Chapter 10 – Hiding Secrets
BPOV
The baby shower was a wonderful success. Alice, Rosalie, Raven and Esme above and beyond for the twins. Eleanor led the charge of women as they arrived. Mine and Raven's friends were huddled around me, asking about the babies and how I felt. Hands were constantly touching my stomach and I wanted to scream. Don't worry, Bell, I'll keep their hands off you, Raven assured me. Jacques came to my rescue and kept close to me throughout the shower. The news of my twins had spread further than I thought. We had received gifts from Carpathians who haven't been home in years.
It was a long night of sorting gifts again. I shook my head and reminded myself that these were gifts for the baby. That made this more tolerable. The baby gifts ranged from sterling silver rattles, bottles, endless clothes and tiny shoes. What would my twins need with a music box? I shrugged, the music could help them fall asleep. I held a pair of baby shoes in the palm of my hand and I smiled, "They're so tiny." Raven insisted on opening Edward's gift for me. My fingers squeezed Jacques's as I felt his annoyance, Be nice. It's a gift for the twins. His black eyes bored at the gift, hoping that it would burst into flames.
Raven opened the large white box and the side paneling fell away revealing a small, beautiful white piano. I gasped loudly, "A baby piano?" It was an exquisite miniature replica of Edward's piano in their house in the Cullen's house in Forks. The small piano was complete with an opening top that released the lovely chime-like tones. Edward moved closer, "Not just that." He touched underneath the piano keys and music began to play. A light familiar tune filled the room. The keys moved on their own, pressing every correct note. My breath stopped for a moment, "And it plays my lullaby?" Tears began to wet my lashes; this was the most thoughtful gift.
That is such a beautiful gift, Raven lamented. Jacques looked down at the gift and he couldn't deny that it was a beautiful gesture. My hand covered my mouth as more tears streamed down my face, We have to put this in the nursery.
The song ended and changed to another tune. The beginning notes of 'Esme's Favorite' played, but Edward stopped the music before it could continue. He held out a card towards me. In his perfect hand writing, it was instructions on how to use the piano. There was a hidden CD player. Looking at the list of songs on the CD already in; it was a duplicate of my birthday CD that Edward took all those years ago. When the CD was being used, the piano could be played like a normal piano. I smiled as I read the card, Thank you, Edward. This is such a beautiful gift. I really do love it.
You're welcome, Bella. Jacques's hand was clutched on the couch arm, his nails digging into the thick wood. I leaned my head on his shoulder, Down, boy. You'll destroy the furniture.
He is still in love with you.
I rolled my eyes, And I am in love with you and carrying your children. Now stop. Jacques and Edward may never get along, but they attempted to be civil. I turned my focus back to sorting gifts. I smiled to myself as I thought the absolutely amazing gift Carlisle, Emmett and Jasper gave to the twins. Down the hall, on the first floor, two tall doors were now carved with a cursive 'E & A' were closed to the room they remade for the twins. The doors opened to the room, showing a wide oak tree in the back right corner. The tree wasn't real, but there was great attention to the detail of the bark. The canopy was integrated with green paint on the ceiling. On the left side of the room, there was a water fixture in the wall that ran like a stream. The floor itself was made of faux grass. There was a carved doorway in the trunk of the tree, large enough for children to go through it. On the right side of the tree, along the wall, there was a wide slide. On the left side of the tree, there was a thick branch was secured to the wall, with two swings.
I gasped out loud as Jacques stood with me, "A playroom? You built the twins a playroom!" Emmett, Jasper and Carlisle smiled from the excitement in my voice. "I know it seems silly for them to have an indoor treehouse, but we'll make them one outside in a few years." Jacques and I walked into the room, both of us in awe of this gesture for our children. I wanted to cry. Our babies were being showered with such love and affection and they weren't born yet. "This is beautiful," I lamented, touching the bark on the faux tree. More tears came and Raven dabbed my cheek, They're just excited for the babies. Let them splurge. Emmett and Jasper are going to be uncles and Carlisle is going to be a grandfather.
I smiled through my tears and nodded, You're right.
Raven took my hand, Come on, let's get the babies' clothes organized. Raven and I walked out of my children's playroom. I couldn't wait for the night when I would be in here with them.
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I sat on the mountaintop, watching the clouds change from white to black and the sun sets in the distance, as it left behind another day. The mountains were so beautiful. The slops rolled down, almost melting into the valley. In the distance, the mouth of the river was wide, allowing the water to run below from where Jacques and I sat. The water ran by, sometimes coming up on the bank. I let my hand drift into the clear, cool liquid and it gave me chills. My other hand gently rubbed on my stomach; it's almost time. A larger hand rested on mine, Are you sure? The words were very gentle as the hand on mine. I nodded, smiling to myself, I can feel it. They're ready. Any day now and the twins will be here.
The feeling of determination and preparation emanated from my womb as the twins moved into their birthing positions. I look up into my lifemate's dark eyes. Jacques's expression was stern, as he contemplated the pain I would be in from giving birth. My heart skipped a beat as I thought about it myself. This will be a long process of bringing our children into this world and no drug would be able to help me. I wasn't entirely scared. Being a woman, my body was designed to carry and bare infants; at least that's what my mother told me.
I leaned my head on Jacques's strong shoulder as we enjoyed this quiet moment. Jacques kissed my hair and I felt that he was concerned. "Don't worry about me, I've been through worse." Jacques's hand brushed over my cheek as we watched the clouds float above. It was so peaceful out here and it was what we needed. Each rising had become repetitive; everyone kept asking if I needed anything within seconds of the last person asking me the same thing. I smiled to myself as I thought about the trick I did. It was unintentional, but funny no the less.
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Esme, Carlisle, Jacques and I were playing Scrabble as rain poured down on the mountains. The sounds of thunder crashed above and rain pounded on the roof. The sounds of Vivaldi played as everyone partook in their activities. Mikhail and Raven were reading on the longue by the fireplace. Rosalie, Emmett, Jasper, Alice and Edward went to play football somewhere in the mountains. I looked over the board and what letters I had. "Oh, ouch!" everyone in the room jumped in their seats.e Raven dropped her book. Esme closer to me, "What?!" I gestured to the board, "Ouch, O-U-C-H." Esme rested her hand on her chest, fearing the worse, while Carlisle and Jacques relaxed back into their seats.
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That wasn't funny, you know. I drifted my hand across Jacques's chest, Is it my fault your nerves are shot? He chuckled harshly as I leaned against him. There was another kick and another as the babies became anxious. Jacques leaned down to kiss my stomach, "We'll be here when you're ready." My fingers combed through Jacques's hair as he spoke so sweetly to our children.
Not letting it on, but I hope that I would give birth soon. I was fed up with being pregnant. Every night, I felt stuck in my own body. I wasn't as active as I was before. I missed running with our wolves and soaring through the skies. I longed for mine and Jacques's days of total abandon in the hidden caverns. I've watched my body strength and grow to accommodate the twins' growth. This was a miracle to experience, but it wasn't always good. My horrible mood swings were terrifying anyone within ten feet of me. I was anxious for when Alice and Emmett Dubrinsky would be born.
Jacques looked at me, "You are not terrifying to anyone." My eyebrows shot up, "Really? I'ver heard Gregori say that I am the worse pregnant woman he's ever encountered. That I have the temper of a man." Jacques began to laugh and I smacked his shoulder, "Forgive me, angel. But you've had that temper before you were pregnant. It's just now, you don't hold it back." My mouth fell open and he brushed his forehead against mine, "Hear me out. This isn't easy on you. I remember how Noelle was when she was with child. Rand would say the wrong thing and she would all but throw a chair at him." Mikhail and Jacques rarely spoke of Rand, especially since he turned vampire and unleashed Bryan on our home to take myself and Raven.
Jacques propped himself on his elbow as he spoke. "Actually, I recall one incident that my brother and I were surprised that Noelle let him live." My head turned to look at him, "What happened?" Raven and I encouraged Mikhail and Jacques to talk about their baby sister. We wanted to know her as well. They missed her terribly and blamed themselves from not protecting Noelle better from the fanaticals. I laid down next to him, breathing in the scent of the grass. Jacques smiled at me, "When Noelle was eight months pregnant with Tristan, Rand asked her why was she always so tired." I gasped, hearing this, "Are you serious? And she didn't kill him?" He nodded, "I thought the same thing. My sister was a very sweet woman, but when she was with child, I watched my words carefully. She cursed him so badly; he was reluctant to return to their home. She stayed with Mikhail for several risings afterwards. That's why I truly watch what I say around you. I do not wish to incur the wrath of a pregnant Carpathian woman." I found myself laughing and the sound of it echoed through the trees.
A brush of cold air swept across the river and I shivered. The cold was nipping at my skin. Jacques took my hand and we walked back home. He curved his arm around my shoulder and I bent my arm to twine my fingers with his. Jacques stopped for a moment, "I know you've missed this so," he took me up in his arms. Expending a small amount of energy, Jacques took to the sky. The two of us drifted through the night, over the treetops. Below, animals ran by and I was mesmerized. No matter how many times I've done this, flying always fascinated and excited me. But our flight was brief as Jacques landed on the high turret. "Come, you need to get warm," Jacques held the door for me as we entered the library. Edward and Jasper were reading as we walked inside. Jacques stood behind me, "Hello." I waved as the two of us walked out of the room. I could almost feel their eyes on me, making sure I wasn't upset. "Jasper, get off my case, please." Edward chuckled as he read. Jacques held my waist as he made me walk by the fireplace. Another rolling pain went through my body.
I didn't let anyone aware the fact that I've been having these pains all day and most of the evening. I didn't want too much concern just yet. It was silly, but the last thing I needed was more attention. Walking into my study, Raven and Rosalie were looking over wooden carved letters to place on the nursery doors. Raven looked up, "Back so soon?" My eyes glanced at Jacques and she nodded, Got it. Jacques helped me sit down by the fire. The last bit of winter cold hasn't changed just yet. Spring was coming to the mountains and I loved it. I watched as the flames licked at the wood, turning it to ash. My eyes grew heavy as I listened to Raven and Rosalie exchange ideas. Jacques tightened his hold around my body, Sleep, angel. You need it. Jacques gently pushed the command against my mind and my eyes closed as sleep took over.
I hated it when Jacques forced his will over mine. I wanted to wake up, but this command was very strong. My body was getting weaker from the pain. It took me a great deal of energy to mask my pain from Jacques and everyone else. It had to be contractions, but they could go on for hours and I didn't want everyone waiting for me to give birth.
My dream came quickly; I was walking with two children. The both of them had long black hair, but the girl had subtle hues of red to her locks. I got the feeling the boy didn't want to cut his hair. The girl looked up at me with large brown eyes, the same as her brothers. The two of them laughed as they ran by, calling after me. They raced up a hill, towards a man waiting for us. The breeze blew, mussing the man's hair, but he didn't notice. He kneeled down and caught the two children, laughing along with them. I reached them, watching as they laugh and play. The boy bounced away from the embrace and rolled down the hill and the girl followed. The children got to their feet and ran with two large wolves coming out of the trees. The larger wolf with black eyes walked alongside the happy children. The second wolf was smaller with brown eyes and tawny fur. The wolves stood to protect the children from any dangers. I was the brown eyed wolf running along with the children that were mine. Jacques was the black wolf and he held the image of two smaller wolves for the children. The four of us ran through the trees, disappearing from the world.
Darkness was all around me as my eyes opened. The scent of herbs burning and the feel of arms around me proved that I was no longer in the study, but in bed. How long was I asleep? My eyes closed from another pain. My hands went for my stomach, feeling the muscles ripple. This contraction was sharper than the others; stronger. Breathing slowly, I looked around the room. Next to me, Jacques rested in the manner of Carpathians. His was too still and not breathing. There was no connection between our mine. My head writhed against the pillow as I tried to move my body. It must be the early afternoon. My body felt heavy like solid lead. My legs didn't want to move, but that didn't stop another pain from rolling through my torso.
The twins were coming.
The first to move were my toes as my will forced my body to move. I needed help now. The progress was drawn out as another contraction came. Getting out of bed was a terrible chore, but I had to do it. I got one leg off the bed, letting my body slide onto the floor. Moving my body was further draining my energy, but I had to keep going. I took long deep breathes and willed my body to move across the room and made my way up the stairs. I got to my feet and walked to the door, in the search for Carlisle. My hand held my stomach, as the other ran along the wall. From above, I could hear the lively conversations of the Cullens. My teeth gritted as I took another step, which was halted by more pain. My breathing was ragged as another contraction rocked through me. "Mom," I whimpered through my hard breathing. There was no other word on my mind. No one heard me. "Mom," I said in a higher tone, but still no response. My body leaned against the wall of the stairs, trying not to double over in pain. "Esme!" I shouted at the top of my lungs.
"What?!" She stood in front of me in the next moment. Esme took in my stance; rigid and unmovable. "Bella, what is it?" My hands held her outstretched arms and gasped, "They're coming!" The voice was strained. Rosalie was beside me within seconds, holding my shoulders. Alice came down the few steps, shadowed by Carlisle. Rosalie placed her hand on my stomach as I groaned loudly, "She needs to get off her feet now. Alice, get the others." Alice went to rouse the rest of my family and Esme cradled me in her arms as she ran to the delivery room.
I was laid on the bed and monitors were being strapped to my body. I wanted to scream from the pain, but I knew there was more to come. "Bella!" Jacques was next to me, taking my hand in time for another contraction. He kissed my forehead, Why didn't you call me to you sooner? How were you able to mask your pain from me?
I'm so sorry. My breath ceased in my throat as more pain came. "Breathe, angel," Jacques coached me as he watched the monitor. My body almost trembled as the contraction ended. I know I should have called you and I'm sorry I didn't. Jacques kissed my hair, I am here now. Jacques wanted to be mad at me, but he didn't have time to focus on that. Raven ran into the room, wearing a silky dark green nightgown. She came to stand on the other side of the bed, taking my other hand and brushing my forehead. "Honey, are you alright?" I smiled at her, "Ray, I'm fine. Go back to sleep. I'll be okay." She scoffed as she materialized a robe over her intimate clothing, "Please, I promised you I would be here."
She brushed my hair back and braided it into a ponytail. Jacques went to speak with Esme, as she was concerned with my quick contractions. My breathing slowed as I thought about how long I was really experiencing this pain. "Two days!" Raven yelled and I cringed. I wanted to slink out of the room, but I couldn't go anywhere. "You've been having contractions for two days and you're just now telling us!" My breathing increased as another contraction comes, "I'm…. sorry." My head pushed down into my pillow as a tremor wracked through me, making my eyes pinch shut. Raven groaned and took my hand, "Squeeze." I shook my head, fighting through the pain, "Bella, squeeze my hand." I exhaled slowly as it passed, "I'm okay." "Isabella Marie, squeeze my hand," Raven said in a raised voice. Using my strength, I squeezed her fingers until the tips were red and her knees buckled, "Happy now?" Raven bared her teeth at me and rolled her eyes, You are so lucky you're in labor right now.
Esme, Carlisle and Jacques entered the room, all their eyes staring at my face. I didn't dare look to my side, knowing Raven was looking at me too. Esme handed Carlisle my information, "Bella, didn't we agree that this was a high risk pregnancy?" I nodded as she spoke to me in her maternal tone. Carlisle was biting his tongue, "And, as Esme and I are your physicians, we must be informed of these things." My eyes closed, "I didn't want anyone to be worried." "Bella, if you were in pain, you should have told me," Jacques's voice was harsh.
Raven said nothing as she pulled a thin sheet over me, not adding anything to their argument, "It's still the middle of the day, Bell. You should try to sleep." I nodded slowly, but I knew there was no point. This was the beginning of a long process. Sleep was a luxury I couldn't afford right now. Getting past his anger, Jacques gathered me into his arms. Esme and Carlisle nodded, "We know, but we're coming with you." Esme moved the monitored from my body and I watched curiously. Jacques stared into my eyes, "We must get you to the birthing chambers. Our people gather there now." I've heard of the birth chambers; that was were the most fertile soil was and it was needed for the expecting mother. I didn't want to give birth day. To be surrounded by dirt and open earth seemed unhygienic, but I wasn't human anymore. Mikhail came into the room, pulling Raven into his side, "Let us go. We do not have much time. Your children are ready to leave the safety of their mother's body and we must greet them."
JPOV
Bella laid on the bed of our richest soil as she tried to keep herself composed. Her mind was filled with chagrin of giving birth in front of our people. Raven held her hand, while Esme kept her hands on Bella's forehead and neck. A sharp contraction came by, making her writhe in pain. I held her wrists as she tried to move, "Bella, you must remain calm." "I can't, it hurts!" Her pain was affecting me. I did what I could to decrease her pain, but childbirth was beyond my scope. I entrusted Esme and Gregori to deliver my children. Raven continued to hold Bella's hand, as she refused to leave her sister's side. The two women leaned their heads close together as Raven coached Bella through her breathing. Esme used her cool skin to keep Bella comfortable. The pain was increasing as the time of birth drew closer. My hands ran over my woman's hair, Jacques. I looked at Bella; her eyes half-closed as she looked at me. She grew tired, in the midst of her pain.
Angel, I'm right here.
I gently caressed her cheek and she feigned a smile, How are you feeling?
I leaned down to kiss her forehead, You are the one bringing children into the world and you worry about me? Why does that not surprise me?
She smiled, It's my nature. Bella sucked in a sharp breath as she endured another contraction. The pain of it coursed through me as well. Bella suddenly gasped as Esme checked her progress. She controlled her breathing while Esme examined her. My eyes locked with hers as Bella held my hand. I could feel the fatigue beating away at her body. Bella wanted to sleep, but the pain was too much for her to rest easily. I wanted nothing more than to take away this pain, but it was inescapable for any woman. She squirmed, trying to ease the pain in her back. Raven moved quickly, "I'll help you." She pulled a white sheet over Bella's body. The chanting of our people filled the birthing chamber.
We all waited for the birth to be complete. In our former years, a woman would welcome the viewing of our people, but not my woman. Bella was shy and requested some privacy. Our people would greet the children and be the first to lay eyes on them.
Esme continued to check Bella's progressed, "Ok, you have to sit up and push. You're fully dilated." Gritting her teeth, Bella began to push as Esme instructed. Gregori stayed close to Esme, waiting for the moment when he was needed. I felt like my heart was going to stop as Bella began to scream in pain. "Oh God!" her screams rang through the chamber, only to be lost among the chanting. "Come on, Bella, push," Esme ordered. Bella's head fell backwards as she pushed. Angel, hold onto me. It will be alright. Everything she felt caused me pain, but I couldn't falter. Bella needed me now more than ever. Bella listened and did what she was told. Jacques, I can't do this. Sending her my strength and will, Bella held on. Another screamed coursed through the air, merging with the chanting as the first baby was leaving its mother's body. Neither Bella nor myself moved as we heard the first cries of our children.
Gregori caught my daughter and instantly left his own body to inspect hers. While he worked, Esme caught my son. Esme worked quickly, clamping their cords. The infants cried as they were held before us. I kissed Bella's forehead as tears fell from her eyes. Jacques? Gregori offered and I cut their cords, separating my children from their mother. Raven was crying in Mikhail's arms as we listened to the children's healthy cries.
My brother stood next to Gregori as he held my daughter and Esme held my son. Mikhail, not my brother, but our Prince gently touched the heads of mine and Bella's children, "A strong boy and a beautiful girl. Welcome, son and daughter. Nephew and niece. Warrior and woman. Your lives are linked to our lives for all time. We live as one and we die the same way. When one is born, it is cause for all to celebrate, and when one dies, we all feel the loss. You are brethren; Carpathian. It is an honor and privilege to welcome you."
Esme and Gregori turned to present the infants to our people. Joyful cheers filled the chamber. They turned and placed the children in Bella's arms. I kissed her hair and looked into the faces of our children.