Disclaimer: We don't own Twilight or it's characters. As much as we would love to have Jasper also we can not *sad*
K: wow so, sorry that we didn't get it out sooner. We didn't make the count and it's probably better that way, since this way you only have to wait a week rather then a week in a half for the next update =) Also the majority of ya'll say they are having a boy =) We'll see
Robs: Thanks to the ladies [and peen] who support us on this endevor. We love you all.
Thanks to our superstar Amber, she sees typos everywhere and carries her red pen in her pocket cause she is just that awesome. We love you bb!
Playlist suggestions: Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle; Return to Saturn – No doubt (yep K listened to the whole album while writing xD)
Adapting
From here on in, Mr. and Mrs. Whitlock will have sole custody of the child.
Even now as I stood here with Mr. Jenks and Momma, I couldn't believe it happened. I get to take my baby girl home, where she will be loved and cared for and become a beautiful young lady under Alice's guidance and love.
I felt Mr. Jenks slap my shoulder, bringing me back to the conversation.
"Honestly Jasper, when you called me to inform me you were married I had no idea it was to little Mary." He laughed.
"Excuse me?"
"Mary Alice," he smiled, "she's my god-daughter. I had no idea you two knew each other, but I can see the happiness that radiates off you two and I don't doubt your relationship at all."
I returned his smile, as Momma went on to talk about how it was fate that brought us together. I shook my head at Momma; she needed to stop watching those damned soaps.
"Mr. Jenks, how would we go through the process of having Alice formally adopt Jordan?" I asked suddenly. Momma, if possible, smiled wider. While I noticed Mr. Jenks face fall.
"That is, well…" He took his pocket square out and began dabbing at the non-existent sweat on his brow.
Why is it, this man always seems intimidated by me when we're talking business?
He cleared his throat as he loosened his tie. "See, the thing is Mr. Whitlock," yep scared shitless. "Ms. Salas has to be willing to sign over her rights, and unfortunately I was just informed by her attorney that she will be demanding a new hearing. And of course heaven forbid, if she were to –" His words word were cut off by Bella's shouting.
"Alice, NO!" I spun in time to see Alice lunged at Maria, tackling her to the ground.
Shit!
I knew the kind of fighter Maria was, having been in a few with her myself. The last thing Alice needed to experience was that kind of fight. Maria fought dirty and as I saw her get ready to bring her knee up, I knew she knew about the pregnancy.
"Goddamn it Emmett! Get Ali now!" I yelled at him as he moved towards her.
Fuck!
I reached the girls the same time as Emmett. I grabbed Alice by the hips, while Emmett yanked Maria up by the arm.
"Baby, she's not worth it." I tried to calm her down as she dug her nails into my hands and kicked wildly.
"She called Jordy a whore! What the fuck is wrong with you, you cow?! The only whore around here is you! I hope you choke on your fucking coke and die!" Alice spat back.
Maria flinched at her words, before wiping the blood off her face, "Well, I guess that won't happen since you broke my fucking nose."
"You're lucky that's all she fucking did." Emmett growled at her as he tightened his grip. Alice finally stopped kicking so I put her down on her feet, but I still didn't let go.
"Oh I'm sorry, you're so ugly I couldn't tell," Alice tried to add a hint of innocence to the venom in her voice, but the triumphant grin that showed at Emmett's laughter, gave her away.
"Like you're one to talk, you anorexic fucking midget!" Maria spat back.
I pushed Alice behind me to step between them. "That's fucking ENOUGH!" I shouted. "I am done with this shit Maria! You are done fucking up our lives. You can't use Jordan against me anymore for your own gain so grow the fuck up or you'll never see her again. Now… I'm done with the legal drama, I'm done with the games. And I am done with you destroying everything in my life. I am taking my wife and my daughter home."
I turned to face Alice who had a smug look on her face as she stared Maria down. I shook my head as I turned her around and pushed her to walk. "Don't worry about her anymore, we won, she's done." I whispered as I kissed the top of her head. "Let's go get our daughter."
She nodded and looked up at me grinning. "I love you Jazz."
I brushed my lips against hers softly, "I love you too."
-------------------
Luckily my cuz and her assistant are scheduling wizards and managed to get us a two week break after the hearing. Two weeks that I was so grateful for because it gave Alice and I a chance to make sure Jordy was settling in well.
At first, the transition was awkward, not just for me and Alice, but for Jordan as well. The first week Alice and I took turns sleeping in the room with Jordy to assure her she was safe.
I honestly didn't want Alice to have to be uncomfortable on the bed with Jordy, but she just smiled and reminded me that Jordan was her daughter too.
Once the nightmares seemed to stop, Jordy was her usual self, or so Momma would say. She was excited to go on tour with us, and loved helping Alice around the house.
At night instead of just reading to her, she would read to us, well more specifically her little brother or sister. And with each passing day I could see her and Alice growing closer, both of them feeling comfortable enough to use their charms in a team effort.
There was nothing worse than getting the puppy dog eyes and pouty lip from both of them at the same damn time.
One morning, as Jordy was watching the Scooby Doo videos Emmett bought her, Alice and I were in the kitchen talking and making breakfast.
"Hey Ali, has she said anything about her nightmares to you?" I looked over at her as I flipped the pancake in the pan. She nodded and gave me a look. "What?"
She set her juice down on the counter and pulled herself up onto it. "We need to talk."
"Alright," I turned the heat off the pan and put in on a different burner. I crossed my arms over my chest and waited.
She looked down at her hands before speaking, "Jazz she needs to get some help."
"What do you mean?"
Alice looked at me and I could see the pain in her eyes as well as the worry. I stepped closer to her resting my hand on her thighs. "She needs to see a specialist, like a therapist, because she's having nightmares about the things she went through."
I rubbed my hands over my face. I knew we would have to talk to her about what she had seen and gone through, but I had no idea how much she actually saw and experienced.
"Jesus. Okay I'll see who I can I find..."I shook my head, suddenly feeling like the worst parent in the world. "I should have thought of this sooner huh?" I looked up to Alice to see her giving me a small smile.
"Well, it's one of those things I think a lot of people never realize."
I nodded, "I guess." I gave her a quick kiss before asking, "Uh... do you think it's crazy to buy her a computer?"
She gave me a sideways glance before shrugging. "We should do all the safe stuff, like adding parental tools if she's gonna be browsing the net. But I guess so baby." I smiled at how confused she looked over my random thought.
I laughed and shook my head. "No, I don't think she even knows what the web is... except for Charlotte's Web. I was thinking maybe Maya's parents would be willing to let the girls do a video chat or something." I shrugged. "I know she misses her friend." I explained as she pulled me closer by my belt loops.
She nodded a big grin on her face. "That would be good." I smiled and left a lingering kiss on her lips.
Maybe I can do that while she and Jordy go shopping later. Get it all set up and ready for when they get home.
She hummed against my lips, "You know what sounds good?"
I smirked, pulling away to see her smile, "Apples?"
She shook her head, "No, an omelet, with salsa and sour cream and everything inside." She told me grinning as her left hand gently rubbed her little bump.
"One cowboy omelet coming up," I informed her as I went to grab everything for it.
While Jordan and Alice went to the mall, I headed to the local geek tech store. I was determined to get Jordy something that would help her not only keep in touch with Maya, but Momma as well, and it wouldn't hurt if it helped her with her studies as she got older as well.
After explaining to the tech what I was looking for, we both decided on the same system. I got lucky and they had the pink tower with matching white monitor in stock and I was able to take it home with me. The tech showed me some things on their demo computer, on how to put restrictions so Jordy couldn't access the internet without me or Alice knowing.
I also bought her a few games that would help her learn new things such as typing, as well as practice her vocabulary and math skills.
As I was loading up the Jeep when it dawned on me we didn't have a desk to put the thing on. I quickly pulled my phone out and called Alice. She and Jordy weren't far from the Ikea store so I asked her to see if there was a desk Jordy liked and there was, to order it. She agreed and it sounded like she was having fun so I had one less worry.
When I got back to the condo, I put the boxes in Jordy's room and called Maya's parents. Momma had enough foresight to introduce me and Alice to them before we left Texas, figuring Jordy would want to talk to Maya now and then.
After speaking to them, I knew I would be able to surprise Jordy properly. I sent Alice a quick text letting her know that Maya's parents were okay with the video chats and we only had to let them know when Maya needed to be at the computer. I also asked her to text me when they got closer to the condo so I could have everything ready to go.
I made myself a quick sandwich, before calling Dr. Frust. I figured she might be able to recommend someone for me to help make things a bit easier on Jordy.
I was in luck. She recommended the office of E.C. Delgado. When I called the office, I knew there was no way I would be able to get her in any sooner than Monday, but figured it was worth a shot.
A man with a deep and Hispanic voice answered.
"Thank goodness it's Friday! This is Eleazar, how can I help you?" he answered joyfully.
"Uh, yeah, my name is Jasper Whitlock. I was actually calling about my daughter; we were referred to you by our Doctor, Dr. Frust. I think my daughter might need someone to help teach her to cope with what she's been through."
"Ah, and how old is your princess Mr. Whitlock?"
"Jordan will be six on September twelfth," I informed him.
Holy shit that's in two weeks!
Eleazar laughed, "Well then, seems you have a party you should be planning."
I laughed as well, "Looks that way don't it?"
I spoke with Eleazar a little longer and found out we could actually get Jordy into his office tomorrow morning. He agreed with Alice's thoughts about her needing someone to help her talk out her fears and worries, as well as to learn that what had happened was in no way shape or form her fault.
"My wife Carmen and I work together with the children," he explained. "We find that some children are more receptive to both of us, or prefer one to the other. When you come into the office tomorrow though, we'll let Jordan decide whom she would like to spend time with, and the other will explain our technique."
"Thank you for agreeing to see her on such short notice."
"No worries at all Mr. Whitlock. I know with the band, you and your wife must be very busy. We tend to keep Saturday hours for our clients who need the outmost privacy in these matters."
After a few more minutes, we said our goodbyes and I felt relieved that I managed to check that off the list.
The next big thing was Jordy's birthday party. How in the fuck did I forget that? I needed to think of something quick. The kid in me, and well honestly Emmett as well, suggested Chuck E. Cheese. But I knew the smell of the pizzas would make Alice's time there miserable. And I wasn't sure if I wanted to scare her with all the screaming kids.
Before I realized what I was doing, I was dialing the Cullen's number.
"Hello?"
"Hey Esme, it's Jasper"
"Ah, my favorite son in law," I could hear the smile in her voice. "How are you?"
I laughed, "I'm doing good, just getting some errands done before the girls get back. How are you and Carlisle?"
"We are good, just got back from a trip to Florida." Why on earth anyone would want to be near the gulf coast or the peninsula during hurricane season was beyond me.
"Do you by any chance have any plans for the twelfth?" I asked, praying they didn't.
"Nope we don't."
"Great! Well you do now, that is if I can figure out where I'm gonna throw a birthday party." I realized that I sounded a bit demanding, and quickly added, "I mean, if ya'll want to be there of course."
Shit!
"A birthday party for little Ms. Jordan I take it?"
"Yes ma'am," I answered sheepishly.
"Did you say if you can figure out where?" She asked. It almost seemed as if she had an answer to my current problem.
"Yes ma'am. I was thinking something kid friendly, since she doesn't have many friends here yet. But I know most kid friendly places are either over-crowded, or serve greasy food, or even both. And I don't think Alice would appreciate being uncomfortable at Jordy's party."
"Yeah, well there is certainly one kid friendly place you haven't thought of."
There was?
"I'm sorry?"
"Well as far as I know my house is pretty kid friendly." She teased.
I smacked my forehead. How did I not even think to see if Esme would do it? I knew how much she and Carlisle both love Jordy.
Cause you're not used to being a dad.
"Oh Esme, I think I love you more than I did before. Are you sure you'd be okay with that? I mean, it'll be the usual cast of characters, and well, you know how Emmett can get."
She laughed, no doubt remembering the Fourth of July picnic we had. "Don't worry we'll set up a nice tent in the backyard, and of course I am fine with it"
"Thank you Esme, you don't have to worry about a thing, I'll enlist some of the guys to help set up and clean up." After all it made sense, since this was my daughter's birthday.
"What about food dear?" She asked and I could hear the smile in her voice again.
"Uh..." I started to laugh nervously. "I don't know… I mean obviously we need a cake right?" I never thought about it. I knew Jordy wasn't a picky eater, but with Ali; some things weren't not pleasant to her at the moment.
She laughed again, "Yes... would you like Mary and I to call a few people and take care of the menu?"
"Yes please." I am seriously out of my element.
"Alright, do you have a theme in mind?"
"Uh... Well, I was thinking Cinderella... 'Cause she's really into the princess thing at the moment." I smiled, remembering her excitement over the night gown Alice had chosen for her.
"Okay. Alright so, I was thinking a blue and pink theme. I need you to pick some things up in your own time, you got a pen and paper handy?"
I jumped up from the couch, to get the pad of paper from next to the phone base and a pen. I leaned against the breakfast bar ready to take notes. "Yes ma'am."
"Pick up some Cinderella paper plates and cups. Pink and blue forks and spoons, blue balloons and princess crowns for every guest," I bit back the laugh at the thought of Ed or Emmett wearing a crown.
"You can pick those up at a party supply store, get the balloons for the day of and have them filled with helium, and I think Mary and I can handle the rest."
I quickly finished writing down the information she gave me. "Yes ma'am. Should I get a special crown for Jordy?"
"Yes and a princess dress."
I smiled, thinking that I might be able to surprise Jordy with a party after all. "Will do, thank you Esme, I really do appreciate it."
"No problem," she said and I could hear her smile.
"Well, I better get on this list… less than two weeks ya know." I teased.
She laughed, telling me to take care and to call her if I needed help with anything. I promised her I would and that I'd have Ali call her when she got home so they could finish planning.
The girls started heading back shortly after I had the simple white desk set up. Alice had managed to stall Jordy long enough for me to get the video chat synced up and her friend standing by. Everything worked out splendidly and I was glad Jordy loved being able to see her friend.
After an hour of chatting, Maya had to go, and it was time for dinner. Alice had a craving for Chipotle chicken burritos so I went to get food, while she got Jordy in a bath.
Alice was definitely born to be a mother.
Just as I arrived to the restaurant, I received a text from Alice telling me she already called in our orders to make the trip easier. I was tempted to text her back asking which she wanted more; me or the burrito, but decided against doing so.
After dinner Alice and Jordy went to read and I decided to call Bella to fill her in on the birthday party plans, it was actually planned for the day before her own birthday. After apologizing and offering to take her to brunch the following morning to celebrate, she convinced me I had nothing to worry about.
After looking over the list of things Esme said I needed, I decided to do some research on getting something Jordy could play with since her party would be primarily adults. I stretched my legs out on the bed, trying to remember what the appeal to places like Chuck E Cheese was. Games, tickets, ball houses!
Deciding a Bounce House might be a better, if not, safer choice; after imagining the damage Emmett could inflict with a ball house. I quickly found a place in town that rented out the equipment needed and sent an inquiry.
I checked on the girls and was stunned momentarily by what I saw, both girls were lying in bed and Jordy had her head on Alice's shoulder, sound asleep. Alice held the book in one hand as her other hand ghosted over her baby bump. Alice looked totally at peace with where she was.
------------
"Stop fidgeting Jazz," Alice said calmly as she reached for my hand. "We're here for Jordy remember?"
"I know. I just don't want them to think I'm a bad Dad or something."
"Impossible." She said softly before the door of the office opened and we were greeted by a gentleman with black hair and kind eyes.
"Ah, Mr. and Mrs. Whitlock! So good to finally meet you both, I'm Eleazar Delgado." He shook both our hands before sitting behind his desk. "I had a chance to meet your daughter before I came in and she is a delightful child, she seems very comfortable with my wife, which is good to see. The last thing we want is to make her uncomfortable."
Alice and I were both silent, not really sure what to say. I gripped her hand a little tighter, whether it was for nerves or what I couldn't tell you.
"What my wife and I try to do in our practice is show kids different outlets they can use to express their emotions towards something. For some kids coloring works, while for others writing poetry is their best outlet. We also offer them an ear that will listen, since some kids are afraid to talk to their parents about some things for fear they will be regarded as a silly child; or even anger or upset their parent." He explained.
"Now I don't mean to be rude, but is it safe to assume Jordan is a step child in this family?"
I looked over at Alice and she chewed her lip. "Um, well Jordy's my daughter from another relationship. So I guess…"
Eleazar nodded and smiled, "No worries Mr. Whitlock. I only ask because there may be issues where she may feel afraid to talk about her mother when Mrs. Whitlock is around. Children are very perceptive to the emotions of people around them. And from what I've seen of your little girl, her perception is keener than most."
"When she does begin to open up about her mother, how should we approach that?" Alice asked quietly.
Eleazar smiled at her. "I'm glad you asked. The reason why my wife and I have a 'tag team' approach to this, is not only to help the child learn to deal with his or her emotions and how to express them in a healthy manner, but to help teach the parents how to recognize when the child needs to talk and not force the child into it."
"And to answer your question Mrs. Whitlock, let Jordan approach the subject. I can see in your eyes you have an extraordinary love for Jordan and I'm sure she sees and feels the same about you. But by allowing her to approach the subject with you; she sets the tone of the conversation. Judging from my brief meeting with Jordan, she doesn't seem like she would want to hurt you. All I can truly say is to be open with her. I know that a parent's first instinct is to protect or coddle the child, but that will not help them grow."
He paused before he broached the next issue.
"From what I've seen from the court documents that Mr. Whitlock gave us, there is some trauma to Jordan's psyche; especially in terms of family. I want to say this now. Neither Carmen nor I are here to judge you. You guys have taken the biggest and the best step you could for Jordan, you are helping her."
He asked us a few more questions about our marriage and what we've done to include Jordy in our lives, to see if we've done everything we could to reinforce for her that we are a family unit. Alice happily told Eleazar about their girl time trips where they go to the movies or shopping, and also told him how Jordy helps with some household chores.
Once our meeting with Eleazar was over, Alice and I went into the 'family room' to wait for Jordy.
"So um, I think I need your help for Jordy's birthday."
She raised her eyebrow and gave me a small smile. "How so?"
"Well… Your mom, as I'm sure you know, has agreed to have the party at her house. And well I was thinking, since Jordy gets to wear a princess dress and all... what if we surprise her? I dunno, like while me and they guys are setting up, you and the girls can take her to do grown-up girly stuff." I shrugged.
She smiled wider, "Like get her hair and nails done?"
I nodded, "If you want."
She grinned at me before giving me a kiss."That sounds like a great idea."
I smiled and nodded, "Okay..." I felt my eyebrows furrow as I mentally went over my list of stuff to do. "I just hope I can pull this off..."
Alice cupped my cheek in her hand as she gently rubbed her thumb along my cheekbone. "I think you'll do fine." She gave me an encouraging smile. I hope she's right.
---------
"Jesus Christ! Can't you two wait until Jordy gets a chance to play in there first?" I yelled over to Seth and Emmett, who had been trying to play in the Disney Princess bounce house since it was set up over an hour ago.
"What? Dude, we're just ensuring the safety aspects." Emmett tried to defend. I shook my head as I tied the last balloon to the patio railing. Ed chuckled to my right as he and his dad set grill up.
"Besides, we're gonna play in it later cause, well I think Kelci and I are the only ones close enough to Jordan's age." Seth added as he plopped down on the grass next to Kelci.
She rolled her eyes and handed him some bags, "Candy goes in here, not your mouth." I laughed at her commanding him like a puppy. I was happy to see them happy though.
Esme joined us, announcing the arrival of the girls. Bella, Esme, Rose and Alice all took Jordy out for breakfast and a 'big girl's day of pampering'. She was so excited she barely slept the night before.
Esme put her hand on my back and taking the crown I was wrestling out of its package from me. "She's requesting an audience with her king." She smiled warmly at me as I nodded and headed towards the house. I reached the house just as Bella was opening the door for Amber and her family.
"Great! You made it!" I called out to Amber and gave her a hug.
"Of course I did," she scoffed and introduced me to her husband and two kids. I was glad Bella invited them. Even though Amber's kids were a bit older than Jordy, I knew it would be more fun for her to have someone other than just her uncle's to play with.
I climbed up the stairs as Rose was leaving Alice's room. She smiled and hugged me.
"You did good Jazz." She whispered before pulling away.
"Are you crying Rose?" I asked as I looked at her face.
She groaned and wiped her face, "Well, this is the first birthday we've been able to be a part of and she's grown up so much." I nodded. "Was Emmett any trouble?" she asked changing the subject.
I laughed and shook my head, "No more than usual. I'm sure he missed you." She nodded and headed down the stairs.
I knocked on the door and heard Jordy asking who was there.
"It's Daddy."
"Come in." I entered the room just in time to see Jordy standing in front of the full length mirror as Alice placed the jeweled tiara on her head. I smiled as I watched her face light up as the last piece was added to make her truly look like a princess.
She turned and smiled, "How do I look Daddy?" She pirouetted around so I could take in the full look. Alice had picked up the silver ballet flats that went with the blue gown. Jordy's naturally curly hair was brushed out in soft waves, while the sides were twisted and pinned in the back.
"You look beautiful your highness," I grinned and bowed to her. She laughed and ran over to hug me.
"Daddy, you're the king you don't need to bow." She giggled. I got a chance to look at her face and saw that Alice had put something shimmery around her eyes and gave her lip gloss.
"Well I bow before beauty princess." I told her causing her to grin.
"Oh, lookie Daddy!" She squealed, kicking off her shoes and showing me her pink toe nails. "They match my fingers!"
"That they do." I looked over at Alice who was sitting on the bed smiling at us. I looked back at Jordy before squatting down. "Did you have a good time with the girls?" I asked.
She nodded, "Yes sir, we got ped-a-curls and everything!" I raised my eyebrow at her.
"Pedicures." Alice corrected softly.
"Yeah, and they had these chairs that danced when you sat in them. And Nana Esme made a funny noise and made Auntie Rosie laugh really hard." She explained. I looked at Alice and she shook her head.
"Well princess, don't you want to show your uncle's and papa your new look?" She nodded and chewed on her lip some. "What's a matter baby girl?"
She smiled. "Nothing Daddy," she said softly as she took my hand.
I picked her up and placed her on my hip. "Jordan, what's wrong?"
She wrapped her arms around my neck and put her head on my shoulder. "I'm scared." She whispered.
Alice came over and rubbed her back softly, placing her other hand on my arm. "Why are you scared sweetie?"
Jordy wrinkled her nose before turning to look at Alice. "What if I'm not a good sissy? I mean you're a good sissy to Uncle Eddie, and Auntie Rosie is a good sissy to Daddy and Auntie Bella."
I carried Jordan to Alice's bed and sat down. "You're gonna be a great sister you know why?" I asked her. She shook her head 'no'. "Well, the way I see it, you're already a big sister; you take great care of your baby brother or sister because you read to it and you tell it goodnight. And every morning when you give Alice a hug you kiss your little brother or sister. Even though the baby's not here yet princess, you show it love every single day."
"And," Alice added gently wiping Jordy's tears away, "showing that you love your sibling and that you will protect them is what makes a great sister. I would know." She winked at Jordy making her giggle.
I kissed Jordy's forehead. "Are you ready to go see the family now princess?" She nodded in response and held on tight as I stood up.
The party went well. Jordy got along with both of Amber's kids as well as Sam's daughter Violet. At one point I had to get Emmett and Seth out of the bounce house because I was afraid they were gonna hurt someone.
Ed took every chance he could to tease me about Jordy's apparent crush on Taylor, Amber's son. Taylor was definitely a charmer. When he was first introduced to Jordy he bowed and kissed her hand as she curtsied, making all the women 'aww' at the sight. He would get her punch and help her up and down the stairs.
"Wasn't this supposed to start ten years from now?" I muttered before taking a drink of my beer.
Carlisle laughed and shook his head as the other fathers in the group laughed as well. I looked over to where Alice was sitting on the grass with Rose, Kelci, Emmett, Seth and the kids. They were playing an odd version of "Duck, duck, goose." Jordan was sitting in Alice's lap clapping as Emmett chased Taylor on his knees.
There's nothing like family, I thought as I helped Esme get the cake.
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Thankfully, Esme and Carlisle agreed to keep Jordy until Monday, allowing some alone time for Alice and I before we were expected to do the wrap up shows of the tour. Luckily, the shows were all close to home, so we didn't have to worry about getting Jordy accustomed to anything.
When we got back to the condo, Alice made a bee line for the bathroom. At first I figured she just really had to pee, that was until I heard the shower running. I pouted as I realized what she was doing.
I finished bringing in Jordy's gifts, kid made out like a bandit; and took Coco out for a walk. When I finished with that I went into the bedroom where Alice was stretched out on the bed reading.
I sat down on the bed and started taking off my shoes. I looked over my shoulder to see Alice smiling at me.
"Hi!" She chirped excitedly at me.
I gave her a nod and a smile, "Howdy."
She bit down on her bottom lip as she watched me stand and face her. "What are you doing?"
I pulled my shirt off over my head smirking. "Undressing... what are you doing?"
"Waiting for you...."
"Waiting for me?"
She grabbed the remote for the iHome off the night stand and turned it on as she stood on the bed. She swayed her hips to the music as she started to play with the hem of her over sized night shirt. Hell it was my shirt, and goddamn I'd be a fool to say that shit wasn't sexy.
I smirked at her as I kicked off my jeans and sat against the headboard of the bed. "So, I get a show tonight?" I teased.
She smiled again biting her lip, "A bit of a lap dance." She informed me.
I licked my bottom lip, "A lap dance huh? Well... the smallest I got in my wallet is a twenty."
She licked her lips, slow and seductively, pulling her shirt up some more allowing me just a peek at the ends of black ribbons, which no doubt went to her panties. "Well, what if I don't want what's in your wallet?"
Oh, someone's being sassy.
"Hmm," I teased pretending to think over her offer. "Well, I don't have much to offer ma'am."
She stood over me and smirked as she raised her eyebrow. "I think you have plenty..." she trailed off as she noticeably ran her eyes down my body.
I laughed a bit. "And what is it you want Mrs. Whitlock?"
Alice kneeled so she was straddling my knees. She gave me a wicked grin as she slowly stroked my through my boxes, then pulled away. She moved forward so she was now in my lap and pulled the shirt off showing me her sheer lingerie that was tied onto her with black satin strings. She put her hands on my shoulders as she continued to sway her hips to the music. "What do you think I want?"
I took my time to look her up and down, biting my lip as I took in the sight before me. "Jesus baby, are you trying to give me a heart attack?" I asked while grinning at her.
She smirked as she played with the string that held her full breasts in the bra. "Well, I figured you deserved a little present too..." she said seductively.
"Oh really, have I been a good boy today?"
"Oh yes, and I have been saving these for just this occasion."
I ran my hands up her thighs to her hips, stopping to grab them. Gently I tossed her on the bed so her head was resting at the foot of the bed, as I pulled myself over her. "Well then," I started as I began to kiss the crook of her neck. "I should unwrap my present now..." I suggested as ran my hand along the underside of her breasts.
"Hmm," she teased as she thought it over. "I guess you've been a good enough boy." She said as she ran her hands along my chest, gently scraping her nails along it.
I looked at her and grinned. "Shut up and kiss me woman," I demanded causing her to grin back at me before she fisted my hair in her hands and pulled me to her lips.
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This past week was a busy week for us not only as a family, trying to get Jordy into her new school, but as a band as well, since our tour was wrapping up.
Carol, our costume designer, was a God send about now. She worked hard to make outfits that looked sexy as fuck on Alice, but still managed to hide the fact that she was nearly four months along. Granted it was a small baby bump, but we wanted to be safe, because we were not ready to let the press know yet.
We were currently doing the final sound checks for our sold out show of over fifteen thousand seats. The original plan was to have the stage set up in what was known as 'in the round', meaning a circular stage that would rotate slowly so they could fit more into the arena. But, with Alice being in a 'delicate' state, we nixed that idea and went with a traditional set-up.
The sound techs had something poppy blasting through the sound systems as they tested the bass levels. Jordan and Alice where across the stage dancing around to the music and mimicking each other's movements, in general, just having a ball.
I heard Seth greet Bella before I saw her, but when she approached the girls and picked up Jordy and giving her a kiss before handing her off to Seth; I knew something was up.
Bella said something to Alice that made her place her hand on her stomach in a protective manner. I jumped up from my spot on the percussion platform to make my way over to them but froze when Alice's hand flew up signaling me to stay there.
After a few moments, both girls came over to me. Alice put her hands on my chest and pushed me to sit down before she sat in my lap.
If Alice feels the need to have me sitting and holding her, this can't be good.
I watched as Bella took a deep breath. "Jazz, remain calm okay? We don't need Jordan seeing you upset." She said before opening the magazine in her hand. "As you know, Billy gets these things on his desk every morning, to keep an eye out for unwanted press."
I nodded willing her to get to the point.
"Amber and I were called into an emergency meeting because one rag in particular had a feature story about not only you and Alice, but Jordan as well."
"We knew it was bound to happen Bells, hell they swarmed the private school the other day after getting wind of me being there."
Bella nodded, "It's not just that Jazz, we expected pictures to surface yes. What we didn't anticipate was this." She passed the magazine over to me.
I scanned it briefly, first glancing over the pictures of the three of us shopping for school things, a picture of her on the play ground at school; as well as pictures of Alice walking her up to the front of the school and me picking her up.
Then I scanned the article. The usual bullshit about me keeping my child hidden from Alice until after the wedding, blah, blah, blah.
But the thing that stood out made my ears ring. I knew Alice had gotten to the same part because I heard her gasp.
"Well, all I have to say is I feel sorry for Alice." Says Maria Salas, 24, mother of Jordan Whitlock. "He was never there for me while I carried our child. Only helped out financially when it was convenient for him. And to think he loved me. That poor Alice may think he's the pick of the litter, but I know him. The Vegas wedding wasn't a spur of the moment romantic thing to do. It was his way to weasel in as he gets her pregnant so he can leave her too."
"How the hell can they publish this garbage?" I growled out. Alice reached her hand around my neck, gently brushing her fingers through my hair.
"What do we do now?" Alice asked softly.
Bella sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. I smirked at that, I couldn't help it. It was cute to see her take up Ed's traits. "Well, Billy called us this morning for damage control. And we were bouncing idea's around and," she looked at us. "What if, we get a big celebrity magazine to come in and 'spend the day with the Whitlock's'? Like the Garth-Facinelli family."
Alice nodded her head and I chewed on my lip, thinking this over.
"I think it would be a good idea, because then you can allow them to see what you guys are like as a family on a normal day. You could also announce the pregnancy that way."
I put my chin on Alice's shoulder. "It's up to you baby." I told her softly.
"And look at it this way Jazz," Bella looked over in the direction of Seth and Maggie who were keeping Jordy occupied, before looking at us. "It would be a way to wash this Maria shit away. Set the record straight."
"I hear ya Bells, but it's up to my wife not me. She's the one who's pregnant so she speaks for two."
Alice laughed. "You're such an ass kisser."
"What!? You wear the pants not me." I defended making Bella snort.
"We'll do it." Alice said looking at me. I smiled and nodded my agreement.
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We decided to have the guy from People Magazine come out in mid October. It allowed for the three of us to adjust more into a routine as well it give Alice and the baby more time to adjust to its development.
Jordy was home on the Monday when People sent over their writer, Chris. He arrived at the Condo with a camera man and one stylist which made me raise an eyebrow at the whole process. But he was kind and didn't seem intrusive as he spoke to us about things ranging from how we met to plans for the baby shower.
We took a few pictures, family life stuff like the two of us doing homework with Jordy, and me and Alice cuddling on the couch. The one I thought was gonna make the best picture was me holding Alice in my arms as my hands rested on the sides of her growing belly. Jordy had her hands on Alice's, which were on mine, as she smiled up at us. I was kissing Alice's neck making her laugh. When Chris showed us what they got with that shot on his lap top; that was definitely my top pick.
We agreed that the picture of Jordy being tickled by the two of us on the couch, would be the best main picture for the article, and Chris wanted to use a picture that Seth shot of us in Vegas for the cover.
Who would have thought that my family would be the main story for People magazine?
That night once I finally got Jordy settled down and into bed, I joined Alice on the couch were she was watching Gilmore Girls. I pulled her feet into my lap and began massaging them.
"Oh, I didn't tell you the latest Whitlock-Hale gossip, did I?" I asked her. She shook her head and turned off the T.V. to look at me. "Well it turns out we aren't the only ones to be givin' Momma a grandbaby in the spring."
Her eyes got wide as she pushed herself up. "Bella's Pregnant?!" she screamed.
I laughed shaking my head, "Nope."
She raised an eyebrow before laughing, "Not Rosalie?"
I nodded, "Yep Rosalie." Which, now that I think about it makes sense. She's been very emotional lately.
Alice gave me a shit eating grin, no doubt loving this new bit of gossip. "No way!!! How is she taking it?" She pulled her shirt up some, tracing patterns onto her belly. "Better yet, how is Em taking the news?"
"She's okay, I think." I shrugged, "Momma's not too sure. Emmett was the one to actually call and tell Momma what was going on."
I watched as her eyebrows knitted together. "That's strange; Rosie's always the one who's all gung ho on babies. Have you talked to her?"
I shook my head. "No, I spoke to Em after I found out. He said she's been on a ginger ale and cracker diet for a while. Apparently the morning sickness is hitting her worse then you. And she's embarrassed, 'cause at least we got married before we found out." I shrugged, "They're getting married in February though, if Rose is feeling up to it."
She grinned at me. "She's just living up to the family tradition." I shook my head laughing. "We should call her; invite her over for dinner or something," she suggested. "Poor thing."
I nodded, agreeing that we should have them over sometime. "Now you two can gossip about how stupid us fathers-to-be are." I teased smirking at her.
She laughed and sat up patting me on the cheek. "We don't gossip about that honey." She explained giving me a cheeky grin.
"Well, some things are better left unknown." I replied before moving so I could kiss her belly then her, without crushing her. "I love you," I said against her face.
She grabbed my face between her hands and peppered it with kisses. "I love you too." She tilted her head and looked me over.
I smiled at her, "What?"
"I am ridiculously horny right now."
"Oh, I think we can handle that." I smirked against her jaw as I started to kiss my way down her neck.
"Oh can you now?" she asked licking her lips.
I nodded standing up and offering my hand. She took it and let me help her off the couch. "I believe we have some laundry to take care," I hinted as I pulled her towards the laundry room. I heard her giggle from behind me as we entered the room, I pulled her in and I turned to lock the door as she threw some clothes into the washing machine and started it up.
She hopped up on top of the machine and grinned. "And I won't even stop you this time."
I playfully growled at her as I went to her, her lips immediately attacking mine as she lifted her hips allowing me to pull her sweat pants off.
"Jesus woman, no panties?"
She giggled as she undid my jeans. "What? It's laundry day," she said innocently. I knew better, I knew my Alice planned for this. She undid my pants, her hand stroking me as she slid my boxers and jeans down my legs with her feet.
"Fuck," I groaned as her thumb rubbed over the tip of my cock. She giggled as I pulled her ass to the edge of the washer.
We didn't need much in the way of foreplay at the moment. We were becoming experts in the art of the quickie, something you learn fast when you have a child who gets up at strange hours of the night.
My hand slid between us, rubbing her clit with my thumb. She moaned resting her head on my shoulder.
"You ready?" I asked her as she nodded slightly.
I positioned myself at her entrance, as she leaned back on her hands bracing herself. I slid into her, both of us moaning at the feel. We began moving together, the vibrations of the washing machine aiding in the sensations. I was almost worried that I was gonna lose it before she did.
Almost.
I put my forehead to hers as she panted, her warm sweet breath fanning over my face, making me lose all coherent thought. I slid my hands under her ass, giving her a firm squeeze before lifting her off the washer. She moaned louder, throwing her arms around me as I slid in to her deeper.
"Jazz… I can't… I'm gonna…" she panted out as her walls tightened around me, her hands tugging at my hair.
"Fuck," I muttered under my breath as I felt myself getting closer. I placed her back onto the washer and shoved her shirt up latching onto her breast as I rolled her hardened peak with my tongue.
She muttered a string of profanities as she came, her walls getting tighter around my cock making me follow shortly behind her.
