Miss Sunohara WG/preg - 02

Two months later, summer was in full swing, and so was Ayaka’s pregnancy. She stood before the full-length mirror in her room, slowly turning side to side to take in her reflection. What she saw still astonished her: Ayaka’s body had blossomed with a pronounced roundness that was impossible to miss. Her belly, once just a petite bump, was now bulging outward in a heavy arc, truly looking pregnant with triplets. The taut dome of her stomach stretched the fabric of the light maternity dress she had switched to – a flowy yukata-style house dress that was already snug around her middle. Ayaka gently ran her hands along the swell of her belly, marveling at how firm and full it felt. The skin was smooth and warm under her palms, her belly button starting to protrude slightly from the pressure within.

Above her belly, Ayaka’s breasts had expanded significantly as well, straining against the wrap of her dress. They were lush and sensitive, nipples often a little tender – a reminder that her body was preparing to nourish three babies soon. Just last week, she’d experienced a surprising and embarrassing moment: waking up to find small wet patches on her nightshirt over each breast. Early milk leakage – the doctor had reassured her it was normal, especially with multiples, but Ayaka had blushed for an hour thinking about it. Now she wore soft cotton nursing pads tucked into a new, larger bra each day, just in case. Still, sometimes by evening she’d feel a slight dampness and know a bit of that sweet colostrum had escaped. It made her feel oddly motherly and sensual, a private reminder of how real this all was.

Ayaka stepped back from the mirror, taking in the rest of her changes. Her hips had widened considerably to support her belly’s weight, giving her a broader sway. That, combined with the extra padding on her bottom and thighs, made every chair a bit snug and every step a careful waddle. She noted how her thighs now touched all the way to her knees – something new that had led to a bit of thigh chafing on hot days (solved by a dash of baby powder in the morning). Her arms, too, had grown softer; a gentle plushness now existed under her upper arms, and even her fingers appeared slightly puffier. Ayaka brought a hand to her face, seeing the fullness in her cheeks and a slight curve of a double chin when she tilted her head down. In the past, she might have fretted over these signs of weight gain. But now she took a deep breath and smiled softly. This was the new her, at least for now – much larger, slower, and softer – but it was still her. And it was all for a beautiful reason.

Downstairs, the inn was buzzing with life as usual. Ayaka made her way to the common room, moving carefully. These days, she had to navigate spaces with caution. She held one hand protectively on the side of her belly as she went through the doorway, instinctively turning a bit to the side even though the door frame was fairly wide. She’d learned the hard way after a few bumps that her spatial awareness hadn’t caught up to her size; it was all too easy to accidentally brush her belly or hip against furniture if she wasn’t mindful. With a practiced motion, Ayaka waddled into the living area, the loose dress swishing around her calves.

Inside, Sumire was setting up an electric fan, and Yuri lounged on a cushion, fanning herself with a magazine. “It’s getting so hot these days,” Yuri commented, before her eyes drifted to Ayaka. A mischievous grin spread on the girl’s face. “Though I bet Ayaka-san here is keeping the place nice and cool—she’s got her own shade wherever she stands.” She gestured dramatically as if shading herself under Ayaka’s presence.

Ayaka pouted playfully, hands on her wider hips. She knew Yuri was teasing about her size. In truth, Ayaka did cast a larger shadow now! Instead of taking offense, Ayaka decided to play along. “If anyone needs shade, just walk next to me,” she laughed softly. “One of the perks of being as big as a small tree, I suppose.” Her laughter caused her round belly to bounce lightly under her dress and she chuckled at the sensation. The babies responded with a few kicks, making her pause to rub the spot.

Sumire giggled at the exchange, plugging in the fan. “Yuri, stop teasing. Ayaka-san is more like a lovely broad umbrella—providing comfort, not just shade.” Sumire’s eyes were gentle. Ayaka felt warmth in her chest at the kind analogy, though the term “broad” was fitting in more ways than one.

Today was cleaning day at the inn, and Ayaka was determined to help despite the others’ protests. Armed with a feather duster, she started on the bookshelves. Even this simple task had its challenges now. As Ayaka dusted a higher shelf, she had to stretch up on her tiptoes, causing her belly to push firmly against the shelf’s edge. She had to lean back slightly to give herself room, which made her balance precarious. At one point, the baby weight shifted and she stumbled a half-step. Quickly, she grabbed the shelf to steady herself, heart thumping at the close call. She was fine, but it was a stark reminder: her center of gravity was very different.

Aki, who had been quietly vacuuming nearby, rushed to her side. “Kanrinin-san, are you alright?” he asked, worry all over his face. Ayaka nodded, a little breathless. “Yes, I’m okay! The little ones just decided to throw me off balance for a moment,” she joked lightly, patting her tummy. Aki looked relieved but still concerned. “Maybe I should handle the high places. You… you can maybe sit and direct us?” he suggested timidly.

Ayaka opened her mouth to protest – she hated the idea of sitting idle while others worked – but before she could speak, Yuzu bustled in with a stern expression. “Ayaka-san, no overexerting yourself! Doctor’s orders!” Yuzu declared, wagging a finger. Of course, Yuzu had come along to the last check-up and had memorized all the doctor’s advice like it was a student council directive. Ayaka found it adorable and reassuring, even if it meant relinquishing some duties.

With a mock salute, Ayaka acquiesced. “Understood, President,” she replied with a grin, allowing Aki to take the duster from her. She lowered herself onto the sofa with Yuzu’s guidance. Even sitting down had become a careful act – Ayaka had to position herself and descend slowly, both hands bracing her thighs or the arms of the chair. She sank into the cushions with a soft “umph,” feeling the couch envelop her broad hips and bottom. Immediately, her belly settled heavily onto her lap. Though she wore a loose dress, she could see the outline of her navel poking through the fabric, and the sides of her belly slightly overflowed to rest against her arms.

From this seated position, she had an excellent view of just how much she filled her own lap. Ayaka marveled at it quietly. Not long ago, her lap had room for a napping cat or a small child; now it was completely eclipsed by her pregnant stomach. She felt one of the triplets give a firm kick and she smiled, rubbing the side of her dome. “They’re especially active now that I’m resting. Maybe they like when Mom sits down,” she chuckled. Yuzu placed a cool glass of water in Ayaka’s hand. “Here. And please stay hydrated.” The petite girl tried to sound authoritative, but her worry was endearing.

“Yes ma’am,” Ayaka chimed and obediently sipped the water. As she watched her foster family of residents dutifully clean, Ayaka’s heart swelled. They were all so attentive and caring. Aki was diligently dusting high shelves, Sumire humming as she vacuumed, Yuzu flitting about with a checklist (of course she made a checklist), and Yuri… well, Yuri pretended to supervise while sneaking candies from a jar. It was such a simple, homey scene, and Ayaka felt both grateful and a touch wistful that she couldn’t be as active as before.

After cleaning, lunchtime arrived. Today, Sumire and Yuri had taken over the kitchen to give Ayaka a break. Ayaka, however, couldn’t resist at least helping a little from the sidelines. She parked herself on a stool at the kitchen counter, which creaked slightly under her weight as she sat. Even the furniture felt her growth now; the old stool’s legs splayed just a tad, and Ayaka made a mental note to be careful. From her perch, she guided the girls through one of her recipes.

The smell of simmering broth and spices soon filled the kitchen, and Ayaka’s stomach responded with a loud growl. “Hehe, excuse me,” she said, patting her belly. Sumire giggled, “No problem! We’re almost done.” As they cooked, Ayaka absentmindedly snacked on some cut vegetables and pieces of fried tofu – ostensibly to “taste test,” but truly her hunger was constant these days and little snacks helped keep her nausea at bay. By the time lunch was served (a hearty hotpot and rice), Ayaka had already warmed up her appetite.

They all gathered around the low dining table. Ayaka lowered herself carefully onto the zabuton cushion on the floor. Sitting on the floor was getting trickier; she had to part her knees wide to give her belly space. Once settled, her belly practically rested on the table’s edge, and she adjusted backward a bit to avoid that. It’s like sitting close to a warm, round pillow, she mused internally about her own stomach as she scooted a cushion behind her back for support.

Everyone dug in, and the food was delicious. Ayaka praised the girls’ cooking lavishly. Soon, however, all eyes were on Ayaka as she went for her third bowl of rice and another helping of hotpot. She paused, blinking innocently. “Oh, is… is it all right? There’s still plenty left…” she asked, half-hiding her smile. Yuri burst out laughing, “Ayaka-san, we made extra extra just for you. Don’t hesitate!”

Yuzu nodded vigorously. “Yes! You need all the nutrition you can get.” She attempted to sound clinical, but it was clear they enjoyed seeing Ayaka eat to her heart’s content. Sumire looked on with open admiration as Ayaka savored each bite. And indeed, Ayaka relished the meal, feeling the warm stew settle in her stomach alongside her babies. Her appetite seemed bottomless; even after the others were completely full, she still nibbled, finishing off stray bits until finally leaning back with a satisfied sigh.

Immediately, Sumire got up and returned with a small dessert plate – a slice of strawberry shortcake. Ayaka gasped softly in delight; her cravings for sweets had been strong. “For me? You all have some too, okay?” she cooed. “We’ve already had ours, this is yours,” Sumire said. True enough, Ayaka noticed small plates by the sink – they had eaten dessert while making hers. They truly were pampering her. Overcome with gratitude, Ayaka’s eyes watered a little. “You’re all spoiling me so much… Thank you.”

As she reached for the cake, the front knot of her yukata dress suddenly gave way with a snap! The ribbon that held it closed had torn right through. The abrupt release caused the dress to loosen, and Ayaka’s ample bosom and round belly pushed forward against the now-gaping front. She yelped in surprise, instantly crossing an arm over her chest and pulling the fabric to cover herself. The residents looked momentarily stunned, then Yuri snorted into laughter (earning a smack on the shoulder from Yuzu). Sumire politely averted her eyes with a blush, and Aki, poor boy, nearly fell over backwards from his cushion, face completely red as he stared hard at the floor.

Ayaka was mortified for a heartbeat – this was arguably more embarrassing than the skirt incident. Her body had literally burst out of her clothing at the dining table! But then Ayaka saw the humor in it: she had felt the dress getting tighter by the day; perhaps eating two lunches was the final straw for the poor tie. Despite her blush, she giggled softly. “Oh dear… I suppose that’s a sign I’m officially outgrowing even my new clothes!” she exclaimed. Yuzu, recovering from her own fluster, scrambled over to help Ayaka retie the sash in a temporary knot. “I-I knew we should have gotten the larger size… I’ll sew this up or find a longer ribbon,” Yuzu fussed. Ayaka gently patted Yuzu’s hand to calm her. “It’s okay. Really,” she assured.

With a bit of maneuvering, Ayaka rose from the floor (with Aki and Sumire discreetly lending a hand under her elbows to hoist her up). Standing, she adjusted her dress, but it was clear the garment was at its limit: the fabric across her chest was strained, and a sliver of her lower belly peeked out where it refused to overlap. Ayaka pressed a palm to that exposed lower curve, feeling the smooth, stretched skin and suppressing a smile. In another life she might have been upset about a wardrobe malfunction, but now she felt almost proud. I’m growing so well that my clothes can’t keep up, she thought with a mix of pride and sheepishness.

To ease everyone’s concern, Ayaka decided a lighthearted approach was best. “Looks like I’ve graduated to the next size,” she announced cheerily. “These little ones are getting big – and I am too!” She gave her belly a playful rub for emphasis, which garnered a round of chuckles. Yuri, never missing a beat, quipped, “At this rate, Ayaka-san, we might need to start sewing two dresses together!” Ayaka laughed, shaking her head. “Perhaps! Or I’ll just wear the bedsheet like a toga,” she shot back, her eyes shining with mirth. It felt good to joke about it; it made the changes feel less daunting and more celebratory.

That afternoon, Yatsuho – Ayaka’s close friend from the shopping district – dropped by the inn. As soon as Yatsuho saw Ayaka, her jaw dropped theatrically. “Aya-chan! I almost didn’t recognize you behind that belly!” she exclaimed in a teasing tone. Ayaka welcomed her friend with a warm hug (well, more of a side-hug around the belly). Yatsuho, being a blunt and jovial sort, immediately started fussing. “Why didn’t you tell me you needed bigger clothes? I know a seamstress who can make you a kimono that doubles as a circus tent,” she joked, poking Ayaka’s side gently. Ayaka pouted, half-laughing. “Yacchan, don’t tease! I’ve been managing… mostly.”

Yatsuho looked her up and down. “No seriously, you look amazing. So… fertile and, how do I put it, gloriously chubby!” she declared, patting Ayaka’s belly boldly. Ayaka flushed at the frank compliment, but she didn’t mind. Yatsuho always spoke her mind. “I’ve never seen a mother-to-be rock the pregnancy glow like you. And triplets! You’ve always been an overachiever.”

They sat together in the common room, chatting while Ayaka enjoyed some tea (and a few mochi treats Yatsuho brought, which of course Ayaka devoured happily). As they talked, Ayaka confided some of her worries – how at first she felt clumsy, how she feared being seen as unattractive when she ballooned up. Yatsuho waved a hand dismissively. “Anyone who doesn’t find you beautiful right now is blind. I mean, yes you’re huge, but in a gorgeous, life-giving way. And besides, I can tell you’re carrying it with such grace.” Ayaka felt her heart warm at her friend’s words. She hadn’t exactly felt graceful waddling around or popping seams, but hearing that made her sit a little straighter (as much as her belly would allow).

Yatsuho then insisted Ayaka accept a gift – a brand new maternity yukata, custom altered to be extra wide and comfy. It was made of light, breathable fabric with a pattern of pretty hydrangea flowers. “This should last you through month nine… unless you really go wild on the sweets,” Yatsuho teased with a wink. Ayaka beamed as she tried it on. It was loose and flowing over her curves, with enough material to wrap fully around her belly and then some. “It’s wonderful! So comfortable,” Ayaka sighed in relief, feeling no pinching or threatening rips for once. The color even brought out the brightness of her eyes, and she felt confident and pretty wearing it. She hugged Yatsuho as best she could. “Thank you, Yacchan. I feel like I can breathe again – and eat, too!” They both laughed.

Over the next few weeks, Ayaka truly started to own her new size. Freed from ill-fitting clothes and buoyed by her friends’ support, she carried herself with growing confidence. She no longer tried to hide how much she was eating or apologize for needing help. If she craved seconds (or thirds), she took them with a smile and a cute comment like, “The babies say thank you!” that made everyone chuckle. When she needed assistance standing up, she would cheerfully ask, “Could I borrow a strong arm, please?” instead of struggling in silence. There were still comic mishaps – like the time she underestimated her widened hips and got momentarily stuck trying to slide between a chair and the wall. (“It’s official, I’m wider than the doorway!” she had laughed as Aki moved the chair aside to free her.) Or when one of her slippers gave out under her increased weight as she walked, sending her clutching onto Sumire to steady herself. (After that, Sumire bought her a pair of sturdy, stretchy house sandals that could handle her plush weight without complaint.)

All the while, Ayaka’s mental state evolved. The initial embarrassment that had made her cheeks burn at every little rip or jiggle was fading. In its place came a cautious but growing pride. She was doing something incredible – carrying three healthy babies – and every inch her body grew was a testament to that. Sometimes in the evenings, when she managed to find a moment alone, Ayaka would stand in her room, hands on the small of her aching back, and look down at her vast tummy. She would whisper loving words to her unborn children, telling them how she didn’t mind the aches, the stretches, the constant hunger. “It’s all worth it for you,” she’d say, feeling a swell of happiness as they nudged in response.

One particularly warm night, Ayaka couldn’t sleep. The babies were active, rolling and kicking now that they were getting cramped. She decided a snack might calm them (and her rumbling stomach). Wearing her new loose yukata robe, she carefully navigated the dark hallway to the kitchen. Even at night, she had to be mindful; she chuckled to herself imagining she was like a ship trying not to run aground on furniture in the dim light. In the kitchen, she found the leftover onigiri from dinner and happily munched one, then another. As she stood by the open fridge to relish the cool air on her flushed skin, she suddenly heard a tiny gasp.

Turning, she saw Aki standing in the doorway, rubbing his eyes. He must have woken for water. They stared at each other for a second. Ayaka had a half-eaten rice ball in one hand, the fridge light dramatically illuminating her form – undoubtedly a comical sight. She let out a soft laugh, breaking the silence. “Midnight snack. The little ones were peckish,” she explained lightly. Aki smiled sleepily. “It’s okay, Kanrinin-san. You don’t have to explain… I get hungry at night too.” He fetched a glass of water, then hesitated. “Um, do you… need anything? I could maybe make you some tea or…?” he offered, ever considerate.

Ayaka’s heart melted. Even in the dead of night, this sweet boy wanted to help. She shook her head and walked over (well, waddled over) to pat his shoulder. “Thank you, Aki-kun, but I’m alright. You should get back to sleep.” Aki nodded but looked at her belly before leaving. “Goodnight, Kanrinin-san… goodnight to the babies too,” he said softly, and then added with sincere admiration, “You’re really amazing.” He scurried off, embarrassed at his own bold statement. Ayaka stood there in the quiet kitchen, the fridge now closed, her hand resting over her heart. That simple, genuine compliment echoed in her. Amazing… She hadn’t thought of herself that way, but in that moment, with the cool tile under her swollen feet and the taste of rice still on her lips, Ayaka allowed herself to feel proud. She was doing something amazing, and the people around her saw it too.

By the end of summer, Ayaka was entering her third trimester and had grown truly large. She was nearing the size of what a full-term singleton pregnancy might be, but she still had a couple of months to go with her trio. Despite the increasing strain on her body, Ayaka’s spirit was high. One late summer afternoon, she sat outside on the engawa (wooden porch) of the inn, enjoying a gentle breeze. The residents had insisted she relax while they prepared dinner. Ayaka wore a light short-sleeve maternity top and stretchy maternity pants – an outfit Yatsuho had procured for her comfort. Even these “large” clothes fit snugly: the hem of the top continually crept up the underside of her globe-like belly, revealing a glimpse of stretched skin, and the elastic waistband of the pants rolled below her navel, having long lost the battle to contain her middle. She didn’t mind; the breeze on her exposed lower belly felt nice.

Ayaka gently rocked in a wide chair that had been moved outside for her. The chair had become her favorite spot, as it was sturdy and had armrests that helped her push up to stand. As she rocked, she hummed a lullaby and gazed at her belly, which looked extra round in her seated pose. With both hands she cradled its underside, lifting slightly to relieve the weight pressing on her thighs. The motion coaxed a series of kicks. “Oh my,” she murmured, feeling tiny feet (or was it elbows?) poking. She could even see her belly jolt now and then under her shirt. It was mesmerizing and oddly beautiful to watch her body shift and move, alive with her children.

Yuri peeked out the door. “Dinner’s almost ready. Need anything, Ayaka-san?” Ayaka turned and smiled. “I’m fine, thank you. I’ll come in now.” She started the process of standing up: scooting forward, planting her feet apart, and using the armrests to lever herself upward. Even with the chair’s help, it was a slow effort. Halfway up, her belly pressed into the armrest and she had to adjust; then a strong Braxton-Hicks contraction (the practice contractions that sometimes came) made her belly go tight and hard as a drum, catching her off guard. “Ah…!” she gasped softly, pausing to breathe. It wasn’t painful, just squeezing. Yuri rushed over, alarmed.

“It’s okay,” Ayaka quickly assured between breaths. “Just a practice contraction. They’ve been happening lately.” She managed a wry grin. “Seems my body likes to remind me how big it’s gotten by squeezing everything now and then.” When the tightness passed, she resumed standing. Yuri offered her arm and Ayaka gratefully accepted the extra pull to get fully upright. Now on her feet, Ayaka took a second to steady herself. Standing these days made her feel truly the weight of her pregnancy – gravity pulling down on her belly, her back arching to balance it, her knees bearing the substantial load. She estimated she had put on well over a hundred pounds since the start (not that she dared step on a scale now!). It was astounding even to her, but somehow her body carried it, step by step.

As they headed inside, Ayaka had to turn almost completely sideways to pass through the sliding door. “Pivot, pivot,” she joked to Yuri, referencing a comedy routine they’d watched. Yuri giggled, placing a guiding hand on Ayaka’s back to make sure she cleared the frame without bumping. It was a tight fit, but they managed. Back in the dining area, Ayaka found that the low table had been replaced by the taller dining table from storage for her convenience. They did this whenever they could so she wouldn’t have to sit on the floor. Gratefully, she eased into a sturdy chair. Dinner was served – a cool somen noodle salad and grilled fish, perfect for the warm weather, accompanied by bowls of miso soup.

Ayaka ate heartily, as always. She had to lean back and create space between her belly and the table’s edge; otherwise her belly pressed uncomfortably into it. With the chair slightly scooted out, she didn’t mind the occasional drop of soup landing on the upper curve of her belly – her maternity top had seen many food drips by now (an occupational hazard of an oversized tummy). Sumire noticed and immediately dabbed Ayaka’s belly and shirt with a napkin. “Thanks, Sumire-chan,” Ayaka said, not the least embarrassed that she effectively needed a bib from time to time. If anything, it was a bit funny to her that she had become as adorably messy as a child at meals.

As they finished eating, conversation turned to baby preparations. Yuzu had a notebook filled with plans – from names (everyone contributed some ideas) to how to fit three cribs in Ayaka’s room (they decided two in Ayaka’s and one in a spare room for flexibility). Ayaka listened, chiming in here and there, but also simply basking in the affection. They were as excited as she was for the triplets’ arrival. It made her feel like she had a true family.

That night, before bed, Ayaka lingered at the mirror again. She was clad in a soft cotton nightgown that stretched across her form. The mirror showed a very full pregnant woman, cheeks flushed from a day of activity, eyes bright with anticipation. Ayaka placed one hand under her belly and one on top of it, as if holding a precious globe. “We’re almost there, little ones,” she whispered. She thought about how far she’d come – from the timid, embarrassed beginnings to now, where she could stand and admire her bulging silhouette with a gentle fondness. Yes, she was huge; yes, she could barely move without waddling; yes, she had given up modesty and speed and her old wardrobe entirely. But she felt more feminine and powerful than ever. In the soft moonlight from the window, Ayaka rubbed the side of her belly slowly, humming a lullaby until she felt the babies calm and her own eyelids grow heavy. She climbed into her futon (elevated with extra cushions to help her roll out in the mornings) and fell asleep almost instantly, cradled by pillows and the comforting weight of her belly rising and falling with each breath.