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"Oh Ferdie, that really isn't necessary."
"Nonsense, Mercedes. Your comfort is of the utmost importance!"
Another pillow was added beside Mercedes, the last of the near-infinite pile of plush, velvet pillows (the highest quality to ensure comfort, Ferdinand would proudly add). The Adrestian noble did all and more for his wife, doting on her throughout the day by serving her the most calming teas or offering the most relaxing massages. Needless to say, it was Ferdinand's way of expressing both his never ending love and ever increasing worry for Mercedes in her current condition. Truly, his coddling was endearing… to some extent.
"Still, I am only pregnant, not entirely helpless," Mercedes sighed as she reclined against the pillows lined up against her back, her body lax atop their master bed. "I do appreciate all you've done… but don't you think you're overdoing it a little?"
Ferdinand shook his head. "No such thing as overdoing watching after my beloved wife. Perhaps you aren't helpless, and I would never assume you to be; I just simply cannot risk you straining yourself during these following months — I cannot allow it!"
Mercedes couldn't help but giggle. "Always the gentleman! Well, thank you, Ferdie. I suppose it has been very nice being able to just relax around, but I believe I should at least be able to handle personal chores, or anything that doesn't require too much physical labor. How's that sound?"
Ferdinand would join his wife in bed, pondering the suggestion. "Well… I don't see much wrong with that. Alright, feel free to do as you normally please — so long as it doesn't require much crouching or lifting! And don't even think about running." He would chastely kiss her on the cheek, indulging in their shared warmth as Mercedes would laugh at his teasing. "I just want to take care of you, that's all…"
"And you care for me so well," Mercedes looked at him with the same loving eyes she always had — a look so soft Ferdinand swore he would melt. "These past five months have been wonderful, made all the better by you alone. And I'm sure our baby feels the same."
Both would then look down and gently gaze at the rounded belly Mercedes carried, its shape more defined with the passage of time. Ferdinand reached out, carefully laid his hand on top, and felt its surface. He kept his hand as steady as he could, fearing even the slightest movement could harm Mercedes and the baby.
Such a thing would make his heart swell with joy and pride; he still couldn't believe he had a family with the love of his life. And yet with as much pride and confidence as he had, Ferdinand was no stranger to doubting his capabilities. "I can only hope I shape up to be the father this child deserves…"
"Ferdie!" Mercedes pouted, having been intently watching Ferdinand as he stroked her stomach. "We talked about this! I won't let you put yourself down, not while knowing you'll be as great a father as you are a noble and a husband."
"I-I know, I know… but there's always a chance that—"
"Nope! Not a word more. No one gets to talk about my Ferdie like that." Mercedes gave him a reassuring kiss to shut him up, right before she brought him closer for a gentle embrace. "I'm looking out for you too, you know?"
"Heh… Very well then," Ferdinand faintly blushed. He rested right next to Mercedes, sighing comfortably as he kept his arms around her. "Then allow me to indulge you while I stay."