Work Text:
"You shouldn't be eating that, Helaena." Her mother says softly
Helaena's smile falls, and Aegon's blood boils. They are having lemon cakes, which are one of Helaena's favourite desserts, a dessert she could not eat while pregnant because the smell of lemon made her sick. She's six weeks post partum, she's recovering from the hemorrhage that almost claimed her life after she birthed two babes while being four and ten, and quite certainly still not developed enough to carry children anyway. His sister leaves the small cake on the tray.
"You still need to lose the baby weight. Just a few more efforts, my darling one, and you'll be able to enjoy these soon."
"Or we can remember Helaena gave birth only six weeks ago and almost died." Aegon intervenes
"Aegon! These matters do not concern you!" His mother scolds
"If I am old enough to impregnate my sister, I am old enough to defend the mother of my children."
The princess shyly smiles.
"Helaena gave birth just six weeks ago, at four and ten. Who cares if she has a belly bulge?! She birthed twins! At four and ten! And almost died! If a woman's body takes nine moons to create a child, it would not be surprising if it took nine moons for it to return to normal!"
"Actually..." Aemond speaks up. "Some maesters recommend waiting for two years between babes. So the body completely heals."
"See?" The oldest approves.
He takes three lemon cakes and puts them on her plate.
"One for each twin and one for you. They are small and you didn't get to eat them when you were with child."
"What if I don't lose the baby weight?" The teenager worries
"Rhaenyra didn't. And people still call her The Realm's Delight." Aegon retorts
"Anyone who mocks you will meet Vhagar." Their younger brother vows
Alicent looks at her only daughter.
"Aegon is right, my darling." She admits. "It has only been six weeks and you were so brave during the pregnancy and the birth! I shouldn't have commented. I am sorry."
"It is alright." Helaena smiles. "It is only because you care and want what is best for me. I shall not overeat."
"But you should still enjoy your meals."
Dreamfyre's rider looks at her brothers and mouths "Thank you". Aegon might not be the best of husbands and he will not be the best of husbands years down the road. But at least, he cares enough to defend her. He leaves her in peace, to live her life and shields her when necessary.
She cannot ask for more.