The trip in Hawaii came to an end and before anyone knew it they were all home in their own beds. Alexander and Liz went back to work, but the four women took another week off—Casey and Alex agreed it would give Emily and JJ plenty of time to get settled in together and they'd use the time to spend with their girls. Of course, it was a paid leave which Emily and JJ both tried to argue considering the fact Emily was already paid very well, and JJ had just received more money than she knew what to do with and was moving in with her girlfriend who didn't want her to contribute to the rent (much to her dismay), but they both had direct deposit. JJ realized her pay was increased come payday, and when her phone alerted her she got paid, she asked Emily if she was seeing things. Emily just laughed it off saying 'Babe, the email did say you were getting an increase in pay' then went back to unpacking.

It's been three weeks since the 'mean lady' was in the Novak residence, and Charlotte has not mentioned her once—Casey still had fleeting thoughts about what Cassidy said to her daughter, but tried not to think about it. At first she felt very guilt about not only the fact her own mother said those awful things to Charlotte, but she was the reason Owen and Jake's mother was in going away for life. That thought was squashed real fast when her brothers said she had absolutely nothing to worry about because their baby sister meant much more to them than the first 10 and 12 years of their life. Yes, Cassidy may have been great to them during that time, and even when Casey was a baby she was decent to them—but when Casey turned 3, everything changed in the Novak childhood home. So Owen and Jake made Casey feel much better about the situation, telling her to stop feeling guilty about it—there was no need to. She kept her family safe, and they were happy the 'stupid bitch got what she deserves'.

While in Hawaii, the squad worked tirelessly to make an airtight case not only against Cassidy and Richard, but Chase as well—even though they wouldn't be trying him here, Cragen and the squad wanted to help for Casey's sake: she's family. Cragen made sure to fill Branch in every step of the way knowing he'd be trying the case, and neither wanted Casey to have to testify. Luckily, with everything they found, she didn't have to. Branch and Cragen were both livid about the fact they couldn't put Nealson away for the rapes, but they did have plenty to put him away for.

The Novak's would all be able to move on without them—the true Novak name would live on: happily now. Novak and Co. was thriving as always, they had just signed with another multi-million dollar company, Jake had taken over for Chase but made major changes; he increased pay, gave everyone more vacation days, anything they needed—everyone already loved him when he did work there, and understood why he left, but was very grateful he came back. Owen and Amelia took a vacation, a week for themselves leaving the kids with Amelia's parents, and then a week with their children as well. It was absolutely incredible. Alex and Casey, well—let's just say…they had a lot going on.


May 17th, it was their two year wedding anniversary—they had been back to work for about four months now, and life was better than ever. Tonight Liz and Alexander volunteered to take the girls knowing their home was already baby proofed, they had a crib and a toddler bed as well. Casey and Alex were going to pick up the girls later that night as they had never been away from them before, but it was nice knowing they'd be able to be put to sleep in their 'typical' beds.

Instead of going out to dinner, Casey had Claude cook Alex's favorite meals from their restaurant along with a nice bottle of wine, two dozen roses, and a perfectly set table. Casey had everything set just right for her wife and she couldn't wait—right now, Alex was getting ready and Casey had little butterflies in her stomach because of the love she felt for the beautiful blonde. Married two years, together almost three and my oh my, I still blush. Get your emotions in-check Casey said to herself, shaking her head and pouring wine into her wife's glass before placing it on the table.

Alex came down the stairs and Casey's breath hitched in her throat: fuck, that blue matches her eyes perfectly—does she know what that dress does to me? "You look beautiful, Lex," Casey said, closing the distance between them and placing a kiss to her wife's lips.

Alex could barely breathe, seeing Casey in a low cut V-neck burgundy form fitting dress her ample breasts staring her in the face, her mouth was dry—she wanted nothing more than to rip the dress right off of her and take her right then and there. "Y-you, y-you, fuck!"

Casey just laughed, "Yeah? We can do that later babe," Casey winked, leading Alex over to the table and pulling out her chair. "Sit down honey, I had Claude bring over your favorites. I was tempted to bring you to the restaurant," Casey said, running her fingers through Alex's hair, over her exposed shoulder, then collarbone, "And tease you all night, get you worked up before bringing you home and having my way with you but—" she smiled seeing Alex shudder, "We can still have a beautiful dinner right at home, while in the comfort of our own home." And with that, Casey sat down at the table and started to eat leaving a hot and bothered Alex sitting there stunned.

Alex had to take a minute to compose herself, then looked at the table in front of her; she saw how nice everything looked—the place setting was absolutely gorgeous. They didn't use the fine china very often, only on holidays considering they had two little girls, not only that, Casey went all out tonight. It wasn't just an entrée, there was salad, and multiple appetizers and entrées to share and she knew there was desserts as well. Two dozen roses which she could only imagine symbolized their two-year wedding anniversary, a typical Casey envelope with her weekly letter to Alex that she had kept up writing to her like she had ever since they met, and then looked into Casey's sparkling green eyes.

"H-hi," she stuttered.

"Welcome back," Casey smiled. She had been watching her wife access everything, it was truly adorable—she swore Harper got her observation skills from Alex. They both loved to take in everything before speaking, and it melted her heart.

They had been eating for a little while, talking for a bit and after Alex had taken a sip of wine she realized her wife didn't have anything in her glass, "Why aren't you drinking any wine?"

Casey took a deep breath and reached under the table to the chair next to her pulling out a single rose handing it to her wife; Alex was very confused as to what the rose had to do with why she wasn't drinking until she saw it. Attached to the stem was a positive pregnancy test. Alex looked up at Casey, then back at the test—she did it so many times Casey lost count then stood up and kneeled in front of Casey turning her so the redhead was now facing the blonde. Alex put her hand on Casey's stomach and looked into her wife's eyes as they both had tears welling, "You're pregnant?"

Casey nodded, placing her hand over Alex's that was still on her stomach, "With your baby, Lex."


Flashback

Charlotte was swimming in the pool with Emily and JJ, but it was time for Harper's first nap so Casey went to put her down—Alex went with her wanting to talk with her wife knowing it would be the perfect time. They had been in Hawaii for 5 days now and were both feeling very relaxed; as Casey got Harper settled, the mothers spoke about their future.

"Babe?" Alex questioned, running her fingers through Casey's hair, watching as she fed Harper.

"Hmm?" Casey said, stroking Harper's cheek gently soothing her to sleep as she ate.

"Do you think we're crazy for wanting to do this again so soon?" Alex asked.

Casey already knew what she was referring to, not just because they were both watching their daughter feed, but because they'd been talking about this for the last five days behind closed doors. She immediately smiled and placed a chaste kiss on her wife's cheek before she spoke. "I don't think so, Lex. I waited my whole life for you, and when we met—everything fell into place. My life, it just made perfect sense: finally. I never wished for much, but I did have big dreams—I just didn't think they'd ever come true. Nothing was ever easy for me, and you know I'd never change what I've been through, because I would never have ever wanted anyone else to face what I did—I would rather have been the one to go through it instead. It made me who I am, and in return, it led me to you. The greatest gift I've ever received: my dream come true. And because of you, I have Charlotte and we made this beautiful little one right here." Casey wiped her own tears, then reached over and wiped Alex's as well. "So no, personally, I don't think it's crazy—we talked about timing, and I think it's perfect. My only question is, are you sure about are you sure about who?"

Alex nodded trying to compose herself—everything her wife just said was so incredible, so amazing, so perfect. "I am, I really am. Watching you carry this little one was one of the most beautiful experiences I've ever witnessed in my entire life, then seeing you give birth, gosh it was," Alex couldn't even put it into words. "Before we even got pregnant we talked about every option there was and honestly the first ultrasound we went to my mind was made up. I want you to carry my baby, our baby."

When they got home from Hawaii, the couple made sure everything was settled at home and then started the process. Alex had eggs removed, then had them transferred into Casey.

End of Flashback


Alex smiled and crashed their lips together, then pulled back—"Wait a minute…" she shook her head back and forth, Casey knew exactly what she was thinking in that moment. "No, this doesn't make sense. We—no. It can't…how?"

Casey pulled Alex up from the floor and sat the blonde in her lap, "It was a false negative, Lex. I called Dr. Nickles and went in for some blood work, I found out two weeks ago and wanted to surprise you tonight. What better night to tell my beautiful wife I'm carry your child than the night I made you mine?"

Alex's tears started again and Casey gave up trying to wipe them away, "Aww Lex, please don't cry. Hey… on another note, my hormones are already kicking into high gear," Casey winked. It's true, but that also has to do with the fact she's still breastfeeding so her hormones are already heightened, now they are jacked up again being pregnant though.

The blonde shifted her body, hiking up her dress so she could now straddle her wife instead, "Oh really?" Alex said, her lips lingering right in front of her wife's. "As much as I LOVE this dinner, I'd prefer to have you for dinner instead."

Casey groaned, her hands working her way up Alex's sides as the blondes hands undoubtedly found Casey's breasts. "Fuck, I can't wait to see these get huge again," Alex said, squeezing her wife's breasts.

The redhead couldn't help but laugh, "Lex, they still are huge!"

"Yeah but," Alex said pulling off one of the straps of Casey's dress moaning when she realized her wife wasn't wearing a bra, "They will get even bigger and I can't wait. And you'll be growing our baby too," Alex said, taking off the other strap and lowering the dress to reveal Casey's flat stomach placing a kiss to it. Casey was still sitting in her chair letting Alex undress her, the dress she was wearing bunched around her waist, breasts on full display as her wife was again kneeling in front of her.

Alex stood back up again holding out her hand, oh thank god, Casey thought—I need to take this dress off of her. Casey crashed their mouths together not caring that her dress was still lingering at her waist and unzipped Alex's dress letting it pool to the floor hearing her wife gasp in response. "Fuck, babe."

Casey didn't respond, she just kissed down her wife's jaw sucking on her pulse point, as her hands trailed down her body, one hand holding her body in place, the other unclasping her bra. Once it was off Alex moaned feeling their bare breasts touch, a rush of wetness flooding her panties. Alex ducked her head and took Casey's breast into her mouth, circling her nipple sucking lightly, nipping, then playing lightly with her tongue. "Please baby," Casey moaned, her knee's already feeling like they were going to give out.

Alex knew she wouldn't last long, so she backed them up against the nearest wall giving her wife exactly what she wanted—knowing they'd have enough time for a few rounds before getting the girls, then they could spend the rest of the night together. Once against the wall, she pinned Casey pulling her dress off completely panties too, spreading her legs finding soaking wet folds—she couldn't stop the moan that slipped her lips. Alex crashed her lips against Casey's, one hand on her breast, the other cupping her sex. Casey's moans filled the air as Alex's fingers entered her wife hard and fast, "Oh god, fuck Lex."

Alex was now biting places that could only be seen by her as she continued to thrust into her wife, rolling an already hard nipple between her fingers, Casey's moans fueling her on. "Come for me, baby."

And that's all it took—Casey came all over Alex's fingers; the blonde helped her wife ride out her orgasm, loving every second of it. God she is the most beautiful woman in the world. Casey's head lulled into Alex's shoulder and she placed a kiss onto it, then kissed up her neck, "I love you, Lex."

"I love you too, babe," then kneeled down and kissed her stomach, "And I love you too little bean."

After a few minutes, the women went upstairs and Casey was able to show Alex just how much she loved her over and over again. They made love for a few hours before racing around to get dressed realizing it was now 10:30pm and they had said they'd get the girls at 10pm. Oops, time flies when you're having a nice dinner…or having your wife for dinner. They only had a few bites of dinner and both of their stomachs were grumbling on the ride over to the Cabot residence which made them laugh.


Alexander swung open the door like he always did with a smile on his face, he knew exactly what the two love birds were up to and why they were late. "Relax you two, the babies have been asleep since 7pm and 7:30pm—we would have happily kept them for the night."

Liz came into the entryway where they were talking and smacked him lightly, "They aren't ready dear, do you remember how nervous I was the first time we left Johnathan?"

"What about me?" Alex scoffed.

"You weren't born yet, Lexie. Did you suddenly forget your brother is older than you are?" Liz asked.

"Oh yeah," Alex blushed, looking away.

Casey just laughed, her wife is so cute. "How were the girls tonight?"

"Perfect little angels. Charlotte ate all her dinner, even asked for seconds. Harper had some pureed avocados, peaches, and bananas." Liz responded. "I gave Charlotte a bath upstairs, Alexander gave Harper a bath down here in the kitchen sink—we watched a little bit of Finding Nemo, then daddy put Harper to bed with a bottle while I read to Charlotte."

Casey and Alex smiled, Alexander and Liz loved taking care of their granddaughters more than anything, "Thank you both so much," Alex smiled. "Babe, why don't you grab Harper and I can get Charlotte and the bags."

"I'll get the bags Lexie," Alexander said, "Give me your keys and I'll put them in the car while you two get the babies."


Neither Charlotte nor Harper woke up during either transfer which the mothers were very grateful for; when they got home, they put the girls into bed, and got ready for bed themselves. "God that was so hard—finding out such big news tonight, and then not just blurting it out…I swear it's like they could read my mind," Alex said, rubbing the last bit of lotion into her leg.

Casey laughed, "I've felt the same way for the last two weeks, Lex. We don't keep anything from each other—but I wanted it to be special for you. I was starting to feel so guilty about it; I thought you might be mad at me for not telling you and when Dr. Nickles told me it was a false positive and I wasn't with you," Casey had tears running down her cheeks, "God Lex, I felt like I was cheating on you. As crazy as that sounds because she called me over the phone to tell me—but it just, I don't know. And I wanted nothing more than to race home to tell you but then I looked at the date and saw that our anniversary was in 16 days and I could wait that long to tell you. I knew I'd make it special, then as the days got closer, I was terrified you'd be so angry with me for keeping this secret," Casey now had a hand resting on her stomach. "I'm so sorry."

Alex scooted closer to her on the bed, "Oh honey," Alex pressed her lips to Casey's. "I think it was absolutely perfect. I really do. And no, it definitely wasn't cheating, so get that out of your pretty little head, okay?" She felt Casey nod against her shoulder. "I love you so much. So, tell me something." Alex lifted her wife's chin so she could see those beautiful green eyes, "When do we get to see this little bean?"

"Our appointment is tomorrow," Casey watched as Alex's eyes went wide with excitement.

"TOMORROW!" Alex screamed.

"Mhm," Casey smiled. "Harper won't understand what is going on, but Charlotte definitely will. So I already have Emily coming over to watch the girls for a bit—told her we had our monthly meeting with Novak and Co. and said she could bring JJ over as well if she wanted that way she wouldn't miss out on any Friday time with her girlfriend. I don't think we should tell Charlotte until closer to her birthday, right around when we tell everyone else just like what we did with Harper around the 3-month mark. We could tell her a bit sooner, but just in case—I don't want her to get excited and then…"

Alex nodded, she didn't want to think about anything happening but there's always a possibility even in the healthiest of women; "I know babe—you're right. I think it's a great plan. Oh my gosh, Charlotte's fourth birthday, Harper's first birthday, a pregnancy announcement to our family and friends, and then our baby starts preschool. It feels like just yesterday I asked you to hold the elevator doors, and now we're laying in bed together celebrating our second wedding anniversary, we have two beautiful girls, and we're pregnant again."

"Dreams really do come true, Lex."

Alex was unable to resist the urge to place her hand on Casey's flat stomach—laying her head on her wife's chest; she traced random patterns before twisting to place another kiss on Casey's lips. "I love you, so much. I really can't believe you're pregnant!"

"We're pregnant, babe." Casey gently forced Alex's head back down only her chest and ran her fingers through her wife's long blonde hair knowing it relaxed her. She would truly do anything in the world for this woman laying on her, and carrying her child feels like such an honor. Alex is the kindest, most amazing, compassionate, fun loving, hardworking, truthful, accepting, brave, beautiful woman in the world and when she said she wanted for Casey to carry her baby, she jumped at the opportunity. Of course Casey made sure it was what Alex wanted first, because being pregnant is absolutely beautiful, but Alex was certain. She did not want to be pregnant, however, she did want to have a child that shared her genes, a little mini. Charlotte was a perfect mixture of both of them, Harper was all Casey, and Alex wanted that too—but she didn't want to be pregnant. She thought she did, but when Dr. Nickles let her and Charlotte hold the ultrasound wand over Casey's belly and see Harper, everything changed for her. Casey was stunning pregnant, and Dr. Nickles explained that Casey could carry Alex's baby—over her pregnancy with Harper, she kept thinking back to that. Watching Casey give birth just solidified everything—when she explained her feelings to Casey and her wife agreed, it was the best feeling.

"Happy Anniversary, Lex."

"Happy versar…" Alex said, drifting off to sleep, her hand now stilled under Casey's t-shirt at the top of her panties. Casey kissed the top of her head, and closed her eyes—her secret finally revealed. We're having another baby.


August 3rd

Casey and Alex were thrilled the weather was just right for Charlotte's 4th birthday party. It was the usual suspects, but this year, Charlotte had her sister as well which was great that she had a little playmate. She had made a few 'friends' in her playgroup that her mothers take her to every Friday, they even had the kids play with each other many times on the weekends over the course of playgroup. Casey was pleasantly surprised to learn that they lived nearby—Alex was thrilled to find out their girls were going into preschool this year as well Casey and Amelia were right, Charlotte wasn't the only one starting at 4. That thought alone made her feel much better.

Casey went a little overboard for Charlotte's birthday, a miniature bouncy house, extra pool toys that were rainbow just like her birthday theme yes, that's what she requested, even after given many, many other options, balloons, decorations everywhere, and Casey also had the party catered. She was now three months pregnant but this time, it was very different than her pregnancy with Harper. They had planned on telling everyone after their girls birthdays, but that plan went out the window after attending their 8 week ultrasound.


Flashback

"Hello ladies, are we ready?" Dr. Nickles asked.

Alex grabbed Casey's hand and nodded, she was beyond excited, "Yes, we are."

"I hardly slept last night, I'm so excited!" Alex finally spoke as she watched Dr. Nickles snap on her gloves, a big smile on her face.

"Okay, let's take a look here," the Dr. began the exam and the two women looked at the screen.

Once Casey heard the heartbeat she knew something was off, "No that's not right—the heartbeat is too fast."

Alex heard her wife speak and looked from the screen towards the redhead with wide eyes, "What do you mean?" then turned back to the doctor, "What is it? Is something wrong? Oh god!"

Casey pulled Alex closer to her, wrapping an arm around the blonde as she couldn't move off the exam table. "No, nothing is wrong—but Casey is correct," Dr. Nickles explained. "The heartbeat is faster because…there are two babies."

"Come again?" Alex asked and the doctor laughed.

"Twins? We're having twins?" Casey said putting the pieces together faster than Alex could comprehend.

Dr. Nickles smiled, "Congratulations mommies! You're having twins," she confirmed.

"Are you sure?" Alex asked, her knees threatening to buckle, not believing she was hearing both her wife and doctor correctly.

"Yes Alex, there are two babies, see?" She pointed to the screen to show the blonde. "I'll print you some pictures to take home."

"Case, babe there are two! As in TWO babies!" Alex said, her eyes still wide, completely stunned—she was still in shock.

"I've been here the whole time, Lex. Heard it all," Casey laughed at her wife's reaction.

"We're going to have four babies, under four!" Alex raised both her hands into her hair tugging slightly, clearly overwhelmed. Things seemed to be sinking in for the blonde now and she didn't know what to make of the information. Casey knew she needed to calm her wife down.

"Lex baby, you've got to breathe for me, everything is going to be okay," Casey soothed.

"Here are the pictures, Casey. I'll give you two some privacy," Dr. Nickles said quietly.

"Thank you so much, Dr. Nickles," she took the strip of photos and put them off to the side—once the door closed she swung her legs around not even bothered by the fact she wasn't wearing pants to comfort her wife. "Lex, baby breathe for me." She covered her belly with the towel Dr. Nickles provided her to make sure the gel didn't get everywhere and soothed the blonde. She wrapped her arms around her wife's body and rubbed her back.

"In and out, come on honey. Breathe for me baby." Alex's breathing finally settled and green bore into blue. "Everything is going to be okay babe. I promise. We knew multiples were always a possibility, and I for one, know it's going to be great. Two miniature Lexie's running around," Casey teased, getting a smile from her wife.

"I just—oh god I can't believe there's two. I'm sorry I panicked." Alex said, leaning forward to capture Casey's lips. When she pulled back she said, "I don't think I can wait to tell everyone now."

"I had a feeling you'd say that, and I have an idea," Casey winked, kissed her wife again.

They left the doctors office and went home to relieve Emily—then sat down to talk to Charlotte. Harper was still too young to understand. Casey sat Charlotte down in her lap, Harper in Alex's—but Casey wanted to hold the strawberry blonde so she could point to her stomach and remind her of the time she had Harper in her stomach. As soon as she said she had babies in her tummy, Charlotte lifted Casey's shirt up and looked. Both Casey and Alex laughed, it was the cutest reaction—Charlotte was the most adorable little girl, who placed butterfly kisses on her mothers tummy like she used to when Harper was growing inside too.

"The baby wike kisses momma?"

"Both of them do honey," Casey said, remind her there were two babies, and not one this time. Charlotte didn't quite understand there were two babies yet, but they were going to get her twin dollies that would help her with that.

"Wuv you momma. Fank you havin' me anova sista to pway wif." Charlotte wrapped her little arms around Casey's neck and snuggled into her arms and Casey couldn't help the tears from falling. Then she went over to Alex and said, "Wuv you too mommy." Casey winked at Alex knowing technically, the blonde was the one who was made these babies for Charlotte to play with, Casey was just cooking them.

Telling the Cabot's was a day to remember—Casey had already ordered shirts and was ready. The girls had white shirts big sister in black lettering, and the mothers white t-shirts that said something else. They went to Central Park hired the same photographer they had before, sat on the same blanket with sunflowers surrounding them both, and took beautiful pictures. Charlotte and Harper together, both girls smiling, green eyes sparkling bright in the sun, their big sister shirts on display proudly. Then they added the sign, big sister x2 and took more pictures. Alex and Casey joined in after that—Alex's shirt said My Bun and Casey's shirt said My Oven. The writing was across the chest, and Alex reached across to place her hand on Casey's stomach, as they each turned their faces to kiss each other while the girls looked up and smiled at their mothers kneeling above them kissing. It made for the cutest shot—definitely the one they would give their families to announce their pregnancy along with wearing the shirts they had on.

By the time the pictures were printed and framed, it was a week later—they were now wearing the same shirts and walking up to the Cabot residence. "Hi my little princess and my little peanut!" Alexander greeted.

"Grawmpa!" Charlotte shifted her body from Alex's arms into his and hugged him, he completely missed her shirt—then again, they were hoping he wouldn't notice right away anyways.

When they all sat down in the den, Liz came in with drinks and she looked at her daughter with her brow furrowed, Casey still had a snuggly Harper against her chest so things weren't obvious yet, "Lexie honey, what does, 'my bun' mean?"

By now Charlotte had pulled out her bucket of toys her grandparents kept for her and was completely preoccupied so Alex took out the picture they had for them. Casey flipped Harper around but didn't reveal the little one's shirt, or her own. "Here, this might give you and daddy a better understanding."

Alexander and Liz were both confused now, but unwrapped the tissue paper and gasped. That caught Charlotte's attention and she stood up from where she was sitting running up to them to look down at the picture too; then she looked up and saw her grandma crying. "No cwy grawma, it otay. Momma hava babies in her bewly!"

Casey and Alex exchanged a look not knowing if either of her parents caught onto the picture, or what Charlotte said. X2—Charlotte and Harper, X2—two babies which was the riddle of the sign.

Alexander lifted Charlotte into his lap, "You're going to be a big sister again, little princess!"

Liz looked across at the mothers and saw that Casey now moved her hand and Harper so her shirt was visible as well, "So you're carrying," Liz asked, looking at Casey but pointing to her daughter.

Casey knew exactly what she was asking, "Yes, I'm carrying Lex's babies."

"Babies?" Alexander asked, his jaw dropped open in shock.

"Babies?" Liz asked, the same time as her husband.

"I alweady telled you dat!" Charlotte exclaimed.

Casey and Alex burst out laughing, it's true, she did already did them. "Yes, we're having twins. Hence the X2 on the felt letter board," Alex laughed.

"OH MY—" Liz couldn't even finish her thought before her tears took over.

Alexander threw Charlotte up in the air her giggles filling the air, and Liz ran over to hug her daughter then was much more careful hugging Casey not just because she was pregnant with twins, but because she also had Harper in her arms. It seemed like no matter who they told after that, the reactions were always the same—'babies? As in more than one? And then excitement' Love all around.

End of Flashback


Like Charlotte's third birthday, she was being coddled all day by everyone. This year though, she wasn't as shy and she knew exactly what she wanted to do. She would round up whoever she wanted to play with, and bring them wherever she wanted to go. Right now, that was Uncle Johnathan, and the location was in her miniature pastel rainbow bounce castle. Charlotte didn't quite understand the fact that it was only for toddlers, but Johnathan said he'd be right there to watch her bounce super high and touch the clouds.

Alex was just laughing at him in the distance, then finally walked over to him, "So, when are you going to stop being a wuss and pop the question? Here I am giving mom and dad 2 more grandkids, and you're not even giving them a wedding."

"Wow Lexie," Johnathan scoffed, faking hurt. He knew she picked right now to talk to him because he couldn't pick a fight in front of his niece and her daughter—what kind of uncle would that make him?

"Mommy wook how high I jumpin'!"

"I see baby, I think you almost touched the clouds!" Alex played along, then looked back at her brother.

"Well, I don't want to take away from my nieces birthday but, I did buy a ring. I just, I don't know how to ya know—Casey gave you the perfect proposal. How am I supposed to do anything like that?"

"If my daughter wasn't right there I'd smack you in the face Johnathan," Alex said, rolling her eyes. "Casey made it perfect because she took what was special to us and added to it. Hell she could have asked me at McDonalds for all I care and it would have been perfect because all I truly need is her. Your love for each other is all that matters. Not what you do. Although, if you do propose at McDonalds I will kick your ass."

"I love you Lexie Lou," Johnathan said, hugging his sister and kissing the side of her head. "Thank you so much. I really needed to hear that."

"Untle Jomfin! You not watchin me!"

"Oh I'm so sorry, monkey. I'm watching you now. Jump again, let me see," Johnathan winked at his sister then focused his attention back on Charlotte.

Casey walked out of the house leaning over holding each of Harper's hands in her own—Harper had started to walk but Casey wasn't about to have the baby running off with all these people and the beach so close by. Yes, she'd easily be able to keep up, and anyone would be able to grab her but it was just as easy to hold her hands.

"MAMA!" Harper squealed, smiling brightly in the direction of Alex and Johnathan. The mothers had to explain to Charlotte that Harper couldn't say 'mommy' or 'momma' yet, and 'mama' was all she was able to say, besides 'bye-bye' or 'no', 'uh-oh', 'oh', but eventually Charlotte understood that her little sister would learn one day.

Alex turned around and smiled, not only did she see her little girl, but she had a great view of her wife who had on a V-neck and was leaning over to walk with Harper. You're at your daughters birthday party Alex—get your libido in check! But damn that cleavage. She shook her head of the thought and squatted down to the ground, signaling Casey could let go of Harper so she could run into her arms. Casey stood up straight and felt much better—this pregnancy was different in a lot of ways. She may only be three months pregnant, but she was already showing granted, after you have your first child you show faster and this time she's having twins, and the back pain has already started.

After speaking with Dr. Nickles and Dr. Molly the girls pediatrician Casey is no longer going to be breastfeeding Harper. It makes Casey sad, but it's for the best—after a full year of breastfeeding, that's a lot more than most. That being said, Harper's first birthday will be the last time she get's it from the source. Casey will continue to pump and keep her breastmilk stored as long as it doesn't hurt or cause discomfort in any way during her pregnancy, and if Harper needs it, they'll be plenty there. That thought brought her comfort.

"Hi little one," Alex said, kissing Harper's cheek.

Casey made her way over to her wife and gave her a kiss, "Hey beautiful, good conversation with your brother?"

"Very, I'll tell you later," Alex winked, and Casey knew it was most likely good news. She and Alex had been talking about the fact Johnathan was dragging his feet with proposing. Every week at Sunday dinner they were so happy together, and they couldn't figure out why he hadn't popped the question—so Casey knew Alex was going to give him a much needed push.

"MOMMA!" Charlotte screamed, seeing Casey standing there.

"Hi baby girl, are you almost ready for cake?"

"No I'm bouncin' weally high momma! See?" Charlotte said, lifting her arms in the air and jumping again.

"I do see baby, but if you don't come soon I think Auntie Addison might try and eat your cake…" Casey said in a sing song like voice.

Charlotte's jaw dropped open in disbelief as did Johnathan's, he couldn't believe Casey would use his girlfriend as the culprit in a house full of guests. "How wrude!" the strawberry blonde said, with her hands on her hips.

"Come on baby, let's go eat some rainbow cake," Casey walked closer to the bounce house and the little girl leapt into her arms, 'oomph' it's a good thing you're still so damn small Casey thought.

Just like the year before, Charlotte wanted absolutely nothing to do with the gifts everyone brought—and the mothers were very happy they didn't bring her what they got her. Alexander and Liz didn't bring her anything either (even though Alexander did sneak in a little gift for her because he couldn't bring nothing). They thanked everyone of course, Charlotte just wasn't interested—even after all this time with her mothers she wasn't the least bit interested with presents, at least not yet. That would most likely change when she gets older, but right now, she only cared about the cake. Charlotte had an amazing birthday, spending most of the day in her bouncy house and showing all her aunts and uncles her 'new tricks' and how she can 'touch the clouds': laugher and smiles filling the air all day long.

When they put the little girl to bed that night, Casey didn't want to get out of the rocking chair. The mothers loved that she let them still rock her—it wasn't a 'crutch' as they'd say by any means. Charlotte could easily lay down herself and fall asleep, but cuddling with her mothers always made her feel safe and secure. It was hard seeing your baby grow up, but at the same time, seeing how far she had come was absolutely amazing.

Casey swept a strand of strawberry blonde hair out of her face and couldn't help the tear that slipped down her face. Alex brushed it away, "I know babe," the blonde kissed her.

"She's just so little," Casey's voice cracked. "It's hard to believe she's already four—it feels like just yesterday we were bringing her home. She's come so far."

Alex ran her hand over Charlotte's cheek, "I know, honey. So far."


August 17th

Harper's first birthday party was underway, and Charlotte got to choose the theme: mermaids. Which was very fitting because they were back up at their house in the Hamptons, as was everyone else. Charlotte's only request was to have another bouncy house, because it was the 'mostest fun ever'. It was a simple request, and very easy to accomplish so of course Casey had one sent over to the house. Casey also ordered the cutest matching outfits for the girls; Harper's was a white onesie with a big 1 in purple on it, a blue seashell next to the 1—with a blue and purple tutu. She also had a matching headband and sparkle shoes as well. Charlotte had a white t-shirt with a purple and blue seashell on it, matching blue and purple tutu and bows, and sparkle shoes; they looked absolutely adorable. They mermaid decorations were purples and blues, with mostly the mermaid tail to keep it classy—along with a white bouncy house.

"Mama!" Harper smiled, she was currently in Abbie's arms as she had been passed around all day.

"Hi pretty girl," Casey smiled, taking the little girl from Abbie. "Are you almost ready to have some cake?"

"Hell ya I am!" Casey's eyes went wide with Abbie's admission, "I mean, heck ya I am! That was a mean word, Harps, don't ever say it Auntie Abbie said a no-no."

"No-no!" Harper repeated, shaking her head back and forth and snuggling into her mother. Casey rolled her eyes at her best friend, leave it to Abbie to swear in front of the baby.

"You're lucky she wasn't paying attention Abbie," Casey glared. "Come on peanut, let's go change your outfit we don't want to get this one all dirty."

"Case, she's a baby—that's what they do," Abbie countered.

"Wait until you and Serena have children. We'd like her to wear this again, and the frosting is deep rich colors—I'd rather be safe," Casey winked, then walked away. She knew Abbie didn't understand the struggles yet, but she would. Her and Serena were talking about having children, and once they did, they would understand—yes, most of the time frosting does come out, but on occasion, sometimes it doesn't.

Casey got Charlotte changed, then everyone gathered around. They put her highchair in front of the balloon wall that was set up—perfect for pictures, and set up the little cake they got her. They sang to her, Casey holding an excited Charlotte who couldn't be more happy for her sister—she truly was the best big sister in the world, and then Harper dug right in. The crowd erupted into a fit of laughter seeing Harper covered in frosting saying 'mmm' and kicking her little legs, offering her frosted covered fingers to her mothers and sister—Alex even brought out a spoon for Charlotte so she could have some too. They had an entire cake for everyone else, but the cake they got for Harper could easily be shared with her sister. Charlotte was so cute, instead of taking the spoon for herself, she took it from Alex and offered it to Harper making Casey's hormones go crazy—the redhead couldn't stop the tears from flowing. She's just too precious. Alex looked over at her wife and saw the tears but didn't want to draw any attention to it knowing everyone was still watching Harper dig into her cake.

Casey quickly wiped her tears, and placed a kiss on the top of Charlotte's head, "That was very sweet of you baby girl, you're such a great big sister."

Charlotte looked up at Casey and smiled, "Wuv you momma."

"I love you too baby."


That night Liz and Alexander were watching The Little Mermaid with Charlotte while Casey and Alex put Harper to bed, respectably so considering it was a mermaid themed birthday. 'Silly grawpa, we havta watch the wittle mewmaid,' Charlotte said when he was listing off possible movie options that night after bath time.

Alex knew her wife was struggling tonight, and didn't know how to help her; technically, it didn't have to be the last night, but it would be for the best because this is what they had been working up to for the last few months. Of course if it didn't work out, the option was there, but Casey had worked out a schedule and she was trying to stick to it. Alex was going to support her the best she could, no matter what.

She watched as Casey almost lifted her shirt in slow motion, it was as if she was trying to engrain the moment into memory forever: the last time she breastfeeds Charlotte—yes, the little one will still receive her breastmilk, but not from the source anymore after tonight. Next she unclipped her bra, and got the baby situated, Harper accepting her nipple right away. Alex sat down in the rocking chair with them like she always did but instead of rubbing Harper's little leg, she wrapped an arm around her wife. Alex couldn't describe the moment; she's never felt closer to anyone than she has to Casey, and then Charlotte came along—and at first the little girl took to Casey right away, but the next morning she was snuggled in her arms and she realized Charlotte was just as much hers as she was her wife's.

When Harper was born, Alex was worried the baby would connect more with Casey because she came from her—she grew inside her belly, ate from her breasts, would always want Casey no matter what, but that didn't happen. The only time thing Alex couldn't do for Harper was feed her because she didn't have the working parts for it until Casey started pumping—that being said, Casey offered right away to pump and Alex said 'no way'. Her wife was willing to give up breastfeeding just so she could be a part of the feeding process—but Alex wouldn't let her do that. Watching Casey breastfeed Harper was so beautiful; providing their daughter with the nutrients she needs to grow big and strong just like her momma, it was, Alex couldn't put it into words. And now, Alex would get to watch her wife do it all over again with two babies. Oh my god, how does that even work? Two at once? Or do they take turns? No, they have to be hungry at the same time right? I need to order a library of books so I can be the most informed parent in New York.

Alex's train of thought was broken when she saw Casey lean down to press a kiss to Harper's head, the baby was sound asleep. Damn how long was I lost in thought?

"I love you so much, little one. Happy 1st birthday," Casey pressed another kiss to her forehead, lingering just a bit longer than she normally would then looked over an Alex as a single tear slipped down her cheek.

Alex frowned and wiped it away quickly, kissing her, "Let's put her to bed, go put Charlotte to bed—then we can snuggle up together okay?" Casey just nodded. Alex stood up and took the baby, but not before Casey pressed another kiss to Harper's head.

"Goodnight peanut, happy birthday—I love you."


At 24 weeks pregnant, Casey's back pain was worse than ever. Alex was trying to soothe her, but there really wasn't much she could do and she when she told Casey she'd take the girls downstairs to play to let her wife rest, it didn't sit well with the redhead. Apparently the only thing keeping Casey somewhat distracted from the pain was the girls, so she started to cry. Charlotte seeing this, immediately gave Casey her elephant and told Alex she wasn't allowed to play with her until she told momma she was sorry—all of this before 7:30am was too much for the Novak household.

Alex took Harper off of their bed where all of them were still sitting, and told Casey she was going to go make everyone some breakfast. Today was Friday—not only that, but a special day for the grandparents. Casey scheduled a 4D ultrasound for not only the grandparents to get a sneak peak of their grandbabies, but for Charlotte and Harper to see as well. The girls have been to ultrasounds, but never a 4D one before, so this would be a very exciting experience for them. The genders would not be revealed though, only Alex and Casey know what they are having, and would keep it that way until the birth.

"Momma, you otay?" Charlotte questioned.

"Yes baby, I'm okay," Casey smiled. "Thank you for letting me snuggle with your elephant. But do you know what would make me feel even better?"

Charlotte cocked her head at Casey and asked, "What?"

"A great big hug from you."

The strawberry blonde collapsed into her mothers arms, her arms wrapped around her neck tightly, "I wuv you momma."

"I love you too, so much baby," Casey kissed the side of her head, and rubbed circles on her back. She felt Charlotte start to play with her necklace and smiled. To this day, the little girl still played with their necklaces—seeking comfort in that, while burying her neck in the crook of her mothers neck.

"Are you sad at mommy?" her face still buried in Casey's neck, body pressed against her mothers.

Casey was taken back by the question, "No honey, not at all. I started to cry because the babies are causing momma's back to hurt," shit how do I explain that Alex was reminding me the pain only get's worse, but it's completely worth it in the end. "Mommy didn't make my sad at all, I promise—she makes my back feel better—just like you and Harper do."

"And el'phant?" Charlotte asked, sitting up to look Casey in the eyes.

Casey smiled, "Yes sweetie, and you're elephant." Phew, dodged a bullet on that one. Casey thought to herself. Damn these hormones.

"Otay momma, me pomise to cuddle wif you," Charlotte laid back down on her mother, gently.

"Oh thank you so much baby. Are you super excited to see the babies today?" Casey rubbed Charlotte's back, loving how sweet her daughter was.

"Mhm!" Charlotte nodded. Her head was now between Casey's breasts, and her little hands were both on Casey's baby bump. "Hi babies. I gonna pway wif you when you big wike me. We can pway wif my toys and I pomise to share wif you."

Casey leaned down to press a kiss to the top of Charlotte's head, "You're the sweetest little girl, babe."

The next thing the two of them knew, Harper came bounding into the bedroom and Alex wasn't far behind carrying a tray of food. Harper's new favorite to do was climb the stairs, and although they had the baby gates in place, if one of the mothers opened them, she would climb up the stairs herself if she was given the option. "Breakfast in bed for my queen," Alex smiled, "and my two princesses," she said, lifting Harper up onto the bed. The little girl had been trying to get up onto the bed, but couldn't—she was still too small.

"Thanks, beautiful," Casey said. "Looks yummy."

Charlotte scowled, she was still holding a grudge because her mommy didn't say sorry to her momma yet. "Charlotte sweetie, what's wrong?" Alex questioned.

The little girl just crossed her arms and said nothing and she snuggled closer to Casey, "Baby, I told you—everything is okay." Casey whispered into Charlotte's ear. The little girl thought about what her mother was saying, but didn't seem satisfied.

"You needa say sowy to momma, you maked her cwy. That not nice," Charlotte continued to snuggle next to Casey while the redhead fed Harper some banana seeing she was eying the food and knowing she wouldn't wait.

The little girl was not backing down, and it was just too cute she was protecting her mother. Casey wrapped an arm around Charlotte kissing the side of her head, frowning apologetically at Alex conveying to her she wasn't actually upset at her. Alex scooted closer on the bed towards Casey to look her in the eyes, "I apologize for making you cry honey, I didn't mean to make you upset. I love you."

"I accept your apology, I love you too," Casey said, leaning forward to kiss her wife. They both looked at Charlotte who now had a huge smile on her face. After the apology was completed, she threw herself into Alex's arms and gave her a big kiss, "I wuv you mommy, and me sowy me taked el'phant away from you but me no wike momma bein' sad."

"It's okay baby," Alex looked at Casey who gave her a look 'we'll talk later' "I don't like when she's sad either sweet girl, but thank you for taking such good care of her while I made breakfast. Let's eat before Harper and momma eat it all." She noticed they had already started digging in.

Charlotte turned around and realized the same thing, and laughed then took a strawberry for herself—out of all the things on the tray of food, there's no doubt she'd pick a strawberry.


The appointment was after naptime—perfect for both the mothers knowing they would be well rested for the long morning they've had already. After Charlotte told Alex she had to apologize, and she did, things were back to normal in the Novak house. Besides Casey's constant back pain and the much larger belly, this pregnancy was very similar to Harper's. She was extremely horny, and very tired; morning sickness lasted for the first month for and an hour tops, settled by ginger ale and saltines—and Alex had been there every morning sitting with her on the bathroom floor to soothe her. The blonde was having a bit of trouble keeping up with her sex drive through, after four rounds in a row wanting to go another without a break, Alex thought she might die. The size of carrying two babies was impacting the positions Casey liked though, which was frustrating to the redhead—that being said, Alex made sure to please her wife thoroughly, no matter what. Who could complain with a beautiful horny pregnant wife? I mean, my god—look at her?

Alex pulled into the parking lot and saw her parents car, they weren't late, but her parents had gotten there super early: definitely excited. They had seen Harper's sonograms in picture form, but never attended one—so when Casey suggested inviting her parents, Alex didn't know what to say. At first she said, 'no it's okay', then Casey explained the reasoning behind it. 'Lex, if you decided to carry our child I know you would have invited them to our 4D. The room was designed for a family viewing, the projector is huge, exam table is in one corner and then there's the couch off to the side—and you would have them there. They have accepted me as their own, and I love them more than anything. Not only that, Lex, but I'm carrying your children.' After Casey's heartfelt speech, Alex and Casey invited them to the 4d appointment—they took the entire day off and talked about it everyday since.


Dr. Nickles greeted everyone and could sense the excitement of the grandparents—it was clearly a close knit family which made her smile. "Alright everyone, are we ready to get started?" the doctor questioned, but she was really looking at Casey who nodded as she applied the gel.

Alex ran her fingers through Casey's hair, Harper on her hip. Charlotte wanted to be as close as possible to Casey, sitting on the exam table holding Casey's hand as she leaned her body against Alex's. Liz and Alexander both had tears in their eyes as they sat on the couch, Liz in her husbands arms as they watched the 4D ultrasound. They could make out ten little fingers and toes for each baby, see facial features, but both babies had their legs closed. Not that they'd be able to find out the gender anyways because the women told them going in they wouldn't find out…but hey, you never know. It was just beautiful, not just making out the features of their unborn grandbabies but hearing Charlotte speak to her mothers, and seeing their daughters interact as a family. Yes, they it all the time, but it never gets old. It started as Alex and Casey, and that was absolutely amazing. Then they welcomed their beautiful little Charlotte to become a family of three—then little Harper makes them a family of four; and four now becomes six: wow…just, wow.