Jarlon seemed to sense Barbara's growing frustration and stepped in to ease the situation. "Let's take a break," he suggested, leading them to a quieter corner of the facility. "We can grab some coffee and chat about the upcoming missions."
Barbara eased herself onto a nearby bench, grateful for the chance to rest her swollen feet. The cool metal beneath her hands offered some comfort, but the constant weight of her growing belly remained. She let out a small sigh, instinctively resting a hand on her belly as she watched Lycus and Jarlon talk a few meters away. Her gaze lingered on Lycus, whose posture was as steady and imposing as ever. However, the way he occasionally glanced at her was soft—subtle, but enough to make her feel secure.
Jarlon, as usual, was in the middle of an animated
