Since this is the last chapter I've made it extra- long (over 10,000+ words long) so enjoy and I'll leave my speech till the end….for the last time-enjoy
An hour later Charlie sat in a bed hooked up to a machine the pains had gotten stronger and her grip on Brax had tightened "deep breaths babe deep breaths," he said softly as he stroked her head.
Charlie blew out a breath and looked over at him "I'm sweating my make-up is all over the place isn't?"
Brax chuckled "I don't think anyone cares about your make-up right now."
Charlie leaned forward and screamed "oh Brax this is killing me!" she yelled.
Brax leaned over and rubbed her back "I'm sorry I can't take the pain away babe, just breath through it."
A nurse walked in and smiled "okay guys let's see how far we are now," she said and propped up Charlie's legs. After she'd checked her out she pulled back and smiled "nearly there Charlie you're up to seven centimetre's."
"So what does that mean?" Brax asked.
"It means she ready to go to the delivery room," the nurse smiled "I'm just gonna make sure the room is ready then someone will come get you," she said and walked out of the room.
"Brax I can't so this!" she cried.
"Yes you can," he said and sat on the bed beside her "I'll be right here with you."
"I'm so scared," she whimpered and leaned into him.
"Yeah, me too," he chuckled "but I promise you everything is gonna be okay," he said and dropped a kiss on her forehead.
"Hey I'm about to have your baby the least you could do is kiss me properly," she giggled.
"Didn't think you wanted me near you," he chuckled and lowered his head "I love ya," he whispered and kissed her deeply.
A few minutes later Charlie was being wheeled along the hall "good luck mum! We're all here!" Ruby called.
"Brax you look after her!" Adam yelled.
…
Two and somewhat hours later Charlie dropped back against the bed panting "don't ever ask me to do that again."
Brax chuckled and dropped a kiss on her forehead "you did great babe it's all over now," he said and pulled back. His head snapped up when he heard a tiny cry looking down at Charlie his eyes welled he never thought he would be consumed with so much love.
"Does mummy want a hold?" Sid asked carrying the bundle over in his arms.
Charlie looked up at Brax "I think daddy would like to go first."
"You sure babe?" Brax asked nervously. Charlie nodded and looked back to Sid.
Brax sat back and looked as Sid got closer he moved his arms into position as he lowered the baby down to him "congrats guys you have a healthy baby girl," he smiled and stepped back.
Brax looked down at his tiny daughter in his arms "hello beautiful," he said and stroked her tiny head "daddy couldn't wait to meet you," he sniffed. Lowering his head he kissed her "you look so like mummy," he chuckled.
Charlie bit her lip as she looked on she smiled when Brax looked up at her, he leaned in and stroked her cheek before leaning in and kissing her softly. She pulled back and smiled "so we're still happy with the names?"
Brax nodded "yeah," he said gazing down at her "it suits her," he said and stood up "mummy's turn," her said handing her over "time to let the mob know I have a daughter," he chuckled.
Charlie giggled "I can't believe we kept it to ourselves."
"I can't believe Ruby kept it to herself," Brax chuckled he leaned in and kissed her "I love you so much, you've just given me the most precious thing in the world," he said and pulled back "I'll be back in a few minutes," he said and backed out of the room.
"Bring back Adam and Ruby," she said gazing down at her beautiful new daughter.
…..
Walking outside he was almost attacked "so?" Hayley asked excitedly bouncing on her heels.
Brax smiled proudly "I have a…daughter."
All the girls squealed with excitement "it's a girl!" Martha shrieked and jumped up and down.
"I knew it was another girl!" Leah said.
"When can we see her and Charlie?" Bianca asked.
"Not for a while she's pretty tired," Brax said and turned to Tony when he clapped him on the back.
"How's Charlie doing?" he asked.
Brax nodded "yeah she's good just tired."
"Congrats mate," Peter said and shook his hand "has my new niece got a name?"
"Yeah we know Charlie's a planner," Jack chuckled.
Brax chuckled "yep she has a name but I think Charlie wants to tell you-you two," he said to Adam and Ruby "someone wants to meet their big brother and sister."
"We can see her?" Ruby asked jumping on the spot.
"Yeah shouldn't mum be resting?" Adam asked.
In the room Charlie sat with the baby held out she looked so like Sienna "you know there's someone special that you won't get to meet," she smiled sadly "but she will be watching over you and you will get to know everything about her and how much she means to mummy and everyone else…you will never be out of my sight so I apologise in advance for the smothering," she giggled. She looked up and smiled when the door open and Brax walked in followed by a ready to explode Ruby and an excited Adam "guys say hello to your little sister," she smiled.
"Oh mum," Ruby whimpered "she's so tiny," she whispered and stroked her cheek "hello baba I'm your big sister," she giggled as the baby wrapped her tiny hand around her finger.
"That's her way of saying hello," Charlie said.
"Can I hold her?" Adam asked and sat on the bed.
"Sure sweetie," Charlie said and scooted forward.
Adam took his sister from Charlie and smiled down on her "Summer bay doesn't know what's about to hit it," he chuckled "like me you are a stunner."
"Yeah you lot get it from your mum," Brax said and sat beside Charlie.
"The others not coming in?" Charlie asked.
"I thought you'd want to rest," Brax replied.
"I can do that later go get them," she giggled.
Brax shook his head and chuckled standing up he went to the door and pulled it open "you lot are allowed in," he chuckled when Hayley and Bianca ran first almost knocking him over.
"Oh Charlie she's so beautiful!" Hayley shrieked.
"Yeah she looks so like you," Bianca said.
"Yeah lucky for her eh Brax?" Sam chuckled.
"With Brax's mouth," Martha added.
"She's gorgeous," Watson smiled.
"Aww such a cutie," Leah cooed.
"Hey she's a Holden of course she's gorgeous," Jack chuckled.
"Congrats Charlz," Peter said and kissed her on the cheek.
"Yeah well done sweetie," Tony said and hugged her.
"She's beautiful Charlie I'm so proud of ya," Beth said and hugged her.
"She's so tiny and small Charlie," Lilly chuckled.
"Oh I can't wait to buy her little outfits," April squealed.
"Yeah Ruby can't wait to get her home congrats guys," Casey chuckled watching Ruby who now held her.
"She's a Braxton alright," Heath chuckled "congrats bro," he said slapping Brax on the back.
"So what's her name?" Noah asked.
Charlie smiled "say hello to Savannah-Jayne Braxton."
"Aww Charlie that is a beautiful name," Hayley smiled.
"Yeah mum would love that," Jack smiled and squeezed her hand.
"I quite liked Lisa but Savannah suits her better," Ruby said smiling down at Savannah.
"You knew it was a girl!" Bianca shrieked.
"We all knew," Adam chuckled "and by all I mean me Ruby mum and da-Brax," he covered quickly and looked at the floor.
Charlie looked over at him and frowned looking up at Brax she saw him watch him too "uh guys do you mind if I get some sleep?" She asked.
"No not at all it is three am after all and you've just had a baby," Hayley giggled "we'll be back tomorrow," she said and hugged her "bye Savannah," she said and dropped a kiss on her head.
Everyone said their goodbyes and left until all that remained where Brax Ruby Charlie Adam and Savannah, Ruby placed her in the cot and kissed her "I'm gonna head Addy I'll be in the car," she said and hugged Charlie "night mum," she said and walked to Brax "night daddy," she giggled and hugged him.
...
Adam looked down at Savannah and stood up "better go night mum," he smiled and kissed her "night Brax," he said and walked to the door.
"Not so fast," Charlie said stopping him, she looked over at Brax.
"I'm gonna go get us some coffee," he said and kissed her and Savannah before walking out of the room.
As soon as the door closed Adam sat on the bed "what's up?" he asked.
"You tell me?" she said, raising an eyebrow.
"What?" Adam asked.
Charlie shook her head "you men you never just say it even though you know what I'm talking about…you almost called Brax dad then stopped why?"
Adam shrugged "coz he's not my dad," he muttered.
"So?" Charlie said "if you feel like he is it's alright to call him dad," she said softly and scooted forward. "Look sweetie I know you're not going to see your dad like Ruby is-that is up to you, but don't let that get in the way of how you feel about Brax if you wanna call him dad call him dad."
"He is pretty cool-and he's good to you and us," Adam mumbled.
Charlie smiled "yes he is he's always there-and he's always gonna be there. I know Sean is your dad but," she said slowly "don't feel like you're betraying him or anything….Brax is a father figure to you- has been for a while now it's normal to have these feelings for him," she said and squeezed his hand.
Adam stood up "I know and to save the confusion with Savannah I'll go with calling him dad," he smiled "I better go before Ruby has a freaker," he chuckled.
"Ruby knows what's going on, she can read you as well as Brax and I can," Charlie replied.
Adam looked to the door when it opened and Brax walked in he stopped looking at Charlie silently asking if it was okay. She nodded for him to come back in "Adam's about to head," she said.
"Okay, well I'll be home in a few hours I think Ruby and Case are still staying I'm assuming Lil is too?" he asked.
"Yeah she called her mum and told her what was going on," Adam replied he walked over to Brax and hugged him "look after them," he said and pulled back "night mum, night Savannah, night dad!" He called on his way out.
"Night mate," Brax smiled and walked back to the bed "here," he said handing her a coffee and sitting beside her. "So, how'd it go?" he asked.
Charlie chuckled "he's battling with his feelings-he'll be fine," she added when a look crossed Brax's face.
Brax chuckled and pulled her into him "so is it as scary as you thought?"
"No," she giggled "it was all worth it…we have a daughter Brax," she said looking up at him smiling.
"Yes we do," he smiled and kissed her "I spoke to Sid on my travels he said he'd check on you both in the morning and then you can probably head home…he said something about it being your fourth child."
"Yeah I know what I'm doing so they won't keep me in it's normally first time mothers they keep for a few days."
"Anywhere for first time fathers?" He chuckled.
"Hey you'll be an amazing dad I see it with Rubes and Adam this little one is gonna be spoiled," she yawned.
Brax stood up and took her coffee from her "you get some sleep I'll be here when you wake up."
Charlie yawned again "sounds like a good idea," she said and lay down "I love ya," she mumbled already closing her eyes.
Brax smiled and kissed her head "love ya too baby," he whispered and looked into the cot "and you too princess," he smiled and stroked her cheek. Charlie was out in seconds- making sure they were both a sleep Brax sighed happily and lay back on the chair, closing his eyes he drifted off to sleep with a smile on his face.
Back home they were all asleep, Adam jumped up when he heard a thud downstairs. Looking at Lilly he rolled away from her and slipped out of the bed, he walked to his door and grabbed the bat he kept beside it. Slipping out to the hall he walked slowly towards the stairs- stopping when he heard it again, he jumped when Ruby appeared beside him with her own weapon "geez Ruby I could have smacked you!" he hissed lowering the bat.
"I heard a noise," she whispered back jumping when they heard it again "it's coming from downstairs."
"Get behind me," Adam whispered and walked to the stairs.
"Addy," she squealed when they heard it again and a man mumble something.
"Shut up!" He whispered loudly when they reached the bottom "stay here," he ordered and edged towards the kitchen where the noise was coming from.
Getting to the kitchen he saw two figures move around "I don't think so!" he hissed and swung the bat.
"Oww! What the hell!" one of them yelled.
Ruby hurried to the kitchen "Adam!" She yelled and turned on the light, looking to the figure now on the floor she burst out laughing "that'll teach you to sneak around peoples houses at night Uncle Jack," she giggled.
Adam looked down at Jack on the floor then to Peter he stood not far away trying not to laugh "what the hell are you two doing?" he asked and pulled Jack up.
Peter started to laugh and held up tins of paint "we're here to," he laughed "paint the room, since she was early we better do it Brax won't have time."
"And you decided to break in here at four thirty and do it?" Ruby asked.
"Yeah," Jack slapped Adam on the back of the head "why wasn't the alarm set?"
"We haven't set that in months….you alright there Jack?" Ruby giggled.
"Yeah that was some crack," he said rubbing his ribs "I'd hate to be a real burglar."
"Since you two are up you can help," Peter said and put the tins down.
"No way I'm going back to bed," Adam muttered.
"Addy," Ruby giggled.
"What it's after four I have school and you have work," he grumbled.
"Ah I'll write you both a note come on before granddad gets here with the stuff," Peter said.
Ruby giggled "I don't think a note would cover me for work but you're lucky- I'm on holidays…I'll grab the dust sheets," she said and walked out to the garage.
"Put some clothes on!" Jack called after her.
Adam slapped him on the head "that's for scaring the crap outta me…I'll get the brushes," he said and followed Ruby.
"You put some clothes on too!" Jack called after him.
Peter chuckled "do you know how old you sound?"
"What, she's wearing nothing and he's in boxers."
"It's a night dress and so what- you sleep in your boxers," he chuckled and walked into the living room.
Noah walked in the back door with more paint "what did I miss?" He asked looking at Jack holding his side.
"Adam took him out with a bat!" Peter called back.
"Nice," Heath chuckled coming in behind him.
"I told you to let them know we were coming," Sam said from behind Heath.
"Just shut up and start painting," Jack muttered and walked towards the stairs.
The next morning Brax yawned and sat up he smiled copping where he was and leaned into the cot "morning princess," he cooed, looking over at Charlie he decided to let her sleep. Picking Savannah up he held her close against him and stood up, walking to the formula bottles the nurse had left he took the cap off one and screwed on the bottle top. Walking back to the chair he sat down and turned her so she was facing up "let mummy get some rest," he whispered and stuck the bottle into her mouth.
He looked up when Sid walked in "getting the hang of it?" he chuckled.
"Yeah pretty simple," Brax chuckled.
"You do know to stop half way and wind her?" Sid asked as he looked at the forms "she's fed three times already?"
"Yeah…is that good or bad?" Brax asked.
"That's a good thing and she's had both a dirty and wet nappy?" Brax nodded "good, after you're done feeding her I'll do the necessary tests on her to see if she's allowed home."
"What kind of tests?" Brax asked.
"Check her breathing reflexes, her sucking power, make sure there's no click hip- things like that… it's nothing to worry about," he added at the look on Brax's face.
"What's a click hip?" He asked whatever it was didn't sound good.
Sid chuckled every new father asked that "it's just a test to make sure her hips weren't dislocated while she was coming out- you'd be surprised by how many times it happens."
"Right," Brax nodded and took the bottle out of her mouth "and what about Charlie?" he asked.
"Well she needed no stitches but the nurse will do an examination to make sure things are returning to normal, if she's happy with it then Charlie can go home today."
"Okay," Brax nodded while he rubbed Savanah's back "whoa," he chuckled when she threw up on him.
Sid chuckled "and get used to that too… I'll be back soon," he said and slipped out of the room.
"That your way of saying you don't like me?" Brax chuckled as he wiped her mouth.
"No that's her way of saying she's made room for the rest," Charlie said sleepily.
"Hey," Brax said and leaned in to kiss her "we were hoping to let you sleep a while longer," he said and stuck the bottle in Savannah's mouth again.
"What time is?" Charlie asked.
Brax looked down at his watch "almost one," he answered.
Charlie's eyes widened "one in the day?" she asked.
"Yes," Brax said slowly.
"Brax you shouldn't have let me sleep that long," she said and sat up "did you stay up all night with her?"
"You needed to sleep and we were fine."
Charlie shook her head "I can't believe I slept through her cries."
"She didn't cry just gurgled," he chuckled "she's a good baby aren't you sweetheart?" he chuckled.
"So when can we get out if here I'm dying to snuggle with you," she giggled.
"Sid said a nurse will check you out if she's happy you can go," Brax replied "he has to a few test things on Savannah."
"Ugh," Charlie groaned "that I do not like," she sighed.
"Why?" Brax asked slowly.
"It's horrible he sticks his finger down her throat, presses each leg to the bed until she cries, he walks her along the bed to see what her feet are like," Charlie said.
"What!" Brax asked horrified "and they're allowed to do this?"
Charlie giggled "they have to, they have to make sure there's no problems with her hips or legs, that she can suck on a bottle and all that."
Brax shook his head "but it hurts her," he said looking down at Savannah.
"Only for a second trust me Brax it'll be over before you know it," Charlie looked up as the door opened and Sid walked back in "hey," she smiled.
"Charlie how we feeling?" He asked.
"Yeah good," she smiled "I slept for the whole night," she chuckled.
"That's good- no pain?" He asked.
"Nope," Charlie shook her head "a little uncomfortable that's all."
"That's to be expected…I'm gonna do a few tests on Savannah, I'll send a nurse in to check you out and then we'll talk about going home," he smiled and walked out of the room.
…..
Half an hour later they sat around waiting for Sid, he had done the test on Savannah and Charlie squeezed Brax's hand as it curled into a fist each time she cried all they were waiting for was the result. Charlie had been checked over and the nurse was happy with her, they both looked towards the door when it opened.
"All good news guys," Sid smiled "she's healthy, strong grip, strong suction, hips are okay," he chuckled "so you can go whenever you feel up to it."
"That would be now," Charlie giggled "no offence but I'd like to get home."
Sid chuckled "none taken…I'll get your papers then you can go," he smiled and slipped out of the room.
"So my babies are coming home," Brax said and wrapped her up in a hug.
"Yes," she smiled and wrapped her arms around him "no one to check up on me."
"Hey I'll be checking up on you," he chuckled.
"Yeah but I love you," she giggled "you'll be lying beside me."
"That I will…how about we lock the bedroom door and just stay in there?" he asked.
Charlie giggled "yeah and see how long it stays up for with that lot…Brax!" she shrieked "I have no clothes to go home in!"
"Relax," he said and reached under the bed "courtesy of your best friend," he said putting a bag down beside her.
Hayls was here?" she asked opening the bag.
Brax nodded "she left it with the nurses she didn't want to come in."
"She is a legend," she said and pulled out shower stuff and clean clothes "plus she packed a few bits for Savannah…I'm gonna get a shower and dressed," she said easing herself out of the bed.
"Want a hand?" he smirked.
"No thanks and you can get that look off your face you won't be getting any of that for a while," she giggled.
"What!" Brax yelled.
Charlie giggled "six weeks it's the rules Braxton," she said and shut the bathroom door.
"Six weeks," he muttered "did you know about this?" He asked looking down at Savannah.
…
A while later she was showered and dressed walking hand in hand with Brax down the hallway, Casey had dropped off his car and the baby seat after Brax called him "so what do you wanna do first?" he asked as he buckled the seat up.
"Go home and get some real coffee," she said and climbed in beside her.
"I'm sure that can be arranged," Brax said climbing in the front.
"What?" Charlie giggled when he sat looking at her in the mirror.
"Nothing," he smiled and started up the car "just like seeing that smile on your face," he said and pulled off.
Charlie leaned over the seat and kissed him on the cheek "I'm pretty sure it's there because of you," she said and sat back.
When they arrived home Brax opened the back door and helped her out "you go in I'll get her," he said and kissed her before leaning into the car.
"Nuh-uh," Charlie said and pulled him back, wrapping her arms around his neck she stepped closer to him "I can reach you now," she giggled "no bump getting in the way."
Brax lowered his head and kissed her "yeah it may have come in handy….six weeks," he groaned.
Charlie giggled and slapped him "plenty of cold showers for you," she said and walked to the back door.
"Yeah," Brax sighed and lifted out the baby seat and followed her inside.
"What's that smell?" Charlie asked looking around.
"I don't know smells like paint or something- Adam!" He yelled.
Adam skidded to a halt in the kitchen "what?" He said through a mouthful of food.
"That is gross- what's the smell?" Charlie asked.
"Uh I can't smell anything must be your body changing mum," he said and walked back to the living room.
Charlie looked at Brax "you can smell it too can't you?" she asked.
"Yeah," Brax said and walked into the living room "Adam is that paint I smell?" he asked.
Adam looked behind him "nope don't know what you're smelling," he said and turned back to the tv.
Charlie shook her head and walked up the stairs "it's getting stronger up here!" she called.
Brax placed Savannah in front of Adam "watch her," he said and followed her "babe?" He called when he reached the top-stopping when he found her standing outside the spare room "what?" he asked walking to her.
Charlie bit her lip as tears rolled down her face "did you do this?" she asked shakily.
"Do what?" he asked sticking his head into the room "wow…no I did not do this," he said walking in.
Charlie followed him "it's beautiful," she sniffed and ran her hand along the cot.
Adam followed and stood watching from the door he placed Savannah on the floor and walked in "you like it?" he asked.
Charlie turned to him "you did this?" she asked.
"No we all did- funny story," he chuckled "me and Rubes thought someone broke in last night…I kinda hit Jack with a bat."
"What?" Brax chuckled.
"We thought we were being robbed the two morons were walking around in the dark."
"So Jack and Pete were here?" Charlie asked.
Adam nodded "yeah everyone chipped in…of course she can't sleep in here tonight so there's a basket in your room."
"Wow you thought of everything," Charlie smiled and hugged him "thank you," she said and kissed him on the cheek.
"No problem," Adam smiled and stepped back "I better call Hayls and let her know your home…she's already threatened me," he chuckled and walked out of the room. "Why don't you two get some sleep I'll look after her!" he called carrying the baby seat down the stairs.
Charlie looked back around the room and smiled "I can't believe they did this they must have spent so much."
"Actually that was me," Brax said wrapping his arms around her and pulled her against him "whenever I asked about buying this stuff you'd change the subject… so I called on the girls."
Charlie turned in his arms "you bought all this?" she asked.
"Most of it- the girls all bought stuff but I couldn't tell you what's what, I just gave Ruby my card and sent them off."
"And you're not bankrupt?" she giggled.
"I'm afraid to check my account," he chuckled "so you're not mad?"
"Why would I be mad?" she asked wrapping her arms around him.
"Well I was gonna tell you and see did you want to come with me to get the rest, but she decided to come early I never got the chance," he replied.
Charlie smiled and kissed him "you're so thoughtful you know that?" She bit her lip "I'm sorry you had to do all that I know I was difficult the last few months."
"No, no you weren't- babe I know you had a hard time I wanted to help- at least it was one thing off your mind."
"I was gonna go get it all at the end of the week," she giggled.
"Well now you don't have to," Brax said walking her out of the room "all you gotta do now to make me happy is get into that bed and stay there."
"Only if you come with me," she said pulling him into their room.
"Gladly," Brax chuckled and kicked the door closed and kissed her, walking her backwards to the bed he lay her back and climbed on with her deepening the kiss. Running his hands down her sides he rested them on her hips.
Charlie was lost in him she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer loving the feeling of him against her and not leaning over her watching her bump "Brax stop," she panted and pulled away "you gotta stop."
Brax chuckled "yeah I'm in need of a cold shower," he said and rolled off her.
"Me too," she groaned "this six week crap is gonna kill me."
Brax chuckled and kissed her quickly before rolling off the bed "get in there and get yourself comfortable," he said and walked into their bathroom.
Charlie giggled and rolled off the bed going to her dresser she decided not to tease him and pulled on a full pyjama set. Going back to the bed she climbed into the bed and pulled the covers up around her.
She was just drifting off when Brax slid in beside her and pulled her against him turning she lay on his chest and smiled "it's so good to be able to do this again," she said and threw her hand around him.
"I know I've missed it," he said and dropped a kiss on her head "get some sleep," he whispered.
"Yeah you too," she said and closed her eyes.
….
Downstairs Adam sat looking at Savannah as she wriggled in her seat and pulled faces "you wanna get out?" He asked and leaned down to unclip her. "There we go," he said and started to rock her he smiled when she snuggled into him "you like big bro don't you?" he chuckled. Lowering his head he kissed her gently "I'm never gonna let anyone hurt you- not ever," he said and pulled her closer to him.
A few hours later Charlie opened her eyes and bolted up frantically she looked around the room "Savannah?" she said and jumped out of the bed hissing when pain shot through her lower body "Savannah!" She called again.
"Babe what are you yelling at?" Brax mumbled and sat up.
"She's gone Brax she's not here!" She cried and ran to the door "someone's taken her!" she yelled "Savannah!" She yelled running down the stairs.
"Charlie!" Brax called and jumped out of the bed "Charlie! Adam has her!" he yelled and ran down the stairs bumping into the back of her. He looked over her shoulder and smiled Adam lay asleep on the sofa with his arm protectively around her "she's fine babe," he whispered and rubbed Charlie's arms.
"I'm sorry," she whimpered "all I kept thinking was this is too good to be true…I thought something had happened-I forgot Adam had her."
"Baby," Brax said and turned her to face him she was trembling "I know you got a fright but you gotta stop doing this to yourself alright, she's okay no one is gonna let anything happen to her…come here," he said and pulled her into a hug.
"I know," Charlie sighed and buried her head into his chest "I can't help it."
Brax pulled her back to look at him "I promise you nothing is gonna happen…you gotta relax and stop working yourself up like this."
She smiled at him and stepped away "I'll try," she said and walked into the kitchen.
…..
Hayley and everyone else and stopped by at one stage or another so Brax and Charlie spent the rest of the day sitting in the living room thanking them for doing the room. Charlie yawned and looked at the clock it was past eight she looked over and saw Beth come back with a tray of tea they weren't going anywhere soon, sighing she looked over at Brax who looked exactly like she did don't get them wrong they were all pretty close and loved them so much after what they'd just been through all they wanted to do was go to bed.
Peter stood up sensing their look "hey guys we're been here all day why don't we let them get to bed."
"Aww," Hayley groaned "can I take her with me?" she giggled and handed Savannah to Charlie.
"Few more months and you'll have your own," Charlie whispered.
"Yeah a few being the operative word," she groaned "I think it's time I told the others," she added.
"Hayley's pregnant!" Charlie yelled.
"Hayley!" Bianca shrieked.
Hayley looked back at Charlie and narrowed her eyes "thanks pal," she giggled.
"Hey you wanted them to know," Charlie chuckled and stood up "she's been wearing baggy clothes to throw people off her tiny bump…have fun," she smiled and walked around the sofa with Savannah while everyone moved towards Hayley and Noah.
Up in her room she giggled and placed Savannah in the basket "aunt Hayley is gonna kill mummy tomorrow," she said.
"That was evil," she looked up to see Brax leaning on the door "they've all swamped her down there," he said walking into the room.
"Like they did me," she giggled "ah she'll be fine she wanted them to know," she said and walked into her bathroom.
Brax followed her and leaned on the sink beside her "so you're okay?" he asked.
"Yeah," she smiled and turned to him "I'm great," she said and went back to brushing her teeth.
Two days later Brax woke up and reached out for Charlie he sat up and opened his eyes, looking to the cot he rolled out of the bed and scrubbed his hands over his face pulling on bottoms he walked out of the room and went downstairs. Walking into the kitchen he found Ruby holding Savannah at the table while Charlie had her back to them at the stove, wrapping his arms around her waist he kissed her on the neck "morning babe," he said and pulled away.
"Hey," she said turning to look at him "sit down breakfast is nearly ready," she said going back to the stove.
"You didn't have to do all this Charlie," he said and sat beside Ruby "how's my girls?" He asked stroking Savannah's cheek.
"We're good aren't we cutie?" Ruby said and looked to Brax "I've just been to Bianca's do you lot ever wear shirts?" she giggled.
"Nah only when we have to go out," Brax chuckled.
"Oi you stop checking out my boyfriend," Charlie giggled and placed a plate in front of her.
"I wasn't checking him out," she giggled "merely pointing out a fact…thanks mum," she smiled and handed Savannah off to Brax.
"What's not to look at us Braxton's have it all- isn't that right princess," Brax chuckled.
"If you say so," Charlie said and placed a plate down in front of him "give us her here," she said holding out her arms "we gotta get dressed don't we baby?" she said taking her from Brax
"Why-are you going somewhere?" Brax asked.
"Uh yeah," she said looking at Ruby.
She got the hint and stood up "forgot to watch something last night I'll be in at the tv," she said and took her plate.
"I was thinking of going to the cemetery and brining her with me," she said and sat down.
Brax nodded "okay, well I'll come too you shouldn't be driving."
"You're okay with this?" Charlie asked.
"Why wouldn't I be she's met everyone else," he said and stroked Charlie's cheek "saving the best for last," he smiled.
Charlie smiled and leaned over to kiss him "thank you," she said and stood up.
"Nuh-uh," Brax said "you sit your butt down, you haven't eaten anything yet."
"I had a fruit pot," she said.
"Ruby how long have you been here?" he called into the living room.
"About two hours!" she called back.
"So you didn't see her eat?"
"No just coffee…sorry mum you gotta eat!" she called in.
Brax got up and walked to the stove plating up some pancakes he walked back and placed them in front of her "eat that," he said and took Savannah from her.
Charlie giggled at the way he held her with one arm "you know you can put her down in her buggy."
"Yeah but I like having her here where we can both look at you," he smiled and went back to his pancakes.
….
An hour later they pulled up at the cemetery and Charlie climbed out, Brax took Savannah out and closed the door wrapping his free arm around her shoulder they walked to Sienna's grave.
Once there Charlie knelt on the grass and Brax placed Savannah beside her. Unclipping her Charlie lifted her out "hey baby," she smiled "this is your little sister Savannah," she said looking down at her. "I'm sorry you won't be here to meet her but I know you'll be looking out for her from up there."
Brax knelt down beside her "she looks just like you," he said and smiled "she gets her good looks from her big sister."
Charlie rested her head on his shoulder and looked at the picture sighing she looked down at Savannah and handed her to Brax "can I have a few minutes alone?" she asked.
"Sure baby," he said and put Savannah back in her seat "I'll take her back to the car," he said and stood up. Looking down on her saw a tear drop onto her hand he smiled sadly and walked off, as much as it killed him to leave her he knew what she needed to do.
Charlie moved closer to the headstone "I don't want you thinking she's replacing you-she never will, I'll still think of you as much as I already do, miss you every day, wish you were here every day I'll still come here as much as I do…you'll always be my baby," she sniffed "and hey, you're a big sister now your responsibility is to guide her in the right direction and look out for her…make sure Adam hasn't got her doing stuff she shouldn't," she giggled. Kissing her fingers she placed them on the picture "I love you so much baby," she said shakily "I'll never stop thinking about you," she said and stood up. Looking to Brax leaning against the car she smiled "I wish you were here to meet him too, he's made me so happy he's helped me through so much…he's the one- I gotta go now but as usual I'll be back soon sleep tight baby," she said and took a step back. Taking one last look at the picture she turned away and started to walk back to the car.
Brax smiled quickly when she got closer to him "feel better?" he asked.
She looked in at Savannah and nodded "yeah…my chest doesn't feel so tight anymore," she said looking back to him.
Brax pulled her into him and dropped a kiss on her forehead "that's because you finally let it out," he said and moved her to the side "hop in I think my phone fell out of my pocket when I sat down…back in a sec," he said and walked back towards the grave.
Once he got there he looked back to see Charlie was already in the car looking the other way. Kneeling down beside the picture he reached into his pocket and pulled out a box and opened it "you see this," he said holding it out "I was kinda hoping to ask your mum to marry me…have it a few weeks now," he chuckled and looked down at it "what do you think go for it?" he chuckled and wobbled as a gust of wind almost blew him over "I'll take that as a yes then," he said and stood up. "You'll watch over your mum won't you…she's really missing you," he said and looked towards the car again "I better go but I'll be back…bye Sienna," he said and backed off the grass, smiling he put the box in his pocket and walked back to the car.
"Did you find it?" Charlie asked as soon as he climbed in.
"Yeah," he smiled "it was on the grass," he said and started up the car.
A while later he sat in the kitchen playing with the box Charlie had fallen asleep on the sofa and Savannah was sleeping in her buggy, he jumped when his phone rang-the house had been so quiet "Rubes?" he greeted.
"Hey big big favour," she said.
"Shoot," he chuckled.
"Casey took my car to go see Xaiv, he said he'd be back an hour ago and now he's not answering I called Xaiv he said he'd just left."
"Okay," Brax said slowly.
"So I need to meet April at the diner and Adam's in school and mums just had a baby."
Brax chuckled "you want me to pick you up and drop you off?"
"Yes," she giggled.
"Okay," he chuckled and stood up "I'll be there in five."
"Thanks," Brax she said and hung up.
Shoving the ring into his jacket pocket he pulled it off the back of the chair and walked into the living room. Kneeling down beside Charlie he shook her gently "babe," he whispered.
"Yeah," she mumbled.
"Ruby needs a lift so I'm gonna go out for a bit okay?"
"Okay," she mumbled.
Brax looked to the buggy to see Savannah kicking about "she's awake so I'm gonna take her with me."
"Okay," she mumbled and turned away from him.
Brax chuckled "babe what did I just say?"
"You're taking her with you," she muttered.
"Right, so no freaking when you wake up alright?"
"Yeah…love ya," she said and closed her eyes again.
"Love ya too babe," he said and dropped a kiss on her head and stood up "let's go princess you wanna see your big sister huh?" he asked and carried her out to his car, settling her he jogged back inside for her bag, checking he had everything he needed her ran back to his car and jumped in and threw his jacket on the back seat.
Ten minutes later her pulled up outside Ruby's and beeped looking back at Savannah he smiled as she kept opening and closing her eyes.
Ruby opened the door and jumped in "thank you so much Brax if I had to walk I'd be late," she looked behind her and smiled "bonus you brought my gorgeous sister hey cutie," she cooed and stroked her cheek.
"No problem Rubes," he said and pulled away "so what are you and April up to?"
"Oh wedding talk I try do it when Casey's not around I know I'm wrecking his head," she giggled.
Brax chuckled "well he asked you he should be prepared for knowing it all."
Ruby giggled and pulled her bag onto her lap "except my dress," she said and pulled out her purse. "Aw no," she groaned "stupid Casey," she muttered and continued to search her bag.
"What's up?" Brax asked glancing at her quickly.
"I had twenty dollars and now it's gone I'll kill Case if he took it-that's all I had," she groaned.
Brax looked back to his jacket on the seat "I think I've twenty bucks in the inside pocket check it my jacket is on the back seat."
"Thanks Brax I'll give it back to you later I swear I'm gonna kill him when he gets home," she said and pulled the coat from the back and stuck her hand in the pocket "it wouldn't kill him to say hey Rubes-" she stopped talking and her eyes widened, she pulled out the box and looked at Brax "what is this?"
Brax looked over "shit," he muttered.
"Brax!" She squealed "is this what I think it is?"
He sighed and shook his head "maybe," he said and pulled in at the diner, reaching over he snatched it from her "you didn't see it," he said and threw it in the side of the door.
"Can I see it?" She asked sweetly.
Brax chuckled that face always got him- even before he started dating Charlie "fine," he sighed "but do not open your mouth to anyone," he said handing it over "I've had it a few weeks now I'm still unsure of what I'm gonna do."
Ruby opened it "Brax," she gasped "it's beautiful," she said admiring it "mum will love it."
"You think?" He asked.
Ruby looked over at him and smiled "yeah she will…what did you mean you were still unsure what to do-like you were unsure if you were gonna ask her or what?"
"No no I'm gonna ask her I just don't know how or when would be the right time."
Ruby smiled he was nervous "do you love her?" she asked.
"Of course I do," he scoffed "why the hell else would I spend three grand on a ring I don't even know if she's gonna wear or not."
"Three grand!" Ruby yelled and looked down at it.
Brax shook his head "you don't know that either," he said "alright give it back," he said holding out his hand.
"Tonight," Ruby said closing the box and handing it to him.
"What?" He said confused.
"Do it tonight I'm taking Savannah and making Adam stay at mine, Brax if you love her it doesn't matter what way you do it she won't care…did you know Jack asked Martha while they did the dishes one night or that Noah asked Hayls while they surfed?"
Brax chuckled "I did know that thanks but I don't think your mum will let you take her for the whole night-if she'll let you take her at all."
"You leave that to me and start planning how you're gonna ask my mother to marry you," she giggled and climbed out.
"Hey!" Brax called after her "so you're okay with me asking her?"
"Of course I am, Brax we can see you two belong together," she smiled.
Brax smiled "thanks for the vote of confidence…do you think Adam would feel the same?"
Ruby laughed "Adam loves you just do it Brax and don't be worrying about anyone else…I'll be around for her at six!" she called as she walked to the diner.
...
A while later Brax pulled up at home all he could think about was the ring. Shaking his head clear he climbed out and opened the back door, taking Savannah out he walked inside and looked to the sofa "babe?" He called when it was empty.
"Up here watch the floors I've just washed them!" she yelled down.
Brax placed Savannah in her travel cot in the corner and went upstairs to find her changing their bed "babe what are you doing?"
"Cleaning," she smiled and threw the pillow down she walked over to him and wrapped her arms around his neck "did you two have fun?"
Brax chuckled and wrapped his arms around her "we only went as far as the diner but yes Ruby was delighted to see her."
"I bet she was," Charlie giggled and kissed him after she pulled back she smiled and went back to fixing the bed again.
Brax watched her for a minute and thought about what Ruby said "hey I was thinking," he said and walked around to her "do you wanna go out tonight?"
Charlie looked up at him and laughed "seriously?" she asked.
Brax nodded "yeah I wanna take you out."
Charlie smiled "where?"
"You'll find out," he said and walked to her "so is that a yes?"
"Who's gonna take Savannah I doubt Adam will have the time with his study."
"Ruby already said she would take her for the night."
Charlie bit her lip "I'm not so sure about overnight Brax."
Brax nodded he knew she wouldn't want that "okay how about I get her and Case to stay here and watch her?"
"It's a date then," she said and kissed him "but I'm not getting dolled up my clothes don't fit me yet."
"That's fine by me wear what you feel comfortable in," he said and stepped away "better go feed her and let Ruby know."
"I can feed her," she offered.
"Nah, you got put your feet up and no more cleaning you meant to be taking it easy," he said and led her out of the room.
"So you've it all planned out?" Ruby whispered as Brax paced the kitchen.
"Yeah…I think," he said nervously.
"Brax relax she's gonna say yes, where are you taking her?"
"To the rooftop in Angelo's… it's where we had our first date."
"You'll be fine, she'll say yes, be yourself, no long speech just out with, alright, go!" she hissed and pushed him into the living room as Charlie came down the stairs "mum you look beautiful," Ruby smiled.
"Thanks sweetie…I'm not so sure-dress is a little tight," she sighed and pulled at it.
"Hey look beautiful alright you've just had a baby stop worrying," Brax said and took her hand "see you guys in a few hours," he said and led her out the door.
"Call me if you have any problems!" Charlie called.
…..
They arrived at Angelo's and Brax helped her out and wrapped his arm around her waist "nothing fancy," he said leading her up the stairs.
"Brax we could have pizza on the hood of your car for all I care as long as I get to be with you," she smiled.
He smiled and led her to the door that lead up to the roof top. Once up top he led her to the sofa and sat her down "there's something I wanted to talk to you about- I can't wait until after dinner."
"Okay," Charlie nodded "is everything okay?"
"Yeah," he smiled and kissed her quickly "you know I love you right?" Charlie nodded "and I'd do anything for you and those kids?"
"Yes," she chuckled "Brax what's going on?"
Brax closed his eyes he was so nervous the words he had planned were all running together opening them he saw he looking at him with worry "Charlie I love ya with everything I got, I wanna spend the rest of my life making you as happy as you make me- it's you, there'll never be anyone else I can't imagine my life without you… geez I suck at this," he muttered and looked away.
"Yes," Charlie smiled- Brax looked up at her, she edged closer to him "that's what you're asking right for me to marry you…yes," she smiled again.
Brax chuckled and pulled out the box "I was yeah," he said and opened it "and since you've already said yes we'll skip me making a fool of myself," he said and took it out of the box. Sliding it on her finger he pulled her up and kissed her deeply.
Charlie pulled back and looked at the ring "wow, it really is beautiful," she smiled "thank you I love it," she said and kissed him again. She pulled back and gazed at him "I love you," she smiled "you make me so happy I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."
"And I love you-more than you'll ever know," he said and kissed her again.
Charlie pulled back "so that pizza on the car?" she giggled.
"Lead the way beautiful," he chuckled and let her drag him back down the stairs.
When they got back to the restaurant she saw Peter and Watson at the bar ready to leave "hey," she waved and stopped beside them.
"Hey Charlz," Peter smiled "having a little alone time are we?"
"Charlie!" Watson shrieked gawping at her hand.
Charlie looked down at her hand and looked at Brax "go ahead," he chuckled.
"We just got engaged!" she screamed all over the place.
"Oh my god!" Watson shrieked and jumped up and down "congrats," she said and hugged her.
"Yeah mate congrats," Peter said and shook Brax's hand "dad told me you'd come to see him weeks ago."
"Yeah," Brax chuckled "only getting around to it now," he looked back to the dj booth when Liam appeared on the stage "oh no," he groaned and looked at Charlie who was talking excitedly with Watson.
"Alright guys very special announcement, if you'd all look to the guy in the black shirt and they lovely lady in the yellow dress at the bar," he said pointing to Brax and Charlie. "As some of you know this is our boss and owner of this fine joint Daryl Braxton and beside him the lovely Sergeant Charlie Holden these two have just had a beautiful baby girl a few days ago-thankfully she looks like mummy," he chuckled "and now we're delighted to announce Brax has finally manned up and asked her to marry him so would you all give them a round of applause- congrats guys!" He yelled and started clapping as did the whole place.
Charlie bushed and moved closer to Brax "I'm gonna kill you" she said when Liam got over to them.
"What we're all happy for you," he chuckled and hugged her "congrats Charlie," he said "and congrats to you mate," he said shaking Brax's hand.
"Thanks mate…don't ever do that to me again," he chuckled.
"How about dinner?" He suggested "since you bailed on the food upstairs."
"We'll have two meatlovers," Brax said.
"To go," Charlie added.
"Coming up," Liam smiled and walked off to the kitchen.
"You two go have some fun we're heading off now," Peter said and hugged her again "my baby sister getting married."
Charlie giggled "I know it doesn't seem real," she squealed.
Peter chuckled "you look after her mate," he said and shook Brax's hand again "right we're off, come on Georgie," he chuckled again and started to led her away
"Call me tomorrow, oh I can't believe it, I'm so happy for you guys," she said as he led her outside.
Charlie giggled and wrapped her arms around Brax "I'm sorry I got over excited didn't realise I was being so loud."
Brax chuckled "I don't care I want everyone to know I've got the most beautiful woman in the world," he said and lowered his head to kiss her.
"Save that for outside you're turning people off their food," Liam chuckled.
They broke apart and Brax picked up the pizza's "cheers mate- night!" he called and grabbed Charlie's hand.
"Night Liam and thanks," she called as Brax led her down the stairs.
Outside they climbed into the hood and lay back against the window Brax put his arm around her and pulled her closer, Charlie sighed and dropped her head into his shoulder "you okay babe?" He asked.
Charlie looked up at him and smiled "I'm more than okay," she said and picked up a slice of pizza "I can't believe we're engaged," she said looking down at her ring.
"I'm just glad you said yes," he said and kissed her "now eat some of that before people start calling- John and Gina Palmer were up there he'll be straight onto your dad."
Charlie pulled her phone out and switched it off "not gonna happen, just me and you baby," she said and leaned up to kiss him.
Brax chuckled and pulled back "how bad do you wanna turn that back on?"
Charlie smiled sheepishly and looked down at her phone looking up again her smile grew "they have your number," she said and lay back on his shoulder.
A while later both had finished and were lying in the back of his Ute looking up at the stars when he looked over he saw Charlie had fallen asleep. Leaning over her he started to trail kisses all along her neck.
"Brax," she giggled and rolled to face him.
"Time to go home," he said and sat up.
Charlie scooted to the end of the car and let him lift her down "sorry I fell asleep," she said.
"It's fine I'm not far behind you," he yawned "let's get home aye," he said and closed up the back of the car.
…..
Arriving home they both sat in the car looking at the house "so do we wake them up and tell them or leave it till morning?"
Brax chuckled "Charlie it's ten they'll still be up," he said and opened his door.
Charlie climbed out after him and walked to the door letting them in she took off her shoes and threw them into the corner. Walking to the living room she turned back to Brax "you were saying?" she said when the house was in darkness.
Brax chuckled "so I was wrong," he said wrapping his arms around her "wanna watch a movie in bed?" he asked and walked her into the kitchen.
"Yeah, you can make me tea while I get ready for bed," she leaned on her toes and kissed him before pulling away from him and going up the stairs.
Brax put the kettle on and leaned against the counter, smiling to himself he thought back to the roof top all the words he had planned were as clear as day-not that it mattered now, chuckling he turned back to the kettle. He looked up when he heard footsteps pad across the living room and smiled when Ruby walked in.
"So?" She asked and leaned on the counter beside him.
"What did you threaten them two to stay upstairs?" he chuckled.
"Something like that….but I won't tell you what I threatened Casey with," she giggled.
"Please don't….she said yes," he smiled.
"See I told you, congrats Brax," she said and hugged him "or should I say new daddy," she giggled.
Brax chuckled and pulled down cups "I didn't get to ask her she said yes before I'd even finished- you want one?" he asked.
Ruby nodded "I told you not to worry I knew she'd say yes and you were probably rambling and she worked it out."
Brax chuckled "yeah I was."
"Alls well ends well-thanks," she said and took the cup from him "night Brax," she said and walked out of the kitchen.
Brax took the two cups and walked up behind her "night Rubes and thanks," he said and went into his own room.
Charlie looked up when he walked in "was wondering when you'd get here."
Brax placed down the two cups "where's Savannah?" he asked.
"She's in with Ruby and Casey I just wanna spend some time with you," she said and got up on her knees wrapping her arms around him. "You have no idea how happy you make me Brax, after everything I don't think I'd have made it without you. I know you were in my life a long time before we got together I'm just sorry it didn't happen sooner- god I hated you when I met you and now I can't wait to marry you," she giggled.
"Likewise miss know it all," Brax chuckled and kissed her. Leaning in he moved her backwards until she was lying down and climbed on top of her "you're the most beautiful woman I have ever met I have no idea why it took me so long to see it."
Charlie smiled "I'd be lost without you, my kids love you you've done so much for them and I'll never ever forget it. You've helped me overcome so much, you're the reason I put my past behind me I wanna look to my future with you."
Brax stroked her cheek "I got you for the rest of my life babe, I promise as long as I'm breathing I'll make you as happy as you make me… you're my life Charlie I'd go to hell and back for you."
Charlie leaned up and kissed him deeply she knew it could go no further than that, pulling back she looked up at him "you mean everything to me Brax and I'm gonna spend every day showing you just how much I love you- as long as I have you my kids my family and friends I have it all," she said and kissed him again and that was true, this time last year she didn't know who she was or what she wanted all it took was for him to show her life was worth living again- he was it alright and she wasn't letting him go-ever.
A/N; So that's it guys thank you all so much for reading and reviewing- special thank you to the amazing people who reviewed every chapter and stuck with the whole story. I'm sad this has ended I loved this story-so much that I have decided to do a second part, it'll be called tearaway teen the aftermath-you'll see Ruby and Caey married as well as Chax, and hayley's baby and a lot more- but it won't be for a while (sorry) As some of you know I have other on-going stories that I need to finish, this story wasn't even meant to be posted until I was done with the others I just loved it so much, so again thank you for sticking with me and I'll be going back to my 'tell or I will' fic if anyone was wondering what was next…..watch this space-JJ
To my faithfull reviewer JS- I know what you mean about the Nataile thing I don't like her either I find her borning and annoying not someone I'd put with Brax but what can ya do. I can't wait to see what way the bring Charlie back into it-I have seen an interview with Steve Peacoke (Brax) he says she's not back in real life but it is interesting how they bring her into it guess we'll have to wait and see-thanks again for reading and glad you liked it...don't worry as long as I'm around Chax will never end :)