Disclaimer: Twilight is the property of Stephenie Meyer
This chapter is dedicated to Noble, Fadewind, M-Bianca94, Alphabloodwolf, Cara Gracious, Patricia, Lsb123, and BellaNessieCullen
Despite the fact that I managed to sleep for couple of hours on the plane I still felt exhausted when we touched down in SEA-TAC. To be honest I was in no mood to deal with humans at all, never mind a pushy customs official punch drunk on the little power afforded him. It took all of my will not to tear out his throat and drink of his lifeblood to sate the gnawing hunger that threatened at his manner. I reminded myself that he was merely doing his job, if with an overtly enthusiastic belief in his own authority, to protect our country's borders and I should not be annoyed. Even if he was a rude little man who took more time than necessary to look over my passport.
Finally he allowed Mal and I to pass and I trudged on toward the carousel, Mal had his arm about me, supporting me more than I would care to admit. I was glad that my suitcase was on wheels and I was able to pull it behind me for it meant I could remain close to Mal as we navigated our way out of the airport to find Edward and Bella waiting for us.
"Look at you." Bella said, hugging me before placing her hand to my bump. "You're blossoming nicely."
I nodded my head, unable to articulate my thoughts.
"Perhaps we should get them home and we can talk properly after they've slept." Edward stated and I realised he had read the true extent of my exhaustion from my mind.
Thank you Grandfather. I thought.
"Come on, the car's not too far." Bella said, taking my suitcase, picking it up by the side handle as opposed to dragging it on its wheels, and placed her arm about me as she led me from the airport. "Was it a bad flight?" She asked as we stepped into the blessedly cold, inevitably wet Washington air.
It roused me enough that I didn't feel as groggy, but I was exhausted.
"Not particularly." I replied. "It was merely long and draining. I will be happy after a nice long bath and several hours of unhindered sleep. Then I will be happy to discuss many things."
"It won't take long for us to get back to Tregarran. Especially how Edward likes to drive." Bella said with wink.
I managed a small chuckle as we reached their car, a Volvo, as was Grandpa Edward's car of choice when he didn't wish to appear flashy. I climbed into the back with Mal, fastening the seatbelt robotically wishing that we were in Tregarran and climbing into bed instead. Mal took my hand and I managed a small smile for him, although I would have preferred to snuggle under Mal's arm, but with Grandfather driving so fast I felt more secure with my seatbelt fastened and I settled for merely holding his hand.
I was aware there was a conversation taking place; I believe I even took a part in it, however if I was asked to recreate that conversation I would not be able to. I could scarcely give a general outline; I was so lost in the haze of exhaustion. I only felt a little jolt of energy as we turned onto the drive of Tregarran and I was enveloped into the telepathic safety net of my family. The one that allowed us to know the others were present and well without having our innermost thoughts revealed to each other.
I checked my watch; it was close to nine in the morning. At least it was in Wales, I strained to see the clock set into the centre of the dashboard. It was nearing quarter to eleven and it was still the day we set out. That was somewhat disconcerting. We had gone back in time.
Not really, I had dealt with a change of time zones in the past, but I had never felt so exhausted with it. I was happy that it was so late locally, hopefully Billie was asleep and I could sleep before I saw her. I would hate to be short with her because I was too tired when she would no doubt be excited to see me after so long apart. I wanted to be as excited to see her as opposed to longing for my bed.
Billie was still awake and was waiting atop the front steps with Mother and Father when we arrived. Edward pulled up to the bottom of the steps and Billie rushed down to open my door as I unfastened my seatbelt. I took a deep breath and forced a smile to my face as I turned to her.
"Hi Liza, I'm so glad you're here and safe." She said, hugging me out of the car. "I just had to make sure you got here ok, and now I can go to sleep. I think you could use some too, you look really tired." She added, giving me a look of concern.
"You are right sister. The flight was long." I replied, hugging her in return before I turned to get my luggage from the trunk.
"We'll bring in the bags." Edward called.
I nodded and I walked with Billie on one side and Mal on the other, up the steps to where Mother and Father still stood.
Look at you my baby girl. Mother said as she hugged me. I didn't expect you to be so big yet. I mean you're not really big, but it seems such a short time. It's flown by and I hardly notice the difference between you and when I was pregnant.
Perhaps it is because I have not been here. I suggested.
Maybe. Mother conceded. Let's get the greetings over with then you and Mal can get off to bed. She added before handing me on to Father who greeted me with a hug also, merely welcoming me, clearly saving his questions and observations for when I would be more responsive.
With these smallest of greetings out of the way Mal and I climbed the stairs to my old room. It had that slight smell of a room that hadn't been occupied for a while, but the skylight had been opened to allow a little fresh air in and the bedding was freshly laundered. I would have to remember to thank Father in the morning.
"How are you feeling now?" Mal asked once we were within the room.
"As if I am experiencing the world through several layers of gauze." I replied. "I will feel better once I sleep. I would like a bath, but I think I will settle for a shower for the time being."
"Well do you want to go and shower? I'll jump in after you. I'm a little peckish so I'm going to grab a sandwich. Do you want anything?"
"I feel too tired to attempt food at present." I stated warily.
"Are you sure? How about a cup of tea?" He coaxed.
"Yes. A cup of tea." I agreed for that thought did hold appeal. "A cup of tea would be ideal."
"Then I'll go sort that while you shower." Mal replied and he kissed my head.
As he was about to leave I felt that perhaps I could eat something, even if it was a tiny morsel.
"I think I will have a sandwich, just a small one." I stated.
"I'll sort that too." Mal replied, and stroked my cheek before heading to the door.
I went into the bathroom and turned on the shower, enjoying the fact that it was a shower I could merely step into. It was proof, if I needed anymore, that should we decide to take up a more permanent residence in Hafod Uchaf then we would have to invest in a proper shower. It was so much more convenient than having to step over the side of the tub and watching ones footing whilst trying to wash at the same time.
The shower roused me enough that I felt able to settle to sleep without wallowing in the haze that had overcome me. In that state of being overtired sleep may have been hard to find. Now I was feeling more relaxed and less travel wary. A nice cup of tea was just the thing to help soothe me the rest of the way to sleep.
Mal was waiting with my tea and sandwich when I stepped into the room.
"Thank you." I said with a feeling of immense gratitude.
Never had a cup of tea and a simple ham sandwich meant so much to me. Truly it seemed the greatest gift imaginable. I felt my heart swell and tears prick the corner of my eyes when I saw that Mal had also sliced an apple and arranged it on a small plate next to the sandwich.
"This is truly wonderful." I added as I hugged him.
"It's only a sandwich." He replied.
"Yes. But it shows how deeply you must love me that you would provide me with food when you are as tired and travel worn as I." I said, speaking into his chest as I held around him, and I didn't mind in the least that the scents of the plane clung to him for his scent overpowered it all and it mattered not.
"Did you doubt that I did?" Mal asked, teasing slightly.
"No." I said blissfully. "I just like little gestures."
"You know I'd do anything for you." He observed solemnly.
"Yes." I replied, still holding him and feeling so at peace that I could have slept there in that spot, still standing for it didn't feel as if I was standing. I felt as if I were floating.
"Liza?" Mal said carefully.
"Mmmmh?" I replied because I was unable to recall how to fully operate my vocal cords in that moment.
"Want me to put you on the bed before I go to shower?" Mal whispered.
I opened my eyes and stepped away enough to look up at him.
"How inconsiderate of me. Of course you must be uncomfortable still in those clothes you have worn since we set out yesterday. Now I do not eat the sandwich and drink the tea I requested. It is wrong for me to do so. You must shower while I eat and then we will retire to bed." I stated.
"Liza, you're not being inconsiderate. It was a long flight and you're exhausted. You just seemed so peaceful I'd rather you go to sleep if you want that." Mal observed.
"No. I wish to eat and drink my tea and settle to sleep with you near me."
"Ok." Mal said, and kissed my forehead. "I won't be long I promise."
"Thank you." I replied and encouraged his face down to mine so I could kiss him before I let him go to the bathroom.
I then sat next to my old desk and ate the sandwich and apple pieces between sips of tea. It turned out to be the right light morsel I needed before settling to sleep. I went to clean my teeth once I had finished, Mal was in the shower but it mattered not, we're a married couple and he possesses nothing I have yet to see.
Mal stepped out of the shower and began wiping and dressing as I cleaned my teeth over the sink. I watched my darling husband in the mirror as he wiped his hair vigorously with a towel in an effort to remove most of the damp. It buoyed my mood considerably and despite still needing sleep, the fatigue of travel that had left me in a very bad mood was well and truly lifted.
I swilled out my mouth with Listerine before turning to Mal and ducking below his towel to kiss him. He let out a small laugh as he dropped the towel and it remained shrouding us both in damp shadow as he placed his arms about me and kissed me in return. It was an intense moment and I felt myself swoon slightly, although I didn't succumb to the darkness that beckoned. I merely pulled away from him, reaching up to take the corner of the towel so I could pull it from both of us.
"We should sleep now." I observed as I folded up the towel and placed it in the laundry basket.
"Yes." Mal agreed, taking my hand and we returned to the bedroom.
I climbed into that old bed of mine, moving over to the wall. It was so strange to be near the wall once more when everywhere else our bed was accessible from both sides. I was certain that we could rearrange the room so that the bed was no longer by the wall. The reason I had placed it here was no longer applicable. Tony was no longer in the other room; besides, we were both adults now, no longer in need of that reassurance that the other was mere feet away.
I lay with my back to the wall at first, waiting for Mal to join me. He climbed in and I snuggled up to him, savouring a goodnight kiss for longer than was necessary. If it were not for the fact that I really needed the sleep and I was unsure if Father had reinstated the polite ignorance principle I would have liked to have gone further. Instead I broke from the kiss with great reluctance and trailed a few kisses up to Mal's ear before I turned about and allowed him to pull me into his chest.
I noted something that I had been aware of for a while now without being fully conscious of the fact. When we slept Mal's arm no longer lay over me loosely or else around about my waist, resting just below my breasts. Now his hand rested upon my bump and I was certain he could feel every tiny heartbeat of our mab as we slept. I would have to ask him in the morning, but for the time being I required sleep and I soon found it in the comfort of Mal's arms.
I was refreshed from my sleep when I awoke the next morning, even though it was only six when I awoke. It was early but I was thankful that I was able to sleep for several hours and I hadn't woken up after only an hour or so. Mal awoke the same time as I. I found that as my pregnancy grew this had become a regular occurrence; he did worry so that I would injure myself in some manner and he would not be there to help me.
"I need the toilet." I whispered.
"And you're getting up." Mal said, sat up and wide awake.
"You do not have to tend to me at every moment I am awake." I assured him. "I am capable of using the bathroom on my own."
"I know. But I should get up. It just wouldn't be right for me to still be in bed when my pregnant wife is up and moving."
"You are so considerate." I said, and kissed him. "But I really must wee. I think our dear son is lying on my bladder."
"I'll let you go do that." Mal said.
"I will. Then I will shower and you can shower while I dry my hair. We will go down to breakfast together. I am keen to see what the others have planned for today. If there is nothing extravagant then the first thing I shall do is swim. Will it not be a delight to have a pool to ourselves once more?" I asked, stopping near the bed to say this.
"It will be." Mal agreed.
I paused a moment longer before I felt the call of nature. Without another word I went into the bathroom to relieve myself. I showered afterwards, but had to pull on my old bathrobe because I had neglected to take clean clothes with me. The robe had very little give, and although the top half fit around me, if a little snugly about the breasts, it would not accommodate my bump. I had to place a bath towel about my waist for the sake of decency before I stepped out into the bedroom.
Mal said nothing of my apparel, for which I was thankful. He merely went to use the bathroom while I manoeuvred my suitcase up onto the bed. It made me feel breathless for a moment and I felt a slight twinge of pain deep in my abdomen, but after pausing a moment to regain my breath it abated.
I opened up the suitcase and took out some underwear, nice soft, comfortable cotton. My clothing was all maternity wear now. Mal had said that I need not fear forgetting any clothing for we had everything we might need here at Tregarran. As true as that statement was, he had forgot one little fact, I would be hard pressed to find any of my clothes that would fit me at the moment since I tended toward fitted garments. Perhaps I could have made do with the sweatpants I used to wear for cheerleading, but even then it would have been a stretch.
I pulled on a dress before sitting down at my dressing table and styling my hair. It felt good to be me again, to not be that befuddled creature lost in a mist that had alighted from the plane the night before. Mal emerged from the bathroom fully dressed by the time I had finished my hair. I packed away the clothes from my suitcase while Mal took barely five minuets to dry and style his hair. Sometimes I envied that, to be able to merely run a brush through ones hair, blast it with the dryer and be done.
As I was moving my now empty suitcase from the bed I felt a twinge once more and I paused a moment with a sharp intake of breath.
"What's wrong?" Mal asked, suddenly by my side, his hands ready to support me.
"It is nothing." I assured him. "I should imagine it is nothing more than Braxton Hicks."
"How can you be sure?" Mal asked.
"Please, do not worry." I soothed, moving my hand up to stroke his cheek now the moment had passed. "Did Dr Trellis not mention that we should expect this at the last check up?"
"Yeah." Mal conceded.
"Then please stop worrying." I said.
Mal nodded.
"We will talk to Carlisle if it makes you feel better, but if I thought it was anything more sinister then you will not need to panic for I will be doing enough for both of us." I stated vehemently for I knew it to be true.
"I believe you." Mal said softly and he took me in his arms. "I'm just so anxious right now. I don't think I'll be able to go back to work."
"You will." I replied. "You gave your word that you would see out the rest of your tenure, I will not have you break that."
"But you could…" Mal began.
"Don't say it." I cut him off placing my fingers to his lips. "It would be bad for mab to be born so soon and I do not wish to tempt fate. Now let us stop this silliness and go downstairs for breakfast. I have much to make up for my less than amicable disposition last night."
I was certain Mal wished to argue further, but he took a deep breath and let it go before saying, "Ok."
I smiled at him and gave him a quick peck before we left the room and travelled down to the kitchen together via the north staircase. Father was preparing breakfast when we entered, lost in a culinary world of his own as he created that which he would serve. He turned from the stove where he'd been heating something to find us standing in the doorway.
"Vela, you are looking well this morning." He said and came to greet me with a hug. "You too Malachite, you both look wonderful."
"Father, you are awfully cheery this morning." I said suspiciously.
"The truth my dear?" He asked.
"That would be preferable Father." I replied.
"I am feeling immensely relieved to have you both back here safe and sound. You are no longer on the Volturi boundary where we cannot hope to help if something were to happen." He stated.
"Why would the Volturi bother with a small farm in Wales?" I scoffed.
"They found it before." Father said, careful to avoid Mal's eye.
"Therefore they would think us fools to return there. Besides, we broke no rules, they have no reason to hound us." I stated firmly.
"They would find one." Father replied.
"And risk war with the new nation of vampires who outnumber them greatly and would be a match regardless if only those with powers turned up to face them?" I asked.
Father nodded, then placed his hands to my cheeks.
"I am a father Vela, am I not allowed to worry about the welfare of my pregnant daughter when she is so far away from home?" He asked softly.
"Worry is all well and good, provided it is merely worry of the mundane." I stated.
"Regardless of what caused my worry you are returned to us." Father said, placing his hands down to my shoulders. "Both of you." He added, moving his right hand to Mal's arm. "Is that not reason enough to engender a buoyant mood in this old man?"
"It is Father." I replied and kissed his cheek. "Are you making breakfast?"
"Yes. Everyone else is waiting up in the dining room." Father answered as he indicated the room above our heads.
"Everyone else?" Mal asked.
"Essie and Billie of course, along with the Cullens. They are here for Christmas." Father explained.
"Then we should go up and say hello." I said, taking Mal's hand and leading him off to the south staircase to ascend to the dining room.
I felt the thrill of being a child once more knowing that all my family was here for Christmas, well the vampire side of my family. I was bounding up the stairs and happy as can be, despite the fact that I had the odd moment of short breath. It was nothing to worry about, only to be expected as mab took up more room in my abdomen. I would feel some relief once he turned to position, but for the time being the shortness of breath wasn't too taxing. I must have my dhampir nature to thank for that.
I paused before going through the door, long enough to regain the composure of my breath. I knew everyone in the room could judge the measure of my breath through the door, but if I made it clear I did not wish them to make a fuss about this symptom that was only to be expected then I was certain that they would not mention it. I hoped they would not mention it and possibly Mother was briefing them at that very moment with her telepathic skills.
When I entered the room there was only Mother and Billie present.
"I thought the family was here." I observed.
"They are." Mother replied. "But they stepped out for while so we can eat breakfast."
"I see." I observed, and then something about Billie's appearance suddenly registered and I felt myself scrutinising her with a frown. "Why is your hair black?"
"Oh." She said, running it through her very dark locks. "Kinda had a mix up with some hair dye. It said it was wash-in wash-out, but six washes later and it's still stuck in."
"Why did you dye your hair in the first place?" Mal asked.
"Well, I was in the school play and I was Snow White, so…" She indicated the raven hair.
"Why did you not wear a wig?" I asked.
"Because it was just too damn itchy, and there was too much movement involved, I had visions of it flying off into the audience. It was crazy, it happened in dress rehearsal. So that night I got the what was supposed to wash out after three washes dye and it is still in my damn hair. Do you have any suggestions sister?" She finished, fluttering her eyelashes at me teasingly.
"I never had the inclination to dye my hair." I replied. "Most colour stripping remedies tend to discolour the hair, to lighten it, sometimes bleach it."
"Oh god no." Billie said looking horrified.
"Hey, I know this is gonna sound weird coming from me, but I once heard Anwen tell one of her friends not use Head and Shoulders after she just died her hair cause it takes the colour away. Maybe that will work." Mal said with a shrug.
"It's worth a try." Mother replied. "So Billie's new hairstyle aside, why don't you sit down and tell me all about how it's been going. I mean look at you, and this little guy." Mother placed her hand to my bump. "Such a strong little mind for a human baby."
"Do you think that means…" Billie began and it didn't escape my notice that Mal shook his head for her to stop.
"Just means he's gonna be a little genius." Mother said with a smile, her hand still on my bump. "Yeah." She added thoughtfully, before looking up suddenly and completely changing the subject. "So how was the flight?" She asked, indicating the chairs for us to sit down.
We sat down at one end of the table where the breakfast things had been set out ready for when Father had prepared breakfast. I was looking forward to eating something more substantial than what had been available to us on the plane. If I had not been so foggy I would have had a big meal as soon as I had arrived at Tregarran. But last night sleep had seemed more urgent but now I could eat how I truly wanted.
"The flight was ok." Mal was answering Mother and I realised my mind had wandered slightly in the moment I had sat down. "But it's just so long."
"And warm." I added. "It seemed ridiculously warm on the plane. Even with the fan turned up to full it was stifling. There was no fresh air and I know that is mostly true of planes, but I have never made note of it so much as travelling over here on that particular flight."
"That sounds awful." Billie observed. "I hate to be too warm. It's just so uncomfortable."
"Yes." I agreed. "I am happy never to have to set foot on a plane until after mab is born."
"So you still haven't decided on a name yet?" Billie asked.
"We've agreed on the names we don't want." Mal stated. "But we haven't found anything that we like yet. We might just do like Essie and wait until we see him."
"Well it worked out fine for me." Mother said as she ruffled Billie's hair, and then looked at her palm. "Well it is coming out, just over everything."
"I know. I had to sneak my pillowcase into the wash without Dad noticing." Billie said.
"I did wonder why you had suddenly taken to doing the laundry for the first time ever." Father said lightly as he laid some salvers onto the table before walking over to the dumbwaiter and pressing the call button. "I wish you had merely told me dearest one, I could have assessed the stain and used the right detergent to remove it."
"It's ok Dad, I just shoved a load of bleach in with the wash." Billie said with a shrug.
"You have had new sheets?" I asked.
"No." Billie replied.
"Are your pillowcases not red?" I observed.
"Yeah." Billie said, and then she seemed to realise what I was referring to and her face fell into a grimace of apology. "Oops."
"Surely you have more sense than that Wilhelmina Black." Father said in exasperation.
"Yeah, well I was hoping to sort it out myself before anyone else noticed." Billie grumbled.
"You should have just told me Billie." Father said firmly, but then he sighed. "I guess there is little we can do about it now. I suppose it is a blessing we have spare linen."
"But you know it might make some interesting patterns." Billie observed.
"Well the pillowcase will have to go for scrap so you may do with them as you wish." Father replied. "However the replacements will have to come out of your allowance."
"Mom?" Billie asked hopefully.
"Your Dad's right Baby, you need to learn the value of money and this is the best way to do it." Mother replied. "You should have just fessed up straight away, we might have been able to save it, and if not, well the dye was an accident."
"I understand." Billie said with a sad sigh. "I don't suppose anyone bought me some for Christmas?"
"You would still be fined." Father stated.
"Dang." Billie said grouchily and folded her arms, scowling for a moment before she brightened up. "So what's for breakfast?"
"Since I was certain Liza and Mal would have eaten very little over the last day or two due to travelling I have made a morning banquet." Father stated.
"Good. Cause I'm starved." Mother said taking the lid off a plate stacked with pancakes.
"Oh I have missed these." I said, reaching out my fork and managing to skewer two to transfer to my plate. "Is there bacon?"
"Yeah." Billie sang, lifting another lid. "And blueberry muffins. We haven't had breakfast like this in ages."
"It is a special occasion." Father said as he took a seat next to Mother.
"I don't care what it is, I'm ready to enjoy." Billie replied, filling her plate as she took a bite of a muffin. "Still warm." She mused with her mouth full.
"Delicious." I agreed. "But are there any apples?"
"In the fruit bowl." Father said and he went to retrieve it from the sideboard.
"Perfect." I said happily as I took an apple from the bowl and bit into it, eating it along with a piece of pancake. "What is there to drink?"
"Tea and juice."
"Oh, any ice? I would very much like some ice." I said hopefully.
"I'll go get it." Mal said. "You want me to put it in water?"
"A bowl of ice will suffice." I said with a smile.
"Do you want me to crush it for you?" Mal asked as he kissed my head.
"Surprise me." I replied, and stroked his hand as he smiled before leaving the room.
"Ice?" Mother asked.
"I like ice." I remarked as I bit into my apple once more.
"Just plain ice?" Billie asked with a frown. "Not like in a slushy?"
"Oh I don't mind a little flavouring, it does give one a little variety, but if all else fails then I have no qualms with eating ice straight from the tray. Or the dispenser as the case may be here, I missed that feature on our little freezer at Hafod Uchaf." I mused.
"But why?" Billie asked.
"Because our fridge here is automatic and makes ice as soon as some is dispensed. On the farm we had to ensure there were enough trays placed in the freezer and then it was sometimes difficult to get the ice out I'd oft be tempted to merely scrape the frost from the sides of the ice box itself." I explained.
"I meant what's with all the ice?" Billie clarified.
"I suppose one could conceded that it is a craving of mine." I said with a shrug as I broke off a piece of pancake with my fork and placed it in my mouth.
"Well I promise I'll buy you a big massive slushy if we go into town at some point." Billie observed.
"Thank you sister. It will mean a great deal to me." I stated as I gave her hand a gentle squeeze of gratitude.
"Of course that depends on whether Bobby-Bobbit put the machine on." Billie said with a scowl.
"You have a problem with Bob?" I asked with surprise.
"He keeps treating me like a kid or acting all, nudge-nudge wink-wink they are so clueless about everything, to me in front of my school friends. It's embarrassing, for him I mean. Doesn't he know how to act in front of the normals?" Billie complained.
"It must be frustrating." I stated. "But you must consider the fact that Bob has had his little theories throughout his life. When we were in school he was adamant that there was a government cover up over anything you could imagine. Now having one of his theories proven correct and to actually be allowed on the inside of said 'conspiracy' is a joy for him. The novelty will soon wear off I'm sure."
"Well I'm not." Billie grouched.
"Perhaps I should have a word with him." I offered.
Billie shook her head.
"It probably won't make a difference." She said with a sigh. "Some people just don't know how to handle a secret."
Mal returned with my ice and Billie laughed as I put a whole cube in my mouth and began to crunch.
"You will have a baby one day." I stated. "And then I will return the favour by laughing at your strange cravings."
Billie shrugged.
"Won't be half as funny as watching you chew ice." She said with a chuckle.
"Enough Billie." Father said sharply before I could retaliate. "Do you think we could perhaps steer this conversation toward something else?"
We all agreed with Father.
"Good, then perhaps we could discuss what you plan to do today?" He directed toward Mal and I.
"We were going to ask you the same thing." Mal replied.
"There is nothing definite planned." Father stated.
"We thought we'd see what you wanted to do." Mother added. "It is a few days before Christmas. We didn't know if you want to go shopping or whatever."
"I purchased all our gifts before we came over." I said. "In fact I bought them all in November."
"Now that is organising." Billie said with a nod.
"It was boredom." I replied. "I tried to fill my days with activities, but there is only so much one can do without work to attend. I was in Cardiff one day and decided it was the best time to purchase the Christmas gifts. It would save me having to fight my way through the hoards whilst trying to protect my bump."
"Yeah." Billie agreed.
"If there is nothing planned for today then I would very much like to go swimming." I stated.
"Course you can." Mother replied. "That's what the pool is for. You want an hour to yourself in there?"
"I would not be so rude as to hog the pool all to myself." I replied.
"But the other's will understand if you're using it for your exercises." Mother stated.
"I will be happy either way." I observed.
"How about we give you half hour before anyone joins you?" Mother suggested.
"That sounds like the best option." I conceded.
After breakfast I spent a little time with the rest of the family, it would have been rude to neglect them. It turned out to be a blessing to have them all in one room because they had questions about my well being and how the pregnancy was progressing, if I had cravings, had we thought of name… mostly it was the same questions Mother, Father and Billie had already asked. I was certain they would have come to ask me individually and thus I avoided conversational déjà vu, with my vampire family at least, over the next few days I did find myself in a repeat of the conversation when others came to visit me.
Once we had spent some time with the Cullens, Mal and I went up to change into our swimming costumes before we went down to use the pool. We swam a few lengths of the pool to warm up before I went through one of the shorter routines. Mal joined me in a somewhat amused fashion, this was the first time he had seen me perform these exercises due to the fact that he had always been in work during my sessions at the leisure centre.
We had finished the routine by the time Billie came running into the poolroom and bombed into the deep end. The splash was enormous, reaching Mal and I at the shallow end. She surfaced near me and grinned.
"An eight point nine." I stated.
"Only eight point nine?" She complained.
"Yes. The splash was nowhere near big enough." I replied.
"You want a bigger splash?" She prompted, moving as if to swim to the side.
"No." I said firmly. "I would much rather you swim with me."
"Ok. I was only jumping in anyway. It's been ages since we've been swimming together." She observed.
"It has." I replied.
"It's nice to be able to swim and not have to worry about people cutting across your lane." Mal mused when we were half way to the deep end.
"People do that a lot?" Billie asked as we did a gentle breaststroke across the pool.
"Didn't you notice when you went swimming?" I asked.
"Well no." Billie replied. "But I think maybe that's cause nobody was really swimming. We were messing about with the floats."
"I always wanted to try that, but by the time I returned to the farm I couldn't get away with being a kid." Mal stated.
"That's sad." Billie said. "Did you want to be a kid?"
"Well not really, as far as I was concerned I was fully grown. But there were a few things I wish I'd got the chance to do." He said with wistful regret.
"Would you go back to pretending to be younger?" Billie asked.
"Already tried that and look where it landed me? Married with a kid on the way." Mal joked.
"And it won't be long before he gets here." Billie enthused. "Two months right?"
"It is closer to two and a half months." I stated. "But come February he should be on his way."
"It'll be cool to have a nephew as well as a niece." Billie mused. "Do you think it'll take him long to be able to come play out in the garden?"
"I think he would have to be at least a year old before he could do that, and even then it would most likely be sitting on a play mat." I replied.
"Oh." Billie said, sounding a little disappointed.
"He is human Billie you must remember that. He will age as Kyelax ages." I reminded her.
"Oh yeah." Billie said with a little frown. "She's only now just started to walk properly. She was all tottering around, mostly holding onto furniture. She can just about stay on her feet across the room now. She's not ready to go tromping through the trees down to the fort with the rest of us kids."
"Us kids? So you are a kid now?" I teased.
"Well I'm the babysitter." Billie said with a grin. "I make sure Devon, Mags and Morry don't get into trouble."
"Is Ebony aware that you call Maurice, Morry?" I asked, knowing Ebony's disdain for this shortening.
"Ain't nothing she can do about it." Billie said unabashed. "It's only what people will do when he starts school anyway."
"Yes, but you are his cousin and you should respect your aunt's wishes." I chastised.
"Like everyone respected Bella's wishes to keep Renesmee's name full, that lasted long by all accounts. Weren't they already calling her Nessie by the time Bella got up as a vampire?" Billie observed.
"In that instance Grandmother hadn't the time to state her wishes and things had deteriorated before she could enforce them." I countered.
"Anyway, Morry's like Mom, he prefers his short form name to his old fashioned full name." Billie stated. "Kinda like me too, and when was the last time you went by Elizabeth when it wasn't for something formal? The only person I can think of who would call you Elizabeth as a regular thing would be Dad, but he calls you Vela after our grandma."
"But Elizabeth is longer than Maurice." I stated.
"Yeah, but truth is, Morry thinks it sounds pretentious. I know Ebony is French but he has said about how he's not French so why should he have a French name? I told him he should embrace it and embrace his culture but he's all a bit meh about it. I think he might be more interested when he's older, but right now he's just meh." Billie explained.
"Has he spoken to Ebony about this?" I asked with concern.
"No. He's worried that she'll think he doesn't like her heritage. But all he wants to be is an American kid, and it's not like Ebony is especially French. Yeah she speaks it, but so do we."
"Yeah." Mal said. "That is a point. But I don't think Ebony wants him to be French, just to respect his French heritage."
"I did tell him that, but he's going through a difficult time right now. I would say he's a moody teenager, but technically he's only seven. Damn the over developed dhampir brain I guess." Billie rambled on.
"It can have its downsides." I conceded.
"Anyway, we should talk about other things." Billie said. "How is everyone back in Wales?"
"Arwel is doing fine." Mal said with a chuckle.
"Well that's good, how about Mair and Bryn." Billie asked in a sober voice, determined not to be teased.
"They're good too." I replied.
"That's nice." Billie observed.
"I thought you were keeping correspondence with Arwel." I ventured in case there had been a development I was not privy to.
"Yeah. But I don't tell him everything so I don't expect him to tell me everything." Billie stated. "Is there any shocking news I should know?"
"None that comes to mind at present." I replied.
"Oh well if you remember anything just tell me."
"Is there anything you want to know specifically?" I asked.
"Um…did he really cut his hair?" She asked somewhat reluctantly.
"Yes." I confirmed.
"So what colour is his hair really?"
"It's hard to tell for he is always wearing a hat whenever I see him." I stated.
"Same with me." Mal added.
"Oh well, I guess it doesn't really matter what his exact hair colour is. Anything's got to be better than fire engine red. It just looked so fake and didn't suit his earthy farmery-ness." Billie said in a matter of fact way.
"I see." I replied.
"Oh now you're gonna take it as some sign that I fancy him or something, but I just want him to be happy in his life and he likes nothing more than being a farmer. The red hair just didn't seem to fit in with that aesthetic."
I had no idea how to reply to that, but I was starting to tire of swimming, I had been keeping a steady stroke for a full ten minuets and my muscles were feeling loose, especially after the workout beforehand. It was partly exacerbated by the fact that my lungs were the merest bit restricted at the moment and I wasn't getting the sufficient amount of air I needed. This was perplexing in itself given the fact that under normal circumstances I could hold my breath for up to half an hour should I require it. It was due to my pregnancy, perhaps it was similar to those odd instances when I did not heal as quickly as I had come to expect from my body. Possibly I would need to hunt. Again. It had been but three days at the most since I had hunted last, but the flight had taken a lot out of me. I would have to determine how I felt later as to whether I would need to hunt this evening.
It mattered not whether I would choose to hunt or not, I merely knew in that moment that I wished to leave the pool. Billie complained at first for she had only now joined us. I apologised, but I could not continue with swimming that day. However I promised her that she could join me tomorrow for my morning exercises provided she agreed to do them with me, and not mess about in the pool.
Billie agreed and decided that she would leave the pool too. If I was feeling so inactive perhaps we should do a more sedate activity such as watch a movie. There was one she wished me to view. I saw no harm in this and therefore I agreed to this, although I stipulated I would be at least an hour while I bathed and dried my hair.
Mal was hovering about me as I climbed out of the pool having to use the steps for possibly the first time, I usually hoisted myself onto the side, but it would be hard to do so with my bump. I kept my swimming cap on as I patted off the excess water and pulled on my bathrobe. Mal had pulled on his own robe beside me and he kept a steadying hand on my waist as we walked back across the wet tiles. I would have joked about him helping me, stressing there was no need to, but my feet slid at least twice. I concluded that I was low on blood, I really would have to feed if not this evening then tomorrow morning at the latest.
I waited until we were up in our bathroom and I was sitting on the side of the bath waiting for it to fill when I broached the subject with Mal.
"Of course we'll go tonight." Mal replied. "Better to be safe than sorry. It's better if you're over cautious than to put it off and something happens."
I nodded, testing the water a moment before I spoke again.
"I will have to ask Granny Ness for advice. I know that Mother required blood every day during her pregnancies, but we were dhampir, we required the extra nutrients that were gained through that. However it may be true of all dhampir mothers regardless of the species of their unborn child. That is why I must ask Granny Ness if she developed a deeper thirst as she got into the last trimester. I must also ask her when she stopped hunting, I fear I may have to rely on you soon, if only to bring the prey down for me so that I may feed."
"If that's what I have to do then that's what I'll do." Mal said and kissed my forehead. "So, are we getting into this bath?"
"I am getting into this bath." I stated. "I wish to relax at the moment, I need to feel some relief."
"Ok. I'll shower instead." He said with a nod. "At the same time."
"That will be perfect." I replied, and gave him a smile before I climbed to my feet and went to fetch my underwear to put on beneath my dressing gown.
Mal was clearly waiting to see if I required a helping hand to get into the tub, I was not at that stage yet, but in a few more weeks I was certain it might be necessary. I still took his hand a moment before I climbed into the delightfully warm water and sank into the bubbly heaven that would soothe me somewhat; warm my bones perhaps and definitely make me feel more alert.
Mal turned on the shower before climbing in and began washing the chlorine from his hair. I washed my own hair; although it was dry because of the shower cap it would be easier to style than if I left it to merely become damp in the steam of the bathroom. I stayed in the bath for half an hour, deriving as much pleasure as I could out of the comforting support the water offered me.
Once out and dressed I was beginning to feel a little energetic. I didn't feel as if I could run up a mountain, but the trip downstairs didn't feel like a daunting task for it meant climbing them again. Mal and I made our way down to the rec room where Billie was waiting for us, a tray of refreshments laid out on the coffee table. She was allowing her hair to dry naturally and now it had the strange appearance of being half wet and half dry, with bits sticking up here and there. The effect was added to by the fact that some of the dye had washed out and her natural colour was showing through in patches, I would have to do something about it tomorrow, perhaps if she washed it a few times in succession.
I said nothing of her hair for the time being, merely thanked her for thinking of the snacks. Billie beamed as she pointed to the pitcher of icy water. I poured myself a glass before picking up a bowl of popcorn and backed up onto the sofa.
I had just sunk into the sofa ready to enjoy the movie when I was aware of Tony's presence. If truth be told I'd been aware of his presence since I'd arrived at Tregarran but he'd been off somewhere to the north at the Stables. Now he was within the bounds of Tregarran and Magda was with him.
"Tony and Magda are here." I observed.
"Oh great." Billie said. "We'll have to leave this movie for later. I'll put something a little more child friendly in before Mags gets here."
With that Billie went to the cabinet and picked out Disney's Beauty and the Beast. The DVD had reached the title page when little running footsteps sounded in the passage and Magda came running into the room.
"Mags what have I told you about running in the house?" Tony called after her.
"Don't do it in front of Grandpa?" She asked, pausing to look back at the door as Tony entered.
"Not to." Tony corrected. "At all. It's dangerous."
"But Auntie Liza's here and I haven't seen her in forever." She said and then she turned to me with a huge smile on her face. "How are you Auntie Liza?"
"I am good thank you Magda, and you?" I replied.
"I'm doing well. How about you Uncle Malachite? I learnt that was a stone, Momma showed me pictures on the 'puter." Magda observed.
"I'm doing great bach." Mal replied.
Magda nodded and then came up to me, eyeing me carefully.
"You're different from before." She said, scrutinising me. "You're tummy is bigger."
"Remember I told you Auntie Liza has a baby in her tummy?" Billie asked.
"Yeah." Magda replied.
"Well he's bigger now." Billie explained.
Magda came up to me and placed her hands to my bump.
"Yes he is." She said, frowning slightly before placing her ear to my bump. "I can hear him now." She whispered. "I can hear him in my mind. He can hear me too. He doesn't know though, but he can hear. And he can't remember being eaten. He doesn't even know what eating is."
"Eaten?" I asked.
"Well that's how things get in your tummy, you eat them." Magda said with authority as she stepped back and gave me a firm nod.
Billie stifled a giggle, putting her hand over her mouth. Tony gave her an annoyed look before he picked Magda up off the floor and pretended to gobble her up, sending her into a fit of giggles. It was obviously an attempt to change her train of thought and although she was dhampir she was still at a young enough age to have her mind diverted.
"Now Mags, I think they were all gonna watch Beauty and the Beast. You wanna watch?" Tony asked as he set her the right way up in his arms.
"I've never seen that." Magda said. "Ok."
Tony sat down on the sofa, putting Magda in-between him and Billie since she was sitting next to me.
"Do you want to press play?" Billie asked as she passed the controller to Magda.
"Thank you Auntie Billie." She said and she pressed the play button and the movie began.
How's everything going? Tony asked.
It is going well. I replied without taking my eyes off the screen as the prequel unfolded in the stained glass of the castle. I feel better now that I am returned to Tregarran, but also somewhat saddened to be leaving the farm. I have made some friends there.
You'll see them again. Tony said.
Yes I know. You and Grace must come visit with us, even if we go there only on vacation you should come too. I stated.
"He just fursploded like you Daddy." Magda giggled.
"Yeah." Tony said with a chuckle.
Magda too of course. I stated.
Like there's any doubt about that. Tony replied. Anyway Magda wants to see all the animals Billie told her about.
We only have sheep. I replied. The other animals belong to our neighbours. Billie was helping them.
"I like this song." Magda observed. "Can you put the words up Auntie Billie?"
"Hang on." Billie said, going into the audio menu and selecting the sing-along feature before resuming the movie.
Billie and Magda began to sing along, Billie allowing Magda to be Belle while she did the rest of the town folk and Gaston.
You get on well with your neighbours? Tony asked.
Yes. They are pleasant people and I am certain they'd have no problem with Magda seeing their animals. By the summer she will look old enough to help with the less taxing farm chores so I've no doubt they'll allow her to muck in. I replied.
She'd like that. She's been asking for a pony you know? Grace is considering it, but you know me and horses, they really don't like me. Tony said with a shudder.
You are basing this on one incident as a child visiting a petting zoo. I stated. It is hardly proof positive. Do you not need to experiment a few more times before you are absolutely sure?
How am I supposed to do that? Tony asked.
I believe Grace knows people who own a stable? I remarked.
Well yeah, but that's just part of the worry. Tony admitted.
What is the other part? I prompted after a moment where it appeared he would not answer.
Well that's just it Sis, you're gonna laugh when I tell you. Tony said, clearly embarrassed.
Try me Tony. I said, in no mood for guessing games, or for the embarrassment of my twin, he knew he could tell me anything.
What happens if Mags gets hungry, you know when the thirst really grinds, and she ends up drinking the pony? Tony asked.
Then you will console her. I stated.
How do you help a kid through killing their own pet? Tony asked.
I have no idea, but could one not look upon it as if she were a human child who accidentally killed a goldfish through over feeding or some such? I suggested.
I guess we could give her that leniency considering she's a dhampir, but a pony is a damned site harder to get rid of than a gold fish. Tony observed.
It would be difficult to flush it down the toilet. I conceded.
Oh thanks for that image Eliza! Tony growled sarcastically as he saw horse legs swirling around inside a toilet bowl.
And thank you for that image Tony dearest. I replied darkly. I doubt I should remove that with copious amounts of mind bleach.
Maybe you should try toilet duck instead. Tony joked.
Very funny! I said witheringly as I turned to give him a look.
Of course you'd know the best product to use… He continued with all the perseverance present in our childhood squabbles.
I am warning you Tony, pregnant or not I will still best you. I warned.
Don't you be teaching your niece bad manners. Tony retorted. I don't want her growing up thinking fighting is the only way to solve a disagreement.
I raised my eyebrow for a moment, and then smiled.
Truce? I suggested.
Truce. Tony agreed.
Suddenly there was a change in atmosphere within the room. Magda had been watching the film in a state of wonder, even when Maurice entered the dark forest. She was entirely wrapt by the scene unfolding. The first sign of bother was when the wolves appeared, stalking the old man and horse.
"They're going to help him right?" Magda asked. "Wolves are our fr…" She broke off and let out a cry of despair as the wolves began to lunge. "No, no, no." She said, jumping to her feet and rubbing at the screen with her hands as if she could wipe the image from the TV. "It's wrong. It's wrong. Turn it off."
"It's ok the bad wolves are gone now." Billie said, pointing at the screen where Maurice was now stumbling into the dark and foreboding castle.
"But the wolves were bad!" She gasped in despair, turning to us and there were tears running down her cheeks. "Daddy, why were those wolves so bad?"
Tony sighed before he reached out for Magda and pulled her up into his arms to cradle her against his shoulder where she was still sobbing. He was speaking to her with his mind, soothing her and I felt a pang of emotion as I watched my brother be a father. I reached for the tissue in my pocket and dabbed at the corner of my eye. It was such an amazing thing to see, so hard to comprehend that Tony was a father when it seemed like only yesterday we were sitting here arguing over the film we would watch first of a Saturday night. Tony was a father and I was soon to be a mother, the passage of time was marching on relentlessly and it was almost hard to fathom.
"Are you ok?" Billie asked, putting her hand on my arm as she looked at me with concern.
"What? Oh yes, yes I'm fine." I replied and blew my nose noisily. "Just hormones."
"Are you sure you're ok?" Billie asked.
I nodded and snuggled into Mal's shoulder as he tightened his arm about me.
"Are we continuing on with the movie?" I asked. "You are missing the magic talking furniture Magda."
Magda turned her face to me and frowned.
"Magic talking furniture?" She asked.
"Yes. Observe." I said and indicated the screen.
Magda stayed in the safety of her father's arms as she turned around enough to allow her to view the screen where Chip was giggling as Maurice's moustache tickled him.
"The cup laughed." Magda said, looking at the screen.
She became enthralled again ducking now and then behind Tony's arm when the scenes got particularly intense with Beast. She didn't like when the wolves appeared once more, but she just grumbled about bad press and Disney should show wolves in a better light, she would write a letter of complaint.
"I'll help you." Billie promised, tapping her arm.
Magda nodded and took hold of Billie's hand and didn't let go until the end of the movie. Once it had ended she straightened up and looked at the rolling credits.
"That movie was good, but would have been better without its discrimination about wolves." She observed. "Are there any movies with good wolves in?"
"The Jungle Book." Mal suggested.
"Can we watch that now?" Magda asked eagerly.
"If you want to." Tony said.
"Then if you will excuse us, Mal and I must prepare for a trip." I stated, rising to my feet.
"But you've only just got here." Billie complained.
"We will not be gone long." I promised.
"Well make sure you're not." Billie said with a nod of her head.
I nodded then said my goodbyes to my siblings and my niece. Mal and I went up to the bedroom where I began to pack an over night bag with the little we would truly need for we planned to travel home as soon as possible.
After saying goodbye to Mother and Father we left in Mal's old jeep, which now had a place in the Tregarran garage. We didn't travel far, merely to the Capital State Forest where we knew of a perfect little spot where we could hunt undetected by humans.
I required that level of caution, I found it hard to run at first, I really had to let go of everything human within me and concentrate on the essence of the vampire within. Had I not brought down a good number of deer I shouldn't wonder if I would have passed out, however I felt bolstered after my first drink and I knew I had to drink more to keep up my supply.
Although I drank my fill of the first three deer I felled, rather awkwardly as I took them sideways to keep my growing baby safe, I knew it was best to stock up. Therefore my wonderful, darling Malachite helped me fell two more and we collected the blood in bottles should I need any over the next few days for the next few days was the Christmas period and it might prove difficult to get out to hunt.
It was early morning when we returned to Tregarran and the house was silent, in the deciding not to pry into the private matter of others way. Everybody was away with their significant other, the house seeming full of sleep otherwise. Mal and I made our way up to bed and settled in. I slept soundly, surprisingly soundly and it was nearly nine when I awoke the next day. That was as bad as arising at midday in my opinion. Especially given the fact I had promised Billie that she could do my pool exercises with me.
I did not bother with a shower before I made my way down to the pool, calling Billie along the way. It irked me that she was already in her swimming costume awaiting my arrival. I hated to keep others awaiting me. Of course Billie had no qualm with this, she was merely excited to be taking part in these exercises with me. It was rather fun and it became a regular occurrence for Billie and I leading up to the birth.
After swimming I showered, feeling there was no time for a bath, I was too hungry. Mal and I made our way down to breakfast in the kitchen once I was dressed. I prepared the breakfast, I wanted to even though Father had done so several hours previous. When I found a moment alone with Father I requested if I could prepare breakfast every morning. It was clear that he was worried I was taking on too much, but he agreed provided it was only when there was but Mother, Billie, Mal and I present, if visitors stayed then he would make breakfast. I agreed so long as those guests did not encompass Granny Ness and Grandpa Jake. Father was somewhat annoyed I had discovered his plan, but a promise was a promise and so breakfast duty fell to me, much to my delight.
It was a good thing Mal and I collected blood on that last hunting trip for I now required at least a glass-full every day. It seemed to take the edge off a gnawing hunger deep within that no ordinary food could suppress. I felt I needed blood daily, and this was something confirmed by Granny Ness, blood would be a daily supplement up until my little one was born.
Christmas passed without much to report. It seemed strange and empty without Tony in Tregarran upon Christmas morning, but it was Magda's first Christmas and I could understand why he and Grace would wish to spend the morning at least alone with her. They came for dinner, along with the local dhampir we knew and their partners. Granny Ness and Grandpa Jake did not attend; they would remain on the Res with Uncle Hunter, Olwen and Kyelax for Christmas and come to Tregarran for New Years. I had a fair idea that Granny Ness wished to do this and stay until my baby was born.
New Years Eve was as spectacular as always, Mal and I finding our accustomed spot upon the roof to watch the fireworks, although I will admit Mal had to help me clamber up to that point this year. There was no conceivable way for me to do so about my bump. It was a magical evening marred only by the fact that in three day's time Mal would have to board a plane and return to Wales to see out his contract. The thought was saddening and it was with a rather melancholy air that we ushered in 2088.
It set me into a dark mood and I was greatly depressed upon the morning of the third. My only consolation was to sit in the back of Mother's old Escalade, cwtched up as close to Mal as our seatbelts would allow, drinking in every moment of him before he had to return for the last two weeks of his contract.
"I could just not turn up." Mal whispered as he stroked my back.
"I know." I replied with a regretful sigh at the encouragement I was about to give. "But it would be wrong for you not to finish your contract there. After all, you need the reference. It will help you find a job here."
"I think I got enough chance of landing a job with or without a reference." Mal stated.
"That as may be, but I would be disappointed in my husband if he cannot keep his word." I observed.
"It'll be hell to be from you." Mal said sadly before kissing my forehead.
"Yes, but it is necessary. Finish out your contract and then return to me. You will have lost two weeks of the wait, after which there will be less than four weeks and we will have our son here with us. Here in our arms and we can hold him and cuddle him and smell him." I stated.
"God I hope this two weeks flies by." Mal said as if it was a deepest wish.
"Me too." I agreed. "It will not be long until we are together again."
I truly believed in that sentiment, even though I felt the butterflies in my stomach cluster and tighten as I waved goodbye to my Malachite. I would not feel happy or relaxed until he was back at my side. As he disappeared past security control I felt that longing wrench within me and I knew the next fortnight would be hellish slow.
Thank you for reading
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Gemma x
