October

"Whoa!" Zipporah gasps, gripping the edge of the bed.

"What is it, Zipporah?" I jolt, ready to assist her. She laughs tentatively and places one hand over her abdomen, lowering herself onto the bed, "Edelweiss?"

"Just Braxton-Hicks. Don't worry. They're not real contractions."

"Are you okay though?"

"Ja, they're just uncomfortable. But they mean that we're getting closer to seeing Lanzo," She beams and wraps her other arm around her stomach, "I'm excited to see him. Time seems to be dragging by." I kneel down in front of her and help her slip on a pair of support shoes, chuckling.

"He's probably just as excited as we are," I gaze lovingly up at her, "Have I told you how beautifully radiant you are, Zipporah?"

"A few times." She answers, not truly taking the compliment to heart. A sigh escapes her.

"I mean it! Don't think otherwise, mein Schatz." I purr, resting atop her lap with my head against her stomach. She giggles and strokes my head.

"You're so sweet and loving, Basil. Lanzo will love you."

"He'll love you too."

"Are you really sure he will?" I lift my head and my heart aches as a few tears slip down her cheeks.

"I know he will. You're going to be an excellent mother!" More tears fall and I quickly cup her cheeks to wipe them away, "Nonononono, don't cry. Don't worry. Shh..."

"I don't know! I'm scared, Basil!"

"I'm scared too! It's our first child! But we'll figure it out. There isn't anybody else with whom I would take on this responsibility and blessing. You'll be great Zipporah!" I rise up from my knees and pull her into my arms, kissing her softly, "Trust me."

"Danke, Edelweiss... I'm sorry for crying like-"

"Shhh, it's all right! Don't apologize. Okay?"

"Okay."

I sit beside her, "Your birthday's on 'Halloween', that's what they call it there, right?" She nods.

"Mmhm. The 31st... why?"

"I want to do something really special for you."

"That's sweet, but there's not much we can do."

"Of course there is! Is there something you would like to do?"

"Well... maybe... the melting pot?"

"Hmm?"

"It's a fondue restaurant." I grin and she chuckles.

"Thanks for the idea, Edelweiss."

"Natürlich."

Short but sweet. Next chapter's going to be her birthday! Please vote and comment! Thanks!

~Uilosris