CHAPTER 9 TOGETHER IN JOY

Henry and Alex were eager to share their joyous news with the first person who came to Nora, their best friend and the generous donor of the egg that made their dream possible. They wanted her to be the first to know that Henry is pregnant.

That afternoon, they made their way to Nora's office. Nora was a successful and busy professional, but she always made time for her friends. As they entered the sleek, modern building, Henry felt a flutter of excitement mixed with a touch of nervousness.

They reached Nora's office, and Alex knocked on the door. "Come in!" came Nora's cheerful voice from inside.

As they stepped in, Nora looked up from her desk, her face lighting up with a warm smile. "Henry, Alex! What a lovely surprise. What brings you here?"

Henry and Alex exchanged a glance, their excitement palpable. Alex spoke first, his voice brimming with emotion. "Nora, we have some incredible news to share with you."

Nora's eyes widened with curiosity. "Oh? Do tell!"

Henry took a deep breath, his smile growing wider. "Nora, I'm pregnant."

For a moment, there was silence as Nora processed the news. Then, her face broke into a radiant grin. "Oh my goodness! That's amazing! I'm so happy for you both!"

She rushed around her desk to embrace them, her joy evident. "This is the best news I've heard in a long time. I'm so honored to have been a part of this journey with you."

Henry hugged her tightly, tears of happiness in his eyes. "We couldn't have done it without you, Nora. You're a part of our family."

Alex nodded, his voice filled with gratitude. "We wanted you to be the first to know because you mean so much to us. Thank you for everything."

Nora wiped away a tear, her smile unwavering. "You two are going to be amazing parents. I can't wait to see this little one grow up surrounded by so much love."

They spent the next hour catching up, sharing their hopes and dreams for the future. The bond between them grew even stronger, and they knew that with friends like Nora by their side, they could face anything that came their way.

As they left Nora's office, Henry and Alex felt a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for the journey ahead. They were ready to share their news with the rest of their family and friends, knowing that they had a strong support system to help them every step of the way.

The first few months of Henry's pregnancy went smoothly. He was glowing, and the couple couldn't be happier. However, as the weeks passed, Henry began to experience morning sickness every single day. It was a struggle, but Alex was always by his side, offering comfort and support.

One morning, as Henry was recovering from another bout of nausea, Alex sat beside him on the bed, gently rubbing his back. "You know, we have the charity gala in London tonight. You don't have to go, Henry. I can attend by myself."

Henry looked up, determination in his eyes. "Alex, I appreciate your concern, but I want to be there with you. We've been looking forward to this for months. I'll manage."

Alex sighed, knowing how stubborn Henry could be. "Alright, but if you feel unwell at any point, we leave immediately. Deal?"

"Deal," Henry agreed, smiling weakly. "Thank you" and he come back for another nausea to the bathroom.

The night of the charity gala arrived, and Henry, despite his nausea, looked stunning in his tailored suit. As they walked the red carpet, the cameras flashed, capturing their every move. Alex kept a protective arm around Henry, ready to whisk him away if needed.

Midway through the evening, Henry suddenly felt a wave of nausea. He excused himself and quickly made his way to the bathroom, Alex following closely behind. As Henry reached the bathroom, he barely made it to the sink before vomiting. Alex was right there, holding Henry's hair back and rubbing his back soothingly.

"It's okay. Just let it out," Alex whispered, his voice full of concern.

After a few moments, Henry straightened up, wiping his mouth with a tissue. "I'm sorry, Alex. I thought I could handle it."

Alex shook his head, smiling gently. "You have nothing to apologize for. Let's get you some fresh air."

Henry nodded, grateful for Alex's unwavering support. They stepped outside for a few minutes, the cool night air helping to settle Henry's stomach. Once Henry felt better, they returned to the gala, where Henry managed to keep his discomfort at bay, enjoying the event and the company of friends and family.

As they finally returned home, Henry leaned against Alex, exhausted but happy. "See? I told you I could do it," Henry said with a tired smile.

Alex kissed his forehead. "You did great, love. Now, let's get you to bed. You've earned it."

London, December

The beloved FIRSTPRINCE couple, Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz, have once again captured the public's imagination. Known for their romantic and public displays of affection, the couple has recently been the subject of much speculation regarding their plans to start a family.

Over the past few months, Henry and Alex have been frequently spotted visiting a well-known fertilization clinic, leading to widespread assumptions that they are exploring surrogacy options. The public's curiosity has been piqued, with many wondering who the lucky woman might be to carry their child.

However, a recent sighting of the couple has added a new twist to the story. On a crisp December morning, Henry and Alex were seen leaving a local minimarket, looking as happy and in love as ever. Fans who approached them for photos and greetings were met with their usual warmth and charm. But what truly caught everyone's attention was Prince Henry's noticeably fuller face and slightly chubbier physique.

This unexpected change has fueled rumors that the couple's visits to the fertilization clinic might be related to a groundbreaking program. Speculation is rife that Henry could be participating in the innovative "Male Pregnancy Program" developed by renowned doctors Zach and Sean Voight. This program, which has been making headlines for its revolutionary approach to pregnancy, could mean that Prince Henry himself is carrying their child.

As of now, neither the couple nor the royal family has issued any official statements to confirm or deny these rumors. The public remains in suspense, eagerly awaiting any news that might shed light on this intriguing development.

Regardless of the method, one thing is certain the world is excitedly anticipating the next chapter in the lives of Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz. Their journey to parenthood, whether through surrogacy or a groundbreaking medical program, promises to be as inspiring and heartwarming as their love story.

Stay tuned for more updates on this captivating story as it unfolds.

The media frenzy was relentless. Articles speculating about Henry and Alex having a baby through surrogacy or Henry being pregnant himself were everywhere. Amidst the chaos, King James III, Henry's grandfather, made an unexpected visit to Kensington Palace.

As the King entered the grand living room, Henry and Alex stood up, surprised by his sudden arrival. "Grandpa, what brings you here?" Henry asked, concern evident in his voice.

The King gestured for them to sit. "Henry, Alex, we need to discuss something important."

They all took their seats, the atmosphere tense. The King took a deep breath and began, "I've made a decision regarding your roles in the royal family. After Christmas and New Year's Eve, you will no longer have any obligations to the kingdom."

Henry's eyes widened in shock. "What? Why? Have I been fired from the royal family? I've always done my best!"

Alex placed a calming hand on Henry's arm. "Let's hear Your majesty, Henry."

The King continued, "You are not being fired. You and Alex will be relieved of your duties to focus on your lives, especially with your pregnancy. The palace, along with Alex's parents, have agreed that it would be best for you to move to America. A place has already been prepared for you there."

Henry interrupted again, his voice trembling. "So, we're being locked out?"

The King shook his head. "No, Henry. Everyone is happy and supportive of you both, but there are still some people and communities who are against this. My decision is to ensure your safety and well-being. In America, you'll be closer to your doctors, especially Dr. Zach, who can provide the best care for you during your pregnancy. I don't want you to face any trouble."

Henry looked at Alex, who nodded reassuringly. "It's for the best, Henry. We'll be safe and together."

Henry sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. "I understand. Thank you, Grandpa."

The King smiled warmly. "Henry. We all want what's best for you and Alex."

- To Be Continued -