Chapter Thirteen: Delayed gratification
"It's just a moment, go and seize it. Don't be afraid to give your heart to me and if you do I know that I won't let you down. So hand it over, trust me with your love. I'll do anything you want me to coz I can't breathe until I see your face. I don't need time to find another lover but I want you. I can't spend another minute getting over loving you. If you don't ever say yeah, let me hear you say yeah, wanna hear you say yeah - coz my heart is open. Now you gotta say yeah, let me hear you say yeah, wanna hear you say yeah, wanna hear you say - yes, yes, yes...yes, yes-yes" My heart is open by Maroon 5 feat. Gwen Stefani
Sex is an integral part of marriage. It's a physical manifestation of passion that often re-affirms love. April only wanted to show her husband her readiness to take their relationship to the next level but he deliberately brushed her off. Would her insecurity eat her alive or can Jackson put her woes to rest?
oOo
The morning after:
Jackson opened his eyes and automatically turned his head to the side; he let out a relieved sigh when he noticed that the sheets are rumpled. He slowly sat up and threw the covers off his body; he planted his feet on the floor and hauled himself up. He made his way towards the door and stepped out of their room; he quietly walked along the hallway, his nose being assaulted by the scent of freshly brewed coffee.
"Morning"
Jackson's head snapped to the side and saw April standing behind the counter, fully dressed. "Good morning"
April poured a hefty amount of half and half into her coffee before putting the lid on her tumbler; "I won't be able ride shotgun with you today. Chief Hunt called me; he wants me to come in earlier."
"Why?"
April grabbed her tumbler and started rounding the breakfast bar; "New interns and scheduling."
"Oh."
April snatched her bag from the high chair; "I have to get going, I guess I'll just see you there."
Jackson took giant steps towards his wife, blocking her way. "April"
April looked startled; "What are you-"
Jackson stared directly into her eyes; "Are we okay?"
April fought the urge to avoid his gaze; "What are you talking about?"
"About last night, are you upset?" Jackson thrived on.
"Oh, about that - no, I'm not upset" April lied, the familiar ache of rejection setting inside her stomach.
Jackson placed his hands on her shoulder tentatively before trailing it around her neck, tilting her face up to his. "I want you April and I'll always will. Don't misunderstand my reaction last night as rejection."
April tried her best to believe his words but her insecurity is eating her gut; "Okay" she lied again.
Jackson stared into her eyes for a second before leaning forward, pressing his lips on her forehead. After a moment, he pulled away; "I love you and I'll see you later" he half-whispered.
April nodded as she took a step back; she gripped the strap of her bag tightly as she spun on her heels.
Jackson felt a tightening inside his chest when she didn't say those words back to him; he watched her back disappear from the hallway before letting out a heavy sigh.
oOo
"Great, you're just in time" Owen said.
April placed her tab on the table as she started shrugging her labcoat on; "I'm glad I made it on time, the traffic was horrible."
"I couldn't agree more" Owen replied. He then grabbed the folders stacked on the table; "You excited to meet the new interns?"
"I guess" April replied.
Owen gestured towards the door; "Let's not keep them waiting then, after you."
April snatched her tab before trailing behind her mentor.
oOo
"Have you seen the new faces of medicine?" Cristina asked before taking a sip of her coffee.
Alex looked confused; "Huh?"
"The fresh batch of meat that just walked in a couple of minutes ago"
"Fresh meat?" Alex asked.
Cristina rolled her eyes; "God you're slow"
Alex ignored his friend's taunt as he studies the surgical board, after a few seconds, realization dawned on him. "The new interns are already here?"
"Finally he gets it!" Cristina said sarcastically.
Alex turned towards Cristina; "Have you seen them already?"
Cristina leaned sideways on the board; "Not really. And if you're gonna ask me if there's a chic out there that you might dig - the answer is I don't know. They all look the same to me" she deadpanned.
Alex rubbed his hands together; "Where did you see them again?"
Cristina pointed towards the pit; "Owen and April are currently giving them an orientation."
"Let's see" Alex said before walking away.
"Don't embarrass us all evil spawn!" Cristina warned.
oOo
"-and lastly, this is Dr. Ross" April finished.
Shane smiled widely; "Good morning."
"You will be assigned in pairs and will be shadowing each resident. Don't be afraid to ask questions because that is expected" Owen said.
"You will be meeting some of our Attendings-" April paused when she noticed Alex heading their way. "In fact, you will be meeting one of them now."
"Dr. Karev, how nice of you to join us" Owen said.
April gestured towards Alex; "He is Dr. Karev and he is a Ped's Attending."
Alex eyed the interns one by one before nodding; "Good morning" he said formally.
April cleared her throat to hide her guffaw; she stood straighter and fixed her eyes on the tab. "I will be calling your names along with your assigned residents." she asked.
Alex chuckled.
April lifted her eyes and threw Alex a stink eye; "When I call you please step forward" she instructed. She then moved her eyes back to her tab; "Carlson and McKinney" she said loudly.
Two female interns step forward.
"You will be shadowing Dr. Wilson" April said.
Jo lifted her hand and smiled; "You guys are with me."
Owen stared at the two interns; "Feel free to approach your resident's now"
Alex fell into step with Shane; "See anything you like?" he whispered.
Shane look amused; "Four o'clock" he whispered back.
Alex stealthily followed the direction; "Hmmnnn, not bad."
Shane turned his head to the side, a smirk playing on his lips; "I know"
Alex thumped Shane's back approvingly.
oOo
"Why do you look like your dog just died?"
Jackson dumped his bag on his table; "I don't have a dog."
Mark rolled his eyes; "That's a rhetorical question, don't be stupid"
Jackson plopped down on his chair, ignoring his mentor's remark; "Anything new?"
Mark entered his prot's office and sat down on one of the chairs; "New interns, you'll have one observing your surgery."
Jackson leaned back on his seat; "Really? I didn't know that."
Mark looked surprised; "Your wife didn't tell you?"
"She mentioned it in passing."
Mark studied Jackson's form, his brows furrowing; "Did something happen?"
Jackson leaned his head back; "I screwed up last night" he admitted.
"So soon?"
Jackson glared; "Thank you for the vote of confidence" he said sarcastically.
"What did you do?"
Jackson crossed his arms on top of his chest; "I don't think I want to share it with you anymore."
"Don't be like that!" Mark whined.
Jackson huffed; "Fine. But you have to promise me that you won't broadcast it"
Mark nodded; "Of course. My lips are sealed. Now, what happened?"
Jackson leaned forward, resting his arms on top of the table; "I said no to April last night" he said vaguely.
Mark raised his brow; "Said no to what exactly?"
Jackson swallowed hard; "You know..."
Mark's eyes widened as realization dawn on him; "Are you crazy?! What on earth possessed you to do that?!"
"Sssshhhhhh!" Jackson hissed.
"Why did you say no?" Mark demanded.
Jackson rubbed his face in frustration; "You know why I did that!"
Mark seemed appeased with his answer; "I do, but does she?"
Jackson let his hands fall; "I can't exactly tell her that I don't want to make love to her because I'm planning a surprise proposal for her, right?"
"Are you planning on proposing any time soon? Because the more you prolong it, the more damage it causes" Mark said. He then crossed his legs; "Your wife has insecurity issues, I trust you still remember that."
"I remember that" Jackson said quietly. "I tried explaining it to her this morning without giving much away but I feel - no, I know she didn't believe me."
"Can you blame her? The flowers and the date, all turned to naught."
"Not helping"
Mark grimaced; "Sorry. When exactly are you planning on popping the question?"
"That's another problem. I'm way over my head" Jackson admitted. "I don't exactly know how to pop the question because I haven't exactly done that, you know."
Mark lifted his hand and started studying his nails; "I might know a thing or two. After all, I did pop the question last month."
Jackson's eyes widen; "You did! Why didn't I think of that? Of course you'll know something."
"Err-maybe because you're stupid?" Mark suggested.
Jackson brushed his statement off; "Tell me how you did it"
Mark let his hand fall to his lap and swivelled towards his prot, his face full of eagerness.
oOo
"Err...Doctor?"
April turned around and saw one of the interns standing behind her; "Mitchell right?"
"You remembered me" The intern with blonde hair and green eyes said in awe.
"Of course I do, I just saw you over an hour ago" April replied.
Mitchell shifted on his feet, an embarrassed smile crawling up his lips; "Right..."
April slipped her hands inside her labcoat pocket; "Do you need anything?"
Mitchell's cheeks flushed red; "Err-I'm kinda lost" he admitted.
April fought the urge to laugh; "You're lost?"
"Y-yeah...I was assigned with Dr. Ross but I kinda lost him"
"Hmmnnnnn" April hummed. She then moved her eyes around the vicinity, trying to find her resident; "You're right, I don't see him anywhere."
"I'm really sorry, I didn't mean to-"
"Aha! There he is!" April exclaimed. "Ross! Come over here!"
Mitchell turned around and saw the resident walking towards them.
"Dr. K-A" Shane greeted.
"Did you lose something?"
Shane looked confused; "Err-Is that a trick question?"
April moved her eyes towards Mitchell as a response.
Shane followed April's gaze, realization dawning on him; "Crap" he whispered. He threw his Attending an apologetic look; "I kinda forgot, sorry."
"Uhuh" April replied.
"I didn't mean to cause problems, I'm sorry..." Mitchell said meekly.
"Don't worry, you didn't cause any problems" April re-assured.
Shane turned towards his intern; "Sorry man, I had to fetch some labworks for Dr. Karev"
"No, it's okay"
The door to the E.R burst open as a gurney came bustling in. April turned towards the intern; "Time to shine Mitchell, you just landed your first observation" she said before rushing towards it.
Shane thumped Mitchell on the back; "Let's go" he said before following April.
oOo
Jackson entered the O.R and noticed Stephanie standing beside an unknown woman; "Edwards" he greeted.
"Dr. Avery" Stephanie replied.
"Today is your last day in Plastics right?" Jackson asked ask he let the nurses dress him.
"Yep and I'm ending it with a bang, thanks to you" Stephanie said enthusiastically.
Jackson chuckled; "Thank Sloan, he's the one who re-assigned this surgery to me" he replied. He then moved his eyes towards the other woman; "New intern?" he asked.
The intern stared at Jackson with amazement; "Yes, I'm Kyla."
Stephanie glanced at Kylie for a second before moving her eyes towards Jackson.
"Hi Kyla, welcome to the O.R" Jackson said nonchalantly as he took his position on the other side.
Kylie fell into step with Stephanie before clearing her throat; "I kinda know you already..."
Jackson fought the urge to roll his eyes; "Uhuh"
Stephanie snorted behind her mask.
"I'm Phillip Archer's granddaughter - Grandpa Harper's godson"
Jackson's head snapped up, his eyes studying Kylie's face. After a moment, recognition crossed his eyes; "No way! Kylie?"
Kylie's eyes crinkled on the side; "Jackson"
Stephanie moved her eyes back and forth, studying the interaction between the two.
"I thought you're taking up law?"
Kylie looked sheepish; "That didn't turn out well."
Jackson nodded; "I see."
"We should catch up later, it's been years since I last saw you" Kylie said while eyeing Jackson.
"Yeah sure" Jackson replied. He then turned his eyes towards Stephanie; "Let's start?"
Stephanie cleared her throat; "Okay"
oOo
April walked into the scrub room and made her way towards the sink; "You alright?"
Mitchell moved his head to the side, his face ashen; "Y-yeah, I'm good."
April tapped on the faucet and started washing her hands; "It gets better once you get the hang of it" she offered.
"I hope so" Mitchell replied. He then turned towards April, his eyes fixed on her intently; "You were awesome back there."
April chuckled; "Clearly, you haven't seen the others in action yet."
Mitchell shook his head; "Nu-uh."
April turned her face to the side, surprised with the intern's words; "Huh?"
"You just saved a little girl's life with your quick thinking, that is awesome - that's who I want to be."
April felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment; "Err-I'm glad to hear that."
Mitchell smiled; "I think I just found my specialty."
April grabbed a towel from the rack and started drying her hands; "You want to be a Trauma Surgeon?"
"Is that what you do? Trauma?"
"Yeah" April replied. She then chucked the towel into a bin; "You want to know more about it?"
"Hell yeah" Mitchell replied enthusiastically.
April smiled; "Then stick around Ross, you'd be able to scrub into more surgeries."
Mitchell stared into April's eyes; "I'm planning to" he said meaningfully.
April felt the air shift between them so she did the next best thing. She walked towards door and pulled it open; "Stay with Ross, you'll definitely learn a thing or two from him, see you around" she said before stepping out of the room.
Mitchell let out a dreamy sigh as the door closes; "I never knew Trauma surgeons could be that hot" he mumbled to himself.
"Dude, she's off limits"
Mitchell turned around and saw Shane standing by the sliding doors; "Why?"
Shane crossed his arms on top of his chest; "Do you know Dr. Jackson Avery?"
"Yeah, he's Harper Avery's grandson right?"
"Exactly and he's also the head of the board of this hospital."
Mitchell looked confused; "Are they related or something? I don't get it"
"The woman you're mooning over a couple of seconds ago, that's his wife - Dr. Kepner-Avery" Shane pointed out.
Mitchell's eyes widen in shock; "S-he's already married? But I don't see any wedding ring on her finger"
"You won't because it's dangling around her neck."
"Oh."
Shane pulled away from his perch; "Better get your acts together around her, I don't think Dr. Avery would appreciate you giving his missus moony eyes."
Mitchell gulped; "You won't tell him right?"
Shane rolled his eyes; "I don't gossip" he replied. He then gestured towards the O.R; "Come on, I'll show you how to chart."
"Okay"
oOo
April was walking along the hallways when she caught glimpse of her husband; there's still a sting of rejection swirling inside her gut but she decided to ignore it. She was about to open her mouth to call him but hastily stopped when she noticed a woman laughing beside him. She watched them interact for a couple of minutes but then realized she couldn't stand it; "I want you my ass" she mumbled bitterly. She then turned on her heels and started walking towards the other direction; "This day just keeps on getting better and better."
oOo
Jackson noticed the way Kylie is looking at him and he felt uncomfortable; he took a step back and stuffed his hands inside his labcoat pockets. "Edwards' said that Dr. Hunt assigned you to her?"
"Yep" Kylie replied.
"Then I believe you already met my wife"
Kylie's eyes widen; "Y-you're already married?"
Jackson lifted his left hand and wiggled his fingers; "Happily hitched" he said proudly.
"And I wasn't invited?" Kylie asked, clearly aghast.
"I'll invite you on the next one" Jackson replied.
"What?!"
Jackson ignored Kylie's tone; "I'm asking my wife to marry me again."
Kylie furrowed her brows; "There's something missing here, I don't get it."
Jackson lifted his hand and patted Kylie's head like a toddler; "Just don't breathe a word about it, I'm planning on surprising her"
Kylie slapped Jackson's hand away, her lips pursed; "Here I am, thinking you are still single and waiting for me."
Jackson looked uncomfortable again; "Err-"
Kylie rolled her eyes; "I'm kidding Avery so you can calm it down" she said. She then braced her hands on her waist; "So, are you planning on introducing me to your wife? I know I already met her a couple of hours ago but this time it's different. I'm meeting her as one of your childhood friends and not just a lowly intern."
Jackson grinned; "A lowly intern, I like the sound of that" he joked.
Kylie scowled; "Bully through and through" she huffed.
Jackson lifted his hand again and ruffled Kylie's hair; "Still a brat."
Kylie tried to scowl but ended up smiling.
oOo
"April! Over here"
April let the door swing behind her as she searches for the voice; she spotted Lexie sitting beside Mara so she headed their way. "Hey guys"
Lexie studied the red head's face; "Why do you have a pissy look on your face?"
Mara gestured towards the empty chair on her right; "Yeah, you alright?"
April plopped down; "Yeah, I am"
Lexie threw Mara a look; "That mean she's not" she explained. She then braced her elbows on the table, her eyes fixed on April; "Spit it out."
April crossed her arms on top of her chest defiantly; "I'm not speaking in codes, I really am alright."
"Uhuh, bloody well you are" Mara mused.
Lexie grinned; "I really love your accent."
Mara rolled her eyes; "I hate it, it makes me sound like an alien here"
"You don't" April said. "Your accent reminds me of Harry Potter, its cute."
"Makes me feel loads better" Mara quipped sarcastically.
Lexie chuckled; "Harry Potter? You're still hung up on that? What are you 12?" she teased.
April scowled; "Just because you don't read books doesn't mean you have the right to poke fun at those who does."
"I do read books. In case you have forgotten, I helped write one" Lexie said haughtily.
Mara's eyes widen; "You did? Who? When?"
"She meant typing in behalf of the author" April said dryly.
Lexie pouted; "Sour puss!" she said. She then turned to Mara; "She's right, I just typed it for her. It was a good story though - time travelling and romance" she said dreamily.
Mara looked thoughtful; "Still have the author's name? The concept intrigues me a bit, if you say that it's good then I'll take your word for it. I haven't picked up a new book in months."
"Oooohhh! I bought the whole boxed set, want to borrow it? I can bring them tomorrow" Lexie offered.
Mara nodded enthusiastically; "I would love that, thank you."
"I'll find you first thing in the morning to hand-deliver them" Lexie said. She then moved her eyes back to her other friend; "Done with your bitching? Are you ready to talk now?"
April sighed; "It's really nothing, I'm just not having a good day."
Mara and Lexie shared a look.
April's phone started vibrating inside her pocket, making her groan. "Oh dear god" she exclaimed exasperatedly.
"Don't they have someone else manning the pit?" Mara asked.
"I left Alex there" April replied as she fished her phone out of her pocket. She checked the screen and felt her heart drop to her stomach. She let her thumb hover above the answer button; contemplating if she should take the call.
"Aren't you going to answer that?" Lexie asked while eyeing April with furrowed brows.
April threw Lexie a look before tapping on the green button; she shifted the phone to her ear, forcing out a smile to appease the brunette. "Hey"
"Hey babe, where are you?"
April swallowed the bile that rose up her mouth; "I-I'm at the cafeteria, I'm having lunch with Mara and Lexie. Why? Do you need me for a consult?"
Mara stared at April for a moment before moving her eyes to Lexie, mouthing "Jackson".
Lexie nodded; "Okay, something is definitely wrong here."
Mara nodded vigorously, her eyes darting towards April's blank face.
April moved her eyes between her friends; clearly understanding what they're both getting at. "We're okay" she mouthed.
"Are you still there?"
April cleared her throat; "Yeah, I'm sorry - what did you say again?"
"Are you on your lunch break? Can I go there?"
April shot up from her seat; "Err-no, I'm not. I'm about to go back to that pit, I have still have tons of work to do, so I'm about to head back"
"Now, I'm more convinced" Lexie mumbled.
"I'm with you on that" Mara replied.
"I thought you're having lunch with them?" Jackson asked.
"I am but then again I remembered the stuff waiting for me, so I-err I have to get back" April lied through her teeth.
"Are you avoiding me?"
April let out a nervous chuckle; "Of course not. That's silly - I'm not avoiding you, why would I? It's not like you have done something that should make me avoid you - I'm not avoiding you - that's crazy."
"You're rambling"
"She's rambling, she only does that when she's nervous or she's lying" Lexie said lowly.
Mara look amused; "Yeah, I didn't understand half of what she said."
April threw both surgeons a disapproving look; "I'm not rambling. I'm just busy - so there."
Jackson sighed on the other line; "Okay, I guess I'll just see you when I see you."
"Yeah, I guess so - have to go, bye" April said hastily. She then clicked on the end button and stuffed her phone back inside her pocket. She turned her gaze towards her friends and saw them staring at her with raised brows. "What?"
"Sit down" Lexie ordered.
"But I-"
"You're sitting there and telling us what is wrong" Mara interrupted.
April let out a heavy sigh as she plopped down.
"Why on earth are you hiding from your husband?" Lexie asked bluntly.
April averted her gaze; "I'm not."
"Err-you just did" Mara pointed out.
April just pursed her lips as response.
Lexie scooted her chair closer to April; "Really Apes, tell us. What's really bothering you?"
April kept silent for a couple of seconds before finally speaking; "I followed your advice."
Lexie cocked her head to the side; "You got laid and now you're avoiding him like plague?"
April gritted her teeth; "I didn't get laid."
Mara looked confused; "What advice is she talking about?"
April moved her eyes to Mara; "Lexie gave me an advice yesterday."
Lexie shrugged her shoulders; "She asked for an advice, I gave her one."
"What advice are we talking about?" Mara asked.
April started rubbing her temples; "I asked her what I can do to somehow show Jackson that he's not the only one who's putting an effort into this relationship."
Mara blinked; "You asked her how to reward Jackson for being ardent, is that it?"
"Bingo!" Lexie exclaimed. She then grinned at the British surgeon; "Ardent, so proper" she teased.
Mara rolled her eyes at Lexie before moving her gaze back to April; "You said you didn't get lai-wait, you guys didn't do it?"
April grabbed the tissue on Lexie's tray and began tearing it into pieces.
"Oh my god!" Lexie gasped. "He-Jackson didn't give in?"
"Don't rub salt to the wound" April mumbled.
"He said no?" Mara asked with disbelief.
"Does he have an erectile dysfunction that we don't know about?"
"He doesn't have that problem" April said. "I think it's just me - he doesn't want to have sex with me."
"Bloody hell, you've got to be kidding me!" Mara blurted out.
"Have you seen the way he's been eyeing you lately? It's torn between he's having an aneurism or he badly wants to jump you" Lexie said.
"Well, last night he didn't want to" April paused and lifted her fingers to mimic quoting. "Jump me."
Lexie folded her arms on top her chest as she leaned back; "Have you tried talking to him about it?"
April threw her hands up in exasperation; "I did! And he told me that he was just tired."
"Maybe he is?" Mara suggested.
"Are you taking his side on this?" April asked with narrowed eyes.
Mara swallowed hard; "Err-"
"Don't bite her head off" Lexie admonished. "She has the right to speak for him; she's been his confidante ever since you went away. If you want in on Jackson's head, she's your girl."
"That's not true, I'm quite sure that April knows Jackson well - no need to ask for my opinion."
April shifted on her left, facing Mara directly; "Actually I do need your opinion. You know him as much as I do - so what do you think? Why did he reject me last night?"
Mara shifted on her seat, clearly uncomfortable with what's happening. "Rejection is such a strong word you know..."
"True" Lexie piped in.
April averted her gaze and fixed it on the table; "It hurts" she half-whispered.
Lexie sighed.
Mara leaned forward, resting her arms on top of the table; "Did you guys talk about it again?"
"There's nothing to talk about."
"Don't be like that" Lexie said while staring at April's sullen face. "We all know he loves you."
"It's not a question of love Lex, I know he does."
"But his actions made you question if he's still in love with you, is that it?" Mara asked.
"Yeah"
"I'm sure he's still very much in love with you April" Mara said firmly.
"I don't know about that..." April replied, hating the insecurity in her voice.
"It's in the way he looks at you" Lexie offered.
Mara nodded; "Exactly. I see it too" she paused. "And I'm not telling you this because I'm defending his atrocious actions last night."
April winced; "Sorry about that."
Mara waved her off; "No offense taken"
"I'm not being cheesy and all but there's something in his eyes when he looks at you" Lexie said. "Believe Mara, they stuck like glue before you came back."
April sighed for the nth time; "I see..."
"You don't sound like you're convinced" Lexie said.
"I'm having a hard time wrapping my mind around your re-assurances but I'm trying" April said. "And it's not helping me at all when I see him flirting around interns."
"Flirting around interns?" Lexie asked.
"Me and my big fat mouth" April thought.
"You already said it April" Mara said.
April took a deep breath; "I saw him laughing with an intern on my way here - they look kinda cosy."
"You're jealous" Lexie said with a grin.
"I-I'm not!"
Mara smirked; "You are, that's why you gave him the cold shoulder when he called."
"It's not just the sex thingy, I knew it!"
"Hey! That stung too!" April protested. "And besides, you don't know how hard it is to do something like that when you're not even sexy!"
Mara threw April an incredulous look; "Not sexy?"
"Did you hit your head lately?" Lexie asked dryly.
"No! And I'm not!"
"Oh bloody hell" Mara mumbled.
"Make that two" Lexie said. She then swiveled on her chair to face April fully; "Look at me" she demanded.
"As if I have a choice" April murmured.
Lexie ignored April's words and met her eyes directly; "Are trying to throw a pity party?"
April threw Lexie an indignant look; "Of course I'm not!"
"Based from what you just said, it looks to me that you are."
"I'm not-I don't-"
"It kinda gave me that vibe too" Mara admitted, smiling at April impishly.
"Well I'm not!"
"You have a beautiful body and a beautiful face, if I was into women I would do you" Lexie said.
April shifted on her seat, clearly uncomfortable with the brunette's crude words.
Mara giggled; "You scared her Lex"
Lexie rolled her eyes; "I'm into men, I'm screwing Mark, remember?"
"I know that" April replied, her cheeks turning red.
"I guess, what Lexie is trying to say is that you don't have anything to be insecure of. You are sexy and besides, sexiness is not only limited to your body- it's more of a mental state. If you think you're sexy, then you are."
"Thank you!" Lexie said with exaggeration.
April leaned back on her chair; "I know that, it's just - it's not easy channelling something like that" she said. When she noticed the look that passed between her friends, she opted to explain more. "I don't exactly look like this back then. I used to have acne, wore braces and thick glasses. Science fairs and spelling bees are my thing so you could say I'm pretty much a nerd. I'm not using this as an excuse for how I'm acting right now - I only want you guys to understand where I'm coming from."
Lexie instantly lost her snark as Mara sagged back on her seat.
April swallowed thickly and continued; "To be honest, I still don't understand what Jackson sees in me. I know I don't look bad but I also know that I don't look that good" she paused and raised her hand to stop Mara from interrupting.
Mara clamped her mouth shut.
"I know he finds me pretty, he tells me often - I badly want to believe him but my insecurities get's the better of me sometimes" April admitted. She then let her shoulders slumped in dejection; "It's pathetic and I swear to God I'm trying my best to overcome it. Him saying no to me last night triggered it, seeing him with flirting with someone else after that incident only made it worse."
Lexie let out a puff of breath; "Damn, you have a way of making me feel guilty for what I said a couple of minutes ago."
April cracked a smile; "I'm not making you feel guilty, I'm sorry if you felt that way."
Lexie shook her head guiltily; "I was being a jerk, I did not mean to call it pity party."
"Water under the bridge"
Mara leaned forward and squeezed April's shoulder; "Tell him what you just told us, I'm sure he'll want to hear that" she suggested. She then smiled encouragingly; "I also wore braces and was not part of cheerleading team. I was a mathlete and I preferred books than partying" she said.
"I did try my luck with cheerleading but they rejected me" Lexie said wistfully.
Mara studied Lexie's form; "You were rejected? But you're built like a cheerleader."
"Awwww! Thank you!" Lexie gushed. "But no, they didn't accept me - they didn't think I have what it takes."
"They're crazy" April piped in.
"They are" Mara agreed.
Lexie giggled; "I appreciate the vote of confidence" she said. She then leaned her head on her open palm; "Going back to what we're talking about, Mara is right. You should talk to Jackson and tell him what you just told us, I'm sure he'll understand."
"Do you really think so?" April asked.
"Yes" Mara and Lexie chorused.
April sighed; "Fine, I'll talk to him about it."
Lexie narrowed her eyes at April; "You're not just telling us you will and then you won't, right?"
"I promise, I'll talk to him about it."
"Good" April replied. She then thumped her hands on the table; "I better go back, I still have tons of work to do."
"You're not eating?" Mara asked.
April checked her watch; "I still an hour before I can take my lunch" she explained. She then stood up; "Thank you for listening to me, I really appreciate it."
Lexie smiled; "You're always welcome."
"We're always ready to listen" Mara added.
"You guys are the best" April said with a smile.
"I know right?" Lexie replied pompously.
oOo
The day dragged on and Jackson still hasn't seen his wife; he tried dropping by the E.R multiple times but he kept on missing her. He knew that she's avoiding him and she's doing a good job at it. He let out a loud sigh as he stepped out of the elevator; he shoved his hands inside his lab coat pocket and started making his way towards his office.
"Jackson"
Jackson stopped in his tracks and turned his head to the side; he felt relief surge inside his chest when he saw who was calling him. "April"
"Ross said you were looking for me" April said as she walks towards him.
Jackson turned around to face her; "Yeah"
April stopped right in front of him; "Is there anything you need?"
"Yeah, I need you to tell me that I didn't screw up - that we're okay" Jackson thought. He shifted on his feet, meeting her gaze directly; "I just want to check on you, I feel like I haven't seen you all day."
"Oh, that's it?"
Jackson grabbed April's arm unceremoniously and started dragging her inside his office.
"Jackson!" April squealed.
Jackson ignored her protest and pulled her inside the room; he slammed the door shut and gently backs her towards it.
"What are you doing?" April asked when she felt her back touch the wood behind her.
Jackson braced his hands on the door, caging her in; "I know you didn't believe me when I said I wanted you so I'm just going to prove it."
"How-ooommph"
Jackson pressed his lips to hers, cutting her off mid sentence. He nipped at her lower lip, cajoling it open.
April let out a moan, opening her lips automatically.
Jackson took that opportunity to gently slip his tongue inside, licking the roof of her mouth.
April felt her knees buckle with the onslaught of pleasure rushing through her body so she wrapped her arms around his neck to steady her.
Jackson took that as a sign to take things further; he shifted closer, pressing his taut body close to hers. He nibbled on her lips a couple of times before pulling away, his eyes meeting hers. "Do you feel that April?" he said, grounding his hips towards hers.
April's eyes snapped opened in shock; "Oh."
"That's how you affect me. That's how much I want you."
April licked her lips; "O-okay" she half whispered.
Jackson captured her lips again, pouring all his pent up passion into the kiss. He then snaked his left arm towards her leg, wrapping it around his waist.
April tightened her arms around his neck, hefting herself up, wrapping her other leg around his waist.
Jackson groaned between their lips when he felt his crotch hit her center. He shifted closer, pinning her to the wall. After a moment, he pulled his lips away, his hips swivelling in circular motions. "I want you so bad..."
"Then take me" April gasped.
Jackson groaned again as he buries his face on the crook of her neck; "I want to do it right Apes" he whispered.
April cocked her head to the side, "Do it right?" she asked. After a moment, realization dawned on her; she moved her arms off his neck and placed her hands on his face. She pulled it off her neck, coaxing him to meet her eyes; "Look at me."
Jackson met her gaze, his lips parted with labored breaths.
"You want to take it slow is that it?"
Jackson licked his lips; "Yeah..."
Something sparked in April's eyes as she pulled his face to hers, planting her lips directly to his.
Jackson didn't think twice, he gave in to the kiss.
April bit his bottom lip before sucking it with renewed vigor.
Jackson had to brace his right arm on the door to keep them from slipping.
April pulled her lips away; nuzzling her nose to his. "I thought you didn't want me anymore..."
That statement caught Jackson's attention; "What?" he asked.
April let her hands fall to his neck; "When you said no to me last night, I thought you didn't want me in that way anymore..." she admitted.
Jackson rested his forehead to hers, closing his eyes in the process; "I didn't mean for it to come off that way" he said.
"I understand it now" April replied. "Can you let me down? I want to talk, if that's okay?"
Jackson cracked a smile; "Only you would like to talk after that."
April giggled; "One word; priorities."
Jackson chuckled as he slowly lowered her legs down; "Okay, we can talk."
April laced her fingers with his as she guided them towards the chairs right in front of his desk. She sat down and waited for him to take the chair opposite to hers.
Jackson obliged; he plopped down but didn't let go of her hand. "Are you ready to tell me why you've been avoiding me the whole day?"
April felt her cheeks flush even brighter; "I'm not avoiding you."
"Karev is right" Jackson mused.
April furrowed his brows; "Right about what?"
"You really can't lie to save your life" Jackson replied with a teasing smirk.
April pulled her hand away and slapped Jackson's thigh; "Shut up!"
Jackson laughed.
April brought her hands to her lap and swallowed thickly; "Fine, I was avoiding you."
Jackson instantly stopped laughing; "Why?"
"Because I was upset about what happened last night and then I saw you flirting with an intern along the hallways" April blurted out.
Jackson's brows rose in surprise; "You saw us?"
April narrowed her eyes at her husband; "Yes, I saw you laughing with her."
"Why didn't you approach us?"
April shrugged her shoulders indifferently; "I didn't want to intrude."
Jackson scooted to the edge of his seat, catching her hand with his; "You are not intruding" he said seriously.
"Okay."
"I was laughing with the intern because I happen to know her."
"You know her?" April asked skeptically.
"Yeah. She's a childhood friend way back from Boston" Jackson explained. "Actually, that's the reason why I called you during lunch time; I wanted to introduce you to her."
April grimaced; "I'm sorry I jumped into conclusions."
Jackson squeezed her hand, a small smile gracing his lips; "I kinda like it"
"Like what?"
Jackson's smile turned into a grin; "You being jealous"
April snatched her hand away; "I'm not jealous"
"Whatever makes you sleep at night" Jackson replied.
April shot up from her perch; "Keep saying things like that and you will definitely be sleeping alone tonight."
Jackson also stood up; he grabbed her arm and tugged her to his chest. He circled her waist with his arms, bring their faces together. "You won't"
April began thrumming her fingers on his chest; "I don't know about that. You want to take it slow and I can't promise to keep my hands to myself..."
Jackson closed his eyes as he leans his forehead to hers; "Don't remind me about that" he grunted.
April bridged the gap between their lips and kissed him chastely; "I don't know why you want to take things slow but just for the record, I want to play hanky panky with you" she said before pulling away.
"Damn virtue!" Jackson cursed mentally. He let his arms fall to his side, his eyes fixed on his wife's face; "Hanky panky?"
"Hot, passionate and backbreaking sex" April said with a wink. She then turned on her heels and started walking towards the door; "Who knows, I might even let you tie me up" she added.
"Apriiilllll!" Jackson groaned.
April blew him a kiss; "See you later babe"
Jackson collapsed back to his chair; "I should really get down to this stupid proposal" he grumbled. He then leaned back, resting his head on his palms; "Damn, tie her up? What have you've been reading?" he asked, a dreamy look crossing his face.
oOo
"Dr. K.A!"
"Shane" April acknowledges as she closed the door behind her.
"Dr. Hunt is looking for you, we're about to wrap up today's observation."
April checked her watched and saw the time; "Oh that's right, let's go"
oOo
"Too bad she's already married" Mitchell said.
"Who's married?" Kylie asked as she sidled next to her friend.
"Dr. Kepner-Avery, Mitchell is crushing over her" Another intern piped in.
"You like her?"
"Yes. You should have seen her inside the O.R, she's awesome" Mitchell said.
Kylie looked thoughtful; "Do you know what her specialty is?"
"Trauma" Mitchell replied.
Kylie's eyes widen; "Trauma?"
Mitchell nodded; "Yep and again, she's awesome"
"Look like someone has a crush" Kylie teased.
Mitchell's cheeks redden; "Yeah, but she's already married."
Kylie folded her arms on top of her chest; "She is and I suggest you keep your googly eyes to a minimum, I don't think her husband would take it kindly" she said as she thought of Jackson's possessive nature.
Mitchell cleared his throat; "So I've heard."
"Good afternoon interns!"
Kylie threw her friend a sympathetic look before focusing her attention to the front.
"Sorry I'm late!"
Owen turned around and saw April walking briskly towards him; "Nice of you to join us Dr. Kepner- Avery" he said with humor.
April playfully rolled her eyes at Owen; "I got caught up with something."
"I bet you did" Owen joked.
April smirked; "And I bet you know all about that."
"Touché"
April noticed the interns looking at them curiously so she cleared her throat loudly; "Good afternoon"
Owen turned his attention back to the group.
oOo
"How soon can we do it?"
Mark turned around and saw his prot standing behind him; "Do what?" he asked with a quirked brow.
Jackson shifted closer; "The proposal?" he whispered.
"Oh, so you did listen to me" Mark said.
Jackson leaned sideways on the counter; "Yeah, so when do you think is the best time?"
Mark copied Jackson's stance; "Hmmmnnn, let me think."
"I'm thinking about this coming thanksgiving" Jackson said. "April is really into that kind of stuff and I think that's the best time to do it."
Mark looked thoughtful; "That sounds about right."
Jackson rubbed his hands together, a giddy yet nervous look crossed his features; "I want it to be special and memorable and I think that timing is perfect" he paused. "I just don't know how I will be able to execute it"
"You mentioned a while ago that you want to involve the kids, is that still in the bag?"
Jackson nodded; "Yeah, she loves kids and I think she'd really appreciate that."
"Then I suggest you talk with Mer, my daughter is very much in" Mark said.
"You'll talk with Torres and Robbins?"
Mark waved Jackson's concern off; "She's my daughter and I'm quite sure those two would love the idea of Sophia being involved. Hopeless romantic, that's what they are."
"Great!"
"What's great?"
Both surgeons turned around and saw Lexie standing behind them, eyeing them suspiciously. "Hey honeybear" Mark said with a large grin.
Lexie scowled; "How many times will I tell you to stop calling me that?"
Mark's grin grew wider; "Until the day I die?" he offered.
"That's not funny Mark" Lexie said seriously.
Jackson noticed the shift on Lexie's mood so he decided to interject; "We're talking about thanksgiving."
Lexie turned her gaze towards Jackson; "Thanksgiving?"
Jackson nodded; "Yep, I'm planning on celebrating it this year - I have a lot to thank for."
Lexie braced her hands on her waist; "About April, what is this I hear about you flirting with an intern?" she demanded.
Mark raised his brow; "Flirting with an intern?"
Jackson looked at Lexie disbelievingly; "Where on earth did you hear about that?"
"Walls have ears and gossip has wings" Lexie said vaguely. "So is it true? Are you flirting with an intern? You have a wife-"
"I am not!" Jackson butted in. "The woman people might have seen me with is a childhood friend way back from Boston and she just happens to be an intern, that's all."
"Just a friend? Not an ex? An ex fiancé? A past lover slash fuck buddy?"
"Whoa!"
Mark looked amazed; "Wow woman, you are thorough with this interrogation, you covered all your bases."
"I know what I'm talking about, so spill Avery"
"She is not an ex and she's definitely not a fuck buddy, geez! She's young enough to be my younger sister!"
Lexie narrowed her eyes and pointed towards her fiancé; "I'm old enough to be her daughter"
The apprehension on Jackson's face vanished as he threw his head back and laughed.
Mark crossed his arms on top of his chest, a scowl marring his face; "I call foul there Grey" he said sternly. He then narrowed his eyes; "You're having sex with me, doesn't that sound a bit weird if you think of me as Tatcher Grey?" he challenged.
Lexie's face distorted in disgust; "That's gross!"
"Point made" Mark said. He then moved his eyes towards Jackson; "And you. Stop laughing. I won't help you with your thanksgiving idea if you keep on laughing at my expense."
Jackson clamped his mouth shut, zipping it with his hand for good measure.
"I thought so" Mark said. "Now, you two, scram. I'm working right now and you're disturbing me"
Lexie flicked her hair back before spinning on her heels; "Fine. I have an aneurism to clip anyway."
"Don't botch it!" Mark called out.
"You're sleeping on the couch!" Lexie retorted.
"It's my apartment! You sleep on the couch!"
"Here's a better idea, I won't sleep in your apartment at all!"
Mark's eyes widen; "You will do no such thing!" he yelled.
"I suggest you follow her" Jackson piped in.
"Good idea, stay here" Mark said as he jogged towards the door.
Jackson shook his head as he watches his mentor run after Lexie.
oOo
"Dr. Kepner-Avery?"
April stopped midstride to turn around; it took her a moment to recongize the woman standing right in front of her. "Yes?"
Kylie smiled; "I know we have already met a couple of hours ago but I still want to introduce myself again, if that's okay."
April returned the smile; "You're Jackson's friend from Boston?"
"So, he already told you" Kylie mused. She then held her hand out; "My name is Kyla Archer, but you can call me Kylie."
April shook Kylie's hand; "You can call me April" she replied.
"If I had known that you are Jackson's wife, I should have introduced myself earlier."
"If I had known you are one of his childhood friends, I should have done the same thing."
Kylie giggled as she stuffed her hands inside her pockets; "Well, that is Jackson Avery for us - full of surprises. To be honest, I didn't even know he got married."
April shifted on her feet; "It was a small wedding, nothing fancy for us."
Kylie nodded; "I thought so."
April noticed the bag dangling from Kylie's shoulder; "Are you going home already?"
"Yep, I just stopped by to say Hello."
"Oh, that's nice of you"
Kylie waved her hand nonchalantly; "It's nothing" she replied. She then wrapped her hand around the strap of her bag; "Well, I better get going - I guess I'll just see you around."
April nodded; "I'm sure of that."
"Tell Jackson I said Hi" Kylie said.
"Will do, take care"
Kylie smiled; "It was nice meeting you April"
"Nice meeting you too Kylie" April replied.
Kylie threw the red head one last look before turning on her heels.
April let out a relieved sigh as she watches Kylie walked towards the E.R doors.
"Who's the hot girl?"
April turned her head to the side and saw Alex gawking at Kylie's backside; "Kylie Archers, one of the interns and Jackson's childhood friend."
Alex moved his eyes towards April; "Jackson's childhood friend?"
"Yep" April replied. "She's originally from Boston, I think"
Alex crossed his arms on top his chest; "Are you sure she's only a friend and not an ex? I mean, she's hot, I'd do her" he said.
April wrinkled her nose in disgust; "TMI Alex, I didn't need to know that."
Alex ignored April's words; "Seriously Kepner, you're fine with it?"
"Is there any reason why I should not be okay with it?"
Alex studied April's face for a moment; "You've changed."
"Huh?"
Alex cracked a smile before ruffling April's hair; "Nothing, I'm heading out - I'll see you tomorrow" he said before walking away.
"You can't just leave like that! What do you mean?" April called out. When the other surgeon didn't answer, she spun on her heels and trailed after him; "Allleeexxxx!"
oOo
"Are you ready to go?"
April snatched her bag from her locker before turning around; "Ready" she replied with a smile.
Jackson walked towards his wife and planted a chaste kiss on her lips.
April pulled back; "What's that for?"
Jackson slid his arm around her shoulders and pulled her to his side; "I just missed you, is all."
April threw him an amused look; "You just saw me a couple of hours ago."
Jackson shrugged; "Doesn't matter, I still did" he said with a smile.
April stared at him for a couple of second before standing on her toes, landing a smack on his lips.
"What's that for?"
April grinned; "Just because."
Jackson squeezed her to his side; "Let's take you home."
"Are we continuing what you started in your office?"
Jackson gulped loudly; "I-I..."
April wrapped her arms around his waist, giving him a playful squeeze; "I'm just messing with you – we're taking it slow, I remember."
Jackson let out a puff of breath; "Thank you."
"Too bad you won't see the lingerie I bought other day, it's quite a number" April teased.
Jackson's head snapped to the side, his mouth agape.
April stared at her husband's dumfounded face before bursting into fits of giggles.
It took a couple of seconds before Jackson caught on. He narrowed his eyes and pulled her tighter to his side; "You're an evil minx, that's what you are" he grumbled.
"And you're a monk" April retorted.
"Is that supposed to be an insult?" Jackson asked with a quirked brow. "If it is, you're losing your touch."
April adjusted her arm, slipping her hand towards his ass, squeezing it; "This touch?"
Jackson gritted his teeth when he felt himself harden; "We're waiting, we're taking it slow - think of your mother and Webber" he mumbled lowly.
April instantly pulled her hand off, her nose wrinkling in disgust; "You did not just say that"
Jackson opened his eyes, a small smile creeping up his lips; "Works every time" he said smugly.
"You're awful, you know that."
Jackson lowered his head right in front of her face; kissing her nose chastely before pulling away. "Come on, I'm hungry"
"Fine, but you're cooking."
"Aye aye boss!" Jackson chirped.
April rolled her eyes, a contented smile marring her lips. "Yep, we are back on track" she thought happily.
oOo
Thanksgiving:
Two weeks' worth of covert planning and two weeks' worth of cold showers. If Jackson didn't work as a surgeon, he might as well be broke. Ever since he told April he wanted to wait, the more she teased him. He already lost count of how many times he ran into her wearing close to nothing. It's not as if he didn't enjoy the view, he loved it. It's just not helping when he's trying his hardest to keep his hands to himself - at least before she says yes to his proposal. Once he hears those coveted three letter words from her lips, all the bets are off. She would have to ask someone to pry him off her before she can escape their bed. He let out a dreamy sigh just thinking about it. Before the clock strikes 12 midnight today, he's sure as hell that the bed once dormant would be used for more lucrative things other than sleeping.
"You okay?"
Jackson turned his head to the side and saw Derek staring at him; "I'm good" he replied with a smile. He then sat straighter, looking at the other surgeon in the eyes; "I know I sound redundant already but thank you - thank you for helping me with this and for letting me use your lawn."
Derek's eyes twinkled with amusement; "Yes you have been very redundant about that and my reply is still the same. It's just a lawn and I'm glad I could help."
Jackson threw him a sheepish look; "I know but still...and thank you about Zo-"
"Zola and Bailey, I know that too" Derek interrupted, rolling his eyes in the process. "Your plan is giving my wife a tiny bit of nostalgia. She says she's torn between feeling bitter and happy, kinda weird if you'll ask me."
Jackson leaned back on his seat, a smile playing on his lips. "She did tell me about the hundred candles, too bad you weren't able to see it - that must have been a sight."
Derek pursed his lips; "Thank you for bringing that up. Now I'm rethinking about sending the man I hired to mow the lawn home."
Jackson's eyes widen; "Whoa there, I was just kidding."
Derek chuckled; "So was I" he replied. "I couldn't do that too - Meredith would kill me."
Jackson let out a relieved sigh; "Okay, good."
Derek folded his arms on top of his chest; "You really are worked up about this, Mark was not kidding."
"Are you guys gossiping about me?"
"It's hard not to when you're both up our ass"
"Who's up our ass? It must not be Avery again! And I don't bat for the other team; I love Lexie's vajayjay too much."
"Don't let my wife hear you say that" Derek chastised without turning around.
"And your fiancé - don't forget the fiancé, she'll castrate you" Jackson piped in.
Mark rested his arm around Derek's shoulder; "They won't, they're both busy bugging Kepner."
"They're talking to April?"
Mark nodded; "Yeah, I had to escape before my ears starts to bleed" he replied. He moved his eyes to his prot; "Now I remember why Karev calls her a human chatterbox, her voice is really grating."
"Watch your mouth, that's my wife you're talking about" Jackson warned, his protective side bristling.
Derek elbowed Mark on the stomach.
Mark winced; "Sorry, I was just kidding."
Jackson relaxed after hearing the other man's apology; "That's alright, just stop calling her names."
"Okay fine."
Derek cleared his throat loudly; "Well, we better get going if we want to finish in time" he said. "And oh, I almost forgot, the boxes of candles have already been dropped off this morning and the lawn mower guy will be out of our house by 5. Make sure to wrap things here by that time so you can set up."
"Thanks again man, I'll be there."
Derek nodded; "Okay, see you then" he said. He then batted Mark's arm away; "You should be getting ready in scrubbing in, your butt-fat sucking surgery has been moved an hour early."
Mark frowned; "Who moved it?"
"Hunt - who else do you think?" Derek replied before walking away.
"I should be notified about these things, I'm the surgeon for goodness sake!" Mark complained as he trailed behind Derek, not sparing Jackson a glance.
"Some things will never change" Jackson said as he shook his head.
oOo
"Are you sure I can't help you with anything?" April asked, worrying her lip.
Meredith rolled her eyes; "We're good Apes, promise."
"That actually worries me more" Lexie said while studying her nails. "You never cook."
Meredith crossed her arms on top of her chest defiantly; "I know how to cook."
Cristina guffawed.
Meredith turned around and pinned her best friend a look; "Not helping Cristina."
Cristina threw the magazine she's reading on the table and stood up; "I don't know why you insist on having a Thanksgiving dinner all of a sudden" she said. She then braced her hands on her hips; "We used to skip it remember? You, Alex and I - we're never the ones who enjoy this frivolous festivities" she scoffed.
Meredith sniffed; "There's a lot to be thankful for."
Cristina stared at Meredith for a moment, her eyes narrowing. After a moment, she pointed towards the door; "You, me - outside, right now" she said before striding towards the door.
"Oh oh - looks like you are in trouble" Lexie teased.
Meredith reached for her sister's arm and pinched it; "I'm never gonna let you live this down, remember that" she said before storming towards the door.
"Oh oh - looks like you're in trouble now" April repeated her friend's words, her eyes crinkling on the side with humor.
Lexie narrowed her eyes at the red head as she rubs her sore arm; "Thank you for finding amusement with my painful ordeal."
"And the Drama Queen strikes again" April said. She then grabbed her lab coat from the couch and started putting it on; "Well, I still have work to do, I'll see you later."
Lexie snatched her tab; "Contrary to what you guys think, I also have work."
April giggled; "Fine, go decompress some else's brain" she teased.
"Ha ha, very funny Trauma Girl"
oOo
"Hey, you haven't forgotten right?"
Mara lifted her eyes from her charts; "Forgot what?"
Jackson folded his arms on top of his chest, a scowl marring his face.
Mara blinked a couple of times before giggling; "I haven't forgotten, wipe that dreadful look off your face."
Jackson narrowed his eyes; "Why do you guys keep on picking on me today. Today of all days!"
Mara leaned back on her chair, crossing her legs in the process; "It's because you look like a train wreck."
Jackson moved towards the counter; "You know how I feel about this, you were there!"
Mara's face softened; "That's the reason why people are picking on you, because we know. And besides, I'm 100% sure that you're worrying about nothing" she paused to lean forward. "She's head over heels in love with you and I'm sure that she'll say yes" she said, whispering the last word.
The worry lines on Jackson's forehead lessened; "You think so?"
Mara nodded; "You have nothing to worry about. And yes, I'll be there to help you set up the bloody candles" she said. She then wrinkled her nose in distaste; "Only you would want to light god knows how many candles in an open lawn, its fall you know - the wind is clearly not in your favour. And that is literal; don't take it as one of your wife's metaphorical analogies."
Jackson couldn't help it; he threw his head back and laughed.
oOo
Time check: 3:00 P.M.
April closed the door to the procedure room behind her, her eyes fixed on her tab.
"You should look where you're going."
April lifted her gaze and noticed her husband standing right in front of her; "Hey" she greeted with a smile.
Jackson walked towards her and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her to his chest. "Hey too"
April chuckled; she then moved her eyes to his chest and noticed that he's not wearing scrubs. "Why are you on your street clothes?"
Jackson pecked her on the lips before responding; "I'm heading out."
April threw him a confused look; "Heading where?" she asked.
"I need to run some errands, board stuff."
"On Thanksgiving?"
Jackson feigned an annoyed look; "A total pain in the ass."
April pouted; "That's just awful, can't you do it tomorrow?"
Jackson shook his head; "I can't babe, it's kinda important."
April stared into his eyes for a moment before nodding reluctantly; "Okay, but you're still gonna make it to dinner right?"
"I wouldn't miss it for the world" Jackson said.
April cracked a small smile; "Curious about Mer's cooking skills too?"
Jackson chuckled; "Caught me" he lied.
April laughed.
Jackson kissed her forehead before pulling away; "I won't be able to pick you up later. If I will be able to make it to dinner then I have to finish everything as fast as I can."
"I understand."
"I already told Mark and he agreed to take you with him."
"How kind of him"
Jackson laughed; "Yeah"
April thumped his chest affectionately; "Well, I'll see you later then."
"You will, love you"
"Love you too."
oOo
"It's about bloody time!" Mara exclaimed as she saw Jackson walking towards her. "I thought you forgot about your plan and just decided to shag your wife on the hallway into submission."
Jackson threw Mara an amused look; "Submission? I didn't know you and Phillip are into kinky stuff."
Mara smirked; "What do you know about kinky stuff? Last time I checked you were suffering from blue balls."
Jackson smirked back; "Not for long."
Mara pulled the door open; "That is, if you play your cards right" she winked before slipping inside the car.
"You're not helping my nerves Keaton!" Jackson complained before closing the door behind him with a bang.
oOo
Time check: 4:30 P.M.
Mara wiped the sweat from her brows; "Why did I even agree to help you with this again?" she yelled.
"Because you wanted to take a week off and you're kissing your boss's ass?" Jackson piped in perkily.
"Right" Mara replied sarcastically. She then pulled the last glass cover from the box and began nudging Jackson to the side. "Get out of my way Pretty boy"
Jackson moved, but not without rolling his eyes.
Mara placed the little glass dome in place before wiping her hands on her jeans; "Did you check if the wiring for the sound system is working? All of this won't look romantic if you two ended up hearing crickets and traffic noises."
Jackson plucked his phone from his back pocket; "Only one way to find out" he replied before unlocking it. He tapped on the screen a couple of times before lowering it; he waited a couple of beats before he heard soft music playing.
Mara slipped her hands inside her pocket, a smile forming on her lips; "Nice, Bluetooth?"
Jackson grinned as he faces Mara; "The wonders of technology."
"Make sure to stay on range then. Who would click on it later?"
"Me"
"Huh?"
"You just have to wait and see" Jackson said mischievously.
"Theatrics!" Mara exclaimed. "By the way, how am I supposed to know that I have to go out and help you light these things?"
"I'll call you - just pretend I'm Phillip"
"Oh okay, I can do that."
"How's your acting skill?"
Mara smirked; "Better than yours."
oOo
Time check: 7:00 P.M.
"Very fitting, a dress on thanksgiving"
April turned around and saw Mark and Lexie standing by the door; she grabbed her bag from the table and started making her way towards the couple. "I don't have any other clothes to wear, Jackson accidentally dumped my clean clothes on the washer this morning"
"Men" Lexie said dryly.
"I know right?" April replied. She then checked her phone; "Have you seen him? I've been trying to contact him but he's not answering."
Mark waved his hand dismissively; "Don't worry about him, I'm sure he'll be there"
"Would he make it to dinner?" April asked.
"If he doesn't then we'll save him a plate, it's not as if we can eat what Meredith cooked" Lexie snickered.
"Speaking of Meredith, is she still here?" April asked.
"No, they already took off a couple of minutes ago."
"Oh I see, we be better get going then - she might need some help"
"I bet she would" Lexie replied with amusement.
"We just have to make a quick stop to Daycare, I have to pick Sophia up."
"She's coming too?" April asked excitedly.
"Yep, Callie and Arizona are planning on having their own version of Thanksgiving" Mark said while wiggling his brows suggestively.
"TMI" Lexie said.
April laughed.
oOo
Cristina adjusted Bailey on her arms, her eyes fixed on the table spread. "You can't expect me to believe that you did all this."
Derek chuckled; "She didn't"
"Thank you Derek, I'm happy to know that you have faith in me" Meredith snapped.
"You may not be Martha Stewart but I love you none the less."
"Why don't you go out and check the cooler huh? Make sure that you didn't forget to place the beer inside."
Derek planted a kiss on his wife's cheek; "Yes dear" he said before walking away.
Meredith placed Zola on the floor; "Why don't you run along and go to your room to freshen up, we'll have dinner in a few, can you do that?"
Zola smiled toothily; "Yes Mommy" she replied. She then pointed her tiny finger towards her brother; "Baby Bailey coming too?"
Cristina kissed the little boy's nose and gently lowered him to the floor; "Here you go, he's all yours" she said with a smile.
Zola walked towards Bailey and slowly wrapped her hand around his; "Come on, we wash up."
Meredith followed her children with her eyes, a smile tugging on her lips; "They look so cute."
Cristina nodded; "They are" she replied.
Meredith moved her eyes towards her best friend; "Rethinking your decision eh?" she asked knowingly.
Cristina just shrugged her shoulders as a response; she spun on her heels and started making her way towards the table.
oOo
"Everything is set?"
Jackson lowered his beer on the table; "Yes, everything is good - I just have to hear her say that...yes, you know" he rambled before laughing nervously.
Derek moved his eyes towards Mara; "Is he drunk?"
Mara chuckled; "No, that's his nerves talking - that's his first bottle."
Derek braced his hands on his hips, a grin slowly spreading on his face; "If I had known you'd be this nervous, I should have brought my camcorder."
"Hardy Harhar" Jackson replied. He then shot up from his seat; "Is she here?" he asked anxiously.
Derek couldn't help it, he laughed.
"Shepherd! Don't laugh at me, is my wife here?" Jackson half whispered.
"I'm sorry, you're just being funny - I couldn't help it" Derek replied.
"Told you - his nerves is on the house, full blast" Mara chirped jovially.
Derek shook his head; "No, you're wife is not here, she's riding with Mark. He's gonna text you once they're close" he replied. "Did you two eat?"
Jackson started wringing his hands as he paces; "No, I don't think I can - I might throw up, that won't do. I don't think April will appreciate me puking on her"
Mara wrinkled her nose in disgust; "Nobody would appreciate that."
"Cristina is already here, so we're just waiting for Karev and Webber."
"Hunt is not coming?" Jackson asked.
"He is, he'll be running a bit late though - he had to scrub in so that April can make it on time."
"I see, thanks man."
Derek pointed on Mara; "You should come with me now"
Mara stood up from her perch; "Okay" she replied. She then turned her eyes towards her best friend; "You're gonna be alright here?" she asked.
Jackson took a deep breath; "Yeah, I'm good."
Mara walked towards Jackson and planted a kiss on his cheek; "You will do just fine, just tell her how you feel and the rest will just follow."
Jackson met Mara's eyes; "Thank you."
Mara smiled; "You're welcome."
oOo
Time check: 7:30 P.M.
"Wow" April gasped.
Lexie stared at the spread, her eyes widening every second; "You've got to be shitting me."
"Watch your words!" Meredith chastised. She then turned towards April, opening her arms for the little tot that's squirming in her arms; "Give her to me, I'll take her to the gang" she said.
April planted a kiss on Sophia's hair before handing her over to Meredith.
"You really are good with kids" Mark said.
Lexie nodded in agreement; "I don't think Mark and I can calm her down the way you did, only Callie can do that."
April smiled; "Kids love me" she replied.
The door was flung open, revealing Richard and an annoyed looking Alex. "You better have an edible dinner for me, you know how I hate these things" the latter grumbled.
"You are in for a surprise Evil Spawn, my twisted sister has turned into Martha Stewart!" Cristina replied loudly.
Alex snickered as he made his way towards the table, he stopped in his tracks midway, his jaw dropping.
"Told you" Cristina snickered.
"Well what do you know" Richard said as he fell into step with Alex.
Alex moved his gaze towards Derek, throwing him a penetrating stare; "Did you do something to piss your wife off?"
Derek chuckled; "If you're worried about food poisoning, you're safe - that food was catered."
Alex let out a relieved sigh; "Thank god!" he said dramatically.
Meredith appeared out of nowhere, slapping Alex on the back of his head. "You're an awful friend."
Alex scowled at her, rubbing his head; "That hurts!"
"Oh don't be dramatic, Zola hits harder than that" Meredith said.
Alex took a side step, moving closer to Richard; "Rein your pseudo daughter, she's abusing me."
Richard lifted his hands in surrender; "Ask the husband, I'm not going there."
"Hmph!" Meredith scoffed.
"Hey Keaton, how did you get here?" Cristina asked while eyeing Mara.
"I took a cab" Mara replied. She then turned her eyes towards Meredith; "Thank you again for inviting me" she said with sincerity.
Meredith waved her hand dismissively; "You're part of the family, no biggie" she replied nonchalantly.
Mara felt a warm feeling surge through her chest; "Thanks."
Alex noticed April fiddling with her phone; "Hey Kepner, where's Avery?"
April slipped her phone inside her pocket; "He's doing some board errands, he'll be here soon."
"All the board members are here" Alex gestured towards the crowd. "What board work is he doing?"
"Funding" Mark said loudly.
"Yeah, he went out to meet some of our suppliers" Derek said.
"You know how hands on Jackson can be" Meredith added.
"On Thanksgiving?" Alex asked, a suspicious look marring his face.
"Are you Avery's keeper now?" Cristina teased.
Alex huffed; "I'm not, it's just weird that his wife is here and he's MIA."
April bit her bottom lip, unpleasant thoughts swirling into her mind.
Derek noticed the look on April's face so he decided to intervene. He clapped his hands loudly, trying to get the attention of the crowd. "Why don't we all settle down for dinner eh? I'm sure Jackson is already on his way."
Meredith threw Alex a stink eye before nodding; "That's a great idea" she said.
"I'll go get the kids" Lexie offered. She then moved towards the disturbed looking red head; she lopped her arm around April's; "Come on, god knows I need all the help I can get with those three" she said.
"Okay" April replied.
Mara also stood up; "Can I help?" she asked.
Lexie nodded; "Yeah, let's go."
The women were halfway towards the hallway when Mark spoke; "I just got a message from Avery, he's on his way. He wants us to start dinner and he'll just catch up."
"See? He's on his way already" Meredith said, her eyes pinning Alex on the spot.
Alex shrugged his shoulders; "I didn't say he was not coming, I just asked where he was - geez!"
Lexie leaned towards April; "There, nothing to worry about."
"Yeah, looks like it" April replied with a forced smile.
Mara smiled encouragingly; "Jackson won't miss this for the world Apes, it's your first thanksgiving together after all"
April returned the smile, this time it's more sincere; "That's right, this is our first thanksgiving together."
Lexie chuckled; "Don't mind Alex, he's just being a grouch - he's not a big fan of any holidays."
"Except Valentines day" April chirped in.
The three women shared a look before bursting into laughter.
oOo
Time check: 8:30 P.M.
Jackson slapped his cheeks to get a hold of himself; "You don't have any audience - it's not public speaking, there's no camera - you can do this" he said to himself. He then swiped his phone from the table and started tapping on it; he moved it towards his ear, waiting for Mara to answer his call.
oOo
"Party girls don't get hurt, can't feel anything when will I learn - I push it down, I push it down..."
Mara hastily plucked the phone from her pocket, she checked the screen before pushing away from the table. "I have to get this, excuse me"
"Hospital?" Richard asked.
Mara let out a small smile; "No, it's personal."
"Must be Phillip" April said knowingly.
Mara nodded; "Yeah, I'm just gonna step out for a bit - I'll be back"
"You can take the call from the deck, you'll have more privacy there" Derek suggested.
"Yeah, just walk along the hallway, it's the glass sliding on your left" Meredith added.
"Thank you, be right back" Mara said before scurrying away.
Derek moved his eyes towards Mark; "So, have you guys already agreed on the theme for Sophia's party? Princess, Fairy or Aliens?"
"Alien?" April asked.
"Oh don't get me started with that" Mark said. "Arizona is..."
oOo
"Please don't tell me we're using matches" Mara said as she fell into step with Jackson.
"That was fast" Jackson observed. "And no, we're not using matches"
"Good, because I only excused myself for a bit - let's start this then" Mara said, rubbing her hands together.
oOo
The dinner is almost over and dessert is currently being passed on; April checked her watch for the nth time, her nerves starting to shoot up again. "Where are you?"
Mara stepped back into the room; "I'm back, sorry - the call turned into a consultation" she announced.
Alex smirked; "Let me guess, it has something to do with the reproductive system?"
Mara pulled her chair and plopped down; "Actually yes, the patient's guy parts was chopped off by one of his one night stands."
The smirk on Alex's lips vanished, his face blanching.
"I think I'm falling in love with you Keaton, you just managed to shut Alex's trap" Cristina said jovially.
Mara raised his glass towards Cristina, a small smile curling on her lips.
"Auntie April?"
April shifted from her seat; "Yes sweetie?"
"Can you pway with us?" Sophia asked sweetly.
April smiled; "Are you finish eating?"
Sophia nodded; "Yep" she replied. She then slid her tiny hand towards April's arm; tugging it; "Come pway with us, pweeaaassse?"
April turned her eyes towards Mark; "Err - let's ask Daddy first"
Mark shared a look with Derek before nodding; "Sure, you can take her."
"Me too!" Zola piped in excitedly.
"Me!" Bailey repeated before giggling.
"Alright, we can play" April said. She placed her napkin on the table before scooting her chair back; "Where do you guys want to play?" she asked enthusiastically.
"The swing" Meredith replied. "Derek just installed it yesterday and they can't seem to get enough of it. You don't mind?"
April stood up; "Nope I don't mind at all" she said. "If Jackson arrives, just tell him I'm out with the kids"
"Will do" Mark said with a grin.
April scooped Bailey in her arms before pointing towards the hallway; "Go on girls, lead the way."
"I'll help you watch them, I'm expecting another call anyway" Mara said as she stood up.
Sophia grabbed Zola's hand giddily; "Lessggooooo!"
April chuckled as she trailed behind the two excited girls; "Okay but be ready, these girls can cause a riot" she warned.
Meredith waited for April's back to disappear from the hallway; "I think I'm gonna cry" she blurted out.
Alex threw his friend a confused look; "Because Kepner is playing with your kids?"
"We have awesome kids" Mark said proudly.
"That we are" Derek replied with the same intensity.
Cristina shook her head as she turned her eyes towards Alex; "So Evil Spawn, how's your date last night? Any good?"
oOo
"Sweethearts, slow down!" April said loudly as she watches Zola and Sophia run towards the swing.
The girls giggled loudly but they slowed their pace.
"What's with kids and swings?" Mara asked.
"I don't know, maybe because it's new?" April offered, her eyes not leaving the girls.
Mara watched April from the corner of her eyes; "You'd be a great mother someday Apes, the kids adore you."
April smiled wistfully; "I hope so..."
"Party girls don't get hurt, can't feel anything when will I learn - I push it down, I push it down..."
"Looks like they really need your help there" April said.
Mara carefully checked the screen, making sure that April won't get a peek. "Yeah, give me one moment" she said.
April nodded as she adjusted Bailey in her arms; "Go on."
Mara moved towards the steps and sat down; she tapped on the answer button and moved her phone to her ears. "Hello"
April tuned out Mara's conversation on the phone and turned her full attention to the giggling baby in her arms; "You like it here, don't you?" she asked affectionately.
Bailey placed his hands on April's cheeks, chortling happily.
April couldn't help it, she leaned forward and planted a kiss on the baby's nose; "You're such a darling!"
"Auuunnttttiiieeeee Aprillllll!"
April's head snapped to the side, her eyes searching for the girls; "What is it?" she asked.
"There's a man standing out there" Zola said.
April frowned; "A man?"
The girls nodded; "Yes and he's standing in the middle of a fire" Sophia said.
April's eyes widen just as Mara stood up from her perch; "What's going on?" the latter asked.
"Can you take him?" April asked.
Mara moved towards April and opened her arms; "Sure, what's going on?"
"Nothing, I just need to check something" April replied. "Sweethearts, can you come here please?"
Zola grabbed Sophia's hand and started dragging her back to the deck; "Okay"
April met the kids halfway, hurrying them towards Mara. "Stay with Auntie Mara okay? I'll just go check something" she said sternly.
The two girls nodded obediently; "We will."
"Promise?" April asked.
"Promise" The girls chorused.
"April, you're scaring me - what's happening?" Mara whispered.
"The girls saw a man standing in the lawn, I'm just going to check it" April said lowly.
"Okay, be safe" Mara said.
April smiled; "I will be, I'm sure the G-I-R-L-S is just overreacting" she said.
Mara laughed; "I think so too"
April wrapped the cardigan around her body, folding her arms on top of her chest; "Be right back"
Mara nodded; "Why don't we sit over there and you girls can tell me about your favorite princesses?" she asked.
April watched as Mara led the kids towards the seats before she turned around; "They're just overreacting, it's nothing" she assured herself. She took a deep breath before walking towards the direction the kids pointed at.
oOo
"It's time" Jackson mumbled to himself when he heard the kids screech. He wiped his clammy hands on his pants; turning his back to the house.
oOo
April felt her breath hitched inside her throat when she caught sight of the man that the girl's was telling her about. They were not kidding; he is standing in the middle of the lawn, surrounded by what seems to be candles. She took a tentative step, her heart thudding wildly inside her chest; "God, please don't let him be one of those people who practice witchcraft, it's thanksgiving for goodness sake. And please, please God, don't let that be an altar designed for a human sacrifice" she prayed. She stopped on the outer ring of the circle, making sure that there would be enough distance between them. "Hello? Excuse me sir?"
The guy shifted on his feet, his back still turned.
April cleared her throat; "Sir? This is a private property - you're not allowed here" she said loudly.
Silence.
April opened her mouth to speak but was able to do so when she heard a familiar melody playing.
"What would I do without your smart mouth, drawing me in and you kicking me out. You've got my head spinning, no kidding - I can't pin you down..."
"What the?" April said, clearly confused.
The man slowly turned around, his face being illuminated by the soft glow of the tiny lights.
April's eyes widen in shock, her jaw dropping.
"What's going on in that beautiful mind? I'm on your magical mystery ride and I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright..."
Jackson met April's eyes, his nerves slowly ebbing. His mouth started curling up into a smile, his eyes urging April towards him. "April"
April seem to regain her bearings, she snapped her mouth shut, swallowing hard before speaking. "Jackson? What are you doing?"
Jackson didn't respond; he lifted his hand, beckoning her to come closer.
"My head's under water but I'm breathing fine, you're crazy and I'm out of my mind..."
April felt her knees buckling and her eyes heating up with the surge of emotions that's raking havoc inside her chest. She wanted to collapse on the spot but she forced herself to walk towards him. "What's-I thought you're not here" she said shakily.
Jackson shook his head a tiny bit, his eyes not leaving hers.
"'Cause all of me, loves all of you. Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections..."
April knew that the wind is picking up but she couldn't seem to feel it. She stopped right in front of him, her arms falling limply to her side. "Jackson?"
"Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you. You're my end and my beginning, even when I lose I'm winning. 'Cause I give you all of me and you give me all of you..."
Jackson took a deep breath before speaking; "Hi."
"H-hey" April replied.
"I know you're wondering what all of this is about..."
April chuckled nervously; "Yeah, when the girls told me that they saw a man standing in flames - I knew I had to check."
Jackson chuckled; "Standing in flames?"
"Well you can't blame them, you are standing in the middle of what looks to be a witchcraft altar" April joked.
Jackson looked confused; "Huh?"
"Don't mind me, it's nothing" April hastily said, her cheeks turning bright red.
"You're my downfall, you're my muse. My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues. I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you..."
"Do it" Jackson thought. He felt his heart is beating thunderously inside his chest as he shifted closer. He licked his lips as he slowly reached for her hands. He gave it a soft squeeze, his eyes meeting hers. "April"
"Oh god" April gasped, her eyes starting to water.
"Give me all of you. Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts. Risking it all, though it's hard..."
"I love you - I always have" Jackson blurted out. He then paused to take another deep breath; "I know I've said it millions of times but I won't get tired of saying it."
"I love you too" April replied, tears now falling freely to her cheeks.
Jackson lifted her hands to his lips, kissing it briefly before lowering it again. "I have done a lot of things in our relationship that I regret. I know that you've cried more than you smiled while you were with me all these years..."
"Jackson..."
Jackson shook his head, a sad smile gracing her lips; "It's the truth -I've hurt you in more than ways that I can count. We started this marriage on the wrong foot and it ended up blowing on our faces. I drove you away with my stupid lies. I kept you away from the people you love and pretended that everything was okay when it's clearly not" he paused to swallow the lump that formed inside his throat. "I abandoned you during the times you needed me the most. Instead of grieving with you, I pushed you away. I should've taken care of you April - I should have been there but I wasn't, I don't think I can forgive myself for that."
April shook her head; "Jackson no... don't say that..." she pleaded.
"Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you. You're my end and my beginning even when I lose I'm winning. 'Cause I give you all of me and you give me all of you..."
Jackson squeezed her hand tighter; "I've done a lot of things that I cannot change but this, I can and hopefully I get the same answer" he said. He then took a step back and slowly got down on one knee; he tilted his face upwards, his eyes burrowing into hers. "I'm yours April - all of me. I'm surrendering everything to you and I hope you accept it." He slipped his hand inside his pocket and pulled out a black velvet box; he lifted it upwards, presenting it with a shaky hand. "Let me prove to you that I am and will always be your "mint-to-be". Give me the chance to give you the wedding that you deserve and want. Marry me again and I'll do my best to make you happy for the rest of our lives. Say yes to me because I couldn't bear another day not knowing if your love is mine forever..."
April was too choked up with tears to answer so she did the next best thing she could. She nodded her head fervently as she dropped to her knees. She wrapped her arms around his neck, locking their lips together into a passionate kiss.
Jackson returned the kiss with the same enthusiasm, he fell back on his haunches, pulling her closer. After a couple of minutes, he pried his lips a fraction, resting his forehead to hers; "I need to hear you say it love, please say you'll marry me again..." he rasped out.
April smiled through tears; "Yes. I'll marry you again - I love you so much" she whispered back.
Jackson grinned widely; "Yes?"
April chuckled; "Yes, yes and yes! A thousand times yes - I'll marry you!" she shrieked.
Loud claps and cat calling started emanating from their back, making the couple turn. April felt her cheeks flush when she saw all of their friends cheering from the deck. "They know?"
"Only Derek, Mer and Mark" Jackson replied.
"Hey Avery! Defiling the lawn is not included in the agreement! Get your asses up here before you both freeze your asses to death!" Mark called out loudly, making the other people laugh.
April buried her face into Jackson's neck; "Oh god"
"We should go there before they decide to come here" he whispered.
"Okay" April replied.
Jackson moved her legs around his waist, securing it tightly with his arms.
"What are you doing?"
"Getting up"
"Put me down, I can walk - they can see us!"
Jackson ignored her rants as he hauled them up, acting as if she doesn't weigh much. "Let's go?"
April wrapped her arms around his neck tightly, her eyes shining with happiness and love. "I love you."
Jackson pecked her lips; "I love you more."
oOo
The newly engaged couple didn't linger much, after Jackson ate his portion, he insisted on going home, claiming that he wanted to spend time with his wife/fiancé. All their friends teased him relentlessly but he didn't bat an eye. He waited for this night for four long years and he's done waiting.
"Remind me again why we're hurrying"
Jackson punched on the call button twice before facing her; he yanked her towards his chest, his arms finding its way around her waist. "I think you know why"
April moved her face closer; "I don't know, care to enlighten me?" she said breathlessly.
Jackson moved her hand towards her face, brushing some of her lush red hair away from her eyes. "I will, as soon as this stupid elevator opens"
April's lower lip trembled; "You promise?" she asked hoarsely.
Jackson ran his thumb along her bottom lip; "I promise" he whispered.
April felt her body react with his words; "Stupid elevator" she hissed.
Jackson pulled his thumb away, a smile playing on his lips; "Ditto."
As if on queue, the metal doors slid open, showing an empty car. Jackson didn't waste any more time, he pulled her in, punching on their floor number.
April fell in step with him, pushing her body close to his. She leaned her head on his shoulder, her lips ghosting along the column of his neck.
"Continue doing that and the security team will get a live show" Jackson warned.
April pulled away, giggling. "Sorry..."
The elevator chimed again, signalling that they're on their floor. This time, April was the one who grabbed Jackson's arm, dragging him towards their door.
Jackson fished out his keys from his pocket, unlocking their door hastily. Once they're both inside, he slammed the door shut before slipping the keys to the hook.
April can no longer wait; as soon as he turned towards her, she jumped into his arms. She pressed her lips to his, kissing him with all the pent up passion.
Jackson trailed his hands along her curves; pulling her legs up, wrapping it around his waist.
April licked the seams of his lips, breaking them apart, slowly letting his taste take over. She pushed her tongue inside of his mouth, loving the way his body tensed as the pressure increased.
Jackson moaned, tightening his arm around her. He started rocking his hips harder against her body, pinning her against the wall.
April slid her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. She let out a mewling sound, when she felt him hit the right spot.
Jackson increased the pressure, moving his hips rhythmically. He pulled his face a fraction, a loud groan escaping his lips. "We should go to our room - I don't want our first time to be by the door"
April moved her lips towards his neck; trailing hot kisses on it. "Good idea..."
Jackson pulled her away from the wall, keeping his firm grip around her. He walked towards their room, his pace increasing with every kiss. When they finally made it into their room, he slowly lowered her on top of the bed; he crawled between her legs, his lips finding hers again.
April untangled her arms around his neck, moving it towards his back. She slipped her fingers into his shirt, tugging it up.
Jackson understood what she wanted so he broke the kiss. He sat on his haunches, yanking the shirt up.
"Thank god I wore these tonight" April said as she easily slipped the straps of her dress down her arms, revealing her bra-clad breast.
"That's the reason why I chose that dress" Jackson said smugly.
"I knew it!"
Jackson smirked; he grabbed the fabric off her hands, pulling it down with one swift movement.
"Oh" April gasped.
Jackson's eyes scanned her body, his eyes feasting with the view. "You're so beautiful" he whispered hoarsely.
April felt her cheeks redden but didn't say anything. She moved her hands towards the front hook, unclasping it with one flick.
Jackson slid the bra off her arms, his eyes never leaving her naked breast.
April felt her breath hitch, waiting for him to make the next move.
Jackson tossed the bra onto the floor and looks back at her. He smiles and briefly presses his lips to hers, kissing them softly. When he pulls back, he brings his hands up to her breast, gently massaging and pinching her pebbled nubs. "You having fun?"
April bit her bottom lip to keep herself from smiling.
Jackson leans forward, taking her lips from her mouth, pulling it away from her teeth. He kisses it for a few seconds and then releases it. "Don't bite that again," he said.
"Okay..."
Jackson moved his other hand to her hip, slowly slipping his fingers beneath the hem of her underwear, touching her for the first time in years.
"Jackson" April gasped.
Jackson expertly ran his fingers along her nether region, spreading her wetness. When he's sure that she's ready; he gently slip two fingers inside her, massaging her inner walls.
April opened her legs wider, basking in the pleasure that his hand is giving her.
Jackson played with her for a couple of seconds before pulling his hand away.
April's eyes snapped open; "What?"
Jackson didn't respond; he slowly crawled towards the edge of the mattress, dragging the tiny lace along with him. He stood up from the bed, unfastening his fly as fast as he could. He stepped out of his pants and boxers before resuming his original position; "I don't think I can wait any more love, I'm too wound up - this would be fast, I promise to make up to you later" he whispered.
"I don't care about any of that. I just want you inside me" April whispered back.
"Thank God." Jackson sighed. He takes her leg behind the knee with his right hand, before thrusting in one swift motion. He melded their lips together, kissing her while he continues pulling in and out of her.
April moaned into his mouth, her eyes closing in ecstasy.
Jackson's other hand made its way towards her other leg, fully opening her up to him.
"Jackson" April breathed out. "That feels so good"
Jackson's pace started to build up, sweat forming on his forehead. The muscle on his thigh started shaking; "Fuck" he groaned.
April pulled his face to hers, sucking his tongue into her mouth. She knew her release is coming and she's sure it would be a big one.
Jackson pulled his lips away; "I-I'm close, you feel so good - it's been too long time..."
"Don't stop" April panted. "Harder"
Jackson obliged, he slammed into her repeatedly, swivelling his hips in the process. "Touch yourself" he ordered.
April slipped her hand between them, rubbing her sensitive spot in circular motions, timing it perfectly with his thrusts.
"Come with me..." Jackson grunted.
As if in command, April felt something inside her snap, sending her to bouts of euphoria.
Jackson pushed into her one final time before he let himself explode.
April wrapped her arms and legs around him, hugging him like a big giant teddy bear.
Jackson buried his face into her neck; panting loudly. After a moment, he spoke; "That was..."
"I know" April replied breathlessly.
Jackson slowly braced his elbows on the bed, propping himself up. He met her eyes, a large grin curling up his lips; "Wanna go again?"
"Are you sure you can get it up again?" April asked breathlessly, her eyes dancing with mirth.
Jackson moved his hips a fraction; "Does that feel soft to you?"
April gasped; "Oh dear."
Jackson lowered his head, capturing one of her perky nipples into his mouth. He lapped at it for a couple of seconds before letting it go with a loud pop; "Now I'm definitely ready" he said huskily.
April moved her hands towards his face; cupping it lovingly. "I love you Jackson and I'll never ever regret saying yes to you twice - keep that in mind."
Jackson felt a warm feeling surge into his chest, making him smile. He nuzzled her nose affectionately before meeting her eyes again; "And I'll never get tired of asking you to marry me again and again. You have always been my "it" April, I knew it then and more so now. I love you too - keep that in mind" he said.
April beamed; "Now that we have that settled, are we gonna screw like bunnies or are we gonna play-"
Jackson caught her lips, silencing her with a kiss.
"Round 2 begins" April thought happily.
oOo
A/N: A 16k words chapter to make up for the VERY long wait :)
I know some of you are asking why it took me that long to post this next chapter - its actually intentional. I timed it with RL-GA's return so we all have something to read that's not too depressing. I haven't watched the episode yet but I'm sure it will be heartbreaking. I want you guys to have something to lift up your spirits after watching it. Did it work? I hope it did or all of the suspense would be for naught... LOL :)
How was it? Is it too anti-climatic?
I wanted to write a more elaborate and extravagant proposal but I'm trying to stick with Jackson's character in this plot. He is a man with few words but when he speaks - he speaks from his heart. He knew that what they have was built in shaky grounds and he made sure to point it out. He was far from ideal but he's trying his best to be the man she deserves. Ahhh, the romance! LOL :)
I have a question for you guys, do you think I should end it here or you want to read more? Since they're already married and happy I'm not sure if you want to read more of their life together. Having said that, let's do a little survey, shall we?
If you want me to continue writing, leave a comment and give me some of your ideas.
If you feel like every avenues has already been exhausted and you're quite happy ending it like this, then feel free to tell me as well. DEAL? :)
I take your opinions with high regard, so whatever you guys want - I'll try my best to deliver.
Thank you again for reading this story, it wouldn't be this long if you guys aren't there to cheer me on. I apologize for the long wait and I hope I made it worth your while. :)
I'll wait for your responses, cheers! :)