There was a pause and then Edward lifted his head, clearly alerted to the serious tone of her voice.
“What is it, love?” and she could hear the worry already in his voice.
Taking a deep breath, she decided there was no point in prevaricating. “I’m pregnant.”
For a moment, there was a silence so profound that all Belle could hear was her own heart beating in her ears.
“Edward?” she said as anxiety flared to life. “Say something, please.”
She could hear him breathing, and it was no longer the sleepy, relaxed sound that it had been moments ago.
“Edward, I’m fit and strong, there is no need to worry unduly.”
He let out a breath, and turned onto his back, pulling her with him. “I know,” he said, his voice quiet. “But I will. I won’t be able to help it. I can’t lose you, Belle. I can’t ...”
His voice wavered and he said nothing more for a moment.
“I’ll take good care, Edward,” she said, searching for his hand beneath the covers and holding it tight. “I’ll do everything I’m told, you have my word. I won’t take any chances, I promise you.”
She raised her head as he sought her mouth in the darkness. “I know that, love,” he whispered against her mouth as he released her. “And I’m still terrified, but ... oh, Belle, a child. How wonderful.”
Belle gave a laugh of delight, torn between deep relief and such joy that she might easily have cried. “You’re really, truly happy?” she asked.
“I am,” he said, his voice warm and sure and full love as he pulled her closer still. “Happier than I ever thought possible, thanks to you, Belle. My love.”
The End