My Doppelganger Mate

"These are indeed blessings to behold, brother," Adrian roared across the paved parchments leading to Malick's throne. "Yes, indeed, brother," Malick replied, laughing heartily and joyfully. He walked toward his younger brother and gave him a big, brotherly hug like in the old times. "How many moons has it been now?" he asked rhetorically, freeing himself from the embrace. "We've lost count, and finally, the gods have smiled upon my family with their bounties." "Yes, brother—not just one, but two. Two beautiful queens to the crown," Adrian replied heartily. "My King, if you wouldn't mind, I would love to see the Queen and the princesses. I need to give them both my blessings as their uncle," he added, beaming with a smile. "Of course, brother. Come, let me lead the way," Malick said, standing up from his throne. He took the lead, with Adrian walking beside him. They chit-chatted and debated names that best suited the newborns. *** "Take it easy, my Queen," the wet nurse said gently as she helped Gaia change from her birth clothes into a cleaner, more comfortable dress. She struggled to lift her legs, but with the help of the wet nurse and her maids-in-waiting, she managed. Gaia was a selfless, beautiful queen. She ruled the kingdom with bravery and grace, standing by her husband’s side as both wife and sovereign. Despite the scorn from those who criticized her for not bearing a child after twelve years of betrothal, she never faltered. Her beauty was unmatched, and King Malick never missed a chance to compliment her. Her dark, silky hair flowed to her waist, complementing her ocean-blue eyes and fair skin. Her voice was sweet, her skin soft, and she possessed a perky figure with perfectly round hips that set her apart from every other woman. As they were about to help her settle into bed, Adrian and Malick walked in, having received approval from the nurses. Adrian was the first to speak, excitement boldly evident on his face. He bore a striking resemblance to his brother—so much so that they could easily be mistaken for twins, with Adrian’s still youthful look being the only difference. "Oh, Gaia..." he began. "Pardon me, Your Highness, but I would love to call you by your first name—just like old times. I feel youthful again," he said, laughing. Gaia didn’t say a word, only gave a weak nod of approval—not that she really minded. "Gaia, thank you," Adrian said gently, holding her hand. "That’s all I can say. Just look at my brother. You can see the happiness written all over our faces. We love what you’ve given us, and we’re grateful." "The king is overwhelmed with joy," he added, gesturing toward Malick, who was now admiring his newborn daughters. His chiseled jaw was sharper and more defined. He looked regal even in his casual robe. Looking up at his wife, his hazel eyes glowed with pure love. He noticed the wet nurse and maids still in the room, all of them smiling from ear to ear. He approached Gaia carefully, as if trying not to wake the sleeping beauties. "Adrian," he called softly, "why are you touching my wife?" he asked playfully. "I miss my wife more than you do—you should know that." "Haha," Adrian laughed. "Yours and yours alone," he joked, bowing slightly and making way for his brother to sit beside Gaia. "There you go," he added. "Gaia, you look breathtaking, as always. Your skin is as smooth as silk, and I can’t get enough of it. You were generous enough to give me two versions of yourself. Thank you, my love." "Have you decided on a name?" he asked in a hushed tone. "Yes," she answered weakly. "Good. Adrian and I were debating on names while heading here. What did you choose? Let’s hear it." "The first is Aurora, and the second is Aria," she replied, smiling. "Beautiful. They’re going to make beautiful princesses." "Yes, my love. Adrian?" she called. "Thank you for being the best brother-in-law. I’m assured those two have the best uncle in the world." "My Queen, you deserve the best—and so do my nieces. They have noth—" "My King! My King!!" a guard called from outside, interrupting Adrian’s speech. "Keep your voice down. The neonates are asleep," Adrian cautioned. "I’m sorry, my Prince," the guard said, "but Atlas, the Great Oracle, has entered the palace. He demands a private audience with the King and Queen. It’s a matter of urgency." Adrian glanced at Malick and Gaia. "I hope all is well," he whispered, concern etched on his face. Malick heaved a heavy sigh and looked at Gaia for a moment. "Tell Atlas the Queen needs to be dressed. We will call for him in a few minutes," he ordered. He leaned in to kiss Gaia gently on the forehead. "We’ll be right back." He then ordered the wet nurses and maids to dress Gaia in something elegant yet comfortable and to make the chamber ready for Atlas’ presence. Afterward, he looked at his brother, gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder, and they silently made their way out of the chamber.