CHAPTER 7 THE NUMBER THREE

August 15th had become a day of celebration known worldwide as FIRSTPRINCE DAY, marking the monumental step Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz took together. Now, three years into their marriage, they found themselves at the most luxurious restaurant in Paris, with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower.

As they sat at their table, the soft glow of the city lights reflecting in their eyes, Henry reached across the table to hold Alex's hand. "Can you believe it's been three years?" he asked, a smile playing on his lips.

Alex squeezed his hand gently. "It feels like just yesterday we were sneaking around, trying to keep our relationship a secret," he chuckled. "We've come so far."

Henry nodded, his eyes filled with love and pride. "We really have. And I wouldn't change a single moment of it."

They reminisced about their journey, from their initial rivalry to the deep, unbreakable bond they now shared. The conversation flowed effortlessly, filled with laughter and heartfelt moments.

As the evening progressed, Alex's expression grew serious. "Henry, I'm so ready to start a family with you."

Just then, their phones buzzed simultaneously. Alex picked up his phone and saw an email notification from Dr. Zach. He quickly opened it, his heart racing. "Henry, it's from Dr. Zach," he said, his voice trembling with excitement.

Henry leaned in closer, his eyes scanning the email. "It says we have three perfect embryos ready for transfer," Alex read aloud, his voice breaking with emotion. "They're ready to transfer them into your body."

Tears of happiness welled up in Henry's eyes. "Three embryos... on our three-year anniversary," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "It's perfect."

They embraced, tears of joy streaming down their faces. The world outside seemed to fade away as they held each other, overwhelmed by the love and hope for their future.

"Happy anniversary" Alex whispered, kissing Henry's forehead. "Here's to our growing family."

"Happy anniversary, Alex," Henry replied, his heart full. "I can't wait to start another chapter with you."

After a long journey filled with hope and anticipation, Prince Henry and Alex were finally ready to take the next step in their lives. With the support of Doctor Zach, the blessing of King James III, and an egg donation from their dear friend Nora, they were prepared to welcome a child into their family. Most importantly, Prince Henry had made the heartfelt decision to carry their child.

Once Months Later, The day had arrived. The embryo of their future child was ready to be implanted into Henry's body. They woke up early, the morning sun casting a warm glow through their bedroom window. Both were filled with a mix of happiness and nerves as they prepared for the day ahead.

Standing in front of the mirror, they embraced each other tightly. Henry, with a gentle smile, placed his hand on his belly and said, "There will be a baby in here soon, our child." He rubbed his belly softly, imagining the life that would soon grow within him.

Alex, his eyes filled with love and gratitude, kissed Henry's forehead. "Thank you for doing this for us," he said sincerely. Then, with a playful glint in his eye, he added, "You know, you're going to get fat."

Henry laughed, the sound light and joyful. "Well, I suppose I'll have to get used to it," he replied, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "But it's all worth it for our little one."

Upon arriving at the hospital, Henry and Alex were immediately greeted by the warm and professional staff. Henry was quickly ushered into a private room where he changed into a hospital gown. The sterile, crisp fabric felt oddly comforting against his skin, a tangible reminder of the monumental step they were about to take.

As they waited in the examination room, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous energy. To ease the tension, they began joking with each other.

"Do you think they'll let me keep this gown as a souvenir?" Henry quipped, striking a playful pose.

Alex chuckled, shaking his head. "Only if you promise to wear it at our next royal event."

Their laughter was interrupted by the arrival of Doctor Zach, who entered the room with a reassuring smile. "Everything is ready," he announced. "Before we began, i want to ask you guys again, Are you both sure you want to proceed with this program?"

Henry and Alex exchanged a glance, their hands tightly clasped together. "Yes, we're ready," they said in unison, their voices steady and filled with determination.

Henry, his curiosity piqued, asked, "Doctor Zach, how many couples have been part of this pregnant man program?"

Doctor Zach smiled warmly. "You are the fifth couple," he replied.

Alex couldn't resist the opportunity to tease. "Hear that, Henry? You're the fifth. Quite the exclusive club."

Henry rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Well, I always knew I was special," he said with a grin.

Doctor Zach chuckled at their banter. "You both have a great sense of humor. It's going to serve you well on this journey."

With everything in place, Doctor Zach began the procedure. Alex stayed by Henry's side, holding his hand and offering words of encouragement. The process was smooth and efficient, and soon enough, the embryo was safely implanted.

As they sat together afterward, Henry resting comfortably, Alex leaned in and kissed his forehead. "We're really doing this," he whispered, his voice filled with awe.

Henry nodded, a tear slipping down his cheek. "Yes, we are."

In that moment, surrounded by love and hope, they knew that their journey was just beginning. Together, they would face whatever came their way, ready to welcome their child into the world.

After the embryo transfer was completed, Henry lay back on the hospital bed, resting for a bit. The room was quiet, filled with a sense of hopeful anticipation. Alex sat beside him, holding his hand, his eyes never leaving Henry's face.

A couple hours later, Dr. Zach entered the room with a warm smile. "How are you feeling, your Highness?" he asked gently.

Henry nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "A bit strange and tired, but good."

Dr. Zach pulled up a chair and sat down next to them. "That's perfectly normal. Now, let's talk about what happens next."

Alex leaned in, his grip on Henry's hand tightening slightly. "We're listening," he said, his voice steady but filled with concern.

Dr. Zach began to explain, "For the next few days, it's important to take it easy. You don't need to stay in bed, but avoid any strenuous activities. Light walking is fine, but no heavy lifting or intense exercise."

Henry nodded, absorbing the information. "Got it." he asked, a hint of a blush creeping up his cheeks.

Dr. Zach chuckled softly. " And For the next two weeks, it's best to avoid sexual intercourse. We want to give the embryo the best chance to implant and grow without any disturbances."

Alex squeezed Henry's hand reassuringly. "We can do that," he said, his voice filled with determination.

Dr. Zach continued, "We'll schedule a follow-up appointment in about two weeks to check if the embryo transfer was successful. In the meantime, maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and continue taking any prescribed medications."

Henry took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "Thank you, Dr. Zach. We'll follow all your instructions."

Dr. Zach smiled warmly. "You're welcome. Remember, we're here for you every step of the way. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out."

As Dr. Zach left the room, Alex turned to Henry, his eyes filled with love and support. "We're in this together, Henry. No matter what happens, we'll face it together."

Henry smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude and love for Alex. "I know, Alex. Thank you for being here with me."

They sat there for a while longer, holding hands and drawing strength from each other, ready to face the journey ahead.

After the procedure was completed, Doctor Zach assured them that everything had gone smoothly. Henry was given the all-clear to go home and rest, with a follow-up examination scheduled for ten days later to check on the progress.

Alex gently helped Henry to his feet, supporting him as they made their way to the car. Henry, feeling the effects of the procedure and the emotional weight of the day, leaned heavily on Alex, grateful for his unwavering support.

As they settled into the car, Henry's eyelids grew heavy. "I think I might just take a little nap," he murmured, his voice drowsy.

Alex smiled, brushing a strand of hair from Henry's forehead. "You deserve it. Rest up, love."

Within moments, Henry was fast asleep, his head resting in Alex's shoulder. Alex couldn't help but feel a surge of affection as he watched Henry sleep, his face peaceful and serene. Wanting to capture this tender moment, Alex took out his phone and snapped a selfie. In the photo, Alex was smiling brightly, his eyes filled with love, while Henry slept soundly beside him.

As they drove home, Alex kept glancing over at Henry, his heart swelling with gratitude and anticipation. He knew the next ten days would be filled with hope and anxiety, but he was ready to face it all with Henry by his side.

When they finally arrived home, Alex carefully helped Henry inside and settled him into bed. He sat beside him, holding his hand and whispering words of encouragement. "We're one step closer to our dream," he said softly. "I can't wait to see what the future holds for us and our baby."

Henry, half-asleep, squeezed Alex's hand and smiled. "Me too," he whispered. "Thank you for being here with me."

As they drifted off to sleep, their hearts were full of hope and love, ready to embrace the journey ahead. Together, they would face whatever came their way, united in their dream of becoming parents.

- To Be Continued -