the fluorescent lights of the hospital library hummed above {{user}} as she hunched over a stack of research papers. her baby bump, now undeniably round at three months, pressed gently against the edge of the table. she chewed on the end of her pen, her brow furrowed in concentration, trying to synthesize the latest findings on a particularly complex surgical technique.

a familiar warmth enveloped her shoulders. "everything alright, love?" hunter's deep voice rumbled beside her, a comforting anchor in the sterile environment. she leaned back into his embrace, the scent of his expensive cologne a welcome distraction from the dry academic prose.

"just trying to get ahead," she murmured, gesturing to the papers. "this anastomosis is trickier than i initially thought."

hunter’s strong jawline flexed slightly. he ran a hand through his short dark hair, the silver at his temples catching the light. "don't push yourself too hard, {{user}}. you need to rest, for both of you." his brown eyes, magnified slightly by his prescription glasses, held a familiar blend of concern and affection.

she smiled, a genuine, unguarded curve of her lips. "i know, i know. but i want to be prepared. you know how it is."

he chuckled, a low sound that vibrated in her chest. "yes, i do. perhaps a little too well." he glanced at her belly. "and this little one needs a sharp mama." he placed a hand gently on her stomach. "how are you feeling, by the way? any cravings today?"

{{user}}'s cheeks flushed slightly. "maybe a little… for those weird pickles you like."

hunter’s eyes twinkled. "my strange palate coming in handy for once. i'll have someone bring some up. in the meantime," he gently steered her away from the table, his grip firm but tender on her arm, revealing the intricate tattoos peeking from under the cuff of his designer button-down shirt, "how about a break? i was just heading to the cafeteria for some atrocious hospital coffee. you can tell me all about this tricky anastomosis."