Honest Question: Why Is Beyoncé Holding Things in Front of Her Stomach?

Beyoncé Knowles stepped out in NYC on three separate occasions this week, each time holding an object strategically in front of her stomach. On Wednesday, she wore a sleek all-black ensemble and kept her leather tote bag and camera in front of her while arriving at her office, just the latest in a string of cryptic appearances. Exhibit A: Monday — she went casual in a t-shirt, high-waisted jeans, and sneakers while reportedly heading to the studio. She held her MacBook in front of her, sparking rumors of not only a possible pregnancy, but also some new tunes. "There better be new music on that laptop," read one comment on a Beyoncé fan's Instagram feed. "I think she's working on a new album. She's got that serious college girl look," read another. Beyoncé was back out in the Big Apple on Tuesday, this time carrying a python-print Gucci clutch in front of her tummy — seriously, what is going on? Keep reading to see the photos in question, and check out Beyoncé's most recent public appearance with her sister Solange, Kelly Rowland, and Missy Elliott over the Fourth of July weekend.