Thank you to everyone who takes the time to leave a review, I love reading them all. And all the wonderful conversations that happen on the Facebook page. Time to get both babies home and let Jack and Elizabeth begin their life together as a family of four.
February 4th, 2011 - Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack removed Colton from the carrier and placed him in Elizabeth's arms. Sitting on the couch, she pulled a small blanket over them and he began to nurse. Picking up the carrier, he set it next to the door then vanished into the kitchen.
"So, Dear, have they said when Peyton might be able to come home," William asked as he picked up the newspaper and spread it open across his lap.
"They haven't said for sure. Right now, they are monitoring her to see how she does off the vent."
"She'll be home before you know it," he added.
"I hope so, Daddy."
Grace joined them in the living room, a tray of hot chocolate filled mugs in hand. After setting a cup down next to Elizabeth and William, she picked one up for herself and sat down next to her husband.
"Thanks, Mom," Elizabeth said.
"You're welcome, Dear."
"What's Jack doing?" Elizabeth asked Grace.
"He's putting one of the casseroles into the oven for supper."
"That was so nice of everyone to make us meals," Elizabeth commented, peeking under the blanket at her son.
"Yes, that was wonderful what they all did."
Once Colton was finished, Elizabeth laid him on her shoulder and began to pat his back.
"He's grown so much already," William said, watching his daughter.
"Yes, I can't believe how fast they grow," she replied.
Grace stood and moved to sit next to her daughter, "Can I hold my grandson?"
"Of, course, Mom," she replied, shifting Colton in her arms so her mother could take him.
Once he was settled in her mother's arms, Elizabeth slid to the edge of the couch and pushed herself up. After a small stabbing pain subsided, she started toward the kitchen.
"You alright, Sweetheart?" William asked, laying the newspaper down.
"Yes, Daddy. I just need to walk around a little."
"Okay, you just let us know if you need us to do anything."
"Alright, Dad."
As she walked into the kitchen, she saw Jack removing the last of the dishes from the dishwasher and place them on the shelf in the cupboard.
"Hey, Baby," he said, quickly moving to her side and taking her arm. "What are you doing in here?"
"I needed to get up and move around. I've been sitting for days."
"Okay," he replied, backing up and letting go of her arm. "Can I get you anything?"
"No, I'm fine."
"Is Colton with your mom?"
She nodded.
Jack stepped forward again, laying his hands on her arms, rubbing them up and down her soft skin. "Are you sure you're alright?"
Nodding, she replied, "It's just hormones, the situation, a little shock that still hasn't subsided."
Jack wrapped his arms around her, careful not to squeeze too tight. "I love you, Momma."
Giggling, she replied, "I love you, Daddy."
Jack moved his hands to her face, holding her as he pressed his lips to hers. "I know I keep saying this, but I can't believe that I'm a dad. A...DAD," he added, grinning. "I never thought I'd see the day...until I met you."
"And you're going to be a great dad," she stated, smiling.
"How do you know that? I have no idea what I'm doing."
"Join the club. But we'll figure it out together."
She moved her arms around his waist and pressed her cheek against his shoulder. They began to sway back and forth to the music that only they could hear.
…..
Elizabeth sat in the chair in the nursery, Colton against her shoulder, patting his back. Having just nursed, he let out a little belch just as Jack entered the room.
"That's my boy," he laughed. "Is he ready for bed?"
"Yes, finally." Elizabeth moved him down to her lap and brushed her fingertip along his cheek. "He looks like you."
"Really? You think so?" Jack moved to her side and sat on the arm of the chair. "Poor kid," he teased.
"Lucky kid," she said seriously, looking up lovingly to her husband.
Jack moved off the chair and crouched beside it, looking Elizabeth in the eyes. "Yes, he's very lucky to have you as his mother."
"I was referring to you, looking like you, having you as his father."
"And I'm referring to you. He's just one very lucky kid." Jack stood, kissing her on the lips on his way up.
Jack picked him up and carefully placed him into the crib, trying not to wake him. He stood, his hands on the side rail, staring down at his son. Elizabeth moved in beside him, both watching Colton sleep.
"We should probably get some sleep while we can. I have no idea how long until he'll wake up," Elizabeth said, sliding her arm through Jack's.
"That is very true," Jack said as he slipped his hand into hers.
…..
February 5th, 2011 - Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth woke to a grunting sound, rolled to her side, and saw Jack looking down and smiling at her, holding Colton.
"Someone wants to say good morning to you," he said, holding Colton up so she could see his face.
Elizabeth smiled and reached over, taking the tiny hand in hers.
"Has he eaten?"
"No, not since 5 am. We were waiting for you."
Elizabeth sat up, carefully, and slid back against the headboard. Holding her arms out, she took her son and positioned him to nurse.
"What do you mean 5 am?" She asked, lifting her shirt. "It was 1:30 when we got up."
"I heard him begin to cry again so I hurried to the nursery so he wouldn't wake you."
"But I never heard him on the monitor."
"I moved it to my side of the bed and turned the volume down. You needed your rest." Jack slid down onto his side and watched as she nursed their son. "This is just amazing." He moved his gaze up to Elizabeth's face and grinned at her.
"What are you smiling at?"
"We're parents," he said, widening his eyes.
Giggling, she replied, "Yes, Jack. We are. For a week now."
Jack pulled his pillow under his chest and wrapped his arms around it, hugging it and using it to prop himself up slightly higher. "I know, but with him home, it just seems even more real."
Elizabeth nodded, "I know what you mean." She watched her son nurse, holding his hand with her free one, his little fingers tightened around hers. "I just want to get Peyton home. They shouldn't be separated."
"She will be soon."
When Colton was finished eating and burped, Jack helped Elizabeth move him onto the bed between them. With Jack on one side and Elizabeth on the other, they watched their son, held his hands, touched his feet, reveled in the fact that he was home.
"I need to go see Peyton," Elizabeth finally said, as Colton drifted off to sleep.
"Me, too," Jack added.
Getting off the bed, Jack picked up the baby and carried him to the nursery. When he returned to the bedroom, Elizabeth was already in the shower. Jack went down to the kitchen and proceeded to prepare breakfast for everyone.
…..
"That was delicious, Jack," William stated, wiping his mouth with a napkin.
"Yes, Jack, thank you. That was a treat," Grace added.
"Glad you enjoyed it," Jack said as he began to clear the table from their breakfast of omelets, sausage, and toast.
Grace stood and carried a stack of plates to the sink and helped Jack get everything cleaned up.
"Do you think you and Mom could stay here and watch Colton while Jack and I go see Peyton?" Elizabeth asked her father.
"Of course, Dear."
"Thanks, Daddy."
"Beth, we are here to help with whatever you need."
"We really appreciate everything, Daddy. So, so much."
"We are here for you, Jack and the twins. There is nowhere else we want to be right now."
"I'm sure you need to get back to work, don't you?" She asked, shifting in her chair.
William leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, looking his daughter in the eyes. "I'll go back when absolutely necessary. Right now, it's necessary for me to be right here," he said, smiling at his daughter.
"Thank you, Dad."
A cry came through the monitor that was sitting on the table next to Elizabeth. She started to turn to call for Jack, but William cut her off.
"I'll get him, Beth." The man pushed his chair out and was quickly gone up the stairs.
Returning a few minutes later, Colton laying on his chest, he took his seat at the table, holding Colton out, cradled in his arms.
Elizabeth watched her father; his peppered hair, crisp light-blue button up shirt, pressed grey dress pants, black Italian leather shoes, holding his grandson. The man that is usually all business and proper, had let all his defenses down, and was currently making faces and talking in a high-pitched silly voice.
"There's that handsome boy," Grace said, walking into the room and seeing Colton. "He is just the sweetest thing." She joined William with the silly talk as she hovered above the baby's face.
"Well, you two seem to have this under control," Elizabeth said as she stood. "We're going to go visit Peyton for a while."
"Of course, Sweetheart," Grace said, picking up Colton and holding him against her chest. "You don't worry about this little guy. We've got bottles prepared and we'll be just fine."
Smiling, Elizabeth went to find Jack. With the steps getting easier each day, she slowly made her way up, using the railing for assistance. When she entered the bedroom, she could hear the shower running so she stepped into the walk-in closet and searched for a comfortable pair of shoes.
…..
University Hospital
When Jack and Elizabeth stepped into the NICU, they searched the area where Peyton had been since her first day, but her incubator was missing. Speeding up their pace, they stopped where it once stood, turned, and scanned the room quickly for the familiar box.
"Where's our daughter?" Elizabeth blurted out when Allison entered the room.
"She's right here, Ma'am." Allison motioned to an open-top bassinet along the opposite wall. "She had no need to be cooped up inside the incubator any longer so we moved her into this so you and your husband could see her better."
Letting out a sigh of relief, Jack and Elizabeth crossed the room and stood over their daughter.
"I gave her a bottle about an hour ago, she's been sleeping ever since."
"Her wires are gone," Elizabeth commented, noticing that nothing was left hooked up to her daughter.
"We removed them this morning. She's a very strong little girl and she's doing great. I think the doctor mentioned letting her go home a day early," Allison smiled.
"Today?" Elizabeth's eyes lit up with excitement.
"I believe so. Later today so we can monitor her just a little longer."
"Oh, that would be wonderful," Elizabeth exclaimed, turning into Jack and hugging him.
….
With visits from Rosemary, Sam, Charlotte, and Frank, the new parent's spirits were lifted as they waited all day for the doctor to release Peyton.
Once he finally arrived, he checked Peyton over, read her file and all the notes that were included, then turned to Jack and Elizabeth.
"She's eating well, gaining weight, oxygen level and heart rate are perfect. As soon as she figured out how to breathe on her own during those first few seconds, she's been fit as a fiddle. There is no reason for us to keep her here any longer."
Elizabeth clutched her hands to her chest and leaned into Jack, who wrapped his arms around her. Charlotte, who had stayed when Frank had to go, clapped her hands together and said a silent prayer of thanks.
"I'll get the paperwork started and get you guys out of here as soon as we can."
"Thank you, Dr. Redmon," Jack said, sticking his hand out to shake his.
"It's been my pleasure, Jack. You've got a couple fighters there." He turned his gaze to Elizabeth, "And from what I heard, your wife here is quite the fighter as well."
Jack tightened his embrace around her and nodded, "Yes, Sir. She sure is."
…..
Jack put the truck in park in front of their house and climbed out, opening the back door for Elizabeth.
Watching from the window, Grace saw Elizabeth slide out of the backseat.
"I wonder why she rode in the back?" She said aloud.
William, who was sitting on the couch holding Colton, asked, "What are you talking about, Dear?"
"Elizabeth, she just got out of the ba..." Clasping her hands to her mouth, she squealed.
"What is going on?" William asked loudly.
"Peyton! They have Peyton with them!"
Grace had the door opened and waited as Jack and Elizabeth walked up the front steps, Peyton's carrier in Jack's hand.
"Oh, let me have my granddaughter," Grace pleaded, holding out her hands to take the carrier.
Jack handed Peyton over to Grace, who took hold of the handle and moved quickly inside the warm home. In record time, Grace had unbuckled the baby and lifted her from the seat.
Carrying Peyton into the living room, Grace joined William on the couch, the two holding and rocking their grandchildren.
Jack chuckled and disappeared into the kitchen, followed by Elizabeth.
"What would you like for supper?" Jack asked, opening the refrigerator, scanning the variety of containers still inside.
"What are our options?" She asked, moving to his side.
"Let's see," he replied, reading the labels, "Lasagna, hamburger casserole, tater-tot casserole, enchiladas, chicken pot pie."
"Oh, yes. That."
"Chicken pot pie it is," he said, removing the pan from the shelf.
Elizabeth turned the oven on, then moved to the cupboard that held the plates. Reaching up to grab them, she winced slightly.
"Beth, please let me do that," Jack said, reaching over her and taking the plates. "You're trying too much too soon."
"But I feel useless."
Jack set the plates on the counter, then turned her to face him. "Beth, you have helped more people than I can count. There is nothing wrong with you needing a little help for a little while." Jack cupped her face and covered her lips with his. "I love you, Beth. Please let us help you."
Elizabeth nodded. "Okay, Cowboy," she replied, grinning.
"Good, now go see your parents and your babies while I finish supper."
"Yes, Sir," she teased, kissing his cheek and patting his butt.
…..
Elizabeth nursed Peyton while Jack changed Colton's diaper and put his onesie on.
"Colton is all ready for bed," Jack said, picking up his son and cradling him in his arms.
"Peyton is almost done."
Jack placed Colton into his crib, draping a thin blanket across him. Elizabeth finished burping Peyton, then held her out for Jack to take. With her changed and dressed, Jack picked her up to place her in her crib.
"Should we put her in with Colton?" Elizabeth asked.
"I'm not sure," Jack replied.
"Let's try it. I mean, they did just spend eight months cramped up in my belly together."
Jack carefully lowered Peyton into the crib and laid her next to Colton. Elizabeth picked up a blanket that was hanging on Peyton's crib and draped it across her.
"Finally, together," she said, staring at her children.
"All of us," Jack replied, laying his arm across her shoulders. "We're all finally together."
…..
February 6th, 2011 – Hope Meadows Ranch
After a long evening of the twins not wanting to coordinate their feedings, waking up every couple of hours, exhausting both Jack and Elizabeth, Jack woke to faint voices over the monitor that was sitting next to his side of the bed.
Rolling over, he looked at the clock: 8:23 am. He quickly looked over to Elizabeth's side of the bed to find her sound asleep. Laying back into his pillow, he listened to the monitor.
He quickly realized it was Grace's voice he'd heard, speaking softly to the babies.
…..
"And your mommy loves you so much. Both of you. We all love you." In a brief moment of silence, a slight sniffle could be heard. "Your grandpa and I will miss you so much when we have to go back home. I hope you can come visit us often. We'll come visit you, too."
…..
Jack heard a stirring next to him and looked to Elizabeth to find her staring at him, a tear in her eye.
"Did you hear that?"
She nodded and moved into his arm that he was holding out, laying along his side with her head on his chest.
…..
"You are a very strong little girl, our beautiful Peyton. Peyton Grace." More sniffles could be heard. "Oh, my heart is full. And you, Mr. Colton Thomas, you were named after a great man, I think. I didn't get to meet him, but knowing his family and the sons he raised, I do think he was a great man."
…..
Elizabeth pulled Jack's face to hers, stretched up and kissed him. "Even Mom knows."
Jack nodded, "I wish you all could have met him."
…..
"Colton, I do believe you look just like your daddy. Peyton, you look like your mommy. Beautiful babies."
…..
"We should turn that off," Elizabeth said, pointing to the monitor.
Jack reached over and turned it off, then looked back to Elizabeth. "Good morning, Beautiful," he said, then kissed the tip of her nose.
"Good morning, Cowboy."
"How are you feeling today?"
"Tired."
"Same here. We should try to get a little more sleep. Sounds like your mom has everything under control and the twins are fed."
Agreeing, Elizabeth laid her arm across Jack's waist and snuggled into his side.
…..
"Oh, my gosh, Jack." Elizabeth exclaimed, sitting up in bed.
Jack jumped, waking up suddenly, trying to catch his bearings.
"It's 10:30. The twins."
Jack jumped out of bed, still a little dazed, looked at the clock then took a step toward the door before stopping.
Turning back to Elizabeth, he said, "Your mom has them, remember?"
Elizabeth dropped back into her pillow. "Oh, I'm sorry. That's right. I just saw the time and panicked."
Returning to the bed, Jack laid down beside her and pulled her into him.
"Sorry I woke you up like that," Elizabeth said, a guilty look across her face.
"As soon as my heart returns to normal, then I'll forgive you," Jack teased.
"Can you please just check and make sure everything is alright?"
"Of course," he replied, kissing her forehead. "I'll be right back."
Jack walked to the nursery, finding it empty, then moved to the railing that overlooked the first floor. Grace and William's voices could be heard floating up to him. Unable to hear what they were saying, he could tell they were talking to the babies by the high-pitched tones.
Returning to the bedroom, he plopped on the bed onto his stomach. "Your parents have the twins downstairs."
"Oh, good," she said as she relaxed.
"When is your next doctor appointment? Friday?"
"Yes, at 9:30. The twins go in Thursday at 10."
"Okay." Jack slid forward, closing the gap between them, and kissed her softly on the lips. "I'm so thankful you're here," he said, a strong seriousness in his voice.
Elizabeth touched her hand to his cheek. "I understand now how bad it was. Sam told me about that day."
Jack sat up, one leg hanging off the edge of the bed, facing Elizabeth, preparing for the talk that he's been wanting to have with her.
"Yes?" He asked. "She told you everything?"
Elizabeth nodded, "Yes, everything. What they walked into here, how you reacted, how you were at the hospital."
Nodding, Jack added, "She told you everything she could."
"What do you mean?"
With Elizabeth now sitting up, propped against the headboard, Jack took her hand in his.
"Beth, I'm sure she told you everything she witnessed, everything she saw. But she couldn't have shared with you what was going on inside me."
"Tell me."
"Baby, I really thought I had lost you. I thought you were going to die, and the babies. I thought I'd lost my entire family in one morning. I felt as if my own life was over...I would not be able to go on."
"Jack, please."
"No, Beth. I need to get this out. I need you to know." Jack looked down to their hands, spinning her wedding band like he'd done in the hospital. "When I found you and saw all that blood, my heart stopped. Literally stopped. I thought I would die right there next to you." Jack paused, swallowed hard, then continued. "Then, waiting in the hospital for any news on your condition, my head hurt, my chest hurt, I waited for the doctor to come in and tell me that you were gone. And the babies. I felt so helpless, like I was losing control."
"Jack, I'm so sorry."
"There's nothing for you to be sorry about. Like the doctor said, it just happened and they don't know why. But, Beth...I know you don't want to think about this..." Jack stopped, staring at their hands, then slowly looked up into her eyes, pooled with tears, matching his own. "I can't go through that again."
With that last statement, Jack's dam broke and the tears flowed uncontrollably. Elizabeth moved toward him, wrapping her arms around him, holding him against her, feeling his body shake from the flood of emotions. Her own tears spilling now.
Straightening, Jack held her face, looking into her blue eyes, "Beth, please, I just can't. The loss of my dad was nothing compared to what I felt when I thought you were gone."
Elizabeth gasped; this revelation grabbed her very soul. Knowing what Jack had gone through with the loss of his father, and him stating this was worse, brought the reality of the situation even more to light for Elizabeth.
"Okay, Jack."
"Okay?"
"Yes, okay. No more children." New tears began to fall, hearing the words out loud crushed Elizabeth.
Jack wrapped his arms around her, holding her against him. "I'm so sorry, Beth. I wanted more, too."
She nodded against his chest, trying to accept the fact that she wouldn't have any more children.
Jack moved back, holding her face again, wiping her tears with his thumbs. "But we are very lucky, you know."
Smiling, she nodded. "Peyton and Colton."
"Yes, Peyton and Colton."
…..
February 11th, 2011 - Primrose OB/GYN
The week moved on, new routines being put in place, Elizabeth slowly healing and trying to do more things each day. Grace and William were still with them, helping as much as they could. Charlotte and Frank stopped by daily, pitching in with housework and the twins as well.
The twins' appointment had gone well, they were both progressing normally, gaining weight, and growing like weeds. The pediatrician sent them home with a perfect report card.
The next day, Jack and Elizabeth sat in the waiting room, waiting for her name to be called for her check-up. Jack's leg nervously bounced up and down as he flipped through the magazine, not reading a single word in it.
Elizabeth wiped her palms along her leggings, her heart aching with the decision they needed to share with the doctor today.
"Elizabeth Thornton," the nurse dressed in pink scrubs called out, reading the clipboard in her hand.
Elizabeth and Jack stood and followed her back to the room, stopping to stand on the scale along the way.
After waiting in silence for twenty minutes in the exam room, the doctor finally made an appearance.
"Good morning, Mr. and Mrs. Thornton. How's everything going? How have you been feeling?"
"I've been well.. Things seem to be getting better each day."
"Good. That's good to hear." Dr. Shepherd stated. Sitting on the rolling stool, he placed his hands on his knees and looked at Elizabeth. "You had quite an ordeal. I'm very sorry to hear everything you went through. But it looks like you're doing great now."
Elizabeth grinned and nodded.
"I also understand that there is something that you needed to talk to me about."
Elizabeth looked to Jack to take on this conversation.
"Yes, Sir. Dr. Bringham informed us that the chances of this happening to Beth again are very high."
"Yes, unfortunately, that is true. And next time might not have the same outcome."
"Yes, he said that, too." Jack took her hand in his, squeezing it before continuing. "We've talked about it, and have decided that this will be our last pregnancy."
Jack looked to Elizabeth who had a tear falling down her cheek.
"Okay," Dr. Shepherd began, "are we scheduling a tubal ligation or a vasectomy?"
"A tubal ligation," Elizabeth answered. "It's my health on the line, we think this would be the best way."
"I do agree," the doctor replied. "We'll get that scheduled then. But first," Dr. Shepherd stood and picked up a gown. "Let's get you checked out and see how you're doing today. I'll step out while you put this on."
…..
Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack held the door open and assisted Elizabeth out of the SUV and up the front steps. Stopping at the top, he turned her to face him.
"How are you doing?"
"I'm okay."
"Beth."
"Jack, I'll be fine. I just need some time to process everything...and accept it."
Jack rubbed her arms, warming her up. "We both need to," he replied, wanting her to know that she wasn't alone in the heartache of their decision. "Ready to go inside?"
Elizabeth nodded and Jack opened the door, holding it for her, closing it behind them. Jack took her coat and hung it in the closet by the front door, hanging his next to hers.
"Hello, Dear," Grace said, walking out of the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dishtowel. "Lunch will be ready shortly. Charlotte, Frank, Sam and Tom are on their way over, too. I hope that's okay."
Jack looked to Elizabeth who nodded, "Yes, Grace, that will be just fine."
"How did your appointment go?" Grace asked.
"It was fine, Mom. I'm healing well."
Feeling there was more going on, Grace questioned, "Did something happen?"
Elizabeth patted her mom's arm. "I'm going to go freshen up. We'll tell you everything later when everyone is here."
Grace looked between Jack and Elizabeth, worry clearly covering her face.
Elizabeth vanished up the stairs and into their bedroom, closely followed by Jack.
Grace joined William and the twins in the living room, taking a seat next to her husband.
"Something is wrong, and it's not good," she started, then told him what Elizabeth had just said.
…..
"Everyone is here," Jack stated, walking into the nursery where Elizabeth was nursing Peyton.
"Okay. I'll just be a minute," she said as she pulled her shirt back in place.
"I'll take her," Jack said, picking up his daughter. Laying her on the changing table, he proceeded to change her diaper.
"It just isn't fair," Elizabeth said, sitting on the edge of the chair.
Jack, just fastening the final snap on Peyton's outfit, picked up his daughter and turned toward his wife.
"It isn't fair, Jack. You're such a wonderful father. I mean, look at you, you're a natural. You deserve more children."
Jack placed Peyton in the crib and knelt in front of Elizabeth. "Beth," he started, taking both of her hands in his, "I have everything I ever wanted right here in this house. You, the twins, I don't want anything else." Jack moved onto his knees and cupped her face in his hands. "Baby, my whole life is right here. What isn't fair...is how lucky I am."
Elizabeth moved to him, covering his lips with hers, a slight spark of their old passion returning.
Running his fingers through her hair, he asked, "Are you ready to go downstairs?"
Nodding, Elizabeth stood with assistance from Jack. Jack picked up Peyton, and the trio made their way downstairs to join their family who were ogling over Colton.
…..
Everyone was seated around the large dining room table, conversations flowing from work to babies to the weather.
"How's Rosie and Lee doing? And that adorable Noel?" Frank asked.
"They're doing great. She's finally beginning to sleep through the night so they are getting more than three hours of sleep at a time," Jack answered.
"That's wonderful," Frank responded.
Unable to take the suspense any longer, Grace butted in, "What is it you needed to tell us?"
Everyone quieted and turned their attention to Jack and Elizabeth.
"Well, as all of you know, the doctors have warned us that if we tried to have more children, it could endanger Beth's life again. So, we've decided that she's going to get a tubal ligation and we set up the appointment for next month."
"Oh, my dears, I'm so sorry," Charlotte stated.
"Yes, guys, we're very sorry to hear that," Tom added.
Grace laid her hand on Elizabeth's, rubbing it with her thumb, "Are you alright, Sweetheart?"
Elizabeth shook her head, but answered, "I will be."
Jack lowered his hand to her thigh, squeezing it.
A cry came from the small bassinet in the living room and Elizabeth pushed her chair back to stand.
Jack squeezed her leg again, "I've got her."
He walked to the living room, and sat on the edge of the couch next to the bassinets. Wiping a tear off his cheek, he reached in and picked up Peyton. Resting his arms on his legs, he cradled Peyton between his arms, and lowered his face to hers.
"Hey, Baby Girl. I'm so glad you're here." He kissed her cheek and she turned her head toward his, searching for food. "You are one lucky little girl. You've got a beautiful mother, some super grandparents, and so many aunts, uncles and cousins that love you."
As everyone continued to visit, Charlotte heard something and quieted everyone.
"Listen," she said softly.
Jack's voice singing to Peyton could be heard, carrying throughout the house. Everyone stood and moved to the area that opened up to the living room, listening and watching him sing to his daughter.
"But the truth is plain to see
She was sent to rescue me
I see who I want to be
In my daughter's eyes
In my daughter's eyes
Everyone is equal
Darkness turns to light
And the world is at peace
This miracle God gave to me
Gives me strength when I am weak
I find reason to believe
In my daughter's eyes
And when she wraps her hand around my finger
How it puts a smile in my heart
Everything becomes a little clearer
I realize what life is all about
It's hanging on when your heart is had enough
It's giving more when you feel like giving up
I've seen the light
It's in my daughter's eyes"
As Jack continued to softly sing to her, Peyton remained quiet, eyes wide, staring up at her father. Her attention was fully locked on his familiar voice.
William placed his hands on Grace's shoulders as they watched, Charlotte slid her arm through Elizabeth's, and Frank had one hand on Elizabeth's shoulder and the other on Charlotte's. Sam was leaning into Tom's side as the entire family listened to the beautiful heartfelt words being sung.
"In my daughter's eyes
I can see the future
A reflection of who I am and what will be
And though she'll grow and someday leave
Maybe raise a family
When I'm gone I hope you'll see
How happy she made me
For I'll be there
In my daughter's eyes"
Jack heard someone sniffle and turned to find everyone watching him.
"Oh, hey there," he said, grinning.
"That was just beautiful, Jack," Grace said. "Just beautiful."
Elizabeth walked into the room and sat down next to Jack, stroking her finger along Peyton's cheek.
"Yes, that was very beautiful," she said quietly in Jack's ear.
"So are you," he whispered back. "Want to hold your daughter? I think she's hungry."
Elizabeth slid back onto the couch and held her arms out as Jack placed Peyton into them. He handed the small blanket to her that she used as a cover-up and she began to nurse their daughter. Jack reached down and picked up Colton who had just begun to stir as William and Frank joined them in the room.
Sam, Tom, Charlotte and Grace cleared the table and cleaned everything up before joining everyone else on the large sectional couch. Elizabeth had finished with Peyton and Frank was holding her against his shoulder, patting her back. Jack handed Colton to Elizabeth, and she covered and began feeding him.
"How long are you able to stay?" Charlotte asked Grace.
"However long we're needed."
"That's wonderful that you're able to do that."
"Yes, one of the upsides of owning your own firm," William added.
….
Jack closed the door behind his mother and Frank as Grace and William said goodnight to Elizabeth and retired to the basement.
Meeting at the bottom step, Jack and Elizabeth walked up together and checked on the twins. With Colton and Peyton both sound asleep, they went to bed to get as much sleep as the babies would allow.
…..
February 14th, 2011 – Hope Meadows Ranch
"Happy Valentine's Day, Baby," Jack said, hovering over her face in bed.
Elizabeth opened her eyes and found Jack's face inches from her own, smiling down at her.
"Today is Valentine's Day?"
Chuckling, he replied, "Yes, it sure is."
"I'm sorry, Jack. I didn't realize the date."
Jack covered her lips with his, kissing her with the passion only reserved for her.
"It's fine, Beth. You're my Valentine and I have all I need."
Elizabeth raised her hand to his cheek; her eyes searched his face. "I love you, Cowboy."
"I love you, too. What do you want to do today?"
"Let's get Wyatt and bring him home. It's about time he met the babies."
"That sounds like a great idea. I'll give Tom a call."
Within the hour, Tom was pulling into the driveway. Opening his door, Wyatt jumped out and ran to the house, pacing in front of the door.
"Wyatt is here," Jack said, picking up Colton. "Are you ready?"
"Yes," Elizabeth replied, Peyton already in her arms.
Standing in the entryway, they waited as Tom opened the door, letting Wyatt run in and greet his owners.
Jack laughed as Wyatt jumped up and down at his feet, unable to contain his excitement of seeing them. Standing on his hind legs, his front paws against Jack's stomach, Wyatt stretched up and sniffed at the small bundle in Jack's arms.
"Wyatt, we'd like you to meet someone," Jack said, as if talking to a person. "Come over here, boy."
Wyatt followed Jack to the couch and watched as Jack sat down and moved the strange smelling object onto his lap.
"Wyatt, come here."
Jack held Colton on his lap, cradled between his arms. Wyatt walked up, hesitated, then stretched his neck until his nose was against Colton's arm. Pulling his head back, he tipped it to the side, listening at the squeaks and grunts coming from the baby. He took a step closer, sniffing up and down Colton, then stopped with his nose against the baby's cheek, resting his chin on Jack's leg.
"Well, would you look at that," William stated, watching the interaction.
Elizabeth moved to the couch next to Jack, holding Peyton in the same manner. Wyatt turned and saw the bundle on her lap, began sniffing her as well, tipping his head sideways each time she'd made a noise.
"What do you think, Wyatt?" Elizabeth asked.
Wyatt looked to Elizabeth, tilting his head, then looked back to Peyton. Moving closer to Elizabeth's leg, Wyatt gently laid his head on Peyton's stomach.
"Oh, my goodness, these guys are going to be best friends," Elizabeth said, petting the dog's head.
…..
February 26th, 2011 – Hope Meadows Ranch
"How are your evenings going?" Rosemary asked, returning Noel to her carrier having just finished feeding her.
"Long, they are very long."
"They still aren't sleeping much?"
"Not yet. I think the longest we've ever had was four hours and that was only once."
"I can't imagine trying to balance a schedule with two. Noel was difficult enough at the beginning but she's getting better. Most nights we get almost six hours now."
"That's wonderful. I can't wait until they start doing that." Elizabeth took a sip of her decaf coffee and reached for another chocolate chip cookie that Rosie had just made and brought over. "These are amazing," she said, taking another bite.
"It's my own recipe. I'll write it down and bring it over sometime."
"Oh, please do. Jack would love these."
"How is Jack?"
"He's been great. He helps me out so much with the babies. He gets up at least once a night and feeds them without waking me so I can sleep."
"Wow, that's incredible. Lee helps out a lot but he hasn't done that. He gets up with me, not without me," she chuckled.
"Yes, I've been very fortunate with Jack," she replied, a smile covering her face.
"How are you feeling?"
"So much better. The pain is gone and I can pick up the kids without someone helping me. I'm starting to feel somewhat normal again."
"That's wonderful, Liz. Did your parents get home okay?"
"Yes, they flew out yesterday."
"That was so nice that they could stay and help for so long."
"Oh, you have no idea. It was fantastic having them here. They helped out so much." Elizabeth took another sip of her coffee. "Will you be returning to barrel racing this year?"
"Oh, absolutely. I miss it and plan on getting Delilah back in shape as soon as the weather warms up. Will you be joining us at the rodeos?"
"I plan to. As long as I can handle the twins while you guys are busy doing your thing," she laughed.
"We'll figure things out. The guys and I aren't usually busy at the same time so we'll have things covered for all three babies."
"Looking forward to it."
"Lee sure has missed hanging out with Jack. He talks about it all the time."
"Oh, Jack, too. He was so excited for today and couldn't wait for you guys to get here."
…..
Jack sunk the eight ball into the side pocket, winning yet another game.
"Alright," Lee said, "I clearly need to work on my game. That's three in a row now. How did you get so good?"
"Well, when your wife kicks your ass every time you play, you sneak down and practice anytime you can."
"Yes, that would do it. You still haven't beat her?"
"Nope," Jack shook his head as he racked the balls for another game, "not at all."
"We need to play pairs again, but I get Elizabeth."
The men laughed as Lee lined up to break.
…..
"The guys sound like they're having fun," Rosemary stated, picking up another cookie.
"Yes, Jack really needed this. He's been so stressed with everything."
"Do you blame him, though?"
"I know. We've talked about it a lot. Things are getting better, easier."
"That's great, Liz." Rosemary looked down at the sleeping Noel, "I never thought how much I wanted to be a mother until I was one."
"They just latch onto your heart, don't they?"
"Yes, they sure do."
…..
"Oh, come on! That shot was impossible. How'd you do that?"
"Like I said, secret practices."
"I guess so. Now I'm going to have to start sneaking into your basement and practice so I can stand a chance between you and your wife."
"That's a good way to get yourself shot, Brother," Jack teased. "You might want to give me a heads up before you start sneaking around my house."
"True dat!"
"Lee, you are a special kind of dork," Jack laughed as he took his next shot, sinking it yet again.
"Gotta keep you entertained."
"You do a great job at that."
…..
"How's work?" Elizabeth asked.
"It's just great. We're working on the spring play right now. I sure could use your artistic hand on the backdrops and props."
"I could come by and help out. Jack or Charlotte could watch the twins."
"That would be fantastic, Liz. Yes."
"When will you need help?"
"Next week?"
"I'll be there."
"Oh, Liz. You're a lifesaver!"
"It will be fun. I need to get out of the house. How's the substitute art teacher?"
"She's alright. She's no you."
"Oh, Rosie. I'm sure she's fine."
"She is. The kids seem to like her. They ask me all the time when they'll get to see you again."
"I'll be sure to stop by the classroom when I come over to work on props."
"They'll love that."
….
"Alright, my ego can't take losing another game," Lee said, laying the cue on the table.
"Oh, don't be a sore loser," Jack teased.
"Sore loser? Acting like this after one or even two games would be a sore loser. Acting like this after losing six games...this is surrender."
Jack laughed and placed his cue on the table. "Let's go check on our wives and children."
"Wow, I never thought I'd hear those words coming out of your mouth."
Jack slapped Lee's back and agreed, "Me neither, Brother. But I'm glad we finally got out of our own ways and saw the light."
"Same here, Jacko. Same here."
Elizabeth had just sat down onto the couch with Colton in her arms when Jack and Lee joined them. Rosemary was rocking the carrier with Noel inside, attempting to get her back to sleep.
"Where's Peyton?" Jack asked, looking around the room.
"She's still upstairs, asleep."
Jack slid onto the couch and moved in against her side, looking down to Colton. A cry could be heard over the monitor and Jack jumped up, "I'll get her."
Elizabeth looked to Rosemary, smiling. A couple of minutes later, Jack returned with Peyton and returned to his seat next to Elizabeth.
"Look at us," Lee said, taking Noel and cradling her in his arms. "One big happy family."
As he made faces and baby-talk to his daughter, Noel smiled back.
"She's smiling?" Jack asked, watching the interaction.
"Yes, she just started last week," Rosie replied.
Jack looked down to Peyton who had fallen back to sleep in his arm.
"They can start around two months old, Jack," Elizabeth stated.
"That's incredible. I can't wait for these guys to smile," Jack said, watching Peyton sleep.
"We need to get going. I have to get chores done before it gets dark," Lee said, standing and moving Noel to his shoulder.
"Yeah, I need to get outside, too," Jack replied.
The friends said their goodbyes and Elizabeth stood at the door, a baby in each arm, and watched her friends drive away and Jack walk to the barn. After kicking the front door closed, she carried the twins up to her bedroom and laid them both down onto the bed. Laying down beside Peyton, she lifted her shirt, turned her daughter onto her side and began feeding her.
…..
Jack stood with his forehead against Harley's, scratching the sides of his jaw. "I'll see you tomorrow, Boy." Jack straightened and petted the horse between his eyes, then turned to leave.
As he walked through the first floor of the house and not seeing Elizabeth, he walked up the steps and to the nursery. Not finding her there, he headed to their bedroom.
As he walked in, he saw her asleep with the twins. Climbing onto the bed on the other side of them, he snuggled up next to Colton, his head on his pillow, his eyes moving from each baby to Elizabeth and back.
…..
Elizabeth woke up to Wyatt jumping up onto the bed and lying at her feet. She checked the babies then noticed Jack asleep in the bed as well. Seeing everyone sound asleep, she closed her eyes and rejoined them in slumber.
…..
March 1st, 2011 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Jack walked through the house after returning home from picking up horse feed. Finding Elizabeth in the nursery with the twins, Jack leaned in the doorway, watching his wife.
Kneeling on the floor, Elizabeth fixed the pink knitted hat on Peyton, then straightened the blue one Colton. She picked up her phone, took a couple photos, then set it back down. After readjusting the blue blanket that was tightly wrapped around her son, she picked up her phone once more and took a few more photos.
"What are you doing?" Jack asked, grinning as his wife jumped at the sound of his voice.
"Jack Ashton! You scared me half to death."
"Sorry," he chuckled, stepping into the room. "So...what exactly are you doing?"
"I got these caps as a shower gift and noticed they matched these blankets, so I thought I'd try to get some cute photos of them."
"Well, they definitely are cute," Jack replied, kneeling down beside his wife. "We sure make some good-looking children."
Elizabeth burst out in laughter before agreeing with him, "Yes, we definitely do."
…..
March 4th, 2011 – Hope Meadows Ranch
Elizabeth walked through the front door after spending the afternoon at the school helping Rosemary.
"Jack?" She called out, walking through the house.
She walked upstairs and to the nursery to find him lying on the floor with Peyton asleep on his chest. Colton was lying on a blanket next to him, Wyatt by his side.
Seeing her walk in, Wyatt jumped up and jogged to greet her.
"Hey, Buddy," she said softly, ruffling the hair on his head.
Walking toward Jack, she stopped and giggled, seeing him asleep and snoring slightly. Diapers were spread across the changing table, two empty bottles laid on the floor beside him, and two of the kids' outfits were lying next to the dresser. His own shirt was off and tossed near the door.
Elizabeth carefully picked up Peyton, cradling her against her chest. As Elizabeth stood in front of the window, Peyton nuzzled into her, and Elizabeth rested her cheek against her daughter's head.
Jack stretched then quickly moved his hands to his chest where Peyton had been lying. Looking around, he saw Elizabeth standing at the window with their daughter in her arms. Getting up, he picked up Colton and joined Elizabeth at the window.
"Have a rough day?" She asked, giggling.
"A little bit," Jack smiled.
"What happened?"
"What didn't happen? Neither would sleep or eat when the other one was, Peyton spit up on me several times, and Colton peed on me."
Elizabeth laughed, picturing what Jack must have looked like when getting peed on by his son.
"It wasn't funny. It went in my mouth."
"Oh, Jack," Elizabeth laughed harder.
"You think it's funny. Wait till it happens to you," Jack said, then began to laugh with her.
