DISCLAIMER: The characters contained herein (excluding Erin Windsor-Romano
and her adorable son Patrick) are the exclusive property of NBC, WB, Jack
Orman, John Wells, and Michael Crichton. No infringement is intended, and
no profit is being made.
I LOVE YOU READERS SO MUCH! The lovely reviews you have posted have been awesome! I am so glad you've enjoyed the little tale I've created. And to think, some of you even asked for more. Well, who am I to deny?
Okay, so we all know that, in the real world, they're making his life really suck. Well, I hate that. HATE it. I want him blissfully happy for once. So, if it's Romanangst you want, don't bother reading, because you ain't gonna find it here ---
Her hair was tickling his nose. Robert reached up and smoothed it down, and smiled as she arched, catlike, towards his touch. Even in her sleep, she responded to him like the other half of his soul. He tousled the auburn strands with his fingers once more before letting his palm trail down her warm, bare back. She sighed, snuggled against him.
He thought back to her face when he'd taken her in his arms just a few hours before. She had been nervous, even afraid. The lust stoked in his eyes probably hadn't helped. It would have been easier to deny that the sky was blue than to deny his desire and need for her.
The incision had healed, the body had shrunk rapidly back to nearly its original size, save for the hips which were now slightly - enticingly - rounder. And of course, her breasts --- Watching her nurse their son had become his favorite form of self-torture. Not that there weren't plenty of others. Just sitting next to her had become it's own exercise in self- control. For both of them. But today, mother and son had departed for the hospital for routine checks, and he paced the floor restlessly as he waited to find out whether or not the waiting period would be pronounced over.
It was after four, and he was in the lab when she glided through the door. Huge eyes and unruly curls peered out at him from the carrier hanging from her arm; tiny lips parted and squealed when he spoke. "There's my boy." He lifted the warm body in his hands, pressed his nose against the terrycloth-covered stomach, and was rewarded with a giggle of pure gold. He tucked Patrick into the cradle of his elbow and pulled Erin in against him. Her palm rubbed his stomach as his lips caressed hers. Her voice was melodic when it drifted to his ears.
"Don't work late tonight."
An unnecessary statement. He could not remember the last time he had put in more than eight hours in twenty-four. Quite a change from the Robert Romano of old. His eyes had burned into hers. "So - everything's all right?"
"Right as rain." She breathed softly. "Good thing, too. I've missed you." She nuzzled his neck, and had he not been holding their son, he would have dragged her to the floor and ravaged her right there, never minding the two techs working just down the aisle, eyeing them curiously. He pressed her tighter against him, fingers digging into her hip.
"Damn you, Windsor. Don't tease me like that."
A poetic gurgling provided the perfect distraction. Both mother and father turned their attention to infant, smiling and cooing and holding little fingers. A squeal, a squawk, and the baby drew Robert's finger to his mouth, gnawing pink gums clamping down. "Man, he's getting strong," Robert chuckled, and Erin snorted laughter, crossing her arms defensively over her chest.
"Tell me about it."
Robert turned his gaze back to her, his eyes smoky once more. "Sore?" Her breath caught in her throat and she nodded imperceptibly. "Poor baby." He kissed her again, tender yet seductive. "Massage tonight?"
Images leapt into Erin's mind, making her shudder with long-denied need. She darted her tongue out to wet the desert of her lips. "For starters."
Romano growled and pulled her against him once more, crushing her stomach against his hip. "Get your ass out of here." They exchanged one more longing kiss and Erin reached for the baby. But Robert shooed her hands away. "Oh, no you don't." He dug in his pocket and pulled out the keys to the Jag. "This guy is going to stick out the rest of the day here with his old man." He jingled the keychain in front of the child's eyes, giving rise to another burst of giggles. Erin's heart swelled with love and pride. "Are you sure?"
"Absolutely." Robert tossed her the keys then raised the infant to eye level. "We're going to be fine, just us guys, aren't we? Romano and Romano, the Dream Team of County General. You shoot 'em - we root 'em. You stab 'em - we stitch 'em." Another shriek of mirth, and he brought the wriggling body against his shoulder, burying his nose in the soft, fragrant depths of the baby's neck. Erin reached over and stroked Patrick's back, then unshouldered her bag. She located her wallet, which she tucked in her pocket, made sure the keys to her car were inside, and then zipped it shut. "I just fed him and changed him upstairs, and there's about five ounces in the ice pack. The bottle warmer is in here, too, so." She trailed off as Robert withered her with his gaze.
"Give me a break, Windsor. I'm surrounded by professionals here - I can always hand him off to a nurse if I need to."
Erin grinned knowingly. He could shoot his mouth off all he wanted for the benefit of the staff. She didn't mind. She was actually somewhat glad. The images of him changing diapers, bathing the squirming pink body, fumbling with tiny buttons and snaps, and walking the floor at night because Patrick had fallen asleep against his shoulder and he didn't have the heart to put him down - those were hers. And she hoarded them greedily. She wrapped her arms around both father and son, kissing the mouth of the first and the curly head of the second. "I'll miss you both." She nuzzled the baby's ear. "Be a good boy for daddy." Then she stretched a bit and smiled broadly. "I'm off to soak in the tub.by myself." Robert caressed her backside as she walked away. Then he turned his attention back to his son.
"So, squirt, you want to learn how to use an electron microscope?" Patrick blew a series of noisy bubbles. "What?" Robert quipped. "A fiber optic laryngoscope? Jeez, kid, anyone ever tell you you've got to crawl before you can walk?" The infant squealed and beat the air with a tiny fist. "Okay, sorry, I guess I can't blame you if you take that one personally." He caught sight of the two technicians observing him and he glared their direction. "Those samples aren't going to propagate themselves!" He barked harshly. "County isn't paying you to observe early childhood development! You want to do that, you go sign yourself up for some pediatric clinical study. But when you're in my lab, I expect your focus to be on the task at hand!"
The young man and woman both jumped and returned to work, muttering quiet apologies. "Sorry, Dr. Romano." He fixed them with an icy glare before turning his back on them. He placed the diaper bag in the carrier, then lifted it and headed out into the hall, whispering against the top of Patrick's head. "Lesson number one - Romanos can always kick a little ass." He was headed for his office when Elizabeth spotted him from her desk. She called out to him, a lilt in her voice.
"Don't you dare pass me by without stopping when you've got that handsome man in tow!"
He turned to face her, a grin on his lips. "Jeez, Lizzie, you don't have to yell at him like that. After all, he is just a baby."
He stepped into her office and she rose from her chair, holding out her arms. "Come here, you gorgeous little bundle." She saw Robert beaming as he handed over his son, and couldn't resist adding, "You look more like your mummy every day." She tucked Patrick into her arms and kissed his rosy cheek gently as Robert chuckled. "Speaking of mummy, where is Erin?"
Romano sank into a chair as she did the same. "She is on her way home for a couple hours of well-deserved rest. Speaking of which, could I use your phone, please?" Elizabeth nodded, her eyes still on the cooing baby in her arms. Robert picked up the receiver and dialed. "Patricia? Robert Romano. What's fresh today?" He paused to listen to the voice on the other end. "Nah, roses.too obvious. Need something more original. Calla Lilies? Nice, but too white, too.funereal. Could you dress them up with some color? Moonshadows? What are those? Purple? Hmm.okay. Yeah, but I need it at the house by six. The card? Oh, umm." He paused for a moment in thought. "Just put, 'You're already worth the wait'. Great, thanks Patricia." He laid the phone back in its cradle with a grin.
Elizabeth had been staring intently at the baby during the call, trying not to listen. But, of course, she'd heard every word. Understood the implications of such a conversation as well. "Been six weeks already?" She asked softly.
"Forty seven days," Romano answered, a bit quickly. "But who's counting?"
Elizabeth gazed at him as she absently stroked the tiny fingers closed around her thumb. "You've really taken to all this, haven't you? Home, wife, baby."
Robert crossed his arms behind his head. "Yeah, I guess I have."
Elizabeth sighed, glancing back down at the child in her arms. "If I had ever even suspected."
Her voice was soft, and Robert was sure she had not intended to speak out loud. He thought about teasing her, some friendly, good-spirited ribbing. "Yes, Lizzie, so sorry. Chalk me up as another 'One Who Got Away' story." She would blanch, call him a name, maybe laugh a little. Maybe sit smarting as she rocked his son in her embrace.
He considered pretending he hadn't heard her. "Sorry, Lizzie, I didn't catch that last." She would shake her head, make some demurral. Perhaps even pretend she'd been talking to Patrick.
Instead he just fixed her with eyes that were not unkind, waiting. She finally met his gaze.
And years of unspoken words passed between them in a matter of seconds.
Elizabeth could see into his life as clearly as watching through a window. He would collect his son and stride through the halls, as proud as he had ever been. He would bundle the child into the car and drive to the house he'd spent years turning into his home. He would embrace his wife. They would share dinner, marvel over their infant creation, and when the tiny one slept, they would slip away to make love, possibly basking in the fragrance of the flowers he'd had delivered earlier.
A life that could have been hers.
As she contemplated his existence, Robert pondered hers as well. She would work until she was half-dead with exhaustion. Stumble home to a house void of adult company, save for the brief moments before the nanny made her exit. She would have Ella, true. Someone to hold and cuddle and sing to and love. Someone who looked just like the one who had left her behind.
"Elizabeth?"
"Yes, Robert?"
"I'm sorry." His voice was quiet, simple.
She smiled wryly.
"So am I."
Erin arrived home and breezed into the house, feeling naked without the weight of baby, diaper bag, and car seat. She breathed a ragged sigh of relief when she saw that the maid service had come - the kitchen counter was covered with folded laundry, the kitchen itself was spotless, as was the living room. She contemplated fixing dinner, but the call of her garden tub was just too great. I'll just throw some steaks on the grill when Robert gets home.She dashed up the stairs, already pulling her sweater over her head. The cleaners had visited the bedroom as well - she could smell the fresh linens on the bed. Even the bassinette was sparkling, the coverlet and sheets having been hand-washed. Erin brushed her fingers over it as she passed. A few moments later, she was up to her ears in a swirling, hot liquid heaven. She treated herself to a long, slow shampoo and a deep conditioning rinse, then bathed her face in a cool moisturizing treatment. It had been so long since she had been able to indulge in such detail, and she planned to make the most of it.
Besides, everything needs to be perfect tonight, of all nights.
She trembled a little with anticipation, and even a little bit of fear.
Don't be silly - Dr. Merritt says it's okay, that everything has healed nicely. And Robert would never hurt me.
She giggled a little at her trepidation. "Better shave those legs, girl."
His son was a heartbreaker at less than three months old.
His stride was jauntier than usual as he made his way through the last couple hours of the day, cradling the infant proudly in his arms. People who usually bolted the other direction when they saw him coming today closed the distance between them rather than widening it. Patrick had goggled perfectly for Brenda, cooed enchantingly for Shirley, worked half the nursing staff into a squealing tizzy, and spit up all over Edson.
Yessir, that's my boy.
After a fair amount of showboating, Robert carried his son back to his office and tucked him into his carrier. The baby whimpered, arching his back, resisting being put down. "Hey there," Romano cooed softly. "You want to go home to mommy, don't you?" Patrick fell quiet, but pouted his lower lip. "Come on, buddy. Give your old man a break." He pulled off his labcoat and hung it on his chair. As soon as he was out of Patrick's line of sight, the baby began to wail. "Hey, hey, hey," he moved back to the carrier and lifted the squalling child back into his arms. He was just beginning to walk the floor when there was a knock at the door. Kerry Weaver pushed it open without being asked, already speaking. "Robert, I was just reviewing your proposed budget for next quarter and I really think -" She lifted her eyes from the binder in her hand, and stopped short, literally flinching at the sight in front of her. "Oh. Oh, I'm sorry, Robert - I didn't know - I mean, I wasn't aware."
"It's okay, Kerry," Robert rubbed the baby's back as the wails gave way to hitching sobs. "But, as you can see, I've got my hands full, and I'm trying to get out of here. This is going to have to wait until tomorrow, maybe even until Friday." His words trailed off as he observed Kerry's demeanor. Her eyes were fixed on the baby, her expression one Robert could not comprehend. A sense of wonder, tinged with both longing and sadness. Before he knew what he was doing, he was crossing the room. "Um - would you mind?"
Kerry broke from her reverie. "Huh?"
Patrick had quieted, and was regarding his father with long, slow blinks. "Hold him and he'll doze right off. If I put him down, he'll raise the rafters." Weaver blanched as she realized what he was saying, and after a moment of stunned silence, sank slowly into a chair. Robert gently took the binder from her hand and placed his son in her arms. Patrick regarded this new stranger with wide eyes before exhaling a breathy sigh. A tiny hiccup, a fist made its way to his mouth, and the eyes closed. Kerry sat, enraptured, stroking the tiny head. Robert moved quietly about his office, tossing necessary files and folders into his briefcase, pulling his suit coat over his shoulders. He picked up the telephone and dialed Erin's favorite Chinese restaurant to place a dinner order. Then he lifted the car seat to his desk, pulling the diaper bag out and draping a blanket inside it. With a small smile, Kerry rose carefully and placed the sleeping baby in the contour of the seat. She watched as Robert meticulously fastened the belt and tucked the fleece around the cherubic face. "You and Erin are very lucky."
Robert traced one finger along a rosy cheek. "I know." He straightened and reached for his coat. "Well, Kerry, I won't lie and say I wish I could stick around."
"No, of course." Weaver watched as he shouldered the diaper bag, slung the car seat over his right arm and grabbed his valise with his left hand. "Here, let me help." She extended her hand, but he shrugged nonchalantly.
"It's all right, I've got it."
"Robert," she chided, taking the handle of his briefcase from his fingers. Relenting, he shifted the baby carrier to a more comfortable grip, and they left his office together.
"As far as the budget goes," Romano resumed his brusque, professional tone, "don't even think about trying to send me back to square one on this. It's fair, it's balanced, and frankly, I just don't see a lot of wiggle room." Kerry shook her head, a wry smile on her face. They barbed back and forth all the way to the parking garage, where he fished the keys from the bag and chirped the alarm. Weaver paused a moment, raising an eyebrow at the sleek, black M Class. "This is nice, Robert. When did you get this?"
"Not mine. Erin's. Christmas present." He was snapping the car seat into the base in the center of the back seat.
"Nice Christmas present."
"Yeah, well, vulgar as the f-word is, we needed one."
Kerry's brow furrowed. "F-word?"
Romano smirked. "Family car." Weaver laughed as he nodded. "She refused to consider a Hummer, I refused to consider a minivan, and so this was our compromise." He closed the door to the backseat and held out his hand. Kerry gave him his valise, and he opened the driver's side, tossing it in casually. "Well, good night, Kerry."
She smiled slightly as he climbed behind the wheel. "Good night Robert. Tell Erin I said hello, and that we miss her."
His brown eyes held her face for a moment. "I'll do that."
He couldn't get home fast enough. He pulled into the garage, rushed in collecting the bag and car seat, and moved inside as quickly as possible. The dogs bounded over eagerly, sniffing the soft blankets. "Go on, get out of here." He shooed them impatiently. He entered the living room and set his load down with a grin.
A fire was burning in the hearth. Lit candles lined the walls. The coffee table was covered with cartons of delicious smelling food, all arranged around a brilliantly beautiful arrangement of flowers. Well done, Patricia.
From behind, two slender hands snaked their way around his torso, slipping up over his chest. Warm softness pressed against his back and tender, moist lips caressed his earlobe. "I'm so glad you're home." The purr of her voice resonated in the pit of his stomach and he closed his eyes, fighting to maintain control. He covered delicate fingers with his own, lifted them to his lips, tasted the flavor of her skin. Then he turned in her embrace and plunged his hands into the crimson depths of her hair.
"That makes two of us," he murmured before claiming the mouth she offered up.
Erin's knees puddled under the muted passion of the kiss, and she had to settle her weight against him. He accepted it eagerly, allowing her to mold her body against his. Her arms tightened around him and, for one dizzying moment, she thought they would melt to the floor, tear each other's clothes away, and he would hold her, his eyes would sear into hers and bodies would shift and meet and meld.
Patrick's plaintive wail of hunger pierced the air.
Robert exhaled raggedly as he released her, then struggled out of his coat. "Hot in here." They exchanged knowing looks and smiles, and Erin knelt to free the baby from the carrier. Robert walked into the foyer to hang up his coat, removed his jacket and tie and hung them over the banister. By the time he returned to the living room, Erin was in the crook of the sofa, legs tucked under her, blouse open. She cradled their son's head against her chest and smiled down at him, stroking his cheek and cooing softly. The sounds of the baby swallowing filled the air, and Robert moved to take his place next to her. He bent his head and kissed feathery curls. "Lucky kid." He nuzzled Erin's neck. "Me next?"
She smiled and giggled. "But what about me?" She eyed the feast spread before them on the table. Obediently, Robert picked up some chopsticks and offered her a bite. Erin closed her eyes as if she were in heaven. "Robert Romano, you spoil me." He shot her his signature cocky grin. "I'm serious. The food, the flowers, the card." She shivered. "Lovely surprises." Patrick hiccuped against her, and she lifted him, gently patting his back. "So, how did this guy do today?"
"Fantastic." Robert drawled. "Repaired a GSW to some banger's left ventricle, reconstructed an aortic graft, and spewed his lunch all over Dale Edson's favorite silk tie." He took the baby from her as she laughed approvingly. He draped a napkin over his knee as he rubbed Patrick's back. A hiccup, and a burp, and he handed him back. They finished their meal in relative silence, then Robert reached for his son once more. "Bath?" Patrick giggled and grasped his father's thumb. Erin watched them move into the kitchen, buttoning her blouse and smiling. She began to clear away the now empty cartons from their dinner, then joined Robert at the sink. Patrick was gurgling happily as Robert rubbed his tummy with a soft washcloth, and Erin tenderly kissed her husband's shoulder. "You are so good at this."
"Yes, well, don't let that get around." He spoke animatedly, drawing another squeal from his son. "Daddy's got a reputation to uphold, doesn't he? Yes, he does."
An hour later, the three were settled on the king size bed, Patrick finally dozing off as his parents lay adoring him, and each other. They had just completed a rather passionate kiss when they saw the child was asleep. Robert's heart leapt into his throat and he stroked Erin's shoulder tenderly. "Think he'll survive a few hours in the crib tonight?" Erin nodded wordlessly. "Get naked," he whispered softly. "I'll be back." He gently scooped the sleeping infant into his arms and slid off the bed. "Alone."
Romano carried his son down the hall and pushed open the door to the nursery. He lay the tiny body in the center of the crib, removing the stuffed toys and draping him with a soft blanket. Leaning down, he kissed Patrick tenderly. Exiting the room, he switched on the baby monitor and closed the door. Unbuttoning the cuffs of his shirt, he covered the few steps between the baby's room and the master bedroom quickly.
I LOVE YOU READERS SO MUCH! The lovely reviews you have posted have been awesome! I am so glad you've enjoyed the little tale I've created. And to think, some of you even asked for more. Well, who am I to deny?
Okay, so we all know that, in the real world, they're making his life really suck. Well, I hate that. HATE it. I want him blissfully happy for once. So, if it's Romanangst you want, don't bother reading, because you ain't gonna find it here ---
Her hair was tickling his nose. Robert reached up and smoothed it down, and smiled as she arched, catlike, towards his touch. Even in her sleep, she responded to him like the other half of his soul. He tousled the auburn strands with his fingers once more before letting his palm trail down her warm, bare back. She sighed, snuggled against him.
He thought back to her face when he'd taken her in his arms just a few hours before. She had been nervous, even afraid. The lust stoked in his eyes probably hadn't helped. It would have been easier to deny that the sky was blue than to deny his desire and need for her.
The incision had healed, the body had shrunk rapidly back to nearly its original size, save for the hips which were now slightly - enticingly - rounder. And of course, her breasts --- Watching her nurse their son had become his favorite form of self-torture. Not that there weren't plenty of others. Just sitting next to her had become it's own exercise in self- control. For both of them. But today, mother and son had departed for the hospital for routine checks, and he paced the floor restlessly as he waited to find out whether or not the waiting period would be pronounced over.
It was after four, and he was in the lab when she glided through the door. Huge eyes and unruly curls peered out at him from the carrier hanging from her arm; tiny lips parted and squealed when he spoke. "There's my boy." He lifted the warm body in his hands, pressed his nose against the terrycloth-covered stomach, and was rewarded with a giggle of pure gold. He tucked Patrick into the cradle of his elbow and pulled Erin in against him. Her palm rubbed his stomach as his lips caressed hers. Her voice was melodic when it drifted to his ears.
"Don't work late tonight."
An unnecessary statement. He could not remember the last time he had put in more than eight hours in twenty-four. Quite a change from the Robert Romano of old. His eyes had burned into hers. "So - everything's all right?"
"Right as rain." She breathed softly. "Good thing, too. I've missed you." She nuzzled his neck, and had he not been holding their son, he would have dragged her to the floor and ravaged her right there, never minding the two techs working just down the aisle, eyeing them curiously. He pressed her tighter against him, fingers digging into her hip.
"Damn you, Windsor. Don't tease me like that."
A poetic gurgling provided the perfect distraction. Both mother and father turned their attention to infant, smiling and cooing and holding little fingers. A squeal, a squawk, and the baby drew Robert's finger to his mouth, gnawing pink gums clamping down. "Man, he's getting strong," Robert chuckled, and Erin snorted laughter, crossing her arms defensively over her chest.
"Tell me about it."
Robert turned his gaze back to her, his eyes smoky once more. "Sore?" Her breath caught in her throat and she nodded imperceptibly. "Poor baby." He kissed her again, tender yet seductive. "Massage tonight?"
Images leapt into Erin's mind, making her shudder with long-denied need. She darted her tongue out to wet the desert of her lips. "For starters."
Romano growled and pulled her against him once more, crushing her stomach against his hip. "Get your ass out of here." They exchanged one more longing kiss and Erin reached for the baby. But Robert shooed her hands away. "Oh, no you don't." He dug in his pocket and pulled out the keys to the Jag. "This guy is going to stick out the rest of the day here with his old man." He jingled the keychain in front of the child's eyes, giving rise to another burst of giggles. Erin's heart swelled with love and pride. "Are you sure?"
"Absolutely." Robert tossed her the keys then raised the infant to eye level. "We're going to be fine, just us guys, aren't we? Romano and Romano, the Dream Team of County General. You shoot 'em - we root 'em. You stab 'em - we stitch 'em." Another shriek of mirth, and he brought the wriggling body against his shoulder, burying his nose in the soft, fragrant depths of the baby's neck. Erin reached over and stroked Patrick's back, then unshouldered her bag. She located her wallet, which she tucked in her pocket, made sure the keys to her car were inside, and then zipped it shut. "I just fed him and changed him upstairs, and there's about five ounces in the ice pack. The bottle warmer is in here, too, so." She trailed off as Robert withered her with his gaze.
"Give me a break, Windsor. I'm surrounded by professionals here - I can always hand him off to a nurse if I need to."
Erin grinned knowingly. He could shoot his mouth off all he wanted for the benefit of the staff. She didn't mind. She was actually somewhat glad. The images of him changing diapers, bathing the squirming pink body, fumbling with tiny buttons and snaps, and walking the floor at night because Patrick had fallen asleep against his shoulder and he didn't have the heart to put him down - those were hers. And she hoarded them greedily. She wrapped her arms around both father and son, kissing the mouth of the first and the curly head of the second. "I'll miss you both." She nuzzled the baby's ear. "Be a good boy for daddy." Then she stretched a bit and smiled broadly. "I'm off to soak in the tub.by myself." Robert caressed her backside as she walked away. Then he turned his attention back to his son.
"So, squirt, you want to learn how to use an electron microscope?" Patrick blew a series of noisy bubbles. "What?" Robert quipped. "A fiber optic laryngoscope? Jeez, kid, anyone ever tell you you've got to crawl before you can walk?" The infant squealed and beat the air with a tiny fist. "Okay, sorry, I guess I can't blame you if you take that one personally." He caught sight of the two technicians observing him and he glared their direction. "Those samples aren't going to propagate themselves!" He barked harshly. "County isn't paying you to observe early childhood development! You want to do that, you go sign yourself up for some pediatric clinical study. But when you're in my lab, I expect your focus to be on the task at hand!"
The young man and woman both jumped and returned to work, muttering quiet apologies. "Sorry, Dr. Romano." He fixed them with an icy glare before turning his back on them. He placed the diaper bag in the carrier, then lifted it and headed out into the hall, whispering against the top of Patrick's head. "Lesson number one - Romanos can always kick a little ass." He was headed for his office when Elizabeth spotted him from her desk. She called out to him, a lilt in her voice.
"Don't you dare pass me by without stopping when you've got that handsome man in tow!"
He turned to face her, a grin on his lips. "Jeez, Lizzie, you don't have to yell at him like that. After all, he is just a baby."
He stepped into her office and she rose from her chair, holding out her arms. "Come here, you gorgeous little bundle." She saw Robert beaming as he handed over his son, and couldn't resist adding, "You look more like your mummy every day." She tucked Patrick into her arms and kissed his rosy cheek gently as Robert chuckled. "Speaking of mummy, where is Erin?"
Romano sank into a chair as she did the same. "She is on her way home for a couple hours of well-deserved rest. Speaking of which, could I use your phone, please?" Elizabeth nodded, her eyes still on the cooing baby in her arms. Robert picked up the receiver and dialed. "Patricia? Robert Romano. What's fresh today?" He paused to listen to the voice on the other end. "Nah, roses.too obvious. Need something more original. Calla Lilies? Nice, but too white, too.funereal. Could you dress them up with some color? Moonshadows? What are those? Purple? Hmm.okay. Yeah, but I need it at the house by six. The card? Oh, umm." He paused for a moment in thought. "Just put, 'You're already worth the wait'. Great, thanks Patricia." He laid the phone back in its cradle with a grin.
Elizabeth had been staring intently at the baby during the call, trying not to listen. But, of course, she'd heard every word. Understood the implications of such a conversation as well. "Been six weeks already?" She asked softly.
"Forty seven days," Romano answered, a bit quickly. "But who's counting?"
Elizabeth gazed at him as she absently stroked the tiny fingers closed around her thumb. "You've really taken to all this, haven't you? Home, wife, baby."
Robert crossed his arms behind his head. "Yeah, I guess I have."
Elizabeth sighed, glancing back down at the child in her arms. "If I had ever even suspected."
Her voice was soft, and Robert was sure she had not intended to speak out loud. He thought about teasing her, some friendly, good-spirited ribbing. "Yes, Lizzie, so sorry. Chalk me up as another 'One Who Got Away' story." She would blanch, call him a name, maybe laugh a little. Maybe sit smarting as she rocked his son in her embrace.
He considered pretending he hadn't heard her. "Sorry, Lizzie, I didn't catch that last." She would shake her head, make some demurral. Perhaps even pretend she'd been talking to Patrick.
Instead he just fixed her with eyes that were not unkind, waiting. She finally met his gaze.
And years of unspoken words passed between them in a matter of seconds.
Elizabeth could see into his life as clearly as watching through a window. He would collect his son and stride through the halls, as proud as he had ever been. He would bundle the child into the car and drive to the house he'd spent years turning into his home. He would embrace his wife. They would share dinner, marvel over their infant creation, and when the tiny one slept, they would slip away to make love, possibly basking in the fragrance of the flowers he'd had delivered earlier.
A life that could have been hers.
As she contemplated his existence, Robert pondered hers as well. She would work until she was half-dead with exhaustion. Stumble home to a house void of adult company, save for the brief moments before the nanny made her exit. She would have Ella, true. Someone to hold and cuddle and sing to and love. Someone who looked just like the one who had left her behind.
"Elizabeth?"
"Yes, Robert?"
"I'm sorry." His voice was quiet, simple.
She smiled wryly.
"So am I."
Erin arrived home and breezed into the house, feeling naked without the weight of baby, diaper bag, and car seat. She breathed a ragged sigh of relief when she saw that the maid service had come - the kitchen counter was covered with folded laundry, the kitchen itself was spotless, as was the living room. She contemplated fixing dinner, but the call of her garden tub was just too great. I'll just throw some steaks on the grill when Robert gets home.She dashed up the stairs, already pulling her sweater over her head. The cleaners had visited the bedroom as well - she could smell the fresh linens on the bed. Even the bassinette was sparkling, the coverlet and sheets having been hand-washed. Erin brushed her fingers over it as she passed. A few moments later, she was up to her ears in a swirling, hot liquid heaven. She treated herself to a long, slow shampoo and a deep conditioning rinse, then bathed her face in a cool moisturizing treatment. It had been so long since she had been able to indulge in such detail, and she planned to make the most of it.
Besides, everything needs to be perfect tonight, of all nights.
She trembled a little with anticipation, and even a little bit of fear.
Don't be silly - Dr. Merritt says it's okay, that everything has healed nicely. And Robert would never hurt me.
She giggled a little at her trepidation. "Better shave those legs, girl."
His son was a heartbreaker at less than three months old.
His stride was jauntier than usual as he made his way through the last couple hours of the day, cradling the infant proudly in his arms. People who usually bolted the other direction when they saw him coming today closed the distance between them rather than widening it. Patrick had goggled perfectly for Brenda, cooed enchantingly for Shirley, worked half the nursing staff into a squealing tizzy, and spit up all over Edson.
Yessir, that's my boy.
After a fair amount of showboating, Robert carried his son back to his office and tucked him into his carrier. The baby whimpered, arching his back, resisting being put down. "Hey there," Romano cooed softly. "You want to go home to mommy, don't you?" Patrick fell quiet, but pouted his lower lip. "Come on, buddy. Give your old man a break." He pulled off his labcoat and hung it on his chair. As soon as he was out of Patrick's line of sight, the baby began to wail. "Hey, hey, hey," he moved back to the carrier and lifted the squalling child back into his arms. He was just beginning to walk the floor when there was a knock at the door. Kerry Weaver pushed it open without being asked, already speaking. "Robert, I was just reviewing your proposed budget for next quarter and I really think -" She lifted her eyes from the binder in her hand, and stopped short, literally flinching at the sight in front of her. "Oh. Oh, I'm sorry, Robert - I didn't know - I mean, I wasn't aware."
"It's okay, Kerry," Robert rubbed the baby's back as the wails gave way to hitching sobs. "But, as you can see, I've got my hands full, and I'm trying to get out of here. This is going to have to wait until tomorrow, maybe even until Friday." His words trailed off as he observed Kerry's demeanor. Her eyes were fixed on the baby, her expression one Robert could not comprehend. A sense of wonder, tinged with both longing and sadness. Before he knew what he was doing, he was crossing the room. "Um - would you mind?"
Kerry broke from her reverie. "Huh?"
Patrick had quieted, and was regarding his father with long, slow blinks. "Hold him and he'll doze right off. If I put him down, he'll raise the rafters." Weaver blanched as she realized what he was saying, and after a moment of stunned silence, sank slowly into a chair. Robert gently took the binder from her hand and placed his son in her arms. Patrick regarded this new stranger with wide eyes before exhaling a breathy sigh. A tiny hiccup, a fist made its way to his mouth, and the eyes closed. Kerry sat, enraptured, stroking the tiny head. Robert moved quietly about his office, tossing necessary files and folders into his briefcase, pulling his suit coat over his shoulders. He picked up the telephone and dialed Erin's favorite Chinese restaurant to place a dinner order. Then he lifted the car seat to his desk, pulling the diaper bag out and draping a blanket inside it. With a small smile, Kerry rose carefully and placed the sleeping baby in the contour of the seat. She watched as Robert meticulously fastened the belt and tucked the fleece around the cherubic face. "You and Erin are very lucky."
Robert traced one finger along a rosy cheek. "I know." He straightened and reached for his coat. "Well, Kerry, I won't lie and say I wish I could stick around."
"No, of course." Weaver watched as he shouldered the diaper bag, slung the car seat over his right arm and grabbed his valise with his left hand. "Here, let me help." She extended her hand, but he shrugged nonchalantly.
"It's all right, I've got it."
"Robert," she chided, taking the handle of his briefcase from his fingers. Relenting, he shifted the baby carrier to a more comfortable grip, and they left his office together.
"As far as the budget goes," Romano resumed his brusque, professional tone, "don't even think about trying to send me back to square one on this. It's fair, it's balanced, and frankly, I just don't see a lot of wiggle room." Kerry shook her head, a wry smile on her face. They barbed back and forth all the way to the parking garage, where he fished the keys from the bag and chirped the alarm. Weaver paused a moment, raising an eyebrow at the sleek, black M Class. "This is nice, Robert. When did you get this?"
"Not mine. Erin's. Christmas present." He was snapping the car seat into the base in the center of the back seat.
"Nice Christmas present."
"Yeah, well, vulgar as the f-word is, we needed one."
Kerry's brow furrowed. "F-word?"
Romano smirked. "Family car." Weaver laughed as he nodded. "She refused to consider a Hummer, I refused to consider a minivan, and so this was our compromise." He closed the door to the backseat and held out his hand. Kerry gave him his valise, and he opened the driver's side, tossing it in casually. "Well, good night, Kerry."
She smiled slightly as he climbed behind the wheel. "Good night Robert. Tell Erin I said hello, and that we miss her."
His brown eyes held her face for a moment. "I'll do that."
He couldn't get home fast enough. He pulled into the garage, rushed in collecting the bag and car seat, and moved inside as quickly as possible. The dogs bounded over eagerly, sniffing the soft blankets. "Go on, get out of here." He shooed them impatiently. He entered the living room and set his load down with a grin.
A fire was burning in the hearth. Lit candles lined the walls. The coffee table was covered with cartons of delicious smelling food, all arranged around a brilliantly beautiful arrangement of flowers. Well done, Patricia.
From behind, two slender hands snaked their way around his torso, slipping up over his chest. Warm softness pressed against his back and tender, moist lips caressed his earlobe. "I'm so glad you're home." The purr of her voice resonated in the pit of his stomach and he closed his eyes, fighting to maintain control. He covered delicate fingers with his own, lifted them to his lips, tasted the flavor of her skin. Then he turned in her embrace and plunged his hands into the crimson depths of her hair.
"That makes two of us," he murmured before claiming the mouth she offered up.
Erin's knees puddled under the muted passion of the kiss, and she had to settle her weight against him. He accepted it eagerly, allowing her to mold her body against his. Her arms tightened around him and, for one dizzying moment, she thought they would melt to the floor, tear each other's clothes away, and he would hold her, his eyes would sear into hers and bodies would shift and meet and meld.
Patrick's plaintive wail of hunger pierced the air.
Robert exhaled raggedly as he released her, then struggled out of his coat. "Hot in here." They exchanged knowing looks and smiles, and Erin knelt to free the baby from the carrier. Robert walked into the foyer to hang up his coat, removed his jacket and tie and hung them over the banister. By the time he returned to the living room, Erin was in the crook of the sofa, legs tucked under her, blouse open. She cradled their son's head against her chest and smiled down at him, stroking his cheek and cooing softly. The sounds of the baby swallowing filled the air, and Robert moved to take his place next to her. He bent his head and kissed feathery curls. "Lucky kid." He nuzzled Erin's neck. "Me next?"
She smiled and giggled. "But what about me?" She eyed the feast spread before them on the table. Obediently, Robert picked up some chopsticks and offered her a bite. Erin closed her eyes as if she were in heaven. "Robert Romano, you spoil me." He shot her his signature cocky grin. "I'm serious. The food, the flowers, the card." She shivered. "Lovely surprises." Patrick hiccuped against her, and she lifted him, gently patting his back. "So, how did this guy do today?"
"Fantastic." Robert drawled. "Repaired a GSW to some banger's left ventricle, reconstructed an aortic graft, and spewed his lunch all over Dale Edson's favorite silk tie." He took the baby from her as she laughed approvingly. He draped a napkin over his knee as he rubbed Patrick's back. A hiccup, and a burp, and he handed him back. They finished their meal in relative silence, then Robert reached for his son once more. "Bath?" Patrick giggled and grasped his father's thumb. Erin watched them move into the kitchen, buttoning her blouse and smiling. She began to clear away the now empty cartons from their dinner, then joined Robert at the sink. Patrick was gurgling happily as Robert rubbed his tummy with a soft washcloth, and Erin tenderly kissed her husband's shoulder. "You are so good at this."
"Yes, well, don't let that get around." He spoke animatedly, drawing another squeal from his son. "Daddy's got a reputation to uphold, doesn't he? Yes, he does."
An hour later, the three were settled on the king size bed, Patrick finally dozing off as his parents lay adoring him, and each other. They had just completed a rather passionate kiss when they saw the child was asleep. Robert's heart leapt into his throat and he stroked Erin's shoulder tenderly. "Think he'll survive a few hours in the crib tonight?" Erin nodded wordlessly. "Get naked," he whispered softly. "I'll be back." He gently scooped the sleeping infant into his arms and slid off the bed. "Alone."
Romano carried his son down the hall and pushed open the door to the nursery. He lay the tiny body in the center of the crib, removing the stuffed toys and draping him with a soft blanket. Leaning down, he kissed Patrick tenderly. Exiting the room, he switched on the baby monitor and closed the door. Unbuttoning the cuffs of his shirt, he covered the few steps between the baby's room and the master bedroom quickly.