The next few months went faster than they could imagine. The holidays came and went, and before they knew it, it was a new year. Barbara called to remind them of their promise to spend their anniversaries at the castle.
John couldn't believe that in a month, he and Abby will be married for a year. He was looking forward to going back to Switzerland. He would get to show Julie-Anne to Barbara. He had missed his sister over the last year. Abby was up in the nursery when she heard the phone ring. Must not have been for her, since John didn't bring her the phone. He walked upstairs he stood at the door way looking in on his wife and daughter. He loved moments like these, it had become one of his favorite sights. She was such a good mother. He was doing nothing but spoiling his little girl. She hadn't been back to work yet, and she wasn't sure she was going back. What job could be more fulfilling that raising their baby.
"That was Barbie on the phone."
"Oh, it is getting to be that time of year. Are we going?"
"Yeah I thought that we would, if you feel up to taking that long of a trip again," John said, his eyes sweeping over his wife. "Besides we aren't flying commercial this time, Barbie is going to let us have us of the family jet."
"So how many people will be on the plane?" Abby asked, with a twinkle in her eye.
"Three," He said smiling.
"So, no cramped bathroom?" Abby asked, batting her eyes.
"No cramped bathroom, baby," John replied with a mock leer.
"Wow, I think I like the sound of this."
"Barbie thought that you might. She thought it might be easier with the baby coming with us.
"And are we leaving your shaving kit home?" Abby asked, a slight blush appearing on her cheeks.
He smiled at her, "that's your call baby."
"I'll let you know," Abby said, smiling sweetly over Julie-Anne's head at her husband.
"I know you will." He said, "do you want me to take her for a little while?"
"Sure, I'll share." Abby said, handing the baby to John, watching them together for a moment, she added, "She really does look like you."
"I have some more good news for us." He said while teasing his daughter in his arms.
"What?"
"I talked with Kerry today, they have offered me a new position today." He said with a grin on his face.
"What did she offer you?" Abby asked.
"You are looking at the new attending ER physician."
Abby threw her arms around Johns neck, careful not to bump the baby. "I am so happy for you. You have been waiting for this for so long."
"Thank you Sweetie." He said, "I'm happy that Kerry finally offered it to me. I was beginning to wonder with my residency up what was going to happen."
"Well you have devoted years to the ER, you deserve it, and even Kerry knows that."
"You know for some place where the hours are long and there's no money, I love it there. Besides it's where I met the love of my life."
"Julie-Anne?"
He smiled at her, "well she's the light of my life, you my dear are the love of my life."
"You always know just what to say," she said, reaching up to kiss his cheek.
"Why don't you have a nice long hot bath Abby." He said, returning her kiss, "You deserve it."
"Sounds heavenly. If you can get her to sleep, are you going to join me?"
"I'm sure she will go to sleep for her Daddy." He said smiling at the baby, "I'll be there when she's asleep."
"I'll be waiting," Abby said with a toss of her hair as she left the room. John watched her go with a smile then started to rock his daughter.
January 30th dawned bright. Carter awoke to the sun streaming into the window. They would be heading off to Switzerland today. Abby was already up and doing the last minute packing. They had kept Julie-Anne up late last night so she would sleep on the flight.
"Good morning good looking." he said, "is there coffee?"
"You bet. But I don't think I am going to drink any."
"No," he said, "I didn't think you would, but I need it."
"Yes, I want you awake and fully functional," Abby said with a snicker.
He chuckled heading toward the kitchen, "don't you worry I will be."
"Is Susan driving us again?" Abby asked.
"Yeah she is." He said, "I talked to her yesterday while you and Julie-Anne were napping."
"Is Luka coming along, or is she pulling herself from his side for a few minutes."
"That I didn't ask. I haven't seen much of her lately with out Luka by her side." He said, "I am so happy for them."
"I am too. They both deserve all the happiness life can give them. They both got a pretty raw deal till now."
"We were like that weren't we at one time." He said looking at his wife.
"At one time?"
"Baby, life couldn't get any better for us right now. I have you, we are happy, healthy, we have our daughter, Eric is okay. Maggie is on her meds. Life is great."
"Life is wonderful. Let's get going. I think I heard Susan pull up."
"Okay," He said doing a quick sweep of the house to make sure everything was turned off. "Let's go on vacation."
"Yes, one month of no phone, no beepers, no work."
"That will be nice," He held the door open for Abby.
Abby looked back as she walked out the door. Her life really was in this house. But as long as she had John and Julie-Anne with her, her home was in her heart.
"Hey Sus." He said as the headed toward her car.
"Hey, Carter," Susan said as she waddled toward their door.
"Thanks for taking us to the airport. How are you doing?"
"Doing good," she said with a hand on her abdomen. "Are you three going to be back before the little one here makes his appearance?"
We'll be back next month." Carter said looking at her, "but I know I would hate to miss the chance to be there."
"Just don't barf." she laughed
"I don't plan on it. I reserve that right for my own children."
"Susan, you look great." Abby said as she buckled the baby into Susan's SUV.
"Thank Abby." She said, "how are you doing, I don't get to see much of you anymore."
We're doing great."
"You look like you are really happy now." She said, "I don't how you do it."
"I have everything I need or could ever want. Hard not to be happy."
Susan smiled, "I can honestly say I know that feeling. I just didn't ever imagine it would be this. But after Baby Susie, I'm not scared."
"You and Luka are going to make great parents. You both have lost so much, it's nice to see you both complete."
"Thanks Abby." She tried to climb into the SUV, "let's get you two to the airport. Don't want you to be late."
"Here let me give you a hand," Carter said, helping Susan into the SUV.
"Thank you, Carter."
After they got settled in the car, it was a quick trip to the airport. They breezed through security and were soon on the Lear.
Abby thought this trip was going to be different but as soon as the engines fired up, her hands started to shake.
Carter reached over and put his hand on hers. "It will be okay baby. I'm right here with you, and I'll never leave."
"I can't believe I am being such a big baby," Abby said, shaking her head.
"It's okay honey, you're not." He said smiling at her.
"It's just a plane," Abby wispered, her eyes closed. "It's just a plane."
"That it is." He said as the plane got off into the air.
"Is Julie-Anne asleep?"
"She is, Sweetie." He said looking at his sleeping daughters face and then his wife's.
"Well, you know the only way to distract me when I am flying," she said with a grin.
"Yes I do," He said releasing her seat belt and pulling her onto his lap. Carter ran his hands thru her hair and kissed her. She started unbuttoning his shirt, pulling free from his pants. He nuzzled her neck, while his hands worked her bra free.
"I love you, you know." she said, as she pulled the rest of his clothes off.
"I know, I love you too," He said freeing her from her clothing.
Abby slid her hand over him, down his chest then further. Carter moaned at the touch of his wife's hands. He ran his fingers down her back, grabbing her ass. She wound her hands around his neck, pulling him closer. Carter couldn't keep his hands off her, they roamed over her body touching every inch of her. Abby didn't want to wait any longer, she wanted her husband inside her. Carter lifted her up and slid her down onto him. God she felt so good. He moaned as he started to move beneath her. Abby could feel his every movement. His movements were quick. He knew that they both wanted the same thing. Abby added to the pace, moving her hips in time with him.
"Oh God Abby, I love you," he called out. She could feel it building, she reached her mouth over to his shoulder, and bit down, to keep from screaming.
"That's it baby," he encouraged.
She felt her insides clamp down on him, felt as his warmth flooded her. She lifted her head, to lock eyes with him. "I love you," she said, her voice as shaky as the rest of her.
"I love you too Abby." He panted, letting her rest on him. At least she was getting over her fear of flying. They lay there joined, until little noises from the car seat could be heard.
"Sounds like someone needs us." Carter said looking at his wife.
"She probably needs to eat, could you get her please," Abby said, as she lifted herself off of John, and sat back in her own seat pulling a blanket into her lap.
He pulled his pants back on and freed his daughter from her car seat, "Does someone need to eat," he said sitting back down next to Abby.
Abby took the baby in her arms, then placed her to her breast. "There you go, sweetie."
Carter looked at his wife and child. She was so good with her, the sight of his wife nurturing his baby girl made his heart beat faster. He loved them both so much. He sat back and closed his eyes. He knew Abby would smack him if she wanted him. As Abby fed the baby, total contentment washed over her. The only thing that would make their family complete was a son for John. And hopefully..... She sighed, then clinched those muscles one more time, hoping, praying.
Carter coudn't believe how nice it was just to kick back with Abby and the baby. No one would be calling him to cover a shift, or dispo a patient, no pager going off, no cell phone ringing. He felt at peace, content and happy. And hopefully if all went well, they would have another joy to welcome into their lives. Abby could feel herself starting to drift, she adjusted the baby with her right arm, then held out her left to John. He took her hand in his and let sleep over take him. The pattern repeated itself a few times during the flight. Love, the baby, then sleep. This was the way to fly, Abby decided.
"It will be so nice to see Barbie again." Carter said as they neared Geneva.
"It will," Abby said, as she buttoned her blouse. "It will be nice to see her, and then not to see her."
"I am so glad that I could get the entire month off to be with just you and the baby," Carter said, kissing her nose.
"I'm glad too. I've gotten to spend almost every moment with her, and I know that you miss out sometimes."
"I know, I've tried to cut my schedule back as much as I can. I didn't realize how much I would miss you two."
"I know that you miss us, and we miss you. But you do important work at County."
He nodded. It seemed she always knew what to say to him. He did love his work at County and everything was finally starting to fall into place. He would be an attending when they got back. He had worked the last 10 years of his life to get to this place. He felt like he was finally a successful doctor. The plane started its decent. Abby rolled her eyes, and put her hand out. He held her hand. Maybe she would eventually get used to this, but one thing was for sure, he would never get tired of holding her hand and being there for her. The plane landed, and Abby managed not to put nail marks on John's hand.
He smiled. He helped Abby gather what they had brought onto the plane. With a bag over his shoulder he picked up his daughter sleeping in the car seat, "let's go enjoy a vacation."
Barbara was in the terminal waiting for them. She hugged them both then asked to see Julie-Anne. Carter turned the car seat so that his sister could see his baby girl. He was so proud, nothing could wipe the smile from his face as he showed off his bundle of joy.
"She's beautiful. You did a good job, Scooter."
"We did a good job." He said squeezing Abby's hand. He looked at his sister; she had put on a little weight since he had last seen her.
"Lets get going. Kevin's waiting at the house. We'll pick him up and head out to the castle."
"Sounds good to me sis."
Abby and Barb chattered all the way to the car. Carter couldn't help but noticed that Barbie had the same glow about her that Abby did not that long ago. He wondered if they would be getting the news of another new family member soon. He watched as the car pulled up to Barbie and Kevin's house.
"How was Gamma able to buy us matching houses?" Abby asked, amazed.
"Gamma has amazing talents Abby." Carter said smiling at his wife.
"But I bet Barbara's house doesn't have a Noah's Arc and a flower garden."
"No, I'm sure Barbie doesn't have that." He said smiling. He loved the mural that Maggie had painted in the nursery.
Barbara ran into the house to get Kevin, while Abby and John waited in the car.
"John did you notice that Barb has put a little weight on?" Abby asked.
"Yeah, but I wasn't going to say anything to my sister about her weight, are you thinking what I am thinking?"
"I think so, but I won't say anything. If there is something to tell, she will.
"You're right, but I hope that if there is that good of news she will share before we have to go back home," he said, all the while still holding her hand.
Abby smiled at her husband. It was nice to have a few quiet moments with him.
Carter watched as Barbie came back to the car with Kevin in tow. The entire drive out to Lake Geneva he couldn't take his eyes off of Abby and Julie- Anne. He remember how happy he was the last time that they were here.
"So Scooter, you want the east or west side this time?" Barbara asked.
"What side do you want Abby?"
"I want the same side back. I want to revisit the fireplace." Abby said with a blush.
He smiled at Abby, "East side it is then." The thought of having her back in front of the fireplace, with just the glow from the fire lighting her face made him light up.
"Down, boy." Abby playfully smacked his hand. "We still have company." she said, looking at Barbara and Kevin, who were too busy looking in each other eyes to even notice John and Abby.
The car pulled up in front of the castle once again. It didn't seem like it had been a year since they had been here last. There was the familiar sound coming from his daughter letting him know that she was not appreciating being left alone. "Do you think she's hungry again Abby?"
"She's your daughter, she is always hungry"
Carter laughed, "I'll change her when we get inside and then she can eat." He didn't mind diaper duty at all. He loved helping Abby with Julie-Anne.
"So Barbara, what's the plan. How much together time, how much alone time?" Abby asked as John headed inside with the baby.
"I thought that we could have dinner together tonight. And just kind of play it by ear from there. I know you and Scooter don't get to spend much time together with his schedule. I'm sure he wants to spend as much time with you and the baby as he can."
"Well dinner sounds great, after Julie-Anne gets fed first.
"That sounds great Abby, she really is an angel."
"Well most of the time, anyway. She does have her moments. But with those big brown eyes that look like John's, she hard to resist."
"Scooter really seems to enjoy fatherhood. You are so lucky Abby."
"I know. It was a bit of a rocky road to get here. But it makes is all the better now."
"I'd better let you go get settled in so you can get that little one fed, we'll meet for dinner in about an hour, if that will work."
"Sounds good to me. We will be down in an hour."
Barbara smiled as she headed off to settle in with Kevin. And leave her brother to his family.
Carter laid on the bed next to Julie-Anne, he had changed her and now was cooing. Abby stood at the doorway and watched her husband and baby. The sight of them together always made her heart leap. John wore his feelings on his sleeve as far as Julie-Anne was concerned. He was besotted with her.
"Mommy's right here," she said as she sat on the bed.
"I thought that Barbie had kidnapped you." He said looking at his wife. "She's all yours. "
"Stay," Abby said simply.
Abby felt John unbutton her blouse, then unhook her bra to give the baby access to dinner. There was something so intimate about it. She laced her fingers with his, as their baby ate, just enjoying being together. He was in heaven watching them together. He was silent just enjoying them both. He was going to relish this entire month with his family. Abby finally broke the silence. "We are expected for dinner in an hour."
"It's nice to see Barbie and Kevin so happy together." He said.
"I'm glad they found happiness. Because if it wasn't for their wedding, where would we be?"
"I don't even want to think about it," he said, "I'm happy with you now, God knows it took us long enough to get together."
"That it did. But now that you have me, you are never getting rid of me."
"I don't want to." He said smiling, "she's got quite the appetite doesn't she."
"How many times do I have to tell you, what do you expect, she's your daughter."
He smiled at Abby, "maybe I just like hearing you say she's my daughter."
"Well, she's all yours, and tonight when she wakes us up, I am going to remind you of that."
"I wouldn't mind at all." He said to her, "do you mind if I shower before dinner?"
"Go ahead. We'll just finish up here."
"Thanks," He said kissing the top of her head, "I'll be quick so that you can have one too if you want." He headed into the bathroom and let the hot water fall over his body. He hurried so that Abby could get one it too. He didn't want to be a hot water hog, he finished and headed out into the bedroom with just a towel around his waist.
John looked at Abby, "your turn love."
Abby slipped off the bed, gave her husband a quick peck on the cheek and headed into the bathroom. John got dressed and laid down on the bed. He watched his daughter sleep. Abby took a quick shower, got dressed and went back out into their room.
John looked up at her, "have I told you today that you are beautiful."
"I can't remember, so you better tell me again," Abby said with a toss of her head.
You are amazingly beautiful." He said smiling, "shall we head down for dinner soon."
"Let's go, the sooner we eat, the sooner we can get back here."
"I'll carry her down, you can carry her back up."
John opened the door to the room, "after you my dear."
Abby followed John down the stairs, into the dinning room. The table was beautifully set, with candelabras in the center. He pulled the chair out for her, then sat the baby seat down next to Abby's chair. She handed Julie-Anne to him, then sat down. He gently placed his daughter safely between them and sat down, too.
Carter watched as his sister and Kevin came into the dinning room. "Good evening Barbie, Kevin."
"Hello to you too, John" Kevin said.
The servants brought out dinner. It was a beautiful meal of fettuccini alfredo with shrimp, Caesar salad, and french bread.
Dinner had barely been set on the table when Abby noticed that Barbara was starting to turn green. Without saying a word, Barbara jumped up, and nearly ran from the dinning room. Abby looked at John and arched her eyebrow. John remember that shade of green, he squeezed Abby's hand under the table and looked at Kevin, "Barbie not feeling well tonight?"
"I really shouldn't say anything until she gets back." Kevin said, looking in the direction his wife went.
John looked at Abby. He remembered back to when she was pregnant with Julie- Anne, "it's okay, go with her."
"Thanks," he muttered as he followed after Barbara.
When Kevin was out of earshot, John turned to Abby, "I guess that answers the question."
"I guess so. I wonder how far along she is?"
"I don't know," he said, "but I guess I get to be an uncle now."
"Auntie Abby, I like the sound of that."
"Someone else for me to spoil rotten." He said with a smile on his face.
"And we all know how good at that you are."
"I've had lots of practice." He said.
Barbara and Kevin walked back into the room. "I guess that little display makes an announcement unnecessary," Barbara said.
"Congratulations Barbie." John said smiling at his sister, "when do I get to be an uncle?"
"Sometime in August."
"Yes, congratulations, Barbara" Abby said. "And it does get better."
"Thank you Abby. I hope you are right." She said.
"Trust me." Abby said.
"So, to give us a chance to practice before our little one gets here, we would like to keep Julie-Anne with us tomorrow night, for your anniversary.
John looked at Abby. He knew that she hadn't let that baby leave her side since she was born. "I don't know." Abby said.
He could see that she was hesitant, but it would give them a chance to work on expanding there family. "I think it would be good for us to spend some time alone."
"If you're sure, Barbie." Abby said.
"We would love too Abby. I might not get the chance to spend time with my niece again for awhile."
"We would have to do a little preparation," Abby said, too embarrassed to mention in front of Kevin that she was exclusively breastfeeding.
Barbara nodded, "I understand."
"Ok, we will let you have her for the night, tomorrow. Can you come by our half of the castle in the afternoon so I can fill you in on her routine and stuff."
"I'd love to Abby."
After dinner the couple parted company. "See you tomorrow afternoon, Barbie" Abby said. "And don't forget, saltine crackers on your nightstand."
"Thanks for the advice. I will remember that, and tomorrow afternoon."
Abby headed for the stairs with John and Julie-Anne close behind her.
Carter followed Abby, Julie-Anne sleeping in his arms. He walked into their room and stretched out on the bed placing the baby on his chest. Abby watched them. It would be hard on her to be away from the baby, but it would be wonderful to have some alone time with her husband.
"She won't be far away Abby." He said, it was almost as if he could read her mind. He sensed that she wasn't comfortable leaving the baby.
"I know," she said, "but I feel like I am being a bad mother to just hand her over to someone."
"You are not being a bad mother Abby." He said, "you are the best mother I know. And you are not just handing her over to anyone, Barbie is her Aunt, she would protect her with her life."
Abby snuggled close to them. 'thanks, sweetie, that means a lot."
John put his arm around her, "I love you both, but I would love to have you alone in front of the fireplace again."
"That is our fireplace, isn't it," Abby said.
"Yes it is." He said thinking back to their wedding night, "I will always remember that."
"So will I, especially since the result of that night is sleeping on your chest.
"I love you," she said, as her eyelids began to flutter.
"I love you too," he said. It looked like his two favorite girls would both be sleeping soon.
John couldn't believe that in a month, he and Abby will be married for a year. He was looking forward to going back to Switzerland. He would get to show Julie-Anne to Barbara. He had missed his sister over the last year. Abby was up in the nursery when she heard the phone ring. Must not have been for her, since John didn't bring her the phone. He walked upstairs he stood at the door way looking in on his wife and daughter. He loved moments like these, it had become one of his favorite sights. She was such a good mother. He was doing nothing but spoiling his little girl. She hadn't been back to work yet, and she wasn't sure she was going back. What job could be more fulfilling that raising their baby.
"That was Barbie on the phone."
"Oh, it is getting to be that time of year. Are we going?"
"Yeah I thought that we would, if you feel up to taking that long of a trip again," John said, his eyes sweeping over his wife. "Besides we aren't flying commercial this time, Barbie is going to let us have us of the family jet."
"So how many people will be on the plane?" Abby asked, with a twinkle in her eye.
"Three," He said smiling.
"So, no cramped bathroom?" Abby asked, batting her eyes.
"No cramped bathroom, baby," John replied with a mock leer.
"Wow, I think I like the sound of this."
"Barbie thought that you might. She thought it might be easier with the baby coming with us.
"And are we leaving your shaving kit home?" Abby asked, a slight blush appearing on her cheeks.
He smiled at her, "that's your call baby."
"I'll let you know," Abby said, smiling sweetly over Julie-Anne's head at her husband.
"I know you will." He said, "do you want me to take her for a little while?"
"Sure, I'll share." Abby said, handing the baby to John, watching them together for a moment, she added, "She really does look like you."
"I have some more good news for us." He said while teasing his daughter in his arms.
"What?"
"I talked with Kerry today, they have offered me a new position today." He said with a grin on his face.
"What did she offer you?" Abby asked.
"You are looking at the new attending ER physician."
Abby threw her arms around Johns neck, careful not to bump the baby. "I am so happy for you. You have been waiting for this for so long."
"Thank you Sweetie." He said, "I'm happy that Kerry finally offered it to me. I was beginning to wonder with my residency up what was going to happen."
"Well you have devoted years to the ER, you deserve it, and even Kerry knows that."
"You know for some place where the hours are long and there's no money, I love it there. Besides it's where I met the love of my life."
"Julie-Anne?"
He smiled at her, "well she's the light of my life, you my dear are the love of my life."
"You always know just what to say," she said, reaching up to kiss his cheek.
"Why don't you have a nice long hot bath Abby." He said, returning her kiss, "You deserve it."
"Sounds heavenly. If you can get her to sleep, are you going to join me?"
"I'm sure she will go to sleep for her Daddy." He said smiling at the baby, "I'll be there when she's asleep."
"I'll be waiting," Abby said with a toss of her hair as she left the room. John watched her go with a smile then started to rock his daughter.
January 30th dawned bright. Carter awoke to the sun streaming into the window. They would be heading off to Switzerland today. Abby was already up and doing the last minute packing. They had kept Julie-Anne up late last night so she would sleep on the flight.
"Good morning good looking." he said, "is there coffee?"
"You bet. But I don't think I am going to drink any."
"No," he said, "I didn't think you would, but I need it."
"Yes, I want you awake and fully functional," Abby said with a snicker.
He chuckled heading toward the kitchen, "don't you worry I will be."
"Is Susan driving us again?" Abby asked.
"Yeah she is." He said, "I talked to her yesterday while you and Julie-Anne were napping."
"Is Luka coming along, or is she pulling herself from his side for a few minutes."
"That I didn't ask. I haven't seen much of her lately with out Luka by her side." He said, "I am so happy for them."
"I am too. They both deserve all the happiness life can give them. They both got a pretty raw deal till now."
"We were like that weren't we at one time." He said looking at his wife.
"At one time?"
"Baby, life couldn't get any better for us right now. I have you, we are happy, healthy, we have our daughter, Eric is okay. Maggie is on her meds. Life is great."
"Life is wonderful. Let's get going. I think I heard Susan pull up."
"Okay," He said doing a quick sweep of the house to make sure everything was turned off. "Let's go on vacation."
"Yes, one month of no phone, no beepers, no work."
"That will be nice," He held the door open for Abby.
Abby looked back as she walked out the door. Her life really was in this house. But as long as she had John and Julie-Anne with her, her home was in her heart.
"Hey Sus." He said as the headed toward her car.
"Hey, Carter," Susan said as she waddled toward their door.
"Thanks for taking us to the airport. How are you doing?"
"Doing good," she said with a hand on her abdomen. "Are you three going to be back before the little one here makes his appearance?"
We'll be back next month." Carter said looking at her, "but I know I would hate to miss the chance to be there."
"Just don't barf." she laughed
"I don't plan on it. I reserve that right for my own children."
"Susan, you look great." Abby said as she buckled the baby into Susan's SUV.
"Thank Abby." She said, "how are you doing, I don't get to see much of you anymore."
We're doing great."
"You look like you are really happy now." She said, "I don't how you do it."
"I have everything I need or could ever want. Hard not to be happy."
Susan smiled, "I can honestly say I know that feeling. I just didn't ever imagine it would be this. But after Baby Susie, I'm not scared."
"You and Luka are going to make great parents. You both have lost so much, it's nice to see you both complete."
"Thanks Abby." She tried to climb into the SUV, "let's get you two to the airport. Don't want you to be late."
"Here let me give you a hand," Carter said, helping Susan into the SUV.
"Thank you, Carter."
After they got settled in the car, it was a quick trip to the airport. They breezed through security and were soon on the Lear.
Abby thought this trip was going to be different but as soon as the engines fired up, her hands started to shake.
Carter reached over and put his hand on hers. "It will be okay baby. I'm right here with you, and I'll never leave."
"I can't believe I am being such a big baby," Abby said, shaking her head.
"It's okay honey, you're not." He said smiling at her.
"It's just a plane," Abby wispered, her eyes closed. "It's just a plane."
"That it is." He said as the plane got off into the air.
"Is Julie-Anne asleep?"
"She is, Sweetie." He said looking at his sleeping daughters face and then his wife's.
"Well, you know the only way to distract me when I am flying," she said with a grin.
"Yes I do," He said releasing her seat belt and pulling her onto his lap. Carter ran his hands thru her hair and kissed her. She started unbuttoning his shirt, pulling free from his pants. He nuzzled her neck, while his hands worked her bra free.
"I love you, you know." she said, as she pulled the rest of his clothes off.
"I know, I love you too," He said freeing her from her clothing.
Abby slid her hand over him, down his chest then further. Carter moaned at the touch of his wife's hands. He ran his fingers down her back, grabbing her ass. She wound her hands around his neck, pulling him closer. Carter couldn't keep his hands off her, they roamed over her body touching every inch of her. Abby didn't want to wait any longer, she wanted her husband inside her. Carter lifted her up and slid her down onto him. God she felt so good. He moaned as he started to move beneath her. Abby could feel his every movement. His movements were quick. He knew that they both wanted the same thing. Abby added to the pace, moving her hips in time with him.
"Oh God Abby, I love you," he called out. She could feel it building, she reached her mouth over to his shoulder, and bit down, to keep from screaming.
"That's it baby," he encouraged.
She felt her insides clamp down on him, felt as his warmth flooded her. She lifted her head, to lock eyes with him. "I love you," she said, her voice as shaky as the rest of her.
"I love you too Abby." He panted, letting her rest on him. At least she was getting over her fear of flying. They lay there joined, until little noises from the car seat could be heard.
"Sounds like someone needs us." Carter said looking at his wife.
"She probably needs to eat, could you get her please," Abby said, as she lifted herself off of John, and sat back in her own seat pulling a blanket into her lap.
He pulled his pants back on and freed his daughter from her car seat, "Does someone need to eat," he said sitting back down next to Abby.
Abby took the baby in her arms, then placed her to her breast. "There you go, sweetie."
Carter looked at his wife and child. She was so good with her, the sight of his wife nurturing his baby girl made his heart beat faster. He loved them both so much. He sat back and closed his eyes. He knew Abby would smack him if she wanted him. As Abby fed the baby, total contentment washed over her. The only thing that would make their family complete was a son for John. And hopefully..... She sighed, then clinched those muscles one more time, hoping, praying.
Carter coudn't believe how nice it was just to kick back with Abby and the baby. No one would be calling him to cover a shift, or dispo a patient, no pager going off, no cell phone ringing. He felt at peace, content and happy. And hopefully if all went well, they would have another joy to welcome into their lives. Abby could feel herself starting to drift, she adjusted the baby with her right arm, then held out her left to John. He took her hand in his and let sleep over take him. The pattern repeated itself a few times during the flight. Love, the baby, then sleep. This was the way to fly, Abby decided.
"It will be so nice to see Barbie again." Carter said as they neared Geneva.
"It will," Abby said, as she buttoned her blouse. "It will be nice to see her, and then not to see her."
"I am so glad that I could get the entire month off to be with just you and the baby," Carter said, kissing her nose.
"I'm glad too. I've gotten to spend almost every moment with her, and I know that you miss out sometimes."
"I know, I've tried to cut my schedule back as much as I can. I didn't realize how much I would miss you two."
"I know that you miss us, and we miss you. But you do important work at County."
He nodded. It seemed she always knew what to say to him. He did love his work at County and everything was finally starting to fall into place. He would be an attending when they got back. He had worked the last 10 years of his life to get to this place. He felt like he was finally a successful doctor. The plane started its decent. Abby rolled her eyes, and put her hand out. He held her hand. Maybe she would eventually get used to this, but one thing was for sure, he would never get tired of holding her hand and being there for her. The plane landed, and Abby managed not to put nail marks on John's hand.
He smiled. He helped Abby gather what they had brought onto the plane. With a bag over his shoulder he picked up his daughter sleeping in the car seat, "let's go enjoy a vacation."
Barbara was in the terminal waiting for them. She hugged them both then asked to see Julie-Anne. Carter turned the car seat so that his sister could see his baby girl. He was so proud, nothing could wipe the smile from his face as he showed off his bundle of joy.
"She's beautiful. You did a good job, Scooter."
"We did a good job." He said squeezing Abby's hand. He looked at his sister; she had put on a little weight since he had last seen her.
"Lets get going. Kevin's waiting at the house. We'll pick him up and head out to the castle."
"Sounds good to me sis."
Abby and Barb chattered all the way to the car. Carter couldn't help but noticed that Barbie had the same glow about her that Abby did not that long ago. He wondered if they would be getting the news of another new family member soon. He watched as the car pulled up to Barbie and Kevin's house.
"How was Gamma able to buy us matching houses?" Abby asked, amazed.
"Gamma has amazing talents Abby." Carter said smiling at his wife.
"But I bet Barbara's house doesn't have a Noah's Arc and a flower garden."
"No, I'm sure Barbie doesn't have that." He said smiling. He loved the mural that Maggie had painted in the nursery.
Barbara ran into the house to get Kevin, while Abby and John waited in the car.
"John did you notice that Barb has put a little weight on?" Abby asked.
"Yeah, but I wasn't going to say anything to my sister about her weight, are you thinking what I am thinking?"
"I think so, but I won't say anything. If there is something to tell, she will.
"You're right, but I hope that if there is that good of news she will share before we have to go back home," he said, all the while still holding her hand.
Abby smiled at her husband. It was nice to have a few quiet moments with him.
Carter watched as Barbie came back to the car with Kevin in tow. The entire drive out to Lake Geneva he couldn't take his eyes off of Abby and Julie- Anne. He remember how happy he was the last time that they were here.
"So Scooter, you want the east or west side this time?" Barbara asked.
"What side do you want Abby?"
"I want the same side back. I want to revisit the fireplace." Abby said with a blush.
He smiled at Abby, "East side it is then." The thought of having her back in front of the fireplace, with just the glow from the fire lighting her face made him light up.
"Down, boy." Abby playfully smacked his hand. "We still have company." she said, looking at Barbara and Kevin, who were too busy looking in each other eyes to even notice John and Abby.
The car pulled up in front of the castle once again. It didn't seem like it had been a year since they had been here last. There was the familiar sound coming from his daughter letting him know that she was not appreciating being left alone. "Do you think she's hungry again Abby?"
"She's your daughter, she is always hungry"
Carter laughed, "I'll change her when we get inside and then she can eat." He didn't mind diaper duty at all. He loved helping Abby with Julie-Anne.
"So Barbara, what's the plan. How much together time, how much alone time?" Abby asked as John headed inside with the baby.
"I thought that we could have dinner together tonight. And just kind of play it by ear from there. I know you and Scooter don't get to spend much time together with his schedule. I'm sure he wants to spend as much time with you and the baby as he can."
"Well dinner sounds great, after Julie-Anne gets fed first.
"That sounds great Abby, she really is an angel."
"Well most of the time, anyway. She does have her moments. But with those big brown eyes that look like John's, she hard to resist."
"Scooter really seems to enjoy fatherhood. You are so lucky Abby."
"I know. It was a bit of a rocky road to get here. But it makes is all the better now."
"I'd better let you go get settled in so you can get that little one fed, we'll meet for dinner in about an hour, if that will work."
"Sounds good to me. We will be down in an hour."
Barbara smiled as she headed off to settle in with Kevin. And leave her brother to his family.
Carter laid on the bed next to Julie-Anne, he had changed her and now was cooing. Abby stood at the doorway and watched her husband and baby. The sight of them together always made her heart leap. John wore his feelings on his sleeve as far as Julie-Anne was concerned. He was besotted with her.
"Mommy's right here," she said as she sat on the bed.
"I thought that Barbie had kidnapped you." He said looking at his wife. "She's all yours. "
"Stay," Abby said simply.
Abby felt John unbutton her blouse, then unhook her bra to give the baby access to dinner. There was something so intimate about it. She laced her fingers with his, as their baby ate, just enjoying being together. He was in heaven watching them together. He was silent just enjoying them both. He was going to relish this entire month with his family. Abby finally broke the silence. "We are expected for dinner in an hour."
"It's nice to see Barbie and Kevin so happy together." He said.
"I'm glad they found happiness. Because if it wasn't for their wedding, where would we be?"
"I don't even want to think about it," he said, "I'm happy with you now, God knows it took us long enough to get together."
"That it did. But now that you have me, you are never getting rid of me."
"I don't want to." He said smiling, "she's got quite the appetite doesn't she."
"How many times do I have to tell you, what do you expect, she's your daughter."
He smiled at Abby, "maybe I just like hearing you say she's my daughter."
"Well, she's all yours, and tonight when she wakes us up, I am going to remind you of that."
"I wouldn't mind at all." He said to her, "do you mind if I shower before dinner?"
"Go ahead. We'll just finish up here."
"Thanks," He said kissing the top of her head, "I'll be quick so that you can have one too if you want." He headed into the bathroom and let the hot water fall over his body. He hurried so that Abby could get one it too. He didn't want to be a hot water hog, he finished and headed out into the bedroom with just a towel around his waist.
John looked at Abby, "your turn love."
Abby slipped off the bed, gave her husband a quick peck on the cheek and headed into the bathroom. John got dressed and laid down on the bed. He watched his daughter sleep. Abby took a quick shower, got dressed and went back out into their room.
John looked up at her, "have I told you today that you are beautiful."
"I can't remember, so you better tell me again," Abby said with a toss of her head.
You are amazingly beautiful." He said smiling, "shall we head down for dinner soon."
"Let's go, the sooner we eat, the sooner we can get back here."
"I'll carry her down, you can carry her back up."
John opened the door to the room, "after you my dear."
Abby followed John down the stairs, into the dinning room. The table was beautifully set, with candelabras in the center. He pulled the chair out for her, then sat the baby seat down next to Abby's chair. She handed Julie-Anne to him, then sat down. He gently placed his daughter safely between them and sat down, too.
Carter watched as his sister and Kevin came into the dinning room. "Good evening Barbie, Kevin."
"Hello to you too, John" Kevin said.
The servants brought out dinner. It was a beautiful meal of fettuccini alfredo with shrimp, Caesar salad, and french bread.
Dinner had barely been set on the table when Abby noticed that Barbara was starting to turn green. Without saying a word, Barbara jumped up, and nearly ran from the dinning room. Abby looked at John and arched her eyebrow. John remember that shade of green, he squeezed Abby's hand under the table and looked at Kevin, "Barbie not feeling well tonight?"
"I really shouldn't say anything until she gets back." Kevin said, looking in the direction his wife went.
John looked at Abby. He remembered back to when she was pregnant with Julie- Anne, "it's okay, go with her."
"Thanks," he muttered as he followed after Barbara.
When Kevin was out of earshot, John turned to Abby, "I guess that answers the question."
"I guess so. I wonder how far along she is?"
"I don't know," he said, "but I guess I get to be an uncle now."
"Auntie Abby, I like the sound of that."
"Someone else for me to spoil rotten." He said with a smile on his face.
"And we all know how good at that you are."
"I've had lots of practice." He said.
Barbara and Kevin walked back into the room. "I guess that little display makes an announcement unnecessary," Barbara said.
"Congratulations Barbie." John said smiling at his sister, "when do I get to be an uncle?"
"Sometime in August."
"Yes, congratulations, Barbara" Abby said. "And it does get better."
"Thank you Abby. I hope you are right." She said.
"Trust me." Abby said.
"So, to give us a chance to practice before our little one gets here, we would like to keep Julie-Anne with us tomorrow night, for your anniversary.
John looked at Abby. He knew that she hadn't let that baby leave her side since she was born. "I don't know." Abby said.
He could see that she was hesitant, but it would give them a chance to work on expanding there family. "I think it would be good for us to spend some time alone."
"If you're sure, Barbie." Abby said.
"We would love too Abby. I might not get the chance to spend time with my niece again for awhile."
"We would have to do a little preparation," Abby said, too embarrassed to mention in front of Kevin that she was exclusively breastfeeding.
Barbara nodded, "I understand."
"Ok, we will let you have her for the night, tomorrow. Can you come by our half of the castle in the afternoon so I can fill you in on her routine and stuff."
"I'd love to Abby."
After dinner the couple parted company. "See you tomorrow afternoon, Barbie" Abby said. "And don't forget, saltine crackers on your nightstand."
"Thanks for the advice. I will remember that, and tomorrow afternoon."
Abby headed for the stairs with John and Julie-Anne close behind her.
Carter followed Abby, Julie-Anne sleeping in his arms. He walked into their room and stretched out on the bed placing the baby on his chest. Abby watched them. It would be hard on her to be away from the baby, but it would be wonderful to have some alone time with her husband.
"She won't be far away Abby." He said, it was almost as if he could read her mind. He sensed that she wasn't comfortable leaving the baby.
"I know," she said, "but I feel like I am being a bad mother to just hand her over to someone."
"You are not being a bad mother Abby." He said, "you are the best mother I know. And you are not just handing her over to anyone, Barbie is her Aunt, she would protect her with her life."
Abby snuggled close to them. 'thanks, sweetie, that means a lot."
John put his arm around her, "I love you both, but I would love to have you alone in front of the fireplace again."
"That is our fireplace, isn't it," Abby said.
"Yes it is." He said thinking back to their wedding night, "I will always remember that."
"So will I, especially since the result of that night is sleeping on your chest.
"I love you," she said, as her eyelids began to flutter.
"I love you too," he said. It looked like his two favorite girls would both be sleeping soon.