Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Ivy woke up feeling not at all rested. It didn’t surprise her considering last night’s activities and effort, but she didn’t like the feeling. Not opening her eyes, she reached out to snuggle up to Harley, but found her side of the bed empty. Usually, I’m the first one up. How long did I sleep?

She groaned to herself as she rolled over and checked her phone. 11:23 AM! Harley usually wakes me up long before this, when I oversleep. She forced herself to sit up, with great effort. Not having the energy to bother what she was wearing, she put on a fresh pair of panties and the shirt she had discarded on the floor the night before, and went out into the kitchen.

“Mornin’ sleepyhead.” Harley walked over from the stove and gave Ivy a kiss on the cheek. She was wearing yesterday’s shorts and Ivy’s ‘Tree Hugger’ shirt. “I don’t know what it was you did exactly, yesterday, but you’d barely finished talking before you were out cold. So, I thought it best to let you sleep in.” She grabbed Ivy’s hand and sat her down at the kitchen table. “You just sit there. I’ll make you some late breakfast when Lou and Bud have had their lunch.”

A second later she launched two pieces of meat she’d been cooking across the room where the two hyenas had been sitting. I did not know those two could be this calm.

“I promised them some extra good lunch if they behaved while you slept,“ Harley said, as if she’d read Ivy’s mind. “What d’ya say to pancakes?” she asked as she started clean the pans.

“That’d be nice.”

Harley turned on the radio, humming along to the music as she made the pancake mix.

“We’re running low on oat milk. Would you be sweet and note it down?”

“Of course.”

The smell of pancakes filled the kitchen, and soon a plated stack was placed in front of Ivy. A moment later Harley placed jam, sugar and syrup on the table and joined Ivy with a few pancakes of her own, and the two started eating.

After a while, Harley spoke up. “So, how does this pregnancy work? I assume it’s normal in the sense of me having to stay away from things that can be bad for the kid and such, but are there things unique to this I need to be aware of? Like, do I need to make sure getting extra sunlight?”

“No, no. It should be more or less like a normal pregnancy. You’ll be sharing nourishment through an umbilical cord and—”

“She’s gonna have a bellybutton?” Harley suddenly exclaimed.

Ivy chuckled. “Yes, she will. Your body will treat it as a regular pregnancy—with all the usual symptoms. And she will develop like a child normally would. Later I should be able to sense her, if I touch you. Though I’d still like us to do regular radiology checkups, just to be entirely sure all is right. Though I’m sure I did everything right, just I don’t want us to be surprised by sudden complications. I it would—.”

Ivy cut herself off as she felt Harley’s hand on her own. “Look at you. Less than a day and you’ve already got all the plans and worries.” Their fingers interlocked in a pattern of white and green, and Harley continued: “You must have been thinking about this for months; way before you asked me. Now, you asked me, and I said yes. We’re doin’ this, together. It’s on both of us to make sure she grows up healthy. To make sure she knows she’s loved. It’s no longer just you. Remember that.” Harley moved a chair and sat down next to Ivy. She freed their hands, and placed Ivy’s beneath the shirt, on her pale lower abdomen. “Try if you can feel her.”

“I’m not sure if I’ll be able to. It might be too early. But I’ll give it a try.” Ivy closed her eyes and focused. She blocked out the sensation of plants around her and pushed her senses forward, through her hand. Nothing. Look deeper, search for smaller signs. It’s barely a sprout. So, she did. She tried to block out every sensation around her. The radio, the happy yelps of the hyenas. Nothing. The aftertaste of the food, Harley’s breathing—even the warmth of the skin beneath her palm. Focus. It must be there. Suddenly, she felt a small, new sensation. It was so small she was amazed that she could even feel it, but she did. A tiny spark of life. A seed that had only just begun the long process of setting roots into the unusual soil it would grow in. It was there and alive.

“I feel her!”

“You do?” Harley’s excited words broke her focus and caused the world to flood back in around her. She lost track of the tiny spark of life.

“Well, it is barely her yet. I don’t think the seed and egg have fully joined yet, so it was hard to find, but it is there. It really worked.” She shifted her hand and began caressing Harley’s back.

“Of course it did.” Harley smiled at her. “So, should we tell people we’re expecting? Or is it a little early? I think I’d rather wait. I like it just being the two of us knowing, for now.”

“It would be a little early, yes.”

“But we can’t wait too long. King Shark is gonna be so excited when we tell him. He’ll probably start looking for kiddie things with ladybugs. But we should tell Catwoman as one of the first. I think she’d be a bit insulted if we don’t.”

“Of course. But as you said yourself, that is for later. For now, I’d like to finish my breakfast.” Ivy said and put a piece of syrup-soaked pancake into her mouth.

Delicious.

Chapter Text

To Ivy, there were few other places like her rooftop greenhouse. Though it was built on top of their apartment building, the soundproofing made sure not a single noise from the outside would make its way in. It was her lush safe haven in the sea of concrete and stunted nature. She had carefully picked every single plant, to make sure not even the smallest flower would lack sunlight or nourishment, and the air in here would be perfect. She had had an automatic watering system installed, to take care of the plants when she wasn’t around, but she rarely had to use it, as she made sure to water the plants herself, as often as she could.

I hope our girl will love this place as much as I do. I would love to be able to share it with her someday—maybe it could become a place of safety and peace for her, as it is for me. She gently caressed a vine, which curled around her arm in response to the touch. She spoke, but not to the plants.

“Are you going to be able to feel the Green like me? Will you be able to sense the pain and life of the beauty that is plant life? Will they respond to your will and love, like they do to mine?”

She gently freed herself of the vine “Even if you won’t be able to sense the plants like I do, I’m excited to share this space with you.”

She closed her eyes, and basked in the feeling of the warm sunlight washing over her. “I know there’s a long time until then, but I can’t wait to meet you, my sweet child.”

Chapter Text

“Iiiivy.” Harley’s tired voice rang through the apartment.

Ivy put down the book she had been reading, and walked to the bedroom. “Is everything alright, babe?” Inside, Harley was rolled up in both her own and Ivy’s cover, flanked by a worried hyena, on each side. “This doesn’t look good. How do you feel?”

“Bad. I really don’t wanna to get out of these covers.”

Lou put his head on Harley’s and let out a soft whine. “Don’t worry boy, it’s not that bad. Mama’s gonna be alright.” Harley said, gently caressing the hyena’s head.

“Aw, you poor thing,” Ivy cooed. “Would you like to stay in here, or do you want me to carry you to the living room?”

“Living room sounds nice. Less risk of getting bored. Boys, can you move a bit away from mama so Pammy can get to me?” Bud and Lou both let out short unhappy whines, but did as they were told, making room for Ivy to pick the rolled-up clown, up into her arms.

“This is nice,” Harley hummed, as Ivy lifted her form the bed. “I could get used to moving around the apartment like this.”

“Too bad I’m only gonna do this when you’re sick… Or sometimes when I’m in the mood for fooling around in the sheets.”

“Sex sounds nice. Maybe as a treat because poor Harley is sick?”

“Harls, you need to rest so you can get better.” Ivy tried to sound stern but she couldn’t help but smile. “I’ll find you another treat. Maybe a soda?” she suggested as she put Harley down on the couch.

“That’d be nice. Also, maybe get a bucket too. Ya’ know, just in case. Also-also, can Lou and Bud be allowed on the couch today? Cause poor Harley is sick?” Harley pleaded, shooting Ivy her biggest doe eyes.

“Alright, but only because poor Harley is sick.” She turned to the two hyenas and patted the armrest at Harley’s feet. “Hop up. You can stay on the couch today.” First, they looked at Ivy, skeptically, then they turned and looked questioningly at Harley.

“Yes, it’s alright.”

When they understood what they were being told, they both let out a series of happy giggles and hopped up. Harley let out an “Oomph,” as they landed on the couch and her. They each found a spot to lay down, and started letting out low, satisfied whoop, sounds. “Sometimes I forget how heavy you boys are,” Harley laughed beneath covers and hyenas.

What a cozy sight they are. Ivy thought to herself, as she turned and walked to the kitchen. I should make something light for Harley, later. She pondered what to make as she picked out a soda Harley liked. Then she noticed the bananas in the back of the fridge. I could make a smoothie. That’ll be sure to fit her tastes. And probably a sandwich on the side. But first, her drink. She grabbed the soda from the fridge, along with a coaster from the cupboard, and went back to the living room. Inside, she found all three occupants of the sofa to be fast asleep.

She gently placed the coaster and soda on the table, stepped back and snapped a picture of the sight. They look adorable, all three of them. To think they can be so calm. Ivy smiled to herself. The smoothie will have to wait. Wouldn’t want to risk waking them up. She planted a kiss on Harley’s cheek, before sitting down in a chair, returning to her book.

She’d barely hit the chair, before she remembered about the bucket. She sighed to herself, as she put the book back down and went and fetched a bucket from the bathroom. Then she once again let herself fall in to the chair.

A few hours later she was gently rocking Harley, to wake her up. “I’ve got a sandwich and a smoothie for you. Try and eat what you can.”

“Thanks, Ive. You’re the best.” She adjusted herself to sit up, she seemed to realize there were no longer any hyenas on top of her. She glanced around the room. “Where’re the boys?” she asked, mouth full of a bite of sandwich.

“I let Bud out to do his business, and he didn’t want to join you on the sofa afterwards, so I let him out in the courtyard. Lou joined him shortly after. How do you feel?”

“Better. Though still not well enough to leave these blankets… Never mind, I can feel I also need to do some business. I’ll be right back,” she said, getting out of the sheets and rushed to the bathroom. When she returned, she stopped halfway to the sofa, turned and stared at the slightly charred, stuffed beaver, that was standing on a shelf. At first, she seemed annoyed, but then her face turned smug.

“Ha! You’re just jealous I get all these goodies, from my girlfriend. Also, you’re a beaver. No way this stuff would be good for ya. If you’re nice I could ask Ivy to bring some leaves and fallen branches, when she brings Lou and Bud back up.” This was followed by another short moment of silent staring. “That’s your loss then.” Harley said sticking her tongue out at Bernie, seemingly ending the conversation. She then returned to the sofa.

“So, what did Bernie want?” Ivy asked, as Harley was finishing her sandwich.

“In short, he said you were spoiling me.” Harley said, licking fingers. “Not that he’s wrong. He’s just a bit grumpy today. Says the hole in his stomach is itchy.”

“Should I… uh, scratch him there?”

“Nah, he hates it when people touch him there, when he is grumpy. Just leave him be. He’ll get over it soon enough. Could you help me get rolled up again?”

“Sure, one snack roll coming up,” and shortly after Harley was once again covered in blankets.

“Much better. Could you hand me the remote? I wanna see if there’s anything interesting on TV.”

“Sure, catch.”

Harley spent a minute zapping through the channels, mumbling about how none of them was showing anything interesting. “Everyone is talking about another breakout at Arkham. It’s no big deal. We’ve done it like, a hundred times! Ugh, I’m putting on a movie instead.”

Half an hour later Ivy got up from her chair. “I should probably get the hyenas. I’ll be back in a moment.”

Down in the courtyard, the hyenas were resting in the shade of a tree, seemingly having finished playing for now. Ivy gave a quick whistle to get their attention. “Time to get back up again, boys,” she said, gesturing inside. The two happily ran back up the stairs to their apartment, and Ivy followed right behind them. Back inside, the two hyenas laid down at the foot of the sofa, and Ivy returned to the chair, once again focusing on the film on screen.

By the time the credits rolled, Harley looked like she was ready to pass out.

“I see you’re struggling to stay awake. You just sleep, sweet pea. I’m going to make dinner in the meantime.” She got up and stroked Harley’s cheek. “I’ll also make sure the boys get theirs. I’ll wake you up when it’s ready. Alright?”

Harley just nodded and closed her eyes. As she walked to the kitchen Ivy pondered what to make. She ended up settling on just making a simple pasta dish with onions, mushrooms and basil. She chopped up the ingredients, mixed them with salt, and put pasta in the boiling water. While it cooked, she started topping up the hyenas’ bowls with food and water. She’d barely started pouring the feed, before she heard the click-clack and whooping as two hyenas made their way to the kitchen. “Your bowls being refilled never goes by your ears huh?” Ivy asked, giving each of them a smile, and scratching each behind the ear. She then washed her hands, and took the pasta off the stove. She mixed the freshly boiled pasta with the rest of the ingredients, and plated a small portion for Harley, and a larger one for herself.

“Dinner’s up Harls” she said softly, stroking Harley’s messy hair. The ivory woman slowly hoisted herself up into a sitting position, looking at the food in front of her, seemingly barely awake. “Thanks. Though I don’t think I can eat all of it,” she mumbled, and slowly began eating.

“Don’t worry. If there are any leftovers, I’ll put them away for later. You just eat what you can.”

Harley ate about half of what Ivy had put out for her, before laying down again.

“You just go back to sleep. I’ll carry you back into bed, when I want to sleep.”

“Thank you.” Harley mumbled, seemingly already half asleep.

I hope she feels better tomorrow. I don’t like seeing her like this. I hope this isn’t going to cause any complications with the— No, Ivy! Don’t think like that. She’s just sick. It’s got nothing to do with the pregnancy. At most, early onset of morning sickness. I need to distract myself from these thoughts.

She glanced at the clock on her phone. The evening news started a few minutes ago. I could see what the breakout was about. She turned on the TV and turned down the volume.

“At 02:37 AM, last night, the GCPD received a breakout alert from the Arkham Asylum. When they arrived on site, multiple inmates had already escaped notable escapees include Riddler and Joker—their whereabouts are currently unknown. So far, no deaths have been reported, but many among the staff has been injured. We’ve reached out to the current director of Arkham Asylum—who is it again? never mind, it’s not important—but he has refused to comment on the situation—.”

Ivy turned the TV off. Harley’s not going to be happy to hear Joker is out again. I’d also prefer him being locked up in the coming months…

She spent a while, looking at the beautiful blond woman on the sofa. I hope she feels better tomorrow.

Chapter Text

Harley was sprawled over the sofa, having just thrown her phone away for the tenth time this hour. “Bernie, when did Ives say she was gonna be back?” she asked the small beaver on the living room table.

“Beats me. You two were in another room when she said what she was gonna do, so I couldn’t hear a thing.”

“Ugh!” Harley threw her head back in frustration. “Why is waiting so damn boring? And nerve-racking?”

“What has got you so worked up? You got a date planned and you’re afraid you can’t find a restaurant with a spot?” the beaver asked?

“What? No. Ivy and I need to have a talk bout’ how the kid is gonna affect our life—changes and such—and I am really not ready for it, but we need ta’ do it. I want her to be home soon so we can get it over with so my nerves can stop being on fire.”

“Then shoot her a message and ask when she’s gonna be home. Or ask her to come home now.”

“No, she’s got things she needs ta’ do, and while this is important to me, it can wait. I don’t want to worry her—wait, was that the door? Daffo doll, is that you?”

“Yes. Just getting in.” came the response, from the entrance. “I’ll join you in a minute. Just going to put some groceries away.”

A few minutes late a slightly tired looking Ivy walked into the living room. “You look tense, peanut. Is everything alright?”

“I…” Harley paused to find the words she was looking for. “We need to talk… About how our lives are going to need to change. For her,” she put a hand on her abdomen.

“You’re right.” Ivy sat down in the sofa, next to Harley. “I’ve also been thinking about it, but haven’t said anything. It’s still early. But I see it’s important for you.”

“Thank you.”

The two sat in silence, both hesitant to take the word. Harley was the one to break the silence.

“I’ll have to put some things on hold in the coming months. Roller derby is definitely one of those things. And I’ll also have to tone down some of my ventures. Even if I get out of a fight with only a few bruises, there is a risk of her being badly hurt. But I won’t stop, completely. I would die from boredom without the excitement of hammering someone, from time to time!”

“While it is important for you to get exercise, but I would prefer if most of it was more low-key, with less risk of injury.” Ivy paused for a moment. “With you having to do less work, at some point, I’ll have to pick up some of the slack... I could up the payments from some of my extortion targets, but I’ll have to be careful not to pressure them too much…” Ivy’s voice trailed off, as she seemed to go through her options in her mind.

“We could get someone to forge some papers, and I could take up a temporary job as a psychologist. I’ve done it before without too much trouble.” It takes forever to do the foundation, but I’ve led a life like that before. I can do it again. And it’s probably not even gonna be a full year this time. “Have I mentioned that’s how I met Cy?”

“You have. It’s not a bad idea. You having a job would also limit the risk of you getting bored and seeking out trouble.” Ivy flashed Harley a teasing smile.

“Oh, shut up, Ivy” Harley laughed back.

“Well, the woman is right. You are—,” Harley shot the beaver an angry stare.

“Zip it, Bernie, or you’re gonna sleep with the boy’s tonight.”

The beaver responded with a quick “Yes ma’am,” and zipped it.

She turned back to Ivy. “So, do you know when I gotta shelve some of the fun stuff?”

Ivy furrowed her brow, as she often did when she tried to remember things. “As we know for certain that conception was about two weeks ago, maybe a month and a half? Earlier with renegade derby, just to be entirely sure.“

Harley frowned. “I’d hoped it would be a little longer. At least I can still go watch. Second-hand excitement is better than nothing.”

“When the time comes, we’ll find other ways of keeping you occupied.” Ivy wrapped an arm around Harley’s waist. “For now, you can keep breaking bones in the ring.”

“You bet I will!” I’m gonna make sure I’m unstoppable in the next few weeks. I’ll be a legend when I step back. I can already imagine the rumors: ‘Harley Quinn. She was fierce in the ring. Unstoppable. But she suddenly stopped for mysterious reasons.’ A smile crept up her lips.

“That smile. Your next opponent is in for a rough night.”

“I plan on going out on the top. People will wonder why I suddenly stopped.”

“If you’re going to be watching, they can just ask you. And at some point, they won’t even have to do that.” Ivy teased, poking Harley in the belly.

“Stop that.” Harley laughed, and grabbed Ivy’s hand. “Hey, how long has it been since last time you tried to feel her.”

Ivy blushed. “Just a few days. I sometimes reach out for her, when I’m having a hard time sleeping. There’s something calming about the connection.”

“And you didn’t tell me?” I envy their connection. I know I’ll feel her another way later. But still…

“I’m sorry. Can I make up for it now?” she opened her hand, and gently reaching towards Harley, who responded by letting go.

Harley leaned into the other woman’s shoulder, when she felt her hand on her abdomen. “What do you feel?”

“She— I feel her, more now. The cells are diving, so there is physically more of her responding to me.”

I really wanna ask questions, but she seems to be deeply focused. Later, Harley.

“What I feel is also more complex. She’s no longer just a few cells. They’re developing into something much more complex. It’s hard to put into words. I wish I could share what I feel, with you.”

“Thank you.” Harley reached out and gently kissed Ivy’s forehead. “You’re trying, and it means a lot. In the future, please tell me when you feel something major. Okay?”

“Of course.”

Chapter Text

“I’m the friggin’ best!” Harley did a celebratory jump-air-punch, but flinched as she landed. “But my side is probably gonna be sore for a while. At least the bastard is much worse off.” She rested against Ivy’s shoulder to give her side a break.

“Careful, honey. You barely gave us time to tend to your scrapes.” Ivy pulled her closer, and kissed her hair.

“That can wait! I am ready ta’ celebrate my last derby evening—for now—being a roarin’ success. UNDEFEATED!” Harley bellowed, making the nearby people pick up the pace. “What did you think, Selina?”

“It wasn’t exactly what I expected when you invited me to watch your last roller derby match. Not my usual kind of entertainment, but seeing you fight a man twice your size, while on rollerskates, was certainly impressive. But why is this your last time? You didn’t tell me when you invited me, and you’ve both been coy about it all evening. I think it’s time you tell me.” Selina shot them both a stern look, followed by an amused smile. “Come on, let an old friend in on the secret.”

“We’re expecting.” Ivy answered calmly, putting a hand on Harley’s hips.

Selina’s face turned from amused to surprise, and then she lit up in a grand smile. “I would never have guessed that to be the reason. Congratulations, you two! How long has it been?”

“About five weeks.” Harley responded with a smile that rivaled Selina’s. “You’re the first to know.”

“Oh, I expected no less,” Selina purred jokingly. “But really, thank you. I am honored to be the first to know. Do you want me to keep it a secret?”

“Please,” Ivy said. “We plan on telling more people at a later date. We might make an event out of it.”

“An event? That sounds exciting. You’ll have to tell me about that later, Ives.”

“Of course.” Ivy turned to Selina. “Harley and I have a table at a restaurant in an hour, to celebrate Harley’s last game tonight. So, I’m afraid we’ll have to go now if we want a bath before then.”

“Ah, what a shame. We’ll have to do a girls’ night out soon. It’s been too long since last time, and with you two having a kid on the way, you won’t have much time for such things in half a year.”

“It has been too long since last time. We’ll find a date, but now, we really need to go. Thank you for the well wishes Selina. Talk to you soon.“

“Yeah, thanks! And thank you for comin’ and watch me kick ass for the last time in a while.”

“It was certainly an experience.” Selina glanced at her phone. “It’s not that late yet. I might be ablet to make it home and get dressed in time to get my hands on some jewelry I’ve had my eyes on for a while. You two enjoy your date.” A moment later Selina was gone.

“Let’s get home and get ready, Ivy.”

“Yes, let’s go.”

The restaurant in question was a quaint little place with plants serving as the primary decorating for both the walls and floorspace. Their dishes had both meat-based and plant-based options, with as many ingredients as possible being locally sourced, making it a favorite place for both of them.

The waiter led the two to a table and handed them each a menu and a wine card. “I will come by soon, and take your orders,” he said, and left them to browse the menu.

Ivy scanned the options, pondering what to get. I could get the lasagna. It’s quite good, but it seems a bit tame considering why we’re here tonight… I haven’t tried their mushroom risotto yet. If it is anything like their other dishes, it’s bound to be delicious. She put down her menu to see that Harley was already stimming by fiddling with a napkin. She must have been quick to decide. “What are you getting?”

“A burger.” She stated plainly.

“We’re here because you’ve had your last roller derby game, before your break, and you’re having a burger? Never change.”

“I have been having a burger-craving for more than a week! Also, you love that about me,” Harley teased.

“I do.” Ivy sighed with a smile as she picked up the wine card. I think I’m in the mood for a red wine tonight. She thought as she looked through the options. A pinot noir doesn’t sound like a bad choice.

“Are you ladies ready to order?” Ivy hadn’t noticed the waiter returning to their table.

“Yes, I’d like your plant based mushroom risotto and a glass of pinot noir.” She answered, collecting the menus and the wine cards, and handed them to the waiter.

“And you?” the waiter asked, turning to Harley.

“A burger and a… cola.”

“Meat or plant based?”

“Meat.”

“Alright, will that be all for now?”

“I think so.” Harley said, turning her attention to Ivy. “So, you mentioned a party to tell people about her. What is your idea? Something like a baby shower?”

“Something akin to that. I’m normally not a fan of the concept of a baby shower, but it just feels wrong not to make a bit of a thing out of telling people that she’s on her way. She is special, after all.”

“I am always in for celebrating someone—her especially. Do you have any ideas already?”

“A few.”

They discussed ideas, locations and food until the waiter brought them their food. By then Harley had already drained her glass, and ordered a second one. With another drink on the way she didn’t hesitate a second to take a large bite out of her burger—a sight Ivy couldn’t help but smile at. She scooped up a spoonful of her risotto and closed her eyes to savour the flavours filling her mouth. This place never ceases to amaze.

“Ue shold twy an’ find—sowy” Harley said, with a mouth full of fries. She took a moment to swallow and started again. “We should try and find a name for her soon. I don’t mind referring to her as ‘her’, but… I’m just excited.” She trailed off, with a smile. “I like the name Lily. Lily Quinzel Isley. Though I’m not set on it, I want you in on deciding. I’m just dreaming.”

“I’m not the only one who’s thinking forward. You’re already combining out names.” Ivy chuckled. “Lily isn’t bad—maybe a bit close to my middle name. We’ll have to sit down and look at names soon. It’ll be fun.”

“What about Iris?”

Ivy raised an eyebrow. “Have you just been looking at plant-related names?”

“Maybe…”

Ivy shook her head with a smile. “You’re such a goof. I love you.”

“I love you too Ivy.”

The rest of the dinner passed with chatter and flirting. When their plates had been empty for a while, the waiter came by and asked if they wanted to order dessert.

“I think I’ll take some of your strawberry sorbet. Do you want anything, Harley?”

“I did have something else in mind, but that is only at home.” Harley said, sending Ivy a sly smile. “I’ll take the same as her.” She told the waiter.

“Alright, I’ll come by with them shortly.”

As the waiter walked away, Harley leaned across the table and whispered “When we get home, I’m taking you straight to the bedroom.”

“I’m looking forward to it.” Ivy whispered back, leaning in, and kissed her. “But I’ll be taking control from there.” She leant back into her chair, enjoying the slight red creeping across Harley’s cheeks.

“Two strawberry sorbets.” The waiter placed a glass bowl of shiny red ice in front of each of them, bringing them out of the moment. “Do you want the cheque now?”

“Yes please. But first, another soda for me.” Harley responded.

“A third? Just how thirsty are you?” Ivy asked, actually surprised.

“Very,” Harley chuckled, running her eyes over Ivy’s body with a cheeky smile, causing Ivy to groan and roll her eyes.

“You better have finished it, along with your sorbet, when I’m done with mine. You promised me a snack when I get home, and I don’t plan on waiting longer than I have to.”

“Don’t worry Ives, I have no intention of holding you back.”

Chapter Text

Ivy had been tossing and turning for hours. She’d come home early in the morning, from having done a talk at a protest for more green areas in Metropolis. She had barely gotten inside the apartment before her phone had gone off with an anonymous tip about a company dumping waste products into the sea, on the coast of northern Gotham. The tip had been very light on details, so she and Harley had put a lot of work into tracking down the place. When they had finally found the place, it had been late in the evening, and Ivy had been more than ready to call it a night, but Harley had been revved and ready to go do something about it, and Ivy had not had the heart to say no. They had gotten home at two in the morning, and Ivy thought she was about to faint, but as soon as her head hit the pillow, she knew it was going to be one of those nights.

According to the alarm clock on the bedside table it had been two hours since then, though it had felt like five. As she laid there, staring at the numbers, she realized this one was different from when she left a few days ago. Did Harley drown another one? I’ll have to ask her in the morning.

She rolled to the other side and was face to face with the sleeping clown woman. With her hair down and no makeup, she looked so different from daytime Harley, but still incredibly beautiful. She smiled and pulled her close. She’s so warm. Ivy spent a while enjoying the feeling of Harley’s body against her own. The softness of her chest and her beating heart beneath, the strong legs intwined with her own, and the steady rhythm of her slow breaths.

She gently put her arm around her girlfriend, and slowly ran it down her back stopping when she reached the small. She put her hand flat against it, and reached out for their daughter. In the past week she had grown a lot, and each time she reached out, she was excited if she could feel a difference—and tonight was no different. She caught the feeling of her, and focused in on her. There was more of her. Ivy felt her a lot clearer than before she left, but there was more. Something different. She closed her eyes and focused in on the new sensation. It was so faint it reminded her of the morning when she had first attempted to reach out for her, but this was different. She felt a rhythmical sensation reach her through their connection. Though it wasn’t strong, the sensation was overwhelming. Before this, their bond had told her that she and Harley had created life—she had felt much like the sensation she felt from every plant around her, but now she could feel proof that this life sprouting within Harley was something grander than a plant. Each time the tiny heart beat, Ivy felt it more strongly. The pulse drew her in deeper until all she could sense was herself, Harley and their child. She could have stayed like that forever—basking in the warmth of the woman she loved and the feeling of their coming child—but she didn’t. Her eyes drifted shut and soon after a calm joyous sleep finally took her away.

When she woke in the morning, Harley was still sleeping in her arms. She gently stoked her blonde hair and softly called her name.

Harley let out a tired, “hmm?” and snuggled deeper into Ivy’s embrace.

“I felt her heart last night.”

Chapter Text

“Harley, you need to hurry or you’ll be running late.”

“I’m almost done. Just need a minute,” Harley yelled back from the bathroom. Applying full body foundation is so much harder than I remember. If I don’t get better at this it is gonna be a long five months. If I get the job.

After a few final touch ups, Harley walked out the bathroom an entirely different woman from the one who had walked in. With a blond wig, a business suit and her skin covered in light foundation, she looked like a fairly regular looking woman.

“All done.” She proclaimed proudly.

“Let me see you.” Ivy walked around Harley several times, studying every inch of her. “Looks good, but it’s missing something.” She stormed off to the bedroom with a “I’ll be back in a second.”

“Didn’t ya tell me to hurry just a minute ago?” Harley shouted after her.

“We’ve still got a few minutes before it’s dire. Here—.” Ivy said, as she unfolded Harley’s old glasses and placed them on Harley’s nose. She took a step back. “Well, well. Doctor Harleen Quinzel. It’s been a while.”

Harley did an over-the-top look over her shoulder. “I think you might have mistaken me for someone else, I’m Harleen Lillian. Though this Quinzel is quite lucky to be acquainted with such a beautiful woman.”

“Quinzel is also going to be late for her job interview if she doesn’t get her ass out the door this moment.”

“A goodbye kiss and then imma go.”

“Alright, come here.”

Score!

A kiss and a taxi ride later, Harley was standing in front of the Pearce Home for Girls. It was a modern looking two-story building placed snugly in a more open area of the city, leaving open skyline all around it. A tall wooden fence cornered off a section, presumably to give the kids to an open-air area to relax or play in.

Alright Harley, time to see if there is some Harleen left to dig up and use, she thought and crossed the stone-paved garden path to the front door. Inside she found herself in a small foyer-like space, with a staircase and an elevator to the left, hallways leading further into the building, in front, and on her right a glass door with a plaque saying “OFFICE”. She gently knocked on the door, and entered. A young man with green coloured hair rose from his desk, and came to greet her, seemingly the only person in the room at the moment.

“Hello. Would you be Harleen?”

“Yes. I’m supposed to meet with Misses Pearce in a few minutes. Could you point me in the right direction?”

“Easy. Her office is the door back there.” He said pointing his thumb over his shoulder. “She’s currently occupied. She told me to tell you to make yourself comfortable. You can go get yourself a drink, while you wait.” He gestured towards a table with a watercooler, coffee machine and a teakettle with a box of teabags. As he sat back down at his desk, she went over, pondered what to get, for a second, and settling on just getting a cup of water. While she filled her cup, she noticed she could look out into the fenced off yard from where she stood. She could see a playground area for the smaller kids and a little garden section with grass, bushes and flowers.

“It looks nice out there.”

“Hmm?” The green haired guy looked up from the screen and followed her gaze. “Oh, yes. We were lucky to get an extremely generous donation from the Wayne Foundation to redo part of the yard, a few years ago. Before that it was all pavement out there. Some of the older girls got to help plan out the garden. We’ve seen all of them outside a lot more, since it was finished.” He was silent for a moment as he watched the kids play. “Oh, I just realized I never told you my name. That’s embarrassing. I’m Jake.”

“Don’t worry about it. We don’t even know if I’ll get the job.”

“I think you will. Between me and you, the other candidates I’ve met didn’t seem nearly as interested, as you do. A bit as if they think of this as just a stop in their career. While this is just a temporary position, to have someone to hold down the fort until our new in-house psychiatrist is available, it’s still important work.”

“I can imagine some of the girls here struggles with some serious things.”

“Yeah. While we do our best to make this a good and safe space, there are things that only people with your skillset can help them with. Oh, I see Janice is here. Nice meeting you Harleen.”

“You too, Jake”

“Ah, Harleen, sorry I’m late, I was held up by something. Thank you for keeping her company, Jake.”

“No problem,” he said, turning back to his computer.

Harley turned to get a look of the woman who could potentially be her future boss. Janice Pearce was a short woman who looked to be somewhere in her fifties, with brown hair spotted with silver in places. She had a very comforting air about her, but Harley assumed she could be quite stern, if need be.

“Thank you for waiting,” she said, holding her hand out for Harley, who took it. “If you would follow me to my office, we can talk, and then I’ll give you a tour of the place. Sounds good?”

“Sure.” She followed Pearce into a cozy little office, with a desk with a computer and an impressive amount of nicknacks.

“Please, take a seat,” Pearce said, gesturing for a chair at the other side of the desk. “So, what was it about this position that caught your attention?”

“I happened to be looking for a new job. As you probably saw in my application, I worked at Arkham, but my life is moving in a direction where a job with riots or breakouts every month just isn’t feasible, so I sadly had to quit. Helping people who really need it, is what kept me there for so long, and I don’t think I could just go to a private practice and talk to regular people—not to say that is bad or anything, it is also important work—I just wouldn’t have my heart in it. But this, helping your girls… I know I’ll be able to give them my all. How they feel living in this place, can go on to shape how the rest of their life plays out, so I want to help them get the best possible future.”

A moment passed before Pearce spoke again. She musta been stunned by my heartfelt words.

“You are aware this is a temporary position, right?”

“Yes, I am aware. It actually fits my situation well… ah, screw it. I’ll stop beathing around the bush. You don’t seem like the type of person to take this as a negative. I’m pregnant, so this just being five months fits me quite well.”

“Oh, congratulations. I’d love to ask more about that, but I’m going to keep this to business for now. I can always ask later, if you get the job.” She gave Harley a smile, before continuing. “I’d like you to tell me a bit about yourself. Like, what you like to do in your spare time, or such. Just to get to know you a bit.”

“Alright. Up until recently I did a more extreme version of roller derby. It was quite fun, but I’m taking a break for obvious reasons.”

“So, no protection?”

“Yeah.” Let’s not mention the weapons and broken bones. “I love helping my girlfriend with her plants and chemistry work, even though I don’t get what half of what she says when she is in those modes—she’s very smart. I’ve also got two…” What was I supposed to call them? Oh right, “dogs. Very playful. Love their mamas. I’m the type to kinda just decide on something, and then do it. You know, get an idea, go all in on it for a while and then loose interest and go on to do something else. Uhm… Yeah, I think that’s a good primer on me.”

“Right. I don’t have any more questions for you, so you ask any you might have. If you don’t have any, we can just go on to the tour of the place.”

“Not a question. I just want you to know if any of the girls tell me something bad is happening to them, I will not hesitate to take action. Report it to the authorities if necessary.” Or give them a visit as Harley Quinn. “I don’t expect anyone here to be like that, but I know from personal experience how twofaced otherwise nice seeming people can be.”

“Good. I expect nothing less of you. This is our girls’ home, and I won’t allow anyone to make this an unsafe place for them.”

“Great! Then I’m ready to see this place.”

Pearce’s Home for Girls looked to be a nice place to live. Spacious rooms for different activities, be they creative or for play. The yard had the garden and playground section Harley had seen before, but also a large open area for the kids to run around and play, along with a small multi-purpose sports field, where some girls were currently playing soccer.

The office that hopefully was to be hers soon was a nice spacious room. At one end there was an adjustable desk with a computer, next to a large window with outlook over the yard; at the other end of the room two sofas at a table were placed. “If you get the job, you’re welcome to bring some things to make the space a little more personal. Plants, pictures and such.”

Then I’ll have to get a picture of Ivy with a boring skin color. Green fits her so well, though it was enough of a risk to use her middle name as ‘my’ last name. I just couldn’t not do it. It would be a problem if they figured out the woman they hired is actually Harley Quinn. Even though I’m just here to help the girls, they probably wouldn’t see it that way. Wait, do even I know someone who’s good at photo editing? I hope I do. I think I might be able to get away with having a normal picture of the boys. They probably look dog-like enough for people to not question anything.

Pearce broke Harley’s stream of thoughts with: “I think that was all. We’re only going to show you how the girls’ rooms are, if you’re hired. I don’t want to overrun them with strangers. Got any final questions while I walk you back to the entrance?”

“No. This place looks nice. The girls seem happy. I hope I get to help you keep it that way. They deserve a good life.”

“I still have one interview left to do, but I must say, there’s a great chance you get the position. I can feel you’re passionate about this.” Pearce excitement seemed to fade. “Five months isn’t a long time to get to know the girls, and build trust with them. I hope this changing of psychiatrists in rapid succession isn’t going to cause any issues. We have told them that whoever we hire now, is just going to be here for a handful of months, but I still can’t help but worry… Sorry, this isn’t your problem.”

“I disagree. If you hire me, part of my obligation is going to be to make the transition to the new person as smooth as possible. I really hope you aren’t overworking yourself.”

“Oh, don’t worry about me. It’s just this that’s causing some worries. Our previous psychiatrist resigned quite suddenly due to health issues, so we’ve been scrambling to get the position filled as fast as possible. Normally running this place is fairly smooth sailing.” They stopped as they reached the entrance. “I’ll be calling you to inform you if you get the position, later today. From there we’ll figure out when you can start, if you do. Sounds good?”

“Yes. Thank you so much for this opportunity. I’d love to work here, so I’ll be keeping my fingers and toes crossed.”

“Get home safe, Harleen.”

“You too.” Damn. “Uh, whenever you get off today.” Harley let out an awkward chuckle.

“Thank you.” Pearce said, walking back into the office area.

“Oh, my god. I need ta get used to be calm Harleen, soon. It was only a short while today, and I am beat. How did I even manage ta live like this in the past?” Harley plopped onto the sofa, next to Ivy, towels still wrapped around her hair and body, from her bath.

“So, how did it go, sweet pea?”

“Amazing! The people I talked to were nice, the place looked nice, and the girls that lived there seemed ta like it. The head honcho seemed ta really like me. Told me I have a good chance of getting the job. I hope I do, cause I really don’t wanna do any more job interviews. Oh, she also suggested that I decorate my office, if I get the job, so I got to thinking I could maybe have a pic of Bud and Lou, and one of you an’ me, there. Though sadly it’ll have to be you, without your sexy green color—and I guess I’ll also need to be a normal color. Anyway, do you know of some computer wizard who might be able to do that?”

Ivy made her thinking face. “I think I might know someone, but that’s for later. For now, I feel like cuddling and watching something. Come here.” She said, pulling Harley closer.

Just as they were getting comfortable, a phone started buzzing. “Ugh, just ignore it.” Ivy groaned.

“No, I think it’s mine.” Harley said excitedly, already halfway over the back of the sofa. “Hello, this is Har—Harleen. Sorry, I had something in my throat.”

“Hi Harleen. Great news, the job is yours! The last guy was a no-show, so the choice wasn’t hard.”

“Yes! Oh, shit.” Harley grabbed the towel that had started sliding off of her. I gotta put on something after the call.

“Is all good?”

“Yeah, just almost dropped something. So, when can I start?”

“How about Monday? I’ll get you into our system tomorrow, so you can read the things the previous psychiatrist could leave behind, in the days up to the weekend. Does that sound good?”

“Yes. I am SO excited to get started!”

“Love the energy. We’ll send you the long-in details for our system by the mail you provided. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. See you on Monday.”

“See ya.”

“Well, that sounded good.” Ivy purred.

“Yes! I got the job! Gimme a sec to change into something comfy and then I’ll be right there to watch trash tv with ya.”

Chapter Text

Harley rubbed the bridge of her nose—she was a bit tired and gladly anticipating the approaching end of the work day. She suddenly remembered she really shouldn’t be rubbing her face like that, and quickly stopped herself, and checked if any skin showed. When she was sure there were no white spots, she let her glasses fall back into place. She had forgotten how just how mentally taxing psychiatrist work could be, but she was happy. It was the good kind of tired. Kinda like what she felt after having spent the whole night beating up creeps and assholes. A day—or night—well spent.

The girls she had talked to so far, had been nice. Some of them had been quick to open up and talk to her, while others had obviously needed time to get more comfortable around her, before the real work could begin. To help them along she told them a bit about herself—well, the Harleen Lillian character she and Ivy had come up with—and she encouraged the girls to do the same. Some did more than others, but all tried which was a great first step. She was proud of the girls, and the work her predecessor had done.

There was only one more girl left for today: a fifteen-year-old by the name of Stephanie. Harley glanced at the clock at the bottom of the computer screen. She’s gonna be here soon. I should open the door a bit to so she knows I’m ready. She spent a few minutes typing up notes until she was interrupted by a couple of careful knocks on the half open door. Behind it stood a somewhat short, black-haired girl.

“Stephanie? Please, come in.” Harley took a step to the side, as the girl gave her a shy nod. She closed the door behind them, and the two walked to the corner with the sofas. The girl sat down in one of the sofas, and Harley took place in a close by chair.

“My name is Harleen. I’m holding down the fort for the next five months. I was told you asked for sessions between my predecessor leaving and me being hired, so I assume we’re starting from scratch. So, when you’re ready, tell me what’s bothering you?”

It was a short while until Stephanie spoke. “I…” She paused for a moment, before she continued in a slightly hushed tone. “I have found out I’m a metahuman.”

“That is quite a thing to discover about yourself. Have you told anyone?”

Stephanie shook her head. “No… I’m scared out how people will react. Maybe they’ll look at me differently, or expect me to put on a superhero suit or rob a bank. And there’s this girl I kinda like, and I think she likes me too. What if she’s going to think I’m weird? Then it’s all ruined!” The girl stopped her flood of worries, Harley guessed it was because she self-conscious about what she had just said.

“Take a breath.” She sent Stephanie a gentle smile. “It’s natural to be worried when a large part of your identity turns out to not be as you thought. It can be a good thing; it can help you discover people in your circle who might not be accepting, but it often goes overboard. What do you say to us going over your close friends and try and figure out how they might react? It is often easier to calm your mind when you have thought things through once.”

“Okay…”

They spent a while going over Stephanie’s friends, and her crush, one by one, and try and figure out how they might react. Afterwards they spend the rest of the allotted time discussing how Stephanie could best get used to this new side of herself.

“Time’s almost up, so let’s just end it here for today. I know of some places that specialize in helping metahumans discover their powers, and teach them how to control them in a safe environment. I can refer you, but only when you feel you are ready. For now, just focus on letting this new part of you fall into place, and tell your friends when you’re ready. Alright?”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“It’s my pleasure. See you next week, Stephanie.”

“Bye, Ms. Lillian.”

“Please, just call me Harleen.” Harley was glad to be wearing a thick layer of foundation, as she felt her cheeks getting red. Bein’ referred to by Ivy’s middle name isn’t bad.

After an hour spent scheduling and typing up the final notes, Harley could finally call quits for the day. She was happy. I’ve done really well today. She swung her bag around one shoulder and took a looked around her office. This place is nice. A lot more space and light than my office in Arkham had. Ivy had given her multiple potted plants to decorate her office with. She had put a few in the windowsill next to her office table, a small one the table at the sofas, and found places to put the rest. Ivy might have given me a few plants too many, but I found space for them. She and Ivy had found someone who could edit a picture of the two of them with a quick turnaround time and no questions asked. She was still sad that Ivy was boring-colored, but it was necessary. Those things along with a few personal nicknacks here and there made the office really feel like hers.

She was brought back to reality by a knock and a “Hey, Harleen.”

“Oh, hi Jake. Didn’t hear you come in.”

The green haired man was leaning against the doorframe of her office.

“The door was open. I hope you don’t me dropping in. Got a late shift today and wanted see if I could catch you before you left. Just to say hi and hear how your first day had been.”

“Preciate’ that. It’s been good. I’ve had the chance to get started with some of the girls, and as you see, I’ve also decorated my office a bit.”

“How did the sessions go, if you don’t mind me asking. No details, just how you feel it went.”

“Some girls were a bit cautious about talking to me, but that was to be expected. Not everyone can open up about themselves to at total stranger, so I’ll be working to get comfortable with me. But all tried to participate, so I’d say we’re off to a great start.”

“That’s good. We were all a little worried—you never know if people work out, so it’s a relief it’s going well so far.” Jake paused for a moment, before asking: “Mind if I have a look around?”

Harley swung out a hand. “Go ahead.”

She watched as Jake went around looking at her plants and studying the different knickknacks

“You’ve got a lot of plants. You the green thumbs type?”

“Not really, but my girlfriend is.” Understatement of the year. “She’s a botanist and biochemist, and naturally some of her interest has rubbed off on me.”

“Is this her? She looks a bit familiar…” he asked, bending down over her desk, to look at the picture of Ivy and her. “The picture is great. You look a bit dirty… and scraped? Is there a story behind this picture?

“Yeah, that’s her. Protecting the environment is very important to her. Apparently, some rich ass had established an illegal dumping site it cause dealing with trash in a better way had gotten too expensive. Pam was pissed when she heard about it. We were basically the first ones out there. Anyway, we took that picture after a celebratory dinner.” No need to mention we were the ones who wrecked the place and alerted everyone about its existence.

“She sounds like an impressive woman.”

“She is a-mazing. I’m so lucky to be with her. Speaking of lucky:” Harley walked to her desk and held up the picture of Bud and Lou. “Look at my adorable dogs!”

"I have never seen dogs like these. They kind of look like hyenas."

"People often say that. I found them caged and sad as pups at a run-down adoption center, so I took them in. The people there barely seemed to care about the animals, so I only know they’re mixed breed, but not what kind. But that just makes them my special little boys." The zoo didn't treat them badly, I just knew they would be happier with me.

"They don't look small."

"In my heart they're still my little puppies." Harley said dreamily, thinking back to how small and adorable they had been when she had first gotten them. “Do you have any pets?”

“I have three rats. Loveable little things. I wouldn’t want something much bigger. Rats are relatively easy to take care of. Just need water, food, and having their cage cleaned now and then. And of course, also attention and love.”

“Hmm. Rats. Would I like having a rat as a pet? Probably. They are probably fun.”

“And adorable.” Jake added.

“You’ve gotten a lot out of me about Pamela. Do you have a partner to gush about?”

“Maybe.” He said with a cheeky smile. “But I’m technically at work, so I should get back to that.”

“Aw, come on, Jake!”

Jake just shrugged as he walked to the door. “Catch you later, Harleen.”

“See ya. You owe me details next time though!” She halfway yelled after him.

“Sure thing,” he said, waving at her without looking back. “You’ll get all the juicy details.”

Chapter Text

Ivy went over the plan for the day, step by step, with help of a map of the area. First: a nice trek though the mountainous area, to enjoy the nature and scenery. Then she would take care of the shits ruining nature and when that was done, she would set up camp somewhere nice, and spend the night out in the open. She went over her equipment: camping necessities, a book she had just started reading, some food, a turned off phone for emergencies, a few boxed-up plant sprouts for self-defense, and a gun in case she couldn’t use plants for one reason or another. She had also managed to gather a few hiking maps covering different parts of the areas, just in case she got lost. When she was satisfied, she gathered all of it in a bag, and got ready to leave the hotel room, but stopped with her hand just above the doorhandle. There was something poking in her mind—a sensation gathering in her abdomen. Worry? Anxiety? She went over her equipment again, but all was in order. Was it about Harley? No, she can manage a few days without me. Work is going to keep her busy most of the day. The Bat? I haven’t done anything that could leave any trails, so he can’t possibly know about this. She felt the pang of whatever it was, again. Why do I feel like this all of a sudden. I’ve done hits like this hundreds of times, so why now? She pushed the sensation away. She had a job to do. She could interrogate this later.

The trek to her target was long. She had chosen a less direct route avoiding most of the hiking paths. Less risk of being spotted and more time in nature that was almost truly free of humanity’s grasp. Though her greenhouse and the parks back in Gotham provided much needed breaks from the concrete jungle that was the city, nothing could compare to being in landscapes still fully claimed by nature.

After an hour of walking, she reached a clearing, and decided to take a break. She took off her bag, she sat down in the undergrowth for a break. She took off her footwear and let all the sensations of nature’s life flood her every sense. The wind rustling the leaves, before flowing by her, and gently caressing her skin. She pushed her senses out into every plant around her. The trees, bushes and every little plant in the undergrowth. The relaxing, bustling, sense of life all around her. As she sat there, enveloped by natures wonders, a thought that often crossed her mind, once again crept its way in. I really hope I get to share this sensation—this connection—with our little sprout. A smile tugged at her lips. Sprout. Our little sprout. I like the sound of that. She spent a couple of minutes dreaming of the future, before returning to her meditation. After a while, she then gathered her things, a bit reluctantly, and went on her way, reminding herself she had a whole night and more after she had done what she had come there to do, in the first place.

Another couple of hours went by with hiking interspersed with breaks for relaxing or partaking in nature’s bounty. She could hear she was near the site of her target, before she could see it. People shouting and the whirring of machines easily drowned out the rustling of the trees, and the sight that soon followed wasn’t any better. An area of almost two acres of forest had been cleared and paved over, and multiple large structures had been raised. All of this was surrounded by tall fences with guard towers along the perimeter. Ivy didn’t care what they did in there—they had built their structures on protected land. Land hard won by the few sensible humans who fought for nature’s rights. If whoever built this didn’t care for the sanctity of nature, Ivy wouldn’t care for their lives if they fought back.

She started out by raising a strong tendril around the closest guard tower. The guard at the top screamed as the structure crumbled beneath her. Pained moaning told Ivy the woman had survived. Lucky for her. As she strode in through the hole in the fence, she had roots break the pavement, and vines crush the vehicles that were parked in the area. Soon alarms blared. Some people fled for their lives, while others were getting ready with weapons. Ivy knew she still had time before they would be ready. While rising higher on a root, she reached out and crushed one, two, three guard towers, before turning back to the attackers.

“I give you this one opportunity to flee. If you don’t, I won’t show mercy.”

Many shot each other questioning glances. A few even dropped their weapons and ran, but most stayed. Risking your life, for what? She had a tangled mass of flora grow up around their feet, trapping them in place, before reaching down below the pavement and raising a massive flower that slowly opened and spewed paralyzing spores at them. Some of you might survive this, if you do, be grateful nature spared you.

Then came the most important part. She reached deep down into the earth, and sought out every root and plant below, and with all her might, she urged them to grow. The still remaining pavement was ripped open as the flora that dominated the area before they tore it down for their buildings, forced its way up, reclaiming its rightful place. As the manmade structures crumbled around her, the pang of worry hit her again. Why do I feel this now? Nothing is going wrong. The structure is even illegal so there’s very little risk of this actually causing me trouble. I’m stopping the humans from destroying the earth. I’m helping them leave an earth with nature, for their next generation. That’s when pieces fell into place, and Ivy suddenly understood her worries. Her work had always been important, but now there was more to it than just than just nature’s survival and strength. She was also fighting for the coming generations to have a world with healthy flourishing nature. The world she and Harley one day would leave behind for their daughter, their little sprout, to take over.

Ivy’s arms fell to her side, and with that, the plants halted. She gently lowered herself to the ground, and sat there. She didn’t know what to do with herself other than just sit and experience the tumultuous aftermath the revelation had left in her. Until she felt a longing. A longing for Harley’s presence. A wish to be in her embrace and just fall away. But right now, she couldn’t. They were so far apart, and getting back to Gotham would take hours. But she did have her phone. With tears running down her face, and shaky hands, she dug the phone out of her bag. And I was so worried if Harley would be fine without me for a few days. I need her so much right now. The thing seemed to take forever to wake up to the point where she could call Harley. The first beep had barely ended before Harley’s worried voice came out through the speaker.

“Ivy, are you alright? Do I need to come out an’ get you? Are you crying?”

“I’m— I’m alright,” Ivy managed to get out through a sob. “I just really needed to hear your voice. I really miss you.”

“I miss you too, Ivy. What’s happened?”

“Nothing really happened, it’s just…” she took a moment to steady herself a little. “With the little one on the way, it put what I do into a new perspective. Before I did this just for the sake of all of nature, so it could flourish and be strong, but with her on the way… Now it’s also about the world she’s born into, and the world we’ll one day leave behind for her. I want it to be a great and beautiful world, and in some ways, it is, but there is also so much I could do to make it much better…”

“And sadly, there’ll almost certainly always be some asshole for you to take down. You know I support you in this, like you support me an' my wild ideas. Just make sure you don’t lose me and the little one in this new perspective.”

“Never. I’ll do what I can, like I always have, but I won’t be an absent partner and mother. You mean too much to me.” Ivy sighed as she felt the knot of worry, slowly unravel. “Thank you, Harley. I needed that. I love you.”

“Love you too Red. Do you want me to come and pick you up? I could call in sick for work tomorrow, and come out there and be with you, if you need me to do that.”

“Thanks, sweet pea, but I’ll be fine. I’ll be keeping the phone on, so don’t be afraid to text me or call. Total isolation isn’t the right thing for this trip. See you tomorrow.”

“See you, wildflower.”

Ivy picked herself up, on unsteady legs, and walked back into the forest. She didn’t want to be there for the arrival of police or reinforcements from whatever group had built the place. She slowly made her way back to the clearing she had first rested in. With rope and tarp, she made a simple bivouac under which she spent most of the afternoon and early evening switching between reading a texting Harley. She even took a few pictures of her campsite and surrounding forest for Harley too see. When the sun’s light had waned too much for her to be able to keep reading, she laid down and watched the sky’s colour fade, and the stars slowly become visible. When she felt a few light raindrops hit her, she crept under the bivouac and scooted herself into her sleeping bag. She closed up the bivouac’s open sides with giant leaves, and slowly drifted off to sleep, as the rain pattered on the cover above her.

Chapter Text

“Sorry I’m late. The bus was stuck in traffic-hell.” Harley called from the entrance. “I’m gonna take a bath to get this color off me, wanna join me, Ivy?”

Ivy dragged herself ever so slightly up on the sofa, so she could see her girlfriend. “I’m going to pass this time. I had a long soak bath when I got home, to treat my sore feet. Seems it has been a little too long since my last hiking trip.” Ivy sighed, letting herself fall back down. My poor feet. I hope we won’t be walking too much tonight.

“Then let me give you a massage when I’m done.” Harley suggested. Judging by the sounds of fabric hitting the floor, Harley was probably half-naked before she had even reached the bathroom.

“That sounds amazing. I’ll be looking forward to it.”

Twenty minutes later, Ivy was lying stomach down on the bed, with Harley slowly massaging her shoulders. Her bag must also have done a number on her shoulders, as Harley’s gentle but firm touch gave her the uncomfortable but heavenly sensation of released tension.

“This feels amazing.” Ivy sighed and closed her eyes. “It’s just what I needed.”

“You feelin’ how happy I am to have ya back?” Harley purred, nuzzling Ivy’s neck before moving her hands further down her back.

“I can, and I wish we had time for you to show me even more. How long until we need to be there?”

“Uhm, bout’ an hour, I think. A bit more—hey, get down from there!” Harley suddenly snapped into a sterner voice. “Ivy has my attention now, so you’ll have to wait.”

At the sound of soft squeals from two hyenas, Ivy opened an eye to see Lou standing on the bed, right in front of her, with Bud looking at her from the floor, further back. She had been so absorbed in the feeling of Harley’s hands that she hadn’t heard them come. When Harley next spoke, her voice was a lot softer.

“You boys are happy that Pammy’s back? Me too.” Ivy felt Harley’s hands leave her back, and saw her nuzzle Lou’s snout with her nose. “Come here, Bud. You can also get a bit of attention, but only a little. I’m saving the rest for Ivy.” Bud happily ran around the bed to get some scratches from Harley. “Now run off and play, and let me tend to Ivy.”

As the sound of patter of paws and happy whoops left the room, both of Harley’s hands returned to Ivy’s back. “Need me ta do your lower back, or should I move on to your legs?”

“Legs would be really nice. Yes, right there. Mmm.” Ivy hummed in pleasure as Harley’s hands made their way close to the right spot.

“Have I ever told ya, you have really nice legs?”

“Yes, many times, but that doesn’t mean you should stop. It’s also doesn’t change the fact that we don’t have time for sex before we need to go.”

“Maybe if we made sure to be quick about it?”

“Us, quick?” Ivy chuckled. “You know we don’t stop once we get started.”

“It was worth a try.” Harley shrugged. “Should I move on to the calves?”

“No, a little lower on my thighs, please. Right there, thanks.”

“Just so you know, I expect ya to do the same for me, when I’m carrying our girl’s extra pounds. I’ll also be expecting massages, snack runs, the whole shebang!”

“Quite the declaration. We’ll take it then, but don’t worry: I won’t leave you hanging.”

When Harley had relived Ivy’s thighs and feet, the two cuddled and caught up on what had happened in their time apart, until they begrudgingly dragged themselves from the bed to get ready for the evening.

An hour later Harley and Ivy found themselves sitting in a restaurant with a name neither of them was entirely sure how to pronounce, and of course, Selina was fashionably late.

“How long has it been since the time we agreed to meet here?” Harley asked impatiently.

“Three more minutes since you last asked.”

“Ugh, I’m getting bored. How come she’s allowed to be late, but we aren’t?” Harley pouted.

“Hello ladies, sorry for the delay.” A quite cheery Selina suddenly appeared in front of them. “I was held up by some business. No need to bore you with the details. Have you already ordered?”

“Nah. We thought it would be best if we waited for ya. But now you’re here, so hurry up and sit down. I’m starving.”

“Alright, alright.” Selina obediently sat down and waved over a waiter. A few minutes later they had all ordered and the waiting began.

“So, what has the two of you been up to in the past few weeks?” Selina asked.

“I’ve been a bit busy these past two weeks. I’ve taken down two facilities tha—.”

“I helped with the first one!” Harley interrupted. “Oh, sorry.”

Ivy smiled and continued: “As I was saying: I’ve taken down two polluting facilities. The first was Ace Chemicals trying to dump some of their waste in the ocean. Again. I swear, they’re trying to do that more and more. If they don’t stop, I’m going to blow up their facility and strangle their CEO!” The last part was hissed in a low voice, as to not gather more attention than mere their presence already did. “The other one I dealt with yesterday. It turns out it belonged to Penguin, so I’m lying low for a while. Not exactly hiding—just trying to not gather too much attention. He’s scared of me, so he probably won’t try anything, but with Harley like this I’d rather not tempt him.”

“Look at you. A responsible mother already.” Selina teased.

“I know. She’s amazing.” Harley said, putting a hand on Ivy’s. The conversation paused as the server brought them their drinks. As soon as he had left and Harley started again. “Well, I’d say it’s my turn now. You are not gonna believe this, Selina. I…” she paused for dramatic effect, “have a job now!”

“As in a nine to five job?” Selina asked, visibly puzzled. “Couldn’t Ivy just support the two of you, and you just take I slow for a while?”

“Yeah, she could. But I wouldn’t be able to stand not having anything to do for half a year. I’d go nuts. More than I already am. I also don’t like the thought of her doing all the work, while I do nuttin.”

“Baby, you are doing work. You just aren’t feeling it much at the moment.”

“I guess I could have told myself that you and the concept of ‘taking it slow’ rarely get along.” Selina mused. “So, what is it you’re doing? Psychiatric work?”

“Yes, I am a psychiatrist at a girls’ home. Helpin’ them deal with problems big and small!” She stated, proudly.

“Somewhat going back to your roots, I see. But at a place I assume is a lot more down to earth. You got any interesting stories from there?”

"There are many laws and rules I don't care for, but doctor-patient confidentiality is as holy as Nightwing’s ass is firm." That made Ivy chuckle, and Selina’s mouth did a quick tug upwards. Harley continued: “Though I can say there is one girl who’s dealing with things I didn’t expect to get work with. A very interesting challenge, and I am very happy to help her though it. I’ll be working there for about five months. Just started this week. It’s really exciting, and rewarding. And a very different from my time at Arkham.”

“Which side of the table in Arkham, are you referring to?”

“Employee side. Though while I enjoy working at the girl’s home, I’m glad it’s just a temporary position. In the long run I’d miss the rush of a good fight—I already kinda do. And the excitement of being able to follow an idea unhindered. Well, with a kid I won’t be totally unhindered, but that is different.”

“I get that. Life needs a bit of spice now and then so the fun doesn’t get monotonous.” Selina was quite obviously thinking of something or someone that might recently have spiced up her life recently. She raised a glass. “Cheers to spice!”

A few hours later the three women were aimlessly walking the night-life streets of Gotham. Selina was probably looking for a club or bar that didn’t seem to be too full, which Ivy appreciated. Selina seemed to be in an especially good mood, and not in a Selina-has-a-buzz-on, kind of way.

“Selina, you never told us what you’ve been up to since we last saw you. You seem to be in a good mood, tonight. Any reason for that? Something with you and that Wayne boy?”

“No, we’re… taking a break. But I met a pretty thing recently. A pale redhead, and she is fierce.” Selina let out a “rarw” sound, and laughed at herself. “It’s just something casual, but I quite enjoy her company.”

“Sounds exciting. Can we meet her?” Harley blurted, excitedly.

“I’m not sure that would be a good idea… She’s not much of a fan of my lifestyle, so the two of you might be a bit much for her. But we’ll see how long me and her last. Hey, let’s go in there. It’s rarely crowded this time of night. And if the two of you were to be recognized, it shouldn’t be a problem.”

The place Selina was pointing to was a small bar a bit in on a side street, with a faded sign displaying the name of the place. It didn’t look wildly expensive, but also not so cheap as to be filled to the brim this early in the night.

“Come on. Drinks are on me. Had a bit of a windfall on my way to the restaurant.” Selina called walking to the door.

“So that’s why you were late? At least send a message next time!” Harley yelled after her. “But I won’t say no to free drinks. Let’s go, Ivy!” Harley grabbed her hand and dragged her along.

The inside of the place looked surprisingly comfortable, compared to the unremarkable front. The music wasn’t as loud as to make it impossible to talk to each other and it had comfortable lighting. Overall, it seemed to be going for a casual and comfortable mood and feel. They sat down in a half-circle sofa a bit away from the entrance. Even if Selina had vouched for the place, it felt better to be a bit out of the way.

“So, what does the soon to be moms want? As I said, my treat.”

Ivy stretched her neck to better see the options. “I think I’ll go for a margarita.”

"Could you get one for me, too?” Harley asked. “Virgin." She hurried to add. “Does this place do virgin cocktails?

“Of course. I wouldn’t bring a pregnant woman to a place that didn’t. I’ll be back with your drinks in a moment.” And as she had promised, she was soon back with their drinks.

"So, how has pregnancy been treating you?" Selina asked, handing each of them their drinks.

"I seem to have gotten lucky with morning sickness. It's rare but when it comes it hits me like a baseball bat. I hate going to work on those days, but at least my job isn’t high pressure, so it’s bearable. I swear I also need to pee a lot more than usual. And I’m also just more tired in general. Not fun. But it’s worth it. For her.” Harley put her hand on her abdomen. “I would take a lot more than this, for her.”

“And you will, just wait.” Selina.

“I know! I was just… ugh, never mind.”

“I’m just pulling your leg. Cheers to you, Ivy and the child’s future!” Selina proclaimed, raising her glass, and the two joined in.

“And cheers for auntie Selina!” Harley added. “There is no way you won’t be a part of her life.”

“I’m flattered. I’ll do my best to be a bad influence.” Selina purred with a sly smile.

“We expect no less from you, Selina.”

A few drinks later, Selina suddenly spoke up, after having been silent for a while. “I hope you don’t mind me asking, but how did the two of you do it? There haven’t been any break-ins at S.T.A.R. Labs, and the most recent LexCorp one was me. If you had done it through any services… Wait, did you do it yourselves?”

Ivy felt a herself getting flustered and flushed. She had expected Selina to ask eventually, but she had not expected her to ask so soon. She had also not expected her to be this blunt.

“Yeah. Ivy is the brains behind it.” Harley said, and pointed a thumb in the direction of the increasingly red-faced Ivy. “I just took what she gave me.” Oh my god, Harley, why are you smiling after saying it like that? This is embarrassing!

“You alright Ivy?”

Ivy had to fight against the urge to hide behind her hands. “Yes, I’m fine I just… That was just a very… I was just not expecting that question already, and Harley was very quick to answer. I was just taken aback.” She bought herself some time to get her feelings under control, by taking a long sip from her drink.

“Ivy flustered? That’s some impressive work Harley.” Selina turned to Ivy. “You don’t need to answer if you don’t want to. I must admit I might be reaching the point where I’m a bit past ‘light buzz’.”

“It’s alright. I just needed a moment. The idea first came to me about half a year ago. I wasn’t sure if it was even possible, until I remembered… well, until I remembered some of what I’d once learned from Bella Garten, and used that as a basis. I didn’t tell Harley anything until I knew it would work. I didn’t want to get her hopes up, because mine would go up with hers. But in the end, it worked, and she said yes when I asked her. It still feels unreal at times, but it is real. When I reach out through the Green, I can feel our little girl growing inside Harley.” She was proud of herself. She was proud of Harley, and especially proud of their little sprout. She was so small, yet she emanated so much life from deep within her mother.

“This really is the start of something new for you. I guess it didn’t really sink in, but seeing the two of you like this, I can’t help but get a little excited for you. I look forward to following along from the sidelines.” The wholesome mood didn’t last long, as a moment later Selina got up from her seat. “Time for another round.”

A few hours later, the parents-to-be were supporting a quite intoxicated Selina through the streets of Gotham, on their way home. They were going through the park; a detour which Ivy would have thought to be a delightful way to end the evening, if it wasn't for her body’s intense complaints about having to support their drunk friend.

“Why did you try to match my drinking?” Ivy grunted. “Did you forget alcohol doesn’t affect me, or did you just want an excuse to get wasted?”

“Ah, come on Ivy, I’m fine. I’m just a bit… uhm…”

“Selina, you can barely stand. Harley, let’s put her down on the bench. My shoulders need a moment.”

“Girls, the night is still young, we can still—.”

Harley broke her off. “No. You’re gonna sleep on our couch tonight, cause there is no way you’re getting home by yourself, and even if you did you’d probably just fall asleep on the floor.”

With Selina on the bench Ivy rolled her aching shoulders in hopes of getting a bit of relief. Carrying Selina was the last thing my poor body needed.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t the flower girl.” A slightly slurred voice yelled.

Oh, fucking great.

“I hear you destroyed something of Penguin’s yesterday. We’re not happy about that, right guys?” A handful of voices mumbled in agreement. Ivy turned to see a group of seven men, seemingly unarmed, waddling towards them. They had obviously had quite a bit to drink.

“Aw, really? The bird man’s people? Why don’t ya just run back to your nest and nurse the hangover ya’ll will be dealin with tomorrow? We’re just passing by.”

“Aw, she brought her little clown girlfriend. Pretty sure the boss wouldn’t mind if we dragged her back with you. I’ve heard him yell about her being a pain in his ass plenty of times. You on the bench, you can stay, but the two of you. You gonna come willingly, or are we gonna to have to do it the hard way?”

“Boys. You’re drunk, and as Harley said, we don’t want any trouble. We’re just trying to get our friend home. Please just go. I’m really not in the mood for a fight.”

“Hard way it is then. Let’s get em!”

“Harley, stay with Selina. I’ll take care of them.”

“Oh, hell no. I’m roarin’ for a good fight. You just rest your pretty self, while I remind them why they shouldn’t mess with us!”

Watching Harley fight was always impressive. The way she mixed different styles of close combat fighting with her gymnastics made her truly fearsome foe to be up against. A fearsomeness the drunk henchmen really got to feel. Even though the fight was seven against one, they didn’t stand a chance. Harley dodged each swing with impressive grace, and easily twisted herself around to strike at each careless opening. In just seconds, three of the assailants were lying on the ground, rolling around in pain or having been knocked out cold. Another one fell and the remaining three seemed to realize how big of a mistake they had made, and runed tail and ran.

Fuck, that was hot.

“Yeah, run away! And tell your bird-brained friends to stay the hell away from my girlfriend!” Harley yelled after them. A moment later she sighed contently. “That was nice. There really is no exercise as rewarding as a good fight. A shame it is gonna be a while until next time. Okay, let’s you home Selina.”

Chapter Text

Standing outside the clinic, Harley felt like her stomach was attempting to tie itself into knots from the nervousness and excitement of what was about to happen. Ivy gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. “You ready?”

“Yeah. I’m just really nervous. And excited!”

“Me too. To think we’ll get to actually see her soon. It feels a bit unreal.” Ivy gave Harley’s hand another squeeze. “Come on, let’s go.”

The foyer of the small clinic was comfortably bright albeit a bit boring. There were a few plants here and there, and a couple of incredibly generic pictures depicting healthcare people at work, dotted the walls. The room was almost devoid of people, apart from a man engrossed in typing away at a computer from behind a black wooden counter in the middle of the room. All in all, very corporate, but they couldn’t complain. This was the best place that was willing to work with the villains of Gotham, that wouldn’t have the police waiting outside when they left—as long as they behaved themselves.

“Hello?” Harley called, to get the man’s attention.

“Oh, sorry. How can I help?—!” The man was obviously surprised when he saw who he was talking to, but he made a valiant effort to keep it from showing.

“Hi. I have an appointment here soon-ish. Harleen Quinzel.”

“First trimester ultrasound and blood test? Uh, is that right?” A bit of puzzlement could be heard in his voice.

“Yup! Gotta makes sure everything is well. And it’ll be very exciting to see the little one!” Harley beamed.

“Alright…” The receptionist said, now utterly failing to hide the surprise at what he had just learned about the villainesses in front of him. “Uhm, are you with her, ma’am?” he asked Ivy, a few moments later, having seemingly collected himself a bit.

“Yes.”

“Then please go down the hall to the left and follow the signs to section three. There you’ll find the radiology department.” They thanked him and started making their way down the left hallway, following the signs as instructed.

The hallways and waiting area were as uninteresting as the foyer had been, but the everything of what was about to happen was more than enough to keep Harley from getting bored. After a handful of minutes of giddy waiting, a nurse stepped out of one of the rooms and called on ’Harleen Quinzel’. Like her colleague at the reception, the nurse seemed to be quite surprised to see that the ‘Harleen Frances Quinzel’ on her list in fact was the Harley Quinn, though she quickly dismissed it, and showed them inside.

“Please, lay down on this, Miss Quinzel—would you prefer I called you something else? The same goes for you Miss Isley.” Having gotten over the initial surprise, the woman talked to them in the polite and warm demeanor often associated with healthcare staff.

“Harley’s fine, and no need for the ‘Miss’ part. I don’t care much for formality.”

“Just call me Ivy.” Ivy concurred.

“Great. My name is Eva, and I’ll be doing your ultrasound. Are you comfortable, Harley?”

“Yeah, no complaints here.”

“Then please tuck this into your pants, and I’ll just put this one here, so we don’t get any gel on your clothes.” Eva draped a soft towel across Harley’s hips, who obediently tucked it in, and another was draped across her chest. Eva then grabbed a tube and held it up for Harley to see. “This is gel that is going to help the ultrasound waves to get in, so we can get a better picture. Don’t worry, it is warm so it shouldn’t be uncomfortable. Ivy, you’re welcome to move a chair over here, if you don’t want to stand.”

“I’m fine with standing.”

“Alright.” Eva held up a small device with a slim handle connected to a cord, and with a wide, curved top. “This is the probe we’re going to use. I’m going to gently rub it around, like I’m doing now. Can both of you see the screen? Good, then let’s see if we can’t find—ah, there we go.”

At first all Harley could see was a grainy grey and black mess, but as Eva gently moved the probe around, an area free of the grain appeared, and a moment later it grew to reveal a large roundish shape resting inside of it. Unable to take her eyes off of the screen, she reached out for her girlfriend, who took it, holding it firmly.

Eva moved the probe around a bit and started talking. “Let’s see. Looks like we’ve found the feet. See the legs here? And the feet and toes.” Eva pointed to the screen. “If we move a little further, we’ll reach the heart.” Eva moved the probe a bit and pressed a few buttons and the image morphed and they could suddenly see a rhythmical pulse within the round mass. Harley felt her heart leap, and she could have sworn her own pulse skipped into the same beat as their daughter’s.

Eva pressed a few more buttons and some kind of readout appeared on the screen below the picture. “A steady heartrate, that’s good. A rate of about 140 beats per minute—solidly within the healthy range.” Eva once again started moving the probe around, causing the image to morph as the waves moved throughout their daughter’s body. The image stopped at what Harley quickly recognized to be the head, the image of a brain being quite familiar to her. “Here we have the head, as you can see the brain is quite developed already. Whoa, she’s getting active right about now.” The figure on the screen was indeed moving, and Eva had to move the probe a bit to stay about where she had been before. She continued to move the probe around, stopping now and then to point out different body parts.

“And here we have the little one’s face.” Eva almost totally stopped moving the probe, only doing gentle nudges, making the picture moved back and forth showing different parts of the face and head.

The silent awe Harley had been stuck in broke, and she just had to say something. “There she is.” She clenched Ivy’s hand. “It’s her.” Ivy didn’t say anything, but Harley felt her put her other hand on hers. Harley felt tears prickle, but fought as hard as she could to hold them back. She wanted to see every little detail as clearly as possible.

Eva gave them a moment before she went on, showing the spine, ribs, hands and where Harley and their daughter met through the umbilical cord. Eva then went further down the side of Harley’s belly giving them a clear view from the side. She pressed a few buttons and the picture froze on a view of the head and lower body, with what Harley guessed was a hand and maybe a knee, slightly visible in the background. “We’re going to be doing what’s called a crown-rump measurement, which is going to give us your due date. It is fairly precise—margin of about plus-minus about five days. From that we’ll make a schedule for when you should come by for other checks. You’ll get a printout at the reception, and we’ll also be sending you one by mail.” Eva tapped a few more buttons and then the picture unfroze.

“Now I’m going to take a look at your bladder and other things around the baby, just to make sure everything is well… Yes, everything looks fine. To finish off, I’m going to give the baby a final look-over. I can take a few pictures if you want me to. They’ll be sent with the digital copy of the schedule. Is that something you’d like?”

“Yes, we’d love that. Right, Ivy?” Harley turned and looked at Ivy for the first time since they had started. Her face was streaked with tears and her nose was running a bit, though her mouth was stretched into a quivering smile.

“Oh, Ivy! —Eva, could we maybe get some paper?”

“Of course. I have a box of tissues for this exact thing. Here.”

Ivy accepted the box with one hand and put it next to Harley on the bed, not letting go of Harley with the other one. She started cleaning up her face, with a little help from Harley. Now and then she sputtered a mix of sobs and laughter at the situation she now found herself in. When Ivy was somewhat cleaned up, Harley leaned back and let Eva finish her work.

A couple of minutes later Eva pulled the probe back and dried off the top. “That was all. Just give me a moment to get you cleaned off before you move the towels.”

As soon as Harley was allowed to stand up, she dragged Ivy into a tight hug. “This really got to ya, huh?”

“Finally seeing her after only having been able to sense her up until now… Sensing her has been a wild experience in itself, but this somehow made her so much more real to me. Seeing her move around—so alive, it was all just—.” She was cut off as a new wave of sobs overwhelmed her, and Harley gently started stroking her hair. When she had calmed down again, she gently freed herself of Harley’s grasp and handed Eva the tissue box, after having grabbed a few more pieces from it. “Thank you so much for this. Not the box—yes, also the box, but doing this for us. Thank you. We’ll leave you to do your thing.”

Finding their way to where Harley was to have her blood taken was easy enough, though Ivy’s sobbing got them a few worried glances, but they seemed to calm down when they saw the smile on the green woman’s lips.

“Ya wanna come with me for the blood test, or would you prefer to stay out here?” Harley calmly asked her girlfriend.

“No, I think I’ll just sit here and try and calm down a bit.”

“I don’t mind you crying, it’s fine. It’s okay for ya to just be in it. Feel it.”

“It’s not because I don’t want to feel it, I just don’t want everyone looking when we’re going home. Now, run off. The nurse has called for you.” Harley did as she was told, after having given her girlfriend a loving kiss.

The blood test was entirely uneventful. Just a small prick, then they took the blood they needed and send Harley off with a bit of cotton taped to her arm. When she got back to Ivy, she had managed to get her feelings a bit under control, though it was obvious she had cried recently. She seemed much calmer, and like before, she was still way past cloud nine. At the foyer the man handed them an envelope. Harley was ready to tear it open then and there, but Ivy managed to convince her to wait until they got home.

As they walked, they got to talking—the excitement of seeing their daughter for the first time, still rushed through them, and made it impossible for them not to gush about her.

“I think we should do the part thing you’ve talked about, fairly soon. At least if we want it to be a surprise. There ain't no way rumors aren’t gonna start spreadin’ after today. I mean, even if the nurses aren’t telling anyone, everyone else there could probably tell I’m pregnant just from looking at me.” Harley ran her hand along the now visible bump on her belly. “So, I think we should take a look at that and make invitations soon, cause I really like the idea of a party for her.”

“You’re right. I actually have an idea for a little spectacle for the night, that could also double as getting back at ACE Chemicals. I’m not entirely sure about it yet, so I’ll tell you about it when I know it’ll work, but I think you’re going to love it.

“Exciting!”

When they finally got home, Harley had barely hanged up her coat before she rushed to open the envelope. She skimmed past all the dates for checks and other information she didn’t care about at the moment. What was important right now, was the due date. And there it was: March 27^th.

“Ivy! It’s March. Our girl is gonna be a spring girl!”

Chapter Text

Harley Quinn pregnant? The rumor has been answered!

In recent months rumors have been swirling of the notorious Harleen Frances Quinzel—better known as Harley Quinn—possibly being pregnant. Though it was doubted at first, the rumors have been lent credence as eyewitnesses claim to have seen the Maid of Mischief at Burnley Private Hospital, along with her partner Poison Ivy. When asked, witnesses said they saw them, first at the radiology department and later Harley was seen having a blood test taken. All have described her as looking visibly pregnant. If she was there for an ultrasound, it would suggest she is 12 to 13 weeks pregnant.

The confirmation of the rumor has led to speculations about the identity of the other parent. Many assume them to be Poison Ivy, as she was with her at the hospital and according to witnesses, she was also very happy, but others have pointed out that they haven’t been seen at any of the LexCorp or S.T.A.R. clinics in Gotham. Some of the people who don’t follow the theory of Poison Ivy being the other parent, suggests Harley might have had a rebound and could possibly have gone back to the Joker for a short time, and he might be the father. Though that crowd has a hard time explaining how that would have worked as Joker was in Arkham at the time conception would have happened, and they also don’t have an explanation as to why Poison Ivy seemed so happy. Others suggest she might have had a one-night stand and gotten pregnant from that. This leaves Gotham with an exciting new mystery to speculate on, that only time is going to reveal the answer to.

We reached out to Burnley Private Hospital for comment, but they refused citing their Patient Confidentiality Policy.

“Seriously? They put my name on the front a’ the thing and this is all they write about me?” Harley threw the magazine she had been reading, on the table in front of her. “Waste of money.”

Ivy poked her head into the living room. “What are you reading?”

“Just a trashy gossip mag. Saw my name on the cover, on my way home from work, so I decided to buy it.” She held up the magazine for Ivy to see. “They do a hell of a lot of speculation, and talk about people’s guesses and such, but they don’t say who those people are. They probably just looked at social media discussions. And they friggin’ dare ta’ suggest I might’a gone back ta’ Joker for a while, just because the two of us haven’t been seen at a LexCorp clinic or somethin’ like that! Nope. Talkin’ about it is just gonna get me riled up an’ then imma end up doin’ somethin’ stupid. You wanna read it before I condemn it to the trash?”

“I think I’m good. You didn’t exactly make it sound like it had anything interesting to say. Let’s hope the paper it is printed on goes on to be used for something better next time.”

And thus, that copy of Gotham Gossip ended its life in the recycling bin.

Chapter Text

Tonight was another one of those nights where Ivy found herself to be unable to sleep. Not because her body wouldn’t let her. Tonight, her mind was swirling with memories of her childhood; her father being the center of the maelstrom.

She had snuggled up to Harley and reached out for their daughter, but tonight their presence had been unable to calm her mind, so she had made her way to the rooftop greenhouse. Here among the flora, she had carefully picked and cultivated, seen only by the moon and the few starts that broke through Gotham’s light-pollution, the whirlwind of thoughts, seemed less oppressive.

She didn’t react when she heard the door slide open behind her, nor when Harley sat down wrapping a blanket around the two of them. “Please remember to bring a blanket when you go up here at night, Red. Harley pleaded softly. “I don’t want ya to get sick.” Ivy gave a slight nod in response, a bit absent mindedly. She felt Harley rest her head on her shoulder, and Ivy reciprocated by leaning her own on her pale lover’s.

They sat like that, in silence, maybe for a minute, maybe twenty, before Harley spoke again. “Do you want to talk, or do you want to just be here? I can go back to bed if you want to be alone,” Harley said, stifling a yawn. Ivy leaned more into her, as a wordless response. Company was nice. She wanted to talk—to get what was in her head, out—but she didn’t know how to put the turmoil in her head, into words.

Another moment of silence passed, as Ivy tried to gather her thoughts enough for her to find a place to start explaining them. In the end she gave up, and decided to try saying something.

“I…” She paused as the words she had chosen were whisked away, but she forced herself to find new ones. “I can’t sleep. My thoughts keep going to my father, and it worries me. He did come up now and then, in the past, but back then it wasn’t hard to dismiss the thoughts, but tonight they just won’t go away.” She nuzzled her head against Harleys. “I’m just scared I might end up like him. I know I am not like that, and I know you won’t allow me to become like him but the thought—the worry is still there.”

“I get’ya. I’m worried about Joker. I have a feeling he’s gonna do something and it’s hard not to imagine what he might do. I can’t say why I worry about him like this… maybe it’s just because of our past. I don’t know if it’s ever gonna happen. I’m scared he might try and take her away…”

Ivy heard a sniffle and felt the blanket between her shoulder, and Harley’s head, get damp. “Oh, sweet pea.” She wrapped an arm around Harley and gently rocked her from side to side. “I know you won’t let him get near her, and I won’t either. And if he as much as plucks a hair from her body, I’m going pluck the limbs from his body like humans do flower pedals.”

“You’re going to be a great mother, Ivy. The fact that you’re worrying about ending up like your father, means you care, and you’re aware of actions that could lead you down that road. Just promise you won’t let the worry get to you. Okay?”

“I won’t.” As the silence fell over them again, Ivy drifted back to her thoughts. Though Harley had given her even more to think about by airing her worries to her, the reassuring words she had spoken afterwards had send a calming wave through the storm in her mind. Though the worries were still there, they seemed a lot less insurmountable. Especially with Harley by her side.

“Thank you, Harley. I needed that.” She got no response apart from the soft sound of Harley’s slow breaths. A smile crept up Ivy’s lips as she looked at her. She looked so calm and vulnerable, sleeping on her shoulder covered only by a blanket. So adorable. So beautiful. She didn’t want to move, but she couldn’t let Harley sleep like that. She would just get cranky from having slept in a bad position, and she had work in the morning. Ivy crept out of the blanket and gently scooped her up into her arms. “Let’s get you back to bed.”

Chapter Text

“Thank you for agreeing to this, Harleen.” Pearce said as Harley lowered herself into the passenger seat of the car. “Stephanie isn’t one to ask for help, even if she wanted it. I’m sure she’ll appreciate you being there with her.”

“You sure she wouldn’t prefer it just being you? It’s only been a little more than a month since we first met.”

“It’s true that she’s known me for longer, but she doesn’t know me as well as some of the other adults here. While I try and spend time with the kids, there is a lot of administrative work to for me to take care of.”

“I’m sure the others appreciate the work you’re doing. Someone has to, and it could have been someone less empathetic, or more money oriented. It’s with people like you in charge, places like this can be a home. You’re doing good work.”

As silence took over the car, Harley pulled out her phone. Popups from a couple of apps, a calendar reminder for her to pick up a few things for the party this weekend, after work, and a message from Ivy wishing her a good day at work, followed by green hearts and flower emojis. Harley responded with a mix of red and black hearts. A few minutes later the backdoor opened and Stephanie scooted onto the backseat. “Hey Janice. Hey Harleen. Sorry for the delay.”

“Don’t worry about it. We’re still good on time.” Pearce said as she started the car and rolled out of the parking lot. “Are you nervous?”

“A bit.” Came the answer from the backseat. Harley glanced at Stephanie in the rearview mirror. She seemed to be calm, looking out at the cityscape passing them by. After a few minutes of driving, with the other two staying silent, Harley happily put an earbud with music into one ear, for a short mental break as they made their way to Gotham’s Metahuman Tuition Center.

They pulled into the parking lot of a large building that from the outside looked a lot like the gym halls in which Harley has spent much of her youth. When they had passed the reception, it had lost all resemblance to those bygone times. They passed no changing rooms or showers, as they made their way to their designated hall, and no squeaks of sneakers on wood emanated from behind the closed doors. The few open doors they passed, showed rooms and halls getting prepared for sessions with different types of powers. In one hall an obstacle course was being set up for what Harley guessed to either be for someone with wall-climbing powers, or flight. Another room seemed to have been prepared for someone with shapeshifting, and a third seemed to be a pool area. The room they had prepared for Stephanie was one that had seemingly been built for people with fire-related powers. The room almost seemed sterile as there was no decoration to be seen. The walls and roof were padded with matte light-gray plates Harley assumed to be heat-resistant. The floor was similarly grey with a few scorch marks here and there, which admittedly did spice up the room a tiny bit, a far cry from making it in any way interesting.

A man seemingly to be in the early thirties, approached them with a delightful smile. “Hello. You must be Stephanie. Welcome!” Stephanie returned the greeting with a nervous smile and a slightly tensely raised hand. Okay, a bit nervous. Afraid to show it?

The man turned to Harleen and Pearce. “And the two of you are?”

“I’m Janice, and this is Harleen.”

“Hi.” Harley couldn’t help but notice his clothes were entirely too casual to possibly be able to withstand or protect the man from fire.

“My name is Ángel. I see you giving my eying clothes and you’re right that jeans and a t-shirt is an odd thing to wear for this, but it happens that I am fire resistant, and the same goes for whatever I am wearing.” Harley had to stop herself from gripping Ángel’s arm, when he pulled a lighter from his pocket and lit it right next to one of his sleeves. “Neat huh?” He moved the flame from the untouched sleeve, to his lower arm. “I can feel the heat from fire, but I am yet to find a temperature that has been uncomfortable, so don’t be afraid to turn up the heat with me nearby.” He let go of the ignition and pocketed the lighter. “So, Stephanie. Tell me what you can do; or show me. Whichever you prefer.”

“Alright.” Stephanie took a couple of steps away from the two flammable people and lit a small flame in her hand. Her movements were still a bit stiff, but her nervousness was still unable to be heard in her voice. The girl seemed to focus and the flame grew brighter.

“Great start.” Ángel applauded. “Basic control of the heat is the first thing we’re going to focus on, so it’s good to see you’ve already got an idea of how to do it. Anything else?”

“Yes.” Stephanie held out her other hand and another flame flickered to life. She closed her eyes and the flames started spreading across her palm, and smalls spots reminiscent of the gently glow of embers lit up in her black hair.

“Woa, girl. Don’t push yourself.” Ángel gently called. “If you spend all your energy now this is going to be a very long hour. Now if you could go over there, I’ll be with you in a minute.” Ángel pointed at the wall the furthest form the door they came in from. “And if you two ladies would go sit on those chairs, I’d be grateful. Then I’m sure you won’t be anywhere close to where things get hot. You’ll easily be able to see us, and Stephanie can get you if needed. Sounds good?”

Pearce gave Ángel a nod and Harley followed her to the chairs. At the other side of the room Ángel had gotten Stephanie burn her flames against a panel in the wall, while Ángel looked at some device in his hand. When Ángel seemed satisfied, they moved on to what to Harley mostly seemed like Stephanie sometimes throwing, sometimes blasting, fire into the air, but she assumed there was more to it. As the minutes passed, Stephanie seemed to get more relaxed—probably a result of Ángel’s cheery and laid-back attitude. Harley couldn’t help but admire how he well he guided Stephanie in what they were doing, and in the exact tempo she needed, to feel comfortable and safe in it.

“It’s a bit unreal to see her like this.” Pearce suddenly said. “When she came to us five years ago, she was a small scared girl, and now; now she’s here learning how to control the fire coming out of her hands. No hesitation, just throwing herself into it. She has grown so much in such a short time.”

“I can imagine. The during first months of my pregnancy, we only knew I was pregnant ‘cause of the symptoms and such. But all of a sudden it was visible, and she just keeps growing. And that is her body. I can’t imagine how wild it is to see a person mature like this.”

“It seems it won’t be long before you get to.” Pearce pointed out with a smile in her voice. “How far along are you?”

“About fourteen weeks. It’s all so exciting.” Harley rested a hand on her belly. “It is also worrying. There are so many things to worry about. Eating right, making sure to get exercise and so much more. And I could do it all just right and something could still go wrong. I know it is a miniscule number of pregnancies that fail, but the thought is still terrifying, so I do my best not to think about it. Sorry, I became a total downer all of a sudden.”

“No, don’t worry about it, Harleen. I’m happy to lend an ear to a woman as helpful as you. And hopefully your girlfriend is too. If not, let me have a word with her.”

“Pam’s a great listener. We had a talk about our worries just a few nights ago, though I fell asleep. In my defense: it was the middle of the night and it had been a long day. She’s such an amazing partner. I couldn’t dream of anyone better than her.” As her thoughts suddenly pivoted to the man who had been a sweet nightmare to her, the smile that had been growing on her face withered in an instant.

“Harleen? Is everything alright?” Pearce voice carried a tinge of worry.

“Yeah, I just… My thoughts decided to go to an ex of mine who… He was the opposite of Pam. Manipulative, abusive. It’s been years since we split, but the thought of him can still be a lot for me at times. Remnants of habits from my time with him. He’s been locked up, but a few months ago he got out and the police are still looking for him. I don’t know what his plans are. He is very unpredictable and now would be the worst time for him to come looking for me. It has been a long time since I have as much as seen a glimpse of him, so it’s all just worries, but worries can be hard to put to rest.” Harley let out a slight sigh of relief. “Thank you, Pearce. Turns out I needed to get it all off my chest once again.”

“You don’t have to keep calling me Pearce; you’ve been here for a while now. Janice is just fine. And I understand how an ex like that makes you worried. If there is anything I can help with, don’t hesitate to give me a call. Alright?”

“Thanks Janice, you’re a doll. I’ve been doing most of the talking until now, so would you mind telling me a bit about yourself? We haven’t had much time to talk, even though I’ve already been here a month.”

“A month already? How time flies. There isn’t a lot to say; I don’t have a lot of things going on at the moment. I spend most of my time taking care of the girls’ home; arguable too much time. I lost my husband two years ago, and it caused me to disappear into my work. I’m still working on finding the right balance again.”

“I’m sorry. Did you run the place together? No, first I should ask if you’re alright talking about him.”

“It’s alright. He wasn’t as much of a people person as I am. He worked finance at the Gotham Gazette. He seemed to be well liked in his department. He often invited coworkers over for this or that. I still talk to some of them now and then. They’re good people.”

Still a sore spot. Steering clear of him for now. “There has got to be things you do apart from working and sleeping. What do you like to do when you manage to drag yourself away from work?”

“I’ve been trying to read that series of thriller books that were obviously inspired by some of the things Thomas Elliot has done.”

“The Hush guy?”

“Yes. The first book was great. I have gotten stuck on the second one. Are you the reading type?”

“Not really. I might read a bit of a magazine or a comic book now and then, but I haven’t read a book in years.”

“A shame, but I’m sure you manage anyway.”

With that the conversation died off, and Harley turned her attention back to Stephanie and Ángel. They had moved on to something with endurance, a while ago. They were either focusing on how long Stephanie could keep blasting flame or her ability to withstand her own heat. Either way Ángel seemed impressed with her performance.

After a while Janice broke the silence again. “So, what do you do when you’re work? At the interview it sounded like you’ve had to shelve what you used to do.”

“I am not really doing a lot. Mostly spending quality time with Pammy and our boys—dogs—which is honestly quite nice. It wasn’t like I was super busy before, but this has gotten me to slow down in a way.  We’ve also started planning the room for our girl. Pammy is really into being good to the planet, which has also rubbed off on me, so we’re not just buying where it is cheapest. It’s a lot more involved, but it is a good cause, so it’s worth it. We’re also yet to decide on the colors for the walls. To be honest, that is mostly my fault as I seem to want another color every three days, but I’ll probably settle on something eventually. Sadly, that means the boys have had to say bye to their playroom.”

“Your dogs had a room all to themselves?” Janice sounded like she almost didn’t believe her. “That a first.”

“When we were done moving in, we had an unused room, even with a guest room, so I had the bright idea that they could have a room all to themselves. Took some convincing, but eventually Pammy agreed. Hopefully they can share with our girl when she is older.”

“You sure they’re not going to cause trouble if they’re used to that room being theirs?”

“Nah. They’re smart and well behaved. But of course, we’ll make sure they understand to be careful around her. Oh, I think they’re done for today. Has it already been an hour?”

“Hey Janice, Harleen.” Ángel called as he and Stephanie made their way towards them. “We’re stopping a bit early. First time is always tiring. How are you feeling, Stephanie?”

“I’m amazed at myself. I didn’t know just how much power I could put behind this. And what happens to my hair when I push myself, that was unexpected. I could also use a snack.”

Ángel send her a knowing smile. “It is to be expected. You’ll get a snack bar at the reception, but I recommend getting her some more when you get home. And you shouldn’t be surprised if you suddenly crash out, or get tired way early tonight. You’ve really pushed yourself today, and in a way your body isn’t used to, but you did really well. Have you been practicing before today?”

“You’ve snuck off to practice even after I told you not to, haven’t you?” Janice shook her head with a smile. “And let me guess, that Hanna girl was with you again? Just don’t say you went to the abandoned construction site again.”

“No! I get why that was a bad spot. We’re not going there anymore.”

“So, you’ve found a new place. You are hopeless, Stephanie.” Janice put a gentle hand on Stephanie’s shoulder. “Thank you for today, Ángel.” She reached out her hand, which Ángel took with a grin.

“Happy to help. You going to be coming back next week?”

“That is up to Stephanie.”

“I’d like to. Ángel is really helpful.”

“Then that’s settled. Again, thank you for your help today, Ángel.”

On their way back to the car, Harley couldn’t help but lean in on Stephanie and ask in a hushed tone: “So that Hanna; is that the girl you mentioned the first time we talked?”

“Yeah. It turned out she thought me being able to shoot fire from my hands was cool, and not weird at all. And thanks to your help I was also able to work up the courage to ask her out, and she said yes.”

“Great work Stephanie!”

“Thanks, Haleen. For your helping me up until now, and for being here today. Did Janice ask you?”

“She did. She thought you would appreciate me being here for this.” Harley shot Janice a grin.

“Thanks Janice.”

In the car it didn’t take long before Stephanie was fast asleep in the backseat. Harley admired the girl’s bravery. In less than two months she had gone from discovering she could conjure fire in her hands, to train with a professional with little hesitation. She wasn’t sure if she could have moved as fast if she had been in her place at fifteen. And how would her and Ivy’s child be. Would she grow up being able to sense the green around her, like her mother, or would it be something that would awaken in her later in life? If she even got that power. Harley hoped she would. She knew it would mean a lot to Ivy to be able to share that deep connection with their little sprout. She was sure she would at least going to be resistant to toxins, with both her mothers being unphased by such chemicals. But even if she turned out to be a bog-standard human with no fancy powers or immunities, she would be their beloved daughter. She had nothing she needed to prove or do for them. Harley hoped they could raise her to be as amazing as Stephanie. Ready to face the challenges the world throws her way, but not too afraid to get help if necessary. Only time would tell what kind of person she would grow up to be.

Chapter Text

Staking out Ace Chemicals turned out to be easier than usual. Half the cameras hadn’t been replaced since her last visit to the place, and she hadn’t seen any guards making rounds outside the perimeter in the time she had been watching. She checked the time on her phone, and smiled for the fifth time at the ‘good luck’ message from Harley. If she wanted to be home in time for dinner, she would have to get on with it soon. She gave herself five minutes to make sure all was as it should be, then she made her way down the rooftop she had been scouting from.

With the help of the green, and some weeds under the pavement, a few of the cameras curiously found themselves detached from the wall at the same time. A few snips of the wire cutter took care of the fence, and then she was inside the perimeter of Ace Chemicals. Assuming whoever was watching the cameras’ first instinct was to assume a malfunction, it would be a while before anyone was aware someone had gotten in. And by then she would be well on her way to pay the new CEO a visit.

She knew the way to the CEO office well by now. Having had to pay multiple visits to Ace Chemicals through the years, had made her fairly familiar with the building’s layout. Now and then, there was a camera to take care of, or an unfortunate worker or guard to put to sleep, but apart from that she didn’t run into any problems.

She passed by the CEO’s assistant who seemed entirely consumed by his work. She thought he hadn’t noticed her, but just as she was about to push open the door to the office, she heard “Mrs. Benefield isn’t available at—.” the last words withered on his lips, when he saw who was standing at the door to his boss’ office.

 “Don’t worry. I won’t take much of her time.” As Ivy pushed the door open, a nearby snake plant lashed out and wrapped up the young assistant.

“Halloway, I thought you’d—ah, Miss Isley. I wondered how long it would be before you paid me a visit.”

Compared to her predecessor, Jasmine Benefield’s office was spartan. Before she had taken over, the place had been filled the with useless junk which’s only purpose had been to help the previous CEO flaunt his wealth. Now the room seemed almost empty. A few shelves with a couple of books, and a collection carefully assorted trinkets, and pictures from her life and career. By the massive window looking out over the city, a minimalist chair and a table with a bowl of nuts made a comfortable little nook. Like the room, her desk had only what was necessary for her work apart from a single somewhat convincing-looking plastic plant. Depressing mockery of nature’s beauty, but smart of her to not have the real thing, if she was expecting me.

“So, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?”

“I think you are quite aware why I’m here.” Tonight, Ivy had no interest in faux pleasantries.

“I have a guess.” Benefield hummed. “Say your piece.”

“Alright. I am god damn tired of those dumping sites that have been appearing all over the county. I don’t know how you do it; whether you’ve paid off the right people or have been funneling things through shell companies, but I’m here to politely ask you to stop before I have to go to more drastic measures. I have enough on my plate as is, and soon I’m going to have even less time than I have now; but that doesn’t mean I’m not going to keep an eye on the things you’re going to try and pull. I am just going to have a lot less patience for bullshit.”

Ivy hoped the anger that had been building up until now wasn’t visible on her face, as Benefield seemed like the kind of person who would enjoy it, or know how to use it to her advantage.

“I hear what you are saying, and it has been noted. Would that be all?”

Ivy was well aware that Benefield’s dismissive demeanor was meant to throw her off balance, and to her frustration, she felt her temper rise.

“Yes. But before I go, I would be remiss if I didn’t inform you that simply getting rid of all your plants won’t be a way to hinder me. You can’t possibly know where every persistent little seed has been taking root. You can choose to get rid of all the plants in the building, but even if you did,” Ivy let a vine snake its way up her arm and curl around her fingers. “I always come prepared.”

Benefield’s face didn’t betray any effect Ivy’s show of power might have had on her, but she didn’t care. People like her were always projecting unyielding stoicism at first, but eventually each and every one of them cracked. They always did.

“If that was all you wanted to say, you are free to go. No one will get in your way. I see no reason to have you harm more of my employees than you already have. And if you could let my assistant go, I am sure he’s learned his lesson by now. I expect he’ll be wanting handing in a resignation soon: he said he could handle it but he is too soft. Now, please leave.”

Ivy forced her face to soften, and responded with a: “Thank you for your time, Mrs. Benefield.” Before heading back out the door. As she passed the assistant the snake plant pulled back and the man quickly scrambling to hide under his desk, his terrified eyes following her every step. As soon as she was out of sight, she heard him rush to Benefield’s office.

She didn’t leave the way she came. She had a thing she had hoped to make an opportunity for while she was in the building; and being able to leave peacefully, with the CEO’s blessings, made it the perfect time. She made her way to the massive hall, filled with vats of chemical waste. It was as sight as uncomfortable as ever. So much destructive potential just waiting for an accident to happen, be that industrial or someone deciding to use it in their mad schemes.

She made her way up the stairs, crossing the walkway to the furthest vat in the leftmost row.

“Do you think it is a bad idea?”

“Y’re sure they aren’t gonna come after ya?”

“Well, at this point I have a nice little collection of documents that show they’re connected to the dumping sites, and I’m quite sure they are aware I have it. I am also sure they wouldn’t want them to be leaked to any news agencies—especially ones outside of Gotham. They would have a much harder time paying them off to scrap the story. A few people can be paid to turn a blind eye, but a shitstorm is hard to weather using just money; so, I don’t think they are going to try anything, but I can’t be entirely sure.”

“Then go for it! You know I love a good spectacle, and no one does spectacles like you. And if they do pull something, I won’t mind giving them a good battering” Harley mimed repeatedly swinging a bat at an imaginary foe. Ever supportive, and the opposite of the voice of reason when Ivy needed a push.

“So, how’re ya gonna do it?”

“Well, I’ve been looking into plants that can thrive in hazardous environments, and I am working on something that could survive in whatever could be in waste-vats.”

“So, the thing is gonna grow in the mishmash chemicals sloshing around in their giant vats?”

“That’s the idea.”

“And it’s going to live off of it? Nature is impressive. Oh! I have a suggestion for which one you should put it in!”

Standing in front of the vat that in some way created Harley, was always a whirl of conflicting emotions. Awe at standing at the place that rebirthed the love of her life into the woman she now was. Pain at the man who had led her to that point, and the things he had done to her. But this time she wasn’t there to reminisce or wonder. She was standing above this one at Harley’s request. She rolled the small oblong seed in the palm of her hand. In a way it felt a bit wrong for her to be the one doing this. In a way it felt as if she was about to defile something that was almost holy to her. She would have wanted Harley to be the one to do it, but she had refused. Ivy understood why. While this place was deeply tied to Harley, it was almost equally tied to him. She took the plunge because of him. But what she was about to do might cut a few of his ties to this place. To not just make it more Harley’s but also make it Ivy’s. To make it theirs. That is why Ivy would have wanted Harley to be the one to do it, but that was also why she would heed her wish and do it for her. She reached out her hand, opened it, and slowly let the seed roll down her palm. It fell slowly. A gust of wind could easily have blown it away, but it was allowed to fall, undisturbed. When it hit the surface, it barely left a disturbance; just a few tiny ripples that quickly faded away into nothing. And with that, it was done. A grand moment, gone.

To be back in reality all of sudden was a bit jarring. A part of her wanted to keep standing there and try to recapture the moment, but it was gone. All that was left for her, was to leave. To go home.

She barely made it in through the front door of their apartment, before she was almost knocked over by two happy hyenas whose yelps echoed through the apartment. The music emanating from the room that was to be their daughter’s was turned down, and a few moments later Harley came out into the hallway. She was wearing a worn set of casual clothes, and both the clothes and Harley had paint stains everywhere.

“Ivy! I was starting to wonder where you were.” Harley muscled past the happy hyenas, to give Ivy a peck on the cheek. “How was work?”

“Surprisingly uneventful. Benefield seem to be the scheming type; she let me leave through the front door and I didn’t catch anyone following me home. I’ll have to figure out what she’s up to, but tonight is for my favorite girl.” Ivy leaned in, nuzzled her nose against Harleys.

“Girls.” Harley corrected, pulling her face back. “There’s someone you’re yet to say hi to.” Ivy followed Harley’s gentle push, down to her belly.

“Hey little one.” She paused, not really knowing what to say. She decided to just say something. “Feels a bit strange talking to you, not being able to see you. I don’t even know if you can hear me yet. Mama just got home from a meeting with a very mean lady, but she wasn’t any problem for me.” She paused and closed her eyes, focusing in on the pulsing sensation of life blooming inside Harley. “Can you hear me in there?” She waited, but felt no reaction. She was a bit disappointed, but it made sense. It would probably be months until she would be able to hear them. Ivy sighed. “Guess, it’s a bit too early still.”

“I like to think she can hear us anyway.”

That was a nice thought. And she couldn't be sure whether their daughter could hear Harley or not, and she wasn’t going to risk killing that thought by trying it out or looking it up. Maybe she would look it up later, but for now, she wanted the thought to be true.

“So, what have you been up to in there? You’ve gotten paint all over yourself.”

“Well, I got an idea and I might have gotten a little too excited about it, so I bought the paint already. And then I got impatient and got started. But don’t worry: I’m sure you’ll like it” Harley grabbed Ivy’s hand and quickly dragged her into the room where she had been working.

On the left wall of the room Harley had started painting stem and leaves for flowers along the bottom of the wall, and something green was snaking up along the right side of the window. Even though Harley looked to have been painting freehand, the lines were clean and consistent.

“Very impressive work. When did you get off work?”

“There were a few cancellations, so I got home early. And I might have spent some time at work looking at inspiration, so I was ready to make a sketch when I got home. Here, look.” Harley held up a sketch that showed a mass of different flowers and a few critters along the floor. The green near the window seemed to be a kind of vine that was supposed to go up and around the window. It was a little hard to tell what kind of plant it was supposed to be, but the leaves looked reminiscent of ivy. “I’m considering having that part reach up to the top of the wall, making it use the window as ‘support’. What do you think?”

“Not a bad idea, but do you really not know of any other climbers than ivy?”

“I do, but for some reason I seem to like them more.” Harley made an over-the-top pondering gesture.

“Are you aware poison ivy isn’t an ivy?”

“I am now.”

“You were right that I would like this, but next time please try and wait until I’m home, before you start painting on the walls.”

“I know I should. I just got a little too excited. Oh, and dinner is ready when you want to eat. It’s dhal, and I’ve left it on low heat, so we just need to warm the bread.”

“Sounds great. Go get yourself cleaned up; I’ll warm the bread in the meantime. And I hope you have enough brushes for both of us, because I am not letting you have all the fun.”