"Sleep tight," I hear Tobias softly say against my ear but I don't think anything about it until I open my eyes and realize I'm tucked in our bed. I rollover and look at the clock, surprised to see that it's nearly noon. I stretch while yawning widely but lie in bed for a few more minutes, taking in how I feel and realize that even though the nausea is gone I'm still extremely tired. Then my stomach growls, loudly. I guess one pancake after the morning I had wasn't enough. I roll out of bed and use the toilet then go down stairs in search of my brood.
The apartment is quiet … too quiet. I understand why when I find Bridget's note saying she took the kids to the swimming pool to let me rest. I turn the stereo on low for some much-needed background noise then rummage through the refrigerator in search of something quick to eat. I'm disappointed when I come up empty handed. I move to the cupboards and realize that I haven't went to the commissary for a stock up trip in weeks.
"Great," I mutter under my breath. Just as I pull my phone out to call Tobias, the front door opens. When I step into the living room, a mouthwatering aroma smacks me in the face. "Wow! What's that?" My handsome husband is carrying a covered casserole dish.
"Stella heard you weren't feeling very well today and made you some chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes," he says. "She said this was her go-to meal when she had bad morning sickness with the twins."
"That was very nice of her," I say just as my stomach growls again.
"It sounds like you need this," he chuckles, holding up the dish.
"You have no idea," I say, patting my tummy.
"Why don't you sit down and I'll heat you up a plate."
"Thank you, baby," I say as I take a seat at the island. "I was just looking through the fridge and cupboards. I really need to get groceries."
"If you make me a list before I leave, I'll do that before I come home," he says.
"That's not necessary," I say.
"I'll already be in the Pit," he says. "I have a meeting in the armory at 3:30. They have some new weapon designs they want to debut."
"Is Paco showing off again?" I giggle. "There's a man who needs a new hobby."
"I don't think you're wrong," he says with a deep sigh, "but I'm not sure I'd say that to his face."
"Oh, I wouldn't dream of it," I say as a white square catches my attention. "I forgot about this." I reach for Gunner's note and tear into it.
"What's that?" he asks as he sets a plate full of yummy goodness in front of me.
"Thanks, baby. Gunner left a note with Bridget yesterday," I say. "She told us about it but I never even thought to look after all the excitement with Teags." I rip into the envelope and take in his decorative scroll. "He makes my handwriting look like chicken scratch. No wonder me makes a living with his art. He says the girls' room will be finished the end of next week. I'm so excited."
"So soon?"
"I'm kind of surprised myself. I thought the mural would take longer," I say. "Can you believe it? Next week our girls will be in their own room in toddler beds. They're not babies anymore."
"I'm not sure I'm ready for that," he says.
"I'm not entirely ready for it either," I say. "Hell, I'm not sure they're ready for this step, especially Teags. She isn't even 2 yet. Are we rushing things?"
"I don't think so. I think both Tessa and Teags are ready for this change," he says. "It's us who may not be entirely ready."
"You're right about that," I say as I push my plate away.
"You didn't eat very much," he says.
"It was really good but I'm starting to get nauseated again," I say. "Remind me to call Stella and thank her for lunch. She never ceases to amaze me. The woman has six kids and took the time to make me lunch." I shake my head. "I wish I had that much energy."
"I doubt she had that much energy when she was pregnant with Nash and Nya," he says.
"You're probably right about that," I say. "Button and Bean are kicking my ass today. I can barely keep my eyes open. And speaking of sleep, thank you for carrying me home. I assume you carried me home. The last thing I truly remember was snuggling in your office. The next thing I know I was in bed."
"That must have been quite a shock," he says.
"Confusing is more like it," I say. "It was almost noon. So much for spending the morning with the kids."
"Bridget asked if she could take them somewhere because they wanted to wake you up," Tobias says. "She was having a hard time keeping them away from our room."
"That sounds like them," I say. "They were expecting to spend some extra time with me and I'm sure it was a disappointment when first I took off after you and then when you brought me home, I was already asleep."
"I actually thought the girls were going to cry when they saw you were asleep," he says. "Tyler started pouting and wanted me to wake you immediately. They were all acting like they hadn't seen you in days."
"Ah. My babies," I say. "I hope I can stay awake long enough to spend some quality time with them."
"I better put these leftovers away," he says. "Are you sure you don't want anymore?"
"No, I better not," I say. "I'm comfortable right now. I don't want to push it."
"Well there's plenty left in case you get hungry later."
"Aren't you going to eat?" I ask, just now realizing I dined alone.
"I grabbed a sandwich in the cafeteria before I picked up your lunch from Stella," he says. "Apparently the pancakes weren't enough."
"Breakfast didn't stick with me either," I say. "Hey, do you have to get right back to work?"
"No," he says as he wipes the counter off.
"Will you sit with me for a while?" I ask.
"Of course," he says. I round the island and take his hand then lead him to the couch. I go to sit beside him but he surprises me when he pulls me into his lap. He wraps his arms around me and nuzzles my neck, giving me light kisses every now and then.
"Did you have a busy morning?" I ask, relaxing into his embrace.
"Not too bad," he say. "Shauna brought Lynn to talk to me."
"What about?" I ask.
"Their father approached her a couple days ago."
"Seriously?" I ask. "What did he want?"
"The same thing he wanted from Hector, information about Dauntless, me, and you," he says. "There was no mention of the kids this time, thankfully, but he did ask about Shauna, Will, and James."
"So, he wants to know about the inner workings of Dauntless?" I muse to myself. "What does a factionless, ex-Dauntless member presumed dead for many years get by investigating his former faction? I just don't get it."
"None of us do, love. I think that's what's most frustrating. We have absolutely no idea what his endgame is," he says with a frustrated sigh. "I'm having Shauna go through his file to see if anything jumps out at her. We also talked about bringing her mother back in for questioning."
"Do you think that would do any good?" I ask, skeptical myself.
"I don't think she would talk unless compelled by truth serum," he says.
"What does Shauna think?" I ask.
"It's her mother. She knows she's difficult but she's hopeful that she will help. We decided to hold off on bringing her in," he says.
"I doubt she would help us anyway," I say. "She loathes us."
"My thoughts exactly," he says. "Also, Zeke is checking the backup surveillance footage compound and city-wide to see if we can locate where he's breaking into the compound and where he's staying. If we can intercept him sooner than later we can put an end to this … whatever the hell this is."
"That's a really good idea," I say.
"I thought so, too," he says.
"I take it it was yours," I say with a chuckle.
"Unfortunately, I can't take credit. It was actually Zeke's idea. He's been thinking about how to end this situation because it's affecting Shauna."
"How is she doing?" I ask. "I feel like I've only seen her in passing since her father was identified, and she seemed fine each time."
"She's stressed to the max. Anxious. Moody. Short fused," he says.
"Sounds a lot like Christina," I say.
"I'm not sure I'd tell Shauna that," he says with a deep chuckle.
"Believe me, I hadn't planned on it," I say with a giggle. "Hey, did you ask Lynn why she didn't come to you right away?"
"Yeah, she was conflicted. He's her father. She wants him back in her life but his questions made her uncomfortable. Apparently, he didn't ask any personal questions, not even something simple like how have you been. That didn't sit well with Lynn. She said he basically interrogated her," he says. "Shauna told her that the next time he approaches her, she better tell her immediately. I encouraged her to comply with her sister's wishes."
"That's a very diplomatic statement."
"I'll admit I didn't say what I was thinking," he says.
"Which was?" I ask.
"What the hell were you thinking not notifying one of us immediately? You know the shit we're dealing with."
"Why didn't you?"
"If you'd have seen her face, you would have let it slide, too," he says. "I know what she's going through, love. Hell, what they're all going through. Thinking that a parent is dead and finding out that they're very much alive and that they chose to leave you can destroy you if you let it. I'm sure she's not thinking straight. We both know Lynn very well. When has she ever shied away from confrontation?"
"Never," I say.
"Exactly," he says then he looks at his watch. "I should be getting back to work."
"Already?" Even though I'm surprised to see that it's after 1 p.m., I don't want him to leave just yet.
"I have a lot to do this afternoon before my meeting with Paco," he says.
"Give me a few more minutes," I say with a sigh as he gently runs his hand over my swelling abdomen. "That feels good."
"I'm worried about you, Tris," he says. "All three of you. I don't like that you're not feeling well."
"We're fine. You know that," I say as I run my hand over his. "Blood pressures are in the low normal range. There's no protein in my urine. The babies' heartbeats are strong. I won't ask you not to worry because that would be like asking you not to breathe but you need to take care of yourself for me. Worrying so much isn't good for you. When's the last time you had a physical?" He freezes for a moment then tightens his arms around me and brings his mouth to mine but I turn my head to avoid the kiss so he moves his lips to my neck. "Tobias Eaton! You're trying to distract me."
"I just wanted to kiss my wife," he murmurs.
"Uh, no," I say. "I'm trying to have a serious conversation about your health and you want to distract me with your sexy mouth. Shame on you."
"I'm sorry," he says, not sounding like he means it one bit. "You know I hate physicals."
"So do I but they're necessary," I say. "What if I were to say there will be no sex until you have a complete physical." His lips still on my jaw.
"I'd call Zander and schedule one right now," he gruffly says. "Isn't that blackmail, Mrs. Eaton."
"Call it what you want, Mr. Eaton," I say, holding my phone out to him.
"You're serious?" he incredulously asks.
"Yes, I am," I say, shaking the phone at him. "Call Zander if you ever want inside my body again."
"Not nice, Tris Eaton. I believe that's using sex as a weapon," he says as he takes my phone. "Something we both vowed never to do."
"I'll feel bad about it once I know that you're completely healthy," I say. He calls the infirmary, and we're both surprised that Zander has an opening this afternoon.
"Yes, 4:30 is fine," he says into the phone. "I'll be there. Thank you." He hangs up and puts my phone on the end table. "Satisfied."
"Maybe," I say. "There is something I would like you to talk to him about."
"What's that?" he asks.
"Promise not to freak out?" I ask.
"Not a very good lead in, love," he says. "I think I'm freaking out a little."
"You are so full of it," I say when I see his grin. "I want you to ask about a vasectomy."
"Excuse me?" I try not to laugh but his shocked expression makes me giggle. "What the hell, Tris."
"Baby, I'm sorry. I know this isn't a laughing matter," I say. "Five kids, Tobias. We're going to have five kids. I'm not even 20 yet. You have to admit that's kind of crazy. I was talking to Isobel at my last blood pressure check about what the best birth control methods were for after the twins. I asked about getting my tubes tied after the they come. We don't need another accidental pregnancy. Do you really want six kids or even more?" He shakes his head, his eyes slightly glazed over. I think my request has really thrown him.
"What did she say?" he asks.
"I'm too young," I say. "They don't like doing that procedure on a woman younger than 30. She gave me several reasons, which all made perfect sense but I still think a more permanent method of birth control will be best for us."
"So, you want me to have a vasectomy," he says. "I'm not sure I'm okay with that. I'm only 21."
"You want more kids in the future?"
"No, I don't," he says, "but I'm pretty partial to not having my dick operated on either."
"A small human tried to work her way out of my vagina before they had to cut her out, and you're worried about a little snip snip?"
"Yes, I am," he says. I can't help but roll my eyes at him.
"I'm not asking you to have the procedure done this afternoon," I say. "I just want you to ask Zander about it so we can discuss our options before the twins come." He stares into my eyes for the longest time, looking like he's battling slipping on his Four mask. Is he really thinking about saying no? "Baby? Please?"
"Fine," he mutters.
"If you don't want to you don't have to," I say as I extract myself from his embrace. "I'll be right back." His odd behavior has triggered my oversensitive emotions, and I slip into the powder room. I splash some cold water on my cheeks and try to breathe through the lump in my throat. I will not cry over this. When I've gained my composure, I open the door to find Tobias standing there.
"I'm sorry I upset you," he says, opening his arms. I immediately go to him. He hugs me tight and I contentedly sigh into his chest.
"I'm sorry I'm so emotional right now," I say. "I'm serious. If you don't want…"
"I'll talk to him," he says. "There is nothing wrong with gathering information. You just threw me a little with that request. A vasectomy has never crossed my mind." I lean back and look up at him.
"I don't want you to do anything you don't want to but I think a permanent solution is the best way to go," I say. "I have every intention of talking with Zander about my options. I know my age is a factor but maybe he would make an exception. If not, that would only leave you. I just want to know what our options are."
"Is this why you wanted me to have a physical?" he asks.
"No," I say. "You aren't the only one who worries."
"I know," he says. He leans in and lightly presses his mouth to mine. "I love you."
"I love you, too," I murmur against his lips. Before we get carried away I hear the front door open.
"Mommy!" the kids say in unison when they see us.
"You awake!" Tessa says while Tyler asks, "Are you better?" Teags just stands there yawning.
"I'm really tired," I say. "I see someone else who is tired."
"Who?" Tyler asks, sounding genuinely concerned.
"Well, Teags looks like she's about ready to fall over," I say. "Tessa looks like she's not far behind."
"Did you guys have fun swimming?" Tobias asks.
"Yeah," Tyler says. "Zane was there and we played. Can he spend the night?"
"Maybe this weekend," I say. "We'll have to ask Stella and Zander."
"I asked him and he say yes," he says.
"You know he can't stay over on a week night," I say. "He has school tomorrow."
"Why wasn't he at school today?" he asks, a yawn escaping his lips.
"I really don't know," I say.
"Have you had lunch?" Tobias asks.
"We went to the cafeteria for pizza," Bridget says. "They had lunch with your friends. I don't know who had a better time, the kids or the adults."
"They love eating in the cafeteria," I say. "Let me guess, Uriah gave them cake."
"He let them split a small slice," she says.
"It could be worse," he says, chuckling as I grimace.
"How?" I ask.
"He could have given them each their own piece or more," he says. "He has a hard time saying no to them."
"And then I would have had to kill him," I say, shaking my head. The kids laugh reminding me that they are always listening even when we don't think they are.
"He knows better than to get them hopped up on sugar after that time he babysat for us," he says. I shake my head remembering how difficult it was to control them after their afternoon with Uncle Uriah. I threatened to kick him in the balls for every slice of cake he gave them. I've never seen him pale so quickly. I never did get an exact number out of him but I'm thinking it was approaching the double digits between the three kids. Needless to say, Uncle Uriah has not been allowed to babysit without Aunt Marlene with him to make sure he's acting like the adult. "I'll help you get them down."
"Do you guys want to lie down with Mommy?" I ask, already knowing what the answer will be.
"Yes," Tyler says as the girls simply nod. I think they are asleep on their feet.
"Bridget, can you grab Tyler?" I ask as I pick up Tessa and Tobias lifts Teagan.
"Of course," she says. It warms my heart how he lays his head on her shoulder when she lifts him into her arms. He loves her. All my kids do … thankfully. By the time we reach the bedroom, all the kids are out.
"Thanks, Bridget," Tobias says.
"You're welcome, Four," she says.
"Do you think you can do me a favor?" I ask, remembering the shopping. She nods. "I haven't been to the commissary for groceries in a while. You know what we usually have on hand. Could you do the shopping while we take a nap? I would really appreciate it. Four was going to do it but he has an appointment that he has to keep."
"I can do that," she says. "Is there anything special you would like to have for supper? I could put it in the oven for you."
"Your beef stew would be great," Tobias says. "That would be great. Thank you so much, Bridget. By the way, Tris and I are increasing your pay by 15% and once the twins arrive, we will up your pay by an additional 10%. We appreciate all you do for us and the children, and we want you to know that we don't look as you as an employee, you're family. If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to ask."
"Thank you so much, Four, Tris," she says, obviously moved. "You really don't have to do that but I do appreciate it. I better get going." She ducks out of the room without looking back and I suspect the reason is that she is emotional over Tobias' little speech.
"Impressive, Mr. Eaton," I say.
"I hope that's okay," he says. "I know we never finished our discussion but I heard you."
"You sure did," I say.
"Do you think I gave her too much?" he says with a frown.
"Not at all," I say. "I'm a big softy so I probably would have given her 50%."
"You never know," he says. "Once the twins are born she may demand a pay increase because it's too much work for the money."
"I doubt she would demand anything," I say then yawn widely. "Definitely out of character."
"You need to get some rest." He kisses my forehead then kisses each of our kids.
"Please don't forget your appointment with Zander," I whisper. "Thank you for doing that for me."
"You blackmailed me, remember," he quietly says then an evil grin spreads across his face. "I think someone needs punished for that."
"Punished?" I scoff. "I don't think so."
"Yeah, punished," he says. "There are a few things running through my mind that I think we both would enjoy."
"That wouldn't be punishment then."
"You say that now," he says so low that I'm not sure he said anything at all. He leans over me and gently glides his knuckles back and forth across my jawline. "Feel better, love. I'll leave you some ginger ale and ginger cookies on the nightstand. Do you want anything else before I go back to work?"
"Just a kiss," I say. He lowers his lips to mine and kisses me lovingly. "Have a good afternoon, baby."
"You too, love."
