Poem never expected that she would get so big with her pregnancy. There shouldn’t have been a surprise, Sparhawk kept her well fed and then some, but her belly was absolutely massive. Poem had no idea how many little ones might be developing within, but she couldn’t imagine there were less than three. It was late morning now as she finally awoke, though getting comfortable had become a chore she slept so much these days. Growing puppies was hard work, and as the day to give birth steadily approached she left the den less and less. For good reason, she waddled something fierce when she did get out.

The heavily pregnant woman yawned and stretched, her wakefulness also waking the little lives within. She could easily feel them squirming within, and her belly rolled with them. A delighted giggle left her as she watched, completely transfixed. She was equally scared as she was excited, she knew that this was the path she wished to take. She wanted to give Sparhawk puppies, she wanted this family with him. Being pregnant was so different from anything she’d experienced so far but she had the support and love of her husband and whole family. These babies would be born into unconditional love, and by now Poem couldn’t wait to meet them.

Their birth was looming, and Poem was certainly nervous about that part of the deal. She knew that she would be well taken care of, and afterwards it would all be worth it. Soon enough she would be snuggled close with their new little puppies while Sparhawk held them tight. The scene wouldn’t be imaginary much longer, and until then Poem would do her best to get enough sleep and not worry all too much.

She stretched again and struggled to her paws. With the extra weight getting up and down became much more difficult. Still, despite the bitter cold and the inches of snow on the ground there was sunshine. Carefully Poem made her way from the den so she might bask in the sun while she was able.

Every day with Poem was perfect. She was carrying the life that they both made within her. If Sparhawk thought that she was a precious jewel before, his love had managed to grow beyond the bounds that he thought possible. He loved watching Poem grow with the life that was inside of her. Every day brought them closer and closer to being part of the world. He was nervous, but oh so terribly excited. Today, Sparhawk brought Poem something a little special. It was something that he remembered from long ago. His mother had made it for the pregnant slaves. Though the memory wasn't particularly happy, the benefits of the meal were enough to make him live through the past for a moment. The big man had caught a fresh pheasant. He placed a large stone bowl in the coals of the fire, added water, the pheasant and a few vegetables that he was able to find. It took him all day, but he simmered it down until it was a thick, tasty broth. It was lightly spiced and would sit nice in a pregnant stomach. The concoction was full of vitamins and minerals. Things that an expecting mother needed. He'd even been nice enough to pick out the bones. In a long, arduous process, Sparhawk brought the stone bowl into the den. It was still hot to the touch, but the cold air and snow outside had cooled it enough that it wasn't dangerous. He was slowly pulling a fur across the floor with the bowl on top, doing his best not to splash. There would be a bit of melting snow on the floor now, but oh well. Depositing the bowl before the form of his glowing, pregnant woman, Sparhawk gave her the typical forehead kiss. "Something to keep you warm. A meal from when I was growing up." He then settled down beside her, resting a paw on her stomach for but a moment to tell his children hello. Sparhawk -- Poem

Sparhawk’s main goal in life had swiftly shifted to taking care of her. Poem’s belly swelled and made life in general difficult for the young mom to bed. Anything beyond eating or sleeping had become a chore, but Poem was determined and despite her waddles she still managed to get out. Exercise was good for her as long as she didn’t over do it. Not that she found herself getting close to that limit, she was usually much too tired to try at that point.

Poem might have been debating a nap already as the day progressed, she slept so much recently. However the closer they came to her due date the more uncomfortable she became while trying to sleep. She got her naps in whenever she could, as the amount she was able to get would soon dwindle. Poem didn’t know exactly what to expect but she had a lot of advice from Rhyme, Samara, and her Grandmother. They all had faith in her, and with Sparhawk at her side her fears remained minimal.

Her attention was brought to the entrance of the den as Sparhawk arduously shuffled in. Poem struggled to her paws as she attempted to get up and help but by the time she was upright her husband had situated himself. A huge grin spread over her features as the scent of his gift filled the den, and caused her belly to rumble. At almost the same time the little ones within rolled in excitement. Sparhawk explained his gift and swiftly made it to her side. She reveled in his kiss and leaned into him.

”You know how to get your children excited.” She greeted him warmly as she brought one pale paw to her swollen middle. Their movement was exciting but as they grew bigger it was becoming uncomfortable. She grit her teeth slightly before returning her blue and lavender eyes to Sparhawk. Poem made herself comfortable beside him, feeling incredible warmth and a sense of completeness with him here. They were making a family together and that fact played over in her head joyously. ”I’m excited to try it, is that pheasant?” She questioned as she put her nose over the bowl and took in a deep breath.