Chapter 2
6 AM
Sara awakens with a start as she hears a baby cry. She groans remembering the earlier events. She sits up lifting up the crying infant. "Shh Anastasia its OK. Your safe now" she soothes holding the baby close. "No one's going to hurt you."
Anastasia calms her cries becoming sniffles as she regards the new voice.
Sara looks at the baby surprised by her intense look "I take it that look is in the Nottingham genes." she says with a laugh. She smoothes the baby's dark hair "I wonder who you look more like."
"I think she has your face" Danny says
Sara jumps "Danny don't do that." she turns around to find her ghost friend standing there.
Anastasia coos waving her arms
"Can she see you?" Sara asks
"Babies and children believe in more than adults." Danny says his eyes on the baby. "She probably holds aspects of the Witchblade in her blood."
"How so?"
"She was made after your trial when the Witchblade bonded itself to you." Danny says "He knows about me too."
"Does Irons know she's gone?"
"Most likely."
Sara nods "See Anastasia that's your Uncle Danny."
Anastasia grins cooing happily
"She seems to have adjusted quite well" Danny states
"Do you think she knows who I am?"
"Children seem to know who their parents are and who's going to take care of them."
Anastasia chatters
"She probably needs to be changed" Danny says
"I have no diapers here." Sara reminds "Or formula. Or anything for a baby."
"I have no diapers here." Sara reminds "Or formula. Or anything for a baby. I'll have to wait until Gabe gets here before I can go get diapers and stuff." she carries the baby into the kitchen. "So Ana how about we get you some graham crackers to snack on until I can go get you some formula." she grabs a box of graham cracker taking one out she offers it to the baby. She watches fascinated as the baby takes the cracker looking at it curiously. "You like graham crackers?"
Anastasia grins taking a bite she chews thoughtfully.
7 AM
"Hey Pez" Gabe calls
Sara sets the infant on the floor going to the door she opens it to find the younger man standing there holding two cups of coffee. "One of those for me?"
"Of course." Gabe hands her one "So what did you want?"
"There's someone I'd like you to meet." Sara gestures with her head
Gabe enters "Who?"
"She's in here" Sara leads him to the livingroom
Gabe starts seeing the infant on the floor "Who is that?"
Sara sets the cup down picking up the baby "This is Anastasia... she's my daughter."
Gabe stares at Pez stunned "When were you pregnant?"
"Never." Sara replies kissing Anastasia's head "Irons had her created in a lab." she says bitterly
"What?! Why?"
"I don't know why."
"How do you know that she's yours?"
Sara looks at the bracelet
"It told you?"
Sara nods
"Who brought her here?"
Sara fidgets
"Don't tell me tall dark and scary brought her here"
"He did. Look I need a huge favor."
"What kind?" he asks suspiciously
"Can you watch her for the next few days while I'm at work?"
"Pez you have today off" Gabe reminds
"Yes but I need to go to the grocery store and pick up somethings and I don't want to take her with me right now. Please Gabe... I won't actually need you to watch her full time until tomorrow."
"Pez I know nothing about babies" Gabe protests
"Gabe other than you the only other person I can trust is Jake and he can't watch her. He'll ask questions I can't answer."
"Pez" he groans
"Please Gabe." Sara pleads
"Fine all right I'll watch her. Only for a few days."
"Gabe I could kiss you" Sara says
"OK"
"Very funny. Look I'll go get her some diapers and formula and some toys. I'll only be a while"
"Don't forget some bottles" Gabe says
"Here" Sara carefully hands the baby to Gabe. "I'll be back in half hour. And Gabe if Ian stops by don't freak out OK."
"Why would he?"
"Its Ian. He shows up everywhere" Sara reminds grabbing her jacket she stops to kiss Anastasia's cheek. "Have fun with Uncle Gabe Ana"
Anastasia holds out her arms pouting
Sara smiles "Just give her graham crackers if she gets antsy. Keep an eye on her when she eats them. I'll change her when I get back." she hurries out of the apartment
Gabe looks at the baby curiously yet slightly scared. "Well kid looks like its just us."
10 mins later
Sara finds herself at the grocery store grabbing diapers she jumps in surprise when she sees Ian standing beside her. "What are you doing here?"
"I arranged to have somethings delivered for her." he looks down "I knew you would be busy with work."
Sara looks at him startled "Uh thanks Nottingham."
Ian nods "Who is watching her now?"
"Gabe. I have today off I just needed him to watch her so I could do some grocery shopping" she explains
"I will have some papers made up for her. Listed you has her guardian. Some long lost friend of yours died leaving you custody. The paperwork will be finished soon. I will bring them by when its done."
Sara looks at him surprised "Thanks for thinking of that. I better finish up here before Gabe starts freaking out over dirty diapers." she chuckles "I warned Gabe that you might stop by. So don't scare him."
Ian nods "I would not harm your friend."
"Good" Sara tosses in a couple packages of diapers. She looks up to see Ian had disappeared. She shakes her head 'I wish he'd stop that'
20 mins later
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe walking the floor trying to calm the crying baby. "What happened?" she asks setting the bags down taking the crying baby from Gabe
"She just started crying" Gabe replies panicked
"She probably needs to be changed" Danny says appearing at Sara's side
"Gabe I need the diapers and wipes. Their in one of the bags." she sets the baby on the counter unbuttoning her sleeper. "Ran into Ian at the store."
"Ran into?" Gabe says in disbelief as he grabs the diapers and wipes from the bags opening them. "What did he say?"
"He's having some things dropped off for Anastasia. Papers made up giving me custody of Anastasia" she says removing the diaper she winces
"Holy... no wonder she was crying." Gabe says disgusted at the smell of the dirty diaper.
"Ian didn't bring any diapers for her last night. That and he drugged her."
"He drugged a baby?!" Gabe yelps
"I already scolded him on it." Sara assures wiping the baby. "I don't think you need to know anymore" she grabs a diaper
"Doing good Pez" Danny assures
"So what are you going to tell Jake about her?" Gabe asks
Sara groans lifting up the newly changed baby "I'm not sure." she reaches into the grocery bag grabbing a new still packaged bottle "Can you open this?" she asks tossing Gabe the package "I haven't told him the whole truth about the Witchblade so I don't know. How am I supposed to explain her?" she tosses the dirty diaper in the garbage
Gabe opens the package "Tell him the truth"
"You know how Jake is... he'll fly off the handle and go confront Irons and Nottingham. That won't end well."
"True"
"But if I don't tell him" she sighs looking at the baby "Well shortie what do you think?"
"Why don't you ask that" Gabe nods at the Witchblade
Sara looks at the bracelet as she opens the container of formula "Maybe." she sighs reading the directions she makes the bottle
"Pez what are you going to do about Anastasia?" Gabe asks
Sara pauses "I'm not sure. I've only known about her for four hours."
"Well you do have the day off" Gabe suggests "Spend some time getting to know her."
"I have to work tomorrow so I'll start looking into childcare and such today. It'll take me a few days though" she carries Anastasia over to the couch sitting down she offers the infant the bottle. As Anastasia begins to drink hungrily Sara looks at the baby
Gabe sits down "I can watch her a few times a week if you want."
"Thanks Gabe I owe you"
"That you do especially since I'm going to have to change nasty smelling diapers"
"Hey think of it this way you'll be prepared for your own kids"
"Thank god that is a long way off" he laughs
Sara sighs "I don't even know if I'm ready for this."
"Ready or not your going to have a kid to take care of" Gabe says
Sara looks at the baby "Yeah I know. Kid your going to have to deal with one unsure Mom"
"Like they all say 'Your never prepared for a kid... even if you plan for one.' And this is one who was definately not planned for." Gabe says
"True" Sara agrees "but that doesn't mean I can't love her... she is still a part of me no matter the circumstances behind her existance."
"Or who her father is?"
Sara looks at Gabe "Or who her father is."
"Don't forget to burp her." Danny reminds
"Gabe can you grab a dishcloth from the kitchen for me"
"Uh sure where?"
"First drawer on the left by the stove."
Gabe stands going to the kitchen. "What time do you
want me here?"
"I have to be at work at 9."
"I'll be here at 8:30 then"
"Thanks Gabe"
"I'll go and leave you and Anastasia to some mother daughter time." Gabe goes over to the couch squeezing the baby's foot "Later kid don't run your Mom ragged."
Anastasia grins around her bottle kicking her feet excitedly
"I think she's saying bye Uncle Gabe" Sara laughs
"Bye kid. I'll see ya later" he says to Sara grabbing his jacket he makes his way out the door "Later" he calls over his shoulder
Sara looks at the baby and smiles "Well Ana its just us and ghost Danny. What should we do?"
Chapter 3
That afternoon
Sara groans as she hears a knock at the door. "Who is it?" she calls
"Delivery for Sara Pezzini."
Sara looks at Anastasia laying on a blanket on the floor playing with a dishcloth. She stands going to the door she opens it to find three men standing there.
"We're from Babies R Us. We have a delivery"
Sara nods stepping aside "Sure come on in. Be careful she's in the livingroom."
The men enter "We were also told to set up the furniture... where do you want the crib and changing table?"
"Up in the loft" Sara says
"Playpen?" another man asks
"Livingroom"
"Baby chair?"
"Kitchen table"
"Swing?" asks the third guy.
"Livingroom." Sara answers going around the men she picks up Anastasia.
"We also have baby clothes, toys, bathroom stuff, diapers, carseat, and numerous other baby stuff out in the van." the first man says
"OK uh put the stuff in the livingroom after you put together the furniture and I'll go through the stuff."
"Sure" the first man nods
Sara settles on the couch with Anastasia as they watch the men work.
Anastasia waves happily as the men work giggling and chattering away.
Sara laughs "You're getting stuff to play with huh sweetie" she hears a knock at the door
"Pez" a voice calls
Sara swallows "Come on in Jake" she calls.
"Uh Pez what's with all this stuff?" Jake asks entering he stops in his tracks seeing Sara on the couch holding a dark haired baby on her lap. "Pez who's the kid?"
"This is Anastasia."
"Hey Anastasia" Jake smiles at the baby immediately taken with the little girl. "Who is she?"
"She's my daughter"
"WHAT?!" the detective yelps
Anastasia starts surprised by the loud voice she sticks out her lower lip
"Uh ma'am I'm done with the playpen" the short plump man says
Sara looks up to see the playpen set up. She stands setting Anastasia in the playpen "Thanks. Uh can you guys keep an eye on her for a minute... I'll just be out on the fire escape."
"Uh sure no problem" the tallest man says
Sara leads Jake out to the fire escape "Look I know this is a surprise"
"Pez you never had a kid. I'd know."
Sara sighs "Look it would be a lot easier if you don't ask too many questions about her. Just trust me on this Jake."
"I do. Just tell me who she is."
Sara sighs "An old friend of mine died... left me custody of Anastasia." she lies 'sorry Jake I can't tell you the truth.'
"Oh." Jake says looking out to the street "How long has she been with you?"
"Few hours. Jake I'd prefer if few people know about her."
"Not a problem Pez."
"You and Gabe are the only ones who know about her."
"So Nottingham doesn't?"
Sara looks at Jake amused "Jake its Nottingham he probably knew about her before I did."
Jake chuckles "Good point."
"Come on lets go back in. She probably wants another bottle." she steps through the window. Going over to the playpen she picks up the baby. "Hey Ana sweetie do you want another bottle?"
Jake watches as Sara carries the baby into the kitchen "So how'd you get all this stuff delivered so fast?" he asks leaning against the counter
"Uh I'll tell you later" Sara nods at the men working.
"Is it who I think it is?" Jake asks
"It depends on which one your thinking of" Sara replies looking at him "Here can you take her for a sec"
"Sure" Jake takes the baby "Hey Anastasia"
Anastasia grins
"I think she likes you" Sara says
"I'm a likeable fellow" Jake smiles at the baby
Sara turns around grabbing a bottle "That you are"
"Uh Ms Pezzini where do you want the rocking chair?" asks one of the men
"Put it in the bedroom" Sara replies turning back to making the bottle "So what are you doing on your day off?"
"Not much. Thought I'd stop by to see if you wanted to go play some pool but I see you've got your hands busy" he laughs looking at the baby who's chattering in his arms
"Yeah well I have work tomorrow so I thought Ana and I would spend some time getting to know each other." she sets the bottle in the microwave "So McCartey do you have nieces and nephews?"
"Two nieces and a nephew. When I was a teenager I babysat to make some cash."
"I can't believe that" Sara says taking the bottle out of the microwave she checks the temp. "So any chance I can get some babysitting out of you?"
"Maybe" Jake laughs as the baby pats at his face.
Sara turns around and laughs at the sit of Anastasia chattering away "Hey Ana you chatterer." she takes the baby from Jake "I bet you want this huh" she offers the bottle to the baby.
"The furniture is all set up ma'am. We'll go get the rest of the stuff from the van."
Sara looks up "The door will be open." she watches as the three men walk out of the apartment. She sits on the couch.
"What are you going to do about work?"
"I'm going to look into daycare for her." Sara answers "Until I find one suitable Gabe said he'd watch her." she looks at the baby "Jake I need you to keep this whole thing to yourself. You know what would happen if too many people found out about her."
"No prob. You want it kept secret then my lips are sealed."
"Thanks" Sara says as the men reenter the apartment carrying bags and boxes. She shakes her head 'Ian how much stuff did you get her.'
"Geez that's a lot of stuff for one kid." Jake remarks
"There's still some more things" one of the men states
"We put together the crib, changing table, baby chair, playpen, rocking chair, and the swing."
"Thanks guys." Sara says
"Its what we were paid for" the third man says
"We'll go get the rest of the stuff." the first man says setting the boxes in his arms down.
Ten minutes later the men drop off the final boxes and leave and Sara looks at Jake "So you know how to give a baby a bath?" she asks
"Done it a few times." Jake says "Where's the baby shampoo?"
"In one of those bags or boxes" Sara says with a shrug.
Jake shakes his head going over to the pile of bags and boxes. "Let's see we got bottles, formula, and pacifiers in this bag." he sets the bag aside going to the next bag. "OK diaper rash creme, wipes. These guys are organized." After a few minutes he finds the bag with the baby shampoo, washclothes and towels. "OK found the right bag. Where do you want to do this? Kitchen or bathroom?"
"Uh bathroom is probably the cleanest." Sara replies burping the baby.
"I'll go run the water then" Jake says opening the packages gathering up the stuff he heads into the bathroom.
"Well Ana looks like Uncle Jake is going to be of some help huh"
Anastasia grins patting her mother's face cooing happily.
Sara smiles at the baby 'That's my girl'
Anastasia's eyes go to the bracelet and she reaches out touching it curiousity evident in her touch.
"You know what this is don't you" Sara says she looks at the bracelet smiling as it changes color.
Anastasia chatters happily her eyes on the
glimmering jewel.
"All right tubs ready" Jake calls
Sara grins at the baby "Bathtime baby." she stands carrying Anastasia into the bathroom. "Lets get you out of these dirty nasty clothes huh sweetie." she sets the baby on the floor beside Jake and begins to strip the baby out of the clothes she has been wearing all day.
"The waters warm enough for her." Jake says
Sara sets the baby in the warm water and laughs at the baby's grin. "She seems to like it." she watches as the baby splashes
"OK we got the baby washclothes and the wash." Jake wets the cloth pouring some wash on it handing it to Sara. He watches as Sara lathers up the baby. "She's still young enough to need some support."
"So McCartey why don't you have any kids?"
Jake shrugs "I could say its because of work but its because I'm not ready to take on that much responsibility. That's why I send presents and spend time with my nieces and nephew and my friends kids. They take care of the occassional kid need."
"You plan on having kids?"
"One day." Jake replies
Sara laughs as Anastasia splashes them "Ana no getting us wet." she says tapping the baby's nose.
"Here's the shampoo." Jake says "Good thing they got tearless"
Sara takes the bottle pouring a little on the baby's head
9 PM
Sara looks in on Anastasia asleep in her crib "Sleep well Anastasia." she goes to the livingroom grabbing a set of case files to read over.
After midnight
Sara awakens sensing someone in the apartment she sits up to see a figure over the crib. "Ian?"
Ian steps away from the crib
Sara turns on the lamp "Its fine." she assures glancing at the clock. "I take it he knows she's gone."
Ian nods going back to the crib "He thinks the doctor took her."
"Does he know she's here?"
"Yes."
Sara joins him at the crib looking at the sleeping baby "Is he going to try and take her?"
"I do not think he wants to make you mad. You are the Wielder."
Sara reaches into the crib stroking Anastasia's cheek "Nottingham is it possible that she holds aspect of the Witchblade?"
"How so?"
She looks at Ian "She can see Danny. I know you can sense him."
Ian nods "Yes."
"Ian she looked right at him."
Ian reaches out touching the Witchblade "It knows her" he states
Sara looks at his hand watching as the colors change "Yes" she looks at Ian "it knows you too."
Ian nods "As it always has." he removes his hand "I should go before he becomes suspicious." he reaches into his coat pulling out a large envelope. "Here is some of her papers. Birth certificate and the legal papers declaring you her legal guardian" he hands the envelope to Sara.
Sara nods "Good. Now I can get started with finding her daycare."
"Here" Ian hands her a card "I arranged for a nanny for her."
"Ian"
"A nanny is safer than childcare."
"Yes but a nanny would be easier to pay off." Sara argues
Ian looks at Anastasia "Not this one. Her name is Jas. She can be trusted. Call her when you want her to start." he looks at Sara "You will have to trust me and the Witchblade Sara. I have never willingly lied to you."
Sara nods "I know."
Ian goes to the open window "Goodnight Sara" he says
"Goodnight Ian." she says "Oh and Ian"
Ian looks at her over his shoulder
"Its OK that you visit her." she assures
Ian nods crawling out the window.
Sara shakes her head looking down at the sleeping baby "Well Anastasia your father is one strange guy." she strokes Anastasia's cheek "Sleep well" she turns crawling back into bed turning off the light.
TBC...
6 AM
Sara awakens with a start as she hears a baby cry. She groans remembering the earlier events. She sits up lifting up the crying infant. "Shh Anastasia its OK. Your safe now" she soothes holding the baby close. "No one's going to hurt you."
Anastasia calms her cries becoming sniffles as she regards the new voice.
Sara looks at the baby surprised by her intense look "I take it that look is in the Nottingham genes." she says with a laugh. She smoothes the baby's dark hair "I wonder who you look more like."
"I think she has your face" Danny says
Sara jumps "Danny don't do that." she turns around to find her ghost friend standing there.
Anastasia coos waving her arms
"Can she see you?" Sara asks
"Babies and children believe in more than adults." Danny says his eyes on the baby. "She probably holds aspects of the Witchblade in her blood."
"How so?"
"She was made after your trial when the Witchblade bonded itself to you." Danny says "He knows about me too."
"Does Irons know she's gone?"
"Most likely."
Sara nods "See Anastasia that's your Uncle Danny."
Anastasia grins cooing happily
"She seems to have adjusted quite well" Danny states
"Do you think she knows who I am?"
"Children seem to know who their parents are and who's going to take care of them."
Anastasia chatters
"She probably needs to be changed" Danny says
"I have no diapers here." Sara reminds "Or formula. Or anything for a baby."
"I have no diapers here." Sara reminds "Or formula. Or anything for a baby. I'll have to wait until Gabe gets here before I can go get diapers and stuff." she carries the baby into the kitchen. "So Ana how about we get you some graham crackers to snack on until I can go get you some formula." she grabs a box of graham cracker taking one out she offers it to the baby. She watches fascinated as the baby takes the cracker looking at it curiously. "You like graham crackers?"
Anastasia grins taking a bite she chews thoughtfully.
7 AM
"Hey Pez" Gabe calls
Sara sets the infant on the floor going to the door she opens it to find the younger man standing there holding two cups of coffee. "One of those for me?"
"Of course." Gabe hands her one "So what did you want?"
"There's someone I'd like you to meet." Sara gestures with her head
Gabe enters "Who?"
"She's in here" Sara leads him to the livingroom
Gabe starts seeing the infant on the floor "Who is that?"
Sara sets the cup down picking up the baby "This is Anastasia... she's my daughter."
Gabe stares at Pez stunned "When were you pregnant?"
"Never." Sara replies kissing Anastasia's head "Irons had her created in a lab." she says bitterly
"What?! Why?"
"I don't know why."
"How do you know that she's yours?"
Sara looks at the bracelet
"It told you?"
Sara nods
"Who brought her here?"
Sara fidgets
"Don't tell me tall dark and scary brought her here"
"He did. Look I need a huge favor."
"What kind?" he asks suspiciously
"Can you watch her for the next few days while I'm at work?"
"Pez you have today off" Gabe reminds
"Yes but I need to go to the grocery store and pick up somethings and I don't want to take her with me right now. Please Gabe... I won't actually need you to watch her full time until tomorrow."
"Pez I know nothing about babies" Gabe protests
"Gabe other than you the only other person I can trust is Jake and he can't watch her. He'll ask questions I can't answer."
"Pez" he groans
"Please Gabe." Sara pleads
"Fine all right I'll watch her. Only for a few days."
"Gabe I could kiss you" Sara says
"OK"
"Very funny. Look I'll go get her some diapers and formula and some toys. I'll only be a while"
"Don't forget some bottles" Gabe says
"Here" Sara carefully hands the baby to Gabe. "I'll be back in half hour. And Gabe if Ian stops by don't freak out OK."
"Why would he?"
"Its Ian. He shows up everywhere" Sara reminds grabbing her jacket she stops to kiss Anastasia's cheek. "Have fun with Uncle Gabe Ana"
Anastasia holds out her arms pouting
Sara smiles "Just give her graham crackers if she gets antsy. Keep an eye on her when she eats them. I'll change her when I get back." she hurries out of the apartment
Gabe looks at the baby curiously yet slightly scared. "Well kid looks like its just us."
10 mins later
Sara finds herself at the grocery store grabbing diapers she jumps in surprise when she sees Ian standing beside her. "What are you doing here?"
"I arranged to have somethings delivered for her." he looks down "I knew you would be busy with work."
Sara looks at him startled "Uh thanks Nottingham."
Ian nods "Who is watching her now?"
"Gabe. I have today off I just needed him to watch her so I could do some grocery shopping" she explains
"I will have some papers made up for her. Listed you has her guardian. Some long lost friend of yours died leaving you custody. The paperwork will be finished soon. I will bring them by when its done."
Sara looks at him surprised "Thanks for thinking of that. I better finish up here before Gabe starts freaking out over dirty diapers." she chuckles "I warned Gabe that you might stop by. So don't scare him."
Ian nods "I would not harm your friend."
"Good" Sara tosses in a couple packages of diapers. She looks up to see Ian had disappeared. She shakes her head 'I wish he'd stop that'
20 mins later
Sara enters the apartment to find Gabe walking the floor trying to calm the crying baby. "What happened?" she asks setting the bags down taking the crying baby from Gabe
"She just started crying" Gabe replies panicked
"She probably needs to be changed" Danny says appearing at Sara's side
"Gabe I need the diapers and wipes. Their in one of the bags." she sets the baby on the counter unbuttoning her sleeper. "Ran into Ian at the store."
"Ran into?" Gabe says in disbelief as he grabs the diapers and wipes from the bags opening them. "What did he say?"
"He's having some things dropped off for Anastasia. Papers made up giving me custody of Anastasia" she says removing the diaper she winces
"Holy... no wonder she was crying." Gabe says disgusted at the smell of the dirty diaper.
"Ian didn't bring any diapers for her last night. That and he drugged her."
"He drugged a baby?!" Gabe yelps
"I already scolded him on it." Sara assures wiping the baby. "I don't think you need to know anymore" she grabs a diaper
"Doing good Pez" Danny assures
"So what are you going to tell Jake about her?" Gabe asks
Sara groans lifting up the newly changed baby "I'm not sure." she reaches into the grocery bag grabbing a new still packaged bottle "Can you open this?" she asks tossing Gabe the package "I haven't told him the whole truth about the Witchblade so I don't know. How am I supposed to explain her?" she tosses the dirty diaper in the garbage
Gabe opens the package "Tell him the truth"
"You know how Jake is... he'll fly off the handle and go confront Irons and Nottingham. That won't end well."
"True"
"But if I don't tell him" she sighs looking at the baby "Well shortie what do you think?"
"Why don't you ask that" Gabe nods at the Witchblade
Sara looks at the bracelet as she opens the container of formula "Maybe." she sighs reading the directions she makes the bottle
"Pez what are you going to do about Anastasia?" Gabe asks
Sara pauses "I'm not sure. I've only known about her for four hours."
"Well you do have the day off" Gabe suggests "Spend some time getting to know her."
"I have to work tomorrow so I'll start looking into childcare and such today. It'll take me a few days though" she carries Anastasia over to the couch sitting down she offers the infant the bottle. As Anastasia begins to drink hungrily Sara looks at the baby
Gabe sits down "I can watch her a few times a week if you want."
"Thanks Gabe I owe you"
"That you do especially since I'm going to have to change nasty smelling diapers"
"Hey think of it this way you'll be prepared for your own kids"
"Thank god that is a long way off" he laughs
Sara sighs "I don't even know if I'm ready for this."
"Ready or not your going to have a kid to take care of" Gabe says
Sara looks at the baby "Yeah I know. Kid your going to have to deal with one unsure Mom"
"Like they all say 'Your never prepared for a kid... even if you plan for one.' And this is one who was definately not planned for." Gabe says
"True" Sara agrees "but that doesn't mean I can't love her... she is still a part of me no matter the circumstances behind her existance."
"Or who her father is?"
Sara looks at Gabe "Or who her father is."
"Don't forget to burp her." Danny reminds
"Gabe can you grab a dishcloth from the kitchen for me"
"Uh sure where?"
"First drawer on the left by the stove."
Gabe stands going to the kitchen. "What time do you
want me here?"
"I have to be at work at 9."
"I'll be here at 8:30 then"
"Thanks Gabe"
"I'll go and leave you and Anastasia to some mother daughter time." Gabe goes over to the couch squeezing the baby's foot "Later kid don't run your Mom ragged."
Anastasia grins around her bottle kicking her feet excitedly
"I think she's saying bye Uncle Gabe" Sara laughs
"Bye kid. I'll see ya later" he says to Sara grabbing his jacket he makes his way out the door "Later" he calls over his shoulder
Sara looks at the baby and smiles "Well Ana its just us and ghost Danny. What should we do?"
Chapter 3
That afternoon
Sara groans as she hears a knock at the door. "Who is it?" she calls
"Delivery for Sara Pezzini."
Sara looks at Anastasia laying on a blanket on the floor playing with a dishcloth. She stands going to the door she opens it to find three men standing there.
"We're from Babies R Us. We have a delivery"
Sara nods stepping aside "Sure come on in. Be careful she's in the livingroom."
The men enter "We were also told to set up the furniture... where do you want the crib and changing table?"
"Up in the loft" Sara says
"Playpen?" another man asks
"Livingroom"
"Baby chair?"
"Kitchen table"
"Swing?" asks the third guy.
"Livingroom." Sara answers going around the men she picks up Anastasia.
"We also have baby clothes, toys, bathroom stuff, diapers, carseat, and numerous other baby stuff out in the van." the first man says
"OK uh put the stuff in the livingroom after you put together the furniture and I'll go through the stuff."
"Sure" the first man nods
Sara settles on the couch with Anastasia as they watch the men work.
Anastasia waves happily as the men work giggling and chattering away.
Sara laughs "You're getting stuff to play with huh sweetie" she hears a knock at the door
"Pez" a voice calls
Sara swallows "Come on in Jake" she calls.
"Uh Pez what's with all this stuff?" Jake asks entering he stops in his tracks seeing Sara on the couch holding a dark haired baby on her lap. "Pez who's the kid?"
"This is Anastasia."
"Hey Anastasia" Jake smiles at the baby immediately taken with the little girl. "Who is she?"
"She's my daughter"
"WHAT?!" the detective yelps
Anastasia starts surprised by the loud voice she sticks out her lower lip
"Uh ma'am I'm done with the playpen" the short plump man says
Sara looks up to see the playpen set up. She stands setting Anastasia in the playpen "Thanks. Uh can you guys keep an eye on her for a minute... I'll just be out on the fire escape."
"Uh sure no problem" the tallest man says
Sara leads Jake out to the fire escape "Look I know this is a surprise"
"Pez you never had a kid. I'd know."
Sara sighs "Look it would be a lot easier if you don't ask too many questions about her. Just trust me on this Jake."
"I do. Just tell me who she is."
Sara sighs "An old friend of mine died... left me custody of Anastasia." she lies 'sorry Jake I can't tell you the truth.'
"Oh." Jake says looking out to the street "How long has she been with you?"
"Few hours. Jake I'd prefer if few people know about her."
"Not a problem Pez."
"You and Gabe are the only ones who know about her."
"So Nottingham doesn't?"
Sara looks at Jake amused "Jake its Nottingham he probably knew about her before I did."
Jake chuckles "Good point."
"Come on lets go back in. She probably wants another bottle." she steps through the window. Going over to the playpen she picks up the baby. "Hey Ana sweetie do you want another bottle?"
Jake watches as Sara carries the baby into the kitchen "So how'd you get all this stuff delivered so fast?" he asks leaning against the counter
"Uh I'll tell you later" Sara nods at the men working.
"Is it who I think it is?" Jake asks
"It depends on which one your thinking of" Sara replies looking at him "Here can you take her for a sec"
"Sure" Jake takes the baby "Hey Anastasia"
Anastasia grins
"I think she likes you" Sara says
"I'm a likeable fellow" Jake smiles at the baby
Sara turns around grabbing a bottle "That you are"
"Uh Ms Pezzini where do you want the rocking chair?" asks one of the men
"Put it in the bedroom" Sara replies turning back to making the bottle "So what are you doing on your day off?"
"Not much. Thought I'd stop by to see if you wanted to go play some pool but I see you've got your hands busy" he laughs looking at the baby who's chattering in his arms
"Yeah well I have work tomorrow so I thought Ana and I would spend some time getting to know each other." she sets the bottle in the microwave "So McCartey do you have nieces and nephews?"
"Two nieces and a nephew. When I was a teenager I babysat to make some cash."
"I can't believe that" Sara says taking the bottle out of the microwave she checks the temp. "So any chance I can get some babysitting out of you?"
"Maybe" Jake laughs as the baby pats at his face.
Sara turns around and laughs at the sit of Anastasia chattering away "Hey Ana you chatterer." she takes the baby from Jake "I bet you want this huh" she offers the bottle to the baby.
"The furniture is all set up ma'am. We'll go get the rest of the stuff from the van."
Sara looks up "The door will be open." she watches as the three men walk out of the apartment. She sits on the couch.
"What are you going to do about work?"
"I'm going to look into daycare for her." Sara answers "Until I find one suitable Gabe said he'd watch her." she looks at the baby "Jake I need you to keep this whole thing to yourself. You know what would happen if too many people found out about her."
"No prob. You want it kept secret then my lips are sealed."
"Thanks" Sara says as the men reenter the apartment carrying bags and boxes. She shakes her head 'Ian how much stuff did you get her.'
"Geez that's a lot of stuff for one kid." Jake remarks
"There's still some more things" one of the men states
"We put together the crib, changing table, baby chair, playpen, rocking chair, and the swing."
"Thanks guys." Sara says
"Its what we were paid for" the third man says
"We'll go get the rest of the stuff." the first man says setting the boxes in his arms down.
Ten minutes later the men drop off the final boxes and leave and Sara looks at Jake "So you know how to give a baby a bath?" she asks
"Done it a few times." Jake says "Where's the baby shampoo?"
"In one of those bags or boxes" Sara says with a shrug.
Jake shakes his head going over to the pile of bags and boxes. "Let's see we got bottles, formula, and pacifiers in this bag." he sets the bag aside going to the next bag. "OK diaper rash creme, wipes. These guys are organized." After a few minutes he finds the bag with the baby shampoo, washclothes and towels. "OK found the right bag. Where do you want to do this? Kitchen or bathroom?"
"Uh bathroom is probably the cleanest." Sara replies burping the baby.
"I'll go run the water then" Jake says opening the packages gathering up the stuff he heads into the bathroom.
"Well Ana looks like Uncle Jake is going to be of some help huh"
Anastasia grins patting her mother's face cooing happily.
Sara smiles at the baby 'That's my girl'
Anastasia's eyes go to the bracelet and she reaches out touching it curiousity evident in her touch.
"You know what this is don't you" Sara says she looks at the bracelet smiling as it changes color.
Anastasia chatters happily her eyes on the
glimmering jewel.
"All right tubs ready" Jake calls
Sara grins at the baby "Bathtime baby." she stands carrying Anastasia into the bathroom. "Lets get you out of these dirty nasty clothes huh sweetie." she sets the baby on the floor beside Jake and begins to strip the baby out of the clothes she has been wearing all day.
"The waters warm enough for her." Jake says
Sara sets the baby in the warm water and laughs at the baby's grin. "She seems to like it." she watches as the baby splashes
"OK we got the baby washclothes and the wash." Jake wets the cloth pouring some wash on it handing it to Sara. He watches as Sara lathers up the baby. "She's still young enough to need some support."
"So McCartey why don't you have any kids?"
Jake shrugs "I could say its because of work but its because I'm not ready to take on that much responsibility. That's why I send presents and spend time with my nieces and nephew and my friends kids. They take care of the occassional kid need."
"You plan on having kids?"
"One day." Jake replies
Sara laughs as Anastasia splashes them "Ana no getting us wet." she says tapping the baby's nose.
"Here's the shampoo." Jake says "Good thing they got tearless"
Sara takes the bottle pouring a little on the baby's head
9 PM
Sara looks in on Anastasia asleep in her crib "Sleep well Anastasia." she goes to the livingroom grabbing a set of case files to read over.
After midnight
Sara awakens sensing someone in the apartment she sits up to see a figure over the crib. "Ian?"
Ian steps away from the crib
Sara turns on the lamp "Its fine." she assures glancing at the clock. "I take it he knows she's gone."
Ian nods going back to the crib "He thinks the doctor took her."
"Does he know she's here?"
"Yes."
Sara joins him at the crib looking at the sleeping baby "Is he going to try and take her?"
"I do not think he wants to make you mad. You are the Wielder."
Sara reaches into the crib stroking Anastasia's cheek "Nottingham is it possible that she holds aspect of the Witchblade?"
"How so?"
She looks at Ian "She can see Danny. I know you can sense him."
Ian nods "Yes."
"Ian she looked right at him."
Ian reaches out touching the Witchblade "It knows her" he states
Sara looks at his hand watching as the colors change "Yes" she looks at Ian "it knows you too."
Ian nods "As it always has." he removes his hand "I should go before he becomes suspicious." he reaches into his coat pulling out a large envelope. "Here is some of her papers. Birth certificate and the legal papers declaring you her legal guardian" he hands the envelope to Sara.
Sara nods "Good. Now I can get started with finding her daycare."
"Here" Ian hands her a card "I arranged for a nanny for her."
"Ian"
"A nanny is safer than childcare."
"Yes but a nanny would be easier to pay off." Sara argues
Ian looks at Anastasia "Not this one. Her name is Jas. She can be trusted. Call her when you want her to start." he looks at Sara "You will have to trust me and the Witchblade Sara. I have never willingly lied to you."
Sara nods "I know."
Ian goes to the open window "Goodnight Sara" he says
"Goodnight Ian." she says "Oh and Ian"
Ian looks at her over his shoulder
"Its OK that you visit her." she assures
Ian nods crawling out the window.
Sara shakes her head looking down at the sleeping baby "Well Anastasia your father is one strange guy." she strokes Anastasia's cheek "Sleep well" she turns crawling back into bed turning off the light.
TBC...