Archive of Our Own

Between Omega flopping around in her sleep and his baby assaulting his ribs, Crosshair gets little sleep and wakes before dawn. Crosshair has just experienced the worst sleep of his life. Well, maybe not the worst, he did fight in a war and was a prisoner of both the Empire and Tantiss, but it’s at least in the top three worst.

Beskar’ika rolls around again, firmly planting their little feet on top of his bladder. Crosshair grumbles and reaches out to poke Howzer’s shoulder.

“Howzer,” he whispers, trying to keep quiet to not wake Omega. Really, a bull horn going off next to her ear wouldn’t wake her, but Crosshair is too fatigued to play with her this early. “Alor’ad.”

Batcher jumps up and places her paws on the bed next to Crosshair. She leans in and sweetly licks his arm.

“Not you, silly,” Crosshair scratches her nose. “Go get Howzer.” Batcher hops down, and Crosshair watches as she slinks over to Howzer’s side of the bed. She shoves her nose into his side, making him jerk awake.

“Osik,” Howzer curses as his arms flail. “Oh, hi Batcher, you need to go pee-pee?”

“No,” Crosshair chuckles. “I asked her to wake you.” Howzer flops around to face Crosshair. His eyes are crusted over with sleep, and he moves lethargically. He stills gives Crosshair that sweet smile of his.

“Why’d you do that?” He asks, rubbing his eyes. His head pops up with alarm. “Is it time?”

“No, no, nothing like that,” Crosshair assures him, shaking his head. Crosshair is thirty-nine weeks, and everyone in his life has been nervously hovering over him. Echo waits on him hand and foot, Hunter makes sure he remains sitting, Tech is constantly checking over him, and Wrecker tries to carry him everywhere. Their anxious energy has rubbed off on Omega. For the past week, she’s been sleeping over at Crosshair’s. Stating she wanted to be there when her “niece” arrives.

Even Batcher is getting in on the coddling. She hasn’t left Crosshair’s side since the two of them met. She follows him everywhere, just a step or two behind him. She hops up on beds, couches, and chairs to lay with Crosshair. Batcher snuggles up with him and nuzzles against him pretty much all day. She’s just as protective as she is affectionate. She growls and nips at Howzer, Hunter, and Tech whenever they get near Crosshair and places her body in between them.

Crosshair was worried this might become a bigger problem, but Tech reassured him.

“She will grow out of it once the baby is here,” Tech said, frowning at the Lurca hound from his spot on the floor she shoved him to.

Howzer is, once again, Crosshair’s saving grace. He coddles him just as much as his vode do, but he still lets Crosshair care for himself. With Howzer, Crosshair can take walks, cook, and just well…do things for himself. Howzer is more physical than his vode, sans Omega, she adores hugging Crosshair, rubbing his swell, and clinging to him every hour of the rotation. Howzer helps him bathe, massages his joints and swelling ankles, and gently exercises with him.

“I couldn’t sleep.” Howzer looks at Crosshair incredulously.

“And you woke me up…to be awake with you?” Howzer asks.

“Sorta,” Crosshair shrugs. “I’m hungry.”

“You couldn’t get something yourself?” Howzer asks, his tone now slightly teasing. Crosshair makes a show of rolling his eyes and huffing.

“I guess I’ll get it myself,” he sighs dramatically. “Me, pregnant and huge, tired and sore from carrying and growing another human, will do it myself.” Crosshair throws his arm over his eyes and sighs a little louder. He tries to exit the bed, but caring hands stop him. Howzer stands over him, grinning wide.

“Now, now mesh’la,” Howzer leans down to rub their noses together. “There’s no need for a grandiose guilt trip.” Howzer chuckles and kisses Crosshair softly. “What sounds good, baby boy?”

“Orange juice, green tea, and…” Crosshair hums as he thinks of what’s available in the kitchen. “Cornflakes and ice cream.” Howzer hums and kisses him once more.

“I’ll be back,” Howzer says. Before he gets too far, Crosshair grabs the sleeve of his shirt and tugs.

“Help me up,” he requests. He grimaces as he sees his breasts have leaked through his shirt again. He huffs. “Get me another shirt, please?” Howzer rumbles a laugh and kisses his forehead.

“Of course.”

Over the past few weeks, Crosshair started lactating. So far, it’s been pretty easy to manage with his breast pads, but there was one embarrassing moment with Omega. One of her friends at school told her about how she used to take baths with her mother. Omega wanted to do it with one of them, stating she, “already missed out on so much”. Of course, Crosshair’s brothers thought it might be…inappropriate. However, pregnancy must be making him softer since Crosshair agreed they could take a bath together.

He made it fun for her, a little self-care night just for the two of them. Crosshair brought out face masks, bath bombs, bubbles, music, and made specialty smoothies and pastries. They were laying in the bath together, her back laying against his chest, and she was telling him about the time Wrecker woke up a bunch of bugs, when he felt the tingle in his chest.

“Um…Crosshair?” Omega had asked, leaning up and looking at his chest confused. “What’s that?”

Crosshair explained how breasts work and bribed her not to tell anyone what happened with his secret candy stash.

After getting cleaned and changed, Crosshair sits on the couch, propped up on a pillow with Batcher laying across his legs, watching Howzer prep his food.

“So, do you want the ice cream in the bowl with the cereal?” Howzer asks, placing Crosshair’s drinks on the small table next to the couch. Crosshair takes a long swig of his juice. He sighs in relief as he places the glass back down.

“Yes,” he answers, pushing the glass closer to Howzer as a way to ask for a refill. Howzer smiles and grabs the glass. He leans down to rest his forehead on Crosshair’s. Batcher sits up and climbs across his lap, trying to push Howzer away.

“Bacther…” Howzer sighs as he steps back. He pats the dog’s flank, making her wiggle her body in excitement. He huffs at her. “Can I not love on my tranyc’ika and Beskar’ika?”

“She’s been extra whiny and clingy today,” Crosshair muses as he scratches under her chin. As if she knew, Batcher whines again, high pitched and sad, and rubs against Crosshair’s tummy. Batcher whuffs and pushes his hand farther away from Crosshair. Howzer shakes his head fondly and turns back to Crosshair.

“Cereal and ice cream with milk?”

“Oat milk, yes please,” Crosshair requests, blowing Howzer a kiss since Batcher stays in between the two of them.

Crosshair shoos Batcher off the couch when Howzer returns with his breakfast. He sits next to Crosshair, their shoulders brushing, and eats his own cereal. They turn on the holoprojector to catch up on Coruscanti Housewives. The two of them are so engrossed in the drama between Daone, Shon, Luslik, and Itra that neither of them notice when Omega sleepily shuffles into the room.

“What’re you guys watching?” She asks mid yawn as she rubs the sleep from her eyes. Of course she had to walk in during a hot and heavy moment. Howzer scrambles for the remote to pause it, and Batcher jumps up to greet Omega. Crosshair gets up as fast as he can to block her view of the holoprojector.

“Om’ika,” he wraps her in his arms and pulls her to his chest. He presses a kiss to the top of her head then brushes down some of her wilder curls. “How did you sleep, vod’ika?” She mumbles and nuzzles her face against his chest.

“Good,” she yawns again. She lays her head on Crosshair’s swell and giggles when the baby rolls around. “Good morning, vodu’ad! I hope you slept well too!” Crosshair grumbles as he rubs where they’re currently kicking.

“If you consider assaulting my internal organs for eight hours, then yes, they slept perfectly,” he says. Omega grimaces as she looks up to meet his eyes.

“Does it…hurt?” She asks, frowning.

“It does now, yeah,” he answers. “It didn’t whenever they first started moving; it was more of a fluttering feeling.” He cups her cheek. “Thinking about having your own children someday?” Omega shakes her head.

“No,” she quickly responds. “I’m not having children.” Crosshair bursts out into laughter.

“That’s fine,” he tells her, tucking some hair behind her ear. He releases a heavy sigh as another cramp rips through him. “It’s not for everyone.” Howzer snorts.

“Don’t listen to him, Omega,” Howzer comes up behind Crosshair and plasters himself to his back. He reaches around and lifts Crosshair’s bump. Crosshair groans at the relief and lays his head on Howzer’s shoulder. “I’ve never seen Crosshair this excited before.” Crosshair scoffs.

“I’m excited to get them out,” he leans back up to look at Howzer. “I’m tired, sore, and really fucking fat.” Omega gasps at the curse and brings her hands up to cover her mouth. She pulls them down and grins.

“I’m telling Echo you swore,” she says. Crosshair straightens up and flicks her nose.

“And here I was going to let you be the first ba’vodu to hold them,” he sighs and shakes his head in faux disappointment. “Oh well…maybe Tech would like to-”

“No, no, no!” Omega tugs on his hand. “I won’t! I won’t! Crosshair pleaseeeee!” She begs.

“Alright, you’ve swayed me,” Crosshair says. He bends down a press to kiss her nose. “What sounds good for breakfast?” Omega hums and makes a thoughtful face.

“Pancakes?” She asks.

“Pancakes it is then,” Crosshair nods. Omega runs off to the kitchen and begins taking out all the pans needed for making pancakes. Batcher bounds after her, listening as Omega talks to her. Crosshair starts walking her way when Howzer stops in front of him. He kneels down on one knee and lifts Crosshair’s shirt to cup his swell.

“Mama’s ready for you to come on out, ik’aad,” Howzer coos, placing his lips on Crosshair’s soft skin. “I know it’s comfy in there, but me and Batcher are waiting for you.” Howzer kisses where the foot presses against his hand. He stands, and Crosshair throws his arms around his shoulders.

“I love you,” Crosshair says, kissing Howzer’s lips. He feels Howzer smile against his lips.

“I love you too,” he returns. He kisses up and down Crosshair’s face, making him giggle in delight. “Go sit back down, baby boy. I’ll make Omega’s breakfast.”

Omega helps Howzer make pancakes while Crosshair sits on the couch trying to alleviate the discomfort that’s been building up since the night before. He’s not worried about it since Dr. Oshera told him to expect minor cramping during the weeks leading up to labor. She said the cramps were nothing to be nervous about.

So Crosshair wasn’t worried, just uncomfortable, again.

Crosshair allows Omega to eat her pancakes on the couch while she watches the holo projector. She leans into his side and only complains once when he dips his finger in her syrup to bring it to his lips.

“I’m going to tend to the garden,” Howzer announces, bending over the back of the couch to peck Crosshair’s cheek. “The potatoes should be good to go in the ground today; it’s supposed to be sunny.”

“Okay,” Crosshair watches as Howzer walks to the door. He gives his boyfriend a wolf whistle at the sight of his overalls and bare arms. Howzer blushes and shoots Crosshair a sharp look, playfully wagging his finger back and forth. Omega sticks her tongue out.

“Blegh,” she says, scrunching her nose. Crosshair digs his fingers into her side, making her squeal and giggle as she tries to evade his fingers. “Crosshair!”

“What?” He asks, leaning forward a bit to blow a raspberry in her cheek. Batcher whuffs happily and places her paws on the couch to nuzzle her nose to Crosshair’s cheek. “What is it, Megs? Use your words.”

“Sto-OAH-op,” she laughs as she turns her body away from Crosshair. He stops his tickle assault and sits back. Batcher hops up on the couch and buries herself into his side. Omega pants as she recovers; she pops up to smile at her brother.

“Can I paint your toes?” She asks.

“Sure,” Crosshair answers. She runs off to grab her kit.

“What color?” She yells.

“I can’t see my feet, so surprise me!”

Omega babbles as she paints his nails. He turned his new music player, the one Tech lovingly handcrafted, on and leaned back on a mountain of pillows he requested her bring to help his discomfort. Batcher lays on the floor next to Omega, tongue lolling out of her head as she happily pants. He has his eyes closed as Omega carefully swipes the brush across his nails.

“So I think I’m going with gold earrings first,” Omega says. “Mirle said gold always looks prettier than silver.”

“Hm,” Crosshair hums. “I always had silver piercings.”

“Well, I…” Omega trials off. “I think gold would look better on me.”

“There you go, kid,” he smirks. A new song ques and Omega gasps.

“Crosshair! It’s our dancing song!” She cheers, referencing the song he swayed her to sleep with. She jumps up from where she sat on the floor. She grabs both his hands and tries pulling him up. “C’mon, let’s dance!” Crosshair allows her to pull him up and takes her hands in his. Omega bends to jump in his arms like they used to, but Crosshair places his hand on her head gently.

“Can’t dance that like, Om’ika,” he smiles at her. He sways them back and forth, smiling wider as she stands on his feet. “We can dance like this however.” Batcher circles around them, whining and pawing at Crosshair.

“Can you sing along?” Omega asks. “I like it when you sing.” Crosshair huffs out a laugh and begins singing along.

The singing and dancing abruptly stops when Crosshair feels a popping feeling downstairs. He jerks away from Omega and looks down at the puddle of…liquid gushing from his vagina. Crosshair stares down at the growing puddle on the floor in shock. Once he observes it’s clear and doesn’t smell like pee, he shakily exhales.

“Crosshair?” Omega asks, nervously worrying her hands. “What’s wrong?”

“My water broke,” he whispers, eyes still locked on the liquid dripping from him. He jerks his head up and looks towards the window. “HOWZER!” He screams, voice a little shrill due to the nerves bubbling in his gut.

Any other time, Crosshair would’ve laughed at Howzer breaking down the screen door getting in the house, now he’s too preoccupied with the more painful, prominent contraction rips through him.

“What!?” Howzer asks, panicking. Batcher barks as she pulls on Crosshair’s pajama bottoms. “What? What is it?” His voice is more shrill.

“It’s time,” Crosshair tells him. He grunts when he feels another contraction. “I’m in labor.” Howzer straightens up and runs over to cup Crosshair’s cheek.

“You’ll be okay, mesh’la,” he kisses his lips. He softly smiles. “We’re going to meet Beskar’ika soon.” He helps Crosshair lay on the couch, then turns to Omega. “I need to get the bag, comm your brothers and tell them to fire up the ship.” Omega runs off to grab her comm. Howzer kisses Crosshair’s lips again. “This is so exciting.” Crosshair huffs and laughs.

“Yeah,” he agrees, caressing his swell, thinking about how he’ll have his ik’aad in his arms soon. Realistically, Crosshair feels several conflicting emotions. Elation and fear, joy and sadness, and light hearted and overwhelmed.

“Okay, Crosshair,” Omega walks over and holds his hand and strokes it with the back of her thumb to try and comfort him. Crosshair smiles; it’s what Echo does to comfort her. “They’re on their way.”

Crosshair’s brothers must have run the two mile distance between the houses since they burst through the busted screen door about a minute after Omega called. Hunter stands behind Omega, worryingly gripping her shoulders, and Wrecker begins pacing the living room with Batcher nipping at his heels. Echo falls to his knees in front of Crosshair and grips his hands.

“Crosshair!” Echo starts. “Are you okay? Omega said you’re water broke? Have you been timing the contractions? How far apart are they? Howzer getting your hospital bag? Do I need to get you snacks? Wait- where is Howzer?!” Echo stands abruptly and wipes his head around the room.

Crosshair can’t help the hysterical laugh that bubbles out of him. His brothers’ nervous energy is quite funny for him to witness. He reaches out and takes Echo’s hand.

“Ori’vod,” Crosshair begins. “Howzer’s getting the hospital bag. It’s all packed; we actually packed it two rotations ago after reading my pregnancy journal.” Crosshair stops to readjust as he feels a stabbing sensation in his lower back. He looks up at Echo and smirks. “Aren’t we lucky?”

“How you feeling?” Hunter asks, coming behind him to rub his shoulders. “Does it…hurt yet?” Crosshair shakes his head.

“No,” he answers. “More uncomfortable than painful.” Crosshair grunts as he feels another contraction rip through him. “Contractions are…irregular; I can’t tell exactly how far apart they are.” Howzer bursts in with three bags and stops in front of Crosshair.

“Okay, mesh’la,” he says, gently grasping Crosshair’s forearms and lifting him. He throws Crosshair’s arm around his shoulder and grips his waist. “Let’s get you on the ship.” Crosshair nods as he practices his breathing exercises.

“Did you comm-” he breaks off to groan as his back protests again. “Did you comm Dr. Oshera?”

“I did; she’s getting us a room ready.” Howzer stares out at the sky impatiently. “C’mon Tech, where…there you are.” Howzer tightens his grip on him. “Let’s go.”

Tech runs out to meet Crosshair and Howzer on the ramp. He helps Howzer sit Crosshair down on his old bunk. Based on the smooth take off, Hunter is the one piloting to the birthing center. Omega stands out of the way, nervously frowning and rubbing her hands together. Wrecker is squeezing Lula so hard it looks like her head will fly off any second.

“Cross’ika?” Tech runs a hand through his vod’ika’s hair. Tech must be extremely worried then. “What phase of the first stage of labor are you in?” Crosshair huffs out a humorless laugh.

“Not sure,” he clenches his teeth to avoid swearing in front of Omega again. “Don’t you dare go poking around down there.”

“I will not,” Tech assures him. “I can only guess you are in the latent phase.” He pauses to grip Crosshair’s hand- the one Howzer isn’t squeezing. “Some doctors recommend staying home during this stage of labor. You probably could have remained in your domicile.”

“I’ve never been in labor before, Tech,” Crosshair snorts, rolling his eyes. “Pardon me if I’m a little nervous about pushing a human out of my vagina.” Crosshair sees Omega pale from the corner of his eye.

“Midwives and other childbirth professionals recommend resting and relaxing,” Tech states. “You can try gentle sketches, mindfulness, meditation, or other calming techniques.” Crosshair glares at his twin, wishing he would shut up for a second.

“Here tranyc’ika,” Howzer brushes his hair from his forehead. “We’ll do our breathing exercises.”

The birthing center is only ten minutes away using the Marauder, but it feels like ten hours to Crosshair. Howzer holds him up as Echo runs in to get him a wheelchair. Crosshair begins panting as he lowered into the chair. The nurses around them start to escort him to his room.

“Wait!” Echo cries out. He kisses Crosshair’s forehead five times in a row and presses their foreheads together. “We’ll be thinking of you, Cross’ika.” He kisses his baby brother’s forehead one more time. “Love you.”

“Love you,” Crosshair returns. Hunter steps up next and brings their foreheads together in a keldabe.

“I love you, baby brother,” he says, stepping back to kiss both his cheeks.

“Sap,” Crosshair teases. “Love you too.” Wrecker gently wraps his arms around Crosshair then nuzzles his cheek with his nose.

“Love ya, Cross,” he ruffles his hair a bit. “You’re the strongest person I know; you’ve got this!” He bends down to rub Crosshair’s swell one last time. “See you soon, vodu’ad!” Tech walks up next and, in a surprising display of affection, kisses the top of Crosshair’s head and hugs him. Tech squeezes him just a little tighter than usual. He steps back, and Crosshair can see the uncertainty and anxiety in his twin’s eyes.

“I have a deep regard for you, little brother,” Tech says. “You will be fine.”

“I will,” Crosshair assures his brother, knowing he needs it now more than ever. Omega has tears beginning to pour down her face as she approaches Crosshair. He smirks and kisses her nose, then he tucks a lock of her hair behind her ear. “There’s no need to cry, Megs.”

“Okay,” Omega sniffles, her shoulders hitching as she fights off sobs. “I don’t know why I’m crying.” Crosshair coos and kisses her temple.

“That’s okay,” he says. “You’ll be okay.” She steps back into Hunter’s arms and buries her face in his chest. Crosshair cheekily salutes his brothers. “See you guys later.” They all wave back at him; each of them wearing a different expression. Echo is hopeful, Hunter is barely hiding his panic, Wrecker is nervous, Tech is obviously anxious, and poor Omega is overwhelmed.

The nurses are in the middle of pushing Crosshair through the doors when Hunter calls out.

“Howzer!”

The man in question stops, but Crosshair rolls on. He hears muffles of what Hunter said, yet he can’t discern exactly what was said. Howzer jogs with the three bags to catch up. The nurses stop at a room. It’s sterile, but in a clean way and not like the unhappy, depressing way Kamino is. The walls are a soft, pastel yellow with matching covers on the queen sized bed. There’s a recliner in the corner meant for the non-laboring partner that looks very comfortable. If Howzer falls asleep on him, Crosshair will be pissed. There’s even a decently sized bathtub in the corner of the room and an exercise ball next to it.

“Here we go,” one of the nurses says. She hands him a gown that Crosshair surprisingly finds to be silky soft. “Strip and change into this, and Dr. Oshera will be here shortly to check your dilation.”

“Thanks,” Crosshair says, using Howzer to lift himself from the wheelchair. The nurses leave them in private so Crosshair can get undressed.

“Need help?” Howzer asks. He cringes after he asks, obviously aware of what the answer is.

“Yes dumbass, I could use some help,” Crosshair snaps. He doesn't mean to be so snippy with his boyfriend, but WOW does labor hurt. “Sorry.” He hisses through another contraction.

“It’s alright,” Howzer assures him, helping him wiggle out of his top and bra. “It was a dumb ass question.” Crosshair hums and lifts his legs, one after the other, so Howzer can remove his pants and underwear.

“My vagina’s probably rubbed fucking raw after begin in those wet ass garments for thirty fucking minutes,” Crosshair says.

“I know,” Howzer kisses the inside of Crosshair’s thigh in an attempt to offer his laboring lover some comfort, instead Howzer shivers and wipes at his mouth. Crosshair chuckles.

“You get a mouthful of amniotic fluid?” He asks, reaching down to scratch through Howzer’s hair. He stands in front of Crosshair who laughs at the disgusted expression on his face.

“I did yeah,” he frowns and wipes his mouth again. Howzer assists Crosshair in getting in his gown. He shakes his head. “Osik, that was nasty.” Crosshair laughs and cups his boyfriend’s cheek.

“Your toothbrush is somewhere in that bag,” Crosshair points as he braces himself against the bed. Someone knocks on the door. “Come in!”

Dr. Oshera pokes her head and smiles. She walks over to the sink to quickly wash her hands then makes her way over the Crosshair.

“Hello, Crosshair,” she says as she snaps her gloves on. “Are we excited to have our baby?”

“Maybe…” Crosshair admits. Dr. Oshera laughs. “I am. I can’t wait to meet them. I just…it’s the way they get here I’m not looking forward to.”

“Oh yeah, that’s how it is for a lot of mothers,” Dr. Oshera says. “Scoot towards me, legs up.” She helps Crosshair get into position. He hisses as her fingers breach him. “Every mother says that. They come in here, and they swear they’ll never have another. Then two or so years later, they're back in the same position.” She steps back and stands up. “Alright baby, it looks like you are four centimeters dilated.”

“You’re fucking joking?!” Crosshair gasps in disbelief.

“I’m not,” she rubs his leg. “I’m sorry Crosshair. This is your first baby, so they might take their time to make their grand entrance.” Crosshair huffs in exasperation. Howzer comes back over to his side and kisses his temple.

“How long could it take?” He asks, wanting a time frame for how long he’ll be in pain. Dr. Oshera purses her lips together.

“The longest labor I assisted in was thirty-four hours long.” Crosshair inhales a quick breath in shock. “I doubt your labor will last that long.”

“I do too,” Howzer kisses his temple again. Crosshair cuts his eyes at his boyfriend. Dr. Oshera snorts.

“Alright Crosshair,” she starts towards the door. “I’ll leave you and Howzer here for a moment and I’ll check in every hour for now.” She pauses as she removes her gloves. “Any questions for me?”

“No,” Crosshair answers, sighing as he falls back into the bed.

“No, ma’am,” Howzer shakes his head.

“You boys take care,” Dr. Oshera closes the door behind her.

Crosshair and Howzer sit in silence for a minute until Crosshair groans as another contraction hits. Howzer shushes him and brings him a cup of water.

“Do you want to sit in the bath for a bit?” He asks. Crosshair shrugs with one shoulder and winces. Howzer pats his back. “I’ll get it started for you.”

Howzer runs him a warm bath and even adds some of Crosshair’s body wash to create bubbles. He helps Crosshair undress, again, and lowers him slowly in the tub. Crosshair closes his eyes and sighs in relief as the warm water hits his skin. Howzer uses a washcloth to run water down Crosshair’s shoulders and back.

“There we go, mesh’la,” he coos. “That feel better?” Crosshair hums an affirmative. He leans back to rest and peeks an eye open at Howzer.

“Tell me a story,” he requests. His voice is small like he’s a cadet again. “One about your vode or maybe the Syndullas?” Howzer grins and takes Crosshair’s hand in his. He kisses it and holds it to his mouth.

“Of course I can,” his eyes flick up as he thinks. “Oh, I’ve got one. My brother, Lockjaw, and I got kicked out of 79's once. Well…we were actually banned.” That manages to distract Crosshair from the pain as he laughs.

“How?” He giggles. “Clone Force 99 was never kicked out despite our…antics. What the hell did the two of you do to get kicked out?” Howzer shrugs and smirks.

“It started with a game of sabacc…”

The story was funny and proved to be a good distraction and just what Crosshair needed. However, the warm bath still wasn’t enough to get things moving. Howzer is doing pretty good at providing distractions. As Crosshair lays in the bed, writhing in pain, Howzer massages him to sleep, reads his book to him, and even sings to him. Howzer’s voice is small, unsure, and shaky, like he has never sung in front of anyone before, but Crosshair loves his singing anyway and finds it adorable.

When Dr. Oshera checks his cervix again five hours after he was admitted, he’s only five inches dilated. Crosshair, in a moment of weakness, sobs out at how long it’s taking. Like a child, he buries his head in Howzer’s neck and whines.

“I’m sorry, baby boy,” Howzer kisses his lips. “Hungry? We’ve got snacks, and your brothers offered to pick something up for you.” Crosshair pokes out and looks at Howzer through his lashes.

“Porg parm?” Crosshair requests. “From that place in Lower Theed?” Howzer smiles and kisses his temple.

“I’m sure Echo doesn’t mind making a trip.”

Echo did not mind making a trip to Lower Theed for porg parm and even paid extra for hot breadsticks. Hunter comes in with him to sit and eat with Crosshair. Hunter daps his forehead with a cold cloth and pets his hair back.

As Hunter worries over him, Crosshair is hit with the thought that Hunter is probably the closest thing he has to a father. 99 was buir, but he couldn’t be with Crosshair all of the time…but Hunter was. Hunter was the one to fetch him hot soup and water when he was sick. The one who helped him shower and sat by his vigil in the night when he had his first menstrual cycle. When Crosshair was little and had nightmares, he would climb into Hunter’s bunk and tuck himself close to his brother.

Feeling a little more sentimental, Crosshair squeezes Hunter’s hand. His brother squeezes back.

“How you feeling, Cross’ika?” He asks. Crosshair hums around the pasta he’s busy slurping in his mouth.

“Better now,” he answers. Typically, Crosshair brushes off Hunter’s petting, but he’ll allow his older brother to fret over him. Besides…he needs it too. He smirks and looks at Hunter. “You’re probably more jittery than me right now.” Hunter shakes his head fondly as he daps his temple again.

“Forgive me for being worried,” Hunter rolls his eyes. “I can’t help but see that small, wide eyed cadet looking back at me whenever I look at you…” Crosshair looks down at his ori’vod’s hand and sees it looks like it’s starting to bruise. Crosshair points to it with his fork. “What happened there? Someone use your knife to apply eyeliner?” Hunter rolls his eyes, and Echo chokes on his drink as he belly laughs.

“No,” he shakes his head. “Tech and I arm wrestled over which one of us could come see you..”

“And you won, sergeant?” Crosshair raises a brow. “I’m surprised you didn’t pull rank.” Crosshair chuckles, then hisses in pain when his lower half seizes up. Howzer flies to his side and grips his hand.

“It’s okay,” he assures Crosshair, kissing his cheek. “Breath in through your nose and out your mouth.”

“Fuck,” Crosshair breathes out. He throws his head back and pants as he recovers from the contraction. “That…that was the worst one.”

“It was the longest one too,” Howzer says, checking his watch. “Let me call Dr. Oshera.”

“Oh shit,” Hunter stands abruptly. “Is it time to push?” He asks, looking at his baby brother with wide, panic stricken eyes.

“I don’t fucking know! I’ve never done this before!” Crosshair snaps back. Echo jumps up to squeeze Crosshair’s hand.

“You’re okay, Cross’ika,” he says. “I’ll get your ice chips.” Echo fills a cup with ice and sits it on the end table. He places one on Crosshair’s tongue and squeezes his hand one more time. “We’ll be right in the other room, vod’ika.” He has to push Hunter towards the door as the sergeant stands there looking at Crosshair with a sad, worried expression.

Crosshair rolls his eyes at Hunter’s worrisome, overprotective nature, but he does try and shoot his brother a comforting smile. However, it probably looks more strained than reassuring. Seconds after his brothers depart the room, Dr. Oshera enters.

“Alright,” she hums, snapping on new gloves. “Let’s check your dilation.” Howzer holds his hand lovingly as Crosshair waits in anticipation. He’s unsure if he wants it at ten centimeters to get it over with, or wants to hold off on the most painful part for just a little while longer. “Only seven centimeters.”

Crosshair groans, now ready to push and get his baby in his arms as soon as possible so he can rid himself of the pain and discomfort and go home. Howzer sweetly kisses Crosshair’s temple and nose.

“I know, cyar’ika,” Howzer kisses his cheek. “I know.” He frowns sadly at him before looking at Dr. Oshera. “It’s been eleven hours now, is there anything we can do to progress the labor?” Dr. Oshera nods.

“There are a couple of things, yes,” she begins. “There’s walking down the hallways, using the exercise ball, your relaxing exercises, such as breathing or meditation.” Dr. Oshera smirks. “Sex works as well.” Crosshair coughs in surprise, and Howzer blushes brighter than the suns of Tatooine on a sunny afternoon.

“I don’t think I feel sexy as of right now,” Crosshair snarks. Dr. Oshera laughs.

“It doesn’t have to be penetrative,” she says. “Just something to get you to orgasm.” Crosshair humphs.

“I’ll try the exercise ball first,” Crosshair tugs on Howzer’s sleeve as his way of asking for help getting up. “I’m not walking around the hall like this.” Crosshair uses his hands to motion at his sweaty body and swollen legs and feet. Howzer coos as he lifts Crosshair off the bed and ties to gown just a little tighter. He kisses up and down Crosshair’s face.

“You’ve never looked more gorgeous, mesh’la,” he says. “You’re an angel, tranyc’ika. The goddesses of birth throughout the galaxy are looking at you with envy.” Crosshair huffs out a laugh as Howzer lowers him on the exercise ball and settles behind him to brace his body up.

“You’re too sweet, me’suum’ika,” Crosshair coos, leaning his head back to capture Howzer’s lips with his own.

Crosshair sits and bounces for two hours, getting up every now and then to stretch his legs and get some water and ice chips, yet the baby is determined to be as slow as possible. Crosshair growls in frustration and kicks the exercise ball against the bed. He turns to Howzer.

“Walk with me down the damn hall,” he demands. Howzer loops his arm in his own and opens the door.

“Of course, cyar’ika.”

Howzer tells more stories about his own brothers, the Syndullas, and the generals he’s worked with. Crosshair nods along, halfway listening. The contractions are becoming even more nasty, are lasting longer, and the time between them is shorter.

“Crosshair!” He whips his head around and sees Omega and Tech making their way towards him. His little sister runs up and squeezes his hand. “How…Is everything going okay?” Crosshair bites his tongue to avoid snapping at her. Omega cares about him, and she’s trying to be helpful in her own way. He smirks and ruffles her hair.

“It seems your vodu’ad is stubborn,” he tells her. “They’re not moving.”

“Oh,” Omega pats his swollen belly. “C’mon ik’aad,” she coos to them. “You’ll like it better out here than being cramped up in Crosshair.” Crosshair snorts.

“I hope they’re not this stubborn when they get here,” Howzer comments, smiling at Omega. “Can you imagine dealing with that?”

“I do not have to,” Tech says. “Crosshair was the most stubborn child in the galaxy. 99 could not even reason with him at times.” Tech’s lip twitches as he smirks at his twin. “He still is the most stubborn person in the galaxy.”

“Shut up,” Crosshair rolls his eyes. Looking in his twin’s eyes, Crosshair can tell Tech is anxious and wants to say something. He’s most likely holding back to not scare or concern Omega.

“Howzer,” Crosshair leans back into his boyfriend. “There’s a little cafe near the waiting room. Could you get me a strawberry refresher?” Understanding flashes through Howzer’s eyes. Howzer smiles and kisses his cheek. His boyfriend is so sweet and caring with his sister. However, Crosshair has an ulterior motive. Howzer has bags under his eyes to size of Crosshair’s tote. Echo will get one look at those and make him take a nap.

“Of course I can,” he lets go of Crosshair and tugs at Omega’s sleeve. “C’mon Omega, let’s get something for your brothers as well.” Omega unsurely glances at Tech who nods at her. She nods and follows Howzer.

“Alright, Techie,” Crosshair braces himself on his brother as they walk back to his room. “Go ahead and say what’s on your mind.”

“I am just worried for you,” Tech admits. “I do not like seeing you in distress. It is…troubling for me to witness.” Crosshair sighs and lays his head on Tech’s shoulder. Tech cares for him, and his other siblings, in his own way. Tech is gentle and precise as he helps Crosshair get situated back on the bed. Crosshair sighs and looks at his twin.

“Do you remember when we were really little and I would climb into your bunk every night?” Crosshair asks.

“I do,” Tech confirms. “Is there a particular reason you are bringing up this memory or did you just think of it?” Crosshair shakes his head fondly.

“I'm really tired, but Howzer’s going to be with the others for a while,” Crosshair sweetly pushes up against Tech. “I’d like you to climb into my bunk this time.” Tech makes a noise from the back of his throat, but he climbs in anyway.

“Get some sleep, Cross’ika,” he says as he begins tenderly rubbing Crosshair’s tummy. “I will be here.”

When Crosshair wakes from his sleep, Tech is gone, but Howzer is lying next to him. His eye bags are less prominent, and he looks much more relaxed.

Dr. Oshera checks his dilation again, and it’s only eight centimeters.

“Goddammit!” Crosshair curses in frustration. “Could you give us some privacy, please?” Dr. Oshera nods and leaves the room. He hikes his gown up and turns towards Howzer, legs dangling off the bed in between Howzer’s thighs. “Make me cum; I need this baby out of me!”

“Are you sure?” Howzer asks, hands hovering near Crosshair’s clit.

“Yes I’m fucking sure!”

Howzer rubs Crosshair’s clit in a smooth, steady rhythm. Crosshair hums at the different sensation. It’s sensitive, but it doesn't hurt. There is another contraction as Howzer is rubbing him, and it’s pretty bad, but he’s not gritting his teeth and whining like he has been. Crosshair cums with a gasp as Howzer rubs his clit at a faster rate. He falls into Howzer’s chest and pants.

“How was it?” Howzer asks as he brushes some of Crosshair’s hair back.

“Good,” he nods. “Thanks.” Howzer chuckles.

“Anytime trancy’ika.”

He goes back to bouncing on the exercise ball. The contractions increase intensity and last for about a full minute. Crosshair feels the need to push.

“Call the doctor,” he hisses at Howzer when the need becomes too much to bear.

Dr. Oshera and three other nurses fill into the room and stand around to get a look at Crosshair’s vagina. Dr. Oshera cheers.

“We’re at ten centimeters!” She smiles and motions to a nurse. “It’s time to push. Ready Crosshair?”

“No!” Crosshair whines as another contraction hits him. Howzer latches himself to his side and grips his hand.

“You’ve got this,” He kisses Crosshair’s lips. “Bring your baby into the galaxy.”

Howzer and a nurse help get him back on the bed. Dr. Oshera pulls him so he sits on the edge of the bed. Howzer comes around to sit behind Crosshair so he can lean back on him. Crosshair releases a shaky groan that ends in a half sob.

“Does it…hurt?” Howzer asks, a little timid. Crosshair jerks up and turns around to get in Howzer’s face.

“FUCK YOU!” He roars. He collapses back into Howzer’s chest and grimaces through another contraction. “The fuck do you mean ‘is it painful’? Yes it fucking hurts!”

“It won’t last forever, Crosshair,” Dr. Oshera assures him. “You’ll have your baby in your arms soon. Now for this next contraction, give me a big push.” Crosshair nods and follows the doctor’s instructions.

“Hey Dad,” one of the nurses addresses Howzer. “Would you like to come look? You can see a bit of baby’s hair.” Crosshair is in too much torment to catch what the nurse called Howzer.

“Sure,” Howzer answers, sounding a little excited. Crosshair watches as he walks over to his front. Howzer’s face pales, and his expression falls. Crosshair feels something gush out of him which causes Howzer to jump. He wipes his forehead and comes back to support Crosshair from behind.

“You’re amazing, mesh’la,” Howzer wipes Crosshair’s damp forehead again and firmly presses his lips to his temple. His lips brush against Crosshair’s temple as he talks. “I love you so much; you’re so strong.”

“Shut up,” Crosshair venomously hisses, throwing his head back and moaning as a particularly painful contraction rips through him. It feels like someone is cutting a hot knife around his vagina, and Crosshair grits his teeth to avoid screaming out.

During their mission on Felucia, a commando droid got the slip on Crosshair and stabbed him in the back and managed to jut the knife in between his ribs. He fell to the ground and nearly bled out. The only reason he’s alive today is because Hunter was close enough to smell what he recognized as Crosshair’s blood. Crosshair considers it the most painful thing he has ever endured. However, being stabbed through the ribs with a seven inch knife and laying on the ground dying, is nothing compared to pushing his baby out.

“We’re crowing,” Dr. Oshera says. “Pause Crosshair. Take a deep breath.”

“Oh fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, FUCK!” Crosshair cries out. He throws his head back against Howzer and growls through his teeth.

“Osik, you’re so brave,” Howzer laces their fingers together. “I love you.”

“Head it out,” Dr. Oshera announces. “I need to check for the cord. Do not push Crosshair.”

“I’ll try,” Crosshair grits out through his teeth. He breathes through his mouth as Dr. Oshera’s fingers poke around inside him. She gently pats his thighs.

“Okay, push again.” Crosshair stretches his back out and braces his shoulders. He takes a deep breath and bears down as hard as he can. He feels something slips from him and everyone in the room begins cooing.

The sound of a newborn crying fills the room.

“It’s a girl!” Dr. Oshera cheers as she covers the baby in a soft towel. She holds out the baby for Crosshair to take. He’s shaking as he takes his baby in his arms and the galaxy goes still.

She’s covered in mucus and blood, and her tiny face is scrunched up as she wails. She has a head full of dark brown hair, but there is a lock of silver hair that matches his own streaking through the brown.

Crosshair doesn’t see Howzer running circles around the room in excitement, nor does he hear him whooping in joy. All Crosshair can see is his baby, tiny and pink, wiggling for him to cradle her closer. All he hears is her crying, the most beautiful sound he’s ever heard, out for him.

“Hi baby,” Crosshair coos at her, his voice wobbly. His baby’s cries lessen as he talks, and Crosshair can tell she recognizes his voice. “Hi sweet girl.” A daughter. She stops crying. The glee flooding his chest makes him dizzy. Crosshair allows the tears streaking down his face to fall. He brings the baby’s forehead to his lips to give her a gentle kiss, uncaring about the gunk covering her little body. “Welcome to the galaxy. Pasithea. It’s so nice to finally meet you. I’m your Mommy.” Pasithea opens her little eyes, and Mayday’s stare back at him. Crosshair lets out a sound between a sob and a laugh then kisses her tiny nose.

“Holy Manda, Crosshair,” Howzer sniffles as he comes up behind him to peer at Pasithea over his shoulder. He’s out of breath, and his voice is hoarse from crying. “She’s beautiful. She’s so beautiful.” Pasithea’s eyes flick over to squint at Howzer. He lets out a harsh sob and buries his face in Crosshiar’s shoulder to muffle his cries.

“She is,” Crosshair agrees. Pasithea looks back over at him. He smiles wide at her. “My beautiful baby girl.”

One of the nurses comes over to take Pasithea and clean her off. Crosshair instructs Howzer to stay with her while he delivers the afterbirth. He keeps his eyes trained on her as she grunts through her cleaning. Crosshair smiles and laughs as she does so. She’s barely five minutes old, and she’s already a dramatic thing. He’s already wrapped around her finger. From the look on Howzer’s face, she’s got him whipped too.

Dr. Oshera helps him get back in the bed and assists getting his gown undone in the front. One of the nurses carries Pasithea over for Crosshair to take. He holds his arms out expectantly, making little grabby hands, and brings her close to his heart- where she’ll remain forever. She snuffles as she relaxes at the skin-to-skin contact in his arms.

“All clean now, baby,” he coos at her. Her eyes peek back open when he begins talking. He runs his finger over the pastel pink hat the nurses fitted on her and the soft white blanket she’s snuggly swaddled in. “I love you so much already, Pasithea.”

“Hello, Mr. Crosshair,” a new nurse walks up to the side of the bed. “I’m Rossa; I’m the lactation consultant here. Let’s get your baby to latch.” Howzer assists in getting Crosshair’s gown out of the way. Rossa moves Crosshair’s arms so Pasithea's face turns towards his nipple. Her mouth brushes it, and she seals her mouth over it. Crosshair hums in surprise as she begins nursing. Her mouth noms at a steady pace.

“Huh,” Rossa hums from the back of her throat. “It’s a perfect latch.” She looks up at Crosshair and smiles. “You’re a natural.”

Crosshair sits in silence for a while. Quietly observing his daughter as she suckles, making little grunts and coos as she eats. He brushes her little hands gently and strokes down her nose, cheeks, and eyebrows, taking in every last little detail of her perfect face. Pasithea eventually unlatches as her mouth falls open with a deep, satisfied sigh. She’s asleep.

“Did you take pictures?” Crosshair asks Howzer, still looking down at Pasithea’s sweet face as she dreams.

“One of the nurses did,” Howzer answers. He kisses Crosshair’s cheek firmly. “You’re amazing, mesh’la.” Crosshair chuckles.

“So you’ve said,” he replies. “Multiple times.” Crosshair tilts his head back to kiss Howzer’s nose. “When you got a look down there earlier when I was in labor, what was that expression for?” Howzer grimaces.

“It was… a lot to take in,” he clears his throat and kisses Crosshair’s temple. “You’re just so strong and brave.” Howzer runs a finger down Pasithea’s swaddle. “I should go tell your family,” Howzer says. “Pasithea has been here for two hours now.”

“Really?” Crosshair asks in surprise. “Well, what time is it now?”

“It’s three am,” Howzer answers. “You were in labor for twenty-six hours. Your family never left the building.” Crosshair’s heart warms thinking about his vode.

“We’ll introduce them in the morning,” Crosshair says. “Could you bring her bassinet closer? I’m tired.”

“I bet,” Howzer agrees. He rolls the birthing center’s bassinet over, and Crosshair sits it right up against the bed. He gently lays Pasithea down, then lays down on his side facing her. Howzer climbs in the bed and slots himself against Crosshair’s back. Crosshair lays his hand down on Pasithea’s body, taking one of her tiny hands in his, and floats into a deep, dreamless sleep.

When morning comes, Crosshair stirs as the sun begins softly shining through the window. He nurses Pasithea again and puts her the lurca printed onesie Hunter got for her and swaddled her in the one of the moon-printed swaddles Echo gifted her. Howzer helps him shower off the sweat and stink from labor, and Crosshair puts on his softest pajamas.

“When I get your family,” Howzer begins. “Do you want me to tell that Pasithea’s a girl?”

“Yeah, go ahead,” he answers as he picks Pasithea up from the bassinet and tucks her close to his chest. “Record their reactions though; I’d like to see them.”

“Of course,” Howzer smirks.

Howzer rounds the corner into the waiting room and silently chuckles at the sight. Omega is sitting next to Hunter, playing with his fingers. Hunter is nervously chewing on his nails. It must be a family trait then since Howzer has caught Crosshair biting his own nails several times. Wrecker is asleep, head hitting the wall behind him as he snores. Tech sits next to him fiddling with his datapad. His legs bounces up and down anxious. The only one standing is Echo who is pacing in front of his sitting family.

Howzer brings up his datapad and press record. He clears his throat, and this time he does laugh out loud as everyone’s head snaps to him. Tech shoves Wrecker’s shoulder, making him jump and sputter awake.

“Is…” Echo trails off. “Are they here?” A wide grin spreads on Howzer’s face.

“It’s a girl!” He cheers. Echo hollers in excitement and, to Howzer’s and everyone else’s surprise, does a backflip. Omega squeals loud enough to shatter glass and runs up to throw her arms around Howzer’s waist. Hunter’s face is in his hands and his shoulders shake with sobs. Both Wrecker and Tech jump up to hug each other and cheer. Howzer’s eardrums burn at the volume of Wrecker and Tech’s volume.

Howzer waits for everyone to settle before speaking again.

“Are you all ready to meet your niece?”

Crosshair hears footsteps rapidly approaching his room. He doesn’t need to recognize the pattern or sound of the foot falls to know who it is. He tilts Pasithea’s face so it points more towards the door. Omega bursts in the room with wide eyes and a bright grin, but she stops in her tracks at the sight of Pasithea. Crosshair’s ori’vode huddle behind her around the door. Each of them teary eyed and smiling.

“C’mere Om’ika,” Crosshair uses his arm to beckon her over. “Come meet your niece.” Omega’s shoulders hitch as she slowly makes her way over. She sniffles and tucks herself in Crosshair’s side. Her hand gently comes up to gently stroke Pasithea’s cheek.

“What’s her name?” She asks as her hand runs through the white streak in her hair.

“Pasithea,” Crosshair answers.

“Pasithea…” Omega repeats in wonder, her voice a little shaky. Pasithea’s nose scrunches in her sleep, and Omega smiles sweetly. She leans in closer. “Hi, Pasithea. My name’s Omega. I’m your Ba’vodu!”

“Would you like to hold her?” Omega’s head snaps up.

“Yes!”

Crosshair’s brothers crowd in, and they all gather around the baby to coo at her. Hunter stays behind next to Crosshair.

“The baby’s over there vod,” Crosshair says, jerking his head towards where Omega sits next to Howzer with her niece in her arms.

“I know,” Hunter responds. Crosshair can see that the tears threatening to spill when his brother first entered the room are now flowing down his face. He pets Crosshair’s hair then cups his cheek lovingly. His thumb gently strokes where it lays. “But my baby’s over here.” Crosshair sniffles, and his lips wobbles. He leans further into his ori’vod.

“Fucking sap,” Crosshair warbles out as he starts crying again. Hunter bends down to wrap Crosshair up in his arms. As Crosshair cries for the nth time, his older brother rocks him gently, kissing the top of his head and whispering assurances.

“You did it, vod!” Echo whisper cheers, coming over to kiss Crosshair’s temple. “She’s beautiful, Cross. Stars, she’s so beautiful.” Echo’s voice wobbles off as he starts crying. “I get to hold her next.” Hunter scoffs and rolls his eyes.

“Fine,” Hunter huffs. Echo stalks over to sit on Omega’s other side to cajole her to passing the baby over. Tech comes up to take Crosshair’s hand.

“I am glad to see you in good health,” Tech says. He presses his forehead to Crosshair’s lightly. “Pasithea is marvelous.”

“Thank you,” Crosshair replies. Wrecker wraps Crosshair up in his arms to hug him. Wrecker is loudly bawling with snot and tears dripping down his face. He’s much gentler than usual as he nuzzles his face in Crosshair’s neck.

“I’m so happy for you!” He sobs. His breath hitches as he pulls his face out. “I love you, baby brother! And I love Pasithea!” Wrecker furiously wipes his face, but he looks back over at Pasithea sleeping in Omega’s arms. The tears begin again. Hunter extracts Wrecker from Crosshair and leads him away.

“I can take pictures, mesh’la,” Howzer offers.

After pictures, everyone has calmed down enough for Pasithea to be handed back over to Crosshair. She releases that heart-wrenching cry newborns do as Crosshair cradles her to his breast.

“I know, sweet baby, I know,” he coos at her, kissing her tiny nose and forehead. She snuffles as her eyes slowly open. Crosshair smiles bright at her. “That’s your aliit; they’ve all come over to say hello.” Omega climbs into the bed with him and plasters herself against his side. Pasithea’s eyes flick to Omega.

“Hi!” Omega waves. Pasithea scrunches her face up and begins crying. Omega’s face falls. She looks up at Crosshair in disbelief. “What did I do?”

“You didn’t do anything,” Crosshair assures his sister as he lays Pasithea on his thighs. “She’s just hungry.” He unbuttons his pajama top and situates Pasithea. Her cries taper off as she starts suckling. Omega leans closer, resting her head on Crosshair’s shoulder.

“She makes cute noises,” she says. Omega turns her face to yawn. Crosshair snorts.

“Someone’s sleepy,” he teases her. He looks to Howzer standing at the foot of the bed. “I know you are too, me’suum’ika. Go home, take a hot shower, and sleep.”

“Ner tranyc’ika,” Howzer sighs. He comes up and cups Crosshair’s cheek. His other hand rests on Pasithea’s back. “Are you sure? I don’t want to leave you.”

“It’ll only be for a few hours,” Crosshair turns his face to kiss Howzer’s palm. “Besides,” he jerks his head towards his brothers. “You know at least one of them will be here at all times.”

“I will stay with Crosshair and Pasithea,” Tech volunteers. He looks at his brothers. “I have gotten the most sleep out of all of us. Perhaps we could meet up here tomorrow for dinner? Give the new family some time together.” Crosshair’s siblings agree.

“Alright then,” Howzer says. He leans down to kiss Crosshair’s lips. “I love you, Crosshair.” He softly smiles as he strokes Pasithea’s cheek. He bends down to kiss it. “I love you too, sweet girl.”

Once the room is clear, Crosshair beckons his twin closer.

“I need something,” he says. Tech’s eyebrows raise.

“Oh?” He hums. “Whatever you need I will get for you.”

“It has been damn near nine months since I’ve had a french vanilla iced coffee with oat milk,” Crosshair starts. “I need one soon or I’ll implode.” Tech smirks.

“I believe that is a little exaggerative,” Tech snorts. “However, I will fetch you your drink.”

“Thanks Tech,” Crosshair calls out as his brother leaves the room. Looking back down at Pasithea still nursing, Crosshair finds her to be looking back up at him. He smiles at her and brushes her hair. “Hi, my darling girl. It’s just us now.” Pasithea blinks, and Crosshair can tell she’s listening. “I love you so much, ner ka’ra’ika.”

A lump forms in Crosshair’s throat as he thinks of how Mayday should be here, sitting next to him and holding his daughter. Crosshair imagines Mayday would be gentle as he held Pasithea; he would whisper how precious she was and how much she looked like her Mama already while smirking at Crosshair. Crosshair would roll his eyes, but blush anyway. He would kiss the smirk off Mayday’s face.

But that’s not his reality.

“You have a daughter Mayday. I’ve named her Pasithea.” He bends down to kiss her cheek and press his forehead to hers.

“Your Buir would have loved you more than anything in the galaxy,” Crosshair tells her. Tears pool in his eyes, and Crosshair brushes them away so they don’t fall on his baby. She grunts around his nipple, making him laugh.

Tech returns with his iced coffee and a chocolate croissant.

“Here,” Crosshair offers Pasithea to his twin. “Your turn to hold her.” Tech grins, actually grins with his teeth showing, as Pasithea is transferred to his arms.

“Hello, Miss Pasithea,” Tech greets his niece. “I am Tech, your Ba’vodu. One of many I suppose, but I believe I will be your favorite as I am your mother’s twin.”

“You all are so competitive,” Crosshair shakes his head. A nurse knocks on the door, then walks up to the bed.

“How are you feeling?” She asks, checking Crosshair’s vitals.

“Sore,” Crosshair answers after taking a big sip of iced coffee. “I’m tired too.” The nurse smirks.

“Any pain, cramping, or trouble breathing?” She asks. Crosshair shakes his head. “Good. Everything is in order then.” She starts to leave but stops and turns back at the doorway. “Happy Mother’s Day!” Crosshair’s eyebrows rise in surprise.

“It’s Mother’s Day?”

“It is,” she confirms. “You had your first baby on Mother’s Day. Isn’t that special?” Crosshair hums in thought. When Crosshair was stuck with the Empire, he let go of his long held dream of having a family- of being a parent. Now, he has a daughter and on Mother’s Day of all days. He watches Pasithea sleep in her uncle’s arms then tucks himself in the bed.

“I’m going to take a little nap,” he tells Tech. “Watch her while I sleep?” Tech nods, not looking up from Pasithea.

This time he dreams of a sunny afternoon and Mayday.

Soft, quiet singing lulls Crosshair awake. He grumbles in his pillow and carefully flops to the other side. His lip twitches up in a smirk when he sees who’s singing.

Howzer is standing at the window, swaying his hips, looking down at Pasithea, and singing in Ryl. Crosshair can see his daughter staring up at him with intrigue. She’s as attentive as any newborn can be. Crosshair chuckles warmly.

“You’ll sing for her, but not for me?” He teases Howzer. Howzer blushes at being caught, but smiles at Crosshair as he sits on the bed, passing Pasithea back over to him.

“I’ll sing for you, cyare,” he shrugs. “I’m just a little shy.” Crosshair snorts.

“You are not,” he shakes his head. “You’ve smacked my ass in front of my brothers before…” An evil grin slowly appears on his face.

“That was an accident!” Howzer defends himself, covering his face with his hands. Crosshair begins laughing, patting Pasithea’s bottom as she whines. Howzer peeks through his fingers to look at Crosshair. “Just for that, you’re not getting your present.”

“You got me a present?” Crosshair asks, titling his head.

“I did,” Howzer kisses his forehead. He produces a bouquet of flowers he hid from sight and presents them to Crosshair. “Happy Mother’s Day, Crosshair.” He kisses his cheek.

Crosshair sighs happily. Howzer remembered all of his favorite flowers. Red roses, pink carnations, and yellow daffodils. He gently lays the bouquet on the side table and pulls Howzer closer by the collar of his shirt. Crosshair kisses Howzer gently at first, then more romantically. He pulls back to rest his forehead against his boyfriend. Their lips brush as they share breath.

“I love you, Howzer,” Crosshair pulls back to admire his flowers some more. “How’d you get such nice flowers this late? I can imagine the florists are booked up today.” Howzer bashfully looks away.

“I actually ordered these for you two weeks ago,” Howzer admits. He takes Crosshair’s hand in his and presses a kiss to the back of it. “It was a lucky coincidence Pasithea picked today to be born.” Crosshair blinks away the tears brimming in his eyes. He laces his fingers through Howzer’s and kisses his lips again. He’s so fucking grateful to have Howzer’s love.

“I love you,” Crosshair repeats, his mouth moving against Howzer’s. He feels him smile.

“So you’ve said,” Howzer pulls away. He bends down to pick up something from the floor. He presents Crosshair with a box wrapped in paper. “This one's for both you and Pasithea.” Crosshair makes a show of rolling his eyes. He looks down at Pasithea.

“Let’s see what Howzer got for us,” he coos at her. She grunts in response. Crosshair opens the gift and finds a book. The tops and bottom have green foliage with yellow flowers, and at the bottom right corner are two rabbits. Crosshair huffs a laugh when he realizes it’s a copy of his pregnancy journal. However, this time the fancy font reads, “The Story of You: Baby’s First Five Years.”

Crosshair flips through the pages. There’s sections for ultrasound photos and announcement photos which Crosshair has plenty of. There are also sections dedicated for the baby’s firsts. What really pulls Crosshair’s attention is the open letter portion. Family members write letters for baby to read when they’re older.

He already knows who's going in first.

“Thank you, Howzer,” Crosshair blows Howzer a kiss. “From both of us.” Pasithea squeaks as if thanking him as well. Howzer laughs as he kisses Crosshair’s temple, then Pasithea’s cheek.

“I know you enjoyed your pregnancy journal,” he says. “So I figured you’d enjoy documenting Pasithea’s early years.” Crosshair smiles up at Howzer.

“You know me so well,” he coos. Pasithea whines as she roots herself in Crossahir’s chest. “I’ve got an idea. I’ll lay on my side to feed her, and you can lay across from us.” Crosshair scooches down and props himself up. He’s careful as he brings Pasithea to his nipple to nurse her. She is able to latch quickly and takes deep, fulfilling gulps. “When she’s done, we can sleep together.”

“I like that idea, mesh’la,” Howzer positions himself like Crosshair suggested. He wraps his arms around Crosshair, cocooning Pasithea in between their chests. “This way I can hold the two of you like I’ve been for the past few weeks.” Crosshair hums as his eyes slip closed.

“Sing us to sleep, alor’ad?” He requests. Howzer softly kisses his forehead. He clears his throat and begins singing. His voice is more sure than before.

“Put your head on my shoulder…”

As Crosshair drifts to sleep, Pasithea tucked to his breasts softly snuffling and Howzer singing a romantic ballad for him, he feels complete for the first time since Tantiss.