They were staying aboard Urg’s ship. Before they were married, Urg stayed here a lot for the protection of his people. Her husband knew Jal’na preferred to be planetside and had accommodated her. However, the growth of their child within her womb had made him more cautious, especially with Astrid’s brother threatening them all for helping her.

Jal’na had no doubt Urg would keep her safe, that their House would do whatever necessary to make sure that happened. So if that meant she had to sleep aboard the ship, then she would. It was perfectly safe for her and their child to transport back and forth.

Urg had been patient and accommodating with Jal’na wanting to wait to make an official announcement. It was still strange and unfamiliar to have her life be so public. Urg let her keep their pregnancy between them for awhile. A joyous secret that she got to hold close to her heart.

She stood in front of the mirror, grinning like a fool at herself. Her hand rested over the curve of her stomach. Her scrubs no longer fit. They had pulled tightly over their child when she pulled them on moments ago. Jal’na had popped overnight, suddenly showing off the changes in her body to make room for their baby. She knew it would happen, but she hadn’t prepared by getting larger clothes. If she went out like this, it would be glaringly obvious to everyone. That was not how she wished to announce their child to their House.

She stared at the bump as her hand rested protectively over it. It was time. Urg needed to make the announcement. Well, they would make it, but he was truly excited, and she wanted him to do it. She was sure given her bouts of rage, there were rumors, but confirmation would be celebrated. She would tell him in a minute. She wanted to look at the evidence of their baby a moment longer. Soon she would be able to feel him move, but right now there was no denying he was there, safe in her womb.

Jal’na, Lady Duroc