5 years later –
Betty –
I stared at myself in the vintage mirror that sat in the corner of my room. I looked perfect, too perfect. From my polished pale pink nails to the delicate fabric of my dress in the same color, strappy heels and a single gold bracelet tying it all together. Having a best friend who had started her own fashion line meant I'd become her living manikin, and honestly I was okay with that. It made her happy and she was passionate about it. I helped where I could.
It wasn't my appearance that was bothering me; it was the anticipation, knowing that there was a good chance he would be there tonight. I let out a big sigh, grabbing my clutch off the dresser and heading out before I decided to lock myself in my room instead of going.
With my nerves on edge I decided to walk until I saw a free cab, finally catching one a few minutes later. He drove me to the gallery in less time than I thought it would take. I decided it was time to act like the 27 year old that I was, stepping out of the cab confidently after having paid. He probably wouldn't even be there, I lied to myself.
I walked in and was greeted by a young woman, asking whose guest list I was on and my name; "Betty Cooper, I should be on Jellybean Jones' list" I smiled at her kindly.
"Yes, here you are, Miss Cooper, please enjoy the open bar." She smiled warmly, greeting the next guest as I stepped further into the room. There were many people here already, discussing the various young artists on display tonight.
I headed over to the bar to get myself a drink before I began exploring. As I waited, a handsome man with a bright smile approached, "Hi,"
"Hello," I smiled and leaned against the bar, steadying my breathing. I could feel the tension in my shoulders.
"I'm Charles," he introduced himself, taking my hand in a handshake. He was dressed sharply, in a designer suit, a nice build, tall, olive skin, and polite. He'd be any woman's type. But I was only interested in one type, and no one fit the description except for one man.
"Betty," I replied.
"Nice to meet you, Betty. Who are you here to see?"
"Jellybean Jones. She's a photographer. I figured I'd get a drink first."
"I think everyone else had the same idea." He chuckled, making me smile. We were in for a bit of a wait.
"So how do you know this photographer?" He asked.
"I've known her since she was a teenager. We're from the same hometown."
"Now you're both here."
"Yep." I nodded. "We are." I'd seen Jellybean periodically over the past four years. She had moved here for college and we'd met up a few times for coffee and dinner. I introduced her to some photographers and fashion editors. She was incredibly talented, probably even more so than Jughead, so it was no wonder she was doing so well already. Her graduation was in a few days and she already had a few job offers, and a gallery showing along with other up and coming young artists. It was a huge deal. I was honored to be invited.
We talked a little more about Jellybean before ordering our drinks, heading over to view some of the work. Not wanting to be rude, I asked him why he was here. He told me he worked for a private art dealer and was invited here by a colleague.
Charles was handsome, and polite, like many of the men I'd met while living here, but none of them ignited even the smallest of sparks within me. After all these years I still couldn't shake Jughead. Maybe I'd never find that again.
We were discussing one of the pieces when I heard Jellybean say my name excitedly. I turned to give her a tight hug, congratulating her on tonight. I introduced the two and Jellybean beamed when he congratulated her on the huge accomplishment too.
"I wouldn't be here without Betty. She introduced me to all the right people." She said, squeezing me in another hug.
Charles smiled at me, "Well, you're lucky to have her, but it takes talent as well as luck."
"Thank you," she smiled.
"Where's your stuff?" I asked.
"It's a few rooms away. Come on, mum's in there, she hasn't left; it's like she's guarding my photos." She laughed. "And I don't know where Jug is. I think he's upstairs." She held my hand as she pulled me along, telling Charles to join us.
My throat went dry, knowing Jughead was in the same building. I hadn't seen him in over five years, the two of us avoiding each other whenever I visited Riverdale. It was just easier that way. It wasn't difficult to avoid each other; I had no reason to go to the south side. Polly and Sweet Pea told me he was doing okay, but they also knew I didn't want to know, the distance was the only thing that helped.
Mrs. Jones was indeed by Jellybean's pieces, pride written all over her still youthful and beautiful features. God, the Jones family had some good genes.
"Mum, I found Betty."
I was taken aback when she hugged me, saying my name like I was someone near and dear to her. "Thank you so much for being such a light in Jelly's life. You've done so much for her."
I smiled at her kind words but shook my head, "Oh, no, I didn't do anything. She did it all herself."
We continued talking for a few minutes, about Jellybean's graduation in a few days and the years passed. Mrs. Jones seemed genuinely interested in seeing me again, which I was still taken back by. Jellybean and Charles were discussing her work when Mrs. Jones and I joined in, taking in the vibrant photographs.
It was an all too familiar warm feeling, like my body sensed him when he was near. I turned to look at the other side of the room, his eyes already on me. Suddenly I wasn't anxious or nervous anymore, I just wanted to hug him, close the years of distance between us.
He smiled too, only slightly changed by age, more handsome and clean cut, probably for the occasion. There were no cuts and bruises, no dark rings under his eyes. Leaving the three where they were, I crossed the room full of people and wrapped my arms around him, holding on tightly and not letting go. Finally. Tears welled in my eyes.
"Hey, blondie," he said, a soft kiss landing on the side of my head.
I swallowed and closed my eyes tighter, wondering if this was real, "Hey…" I breathed, pulling my face from his chest to look up at him. He cupped my face, his thumb running along my jaw, making my eyes close briefly at his touch - my lover's touch. God, I missed him so much my broken heart ached.
I knew both our hearts had broken five years ago, and now here they were, glued back together weakly and thudding heavily against each other's chests.
"You look beautiful," he told me, his voice the sweetest melody to my ears. I wanted to cry, and I would have if I weren't so overjoyed to see him. His hand gently pushed a strand of my hair away from my face.
Whatever I was expecting, this wasn't it, this feeling of being home again; safe, sound, and whole.
"You do too." I told him, reaching my own hand up to run my fingertips through his thick hair, staring into his green eyes. I saw those eyes every time I closed my own at night, wishing he was next to me.
"Who's the guy?" He asked, snapping me out of it.
My mouth fell open, unsure how to answer for a moment. I looked over, noticing Charles glance in our direction while he continued to talk to Jellybean.
"No one," I dismissed. "I met him fifteen minutes ago at the bar."
He looked at me with uncertainty for a moment, but I didn't care, as long as he was looking at me.
"Want to step outside for a bit?"
I nodded and he took my hand in his warm large one. I held on, afraid he'd disappear. We headed back out the way I'd come in, walking down the block silently, hand in hand, our bodies' close.
Once we were away from the front of the gallery, we came together in another embrace, my face hiding in his strong chest. I inhaled his scent and squeezed him tighter. While his arm held me close, his free hand caressed my hair, his nose buried in it.
"You okay?" he asked gently.
I looked up at him with a nod, tears pricking my eyes as I longed to kiss his lips. No matter the years or the distance, I'd never fall out of love with him.
"I miss you…" I admitted, my heart skipping a beat when he leaned down, his lips meeting mine softly.
My heart felt like it was imploding, my chest heavy as I pulled him closer, my lips pressing harder against his and a desperate moan escaping.
As my mouth opened to deepen the kiss, he repeated my own words, pulling my mouth closer, tongues crashing in hunger.
I don't know how long we stayed that way, devouring each other through kisses and hugs, my body unable to get as close to his as I wanted, faceless people passing by and probably thinking we needed to get a room. But, I didn't care. Even though we were in a city with eight million people, right now only two existed.
When we finally pulled away, simply because we needed to breath, we both continued to hold onto the others faces, staring into each others eyes.
"I can't believe you're here, Juggie,"
"I'm here, baby,"
I held him tighter, sighing, "We should go back inside. It's Jellybean's night."
He nodded, still looking at me lovingly.
"Will you come home with me tonight?" I asked, unashamed and needing him.
"Of course," We kissed again, deep and long, my knees weak as we went back inside and found his mum and sister.
"Where's Charles?" I asked Jellybean.
"He needed to work a little, talk to the other artists and stuff. He gave me his card, told me to call him," she all but squealed.
"Oh god," Jughead groaned. I squeezed his hand.
"Oh stop it, it's because he's interested in my photos."
"Yeah, he's interested in something, alright," Jughead retorted.
Jellybean rolled her eyes.
"Betty, will you have dinner with us after the show?" Mrs. Jones asked.
"I'd love that," I told her. Who was this woman?
"Great," Jellybean added, "I made reservations for four already, hoping you'd join us." She winked.
"Oh," I smiled, "thank you,"
Jellybean and Mrs. Jones looked down at our joined hands, smiling at us knowingly. He didn't let go for the rest of the night, kissing the side of my head every time I leaned in.
We spent time looking at each work, silent and happy enough to just be reunited after so many years. We told Jellybean and Mrs. Jones we'd be at the bar and they could let us know when they were ready to head out for dinner.
Jughead and I got our drinks, the bar less packed now and many of the stools free. We sat close, with my legs in between his and his one hand on my hip, never breaking contact.
"How are you? How's New York City treating you?" He asked, genuinely interested as he looked at me like I was the only girl in the world. I missed that too.
I smiled and reached out, caressing his cheek and neck. "It's treating me really great. I'm working on my doctorate degree; I'm freelancing for a few magazines. And I'm an adjunct at NYU." I told him. Honestly, it was good, I was doing really well and it was everything I imaged it would be. But of course back then I didn't imagine I'd already fall in love with someone, and that I'd had to give him up to have my dream.
His smile was bright and he was happy, "I expect nothing less from Betty Cooper," he winked.
"How are you, Juggie?"
"I'm good, now." He leaned in and I gladly kissed him.
"How are Veronica, Archie, and Kev?"
I caught him up on the others, then asked about home, how Joaquin and the others were. I knew Joaquin and Kevin kept in touch but he also never told me much, knowing it was a subject too close to Jughead.
"I'm sorry I didn't keep in touch, Jug… It was just easier."
"I know. For me too. I'm sorry I made those last few months hell for you."
I shook my head and frowned. Leaving him was the hardest thing I'd ever done. I knew it was hard for him too.
"You two love birds ready for dinner?" Mrs. Jones asked, making me blush at her comment.
"I'm starving." Jughead said, taking my hand again as we all headed out and Jellybean lead the way.
The restaurant was only a block away, our table ready and waiting for us. Jughead ordered champagne and we all toasted Jellybean.
"When did you guys come in?" I asked when things settled down.
"Only yesterday evening. We're staying for a few weeks to help Jellybean find a new place." Mrs. Jones told me.
"You're not going back to Riverdale for the summer?" I asked.
"I am going to go home, just for a month or so, but I'm eager to start working."
I continued to ask questions, learning that Jellybean would be rooming with a few girlfriends whose parents were in the city too. All of them wanted to make sure their daughters were set up and safe in the city.
Mrs. Jones told me she'd started working again, to help keep busy now that Jellybean was gone. And I was shocked when she said she and Jughead had been working on some repairs around the house, incase she decided to sell it and move here too. She was still undecided.
What had happened between Jughead and his mother? Had they finally started talking again, letting time heal their wounds? I hoped so.
When we were done with dinner, Jughead told them he was going to head home with me, asking if they were okay to get back to the hotel. They said they'd see him tomorrow and each gave me a warm hug goodbye.
We let them get the first cab, and grabbed our own only seconds later. We held hands between us on the seat, laughing as our driver yelled at the other drivers and kept stopping short.
Thankfully we made it in one piece and I pulled him through the large loft without anyone seeing. They were either all out or in their bedrooms. I shut the door behind me with a sigh, finally alone with him.
We pulled each other close without a word, happiness bursting from my chest as my back arched and his strong hands gripped my waist tighter.
I had no idea what would happen after this, how much more it would hurt when I lost him again, but for now, he was mine again, and I needed him desperately.
I moved my hands down from around the back of his neck, undoing his shirt, feeling his hot breath against my face when he pulled back to let me. I touched his arms as I pushed the fabric off, feeling the flex of his muscles, slightly bigger than before. I needed more, pushing my hands beneath his undershirt, my hands racking over his back, warm and smooth.
He cupped my face, looking into my eyes as he got down onto his knees. I wondered what he was doing only for a second before he moved his hands to my ankle, undoing the small buckle of my shoe and helping take it off. I held onto his shoulder and smiled, letting him do the same with the other shoe.
His hands moved up the back of my legs, making me shiver as he continued, up and under my dress, squeezing my ass as he dug his face into my lower stomach, inhaling deeply.
I ran my fingers through his hair, slow and gentle, feeling perfect in his hold. This was so much better than any dream or fantasy I'd had of him.
As he rose, he lifted me, my legs wrapping around his waist and my arms around his shoulders. He shifted as he kicked off his shoes, making me giggle as he carried me to the bed.
I arched my back when he began undoing my zipper, pulling the thin straps down my shoulders next and pushing the fabric until it was around my waist, his mouth on my breasts and chest, every inch of my skin responsive.
"Oh, god," I breathed, his hands pushing the dress all the way down. He pulled away only long enough to take it off completely and I smiled when he took his undershirt off, revealing a new tattoo across his left chest; my name.
"Jug," I breathed, reaching for it as he kneeled between my open knees.
He looked down at it, giving me a shrug and smile, "Got it a month after you left."
"Baby…" I swallowed. I didn't know what to say. I felt so honored and special.
"Sorry if it's weird,"
"It's not." I shook my head. I wanted to say sorry for leaving, but didn't want to bring that up now. I wanted to live in this moment and not let anything ruin it.
"Figured I'd mark myself with who I belonged to." He winked, his hands pushing my knees slightly further apart as his face came back down to mine.
"It's really sexy," I moaned, his mouth meeting mine.
"I'll love you till the end of time," he told me, making my breath catch in my throat, but he continued, touching and kissing every part of me.
I loved him too, I'd never love anyone the way I loved him.
I wiggled my hips, loving how he worshiped me but craving his mouth with all the teasing.
He smiled and kissed along my pantie line, pulling them down slower than I wanted.
"God, I need you, Jug." I pleaded, watching as he kissed from one thigh to the other.
"I need you too, Betty," he groaned, not easing into it at all as he began lapping me up, my body squirming with pleasure, my hands gripping the covers underneath us.
"Fuck I miss this so much," he said against me, vibrations traveling along my skin as he spoke. "You taste amazing."
I gasped as he buried his face between my legs, holding my legs apart as I fought not to scream.
"Oh my god, Juggie, oh god…" It was embarrassing how quickly he made me come, how hard.
Stars exploded behind my closed eyelids, my body becoming lighter and more relaxed.
I laughed when he didn't stop, pulling at his hair until he moved his face against my thigh again, the moister from his face rubbing off.
"Fuck, I almost forgot how good you taste,"
I bit my lip then, holding back a smile as I watch him in my completely blissed out state, knowing there was so much more to come.
He undid his pants, stepping off the bed and discarding the rest of his clothes, until he was completely naked, looking better than ever.
I pushed myself up onto my elbows, reaching for his hand and pulling him back into me, smiling up at him. We slowed down then, looking into each other's eyes as I let myself feel the weight of him, our bodies familiar and finally back together.
"I love you… so much," I told him, pushing his hair back from his eyes.
"I love you too, I'm gonna show you how much," he said deeply, his thumb pulling my lip away from my biting teeth, his mouth taking mine, open, hot, and demanding.
His hand moved down my throat, over my chest, groping my breast and down my hip, pulling away only long enough to position himself and push into me slowly.
It felt so good, better than any time before. My body had been missing and yearning for him for so long, and in it's already heightened state, I knew I'd come again quickly, feeling safe and right in our lovemaking.
With his lips on my mouth, whispering words of love and encouragement, I gasped and trembled, feeling myself contract around him.
"Fuck, that was record time, I only just started."
I laughed softly, feeling spent already but wanting so much more, "Don't stop, please," This had been years of pent up need for him.
"Never, baby," he smiled lovingly, pressing his lips to mine and not letting go as he continued to move inside me.
"Shit, Betty," he groaned into my mouth deeply. I knew he was trying to hold back his own climax, probably wanting this to last longer than just a few minutes.
"It's okay, baby… Come… You have all night to fuck me," I breathed, wanting to feel him come inside me so badly.
I moved my hands down to his firm ass, pulling him deeper as he thrust.
"I need you," I moaned, kissing his shoulder and neck as I felt him thrust one more time, spilling hot and hard inside me.
He stayed still for a moment before gently kissing my neck and rolling off. I crawled on top of him, not wanting to break contact for even a second, and he smiled his eyes still closed and his arms moving around my back.
I kissed his chest, slightly moist with sweat, but it tasted so sweet, my tongue licking more of him up. I moved up his neck, licking and nibbling as I went.
He held my waist close, his other hand grabbing my ass cheek.
"I can't wait to ride you," I whispered against his ear, my lips turning up into a smile, drunk on him and in the best mood of my life. It's like I'd been starved and he was a feast.
I felt his chest vibrate against mine as he chuckled, slapping my ass and grabbing it tighter, making me yelp, "You're asking for it,"
"What do you expect, no one's made me come in five years," I told him. I'd slept with a few men in the years we weren't together, but none made me come, not even once.
He looked at me seriously then, frowning before rolling me onto my back again. I cupped his face and looked at him.
"Were you with anyone else?"
I wasn't expecting him to ask that, and oddly enough it wasn't awkward. I felt completely okay telling him.
"Yes, only a few times… but, you ruined all other men for me,"
He kissed me then, "I'd say I'm sorry, but I'm not."
I laughed, "No one else matters. I only want you anyway." I told him.
"Did you touch yourself thinking about me?" He asked, his eyes growing darker with lust, our light teasing turning into something more erotic.
"Yes," I breathed, feeling that familiar tingle between my legs.
"Did you make yourself come?"
I nodded, heat rising up my chest. "Did you think about me?" I asked.
"Every fucking night," his voice was sad and desperate, "You're all I ever want, Betty,"
I believed him, I felt how much he loved me, the feeling surrounding my soul.
And so we spent the entire night, up until around 5 in the morning, making love, fucking, and tangled within each other.
Jughead –
It must have been late morning when I woke up, my soul mate cuddled up next to me, her leg and arm thrown over me, as if to shield me from leaving. I'd never leave her again. I couldn't live without her anymore. I didn't want to. She was my life and I knew I had to leave my old one behind.
That's what these five years were all about for me, leaving the Serpents in a good state and in good hands. Leaving Riverdale in a better state and hopefully a better man.
In the last year I began trying to reach out to mum again. We were both alone without Jellybean, no reason to see each other. So I showed up, just to check in and ask if she needed any help with anything. I was surprised when she didn't slam the door in my face, instead she asked me to check on the kitchen sink because it had been clogging up lately.
And so I kept coming back, the two of us bonding over home repairs, fixing things that didn't even need it. We were the ones that needed fixing.
I didn't want to wake Betty or leave her warm bed, but I had to use the bathroom, so as gently as possible I moved out from under her limbs, making sure she was still peaceful and sleeping, angelic as ever.
I snuck into her bathroom, pushing the door closed. When I was done, I washed my hands and face, needing something to help wake me, then walked back into the bedroom, stopping at her dresser to glance over her floral perfumes, lotions, and open jewelry box. The few pieces I'd gotten her were visible in the box, behind it a photograph sticking out.
I knew it, I had the same set of photo booth pictures in my wallet. Betty and I when we were here last time, celebrating her 21st.
Betty moaned from the bed, "Jug?"
I smiled and walked over to the bed, "Morning, beautiful."
"Why aren't you in bed?" she pouted, reaching her hand to me.
I took it and got back on the bed, using my palms to hover above her. She smiled at me sleepily, moving her arms around my back. I'd never been happier than I was now, here with her.
I leaned down and placed soft kisses against her delicate neck, feeling myself growing harder despite the all night marathon we'd definitely won last night.
I'd slept with more women than I was proud to admit since she left, searching for Betty in each one of them but always coming up empty and disappointed. No one could replace her for me.
Her breathing grew deeper as my kisses got harder, biting the full swell of her breast as I moved down her chest. God, I'd never get enough of her. She was the best thing I'd ever tasted.
She arched her back, moaning and telling me to make love to her. So I need, deep and slow, wanting to give her every piece of me as she shuttered below me, always the most beautiful when she was coming. I followed quickly, finally satisfied and feeling like I was where I'm meant to be.
After a few minutes I reached over for my phone, figuring I should check on whether mum or Jellybean had texted me. I had one from Jellybean, telling me her and mum were having a girls day if I wanted to spend the day with Betty.
I texted back a quick reply and smiled over at Betty.
"I'm yours for the day, if you're free."
Her smile was bright and happy. I always wanted her happy, the last memories I had of her were a lot of tears and heartache.
"Are you hungry?" She asked.
I gave her a look, "Who are you talking to here, babe?"
She laughed and shook her head. She pulled a t-shirt and shorts on as I pulled my pants on. I grabbed her wrist and pulled her back against my chest before she could reach her door.
She giggled, the smile clear on her lips as she said my name in warning. I kissed her neck, moving my lips to her ear, my hand pushing between her legs as she pressed her ass back into me.
"You have no idea how fucking crazy I am for you,"
"Jug," she breathed, obviously affected but having enough sense for the both of us, "if we don't eat or drink something soon, we're going to pass out from all the fucking."
I chuckled at her frankness, my stomach grumbling. She had a point, so we both composed ourselves and stepped out into the large open loft. The huge windows covering one side let in plenty of light.
"Oh," Veronica halted before smiling, looking up and down at me. "Hello Jughead."
I gave her a smile and returned her hello, Betty letting my hand go as she moved around the kitchen.
"I'd hug you hello but I'm sure you're covered in sex sweat," she raised a perfect eyebrow.
"He is." Betty said confidently, surprising both of us.
"Well, you two sex maniacs have all day." Veronica smirked. "I'll be out, Kevin's out until tonight, and Archie will be home probably around 5, same as me. Will that give you enough time?" She asked Betty teasingly.
Betty was moving around the kitchen with ease, preparing what she needed to make us for a late breakfast.
"Probably not." Betty replied.
Veronica's mouth fell open in shock as she gave me a stern look, "What have you done to my best friend?"
I shrugged innocently, my smile unmoving as Betty winked at us over her shoulder.
"Okay, I'm leaving before you're fucking on the kitchen counter."
"Oh, good idea," Betty giggled.
"Oh, god, just wipe it down after." Veronica retorted.
"Nice new ink, by the way, Romeo," She said, glancing down at my chest and giving me a genuine smile.
"Thanks," I winked before she laughed and left.
Betty handed me a tall glass of water, telling me the coffee was almost ready. I asked if I could help and she had me cut up some of the fruit. I could do this, I wanted to do this; mornings with her.
We ate when everything was ready, sitting close on our stools and continuously touching. Needing time to digest our food I figured this was a good a time as any to talk about this.
"How'd you feel about me moving to the city?" I asked, praying she'd be happy about it.
"Are you serious, Jug? If you were here I'd have everything I ever wanted."
I leaned in and kissed her. I was going to give her everything she wanted.
"But what about your life in Riverdale?"
"My life's with you… I'm just avoiding life over there." I told her. "Sweet Pea's going to take over… We've been working on bettering the Serpents the last five years. All clean and legitimate businesses. No more bullshit. I'll probably have to go back a few times a year, until everything's settled, but other than that I'm finally ready to start my life… Hopefully with you, if you want me."
"Oh, Juggie," she threw her arms around me and I held her close. "Are you sure though? I don't want you to regret anything."
"I regret not being with you all these years. I'm 30, Betty, I'm ready to be good for you."
"You are good for me," she said, cupping my face as a tear ran down her cheek. I wiped it away, leaning in to kiss her cheek.
"I'm going to go to Riverdale, then come back when Jellybean does. You think you can help me find a place?" I'd saved enough money to help get me by before I found a job here.
"You can stay here. We have plenty of room and I'm sure the others will agree… Unless you're not ready to live together?"
I smiled at her biting lip, "I'm ready to spent every second with you, but I don't want to impose."
"We'll figure it all out." She sighed contently, pulling me closer again. "I'll help you with everything."
I kissed her shoulder. I had no doubt she'd do anything to help me adapt. I was so sure and happy to be doing this. I wanted more with her.
5 Years Later –
5 years after moving to New York City to be with Betty, I was surer than ever that I'd made the right decision, not doubting it for one second. She made me so happy and she helped me build my own life here. She introduced me to some people, which lead to freelance fashion photography gigs, and encouraged me to finish my novel. She was the first in line at the signing. The book did really well and my publisher was pushing me for another one.
I didn't regret any of it, because everything that happened since meeting her had lead me here, to this very moment. My heart felt so full, appreciating all the amazing things I had. I tried not to think about how I didn't deserve them. I'd been seeing a therapist, at Betty's request, and she was helping me deal with some of the things that had happened earlier in my life. I had to be strong and good for my family now, I couldn't let the past affect them.
I smiled when I saw a car pull into our street, knowing it was Betty with the rental. I was waiting outside our place, the bags ready to go as soon as we were. She pulled up in front of me and I stepped around the car quickly to open her door smiling at her sympathetically as she got out with a groan.
"I don't want to get any bigger," she complained with a cute pout; rubbing the right side of her growing belly, round with our daughter safely inside.
I chuckled and leaned in for a kiss. "You're beautiful."
"Thanks, but I don't believe you." She rolled her eyes.
She was, she was more beautiful than the first night we'd met, and that was saying something. I grabbed her ass as she went to walk back up on the sidewalk, giving it a smack upon letting go.
"Hey," she warned, looking back at me with a sexy smile.
"You better believe me, or I'll have to prove it to you later." I winked.
"Oh, well then, I definitely don't believe you." She bit into her lip, giving me a wink in return.
Just as I was about pull her in for another kiss, Jellybean emerged from inside the house, carrying Lydia on her hip.
"Sweet ride, mama!" Jellybean said, coming over and handing me my 2-year-old daughter.
"You like the car, sweetheart?" I asked, giving her chubby cheek a kiss. This adorable little girl, who was almost a complete replica of Jellybean when she was a kid, ruled my heart.
I loved my parents as a son, I loved my baby sister as a brother, and I loved Betty as a soul mate, but loving Lydia as a father was the strongest emotion I'd ever experienced. Being her dad was my proudest achievement. She was the love between Betty and I manifested, and she was the most precious thing in the world.
I was scared shitless when Betty told me she was pregnant. I'd be a shit dad. But when she was born my heart grew tenfold, holding her tiny form in my arms and wanting to protect her instantly. I'd be good at this, I wasn't going to screw this up.
"Yeah," she said excited, throwing her arms around my neck and almost smacking me in the face.
Betty laughed and reached for her, "Come here, little monster. Daddy's gotta put the car seat in anyway." She said, reaching and taking her from me.
Jellybean worked on getting our bags into the trunk while I put the seat into the back, taking Lydia from Betty again so I could strap her in.
"I'm going to pee again and make sure everything's off and locked up," Betty told us, making me smile as she walked up the stairs, using the railing for support. She was moving slower and slower.
Jellybean leaned into my side and I wrapped an arm around my little sister. Who wasn't so little anymore. She was 27, a stunning young woman who had everything going for her. She didn't let any opportunities pass her by. I was so proud, surrounded by the women I loved most.
"Damn, bro, you did really good," she told me.
I raised an eyebrow at her, smirking.
"I still can't believe you locked Betty down."
"Hey, I'm not so bad myself," I mock defended.
She smiled, "I know, you're the best big brother ever. And husband, and dad… I'm proud of you."
I kissed the top of her head, "Means a lot coming from you. Now if only your weren't moving in with that tool."
She rolled her eyes and I threw my hands out in defense. She and Charles were moving in together in the upcoming weeks. I didn't really think badly of him. He made her happy and he was good to her. He'd asked me to meet up with him last week, telling me he'd like to ask her to marry him and what I thought about it. He said he knew my opinion and approval meant everything to Jellybean and that he'd really like my blessing.
I gave it to him. He was going to surprise her by being at mum's house when we arrived. He'd told her he couldn't get away from the city for Easter and wouldn't be coming to visit Riverdale with us.
"Will you stop?" She sighed.
I threw my hands up in defense, "I told you he gave you his number because he was interested in more than just your photographs."
"Shut up," she told me, but I could tell she wasn't really mad at me.
Jellybean got into the back seat with Lydia and I went over to help Betty over to the car.
She got into the passenger seat, settling in and trying to get comfortable. I leaned in and kissed her, rubbing her stomach gently before closing her door and getting into the drivers seat.
The drive was long, made longer with the more frequent stops Betty's bladder demanded. It was fun though, the four of us having a lot to talk about, especially Lydia, becoming more talkative as her vocabulary developed.
Our first stop was mum's place. To drop Jellybean off and have lunch before heading to the Coopers', where we were staying for our visit.
Mum was so happy to see us, gushing over Jellybean, then Betty and her stomach, before taking Lydia from my arms and kissing my cheek.
Mum and I had made a lot of progress. There was still a lot of history between us, a lot of pain, but I knew she was happy with my life changes and especially with the grandchildren I was providing. All that stuff that happened, loosing dad, that pain would never go away, but we were both trying.
"Jellybean, honey, there's something in the backyard for you," Mum smiled, holding Lydia close.
"What are you talking about?" Jellybean asked, giving mum a strange look.
"Just go see."
Jellybean did, disappearing into the backyard where I knew Charles was waiting.
Mum and Betty went to look out of the backdoor, whispering about how romantic the whole thing was. I came to stand behind Betty, because there was nothing better to do, moving my hands to sit on her hips. I wasn't really interested in watching my sister's intimate moment.
There were roses all over the backyard, Charles down on one knee as Jellybean held both hands over her mouth. He proposed and she said yes, crying as he stood and lifted her into his arms, spinning her around and making her laugh happily.
Mum and Lydia went over to congratulate them as Betty turned, bringing her arms up around my shoulders, her belly pressing into mine. "He's good for her," she assured.
I smiled and leaned down to kiss her, "I know. Come on, let's go congratulate them,"
We did, the whole afternoon a celebration as mum prepared a feast. God, I loved her food. And I had missed it so much in the years we didn't speak.
She said she might finally be ready to move to New York City. Yes, she liked her job, but all her family was in the city and she wanted to be close to us. Betty and I had actually discussed asking her to move in with us now that Jellybean was moving out and we had the extra room, so we asked her.
She was excited, saying she could be our full time babysitter so Betty could go back to work when she wanted. We told her she didn't need to do that. Betty and I made it work with Lydia, but she said she wanted to. She said that in a perfect world she'd get to spend time with her grandkids all day, and see her kids. I wanted her to be happy; she deserved it. Maybe she'd even meet someone.
Next up was the Coopers'. The whole family was there, including Sweet Pea and Polly, the twins now seventeen, graduating high school next year, and five year old James, who was very excited to see us. He was the spitting image of Sweet Pea, and an extremely happy and lovable kid.
"Uncle Jug!" He said excitedly as I lifted him into the air, hugging around my neck as I held him, also giving Sweet Pea a hug in greeting.
Polly and Betty laughed, unable to hug comfortably with both their bellies between them. Polly was slightly larger, due any week now. Both sisters were radiant and happy to see one another.
"Did you ever think we'd end up here?" Sweet Pea asked.
He was a father to 2 teenagers, an adorable five year old, and another on the way. I didn't know how he did it, but he made it seem easy. His family adored him and you could tell it meant everything to him.
"Definitely not."
After spending some time with everyone, the kids headed to bed, and Sweet Pea invited Betty and I over to The Wyrm. It was late and I didn't want to leave Betty, but I was also excited to see everyone. Betty agreed, saying she wasn't tired. So I agreed, just for an hour.
Betty was really happy to see Toni, "I'd offer you a Serpent Kiss for old times' sake, but I don't make virgin drinks." She shrugged, placing both hands on Betty's belly as the two caught up. Toni was a newly wed, just back from her honeymoon with her new wife.
We all found a seat and began chatting and catching up. I draped my arm around Betty's shoulders protectively, and kissed her head, my Serpent crew giving me shit for turning into a softie.
"You're not going to propose to her again, are you Jug?" Toni teased and Betty laughed, her eyes bright as she looked at me.
When Betty was six months pregnant with Lydia, I'd proposed right here, where we met. I knew Betty wasn't expecting it, which only made it more special. We got married a few days later at the courthouse. It was perfect, because she was perfect.
"I am having major déjà vu, babe," Betty winked at me, and for a second I was 23 again, laying eyes on her for the first time. I felt so lucky to have even met her.
"I should have proposed the first night I met you."
Toni awed, pulling on Sweet Pea's jacket as he laughed.
"That would have made you even creepier than you already were." Betty shot back, laughing sweetly.
"I was creepy?"
She shrugged and the others laughed. I didn't care, because I knew that today I got the chance to spend time with each and every member of my family – I had so many people who cared about me, and I'd do anything for them.
"Come on, babe, let's get you back to your parents house and I'll give you that Serpent Kiss that Toni won't."
We said goodbye to everyone before heading back to the car, my hand on Betty's thigh as she leaned back and smiled at me lazily, the streetlights illuminating her face in the darkness.
"You good?" I asked.
She nodded, "Just tired, but I'm glad we went to say hello to everyone."
She dozed off by the time we got back, waking again to get inside and up to her old room. I tucked her in and kissed her forehead, going to check on Lydia and giving her a kiss too. Both of my girls were peaceful and safe, and all was right in the world.
I changed into pajama bottoms and got into bed with Betty, caressing her belly and giving it a kiss too.
She moaned sleepily, "Is everything okay?"
"Yeah, baby, just giving all my girls goodnight kisses."
"Does daddy need a kiss too?"
I kissed her lips softly and cuddled up to her. "I'm so outnumbered." I sighed, mocking stress, although I did worry about them.
"No, Juggie, we're all on your side… We love you so much."
"I know, Betty, I love you too."