Disclaimer: Abby, Carter and rest of ER tribe are not mine, never will be yadda yadda yadda

Title: May

Chapter: 3 - What I Feel For You

A/N: OK, I am getting them out within a day of each other, I really am enjoying this story so much! I have been reading such depressing Carby fiction lately, I just find solace in this fluffy fic of mine! I hope you feel the same. Next point, thank you all SO much for the many wonderful reviews I have received over the past two days! Seriously, I looked in my inbox this morning and have never gotten that many reviews from two chapter before!! It made me so happy you would not believe! You all said such nice things, from the simple two worded ones to the many lined ones, they all meant so much each and every one of them. Sooooo, please please please continue. I take each and every review into account and it really does push me into getting another chapter written for you guys. So thank you. I hope I get the same feedback, if not better, from this chapter. I think this has to be my fave so far, it has a bit of everything in it. So ENJOY! :D

Credits: Title to the story is taken from the wonderful Lifehouse song . The titles to each chapter will reflect lyrics from that song.

Summary: Carby. A lengthy story following the due course of a pregnancy and happiness that follows.

- - -

Carter awoke that morning earlier than he usually intended on his days off. He groaned softly as he glanced at the red digits on the clock besides him. Six Thirty. It was way too early, but the thought had been plaguing him all night, and he had woken early in order to carry through with that thought. He stared at the empty pillow besides him, and smiled slightly as he heard the kettle boiling in the room next door. However, he restrained himself from running into the kitchen and wrapping his arms around her and the baby by picking up the phone on the table next to the bed. He dialled the all too familiar digits, and waited for an answer.

Hey Frank, it's John. Is it possible to speak to Kerry? He waited patiently as Frank went to search for Kerry's whereabouts. A few minutes later a female voice broke the silence.

Hey Doctor Weaver, it's John. I rang to let you know that Abby isn't feeling too well, and she's got an appointment at the hospital for later this morning. He paused as Kerry asked politely if everything was ok.

Yeah she'll be fine and if everything goes ok she'll be in later this afternoon after her appointment. Ok. Thanks for understanding. Yeah, see you tomorrow. Bye.

With that, he replaced the receiver, and picked up a piece of paper that lay on the bedside table. It had the extensions to all departments at County written on it, and once Carter found the one he was looking for, he dialled the numbers.

Hi, is it possible to book an appointment for a Sonogram this morning please? He asked the female receptionist. He wasn't familiar with many people in OB, apart from Dr Coburn, and so was unable to make small talk while she checked for availability. He was in luck when the woman revealed an appointment was available at eleven.

Great. Yeah, the name is Abby Lockhart. Yeah H.A.R.T. OK great. Thanks. Bye.

Carter replaced the phone for the second time and smiled to himself as he swung his legs over the edge of the bed and grabbed a T-Shirt from the chair in the corner of the room to accompany his boxers. He stood in the door way for a moment, leaning against the door frame and admiring Abby as she had her back to him, stirring a cup of coffee on the work top. She was wrapped up in his checkered robe that hung loosely around her small frame and came below her knees. He smiled to himself as he imagined her in a few months time, when her clothes would no longer fit and she would be borrowing his even more than usual. He couldn't wait. For the cravings to start, for her stomach to start slowly expanding, even for the mood swings! He wanted to be there with her through every step of the pregnancy.

The smile remained on his face as he slowly made his way towards her. He had intended to surprise her but the small smirk on her face as she continued to stir the mug gave her away. Still, Carter approached her slowly and silently and on arrival, wrapped both of his arms around her waist, resting his palms on her flat stomach and his chin on her right shoulder.

he whispered softly into her ear.

Abby tipped her head back and kissed Carter's left cheek. Hey to you too.

Suddenly a thought occurred to Carter as he saw Abby lift the steaming cup to her lips. He immediately took the mug from her hands, walked over to the sink and tipped the contents down the plug hole.

She shouted from her position against the cabinet. Why the hell did you do that?

He reminded her. Not good for the baby.

Abby tried to stay mad at him. He had just wasted a perfectly good cup of coffee after all, a cup that had taken time time make, a cup that she needed desperately at this hour in the the morning, especially considering the gruelling day that lay ahead of her at County. However, he was just fulfilling one of the many characteristics of John Carter that she had fallen in love with, his caring side. And now he was not only caring for her, but for the little person growing inside of her which made him even more adorable. A tiny smile crept across her face.

Well, you could at least let me decide what I will and won't give up. It's me body after all.

He smiled as he walked back over to her, and wrapped his arms around her waist once more, this time however, facing her. He leaned back slightly so he was still able to hold a conversation, whilst keeping her in his arms. Sorry. I was just trying to help.

Abby leant in and kissed him quickly on the lips. I know.

I am new at this after all.

She kissed him once more. I know.

They continued to stay in that position, each smirking and laughing lightly at one another.

Hey, what are you doing up so early anyway? It's your day off! Abby asked, breaking free of Carter's hold as she pulled the box of cereal from the cupboard behind her and went to retrieve a bowl.

Ah, I had to make a few phone calls. He replied subtly, turning around to lean back against the cabinet Abby was leaning against a moment ago.

You want some? She asked, indicating to the cereal and bowl she held in her hands. Carter shook his head. What phone calls?

Phone calls to County.

Why were you calling County? She asked as she took the milk jug from the fridge and carried it over to the table to accompany her bowl. She sat down on a chair at the far end of the table so she was able to face Carter.

To get you the morning off.

She asked in surprise, her mouth full of cereal.

Carter sniggered. I've booked an appointment up in OB at eleven for a Sonogram.

This time Abby finished chewing before she spoke. She smiled.

Yeah. The doctor in me knows that we need to go as soon as possible to check that everything is ok, and the father in me is getting excited and wants to see his baby. Carter looked down at the floor and then back up at Abby, almost embarrassed by his sudden outburst of feelings.

I think it's a wonderful idea. Thank you. Abby smiled from across the table. Suddenly her head snapped up. Did you say why I wasn't coming in?

He looked on, confused. Uh, I said you had an appointment.

You said I had an appointment in OB?

No. Just an appointment cause you weren't feeling well.

Ok. Good. She relaxed.

Carter walked over to the table and sat down on the vacant chair. Why would it be so bad if I did say?

Oh come on Carter! You must admit you're with me on this one.

Well, I'd like to know what this one' is first.

It's just...I want this to be between just you and me for a while, without anyone else prying into our business. And come on, once one person at County knows, everyone'll know.

Yeah, I guess. He agreed.

She took a hold of Carter's hand from across the table. And I just wanna make sure everything is fine after today with the sonogram before we go shouting it about. It can wait for a while right?

Yeah, of course it can. I'm just excited.

Me too. Abby laughed. I still can't believe it's real.

Carter shook his head in disbelief. Me neither. But hey, we've got nine months to get used to it.

Oh, I'd say a little less than that.

He smiled. You think?

Oh yeah! Well, we'll find out today right?



- - -

Abby looked up at Carter anxiously as they stopped just short of the ambulance bay, her feet grinding them both to a halt.

What's wrong? Carter asked, surprised by her sudden abrupt stop.

Don't you think this is gonna look kinda suspicious? Abby whispered, trying her best to hide behind Carter as she peered over his shoulder to observe the front of the ER.

Why are we whispering? Carter whispered back, leaning in closer to her.

I don't know! Abby whispered back, slightly louder this time. This earned a small laugh from Carter. It's like, oh hey Abby, hey Carter, where you both going?' Oh, only up to OB!' You get where I'm coming from?

He smiled at her flustered actions. He grabbed her hand once more, leading her away from the ER.

Where are we going? Abby ran slightly, trying to catch up with his giant strides.

'Round to the front entrance and up the elevator. That way we won't come into contact with anyone we know.

OK. But why are we practically running?

Because it's almost eleven and I don't want us to be late. Carter replied, not turning around but determined to reach their location.

Abby smiled to herself. He was obviously excited and nervous about the appointment, just as much as she was. Suddenly, her eyes landed on someone familiar, heading straight towards them from the coffee stand across the street. Abby cursed under her breath, tugging at Carter's hand with all her strength and pulling him behind a skip that was situated just off from the sidewalk.

As soon as they were out of view, Abby crouched on the floor behind the skip and Carter sood directly above her, giving her the most peculiar glances. He began to open his mouth to speak but was immediately interrupted.

Abby scolded,.

Carter raised his hands out to the side in a gesture that asked her, what the hell?'

She shook her head before grabbing his hand and pulling him down on the floor to her level, leaning in close to whisper. It's Deb!

Carter peaked his head from behind the skip and saw Jing Mei briefly as she walked past their hiding place, sipping a cup of coffee and heading straight for County. He looked back at Abby, who still wore her wide eyed expression. She's gone.

Well, that's alright then. She confirmed, before attempting to stand up, in the end gratefully accepting Carter's extended hand. She dusted herself off before looking up and meeting his familiar raised eyebrowed stare. Yeah ok, I know, sorry, I am acting like an idiot. She entwined her fingers with his once again as they made their way out from behind the skip and onto the sidewalk.

It's the hormones right? Carter asked hopefully.

Yup, blaming it on the hormones. Abby stated straight away, before they both resolved into giggles.

- - -

They stepped off the elevator and into the familiar looking OB. Abby looked around nervously as she kept a hold of Carter's hand. She was no longer nervous about encountering any of her fellow colleagues, she was nervous about the impending appointment. She prayed to God that everything was ok.

Uh, we have an appointment with the Sonologist at eleven. Carter spoke, noticing Abby's preoccupied glances.

Abby suddenly reverted her attentions back to what was important, as she smiled at the young receptionist in front of her.

What's the name please? The woman asked politely.

It's Abby Lockhart. Abby spoke up this time, squeezing Carter's hand reassuringly.

The woman glanced up at the clock on the wall, which read it had just gone eleven. OK, if you'd like to go down the corridor there and it's the third door on the right. Just lie down on the bed and make yourself comfortable and the doctor should be with you shortly.

Thank you. They both replied, before heading down the corridor to their intended room.

The room was empty when they arrived, and equipped with a comfortable looking gurney, numerous pieces of equipment and a chair. Abby let go of Carter's hand as she climbed up onto the bed, resting her head back against the wall behind and crossing her legs out in front of her.

Hey, I'm just gonna go find a bathroom. You'll be ok for a few minutes right? Carter asked.

Yes. I think I can manage. Abby smiled, as she rolled her eyes at him.

Ok. Don't start without me.

With that he closed the door behind him, leaving Abby to wait patiently in silence. She observed the familiar looking equipment that lay in place around the gurney. It had been quite some time since she had been in one of these rooms. Who would have thought that she would be returning here as a patient? A few minutes late, the door opened and she opened her mouth expecting it to be Carter when in fact it was another familiar face.

Doctor Coburn. Abby smiled, greeting her old colleague.

Gosh Abby! What a surprise! The female Doctor smiled. Well I never, I always wondered if I would be seeing you here as a patient.

Here I am. Abby spoke, almost timidly.

Well congratulations Abby, really, I'm thrilled for you.



So, forgive me for being nosy, but do you have the father with you today or are you here alone?

Abby smiled to herself as she attempted to make herself comfortable on the bed. Yes he is here. Went to find a bathroom but probably got lost knowing him.

Anyone I know?

As if right on cue, Carter walked through the door, blushing slightly as both women turned their attentions to him.

Sorry, I uh, got lost. He stuttered, before turning to Doctor Coburn.

Doctor Carter. Well I never.

He extended his hand to the female doctor, who shook it briefly, smiling all the while. Nice to see you again Doctor Coburn.

Coburn looked briefly from Abby to Carter. So, I presume you''re not in here because you ended up in not only the wrong room but the wrong floor.

He laughed.

So you're going to be a Daddy then?

This time Carter's smile grew to stretch across the width of his face. Indeed I am. He then looked over at Abby, before walking along the foot of the bed and sitting in the vacant chair that was situated by Abby's pillow on the right hand side of the bed.

OK, well this is going to make my job easier. I won't have to explain to the both of you the purpose of this Ultrasound and what it all means. She spoke as she busied herself collecting the equipment needed. She walked over to the opposite side of the bed to the one Carter sat by, and began squirting some jelly into the palm of her hand.

OK, if you just lift up your shirt for me Abby. This is going to feel slightly cold.

Abby followed the instructions and winced slightly before giggling softly as the cold substance came into contact with her skin. She suddenly felt Carter's hand cover hers. She rolled her head to the side so she could face him, and smiled sweetly as he leaned forward, placing a small kiss on her forehead.

OK, so this is the first Ultrasound I am guessing from the size of you. Doctor Coburn asked as she lifted the nozzle of the machine, placing it gently on top of Abby's stomach as she grabbed the monitor with her other hand so it was in a position where all three were able to see.

Abby spoke, before reverting her eyes to the black and white picture forming on the screen. She suddenly felt Carter's hand squeeze hers and she swallowed the lump in her throat as a tiny shape came into view.

Doctor Coburn turned around on the stool she sat upon next to the monitor and eyed both Carter and Abby with a big smile. There's your baby.

Abby had never understood why, on TV programmes and movies, and from stories she had heard from her friends and family who had been through this, everyone seemed to cry when they had their first ultrasound. After all, it was not as if you could really make out your baby at such an early stage. However, as soon as she laid her eyes on her tiny baby, bobbing up and down on the screen, and as soon as she heard the soft murmuring of the heartbeat, tears immediately sprung to her eyes. It was an emotion she had never felt before in all her life, it was an emotion so deep and so incredible. She let out a small laugh as she sniffed, wiping her free hand across her cheeks. She looked slowly across at Carter and could have melted when she saw his expression. His mouth hung open in a small shaped O, and his wide eyes stared at the screen. Her heart skipped a beat as she saw the tears rolling down his cheeks. She leaned over slightly, taking his face in her hands and kissing him softly on the lips. As soon as she pulled away, their eyes locked for a brief moment, and they each shared knowing smile, a smile that conveyed their overwhelming joy and love for one another and for the baby at that moment.

Coburn smiled as she let them have their moment. Once both of their eyes were back on the screen in front of them, she began to point to certain areas of the baby.

You can see the elbows, arms and fingers beginning to form here. The leg buds here are also starting to sprout feet and toes.

The little toes. Abby suddenly whispered through more tears.

I'd also say it looks as if you're about, eight weeks.

Abby let out a sniff once more. Thank you Doctor Coburn. Thank you so much.

No problem. And congratulations again the both of you. You have one perfectly healthy baby.

Thank you. Carter managed to speak up, but not tearing his eyes away from the monitor.

I'll go and get you some print outs of the ultrasound. Once you're done in here, go to the front desk and book another appointment with me in a few weeks during your second trimester.

With that she left the room. Abby continued to hold the machine against her stomach, not wanting the image of their tiny baby to disappear. She suddenly felt Carter move from the chair besides her, as he scooted onto the edge of the bed.

He took Abby's head, placing it gently in his lap and stroking her hair, before leaning down once more to kiss her head. It's our baby. He spoke quietly.

Abby turned her head to look up at him, not being able to wipe the smile off of her face even if she tried. It's our baby.

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More to come soon!

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