This is a part two of my first fanfic entitled Another Chance. I hope you
enjoy. Pleas read and review!
1 Another Chance Part II
"You feeling ok?" Mark asked hesitantly as he approached Elizabeth who was standing at the admit desk, signing a chart.
"Mark, please don't start," she replied, sharply, exhaling and closing her eyes so she would not have to meet his worried gaze.
"Come on, Elizabeth. I was just asking. You look extremely tired today," he said with a concerned look on his face.
"Mark! I'm fine!" She spat out. Then realizing that her response had been rather strident, she cautiously looked around the ER to see if any one had noticed.
Mark did the same, and then placing his hand on her arm, he gently replied, "OK, OK. Just please let me know. . ."
Before he could finish his sentence, she grabbed the admit desk as a wave of dizziness came over her, causing her knees to buckle beneath her. Grasping her arm with one hand and placing the other around her waste to prevent her from falling, he slowly stood her upright. Looking her sternly in the eyes, he started to lead her toward the lounge. Knowingly returning his stare, she said, "Please, Mark. Just let me go back up to the OR."
"I don't think so. You need to rest, Elizabeth. You almost passed out back there. Please just humor me and lie down on the couch in the lounge for a while?" He was near pleading with her now, but she just looked at him angrily.
"No, Mark! I have too much work to do right now," she yelled as she pulled away from him and headed toward the elevator.
"Please, Elizabeth. . ." he called after her.
"Mark!" She shouted warningly, as she pressed the up button of the elevator. He followed her, but the elevator doors opened and she disappeared behind them before he could reach her.
Mark dejectedly walked back to the admit desk and picked up a chart to look over. He stared at the words on the page, but they didn't make any sense to him, nor was he putting much effort into comprehending them. All he could think about was Elizabeth and her attitude toward him lately. She refused to allow him to be there to help her, and she was experiencing mood swings like he couldn't even imagine. By now, she was six months pregnant, but it appeared to him that her body was just wearing out a lot sooner this time. During her pregnancy with Ella, she had waited until her seventh month to take maternity leave, but for some reason, back then she had seemed to be stronger, more resilient, and definitely in a better state of mind. He had been considering for a while that it might not be a bad idea for her to start her maternity leave as soon as possible. He knew that he really should talk to her about it, but he also knew that bringing up that subject would only prove to irritate her even more. So, realizing that he was already treading on thin ice with her as it were, he did not know what he should do. His hands were tied. He felt helpless over the situation, and quite frankly, it scared him to death.
Once again trying to focus on the chart before him, he felt a light pat on his back. Kerry had watched the entire confrontation between him and Elizabeth moments earlier, and noticing the blank expression on his face, she asked, "Is everything all right, Mark?"
"Yeah, I'm fine." Mark hesitated for a moment, and then replied, "Well. . .no, not really. It's Elizabeth." Pausing again, wondering if he should continue, he then said, "This pregnancy just really seems to be taking its toll on her."
Kerry gave him a knowing look and asked, "Has Dr. McLucas given her any precautions, considering what happened when she was pregnant with Ella?" Kerry paused, looking up at Mark almost ashamedly, she said, "I'm sorry. I. . .I don't mean to pry. It's none of my business." As she started to walk away, Mark stopped her.
"It's OK, Kerry. Thanks for the concern. I know you just asked because you care," Mark said, gently.
"Yeah, I do, Mark. I think the world of you and Elizabeth." Kerry admitted after a long pause. Looking at the floor and then back at Mark, she said, ". . . And I'm sorry for any grief or problems I caused you in the past." Kerry then looked away from him again.
Giving her a moment to look back at him, Mark said, "All of that is in the past, now. It hurt at the time, but I decided a long time ago that life is too short to dwell on those little things. You were only doing what you felt was right, and besides, Elizabeth and I owe you so much for. . .for what you did for Ella." Mark looked down the hall toward Trauma I and then said, "We were being impractical as doctors because we were trying to be good parents. It took you to talk some sense into us, and because of that, you saved the life of our little girl. I don't know if we ever thanked you for that."
Kerry was a little shocked to hear Mark open up to her in such a way. She didn't know what to say, but then simply replied, "Well, just let me know if you need anything."
"Thanks, Kerry, I will," Mark replied as Kerry walked away.
Mark had been trying to page Elizabeth all day, and had even made his way up to the OR on one occasion, but hadn't been able to track her down. It was 6:00pm now; time to go home. He hoped that once he got her home, he would be able to get her to talk to him. Maybe being able to spend some time with Ella would alleviate some of her hostility and aloofness toward him and hopefully bring it out of her. She could be so stubborn sometimes. Although he knew that her persistence was one of the features that had initially drawn him to her, all he wanted to do now was make sure she was all right and take care of her. He called her office to see if she was ready to go home, but received no answer. Gathering his things from the lounge, he took the stairs up to Elizabeth's office. He lifted his arm to knock on the door, but then heard Elizabeth's voice, along with another coming from inside. Mark stepped back and leaned against the wall beside the door.
"You can't do that, Robert!" Elizabeth yelled.
"Oh, really. See now I thought I was Chief of Staff around here. I think I can, Lizzie," Robert said in a sarcastic tone.
"You cannot keep me out of surgery just because I am pregnant. That's discrimination. You weren't able to do it before, and I am bloody well not going to let you do it this time, either," Elizabeth yelled.
"No, I can't keep you out of the OR because you are pregnant, but I can keep you out of surgery if I feel that you have proven to be incompetent as a surgeon."
"Incompetent? I think that over the past seven years I have been here, I have proven myself more than competent!"
"Oh, yeah. So you almost killed someone when you were an intern because you didn't read the label on the med, you paralyzed a man because you wanted to go on some love fest with Greene. And if my memory serves me correctly, I had to clean that one up. Oh, and let's not forget you blowing up at the other OR staff members and running out of surgery after your malpractice suit. But my favorite, and I'm sure yours, breaking into Dr. Babcock's office when you were accused of euthanizing your patients. Falling asleep during surgery, needing a bathroom break during surgery, need I go on? Gee, Elizabeth, now that's some competence," Robert said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
"Yes, I have made a few mistakes, everyone makes mistakes. How can you hold all of that against me? All that happened so long ago; that malpractice suit was nearly four years ago, and we finally did prove that Babcock was the one killing those patients. What the hell do you want from me, Robert? I refuse to keep proving myself to you over and over again." Then remembering something that Mark had said to her long ago registered in her mind, "We aren't saints, Robert. We just try to get it right as often as we can." Outside the door, Mark couldn't help but smile as he listened, but at the same time, he could tell by his wife's tone of voice that she was near tears and that this conversation was moving desperately close to getting way out of hand.
On the other side of the door, Elizabeth was indeed near tears now, but she couldn't let Robert see her cry. She couldn't show him that she was feeling weak. She could never let him know that. She wished Mark would walk through that door right now, and kick the little bastard's ass.
Mark wanted so desperately to burst down that door and try in some way to help her, but he knew how strong willed Elizabeth was and that her demeanor today had been precarious at best. He knew that at times she wanted to prove her independence and take care of matters on her own, but she was right, there was no reason for her to keep trying to prove herself to that man. Mark was torn. Finally, he decided that if this went on much longer, he would have to rip the door off the hinges.
"Oh, please spare me the theatrics, Lizzie. I want you out of surgery. I don't feel that you are competent enough to be there. I can't go risking the hospital's credibility with you in the operating room," Robert said, as he turned to walk away.
"Where do you think you are going? How is it that you can actually be kind and caring one minute and a total ass the next? You can't just push me around and expect me to take it." Elizabeth yelled as she rushed from behind her desk toward him.
"That is exactly what I expect, Lizzie. I am the reason you are still in America; I GAVE you the job you have right now, and don't forget that," Robert said as he once again reached for the doorknob.
"Yes, and at the time, you felt that I was skilled and competent enough to fulfill the position. How can that change now?"
"Yes, you may be skilled, but you are by no means the best. Any other surgeon in this hospital could fill your position at this very moment. Don't let your head get so big, Lizzie. I never thought you were that spectacular. How could I? I used to think that you were a beautiful and talented surgeon, and at the time I appointed you Associate Chief of Surgery, I wanted to keep you here because I liked to look at you. But just look at you now. Why do you keep letting Greene do this to you? Do you plan on feeding this baby Ecstasy, too?"
"You son of a bitch," Elizabeth yelled, as she charged forward toward him.
Just then Elizabeth's office door flew open with Mark standing in the doorway with a look of rage on his face. Mark was by no means a large man, but he was tall, and next to Robert, he seemed to tower like a giant. "Get the hell away from my wife, Romano!" Elizabeth was a little surprised to see him standing there, with a look on his face that she was sure she had never seen before.
"Ahh gee. Isn't this quaint. The mild mannered ER attending with only half a brain comes to rescue his damsel in distress. I think I'm going to be sick," Robert said sarcastically, staring right at Mark.
Elizabeth started to speak, but Mark beat her to it. "You can berate me all you want, Romano. I could care less about that, but NEVER talk about MY child or MY wife like that. Elizabeth IS a brilliant surgeon, probably the best in this damn hospital, and you know it. I don't know why she continues to work with you, but for some reason, she endures it year after year. I know that I wouldn't be able to take it; she is a stronger person than anyone else in this place for what she takes from you. I don't know how she survives taking your shit from day to day, but I do know that she loves this job, and she is damn good at it, and you have no right to keep her from it. Not only is she a damn good surgeon, she also is the best mother any child could ever have. What happened to Ella is none of your business, and you need to stay the hell out of our personal life."
"Get out of my way, Greene," Robert said as he tried to push past Mark through the doorway.
Mark only stood more firmly and continued, "This hospital has very clear guidelines when it comes to maternity leave, and she is entitled to it with no penalty. You can't keep her out of surgery just because she is pregnant and wants to take maternity leave. If you think it is necessary, we can always take this up with the people in administration. I would be happy to make a trip down there. I have been meaning to relay to them some nasty rumors that I have been hearing about you for a while now, anyway."
"Ooh, I'm scared. Now if you don't mind, I'm late for a dinner engagement," Robert said. "Later, Lizzie."
Hesitating momentarily, Mark remained standing in the doorway, then slowly moved further into Elizabeth's office, allowing Robert to walk out the door. Once he disappeared down the hall, Mark closed the door behind him and then looked up at Elizabeth who remained standing, staring at the back of her door. Mark looked at her for a second, and then said, "I'm sorry, I know you probably wanted to handle that on your own, but he has no right to talk about Ella. . ."
"Thank you," Elizabeth interrupted, a small smile on her face. Mark looked up at her in surprise. "Don't look so surprised. I do have my moments of weakness." Elizabeth walked behind her desk and dejectedly sank into her chair. Mark took a seat as well, in the chair on the opposite side of the desk, with his bag resting on his lap. "Do you really think all those things of me?" Elizabeth asked.
"Of course I do. You know that," he answered, incredulously. Elizabeth smiled at his response. "Are you ready to get out of here?" Mark asked, cautiously.
She sat silently for a moment with her eyes closed. "I had such an awful day, Mark. I'm sorry for the way I treated you earlier. I'm sorry for the way I've been treating you. I am just feeling so much more run down this time. I don't know what is wrong with me, and he," she said motioning toward the door, "has been giving me such a hard time lately. He won't leave me alone, he follows me into surgery, and he is constantly criticizing my every move. He is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I had just sat down to call you to tell you that I was ready to go home when Robert came in here. Sometimes I just hate him." Elizabeth stated, placing her head in her hands.
Mark stood from his seat and placed his bag there in his absence. Walking toward her, he turned her chair toward him, until she was facing him, and knelt down in front of her. Taking her hands in his, he replied, "Elizabeth, like I said before, you are a brilliant surgeon. You are also a wonderful wife and mother. I am here for you, and there is no need to apologize. I love you, and Ella loves you, too. We are both here for you just like you are here for us. I would do anything for you, Elizabeth. Don't worry about this hospital or Robert. There is nothing he can do." Then, reaching out to touch her abdomen, Mark said, "Let's just focus on making sure this little one is all right. OK?"
"The baby is fine, Mark. I went to Dr. McLucas after I saw you in the ER earlier. She said everything is fine. I just got a little dizzy earlier because I skipped breakfast and lunch. Nothing to worry about really, other than the fact that I need to eat more regularly."
"I'm glad to hear that. You had me worried," Mark replied as he stood up, and pulled her along with him, wrapping his arms around her growing waste. "You need to stop worrying about all of this," Mark said, looking around the room, "and start taking better care of yourself."
Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his neck and said, "I know that, Dr. Greene. Today was just a rough day. I'll be ok, just as long as you get me out of here before I have to deal with one more bastard."
"I think I can handle that." Mark chuckled softly and kissed her gently on the lips. "Unless I was one of the bastards you had to deal with today."
Elizabeth laughed, and pulled him closer in a tight embrace. Pulling back, she looked at him and said, "Hardly, Mark. I was just having a little. . .episode earlier today. All I want to do now is go home, EAT, relax, play with Ella for a while, and then fall asleep in your arms. OK with you?"
"Yeah I think I can handle that," Mark said as he lead her around he desk. "You might even be able to get me to look after Ella while you soak in a steaming hot bubble bath, if you're lucky."
Elizabeth laughed as he picked up her bag along with his own. As he opened her office door for them to exit, she asked, "How long were you standing at the door, anyway?"
"Long enough," Mark replied as they walked out of here office, hand in hand, "Long enough."
As Mark drove, Elizabeth lounged in the passenger's seat with her eyes closed. "I talked to Rachel today," Mark replied hesitantly.
"Really? How is she?" Elizabeth asked, without opening her eyes.
Mark watched her carefully in order to gauge her reaction to his previous statement. Not finding any implication that it would be dangerous to proceed with this conversation, he said, "She's great. Really really great. She was elected president of her class yesterday."
"That's wonderful, Mark," Elizabeth stated. "I'm proud of her."
"Yeah, me too. She. . .she also asked if. . .if she could come to Chicago for Thanksgiving," he said, tentatively. Elizabeth opened her eyes and looked up at Mark. She could tell from his tone of voice and from the look on his face that he was extremely nervous about broaching this subject with her. Chuckling softly as she took in the wary look on his face, she straightened up in her seat, shaking her head. "What?" Mark asked smiling uneasily.
Laughing quietly, Elizabeth replied, "Mark. . .I am not a total bitch, you know."
"What do you mean?" he asked, confused.
"You know what I mean," she said as she turned in her seat to look at him. "You don't have to get so anxious when discussing Rachel with me."
I'm sorry. . .it's just that I. . ." Mark trailed off, catching a glimpse of her out of the corner of his eye.
"You what, Mark?" She asked, placing he hand on one of his thighs.
"Well. . .I just. Well. . .you and I both know that Rachel can sometimes be a sensitive subject between you and me. That's all." Mark finally admitted.
Pausing for a moment to take his statement in, Elizabeth carefully tried to put her thoughts into words. "Yes, I suppose that in the past, it was a sensitive subject, but you know as well as I do that if we are open and honest with each other, than we can work through even the most sensitive subjects. We learned that a long time ago, didn't we?"
"Yeah, we did," Mark replied as he removed one hand from the steering wheel and placed it over her hand that still rested on his lap. "We just have to be truthful."
"Yes, and the truth here is that Rachel is your daughter and you would love her to come spend Thanksgiving with us," Elizabeth said.
"Well, yeah. I miss her. Of course I want her to come," Mark replied, self-consciously kicking himself for all the times he hadn't been there for Rachel.
"So, is there any real question, then?" Elizabeth asked, smiling as she squeezed his hand.
"I just wanted to check with you first, that's all. I know that things haven't been so easy lately with work and the baby, so I just wanted to make sure that you are comfortable and don't mind if she comes to stay. Besides, I made the mistake of telling her she could stay once before without consulting you, and I honestly don't want to live through that wrath again," Mark said with a slight grin on his face.
"Oh, come on. Like I said before I am not that bad," Elizabeth replied, as she playfully slapped his arm. "I do thank you for talking to me about it first this time, though. I really appreciate that."
"I try my best," Mark replied.
"And you do a wonderful job," Elizabeth said before leaning over and giving him a slight kiss on the cheek.
"So is that a yes? Are you all right with Rachel coming to Chicago?" He asked.
"Of course, Mark. But you know that there have to be some ground rules this time, especially since Ella is so headstrong now. From the times I have spoken with Rachel on the telephone, though, she does seem much different than before. More grown up, maybe," Elizabeth said, hoping it was true. "It will be lovely to see her again, and I am sure Ella will love having her big sister for company."
"Yeah, I think so. I honestly don't think we will have any problems this time, but I promise to make sure she is aware of the rules when I call her back tomorrow," Mark replied, smiling over at his wife. Knowing that she didn't need to respond, Elizabeth just smiled back at Mark as he pulled into their driveway.
The next two months passed quickly, with preparations for the arrival of the new baby, as well as the arrival of Rachel back into their home. She planned on enjoying Thanksgiving Dinner with her father, Elizabeth, and Ella and then staying with them in Chicago for the next week of her Thanksgiving Break.
"Hey, we're here," Mark called as he and Rachel walked through the front door. It was Thanksgiving; the first Rachel had been able to spend with them in 3 years. She was excited about seeing her dad, and of course Ella, but she still felt a bit uncomfortable around Elizabeth at times. She guessed it was understandable, though. She had almost killed her daughter.
"Rachie," Ella called as she ran from the kitchen to meet them. Bending down, Rachel picked up Ella and hugged her.
"Oh my, you have gotten so big," Rachel said as she hugged her tightly.
Just then, Elizabeth walked out of the kitchen, drying her hands on a towel. "Happy Thanksgiving, Rachel," she said as she approached her.
Rachel turned to face Elizabeth and smiled. "Happy Thanksgiving," she replied, nervously.
Noticing the slight tension between his wife and oldest daughter, Mark said, "All right, Rachel, you know where your room is. I'll take Ella so you can go ahead and unpack your things."
Mark reached for Ella, but Rachel said, "It's ok, dad. She can stay with me."
"You sure?" Elizabeth asked. "Trust me, she won't be much help."
"Yeah, I'm sure. It won't take me that long."
"Ok then."
Elizabeth watched as Rachel carried Ella into her bedroom, Mark following behind, carrying her bags. When Mark emerged, he said, "It is amazing how those two get along. I know Rachel misses Ella. It is so nice to see her and have both my daughters together."
"It is nice to see her, again. She seems so grown up, Mark. It has to be hard living away from you and Ella."
Mark smiled at Elizabeth and then looked at her with concern in his eyes. Gesturing toward the kitchen, he asked, "You aren't over doing it in there are you? You look a little tired."
"I'm fine. I am going to need you to lift the turkey out of the oven in a while, though. And yes, I am tired. Your baby kept me up all night," Elizabeth said as she walked back into the kitchen.
"So this is just MY baby now?" Mark asked, following her into the kitchen.
Elizabeth smiled and patted her growing abdomen. "Yes, when this child does something wrong, he or she is all yours."
"Oh, of course," Mark said as he leaned on the island in the middle of the kitchen. "You sure you don't need me to do anything?"
"Nothing right now. Everything should be ready in about an hour, though," she said, rubbing the small of her back.
"Come here," Mark said sympathetically. "Let me help you out with that."
"Oh, thank you. Mark, do you think I am just too old for this?"
"Too old for what?" Mark asked as he began to massage her back.
"To have another child. I mean, I am 40 years old. Some women are grandmothers when they're 40, and here I am having a baby of my own," Elizabeth said, shaking her head.
"Hold on there. I definitely don't think we are old enough to be grandparents. That is certainly something I am not willing to think about yet. Besides, I think it is a little late to be deciding that you are too old to have a baby, because judging from the size of you, I would say that it's a safe bet that we are going to have another baby very, very soon. I don't think you are too old at all. I'm a year older than you, and I don't feel too old," Mark replied, applying a little more pressure to her back.
"Yes, but you aren't the one carrying this child, are you? Makes a bit of a difference, Mark. You are right, though. Just one more month of this, that's all," Elizabeth said.
"Yeah. Then we will have another beautiful baby to love. I personally can't wait," Mark said as he kissed the side of her head.
"Neither can I," Rachel said as she walked through the kitchen door. Mark and Elizabeth turned to face her, both smiling.
"Where's Ella?" Mark asked.
"She's watching TV in the living room," Rachel replied.
"I think I'll go join her and see if I can convince her to watch a football game with her ole' dad," Mark said as he kissed Elizabeth on the cheek. Hugging Rachel, he said, "I'm glad you're here, sweetheart," and then exited the kitchen.
"Do you need any help, Elizabeth?" Rachel asked as she took a seat at the island.
"No, I don't think so. You can help set the table in a while, though, if you don't mind," Elizabeth said as she took a seat beside Rachel at the island. "So, how is St. Louis?"
"It's ok. Mom is still working all the time, though. I practically never get to see her. I try to let things at school keep me busy, as much as I can, though," Rachel said.
"Yes, your father told me that you are president of your class. Congratulations."
"Thank you," Rachel said, and then paused. "Elizabeth, I wanted to talk to you and dad about something, but I thought that I should ask you first."
"Ok, what is it?" Elizabeth asked. Rachel obviously was nervous about what she was about to ask. She diverted her gaze from Elizabeth, looking down at the place mat on the counter top, fidgeting with its fringes with her fingers. "Rachel, is there something wrong?"
"No. I just, well, I was just wondering. I know that I might be in the way, and I know that I screwed up big time the last time, but I was just wondering if I could stay here again. Maybe just until after the baby is born. Hopefully longer, though. I really would like to finish high school in Chicago, and hopefully come to college here. I graduate in the spring, and I realize that that isn't for a while, and I also know. . ."
"Rachel. . ." Elizabeth interrupted.
"Elizabeth, before you say anything, please let me say this. I want you to know that I realize that when I lived here before, I was an inconsiderate, irresponsible, little witch. Unfortunately, it took me almost killing my own little sister, and then tearing you and dad apart for me to realize the consequences of my actions. I completely promise you that I haven't even touched a drug since that day. I was stupid, and I know this doesn't make up for what I did or the pain I caused, but I am sorry."
"Rachel. . ." Elizabeth said again, this time shaking her head.
"Please let me finish; I should have told you this a long time ago, so I really just need to get this out, " Rachel said. Elizabeth nodded and let her continue. "Elizabeth, I want to prove myself to you. You may not believe me, but I respect you, and I admire you. I look at my own mother and then I look at you, and it makes me realize that I want so much to be like you. I want your strength, your spirit, but most of all your love. I see the way you look at my dad and at Ella; I can already tell how much you love that new little baby. Elizabeth, I want to have that much love in my heart one day, and I'll never be able to reach that if I continue to live with my mother. Please let me stay here with you."
Elizabeth looked at her, seeing the tears welling up in her eyes, and feeling the sting of tears in her own eyes. Looking directly at her, she said, "Rachel, listen to me. I forgave you a long time ago for what happened with Ella. It took me a while, but I finally realized that you would never intentionally hurt her. I can see how much you love her, as well. Besides, your mother hasn't done such a bad job; you do have a lot of love in your heart, Rachel. That's obvious just by the fact that you and I are having this very conversation."
"Does that mean I can stay?" Rachel asked. Elizabeth sighed and grabbed Rachel's hands across the island.
"What about school in St. Louis? You were just elected to a very prestigious position. What about your friends?" Elizabeth asked.
"None of that really matters to me. I just want to be here to spend time with my family," Rachel replied.
Elizabeth considered Rachel for a moment, and then said, "Rachel, right now, you have to promise me that you will NEVER bring any kind of drug into this house ever again. Ella is three now and all over the place, even more than before, and this new baby will be here very soon. You have to promise me that you will never do something to endanger these children or yourself, for that matter, in any way. I couldn't take it again, Rachel, and I don't want to see you hurt, either. It would absolutely kill me, and your father, too."
"I promise, Elizabeth." Rachel said, smiling through her tears. "I'll do whatever you ask. Please just let me stay."
"Rachel, you are welcome to stay," Elizabeth said, as a tear streaked down her cheek. "Come here."
Rachel hopped down off her stool and leaned toward Elizabeth who remained seated on her stool. Taking Rachel into her arms in an embrace, Elizabeth hugged her tightly. Rachel suddenly broke down and sobbed against Elizabeth's shoulder. Seeing her like this, Elizabeth too began to cry; the memories of Ella's overdose flooding her mind. Ella crying in the ER, staying with her and seeing her intubated in the PICU, fighting with Mark, doors slamming, and tears; so many tears. She pushed those thoughts out of her mind and tried to focus on the girl sobbing in her arms. Kissing the top of Rachel's head, Elizabeth said, "It's ok, Rachel. Everything is all right now."
Right then, Mark entered the kitchen, holding Ella. Seeing the two embracing, and obviously a bit distraught, he became concerned and asked, "Is everything all right in here?"
Wiping her eyes and sniffing, Rachel pulled away from Elizabeth and said, "Yeah, dad. Everything is great."
"Yes," Elizabeth said. "Just fine." Smiling at Mark, Elizabeth placed her arm around Rachel's shoulder and wiped her eyes with the other hand.
"Why are you crying, Rachel?" Ella asked, innocently.
Rachel walked over to Mark and took Ella from him. "I'm just happy, that's all." Confused, Mark crossed the room toward Elizabeth, searching her face for answers.
"I thought you were sposed' to laugh when you are happy, and cry when you are sad," Ella said matter-of-factly.
"You're right, Ellie." Rachel said smiling.
"Ok, what are you two up to?" Mark asked, looking from Rachel to Elizabeth.
"Well, Mark, Rachel and I decided that with Ella and the new baby, we are going to need a lot of help around here. We talked about it, and Rachel has generously offered her services to us, again," Elizabeth said, winking at Rachel. "If that is all right with you, of course," she said, turning to Mark.
Mark looked back at Elizabeth, shocked. "Are you serious?"
"Yes. She wants to finish high school here. Possibly college. . .if Jenn says yes," Elizabeth said as she wrapped her arm around Mark's waste.
"Rachel is gonna live here?" Ella asked excitedly.
"Yes, sweetheart. Would you like that?" Elizabeth asked.
"Yes, mommy!" Ella shouted, hugging onto Rachel.
Mark turned to Elizabeth and asked quietly, "Are you sure about this?"
Just as quietly, Elizabeth answered, "Yes, Mark. Rachel and I had a little talk and everything is ok. Things will be fine."
"Thank you, Elizabeth. You don't know how much this means to me?" Mark said, hugging her excitedly.
"Yes, I think I do."
"I love you, Elizabeth."
"I love you, too."
Rachel, carrying Ella, walked over to them, and said, "I won't let you down again, daddy."
"I know, sweetheart, I know," Mark said as he embraced both of his daughters.
Later that night, Elizabeth sat in bed, propped up against the headboard, reading the British Medical Journal. Mark walked out the bathroom door, wearing only a pair of flannel pajama pants. Looking up from her journal, she saw him smiling at her. "What?" she asked.
"Nothing."
"What is that silly grin for, then?" She asked as she placed her journal on the nightstand beside her.
"I'm just incredibly happy right now, Elizabeth. Thank you."
"I'm glad, Mark. I'm happy, too."
Climbing into bed beside her, he asked, "So, what really happened between you and Rachel in the kitchen today?"
"I told you, Mark. We just had a little talk, that's all."
"You really aren't going to tell me what happened?"
"Just a little girl talk," Elizabeth said as she gently kissed his lips.
"Ok, I'll let it go for now, but don't think I won't get it out of you?"
Elizabeth chuckled and said, "We'll see."
Smiling, he asked, "You know what I was thinking earlier today?"
"What?"
"That kid isn't going to be inside there for much longer, you know. We really need to think of a name," Mark said as he placed his hand on top of her belly.
"Yes, we do. Have any ideas?" Elizabeth asked as she laced her fingers through his and allowed their joined hands to rest on her stomach.
"Do you think we should find out if it is a boy or a girl, first?" Mark asked.
"Do you?"
"I don't know. I thought it was exciting, waiting for Ella and not knowing."
"Me too, but if you want to find out, we can," Elizabeth said.
"Nah. Let's just wait and see."
"You sure?" Elizabeth asked.
"Yeah. So, boy or girl name first?" Mark asked as he put his free arm around Elizabeth's shoulder, pulling her next to him.
"Well, I was looking through a Baby Name Book the other day in Dr. McLucas' office, and I really like the name Grace." Elizabeth said.
"Little Gracie." Mark said, smiling.
"Yeah, do you like that?" she asked.
"I think it's a good strong name." Mark replied.
"Would you like to pick her middle name?" Elizabeth asked, smiling. She remembered doing this exact thing when she was pregnant for Ella. Sitting in bed with him for hours, happily arguing over the meaning of names and the impact a child's name has on its life.
"Hmmm. Let's see," Mark said, while scratching his chin. "Elizabeth."
"Yes?" she asked.
"No, I mean that could be her middle name," Mark said.
"Oh. Grace Elizabeth Greene. I like that," Elizabeth said, smiling from ear to ear.
"Well, there we go. One down," Mark replied, chuckling slightly.
"Now for a boy," Elizabeth said. "Boy names always seem to be harder for us. You think that's a sign?"
"Better not be," Mark said, smiling. "With Rachel here now, I think we definitely need another man in this family. I am incredibly out numbered."
"Can't take the heat?"
"Oh, I can take the heat, but a little help wouldn't hurt now and then."
"Oh, poor baby," Elizabeth chuckled, as Mark shifted down further into the bed, resting his head on her stomach and wrapping his arms protectively around her.
They both sat in silence for a moment, and then Mark said, "Maybe it is a sign. I can't think of a good name for a boy."
"Well, before Ella was born, you were pretty set on Bubba and Jesus," Elizabeth said, resting her hand on his shoulder.
"Yeah, but I don't think I was quite myself back then," Mark said. "Give a guy a break."
Smiling slightly, she said, "Yes, I suppose those were extenuating circumstances."
They became quiet again for a moment, both silently thanking God that they were sitting there together, naming their second child. "We could always name him after his daddy," Elizabeth said, gently running her free hand over the faded scar on his head.
"Yeah, I suppose that is an option, but I would rather he be more of an original," Mark replied after a moment's thought.
"An original, hmm. So, we can give my name to a daughter, but we can't give your name to a son?" Elizabeth asked.
"But I think you have a beautiful name," Mark said.
"Well, I think that if he turns out to be just like his daddy, same name or not, then everything will be just wonderful," Elizabeth said.
"Oh, come on, Elizabeth. You wouldn't want him to be just like me. There has to be some part of me that you would never want your son to inherit. We have been together for almost six years, so I'm sure that by now, you have a list of things." Mark said, looking up at her.
Looking down at him, she asked, "So, are you saying that just because we have been together for that long that there are things about me that you don't like? Do you have a list?"
"Of course not, you're perfect," Mark laughed.
"Yeah," Elizabeth said sarcastically. "Good answer, but I don't believe you. Seriously though, there are some things about you that absolutely drive me insane at times, but those things are all a part of you, and I love you. All of you."
"You are an incredible woman, Elizabeth," Mark said, pushing up to meet her in a gentle kiss.
When their lips parted, laughing, Elizabeth said, "True, very true."
Again, Mark rested his head back on her stomach, looking away from her. "How about Matthew after my grandfather?" he asked.
"I do remember you mentioning that once before," Elizabeth quietly replied.
"Is that ok with you?"
"Yes," she replied. "What do you think about David as a middle name. . .after your father?" she asked hesitantly.
Mark was silent for a moment, then sat up and looked at her. Taking her left hand into his, he absently-mindedly fingered her wedding ring, and then looking down at her hand, he said, "We have been though a lot together, haven't we."
"Yes, Mark, we have, but I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories for you. I'm sorry," she said at his down turned head.
"It's ok. I'm fine with it," Mark said, looking up at her momentarily and then diverting the subject and smiling at her, he said, "So, Matthew David Greene."
Considering the sadness in Mark's eyes for a moment, she decided to allow him to change the subject, and smiled back at him. "I think that is a very special name, maybe not as original as you wanted, though," Elizabeth pointed out.
"That's ok. I think it is perfect."
"Me, too," Elizabeth said, through a yawn. "Hmmm. . .it's been a long day."
"Yes it has, but I think this definitely was the best Thanksgiving we've ever had together," Mark said.
"Yes, it was a good day."
"Thank you for telling Rachel she can stay here again. I know that took a lot," Mark said, absently fingering the hem on the sleeve of the t- shirt she was wearing.
Lifting his chin, so he was looking at her, Elizabeth said, "It didn't take that much, Mark, and we really don't need to talk about it anymore."
"I know, I know. I just want to make sure you know how grateful I am."
"I do, Mark," she said, yawning again.
"Is the turkey finally catching up with you?" he asked.
"That and the lack of sleep from last night," Elizabeth said, nodding.
"Well then, let's see if we can make up for that." Mark reached over to the nightstand to turn off the lamp, and then helped Elizabeth settle comfortably onto the bed. Resting her head on his shoulder, she said, "Goodnight, Mark. I love you."
"I love you too. Goodnight."
As Elizabeth lay sleeping the next morning, Mark quietly entered the bedroom door, with Ella on his back, resting her chin on his shoulder. He looked over his shoulder toward her, and whispered, "Be quiet, sweetie. Mommy is still sleeping."
Ella nodded her head as Mark gently placed her on the bed. Ella quietly climbed into the bed, facing her mother, and Mark crawled in behind her. Ella lay silently, staring at Elizabeth for a while, before turning over to look at Mark. "Mommy is pretty, daddy," Ella replied, "just like a princess."
Mark looked down at Ella, and then said, "You're right, Ell. And guess what?"
"What daddy?" Ella asked, trying not to giggle.
"You look just like her," Mark whispered, and then kissed Ella on the forehead, before nuzzling his nose against hers.
Ella giggled again, and then asked, "Will the new baby look like mommy, too?"
"Only if we're lucky," Mark commented.
"Well, can the new baby look like you, daddy?" Ella asked, innocently.
"Yes, it could, . . ."
". . .and if it does, it will be a beautiful, beautiful baby," Elizabeth replied sleepily, without opening her eyes.
Ella looked at Elizabeth for a moment, and then started to laugh. "Mommy. . .daddy isn't beautiful," she corrected her mother.
Elizabeth opened her eyes, smiling. Looking from Ella to Mark, and then back to the inquisitive young child who never ceased to amaze her. "You don't think?" Elizabeth asked, curiously.
"No, mommy. Daddy is handsome," she replied matter-of-factly.
"Well, thank you," Mark said, getting his first opportunity to speak since Elizabeth had awakened. "Good morning, sleeping beauty," he said.
"Good morning to you, handsome prince," Elizabeth smiled her reply, leaning up on her elbow to kiss his cheek. "And good morning to you, pretty girl," Elizabeth said, and then kissed the tip of Ella's nose.
"Morning, mommy. Me and daddy made you and Rachel breakfast. Are you ready to go to the kitchen?" Ella asked, anxiously pulling on Elizabeth's arm.
"Just a minute, Ella. Hold on," Elizabeth replied, as she started to sit up in the bed. Ella continued to pull on Elizabeth's arm, but stopped suddenly when she heard Elizabeth's "Ohhh."
"Did I hurt you, mommy?" Ella asked, slightly frightened by her mother's reaction and immediately dropping the arm that she had been pulling on.
Mark too was a little worried by Elizabeth's response, and quickly sat up in the bed, picking up Ella and sitting her down so that she was no longer between Elizabeth and himself. "What, what is it?"
Elizabeth chuckled a little at the worried looks on both her husband and daughter's faces. "Nothing. I'm fine. Just a kick, that's all."
The apprehension quickly faded from Mark's face as he pulled the comforter down below Elizabeth's belly, and she pulled her t-shirt up a bit. Gently resting his palm over her belly, Mark smiled when he felt the baby. "Whoa. This one is a stronger kicker than Ella was. Must be a boy," Mark said, smiling conspiratorially at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth returned his smile, but said, "Oh now, come on. What is that supposed to mean? Please tell me you are not saying that boys are stronger than girls."
"Would I ever say anything like that? I told you last night that I am out numbered here. Trust me, I know my place," Mark said, gently kissing her belly.
Elizabeth smiled up at him, and then diverted her gaze to the foot of the bed where Ella, momentarily forgotten, sat quietly. "Come here, sweetheart. Would you like to feel the baby?"
Ella sat quietly, timidly looking at her parents, without moving. Elizabeth looked back at Mark, and made a mental note to be aware of Ella's feelings toward all of this. The new baby was going to be a big change for all of them, but especially for Ella. She had been daddy's little girl for three and a half years, and now there was someone else with whom she was going to have to share that attention.
"Come on, Ell," Mark said, trying to coax her toward the other end of the bed. When she still didn't move, Mark practically pounced toward her, and grabbing her up into his arms, said, "Come here, you."
Ella soon was laughing as Mark blew on her belly. Sitting her down so that she was kneeling beside Elizabeth's belly, Ella gently rested her cheek on it. "I can't feel anything," she replied.
"Give it just a minute, babe," Elizabeth said, as she stroked Ella's hair.
They all three sat in silence, until Ella's laughter filled the room. "He kicked my ear, mommy," Ella replied, looking up at her mother with a shocked expression on her face.
Elizabeth looked from Mark to Ella and laughed. From the time they told Ella that she was going to have a new baby brother or sister, for some reason, she had been set on having a brother. "He did, did he?" Elizabeth asked, throwing a cautious look in Ella's direction.
"Yeah," Ella replied as Elizabeth pulled her up closer to her and Mark.
"So tell me, Ell, just how do you know the baby is a he?" Mark asked.
"Well, that is what I want, daddy, and mommy told me," Ella said deliberately, and then seeing the stern look on her mother's face, she said, "Oops."
"Thank you, Ella," Elizabeth said, shaking her head.
"You knew?" Mark asked, baffled.
"Well, Dr. McLucas kind of let it slip when I went for my last ultrasound. I knew that you wanted to be surprised, so I didn't say anything, and then I was going to tell you last night when we were picking out names, but you said you wanted to wait. I'm sorry. I know. . ." Elizabeth said, but Mark's lips were on hers before she could finish her sentence.
Breaking the kiss, Mark grinned at her like a Cheshire cat. "This is great," he said, excitedly. "And thank you, Ella, for telling me." Mark kissed Ella's temple.
"You're welcome, daddy."
Stay tuned. . .
1 Another Chance Part II
"You feeling ok?" Mark asked hesitantly as he approached Elizabeth who was standing at the admit desk, signing a chart.
"Mark, please don't start," she replied, sharply, exhaling and closing her eyes so she would not have to meet his worried gaze.
"Come on, Elizabeth. I was just asking. You look extremely tired today," he said with a concerned look on his face.
"Mark! I'm fine!" She spat out. Then realizing that her response had been rather strident, she cautiously looked around the ER to see if any one had noticed.
Mark did the same, and then placing his hand on her arm, he gently replied, "OK, OK. Just please let me know. . ."
Before he could finish his sentence, she grabbed the admit desk as a wave of dizziness came over her, causing her knees to buckle beneath her. Grasping her arm with one hand and placing the other around her waste to prevent her from falling, he slowly stood her upright. Looking her sternly in the eyes, he started to lead her toward the lounge. Knowingly returning his stare, she said, "Please, Mark. Just let me go back up to the OR."
"I don't think so. You need to rest, Elizabeth. You almost passed out back there. Please just humor me and lie down on the couch in the lounge for a while?" He was near pleading with her now, but she just looked at him angrily.
"No, Mark! I have too much work to do right now," she yelled as she pulled away from him and headed toward the elevator.
"Please, Elizabeth. . ." he called after her.
"Mark!" She shouted warningly, as she pressed the up button of the elevator. He followed her, but the elevator doors opened and she disappeared behind them before he could reach her.
Mark dejectedly walked back to the admit desk and picked up a chart to look over. He stared at the words on the page, but they didn't make any sense to him, nor was he putting much effort into comprehending them. All he could think about was Elizabeth and her attitude toward him lately. She refused to allow him to be there to help her, and she was experiencing mood swings like he couldn't even imagine. By now, she was six months pregnant, but it appeared to him that her body was just wearing out a lot sooner this time. During her pregnancy with Ella, she had waited until her seventh month to take maternity leave, but for some reason, back then she had seemed to be stronger, more resilient, and definitely in a better state of mind. He had been considering for a while that it might not be a bad idea for her to start her maternity leave as soon as possible. He knew that he really should talk to her about it, but he also knew that bringing up that subject would only prove to irritate her even more. So, realizing that he was already treading on thin ice with her as it were, he did not know what he should do. His hands were tied. He felt helpless over the situation, and quite frankly, it scared him to death.
Once again trying to focus on the chart before him, he felt a light pat on his back. Kerry had watched the entire confrontation between him and Elizabeth moments earlier, and noticing the blank expression on his face, she asked, "Is everything all right, Mark?"
"Yeah, I'm fine." Mark hesitated for a moment, and then replied, "Well. . .no, not really. It's Elizabeth." Pausing again, wondering if he should continue, he then said, "This pregnancy just really seems to be taking its toll on her."
Kerry gave him a knowing look and asked, "Has Dr. McLucas given her any precautions, considering what happened when she was pregnant with Ella?" Kerry paused, looking up at Mark almost ashamedly, she said, "I'm sorry. I. . .I don't mean to pry. It's none of my business." As she started to walk away, Mark stopped her.
"It's OK, Kerry. Thanks for the concern. I know you just asked because you care," Mark said, gently.
"Yeah, I do, Mark. I think the world of you and Elizabeth." Kerry admitted after a long pause. Looking at the floor and then back at Mark, she said, ". . . And I'm sorry for any grief or problems I caused you in the past." Kerry then looked away from him again.
Giving her a moment to look back at him, Mark said, "All of that is in the past, now. It hurt at the time, but I decided a long time ago that life is too short to dwell on those little things. You were only doing what you felt was right, and besides, Elizabeth and I owe you so much for. . .for what you did for Ella." Mark looked down the hall toward Trauma I and then said, "We were being impractical as doctors because we were trying to be good parents. It took you to talk some sense into us, and because of that, you saved the life of our little girl. I don't know if we ever thanked you for that."
Kerry was a little shocked to hear Mark open up to her in such a way. She didn't know what to say, but then simply replied, "Well, just let me know if you need anything."
"Thanks, Kerry, I will," Mark replied as Kerry walked away.
Mark had been trying to page Elizabeth all day, and had even made his way up to the OR on one occasion, but hadn't been able to track her down. It was 6:00pm now; time to go home. He hoped that once he got her home, he would be able to get her to talk to him. Maybe being able to spend some time with Ella would alleviate some of her hostility and aloofness toward him and hopefully bring it out of her. She could be so stubborn sometimes. Although he knew that her persistence was one of the features that had initially drawn him to her, all he wanted to do now was make sure she was all right and take care of her. He called her office to see if she was ready to go home, but received no answer. Gathering his things from the lounge, he took the stairs up to Elizabeth's office. He lifted his arm to knock on the door, but then heard Elizabeth's voice, along with another coming from inside. Mark stepped back and leaned against the wall beside the door.
"You can't do that, Robert!" Elizabeth yelled.
"Oh, really. See now I thought I was Chief of Staff around here. I think I can, Lizzie," Robert said in a sarcastic tone.
"You cannot keep me out of surgery just because I am pregnant. That's discrimination. You weren't able to do it before, and I am bloody well not going to let you do it this time, either," Elizabeth yelled.
"No, I can't keep you out of the OR because you are pregnant, but I can keep you out of surgery if I feel that you have proven to be incompetent as a surgeon."
"Incompetent? I think that over the past seven years I have been here, I have proven myself more than competent!"
"Oh, yeah. So you almost killed someone when you were an intern because you didn't read the label on the med, you paralyzed a man because you wanted to go on some love fest with Greene. And if my memory serves me correctly, I had to clean that one up. Oh, and let's not forget you blowing up at the other OR staff members and running out of surgery after your malpractice suit. But my favorite, and I'm sure yours, breaking into Dr. Babcock's office when you were accused of euthanizing your patients. Falling asleep during surgery, needing a bathroom break during surgery, need I go on? Gee, Elizabeth, now that's some competence," Robert said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
"Yes, I have made a few mistakes, everyone makes mistakes. How can you hold all of that against me? All that happened so long ago; that malpractice suit was nearly four years ago, and we finally did prove that Babcock was the one killing those patients. What the hell do you want from me, Robert? I refuse to keep proving myself to you over and over again." Then remembering something that Mark had said to her long ago registered in her mind, "We aren't saints, Robert. We just try to get it right as often as we can." Outside the door, Mark couldn't help but smile as he listened, but at the same time, he could tell by his wife's tone of voice that she was near tears and that this conversation was moving desperately close to getting way out of hand.
On the other side of the door, Elizabeth was indeed near tears now, but she couldn't let Robert see her cry. She couldn't show him that she was feeling weak. She could never let him know that. She wished Mark would walk through that door right now, and kick the little bastard's ass.
Mark wanted so desperately to burst down that door and try in some way to help her, but he knew how strong willed Elizabeth was and that her demeanor today had been precarious at best. He knew that at times she wanted to prove her independence and take care of matters on her own, but she was right, there was no reason for her to keep trying to prove herself to that man. Mark was torn. Finally, he decided that if this went on much longer, he would have to rip the door off the hinges.
"Oh, please spare me the theatrics, Lizzie. I want you out of surgery. I don't feel that you are competent enough to be there. I can't go risking the hospital's credibility with you in the operating room," Robert said, as he turned to walk away.
"Where do you think you are going? How is it that you can actually be kind and caring one minute and a total ass the next? You can't just push me around and expect me to take it." Elizabeth yelled as she rushed from behind her desk toward him.
"That is exactly what I expect, Lizzie. I am the reason you are still in America; I GAVE you the job you have right now, and don't forget that," Robert said as he once again reached for the doorknob.
"Yes, and at the time, you felt that I was skilled and competent enough to fulfill the position. How can that change now?"
"Yes, you may be skilled, but you are by no means the best. Any other surgeon in this hospital could fill your position at this very moment. Don't let your head get so big, Lizzie. I never thought you were that spectacular. How could I? I used to think that you were a beautiful and talented surgeon, and at the time I appointed you Associate Chief of Surgery, I wanted to keep you here because I liked to look at you. But just look at you now. Why do you keep letting Greene do this to you? Do you plan on feeding this baby Ecstasy, too?"
"You son of a bitch," Elizabeth yelled, as she charged forward toward him.
Just then Elizabeth's office door flew open with Mark standing in the doorway with a look of rage on his face. Mark was by no means a large man, but he was tall, and next to Robert, he seemed to tower like a giant. "Get the hell away from my wife, Romano!" Elizabeth was a little surprised to see him standing there, with a look on his face that she was sure she had never seen before.
"Ahh gee. Isn't this quaint. The mild mannered ER attending with only half a brain comes to rescue his damsel in distress. I think I'm going to be sick," Robert said sarcastically, staring right at Mark.
Elizabeth started to speak, but Mark beat her to it. "You can berate me all you want, Romano. I could care less about that, but NEVER talk about MY child or MY wife like that. Elizabeth IS a brilliant surgeon, probably the best in this damn hospital, and you know it. I don't know why she continues to work with you, but for some reason, she endures it year after year. I know that I wouldn't be able to take it; she is a stronger person than anyone else in this place for what she takes from you. I don't know how she survives taking your shit from day to day, but I do know that she loves this job, and she is damn good at it, and you have no right to keep her from it. Not only is she a damn good surgeon, she also is the best mother any child could ever have. What happened to Ella is none of your business, and you need to stay the hell out of our personal life."
"Get out of my way, Greene," Robert said as he tried to push past Mark through the doorway.
Mark only stood more firmly and continued, "This hospital has very clear guidelines when it comes to maternity leave, and she is entitled to it with no penalty. You can't keep her out of surgery just because she is pregnant and wants to take maternity leave. If you think it is necessary, we can always take this up with the people in administration. I would be happy to make a trip down there. I have been meaning to relay to them some nasty rumors that I have been hearing about you for a while now, anyway."
"Ooh, I'm scared. Now if you don't mind, I'm late for a dinner engagement," Robert said. "Later, Lizzie."
Hesitating momentarily, Mark remained standing in the doorway, then slowly moved further into Elizabeth's office, allowing Robert to walk out the door. Once he disappeared down the hall, Mark closed the door behind him and then looked up at Elizabeth who remained standing, staring at the back of her door. Mark looked at her for a second, and then said, "I'm sorry, I know you probably wanted to handle that on your own, but he has no right to talk about Ella. . ."
"Thank you," Elizabeth interrupted, a small smile on her face. Mark looked up at her in surprise. "Don't look so surprised. I do have my moments of weakness." Elizabeth walked behind her desk and dejectedly sank into her chair. Mark took a seat as well, in the chair on the opposite side of the desk, with his bag resting on his lap. "Do you really think all those things of me?" Elizabeth asked.
"Of course I do. You know that," he answered, incredulously. Elizabeth smiled at his response. "Are you ready to get out of here?" Mark asked, cautiously.
She sat silently for a moment with her eyes closed. "I had such an awful day, Mark. I'm sorry for the way I treated you earlier. I'm sorry for the way I've been treating you. I am just feeling so much more run down this time. I don't know what is wrong with me, and he," she said motioning toward the door, "has been giving me such a hard time lately. He won't leave me alone, he follows me into surgery, and he is constantly criticizing my every move. He is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I had just sat down to call you to tell you that I was ready to go home when Robert came in here. Sometimes I just hate him." Elizabeth stated, placing her head in her hands.
Mark stood from his seat and placed his bag there in his absence. Walking toward her, he turned her chair toward him, until she was facing him, and knelt down in front of her. Taking her hands in his, he replied, "Elizabeth, like I said before, you are a brilliant surgeon. You are also a wonderful wife and mother. I am here for you, and there is no need to apologize. I love you, and Ella loves you, too. We are both here for you just like you are here for us. I would do anything for you, Elizabeth. Don't worry about this hospital or Robert. There is nothing he can do." Then, reaching out to touch her abdomen, Mark said, "Let's just focus on making sure this little one is all right. OK?"
"The baby is fine, Mark. I went to Dr. McLucas after I saw you in the ER earlier. She said everything is fine. I just got a little dizzy earlier because I skipped breakfast and lunch. Nothing to worry about really, other than the fact that I need to eat more regularly."
"I'm glad to hear that. You had me worried," Mark replied as he stood up, and pulled her along with him, wrapping his arms around her growing waste. "You need to stop worrying about all of this," Mark said, looking around the room, "and start taking better care of yourself."
Elizabeth wrapped her arms around his neck and said, "I know that, Dr. Greene. Today was just a rough day. I'll be ok, just as long as you get me out of here before I have to deal with one more bastard."
"I think I can handle that." Mark chuckled softly and kissed her gently on the lips. "Unless I was one of the bastards you had to deal with today."
Elizabeth laughed, and pulled him closer in a tight embrace. Pulling back, she looked at him and said, "Hardly, Mark. I was just having a little. . .episode earlier today. All I want to do now is go home, EAT, relax, play with Ella for a while, and then fall asleep in your arms. OK with you?"
"Yeah I think I can handle that," Mark said as he lead her around he desk. "You might even be able to get me to look after Ella while you soak in a steaming hot bubble bath, if you're lucky."
Elizabeth laughed as he picked up her bag along with his own. As he opened her office door for them to exit, she asked, "How long were you standing at the door, anyway?"
"Long enough," Mark replied as they walked out of here office, hand in hand, "Long enough."
As Mark drove, Elizabeth lounged in the passenger's seat with her eyes closed. "I talked to Rachel today," Mark replied hesitantly.
"Really? How is she?" Elizabeth asked, without opening her eyes.
Mark watched her carefully in order to gauge her reaction to his previous statement. Not finding any implication that it would be dangerous to proceed with this conversation, he said, "She's great. Really really great. She was elected president of her class yesterday."
"That's wonderful, Mark," Elizabeth stated. "I'm proud of her."
"Yeah, me too. She. . .she also asked if. . .if she could come to Chicago for Thanksgiving," he said, tentatively. Elizabeth opened her eyes and looked up at Mark. She could tell from his tone of voice and from the look on his face that he was extremely nervous about broaching this subject with her. Chuckling softly as she took in the wary look on his face, she straightened up in her seat, shaking her head. "What?" Mark asked smiling uneasily.
Laughing quietly, Elizabeth replied, "Mark. . .I am not a total bitch, you know."
"What do you mean?" he asked, confused.
"You know what I mean," she said as she turned in her seat to look at him. "You don't have to get so anxious when discussing Rachel with me."
I'm sorry. . .it's just that I. . ." Mark trailed off, catching a glimpse of her out of the corner of his eye.
"You what, Mark?" She asked, placing he hand on one of his thighs.
"Well. . .I just. Well. . .you and I both know that Rachel can sometimes be a sensitive subject between you and me. That's all." Mark finally admitted.
Pausing for a moment to take his statement in, Elizabeth carefully tried to put her thoughts into words. "Yes, I suppose that in the past, it was a sensitive subject, but you know as well as I do that if we are open and honest with each other, than we can work through even the most sensitive subjects. We learned that a long time ago, didn't we?"
"Yeah, we did," Mark replied as he removed one hand from the steering wheel and placed it over her hand that still rested on his lap. "We just have to be truthful."
"Yes, and the truth here is that Rachel is your daughter and you would love her to come spend Thanksgiving with us," Elizabeth said.
"Well, yeah. I miss her. Of course I want her to come," Mark replied, self-consciously kicking himself for all the times he hadn't been there for Rachel.
"So, is there any real question, then?" Elizabeth asked, smiling as she squeezed his hand.
"I just wanted to check with you first, that's all. I know that things haven't been so easy lately with work and the baby, so I just wanted to make sure that you are comfortable and don't mind if she comes to stay. Besides, I made the mistake of telling her she could stay once before without consulting you, and I honestly don't want to live through that wrath again," Mark said with a slight grin on his face.
"Oh, come on. Like I said before I am not that bad," Elizabeth replied, as she playfully slapped his arm. "I do thank you for talking to me about it first this time, though. I really appreciate that."
"I try my best," Mark replied.
"And you do a wonderful job," Elizabeth said before leaning over and giving him a slight kiss on the cheek.
"So is that a yes? Are you all right with Rachel coming to Chicago?" He asked.
"Of course, Mark. But you know that there have to be some ground rules this time, especially since Ella is so headstrong now. From the times I have spoken with Rachel on the telephone, though, she does seem much different than before. More grown up, maybe," Elizabeth said, hoping it was true. "It will be lovely to see her again, and I am sure Ella will love having her big sister for company."
"Yeah, I think so. I honestly don't think we will have any problems this time, but I promise to make sure she is aware of the rules when I call her back tomorrow," Mark replied, smiling over at his wife. Knowing that she didn't need to respond, Elizabeth just smiled back at Mark as he pulled into their driveway.
The next two months passed quickly, with preparations for the arrival of the new baby, as well as the arrival of Rachel back into their home. She planned on enjoying Thanksgiving Dinner with her father, Elizabeth, and Ella and then staying with them in Chicago for the next week of her Thanksgiving Break.
"Hey, we're here," Mark called as he and Rachel walked through the front door. It was Thanksgiving; the first Rachel had been able to spend with them in 3 years. She was excited about seeing her dad, and of course Ella, but she still felt a bit uncomfortable around Elizabeth at times. She guessed it was understandable, though. She had almost killed her daughter.
"Rachie," Ella called as she ran from the kitchen to meet them. Bending down, Rachel picked up Ella and hugged her.
"Oh my, you have gotten so big," Rachel said as she hugged her tightly.
Just then, Elizabeth walked out of the kitchen, drying her hands on a towel. "Happy Thanksgiving, Rachel," she said as she approached her.
Rachel turned to face Elizabeth and smiled. "Happy Thanksgiving," she replied, nervously.
Noticing the slight tension between his wife and oldest daughter, Mark said, "All right, Rachel, you know where your room is. I'll take Ella so you can go ahead and unpack your things."
Mark reached for Ella, but Rachel said, "It's ok, dad. She can stay with me."
"You sure?" Elizabeth asked. "Trust me, she won't be much help."
"Yeah, I'm sure. It won't take me that long."
"Ok then."
Elizabeth watched as Rachel carried Ella into her bedroom, Mark following behind, carrying her bags. When Mark emerged, he said, "It is amazing how those two get along. I know Rachel misses Ella. It is so nice to see her and have both my daughters together."
"It is nice to see her, again. She seems so grown up, Mark. It has to be hard living away from you and Ella."
Mark smiled at Elizabeth and then looked at her with concern in his eyes. Gesturing toward the kitchen, he asked, "You aren't over doing it in there are you? You look a little tired."
"I'm fine. I am going to need you to lift the turkey out of the oven in a while, though. And yes, I am tired. Your baby kept me up all night," Elizabeth said as she walked back into the kitchen.
"So this is just MY baby now?" Mark asked, following her into the kitchen.
Elizabeth smiled and patted her growing abdomen. "Yes, when this child does something wrong, he or she is all yours."
"Oh, of course," Mark said as he leaned on the island in the middle of the kitchen. "You sure you don't need me to do anything?"
"Nothing right now. Everything should be ready in about an hour, though," she said, rubbing the small of her back.
"Come here," Mark said sympathetically. "Let me help you out with that."
"Oh, thank you. Mark, do you think I am just too old for this?"
"Too old for what?" Mark asked as he began to massage her back.
"To have another child. I mean, I am 40 years old. Some women are grandmothers when they're 40, and here I am having a baby of my own," Elizabeth said, shaking her head.
"Hold on there. I definitely don't think we are old enough to be grandparents. That is certainly something I am not willing to think about yet. Besides, I think it is a little late to be deciding that you are too old to have a baby, because judging from the size of you, I would say that it's a safe bet that we are going to have another baby very, very soon. I don't think you are too old at all. I'm a year older than you, and I don't feel too old," Mark replied, applying a little more pressure to her back.
"Yes, but you aren't the one carrying this child, are you? Makes a bit of a difference, Mark. You are right, though. Just one more month of this, that's all," Elizabeth said.
"Yeah. Then we will have another beautiful baby to love. I personally can't wait," Mark said as he kissed the side of her head.
"Neither can I," Rachel said as she walked through the kitchen door. Mark and Elizabeth turned to face her, both smiling.
"Where's Ella?" Mark asked.
"She's watching TV in the living room," Rachel replied.
"I think I'll go join her and see if I can convince her to watch a football game with her ole' dad," Mark said as he kissed Elizabeth on the cheek. Hugging Rachel, he said, "I'm glad you're here, sweetheart," and then exited the kitchen.
"Do you need any help, Elizabeth?" Rachel asked as she took a seat at the island.
"No, I don't think so. You can help set the table in a while, though, if you don't mind," Elizabeth said as she took a seat beside Rachel at the island. "So, how is St. Louis?"
"It's ok. Mom is still working all the time, though. I practically never get to see her. I try to let things at school keep me busy, as much as I can, though," Rachel said.
"Yes, your father told me that you are president of your class. Congratulations."
"Thank you," Rachel said, and then paused. "Elizabeth, I wanted to talk to you and dad about something, but I thought that I should ask you first."
"Ok, what is it?" Elizabeth asked. Rachel obviously was nervous about what she was about to ask. She diverted her gaze from Elizabeth, looking down at the place mat on the counter top, fidgeting with its fringes with her fingers. "Rachel, is there something wrong?"
"No. I just, well, I was just wondering. I know that I might be in the way, and I know that I screwed up big time the last time, but I was just wondering if I could stay here again. Maybe just until after the baby is born. Hopefully longer, though. I really would like to finish high school in Chicago, and hopefully come to college here. I graduate in the spring, and I realize that that isn't for a while, and I also know. . ."
"Rachel. . ." Elizabeth interrupted.
"Elizabeth, before you say anything, please let me say this. I want you to know that I realize that when I lived here before, I was an inconsiderate, irresponsible, little witch. Unfortunately, it took me almost killing my own little sister, and then tearing you and dad apart for me to realize the consequences of my actions. I completely promise you that I haven't even touched a drug since that day. I was stupid, and I know this doesn't make up for what I did or the pain I caused, but I am sorry."
"Rachel. . ." Elizabeth said again, this time shaking her head.
"Please let me finish; I should have told you this a long time ago, so I really just need to get this out, " Rachel said. Elizabeth nodded and let her continue. "Elizabeth, I want to prove myself to you. You may not believe me, but I respect you, and I admire you. I look at my own mother and then I look at you, and it makes me realize that I want so much to be like you. I want your strength, your spirit, but most of all your love. I see the way you look at my dad and at Ella; I can already tell how much you love that new little baby. Elizabeth, I want to have that much love in my heart one day, and I'll never be able to reach that if I continue to live with my mother. Please let me stay here with you."
Elizabeth looked at her, seeing the tears welling up in her eyes, and feeling the sting of tears in her own eyes. Looking directly at her, she said, "Rachel, listen to me. I forgave you a long time ago for what happened with Ella. It took me a while, but I finally realized that you would never intentionally hurt her. I can see how much you love her, as well. Besides, your mother hasn't done such a bad job; you do have a lot of love in your heart, Rachel. That's obvious just by the fact that you and I are having this very conversation."
"Does that mean I can stay?" Rachel asked. Elizabeth sighed and grabbed Rachel's hands across the island.
"What about school in St. Louis? You were just elected to a very prestigious position. What about your friends?" Elizabeth asked.
"None of that really matters to me. I just want to be here to spend time with my family," Rachel replied.
Elizabeth considered Rachel for a moment, and then said, "Rachel, right now, you have to promise me that you will NEVER bring any kind of drug into this house ever again. Ella is three now and all over the place, even more than before, and this new baby will be here very soon. You have to promise me that you will never do something to endanger these children or yourself, for that matter, in any way. I couldn't take it again, Rachel, and I don't want to see you hurt, either. It would absolutely kill me, and your father, too."
"I promise, Elizabeth." Rachel said, smiling through her tears. "I'll do whatever you ask. Please just let me stay."
"Rachel, you are welcome to stay," Elizabeth said, as a tear streaked down her cheek. "Come here."
Rachel hopped down off her stool and leaned toward Elizabeth who remained seated on her stool. Taking Rachel into her arms in an embrace, Elizabeth hugged her tightly. Rachel suddenly broke down and sobbed against Elizabeth's shoulder. Seeing her like this, Elizabeth too began to cry; the memories of Ella's overdose flooding her mind. Ella crying in the ER, staying with her and seeing her intubated in the PICU, fighting with Mark, doors slamming, and tears; so many tears. She pushed those thoughts out of her mind and tried to focus on the girl sobbing in her arms. Kissing the top of Rachel's head, Elizabeth said, "It's ok, Rachel. Everything is all right now."
Right then, Mark entered the kitchen, holding Ella. Seeing the two embracing, and obviously a bit distraught, he became concerned and asked, "Is everything all right in here?"
Wiping her eyes and sniffing, Rachel pulled away from Elizabeth and said, "Yeah, dad. Everything is great."
"Yes," Elizabeth said. "Just fine." Smiling at Mark, Elizabeth placed her arm around Rachel's shoulder and wiped her eyes with the other hand.
"Why are you crying, Rachel?" Ella asked, innocently.
Rachel walked over to Mark and took Ella from him. "I'm just happy, that's all." Confused, Mark crossed the room toward Elizabeth, searching her face for answers.
"I thought you were sposed' to laugh when you are happy, and cry when you are sad," Ella said matter-of-factly.
"You're right, Ellie." Rachel said smiling.
"Ok, what are you two up to?" Mark asked, looking from Rachel to Elizabeth.
"Well, Mark, Rachel and I decided that with Ella and the new baby, we are going to need a lot of help around here. We talked about it, and Rachel has generously offered her services to us, again," Elizabeth said, winking at Rachel. "If that is all right with you, of course," she said, turning to Mark.
Mark looked back at Elizabeth, shocked. "Are you serious?"
"Yes. She wants to finish high school here. Possibly college. . .if Jenn says yes," Elizabeth said as she wrapped her arm around Mark's waste.
"Rachel is gonna live here?" Ella asked excitedly.
"Yes, sweetheart. Would you like that?" Elizabeth asked.
"Yes, mommy!" Ella shouted, hugging onto Rachel.
Mark turned to Elizabeth and asked quietly, "Are you sure about this?"
Just as quietly, Elizabeth answered, "Yes, Mark. Rachel and I had a little talk and everything is ok. Things will be fine."
"Thank you, Elizabeth. You don't know how much this means to me?" Mark said, hugging her excitedly.
"Yes, I think I do."
"I love you, Elizabeth."
"I love you, too."
Rachel, carrying Ella, walked over to them, and said, "I won't let you down again, daddy."
"I know, sweetheart, I know," Mark said as he embraced both of his daughters.
Later that night, Elizabeth sat in bed, propped up against the headboard, reading the British Medical Journal. Mark walked out the bathroom door, wearing only a pair of flannel pajama pants. Looking up from her journal, she saw him smiling at her. "What?" she asked.
"Nothing."
"What is that silly grin for, then?" She asked as she placed her journal on the nightstand beside her.
"I'm just incredibly happy right now, Elizabeth. Thank you."
"I'm glad, Mark. I'm happy, too."
Climbing into bed beside her, he asked, "So, what really happened between you and Rachel in the kitchen today?"
"I told you, Mark. We just had a little talk, that's all."
"You really aren't going to tell me what happened?"
"Just a little girl talk," Elizabeth said as she gently kissed his lips.
"Ok, I'll let it go for now, but don't think I won't get it out of you?"
Elizabeth chuckled and said, "We'll see."
Smiling, he asked, "You know what I was thinking earlier today?"
"What?"
"That kid isn't going to be inside there for much longer, you know. We really need to think of a name," Mark said as he placed his hand on top of her belly.
"Yes, we do. Have any ideas?" Elizabeth asked as she laced her fingers through his and allowed their joined hands to rest on her stomach.
"Do you think we should find out if it is a boy or a girl, first?" Mark asked.
"Do you?"
"I don't know. I thought it was exciting, waiting for Ella and not knowing."
"Me too, but if you want to find out, we can," Elizabeth said.
"Nah. Let's just wait and see."
"You sure?" Elizabeth asked.
"Yeah. So, boy or girl name first?" Mark asked as he put his free arm around Elizabeth's shoulder, pulling her next to him.
"Well, I was looking through a Baby Name Book the other day in Dr. McLucas' office, and I really like the name Grace." Elizabeth said.
"Little Gracie." Mark said, smiling.
"Yeah, do you like that?" she asked.
"I think it's a good strong name." Mark replied.
"Would you like to pick her middle name?" Elizabeth asked, smiling. She remembered doing this exact thing when she was pregnant for Ella. Sitting in bed with him for hours, happily arguing over the meaning of names and the impact a child's name has on its life.
"Hmmm. Let's see," Mark said, while scratching his chin. "Elizabeth."
"Yes?" she asked.
"No, I mean that could be her middle name," Mark said.
"Oh. Grace Elizabeth Greene. I like that," Elizabeth said, smiling from ear to ear.
"Well, there we go. One down," Mark replied, chuckling slightly.
"Now for a boy," Elizabeth said. "Boy names always seem to be harder for us. You think that's a sign?"
"Better not be," Mark said, smiling. "With Rachel here now, I think we definitely need another man in this family. I am incredibly out numbered."
"Can't take the heat?"
"Oh, I can take the heat, but a little help wouldn't hurt now and then."
"Oh, poor baby," Elizabeth chuckled, as Mark shifted down further into the bed, resting his head on her stomach and wrapping his arms protectively around her.
They both sat in silence for a moment, and then Mark said, "Maybe it is a sign. I can't think of a good name for a boy."
"Well, before Ella was born, you were pretty set on Bubba and Jesus," Elizabeth said, resting her hand on his shoulder.
"Yeah, but I don't think I was quite myself back then," Mark said. "Give a guy a break."
Smiling slightly, she said, "Yes, I suppose those were extenuating circumstances."
They became quiet again for a moment, both silently thanking God that they were sitting there together, naming their second child. "We could always name him after his daddy," Elizabeth said, gently running her free hand over the faded scar on his head.
"Yeah, I suppose that is an option, but I would rather he be more of an original," Mark replied after a moment's thought.
"An original, hmm. So, we can give my name to a daughter, but we can't give your name to a son?" Elizabeth asked.
"But I think you have a beautiful name," Mark said.
"Well, I think that if he turns out to be just like his daddy, same name or not, then everything will be just wonderful," Elizabeth said.
"Oh, come on, Elizabeth. You wouldn't want him to be just like me. There has to be some part of me that you would never want your son to inherit. We have been together for almost six years, so I'm sure that by now, you have a list of things." Mark said, looking up at her.
Looking down at him, she asked, "So, are you saying that just because we have been together for that long that there are things about me that you don't like? Do you have a list?"
"Of course not, you're perfect," Mark laughed.
"Yeah," Elizabeth said sarcastically. "Good answer, but I don't believe you. Seriously though, there are some things about you that absolutely drive me insane at times, but those things are all a part of you, and I love you. All of you."
"You are an incredible woman, Elizabeth," Mark said, pushing up to meet her in a gentle kiss.
When their lips parted, laughing, Elizabeth said, "True, very true."
Again, Mark rested his head back on her stomach, looking away from her. "How about Matthew after my grandfather?" he asked.
"I do remember you mentioning that once before," Elizabeth quietly replied.
"Is that ok with you?"
"Yes," she replied. "What do you think about David as a middle name. . .after your father?" she asked hesitantly.
Mark was silent for a moment, then sat up and looked at her. Taking her left hand into his, he absently-mindedly fingered her wedding ring, and then looking down at her hand, he said, "We have been though a lot together, haven't we."
"Yes, Mark, we have, but I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories for you. I'm sorry," she said at his down turned head.
"It's ok. I'm fine with it," Mark said, looking up at her momentarily and then diverting the subject and smiling at her, he said, "So, Matthew David Greene."
Considering the sadness in Mark's eyes for a moment, she decided to allow him to change the subject, and smiled back at him. "I think that is a very special name, maybe not as original as you wanted, though," Elizabeth pointed out.
"That's ok. I think it is perfect."
"Me, too," Elizabeth said, through a yawn. "Hmmm. . .it's been a long day."
"Yes it has, but I think this definitely was the best Thanksgiving we've ever had together," Mark said.
"Yes, it was a good day."
"Thank you for telling Rachel she can stay here again. I know that took a lot," Mark said, absently fingering the hem on the sleeve of the t- shirt she was wearing.
Lifting his chin, so he was looking at her, Elizabeth said, "It didn't take that much, Mark, and we really don't need to talk about it anymore."
"I know, I know. I just want to make sure you know how grateful I am."
"I do, Mark," she said, yawning again.
"Is the turkey finally catching up with you?" he asked.
"That and the lack of sleep from last night," Elizabeth said, nodding.
"Well then, let's see if we can make up for that." Mark reached over to the nightstand to turn off the lamp, and then helped Elizabeth settle comfortably onto the bed. Resting her head on his shoulder, she said, "Goodnight, Mark. I love you."
"I love you too. Goodnight."
As Elizabeth lay sleeping the next morning, Mark quietly entered the bedroom door, with Ella on his back, resting her chin on his shoulder. He looked over his shoulder toward her, and whispered, "Be quiet, sweetie. Mommy is still sleeping."
Ella nodded her head as Mark gently placed her on the bed. Ella quietly climbed into the bed, facing her mother, and Mark crawled in behind her. Ella lay silently, staring at Elizabeth for a while, before turning over to look at Mark. "Mommy is pretty, daddy," Ella replied, "just like a princess."
Mark looked down at Ella, and then said, "You're right, Ell. And guess what?"
"What daddy?" Ella asked, trying not to giggle.
"You look just like her," Mark whispered, and then kissed Ella on the forehead, before nuzzling his nose against hers.
Ella giggled again, and then asked, "Will the new baby look like mommy, too?"
"Only if we're lucky," Mark commented.
"Well, can the new baby look like you, daddy?" Ella asked, innocently.
"Yes, it could, . . ."
". . .and if it does, it will be a beautiful, beautiful baby," Elizabeth replied sleepily, without opening her eyes.
Ella looked at Elizabeth for a moment, and then started to laugh. "Mommy. . .daddy isn't beautiful," she corrected her mother.
Elizabeth opened her eyes, smiling. Looking from Ella to Mark, and then back to the inquisitive young child who never ceased to amaze her. "You don't think?" Elizabeth asked, curiously.
"No, mommy. Daddy is handsome," she replied matter-of-factly.
"Well, thank you," Mark said, getting his first opportunity to speak since Elizabeth had awakened. "Good morning, sleeping beauty," he said.
"Good morning to you, handsome prince," Elizabeth smiled her reply, leaning up on her elbow to kiss his cheek. "And good morning to you, pretty girl," Elizabeth said, and then kissed the tip of Ella's nose.
"Morning, mommy. Me and daddy made you and Rachel breakfast. Are you ready to go to the kitchen?" Ella asked, anxiously pulling on Elizabeth's arm.
"Just a minute, Ella. Hold on," Elizabeth replied, as she started to sit up in the bed. Ella continued to pull on Elizabeth's arm, but stopped suddenly when she heard Elizabeth's "Ohhh."
"Did I hurt you, mommy?" Ella asked, slightly frightened by her mother's reaction and immediately dropping the arm that she had been pulling on.
Mark too was a little worried by Elizabeth's response, and quickly sat up in the bed, picking up Ella and sitting her down so that she was no longer between Elizabeth and himself. "What, what is it?"
Elizabeth chuckled a little at the worried looks on both her husband and daughter's faces. "Nothing. I'm fine. Just a kick, that's all."
The apprehension quickly faded from Mark's face as he pulled the comforter down below Elizabeth's belly, and she pulled her t-shirt up a bit. Gently resting his palm over her belly, Mark smiled when he felt the baby. "Whoa. This one is a stronger kicker than Ella was. Must be a boy," Mark said, smiling conspiratorially at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth returned his smile, but said, "Oh now, come on. What is that supposed to mean? Please tell me you are not saying that boys are stronger than girls."
"Would I ever say anything like that? I told you last night that I am out numbered here. Trust me, I know my place," Mark said, gently kissing her belly.
Elizabeth smiled up at him, and then diverted her gaze to the foot of the bed where Ella, momentarily forgotten, sat quietly. "Come here, sweetheart. Would you like to feel the baby?"
Ella sat quietly, timidly looking at her parents, without moving. Elizabeth looked back at Mark, and made a mental note to be aware of Ella's feelings toward all of this. The new baby was going to be a big change for all of them, but especially for Ella. She had been daddy's little girl for three and a half years, and now there was someone else with whom she was going to have to share that attention.
"Come on, Ell," Mark said, trying to coax her toward the other end of the bed. When she still didn't move, Mark practically pounced toward her, and grabbing her up into his arms, said, "Come here, you."
Ella soon was laughing as Mark blew on her belly. Sitting her down so that she was kneeling beside Elizabeth's belly, Ella gently rested her cheek on it. "I can't feel anything," she replied.
"Give it just a minute, babe," Elizabeth said, as she stroked Ella's hair.
They all three sat in silence, until Ella's laughter filled the room. "He kicked my ear, mommy," Ella replied, looking up at her mother with a shocked expression on her face.
Elizabeth looked from Mark to Ella and laughed. From the time they told Ella that she was going to have a new baby brother or sister, for some reason, she had been set on having a brother. "He did, did he?" Elizabeth asked, throwing a cautious look in Ella's direction.
"Yeah," Ella replied as Elizabeth pulled her up closer to her and Mark.
"So tell me, Ell, just how do you know the baby is a he?" Mark asked.
"Well, that is what I want, daddy, and mommy told me," Ella said deliberately, and then seeing the stern look on her mother's face, she said, "Oops."
"Thank you, Ella," Elizabeth said, shaking her head.
"You knew?" Mark asked, baffled.
"Well, Dr. McLucas kind of let it slip when I went for my last ultrasound. I knew that you wanted to be surprised, so I didn't say anything, and then I was going to tell you last night when we were picking out names, but you said you wanted to wait. I'm sorry. I know. . ." Elizabeth said, but Mark's lips were on hers before she could finish her sentence.
Breaking the kiss, Mark grinned at her like a Cheshire cat. "This is great," he said, excitedly. "And thank you, Ella, for telling me." Mark kissed Ella's temple.
"You're welcome, daddy."
Stay tuned. . .
