Alecto clicks his tongue and swats playfully at Joshua's hands. "Nonsense. You have enough on your hands."

He eases the door open with a graceful push of his shoulder and settles the basket with his son down by the window in a sunspot, eager not to disturb him for now. The house smells of fresh lavender and herbs, a kettle on the potbelly stove still hot and steaming. It's welcoming and clean, as always.

Alecto floats over now with his hands free to help Joshua with his things: hanging up his coat and hat before bending down to undo the laces of his boots for him. "Joshua," he says, as he rises then, his expression practically glowing. "Now, I know you've just had a long journey and I do want you to rest soon but...I've something to share. And I really don't want to keep waiting to tell you. Go on -" He feels giddy as he shoos his husband to the couch before taking a seat beside him, their thighs pressed close, Alecto's hand clasped onto Joshua's own as he leans readily into his space.

"Listen, darling," he says quietly, unable to contain his beaming smile. "I'm pregnant."