If you haven't read chapter 6 it's highly recommended for this chapter. Other than that here's the disclaimer: I do not own the characters they belong to the wonderful people of Lost Girl, Showcase, Prodigy, et al.
A Month Later….
Lauren walked into the house and there was nothing but total chaos going on and it further added to her aggravation. It had been a tough day at the lab. Lauren was putting together teams at the facility to take over some of the work that she had. She was currently in the process of combing through her minor medical cases and smaller research projects to see which ones she could hand off to the teams. After last month's illness took her away from Ethan Lauren told Trick and Evony that she would have a select workload and that if she worked on any important cases it would only be during her normal hours. She also told them that she wouldn't be doing late nights under any circumstances. She closed the front door and placed her briefcase on the table then walked into the living room. Kenzi and Vex were playing video games while Bo chased a naked Ethan around the living room. And the room itself was a disaster area. Lauren let out a frustrated breath before she said, raising her voice, "Ethan Alexander Lewis!"
Ethan stopped running around and looked at her then screamed, "Mama!"
He came running over to her and she picked him up. She gave him a kiss then asked, "Why are you naked?"
Ethan started babbling and she wasn't able to understand anything he was saying, luckily Bo walked over to her smiling as she explained, "We went to the children's museum today and it was arts and crafts day. He got glitter all over himself, so I gave him a bath."
Lauren pulled her head back to look at Ethan and grinned, "Were you sparkly?"
Ethan shook his head and told her, "I sparkle and picture sparkle."
"Can Mama see your picture?" Lauren asked as she put him down. He quickly nodded his head then ran off to the kitchen and Lauren followed him. When they got in the kitchen he pointed at the fridge proudly asking, "Mama like it?"
Lauren looked at the picture that was basically a mess of blue, purple, and red glitter. She had no idea where one colour ended and when another began. Lauren stooped down to where she was eye to eye with Ethan and she smiled, "Of course I love it sweetie. It is a beautiful picture. Now let's get you dressed."
Ethan gave her kiss before he ran out of the kitchen to go back into the living room. Lauren followed him, but she stopped after she saw that Bo had caught Ethan and was getting him dressed. She stood next to the couch and asked out loud, "Why is my house a mess?"
Lauren grabbed the remote to turn down the ridiculously loud TV then Vex told her, "Yeah sorry about that doctor. We had a busy morning then we went over to the museum and we just didn't have time to pick up before you got in. We got dinner though."
Lauren glared at the top of his head and sceptically asked, "But you have time to play a ridiculous and violent video game in front of my son?" Then she cringed as she added, "And please tell me none of you cooked."
Bo decided that she was going to intervene before Lauren and Vex got into it. She had come to recognise that at least twice a week those two would argue about something. Bo let go of Ethan then walked over to Lauren and defended Vex, "They haven't been playing long. Plus Ethan and I were going to head up to his room and play." Bo gave Kenzi and Vex a pointed look, "But now that you're home they're going to turn it off because they are going to babysit for us."
Lauren got a bewildered look on her face. They hadn't talked about doing anything without Ethan so she was confused as to why they we need a sitter. Bo just stood there smiling at Lauren. Ever since that night that they had dinner and opened up to each other they had been getting closer and Bo finally decided that the two of them needed to move forward. Lauren crossed her arms over her chest and tilted her head asking, "And why would we need a sitter Bo?"
Bo's smiled turned into a grin as she simply explained, "We're going out for dinner. Just the two of us."
Lauren was stunned. She knew they had become friendlier and that Bo didn't hate her anymore, but the two of them going out for dinner without anyone else would be what most would considered a date. Lauren wasn't quite certain what to do so she told Bo, "I just got home and I'm tired Bo. I haven't even spent any proper time with Ethan. Also I don't trust just Kenzi and Vex to watch Ethan at night. He needs to be in bed at eight and you know they're a bad influence on each other."
Both Vex and Kenzi shouted from the couch, "Hey!"
Bo had been expecting Lauren to put up some sort of an argument. Even though they had gotten closer Bo could sense Lauren's hesitance about moving beyond their co-parenting situation. Bo scooped Ethan up and told her, "Calm down Lauren. We won't be leaving until seven, and it's five now. That gives you time to be with Ethan, get in a shower, get dressed, and get your second wind. Also Tamsin will be with them, so they won't be completely alone." Bo handed Ethan to Lauren and added, "I also have a surprise to show you."
Lauren was completely baffled as to what to do. Bo had completely blindsided her with this. The only thing she could do was go along with it because she had no other arguments. Lauren situated Ethan in her arms and as they started for the stairs she said to him, "Let's go see if Mama has any clothes for tonight."
They headed up to the second floor and once they were up there she closed the baby gate then they went into her room where she put Ethan on her bed. Lauren began to pace as she thought about her night out with Bo. Bo hadn't called it a date, so maybe it was just a friendly dinner for them to get to know more about one another without having Ethan around to disrupt them. Lauren then frowned as she remembered that Bo had said she had a surprise for her. Lauren was so lost in her own thoughts that when Ethan called her again she looked at him and said, "I'm sorry baby. What's the matter?"
Ethan gave her a toothy smile and giggled, "Tickle monster."
Lauren chuckled and rolled her eyes before she crawled on the bed. As she crawled closer to him she wiggled her fingers and playfully warned him, "You better cover that belly or I'm gonna get it."
Ethan covered his stomach as he giggled, but Lauren tickled his sides while she made growling noises. Ethan was laughing and squealing and Lauren had forgotten all about her surprise evening with Bo. Lauren wrestled and tickled Ethan for a few minutes before he was telling her to stop. Lauren laid down on the bed and Ethan immediately crawled on top of her then rested his head on her shoulder. She rubbed his back as they recovered from their horse playing. Playing with Ethan after a long day of work relaxed Lauren because he was the one thing that she didn't have to think about. Taking care of him, playing with him, and being his mother just came naturally for her. Ethan lifted his head up and innocently asked, "Bo?"
Lauren smiled at him then kissed his nose before saying, "Go call her."
She helped him down off the bed then he ran out of the room yelling, "Bo! Bo! Stairs now!"
Lauren got up and loudly scolded, "Ethan Alexander…."
She heard him sweetly add, "Peas."
Lauren shook her head and hoped that at some point Ethan would learn not to be so demanding, but the more time she spent with Bo she had come to realise that the woman herself was demanding. But Bo wrapped her demanding persistent nature with a sultry look or a sweet smile, and Lauren found out that one made her weak in the knees and the other turned her into a sucker. If her son had learned to do that then there would be no stopping him from wrapping people around his finger. Although she was starting to think it was too late for that one. Lauren heard Bo come up stairs asking Ethan, "Yeah sweetie?"
Lauren smiled at the endearment. Bo had been calling Ethan sweetie more frequently and Lauren found it adorable, but not as adorable than when Ethan called Bo "Bo-Bo". Something he had picked up from Kenzi much to Bo's dislike. Lauren went over to her closet and looked for something to wear for her evening out with Bo. Because she had no idea where they were going and she didn't know what would be an appropriate outfit. Lauren looked through her close and listened to Ethan and Bo's conversation out in the hall. She heard Ethan say her name then room which was followed by truck and boom which made Lauren chuckle because she had no idea what he could be talking about. Lauren figured out what she was going to wear and she stripped out of her work clothes then tossed them in the hamper. As she was walking to the bathroom she shouted, "Bo can you grab him? I'm going to take a shower." Bo waltzed into her room carrying Ethan. Lauren quickly grabbed her robe off the back of the chair that was in her room and while she frantically put it on she exclaimed, "What part of that said come into my room?"
Bo had a suggestive grin on her face. Lauren may have been fast, but she wasn't fast enough and Bo had definitely liked what she had seen. She was glad that she had completely taken care of her hunger the night before because if she hadn't she would have most likely gone after Lauren. Bo smiled as she casually pointed out, "I didn't know you were naked. I just wanted to see what you were wearing."
Flustered Lauren pointed at the door and told her, "You will see what I'm wearing later. Now go Bo."
Bo gave Lauren a casual once over before she left the room. Lauren covered her face with her hands as she tried to get over her shock. Bo really was pushing the limit tonight and Lauren wasn't sure if she liked it or if she would eventually lose it on Bo. It was something she would probably figure out by the end of the night. Lauren had just turned to go into the bathroom when Bo came back into her room snapping her fingers, "Oh hey Vex told me to tell you that we tried to get Ethan to use the potty, but he didn't want to." Bo paused then chuckled uneasily, "But he did find an alternate option that he liked."
Lauren turned around and glared at Bo asking, "And what is that?" She had gotten him a training chair earlier in the week and told the others to try to have him use it, but not to push him on it. Clearly today's attempt wasn't successful. Lauren watched as Bo opened her mouth to say something, but then she closed it. Lauren had learned that Bo usually didn't hold back from what she wanted to say, but when it came to telling her about things in regards to Ethan Bo was a little hesitant. Lauren crossed her arms over her chest, "Bo…."
Bo didn't know why she got so weird about telling Lauren about things concerning Ethan. She felt like she was overstepping her boundaries or something despite how much time the two of them spent together. Lauren also was bit of a mama bear and anything she didn't like she tended to snap at people. Bo shook her head and chuckled uneasily again as she hesitantly divulged, "We were in the back yard today playing when Ethan took off his pull-up and peed in the grass."
Lauren covered her face and groaned, "Ethan…." Lauren walked closer to Bo and Ethan then kissed his cheek before stating, "You need to start using the potty." Ethan shook his head no and Lauren nodded her head yes telling him, "You do. You are not allowed to pee in the grass. If you pee anywhere it will be in the potty or in your pull-up." Lauren then pointed at Bo and threatened, "Do not let Vex allow him to pee everywhere. If he lets him pee anywhere but his potty you're going to have to do something."
Bo rolled her eyes in exasperation then kissed the side of Ethan's head as she agreed, "Okay mom, but I'm not going to boss Vex around. That's your deal because he only seems to respect your wishes."
Lauren turned to head back to her bathroom and she said over her shoulder, "He may respect my wishes, but you're Ethan's mom too Bo. And unless you want Ethan peeing everywhere you will tell Vex not to teach our son that's it okay to pee on every bush."
Bo groaned as she realised this would be her first rule as a parent. Lauren looked back at Bo and smirked. Bo caught her and smiled, "I will do that, and I may be his other mom, but at least I'm the cool one."
Lauren spun around and scowled at Bo's retreating form. She went into the bathroom and as she got the shower started she muttered, "I am the cool mom and to prove it I'm going to make her suffer."
While Lauren got showered and ready for what Bo knew to be a date she went downstairs. After she put Ethan down she went over to close the baby gate and told Vex and Kenzi, "Turn that off and put on something kid appropriate."
Kenzi turned off the console and asked, "So are you going to tell her that this is a date or are you going to just keep her in the dark?"
Bo started cleaning up the living room and while she picked up Ethan's toys she answered, "I can't tell her it is a date. The moment she knows it's a date then she'll freak out on me."
Vex scoffed as he flipped through the TV channels, "She won't do such a thing. Not with the sickening way you two have been acting towards each other lately. I'm surprised you two haven't gotten in a decent round of tonsil hockey."
Kenzi faked gagged and Bo kicked Vex's feet off the coffee table as she told him, "Could you not say that around Ethan? He's been picking up on things a lot quicker these days. Also Lauren is apprehensive about something that won't let her give into her attraction to me. I have no idea what it is, so just telling her that we're going on a date would most likely end with her telling me no and to leave."
Kenzi took the remote from Vex when he put on something that wasn't kid-friendly. After she put on Spongebob she remarked, "I could think of a million and one reasons why she doesn't want to date you." When Bo looked at her in amazement Kenzi backpedalled, "I just meant like in regards to her guilt and trusting herself to not screw things up."
Bo stared at her friend for a moment then continued to clean up after Ethan who was just making a mess of the room all over again. Even though Kenzi's lame explanation didn't make her feel any better she couldn't help but to wonder if the younger woman was right. Then she started to think that maybe she should have been patient and just let Lauren advance their relationship on her terms. Bo sighed and tossed Ethan's stuffed dragon into his play area, "I'm going to go get ready. Don't let Ethan destroy the living room again. Tamsin should be home in a moment."
Bo headed up to the second floor, so she could get ready. She had put her clothes in the guest room after she decided it would save them time if she just got ready over there. Bo went into the guest room and got ready. Lauren was getting dressed after changing her mind on her outfit for the fifth time. She didn't know what Bo was expecting and came to the conclusion that since they were going out to dinner that a black skirt and a white blouse along with some heels would be appropriate. She went downstairs and headed into the living room and Vex glanced at her then looked back at her and stared, "Holy shit doc."
"Vex watch your mouth." Lauren scolded even as she blushed at his reaction. The skirt she may have been wearing might have shown off a decent amount of leg and her blouse might have teased at a glimpse of cleavage, but she was still a mother and wouldn't tolerate swearing in front of her son.
Unfortunately Kenzi had missed her scolding Vex, so when the young woman came into the living room from the kitchen and saw Lauren she exclaimed, "Damn hotpants I'm impressed. Glad to see you own something other than button-ups." Lauren rolled her eyes and let out an exasperated breath but before she could say anything Kenzi continued, "Bo is going to flip her shi-stuff when she sees you."
Lauren was relieved that Kenzi had corrected herself. Ethan's last exposure to word shit hadn't stuck, but she didn't think she would be lucky a second time. Lauren looked around the living room and asked, "Where is Bo?"
Vex pointed at the ceiling and informed her, "She's up in the guest room getting gussied up for you date."
Lauren glared at him as she walked over to the couch and argued, "This is not a date. She didn't call it a date, and I didn't call it a date. This is a dinner between two people who are more like friend s who happen to have a child together."
Kenzi fell into the recliner and warned, "Careful doc or you'll flood Egypt."
Lauren could only briefly scowl at the girl before Ethan came up to her and she picked him up then sat him on her lap. He looked up at her and smiled, "Mama pretty."
The adorableness of her son calling her pretty turned Lauren into a mushball and she kissed his cheek then said, "Thank you baby. Are you going to be a good boy for Vex, Tam, and Kenzi?" Ethan shook his head yes and that made her smile, "You say you are, but you're going to be a handful." She lowered her voice and grinned, "Good boy."
As Lauren ran through the babysitting rules with Kenzi and Vex she spotted Bo coming downstairs and she stopped talking midsentence. Bo was wearing tight dress pants and a red blouse that definitely showed off her assets. Lauren felt her pulse quicken. Bo grinned at the blonde's reaction. Not only had she rendered her speechless, but her energy had spiked tremendously. But Lauren wasn't alone though Bo thought Lauren looked beyond beautiful. Bo walked over to her and she said, "Oh wow. You are so beautiful."
Lauren put Ethan down on the couch and got up saying, "Um-You-Thank you." Lauren gave her a shy smile then she added, "You said I was the uncool mom, so I had to prove a point."
Bo chuckled as she checked out Lauren then she suggestively said, "If you were proving to be the hot uncool mom then you have succeeded."
Lauren playfully glared at Bo and before she could say anything Vex told them, "There is an influential child around
Bo gave Vex an annoyed look before she picked up Ethan and she gave him a kiss on the cheek telling him, "Behave Ethan and I love you."
Ethan wrapped his arms around Bo's neck and said, "Love you."
Bo hadn't meant to say that she loved him because she had never said it to him before, even though she loved him with her whole heart, but the words had come out of her mouth quicker than she could process them. And the fact that he had said it back had caused tears to come to her eyes. Lauren watched with a tearful smile on her face as Bo and Ethan said goodbye. She had always wanted Ethan to know the love of his other mother, and now that he had it she felt nothing but joy for him. Bo gave Ethan one more squeeze before she gave him to Lauren. Lauren gave him a kiss and repeated the same thing as Bo, "Please behave tonight Ethan and Mama loves you."
Ethan told her that he loved her and before either of them could get the crazy notion that a night out would be a bad idea, Kenzi came over and took Ethan, who had just recently warmed up to her, from Lauren saying, "Okay mamas go have fun tonight. And don't do anything that will result in a sibling for Ethan. It might cause Lauren to run again."
Both women gave her an annoyed look then Bo held her hand out for Lauren, "Ready?"
Lauren glanced at Bo's hand then turned to get her purse saying, "Yeah."
Bo sighed realising that Lauren was giving her the brush off. Being patient with Lauren was going to be tough, but Bo believed she was worth it and would wait until the other woman was over whatever was making her cautious. Lauren had heard Bo sigh and she didn't mean to be standoffish, but she still had to figure out if this was what she really wanted. And there were still things about Bo she needed a better understanding about. They took Bo's car to the restaurant and Lauren was surprised when Bo pulled up in front of an upscale Italian restaurant. The valet opened Lauren's door and she got out and after Bo handed the valet the keys she offered her arm to Lauren hoping the blonde wouldn't rebuff her again. Lauren hesitantly took Bo's arm. She had no doubt in her mind that this was officially a date. The way Bo was acting and her choice of dining location left no room for it to be anything else. Lauren nervously chuckled as she said, "You can afford to take me to a fancy Italian restaurant, but you can't afford to get your car fixed?
Bo laughed at Lauren's question. Her car was always an area of concern for Lauren and she was always trying to talk Bo into getting a safer car, but Bo wouldn't budge on the topic. They were shown to their table and once they both had wine and ordered their meals they sat in an awkward silence. Bo hadn't thought to have any conversation topics in mind when she was planning the date, and Lauren wanted to call Bo out for blindsiding her with a date which she wasn't terribly upset about, but she just wished she had more time to prepare for it. Lauren bit her lip then asked, "What is this Bo?"
Bo took a sip of her wine as she figured out the best way to answer Lauren's question. She slowly placed her glass down on the table as she replied, "It's a date Lauren."
Lauren just stared at her. She wanted to lose it on Bo, but her mind was apparently too stunned by the fact that Bo wanted to date her, so she just said, "What?"
Bo thought Lauren looked cute when she was surprised and she smirked as she repeated, "A date Lauren. You know an outing where two people who are interested in each other go out to like a restaurant or movie or something. And there's flirting, maybe some food, and depending on the date there's some dancing."
Lauren scowled at the smartass answer Bo had given her. "I know what a date is Bo. My question is why are we on a date and why didn't you ask me before we came on said date?"
Bo looked at Lauren as she gave her a straightforward answer, "I didn't ask you because you would have shot me down." Bo took a breath as she realised what she wanted to say next was a bit more difficult to get out. She looked away from Lauren then looked back into her eyes as she admitted, "And we're on said date because I like you Lauren." Bo waited to see how Lauren would respond to her revelation. When the blonde just sat there she explained, "I've always liked you Lauren. It's just my anger and hurt towards you overshadowed it which caused some trust issues. And now that I'm over all that bull shit and we've been around each other more and I've gotten to know you. I-" Bo stopped short and took a sip of wine to gather her thoughts before she pressed forward, "I just like you Lauren and I would like it if we could try a relationship."
Lauren continued to stare at Bo. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. Bo actually wanted to be in a relationship with her. Lauren had thought they had gotten to a point where them having a relationship would have a slight chance at happening, but she didn't know where Bo stood on it and she didn't want to ruin what had become a really good co-parenting situation if Bo didn't want a relationship with her. Then on top of that she didn't know if she was ready for a relationship. It had been a long time since she had been in one and when it came to Bo she just felt uncertain about getting involved with her despite her feelings.
Lauren picked up her wine glass and drank a good amount before she put the glass down and remarked, "Of I would have said no Bo. We are nowhere near ready for us to be in a relationship. We've only scratched the surface about what we know about each other and that isn't enough for us to determine if we're ready for a relationship."
Bo knew Lauren was going to dispute a relationship with her considering the blonde's hesitance. But Lauren using the fact that they didn't know everything there is about each other as a reason for them not to date wasn't a good enough for Bo to back off. Bo scoffed as she pointed out, "We're still getting to know each other Lauren and just because we don't know enough about each other doesn't mean we still shouldn't try. I know you're interested in me and I know you want to try, but you won't let yourself. Why is that?"
Lauren sat back in her chair and looked at Bo. She was going to have to be vulnerable. Lauren hadn't been vulnerable in front of somebody for a long time. Tamsin had seen her at some vulnerable moments, but that was different. It was Tamsin. She trusted Tamsin. Lauren had too many uncertainties about Bo that made her hesitant to expose that level of vulnerability to her. Bo patiently waited to see what Lauren would say. Bo had a feeling that Lauren would shoot down her attempt of trying to progress their situation, but that didn't mean she would be giving up. It just meant she would have to give Lauren some time to work through whatever was keeping her from attempting a relationship with Bo. Another tense moment passed and Lauren picked up her wine glass and finished off her wine just as the waiter was bringing them their food. Neither moved to eat, but Lauren ran her hand through her hair as she explained, "I haven't been in a relationship in a long time Bo and I don't trust myself to not hurt you. We're in a good place. After all we've been through we've come to this great place and I don't want to ruin that." Lauren sighed out, "I need time Bo. I do like you and I would like nothing more than to be in a relationship with you, but I-I just need time."
Bo looked at Lauren and the conflicted look on her face made her nod her head and agree, "Okay. If you need time then that's fine." Bo picked up her fork and before she began to eat she commented, "I hear this place has amazing food."
Lauren just gawked at Bo. She had just let it go. There wasn't any further argument and she was backing off to give Lauren the time that she needed. Lauren didn't think that Bo had completely given up, but at the same time she was still unnerved by the way Bo had easily agreed. Lauren suspiciously looked at Bo and asked, "So that's it? You're just going to give me time like that?"
Bo put her fork down then wiped her mouth napkin. She didn't think her response would have caused Lauren to worry, but clearly it had and she needed to explain. Bo cleared her throat and said, "Yes I am Lauren." Lauren just sat there dismayed by the fact that Bo was possibly giving up on what could be their only attempt at a relationship. Just as she was about to argue Bo continued on, "I want you to be certain that this is what you want because I am certain that this is what I want. I want you. And I want you, Ethan and I to be an actual family." Bo reached over and took Lauren's hand, "As I've told you before, I didn't think I would have this Lauren. And now that the opportunity has presented itself with someone who I find incredibly amazing I'm not going to let it slip by. So if you need time take it. But if you don't want to get involved with me then that's fine, but at least I can say I tried."
Lauren's vision blurred from the tears that she was trying not to let fall, but she could feel them slowly roll down her face. She did want this and she knew there were a lot of things they needed to discuss before getting into a relationship, but at this moment Lauren didn't care and she was going to push her uncertainties to the side. She softly chuckled as she wiped her eyes with her napkin and remarked, "I swear I don't normally cry on dates."
A slow smile appeared on Bo's face as her ears picked up on the word date and she asked, "It's a date?"
Lauren looked into Bo's deep brown eyes and before she could fully process what she was thinking she said, "Yes it's a date." Then she slowly smiled, "I want to try too Bo. I want to try a relationship with you, and not just for Ethan, but for us too."
Bo gave Lauren a big smile before she squeezed her hand and said, "Okay. Now let's eat."
They ate and they had a great meal together. It was towards the end of dinner that Bo was looking at Lauren and she had a question on her mind that she had been thinking about for awhile now, but she didn't know how to ask it considering her and Lauren's relationship was fragile, but now that they had established the fact that they were going to try at a relationship she thought it would be okay. Bo figured it was just one more thing to know about the blonde. Lauren had told her about where she was from, her college days, and other random facts about herself but she hadn't gone into one detail. Bo took a sip of water then asked, "Can I ask you a question?" Lauren nodded her head thinking it was going to be a harmless question that was probably about Ethan, or something regarding their son, but when Bo continued she didn't realise how wrong she was. "How did you become involved with the Fae?"
Lauren slowly exhaled. Her involvement with the Fae was complicated and only Trick and Evony knew the real story. Lauren looked at Bo and she gave her a small smile, and she stuck with the story that had been fabricated since she started working with the Fae, "I was approached by the former Ash to work for them and I couldn't turn down the prospect. Especially when I was told that I would be working with rare subjects and that I would have access to unlimited resources."
Bo nodded in understanding. Of course a prospect like that would have gotten Lauren. She liked making medical and scientific discoveries and the idea of working with something rare would have been too good of an opportunity for the woman to pass up. Bo chuckled then wondered, "When you figured out that you were dealing with Fae did it freak you out? It freaked me out. I thought the Fae I met out west were insane."
Lauren let out a breath of relief. She didn't know how the conversation would have gone. Most Fae she encountered didn't care about how she knew about them considering they disregarded humans and others thought she was a human slave who had earned her freedom and moved up. The true facts would probably stay hidden until she was long gone, but even then she didn't want Ethan or his children to pay for her sins. Lauren chuckled and responded, "No it didn't freak me out. Evolution proves that there are some advanced branches of certain animals. I mean humans evolved from primates, right? So why does it have to stop there? The Fae evolved the same time that humans did, but were more advanced."
Bo scoffed then commented, "That may be true doctor, but that still doesn't make finding out about this whole new group of creatures, which I happen to belong to, easier."
Lauren gave her a comforting smile and pointed out, "It doesn't. But you're more human than Fae Bo."
Bo smiled at Lauren happy at the fact that they were moving forward. Bo's smile widened as she took Lauren's hand and asked, "Are you finished? Because I still have to show you your surprise."
Lauren was hesitant to answer because she wasn't sure what this surprise could be considering she and Bo hadn't discussed much about their relationship. But then again Bo had planned a date and she been none the wiser to it. Before she just went along with her Lauren asked, "And what is this surprise you have for me Bo?"
Bo smirked as she replied, "That ruins the surprise Lauren." Lauren scowled at her and Bo relented a little, "Okay it's not really a surprise for you, but more like a surprise for Ethan."
Lauren gave Bo an apprehensive look. They hadn't talked about any surprise for Ethan and Bo hadn't made any passing mention of a surprise for him, so she was beyond confused. "What surprise could you possibly have from him Bo?"
Bo just smiled at her. There was no way she was going to let Lauren ruin this surprise for her. She just remarked, much to Lauren's frustration, "You'll just have to wait and see."
Bo eventually paid and they left the restaurant. As they were driving down the street Lauren realised that they weren't heading back to her house and that they were driving to the other side of the city where it was more remote and a bit run down. Lauren warily gazed out of the window as she said, "Where are we going Bo because this isn't the way to my house, and I'm pretty certain that we're going to get mugged."
"I'm not going to let you get mugged." Bo softly chuckled. Then she decided to disclose the surprise, "You know when we talked about our custody arrangement you said you wanted to see my place before Ethan could stay over?" Lauren nodded, "Well I'm going to take you back to my place."
Lauren had an uneasy look on her face and said, "This better not be some false pretence to get me into your bed. I learned my lesson from the last time."
Bo rolled her eyes in exasperation as she commented, "No Lauren." And she scoffed, "Like that would happen again."
"You're a succubus Bo. There is a high probability of it happening again." Lauren stated bluntly then decided to tell Bo the rest of the reason why she was able to get Lauren pregnant. "You know how I had gone over the details of how that was remotely possible?" Bo gave her a slight nod. She was a little hesitant to continue the conversation. Lauren took a deep breath then said, "Well there is one more factor that played a part in Ethan's conception."
Bo glanced over at her before she looked back at the road, "And what's that?"
Lauren took a deep breath then said, "Our energies need to be compatible."
Bo got confused and wondered, "Compatible how?"
Lauren just shrugged. She honestly didn't know what factors came into play that made two energies compatible, but the accounts that she had read when she was doing her research made mention of it. There was mention of other factors as well and Lauren had formulated a hypothesis, but it seemed ridiculous and she had discredited it. Bo had been meaning to find out more about her ability to get Lauren pregnant, but she had considered the first time to be a fluke and now it was clear there was more to it. Bo decided that she would raid Trick's books next time she was at the Dal. Bo took Lauren's hand and gave her a reassuring smile, "Well it's something we don't have to worry about now. We're nowhere near the point of us having sex." Then she grinned and joked, "Plus I don't want to run the risk of you running away again and me being clueless about my kid for two years."
Lauren knew Bo was joking. All of the brunette's anger about their past seemed to have faded away the closer they got. Lauren chuckled, "As long as were on the same page then." Lauren was relieved to hear that Bo agreed with her. They were definitely far from having a physical relationship, but Lauren's growing attraction to Bo had been intensifying her sexual desire for the woman. Lauren had been finding herself fantasizing about Bo at inappropriate moments and that concerned her. She was worried that she was going to do the same thing she did two years ago and just hop into bed with her. And because of that worry along with the fact that she wasn't ready to get pregnant again, in addition to her and Bo not being ready for more kids, she had started taking birth control. Just in case she found herself giving into one of the many fantasies she'd been having. Her current favourite being the one where Bo would take her on the dining room table.
Lauren was about to get lost in that very same fantasy when Bo pulled into the driveway and announced, "We're here."
As Bo pulled into the parking space Lauren cautiously eyed the worn down building and commented, "Bo this doesn't seem like a safe building that I would let my son come to."
Bo chuckled and got out of the car. She had purposely told the Morrigan that the outside of her and Kenzi's home was to remain the same because not only did it look weird to have the only nice house in the area, but there was also a certain appeal to the rundown shack look that Bo liked. Bo walked over to Lauren's side and opened the door for her saying, "It may look like crap on the outside, but I swear the inside is much better."
Lauren gave her a sceptical look as she got out of the car. Lauren was hesitant to believe Bo, but she was going to give her the benefit of the doubt. Bo led Lauren up a set of stairs and when they got to the landing Bo unlocked the outside door which lead to a long hallway where the walls were missing and Lauren anxiously asked, "Where are the walls Bo?"
Bo just grinned at Lauren's reaction. There was still some more work that needed to be done to the former crack shack, but the main living areas were done. Bo just casually remarked, "It's still being worked on. The construction crew will be putting them in this week along with the carpet for the outer hallway. Anymore questions doctor?"
Lauren could tell Bo was making fun of her uneasiness about the place. She scowled at Bo and remarked, "No, but lose the smartass attitude."
Bo shook her head. She knew Lauren wasn't going to relax until they were inside, but she couldn't help but to agitate Lauren a little. They reached the front door and Bo unlocked it then opened the door letting Lauren walk in first. As Lauren walked in she stood in the short entrance hall and looked around. She was surprised by how nice the inside was compared to the outer hallway and the outside of the house. Bo put her keys in the ceramic bowl that was on the table in the entrance hall and she smiled at Lauren, "Well?"
Lauren had to admit that the house was nice. It was actually nicer than her own home. Then again Bo didn't have a toddler living with her although Kenzi did fit the definition sometimes. There were polished hardwood floors in the living room with an area rug protecting the floor from the couch and coffee table. In the corner there was a large black rug that had a play area set up on it. Lauren looked over at the newly remodelled kitchen and chuckled, "It's a wonderful place Bo, but do you really think the kitchen needed to be done considering both you and Kenzi are allergic to cooking?"
Bo faked laugh and walked into the kitchen then over to a set of cabinets where she pulled down two wine glasses commenting, "I unfortunately had no say in most of the remodelling. That was all the Morrigan. " She pulled out a bottle of wine and added, "Also I'm not allergic to cooking. I just need practice."
Lauren gave Bo a curious look. She was surprised Evony had helped her considering their past along with the fact that the two of them did not get along. Bo walked over and handed her a glass of wine and Lauren asked, "Evony actually helped you?"
Bo took a sip of wine then smiled in amazement, "Yeah she did. Both her and Trick. Trick helped more with the babyproofing and getting some toys for Ethan, but we still need to get him some other stuff. Like books and toys for his room." Bo took Lauren's hand and asked, "You want a tour?"
Lauren gave her a genuine smile, "Yeah I do." Bo led her around the place giving her a tour of the main floor which, in addition to the kitchen, living room, and dining room, had a guest room and bathroom. Bo showed her the deck and what could be seen of the back yard at night. Lauren was completely amazed by all the work that had been done to the place and she inquired, "Bo how bad was this place? Because it looks like everything had to be redone."
They were walking up the stairs and Bo chuckled, "You are correct on that." She looked over her shoulder at Lauren, "There were no walls, boarded up windows, and electrical hazards. According to the electrician Kenzi and I should have been dead months ago."
The two of them laughed as they reached the second floor. They stood in the hallway and Bo said, "And now we are at the important part of the tour." She pointed to a door that was at one end of the hall, "That's my room," She smirked, "But you won't be seeing that tonight." Bo pointed to the room at the other end of the hall, "That's Kenzi's room. I think you might be getting a bill from the Morrigan considering Kenzi may have gone a little bit overboard on the remodelling of her room."Lauren wasn't surprised that Kenzi had gone over the top with her room. She'd be disappointed if the girl had done otherwise. Bo headed over to a door that was close to her room, but not too close, and announced, "And this is Ethan's room."
Bo opened the door and Lauren taken aback by how nice the room was. There was thick, dark blue carpeting. The walls were painted a light blue with clouds. There was a small bookcase and next to that in the corner was a rocking chair. And on the wall opposite of that was a cherry wood dresser and a big kid bed. Lauren looked at Bo with a concerned look, "He's not ready for a big kid bed."
Bo chuckled and handed her glass of wine to Lauren then she walked over to the bed lifting up the installed guard rails for the bed then pointing out, "It's been taken care of. Trick was very thorough with the babyproofing because he mentioned something about you being a little particular about the new house."
Lauren rolled her eyes and remarked, "If me being concerned about my son's safety is being particular then yes I was. And is that dresser anchored?"
Bo quickly nodded her head yes. After she had caught Ethan climbing the big bookcase at Lauren's house she had doubled checked all the big and heavy furniture to make sure they were secure and wouldn't topple over. Bo took her glass of wine, "Yes. After his little stunt the other day I did a walkthrough with Trick and Hale. Everything is secure."
Lauren looked around the room still surprised Bo had been able to do all this for Ethan. She smiled at Bo and commented, "You did good Bo. You did really well. He's going to like coming over here. Especially with all the space downstairs, he'll never want to leave."
"And what about you? Do you like it?"
Lauren did like it. It was a great place. Lauren gave her slight nod and smirked, "I think it's alright."
Bo grinned then chuckled, "I guess I can take that. You want to head downstairs?"
Lauren shook her head yes and they head downstairs. They sat on the couch and Lauren said, "I'm still surprised that Evony helped you, but I'm also glad that you and Trick have gotten back on better terms."
Bo was glad they were back on better terms too. She had missed that unfathomable trust she had for him and he had earned it back just by being there for her like he always had been. Bo took a drink of wine then said, "Yeah me too. I missed having that one person I could talk to and who would give me some solid advice. When I came back Trick became some sort of father figure for me," Bo grinned, "but in retrospect I guess it all makes sense now." Both Lauren and Bo laughed. Bo caught her breath and added, "Evony only helped because of Ethan. When I asked for her help she had told me that if she had it her way I wouldn't know Ethan."
Lauren let out a deep sigh. She knew Evony was protective of Ethan, but she had crossed a line telling Bo that. Lauren ran her hands through her hair and apologised to Bo, "I'm sorry she said that to you. I love Evony in that big sister kind of way, but sometimes she can overstep."
Bo shrugged because she had come to an understanding about the Morrigan's threat. Bo gave Lauren a small smile and reluctantly said, "I sort of understand why she did it. It was for Ethan's protection. I'll do anything to protect my son which is why I've come to accept Tamsin and Evony in his life. Still confused about Vex though. But I get it."
Lauren chuckled before she took a sip of wine, "I'm still confused on Vex too and it's been two years. But Ethan is attached to him." Lauren regarded Bo then she sighed, "You say you get it Bo, but do you really understand how important it is for no one to know about Ethan?" Bo had been meaning to ask Trick about the secrecy in regards to Ethan considering the laws had changed. Bo shook her head no and Lauren carefully placed her glass on the coffee table then she got up to pace as she explained, "Evony and Trick created new laws that voided the old ones. They created laws that made Fae-Human relationships, marriages, offspring all legal. But there is still resistance in the Fae community about those laws along with the ones that abolished human enslavement and human pets. Not only did Trick and Evony make many enemies getting those laws passed, I also made some due to the fact that I am the head of the Fae medical and research facility. It was the first thing Trick did as soon as he was made Ash along with forging the treaty between the Light and the Dark." Lauren picked up her wine glass and took a long drink before she set the glass back down. "A lot of Fae aren't happy about me being in the position that I am in because I'm human. So if anyone finds out that Ethan is my son then it could bring unwanted threats to him. Those who are part of this resistance will use him due to my relationship with the Morrigan and the Ash." Then she added, "Another thing to consider is your job. If anyone finds out he's your son do you know how many people would use him to get to you?" Bo frowned at that. She hadn't thought about her job being risky for Ethan and before she was able to get lost in her thoughts Lauren continued, "Then there are the Elders. We hid Ethan's existence from them. He's an undocumented birth and he also hasn't been tested for Fae abilities. If they find out about him then they will have the tests ran on him and they will also have Evony and Trick removed from power because they knew about him and kept him a secret. And they will most likely take him away from us because you're unaligned and I'm just human." Bo clenched her jaw. No way would she let some bigoted Fae bastards take their son from them.
Lauren sat back down on the couch and finished, "They're close to having more pro-human Fae on the council, but we still have to be careful. And you being unaligned would bring unnecessary attention to Ethan, but we haven't heard anything yet, so maybe no one really cares about the unaligned succubus."
Bo chuckled because she knew how untrue that was. She had earned herself several enemies by doing the work she did for Trick and Evony along with the fact that she wasn't unaligned. Bo was beginning to think she should find another line of work and declare her allegiance to either the Light or the Dark. She probably would chose the Dark considering the number of Dark Fae in Ethan's life and the uncomplicated relationship she and the Morrigan had. Bo bit her lip and stated, "Maybe I should stop doing what I'm doing."
Lauren chuckled and pointed out, "That probably would bring unnecessary attention to us and Ethan if you stop doing the work you're doing for Trick and Evony." A comfortable silence came over them. Lauren was actually enjoying her and Bo's date. Once they clarified everything at dinner she began to fall into the charm that she was a sucker for. Lauren wasn't going to completely lose herself in it though. There were things they still needed to discuss about their relationship, but she could enjoy the first date feelings that were going through her.
Bo sat back on the couch and she smiled at Lauren. Despite Lauren's initial reaction at dinner in regards to their date it was going quite well. And Lauren agreeing to try at a relationship was the highlight of the evening for her. There was another reason why she wanted Lauren to see the redone house. Bo took a deep breath and ran the tip of her finger around the rim of her glass, "So I kind of had an ulterior motive for bringing you over here tonight." Lauren gave Bo an incredulous look. She thought the two of them had come to an understanding about the physical aspects of their relationship. She was about to tell Bo off, but Bo must have seen the look on her face, "Seriously Lauren? We've talked about this. No sex. At least not for a while." Lauren blushed for jumping to conclusions. Bo cleared her throat and started, "No um…" Lauren realised this had something to do with Ethan because Bo was being hesitant. She patiently waited for Bo to say what she wanted to say. Eventually Bo blurted, "Would you and Ethan want to come over for dinner tomorrow?"
Lauren looked at Bo and saw that she had the same hopeful expression on her face that Ethan would get anytime he asked her for something and just like with him, it turned her into a sap. Lauren smiled, "We can do that." And Bo got an electric smile on her face, but Lauren had one more thing to say, "I will cook though."
Bo gave her suggestive grin as she remarked, "Well damn there goes my plan of having to use my charm to get you to cook."
Lauren moved to the edge of the couch to get both of their wineglasses, "I'm certain you can find another reason to use it." She smirked at Bo over her shoulder, "But for now we should probably take me home. It's getting late."
Lauren got up and washed their wine glasses then they left for Lauren's house. When they got to the house Lauren quietly opened the front door because it was well past being late and she didn't want to wake anyone up. But as soon as they were inside, she saw that Kenzi and Tamsin were still up. Vex probably had left to go be at the club. Kenzi was the first one to say something, "How'd the date go mamas?"
Lauren shook her head because of course Kenzi knew Bo was taking her on a date. Lauren couldn't fight the happy smile that came across her face as Bo happily stated, "It went very well." Lauren only nodded in agreement. Bo looked at her and she was more than happy that Lauren had enjoyed herself and she couldn't wait for their next date. Bo had a thought and she asked, "Seeing where it is your day off tomorrow I was wondering if you would want to take Ethan to the toy store so we can get him some new toys for his new room."
Lauren laughed. She wasn't laughing at Bo's request. No she was laughing because taking Ethan to the toy store would definitely result in a temper tantrum followed by a complete meltdown from the toddler. She figured Bo would have to learn how to deal with an unruly Ethan at some point considering she had only seen mild ones so far. But toy store meltdowns were worse and resulted in timeout. Bo was curious as to why Lauren would be laughing about taking Ethan to the toy store. Lauren eventually caught her breath then said, "We're not going to do that. We'll do that on a day when it's just you and I. Ethan in a toy store is a nightmare."
Bo scoffed because she didn't believe he could be that bad. Sure if he didn't get his way he'd whine and cry, but all you had to do was distract him with something else. She wondered how much worst he could possibly get. "Come on he couldn't be all that bad. He really needs stuff for my place and I'd like it if you were there to give approval or not. I might buy him something with small parts or something."
Lauren sceptically looked at Bo, "Really Bo?" Bo just shrugged and smiled. Lauren softly chuckled because she knew she was going to regret this decision, "Fine we can take him to the toy store, but as soon as he starts acting up we're going to have to go."
Bo grinned and said, "Awesome. And I completely understand. The moment he starts misbehaving we can go."Lauren shook her head at Bo's excitement. It was going to be a long trip to the toy store tomorrow. "So I'll be over at twelve? That way we can have lunch before we go on what you think will a horrible shopping trip."
"It will be Bo, but what do I know?" Lauren remarked sarcastically before she said "Twelve will be fine."
Kenzi walked over to them and yawned, "Alright you two. Cut it out or you'll ruin the first date high." She looked at Lauren, "You can rub how right you were in her face tomorrow. Now let's go Bo-Bo. This chica is tired. Little man sure knows how to wear a girl out."
Lauren got a concerned look on her face, "He wasn't too bad was he?"
Tamsin walked over and said, "Nothing we aren't used to Lauren. Kenzi's just getting her first taste of Ethan without his parents around."
Lauren raised her eyebrow at Tamsin and asked, "What is that supposed to mean?"
Bo chuckled because she knew exactly what that meant. Ethan had a night of getting away with things that he normally didn't get away with. Tamsin just shrugged and Bo said, "I'm sure he was fine Lauren. We're going to head out."
There was a moment of hesitation between Bo and Lauren because neither knew if they should go in for a kiss or not. Bo gave Lauren a quick smile and turned for the door. Lauren internally kicked herself because she knew she should have given Bo a kiss, or at least a hug or something other than standing there. Right when Bo pulled the front door open she said, "I really had a good time tonight Bo."
Bo turned and looked at Lauren with a big smile on her face, "I'm glad you did. I'll see you tomorrow."
Kenzi and Bo left out of the house and Lauren went into the living room then plopped down on the couch. After Tamsin had locked the door and set the alarms she sat down next to her asking, "How'd it go doc?"
Lauren laid her head back on the couch, "I can't believe she blindsided me with a date. Tamsin I'm not even a hundred percent certain that we should even be seeing each other. What if I do something that'll mess this up? Do you know how long it has been since I've been in a relationship? Eons." Lauren sighed, "I just don't trust myself to not hurt her. I've done it once and that was terrible."
Tamsin started to chuckle which made Lauren frown and Tamsin smiled at her saying, "Lauren that was different circumstances. You got to let go of this thing that's holding you back. Bo has clearly forgiven you. I think it's time for you to forgive yourself."
Lauren sighed and wished that she could. And even though her and Bo were learning more about each other and trying at a relationship she still felt bad about what she had done. It was one of those decisions that she would always regret. Lauren sighed and moved on to a new topic, "She showed me her house. It's an amazing place. Trick and, get ready for this, Evony helped her get the place renovated."
Tamsin nodded and commented, "Yeah I heard about that from the Morrigan. She was reluctant to help, but we all know how much Ethan has her wrapped his finger." Lauren chuckled because it was true. Evony did anything and everything for him. "But other than your unneeded guilt you had a good time?"
Lauren got a delighted smile on her face, "I did." Lauren regarded Tamsin for a moment. She had been good the last couple months about giving Bo and Ethan space, so they could develop their relationship, but she still played a pivotal part in Ethan and Lauren's life. Plus Tamsin and Kenzi had developed some weird friendship that centred mostly around them going out to clubs and bars.
Tamsin patted Lauren's thigh as she moved to get up, "That's good Lauren. Don't mess it up." Tamsin stood up and added, "Ethan needs her and so do you. No matter how guilty you feel. So work on that please."
Lauren smiled up at Tamsin and said, "I will." She took hold of Tamsin's hand, "And you're okay with everything?"
Tamsin gave her a hand a reassuring squeeze, "I'm okay with it." Tamsin bent down and placed a soft kiss on Lauren's forehead then softly said, "I just want you happy Lauren. I don't care if that's with me or Bo or someone else. As long as you're happy and safe that's all that matters to me."
Lauren got up and hugged Tamsin. They may have cleared everything up between them, but Tamsin would always have a place in Lauren's heart. And the fact that she could be supportive of her relationship with Bo, and push her own feelings aside screamed volumes about how much Tamsin cared for her. Lauren said, "Thank you. And I will work on my guilt, but Bo and I's relationship is still uncertain cause we need to talk about some concerns I have, but I'm glad you're okay with everything. I just wanted to make sure we we're okay Tam"
Tamsin gave her a quick squeeze and confident told her, "We're good doc. We'll always be good. Trust me." They stood there for another moment before Tamsin asked, "You okay?"
Lauren chuckled and said, "Yeah I am. I should get to bed considering we're going to the toy store with Ethan tomorrow."
They let go of each other and Tamsin chuckled, "I can't believe you agreed to that. He hasn't been to one since he turned two."
Lauren walked around the room shutting everything off for the night, "I know and there is a reason why. But if Bo wants to be stubborn then I will let her deal with her equally stubborn son as well. I'll just get a headache."
Tamsin laughed then commented, "I'll make sure we have some Advil handy."
The two of them headed upstairs and said goodnight. Lauren got ready for bed. As soon as she was settled she realised that sleep wouldn't happen right away for her, so she turned on her side table lamp and read one of her medical journals. She had fallen asleep midway through an article and was woken up when Ethan started crying. Lauren glanced at the clock and saw that it was a little after one in the morning. She shook the remnants of sleep from her head then got up to go into his room. Lauren walked into his room and asked, "What's the matter sweetie? Did you have a bad dream?"
Ethan continued to cry as she took him out of his crib. She walked around with him trying to get him to calm down, but when that didn't work she tried rocking him which didn't work either. Ethan started to cry for Bo and Lauren looked down at him because this was the first time he'd woken up asking for Bo. Usually when he had a bad dream it was either her or Tamsin. Lauren bit her lip as she wondered what she should do. Tamsin stumbled into the room asking, "Do you need some help?"
Lauren briefly smiled and said, "No. He wants Bo."
Tamsin let out a small snort and said, "Yeah good luck with that buddy."
Lauren gave Tamsin an irritated look before she said, "I'll bring him to my room and see if that'll calms him down. You can go back to bed. We're fine."
"Are you sure?"
Lauren nodded her head as she grabbed Ethan's blanket out of the crib then they walked to her room. Ethan was no longer crying loudly, but he was still whimpering and would whine out for Bo ever so often. Lauren laid down on the bed with him on her chest. She still wasn't sure what she should do because he would normally calm down and fall back to sleep after a few minutes, but a considerable amount of time had passed by now. Ethan sat his head up and sniffled, "Mama?"
Lauren stroked his hair, "Yes baby?"
He tearfully babbled something about Bo and she caught on when he said bed and here. Lauren wondered when he would start asking questions about Bo and why she didn't stay with them. Lauren looked into his tired, watery, brown eyes and all she could see was Bo. She sighed because she knew she was about to break his heart, "Bo has her own house sweetie."
Ethan stuck out his bottom lip and it began to tremble as he firmly argued, "No. Bo here now."
Lauren took a moment to look up at the ceiling. She wasn't ready to deal with a defiant Ethan in the middle of the night. She looked directly at him and clearly stated, "Bo is in her bed at her house Ethan. You will see her tomorrow."
That made him cry and wail, "No!"
Ethan laid his head back down on her chest as he cried and Lauren took a deep breath. She knew eventually he would wear himself out, but he seemed to fighting sleep until he got what he wanted. Lauren came up with what seemed like a reasonable compromise, "Do you want to call Bo and talk to her?"
Ethan continued to cry and Lauren didn't want to give in, but she was tired and dealing with a cranky two year old really wasn't at the top of her list at the moment. She let out an exasperated sigh as she reached for her phone. She called Bo and while she waited for the line to pick up she rubbed Ethan's back which calmed him down a little, but he was still snivelling. Bo picked up and grumbled, "There better be a damn good reason as to why you're calling so late."
Lauren looked down at the top of Ethan's head and said, "Sorry Bo. I didn't mean to call you this late."
Bo instantly sat up and became alert, "I'm sorry Lauren I didn't know it was you." She had just answered the phone without looking at the display, "Is there a problem? Are you and Ethan okay?"
Lauren continued to rub Ethan's back and she sighed, "We're fine….well for the most part we're fine."
That didn't alleviate any of Bo's worry and when Lauren didn't continue right away she began to worry even more, "Lauren what's the matter?"
Lauren bit her lip then hesitantly said, "Ethan woke up from a bad dream and he woke up calling you. And I've tried to putting him back to sleep, but he's fighting it because he wants you, but you're not here. So he's not happy about anything at the moment."
Bo was instantly relieved that nothing bad had happened to Lauren or Ethan. She chuckled, "I can come over Lauren. It's not a problem."
Lauren smiled at the fact that Bo would come over in the middle of the night just to be with Ethan. Lauren looked at Ethan and he had calmed down, but he wasn't asleep. Lauren played with his curly hair and said, "No you don't have to. But I think if you talk to him he might go back to sleep."
"I can do that." Bo said as she sat up in bed and rested against the headboard.
Lauren chuckled softly then kissed the top of Ethan's head before she quietly said, "Ethan do you want to talk to Bo?"
Ethan sat up and happily said, "Bo? Bo come here?"
Lauren showed him the phone and said, "No Ethan it's late. But she's on the phone and wants to talk to you."
That only caused him to get upset again and he pushed the phone away saying, "No." Then he proceeded to yell, "Bo here now!"
Lauren was tired and getting fed up with his attitude and she was going to have to be stern with him. "Ethan Alexander Lewis no yelling." Lauren put the phone back to her ear and told Bo, "He not feeling-"
"I'll be over in fifteen minutes." Bo said cutting Lauren off. She had heard the whole conversation between Ethan and Lauren and she wasn't going to allow her son to speak to his mother that way just because he wasn't getting his way. Also Ethan wanted her there, and she was going to do everything to be there for her son no matter what. Lauren was about to tell Bo that she didn't need to come over, but she prevented that, "Lauren my son wants me, so I'm going to be there."
Lauren sighed out. She didn't have time to fight with two Bo personalities tonight, "Okay Bo. We'll see you in a few." They disconnected and Lauren said to Ethan, "Bo will be here in a few minutes."
Ethan gave her a big smile and said, "Bo here."
Lauren just rolled her eyes in annoyance. She would have to talk to Bo about giving into his every whim, but tonight she would let it happen because it was the only way to get Ethan asleep. The two of them got up and headed downstairs to wait for Bo. They waited for ten minutes before Lauren heard a knock on the door. She got up with Ethan and answered it. She let Bo in and as soon the door was close Lauren gave Ethan to her, "He's really tired so he'll probably fall asleep right away. I think if you rock him in the recliner he should be alright." Lauren turned to go up the stairs and mumbled, "I'm going to bed."
Bo kissed the side of Ethan's head then said, "Wait a second."
"Bo I'm-"
"I know you are, but he needs to learn that it is not okay to yell at you when he doesn't get his way." Bo told her.
Lauren was glad to see Bo could be a disciplinarian when need be, but she wasn't up for it right now. Fighting with a child in the middle of the night was unpleasant, even more so now that Ethan was older, and something she hadn't done in a long time. "Bo he's tired and I'm tired. I'm not up for teaching him a lesson right now."
Bo adamantly shook her head no. She wasn't going to let Ethan get away with this. "It'll be quick Lauren." In a firm voice Bo said, "Ethan…" He didn't look up at her because he knew he was in trouble. She lifted him so that he was looking her directly in the eye and said, "I want you to say sorry for yelling at your Mama. You don't do that do you understand?" Ethan meekly nodded his head at her and she turned Ethan around so that he was facing Lauren. "What do you have to say to Mama Ethan?"
Lauren watched as Ethan sadly played with his bottom lip and mumbled, "Sorry Mama."
"Sorry for…" Bo said helping him out with his apology.
"Sorry for yellin Mama." He repeated bashfully.
Lauren knew he really meant his apology. And she walked over to him and gave his cheek a kiss then said, "Apology accepted. I know you're tired and so is Mama. Bo's going to put you back to bed. Love you."
He gave her a smile before it turned into a yawn. He turned his head and laid on Bo's chest and mumbled, "Love you Mama."
Lauren rubbed his back once Bo had him situated on her shoulder. She smiled at Bo, "You didn't have to do that."
Bo chuckled softly and shook her head, "You're his mother Lauren. He needs to know that neither of us is going to let him get away with talking to us like that." Bo watched as Lauren stifled a yawn. "Go to bed Lauren I got him."
Lauren nodded in agreement and as she turned to go up the stairs she said, "If you don't want to drive back home you can take one of the guest rooms."
Their eyes met and Bo gratefully smiled at Lauren, "Thanks." Lauren smiled back then went up to the second floor.
As Lauren walked up the stair she heard Bo say to Ethan, "Let's get you to bed mister or you'll be cranky in the morning."
Lauren chuckled to herself because no matter how much sleep Ethan got it would be a rough day once they got to the toy store.
The longest chapter to date. I didn't think it was going to be this long. But I did say in the 1st chapter that this one was going to be a long one. As always you wonderful people and your wonderful reviews have been well...wonderful. And they keep this thing going. Even if I whine about writing this story on twitter. I'm still 115% dedicated to getting it done. So please say something about it lol.