Thank you to Robstenfanpire for being my beta on this story.

Sorry this is late. Life has been kicking my butt.

Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or any of the characters in Twilight. I'm just borrowing them to have some fun.

Chapter 36 – The Return to Forks

"How are you feeling this morning, Beautiful?" It's the following Monday morning and we're all safely back in Forks. Much to my relief. I've just stumbled downstairs, bleary eyed, with a splitting headache. I'm greeted in my kitchen by three already dressed children, tucking into eggs, bacon and toast, and a still bare chested movie star, sipping coffee, leaning back against the kitchen sink. It really is a sight to warm my heart, if I didn't feel so awful.

The journey home over the last five days had been long and, at times, immensely boring. But at other times it was magical. For example, when Edward insisted on us rolling down the windows as he turned up the radio and we all sang along at the top of our lungs to Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody, complete with head banging. The kids all gave me funny looks when I announced I felt like I was in Wayne's World, but Edward laughed and told me got the reference, even though he was only about three when the film came out. Talk about making me feel old!

Or when I'd fallen asleep in the back row of seats, only to be woken by the softest lips and a pair of gently hands fondling my breasts, the kids already having been let out the car and into the hotel room. Or when we played truth or dare and I learnt that Edward had cheated on one of his tests in high school, only to be found out and threatened with suspension. He explained to us how the shame of having to tell his mom was more then he could bear and he knew he'd never disappoint her that way again. The kids were shocked to learn that, although I'd never cheated on a test, I had occasionally copied someone's, normally Mike's, homework when I'd forgotten to do it. I warned them how disappointed I'd be in them if I caught them doing the same, and that it didn't do me any good in the long run as I then struggled with that part of the curriculum in the class tests.

We discussed the future, at least the kids did, with me deflecting whenever it got too close to mine Edward's personal future. Embry admitted he'd really like to take his music all the way but worried about not being good enough. Edward did his best to put his fears at rest. Jared bemoaned not having the faintest idea what he eventually wanted to do and I put his mind at rest that at nine, he really didn't need to. Kim listed six jobs she wanted to do, simultaneously. It included ballerina, vet, firefighter and knight. I suppose at six it's good to keep your options open, even if you need to go back to medieval England to achieve them.

By the end of the five days we all knew a lot more about each other, and I was really grateful to Edward for insisting on us all making the trip together. Not only had it been great not to actually have to do any of the driving, but, as always, I've loved just being in his company. We would shared little touches, hold hands across the seats, and stare looks and glances. I also won't deny that being able to snuggle up to his side at night was heaven, even if we had to be mindful of Kim sleeping in the other bed in the room with us. I'd wanted to keep a close eye on her while she slept, what with her recent injuries.

As for my fears. Well, Edward was right. Which was sickening to say the least. We hardly got any attention at all for the whole journey, and when we did it was usually just someone asking for his autograph or a quick picture, which he was usually happy to give. He politely asked them to be discreet about where we were, and most smiled and were charmed by him enough to agree. It would appear that smile doesn't only work on me.

After all our recent troubles though he insisted on us having security with us in the shape of Demetri, Felix and Alec. Sometimes the three of them would follow us in the second SUV, allowing us time as a family, only making their presence known when we stopped. At other times we would all split between the cars, allowing Edward a break from driving. The three of them did their job well; making me feel safe while keeping their presence discreet when needed. I don't know if it was their careful planning or just good luck, but we didn't come across any press on the whole journey. I'd been a little worried about getting out the hospital, especially after Edward confessed to me that there were several members of the press outside. But a careful plan to fool them was put into place. While we couldn't avoid them as we left we fooled them into thinking we would be staying at Edward's house. Edward employed extra security to keep them at bay as he helped me and Kim, who was encumbered by her broken leg, into his waiting car. Demetri then drove us back to Edward house, where the boys were waiting for us to leave in the SUV. The plan was for us to just pop in, load up the cars and leave. Relying on the blacked out windows to get us out the compound without anyone knowing it was us. As it turned out when I got to Edward's everyone was there to wish us well. What I thought was going to be a ten minute turnaround turned into a two hour catch up with Edward's closest friends and family, who were rapidly also becoming my close friends also.

Carlisle was obviously there and he told me his life would not be worth living if I didn't stay to talk to his wife, Esme, for a few minutes on Skype. I was glad, though, that I indulged him. She was so warm and welcoming. After ensuring Kim, I and the new baby were doing well, and apologizing that her work as a social worker had not allowed her to travel down to meet us on this occasion, she insisted on going through our calendars together to come up with a good time when she and Carlisle could come and visit us in Forks before my due date. She also let me know she had plans in place for when the baby arrived so she could come down and meet her new granddaughter. It was heartwarming to hear her enthusiasm and I was keen to meet this woman who was so important to Edward, but it did highlight my own mother's lack of enthusiasm, but I just pushed those emotions to the back of my mind as I appreciate the good wishes of my new extended family.

Those good wishes came in the form of Alice and Jasper, who insisted they would be seeing us in Forks as soon as they were able, and Rose and Emmett, who insisted on carrying Kim everywhere she wanted to go in his strong arms. She was delighted and insisted on him giving her the grand tour of Edward's house. She'd been lamenting the fact the boys had got to see it and she hadn't. The boys lead the way, showing her where they'd slept. Embry made a big show of opening up the music room and taking her around all Edward's instruments. It felt strange to see my sons so at home in this house where I'd never been with them, but it was good to see them so comfortable with Edward and his friends and I learnt that they'd spent a lot of time around there over the last few days entertaining my kids and keeping them from over thinking what was happening to their sister. A gesture that I really appreciated.

When it came time to leave I found goodbyes hard to do, even though I knew we had to get home. I hugged everyone and it was with a small tear in my eye that I made promises to call and text them often, especially keeping them all up to date on our road trip.

During the journey, I attempted to keep my legs elevated as much as possible, resting them across the back seats, often in Edward's lap, or Jared's if Edward was driving, much to my son's annoyance. At these times I'd let Embry ride shot gun and the two of them would get lost in their discussions on music. But even with these precautions my ankles had got bigger by the day and were feeling extremely uncomfortable by the time we hit Forks on the Sunday. My heartburn had also been playing up, so while everyone else had been enjoying eating different take outs and sampling local restaurants I'd been enjoying the blandest food, all washed down with a swill of Gaviscon.

I rub my chest, wondering where I put the Gaviscon bottle when we unpacked yesterday, as I look around at my family getting ready without me in the kitchen and smile. And then wince. "My head's pounding," I tell them.

Edward looks at me concerned. "You've got an appointment with Jess later today, don't you? Do you want me to take the kids into school while you relax and get ready?"

God, I love this man. "That would be great," I sigh, trying to convey my appreciation with my eyes, but I probably just come across as tired.

"It's my pleasure, Beautiful. Now sit down, put your feet up and I'll make you some food." As he talks he comes over and as I sink down into one chair he pulls another over and lifts my bulbous aching feet onto it. How anyone could find me attractive in this state is beyond me.

"Just plain toast, please."

"Not even butter?"

The thought of it is enough to make me rub my sternum again in anticipation of the heartburn the fat laden butter is likely to cause. The sooner this baby is out the better. Only six weeks to go.

"I'll take that as a no," Edward adds, obviously taking in my pained expression. He chuckles and comes over to plant a kiss at the top of my head.

"It's not funny. God, if men had babies I swear the human race would die out."

He chuckles again. "I'm sorry you're going through this, Beautiful. You know I'd share the burden if I could, and I'm forever grateful for your sacrifice."

His words remind me of why I'm going through this, as does a sudden movement. A movement deep inside my belly, as our daughter wakes up. It will all be worth it when we're holding her in our arms. I stroke my belly, feeling the bonding that already exists in spades. "It's a small burden to bear compared to the outcome." I smile at him as I speak, letting him know I'm over my grumpy spell.

~H~

"How's Kim?" asks Jess as Edward and I enter her office and take a seat.

"She seems as good as new, but she's going to need a couple of follow up appointments, just to check there are no further problems, but they don't anticipate any." Edward takes my hand in his and gives it a reassuring squeeze.

"Kids are resilient, Bella, I'm sure she'll bounce right back. But we're here to talk about you," her face turns serious. "How are things going?"

"Well, apart from the usual back ache, this uncontrollable heart burn and my swollen limbs, everything is fine with me." I reply lightheartedly.

"How long have you had these symptoms?" she asks, a frown on her face.

"The heartburn and swelling has steadily gotten worse as we made our way home," I reply, "I don't think a five day road trip was the best idea at this stage of the pregnancy, but I'm assume things will improve now I'm back home and can keep my feet up."

She shrugs. "Perhaps." Her lack of instant reassurance worries me. "You also told the nurse you've got a bad headache?"

"That's right," I reply tentatively. "It started last night and I don't seem to be able to shift it."

"Is there something wrong Jess? Should we be worried?" asks Edward anxiously.

"Well, I'd like to bring Bella onto the ward to carry out a few tests and to keep an eye on her." Now I'm really worried. She turns back to me. "Your blood pressure is raised, which, of itself, is probably to be expected, but your urine test also showed the presence of protein."

"What does that all mean?" enquired Edward.

"Putting together the urine results with the blood pressure, the water retention, the increased heartburn and the head ache and it all points to pre-eclampsia."

I feel Edwards hand tighten around mine and his tension adds to my anxiety.

"Now, I don't want you stressing over this, Bella," warns Jess. "For obvious reasons I don't want you pushing that blood pressure any higher. But it is something we need to monitor."

"What do we need to do Jess? To keep Bella and the baby safe." Edward leans forward in his chair, straight down to business, in problem solving mode.

"Well the first step is to have a little look at the baby. Pre-eclampsia can lead to a lack of blood flow to the baby and a slow growth rate. Now, you've only recently started to show symptoms, and you said you had a scan in LA, so I'm suspecting the baby is doing fine, but we will still check. We then need to monitor you and get you on some meds to bring down your blood pressure."

"And that will stop the pre-eclampsia?" he asks.

"No. The only thing that will stop it is to deliver the baby, which we will look to do once you hit 37 weeks. Until them all we can do is manage the condition. I'm afraid that will mean staying in hospital." God not more hospitals.

She looks between us and I glance at Edward. His face is a study in anxiety and I imagine mine is the same.

"Bella, I won't lie and tell you there are no risks, but let me reassure you slightly, we have caught this early. You're not the first person I've treated with this. Trust us here, we know how to manage this in the best way for you and the baby's health. I assure you, you will be getting the best of care. I can't let my favorite patient down, now can I?" she smiles at us reassuringly and I try and push my concerns to one side, for the sake of my blood pressure.

Before taking us through to the hospital from the attached clinic where she operates Jess performs the promised sonogram, reassuring us our baby is growing well and looking strong. Her heartbeat fills the room, and even with the added stress Edward and I can't help but grin at each other as her picture appears on the screen. It's our second time of seeing her this week, but it will never get old.

Before I know it I'm set up in a hospital bed, bloods have been drawn and I'm being plied with water so further urine samples can be taken. I'm rigged up to an automated blood pressure monitor and there is a heartrate monitor strapped to my belly to measure the stress levels of our little one.

I know this is the best place for me, but I'm still no fan of hospitals and I hope this extended stay has a happy ending.

Edward leaves me to pick up the kids and promises to be back with them as soon as he can. He is discrete about it, but I'm reassured by the presence of Felix outside my door when Edward goes. I'm feeling guilty about once again thrusting him into the role of parent with my kids. I know he gets on well with them and loves them, but, apart from those couple of nights in LA, he's not had to look after them alone before. I also worry about their reaction to him taking a more authoritive parental role. Will they resent him when he has to break up a fight or nag them to get ready for school? I even suggest it might be better if they go to Charlies for the duration, but he stops me dead.

"Bella, Beautiful," he holds me by my shoulders and looks me straight in the eye, forcing me to see the honesty and truth there. "What have I said to you about viewing you all as family? I'm here for you and the kids. We'll get through this."

"But …" I try to speak, but he cuts me off.

"The kids will understand. They know me. They know I'm not trying to be their dad. We get on. Yes we may have a few teething problems but I want to be there for you. For them. Please let me look after your kids."

"Okay," I relent

~H~

The next day I'm kept busy with visitors. Edward is around straight after dropping the kids at school, reporting a smooth morning where everyone mucked in to ensure breakfasts were eaten, the kitchen was sorted and everything necessary was put into school bags.

Charlie and Sue follow soon after. Sue laden with healthy treats that she assures me are Jess approved for my blood pressure as well as gentle on the stomach for my heart burn. Charlie holds me close in a hug that is a little tighter and goes on a little longer than usual.

"I've been so worried about you and Kim," he whispers into my ear, his voice displaying his obvious emotion.

As he pulls away he turns to Edward. "You look after my family, you hear me?" His voice is stern but there also seems to be a look of respect there. "Seth informs me you really stepped up to the mark when the shit hit the fan down in LA. Thank you for that. And thank you for getting them back home to us safety also."

Edward acknowledges his thanks with a brief nod of his head, but I can see my dad's acceptance means a lot to him.

"Talking of the kids," cuts in Sue, "if you need any help over the next few weeks, Edward, just ask. God knows those three can be a handful. If you need us to take them at any point for any reason just ask. We'd love to have them."

"Thank you, Sue," Edward replies warmly. "They were actually asking this morning to come and see you. I think they've been missing you. We could all pop around after schools out if you'd like?"

Sue agrees and the rest of the visit passes with a new sense of understanding between us all.

It's later in the day, when Edward is busy with the kids at Charlie and Sue's that Leah takes the opportunity to visit. I've not spoken to her much since leaving for our trip to LA and I'm shocked by the embrace she gives me upon entering the room. We're not the biggest of huggers, me and my sister.

"God, Bells. You're going to make me go gray prematurely if you keep scaring me like this. First the press thing, then Kim, now you in hospital." She shakes her head slowly. Yep it's certainly been a bumpy few weeks and I'm sure I've added to my stock pile of gray hairs also.

"Sorry," I say sheepishly.

"Hey, none of that," she looks at me sternly, "None of this is your fault. Talking of which. I've been doing some digging and I may have some answers for you on exactly whose fault it is."

"Ohh?" I'm intrigued.

"Well you know Jason who I went to school with?"

"The nerdy one with the sweating problems?"

"Hey, don't be cruel. He was just very shy and nervous around girls."

"Especially you, I remember." I tease her with a smile, remembering how he used to follow her around.

"Well, he's all grown up now and is a whizz on computers and the like. He runs an internet investigation firm. They do some work for different law enforcement agencies, tracking down the location of web users and the owners of web sites. That sort of thing." Now she's piqued my interest.

"Well I got him to look into your mystery stalker and he got back to me this morning." She pauses as I lead forward, desperate to know more.

"And …" I prompt.

"Well, it turns out the guy did an okay job at covering his tracks, but he wasn't as good as Jay. He traced it back to an account held by one James Hunter." She pulls out a picture and shows me.

I take a deep breath. It's him. The blond journalist, the one who was first, and last, here in Forks. The one who drew attention to us in LAX. The one who pushed into the female photographer, leading to the chain of events that sent Kim barreling down a flight of stairs. This is the man who has taken near naked pictures of me. Who has made me feel violated and exposed. This is the man I want to make pay.

I turn to my sister. "So Leah, what can I do about him? How do I make him stop?"

"What he did broke all sorts of privacy laws. With your go ahead I can file a complaint against him. We can also issue a restraining order to prevent him coming near you or the kids again."

"What's likely to be the outcome, Leah?"

"I'm in the process of getting the offending website closed down and the pictures removed, but that obviously doesn't stop all the copies that are now out there. Don't worry Bells, we can make this guy's life hell with law suits and injunctions. He'll be sorry he ever messed with the Swan's."

I smile at Leah's words. She has the determination, fire and balls to make sure James Hunter pays for hurting her family, and I'm sure she'll be getting Edward and Charlie's backing. I almost pity the man. No, not really.