The birthing chamber of the palace was a flurry of activity, but at the center of it all was Circe, writhing in pain on a bed of soft furs and velvets. She was surrounded by her loyal nymphs, who were doing their best to comfort her through each contraction.
"You know, you always said you'd never need a man to have a baby," Leto, Circe's best friend and head nymph, said with a laugh. "And yet, here we are."
Circe shot Leto a playful glare, gritting her teeth as another wave of pain washed over her. "Shut up, Leto," she managed to gasp out. "I'm in enough pain as it is."
Leto just laughed and shook her head. "You've always been a drama queen, Circe."
Suddenly, the doors to the birthing chamber burst open, revealing Hermes, the father of Circe's child. The nymphs immediately shielded the baby from his view, not wanting him to see the child until Circe was ready.
Hermes looked around the room, taking in the scene before him. He saw Circe, looking tired but determined, and couldn't help but feel a swell of pride. He approached her, ignoring the nymphs' protests, and took her hand.
"How are you holding up?" he asked, his voice full of concern.
Circe glared at him, but there was no heat behind it. "I've been better," she admitted.
Hermes chuckled. "I can imagine."
Leto, who had been watching the exchange, couldn't help but interject. "You know, you two could've avoided all of this if you just communicated better."
Circe and Hermes both rolled their eyes, but there was a hint of a smile on their faces.
Circe turned to Leto. "Can you give us a moment?" she asked, gesturing to Hermes.
Leto nodded and ushered the other nymphs out of the room, leaving Circe and Hermes alone.
Circe turned to Hermes, "I'm sorry," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Hermes looked at her, surprised. "For what?" he asked.
Circe took a deep breath. "For not telling you about the baby. I was scared, and I didn't know how you would react."
Hermes took her hand. "I'm sorry too. I should've been there for you. I promise I'll be there for our daughter."
Circe smiled. "I'd like that."
The scene ends with Hermes and Circe holding hands, waiting for the arrival of their daughter. The tension between them has dissipated, replaced by a sense of anticipation and excitement. Despite the unexpected circumstances, they are ready to face the challenges of parenthood together.
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