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Feng Jiu was anxiously waiting for Dong Hua outside their room terrace. She gathered her nerves to have the most difficult conversation ever with her husband. Her hands were crinkling her dress. Dong Hua finally arrived and noticed that she was in distraught. He carefully approached her and took her hands into his. "Little fox why are so worked up?"

"Dong Hua...I need to talk to you." Feng Jiu stuttered.

"All right, let's sit first so you can calm down." He didn't let go of her hands. He could hear her erratic heartbeats. "I'm listening little fox." His stone sparkling black eyes full with love were scanning her innocent face. Feng Jiu's heartbeat picked up again, her brain neglected to fire any synapses to breathe when she gets lost on his ethereal features. He loved her cute reaction. "Jiu'er breathe with me."

"Sorry husband...I can't help it." Her cheeks flushed.

"You look so lovely when you blush." Dong Hua sweetly smiled at her.

"I missed you last night husband when you didn't come home."

"I missed you too little fox. I worked late with Ye Hua so I didn't want to disturb your sleep."

"I couldn't sleep without you next to me." Feng Jiu lowered her face. "I guess now you know why. I don't want you to think that I've been unfaithful to you husband."

"Unfaithful?"

"About the lion and..." Tears were coming down.

"Please don't cry. Why would I think that of you Jiu'er?" Dong Hua wiped her tears from her eyes.

"Because I didn't tell you who he really is. I failed to be honest with you about this. Please forgive me." Feng Jiu looked away avoiding his face.

"Look at me little fox. Were you afraid to be rejected by me again?" Feng Jiu nodded her head.

"I see. Don't be afraid of me Jiu'er. I've promised you not to push you away or treat you coldly ever again. This is difficult for you as it is for me too little fox. You're my wife and I love you too much to share you with everyone, but I understand that you have connections with others that are not easy for me to accept. But it doesn't mean that you should feel scared to let me know your needs that others can help you achieve. As your husband it is in my best interest that you are taken care of in every aspect and level."

"Dong Hua I don't wish to hurt our marriage with misunderstandings or unresolved conflicts between us. I don't want you to feel jealous either, because is not my intention to fuel those doubtful feelings in you. I respect you husband. The last thing I want to do is create a rift between us and destroy our trust in one another. I love you so much that I will do anything in my life to prove you how important you are to me Dong Hua. There is no other man that I could love. You are my one and only. Please believe me when I say it." Feng Jiu pleadingly said.

Dong Hua sweetly smiled upon hearing her words. "Jiu'er, I have no doubts about that. You have always been straightforward with me and I prefer it that way. You are my light, my center and my lifeline. I will be lost without you, my brave little fox. But I wish to know every hidden detail of your heart, especially whatever pains you. I want you to feel comfortable talking to me. Please don't be fearful about it. I earnestly love you and whatever is bothering you I feel it. I'm here for you as your husband, confidant and friend too." Dong Hua caressed her nose bridge.

"But you are my everything Dong Hua. Although we've vowed to face all obstacles together while adapting each with other in our relationship. Both of us are still learning how to appropriately maneuver our differences. Is because of that deference that I sometimes find it difficult to let you know things that I know are not easy to express. Is intimidating for me to talk with you about these types of subjects. Please try to understand my perspective too husband." Feng Jiu shyly said.

"This process of emotional communication is hard for me too. I'm still learning with you Jiu'er. But I don't want you to see me unapproachable either. I decided to share all of my life with you and in doing so I'm learning to shift my emotions in the most appropriate way to satisfy your needs without endangering others with my dominant nature. I want to give you everything that you need but I understand that you might have needs that you don't feel comfortable sharing them with me yet. In that case I'll provide you with the necessary ways for you to have them accomplished. Is part of your empathic nature. And I'm trying my best to understand that part of you. I want you to know that you also can count on me to help you in every way that you need to heal yourself, since I contributed to many of your past wounds, pushing you to a delicate emotional state and for that I'm truly sorry. Would you give me a chance to be your healing partner too?"

His eyes softened and his expression warmed up. She saw a trace of a smile on his beautifully shaped lips. "You mean it Dong Hua?"

"Anything to help you, my sweet little fox. We're partners after all. And soon a family. Let me take care of you."

Their eyes were glazed with tears, but not of sadness but of the purest form of love for one another. "I love you so much Dong Hua" Feng Jiu look at him with so much devotion and dedication.

"As I love you, my little sweet fox" Dong Hua caressed her face. "Come let's go inside and rest"

During the night Feng Jiu comfortably slept in Dong Hua arms. Her hold on him was tight, she didn't want to let go of him. Sympathetic with her need, he let her sleep late since her due date was approaching. Early in the morning, she cutely yawned waking up. Opening her eyes, she noticed that Dong Hua was still sleeping with her. Feng Jiu smiled and kissed his cheek to wake him up.

"Jiu'er, aren't you tired?" Dong Hua asked her with his raspy sleepy voice that she loves.

"I feel refreshed. Thank you for staying with me. I know how busy you are lately."

"They can manage without me for a bit longer today."

"How about if I make your favorite for breakfast? I want to collect some fresh peaches and bake you some cakes and do some peach jam. I know how much you like them."

"Hmm that sounds so delicious and mouthwatering. Are you trying to spoil me?"

Feng Jiu giggled at him. "Is it working?"

"It surely is. Let's get up; that way we can visit your father and he can examine you too. Are you sure that you feel like walking?"

"I feel fine Dong Hua don't worry. The baby is fine too, look... he's kicking." Dong Hua placed his hand on Feng Jiu's belly to feel the baby moving. "You are being playful this morning son. Are you hungry too? Don't worry your mother will feed you soon. Be good for now." Dong Hua kissed Feng Jiu's tummy and the baby calmed down. Feng Jiu giggled. "You have magical lips husband."

"Are you in need of some of my lip therapy this morning?" Dong Hua seductively asked.

Feng Jiu's face heated up "I always do husband. Your lips are my best therapy."

Dong Hua wickedly smiled at her. He bended over and carefully crawled over Feng Jiu, kissing her hard and possessive. Their tongues twisting and turning together, consuming, and savoring each other with fiery thirst. He then proceeded to kiss each of her full breasts teasing her nipples in turn, while Feng Jiu groaned and wriggled beneath him, Dong Hua didn't stop, he was tasting her breast milk. "Jiu'er, this tastes more delicious than your peach jam."

"You're so shameless Dong Hua." He pouted at her and continued sucking.

"Will you share it with me after the baby is born?"

"Seriously, you want me to breast feed you?"

"Why not? I remember that you wanted to learn how to nurse my health. This is another way too."

"No huh Dong Hua. This will be for our son."

"But I never experienced this bond before." Dong Hua said.

Then it hit Feng Jiu; she remembered his motherless childhood and felt a pang in her heart. Although she thought he was being ridiculous and barefaced, in fact it was his unique way to ask for something that he had no knowledge of. As his emotional guide, it was another way to provide him with a different type of intimacy that he was not familiar with. She fixed her robe and sat on their bed tenderly looking at him.

"You want to know how does it feel when the bond between a mother and baby strengthens during breastfeeding? My mother told me that during the act of breastfeeding, it is a great way to help decrease distress that occurs every now and then when the baby gets upset, it will help to comfort and calm the baby down. This builds a strong bond and further encourages a closeness, reduces pain and promotes healing, while showing the baby that I'm there to care for him no matter what. Our son will start to learn and recognize my unique scent. It will also increase his intelligence levels and will improve cognitive development as he ages. It's a psychological closeness and safety that only my arms will provide him. It encourages understanding, love, protection, and an emotional closeness that will help him for a lifetime." Feng Jiu explained to him.

"Indeed, is a unique and strong bond."

"Yes, it is. One that you never had." Feng Jiu stared at Dong Hua with compassion.

"That is fine little fox, don't worry about it. I'm fortunate to know that you care so much about this and that our son will benefit from it." Dong Hua's playful side abruptly disappeared. He got up and started to get ready. "Aren't you coming? I thought that you want to collect peaches today."

His tone sounded disillusioned. Feng Jiu has learned to recognize his hidden emotions by his tone of voice. She was able to tell that his mood changed suddenly, understanding that he was being shy. "Husband wait!" Feng Jiu quickly stopped him.

"What is it?" Dong Hua turned around.

"Come here please." Dong Hua sat next to her on the bed again. "Just know that I'm willing to offer you that experience if you wish to have it. Although we have made many strong connections as a couple, I know how important this is for you Dong Hua. You have told me that we don't need to be bashful of what we do in our intimacy. I want to offer you this closeness too whenever you want it."

"You don't need to Jiu'er."

"I know, but I want to do it just for your pleasure husband." Feng Jiu carefully was reading his precious black stone eyes. She could see a hint of eagerness on them.

"Jiu'er...I..." Feng Jiu placed her hand on his lips to quiet him up. "Shhh don't say anything. It has been settled. Think about it and let me know when you're ready." Feng Jiu gave him a chaste kiss on his lips, got up and proceeded to get dressed.

"My little fox is full or surprises." Dong Hua internally said while watching her getting ready.

They unhurriedly were walking enjoying their morning and each other company. On their way to the Zhe Yan peach orchard Feng Jiu began to feel strange; a big slush of water came down between her legs. It felt odd. Feng Jiu stopped and looked down surprised. "Oh no..."

"Jiu'er are you all right? What's wrong?"

"I don't know Dong Hua. I think my water broke."

Dong Hua eyes widen "Here let me carry you."

"No please, I just need to sit for a bit." Her contractions were getting stronger.

"Your contractions are still far apart. I don't think that you are ready to give birth yet."

"Fùqīn told me that during early labor, my contractions will become increasingly regular. This is the longest stage of labor for first-time mothers, it can last up hours or days. Plus, my water broke so I think is time."

"You think you are in early labor?"

"It's a possibility. AHHHH." Feng Jiu felt another strong contraction.

"Jiu'er, please talk to me." Dong Hua was worried about her. He couldn't tolerate seeing his little fox in pain.

"Dong Hua we need to go to fùqīn's house now." He scooped her up in his arms and quickly materialized at Zhe Yan's hut.

"" Dong Hua yelled out his name. But he wasn't home. He opened a mental channel and summoned him: "Zhe Yan we are at your house come quickly

"On my way now." Zhe Yan replied.

"We didn't build a birthing room here Jiu'er, and I don't want to move you."

"Don't worry Dong Hua is fine in here too. Is fùqīn coming?"

"He's on his way." Minutes later Zhe Yan appeared.

"Darling tell me how far apart are your contractions" Zhe Yan hurriedly asked her.

"They are still far apart but are increasing. Where is mother?"

"She is with your grandmother; they are in Nine Heavens with Bai Qian, she in labor too. Dong Hua I need to examine her. Please leave us."

"No fùqīn, Dong Hua stays."

"But..."

"" Feng Jiu painfully yelled out. Startling Zhe Yan and Dong Hua.

"All right sweetheart. Let's have a look." Feng Jiu was dilating. Zhe Yan called Feng Jiu's mother thru their mental bond. "You need to hurry back home, Xiao Jiu is dilating already, she's ready to give birth soon. I need you here. Dong Hua I need water and towels." Dong Hua conjured several water basins and plenty of towels.

"Now go and placed yourself behind her and support Xiao Jiu's back with your weight."

"And then what?" Dong Hua asked Zhe Yan.

"Just be calm Dong Hua, we don't need you to get all worked up. This is going to be painful for her, you need to be emotionally stable throughout the entire process. Wipe her sweat and let her tell you what she needs from you. Xiao Jiu darling practice your breathing techniques; you are not ready to push yet." Zhe Yan instructed her.

Dong Hua produced several pillows and sheets to make Feng Jiu feel more comfortable. He changed her robes to a loose open chemise and removed her socks and shoes. He pulled her hair into a bun for her to feel better. "Husband thank you."

"Hang in there little fox. I'm here with you. I'm not going anywhere." Dong Hua reassured her.

Bai Qian was in active labor screaming up a storm. Several maids were coming in and out of her room with water and towels. The medicine king and her mother, the Fox Empress were tending her. "Xiao Wu breathe darling."

"Where did second sister went?"

"Xiao Jiu is labor too, Zhe Yan summoned her to help him out. Apparently, they are at his hut at the peach orchard."

"Where is Ye Hua?"

"He's outside Xiao Wu."

"I want him here with me."

"But..." The medicine king protested

"" Bai Qian yelled while having a strong contraction.

"Qian Qian my love I'm here." Ye Hua came and held her hand.

"Stay with me Ye Hua." Bai Qian pleaded.

The first ministers, midwife and nurses were telling Ye Hua to leave the room. It was not accustomed for the father to be in the same room while she was in labor. He was being told to follow the royal protocol for the occasion. "Tianjun, please wait outside."

"Nobody can tell me what I need to do. I will stay by my wife's side and that is final. Ye Hua yelled out. Bai Rui, the medicine king and the midwife were the only ones allowed to stay.

"Ye Hua son, please calm down. Xiao Wu needs you steady. Don't worry we'll take good care of them. I birthed five children so I know what I'm doing." She reassured Ye Hua.

Feng Jiu was changing positions to be more comfortable during labor. Dong Hua was massaging her back.

"Xiao Jiu darling mother is here." She looked at Dijun apprehensively.

"Don't ask me to leave, because I won't." Dong Hua unsympathetically said.

"Mama, please." Feng Jiu admonished her mother.

"Don't worry darling, I'm here to help your father. How about a bath? Do you want to soak a while to ease your discomfort?"

"That will be great mama, thank you."

"I'll go ahead and prepare it. Where is your father?"

"He is at the apothecary preparing some herbs for Jiu'er." Dong Hua replied to her.

"Thank you Dijun. All right. I will work on the bath darling, I'll be back."

Minutes later her bath was ready and Dong Hua carefully placed her inside the tub. "I'll stay with you I don't want you to fall asleep inside the tub."

"It's okay Dong Hua, trust me I won't fall asleep. Rest a bit, let mama take care of me for a while. You could help fùqīn organize the rest of the stuff he needs for the delivery."

"All right little fox. I won't be far." Dong Hua tenderly kissed her forehead.

"Don't worry Dijun, I'll call you if she wants you again." Dong Hua left them to find Zhe Yan at his apothecary.

"Do you need something for your nerves Dong Hua?" Zhe Yan teasingly asked him.

"I'm fine. Why Jiu'er is in labor, she's not due yet."

"I guess your son wants to come out ahead of time. What are you guys doing here? Out of all the places we got ready, you chose to come here."

"Jiu'er wanted to collect some peaches to bake me some cakes and make jam, on our way here her water broke and her contractions began. I wasn't going to turn around back to Qing Qui on her condition."

"I see."

"Can we move her?"

"Not at this stage. Even if we aura travel it could be risky. All she needs is here and we all are here with her."

"All right. How long do you think she'll be in labor?"

"Is hard to predict these things Dong Hua. This baby is not a normal immortal baby, so I can't say for sure. Xiao Jiu hasn't fully dilated yet. It can be hours or even days. Her contractions are far apart which means she still have some time until she's fully dilated. All we need to do for now is wait. Don't worry her mother is with her, she'll be fine."

"I will conjure a bigger bed for her, she won't sleep without me. Your bed is too small and uncomfortable."