Extra Long Chapter for you Today! Dozens of messages on how much you love Sophia and Chris so you all should love this Chapter! Please keep the reviews coming!
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October 31st, 2015 (Sophia 7 months)
The time between the Ellen interview to now has been quite the whirlwind. So far, thankfully, people have been respectful when they are out in public with Sophia. Both Heather and Naya still make her cuddle and hide her face whenever they are around a crowd as they don't want photos of their daughter all over the magazines and news stations.
Sophia still is being raised exclusively by Heather and Naya. They don't have any outside help as far as nannies, or babysitters. They have never even left Sophia alone with any of their friends. She is just always with her moms. They're having a really hard time letting her go in that aspect. However, today they may realize that will have to happen a lot sooner than they planned.
Heather was in the bathroom with the door closed to keep Sophia in there with her while she got ready and dressed for the day. Sophia was crawling and scooting now so she was a busy little girl. Heather never usually had to get too dressed up at work since she was in the tin shed doing choreography but both of the girls had scenes to film today and it was the first time in a while that they had the same call time all day. Usually, they can have one of the girl's film and then go back to watch their daughter while the other one films, but today they just realized that they have to work together the whole day. They love working together, of course, but now they had a child that has never been away from her. Heather was looking at her phone and making sure she saw the times correctly before she got Naya involved.
"Hey, my love?" Heather calls out as she opens the door slightly to see inside the master bedroom where her wife was sitting up in bed stretching. Naya looks over and smiles at her and smiles even bigger when Sophia's little head peeks through the space. Naya giggles at the door and Heather seems confused at what could be making her laugh until Naya gives her a hint and nods downwards. Heather drops her head and sees their daughter peeking out just like she is so they just look like a couple of floating heads.
"Seriously, Soph?" Heather giggles and can't help but laugh. Their daughter was such a comedian in the making. "Want to go say hi to mami?" Heather asks while opening the door wide enough for Sophia to crawl through. She goes straight for Naya who stands up from where she was seated on the bed and bends over to pick up their growing daughter.
"Buenos Dias Mija! (Good morning, my daughter)" Naya says while kissing her baby girl all over her face. She happens to catch a glance at Heather who is trying to force a smile but Naya can see right through it.
"Hey, baby? Are you alright? You seem worried or preoccupied about something." Naya asked while shifting Sophia to her left hip and combing the hair out of her face with her fingers.
"We may have a problem..." Heather said nervously which made Naya look up right away in question. Naya subtly nods for her wife to continue.
"We have the same call time all day. Usually, it's only for a half-hour or so and the overlap is very easy to work out but we have the same call and exit time from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm." Heather says which makes Naya instantly tense knowing exactly what this means.
"Oh god." Naya sighs out while looking straight up at the ceiling in defeat.
"I know. We will have to find someone to watch Soph." Heather cringes. Why should this be a big deal? Plenty of parents leave their children with other people almost right away but for the girls this was different. Their trust had taken a toll the past year or so. This industry can be really hard to make trusting relationships. Their group of friends is fantastic but even they have had a few hiccups with their friends in the past. If it was just them they could handle that, but when their baby girl has been involved those mistakes or mistrust could have grave consequences.
"Who? God, I wasn't fucking ready for this today!" Naya says on the verge of tears. She hated when things were just sprung on her and she didn't get the chance to prepare mentally for something challenging coming her way.
"Me either, love. Alright, come here sweethearts." Heather says wanting to calm her wife down and talk about this rationally and clear-minded. Naya followed her as Heather put a hand on the small of her back and led her over to the bed. They put Sophia down and let her sit by herself making sure they kept a close eye on her as they sat on the bed with her. Heather caresses her wife's cheek and talks to her soothingly keeping her voice just above a whisper.
"If you were to pick anyone who could watch her, who would make you most comfortable? This doesn't mean who you like the most or the least, this is just who you would feel the most comfortable leaving Sophia with for an extended period." Heather said as she picked up Sophia and brought her back to the middle of the bed as she was getting close enough to the edge for Heather to feel comfortable with. Heather placed Sophia in her lap and Naya grabbed one of the sensory books they were reading to her last night from the nightstand and gave it to her to keep her busy.
"Ugh," Naya said bringing her hands up to rub her face. "I guess if I had to pick it would be her godparents or Jenna and Kevin," Naya replied
"Honestly that's who I would choose too. I'd probably through Harry in there as well. He adores her. Honestly, I would trust anyone aside from Lea and Diana right now. I know that sounds mean and horrible but I'm just working on building that trust back with them fully and the first time we leave our daughter is not the time I want to take the plunge with that. Naya nods her head in understanding
"I completely agree with you, baby," Naya responds by leaning over and kissing her wife on the lips. "So what should we do?" Naya asked reluctantly.
"Well, why don't we get to work about a half-hour earlier than we normally would and talk to our first picks and see if they would even be able to. I can't believe I didn't notice this before but we've never had this scheduling conflict so I just kept assuming. I shouldn't have done that and made you worry so last minute. I'm so sorry love." Heather says on the verge of tears. Naya shakes her head and looks at Heather's aqua eyes in an attempt to reassure her that none of this is her fault.
"Baby, I had the call sheet sent to me too! I didn't notice it either so why would you be to blame? We both just assumed and assumed wrong. We just have to face our fears a little sooner than we planned and also hope that someone can help us out because the last thing I want to do is have to go to Ryan about this." Naya says reassuringly.
"Alright, my love. Why don't we head to work in the next half hour and start asking everyone?" Heather said with a sigh and reached down to pick her daughter up and hug her close to her chest.
"Oh, shit the Halloween party is tonight too!" Naya remembers bringing her palm to her forehead.
"Damn. Ryan's Halloween party. Seriously, where have our heads been this week? We're forgetting everything. We have our costumes ready to go though, right?" Heather said as she lifted their baby in the air earning instant giggles from the child. Naya smiles at her daughter and wife before answering.
"Yes, we do. At least we remembered to do that!" Naya joked earning a giggle from her wife.
"Alright my family, should we head to work?" Heather asks and Naya nods. Sophia copies her mami's actions and nods back causing them both to attack her cheeks with kisses making the little girl giggle like crazy.
The girls are in their trailer having just arrived to work. They texted Chris and Amber asking if they could come to their trailer. Within two minutes they hear their two friends chattering outside their door and Heather kisses her wife on the cheek who was sitting on the couch with their daughter before going towards the door and pulling it open just as Chris was about to knock.
"Good morning you guys! Come in, sorry to make you come all the way over." Heather rushed out.
"Mhmm yeah, because it's such a far walk from our trailer next door." Amber joked while kissing her friend on the cheek and walking up a couple of steps into the RV.
"Hey, Nay! Hey Soph!" Naya waved at her friends and stands up while Sophia hears the familiar voices and crawls quickly over to them. Chris picks her up and hugs her close as she gives him a kiss on the nose which he quickly returns. She then reaches her arms out to Amber who takes her and bends over as she holds Sophia's head and kisses all over her belly making her squeal with laughter. Naya and Heather look on completely in love with the scene in front of them. They are so grateful to have these people in their life.
Amber sets the baby on the ground but Sophia decides she would rather be held and uses Chris' pants to help hoist herself up and holds her one arm up begging to be held again. Naya and Heather laugh at their needy daughter.
"I wonder where she gets her neediness from?" Chris asks looking directly at Naya making the other two girls laugh and therefore making Sophia break out in giggles as well.
"I am not needy..." Naya says bluntly as she wraps both of her arms around Heather's right arm and hugs her close.
"Hard to make that argument when your hanging on your wife... and your daughter is well..." Amber laughs and points to Sophia who tugging on Chris' pants leg until he finally lifts her. Sophia has the biggest smile on her face and knows she has her uncle and aunt wrapped around her little finger.
"I happen to love my needy girls." Heather shrugs and releases Naya's grasp on her hand so she can pull it out making Naya frown but it's soon erased when Heather picks her up and goes to the couch and settling with Naya in her lap and wrapping her arms around her wife.
"Yep, Sophia didn't pick that trait up from anywhere..." Chris said shaking his head.
"Shut up. Alright, we did ask you guys here for something and were hoping you can help. We screwed up our schedules and are freaking out slightly... maybe... okay, we are freaking out a lot! We both have to work from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and we didn't realize it until this morning. It had never been an issue so we overlooked it and clearly, we should have been paying more attention. So what Heather and I need to know is if either of you could watch Sophia today. We will pay you." Naya asked desperately and somberly at the same time realizing she would have to leave her baby with someone in less than an hour. This was all happening way too abruptly for her.
Heather can tell Naya is getting upset and kisses the side of her face and tightens her hold on her wife making sure she knows that she's there.
"Damn I wish I could but I'm on the schedule most of the afternoon too. I'm pretty sure my scenes are mostly with you two today." Amber sighed as well as the girls.
"I can. I just came for craft services and to grab lunch with Vanessa. Otherwise, I was just going to be hanging out near the trailers." Chris said happily making Heather and Naya sigh in relief. Knowing Chris will be there with her today doesn't make this as painful. It's going to be incredibly hard but they feel a huge weight lifted off their shoulders.
"Oh god thank you! Here..." Naya says as she reaches in her purse that was against the couch and grabs a wad of cash handing it to her friend.
"You're serious?" Chris asked making Naya look at him confused.
"Umm, Yeah, babysitters get paid for watching kids, Chris. We don't expect you to agree to something last minute and not be compensated.
"Put the cash away. I will never take money from you two. Soph and I are going to have fun today arent we my darling?!" Chris says happily making Sophia giggle and lay on his shoulder. He picks up her tiny hand and kisses it before kissing the side of her head. Naya sighs and reluctantly puts their money back in her bag leans into Heather whos looking on lovingly as her daughter snuggles into Chris.
"Are you sure Chris? Like Naya said, yes you are her uncle and godfather but we aren't about to take advantage of that and assume you can just drop your day to watch a baby..." Heather says making sure Chris is okay with this. She will never take advantage of any of her friends.
"Who's that girl's godfather?" Chris asked.
"You are." Naya and Heather both say in unison sighing only slightly.
"Exactly. You know I would do anything for her. Relax and do what you need to do today. We will have fun. I did promise Vanessa lunch at a restaurant down the street. Would it be okay if I brought Sophia along so I can still take her to lunch? I know we all had a cast lunch the other day for her birthday but I promised her lunch since we both had our lunch break at the same time. I know it would make her day to spend a little one-on-one time with Soph..." Heather pauses Chris' ramblings and looks at Naya who nods but tenses a little which nobody else can detect but Heather notices.
"Yes, you can take Soph. Please just promise that you..." Heather pleads but Chris interrupts
"I'll protect her with my life, Vanessa will be there too. This won't be like last time. Soph is safe with me." Chris assures while looking between the two protective mothers. They both sigh reluctantly.
"Ladies, if you honestly aren't okay with it, me and Vanessa can h..." Chris starts but is cut off
"No. Take her. Yes, we are super hesitant and probably completely overreacting to every damn thing but I just keep getting flashbacks of last time. That was so god damn terrifying and the thought of her being the one on the floor curled up in a ball trying to defend herself I can't even..." Naya says starting to get choked up.
"It's okay love. I know." Heather says while holding her wife close and whispering comforting words in her ear.
"Ok. I can swear to you that would never, ever happen. She won't leave my arms ever. Like I said though we don..." Chris says
"No. Go ahead. We have to start facing some of these fears. Please don't think this has anything to do with our trust in you. Were are just..." Naya says
"Protective. The best mothers in the entire world. The ones who would do anything for her but you have to realize, the two of us sitting over here would do the same thing." Chris says honestly.
"We love you guys," Heather says slightly teary. Naya stands up from her lap and hugs both of her friends. She is so grateful for them. Heather does the same and as she's hugging Chris she hears the faint unmistakable sound of snoring.
"Seriously..." Heather puffs out
"What?" Naya looks over quickly. Heather points to Chris' chest where he's cradling Sophia horizontally but her head is slightly raised and she is sound asleep.
"Again, no idea where she get's it from..." Amber laughs out. Naya immediately huffs and waves her hand going to the kitchen. Heather giggles. She knows how similar her girls are and it's hilarious.
"This girl can fall asleep anywhere I swear..." Heather says as she walks up behind her wife and kisses the back of her wife's head. "Just like her gorgeous mami." Heather finishes making Naya blush and turn around to wrap her arms around Heather's neck.
"Alright, Chris you have the code for the trailer in your text messages correct?" Heather reiterated as she was going through the list of everything in her mind as they prepared to leave their daughter for the first time.
Chris pulls up his text and shows her and lifts his shirt and points to where it's written above his hip as well. Heather and Naya raise an eyebrow.
"What, sometimes leave my phone places, but today I won't so don't worry. It's just in case. I didn't want to write it on my hand or arm because it's a private code and if we go out I don't want anyone to see it and question it." Chris said. The girls were amazed at how serious he was taking this and how much he had thought all of all the things they wouldn't have even thought of.
"Mhmm. Thanks, Chris. Really." Heather says
"Are you sure she will be okay?" Naya asks as a tear slips down her cheek. Realization hitting her hard and fast that they have to head over to hair and makeup in five minutes. Heather hugs her wife close and hugs up and down her back. Heather whispers into Naya's ear.
"Honey, look..." Heather says softly pointing to Sophia. "Sophia, love, do you want uncle Chris to go now?" Heather finishes and Sophia lifts her head from where she was playing with the collar of her uncle's shirt and glares at her momma as if she was a mini-Snixx. She scrunched her face and narrowed her little blue eyes and lowered her chin exactly how Naya does when she's pissed. Heather bursts out laughing which in turn makes Naya let out a giggle because even she can admit that was epic.
"It's okay Mija, your uncle isn't leaving you," Naya says to calm her back down and she wraps her tiny arms around his neck and clings to him.
"Don't be telling her I'm leaving! Soph do not listen to them. Should we go around and say hi to these weird people around here and maybe steal a nana from the backroom. We have to be super quiet and sneaky though okay Soph?" Chris says smirking at the little girl in his arms. She lifts her head and nods smiling. She has no idea what he said but the fact that she was pretending to and looked like she really did was hysterical. Those two...
"Alright, god, we have to go," Naya says wiping a tear. "Can I have a hug Mija?" Naya asks and her daughter turns and holds her arms out for her mami who takes her in her arms and hugs her tightly while discreetly wiping another tear. Chris looks on with a sympathetic smile. All jokes aside he knows what a big deal this is for the two of his friends and he is honored they trust him with their most precious thing.
"Te amo bebe," Naya says before handing her daughter to Heather who kisses her daughter's forehead and Sophia kisses her nose.
"I love you so much, my little love. You be a good girl for your uncle ok?" Heather says trying to stay strong and kisses her daughter on the cheek before handing her back to Chris who she's already holding her little arms out for.
"We will call and text throughout the day. I have my phone in my pocket." Chris says and takes his phone out in front of the girls to make sure the volume is all the way up and the sound is switched on. "Everything set. Text us anytime. We will be okay and so will you." Chris reassures as he smiles at both of the girls.
"Thank you." Both of the girls say in a tone they are hoping is coming off stronger than they're both feeling at the moment.
"What time did you ladies say you were done?" Chris asked
"4:00 pm," Heather said
"Why don't I take her with me when I leave since I have her costume. Since the party starts at 5:30 we can just meet you there." Chris said and the girls had one of their silent conversations. That was more time to be away from her but it did make sense plus she needed to eat beforehand.
"Yeah, ok," Naya said reluctantly realizing how much she's going to miss her baby girl.
"We will all be okay, I promise," Chris reassured the nervous moms.
"We know. It's just hard. Did you need to drive our car and we can take yours and switch back at the party so you have her car seat without having to undo it and put it in your car?" Heather asked and Naya looked up not thinking of that before.
"Oh no, She has a car seat in my car already..." Chris said earning a confused and shocked look from the girls.
"What?" Naya says
"It's been in there for a few months. It's the same one you have so I know you'd approve of it. I took a picture and ordered the same one. I had to be prepared..." Chris said like it was obvious and both of the girls hug him with their daughter sandwiched between them.
"You are so incredible. Thank you, Thank you!" Heather says earning a nod and a kiss on the cheek from his friend. Naya does the same thing before kissing her baby girl on the head.
"Alright, you too get going. We will keep in touch, and as I said, call or text anytime." Chris assured as Sophia was dozing off on his shoulder again. Heather and Naya were so relieved that she didn't seem too traumatized or panicked. They're pretty sure that's all them.
"We love you, sweet girl," Heather said as she opened the door for her wife allowing her to go down the stairs of the RV holding her hand.
"Sé una buena niña. Los quiero mucho (be a good girl, love you so much)" Naya says as she turns back towards the trailer and blows a kiss to her sleeping baby girl. Chris waves at both of the girls as Heather wraps Naya in her arms as they walk towards the hair and makeup trailer.
About thirty minutes later after Sophia had woken up from her mini snooze, Chris grabbed his phone and his new Nike backpack that held Sophia's quilt, pacifier, bottle with breastmilk already prepared in a mini cooler, few spare diapers, wipes, travel first aid kit, her bunny and a few other miscellaneous things that he thought of last minute. He purchased a backpack the other day and thought it would be much easier than having a bag over his shoulder and trying to carry Soph. He had this uncle thing down.
Before they left he changed her into a black Halloween shirt that says, I'm BOOtiful in orange lettering with a little pumpkin under it that was wearing a tilted princess crown. He also put her in some black leggings that had a glitter tutu attached. Sophia was loving the fact that she could play with the tutu and point at all the glitter that reflected the light. He finished off the look with a pair of black mary janes. He left her hair down and put an orange velvet bow on the side of her head which gathered her hair up slightly and looked absolutely adorable. Her hair was getting so long and started to curl a little more with a few ringlets.
"Ready my special girl?!" Chris asked the little girl who looked up from pointing at her tutu and lifted her arms. He smiled and raised her up and sat her on the couch quickly while he checked the backpack to make sure he had everything. He stayed right in front of her the entire time before throwing the backpack behind both of his arms and then lifting his little sidekick onto his hip and puckering his lips for a kiss which she immediately returns by lowering her forehead to his lips. That was the new thing she started with him. Whenever she wanted a kiss she would lower her head so he could smooch her on the forehead. It was really sweet and Chris loved it.
"Come on kiddo. Oh, should we maybe surprise moms since it's been almost an hour and they're probably going crazy... or maybe they're driving Erin crazy. Probably a little bit of both." Chris chuckled causing the little girl to giggle back.
They approach the hair and makeup trailer which happens to be the furthest one away from Naya and Heather's. He shows Sophia how to knock and he shows her on the door and she copies him much more lightly and with the palm of her hand rather than with her knuckles. He faintly hears Erin telling whoever is at the door to come on in. Chris holds Sophia out so she can peek through the door first and the second she notices her moms she squeals and smiles. Both of them turn around in the chairs they are sitting in.
"Sophia!" They say in unison. Chris smiles and walks into the trailer holding a bouncing girl in his arms. Heather is the closest one to him and he hands her to her momma.
"Oh my god! Her outfit, we left you alone for an hour Colfer!" Naya laughed out shaking her head.
"Yes, and it's her first Halloween and she wasn't wearing anything to commemorate! That's a fashion crime! You always dress up for holidays. It's like a rule or something.
"Ok, this is cute! Soph do you like it?!" Heather asked her daughter excitedly. Sophia grabs her tutu and points to the shiny glitter and smiles.
"God Chris. What are you doing to her already..." Naya laughs. Chris takes the baby from Heather to give to Naya since they were a little too far away to pass her.
"Hola Mija! Are you having fun with uncle Chris?" Naya asks while kissing her cheek and Sophia points to Chris. She now knows everyone by their name and is starting to sound out different letters.
"That's good baby! That's your uncle!" Heather clapped proudly which made Sophia clap as well.
"What are guys up to now?" Naya asked as she stood her daughter up in her lap and watched her shake around in her adorable outfit.
"We were going to go to the set and maybe pull the fire alarm or something fun, right Soph?" Chris said smiling at the little girl who gave him a big grin in return and held her arms up for her uncle. The girls giggle at the two of them. The relief that Naya and Heather feel at the moment knowing that their daughter is having a blast is everything. The fact that Chris is paying them little visits to break up the day is really helpful as well.
"Nice bag man. I've never seen that one before." Erin said motioning to the new solid black backpack she had never seen him with before. The girls look on curiously noticing the new accessory too.
"Yeah, normally we hear about any new accessory you own. What on earth do you have in there?" Heather asked
"Soph stuff. Right?" Chris says looking at Sophia who lays her head on his shoulder and smiles shyly. Naya and Heather swoon at how adorable they are together.
"Wait, Soph stuff?" Naya asked as both moms notice her diaper bag that pretty much followed her around everywhere was nowhere in sight.
"Should we show them, Soph?" Chris asked the little girl who smiled and lifted her head. they sat on the little bench cushioned seat and put the bag next to him keeping Sophia in his lap. The three other girls look on adoringly. Chris pulls out her blanket, bunny, pacifier, first, aid kit, mini cooler with her milk, diapers, wipes, a couple of tiny hand toys, and a matching black sherpa cardigan that came with her outfit in case she gets chilly. The moms look on with their jaws dropped.
"Where did that cooler come from? We don't have a first aid kit either, did you buy all that too?" Naya asked shocked
"Of course. I warmed the milk up earlier since it was in the freezer and it just has one ice pack in there so it stays the correct temperature in case she gets hungry. The first aid kit because accidents happen with kids and I need to be prepared but we're going to have no accidents today, right darling?" Chris says kissing the top of his niece's head. He puts everything back in the bag and is able to get the last thing in before Sophia squeals and points to the glitter on her tutu.
"You're so sparkly Soph! Should we go show everyone and make them jealous?" Chris asked which caused the infant to twist around and lift her arms up. Chris takes her off his lap and lifts her into a hug and she wraps her little arms around his neck. "Alright ladies, we will let Erin get back to work. If you miss her text me whenever and we will come to visit." Chris said as he went over to the girls and kissed their heads since he didn't want to mess up their makeup and leaned Sophia down so her moms could kiss her as she smiled kissing them both on the lips.
Chris and Sophia start walking down the lot toward the studio and open the door. Larry who is one of the security guards nods over to Chris and gives a little wave to Sophia who waves and shyly lays her head on Chris' shoulder. He giggles at her and places a kiss on the side of her head and goes over to the choir room set which is down the hall. Amber is coming around the corner where they film the hallway locker scenes and waves at them smiling and immediately shakes her head at the outfit which she's a thousand percent positive is Chris' doing.
"Hi, you two!" Amber said. Sophia immediately recognizes the voice and reaches for her. Amber puts her script on the floor and happily grabs her niece and kisses her cheek. "Look at you pretty girl! Are you visiting everyone?" Amber asks enthusiastically to the little girl who smiles and points to her sparkly tutu which Amber takes notice of and makes sure to make a super big deal of.
"Oh my goodness! How fancy! You look, BOOtiful baby girl! Auntie A has to go before they come looking for me, and by they, I mean the big boss, so I better get my tush to work! Love you, Soph!" Amber says as she kisses her niece and hands her back to Chris. As Amber waves, goodbye so does Sophia, and Chris is pretty sure Amber was melting at this little girl.
They continue to walk down the hallway and Chris peeked around the corner and could already hear that they were filming so he decided to turn around and head to the break room.
"Soph, are you hungry sweetheart? Should we have a milk break?" Chris asked causing Sophia to sign for, please. Chris smiles at the little girl and shakes off his backpack placing it on the seat next to him and taking out the cooler box and opening it to reveal a full bottle. He checks the temperature and it's perfect. He grabs her blanket and lays her horizontal in his lap and tucks the blanket around her before twisting off the bottle cover and bringing it to her lips which she then holds herself. She was getting to be such a smart little girl.
As Sophia was having her mid-morning snack, Chris was running his fingers through her hair and he could see she was starting to nod off. He couldn't believe how much he adored this little girl. About fifteen minutes later she was asleep with the tip of the bottle hanging out of her open mouth. He gets up slowly and lays the blanket on the couch and then lays Sophia over it so he can wrap her up like a burrito so she's nice and cozy. He grabs her bunny from his bag and tucks it in the blanket on her chest and her arm reaches and pulls it close to her out of habit. He smiles at his niece and throws the backpack behind his back until it's secure around both shoulders and then carefully lifts her in his arms so she's laying horizontally. her face is buried facing his stomach and she snuggles in his arms letting out a few sighs letting him know she's comfortable.
They are walking around the corner when they see Vanessa who excitedly turns around but instantly quiets as she sees her niece sound asleep.
"What is she doing here?" Vanessa coos while glancing over to look at the sleeping baby.
"I'm watching her today. The girls had a scheduling mixup so it was completely last minute and they barely let her go but she's doing amazing. Don't worry we're still on for lunch. We will go after her nap. She's coming with us." Chris smiles and Vanessa jumps up and down and quietly claps placing the softest kiss on the side of Sophia's head.
They hear some footsteps and see Diana, Kevin, and Jenna walking their way from down the hall. Chris' back is turned to them so they don't know Sophia's there. Vanessa puts her finger over her lips telling them to be quiet and they proceed to walk over confused. Once they get close Chris turns and they see a passed-out Sophia in his arms. They ask the same questions as Vanessa so he explains again why he has her.
They are all chatting in the hallway quietly for about five minutes when they hear the main door open and close. They turn and see Naya and Heather walking towards the group. Everyone puts their finger over their lips making Heather and Naya look at each other but keep walking towards the group. They notice Chris among them and see a mop of black hair in the crook of his arm and a piece of her quilt dangling.
"Oh my god, Stop!" Naya says with her hands over her heart and kisses Chris on the cheek.
"Seriously, this is adorable! Did she just fall asleep?" Heather asked while kissing her daughter's head softly.
"About fifteen minutes ago. She had her mid-morning snack and then she fell asleep. We will go to lunch when she wakes up but I'll take her back to the quiet RV until then. I just didn't make it there before she was already out." Chris said smiling down at the baby in his arms. Everyone swoons at the adorable sight and Naya and Heather lean over and place another kiss on her head.
"Thank you for taking such good care of her Chris. We owe you big time." Naya said glancing down at her sleeping daughter.
"You never owe me for taking care of my family," Chris says while shaking his head and leaning down to place a kiss on his niece's forehead. Naya and Heather both realize what he said and want to bawl their eyes out but Erin just spent close to an hour on their makeup.
"No crying ladies! I'm going to take this little one to your trailer and let her finish her snooze. Text me when you're done with your scene and I'll bring her to see you guys again. I think your break only overlaps with our lunch by like fifteen minutes so when you are on lunch one of you text me and we will join you for the remainder." Chris says quietly to the girls. They love how he's making sure they see her throughout the day which is making this a million times easier for them. They both his him and their daughter on the cheek before Chris walks out with her.
Chris and Vanessa were just pulling back into the studio lot after their lunch. Of course, the paparazzi wanted photos of Sophia and were persistent but Chris completely covered Sophia under the quilt so the paparazzi weren't even able to get a photo of the back of her head. Hell, I think her feet were completely covered. Vanessa walked alongside him as they walked in and walked out. On the way out Vanessa carried her and did the same thing, Sophia was completely out of view.
The group was just getting back to the picnic benches with their lunches. They were all there except Chris and Vanessa. They took their seats and were thrilled when a third table showed up a couple of weeks back. Everyone had a spot now.
"So how horrible has this day been for you guys?" Amber asked looking at Heather and Naya. The others lean over wondering the same thing although the two have seemingly been holding up much better than anyone expected.
"Chris has been amazing. Constantly checking in, sending photos and videos, telling us where he is. It's made it so much easier on us." Naya said while leaning on Heather as they see a car pull up about fifty feet away. Everyone turns that is facing the opposite way.
"That must be our three stragglers," Kevin said with a smile when Chris gets out of the driver's seat. He opens the trunk and pulls his backpack around his shoulders and looks at his phone waiting. Heather and Naya's phones both go off. They smile as he is once again letting them know right away where he is. This is why they trusted him.
Incoming Chris: Just got back. Where are you guys and we will come to see you?
Outgoing Heather: Picnic tables. *smiley face emoji*
Chris glances up and waves at the group just as Vanessa comes around the car with Sophia on her hip.
"My Mija! Naya whispers from the long-distance away as Chris and Vanessa chat and says something that makes Sophia smile and giggles too.
Sophia must be close enough where she notices everyone and their voices and starts squealing and pointing to all the people she knows. Everyone waves and greets her before her eyes settle on her mother's and screeches in excitement holding her arms out. Vanessa walks over and kisses her head before letting her go into Naya's arms. Sophia doesn't know what to do or who to greet first so she wraps her arms around both her mother's necks. The girls laugh and hug their baby girl tightly while kissing all over her head and face.
"Did you have fun baby girl?!" Heather asked while looking over at Chris and Vanessa.
"I think she did. She was pretty much smiling and giggling the entire time. Plus I don't think the paparazzi got even a photo of her feet." Vanessa replied.
"How's that possible? They didn't run around you or yell at her to try and get her to lift her face?" Naya asked while kissing her daughter.
"No, he covered her with the blanket completely. As I said, I'm not even sure they were able to get a photo of her feet." Vanessa replied looking towards Chris who nods
"The quilt is a good one for that. It's thicker than a regular blanket And blocks the flashes so we just had her rest her head on our shoulder and covered her until we were inside. I just told her we were playing hide and seek." Chris explained.
Naya and Heather both smile incredibly overwhelmed with gratitude for how well they took care of their daughter.
"Seriously you guys, thank you for protecting her," Heather says to Chris and Vanessa who both wave her off with a smile.
It was now 3:30 pm and the girls were finishing up their last scene next and were just waiting for the crew to finish their setup. Chris had texted about twenty minutes ago that they were leaving and going back to his place to let Sophia nap again and get ready. Chris had made this day completely bearable for the mothers which made a huge difference.
"Are you ready for this party tonight?" Heather asked her wife as they watch the crew set up the last camera and overhead lighting.
"It should be fun. I'm curious to see what Colfer had planned all this time. God only knows with him." Naya responded as she heard her phone chime. She walked to the other side of the room to grab it where it was out of camera view and pick it sees Chris' name pop up and immediately opens the message
Incoming Chris: We just got to my place safe and sound. Soph is looking like a bobblehead right now so I'm going to lay her down before she tips over. See you guys soon!
Outgoing Naya: Ha! Kiss our baby girl from us. Thank you for everything, Chris. Xx
Incoming Chris: Anytime. *side kiss face emoji*
Naya brings her phone over to Heather to show her the texts from their friend. She reads them over and lifts her head with a smile.
"That's very accurate, she does look like a little bobblehead when she's tired!" Heather giggles shaking her head.
About five minutes later Naya's phone chimes again with a photo message so she quickly opens it to find a photo of Chris sitting up in his bed with his back against the headboard reading while Sophia is next to him wrapped in her quilt with her pink bunny tucked in with her and she's fast asleep. Naya smiles widely and shows the photo to Heather immediately. Heather leans over and stares at the photo for a few seconds before shaking her head.
"I love her so much..." Heather says honestly.
"So do I. I mean look at our baby girl!" Naya said before the crew announced they were ready for the last scene. Naya walked over and set her phone on the table out of camera view and they filmed the last scenes of the day.
It was just after 5:00 pm and Heather and Naya were at home getting ready for the Halloween party at Ryan's beach house. They have just taken their shower, which ended up being together and involving sex. Whoops. They were now back in their bedroom and putting on the outfits that Ryan let them borrow.
"I can't believe you convinced me to wear this! As if we don't wear these damn things enough." Naya huffed while pulling her skirt down.
"You love it. We're Santana and Brittany! It's genius." Heather laughed as she pulled her cheerleading outfit up. Naya looked at her as if she were crazy but just shakes her head. Heather was way too excited for her not to be as well.
"I guess your right. Plus it's not like we were going to dress as something scary and terrify our daughter so she doesn't want to come near us. She will definitely still know it's mami and momma." Naya laughed as she pulled her long dark hair into a ponytail.
"Exactly. Aww, I really miss our baby girl." Heather frowned at the mention of her daughter. Naya looked at her with the same expression and walked over to hug her wife and they embraced for a long while.
"God I know. It's so weird to not have her babbling in the background or trying to climb up our legs as we are getting ready." Naya laughs a little but the frown is still evident on her face. Heather kisses her forehead.
Chris is getting Sophia ready for the big Halloween party. He finally finished putting his outfit on and was now dressing up his niece in her surprise costume. Sophia was giggling pointing at Kurt's outfit because he thinks she could tell that they were coordinated. God, he loved this kid.
"Soph are you excited!" Chris said clapping his hands excitedly as he does her hair. Sophia squeals and copy's his clapping.
"Are you excited to see your mommies?! I'll bet they are missing you!" Chris said while placing a kiss on his niece's forehead.
"Mmmmmmm" Sophia mutters trying to repeat what he's saying.
"Momma..." Chris repeats smiling at his niece.
"Mmmmmmm," Sophia says back. They knew it was only a matter of time.
It was just after 6:00 pm and the girls were nearly at Ryan's house which was about a thirty-five-minute drive with traffic.
"What do you think will happen if someone recognizes us in our cheerleading uniforms just driving around the car..." Heather laughs out as she puts her blinker on to turn the corner.
"I mean it is Halloween so it can't be the strangest thing that's happened in LA on this night." Naya chuckled back.
"Do you have any idea what Chris is dressing Sophia as... I'm slightly concerned. I just never know what to expect with that man." Heather shakes her head.
"You and me both," Naya says while taking her wife's hand that she just set on the center console. Naya smiles when Heather lifts their hands to place a kiss on her knuckles.
By 6:30 they were knocking on the door to Ryan's house and he opens the door immediately smiling at the sight in front of him.
"Well this doesn't look familiar at all!" Ryan laughs out and Heather and Naya walk in with their pinkies linked.
"I was going to bring Lord Tubbington but he is trying to beat his smoking addiction and I didn't think this was the best environment..." Heather says flatly in her best Brittany straight face making the group around her laugh.
"Oh, Heather we love you..." Ryan laughs out before squeezing their shoulders and telling the girls to go enjoy themselves. "Oh, did Brittany forget her kid tonight?" Ryan asked as they were now a few feet away.
"Well someone had to keep an eye on Tubbs..." Heather said before walking away leaving Naya and Ryan laughing at each other but Ryan was still curious where the little girl was tonight.
"She's coming with Chris. He watched her today." Naya giggled and Ryan nodded while shaking his head. Naya smiled and turned around to find Heather in the kitchen pouring themselves a sparkling cider. They were still on mom duty tonight so they both agreed on no drinking.
Naya was just about to pick up the drink that Heather had just poured for her when her phone rang. She grabbed it out of her bra and looked to see it was Chris so she Answered it right away.
Naya: Hey Colfer. How's my girl? Are you on your way?
Naya rushes out not realizing how nervous she sounded. She put the phone on speaker and they went into the hallway so they could hear.
Chris: Yes we are just leaving. Be there in half-hour. My mom unexpectedly dropped by with some Halloween treats and she had no idea her kind of granddaughter was over and Soph made her chase her around for a good ten minutes before she was able to go. Sorry! We're coming!
Naya: It's ok. I'm sure she had fun! We are just pathetic messes and miss her. You've been a godsend today, we really can't thank you enough.
The girls hear their daughter chattering and squealing in the backseat. Chris must have the bluetooth speaker on.
Heather: Oh my god is that her or you squealing?
Naya and Chris both laugh.
Chris: Very funny Hemo. That's your daughter. Hey Soph. Say hi to your mommies!
Sophia: Mmmmmmmm
Naya Heather: Hey Sophia!
Sophia: Mmmmmmmm Mmmmmmmm
Heather: She's going to say it soon! She's so close! See you soon baby girl!
Naya: Te amo mi amor!
Chris: See you soon ladies!
"Sophia better be coming to this damn thing. She's the only reason I attend these things and put up with the rest of you." Amber said while taking a bite of her fancy appetizers.
"Chris is bringing her. I guess his mom came over to drop off some Halloween treats and she was playing with Sophia." Heather says while taking another drink.
"Oh, yea. Connie brings him a whole tupperware container full of baked treats for every holiday. It's like heaven. I frequent Chris' house the day after treat drop-offs." Kevin said as his mouth waters thinking of the treats. Everyone laughs at this.
Chris' mom Connie owned a very well-known bakery in downtown LA. She could make anything and would often drop off treats on the set or send them with Chris.
"Sophia will appreciate that someday." Heather giggled.
"That guy better show up with her soon! I'm losing my patience!" Vanessa said impatiently making Naya, Heather, and everyone giggle.
"Let's go out on the deck. It's like seventy-five degrees outside!" Harry suggested and the crew made their way on the deck. Naya and Heather were trying to enjoy the conversation but all they could think about was seeing their baby girl. Heather kissed Naya's pinkie before giggling and stepping behind her wife to wrap her arms around her waist. Naya laid back against her and enjoyed the moment.
Chris pulled up to Ryan's house who was outside greeting someone else when he saw Chris and walked over with a smile.
"You must be the person everyone's waiting for!" Ryan chuckled and Chris smiled back and shook his head.
"Not even a little bit..." Chris said as he pulled Sophia out of her car seat and Ryan couldn't stop his laughter which made Sophia laugh right back. She looked like a doll.
"Oh. My. God. That's the greatest thing I've ever seen. Wait did you make that because we don't..." Ryan questioned waving at the little girl on Chris' hip.
"Custom made from top to bottom." Chris smiled and Ryan shook his head. "So where is everyone?"
"The cast is in the backyard on the beach. They started off on the deck but it was so nice out so I think they are taking some photos while there's still plenty of light out." Ryan said
"Oh perfect. I'll head out there. Where can I toss her diaper bag so it's out of the way?" Chris asked his boss.
"You go ahead and take her. I'll put this upstairs in the first bedroom on the left," Ryan said while taking the bag from Chris.
"Oh, can you toss me her blanket in case she gets chilly," Chris asked holding his arm out and grabbing the blanket that Ryan handed him before slinging it over his shoulder. "Thanks, Ryan!" Chris said and Sophia waved goodbye to him and he couldn't help but let out a hearty laugh. this was great.
Chris stepped inside the large entryway and immediately sees Zach, their choreographer. The second he sees Chris and Sophia he bursts out laughing.
"Holy shit that's great!" Zach laughs out while bent over. Sophia looks at Chris and smiles. She lowers her head so her uncle can kiss her on the forehead.
"Hey watch the language around my goddaughter!" Chris playfully scolds before continuing throughout the house and grabbing a glass of water to share with Sophia. The minute he pours it she signs for please and he happily brings the glass up to her mouth so she could slowly take a sip.
"Come on Soph, let's go find these clowns... I mean your family." Chris giggles making her laugh as they walk through the large beach house and everyone laughs and admires them.
Chris opens the door to the patio and sees everyone taking photos on the beach. They were seemingly taking a cast photo. Chris noticed Heather and Naya's costume from the back right away and covered his mouth to suppress his giggles. Chris and Sophia lean over the deck railing to their arms are resting on it before Chris shouts at the group.
"Hey! Why are you taking a cast photo without us?!" Chris shouts making Sophia babble back almost as if she is scolding them all too. The entire group out on the beach whips their heads around and jumps excitedly. Naya and Heather are beside themselves so eager to see their baby girl. Chris decides to put them out of their misery and walks down the steps onto the beach and holds Sophia so they can see her costume.
"Soph!" Heather and Naya yell together before getting a look at their daughter's costume.
Sophia had on a cheerleading costume identical to the ones their moms wear. Chris made it entirely by himself and it looked like a replica, just in a tiny version. She had on tiny white sneakers and her dark long hair was pulled into a high pony and was curled into the famous sausage single curl the girls dawned all the time. Sophia had a white bow in her hair on top of her ponytail because it was Chris, he had to accessorize. That was a given. Sophia looked identical to a mini Santana with Brittany's aqua eyes. Everyone was freaking out. Chris was dressed in a Sue Sylvester red and white tracksuit and looked amazing.
"Oh my god! No way! Chris!" Naya rushed out and reached out for her daughter who smiled and cuddled into her mami right away. Sophia noticed Heather with her hands over her mouth and Naya instantly melted when their baby girl reached her other arm over and pulled Heather into their hug. She was such a sweet little girl making sure nobody ever felt left out.
"Hi, my little love! Momma sure missed your hugs today baby girl." Heather cooed as her baby girl was simply the sweetest in the world. Everyone skips over and admires how adorable Sophia is and she is sure eating up all the attention. She is smiling and pointing to her skirt and then smiles as she points at her momma and mami's skirts noticing that they match. She lets out a squeal letting everyone know she's excited about it!
"Look at you, my dear! Oh my goodness! She looks like a mini Santana with Brittany's eyes!" Amber laughs making the moms swoon at how much their daughter was like them. Sophia hears Amber's voice and reaches out for her and she is instantly scooped up in auntie Amber's arms as she tickles and kisses her belly. Sophia giggles and squeals before Amber places a sweet kiss on her cheek and Sophia tries to copy her and gives her a sloppy kiss on the nose.
"Oh, I love you too baby girl." Amber smiles and Heather wraps her arms around Naya from behind just watching their sweet little girl. Sophia then reaches for Jenna who takes her and gives her a big hug while pointing out the water and talking about all the fish.
"Shhhhhhh" Sophia tries to say and Jenna giggles.
"Fishhhhhh" Jenna says back and Sophia giggles and hugs her around the neck. Sophia reaches out for her uncle Harry who instantly lifts and tosses her in the air with his hands never letting her go. Sophia is squealing and laughing as hard as she can. Naya and Heather are just watching their little girl have the time of her life with all of their friends. Sophia is making her way down the line and holding her arms out for every single one of them and they each spend a little time with her before passing her to the next person. Sophia finally ends up in Vanessa's arms and Sophia is trying to say her name.
"Neeeeeeee" Sophia squeals making Naya and Heather giggle.
"Nessy" Vanessa says making Sophia giggle.
"eeeeeeee" Sophia says before reaching her arms out for her momma and snuggling into her neck.
"Oh, my sweet girl. That was such a sweet thing to do to make sure and say hello to everyone! You're such a sweetheart" Heather kisses and praises her daughter as Naya looks on staring at her girls. Heather takes the hand that's rubbing her daughter's back and holds her arm out for her wife so happily snuggles into her side and runs her hands over her daughter's back like Heather was doing.
"Hey, you crazy kids! Hey Soph! Group photo now that we're all here?" Ryan asks.
Everyone gathers and faces the house so the water is in the background. The second Sophia hears the word photo she wiggles in Heather's arms and reaches for Chris who laughs.
"Oh yeah... I taught her a new thing." Chris said as he took Sophia in his arms. He put her on his hip and they got ready.
"Should we be worried..." Naya says hesitantly. Heather is making a nervous face and the entire group is watching just as curious as the moms are.
"Ryan, can you take a photo of me and Soph?" Chris asked kindly as he handed Ryan his phone and went to stand in front of the water with his niece. "Ready Soph?" Chris asks as Sophia smiles at him.
Chris whisper's over to Ryan so the girls can hear too. "Ryan when you take the photo tell Sophia to pose, ok?" Chris whispers as Naya and Heather look at him with smirks on their faces.
"Alright, you too... pose Sophia!" Ryan says loudly and excitedly as he holds the phone up. Chris puts his hand on his hip and bumps his hip out. Sophia puts her little hand on her hip to copy him and points her chin to her shoulder.
Click Click!
Naya and Heather are just about on the floor in laughter just as everyone else is. Amber is practically dying and had to sit down to catch her breath. Vanessa completely spilled her drink in the sand from clapping so hard. Diana and Lea were in hysterics of to the side. Chris and Sophia just look at each other and smile before walking up to the rest of the group. Sophia wraps both arms around her uncle. Everyone lets out their ahhs at seeing those two. Everyone had to admit they were adorable together. Naya and Heather are looking at them with adoring looks on their faces.
Sophia looks up at Chris and they put their noses together for Eskimo kisses Sophia bends her head down so her forehead is in front of Chris' lips so he can kiss her. Naya and Heather are in tears. They've never seen their daughter do that.
"What... when...she.." Naya tries to get out with her hand over her mouth. Even the girls were enamored by their relationship.
"She just started doing that not too long ago. When she wants a kiss she gives me her forehead, right my Soph?" Chris says wrapping his arms tight around his niece. "I'm sure going to miss you! My house is going to be so quiet without you baby girl." Chris said as the girl rested her head against his chest. He took the blanket that we just remembered was still hanging off his shoulder, he was really in uncle dad mode apparently...
Chris tucks the blanket around her and kisses her head. He nods to one of the moms and Heather puts her drink down to get ready to take Sophia.
"Alright baby girl, I'm going to go grab some food from inside and it's a little louder in there so I'll give you to momma. Thank you for hanging out with me today my girl. I love you, Soph." Chris whispers as Sophia lifts her head and pouts out her lower lip officially making all the girls break down. Naya and Heather were frantically wiping their eyes as She leaned her head down so her uncle could place a kiss on her forehead. Amber, Vanessa, and Jenna were a mess.
"Uncle Chris will be right back baby girl. He's just going to get food, okay love?" Heather says. Sophia reaches for her momma and turns her head to wave at her uncle. I think Sophia thinks he's leaving for good or something terrible like that.
"He will be right back, Mija," Naya reassures while crying and rubbing her daughter's back.
"I'll come right back, honey. Don't make me cry too." Should I bring back your bunny and a bottle for you, sweetheart?" Chris asked which earned a little smile from the baby. She leans forward in Heather's arms pointing her head down so he steps forehead and kisses her forehead before winking at her and walking up the deck stairs.
Sophia cuddles and sniffles into Heather's neck. The girls look at each other heartbroken. It was so sad that she thought he was leaving for longer than he was. Everyone was wiping their eyes.
"Jesus...I'm fine, you're fine, everything's fine..." Jenna giggled as she waved her hands in front of her face. This gains a giggle from the rest of the group including the two moms.
"Here you guys here's a thick beach blanket for you to lay on," Ryan said handing Amber and Harry a huge ten-foot by ten-foot square padded blanket that had plastic on the bottom side and an outdoor custom fabric on the other.
"This is awesome! Thanks!" Harry replied and Cory helped him lay it out.
"Absolutely." Ryan then noticed a couple of tears in Sophia's eyes and her sniffling. "Oh no, what happened." Ryan pouted causing the little girl to bring her fist to her eyes and rub them.
"Uncle Chris went inside for a second." Amber giggled but made a sad face.
"He's coming back, Sophia. Last I saw it looked like he was warming up a bottle under some hot water." Ryan assured and winked at the little girl.
"So I think we can all assume she had a good day with her uncle?" Vanessa said shaking her head.
"You think?! and here we were flipping out thinking she would be miserable," Naya says kissing her daughter's head.
"We are so grateful for all of you. Sophia loves you all and it warms our heart to see how much love everyone has for each other and our little girl." Heather says
The guys have the blanket laid out and everyone sits on it looking out at the ocean. It's still pretty light out but you can see the warm colors of the sunset beginning. Heather and Naya turn when they hear the patio door open and close and see Chris coming out with a plate of food, their daughter's bunny, and a bottle. He waves at the group and makes his way down the stairs. Heather gets Sophia's attention and Naya smiles at them.
"Soph! Look who's back!" Heather says and Sophia lifts her head and instantly smiles as wide as she can and wiping her eyes with her fists and already holding her arms out for her uncle who's still a good fifty feet away.
"See Soph! He came back for you!" Naya cheered with a smile now that Sophia wasn't heartbroken. Everyone giggles at how quickly her mood shifted.
"My Soph!" Chris hollers as he walks closer. Heather lets her go and she crawls across the mat and holds her arms up opening and closing her fists. Everyone giggles about how desperate she is. "Hi, honey!" Chris says as he bends down to kiss her forehead and he gestures for Sophia to follow him since he has his hands full. He sets up camp next to Naya and Heather and sets her full bottle down and shakes it side to side to show Sophia who smiles at him. He takes the pink bunny from under his arm and puts it beside him and lastly puts his plate off to the side. Sophia is sitting anxiously in the middle of the blanket until Chris holds his arms out and she crawls as fast as she can into them with a huge smile. He lifts her in his lap and she wraps her little arms around him before pointing to her bottle. Heather passes Chris her quilt and smiles at him as does Naya. She cuddles sideways into his lap and he puts one arm around her back allowing her to lean back and drink. He wraps her blanket around her and picks up her bunny to tuck in next to her. She takes hold of her bottle with both hands and starts drinking. Chris leans down to kiss her forehead and starts picking off his plate not noticing nearly everyone staring at him including Naya and Heather. Vanessa is taking a photo.
"You two are so damn cute," Jenna says with a big smile.
"Seriously. Be still my heart!" Naya says with a hand covering her heart. She leans her head against Heather's shoulder. The bottle gradually falls as Sophia's grip loosens as she's drifting off. She shuffles on her side so her face is against his stomach and he repositions her bunny so it's in her hands and tucks her blanket around her.
"Love you Soph" Chris whispered as the group watched her cuddle and fall asleep. Sophia lets out a mumbled rambling of sounds and everyone tries not to giggle too loud.
"Was that her Naya sleepy talk that nobody but Heather understands..." Cory questioned the group and they all giggled and nodded. Sophia is going to be so much like Naya in the mornings. Poor Heather.
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