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“Oh, I like how that one looks!” Omega comments, pointing at the blue wooden rocker. Crosshair hums in thought.
“It’s wooden,” he says. “If I’m going to be nursing in one, which I’ll be doing for quite a while, I’d like a comfortable one like that.” He points to the glider with cream cushioning.
“It looks nice,” Omega says. “Will it go with your nursery theme?” He purses his lips as he flips the page of the baby catalog he picked up from Theed. There are several nursery themes to pick from, and Crosshair can’t pick out which one feels right. He wants one for his baby- he never had a nursery theme, let alone a real nursery. Crosshair is going to make sure his baby has everything he never did and more. Beskar’ika needs something neutral, not ballerinas or boloball. An animal theme seems silly and too childish- even if it is for a literal newborn, and he rolls his eyes at the pretentious boho theme. Omega suggested an ocean theme, but he politely shut that down. The ocean only reminds him of Kamino.
“If the two of you are done over there,” Echo peeks his head out from where he’s painting Omega’s room. Pastel green based on the splatters of paint on Echo’s face and hands. “I could use a hand in here, Megs.”
“Coming!” She calls back. Before leaving the couch, he bends down to talk to Crosshair’s stomach. “I’ll be back, Beskar’ika!”
“We’ll be here,” Crosshair ruffles her hair and gently pushes her towards the room she claimed as hers. “Go on before Echo and Wrecker start fighting.” Omega giggles as she runs off to help paint her room.
It took some time finding a good spot to build a house, but Clone Force 99 is nearly complete in finishing the main house. They all decided to settle just outside the Lake Country. All that is left to do for the main house is painting and moving everything in- and buying some more furniture. Crosshair made the choice to have his own, much smaller, house for himself. His brothers fretted over him, asking if he was sure or that they could build a sectioned off room just for him, but Crosshair needs space from them.
He loves them, he does, but things are changing.
Crosshair is twenty-one weeks into his pregnancy now. He feels much better than he did weeks ago. His hair has a shine to it, his nails are stronger, his heartburn and nausea are gone, and he’s got the pregnancy glow his pregnancy journal talks about. Crosshair’s bump is now more pronounced; so much so that there’s no doubt he’s pregnant. He’s always had a skinner frame and that just accentuates his bump. His own clothes don’t fit him any more, so he’s taken to wearing Wrecker’s until he goes out to buy some maternity clothes.
Now that his impending motherhood is getting closer, Crosshair wants a place of his own. The first few weeks, and possibly months, will be busy for him. He’s always liked his personal space, and he wants a space just for him and his baby. Their own little place just for them. The plan is for his abode to be only a short walk away from the main house.
Last week, he had an anatomy scan done. He was able to get a more detailed look at his ik’aad growing inside him. Adorably, his baby was sucking their thumb. His new doctor, Dr. Oshera, said everything looked perfect, and he and the baby were healthy. Crosshair printed out a scan for him and one for Howzer.
That’s another thing that’s changing.
Crosshair and Howzer have gotten much closer over the past eight weeks- physically and emotionally. Crosshair finds himself being physically affectionate with the captain. They hold hands, bump foreheads, and sometimes even kiss each other on the cheek. Howzer is much easier to talk to as well; he doesn’t judge him or look down on him with pity. Howzer always offers his support to him and makes him laugh when he needs it and lets him cry on his shoulder.
It’s easy to talk about Mayday with Howzer.
Crosshair doesn’t know why he can’t talk to his vode about the man he loved on Barton IV. Maybe because it’s too vulnerable? Not sure.
Howzer is reciprocal to how Crosshair feels. He leans into his side when they watch Corusanti Housewives together, always finds excuses to touch him, and makes time everyday to just be with Crosshair whether it’s sitting and talking over tea or just being in each other’s presence.
Howzer makes Crosshair feel…nervous, but in a good way. His focus is mainly on Beskar’ika inside him, yet his mind often wanders to Howzer.
While Rex and the rest of his men left for their next mission, Howzer stayed. Echo did too, but Crosshair suspected his ori’vod would. He joked that Crosshair wasn’t leaving his sight until his vodu’ad is born. Howzer didn’t really have a reason to stay…besides Crosshair. He talked to Echo, played with Omega, and goofed off with Wrecker, but he wasn’t close with them like he is with Crosshair.
“Here’s that lavender tea for you, mesh’la,” Howzer coos, passing over Crosshair’s mug. He sits next to him, throws an arm around him, and pulls him to his side. “Find anything you like?” Crosshair sighs as he flips to the next page in the baby catalog. This page shows off a nursery themed to smiling rainbows and laughing clouds.
“No,” Crosshair admits in defeat. “I haven’t.” Howzer squints his eyes at him, giving him a scrutinizing look.
“You’re lying,” Howzer says.
“What?” Crosshair asks in disbelief. “No I am not.”
“Well maybe not lying,” Howzer shrugs. “But I can tell you’re doing some heavy thinking. You always get a cute, little shine to your eyes when you think.” Crosshair feels his heart stutter at Howzer’s attentiveness.
“I do have one idea…” Crosshair trails off as he closes the catalog. Howzer grins, his scars stretching as he does.
“Yeah?” He inquires. “Let’s hear it.”
“I was thinking of a galaxy theme,” Crosshair admits. He angles his body more towards Howzer and motions with his hands as he talks. “I was thinking I could paint the walls white with a black accent wall. On the black wall, I would paint planets and constellations. Maybe add some glow-in-the-dark stickers on the ceiling…” He trails off as he imagines the nursery.
“I like it,” Howzer nods. “What planets would you add?”
“Definitely Naboo,” Crosshair nods. He frowns as he thinks a little more. “I suppose I should add Kamio. I hated it there, but Beskar’ika should probably know where their parents come from.” Another planet comes to mind that makes his stomach flip. Crosshair holds his hand out for Howzer to take; he needs a little support. As always, Howzer takes his hand in his and rubs his thumb across the back. “I might add Barton IV. I may have lost Mayday to that planet, but I met him there as well.”
“That’s a beautiful way to look at it, Cross,” Howzer offers him a gentle smile. Crosshair nods and squeezes Howzer’s hand-his way of saying thanks nonverbally. He smirks as he looks back at Howzer.
“I’d better add Ryloth as well,” he says. He brings their connected hands up to his lips and presses loud smacks on Howzer’s. “It’s where I met my handsome alor’ad.” Crosshair impishly winks as Howzer blushes.
“You’re a menace,” Howzer grumbles, the back of his hand coming up to block the pink consuming his face. Crosshair laughs and playfully pokes Howzer’s side.
“Maybe so,” Crosshair digs his finger in a little hard as Howzer begins laughing harder. “But you love me either way.”
Both Crosshair and Howzer stop in their tracks. Crosshair leans back to sit with his legs on the ground, shuffling away from Howzer. The cute little color that was adorning Howzer’s cheek disappears.
“Mesh’la,” Howzer begins. His hand coming to grab Crosshair’s. “I wanted to tel-”
“We’re back with dinner!” Hunter enters the house alongside Tech. Both of them holding bags full of the bantha burgers Omega had suggested earlier. Crosshair and Howzer jump back from each other to the opposite sides of the couch. Hunter squints suspiciously. “What’re you doing?”
“Nothing,” Crosshair answers a little too quickly. He hoists himself up and comes over to take a bag. “Smells delicious. Did you get me extra fries?” Hunter is not paying him any attention. He’s staring Howzer down with a defensive look on his face. Ever unflappable, Howzer stares back, challenging. Crosshair places his body in front of Hunter, blocking his sight. “I think Beskar’ika has been moving.”
Hunter’s eyes snap to his and a tender smile fills his face. His hand comes up to cup Crosshair’s swell as he moves it around, hoping to feel the babe kick. “Have they?” Hunter asks, an excited spark in his eyes.
They haven’t. Not once, but the doctor, midwives, and his pregnancy journal says they should be stretching around about now. Crosshair likes to think they’re rather content where they are. Another, more comforting and bittersweet thought, is that they don’t want to scare or hurt him. They want to be gentle with him. They get that from Mayday.
“It’s either them or gas,” Crosshair shrugs. He pulls away and motions to the table they had found big enough to fit all of them. “Let’s go eat. We’re starving.” Crosshair begins taking everything out of bags and placing them on the table when he notices Howzer hasn’t moved. HIs face is cold as he looks Hunter’s way. But as he snaps towards Crosshair, it warms and softens. “C’mon Howzer.”
“Nah it’s alright,” Howzer smiles. “I was going to make my own dinner tonight.” He bypasses Hunter to embrace Crosshair. “I’ll be back tomorrow, yeah?” Crosshair’s heart sinks; he wants Howzer to stay here, with him. He understands though, sometimes he doesn’t want to be around his brothers either.
“Yeah,” Crosshair lays his head on Howzer’s shoulder. “We’ll miss you.” He palms his swell and rubs up and down. Howzer bends at the waist to speak to the baby.
“I won’t be gone too long, Beskar’ika,” Howzer coos. “Take care of your Mommy.” Howzer smirks as he glances up. Crosshair flushes as he brings his hand to run through Howzer’s hair.
“They do,” he remarks. Howzer stands, grunting as his knees pop. He brings his forehead to rest against Crosshair’s. “See you, Mesh’la.”
“Goodbye, alor’ad.”
Crosshair watches as Howzer walks off towards the little abandoned shack he’s staying at. A feeling of longing wells up in him despite Howzer just being beside him. Crosshair releases a deep sigh. A hand on his shoulder makes him twitch.
“I did not mean to startle you,” Tech says. “I have taken the liberty to put your food out for you. As you requested, I ordered you extra fries.”
“Thanks Tech,” Crosshair nods.
While his vode merrily laugh and talk as they eat, Crosshair remains silent. He’s quiet as he consumes his meal. His mind is stuck on Howzer and how he feels every time he’s around him. Mainly, he’s replaying what he said.
You love me either way.
Does Howzer truly love him like that? Manda this all feels so childish. He’s a grown man, he shouldn’t be wondering whether or not Howzer like likes him. Moreover, Crosshair doesn’t know how he feels.
It would be nice to be with someone. Howzer makes him feel safe, wanted, and…cared for in a way he can’t get from anyone else. But…Crosshair is scared; so so scared. He's vulnerable and open with Howzer, but he doesn't think he can let himself love again. He wants too, but the galaxy has shown him over and over again that loving someone only brings pain and loss.
“Crosshair?” Wrecker asks, interrupting his musings. “Did you hear me?”
“No, sorry,” Crosshair admits. “I was thinking.”
“Do you want the rest of my fries?” Wrecker slides over his box in offering. “I know you’ve been hungrier lately.” Crosshair licks his lips as he looks at the warm, seasoned fries.
“Yes,” he answers as he takes a fry. “You’re done?” He asks through his chewing. Wrecker shrugs.
“I’ve already had a burger,” he flushes a little. “Plus Echo says you need to eat more.” Crosshair whips his head to glare at his oldest ori’vod.
“Dr. Oshera says I’m at a great weight,” Crosshair explains. A hand goes down to subconsciously rub his bump. “I just happen to have a slimmer figure than most.”
“I know, I’m not judging you or anything,” Echo says. “I want you to take care of yourself. I’m looking after you.”
“We all are,” Hunter chimes in. His eyes bore into Crosshair. “We want what's best for you.”
“Do you?” Crosshair inquires, scrunching his nose at his brother. “Or do you want to tell me what to do?”
“What do you mean?” Hunter furrows his brows.
“Don’t play coy now, Hunter,” Crosshair sneers. “Why don’t you tell me what’s been on your mind?” Hunter puts down his food and glances at everyone at the table before settling his gaze on Crosshair.
“Not now,” he shakes his head. “We can talk about this-”
“No, let’s talk about it now,” Crosshair cuts him off. “Get it off your chest. I’ve seen the way you look at Howzer. Tell us what’s up.”
“You don’t know him, Cross’ika,” Hunter says.
“Don’t know him?” Crosshair huffs. “I’ve known him since I met him on Ryloth, and we’ve been hanging out for months now.”
“This isn’t you, Cross,” Hunter stands with his hands on his hips. “You don’t talk to regs and act all chummy around them. It’s not a…negative change, but I know you.”
“Oh you know me huh?” Crosshair asks, standing up as well. “Tell me how long were we apart? A year, little over one, correct? How many times did you leave me alone with regs and natborns? No, don’t bother answering. I can tell you. Four times. You left me four separate times.”
“We had no choice,” Hunter counters, throwing his arms out and coming to stand next to Crosshair. “I’m the leader. I had a squad-”
“I was a part of that squad!” Crosshair yells, voice hitching in rage. “Until I wasn’t, and you weren’t there for me. But guess who was? Howzer was there.” Crosshair takes a deep breath that shudders out. “So was Mayday.” Hunter slowly nods.
“That’s another thing I’ve been wondering about,” Hunter says. “The reason I think you’ve been hanging around Howzer so much is because you’re attempting to replace Mayday.”
Crosshair’s mind doesn’t register his fist flying until it makes contact with Hunter’s jaw. His head snaps back, and one hand comes to cup his jaw while the other tightens in a fist. Several things happen all at once. Wrecker jumps up so fast the table topples over, Tech runs over to pull Crosshair back, and Echo moves to stand in between the two, facing Hunter in case he has a combat response. In the middle of all of it, sitting quietly in her chair, is Omega. Her eyes wide and filled with tears.
“Cross…” Hunter’s voice is rougher now, filled with pain. He looks at Crosshair like he’s watching his worst nightmare unfold in front of me.
“Fuck. You,” Crosshair hisses. “I’m leaving. Don’t come with me, don’t comm me, and don’t you fucking dare follow me.” He moves to the door and grips the handle hard enough to sting. “Any of you.” He slams the door behind him.
Crosshair’s heartbeat is pounding in his ears as he walks. He can’t go far, but he can’t be in that house. How dare he? What does Hunter know? He wasn’t the one to undergo torture and find himself alone. He wasn’t the one to be thrown about the galaxy. He wasn’t the one to fall in love only to have it ripped away from him!
He stops to catch his breath. His emotions and extra weight are catching up to him. He sighs and palms his bump.
“Sorry ik’aad,” he says to his baby, rubbing his swell. “This isn’t an ideal situation for you. My bad.” He begins walking to where they’ve set up a foundation for his house. There’s no roof, but a couple of walls are standing up. It’s fine for a shelter for the night. He’s slept in worse before.
Crosshair sighs as he goes to make himself comfortable on the floor. He lays flat on his back, his hands folded over his stomach. Realization dawns on him that he hasn’t slept alone since Mount Tantiss. Every night, one of his vode lay in the bed with him. Having a warm body next to him keeps him from having nightmares about Tantiss or Barton IV. Ironically, tonight was Hunter’s turn. That makes him humorlessly giggle.
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out his comm. He presses the button to get to Howzer.
Hey Mesh’la, he can hear Howzer smiling. Crosshair comms every night before he goes to bed, so Howzer’s been up expecting him. How was dinner? Crosshair clears his throat before speaking, hoping his voice won’t be strained.
“I have a favor to ask of you,” he says. He cringes at how raspy he sounds.
Anything, Howzer responds immediately.
“Could you come sleep with me?” he asks. Crosshair’s mind goes to the supply closet on Ryloth they had their rendezvous in. “Not sex! Like…actually sleeping.”
Of course, Howzer answers. Crosshair doesn’t need to see Howzer to know he’s smirking. Is there a reason you’re vode aren’t or have you just really missed me?
Crosshair decides to play along.
“I’ve missed you,” he cutely purrs. He hears Howzer chuckle.
Okay. I’ll be over in a few minutes.
“Actually, um…” Crosshair drums his fingers against the comm. “I’m at my house. Well, what’s going to be my house.”
Why…aren’t you at your brothers’ place? Howzer asks slowly.
“I got into it with Hunter,” Crosshair says. “I don’t want to be there.” There’s a long pause. “Hello?”
I’ll be right there, Howzer says before hanging up.
Crosshair pulls the comm away in surprise. If he’s not mistaken…Howzer sounds angry. He’s only been around Howzer when he was mad once before. Rampart got snippy with Crosshair while on Ryloth, and Howzer snapped back at him. The way he cares enough to be mad at someone for Crosshair is…nice.
Two minutes pass before he hears Howzer enter. Based on the heavy breathing, he ran all the way here. The captain sits down his bag next to the entrance then comes over and kneels next to him.
“How’re you feeling mesh’la?” Howzer asks, mouth forming a pout as he gently takes his hand.
“I’m okay,” Crosshair shrugs. Howzer’s pout deepens.
“No you’re not,” he says. He looks up and stares at the clear Naboo sky. “I brought some gear. Why don’t we camp out tonight?” He stands and holds his hand out for Crosshair to take. Crosshair takes it.
He wraps himself in one of the many blankets Howzer brought and watches as he sets up their sleeping bags. Howzer lays down first then helps Crosshair get comfortable. Crosshair settles next to Howzer, their shoulders touching, and observes the brilliant, star studded Naboo sky.
“What happened?” Howzer asks through gritted teeth. Crosshair peeks a look and sees Howzer staring at him. He doesn’t really feel like rehashing everything, but Howzer’s care is genuine. Plus, he always tells him how important talking through your emotions is.
Once Crosshair begins talking, he can’t stop. He tells about what happened at dinner, how Hunter has been treating him like he’s fragile, and how he might have overreacted a little.
“I don’t entirely blame them for what transpired. I know I chose wrong in staying with the Empire…” Crosshair admits. “I’m sorry I did; it was a mistake.” Crosshair groans. “Hunter and I have never been good at talking things through.” Howzer hums and pulls Crosshair closer to him.
“Maybe,” Howzer shrugs. He nuzzles his face in Crosshair’s hair.
“He, Hunter, said something else that’s been bothering me,” Crosshair admits. Howzer hums in questions. “He said the only reason I’m hanging out with you…is to replace Mayday.” He feels Howzer stiffen. “And I’ve been thinking…is that really what I’ve been doing? I like being with you. It doesn’t matter if we are doing anything or not, I feel secure when I’m with you.” Crosshair looks away and worries his lip. “I don’t want to replace Mayday… am I replacing him?”
Howzer is quiet. He wraps his arms around Crosshair and holds him close.
“I think…” Howzer begins. “There’s no replacing someone you love. You move on, yes, but they still stay with you.”
“I never thought of it like that,” Crosshair admits. “Do you feel like I’m using you to replace Mayday?”
“No,” Howzer answers, hugging him tighter. “You treat me well. You bake me treats, talk me through my own worries, and check in on me everyday.” Howzer smiles down at him. “You’re too genuine to be using me, tranyc’ika.”
“Sunshine?” Crosshair laughs at the pet name. “I’m too grumpy and pissy to be called sunshine.”
“Nah, you’re not,” Howzer shakes his head. “Not to me; You’re a sweetie.” Howzer’s grin turns softer as he looks at Crosshair. “Plus, you're like my sunshine. I was pretty lonely until we started talking, and whenever I’m around you…I feel warm. So, yeah, tranyc’ika.” Crosshair blushes.
“You make me feel warm too,” he admits. “I like being with you, me’suum’ika.”
“Moon?” Howzer inquires. “Sun and moon?”
“That’s right,” Crosshair smiles as he props himself up on his elbow to look down at Howzer. “If I’m your warmth and light, then you’re my calm and serenity.” Instead of the smile that stretches his scar, Howzer’s face is expressionless. Crosshair frowns in worry. “Do you not like it?”
“You were right,” he says, tone serious. “You were right earlier.”
“I’m usually right,” Crosshair jokes to alleviate the tension. Howzer’s face remains the same.
“What you said earlier, you were right,” Howzer says. The next words take the breath out of Crosshair’s lungs. “I love you.”
“You-” Crosshair swallows around the lump that suddenly formed in his throat. “You love me?”
“Since Ryloth,” Howzer admits. “It was more of a little crush then, but now that I’ve really gotten to know and care for you, I’m sure. I love you.” Crosshair sobs out as tears begin falling down his face. He buries his face in Howzer’s shirt and shakes his head.
“No,” he shakes his head. “No.”
“I do,” Howzer’s hand cups his neck while the other runs through his hair. “I love you, Crosshair.” This time there is no mistaking it or misunderstanding. Howzer’s voice is full of conviction. Crosshair chokes out another gasp as he sobs even harder. Howzer, the beautiful saint of a man, rocks him through it. He gently shushes him. Crosshair gasps and takes in some deeper breaths, then looks back up at Howzer.
“I can’t-” he chokes out. “I can’t-” he sobs out and starts crying again.
“You don’t have to love me back, mesh’la,” Howzer says. “I wanted to tell you. I’m going on a mission with Rex in a few rotations, and if I don’t make it ba-”
“Don’t say that!” Crosshair clutches Howzer closer. “You’ll be fine.”
“If something happened to me,” Howzer continues. “I wanted you to know that there is someone in this galaxy who loves you more than anything.” Crosshair hides his face in Howzer’s chest to fight away any more tears. It takes a minute for him to calm down. He leans his head back to look into Howzer’s eyes.
“Give me time,” he whispers. “Give me time to say it back. I don’t not love you, I just…” He trails off as tears begin anew.
“I understand, tranyc’ika,” Howzer says, cupping his cheek and tenderly wiping at his eyes. “You take all the time you need. I’ll always be right here with you.” Crosshair nods as his lip wobbles again.
“Thank you,” his voice is shaky. “You’re too kind and empathetic to me. I don’t deserve you”
“Shush, yes you do,” Howzer says. “You always have.” He rubs up and down Crosshair’s back. “Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be here.” As Crosshair releases the rest of his emotions, Howzer holds him, rocking him side to side and whispering endearments to him.
It’s while they’re holding onto each other when Crosshair feels something move within him.
“Oh shit,” Crosshair curses, pulling away. A smile begins pulling at his lips.
“What’s wrong?” Howzer asks, voice hitching in distress. “Baby?”
“Yeah,” Crosshair confirms. He beams up at Howzer. “They’re moving.” Tears of joy poke at Crosshair’s eyes as he traces his hand across his tummy, following his baby’s movements and encouraging them to move.
“Osik,” Howzer’s grinning as well. “It’s about time, Beskar’ika!” He jokes to the bump. Crosshair sniffles as the baby stretches out some more.
“Wanna feel?” He asks Howzer.
“Yes,” Howzer offers his hand for Crosshair to take. He hikes his shirt up then lays his hand near his belly. He moves it around until he feels them flutter again. Howzer huffs out a laugh. “Hi, ik’aad! It’s Howzer again. So cool to feel you move around now.” Crosshair lovingly ruffles Howzer’s hair. Howzer presses his face against the swell and smiles when he feels something thump against his cheek.
“This is incredible, mesh’la,” Howzer says, wiping his eyes. “Just amazing.”
“Yeah…” Crosshair agrees. He stretches out his back. “I’m ready to sleep now. Crying always drains me.” Howzer lets out a little laugh.
“Here,” he lays down and shuffles around the blankets. “Use me as a pillow.”
“Comfiest pillow I’ve ever had,” Crosshair smirks as he makes himself comfortable.
“You flirt you,” Howzer teases. They’re silent for a minute until Crosshair cranes his neck to look up at Howzer.
“What kind of mission?” He asks.
“There are some vode being held at a fighting pit on Kowak,” Howzer says. “I want to help free them. Rex has intel that…some of my old men might be there.”
“Then I wish you luck,” Crosshair blindly reaches for and grabs Howzer’s hand. He kisses the back of it then places it on his stomach. “Just come back for us.”
“I will,” Howzer promises. He kisses Crosshair’s temple gently. “I will, mesh’la.”
Strangely, Crosshair has one of the best sleeps in his life.
The next morning, Crosshair barges into the main house. Howzer stalks behind him, face stormy.
“Hunter!” He calls out. He hears a clammer coming from the hall, multiple voices speaking at once and feet rushing down the hall. His ori’vod pokes his head out then steps out. Hunter looks like shit. There’s a purple-blue bruise coloring the edge of his jaw. His eyes are dropping and there’s bags under them. Crosshair jerks his head outside. “Let’s talk.”
He doesn’t wait for an answer before spinning on his heel and walking back outside. Hunter follows behind him. Howzer stands near the door, listening in. Crosshair walks just a little farther out then turns to face his brother.
“So,” He sighs. “I am sorry for punching you.” Hunter’s eyebrows jump in surprise.
“Really?” He asks. Crosshair tilts his head side to side.
“A little,” he shrugs. Surprisingly, Hunter chuckles, but he sobers up quickly.
“I’m sorry,” Hunter begins. “For saying those things to you, for doubting your judgements, and for treating you like your choices weren’t your own.” Hunter looks down and heavily sighs. “I shouldn’t have said you were trying to replace Mayday or you don’t know Howzer.” Hunter looks back up at him. “He’s a good man, but I’ve been so worried for you that I’ve pushed someone who cares for my baby brother away.” Slowly, Hunter gets down on his knees and folds his body in half, his face touching the dirt beneath him. “Ni ceta, vod.”
Crosshair bends down the one knee and places a hand on Hunter’s shoulder.
“Ori’vod,” Crosshair starts. “K’lamot di’dunla.” He grips Hunter’s shoulders and pulls him up a little. Hunter’s eyes are welling with tears as he looks at his vod’ika. “I’m sorry as well. I should’ve come with you on Kamino, but I was stubborn. I had a purpose with the Empire…and then I didn’t. It was a mistake.” Hunter nods.
“When you brought up us leaving you…” Hunter trails off and swallows. “Do you still…resent us for that?”
“I…” Crosshair purses his lips. “I don’t want to, and I…don’t think I do. I’ve forgiven you and I love you all..it just.” Crosshair bites his bottom lip. “It still hurts.” He curses himself for the waver in his voice.
Hunter wraps his arms around his baby brother and presses their foreheads together. Crosshair leans into it, biting his lip harder in an attempt to prevent it from wobbling any more.
“I owe you a debt,” Hunter whispers. Crosshair lets out a quick, startled laugh.
“Maybe yeah,” he says. “I do have something to ask of you. I need it to be you; I trust you with this.”
“Name it, Cross’ika,” Hunter says.
“Howzer’s leaving for a mission to Kowak with Rex in a few rotations,” he begins. “I can’t go with him to watch his back, so I need you to.” Hunter hesitates, but just for a second.
“I will,” Hunter brings his hand to the back of Crosshair’s and gives an assuring squeeze. “I swear it to you.” Crosshair closes his eyes and feels some of the tension and worry of Howzer not being with him disappear.
“Thank you,” he whispers.
“I’m sorry,” Hunter says again, bringing their foreheads to touch.
“So you’ve said,” Crosshair smiles. “We’re here together now. We’ll find our rhythm again…we always have.” Hunter laughs loudly, most likely remembering the fights they got into during their youth. He grabs Crosshair’s forearms and helps him stand. Crosshair grunts as he stretches his back. A kick makes him softly smile.
“Beskar’ika moved for real last night,” Crosshair tells his brother. “They’re kicking right now if you’d like to feel.” Before Crosshair finishes the sentence, Hunter’s hand is palming his swell. Hunter’s face softens as he feels his vodu’ad kick against his hand.
“Hi Beskar’ika,” Hunter coos. “It’s Ba’vodu Hunter. You might not know it yet, but I’m going to be your favorite.” Hunter’s eyes widen and he gasps. “I’m the first one to feel them kick!” Crosshair nods in confirmation, deciding not to ruin his brother’s excitement by stating that Howzer was the first. Hunter lets out a loud, joyful yell as he runs towards the house. “I GOT THE FIRST KICK!”
Crosshair laughs at the loud proclamation and the indignant whines coming from inside the house. He walks into the kitchen to see all of his siblings in different states of distress. Howzer stands out of the way, datapad in hand as he records with a smirk on his face.
“No fair!” Wrecker’s shoulders slump.
“What?! No!” Omega pouts. “I was supposed to get the first kick!”
“Supposed to?” Tech asks. “No I was planning to be the first Ba’vodu to feel them.”
“Alright, that’s enough everyone,” Echo tries to calm the upset. He walks over and throws an arm around Crosshair. “It doesn’t matter who felt first. We should be celebrating this.” As he speaks, his flesh hand slowly wanders down to Crosshair’s bump. Echo grins at his vode, triumphantly. “I got the second kick.”
The chaos ensues.
After Crosshair lets everyone feel a kick, Echo cons Omega into making breakfast. The sweet thing she is, she asks Crosshair what he wants. He answers with cheesy omelets and blueberry muffins. Of course, the combo makes his little sister scrunch her nose in disgust at him. Crosshair smiles at her in pity; he plans to have olives dipped in chocolate for a snack afterwards and he knows she’ll really hate that one.
Echo and Omega cook breakfast, and Hunter, Wrecker, and Tech finish up Omega’s room. Crosshair sits with Howzer on the couch, curled up close, searching through the holonet for more ideas for a space themed nursery.
“Me’suum’ika?” Crosshair asks, his voice low to preserve some form of privacy with his nosey vode in the room over.
“Yes, ni tranyc’ika?” Howzer answers, turning his face so their noses brush.
“Stay with me again tonight?” Crosshair requests. “In a real bed this time? I can probably convince Echo to let us use his.” Howzer snorts. He presses his forehead to his.
“I’d love to.”