Page 31

"Only speaking the truth," I insisted.

As we worked, word spread through the forest. Elowen, the wood nymph midwife, visited us one morning.

"I see you've been busy," she remarked, her eyes taking in the new structure.

"We want everything to be ready," Acacia said.

Elowen nodded. "It's wise to prepare. I will be here when the time comes."

"Thank you," I told her. "Your guidance means a lot to us."

Acacia touched my arm. "I was also thinking... perhaps we should ask Kira to assist."

I glanced at her, surprised. "The human midwife?"

She met my gaze steadily. "Yes. It might be beneficial to have both perspectives."

Elowen raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

I considered it. "If that would ease your mind, then of course."

"I'll send a message to her," Acacia decided.

The following day, as the sun filtered through the leaves, we sat together, enjoying a moment of peace.

"Do you think Elowen and Kira will work well together?" Acacia wondered aloud.

"They both want what's best for you and the baby," I said. "They'll find common ground."

She leaned her head on my shoulder. "I hope so."

I inhaled the sweet scent of her hair. "They will. And I'll be right here with you."

Her hand found mine. "I couldn't do this without you."

"You'll never have to."

A gentle breeze stirred the air. Birds sang in the distance, their melodies weaving through the trees.

"Sometimes I wonder what the future holds," she mused.

I squeezed her hand. "Whatever comes, we'll face it together."

Kira arrived later that week, bringing warmth and calm with her.

"Acacia, Thornix," she greeted us with a smile. "Your home is truly remarkable."

"Thank you for coming," Acacia said earnestly.

Kira glanced around, taking in the living architecture. "It's unlike anything I've seen."

Elowen appeared shortly after. The two midwives exchanged polite nods.

"We have much to prepare," Kira said.

"Indeed," Elowen agreed.

They began discussing plans, their voices blending harmoniously. Relief washed over me.