A/N: Hi! Thank you everyone for the wonderful reviews, I am so glad you still like this story. You are all amazing. That makes me so thrilled and love writing this even more. I just wanted to say, you can thank my niece and nephew for the first part of this chapter lol. They played this game with their dad and alls I could see was Derek doing this with ZoZo and Bailey lol. I don't know why, but this chapter in particular really made me miss Derek and Meredith even more so , both together and separately. I hope you enjoy!
Chapter 25:
Meredith sighs as she drives down the rocky, bumpy dirt road to the Dream-house. It's been a long day and being 18 weeks pregnant wasn't helping. She was totally looking forward to a relaxing evening with Derek and the kids. Putting the car into park, she rests her head against the back of the seat. The lights are on in the house and they look so warm and inviting. Now, if only she could only get her aching back and swollen ankles to cooperate and move. The baby kicks multiple times and Meredith rubs her swollen stomach, smiling. "I know, you're hungry and wanna hear daddy too." Meredith whispers. Exhaling, she opens the door and grabs her purse, closing the door behind her. Walking up to the door she hears loud squeals of laughter coming from inside.
"Daddy!" Meredith hears Zola squeal as she opens the door. She then sees Zola run around the couch laughing. She stands in the doorway watching in awe as Derek chases both kids around the living room. He growls at them playfully and they laugh again.
"Daddy's a bear." Bailey giggles as he runs over by their play area, squatting behind a chair. "He's gonna get us, Zo!" Derek laughs as he blocks Bailey into a corner and scoops him into his arms, roaring playfully. He rubs his cheeks into Bailey's stomach, tickling him, making the little boy laugh louder and squirm. "Help me, ZoZo!" Bailey calls, "the bear's eatin' me!" Zola runs over and tries to pull Bailey down. Derek pretends to roar again and leans down and grabs Zola, so that both kids are now squirming in his arms. He blows raspberries into their necks, playing "bear" as he falls onto the couch and presses them into the cushions. Zola and Bailey keep laughing as Derek hovers over them, bouncing them into the couch and tickling their bellies.
"I got you." Derek says between their giggles as he continues tickling and pretending to nip at their chubby little cheeks. He can never seem to get over how Bailey and somehow Zola sound just like Meredith when they laugh, so he tries to hear it as much as possible. Their game gets interrupted by a familiar laugh coming from the doorway. The three beam happily when they see Meredith.
"Mama! Mama! Save us!" Zola calls, holding out her arms.
"A bear got us." Adds Bailey.
Meredith laughs as she steps into the living room. "Oh yeah?" She looks at them over the couch. They scramble over the back towards her with Derek pretending to pulls them back. "Come here, I got you." She says, pulling Zola down and then Bailey as she playfully swats at Derek who growls and kisses her hand. The kids hide behind her as she backs up, smirking at Derek who has a sparkle in his eye as he watches her. Derek growls again as he reaches for Meredith, pulling her into his arms. Laughing, Meredith wraps her arms around his neck as he lifts her up and starts nibbling her neck. He holds her bridal style as he bites gently on her earlobe.
"Oh! The bear's got Mama." Zola giggles and runs to Derek trying to pull at Meredith. Derek and Meredith giggle as they watch the kids try to "save" Meredith. He places Meredith back on her feet and rests his hands on her waist. Her arms go around his waist and she leans into him. Derek's eyes roam her tired body with a smile before he brushes her hair back. He rubs her neck and leans into her lips, stopping when they are a breath away.
The kids stop clamoring on them and watch as Derek whispers, "hello" against her lips, his heart swelling when he hears Meredith hum in content before he kisses her deeply. All the fatigue Meredith felt earlier disappears as she melts into Derek's arms. She collapses onto his chest, holding him tight. Derek smiles as he pulls her close, stroking her hair and resting his cheek on the top of her head.
"I'm exhausted, Derek." Mumbles Meredith.
"I know, Mer. You're home now." Derek says as Meredith grins at that thought. "I made chicken, rice and broccoli casserole." He adds.
"Mm, thanks Derek." She smiles and opens her closed eyes, seeing Zola and Bailey smiling at her. "Hi, guys." She carefully bends down, hugging both. "It looks like you guys were having fun." She adds after kissing them.
Derek goes to pull the food from its warming place in the oven as he listens to Bailey talk to Meredith. "We was, Mama. Daddy was pretending to be a silly bear." Explains Bailey.
"I saw. What else did you guys do with daddy?" Asks Meredith as she takes them to wash their hands before dinner.
"We had a tea party." Says Zola. "Daddy wore a princess crown and Bailey wore fairy wings. I had the biggest crown."
"We colored while daddy made dinner." Pipes Bailey. "I drew a fire twuck and Zola drew flowers and butterflies."
"That sounds super fun." Comments Meredith as she lifts Bailey and puts him into his seat. Derek walks over to help her get onto her stool before sitting next to her.
"What did you do today, mama?" Zola asks from the other side of Derek, her mouth full of chicken and rice.
Smiling at her daughter, Meredith begins, "well, I did two craniotomies and had one consult."
"Oh, yeah. How'd that go?" Derek asks.
"Ugh, it's a Subependymoma. I don't know how much we can do, it's pretty large and atypical." Says Meredith.
"Hmm, don't say that, Mer. No tumor is completely impossible." Derek gives her a radiant smile.
Meredith smiles widely at him as she takes more food. "I know, Derek." She strokes his hand as. "Well, anyway, we do have a malignant inoperable glioma to remove tomorrow, I'm looking forward to that."
"Me too, the Shepherd-Grey method again." Derek beams. "I'm putting you as lead, okay?"
"Okay!" Meredith says with excitement. "Oh! I almost forgot, my double cerebral cysts lady that I operated on today came out clear."
"Good!" Derek says as he smirks at Meredith taking more food and another roll.
"I am so hungry!" Meredith sighs. "This is delicious, Derek." She moans as she takes a bite of the homemade bread roll.
"You're growing a baby, Mer. It's understandable." Derek smiles warmly as he places his hand on her baby bump. "How was baby today?"
"Good, she was kicking a lot when I drove home. I think she was as happy as I was to be home and see you guys." Meredith places her hand on his as she watches Derek smile proudly at where their baby was resting.
Derek turns closer to Meredith and puts both hands on her belly. "Hi, sweetie. Thank you for being good for Mama." He leans down and kisses her belly, making the kids laugh. The baby kicks in response to Derek's voice making Meredith grin madly. They finish dinner and relax on the couch, reading books to Zola, Bailey and the baby while eating cookies. When it's time for bed, Meredith and Derek give the kids a bath together before dressing them in their Snow White and Finding Nemo pajamas.
"Night mama, night daddy." Zola yawns before closing her eyes and turning over to sleep as Derek and Meredith shut her door.
"They're asleep!" Meredith sighs as she collapses against her door. "I am SO tired! My back aches and my ankles feel like a balloon with cement." The end of her sentence comes out in a moan. Derek caresses her cheek with the back of his hand, soothing her.
"Oh, Meredith." He breathes as he shakes his head. "Come on, let's get you into a bath."
She smiles, reaching for him. "Only if you're in there with me." Her giggle is infectious as Derek leads her into their bathroom. They get each other undressed as the bathtub fills with lavender scented bubbles. Derek gazes at Meredith's naked, pregnant body lovingly, his sparking eyes lingering on her belly.
"Damn, you're so sexy." Derek growls as he slides his hands along her sides to her back. He grins happily at her as he rubs her back, watching as she relaxes into his arms and moans in content.
"Thanks, Derek. That feels incredible." She whispers as she holds him.
"My pleasure." He kisses her head. "Come on, let's get inside." Derek steps in first and helps Meredith step inside. They sit in the warm water, Derek holding Meredith as she rests against his hard chest. Her hands hold his forearms and legs mixing with his. He rests his cheek against her neck, closing his eyes in pure comfort as he holds the love of his life. He softly kisses her shoulder as she leans her head back into his body, feeling every last ounce of tension flow out of her body. They cuddle like that for a while, Derek alternating between giving her little kisses up and down her neck and cheek and rubbing her back and shoulders. When the water starts to get cold, he helps her out, wrapping her body in one of their large, fluffy purple towels. He wraps a towel around his waist and pulls Meredith close. She stands up on her tiptoes and places her fingers on his cheek as she kisses him. He moans in pleasure at the warmth of her lips on his as he kisses her back. As they kiss, Meredith feels a fire rip through her body.
"Derek." She murmurs saucily. "I need you now." She lets her towel fall as she wraps her arms around his neck, Pressing as close as her growing belly would allow.
Chuckling, he pulls her close, kissing her deeply. "Hmm… Not that I mind, but, I thought you were tired?" He sighs in bliss as he feels Meredith's hands pull his wet curls.
"I'm not too tired for this… And it's the pregnancy hormones." She says, moving her lips to his neck, leaving a red mark. She pushes him tenderly towards the bed, gently dropping on top of him.
"Ah, not complaining at all. More jumping I say." He says huskily between kisses as his hands roam her wet body, tangling in her hair. They continue to make love into the night, Meredith feeling completely relaxed and recovered from her day.
"Let's get him up to pre-op CT." Meredith instructs the nurses the next morning after she rounds on hers and Derek's malignant glioma case. She feels much better today after falling asleep spooned against Derek. Now, she was getting her patient ready to have the same treatment as Beth Monroe. She walks up to the CT floor and pages Derek. He arrives just as she's sitting down to wait for the scans.
"Hey!" He murmurs cheerfully as he kisses her head.
"Hi." Meredith smiles back at him. "Scans are almost up." Derek pulls a chair next to hers and watches. The tumor hasn't grown, thankfully, allowing them to follow their original plan. Derek watches Meredith proudly as she speaks to the patient and sends an intern to go prep him. Once everyone is out of the CT room, Derek watches as she turns out the lights and comes towards the observation room. Derek starts to walk out towards her, but, Meredith pushes him back inside. A dirty smirk forming on her mouth as she looks around suspiciously. She shuts the door then locks it, shutting the blinds. Laughing saucily at Derek's amused expression, she kisses him sweetly. She holds his neck as he kisses her swollen lips, his hands ride up her back. "Quickie?" She asks Derek as his hands roam her stomach and then turns her so that she is up against the wall.
"Of course!" He murmurs as his hands slip into her scrub pants. She kisses him hungrily, moaning happily as she pulls at his curls. Derek pulls her close, rubbing his already hard erection against her thigh. His lips kiss down her neck and into her chest. Meredith buries her nose in his hair to muffle her scream of ecstasy as she feels Derek's tongue against her breasts. He pushes down her pants and rubs her soaking clit.
"Derek!" Meredith chants reverently. She trails a hand into his pants and squeezes him, causing him to growl eagerly. Meredith giggles as she rubs up and down his shaft, first going slow and then speeding up before moving to his balls. She kisses his cheeks and trails her tongue down his neck while her hands move all over. Meredith pulls down his pants and boxers, freeing his erection. Derek basks in the feel of her arms around his waist while he looks deep into her eyes, smiling proudly and happily. He places his hands on her cheeks and kisses her as he slides his cock into her core. The kiss is deepened when he hears Meredith start to moan. They pant and smile as they feel the connection. Meredith stroking his hair back while Derek holds onto her.
"I love you, Meredith." Derek murmurs.
"Mm, me too, Derek." She replies, kissing him again. Derek braces one arm on the wall and the other around her waist as Meredith holds on tightly, one leg around his waist securely. He thrusts hard and fast, as Meredith leans her head back against the wall in bliss. "Yes, Der!" She moans as she does her best to muffle her screams by kissing Derek's shoulder and nipping lightly. When Derek feels her orgasm coming, he grabs her cheeks eagerly and kisses her hard, burying his tongue deep in her mouth as he continues to thrust. They groan in bliss as they feel their orgasms wash over the other at the same time. Derek holds Meredith protectively as they catch their breath.
"Ohh, Mer!" He hums contently, resting his head on her shoulder as Meredith runs her hands in his now sweaty curls. She smiles as she feels his hands roam over her, her own hands moving under his scrub shirt. "I could stay like this forever." He says into her hair, his hot breath fanning her neck.
"Me too, Derek." She sighs, "but I think people would get suspicious."
Derek pulls back and rubs her chin with his thumb. "Yeah, they probably would." He laughs as he looks over her once more, a sparkle in his hooded eyes before reaching to pull up his pants. Meredith watches him with her own sparkle and heat filled eyes before she redresses herself. Hand in hand, they walk out of the room, sharing knowing looks and suppressing their laughter.
"Mer, seriously?" They hear Alex say as they walk past him in the hallway. He shakes his head with an amused smile.
Derek gives him a smug grin as Meredith giggles. "What?" She shrugs, glancing back at him as they continue to walk, heading to grab a drink and a snack while they wait for the page to the O.R. When they hear the page they hurry to the scrub room.
"Here Mer." Derek says as she reaches for her scrub cap. He hands her something folded up in his hands as she looks at him in curiosity. Taking it in her hand, she opens it up.
"Derek!" She says, shocked. "It's your ferryboat scrub cap."
He grins, "yeah. I know." His face is lit up in admiration as he looks at Meredith. "I figured when we scrub in together, you could wear it and I could wear the one you and the kids gave." He watches as Meredith lights up in excitement. "I want you to wear it when we scrub in together, I'll wear it other times " he says again. "Plus, you know how hot I think it is when you wear my clothes." He mutters huskily so only she can hear.
"Okay." Meredith agrees as she rubs the soft fabric. She smiles at Derek widely as she lifts it to her head, securing it tightly.
Derek looks at her in amazement. "You look hot, Dr. Grey." He says with lust as he secures his new scrub cap from Father's Day.
Meredith looks him up and down, licking her lip approvingly. "You too, Dr. Shepherd." Her voice laced with desire. She leans in and kisses him. "Thank you, Derek." She finishes when she pulls away.
"You're welcome." Derek replies, taking in her sexiness and how the scrub cap brings out her eyes before washing his hands. They walk into the O.R together, the patient already out on the table. "Ok everybody, it's a beautiful day to save lives, let's have some fun." He says as Meredith takes her place at the head of the table, Derek close by next to her. Derek watches her make the first cut and beams at her proudly as he then looks around the O.R, giving everyone a look that said; "that's my wife." Meredith works swiftly and smoothly and soon It's time to inject the medicine. Just like during the trial, Meredith locks eyes with Derek. This allows them to be in complete synchrony as they inject their tubes of medicine. They smile at each other while everything flows into the patient. When they finish, Meredith continues taking control and finishes as Derek watches contently. He can never get over how fabulous his wife is, both in and out of the O.R. They scrub out together, both grinning madly.
"Every Neuro surgery I do gives me a high, each time Derek." Meredith says, shaking her head.
"You we're incredible in there, Mer." He says as he dries his hands and pulls her to him.
"Mm, you were too, Derek." She says, gazing into his loving eyes. Derek smirks as he leans in and kisses her. Meredith moaning as she presses herself closer and deepens the kiss.
"I think we need to celebrate, Dr. Grey." Derek whispers saucily.
"I was just thinking that, Derek." Meredith whispers back, laughing as Derek pulls her out of the room and to the nearest on call room. There, they celebrate until Derek's next surgery and they celebrate again after their glioma patient wakes successfully. Derek even picks up some sparkling cider for dinner, to continue the celebration more, to replace the champagne they had during the initial trial. Both are glad that they have the day off the next day as they try to catch their breath after continuing their dinner time celebration by recreating the aftermath of Meredith's house of candles. This time, in the actual home, instead of the in grass where there would eventually be a house.
They wake the next morning together, Meredith facing Derek, her head on his chest as he holds her tightly. As Derek opens his eyes he smiles as he massages Meredith's back. He takes in the steady rise and fall of her chest. The baby kicks Meredith and Derek can feel it slightly as her stomach is pressed closely against his. "Morning, Meredith." Derek says, sleep still lacing his tone.
"Good, morning, Der." She breathes as her fingers stroke his chest. Her cheeks are filled with a blush as she sees Derek look down at her with such desire. He kisses the top of her head and breathes in the lavender. Gently, he rolls her onto her back and hovers over her, smirking. He kisses her lips lightly, rubbing up against her. Meredith hums in content as she wraps her arms around his neck, kissing him back. Her lips kiss the stubble on his cheeks before he moves to her neck and chest, making Meredith throw her head back in pleasure.
"Oh! Derek!" Meredith moans as her body fills with heat.
"Mer! I need you." Derek whispers as his tongue licks slowly up her bare neck. She can feel his erection growing.
"Daddy!" They hear from the hallway followed by a knock on the opposite side of the door. "Mama!"
"Crap!" Meredith says, her eyes tearing up.
"What's wrong, Mer?" Derek says with immediate concern.
"I need you too and… And…we can't have sex now because the kids are awake. Meredith says, her tears coming harder.
Derek looks at her in confusion, but understanding as he cups her cheek lovingly. "It's okay, Mer." He wipes her tears as she catches her breath. "Maybe we can get the kids to nap today… We can use staying up late to watch fireworks as a bribe." He smiles at her reassuringly while she smiles in relief.
"Ok." Meredith breathes. "Sorry, it's the pregnancy hormones." She adds sheepishly.
Derek laughs, "I remember, Meredith. Nothing to be sorry for." He looks at her, amused.
They hear a loud knock on the door. "DADDY!" Comes Zola's little voice.
"I'll go get them." Derek laughs. "Then I will get some waffles started." He beams at Meredith's look of joy before he kisses her, his tongue exploring her mouth. His fingers play with the strands of her hair that's spread across the pillow.
"Thank you." She says as she runs her fingers through his hair. Derek's eyes roam her body before standing and going to the door.
"Good morning, Princess!" Derek greets excitedly as he sees Zola. "Good morning, Buddy!" He adds to Bailey who is next to Zola. Meredith watches them run off before standing to get herself ready. When she walks out into the kitchen later, she sees Derek placing the last waffles on a stack.
"Hey." She whispers, standing next to Derek and rubbing his arm, placing her head on his bicep.
"Hey! Just in time." He says as he leans in to peck her cheek. "You look extra sexy this morning." A smirk fills his features as his eyes graze her body. Meredith giggles in response as she places her hand on his lower stomach, right above the waistline of his pants. Sending him a look that said "you too."
"Morning, Zola, Bailey." Meredith turns to the kids, kissing their cheeks.
"Hi, mama!" Zola squeaks, wrapping her arms around Meredith and giving her a kiss.
"We gonna watch fireworks tonight, mama." Adds Bailey.
"We are, Bailey. Because it's the Fourth of July." Explains Meredith as she cuts up Zola's waffle before starting on her stack.
Sitting in his spot next to Meredith, Derek takes a bite of his waffle. "I was thinking, we could grill out, have a picnic and watch the fireworks from our hill out over the ferryboats."
"Yeah!" Shout the kids eagerly.
"Sounds perfect, Derek." Meredith says, taking more food after finishing her first helping. "I've been craving cookies, Derek." She says after eating in silence.
"Let's make some, we can make them red, white and blue to celebrate today." Answers Derek.
"Ok!" Meredith giggles. They finish their breakfast before getting the kids cleaned up. Meredith dresses Zola in white shorts and a red and navy tank top that said "All American Cutie." While Derek does her hair with red, white and blue bow ties. They dress Bailey in red shorts and a shirt saying, "Mommy's Little Firecracker." "You guys look adorable!" Meredith adds as she looks at them. She smiles as she feels Derek wrap his arms around her from behind, feeling him rub his cheek against her neck.
"Thanks, mama!" Bailey giggles as he watches his parents snuggle.
"Hey, guess what, Zo, Bails? Mama suggested making some cookies today. Does that sound like fun?!" Derek asks as he watches the kids faces beam with excitement.
"Yes! Yes!" Zola screams.
"Ok, then! We'll even make some that look like stars and we will use red, white and blue frosting and sprinkles okay?" Derek adds as the kids eyes go wide. "We have to go to the store first, though because we also need to get food for tonight."
"Okay, let's hurry, then daddy!" Zola says eagerly, pulling on Derek's hand. Derek laughs as she leads him to the door, Meredith and Bailey close behind. They all get into the car and head to the grocery store.
"Look at these, Zo." Meredith points out patriotic M and M's.
"Those look yummy, mama!" Smiles Zola as Derek places them in the cart.
"Do you want hamburgers or hot dogs tonight?" Derek asks.
"Hamburgers." Answers Meredith as they head to get some meat. They get some potatoes and corn to grill as well. Derek then sees some lemonade and picks that up for all of them. Bailey and Zola have a hard time picking out frosting and sprinkles, so they end up with quite the variety.
"Finally, it's cookie time!" Meredith sighs as she gets into the car. Derek smirks at her and takes her hand into his as he drives down the road. He sneaks longing glances at her as he drives, listening as she has animated conversations with Zola and Bailey. When they reach the house, Derek and Meredith get everything inside and put the food away.
"Let's make cookies!" Bailey says happily.
"Ok, buddy." Derek laughs as he gets out some bowls and spoons. He stands with Bailey while Meredith stands with Zola. "First, we mix all the dry ingredients. Who wants to put in the flour?" He asks, holding out a cup of flour.
"Me! Me!" Squeals Zola, raising her hand. Derek smiles as he hands her cup after cup of flour. Each time she plops some into the bowl, flour dust puffs into the air.
"Oh, Zo!" Meredith giggles as she brushes flour out of her face. Zola looks up at Meredith proudly as they laugh together. Meredith tickles her, pulling her close.
"Let's put in the sugar." Derek says as he watches his girls.
"I wanna do, daddy." Bailey pipes. Derek agrees and lets him put in the brown sugar and then let's Zola do the white sugar.
"You know what my sisters and I liked to do when we were kids?" Derek asks as the others look at him curiously. He takes a little spoon and dips it into the brown sugar. Zola and Bailey watch with wide eyes as Derek guides the spoon into Meredith's mouth. She smiles as she tastes the sweet sugar, licking her lips slowly as her eyes close in pleasure.
"Mmm!" She moans, "so good!" Derek watches her with hooded eyes as he gives Zola and Bailey a taste. They shriek with laughter as they get to try. Meredith sees him watching her and giggles before leaning in and kissing him, enjoying his content humming.
"What's next?!" Asks Zola, tugging on Meredith. Derek and Meredith pull away and try to bring their concentration back to the cookies.
"Uhh, ummm.." Meredith starts, looking at Derek.
"Well, we add a few more dry ingredients." He says, adding the baking soda and baking powder. "Then we do the wet ingredients." They laugh as they watch Zola and Bailey each crack an egg into the bowl. Bailey practically slams his egg on the edge of the bowl. While Zola takes her time cracking.
When all the wet ingredients were mixed in, Derek says, "now it's time to mix everything together to make a dough."
"Let's race, daddy!" Suggests Bailey when they see that there are two bowls to mix.
"Ok." Derek laughs. They decide to have Derek and Bailey mix the dry while Meredith and Zola mix the wet. Bailey and Zola look at each other, determined as they each hold a spoon. Derek wraps his arms around Bailey to help him mix as Meredith does the same with Zola.
"Ready…Set…Go!" Zola giggles as they start mixing, laughter filling the air.
"Faster, daddy!" Laughs Bailey.
"We're winning, mama!" Zola says as all their ingredients come together. Meredith giggles at the kids in amazement as she smirks at Derek.
"We did it, Zo!" Meredith says when their ingredients were combined a few seconds later.
"Yay! We won!" Zola cheers, holding her hands up in victory.
"Great job." Derek says with a smile,poking Zola's belly. He then, helps combine the wet and the dry ingredients. Derek holds each child, one at a time from behind and let's them mix everything together as Meredith watches, awestruck. It's then time to roll out the cookie dough. Bailey presses his back into Derek's chest as Derek guides his hands with the rolling pin. Looking up proudly at Derek when he sees that he flattened the dough. Zola beams when it's her turn, letting Derek guide her hands, laughing with joy the whole time. Meredith feels tears in her eyes as she watches her husband help the kids cut out star shapes and place them on the cookie sheet. As Derek places them in the oven, Zola and Bailey watch and continue to watch as the door closes. They clean up together and by the time they are done, the first batch of cookies are done and cooling.
"What colors should we do first?" Meredith asks.
"I want blue frosting." Bailey says with eagerness. "M & M's too!"
"Me too, but red frosting." Zola exclaims. With that, Meredith gets out the frosting, Candy and sprinkles. She scoops out a big glob of frosting and spreads it on the cookies. More laughter is heard as the kids copy her.
"Look, mama!" Bailey lifts up a cookie covered thickly in blue frosting, red sprinkles and M & M candies. His face is filled with pride at his work as Meredith smiles at him.
"Oh my!" Meredith exclaims. They continue decorating their cookies until they are all covered in frosting. "These look amazing." Meredith moans as she picks up a cookie with red icing.
"So, yummy!" Insists Bailey with his mouth full. There are crumbs all over his lips and all around his mouth is blue. Derek laughs as he watches Bailey enjoy his cookie as well as Zola, who is covered in red frosting. He swallows his bite of the sweet treat before looking at Meredith. Getting a dirty smirk on his face when he sees some frosting on the corner of her mouth, he leans in and kisses her, relishing in the combination of sweetness from the sugar and the taste of Meredith's lips on his.
"Why don't we put on a movie and eat the rest of these. The sugar may help two monkeys s-l-e-e-p." He says softly to Meredith, creating goosebumps down her arms.
"Great idea!" Meredith replies saucily. "Come on you two." She directs eagerly. "Let's watch a movie!" Zola and Bailey shriek with joy as they run to the tv. Derek puts on "The Lion King" while Meredith helps the kids spread out blankets and quite a few stuffed animals on the living room floor. Derek sits on the couch with his arm securely around Meredith as they share a plate of cookies and watch the movie. Sure enough as soon as Zola and Bailey finish their cookies, they are fast asleep a short time later. "Der…" Meredith whispers, rubbing his stomach gently. Her fingers linger on his belt buckle. Derek stands up, pulling Meredith into the bathroom down the hall. Meredith trying to hide her giggles, unsuccessfully. As soon as the door is shut, Meredith leans against the door, wrapping her arms around his neck. Their intense moans filling the room as Derek kisses her deeply. Meredith's breathing quickens as she tastes Derek, it intoxicates her, making her kiss him faster.
"Meredith." He says reverently. His fingers mix in her curls, brushing them back. Her hands rub his back as they continue to make out rapidly. Meredith trails her nails lower into the waistband of his pants. Derek quickly unbuckles his belt and they push down his pants. Reaching, into his boxers, Meredith squeezes his balls, smirking in satisfaction as he moans. He rubs her shoulders while kissing down her neck while Meredith slides his boxers to the floor. Soon, her shirt and pants are off and Derek's shirt is thrown somewhere in the room. He presses Meredith close to him, allowing one hand to trail down her body in reverence. Meredith watches him, relishing in the feel of his hands. Pulling his lips to hers, she kisses him again and again, grabbing his hand and guiding it to exactly where she wanted. "Oh, you're ready, Mer." He murmurs huskily into her ear as he slides two fingers into her wetness.
"Yes, Derek! Please." She says, her head going back against the door as he pleasures her. Securing her safely in his arms, he slides the tip of his erection into her folds. "Oh!" Meredith breathes in ecstasy as she feels him. She cups his cheeks and kisses along his jaw as he hums in pleasure. Derek lifts one of her legs around him as he beams at her, their eyes glued together. He rubs her legs, taking in the smooth feel. "Der!" She encourages, thrusting against him.
"You feel so incredible, Mer." Derek chants as he begins thrusting. He kisses her gently on her neck before trailing his tongue right below her ear, teasing her by nipping at her earlobe. She grips his curls tighter as his thrusts get quicker.
"Derek! Derek!" She moans, rubbing his neck affectionately before moving her hands to his balls. Meredith feels a warm, bubbly sensation in her stomach as she feels her orgasm flow over her. When he feels her come, he cuddles into her neck, letting his orgasm wash over him.
"Oh, Mer! Oh! That was amazing." He exclaims, his thumbs caressing her cheeks. His blue eyes lost in her green ones before resting his forehead on hers. Meredith's chest heaves against his as she secures her arms around his neck.
"So amazing!" Meredith giggles in between panting.
"You're so sexy, Meredith. So beautiful." His hands play with her breasts, rolling her nipples until they are hard.
"Mm, well, you're pretty hot yourself." Meredith says, her voice deep in desire as her hands roam his chest and stomach. "So strong and incredible. You always make me feel so amazing." She finishes, resting her head on his chest. Derek holds her close, stroking her hair. They pull away when they are interrupted by a loud rumble from Meredith's stomach. Laughing, Meredith states, "you worked up my appetite." Derek laughs in agreement as they get dressed and head back into the kitchen, where they see the kids still napping by the television. Meredith eats a snack while Derek finishes cleaning up and begins pulling out the food for the grill and some sparklers and poppers for the kids. Derek is making the hamburger patties when the kids wander into the kitchen.
"Hey! Look who's up!" Derek smiles at the kids.
"Did you have a nice nap?" Meredith asks, pulling Bailey into her arms.
"Yeah, mama!" Bailey looks up at her and smiles.
"Good!" Giggles Meredith. "Now you will be all rested for fireworks tonight."
"Yay! I can't wait!" Exclaims Zola. "Will they be like Disney?" She asks.
"They probably won't be as big as Disney, sweetie. But you can see which ones are better." Derek smiles at Zola.
"That sounds good, Zo." Meredith says, rubbing her arms. "Let's go play outside while daddy cooks dinner. I can't believe it's 4:30 already." She says as she leads Bailey and Zola onto the deck. The kids run and play in the backyard on the swing set while Meredith sits on the lounge chair watching Derek set up the grill. Her eyes roam up his strong legs to his firm bottom, that she gripped not too long ago while they had a quickie in the bathroom. Derek turns just a little, allowing Meredith to get a glimpse of the way his jeans cup his crotch. She smiles and licks her lips as she remembers the feel of his body against hers, giving her goosebumps. Her eyes continue upwards to his muscular chest and strong arms that always keeps her feeling so safe. Meredith stands and walks over to the grill. "Hey" she mutters softly, her arms going around his waist, laying her head on his back. Her baby bump not allowing her to press as close as she'd like.
"Hmm, hey." Derek hums. "You okay?" He asks, feeling warmth run through him as he feels her hands graze over his waistband.
"I'm perfect, Der." She replies with a smile.
"Good." He says, putting down his spatula and placing his warm hands over hers. They stand like that, watching the kids swing while they wait for the potatoes to cook through. Derek basks in the presence of his wife, just relishing being with her, watching their kids. They share amused looks and laughs as they watch Zola and Bailey do different tricks, trying to outdo each other.
"I'll go get some blankets and paper plates to set up on the hill." Meredith says eventually after Derek notes that the potatoes are almost done. Derek nods and kisses Meredith on the cheek before she hurries back inside. She comes back out with blankets and paper and plastic plates and utensils.
When the kids see Meredith, they run up to her in excitement. "I wanna help, mama!" Bailey exclaims.
"Me too!" Agrees Zola. Derek watches with a proud smirk as Meredith happily agrees for them to help. Bailey eagerly accepting the paper plates and utensils and Zola taking a blanket and the cups. Derek moves the potatoes onto the warmer as he begins the burgers and corn. The sun is getting lower, casting a rosy glow over the water below where ferryboat are sailing back and forth. The wind blows, creating a nice breeze for the evening. Meredith and the kids set up the blankets with four plates and cups in spots that allow them to look out over the ferryboats. As the kids pick where they sit, Meredith watches Derek carry a lounge chair and place it next to the blanket.
"For the show tonight." He says simply, before going to get one more. Eventually, the food is done cooking and Derek brings it out to Meredith and the kids.
"Smells great!" Compliments Meredith as she takes a burger, giving it Bailey before grabbing one for herself. They sit and watch the ferries glide across the bay as the sun gets lower and lower in the sky. Derek heads back into the house after finishing and comes back with some watermelon and the sparklers and poppers.
"Watermelon!" The kids cheer eagerly.
"Well, I figured I would bring it out now since it's almost time for the show." Derek explains. "Now, who wants to do sparklers?!" He asks and the kids quickly respond with eagerness. "Do you remember doing these, ZoZo?" He questions, as Zola shakes her head "no."
"Hmm, I don't remember doing these, Derek." Meredith adds. "Last year was… Well… We didn't celebrate the 4th of July… and the year before?" She tries to recall when they may have done this.
"You're right, Mer…" Derek looks at her in shock. He smiles as he breathes in, choosing not to dwell. "Doesn't matter, we're doing it now." Meredith beams at him from her spot on the blanket, a ferry horn whistles in the background. "So, I'm guessing this is your first with a sparkler too, Mer?"
She scoffs, "yeah, Ellis Grey would never let me near something like this and by the time I was old enough to make my own decisions, I didn't care."
"Well, I loved doing this with my sisters." He leans in so only Meredith can hear him. "Mark and I especially loved to chase them with them, they can't hurt you."
"Oh, Derek!" Meredith laughs hard, covering her mouth with her hand.
"You get to hold one first." Derek smiles softly at Meredith as he lights the sparkler. Zola and Bailey watching with rapt attention as Derek lights it and bright, yellow lights fly all over. Meredith smiles hesitantly as she reaches her hand to take the stick. "Wave it around, Mer." He instructs. Meredith moves it up and down, watching as smoke circles appeared and vanished just as quick.
"Wow!" Bailey squeals.
"Beautiful!" Zola adds.
"Here you go you guys." He takes two out and lights both. Bailey takes his easily, however, Zola is a bit more uncertain.
"I don't know, daddy." She whispers, pulling back slightly.
"It's okay, Princess. They can't hurt you." Derek soothes. He gives her an encouraging smile and hands the sparkler to her, his hand stays over hers while she holds onto it, eyes wide. Derek guides her little hand, moving the sparkler back and forth, up and down. Just as it dies out, Zola begins giggling like crazy.
"More please, daddy!" Zola bounces up onto her knees and Bailey copies her as well. Derek and Meredith laugh as each child gets another sparkler and immediately begin making shapes.
"Here you go, Mer." Derek says, handing her another sparkler as she picks up another burger and takes a bite. Meredith takes it and laughs as the sparks fly, mixing with Zola and Bailey's.
"I wish they lasted longer." Says Bailey, throwing his fourth one down.
"I know, bud, but we have plenty." Derek says. He hands Bailey another and stops to just watch Meredith and the kids play. His head tilts to the side, a huge smile lights up his face. Eventually, the last sparkler is out, leaving two bummed kids.
"They're done?!" Zola moans.
"Those were fun, huh Zo?" Derek tries to calm her. "But, you know what?" Zola shakes her head. "We have these poppers." He holds up yellow and red boxes filled with little white seed like looking pieces. "Let's get the plates and stuff up to the deck and we can try these out." The kids smile at the prospect of more fun and help Derek clean up the plates, napkins and cups. Derek helps Meredith stand before picking up some of the mess and they head up to their wooden deck, leaving the blanket and chairs there.
"What do we do with these, Der?" Meredith asks, opening a box and looking inside. Derek smirks at her, taking the box and pulling out a little white ball. She can tell he's planning something as he lifts his hand and throws the little white ball at her feet. It makes a loud, snapping sound as it hits the floor. "DEREK!" She shrieks, jumping backwards as Derek laughs intensely. The kids giggle as Derek then throws some at their toes, they clamor towards Meredith, shrieking with joy. Meredith sees three boxes sitting on the table and quickly grabs them, opening them quickly and handing two to the kids. She gives Derek a satisfied smirk as her eyes gleam with competition. Grabbing one of the little poppers, she throws it at Derek, laughing as he jumps back in reflex. After watching their parents have fun, the kids decide to jump in. Bailey is the first to throw a popper at Zola, causing her to scream a little. Derek and Meredith take turns throwing some at each other and then at the kids. They all run around the deck, trying to get away from the poppers. As Zola goes to grab one more, she is met with an empty carton.
"Aww, I'm all out!" She moans, dumping the box over, letting the brown dust inside spill out.
"Me too, Zo!" Bailey says looking intently into his box.
"Those were fun." Meredith says as she leans into Derek who immediately cradles her into his arms.
"Is it time for fireworks, Mama?" Zola asks, wrapping her arms around Meredith's legs.
Meredith looks out towards the hill, seeing the sun pretty much below the horizon. "I think so, sweetie." Her hands play with Zola's braids. Zola smiles in response and they all head to the lounge chairs. Derek pushes the two chairs together and helps Meredith lay back on one. He sits next to her and wraps his warm arms around her, enabling Meredith to rest her head in the crook of his neck, one arm wrapped around his back. Derek rests his head on hers as Zola climbs into his lap with her lion toy. He adjusts one of his arms so that he is holding Zola, hand resting on Meredith's belly. Bailey climbs into Meredith's lap with his Nemo to lay down, albeit awkwardly. She wraps her free arm around him securely as they all snuggle close to wait for the show. Derek inhales Meredith's intoxicating scent as he soaks every second of this time. He holds them close as he wishes that they could stay like this forever.
"Daddy, tell us story?" Bailey asks.
"Sure, buddy. What kind of story?" Asks Derek.
"How about a story from a 4th of July when you were a kid, Der?" Meredith asks, snacking on the watermelon Derek brought out earlier.
"I can do that." He replies before considering. His gaze drifts towards the bay as he ponders, eventually smiling when he remembers a perfect one. "Well, I grew up in New York and every year they show fireworks on the Hudson." He begins. "We only really got to go watch it live once because it was always so crowded and my mom didn't like the idea of taking five little ones in that chaos. Especially when we could see them just fine from our side of the bridge." Meredith nuzzles her cheek against Derek's white shirt as she listens. "Anyway, the one time we actually went was because my dad insisted we go. He argued that because Kate and Nancy had, just that year, decided to go out with their friends instead of being with us, that him and my mom couldn't miss another opportunity to do something like see the fireworks on the Hudson with the rest of their kids." Derek looks down at Zola and Bailey who are listening close. "So, my parents took me, Amy and Lizzie to go brave the crowds. I still remember seeing my dad lift Amy onto his shoulders as we walked through the crowds and actually managed to get right by the river. He kept all of us so close as we watched. Those were some of the best fireworks I ever saw."
"Better than Disney?!" Bailey asks in disbelief.
Derek chuckles at his son's innocence. "I would say about the same as Disney." He smiles at Meredith and the kids, stroking Meredith's cheek.
"Woah!" Bailey mutters in shock as they hear a loud shrieking noise. "Look! Look! Firework!" He points to the sky as they see blue and red designs fill the sky. Meredith snuggles closer to Derek as his hand holds her upper arm tight, pressing her to him. The bright lights shine in their eyes, each one getting more grand. The kids look at each one in silent wonder as glittery lights in pink, red, green, blue and gold shoot through the sky.
"Look at that one, Bailey!" Meredith points out one that fans out into multiple colors.
"I see whatcha mean, daddy." Zola says as she gazes at a large display of multiple fireworks all red and gold.
"What's that, Zo?" He asks as the lights flash against his eyes.
"These are just as beautyful as Disney." She smiles, her little hand resting on Derek's arm. Meredith and Derek feel their hearts melt at the sentiment as they look at each other. Bailey continues to watch with his mouth open, amazed at the fireworks.
"I think Bails would agree, too." Meredith giggles, looking at the baby. "I agree too, Derek."
"Me too, Mer." Derek whispers before kissing the top of her head.
"I also think, who you are with has something to do with how great something is." Meredith whispers as Derek looks at her, encouraging her to continue. "I've watched fireworks before, back in Boston. But none have ever been as amazing as here and Disney."
"Oh, Meredith." He murmurs sweetly. His forehead rests on the top of her head as he closes his eyes, cherishing this moment. "I wish you didn't have such a bad childhood."
"It's okay, Derek. It's over, this is so much better. This totally makes up for it." Meredith lifts her hand from Bailey and rubs Derek's cheek as she looks up at him.
"That makes me so happy to hear, Meredith." He beams at her, staring into her gorgeous green eyes. Their lips get closer as their eye contact pulls them together. The kiss starts slow and becomes deeper when Derek's tongue sensually massages Meredith's, creating moans from both of them.
"I love you, Derek." Meredith says in reverence when they pull away.
"I love you too, Mer." Derek answers as he strokes her soft, silky skin. They remain cuddled together, sharing more kisses and enjoying more squeals of excitement from the kids as they watch the rest of the show. When it's over, they head back inside where, once the kids are asleep, Meredith and Derek have their own "fireworks" encore five times. They fall asleep content in each other's arms, Derek holding Meredith on her side as she rests on his chest.