apologies again for the slow posting. My first two books have been published and #3 is coming out in December and it has kept me busy. WILD CARD UNDERCOVER is about an FBI agent who enlists the help of a waitress to get the goods on her slimy boss. RUNNING TARGET is about an FBI agent on the run from a mobster. This second story was inspired by some of the scenes from Revelations and Expectations, so if you liked that story, check out the book. My pen name is Kari Lemor.

Thanks again to everyone who has read my stories and commented, giving me the courage to pursue publication. You are all wonderful!

Chapter Twenty-Three

"No, Charin, you needa stay in the 'partment," TJ ordered as the young toddler ambled out the door she'd just opened using her Ancient gene. John shook his head and dashed over to pick up his wayward daughter.

"Listen to your brother, Charlie," John said, using the nickname he'd given her that always made Teyla grit her teeth. He kissed the girl's head. "I promised I'd take you to the gardens later today. But for now your mom and I need to get ready for an important meeting."

Placing Charin back on the floor, he looked at his son. "Teej, think you can get her to play with the puppy in the family room?"

Torren nodded but his face held resignation. Charin wasn't always the easiest to distract when she wanted something and right now she wanted to explore. Her mind was easy to read and she didn't want to be cooped up inside. She loved being outdoors in the warm breeze with the smell of the ocean in the air.

TJ took Charin's hand and called to Guinness, who really wasn't a puppy any longer though he was still as small as one, and pulled her toward the large family room. They'd been on Lemuria now for about a year and he couldn't believe how lucky they'd been in what they'd found for living space. She had apartments and suites far nicer than anything Atlantis had. They'd picked out one of the largest. As commander of the city he was entitled.

Theirs had a huge living room with a separate kitchen and dining area. The four bedrooms had plenty of space for them, the children and an extra room that John and Teyla used as a joint office. Then there was the large family room with the floor to ceiling windows. The view was outstanding of the ocean and the city of Atlantis anchored nearby.

The apartment was in an isolated section of Lemuria but had a transporter close by that took them straight to the command center of the city. The best of both worlds. Privacy but a short commute to work.

"John, are you almost ready to go?" Teyla said stepping out of their bedroom and walking down the hall to the family room. Once she'd checked that the children were settled, she turned to him.

"I wasn't the one who needed to change clothes a few times." Even as commander of the city he still was most comfortable in his black BDUs.

Her eyes narrowed and John felt her annoyance at his joke. "I would not have had to change them if you had kept Charin from throwing her lunch everywhere. I did not think it appropriate for me to greet our guests with spaghetti sauce on my top."

"I honestly don't think Todd would care, or even notice. It's not like he's high up in the fashion industry." Checking his watch, he asked, "Who'd we get to watch the rug rats?"

"We?" Teyla scoffed. "I arranged for Dusty to come as she is off duty presently."

John thought about how many of the staff he'd been able to get for Lemuria. Mehra was here, as well as Ronon and Amelia. Amelia had gotten a nice promotion and was the new Chuck in this city. The first few weeks she'd driven Ronon crazy with practicing the line, "Unscheduled Offworld Activation."

Rodney has actually allowed Zalenka to take over as head of the Science Department on Atlantis so he could play with the new Lemuria toy. Of course, the fact he knew just how deep John's connection to the city went had been a pain at times. But being the city Commander had its advantages. He could usually tell Rodney he was too busy to sit in the chair and explore.

Not that he didn't love getting inside Lemuria and discovering all her secrets but the whole too busy thing was rarely a lie. And the paperwork was far more than he ever wanted to do. Luckily when he'd recommended promotions for both Lorne and Teldy to Lt Colonel, it was suggested Lorne become Military Commander for Lemuria since he had more experience which might be needed in the new facility. Teldy had been named Military Commander for Atlantis. Lorne and Teldy worked amazingly together.

The door chimed and opened automatically. John turned his head to see Charin toddling in the doorway of the family room, her wide smile plastered to her face. She loved her Aunt Dusty and was welcoming her in.

"Seems Charin is excited to see you, Mehra," John said dryly as the woman entered. "Just be aware she's been using her Ancient gene to get into all sorts of things lately. Like opening doors to let people in. Or her out."

"No worries, Colonel," Dusty replied, her typical grin in place. "I've got it covered. I'm taking them outside to the playground the combat engineers just finished setting up. They even have one of those baby swings that keeps them strapped in. And the swing doesn't run on any Ancient technology. No escaping there."

"It sounds perfect," Teyla said and steered John out the door. As they headed toward the transporter, she continued, "Thank you, John, for arranging for the play area here on Lemuria. It is more convenient than having to go use the one on Atlantis."

"I told you there'd be advantages of being commander of the city. And wife of said commander." He waggled his eyebrows and Teyla laughed. He'd never get enough of hearing that. Thankfully things in the galaxy had been less volatile lately with Todd's conversion of so many and the Coalition becoming so strong. Hearing Teyla laugh was a common occurrence now.

"Though I suppose with more children coming along every day, there would be a need to have a children's center in each city."

They'd brought in a few hundred new citizens, both military and scientific. And with the fire power of the combined cities, and the ability to actually make ZPMs, people hadn't been as leery of having children here.

John nodded. "Yeah, how's Amelia holding up? She's getting pretty close to her due date. Every time I ask, she assures me she's fine."

"Hmm, I wonder where she has heard that overused phrase?" Teyla pursed her lips.

Narrowing his eyes, he leaned in and kissed those lips, then pressed the button to get them to the operations center. "When was the last time I said that?"

Teyla's eyes searched the space and she grinned. "I think it was two nights ago after we—"

Heat rushed through him at those thoughts. Yeah, he had definitely been more than fine. "I mean when was the last time I pushed past an injury with that line?"

The transporter doors opened and they walked up the stairs toward his office. Their guests hadn't arrived yet.

Running her hands over his back, Teyla smiled. "Thankfully it has been quite a while. You have been too busy running the city to do anything dangerous."

He merely smiled back. No, he hadn't gone on any risky missions lately for which his body was eternally grateful. But the math and science mind of his had been taking over lately and discovering a multitude of things from Lemuria. It was fascinating. Although Rodney had pouted more than once when John had actually understood some of the complicated data. And as much as McKay complained about how stupid everyone else was, he hated not being the only smart one around.

"Any word from our expected guests?" John asked Amelia as they moved through the control center.

She rubbed her extended stomach and winced. "Not yet. They aren't due for another six minutes, sir."

"You okay? Ronon Junior getting too rough and tumble inside?"

"I think he's just running out of space."

"Well, if he decides to come out, don't sit here all stoic. Jennifer has all the baby stuff ready in the infirmary. It's exciting having the first baby actually born in the city."

Amelia looked at Teyla, her eyes confused.

"Torren was born on a Wraith hive ship and Charin was born on Earth," Teyla clarified.

"So for this first baby, we need everything to go smoothly," John said.

"I'm fine, sir."

John glanced at Teyla and they both laughed. "I'll be in my office until they get here."

"Four minutes, sir," Amelia stated.

Teyla followed him in and leaned against the edge of his desk as he sat in the chair behind it and put his feet up. It was weird that he'd actually gotten used to sitting here. Not that he did it often. He was more likely to be wandering the city or in meetings. Checking out what the new place had to offer. And occasionally he'd go sit in the 'control chair' and have a nice little chat with Lemuria. Preferably when McKay was away or asleep. Not that McKay slept all that much. But he kind of liked having an office that was all his. Well, except Teyla spent as much time here as he did even though he'd made sure she had her own office too. It was where he made them have the weekly meetings Woolsey insisted on.

"So, has Rodney told you his news yet?" Teyla said, her voice low, her gaze moving to the people in the control room.

"News? That he proved once again he's smarter than Zalenka? That the ZPM machine has the ability to create even more powerful devices?"

"No." She leaned in closer. "He and Jennifer will be needing to use that play yard soon also."

"Really?" A grin split his face and he chuckled. "That's perfect. I can't wait to see McKay changing dirty diapers and involved in three a.m. feedings. He'll probably have the kid doing algebra by the time he's four."

The lights around the stargate started to light up and John dropped his feet on the floor. "It's showtime, sweetie."

"Colonel Lorne's IDC," Amelia announced.

As they walked toward the stairs, the event horizon whooshed out and soon Lorne stepped through with Todd and his queen. Ronon followed up behind with a half dozen Marines.

"I didn't realize we were entertaining the missus today," John muttered as they approached the new arrivals. "Todd, you brought a friend."

John's insides twisted realizing this was the queen who had tortured him extensively a year ago. His gaze strayed to her hand to make sure the feeding suctions were still gone. They were. Didn't make him less tense.

"Yes, Sheppaaaard. It has taken a while but she finally sees that I am correct in wishing our brethren to return to their former selves."

Had to wonder what Todd had done to her to get her thinking his way. As long as she couldn't feed off humans, he didn't really care.

John looked up and got the nod from Amelia. They'd been able to put a portable scanner near the gate so it automatically collected data from anyone stepping through. It had saved everyone a trip to the infirmary which wasn't all that close. He hated having non-personnel traipsing through the city if they hadn't been cleared yet. Woolsey loved the idea and was implementing it on Atlantis too.

"Shall we head into the conference room?" Teyla invited and waved her hand up the stairs. When they passed the control room, Todd's gaze lingered on Amelia. Ronon growled, making sure to follow them into the room then planted himself by the door, hand on his gun.

"Please, help yourself to some refreshments," Teyla invited, pointing to the fruit and cheese spread around the table.

Jennifer hustled in with McKay in her wake and took the chairs as far from Todd and his queen as possible. Not that John could blame them. Even with their feeding hands neutralized the Wraith were still formidable.

"So, uh, what's going on?" Rodney asked, his voice squeaking, showcasing his nervousness. He grabbed some of the food and began shoving it in his mouth.

"I think what Dr. McKay is trying to say is have you been able to convert any other Wraith ships since our last meeting?" John hoped someday all the Wraith would have to feed orally.

"We have been successful with five more hives since last we spoke," Todd informed them, his voice deep and echoing. "The battle is typically with convincing them they should not kill us for what we have done."

"We have been getting reports from many worlds that Wraith have been paying them visits," Teyla said. "Sometimes they will trade for food but too many times they will try to just take it."

"Luckily," John continued, "since the Wraith aren't able to feed off humans any more, some of the people are fighting back. And being successful."

"Yeees," Todd breathed out. "We are finding that even though our strength is as powerful as always, the heeling takes much longer and requires certain types of food."

Todd reached in his coat and Ronon whipped his gun in that direction. Pulling out a phial, he placed it on the table. "I took the liberty of taking some blood samples and was hoping I could convince Dr. Beckett to look at them and give us some advice on dietary requirements that would be beneficial. I have done my own research but would like his expertise as well."

John passed the samples down to Jennifer who promised to look at them and share them with Carson. He steered the conversation around to the few planets they'd designated as non-feeding Wraith worlds and discussed the farming and planting projects they'd gotten involved with. Todd reported that the drones were taking to farming considerably better than anyone had anticipated. Of course once the harvest was ready, they couldn't always be counted on to collect the food without eating much of it.

"Have you approached the Coalition with my request to join its ranks?" Todd asked.

Grimacing, he said, "I've asked a few times. Unfortunately a few months of good behavior doesn't really undo the thousands of years of Wraith feeding off humans and decimating the population. You might need to give it a little more time."

McKay made a sarcastic grunting noise at the end of the table and John threw him a look. He wasn't excited about working with the Wraith either but it was much better than the alternative.

When discussion moved to more scientific things, John tuned out. Not completely but he trusted Rodney and Jennifer to handle things. Plus, he knew Teyla was paying attention. She'd let him know if there was something he should focus on. No doubt she could read his mind and see where it was going.

"I wonder if I could ask of favor of you and your expedition, Sheppaaaard." Todd looked at him oddly. If a Wraith could look anything but odd.

"Depends on what it is."

"You see, in my research, I have been trying to find a way to get away from drone breeding and concentrate on male and female reproduction."

"Okay?" Where was this going? He glanced down at Jennifer, who was paying rapt attention.

"But it seems all the data regarding that kind of breeding is no longer in any of our data bases."

"So, what exactly do you need from us?"

"The knowledge of how it is done. Perhaps some instruction or demonstration. That is why I brought my queen along."

Rodney almost choked. "You want us to give you some sex education? Actually demonstrate it?"

"That is correct. I noticed one of your workers is quite with-child. Perhaps—"

"Don't even think about it," Ronon growled, his gun inches from Todd's head.

"Down, Chewie," John barked. "I don't think he meant anything by it other than curiosity as to how she got that way." He turned to Todd. "You'll have to forgive Ronon. He's a little territorial considering that one's his kid."

Todd dipped his head toward Ronon. "I apologize. I meant no insult or harm. I was simply curious."

"No harm done. Right, Ronon?" John glared at the big guy. Ronon backed off but stood vigilant by the door.

"Great. So, you want help learning the intricacies of, uh, …" How the hell did he word this delicately.

"With the act of natural procreation," Teyla offered. God, he loved this woman and her ability with words. He loved her abilities in procreation too, but no way in hell he'd verbalize that for this audience.

"Yes, you and your young queen have offspring, perhaps you could—"

Panic infiltrated his body. "Oh, no, no, no. This is more a medical matter. I think Jennifer would be the best one to handle this request. You must have some videos or pamphlets or something, right, doc?" He was staying as far away from this topic as he could possibly get.

"Oh, um, right?" Jennifer stammered, her face turning red. "I'm sure I could find some visuals that might help. I could download them for you."

"That would be most helpful," Todd replied. "However, would it be possible to review several of them prior to our leaving? In case we have any questions."

"I'm sure the doc would be happy to help you with any questions, right?" John offered.

Jennifer's eyes nearly bulged out of her face.

"A few of the Marines have a stash of porn flicks," Ronon offered, snickering. "Maybe some of them might be willing to help with instruction."

John stood. "Well, looks like I'm not needed here anymore. Todd, I'll leave you in the capable hands of the doc. Thanks for stopping by. Grab a few snacks before you go. As always there'll be a team of Marines hanging out nearby. Let us know when you're in the neighborhood again. Always great to see you."

He couldn't get out of there fast enough. But he figured his office wasn't far enough away. Almost jogging down the stairs, he turned down the hall toward Lorne's office. Just as he was about to walk in, McKay called out behind him.

"Sheppard, what the hell was that?"

"It was a meeting, Rodney."

"Are you seriously going to leave Jennifer with him to deliver sex education lessons?"

"Who wants sex education lessons?" Lorne asked looking up from the laptop on his desk.

"Todd and his queen. Do these people even have names?" Ones that he hadn't given them.

Lorne chuckled. "That should be interesting. The doc must be thrilled."

"And you left her there by herself." McKay humpfed.

"Ronon, Teyla and a team of Marines were still there, Rodney. And I don't see you standing by her side protecting her."

"Oh, well… I mean, of course I'd… but…"

John just shook his head and moved further into the room. "Any reports that need my immediate attention, Colonel Lorne?"

Lorne grinned knowing full well he was trying to avoid something. He'd been his 2IC for too long.

"Not immediate, sir, no but there are those new personnel files—"

John lifted his hand and turned his head. An image of Charin toddling behind a stack of lumber entered his mind. Damn, that child would make him completely gray in no time.

Can you keep her safe for a few moments?

Of course, Son of Atlantis. It is why I contacted you.

"What are you—" Rodney started but John shook him off.

Touching his ear piece, John said, "Mehra, this is Sheppard. Lose something?"

"Oh, um, Colonel," Mehra's voice sounded in his ear. "I only looked away for a second to help Torren tie his shoe. How did you—"

"She's behind the pile of lumber the combat engineers are planning to use for the playground fence. Lemuria's got her in a force field until you get there."

A second later Mehra responded, "I've got her. I am so sorry, Colonel Sheppard. It won't happen again."

"It probably will. She's done it to us a few times also. Remember, TJ can communicate with her so always check with him first. Sheppard out."

John tapped his ear piece again and closed his eyes.

"Charin get away from Dusty this time, sir?" Lorne asked.

He nodded then noticed Rodney standing with his mouth wide open staring at him.

"What, McKay?"

"I've seen you do it a dozen times but I still can't get over the fact the city talks to you. And warns you when Charin has gotten in trouble. And the force field… she actually puts a force field around the kid to keep her safe."

Shrugging, John said, "Don't forget Charin has the gene too. Lemuria's taken a liking to my daughter and doesn't want to see her get hurt."

"So why even bother with a babysitter for the kids if the city will keep an eye out for them?"

"Rodney, I can hardly use the city for a baby sitter. And I honestly don't want Lemuria making decisions for my child. We've come to the understanding that she'll be aware and if the kids are in immediate danger, she'll interfere, but only in that case. I don't want them thinking they're invulnerable. They get their share of bumps and bruises and it teaches them to be more careful."

"God, how am I going to do this?" Rodney lowered his head and slumped into the chair opposite Lorne's desk.

"Do what, Dr. McKay?' Lorne asked, his eyes moving to John.

"Be a good father," Rodney said, sounding tired. "Sheppard here makes it look easy but I'm scared out of my mind."

"Something you want to share with the class, McKay?" John asked, already knowing the answer but figuring he'd give the man the chance to share his good news. Although with McKay he wasn't sure it was good news.

Rodney's shoulders slumped and he looked up. "Jennifer's expecting."

"Congratulations," Lorne said and thumped Rodney on the back. "I should buy you a drink next time we have movie night in the rec center."

"I'm going to need it," McKay muttered.

"What are you talking about, Rodney?" John moved closer and leaned against the second desk in the office. The one he used when he was trying to avoid someone in the control center. "Having a kid is a great thing."

"Oh, sure, because you're like father of the year. I don't have a clue what to do with one of those things." McKay's eyes bounced around the room in panic.

"Well, it's not like I had such a great role model. But you just love 'em, Rodney. And, believe me, when they're your own, it's real easy to do."

"But you love 'em even when they aren't your own. Look at how great you are with Torren."

"I love his mom—" he shrugged, "—so therefore I love him. But he's a great kid. I'd love him anyway."

"You'll be fine, Dr. McKay," Lorne piped in. "You do a great job making the doc happy so I'm sure you'll be fine with a baby."

"You really think so?" Rodney's eyes implored the man to agree. Even if he had to lie.

"You'll be fine," John repeated Lorne's words. "Besides, you're the only hold out on the original team not to have a kid. Ronon's is due any minute."

"Yeah, but he's a big kid himself so it'll be more like a playmate for him," Rodney whined.

John shook his head and looked at Lorne. "So, about those personnel files…"

"What are you doing in the mess hall?" Rodney looked up at the family as they settled in their usual table. "You usually do dinner at your place."

Teyla set Torren's tray in front of him as John pulled the high chair over for Charin and placed her in it.

"It's meatloaf night," John replied. "TJ insisted."

"Are we the only ones here?" Teyla asked looking at the empty table. "Is Jennifer on duty?"

"Not on duty, but working, yeah." Rodney frowned but dug into his mashed potatoes.

"And Ronon and Amelia?" John sat next to their daughter and began cutting her dinner into smaller sizes. She enjoyed this meal almost as much as her brother. Baths were definitely in the schedule for tonight.

"That's why Jennifer's working. Amelia went into labor."

"Oh, when did this happen?" she asked, pleased the baby was finally on his way. Amelia had been getting very uncomfortable at this late stage.

"Few hours ago," he said shoveling more food in his mouth. The man certainly did like to eat.

"And nobody told us," John said, his eyes narrowing.

"You had your kids at the playground and Ronon didn't want to disturb that. And babies take a long time according to Jennifer. I'm sure we'll hear when it gets closer."

John's gaze moved around the room then back to his meal. "We don't have to do anything, right?"

Teyla patted her husband's hand. "I believe Jennifer will have everything under control. As long as Ronon is there, Amelia will be fine. They do not need us interfering."

"Good."

"Rodney, John tells me you also have excellent news. You and Jennifer will be doing this as well in a few months."

Rodney's eyes flew up and his expression was of fear. "We've still got six months, not a few. Please don't rush this. I'm petrified as it is."

"What is there to fear?" She placed her hand on Rodney's arm and he stopped pushing food in his mouth.

"How about dropping the kid, or forgetting to feed it? Or sticking it with a pin when I change a diaper? Or just being so engulfed in my work that I ignore it? I don't think I'm cut out for this father thing."

"Pins in a diaper? You know what century this is, McKay?" John chuckled.

"You can always ask John anything you need to know. He is an excellent father." She felt John's warmth and love come her way and sent it back. He was an excellent father and she could not ask for better.

"I can help you, Unca Rodney," Torren said and pushed onto his knees so he was more at eye level with the man. "You just needa give him meatloaf and make sure he gots lots of gravy on his mashed potatoes."

"That's all it takes, huh?" Rodney said, his mouth quirking into a small grin.

"And buy him a puppy and lots of toys. And don't make him watch his little sister all a time."

John threw a look at their son and then her. His thoughts came through clear. They would stay aware of how often they asked the boy to watch Charin.

"We're only having the one right now," Rodney said. "That might be plenty for us."

"It okay to have more. A lot of times it's fun playing with a sister. Just not when she has a poop in her diaper. Then it's yucky."

Teyla exchanged looks with her husband again. They should have Rodney chat with Torren more often. It was quite informative.

"Any other words of wisdom for Uncle Rodney?" John asked.

Torren glanced quickly at his parents then lowered his voice. "Don't kiss Auntie Jen all a time in front of a baby." Their son's face squished up, his nose wrinkling. "But you can kiss the baby when he's ready for bed. And read him lots of stories. You gotta read lots of stories."

John reached across the table for her hand and squeezed. It was as much as he would do in public. However, in private they were much more demonstrative. Perhaps too much so in front of their children. But John always said children needed to see how much their parents loved each other. He thought it was important. She did not disagree.

As they finished up their meal and attempted to wipe down the children, their comms went off with Ronon's voice.

"Hey Sheppard, Teyla, McKay. We got something here you might want to see."

John's smile widened though Rodney's turned down.

"Is Amelia up for visitors," she asked, knowing how exhausting it was delivering a child.

"As long as it's not Wraith, yeah."

"Todd and his queen left a few hours ago, pal," John informed them. "I'm surprised he didn't want to stay and watch."

"He did," McKay whispered, making sure his comm was off. "The Marines made sure to escort him safely out of the city."

"Well, come on down and see my son." Pride was evident in their friend's voice.

"Be there in a few," John said, tapping his ear piece to sign off.

"It's a boy," Rodney said.

"A boy," John repeated then titled his head. "We knew that, didn't we?"

"Yes, we did," Teyla chuckled. "Though we do not know his name. We will only stay for a few minutes to offer our congratulations. I am sure Amelia is tired and needs to rest."

After cleaning up, they all walked to the infirmary and moved to the private back room Amelia was in. Teyla reminded the children not to touch anything and to stay quiet.

Ronon sat next to his wife on the edge of the bed, a small wrapped bundle in his arms. The expression on his face was priceless. John would call it a shit-eating grin.

"There's the proud papa," John said, his voice hushed when he saw Amelia's eyes closed. "Pretty amazing stuff, huh?" John shifted Charin in his arms and gazed down into the blanket.

"Yeah," Ronon softly grunted. "She's amazing," he said, looking at Amelia whose eyes flittered open. "And this little guy…"

John pushed aside the fabric. "Kind of leaves you speechless, doesn't it?"

"Like Conan's so wordy to begin with," Rodney muttered.

"How are you feeling, Amelia?" Teyla asked as Ronon and John made goofy faces at the infant. Rodney merely peeked over John's shoulder like he was afraid he would catch something.

Amelia's eyes drifted closed then opened again, a smile lighting up her face. "Blissfully happy but tired and sore. He's a big baby. Almost nine pounds."

Rodney's face scrunched up and he stared at Ronon. "Well, look at dad."

"Sorry, Lia." Ronon leaned down and pressed a kiss to Amelia's head. "And thank you."

Amelia's hand crept into Ronon's and they shared an intimate look.

"So, what's his name?"

Ronon looked down at his wife and grinned. Her smile grew brighter as she said, "We wanted to honor both our families so we named him after Ronon's dad and mine. His name is Arik Robert Dex."

John nodded. "Good name."

"Yes, he is beautiful, but I am sure you would both like some time to be together as a family. And to rest. We should be going. Please let us know if you need anything." Teyla took Torren's hand and touched John's elbow.

John made a last face at the child then punched Ronon on the shoulder. "You did good, Chewie."

Ronon nodded then went back to gazing at his son. Amelia pulled on his arm and he moved closer so they could both stare.

"Is that what I have to look forward to?" Rodney asked as they walked toward the transporter. "Just staring at the kid sleep all day long?"

"They don't do much more when they're that small," John replied.

"Except eat and poop," Torren chimed in. "I like 'em better when they don't do that."

"I'm with you, Torren," Rodney said. "Think I can order one that doesn't do that?"

Torren looked up at her and John with a question in his eyes. They both sent him the same message.

"I don't think you can, Unca Rodney. They gotta eat to get bigger. And when they eat, they poop."

Teyla loved that their son had started using his mind to think through concepts. He was growing so fast.

Rodney headed toward his quarters that were fairly close to the infirmary, Jennifer's choice, and their family entered the transporter.

"Can I press the right place on the map?" Torren asked, moving toward the screen and lifting his finger to the area of their apartment.

"Sure, TJ, you know where it is." John said. He still was not old enough to go anywhere on his own but they wanted him knowledgeable of the city in case of an emergency.

Before he touched it, the doors slid closed, the transporter hummed then the doors started to open.

"Charin," Torren whined and turned a pouty face to his sister. "It was my turn."

When the doors opened all the way, John snorted and shook his head. They were at the playground.

"You have been to the playground plenty today," Teyla told her daughter who only giggled and pulled out the dog tags from around her father's neck to play with them.

Torren touched the screen and turned to hold his hands up wide. "It my turn and we needa go home. It time for a story and almost bed."

"And a bath first," John whispered to the child in his arms. Her laughter got louder. She did love to be in the water.

An hour and many stories later, Teyla finally shut the light off in Torren's room, adjusting the night light. The shadow of Guinness on the bed, searching for the perfect spot, moved. The dog was not supposed to be up there but for tonight she would allow it. She had a feeling the dog jumped up there most nights after she left anyway.

John met her in the hallway as he walked out of Charin's room.

"Charlie's asleep," he informed her and she gritted her teeth. He so loved to give nicknames to everything. And their dear Charin Elizabeth had been subjected to this one.

"Yes, and I suppose I need to tidy up the bathroom after the whirlwind of bath time."

"We can get that later," John said taking her hand and leading her to the balcony off their living room. It was her favorite spot in the apartment, especially at sunset.

She leaned against the railing and John rested behind her, his hands on the railing beside hers. It was wonderful being wrapped up in the cocoon of his arms this way.

"TJ's birthday is in a few weeks," John said softly near her ear. "We should start thinking about what we want to do for him."

Nodding she said, "Yes, it is hard to believe he will be five. It seems like only yesterday he was born."

John stiffened behind her and she could tell he was thinking about how he'd almost lost her to Michael and the Wraith. Leaning deeper against him, she slid her hands over his and sent reassuring thoughts to him.

"Why don't we ask him what he wants?" John said, his lips skimming her ear. "He's old enough now and we can just set some limits."

She laughed. "Yes, we need to stipulate there will only be one cake and he cannot plan to have nothing but candy for the meal."

"Aww, I like candy…and cake."

"As do I but…" her words drifted off as John's nose nuzzled into her neck and his lips touched her shoulder.

She allowed herself the pleasure of her husband's touch and gazed off into the distance. This view was spectacular. You could see much of Lemuria as well as Atlantis further in the distance settled next to her mother. A sense of calm washed over her.

The last year had brought so many changes but many of them good. John's promotion to leader of Lemuria had allowed him to be closer to home for his family. And when he got tired of the paperwork or day to day organization, he would settle into the chair and delve into the inner workings of the city. And as commander of the city, it was his prerogative to take a puddle jumper and visit any of the worlds in the system. He enjoyed being the one to make major decisions. And he had come to be a very sensible and wise leader.

With Todd's conversion of many of the Wraith, and the limitless supply of ZPMs, the dangers in this galaxy were much less. Not that they didn't have infighting amongst the Coalition and spurts of unconverted Wraith attacks, but they were fewer and more easily managed.

And with the supply of ZPMs it was far less complicated to go back to Earth. John was happy here in Pegasus knowing he could still contact and see his brother. Yes, she was content.

"Ronon looked like he'd just won an epic battle, holding that kid of his today."

Nodding, she said, "Yes, I am very happy for both of them. We have all come so far since this journey began many years ago."

John chuckled in her ear and his arms held her tighter. "Yeah, we've definitely had a few bumps along the way but I think it all worked out pretty well. I don't know what I ever did without you and the kids. Seeing Ronon holding that newborn today, man, it brought back memories. Holding TJ in that dart. Being there when Charlie was born. Makes you almost wish…"

Teyla turned in his arms and slid her hands along his shoulders. "What do you wish, John?"

"It's silly. We've got two great kids and I shouldn't ask for anything more."

"But more children would be nice. Is that what you are saying?"

John narrowed his eyes and she could feel him digging in her head. She had her ways of keeping secrets from him until she was ready to share them.

His hands surrounded her back and pulled her flush against him.

"What are you saying, Teyla?"

She reached up and pressed a kiss to the lips she so loved. "In about eight months you will get your wish."

The smile he threw her way was nothing compared to the love from his heart that infused with hers. No matter what life threw at them, nothing could take that away.

~ The end of this story – definitely not the end of John and Teyla's story ~