Beom stood by the kitchen counter, carefully slicing an array of fruits on a cutting board. His movements were slow and deliberate, his face marked with concentration as he arranged the pieces in neat piles, occasionally popping a slice into his mouth. At seven months pregnant with triplets, he'd grown accustomed to odd cravings and even odder sensations—but his belly, though rounder than usual, wasn't as large as expected for carrying three. Still, he could feel the extra weight pressing on him, and the small movements of his babies inside were becoming familiar, even comforting.
He picked up a slice of green apple and brought it to his lips, biting down only to wince as the sharp, tangy taste hit his tongue. "Ugh! Sour," he muttered, scrunching his face as the acidic flavor filled his mouth. But before he could react further, he felt a warm presence behind him, and strong arms wrapped around his waist.
"What are you eating?" Sasha's deep voice murmured close to his ear, the words soft and amused. Beom felt Sasha's chin resting on his shoulder, and he chuckled, feeling his husband's breath warm against his neck. Sasha's hand reached over and picked up a piece of fruit, popping it into his own mouth and making a thoughtful face.
"Mm," Sasha hummed, "It is sour." He raised an eyebrow and gave Beom a teasing look. "Isn't this a bit much for you?"
Beom sighed, leaning back against Sasha's chest, grateful for the comforting strength behind him. "I don't know… My body's just doing me some type of way," he murmured, his voice tinged with exhaustion as he pressed his head back onto Sasha's shoulder, allowing himself to relax into his partner's embrace.
Sasha chuckled softly, a gentle sound that rumbled through his chest. He slid his hands under Beom's rounded belly, lifting it ever so slightly with his palms, giving Beom a bit of relief from the pressure. "Here," Sasha said, his voice soothing. "Does that feel better?"
Beom closed his eyes, sighing with relief as Sasha supported his stomach, feeling the weight lift ever so slightly. "Mmm, yes… Don't stop," he whispered, a soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he let out a small, contented breath.
Sasha grinned, pressing a kiss to Beom's temple. "Anything for you," he murmured, gently rubbing his hands over Beom's belly, feeling the gentle flutter of their babies' movements beneath his touch. "You're amazing, you know that?" Sasha continued, his tone warm and genuine. "Carrying all three of them like this… You're stronger than anyone I know."
Beom chuckled, though his cheeks flushed with a bit of bashfulness. "I don't know about that," he said with a light laugh, reaching up to pat Sasha's hand on his belly. "But I do know that these little ones have been giving me a run for my money lately."
Sasha laughed with him, squeezing him a little tighter. "I think they're just eager to meet their amazing parents." He placed another kiss on Beom's shoulder, his voice dropping to a softer, more intimate tone. "You and me… we're going to make a good family, Beom. These little ones have no idea how lucky they are."
Beom turned his head, glancing up at Sasha with warmth in his gaze. "I hope so," he replied, his voice soft but steady. "As long as we're together, I know we can handle anything." He rested his hands on top of Sasha's, feeling a swell of emotion rise within him as he leaned into the embrace.