaky laugh, tears falling. “Cassian…”
“I meant what I said, Julia,” he murmured. “You’re not alone in this. Whatever you need—we do it together.”
For the first time that day, I let myself believe it.
Here’s the revised English version of the scene in Julia’s POV, based on your request:
Scene - The Parents' Visit
I wasn’t expecting visitors. Especially not today, especially not now—when everything in my world already felt like it had been flipped upside down, twisted, stretched, and tied into a knot I couldn’t untangle.
Cassian had gone upstairs to finish some work, finally taking a break after spending the whole day taking care of me—from the doctor’s visit to holding me in the jacuzzi while I fell apart from fear and hormones. I told him I’d be fine alone for a while.
I was wrong.
The doorbell rang.
Once.
Then again—faster, sharper.
I waddled slowly to the door, instinctively cradling my baby bump. Eighteen weeks pregnant with four babies. My stomach already looked like I was far along. My body was changing faster than I could understand.
I opened the door.
I still remember the look in Mom’s eyes when I opened the door to Cassian’s house. She was carrying my three-month-old baby brother in her arms, her face filled with worry—and then sudden, overwhelming shock.
But even before I could speak, before I could explain anything, I saw it in their eyes. They knew. Somehow, deep down, they knew… that I was Julian. Their son.
I could barely breathe. My heart was pounding so hard, I was sure the four babies inside me could feel it too.
“Julian…” Mom’s voice was barely a whisper. Her hand flew to cover her mouth as she stared at me, taking in every detail—the long hair, the pregnant belly, the unfamiliar softness in my features.
Dad stood silently beside her, his eyes searching mine like he was trying to piece together two impossible realities.
I lowered my head and gently reached for Mom’s trembling fingers. “I’m sorry, Mom… Dad… We wanted to tell you. I just— I didn’t know how.”
Cassian stepped up beside me then, bowing his head deeply toward them. “Everything happened so fast. We didn’t want you to find out like this.”
Dad gave a small nod, his gaze still unreadable. Mom, on the other hand, suddenly pulled me into her arms—tight, warm, trembling.
“I don’t know what happened to you, but I know… you’re still my child.”
That was all it took for my tears to fall.
Later that day, things softened between us. While Cassian took Dad to his home office for a quiet conversation, I stayed with Mom and helped her change my baby brother’s diaper. I surprised even myself—how natural it felt, how instinctively my hands moved.
When I offered to cook dinner, Mom looked at me like she was seeing me all over again. Not as a son, but as a daughter. As a mother-to-be. And for the first time, I saw a kind of joy on her face that made something deep inside me ache.
At dinner, both of them brought it up gently—but firmly.
“You two need to get married soon,” Dad said, setting down his chopsticks. “So the children will be born with a proper name.”
Cassian and I exchanged a glance across the table. We both knew this moment would come. And honestly… it didn’t feel as frightening as I thought it would.
Later that night, when it was just the two of us in our bedroom, I sat beside Cassian and whispered, “Let’s postpone Japan. I think… I think we should listen to them. Let’s prepare for the wedding.”
Cassian reached for my hand and squeezed it gently. “Then we’ll start tomorrow. Together.”
And somehow, despite everything, I felt calm. Ready.
Ready to take this next step.
Scenes - The Next Morning With Dad & Mom
The next morning, the house was buzzing with energy. Mama and Papa were more excited than I was—maybe even too excited. After breakfast, Mama practically dragged me from the dining room with a bright smile on her face. “Today we’re going shopping, sweetheart. Wedding dress, jewelry, bridal nightwear—everything has to be perfect!”
I barely had time to respond before Papa showed up with a neat list of stores we’d visit. Honestly, I was nervous, but there was also a warmth in my chest I couldn’t deny. They accepted me… completely. It was surreal, watching them so genuinely happy to prepare their daughter's wedding—even though I used to be their son.
Meanwhile, Cassian wasn’t off the hook either. Mama gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and handed him Julius—my baby brother, barely a month old. “Time to practice being a dad, Cassian,” she teased with a wink. Cassian looked slightly panicked but took Julius in his arms with steady hands.
While Cassian stayed at home with Julius—nervously texting updates about diaper changes and bottle feeding—Papa, Mama, and I headed out. I never imagined I’d be the one picking out a wedding dress, let alone while carrying four babies inside me. Every time I caught my reflection in a shop window, I had to pause. The curve of my belly was impossible to miss now at 18 weeks. Mama would glance at me, squeeze my hand gently, and smile with a kind of pride that made my heart ache in the best way.
We spent hours laughing, trying on dresses, comparing veils, and choosing delicate jewelry that sparkled under the boutique lights. It wasn’t just about the wedding—it felt like a celebration of how far I’d come, of who I’d become.
By the afternoon, we returned home with bags in our arms and hungry stomachs. And even though I was exhausted, I went straight to the kitchen. I wanted to be the one who cooked today.
Tonight would be special—Julius’ one-month celebration. I prepared Papa’s favorite dish, baked a cake with Mama’s help, and set the table for a warm family dinner. Cassian came down with Julius sleeping peacefully in his arms, his shirt slightly stained with milk but his eyes glowing with pride.
As we gathered around the table, I couldn’t stop smiling. This home, this moment—it was everything I never expected, and somehow, everything I now couldn’t live without.
Scene - The 3rd Visit
For the next two weeks, life moved in a rhythm I wasn’t used to—but strangely, it brought comfort. Mama and Papa were constantly on the move, handling the wedding preparations with the energy of people half their age. Cassian buried himself in work, trying to clear time off for both the wedding and the upcoming birth. And me? I stayed home, managing the house, gently rocking baby Julius when he cried, and wondering if this was what my life would look like now.
There was a calmness in the routine. I cooked, I cleaned, I read pregnancy books between naps, and I learned how to soothe a baby thanks to Julius, who had grown surprisingly attached to me. Maybe he could tell I was growing a small army of siblings inside me.
When week 20 came, it felt like a milestone. My belly had grown, heavy and full, and I could feel the unmistakable flutters and nudges of the babies inside. There were moments, in the quiet of the night, when they all moved at once, and I couldn’t tell where one ended and another began. It was terrifying and beautiful.
Cassian took the day off. Mama packed a small bag "just in case." Papa insisted on driving. And so, the five of us—me, Cassian, Mama, Papa, and baby Julius—went together for my next prenatal check-up.
The doctor greeted us warmly, already used to our rather large entourage. I laid back on the examination bed, my heart pounding as the cold gel touched my stretched skin.
The room fell quiet as the monitor came to life. There they were—my four babies, hearts beating strong, tiny hands and feet squirming in grainy black-and-white. The doctor adjusted the sound and suddenly, the room filled with the rapid, rhythmic thump-thump-thump of their heartbeats. I watched Mama cover her mouth in awe. Papa's eyes softened. Cassian reached for my hand and squeezed it gently.
“They’re all growing beautifully,” the doctor said with a smile. “Strong heartbeats. Excellent size for 20 weeks. In fact, they’re already measuring a bit long for their gestational age—long legs, just like their father, perhaps?”
We all chuckled, but I was still fixated on the screen.
“And you, Julia,” the doctor continued, glancing at the chart, “your vitals are fantastic. Blood pressure’s steady. Blood sugar levels are right where we want them. No signs of gestational diabetes or preeclampsia so far. And your cervix is holding strong—long and closed, no early signs of labor risk. Your uterus is adapting well, especially for a first-time mom carrying quads.”
I let out a long breath I hadn’t realized I was holding.
“Honestly, your body’s handling this like it was built for it.”
Tears prickled in my eyes—not from fear this time, but from overwhelming emotion. I had been so scared of this future… and yet here we were, all together, listening to the proof that these little lives were thriving. My babies were okay. And apparently, so was I.
“I can’t believe it…” I whispered, voice trembling. “They’re really okay.”
Cassian leaned close to kiss my temple. “They're more than okay. They're perfect. Just like their mother.”
And for the first time in a while, I believed him.
Scene - Our Bedroom
That night, after everyone had gone to bed, Cassian and I stayed up a little longer. I had just finished washing my face, changing into one of my softest nightgowns—one that barely fit over my growing belly. The babies had been moving all evening, soft rolls and kicks that made me stop mid-step sometimes.
When I walked into the bedroom, Cassian was already sitting on the edge of the bed, loosening his tie. He looked up at me—and something about the way his eyes softened made my heart flutter.
"You okay?" he asked, reaching out a hand toward me.
I nodded, walking over and taking his hand. "Just... full. Tired. But happy."
He guided me between his legs and wrapped his arms gently around my waist, pressing a lingering kiss to the curve of my belly. "They're so strong already."
"Mm-hmm," I murmured, brushing my fingers through his hair. "I think they like when you talk to them."
Cassian chuckled, leaning in to rest his cheek against my stomach. "They must be geniuses then. They recognize greatness."
I rolled my eyes and laughed, but then his hands slid to my hips, and he looked up at me again—this time quieter, more serious.
"I'm proud of you," he said softly. "For everything. You’ve handled this way better than anyone expected. Especially me."
My throat tightened a little. I bent down and kissed his forehead.
"I'm trying," I whispered.
He stood and kissed my cheek. Then my jaw. Then the corner of my mouth.
"You’re doing more than trying."
His lips brushed mine again—longer this time, and with an ache behind it. I melted into it, my fingers gripping the fabric of his shirt as he kissed me again and again. We weren’t in a rush. Each kiss was slow, drawn out, like he was memorizing the shape of my mouth, and I was learning the warmth of his breath.
When he pulled back just slightly, his hands still resting on my hips, he asked, “Want to lie down?”
I nodded, and we climbed into bed together. He spooned me from behind, one hand curled protectively around my stomach, the other lacing our fingers together near my heart.
"I’ll make sure everything’s ready before the wedding," he said quietly. "You won’t have to worry about a thing."
"Thank you."
Silence settled between us, soft and steady like the rise and fall of my breathing. He kissed the back of my neck once, then again—until I was blushing even in the dark.
And still… we hadn’t said it. No "sweetheart", no "my love". But with every kiss, every gentle touch, I could feel it blooming anyway.
Scenes - Their First Kicks
I woke up just before the sun did—eyes still heavy, body warm, and wrapped in the familiar embrace of Cassian behind me. His breath tickled the back of my neck, slow and even. One arm rested lazily across my middle, his hand cupped gently over my belly like a reflex he didn’t even think about anymore.
And then… one of them kicked.
I tensed slightly, trying not to move too much. A second little foot nudged just under my ribs. Then a third roll, low and strong. A fourth jab, pushing outward so firmly that my skin visibly shifted beneath his hand.
Cassian stirred.
His brows furrowed against the curve of my shoulder, and then slowly, his hand pressed down a little more firmly—just enough to feel it.
There. Another kick.
He blinked fully awake.
“…Wait.” His voice was rough, barely more than a whisper. “Was that…?”
I turned my head slightly and gave a soft smile. “They’re saying good morning.”
He sat up halfway, still spooning me, but now both hands spread over my belly. A beat passed.
Then a soft gasp escaped him.
“Oh—”
Kick.
Another one.
And then a gentle wave across my side, like one of them had decided to do a full somersault.
His eyes widened. “They’re really moving,” he said, almost in awe.
I watched him, my heart swelling. “They’ve been active since last night.”
Cassian leaned in and kissed my shoulder, then bent forward and kissed my stomach, right where the movement had been strongest.
“I felt it,” he murmured, breathless. “That was… that was all four, wasn’t it?”
I nodded. “You felt all of them.”
He stayed there for a long moment, resting his forehead against me, arms still wrapped around my body, completely silent.
Then he whispered, almost reverently, “They’re real. They’re really real. And they’re mine.”
I swallowed past the sudden lump in my throat and placed my hand over his. “Ours.”
He looked up at me then, eyes soft, expression full of something I couldn’t name—something that made my breath hitch. Then he kissed me. Slow. Grateful. Full of wonder.
And in that small, sleepy bubble of morning light and baby kicks and his warmth wrapped around me… I realized: I had never seen him look more in love.
Even if he hadn’t said it out loud yet.
Scenes - Kisses and Hugs
The morning light had barely touched the edge of our window when I felt Cassian stir beside me. His hand moved instinctively to my belly, now full and firm at 20 weeks. He froze, then grinned like a kid catching snow for the first time.
“They’re kicking again,” he whispered, awe lacing his voice. “All four of them.”
I smiled sleepily and turned my face toward him. “Good morning to you too,” I murmured.
He gazed at me for a few moments before leaning in to press a soft kiss to my forehead. “Let’s take a shower together?” he asked, his voice unusually clingy.
“Cass…”
“Come on,” he pouted a little. “Let me help you. You’re twenty weeks in, carrying four babies… walking to the bathroom is practically a workout now.”
Before I could argue, he had already slipped one arm under my knees, the other around my back, and scooped me up with effortless strength.
“Cassian! I’m heavy!”
He looked down at me with a teasing smile. “You’re barely 68 kilos now. Up from 50? Still lighter than half the weights I bench.”
I glared at him, half embarrassed. “Don’t compare me to gym equipment.”
He laughed. “But seriously, you’re beautiful. And…” His eyes flicked down to my chest, “…your breasts are way bigger.”
I quickly covered myself with my hands. “Stop staring.”
“I’m not staring,” he said innocently. “I’m admiring. What size are you now, maternity-wise?”
I sighed. “I went from 36E to 38G… and still growing, apparently.”
Cassian gave an appreciative nod. “Incredible. And still not a single stretch mark.” His fingers brushed my belly lovingly. “How do you even do that?”
I tilted my head at him with a smirk. “Maybe because I’m your dream girl. Beautiful, glowing, soft, flawless skin… your ideal wife.”
His expression turned tender. “You’re more than ideal.”
He carried me gently to the bathroom, setting me down with care. We undressed slowly, not rushed—just taking our time with each other. Cassian washed my back, helped me step into the warm water, his hands firm but delicate as they moved over my skin.
“You’re glowing, Jules,” he said softly as he kissed my shoulder. “Even the water loves you.”
I rolled my eyes but smiled. “You’re ridiculous.”
“But you’re perfect.”
The steam curled softly around us in the bathroom as the warm water cascaded down. Cassian wrapped his arms around me from behind, his hands gently resting on the swell of my belly, his lips grazing my damp shoulder.
“I still can’t believe there are four of them in there,” he murmured, resting his cheek against the curve of my neck. “You’re amazing.”
I leaned back into him, letting my body melt into his warmth. “You tell me that a lot.”
“Because it’s true,” he replied, kissing the nape of my neck. “And I’ll say it a hundred more times before breakfast.”
We stayed like that for a while—quiet, skin against skin, my hands resting over his. Then, ever so gently, he turned me around and pressed his lips to mine in a slow, lingering kiss, one hand cradling the back of my head while the other supported the curve of my lower back.
“Let me wash your hair?” he asked softly, and I nodded.
He took his time, massaging my scalp with such care that I almost dozed off standing. When he rinsed the soap away, he peppered my forehead and cheeks with light kisses, then dropped another to the top of my bump. “Morning, little ones,” he whispered to them.
After drying me with a fluffy towel, he helped me into my softest robe and carried me bridal-style back to bed for a moment. He laid me down gently, tucked a pillow under my back, and pulled the covers over my legs.
“You’re treating me like porcelain,” I teased.
“You’re not porcelain,” he said, brushing my damp hair away from my face. “You’re everything I want to protect. And you’re carrying half my heart… times four.”
My breath caught as he leaned in again—another kiss, this time softer, slower, like he was grounding us both in this moment. His palm rested on the side of my belly, where one of the babies gave a faint nudge under his touch.
“I felt that,” he whispered, eyes shining.
“They like when you’re close,” I replied, pulling him into a hug. He held me tightly, careful and reverent, as if he never wanted to let go.
“I’m not leaving until you’re ready,” he said. “Even if we’re just staying here all morning.”
I chuckled. “Then no one’s getting breakfast.”
He grinned. “Maybe I’ll carry you into the kitchen next.”
By the time we made it to the kitchen, sunlight was already pouring through the windows, casting a golden warmth over everything. I moved slowly, still feeling the softness of Cassian’s touch lingering on my skin. He helped me sit at the table with care, kissing the top of my head before going to fetch a pitcher of juice.
Mama was already setting the last of the breakfast plates down—steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, and a fluffy egg dish that smelled like comfort. Papa was sipping his tea and reading the morning paper, but he looked up with a smile the moment we entered.
“Good morning, sweetheart,” Mama greeted. “How are you feeling today?”
“Better than ever,” I said honestly. “The babies kicked this morning. All four of them.”
Mama gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. “You felt them?”
“Not just me,” Cassian added as he returned to the table and handed me my drink. “They woke me up.”
“They were really active,” I said with a small laugh, rubbing my belly. “It felt like a little dance party in there.”
Papa chuckled. “Well, you are raising a whole team in there.”
“I want to feel,” Mama said eagerly, coming around the table to kneel beside me. She placed both hands gently on my belly. “Say hello to Grandma, little ones.”
“They’re calm now,” I said with a smile. “But maybe if I have a bite or two, they’ll get excited again.”
As if on cue, one of the babies gave a soft little nudge. Mama’s eyes lit up. “I felt it! Oh, that’s incredible!”
Cassian grinned, watching the moment unfold like it was the most precious thing he’d ever seen. He placed his hand over mine and leaned close, whispering, “They love their grandma already.”
Papa reached over to squeeze my shoulder. “You're doing an amazing job, Julia. All this, and you're still glowing.”
I blushed, hiding my smile behind my glass. “Must be the pregnancy glow... or the four heaters I’m carrying inside.”
Everyone laughed as we began to eat together—light conversation flowing, the love in the room wrapping around me like a second blanket. Even as life moved fast around us—wedding plans, careers, preparations for four new lives—this moment felt still, sacred.
And for the first time, I felt something more than just hope.
I felt ready.
Scenes - Mother
After breakfast, the house slowly returned to its usual flow. Mama and Papa cleaned up the table with practiced ease, talking about flower arrangements and guest seating as they moved. Mama was especially animated, flipping through a well-worn wedding planner while Papa nodded and chimed in with practical suggestions.
Cassian kissed my cheek before he left, whispering, “Call me if you feel even the tiniest bit off, okay?”
“I will,” I promised, wrapping my arms around him one last time.
He pulled back just enough to kiss my forehead, then my lips, warm and unhurried. “I’ll be back early,” he said. “I want more kicks tonight.”
When the front door closed behind him, the house fell into a cozy hush.
I took a deep breath and looked around the living room. It needed tidying, but it wasn’t overwhelming. I moved slowly, folding a blanket here, fluffing pillows there, always mindful of the gentle curve of my belly—now a full, proud roundness that made balancing a bit of a challenge.
After straightening the house, I sat down at the dining table, opened my laptop, and went over business reports. I reviewed sales numbers, sent a few emails, and even held a quick video call with one of my managers. The team had learned quickly not to underestimate me just because I was heavily pregnant.
Julius woke up from his nap shortly after. I picked him up gently, resting him against my shoulder as I swayed slightly in the hallway. He snuggled into me, thumb in his mouth, and for a moment I imagined what it would be like holding four tiny babies instead of one.
“You’re going to have a lot of playmates soon,” I murmured, pressing a kiss to his forehead.
Once he was settled with some toys in the playpen, I made my way to the piano. My fingers hovered over the keys for a moment before I began to play—something soft, something familiar. A little Chopin. The gentle notes filled the room, wrapping around the sunlight, the laughter still lingering from breakfast, the quiet thump of Julius’s feet against the mat.
And just beneath the music, I could feel the occasional flutter inside me—my babies, always reminding me they were here, with me, growing stronger every day.
The soft melody from the piano still lingered in the air, a distant echo of serenity, but Julia’s fingers had stopped playing long ago. She sat motionless on the bench, one hand loosely draped over the keys, the other resting atop her belly. The slight motion beneath her palm—subtle shifts, delicate kicks—reminded her that the life inside her was real.
Four lives.
Twenty weeks. Just halfway through, and yet she already felt immense—her body stretched and reshaped by the weight of the quadruplets. Her breathing was shallow, her movements slower, her sleep fractured. And yet, despite the discomfort, she couldn’t deny the strange wonder that fluttered through her every time they moved.
Still… wonder didn’t erase the fear.
“Four babies,” she murmured under her breath, eyes on the round swell of her belly. “How the hell am I supposed to take care of four at once?”
Her fingers tightened slightly over the fabric of her dress. She felt huge, exhausted, overwhelmed. She could barely carry Julius around the house without losing her breath. What would it be like once these four were born? Feedings, diapers, sleepless nights, endless cries—times four.
A shadow crept across her thoughts, darker than fatigue.
She remembered being fifteen. Arrogant, impulsive, untouchable. A girl had come to him—Julian, not Julia—teary-eyed, holding a pregnancy test in trembling hands. “It’s yours,” she had said. He hadn’t even flinched. No compassion, no hesitation.
"You have to get rid of it," he’d told her coldly.
And she had.
It wasn’t the only time. He’d lost count. The fear of consequences, of losing control, had always outweighed whatever shred of guilt he might’ve felt.
Now… now he—no, she—was the one pregnant. Now she was the one carrying the weight, the one whose body bore the cost. The irony wasn’t lost on her.
Her hand drifted down again, fingers brushing the curve of her abdomen. “Is this karma?” she whispered. “Did all the lives I pushed away… come back to demand I carry them?”
She felt a kick, gentle but sure.
Julia let out a breath, eyes heavy but dry. No tears. Just the aching swell of confusion and a reluctant acceptance. This was real. These were her children. But that didn’t mean she wanted this.
She didn’t want to be a mother.
She didn’t want to be a wife.
She didn’t even want to be a woman.
She missed her freedom—her recklessness, her detachment. She missed not having to feel this much. She missed the Julian who could walk away from any responsibility without a second thought.
And yet… something had shifted.
She wasn’t interested in women anymore. That part had faded like a forgotten appetite. And Cassian—his presence, his steady hands, the warmth in his eyes—it stirred something in her she couldn’t deny.
She didn’t want all men.
But she did want him.
That made everything harder.
She leaned back slightly, resting both hands on her belly now, fingers spread as if trying to anchor herself in the reality of her changed form.
“I don’t know if I can do this,” she admitted into the silence. “But you’re here… and I guess that means I have to try.”
She wasn’t crying.
She was terrified.
But beneath it all, something quieter stirred: the reluctant courage of someone who had once run away… now forced to stay and face the consequence of everything they’d done.
The front door creaked open softly. Julia didn’t hear it at first—her thoughts were too loud.
But she did hear the familiar rhythm of footsteps approaching. She didn’t turn around. She already knew who it was.
Cassian's voice was gentle behind her. "You're not playing anymore."
She inhaled slowly but didn’t respond right away. His presence filled the room like a warm blanket. She could sense his concern before he even said anything else.
He moved closer, crouched slightly beside her on the piano bench, then reached out and placed his hand lightly over hers. His other hand moved to rest on her belly, where the babies still stirred softly.
“You were thinking again,” he said, not accusing, just knowing.
Julia’s jaw tensed. She wanted to brush it off, say she was fine. But Cassian leaned in and kissed her cheek slowly, lingering as if to silently say, You don’t have to hide from me.
“I don’t know if I can do this, Cass,” she whispered finally, her voice low and dry. “Four babies. This body. This life. Everything I used to be is... gone.”
Cassian didn’t answer with words. He gently cupped her face and kissed her forehead. Then, her nose. Then her lips, soft and lingering. “You don’t have to do it alone,” he murmured.
“I never wanted to be a woman,” she admitted quietly. “I never wanted to be a wife. Or a mother. And now I’m all of those things, and I’m scared I’ll mess it up.”
Cassian took her hands in his, brushing his thumbs across her knuckles. “You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. You’re already doing more than enough just by staying... just by trying.”
He kissed her again, deeper this time, filled with affection rather than passion. Then he stood and carefully scooped her into his arms.
“Cass—”
“Shh. Julius is asleep, and your parents aren’t home. We’ve got a little time… just for us.”
She relaxed against his chest, surprised by how easily she still fit there despite her belly. He carried her into the bedroom like she was still the most precious thing in the world to him, laying her gently on the bed.
He slid in beside her, pulling the covers over them both, arms around her like a shield. His hand rested protectively over her stomach.
“Sleep,” he whispered against her hair. “You don’t have to be strong right now.”
And for a moment, she let herself believe him.
Let herself be held.
Let herself breathe.
Not as a mother.
Not as a woman.
Just as Julia.
Just as his.
Cassian shifted closer under the covers, his arms wrapping fully around Julia as if trying to protect her from the weight of her own thoughts. His hand gently stroked her hair, then trailed down to her shoulder, pausing to feel the warmth of her skin.
“You’re so strong,” he murmured, placing a soft kiss just below her ear. “Even if you don’t feel it.”
Julia didn’t answer. She leaned into his chest, eyes fluttering closed, savoring the calm.
Cassian tilted her chin up to look into her eyes. “I know it’s overwhelming. But I see you. Every day. I see how much you carry… and I love you more for it.”
His lips brushed hers, slowly—once, twice—before deepening into a longer kiss. One hand cradled her cheek, the other resting protectively over the swell of her belly, feeling the faint movement beneath.
“I’ll be here,” he whispered between kisses. “Every morning. Every night. I’m not going anywhere.”
Julia’s breath hitched as his kisses moved to her jawline, then to the base of her throat. He held her as if she might break—firm but endlessly gentle. His fingers found her hand and laced their fingers together.
“I’ve never felt this way before,” she murmured, her voice barely audible in the quiet room. “I thought if I let myself care, it would trap me.”
Cassian kissed the inside of her wrist. “You’re not trapped, Julia. You’re free. And I’ll love you in whatever way makes you feel safe.”
Another kiss. And another. Warm, slow, unhurried.
Cassian eased her down into the pillows, curling his body around hers like a protective shell. His hand stayed on her belly, rubbing slow circles as if silently soothing the four growing lives inside.
“You don’t have to be ready for everything,” he said softly. “Just tonight, let me take care of you.”
Julia didn’t speak. She only nodded faintly and allowed herself to be held, kissed, loved—in silence, in stillness, in the soft rhythm of Cassian’s breath and the quiet beat of four tiny hearts within her.
And for the first time that day, she didn’t feel afraid.
Scenes - The 4th Visit
That day, Julia wore a loose pastel-colored dress that felt soft against her skin, accommodating her noticeably round and growing belly. Cassian held her hand tightly as they stepped into the examination room. They had grown familiar with Dr. Laras, the maternal-fetal medicine specialist who had been with them since the beginning of the pregnancy.
Julia’s parents weren’t able to accompany them this time. Her mom and dad were taking care of her baby brother, Julius, who had a mandatory immunization appointment that same morning.
“Good morning, Julia, Cassian,” Dr. Laras greeted them warmly, smiling as she approached. “22 weeks, huh? That belly’s getting bigger!”
Julia gave a small smile, one hand resting protectively over her bump. “They’ve been super active lately.”
The check-up began with routine vitals. Julia’s blood pressure was a healthy 110/70 mmHg. Dr. Laras then noted her weight.
“You’re at 67 kilograms now,” she said, jotting it down in her chart. “Still within the expected range for a quadruplet pregnancy, but we’ll keep monitoring. How are you holding up with all this extra load?”
Julia let out a soft laugh. “I get tired easily. Sometimes it’s hard to breathe. But they’ve started kicking on a schedule… mostly at night when I’m trying to sleep.”
Next came the ultrasound. Julia lay down while Cassian remained at her side, gently holding her hand and watching the monitor with quiet anticipation.
“Alright, let’s take a look at baby A first,” Dr. Laras said calmly, her hands expertly moving the transducer across Julia’s belly.
- Baby A: heart rate 150 bpm, weight approximately 500 grams
- Baby B: heart rate 148 bpm, weight approximately 495 grams
- Baby C: heart rate 152 bpm, weight approximately 490 grams
- Baby D: heart rate 149 bpm, weight approximately 500 grams
“All four babies are active, with good heart rates and balanced growth,” Dr. Laras explained. “Amniotic fluid looks adequate as well. Have you started feeling any Braxton Hicks contractions?”
Julia nodded. “Sometimes my belly tightens out of nowhere. But it’s not painful.”
“That’s totally normal. Still, from next week onward, I want you to slow down a bit more. Avoid standing for long periods. If you can, try to work sitting down, and get a nap in during the day.”
Cassian chimed in, his voice full of concern. “Does she need full bed rest, doctor?”
“Not yet,” Dr. Laras replied. Then she paused, looking thoughtfully at the screen before smiling at Julia. “Actually… I’m impressed. For a first pregnancy, especially with quadruplets, your uterus is doing exceptionally well. The cervix is holding strong, and there are no warning signs. You have a very resilient body, Julia. I don’t think we need to worry about preterm labor for now — and no need for bed rest unless something changes.”
Julia blinked, surprised and a little emotional. “Really?”
“Really,” Dr. Laras said with a reassuring nod. “You’re handling this better than many women in their second or third pregnancies. Just keep listening to your body.”
After the ultrasound, one of the clinic’s midwives helped Julia try on a new maternity bra, part of their pregnancy care program. She was now a size 38G, up from 36E before the pregnancy.
“The hormonal changes, plus four babies in there, are making your breasts grow fast,” the midwife said gently while adjusting the straps. “This should help ease the back pain. We’ll also fit you with a better belly support band.”
Before they left, Dr. Laras handed Julia a new round of supplements — vitamins, iron, and calcium — and scheduled their next visit in one week.
“Call me right away if you feel any intense abdominal pain, bleeding, or reduced fetal movement,” she reminded them. “From week 24 onwards, things can get a bit more unpredictable.”
As they stepped out of the clinic into the sunlight, Cassian leaned in and kissed Julia’s temple.
“You’re incredible, Ju,” he whispered. “I can’t wait to meet every single one of them.”
Julia smiled, though a shadow of worry still lingered in her heart. There was so much unknown ahead. But today, her babies were healthy. And for now, that was enough.
Scenes - The Wedding
Finally, the day had come—our wedding. It was only three days after our visit to Dr. Laras, and I was 22 weeks pregnant with our four little miracles. Despite the weight I carried, despite the swelling in my feet and the constant need to pee, I felt… beautiful. My dress flowed around me like soft clouds, pastel ivory with delicate lace that caressed my baby bump, which was now impossible to hide—not that I wanted to.
The guests stood, the music began, and I took my father’s arm. He held me proudly, not just as his daughter, but as someone he had finally allowed to be herself. Step by step, we walked down the aisle. My heart beat faster with every movement, not from nerves, but from something deeper—something whole.
And there he was. Cassian. Standing tall in his tailored suit, eyes shining with warmth and a kind of reverence that made my chest tighten. When we reached him, my father placed my hand into Cassian’s, his expression a mixture of joy, relief, and love.
“Take care of her,” Papa whispered to him. Cassian only nodded, but the look in his eyes said everything.
The vows felt like magic, spoken slowly, with meaning in every word.
“I, Cassian Vale, take you, Julia, to be my wife. To love, to honor, to cherish you, and our children—today and every day after.”
My voice trembled as I spoke. “I, Julia Bloom, take you, Cassian, to be my husband. To walk beside you, to raise our children with you, to laugh, cry, and dream with you, for all the days of our lives.”
As we kissed, the crowd erupted in soft applause. I caught a glimpse of my mother dabbing her eyes with a tissue, and my father beside her, his expression filled with pride.
After the ceremony, we took pictures with close family and friends. One by one, we shared with them the story that had been carefully crafted by my parents: that I had always been a woman, but was raised as a boy because my father had wanted a male heir. Only after the birth of Julius did he finally allow me to live as myself—to return to being Julia. And now, here I was, married, and expecting four beautiful babies.
People accepted it more easily than I thought. Maybe because of how happy I looked. Or maybe because Cassian never let go of my hand the entire evening.
Throughout the celebration, Cassian stayed by my side, feeding me when I got too tired to lift my fork, helping me to the restroom whenever I needed to go (which was often), massaging my sore back and swollen feet, whispering sweet things in my ear.
By the time the reception ended and we arrived at the hotel suite, I was exhausted but glowing with joy. The room was warm, soft-lit, and filled with rose petals and quiet laughter.
Cassian kissed me gently, his hands brushing over my skin like he was rediscovering every part of me. I leaned into his touch, feeling loved, safe, desired. Despite the weight of my body and the curve of my belly between us, it was perfect. It was ours.
That night, full of kisses and caresses, wasn't just the beginning of our marriage—it was the celebration of everything we had been through to get here.
And deep inside me, I could feel our babies turning gently, like they too were rejoicing.
Scenes - The Burning Honeymoon Night of Us
The honeymoon suite was dimly lit, bathed in the golden glow of bedside lamps. Outside, the city whispered through the windows, distant and unimportant. In here, it was just the two of us—husband and wife.
Cassian's jacket was already on the floor, his shirt halfway unbuttoned. He approached slowly, like I was something precious, something sacred. His eyes never left mine.
“You’re breathtaking,” he murmured, brushing a curl from my cheek.
I let out a soft breath, unsure whether it was from the weight of his gaze or the thunder in my chest. I should have felt shy—twenty-two weeks pregnant, swollen, changed—but the way Cassian looked at me made me feel desired, not just loved.
He kissed me, and the kiss was different this time. It wasn’t just tender—it burned. Soft, yes. Gentle, yes. But there was hunger too. A kind of longing that had waited too long.
My hands found his chest, then his back, fingers digging into muscle and warmth. “Cassian…”
“I’ve waited so long for this,” he breathed, forehead pressed to mine. “So long to hold you. Even before I knew you were… you.”
Even before I was Julia.
My heart twisted. The reminder of Julian—the life before. The self that faded slowly. The self he used to know. Did this version of me truly belong to him?
But there was no time to unravel the ache. His mouth found my neck, then my collarbone. Every kiss was slow but deliberate, every touch carefully measured. Yet the fire beneath the surface was impossible to miss. It danced through our skin, through our breath, through the way our bodies moved toward each other again and again like magnets refusing to part.
He stripped me with reverence, fingers trembling slightly. When his palm cupped my belly, he paused.
“Four heartbeats… and one woman I don’t deserve.”
I shook my head, pulling him down into a kiss that left no room for doubt, only desire. “Then don’t talk. Just stay.”
Cassian made love to me with an intensity I never expected, as if trying to memorize every inch of me. And I… I let myself surrender.
But even in the heat of it, as our bodies moved in rhythm, as moans turned into whispers of each other’s names, my mind drifted.
Is this really who I want to be? The woman he’s always dreamed of? The gentle, nurturing wife who carries his legacy?
And beneath that… Or am I just a shadow of Julian, reshaped to fulfill his happiness?
But when I looked into Cassian’s eyes—so full of need, so full of ache—I saw something raw. Not possession. Not pride. But guilt.
Because even in his ecstasy, he was grieving his best friend. And even in mine, I was still asking if this joy could ever be mine without question.
Still, we moved together—again and again—until we both shattered in each other’s arms.
He held me after, his hands stroking my hair, his lips against my shoulder.
“You were always the one,” he said softly. “I just didn’t know how much until now.”
I didn’t answer. I only closed my eyes and pressed a hand to my belly, feeling the tiny flutters inside.
If this was the beginning of something… it was both beautiful and terrifying.
And in this quiet afterglow, surrounded by his warmth and the slow rise and fall of our breathing, I didn’t know whether I was falling in love with him… or trying not to.
The night was far from over.
Cassian hovered above me, his shirt gone, the warmth of his bare chest pressed gently against mine. His breath was uneven, his fingers tender as they traced along my cheek, then down the gentle curve of my breast. They paused there, feeling the quick, nervous rhythm of my heartbeat.
"You're perfect," he whispered, voice low and rough. "Even like this… especially like this."
I looked up at him, breath catching in my throat, overwhelmed by the way his eyes saw me—not just my body, not just the round swell of our children inside me—but me.
"Even when I’m not what you expected?" I asked, voice trembling.
He stilled. His hand moved down to rest on my pregnant belly, large and round at 22 weeks. His thumb stroked gently across the stretched skin.
"Julia…"
“No,” I said softly. “You always wanted someone like this. Gentle. Warm. The perfect wife. The mother of your children. That’s not who Julian was.”
He leaned down, lips brushing the hollow of my collarbone. “Maybe not,” he murmured. “But I didn’t fall for an ideal. I fell… because it was you.”
“You don’t love me,” I whispered, even as my body arched toward his. “You’ve never said it.”
Cassian’s mouth stilled against my skin. I could feel his heartbeat racing through his chest. “Because I’m scared,” he said finally. “Scared that if I say it… it means I’ve lost Julian forever.”
That hit deeper than I expected.
My throat tightened. “You have lost him,” I said quietly. “But maybe… who I am now could be more than just your best friend.”
His eyes searched mine—raw, open, afraid.
“And you?” he asked, voice low. “Are you sure you want to be this woman? The woman I’ve always dreamed of? Are you happy being her? Or are you just trying to give me what I want?”
I didn’t know the answer. Not really.
So I kissed him instead—desperate, aching, unsure. I kissed him with everything I had left. Grief. Confusion. Passion. Longing.
He kissed me back like it was the only thing keeping him alive.
And in that moment, there were no names. No labels. No Julian. No Julia.
Just us.
“Maybe I don’t know yet,” I whispered against his lips. “But tonight… I want to be yours. Completely.”
His breath hitched. “Then let me show you… just how much you already are.”
He slid into me again—slow, deep, reverent.
And I welcomed him, body trembling, heart wide open, wrapped in a fire that was both terrifying and beautiful.
As we moved together, breath tangled, hands gripping, mouths finding each other over and over again, the questions faded.
The uncertainty could wait.
Tonight was about surrender. About two people caught between past and future, wrapped in a present that burned so brightly it lit the darkness inside us both.
And when we finally collapsed into each other, breathless and shaking, his hand still resting on the curve of our unborn children, we didn’t speak.
We didn’t need to.
For now, this was enough.
Scene - The Morning After
The morning sun filtered through the hotel curtains, soft and golden.
Julia stirred, her body still aching from the night before, her mind tangled in the echo of Cassian’s touch. She shifted slightly, and immediately, his arm tightened around her waist from behind, palm warm over the round swell of her belly.
His lips brushed the nape of her neck. “You’re warm,” he murmured.
“So are you,” she replied, voice husky from sleep—and something else.
She meant to sit up. Meant to clear her mind and maybe talk about… what this was. But instead, she found herself leaning back into him, body instinctively craving the comfort, the contact, the heat.
Cassian’s hand moved slowly—up, then down again, tracing the shape of her growing body. She was nearly six months along, carrying four children. It should’ve been overwhelming.
But his touch never hesitated.
“Cass…” she began, unsure what she wanted to say.
“We should talk,” he said, almost at the same time.
Their eyes met. A beat of silence. Then a soft laugh—nervous, unsure.
And then his hand slipped lower, pressing gently against her hip.
“Cassian…”
“I know,” he whispered, forehead pressed to her shoulder. “This isn’t love. This is… we’re just pulled into it. The curse. Your transformation. The babies. It’s all too fast.”
Julia nodded slowly, though her breath was already quickening. “I don’t even know if I want this. Or if I just think I’m supposed to.”
“But I want you,” he admitted. “Even when I try not to. Even when I tell myself I should give you space. Even when I feel like I’m betraying Julian.”
“I am Julian,” she whispered.
“I know,” he said softly. “That’s what makes it worse. Or maybe… better.”
They kissed again—hungry, messy, desperate. It wasn’t soft. It was fire and friction, hands clawing at skin, tangled sheets, fevered gasps.
And then—a flutter.
A soft, unmistakable kick.
Julia gasped, pulling back slightly. “Did you feel that?”
Cassian’s hand instinctively returned to her belly.
Another kick. Then another. Then four tiny, distinct movements, like little fists knocking from the inside.
“Are they—?”
“They're awake,” Julia said breathlessly. “They’re reacting to us.”
Cassian pressed his hand flat, eyes wide. “It’s like… they know.”
“Like they’re happy,” Julia whispered. “Like they want this. Us. Together.”
She blinked rapidly, emotions crashing through her chest—fear, confusion, wonder.
“Maybe they were cursed too,” Cassian said with a bitter smile. “Born from a spell. Made to bind us.”
Julia nodded. “Maybe this isn’t love. Maybe we’re just… caught.”
But neither of them moved away.
Instead, Cassian leaned down and kissed the curve of her belly. “If it’s a curse,” he murmured, “why does it feel like home?”
Julia closed her eyes.
She wanted to say something. Anything.
But her hands were already pulling him closer again.
And the babies stirred with every heartbeat, as if cheering them on.
JULIA’S INTERNAL MONOLOGUE
I thought everything would feel clearer after the wedding.
I thought… maybe standing there in that pastel dress, holding Papa’s arm, seeing Cassian waiting for me with those eyes—those stupid, beautiful eyes—I’d finally know who I was. What I wanted.
But here I am.
Lying in a hotel bed that smells like roses and skin and salt. My body sore in places I didn’t know could be sore. Four tiny lives kicking gently inside me like they’re applauding what happened last night. Like they approve.
How ridiculous is that?
I should feel overwhelmed. I’m twenty-two weeks pregnant with quadruplets. Married to my best friend—formerly my best friend—who doesn't even know if he loves me. Who thinks I’m the perfect woman, but only because a curse made me into her.
And yet…
He was so gentle. So tender. Even when it burned. Even when the fire between us was too much.
He touched me like I was sacred. Like I mattered. Like he saw me, not just the woman I’ve become—but something deeper.
And for a second, I wanted to believe it.
I wanted to forget the witch, the curse, the way I screamed at the stars when my body started changing. I wanted to forget Julian. Who he was. What he lost.
Because when Cassian held me, I wasn’t Julian anymore.
I was Julia.
I am Julia.
And it scares me how right that feels.
But… if this isn’t love, what is it?
Instinct? Biology? Hormones? Destiny?
Or just really good sex and a shared fear of being alone?
God. I wish Mama were here.
No—no, I don’t. She’d smile that knowing smile, as if she always saw this coming. As if she’s relieved I finally “became who I was meant to be.”
But who decides that?
Me? The curse? The babies inside me, kicking every time Cassian kisses my belly?
Do I even want to be a mother?
No. That’s a lie.
I do. I want these babies more than anything. I already love them.
I just… I’m terrified that I’m becoming a woman only to be what Cassian wants. A womb, a wife, a fantasy.
And yet when he looks at me… it’s not just desire.
It’s something else.
I just don’t know if it’s enough.
Or if it’s real.
And what if it is?
What if this is how love begins—not with certainty, but with confusion and fire and a handful of quiet mornings where the only thing keeping you grounded is the way he holds you like you’re the answer to a question he never dared ask?
I don’t know.
All I know is this:
The world may call it a curse.
But when I feel my babies move…
And when I feel Cassian’s hand over mine…
It doesn’t feel like punishment.
It feels like the beginning.
CASSIAN’S INTERNAL MONOLOGUE
I should feel victorious.
I got everything I ever said I wanted.
A gentle wife. A quiet home. A future filled with laughter and children and soft hands that cradle the world with care. I’m married now—to someone who checks every box my heart ever scribbled down in silence.
And yet...
Why do I feel like I stole this?
Like I cheated the universe to get here?
She’s sleeping now. Julia. Not Julian.
And I know I should stop thinking like that. It’s not fair to her—to them. The babies. The four little lives growing inside her, stretching her belly into something miraculous. Untouchable.
But every time I close my eyes, I still see him.
Julian.
My best friend. My wild, stubborn, infuriating best friend who argued with me at 3am about politics, dragged me into trouble, made me laugh in ways no one else ever could. The one person who never treated me like I was rich or perfect. Just… me.
And now he’s her.
And last night…
God, last night.
I’ve never touched someone like that. Never wanted like that. She trembled under my hands like she was made for me. Like we were the only two people in the universe. Like nothing else mattered but her breath on my skin and her voice in the dark.
But it wasn’t just lust.
It was need.
It was grief.
It was confusion wrapped in something too beautiful to name.
I kissed her belly afterward. Felt the babies move beneath my palm. They reacted to me. To us. Like they wanted us to stay close. Like they already knew who I was.
And something inside me cracked.
I want them.
I want her.
I want this.
But do I love her?
Do I love Julia?
Or am I in love with the version of her that fate sculpted for me?
She never said she loved me either.
And maybe that’s what makes this so dangerous.
Because every time I think I should pull away—should give her space, or give myself time—I look at her… and I can’t.
Because the truth is…
I don’t miss Julian the way I thought I would.
And that terrifies me more than anything.
If this is a curse, then why does it feel like the answer to a prayer I never had the courage to speak?
Why does my heart race when I imagine raising these babies with her?
Why do I already want more time, more nights, more mornings like this?
She shifts in her sleep.
And I reach for her without thinking.
Because right now, love or not…
She’s my wife.
She’s carrying my children.
And for the first time in my life… I’m not afraid of what comes next.
Even if we’re both still trying to understand what we truly want.
Sure! Here's the revised English version of Julia's POV after returning from the honeymoon, with the details adjusted per your request:
Scenes – After the Honeymoon
The house was quiet when we stepped inside.
No ribbons. No flower petals. No lingering scent of celebration.
Our wedding had taken place in a hotel ballroom—elegant, full of golden light, vows, and soft music. It felt surreal that only a few days ago, I’d walked down the aisle on Papa’s arm, belly full with four little lives, heart full of something I still couldn’t name.
Now, Mama, Papa, and Julius had returned home, giving us space.
Finally, it was just us.
Cassian shut the door gently behind him, his eyes resting on me as I exhaled, slipping off my shoes and cradling my bump with both hands. “We’re home,” I whispered.
He stepped closer, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “Our home,” he corrected, softly. And something about the way he said it made my heart twist.
Without anyone else around, we didn’t have to hold back anymore.
Desire, always lingering beneath the surface, rose like a tide.
Especially in the bathroom.
Cassian insisted on helping me bathe. The bathtub filled with warm water as I eased myself in, my body aching from the travel, the weight of the babies, and… something else.
He knelt beside me, sleeves rolled up, eyes focused on my skin as if I were sacred. His hands washed me slowly—carefully—worshipfully. The way he touched me, the way his fingers lingered on my belly before rising to my shoulders, the way he kissed the top of my spine…
We burned for each other. Quietly. Deeply. With soft gasps and long glances that said more than words ever could.
For that one night, we forgot everything else—forgot the questions we still hadn’t asked, the feelings we still couldn’t name. There was only us.
And the four heartbeats between us.
Week 23 Checkup – A Beautiful Surprise
Two days later, we returned to the clinic for my 23rd-week checkup.
I wore a soft maternity dress Cassian had picked out, and he held my hand the entire ride there.
Dr. Laras greeted us warmly. “Julia, you’re glowing,” she smiled as I lay down on the exam table. “And I see these little ones have been keeping you on your toes?”
“They never stop moving,” I laughed.
She began with the usual checks:
Vitals:
- Blood Pressure: 105/65 mmHg
- Weight: 68 kg
- Hemoglobin: 10.5
- No swelling or warning signs
- Heartbeat normal
- Mild pigmentation, healthy for second trimester with multiples
Fetal Ultrasound:
She applied the gel and turned on the monitor. Almost instantly, the soft rhythm of heartbeats filled the room.
- Baby A: 550 grams, heart rate 152 bpm
- Baby B: 540 grams, heart rate 150 bpm
- Baby C: 530 grams, heart rate 151 bpm
- Baby D: 550 grams, heart rate 153 bpm
“Wow,” she breathed, eyes wide. “They’re not only healthy—they’re synchronized. That’s rare for quadruplets.”
She glanced at the cervix measurement. “3.6 cm—perfect. Your uterus is doing an incredible job holding them all safely.”
Cassian kissed the back of my hand.
“I don’t know what you’re doing,” Dr. Laras said, looking between us, “but keep doing it. These babies are thriving, and so are you.”
I swallowed the lump in my throat. Thriving. Me.
Even when I still wasn’t sure who I was supposed to be.
After the appointment, Cassian carried the printed ultrasound photo like it was made of gold. He kept glancing at it during the ride home.
“They look like a team,” he murmured.
I smiled faintly. “Maybe they are. Maybe they know something we don’t.”
Maybe they knew how much I was falling.
Or how hard I was trying not to.
POV Julia – That Evening
Back home, the house felt warmer than usual.
I sat on the couch with the ultrasound photo in my hands, staring at the four perfect little figures floating in grainy black-and-white. Baby A, B, C, D. All healthy. All growing. All real.
I gently touched my belly. It had grown firm and round—undeniably full of life. Sometimes I could even tell which one was kicking.
Tonight, they seemed calm. Like they were listening.
Cassian was in the kitchen, humming softly while making dinner. He kept glancing over his shoulder to check on me, like he couldn’t believe I was really here. Like he was afraid I might vanish.
And maybe part of me still wanted to.
Because despite everything—the wedding, the vows, the shared bed, the moans, the kisses—I still wasn’t sure what I felt.
Did I love him?
No.
Not yet.
Not in the way fairy tales described, or the way Mama once looked at Papa when she thought no one was watching.
But I felt something. Something dangerous. Something soft and slow-burning and terrifying.
He brought over a bowl of warm soup and crouched in front of me. “Eat, please,” he said gently. “You need your strength. For them. For you.”
I smiled faintly. “You act like I’m fragile.”
“You’re carrying four miracles,” he said, brushing my hair back. “Even steel would bend.”
That made me laugh. “That’s poetic.”
“I’ve been thinking too much,” he said, half-joking, half-truth.
He sat beside me, and I rested my head on his shoulder. It felt natural—too natural. That scared me.
“Cassian…” I began. But then I stopped.
“What?” he asked.
“I… nothing.”
Because if I said it—if I asked Are we really okay? Are we truly meant for each other, or are we just... caught in something we didn’t choose?—I was afraid of the answer.
Instead, I took his hand and placed it on my belly.
One of the babies kicked.
Cassian’s eyes lit up. He laughed—actually laughed, so freely it made my throat tighten.
“They’re saying hello,” I said.
“Or,” he whispered, leaning close, “they’re reminding us that they’re already part of us. No matter how we got here.”
I closed my eyes.
Maybe this wasn’t love yet.
But it was something.
And for tonight, that was enough.
Scene - The Protective Husband
After the astonishing results from our 23-week checkup, Cassian became even more protective than before.
I could see it in the way he hovered around me, how his hands always seemed ready to catch me if I so much as wobbled a little when I stood up. He even arranged to work from home, just so he could stay close — watching over me and the four little lives growing inside me.
And yet... Cassian wasn’t controlling.
He smiled softly whenever he saw me moving around the house, handling small business tasks from my laptop, checking on the home, or preparing tea for him like usual.
He knew me too well — or maybe it was the curse still working in strange ways — but either way, he understood that I couldn’t just sit still. I needed to move, to create, to care.
Cassian encouraged it, as long as I promised to listen to my body and rest whenever I felt tired.
He even set up a cozy workspace for me in the living room, with extra pillows on the sofa and a little table for my laptop, so I could work comfortably under his watchful eye.
At night, I still insisted on caring for him too — cooking simple meals when I could, massaging his shoulders when he looked tired.
And of course... answering his kisses, his touches, his need for me.
Maybe it was the bond between us, or maybe it was something deeper, something beyond the curse — but no matter how big my belly grew, no matter how heavy I sometimes felt, I wanted him.
I wanted to make him happy.
Every time Cassian looked at me with that mix of adoration and awe, my heart fluttered uncontrollably.
Every time he helped me shower, kneeling before me like I was precious, my whole body warmed with emotions I didn’t know how to name.
And every time he whispered, "You're doing so well, Julia... thank you for everything,"
I wondered if this — this strange, burning, tender life with him —
was exactly where I was meant to be.
Scenes - Maternity Photoshoot
A few days after settling back into our quiet home life, Cassian brought it up — gently, almost shyly.
He wanted us to do a maternity photoshoot.
"For memories," he said, his voice soft, his thumb brushing across the back of my hand. "To remember this miracle... to remember you."
At first, my heart clenched painfully.
I didn’t want to leave behind too many traces of myself as a woman. If... if one day I chose to find that mysterious woman, if I somehow broke this curse after giving birth, then what?
Could I really face those memories — the undeniable proof that I had been pregnant, that I had been someone's wife, that I had once been a mother?
No matter what happened in the future, these four babies would always be part of me.
This reality would always be part of me.
Conflicted, I hesitated.
But then I caught Cassian’s expression — the quiet hope in his eyes, the way he silently begged without words.
And just like that... I couldn’t say no.
"Okay," I whispered. "Let’s do it."
Strangely, once I agreed, excitement bubbled up inside me.
If I was going to capture this moment, I wanted it to be beautiful — timeless.
I decided on a Greek princess theme: flowing white fabrics, soft and simple, highlighting the gentle curves of my body. I wanted to look radiant. Powerful. Feminine.
I draped the cloth carefully, accentuating the roundness of my belly, letting the fabric flow around me like water.
When I stood before the mirror, even I had to pause.
No stretch marks.
My skin was flawless, glowing under the soft studio lights Cassian had set up.
For the first time... I didn't just feel like a woman.
I felt like a goddess.
Cassian, ever the talented photographer, captured every angle — his eyes full of awe behind the camera.
He guided me with soft words, his hands gentle but sure whenever he adjusted a fold of fabric or brushed a curl of hair from my face.
It was intimate without even meaning to be.
After taking dozens of solo shots, I smiled shyly and said, "Can we... take some together?"
Cassian's whole face lit up, like the sun breaking through clouds.
He carefully positioned the camera on a tripod and set the timer.
Then he joined me, wrapping his arms around me from behind, cradling my belly with such reverence that my chest tightened.
In one picture, he kissed my temple while I closed my eyes and smiled.
In another, we faced each other, foreheads touching, hands tangled over the curve of my womb.
Somehow, each shot captured something raw and deep between us — something that neither of us dared to name yet.
When we finished, breathless from laughter and the quiet magic between us, I scrolled through the photos on the camera.
I was beautiful.
We were beautiful.
But it wasn't just the images that left me breathless.
It was the way Cassian looked at me afterward — the way his gaze darkened with longing, his body leaning instinctively closer to mine.
Maybe it was the touches during the shoot. Maybe it was the way the soft fabric clung to my skin, the heavy silence thick with emotions neither of us could say aloud.
But as night fell over the house, that fire between us — the one we tried to tame — flared uncontrollably.
Cassian's hands found my waist first, then slid lower, following the curves he had admired all evening.
My breath hitched when he lifted me into his arms, carrying me gently, reverently, as if I was the most precious thing in his world.
He laid me down onto the bed, the white cloths slipping from my body like whispered promises.
Our mouths found each other in desperate, burning kisses, our bodies tangling with an urgency that felt almost sacred.
He touched me everywhere — slow, worshipping strokes that made my whole body shiver with need.
And even as he whispered my name again and again — "Julia... Julia..." — I knew we were both falling deeper into something we couldn’t control.
Maybe it was the curse.
Maybe it was fate.
Maybe it was something even stronger.
But tonight, none of that mattered.
Tonight, I was his.
Completely.
And he was mine.
Scene - The Next Day After Confession
The next day, Julia woke up feeling unusually soft and warm-hearted. Maybe it was the overflowing happiness from the maternity shoot or the intimacy they had shared the night before, but she couldn't help being extra caring toward Cassian.
She cooked his favorite breakfast with her own hands, constantly looked after him, asking if he needed anything, massaging his shoulders, even giving little kisses whenever he passed by her.
However, Cassian — being Cassian — returned her care multiple times over.
No matter how gentle Julia tried to be with him, Cassian was even more attentive toward her.
He watched every little movement she made, always ready to support her waist, offer his arm, lift anything she might need.
Whenever Julia winced slightly or touched her belly — especially when she started experiencing occasional false contractions at 23 weeks — Cassian would drop everything and rush to her side, his hand protective over her stomach, whispering soothingly.
"Shh, love. It's okay. I'm here... I'm right here."
His eyes always burned with worry and devotion.
Scenes - Next Check Up
Finally, the week passed, and it was time for their 24-week check-up.
At the doctor's office, Julia sat on the examination table while Cassian stood close by, holding her hand.
The doctor smiled warmly after the check-up was completed.
"Good news! Both the mother and the quadruplets are doing amazingly well," the doctor said.
"Julia’s weight gain is steady and healthy — you've gained about 9.5 kilograms since your pre-pregnancy weight, which is very good for carrying quadruplets."
"And another important thing," the doctor continued, flipping through the report. "Your breasts are now fully developed for breastfeeding. I can assure you, Julia, you will be able to provide enough milk for all four babies, even if they arrive earlier than expected."
Julia blushed deeply at the mention, and Cassian squeezed her hand lovingly.
"Starting now, with your condition carrying multiples," the doctor added, "you'll need to come in for check-ups every week to closely monitor everything."
Cassian immediately nodded without hesitation, determined to do whatever it took.
The doctor then gave more detailed advice.
"If your breasts feel heavy, painful, or overfilled with colostrum, Cassian, you can actually help relieve it."
"Gentle massages around the breast area help. In some cases, yes, partners are encouraged to help express the milk manually or even... orally, if needed, to ease her discomfort."
Julia’s face exploded in crimson color. She stared down at her lap, avoiding Cassian’s gaze.
Cassian’s ears turned red too, but he nodded with a seriousness that made Julia's heart flip.
Scenes - At Home
Back at home, the awkwardness clung to the air between them like an invisible mist.
Julia kept stealing glances at Cassian as he helped her change into comfortable home clothes.
Her breasts were clearly fuller, rounder, and almost glowing with a healthy softness. Even under her maternity dress, they were heavy and obvious. Every slight move made the fabric stretch against her sensitive skin.
Julia tried to act normal.
Cassian tried even harder.
But when she caught him quickly glancing at her chest — and immediately looking away, flustered — Julia couldn't hold back a shy giggle.
Cassian rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.
"Sorry... I didn’t mean to stare," he muttered.
Julia bit her lip, cheeks pink, her heart racing.
There was something strangely endearing about seeing the ever-confident, ever-capable Cassian getting so easily undone by her.
Slowly, Julia stepped closer to him.
"Maybe... later," she whispered, barely audibly, "you can help... like the doctor said."
Cassian looked stunned for a second — then broke into the warmest, softest smile she had ever seen on him.
He touched her cheek tenderly.
"Anything for you, Julia," he whispered back, voice rough with emotion.
"Anything you need."
The moment was sweet, awkward, a little shy — and yet filled with such raw tenderness that Julia thought her heart might actually melt on the spot.
Later that night, the soft light of their bedroom glowed warmly.
Julia sat on the bed, wearing only a thin maternity robe that barely covered her swollen belly and her full, tender breasts. She fidgeted nervously, heart pounding in her chest.
Cassian sat beside her, his hands warm and steady. He said nothing, but his gaze was so full of love and care that it melted any hesitation Julia had.
"Are you ready?" he asked gently.
Julia nodded shyly, tugging the robe a little lower to give him access.
Cassian kissed her forehead tenderly before starting.
His hands were large and skilled, applying just enough pressure to massage the swollen sides of her breasts. Julia gasped softly at the strange mix of sensation — part relief, part overwhelming pleasure. She clutched the sheets, her breathing shaky.
Cassian's thumbs brushed against her nipples, and a small stream of milk beaded at the tips.
He looked up at her, seeking permission.
Julia — cheeks burning — nodded, biting her lower lip.
Slowly, reverently, Cassian lowered his head and gently latched onto her.
Julia's whole body shuddered at the shock of intimacy, at the wet heat of his mouth, the gentle pulls that finally brought true relief to the pressure inside her.
"Ahh..." she moaned softly, trembling.
Cassian was impossibly tender yet undeniably hungry for her. His hands continued caressing her, his mouth moving from one breast to the other with slow devotion.
Each pull sent tingles down her spine, not just from the physical sensation — but from the emotional explosion inside her chest.
Desire bloomed between them like wildfire.
Cassian's kisses became more urgent. His hands roamed her body reverently, as if worshipping every curve. Julia, overwhelmed with need, clung to him, her legs wrapping around his waist instinctively.
Their clothes disappeared, scattered carelessly across the bed.
Despite her heavy belly, Cassian positioned them with so much care, making sure she was comfortable.
And then — they came together, moving as one, slowly at first, then faster, chasing the burning desire that neither could deny.
Julia cried out his name, and Cassian groaned hers against her neck, their bodies and souls melting into each other.
It wasn't just lust.
It was devotion.
It was desperate love.
Later, when they lay tangled in the sheets, skin against skin, the room still filled with the scent of their lovemaking, Cassian pulled Julia tightly into his arms.
He kissed the crown of her head, his hand gently stroking her back.
Julia nestled against him, feeling his steady heartbeat against her ear.
And there, in the warmth of his embrace, Julia's mind drifted into deep, tangled thoughts.
I've really changed, haven't I?
Once... I was a bastard who loved big breasts... chasing women like trophies...
Now look at me.
My own breasts are full, heavy with milk... milk meant for the four lives growing inside me...
And tonight... I even let Cassian drink from me.
I never, not even in my wildest dreams, thought this would be my reality.
Julia squeezed her eyes shut, feeling a strange, bittersweet ache in her chest.
I'm supposed to go back to being a man one day...
But no matter what happens... this proof will never disappear.
The babies I carried.
The milk I made.
The love I gave to Cassian as his wife.
The life we created together.
A small tear slipped from the corner of her eye, but it wasn't sadness.
It was overwhelming, aching tenderness.
Deep inside her heart, despite all the doubts, Julia knew —
she was happy.
Truly, deeply happy.
And she was scared of how much she didn't want to let it go.
Cassian stirred a little, brushing his lips over her temple.
"I love you, Julia," he whispered sleepily, not knowing she was still awake.
Julia smiled softly into his chest, wrapping her arms tighter around him.
I love you too, Cassian...
More than you will ever know.
The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, bathing the bedroom in a warm golden glow.
Julia stirred first, her body sore but blissfully content from the night before. Cassian was still asleep beside her, his arms loosely wrapped around her, his face peaceful in a way that made her heart ache.
For a moment, Julia simply watched him, her chest tightening with a thousand unspoken emotions.
She brushed a few messy strands of hair from his forehead and whispered, "You're too good to me, Cassian..."
Quietly, she slipped out of bed, pulling on one of Cassian’s oversized shirts that barely covered her round belly. She padded barefoot to the kitchen, determined to do something nice for him for once.
She hummed softly as she moved around, gathering ingredients for breakfast. The smell of warm butter and pancakes soon filled the house.
Julia leaned against the counter for a moment, both hands cradling her belly lovingly.
A small, tender smile curved her lips as she spoke softly to her babies.
"Good morning, my little ones," she whispered, stroking the swell of her stomach.
"You were so good last night... even though Mommy and Daddy got a little carried away."
She laughed quietly to herself, her voice trembling with emotion.
"You know... Mommy loves Daddy very much," she admitted in a soft, fragile voice.
"But I'm scared," she confessed, a tear slipping down her cheek.
"I'm scared it's not real... scared it's just the curse making me feel this way... making me want him so badly."
She bit her lip, her heart aching.
"But then I see how he looks at me... how he touches me so gently, like I'm the most precious thing in the world... and I wonder..."
Her voice cracked, her hands protectively cupping her belly.
"Maybe this is real."
"Maybe... just maybe... I really am in love with him."
Behind her, there was a quiet shuffle of footsteps.
Julia quickly wiped her tears away, forcing a smile.
Cassian stood there, leaning against the doorway, his hair messy, his shirt loose, his eyes impossibly soft.
He must have heard everything.
But he didn’t say anything.
He just watched her — as if she was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.
Julia turned back to the stove, flustered.
She flipped the pancakes a little too fast, mumbling, "Breakfast's almost ready..."
Cassian crossed the kitchen in two long strides, wrapping his arms around her from behind, resting his hands over hers on her belly.
"You don’t have to be scared, Julia," he whispered against her ear, his voice thick with emotion.
"Whatever this is... curse or no curse... what I feel for you is real."
Julia’s hands trembled in his.
He turned her gently to face him, cupping her cheeks tenderly.
Their eyes locked — full of fear, full of hope, full of so much longing.
Cassian kissed her forehead first, then her nose, then finally, finally her lips.
The kiss was soft, deep, and achingly tender — a silent promise between them.
When they broke apart, Cassian rested his forehead against hers, smiling shakily.
"We’ll figure it out together," he murmured. "One step at a time."
Julia closed her eyes, a few more tears escaping down her cheeks — but this time, they were happy tears.
Maybe... just maybe... it's not the curse at all.
Maybe... it's simply love.
And as Cassian knelt to kiss her belly good morning too, Julia felt a deep, unshakable warmth flood her entire being.
This — whatever it was — felt more real than anything she'd ever known.
Julia and Cassian sat at the small kitchen table, sunlight pouring through the windows, casting a cozy glow over their simple breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fruit.
Cassian kept stealing glances at Julia — at the way she fussed with her food, at how she kept unconsciously stroking her belly with that new, instinctive tenderness that made his heart melt all over again.
"You should eat more, sweetheart," Cassian said gently, sliding an extra piece of pancake onto Julia’s plate.
Julia huffed a small laugh, poking her fork at it. "I already feel like I'm going to explode."
Cassian chuckled, leaning his cheek on his hand as he watched her.
"You’re growing four little miracles," he said, voice full of wonder. "You're incredible."
Julia flushed pink, embarrassed but secretly glowing under his praise.
After a few quiet moments of eating, Cassian spoke again, his tone a little more hesitant.
"So... I was thinking," he started, tracing invisible circles on the table with his finger.
"Maybe we should start setting up the nursery soon."
Julia looked up, blinking.
"The nursery?"
Cassian smiled sheepishly.
"I mean, we’re going to need a lot of space... four cribs, lots of storage... maybe a rocking chair..."
His voice softened even more.
"I just want them to come home to a place that's ready for them."
Julia's heart squeezed so tightly she thought she might cry again.
The way Cassian was already thinking like a father, already preparing their home for the babies... it made everything feel so real, so right.
"I think that's a great idea," Julia said, her voice thick with emotion.
"We can turn the guest room next to our bedroom into their nursery. It's close enough so we can hear them if they cry."
Cassian nodded eagerly. "Exactly what I was thinking."
There was a small, shy pause before Julia added, almost whispering,
"Have you... thought about names?"
Cassian's face lit up instantly, like a little boy offered a treasure chest.
"I might have a few ideas..." he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck.
Julia giggled. "Tell me."
"Okay," Cassian said, leaning forward, his eyes shining.
"For the boys... maybe Lucian and Theo? Strong, but still beautiful."
Julia smiled warmly. "I like those... a lot."
"And for the girls..." Cassian hesitated, then continued,
"Siena and Aurora. Bright and graceful, like little stars."
Julia covered her mouth with her hand, overwhelmed with emotion.
Lucian. Theo. Siena. Aurora.
They already felt perfect.
"They're beautiful," she whispered, tears brimming in her eyes. "I love them."
Cassian reached across the table, taking her hand in his, his thumb brushing softly over her knuckles.
"We can pick together," he said, voice low and earnest.
"No rush. No pressure. Whatever you want, Jules."
Julia smiled through her tears, squeezing his hand.
"And whatever we want," she corrected gently.
Their eyes met — a spark, a silent understanding passing between them.
It wasn't just about the babies.
It was about them.
About this fragile, precious bond that was growing stronger and deeper with every passing day.
As they sat there, hands entwined, the future didn't seem so frightening anymore.
It felt... bright.
It felt full of hope.
It felt like home.
At 24 weeks pregnant, Julia found herself busier than ever, but this time with the most precious preparations she had ever made. And through it all, Cassian was right by her side — steady, patient, and infinitely caring.
Every day, Cassian helped Julia practice breathing exercises for labor, counting slowly with her, sometimes making it playful just to hear her laugh. He made sure she never missed her vitamins, her iron supplements, and carefully kept track of her meals, determined to protect her from risks like bleeding during delivery.
He also stayed attentive to Julia’s physical discomforts. Her breasts, now full and heavy with milk, often made her ache, and Cassian, so tender and loving, helped her manage it with gentle massages, providing her relief in ways that left her both blushing and grateful.
Meanwhile, life didn’t pause.
Cassian still managed his empire — overseeing mergers, strategies, high-level meetings — yet somehow always made Julia his top priority. Julia, too, continued managing her business from home, her mind as sharp as ever, delegating work while Cassian made sure she didn’t push herself too hard.
Together, they also began the great adventure of preparing for their four babies — two girls and two boys. They spent weekends shopping for supplies: matching cribs, tiny clothes, car seats, strollers, endless stacks of diapers.
Some days, Julia would end up laughing helplessly at how seriously Cassian took every tiny decision, down to the exact shade of pastel for the babies' swaddles.
But thankfully, they didn't have to start from zero.
Julia’s parents offered to send over a whole collection of brand-new baby girl items they had once bought — back when they thought Julia’s little brother, Julius, would be a baby girl.
The items had been lovingly stored away, untouched, because Julius had turned out to be a healthy baby boy.
When the shipment arrived, Julia and Cassian spent a lazy Sunday afternoon opening boxes full of adorable little dresses, pink booties, soft blankets, and tiny hats decorated with delicate lace and embroidery.
Sitting on the nursery floor among the baby things, Julia looked over at Cassian, who was holding up a miniature sundress with a dazed smile on his face.
"I can't believe we’re actually doing this," Julia whispered, one hand absently stroking her rounded belly.
Cassian met her eyes, his smile softening.
"Neither can I," he said. "But... it feels right. Like it was always supposed to be like this."
They worked side by side — arranging cribs, setting up the changing table, organizing drawers by size and color — creating a world of soft pastels and gentle dreams for the four tiny lives they couldn’t wait to meet.
Between their work responsibilities, business calls, breathing practice sessions, and nights filled with quiet tenderness, Julia and Cassian built a home — not just for their babies, but for their hearts, too.
And slowly, without either of them fully admitting it yet, love grew in every small shared smile, every whispered encouragement, every touch that lingered just a little longer than necessary.
The nursery was finally done.
Four cribs stood neatly side by side, with matching bedding in soft pastels. A mobile turned gently above each crib, catching the light like stars spinning in a velvet sky. Plush toys were tucked in every corner, and a calming scent of baby powder and lavender floated in the air.
Julia stood in the middle of the room, barefoot on the soft rug, one hand on her lower back, the other resting gently on her belly.
Cassian came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her carefully — mindful of her body, as always. He kissed her temple.
“It’s perfect,” he murmured.
Julia leaned into him, smiling. “They’re going to love it.”
Cassian’s hands slid down to rest on her hips. “We did it,” he whispered. “Almost.”
Then he gently turned her to face him. His eyes sparkled, warm and deep.
“Dance with me?” he asked softly.
Julia blinked. “Now?”
He only nodded, already pulling her gently into his arms.
There was no music, just the quiet hum of night and the steady sound of their breathing. But Cassian moved slowly, gracefully, swaying with her in a rhythm that felt like a lullaby just for the two of them.
Julia’s heart clenched — full and aching in the most beautiful way.
Back then… dancing meant something so different to me.
Dark clubs. Loud music. Hands grabbing, grinding, disrespecting — and I was no better.
I didn’t care. I didn’t even think twice about how I treated the girls I danced with.
To me, it was all a game.
But now…
Cassian’s hands held her like she was precious.
His touch was reverent — one palm steady at the small of her back, the other holding her hand with care, his thumb brushing gently across her knuckles. His every movement told her: You matter. You are adored. You are safe.
Now… I’m the one being danced with.
With this big belly. With milk already heavy in my breasts. With emotions I never thought I could feel.
And I’m being held like a queen.
Not a conquest. Not a plaything.
But someone cherished.
Tears welled in Julia’s eyes. Cassian noticed, and brushed a finger across her cheek.
“Hey,” he whispered, “what’s that for?”
Julia shook her head, laughing softly through the tears. “I don’t know. Hormones. Or maybe... maybe it’s you.”
Cassian kissed her slowly then — sweet and soft and full of unspoken love.
And that night, love flowed in the silence between them.
Their bodies moved together in intimacy, not from impulse, but from deep connection.
Cassian worshipped her curves, her skin, her softness — especially the beautiful roundness of her belly and her tender breasts full of milk.
He adored her like she was the most beautiful miracle he had ever held.
How did I end up here?
From mocking women… to becoming one.
From disrespecting every girl I ever danced with… to being honored like this.
From sneering at love… to craving Cassian’s touch like air.
Is this a curse? Or… is this the only way I’d ever learn to truly feel?
When they finally lay tangled in bed, limbs woven together, Julia nestled against Cassian’s chest — safe, loved, and full of unspoken emotion.
Scene: Week 25 Checkup – OB-GYN Office
The room is softly lit, the gentle sound of fetal heartbeats playing from the monitor. Dr. Maira stands beside Julia and Cassian, finishing the ultrasound scan with a warm smile on her face.
Dr. Maira:
“Well, I must say… this is one of the most beautiful multiple pregnancies I’ve ever seen. All four babies are perfectly positioned — head down, no signs of breech. And they’re growing so evenly. This is very rare with quadruplets.”
Julia's eyes widen, her hand resting over her belly. Cassian, seated beside her, looks at the screen in awe, gripping Julia’s hand tightly.
Cassian (softly):
“They’re all okay? All four?”
Dr. Maira (nodding):
“Very okay. Perfect heartbeats, excellent development. Julia… your uterus is exceptional — strong, healthy, and holding everything just as it should. I see no reason to schedule a cesarean at this point. You’re on track for a safe, natural vaginal delivery.”
Julia lets out a trembling breath, her eyes filling with tears.
Julia (whispering):
“I thought with four… I thought it would be impossible…”
Dr. Maira (smiling reassuringly):
“It would be for most. But not for you. Julia, you were born for this. It’s rare to see a first-time mom — especially at twenty — carry like this. Your body was made to nurture and bring life.”
Cassian gently kisses Julia’s knuckles, his expression emotional and proud.
Dr. Maira (glancing at the report):
“Your weight gain is right on track: 11.5 kilograms. Blood pressure is stable and healthy. Blood sugar? Perfect. Iron levels? Strong. And your breast development—well, as we discussed last week, you’re already lactating. Given the massages Cassian has been helping with and the natural stimulation, you’re more than ready to nourish all four babies.”
Julia blushes deeply. Cassian clears his throat and glances away with a slightly bashful smile.
Dr. Maira (with a knowing, gentle tone):
“And I want to touch on something else. I know some couples are shy to ask, but… your intimate life — I see from your hormone markers and your physical condition that it’s been active. That’s not only perfectly safe — it’s been helping. The hormonal release, the relaxation, even the bonding — they’re all contributing to your emotional balance and physical well-being.”
Julia's cheeks are burning now, but she chuckles softly. Cassian leans in, brushing a soft kiss to her temple.
Julia (whispering):
“Even when we try to be careful, it’s like my body just… wants him.”
Dr. Maira (with a kind laugh):
“That’s completely normal. Your estrogen and oxytocin levels are beautifully high — it’s part of what makes your body so responsive. And from what I can see, Cassian’s support—emotionally and physically—has been vital.”
Julia turns to Cassian, her eyes misty again.
Julia:
“I don’t know how I got so lucky.”
Cassian (softly):
“You didn’t. We both did.”
They hold each other’s gaze for a moment as the sound of four strong heartbeats echoes in the room, a soft, steady rhythm of life. Dr. Maira quietly steps back, giving them the moment.
Scene: That Evening – At Home (Julia's POV)
The nursery glowed warm with golden sunset, every surface touched by the soft light. Julia sat in the new armchair by the window, both hands resting on the swell of her belly. Twenty-five weeks. Four babies. Still strong. Still healthy. She exhaled slowly, letting the moment fill her.
Across the room, Cassian ran his hand along the edge of the crib he had just finished assembling, as if afraid to disturb the silence. Julia watched him — tall, calm, sleeves rolled, expression full of something quiet and unspoken.
“They said most people wouldn’t even make it this far carrying four…” she whispered, her voice catching. “But we did.”
Cassian turned to her, a smile tugging at his lips. “No. You did, Julia.”
He crossed the room and knelt in front of her, his forehead coming to rest softly against her belly. The weight of his touch made her heart ache in ways she didn’t know how to explain.
“You four…” he said softly, his voice low and full of reverence, “You have the strongest, most amazing mama in the world.”
Julia blinked fast as her fingers slid into his hair. A thousand emotions welled up inside her — none of them new, but always overwhelming. Her voice trembled. “You always say that like it’s all me. But I couldn’t have done any of this without you, Cassian. You’re part of every single heartbeat I feel in here.”
He looked up at her, and for a moment, she felt everything slow — time, breath, thought. His eyes were warm, searching hers as if trying to memorize her face. Then he leaned in and kissed her — soft, slow, reverent.
Her chest tightened. Not from fear. From how real it felt.
He sat beside her, arm curling gently around her shoulder. She leaned into him, her body molded against his warmth. The babies moved gently under her skin. She was full — of life, of weight, of something terrifying and beautiful.
Silence fell again. The kind that didn’t demand to be filled.
Julia reached for his hand and guided it to her belly. Their fingers laced together.
“Let’s never forget how magical this is,” she whispered. “Even if we don’t understand it. Even if none of it makes sense.”
Cassian’s grip tightened just slightly. And still, neither of them said the word they both refused to believe. Love.
Whatever this was, it was too tangled with everything else — the curse, the changes, the helpless desire that haunted her every time he looked at her like she mattered more than the world.
They stayed there until the room dimmed into twilight. Cassian helped her to her feet, his hand steady at her back. He always touched her like she might break — not out of fear, but devotion.
Scene: Later That Night – Bedroom
The sheets were cool, and Cassian curled behind her carefully, one arm around her belly, his breath warm against the back of her neck. Julia didn’t speak. She just lay there, wide awake, heart drumming.
Every time they were this close, the same thought returned: Is this real? Or just the spell?
She didn’t know. But when he touched her like this — so tender, so present — she didn’t want to know.
She wanted to stay here. Wrapped in arms that felt like home, carrying four heartbeats that felt like miracles.
Maybe it was a curse.
Maybe it was fate.
Maybe it didn’t matter anymore.
Scene: The Next Morning – Master Bedroom
Julia stood in front of the mirror, sunlight pouring into the room. Twenty-five weeks pregnant with four babies, and tonight, she would be on display — not for vanity, but as Cassian’s wife, standing by his side at the annual corporate birthday gala of his growing empire.
She inhaled deeply, resting her hands on the sides of her belly. Her body had changed so much, but tonight… she wanted to feel powerful. Beautiful. Radiant. Not despite the babies inside her — because of them.
Cassian appeared in the doorway, hair still damp from his shower, sleeves rolled casually as he leaned on the doorframe. He watched her silently for a moment.
Cassian (smiling): “You know you don’t have to go, right? Everyone would understand.”
Julia (meeting his eyes in the mirror): “I want to. I want them to see me. To see us.”
His eyes softened. He crossed the room, his hand resting lightly on her shoulder as he kissed the crown of her head.
Cassian: “Then let me help.”
Scene: Afternoon – Dressing Room
Julia stood in a silk robe, surrounded by the organized chaos of makeup brushes, pins, curling irons, and fabric. She had chosen everything herself — a deep, flowing satin gown in a rich sapphire shade that embraced her curves, with an empire waist that gave her belly space to breathe and shine.
Cassian sat on a low stool nearby, dutifully holding a box of jeweled hairpins in one hand and her high heels in the other.
Cassian (grinning): “You’re terrifying when you’re focused.”
Julia (smirking as she fixed a curl): “Only because you love it.”
Cassian (low voice): “You have no idea how much.”
When she finally stepped into the dress and turned around for him to zip it, there was a pause. Cassian didn’t move right away. He just stared.
Cassian (quietly): “Julia… you look like a goddess.”
She turned, adjusting an earring. “I feel like one.”
Scene: Evening – Company Gala Venue
The venue sparkled with lights, chandeliers catching every glimmer of crystal and glass. Hundreds of people gathered in sleek suits and gowns, champagne in hand, laughter echoing through the grand hall.
And then Julia entered — glowing, poised, undeniably radiant.
Her hair swept into soft waves pinned behind her ears, her makeup flawless with just a touch of shimmer on her skin. The sapphire gown flowed like water as she walked, her baby bump proudly displayed like a crown jewel.
Cassian held her hand as they descended the stairs. Every conversation in the room slowed. Eyes turned. Mouths parted. Julia felt the weight of every gaze — and stood taller.
She wasn’t just the boss’s wife.
She was the woman who carried his legacy.
His future. His heart.
Cassian (to a group of executives): “Everyone, this is my wife, Julia Vale.”
A chorus of greetings, awed compliments, and respectful nods followed.
“It’s an honor, Mrs. Vale.”
“Absolutely stunning.”
“I’ve never seen anyone carry pregnancy with such grace.”
Julia smiled graciously, touching her belly with one hand, offering another for a polite shake. She moved through the room like she belonged there — because she did.
Every stakeholder, partner, and employee who saw her could sense it: strength, elegance, warmth, and something unshakably divine.
And beside her, Cassian beamed with unhidden pride. He didn’t let go of her hand the entire evening.
Absolutely. Here's a continuation of the scene — a slow, intimate post-gala moment at home, starting with undressing, a shared bath, then rising into a charged, emotional, and fiery encounter — all while Julia and Cassian still deny what they’re truly feeling, attributing it to the curse.
Scene: Late Night – Their Bedroom
The heels were the first to come off. Julia let out a long, relieved sigh as she stepped out of them, her bare feet sinking into the thick carpet. Cassian was behind her, silent, the door to their room shutting with a gentle click.
She stood by the vanity, unclasping her earrings, catching his reflection in the mirror. He hadn't said much since they left the gala. There was something simmering behind his calm expression — something hot, unreadable.
She turned slowly.
Julia (teasing, softly): “You’ve been quiet.”
Cassian walked over to her, undoing his cufflinks without a word. His jaw was set. His eyes intense. He dropped the cufflinks on the dresser and came to stand right in front of her.
Cassian (voice low): “You were… breathtaking tonight.”
Julia (smiling): “Thank you.”
Cassian (pausing): “Too breathtaking. Half the room couldn’t stop looking at you. Some of them didn’t even try to hide it.”
Julia blinked. There it was — not anger exactly, but the raw edge of something deeper. Possessiveness. Maybe jealousy.
She reached up, beginning to unfasten the back of her dress. “You think I didn’t notice? The stares?”
Julia (quietly): “But I only cared about one person looking at me tonight.”
Cassian’s breath caught. He stepped behind her, his fingers brushing hers aside as he slowly unzipped her gown.
Cassian (softly): “Tell me who.”
She turned her head, lips close to his.
Julia: “You.”
The gown slipped from her shoulders, pooling at her feet. Cassian didn’t look away — not from her exposed, pregnant form, full and glowing under the low bedroom light.
His hands skimmed her waist, his thumbs grazing the curve of her belly. “They saw beauty,” he murmured, “but they didn’t see this.”
Scene: Bathroom – A Warm Bath
The bathwater was infused with calming herbs and floral oils. Steam curled into the air as Julia stepped in, groaning softly at the relief. Cassian followed, sliding in behind her, letting her lean back into his chest.
They didn’t speak for a while. Just soft breathing. Water lapping. Skin against skin.
Then—
Cassian (low, voice strained): “I hated it.”
Julia (eyes half-lidded): “What?”
Cassian: “The way they looked at you. Like you were something to want. To take.”
Julia (softly): “But I’m not. I’m yours.”
Cassian’s arms tightened around her. His mouth found her shoulder, brushing kisses down her neck.
Cassian (whispering): “Say that again.”
Julia (whispering back): “I’m yours, Cassian. No one else's.”
Her words lit a fire in him. His hands roamed, gentle but hungry, exploring every change in her body, every curve that had blossomed from carrying their four children. Julia responded with equal heat, turning her head to kiss him — slow and deep, their mouths molding like they couldn’t bear to be separate another second.
Scene: Bedroom – Moments Later
They didn’t even finish drying off before they stumbled back to bed. Cassian couldn’t get enough — of her skin, her scent, the fullness of her body, the way she sighed his name like a confession.
Julia matched him with equal passion. She knew what he needed — not just pleasure, but reassurance. That no matter what the world saw, she was his. His wife. The mother of his children. The woman he’d claimed, over and over.
But even in the middle of their fiery union, neither of them said the word love.
They couldn’t.
Because love would mean the curse was something more.
That maybe — just maybe — it wasn’t a punishment at all.
Scene: Morning – Kitchen and Bath
The gentle light of early morning streams through the curtains as the house stirs to life. The kitchen is already warm with the scent of steaming porridge and fragrant tea.
Julia, dressed in a flowing white hanfu, moves gracefully as she finishes plating breakfast. Her cheeks glow softly, and her long sleeves flutter as she turns toward the door, just in time to hear it open.
Cassian steps inside after his morning jog, towel around his neck. His breath halts the moment he sees her.
Cassian (startled, breathless): “...Julia?”
Julia (smiling sweetly): “Welcome home, Cassian.”
Cassian (eyes widening): “You… You’re wearing that?”
Julia (turning slowly, giving him the full view): “You like it, don’t you? I remember you said white hanfu makes me look like a princess from an old tale.”
She glides toward him and gently takes his hand, leading him to the table.
Julia (playfully soft): “Sit. Breakfast is ready. After that… it’s bath time. And I’m joining you.”
Cassian raises a brow, but his cheeks flush faintly. Still stunned by her appearance — and now her boldness — he obeys.
They eat together quietly. Julia watches him with a gentle smile, occasionally brushing her fingers along his arm, her eyes lingering. The air is thick with unspoken tension — not awkward, but charged. Familiar.
Scene: Bathroom – Steamy and Intimate
Steam rises from the bath, softening the world in misty warmth. Cassian steps in first, muscles still taut from his jog, and sighs at the soothing heat.
Julia follows, carefully stepping in behind him. The hanfu is gone now — she’s bare beneath the water, her skin glowing with warmth, hair pinned up to keep it dry. She slips into his lap without hesitation, resting her back against his chest.
Julia (whispering): “Only you get to see me like this.”
Cassian (his breath catching): “Like what?”
She tilts her head back to look at him, her eyes sultry but affectionate.
Julia (softly): “Clingy. Needy. So desperate for your touch I wake up thinking about it.”
She takes his hands and places them on her belly, still warm and round, full of life.
Julia (murmuring): “You’re the only one who gets to touch me like this. To kiss me like this. I don’t care if it’s because of a curse… or whatever this is. All I know is I’m yours.”
Her lips graze his jaw, teasing, and her breath dances over his skin.
Julia (low and teasing): “And you’re mine, aren’t you?”
Cassian’s arms wrap tighter around her without needing to say a word. He presses a kiss to her shoulder, then her neck, his breathing uneven.
Cassian (hoarsely): “You make it hard to think straight.”
Julia (laughs softly, but her voice trembles slightly): “Then don’t. Just feel.”
She turns to straddle him slowly, the warm water rippling around them, her lips barely brushing his.
Julia (whispering): “Let me show you how much I belong to you.”
Scene: Bathroom, Steamy Continuation
The steam clings to their skin as Julia’s fingers tangle in Cassian’s damp hair, her lips moving hungrily against his. Every touch is slow but desperate, as if they’re both trying to drink each other in.
Cassian lifts her with ease, his hands splayed across her thighs, his breath rough in her ear.
Cassian (growling low): “You drive me mad.”
Julia (panting, teasing): “Then be mad. Be selfish with me.”
They don’t leave the bath. Not for a long while.
Time becomes blurry — the world beyond the steam no longer matters.
Scene: Later That Morning – Bedroom
Sunlight now streams warmly across the bed where tangled sheets and lingering heat remain. Cassian lies on his side, one hand resting protectively over Julia’s belly, the other brushing her damp hair away from her cheek.
Cassian (softly): “I should be at a meeting…”
Julia (smiling lazily, eyes half-lidded): “Then go.”
He doesn’t move.
Cassian (grumbling): “They can wait.”
Julia’s laugh is quiet but satisfied as she leans in, pressing a tender kiss to his jaw.
Scene: Afternoon – Studio
Refreshed, hair pinned up again, now dressed in a loose, soft robe, Julia returns to her studio. Her unfinished painting stands on the easel — soft pastel skies behind four cradles.
She works a little. Then, when the brush stills in her hand, she sighs and turns to another project: embroidery.
She sits by the window with a quiet smile, pulling out pale pink and soft blue threads. Tiny onesies are arranged before her — the beginnings of matching clothes for their four children: two boys, two girls.
Her hands are steady as she stitches small blossoms into the collars. It’s peaceful… until a shadow stirs in her heart.
Memory flashes.
A scream.
A woman crying.
A baby never born.
Julia’s fingers stop. Her eyes widen. Her lips part, trembling.
Five years ago. That woman.
That choice.
The pain slices through her chest like a cold blade.
Julia (whispers to herself): “I don’t even remember her face anymore…”
Her breath shudders — but before the tears can fall, she feels it.
A soft flutter… then a stronger kick.
Then another.
And another.
Four kicks.
Her heart lurches. She gasps and places both hands on her belly.
Julia (tearfully): “You’re here… You’re real…”
She stands slowly, moving instinctively to the center of the room. There, resting against the stand, is her violin.
With practiced grace, she lifts it and places it beneath her chin. She draws the bow softly across the strings, the notes spilling out like balm.
A soft lullaby.
Gentle, like a breeze.
Melancholy, but full of warmth.
She plays and plays, until the tension in her body fades… and the restless kicks settle into stillness.
Inside her, her babies sleep — cradled by her music.
Scene: Living Room – Evening
The soft, haunting melody of a violin fills the air. Julia stands near the large window, bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. Her fingers move expertly along the strings, eyes half-lidded in gentle concentration. She’s dressed simply now, but the grace in her form, even with her 25-week belly, is ethereal.
Cassian watches from the doorway, arms crossed but lips slightly parted in awe.
Cassian (softly, as if not wanting to break the spell): “You’re… stunning.”
Julia lowers the violin and turns to him, cheeks flushing slightly.
Julia (smiling): “You always say that.”
Cassian (walking toward her, voice low): “Because every time I look at you, it’s true. That moment just now—if someone painted it, they’d call it Goddess with a Violin.”
Julia laughs, soft and sweet, her hand instinctively resting on her belly. Cassian brushes a few strands of hair from her face.
Cassian (half teasing, half dreamy): “You know, if you ever played a guzheng while wearing hanfu… I think the world might stop spinning.”
Julia raises a brow at him.
Julia: “Hanfu and a guzheng?”
Cassian (grinning): “I can already see it. You’d look like a goddess out of a Chinese legend. Regal. Untouchable. Except… I’d be the lucky man who gets to touch you.”
Julia hums thoughtfully, then smirks.
Julia: “Fine. You said it. Now you’ll see it.”
Scene: Three Days Later – Evening
Cassian returns home from work, loosening his tie as he walks into the house. Then he stops. And stares.
In the center of the room, lit by soft lanterns, is Julia — wearing an elegant white hanfu, her long hair cascading over her shoulders, seated with flawless poise before a guzheng. Without a word, she begins to play.
The music is delicate, ancient, soulful. Her fingers move across the strings with precision and grace, as though she’s known the instrument for years, not just three days. Every note enchants. Every gesture is poetry.
Cassian is speechless.
When the song ends, Julia looks up at him with a quiet smile.
Julia: “What do you think, Boss?”
Cassian crosses the room in three strides, grabbing her gently by the waist and lifting her into his arms. Julia gasps, laughing breathlessly.
Cassian (voice rough, eyes dark with heat): “You’re driving me insane. Do you have any idea how you look right now? How you sound? I said you’d look like a goddess… but you didn’t have to actually become one.”
Julia (teasing, arms around his neck): “So… I guess I impressed you?”
Cassian (low and husky): “You made me lose my mind.”
He carries her straight to the bedroom. Clothes trail behind them, one by one. The night turns feverish, full of whispered praises, heated kisses, and tangled limbs. For hours, he worships her body like the goddess she is — not because of the hanfu, or the guzheng, but because she is his Julia. Fierce, brilliant, impossible Julia.
Scene: Morning – Week 26 Doctor Visit
The morning sun filtered gently through the hospital windows as Julia lay on the examination bed, her hand intertwined with Cassian’s. The doctor moved the ultrasound wand over her 26-week belly, a soft smile playing on her lips as the monitor showed clear images of four healthy, wiggling babies.
Doctor (cheerful): “Everything looks perfect. The babies are growing well, all within a healthy range. No signs of complications.”
Julia let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Cassian leaned closer, his grip tightening on her hand.
Doctor (continuing): “Your blood pressure is stable, sugar levels excellent, and you’ve gained just the right amount of weight. Honestly, Julia… your body is handling a quadruplet pregnancy better than most single pregnancies I’ve seen.”
Cassian (in awe): “She’s… amazing.”
Julia blushed, lowering her gaze as her other hand absently rubbed her belly. The doctor smiled knowingly.
Doctor (teasing): “And clearly, you two are still… quite active. Just remember to pace yourselves. Your body’s doing incredible things, Julia. But rest is still important.”
Julia looked away, cheeks burning, while Cassian coughed lightly, trying to suppress a smile.
Scene: Afternoon – High School Alumni Gathering
Later that day, they arrived at a charming venue for their old high school alumni reunion. Julia wore a flowing lavender dress that flattered her baby bump, her face glowing with natural radiance. Cassian, ever the gentleman, kept a hand at the small of her back, protective and proud.
Their arrival caused a stir.
Old classmates turned to stare, some whispering, some outright gawking. No one recognized Julia as Julian. To them, she was just Cassian’s breathtakingly beautiful, pregnant wife. Her elegance, her calm aura, her sensual presence—every detail drew attention.
Female Classmate A (whispering): “Who is she? She’s stunning…”
Male Classmate B (awed): “He really married a goddess.”
Cassian felt pride swell in his chest, but it was quickly tainted by the number of hungry gazes some male classmates directed at Julia—lingering on her curves, her full chest, the gentle swell of motherhood that only enhanced her allure.
Cassian (low voice, to Julia): “I don’t like how they’re looking at you.”
Julia (calmly, amused): “I’m used to it. You forget… I have your last name now. They can look all they want.”
Cassian’s jaw tightened. But then Julia turned slightly and leaned into him, pressing a kiss to his cheek as her hand slid across his chest. Just subtle enough to claim him.
Meanwhile, several old female classmates were circling Cassian. One of them, bold and clearly unashamed, leaned close.
Female Classmate C (smirking): “You know, Cassian, if you ever get tired of playing house, I wouldn’t mind being your little secret.”
Julia saw it all, but only raised an eyebrow, unconcerned. She picked up a glass of water and sipped it with a calm smile. Cassian, meanwhile, visibly recoiled, stepping back and pulling Julia close again, wrapping an arm around her waist.
Cassian (coldly): “That’s my wife. And the mother of my children. I don’t play games.”
Julia leaned closer to him, lips brushing against his ear as she whispered.
Julia (softly teasing): “Still jealous?”
Cassian (grumbling): “You’re mine. I don’t want anyone else even thinking otherwise.”
Julia (playful, smug): “Then remind me again later, Mr. Jealous.”
Scene: Late Night – After the Alumni Gathering
It was late when they returned home. The warm, dim lights of the house welcomed them back, but the air between Julia and Cassian was thick with heat—tension that had been building up since the ride home.
Cassian was silent. Brooding. His eyes dark since the final moments of the alumni gathering—especially after William, his longtime rival, had been blatantly staring at Julia with far too much interest.
William—forever second best in everything: grades, looks, popularity, status. He had always been in Cassian’s shadow. But tonight, Cassian felt like he was losing. Especially when Julia, who used to be William’s friend too, laughed and talked so comfortably with him, like they still shared a private world.
Cassian (cold and intense, once the door was shut): “You looked very… comfortable with William.”
Julia calmly placed down her purse and turned toward him, one eyebrow raised.
Julia (gentle but firm): “We used to be friends. You know that.”
Cassian (his gaze sharp): “He looked at you like… he wanted to take you from me.”
Julia (a teasing smile tugging her lips): “But he can’t, can he?”
Cassian stepped forward, his hand gripping Julia’s waist, pulling her pregnant form close. His hands were strong and claiming, his breath heavy.
Cassian (his voice low, almost a growl): “You’re mine. Only I can touch you. Only I can see you the way you were tonight. I don’t like how close you were with him.”
Julia placed her hand on his chest, feeling his quickened heartbeat.
Julia (in a whisper): “Afraid William’s going to beat you again?”
Cassian (looking deep into her eyes, full of emotion): “You’re mine, Julia. I need you to know that. I need you to say it.”
Julia gave a small, unreadable smile, but didn’t answer. Instead, her fingers slid up his shirt, unbuttoning it one by one, her gaze locked with his.
Julia (flirty and soothing): “Then prove I’m yours, Cassian.”
Scene: Bedroom – A Storm of Possession
Cassian needed no further prompting. That night was filled with hungry kisses, impatient hands, breathless gasps that mingled with tangled sheets. Julia gave in—body and soul—even though neither of them dared to whisper the word love.
Julia’s pregnant body, round and radiant with life, became Cassian’s entire world that night. And Julia let herself fall into that heat, letting Cassian take her as if claiming her was the only way to ease his burning jealousy.
Cassian (kissing her shoulder): “Say it… I need to hear it…”
Julia (breathless, gasping against his neck): “I’m yours… only yours…”
But when the room grew quiet, their breaths slowing, neither of them spoke further. They didn’t admit what burned in their chests. Too afraid. Too stubborn. All they knew was this: no one else was allowed to have the other.
Scene: Mid-Morning – Nursery Room, Julia’s Side of the House
The sun poured gently through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the nursery that was slowly taking shape. Soft pastels and baby essentials were neatly arranged. In the center of the room, Julia sat on a cushioned seat, carefully embroidering tiny patterns onto a set of baby clothes.
Each piece was part of a matching set—two for boys, two for girls. Four little uniforms made with love. Her needle moved steadily, her belly large and round beneath the flowing loungewear she wore. At 26 weeks with quadruplets, her movements were slower, but her hands remained nimble.
A soft chime rang from her tablet. It was a video call.
Julia (smiling as she answered): “Mama!”
Her mother appeared on the screen, cheerful and glowing as always.
Julia’s Mom: “Hi, my baby! Oh my God, you look so full! Week 26 already?”
Julia (laughing softly): “Yes… and I feel like a full moon. I can’t even see my feet anymore.”
Julia’s Mom (teasing): “That means you’re glowing just like one. How are the babies?”
Julia (placing a hand on her belly, gently rubbing): “Active. Very active. They kicked me all night, like a little dance party. It’s hard to sleep sometimes.”
Julia’s Mom: “They’re strong—just like their mama.”
Julia hesitated for a moment, her voice softening.
Julia: “Mama… sometimes I feel overwhelmed. It’s not just the size or the weight. It’s the feeling. Like… they’re always with me, even when I’m alone. I talk to them when I’m scared, or tired, or… just unsure about everything.”
Her mother’s expression turned warm and gentle.
Julia’s Mom: “That’s called being a mother, sweetheart. They’re already part of your soul. That bond only grows stronger.”
Julia (smiling, eyes a little watery): “Yeah… I think I’m starting to understand.”
Julia’s Mom: “Oh! Speaking of babies, Julius is trying to crawl now. He’s a little explorer.”
Julia (grinning): “Really? That’s so fast! He’s going to be walking before we know it.”
Her mother nodded proudly.
Julia: “Meanwhile, I’m still trying to walk like a normal person. I waddle like a duck now. But I can’t sit still either. I get bored doing nothing, Mama.”
She lifted one of the nearly finished baby uniforms and showed it to the screen.
Julia: “So I started making matching clothes for the babies. I want them to look cute and coordinated—Cassian says I’m spoiling them already.”
Julia’s Mom (teasing): “Of course you are. You’re their mama. And those are adorable, Julia. You’re putting your love into every stitch.”
Julia looked down at the fabric in her lap, her smile softening.
Julia: “I want them to have everything I never had. I want to do it right.”
Her mother didn’t say anything right away—just gave her a look full of love and understanding.
Julia’s Mom: “You already are.”
Scene: Later that Afternoon – Quiet Sitting Room, Julia Still on Call with Her Mother
The embroidery was set aside for now. Julia rested against a pile of cushions, her back slightly arched, one hand protectively cradling her belly. The video call was still active. Her mother, now seated in her own living room, sipped tea as they shared a peaceful silence.
Julia (softly, almost whispering):
“Mama… do you ever think about what it really means? That there are… actual lives growing inside me right now?”
Her mother paused, gently lowering her cup.
Julia’s Mom (tenderly):
“All the time. It’s a miracle, sweetheart. You’re not just carrying babies… you’re carrying souls. Personalities. Futures.”
Julia (eyes distant, hands sliding slowly over her belly):
“Sometimes I feel them move and… it’s like they’re trying to speak to me, but not with words. Like little fluttering whispers inside me.”
Julia’s Mom (smiling warmly):
“That’s them getting to know their mama. They already recognize your voice, your heartbeat… even your emotions.”
Julia blinked, her lips trembling slightly.
Julia:
“There are moments when I’m scared. What if I’m not ready? What if I can’t protect all four of them the way I should?”
Julia’s Mom (gently but firmly):
“That fear means you already love them deeply. Every good mother feels that fear. But you’re not alone, Julia. You have Cassian. You have me. And most importantly… you have yourself.”
Julia’s breath caught in her throat as she looked at her mom’s eyes on the screen—filled with so much conviction, so much motherly strength.
Julia (softly):
“When they move, Mama… I feel like I’m not just me anymore. I feel like I’m… a whole world. Like a planet. Like I have four little universes inside me.”
Her mother smiled, her eyes misting.
Julia’s Mom:
“That’s because you are, baby. You are their whole world right now. Every beat of your heart gives them life. Every breath you take, every bite of food, every moment you rest or laugh or cry… it all echoes inside them.”
Julia (barely whispering):
“It’s so big, Mama. It’s beautiful, but so big.”
Julia’s Mom (gently):
“Yes. And you’re strong enough for it. Because you were born from love, and now you’re carrying love.”
A few tears slipped down Julia’s cheek, but she smiled—peaceful, full, glowing.
Julia:
“Thank you, Mama. I think… I needed to hear that today.”
Her mother blew her a kiss through the screen.
Julia’s Mom:
“Anytime, my love. You're never alone. You're doing beautifully.”
Scene: Julia’s Home – Still on Video Call with Her Mother
Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Julia raised an eyebrow, a little surprised.
Julia (still on the video call):
“Huh? There’s a package… I didn’t order anything…”
She slowly got up from her seat, one hand supporting her lower back, and walked to the door. When she opened it, she saw a large box labeled “Express Delivery – Perishable”.
Julia (lifting the package, confused):
“What is this…”
She brought it back to the dining area, placed it carefully on the table, and began opening it while still on the video call. As soon as she peeled back the top, a warm, familiar aroma greeted her.
Julia (eyes widening in surprise):
“…Mom?!”
On the screen, her mother gave a proud little smile.
Julia’s Mom (shrugging playfully):
“I figured you could use something comforting… so I cooked all your childhood favorites.”
Julia (voice trembling slightly, smiling):
“Mamaaa… this is so much…”
One by one, she pulled out the neatly packed containers—herbal chicken soup, stuffed tofu, stir-fried pumpkin, and even some healthy snacks for pregnant moms. Everything was carefully wrapped and chilled to stay fresh.
Julia (sniffing, closing her eyes briefly):
“It smells… like home…”
Julia’s Mom (gently):
“If you can’t come home, then let home come to you.”
Julia smiled as she slowly transferred the food from the delivery containers into her own glass jars and ceramic bowls—making sure everything was ready to be stored and kept for the coming days.
Scene: Evening – Julia Sewing Baby Clothes
Soft light filled the quiet room as Julia sat cross-legged, carefully sewing the tiny matching outfits for her unborn children. Her hands moved with gentle precision, but her mind drifted.
Her heart was warm—yet heavy—with memories.
She remembered her parents’ strictness. The firm words. The high expectations. The endless rules and boundaries that used to frustrate her when she was still Julian.
But now, as she felt the subtle movements of four tiny lives inside her… she understood.
Julia (murmuring to herself):
“They weren’t being harsh… They were protecting me. Loving me. Preparing me…”
Tears welled quietly in her eyes, but they didn’t fall. She simply smiled, stitched another thread, and whispered to the babies in her belly.
Julia (softly):
“I want you to feel that kind of love too… Always.”
Scene: Dining Room – Later That Night
Cassian returned home to the scent of warm, comforting food. Julia had laid out the dishes her mother sent—now beautifully presented in familiar bowls.
Cassian (surprised, eyes lighting up):
“…This smells like… your mom’s cooking.”
Julia (smiling as she ladles soup into his bowl):
“She sent it earlier today. I think… she knew I needed it.”
Cassian sat down, tasting the food slowly, his expression shifting from pleasant surprise to deep reflection.
Cassian (gently):
“This… brings me back.”
Julia looked up at him, curious.
Cassian (softly):
“Since I lost my parents so early… your mom and dad… they were the closest thing I had. They protected me. Took care of me. Even handled everything from the Cassian estate when I was too young…”
He looked at Julia, warmth in his gaze.
Cassian:
“I wouldn’t be who I am now without them. I owe them everything.”
Julia reached across the table, gently covering his hand with hers.
Julia (quietly):
“They loved you like their own. I’m sure they still do.”
They shared a silent moment—two hearts shaped by the same home, now building a new one together.
Scene: Late Night – Bedroom
After dinner, the house had fallen into a peaceful quiet. Moonlight streamed through the sheer curtains, painting soft silver patterns across the room.
Cassian lay in bed, shirtless and relaxed, one arm tucked behind his head. Julia leaned into him, her back against his chest, his hand resting gently over the curve of her belly. Her hanfu had been replaced by a soft silk nightdress, the fabric hugging her form gently.
The room was filled with a tender silence, broken only by the occasional soft breath… until a tiny, distinct kick stirred beneath Cassian’s palm.
Cassian (startled, then smiling):
“They're moving again.”
Julia (quiet laugh):
“They seem to know when you're here… they always get excited.”
Cassian’s fingers traced delicate circles across her stomach.
Cassian (softly, almost to himself):
“They’re real. I mean… I’ve always known, but every time I feel them, it just hits me again. We made them.”
Julia turned slightly, resting her head against his shoulder.
Julia (whispering):
“Sometimes I lie awake just thinking about what they’ll look like… what kind of people they’ll be.”
Cassian let out a quiet breath, resting his cheek on her hair.
Cassian:
“With you as their mother… they’ll be extraordinary.”
She closed her eyes, moved by the sincerity in his voice. Her hand reached back to thread with his.
Julia (murmuring):
“You know… I used to be afraid of becoming a parent. I thought I’d repeat mistakes. Or that… maybe I didn’t deserve this kind of happiness.”
Cassian kissed her temple, his voice low and steady.
Cassian:
“You deserve all of it. Every single part.”
Another gentle kick from one of the babies made Julia laugh softly, placing both her hands over her belly.
Julia (whispering with awe):
“There’s life inside me… and it’s ours.”
Cassian (voice tight with emotion):
“Our family.”
They stayed like that—wrapped in quiet intimacy, their breathing in sync with the rhythm of something far bigger than either of them.
Not a word of love was said aloud, but it was there—in every touch, in every breath shared in the moonlit stillness.
Scene: Parenting Class – Julia’s 26th Week of Pregnancy
A cozy classroom with several expectant couples. Julia sits near the middle, her belly round and heavy, her breathing slower. Cassian is beside her, notebook in hand, ever the composed partner.
Instructor:
“Caring for a newborn isn’t just about changing diapers and feeding. It’s about presence, patience, and consistency. And even with just one baby, it can be overwhelming.”
The room chuckles softly. Julia glances at Cassian, who gives her a small smirk.
Instructor (looking warmly at Julia):
“I hear you two are expecting... four?”
Julia (with a tired but proud smile):
“Yes. Two boys and two girls.”
Cassian (deadpan, but with a twinkle of dry humor):
“So I guess every tip today... we multiply by four?”
The whole room laughs. Julia laughs too, but her eyes shimmer with quiet emotion.
Scene: Inside the Car, Driving Home
Soft music plays in the background. The night is calm, and the city lights blur outside the window. Julia is leaning back, one hand resting on her belly.
Julia (quietly):
“Four babies, Cassian… That’s four times the midnight cries, four times the diapers, the bottles… the love.”
Cassian (still focused on the road, but his voice warm):
“And four times the cuddles. Four pairs of little hands to hold.”
Julia (chuckling, then sighs):
“We’ll barely sleep, won’t we?”
Cassian (grinning):
“Sleep is a myth, sweetheart. Let’s accept that now.”
Julia (after a beat):
“I’m scared… but also excited. They’re going to need so much of us. I don’t want to fail them.”
Cassian reaches over and takes her hand, giving it a squeeze.
Cassian:
“You won’t. You already give them everything, Julia. And I’ll be here. Every step. Every sleepless night.”
Julia (softly):
“You better be. I’m going to be so clingy.”
Cassian (teasing):
“I’m counting on it.”
Scene: Baby Store – Julia’s POV
The rows of pastel strollers looked like something out of a dream—a dream she still didn’t quite believe she belonged to. Julia let her fingers trail over the soft fabric of a massive quadruple stroller. Ridiculous. Gigantic. Somehow beautiful.
“Do they make one that drives itself? Maybe with autopilot?” she joked, trying to lift the heavy fog pressing down on her chest.
Cassian gave her that familiar side-smile, warm and grounding. “If not, I’ll build it. For now, you’ve got me—your personal baby driver.”
She smiled, resting her hand on her belly. One of the babies rolled gently inside her, as if agreeing.
And then—
“Cassian?”
That voice. Sharp. Familiar… somehow. Julia turned alongside Cassian, who immediately tensed.
The woman approached with deliberate steps, heels clicking like punctuation marks, eyes fixed like she was walking toward something she once owned—maybe memory, maybe regret.
“Wow. So it really is you.” Her eyes swept over Cassian, then flicked to Julia—brief, dismissive. “Is this your wife?”
Cassian nodded. “Yes. Julia.”
The woman barely acknowledged it. Her focus never strayed from Cassian. “Still playing savior, huh?”
Julia blinked. What… was this?
“I heard Julian disappeared,” the woman continued, voice laced with an old wound. “But not before messing up half the girls in the city.” She crossed her arms. “I remember the drill. Julian would vanish, and you’d show up—smooth and silent. Pay for taxis, clinics, rent. Handle the fallout. You didn’t even flinch.” A dry laugh. “You were his cleanup crew. The rich best friend who could fix anything.”
Julia stood frozen. Her babies shifted—responding to her tension.
“He never paid. Never apologized. Just sent you. Like you were his concierge for consequences.” Her gaze burned. “I hope your wife doesn’t expect the same treatment.”
And just like that, she turned and walked away. No glance back. Only silence in her wake.
Julia didn’t move. Not from recognition—she didn’t recognize the woman at all. No flicker of memory, no name, no face. Nothing.
And that, somehow, made it worse.
Later – At Home
Cassian was calmly unpacking bags of baby gear. Julia sat on the edge of the bed, a tiny blue onesie crumpled in her hands.
“She didn’t recognize me,” she said softly.
Cassian looked up. “No. She didn’t.”
Julia stared at the fabric. “I didn’t recognize her either.” Her voice was barely a whisper. “God… I don’t even know how many there were.”
Cassian stayed quiet.
“You always cleaned it up, didn’t you?” she asked. “I just… told you. And you handled it.”
Cassian sat beside her, voice low. “Yeah. I did.”
“It wasn’t even my money,” she said, bitter with guilt. “You used your savings. Your name. Your influence. I didn’t even care enough to follow up—I just dumped the problem on you.”
Cassian exhaled. “You didn’t think about the consequences. But someone had to. So I did.” He looked at her gently. “I didn’t do it because I had to. I did it because I couldn’t watch people suffer from your choices. And I kept hoping… one day you’d stop.”
Julia’s fingers tightened on the onesie.
“You know what’s terrifying?” she said quietly. “If that night hadn’t happened—my birthday—if that witch hadn’t cursed me… I don’t think I would have stopped.”
Cassian frowned, listening.
“I feel everything now. Every kick, every flutter, every damn ache. I cry over spilled tea and baby socks. I say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ like it’s instinct. But that’s not who I was. Not really. It’s… her. The woman who did this to me.” She looked up. “What if the only reason I care now is because someone forced me to?”
Cassian reached out, covering her hand. “Maybe. Maybe she gave you the mirror. But you’re the one choosing to look into it.”
Julia’s voice cracked. “If she hadn’t… I might still be Julian. Still chasing fun. Still calling you in the middle of the night and asking you to fix the mess.”
Cassian squeezed her hand. “But you’re not. You’re here. You’re trying. That’s real.”
Julia broke, tears slipping down her cheeks as she clutched the onesie. Not out of punishment—but out of a vow. A promise that even if her heart had changed by force, her choices now were hers.
Night – Bedroom
The lights were dim, the room wrapped in a gentle hush. Only the soft glow of the bedside lamp traced the silhouette of two bodies on the bed. Julia lay on her side, back to Cassian, her eyes open in the dark. Though her body was tired, her mind was wide awake—spinning with guilt, doubt, and the haunting thought that maybe she’d only changed because she was forced to.
A warm arm slowly wrapped around her waist. Protective. Steady.
"You’re still awake," Cassian whispered against the nape of her neck.
Julia didn’t answer. Just a faint movement of her head—barely a nod.
"I’m here," he said again, softer this time. "Not going anywhere."
And without pushing her to speak, he simply held her—patiently, gently, like a harbor letting her drift but never letting her go.
Morning – Kitchen
The sun filtered softly through the curtains, casting golden patches on the kitchen floor. Julia moved slowly, her body still heavy with fatigue, her heart even heavier. But she was up—because that’s what she should do.
Even if her emotions still lingered from the night before, she wanted to show her gratitude in the only way she could think of right now.
She tied her apron over her bump, prepared Cassian’s favorite breakfast, and arranged it neatly on the table. Then she poured him a warm cup of coffee and stood by, gently nudging him awake with a kiss on the cheek.
"Breakfast’s ready," she whispered.
Cassian blinked up at her, still half-asleep, then smiled. "You didn’t have to do this…"
Julia shrugged lightly, her voice small. "I wanted to."
He sat up slowly, watching her with that quiet, unreadable gaze. Then suddenly, he said, "Actually… I’m not going to work today."
Julia blinked. "You’re not?"
"Nope." Cassian stood, stretching. "Today, I’m taking you out."
"Out? But—what about work? What about—"
He stepped close, cupping her cheek. "What about you, Julia?" he said softly. "You’ve been carrying so much—literally and emotionally. You need a break. So I’m taking you to the amusement park."
Julia frowned, uncertain. "I can’t go on rides—"
"You won’t need to," he said, already grabbing his jacket. "We’ll eat too much cotton candy. Watch kids scream on rollercoasters. Win a giant stuffed bear for the babies. We’ll have fun. Just you and me."
For the first time that morning, Julia smiled.
Later – Amusement Park
The sounds of laughter, bells, and carousel music filled the air. The park was bright, bustling with energy. Cassian walked beside Julia, one hand holding hers, the other carrying her bag like it was nothing.
She couldn’t ride the Ferris wheel or the bumper cars—not at 26 weeks pregnant with quadruplets—but they sat on shaded benches eating churros, played soft carnival games (Cassian won three tiny plush ducks), and took silly photos in a photo booth.
At one point, Cassian bought matching cotton candy, and Julia burst into laughter watching him try to eat it without getting it stuck in his hair.
The sun slowly dipped toward afternoon, painting the sky in hues of peach and lilac. Julia rested her head on his shoulder as they watched kids run around with glowing balloons.
"I feel… almost normal," she murmured.
Cassian smiled, pressing a kiss to her temple. "You are normal. Just… magical and super pregnant."
She giggled—light, honest. The sadness hadn’t disappeared. But in its place, there was warmth. Healing.
And love.
Evening – Home Jacuzzi (After the Theme Park)
After a day filled with carousel laughter, cotton candy, and the ache of too many slow steps, I thought I’d collapse the moment we got home. But when Cassian asked if I wanted to relax in the jacuzzi, my mouth said yes before my brain had a chance to protest.
Now I was here, lowering myself into the warm water with his help. Steam curled upward, scented with lavender and vanilla. The dim lighting made everything feel softer, hazier—like we weren’t quite in the real world.
The heat wrapped around me, easing the pressure off my back. I let out a long breath and rested against the padded edge. My skin shimmered in the low light, smooth and taut from the pregnancy but still mine.
Cassian slipped in beside me, too close for coincidence, and the water shifted between us.
“Feeling alive again?” he asked, his voice low, teasing.
“Barely.” I smirked. “If you weren’t so generous with the foot rubs earlier, I’d say you were trying to kill me with fun.”
He laughed under his breath. His hand brushed my calf underwater—innocent, or at least pretending to be.
“Hey, I’m just making sure the woman carrying four kids doesn’t fall apart before the finish line.”
“So noble,” I said, raising an eyebrow. “Is this part of some slow-burn seduction plan?”
He leaned his elbow on the edge beside me. “If it is, I’m pacing myself.”
My heartbeat picked up, but I kept my cool. The look he gave me wasn’t new, but it felt different now. Focused. Unapologetic.
“I like your hands where they are,” I said, not bothering to hide the heat in my voice.
He didn’t move them. In fact, they slid higher—slow, deliberate, just enough to test me.
I didn’t stop him.
“Julia…” he murmured, his tone thick with meaning. “Tell me if you want me to stop.”
I should’ve. I knew I should’ve.
But instead, I leaned in and kissed him. Not soft. Not shy. Just—yes.
The kiss deepened, and I forgot the water, the day, everything except how warm his mouth felt on mine. How right his touch felt on my skin. When we finally pulled apart, we were both breathing hard, the air between us thick and charged.
I traced his jaw, tilting my head. “We’re going to regret this tomorrow, aren’t we?”
He smirked, eyes still dark with heat. “Only if we pretend it didn’t happen.”
I didn’t know what we were doing.
I didn’t know what I felt.
But I wasn’t ready to let go of the fire between us just yet.
Night – Bedroom Heat
The warmth of the jacuzzi still clung to Julia’s skin as Cassian helped her step out, his large hands steady on her waist. Her belly, full and round at 26 weeks with four growing lives inside her, made her movements slower, heavier—but no less graceful. The weight of it curved her spine, shifted her center, demanded space—and owned it.
Cassian didn’t look away. He watched her like she was the most breathtaking thing he'd ever seen.
Julia lay back on the bed carefully, adjusting the pillows behind her to support the arch of her back. Her belly rose high and proud above her hips, the skin stretched tight and glowing, the subtle ripples of movement beneath betraying the life within.
She sighed, one hand running slowly across the swell of her stomach, the other sliding up to her breast—full, aching, and sensitive from the endless pressure of milk building inside her. Her body wasn’t her own anymore… but tonight, she wanted to take some of it back.
Cassian stepped closer, the towel slung low on his hips, his gaze dark and quiet. “You’re in pain.”
“Uncomfortable,” she corrected breathily, her fingers ghosting over her nipple. “They’re… full. And so sensitive it’s driving me insane.”
She didn’t have to say more. Cassian was already kneeling beside her, reverent, careful. “Let me.”
Julia nodded, lips parted, guiding his mouth to her breast. The moment his lips closed around her, she gasped—a sound both desperate and relieved.
The pull of his mouth, the warm flick of his tongue, the firm rhythm of his suck—it flooded her senses. Milk let down with a soft ache, and the relief hit her so hard her toes curled into the sheets.
“Yes… God, yes,” she moaned, one hand in his hair, the other gripping the edge of the mattress. Her hips shifted instinctively, the need between her legs blooming hot and fast.
Cassian groaned softly as he drank, his hands spreading across her wide hips, fingers caressing the stretched curve of her belly. He switched sides without a word, lips wet with her taste, his hunger barely restrained.
“You’re addictive,” he rasped.
Julia pulled him up by the jaw and kissed him, tasting herself on his tongue. She tugged him over her, guiding him between her legs, her knees splayed wide to accommodate her bump, her hips angling just right.
“Don’t hold back,” she whispered against his mouth. “I don’t want gentle tonight.”
Cassian thrust into her slowly, carefully, but when she arched with a cry and wrapped her legs around him, he gave her what she asked for.
Their rhythm built steadily, her body opening to him despite the fullness of her belly, every thrust rubbing exactly where she needed. Her moans grew louder, needier, hips rocking up to meet his, belly quivering with each motion.
She was flushed, sweat-slicked, her breasts swaying, belly trembling, her body swollen with life—and still, she moved with hunger, with fire.
Julia came first, a deep, guttural cry that burst from her chest, her body shaking beneath him. Her climax clenched around him, dragging his release from him moments later, his groan echoing low against her neck.
They collapsed into the pillows, panting, his hand resting on her belly as their breath slowed.
No promises.
No illusions.
Just the truth of heat, of want, of a craving that neither of them could deny anymore.
Morning – Hungry Again
Sunlight poured through the sheer curtains, casting soft gold across the room. The scent of lavender still lingered faintly in the air, mingled with warmth, skin, and something deeper—something shared.
Julia stirred slowly, her body aching in all the right places. Her breasts were heavy again, her nipples tingling with fullness. Her thighs still trembled faintly, stretched from pleasure, but there was no soreness. Just a lingering, throbbing need.
She blinked, adjusting to the light.
Cassian lay beside her, one arm draped protectively over her bump, his other hand tucked under the pillow. The sheets had slipped low, revealing the sculpt of his back, his bare hips, the gentle rise and fall of his breath. He looked peaceful—too peaceful for how wicked he’d been hours ago.
Julia’s eyes drank him in. Slowly.
And then her body responded.
A flush spread across her chest, down her belly, between her thighs. Her nipples pebbled, her core pulsed. Her hips rolled, subtly, instinctively, searching for pressure.
She bit her lip, reaching down between her legs to ease the heat. Slick and needy already.
“God… again?” she muttered to herself with a frustrated, breathy laugh.
She shifted slightly, careful with her belly. Cassian stirred, brow twitching, breath catching. His eyes opened slowly, finding her.
“Morning,” he said, voice low and deliciously rough.
Julia smirked, leaning over to press a kiss to his shoulder. “You’re too naked. It’s distracting.”
“You’re too pregnant. It’s hot.” His hand slid down her side, fingers curving protectively over her bump. “Everything about you right now is... just unfair.”
She looked down between them—her belly high and full, her breasts flushed and swollen. She didn’t feel small or dainty. She felt massive. But the way he looked at her?
Like he couldn’t get enough.
Julia rolled her hips again, her thighs brushing his. “I want more.”
Cassian’s pupils darkened instantly. “Already?”
“I don’t know what’s wrong with me.” She laughed breathlessly. “Hormones. Milk. You. All of it.”
She guided his hand to her breast, pressing it into the weight of her. A drop of milk beaded at her nipple as he brushed his thumb across it. Julia moaned softly, leaning her head back.
“Still full,” she whispered.
Cassian sat up on one elbow, mouth hovering just above her skin. “Then let me take care of you.”
She nodded, eyes burning, breath already uneven.
His mouth closed around her again—hot, gentle, greedy. She gasped, the tug deep and intimate, her body arching toward him. Her thighs parted automatically, hips tilting, her core clenching with need.
And when his hand slid between her legs—fingers slow, sure, stroking her with practiced ease—Julia moaned, loud and honest.
“Cassian… don’t stop. Don’t you dare stop.”
He didn’t.
And before long, their bodies were joined again—her straddling him now, belly between them, breasts bouncing with every movement, the bed creaking with rhythm and heat.
Julia rode him with abandon, guided by fire and fullness and the bliss of being wanted—completely, unapologetically, as she was.
And when she came this time, it was with Cassian’s name on her lips and tears in her eyes—not from pain, not from love—
—but from relief.
From being seen.
And utterly satisfied.
The Return – Visiting Home
The next morning, Cassian helped Julia into the passenger seat, one hand steady on her back, the other carrying a cooler bag of healthy snacks and water. Her belly was so big now that he insisted on cushioning her with extra pillows and adjusting the seatbelt a dozen times before he was satisfied.
“You’re being paranoid,” she muttered, amused.
“Doctor said it’s okay, not that I can stop worrying,” he said, leaning in to kiss her cheek. “Four hours. That’s all. I want you to rest.”
She didn’t argue.
The drive was long, broken only by soft music, bathroom breaks, and quiet conversations about baby names and diaper bag designs. She dozed in and out, lulled by the gentle hum of the road and Cassian’s voice telling her old childhood stories.
By the time they passed the familiar town sign and winding streets of her youth, her heart had tightened unexpectedly. She hadn’t been back here since the transformation—since everything changed.
Homecoming – Her Mother’s Arms
The house hadn’t changed. Pale yellow walls. Jasmine crawling up the front porch rail. Wind chimes still dancing in the breeze.
Her father greeted them first, his eyes widening at the sight of her swollen belly. But he said nothing—just nodded, stepped aside, and pulled her in for a careful, awkward hug.
But her mother—her mother stared for a moment, eyes shimmering. Then she stepped forward, cupped Julia’s face in her hands, and whispered, “You look… so full of light.”
And then she embraced her. A real, deep hug. One that made Julia suddenly, breathlessly, want to cry.
She let herself melt into it. She let her mother hold her like she used to when she scraped her knees or faked sick days. And somehow… this time, it felt like healing.
Evening Calm – Nesting, Again
Later, as the sun dipped low and the house filled with soft light and the scent of her mother’s cooking, Julia wandered into her old bedroom. The posters were gone. The messy boyhood chaos had been replaced with calm, guest-room neatness.
But she didn’t feel like a stranger.
She sat on the bed, rubbing her belly, listening to her mother humming in the kitchen.
Cassian peeked in a few moments later, quietly watching her. She looked up, and smiled.
“I think I found my comfort spot,” she said, brushing a tear from her cheek. “It’s not the room. It’s her. Mama.”
He walked in, knelt before her, and rested his hands on her belly.
“I thought you might need that. Not just nostalgia. But connection.”
“I didn’t know how much I did.”
She leaned down, pressing their foreheads together.
There, surrounded by old memories and new beginnings, Julia felt something deep inside her shift. Not loss, not fear.
Belonging.
Late Night – Heart to Heart
The house had gone quiet. Cassian was asleep in the guest room, sprawled across the unfamiliar mattress like he belonged anywhere Julia was. But she couldn’t sleep.
The night air was cool against her skin as she padded softly into the kitchen, drawn by the low glow of a lamp and the clink of a teacup.
Her mother was already there. Hair tied back, robe wrapped around her, sipping tea in silence. She looked up and smiled—small, gentle.
“Couldn’t sleep either?”
Julia shook her head and sat across from her, hands cradling her own belly instinctively.
They sat like that for a while, wrapped in silence, before her mother finally spoke.
“You were always a mystery to me.”
Julia blinked.
“As a child?”
Her mother nodded slowly. “Not just then. Always. I loved you, of course I did. But…” she paused, eyes searching the rim of her cup. “…I never quite knew how to love you.”
Julia felt something sharp twist in her chest.
“Why?” she asked softly.
Her mother hesitated. Then finally, quietly, she said:
“Because I always wanted a daughter.”
“I dreamed of brushing her hair, sewing little dresses, teaching her how to cook. I imagined tea parties and late-night talks like this. And when you were born—a boy—I told myself it didn’t matter. But somewhere deep inside, I think… I grieved the girl I never had.”
Julia stared at her mother, stunned into stillness.
“And instead, you got… Julian.”
A tired smile curled her mother’s lips. “Julian was sweet. Charming, even. But always so distant. It was like you were wearing a mask. You smiled, but you were never really with me. Not fully.”
Tears stung Julia’s eyes.
“I was wearing a mask,” she whispered.
Her mother reached across the table and took her hand.
“But now… when I look at you, Julia… it’s like I finally found you. The daughter I’d been missing all along. And I’m not saying this change was easy to accept. It wasn’t. But sitting here, looking at you, swollen with life and peace in your eyes…”
She squeezed Julia’s hand. “I’ve never loved you more clearly than I do right now.”
Julia let out a broken breath—and then she was crying. Quietly, helplessly. And her mother stood, circled the table, and held her daughter at last. Not the polite, confused affection of the past.
But fully. Finally. Fiercely.
They stood in the kitchen, two women who had missed each other for twenty years… and were now, at last, found.
The Lake – Father and Daughter
The early morning mist curled over the lake like breath held too long. The water was still, the surface glassy and unbroken, save for the occasional ripple from a fish beneath.
Julia sat carefully at the edge of the small wooden dock, bundled in a soft jacket that used to belong to her father. Her belly rested heavily between her knees, her legs tucked to the side. The twin rods were set, their lines cast in silence.
Her father sat beside her, boots dangling just above the water, the same way he always had—calm, steady, unreadable.
It had been a tradition for years. Once a month. Rain or shine. Julian and his father, escaping into the quiet, casting lines and talking about nothing.
Now, here they were again.
Except it was Julia now.
And her belly was full of four growing lives.
He hadn’t said much when she told him. Just nodded once, his jaw tight, his eyes searching hers.
Now, after hours of companionable silence and thermoses of lukewarm coffee, he finally spoke.
“You always hated waking up early.”
Julia smiled faintly. “Still do.”
He grunted, a little huff of laughter. “But you never said no to fishing.”
“Because you never said it was optional.”
That earned a full chuckle.
They sat with that for a while.
Then he said, quieter, “I used to wonder what was going on in that head of yours.”
Julia glanced over. “When?”
“When you were a teenager. You’d come home late, half-daring me to ask where you’d been. Grinning like you were invincible.” He paused, his voice thickening. “And I was scared—scared I was losing you. But I didn’t know how to say it.”
She looked out at the water.
“I didn’t know how to be honest,” she said softly. “Not with anyone. Least of all myself.”
He reeled in slowly, eyes on the line.
“Truth is,” he said, casting again, “when your mom was pregnant, I hoped for a girl.”
Julia blinked.
“But then you were a boy. And not just any boy—my only boy. My father had three sons. Only I had a son. You became the one he chose. The one who’d carry the company, the name.”
He sighed.
“So I told myself to be grateful. And I was. But… I didn’t know how to father a daughter. I didn’t get the chance. Not until now.”
Julia’s throat tightened.
“You don’t resent this? Me?”
He looked at her—really looked.
“I lost my son, yes. But I gained the daughter I never thought I’d have. And seeing you like this, glowing, stubborn, carrying four grandkids like it's nothing…” he gave a quiet laugh, shaking his head. “I never imagined something so strange would feel so right.”
His hand found hers, rough fingers curling gently around her slender ones.
“You’re still mine. And I’m proud of you.”
Julia didn’t try to hold back the tears. They came hot and free.
“I missed this,” she whispered. “Even before I changed. This quiet. This… us.”
Her father looked back at the lake, his voice softer than she’d ever heard it.
“Me too, sweetheart.”
They fished for another hour, the silence no longer awkward, but full—of acceptance, of memory, of something tender finally finding its place.
Old Town Ghosts – Memory, Milk, and Need
Julia and Cassian spent the weekend in Julian’s childhood home—a place where both of them had grown up, side by side. The creaking wooden floors, the faint scent of old books, the garden where they used to chase each other barefoot... every corner held a piece of their shared past, before the curse, before everything changed.
They went out for a walk that afternoon, wandering the familiar streets of the town they once called home. It was quiet, sleepy. Slower than the city they now lived in. A world they had left behind.
And then, they saw her.
Helena.
She stood by the hospital gates in her white coat, her hair pulled back in that elegant, effortless way. Still beautiful. Still gentle. Still the same.
Cassian froze.
Helena, the woman he had once loved. His first. The one he left behind in pursuit of a bigger life, in a bigger city, with bigger dreams. Julia remembered how painful that goodbye had been—how Cassian had cried the night he left. For months after, he still video called Helena every evening. Julia remembered that too.
She also remembered Cassian had once told her he might go back—might propose to Helena on his birthday. But that never happened. Fate, or perhaps the curse, had shifted their paths.
"Go talk to her," Julia said softly, nudging him forward. “I’ll head back first.”
Cassian looked at her, uncertain. But eventually, he went.
Julia returned home alone, her thoughts tangled.
That night, back in the room they now shared—Julian’s old bedroom turned unfamiliar in their new reality—Cassian seemed different. Anxious. Guilty. Afraid that Julia might suspect something.
Instead of explaining, he clung to her.
He touched her more than usual. Kissed her with quiet desperation. Pulled her close and didn’t let go.
But Julia’s body was already tense with another kind of ache.
“Julius didn’t nurse,” she said quietly. “Mama gave him expressed milk this afternoon. He was asleep when I got back, and now I’m just... full. It hurts.”
Cassian’s expression softened. He reached for her.
“Let me help.”
He undressed her gently, reverently, then brought his mouth to her breast. Her milk flowed quickly. She gasped at the sudden release, her fingers tightening in his hair.
He drank from her with care, then hunger.
Her body responded before her heart could understand.
The pain eased, but a different kind of need replaced it.
Their mouths met. Clothes were forgotten. His hands roamed. Her legs opened. She welcomed him inside her with trembling thighs and a quiet cry. They moved together, seeking comfort. Seeking proof that they still belonged to one another, even if they didn’t dare name it love.
They didn’t speak of Helena.
They didn’t speak of the curse.
They only spoke in breath and touch.
Practice for Parenthood – A Month with Julius
The car was quiet, except for the gentle hum of the engine and the soft breathing of baby Julius asleep in Julian’s arms. Cassian was driving, one hand steady on the wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to squeeze Julian’s knee.
Julian looked down at his baby brother—his tiny fists curled up against his chest, lips slightly parted in sleep. His little body was so warm, so light. So perfect.
“I’m glad we brought him,” Julian murmured, brushing a thumb over Julius’ soft cheek. “He’s going to keep us busy—but it’s the kind of busy we need.”
Cassian smiled. “One baby before four. Seems like a good deal.”
Julian chuckled quietly, but his gaze didn’t leave Julius.
“You know…” he began, his voice quieter now, more thoughtful, “I used to feel guilty. Like I’d failed Papa and Mama. They lost a son, and now—here I am. Changed. Different. Someone new.”
Cassian glanced at him but didn’t interrupt.
“But Julius…” Julian continued, “He’s healing something in me. Holding him, feeding him... it makes me feel like I’m giving something back. And Papa and Mama—they said something before they left for New York. They told me they always dreamed of having a daughter.”
Cassian’s brow lifted.
Julian smiled faintly. “I think... maybe that’s why they accepted me so easily. Why they never once made me feel like a mistake. And now—with me carrying their grandchildren—they’re not just accepting me. They’re celebrating me.”
The car rolled on through the gentle hills, sunlight catching on the windows.
Julius stirred, and Julian shifted him gently, settling him closer to his chest. The fullness in his breasts would find relief soon. Julius always nursed eagerly, and that—oddly—had become a blessing too. It meant she wouldn’t have to suffer through painful engorgement during the day. It meant her body had a reason to give.
“He’s not just our practice baby,” Julian whispered, mostly to himself. “He’s our first lesson in loving someone with our whole hearts.”
Cassian reached over again and took Julian’s hand.
“Then let’s learn well,” he said softly.
And in that moment—riding into their temporary little life as a trial family of three—everything felt strangely right.
[OBSTETRIC CLINIC – MIDDAY]
Cassian sat beside Julia in the waiting room, their fingers interlaced. Julia looked a little tired, but her smile remained soft and steady.
Cassian:
“Are you sure you’re not too exhausted? Four hours in the car, then straight to nursing Julius again…”
Julia:
(shakes her head gently, smiling)
“I’m okay, Cass. My body’s used to it. Julius still needs me. And besides, this is good practice, right? Soon we’ll have four tiny babies at home.”
Cassian:
(taking a deep breath)
“I still can’t believe we’re having four at once. But you… you’re incredible. You’re nursing Julius, taking care of the house, and still… spoiling me too.”
(he looks into her eyes)
Julia:
(blushing)
“You’re my husband. I want to do everything for you.”
A nurse called Julia’s name. They walked into the examination room together. After a series of routine checks and an ultrasound, the doctor gave them a warm smile.
Doctor:
“Everything looks great. Your babies are growing well, and your body’s handling the pregnancy beautifully—even with all your activity.”
Cassian:
(relieved)
“She never stops moving, I swear. I keep telling her to rest.”
Julia:
(chuckling softly)
“And I keep telling you—I rest better when I know everyone’s taken care of.”
Cassian leaned over and kissed her temple. The love they refused to name still hovered between them, undeniable, unspoken—but growing stronger with each heartbeat.
The room dimmed slightly as the technician spread warm gel over Julia’s growing belly. Cassian sat beside her, eyes fixed on the monitor as images flickered to life.
Ultrasound Technician:
“Okay, let’s take a look at your little ones. Starting with Baby A…”
She adjusted the probe, and a clear image of a small, active baby appeared.
Ultrasound Technician (smiling):
“Baby A is in the head-down position, heartbeat strong at 144 bpm. Measuring right on track, about 2.1 pounds. Looks like this one likes stretching—see that leg kicking?”
Julia:
(giggling softly)
“That one always wakes me up at 3 a.m. Cass says it’s my karma.”
Cassian:
(pretending to look offended)
“Excuse me, that one’s clearly inherited my energy.”
The technician moved the probe again.
Ultrasound Technician:
“Now, Baby B… this little one is breech right now, but that’s totally normal for quads at this stage. Heartbeat at 150 bpm, very active. Measuring just a tad smaller, around 2 pounds, but nothing concerning.”
Cassian:
(softly, watching the screen)
“They already have different personalities…”
Julia:
“They’re so alive already. It’s… amazing.”
The technician located Baby C.
Ultrasound Technician:
“Baby C is curled up next to the placenta, heartbeat at 147 bpm. Very calm. Measuring 2.2 pounds. Might be the quiet observer of the bunch.”
Cassian:
“That sounds dangerously like you, Julia. Watch out, that one’s probably the boss.”
Julia:
(smiling tenderly)
“Or maybe the gentle protector.”
Lastly, she scanned for Baby D.
Ultrasound Technician:
“And Baby D… our little tumbler! This one’s been rolling the entire time. Heartbeat at 152 bpm, slightly bigger—2.3 pounds. Lots of movement.”
Doctor (stepping in):
“All four babies have healthy fluid levels, strong placentas, and good growth curves. You’ve gained just the right amount of weight, and your cervix is still holding strong. No signs of preterm labor.”
Cassian:
(relieved, gently brushing Julia’s hair back)
“You’re doing so well, sweetheart. I’m so proud of you.”
Julia:
(whispering, a little emotional)
“They’re really okay… all four of them…”
Doctor:
“Yes. And so are you. Just remember to pace yourself—nursing and caring for a baby on top of a quad pregnancy is no small feat.”
Cassian squeezed Julia’s hand.
Cassian:
“She doesn’t know how to stop. But I’ll make sure she rests. I promise.”
[ONE MONTH LATER – VALE FAMILY HOME]
The warm light of late afternoon filtered into the living room as Julia handed a drowsy Julius back into their mother’s arms. The baby boy clung to her shirt for a moment before settling into their mama’s familiar scent. Papa ruffled Cassian’s hair with a proud chuckle before taking the diaper bag.
Papa:
“You two did wonderfully. Look at him—chubby, calm, and glowing.”
Mama (smiling warmly):
“He clearly got all the love and milk he needed. Thank you, Julia. Thank you, Cassian.”
Cassian nodded, his arm loosely wrapped around Julia’s waist. They watched from the doorway as the car carrying Papa, Mama, and Julius disappeared down the road.
[EVENING – HOME SPA BATHROOM, JACUZZI ON]
Steam curled around the air. Julia let out a long, relaxed sigh as she lowered herself into the bubbling water. Cassian slid in beside her, pulling her gently against his chest. The tension from the past month melted from both their bodies.
Cassian (whispering with a soft smile):
“I missed this. I missed you.”
Julia (turning to look at him):
“I missed you too. So much. We were so focused on Julius… we forgot about us.”
Their eyes locked—full of unspoken longing and the warmth of something deeper. Cassian leaned in, kissing her gently at first, then with growing intensity. Julia’s fingers tangled in his damp hair as she climbed onto his lap, warm water rippling around them.
Julia (breathless between kisses):
“It feels like I’ve been starving for your touch…”
Cassian (groaning softly):
“Then let me feed that hunger… I want all of you tonight.”
The intimacy grew urgent—needy—as their bodies moved together, reunited after weeks of patient restraint. In that embrace, beneath the soothing jets and gentle glow of candlelight, it wasn’t just lust they shared, but love they still refused to name. A love woven into every kiss, every breath, every whisper in the water.
[NEXT MORNING – THE BEDROOM, SOFT SUNLIGHT FILTERING IN]
Julia stirred beneath the soft linen sheets, eyes still heavy with sleep. Her body felt warm and heavy—but it wasn’t just the pregnancy. Cassian’s arm was draped protectively over her waist, his hand resting gently on the curve of her belly, now round and full at 31 weeks.
She smiled faintly as she shifted, wincing just slightly. Her breasts ached—swollen and full again. She reached up to cup one, instinctively checking the tenderness.
Cassian murmured something unintelligible, still half-asleep, then pressed a kiss to her shoulder.
Cassian (sleepily):
“Are you okay…?”
Julia:
“Mmh… just full again. I think they’re getting ahead of schedule.”
Cassian (opening his eyes):
“They’ve been full almost every morning now.”
He sat up slowly, brushing the hair from her face. His hand moved gently over her breast, his touch careful, familiar.
Cassian:
“Want me to help?”
She looked at him, a little embarrassed still—but also comforted. This was their routine now, quiet and unspoken. She nodded.
He leaned down, his lips closing over her nipple with tenderness and purpose. She let out a quiet gasp, her hand resting on the back of his neck. The pressure eased slowly, the milk flowing into his mouth, warm and steady.
Julia (softly):
“You’re getting too good at this.”
Cassian (pulling back with a small smile):
“Just making sure my wife’s comfortable… and our future babies get the best.”
Julia chuckled, but her eyes softened. She looked down at him, then at her belly. She ran her fingers along the stretched skin, feeling the baby shift beneath.
Julia:
“Just a few weeks left… and then there’ll be four of them.”
Cassian:
“Four tiny mouths, four tiny diapers, four tiny lives…”
Julia (smiling faintly):
“…and two sleep-deprived parents.”
They both laughed softly, the moment light but full of meaning. He lay back down beside her, his hand finding hers, fingers intertwining.
No declarations. No dramatic promises.
Just quiet love, in its simplest, most undeniable form.
Week 31 to 33 – The Art of Endurance
Despite entering her thirty-first week of pregnancy with quadruplets, Julia refused to slow down.
Her belly had grown noticeably larger, round and heavy with life, stretching her movements and making even simple tasks feel monumental. But Julia—stubborn, graceful, relentless—carried herself with purpose. The Braxton Hicks contractions had become more frequent, sometimes strong enough to make her pause and grip the edge of a table, her breath shallow, her eyes clouded with momentary discomfort.
Cassian had warned her, more than once.
“You’re pushing yourself too hard,” he said one evening, helping her sit down after she returned from a surprise inspection at one of their business branches.
“I’m fine,” Julia insisted, brushing back her sweat-damp hair. “If I stop moving, I’ll lose myself. This—” she touched her belly, then his hand, “—this is everything. But I can’t let go of who I am either.”
In truth, she was exhausted.
But she kept going.
She still insisted on waking early to help prepare breakfast, on organizing the nursery, on painting between contractions. Her art had become raw and emotional—large canvas pieces filled with warm reds and deep purples. And somehow, between insomnia, mood swings, and hunger pangs, she also managed to compose a new piece of music: a lullaby meant for the babies she hadn't even seen yet.
Cassian was both in awe and terrified.
She still kissed him every night like it might be their last. Still welcomed him into her arms with hunger, still whispered his name as if she were falling, falling, falling into a world where desire and comfort were one and the same.
She still lit candles at dinner.
Still wore soft perfume.
Still moaned when he touched her full breasts, swollen with milk, or placed kisses along her stretched belly.
Sometimes, after one of those intense episodes of pleasure and relief, Julia would lie on the bed, panting and trembling slightly, a hand on her belly.
“They’re kicking more,” she’d say softly. “I think they feel everything I feel.”
Week 34 – Check-Up
Julia lay back on the examination table, her belly full and firm beneath the ultrasound wand. The gel was cool against her skin, but her hand was warm in Cassian’s, who stood by her side, watching the monitor with silent awe.
The doctor moved the probe gently, eyes focused on the screen.
“Remarkable,” he murmured after a moment, turning slightly toward the couple. “Your uterus is incredibly strong, Julia. It's rare to see such stability and elasticity at thirty-four weeks with quadruplets.”
Julia smiled, slightly flushed with pride, her fingers brushing her belly in slow circles.
“Does that mean... normal delivery is still possible?” Cassian asked cautiously.
The doctor nodded.
“It’s not just possible—it’s looking more and more promising. Of course, we’ll still monitor things closely, but the way your body has adapted is extraordinary. It’s like you were made for this.”
He scrolled through the ultrasound images, pointing at each baby in turn.
“All four babies are developing beautifully. Organs are maturing on schedule, their heartbeats are strong, and their positions are favorable for natural birth.”
Julia exhaled, relieved and glowing.
“They’re fighters,” she whispered.
“Just like their mother,” Cassian added, kissing her temple.
The doctor chuckled warmly.
“You’ve both done exceptionally well. Keep listening to your body. You may still experience stronger Braxton Hicks contractions over the next few weeks, but if anything feels rhythmic or intense, don’t wait—come straight in.”
[Scene: Quiet dinner at home – evening, 34 weeks pregnant]
The evening felt calm — strangely quiet, but peaceful. Ever since Julia’s parents had come to pick up baby Julius at the end of her 30th week of pregnancy, the house had returned to just the two of them. The change had been both a relief and a reminder of what was to come.
Julia and Cassian sat at their small dining table, enjoying a quiet dinner. Candlelight flickered between them, soft music played in the background, and their hands naturally found each other.
Cassian (smiling):
“It still feels weird not hearing baby sounds around.”
Julia (soft laugh, rubbing her belly):
“Give it a few more weeks. Then it’s going to be four times louder.”
Cassian:
“And four times more amazing.”
Julia (smiling, then pausing suddenly):
“…Oh.”
Cassian (suddenly alert):
“Julia?”
Julia (wide-eyed):
“My water just broke.”
Cassian instantly sprang into action, grabbing her hospital bag and gently helping her stand. His expression was focused, his movements precise — the same calm readiness Julia had grown to trust with all her heart.
[Scene: In the car – night drive to the hospital]
The highway lights passed in a blur. Cassian held Julia’s hand while driving, eyes flicking between the road and her face.
Cassian:
“Just breathe, okay? We’re almost there.”
Julia (between breaths):
“I didn’t think it would be this soon…”
Cassian (squeezing her hand):
“They’re coming at the perfect time. And you’re so ready.”
[Scene: Hospital – Labor Room]
The medical team quickly got into action. Julia was progressing fast — a sign of how prepared her body had become. The doctor looked genuinely impressed.
Doctor:
“You’re at 6 centimeters and counting. We’ll proceed with natural delivery as planned. Julia, your uterus is handling this beautifully.”
Cassian stayed right beside her, whispering encouragement, wiping her forehead, and holding her hand through every wave of pain.
Cassian:
“You’re doing incredible. You’ve carried them so well.”
Julia (through clenched teeth, then a smile):
“They’re almost here…”
[Scene: Delivery Room – Moments later]
One by one, the babies entered the world. Four tiny lives. Four cries that filled the room with overwhelming joy.
Doctor (smiling):
“Baby A – a healthy boy!
Baby B – it’s a girl!
Baby C – another boy!
And Baby D – a strong little girl!”
Cassian felt tears sting his eyes as he watched the nurses wrap each baby carefully and bring them to Julia one at a time.
Cassian (choked voice):
“They’re perfect… just like their mom.”
Julia (teary, exhausted):
“We’re really parents now… four times over.”
He leaned down to kiss her forehead, heart full to bursting. The house would no longer be silent — and they wouldn’t want it any other way.
[Scene: Recovery room, a few hours after delivery]
The room was quiet and softly lit. Julia lay on the hospital bed, exhausted but glowing. Four tiny newborns rested nearby, each swaddled and sleeping peacefully. Cassian sat at her side, eyes focused on their babies.
Cassian (whispering):
“They’re really here…”
Julia (smiling faintly):
“Four of them. I still can’t believe it.”
They both watched their children in silence, overwhelmed by the surreal beauty of it all. Then Julia turned toward Cassian, voice low and uncertain.
Julia:
“Have you thought of names…?”
Cassian (nodding):
“Some. But I want to hear yours.”
Julia glanced at the first baby boy, the one who had kicked the strongest.
Julia:
“This one… let’s name him Lucian. He came first. He’s strong.”
Cassian:
“Lucian Vale… it suits him.”
They shared a brief smile, not quite tender, not quite awkward — something in between.
Julia motioned to the girl with the loudest cry.
Julia:
“She’s bold. Maybe… Siena?”
Cassian (softly):
“Siena Vale. Yeah… she’ll be a handful.”
Then to the quieter boy, who had stared at them silently since birth.
Cassian:
“He seems like a thinker. What about… Theo?”
Julia (nodding):
“Theo Vale. That feels right.”
And finally, the baby girl with the tiny dimple.
Cassian:
“She has your cheeks.”
Julia:
“She should have a name that feels like sunrise.
How about… Aurora?”
Cassian:
“Aurora Vale. Beautiful.”
A comfortable silence settled between them. Their hands brushed but didn’t quite hold. Julia looked at the ceiling.
Julia (softly):
“So… Lucian, Siena, Theo, and Aurora.
Our first… our beginning.”
Cassian:
“Our family.”
They didn’t say “I love you.”
They didn’t need to. Or maybe… they weren’t ready to.
They both turned their eyes back to the babies. A fragile peace hung between them — one part joy, one part longing, and something deeper they didn’t dare name yet.
Time Jump: January 1st, 2022 – New Year in Paris
It had been six and a half months since Julia gave birth to their quadruplets, and both Julia and Cassian were still in awe of their tiny miracles. Life had been intense—full of diapers, night feedings, and endless lullabies—but on this New Year's Day, they finally had a break.
Julia’s parents offered to care for the babies for a few days, and with gratitude and a touch of guilt, Julia and Cassian packed their bags and boarded a flight to Paris. It wasn’t just a romantic getaway—they had a lead. A clue whispered that Olivia, the mysterious figure who once held a key to Julia’s transformation, was currently in Paris.
Their first night in the City of Lights was electric. The Eiffel Tower shimmered in gold, fireworks lit the sky, and Julia and Cassian, hand in hand, were a couple on fire. After months of constant parenting mode, they craved each other with raw intensity. That night, they gave in fully to their desires—passionate, hungry, intimate.
But this time, they came prepared. Cassian, being extra cautious, used protection. They both knew the whirlwind of raising four infants—they weren’t ready for five.
Two days later, in a cozy café in Montmartre, their wait ended.
“Cassian. Julia.” A familiar voice spoke from the shadows of the alleyway behind the café.
It was Olivia.
She looked calm, ageless, and slightly amused.
“I’ve been expecting you,” she said. “Come. There’s someone you should meet.”
She led them through winding alleys until they reached an ivy-covered door tucked between two quiet bookshops. Inside, the room smelled of old paper and jasmine.
There stood a woman with silver-touched hair, deep eyes, and a presence that seemed to still time.
“Wendy,” Olivia said, gesturing toward her. “The one who knows the truth behind everything.”
Julia and Cassian exchanged a glance—both of anticipation and quiet fear.
“Welcome,” Wendy said softly, her voice like wind over water. “I’ve been waiting for you.”
Paris, January 3rd, 2022 – The Truth Begins to Unfold
The room where Wendy welcomed them was dimly lit, filled with old books, herbs hanging from wooden beams, and candles that flickered without breeze. Julia felt a strange sense of déjà vu—like something inside her recognized this place, though she had never been there.
Wendy gestured for them to sit at a round table. “Tea?” she offered.
Cassian nodded, wary but polite. Julia simply whispered, “Yes, please.”
Wendy poured the tea with graceful hands, her fingers adorned with rings of stone and silver. “You’ve come far,” she said, “not just in miles, but in time, in change. Julia… you carry more than just children. You carry a thread of fate.”
Julia’s fingers tightened around her teacup. “What do you mean?”
Wendy met her gaze. “You were not cursed… you were chosen.”
Silence fell.
Cassian leaned forward. “Chosen? By who?”
“By a force older than time, older than this city,” Wendy said. “When you mocked what Cassian truly desired—a gentle, nurturing, fertile woman—you didn’t just insult a dream. You disrupted a balance. And so the balance chose to restore itself. Through you.”
Julia’s breath caught. “So I was punished?”
“No,” Wendy said gently. “Transformed. Because only you could become what he truly needed. And now, you have.”
Cassian stared at Julia, emotions flickering in his eyes—guilt, awe, confusion.
“I never meant to change you,” he said quietly.
“I know,” Julia replied. “But I’m not sure I want to go back.”
Wendy smiled. “You couldn’t, even if you tried.”
There was a long pause. Then Julia asked, “Why tell us this now?”
Wendy placed a small glass orb on the table. Inside, it shimmered like starlight. “Because your journey is not over. What’s coming next… will test your bond, your choices, and your hearts. You must understand who you are, before the path ahead appears.”
Then she stood. “Go home to your children. And when the time is right, come back.”
Olivia stepped forward silently and placed a hand on Julia’s shoulder. “We’ll be waiting.”
Julian’s POV – Three Months Later
Time passed like a dream. After returning from Paris, Cassian and I settled back into our home—a cozy place now filled with warmth, laughter, crying, and the sweet scent of baby powder. Our four little angels were almost 10 months old. We’d memorized their sleep cycles, could tell their cries apart, and even changed diapers in the dark half-asleep like pros.
One morning, I woke up feeling strangely nauseous. At first, I brushed it off—maybe I was just tired… or it was last night’s dinner. But the feeling didn’t go away. Then I did the math. I was late.
I sat in the bathroom, staring at the two pink lines on the test. Everything went still for a moment, and one thought echoed in my mind:
“I’m pregnant… again?”
We’d been careful. We used a condom that night in Paris. But of course—nothing could truly protect against how insanely fertile I was.
I was still processing everything when Cassian walked into the room. He saw me sitting there, test in hand. His eyes widened—and then, slowly, a smile broke across his face. A genuine, radiant smile.
“You’re… pregnant again?” he asked softly.
I nodded slowly. “Yeah… Cassian, are you happy?”
He seemed to catch himself, as if realizing he was smiling too much. “I—sorry. I didn’t mean to—”
But I had already seen it. I knew. He was happy.
“Cass,” I said gently, “you are happy, aren’t you?”
He didn’t answer with words right away. Instead, he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around me tightly.
Then, softly against my ear, he whispered, “I love you.”
I froze for a second—stunned. But then my heart melted, and I whispered back, “I love you too.”
We stood there, holding each other in the quiet morning light. Our hearts finally spoken. And now, our children—not just the ones in the nursery, but the one growing inside me—were proof of that love.
Epilogue – Julia’s POV
The garden was bathed in golden sunlight as Siena and Aurora, our eldest daughters, stood hand in hand with their grooms. Both just twenty years old, radiating youth, love, and hope. Cassian and I watched from our seats, hands gently clasped, hearts full.
“They said it’s because I married young,” I whispered to Cassian, a nostalgic smile tugging at my lips. “They want to still be youthful when their children grow up too.”
Cassian chuckled. “Like mother, like daughters.”
I smiled, remembering.
My first pregnancy... carrying four babies all at once. The chaos, the beauty, the wonder of it. We didn’t expect it, but we welcomed it. Then came the second pregnancy—just one baby. We had tried condoms that time, thinking we could slow down.
We were wrong.
The third time, we relied on pills. Still, I ended up pregnant again—with another single child. Cassian joked that I was the one contraception couldn’t beat.
And then came the twins… then more twins… a second set of quadruplets… then triplets… more twins… and finally, our youngest, a single miracle child.
Nine pregnancies. Twenty children. Ten boys and ten girls.
Exactly like that strange, vivid dream Julian once had—before he became me, Julia.
The curse of fertility eventually faded. There would be no more babies. A part of me was relieved, another nostalgic. But Cassian and I? We remained close—closer than ever.
Even at forty, our passion hadn’t faded. We still shared secret kisses, late-night touches, and playful cosplay behind closed doors.
Love matured, but never dulled.
As the ceremony music swelled and Siena and Aurora began their walk down the aisle, I leaned my head on Cassian’s shoulder.
“Our babies are all growing up,” I murmured.
He kissed my forehead. “And we still have each other.”
Forever.
Komentar
Posting Komentar