Cassian steps out of the bathroom, towel still wrapped around his neck, hair damp and a little messy.

From the bedroom, he hears your voice, quiet but filled with something like awe. “Cass… I think you can feel the kicks.”

His heart skips. He doesn’t waste a second. Crossing the room in long strides, he finds you lying back on the bed, shirt pulled up just enough to bare your belly. Your hand moves slowly in gentle circles, caressing your bump and the baby within, lovingly.

Cassian kneels beside you, excitement buzzing through him like a storm ready to break. He leans down, hands pressing carefully over your bump, waiting.

His breath catches at the little, sharp poke, and the grin he can’t hide spreads wide, full of wonder. “Well, would you look at that,” he says, voice low and teasing. “Someone’s already growing strong.” He lowers his forehead to your skin, feeling the warmth beneath his cheek. “Hello, little one,” he murmurs softly. “It's your dad, and I'm already impressed.” He glances up, eyes sparkling with eagerness and disbelief.

“Can you feel them? They're kicking at me.” His fingers brush gently over your belly again, like he’s afraid to break the moment. He lowers his head down, kissing the swell of your belly adoringly.