Chapter 7-Hank Gains Another Title
Summary: Hank's grandbaby finally makes a long-awaited arrival.
Special Note: I am not and never have been medically trained. Things depicted in this chapter will likely be inaccurate, but remember this is only one chapter in this story.
The holiday season seemed to pick up speed for the men of A shift all around Los Angeles County. As a result of scheduling, A shift had worked both Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, they were given both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day off. They also had the second off as a treat from the county. While many shift members were planning on relaxing and partying, the story was slightly different for Chief Stanley and his former crew members.
New Year's Eve day was a busy one at the Stanley house. The A shift family was gathering at Hank's home. He had graciously offered to host since Kim was clearly ready to pop at any second. Kim was doing her best to shake off the dull labor pains that had woken her from a good night's sleep at roughly ten.
Hank saw his beautiful daughter sitting on the deck. Kim had sent Jerry to the local donut place with a particular breakfast order. Hank walked outside with a glass of milk for her while he finished his coffee. "Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?"
Kim smiled warmly as she could feel another round of early labor coming. "Good morning dad, I did okay, you?"
"Trust me, after last night, even ten minutes felt like a dream. How are you feeling?"
Kim knew she couldn't lie. "Not the best, but I'm okay for now. I have some early labor pains but nothing to get too excited about yet. I am hoping to at least get through breakfast before the active part of things starts."
Hank finished the rest of his coffee. "I take it that's why you sent Jerry out."
"Exactly. The only thing that stinks is once active labor starts, I won't be able to eat anything I know everybody is bringing."
Hank smiled as he kissed his daughter's forehead. "Don't worry, honey. We'll make sure we make a plate just for you. I'll even mark it, so nobody gets any ideas."
Kim smiled warmly, "Thank you, daddy; you are the best."
Hank smiled and held the door open as the duo walked back inside. It was only a few minutes later when Jerry walked through the front door with breakfast. Luckily, Kim was able to enjoy everything. After breakfast, she spent time with Jerry in the baby's second nursery. Only the parents-to-be knew the baby's sex. They were excited to see everybody's reaction when the baby was born.
Lunch loomed a few hours later, but Kim was feeling more pain and not up to eating. The increase in her pain level had Hank staying by her side even more. The Chief was doing his best to balance the roles of grandpa-to-be and fire chief.
KMG 365
Kim went to lay down while the others ate. She had to convince her dad she would yell if she needed him before the Chief relented and joined the others. As lunch wrapped up, the doorbell rang. Hank went to answer it quickly, so it didn't wake Kim.
Hank smiled when he opened the door and saw Mike. "Good afternoon, Mike."
"Hi Hank," Mike smiled. His arms were full of his requested main dish contribution, his fried chicken.
"Come on in, Mike."
"How is everybody?"
"Kim doesn't feel too good, so she's laying down."
"Oh?" There was a note of concern in Mike's voice."
Hank closed the door as Mike walked in. The duo walked through the house as Hank smiled. "I don't want to get too far ahead of myself, but…."
Mike finished his sentence. "You may gain another title tonight…grandpa."
The grin that lit up Hank's face when Mike said grandpa could have made midnight look like midday. "That's what I'm thinking."
Mike exchanged greetings with Jamie and Jerry as he put the chicken in the fridge. As he enjoyed a cup of coffee, courtesy of Jamie, the new arrival could sense the nervous excitement that was steadily filling the house.
KMG 365
It was just after three-thirty when Kim woke up for her nap and screamed as her water broke. The yell sent everyone, including Mike running for the bedroom.
Kim caught her breath as the foursome ran into the room. "My…my water just broke."
Jerry spoke with love and warmth in his voice. "Sweetie, it's go time. Do you want to go to the hospital?"
"No, no, no hospitals. I want to be here in my old room." Kim whimpered as she started getting upset. Jerry crossed the room in a matter of strides.
"Baby, calm down. I know you want to be here; I want you to be safe."
Kim looked over at Hank. "Daddy, can Johnny and Roy still deliver babies?" There was an underlying sense of desperation in her voice.
Hank smiled, "Yes, they can, baby."
"C..can you get them here?" Kim was practically begging her dad to get her two favorite paramedics to the house. "I can call them right now. Remember, I have a separate line in here."
Hank smiled, "I know, baby. Can you do me a favor and call your doctor from here? I will call the guys from the living room?"
"Yes, dad," Kim said as she groaned. "Ok, this is not going to be a fun night if the early contractions feel like this."
Jerry started helping Kim through the contraction as both Mike and Hank timed the contractions. They were early, so they lasted longer than both men knew they would later.
Mike smiled at Hank. "I'll keep an eye on the time between the contractions."
"Thank you. Can you please help Jerry get her to her feet so Jamie can put the rubber sheet down?"
Mike nodded, "Got it."
Hank leaned over and kissed Kim. "I will be right back."
"O…okay Daddy." The contraction was over, but Kim was still nervous.
KMG 365
As Mike and Jerry helped Kim to her feet, Hank turned and ran out of the room. He ran into the living room and picked up the phone. He picked up the list of phone numbers next to the phone and quickly dialed Roy's number.
'I hope I get both of them in one call,' the anxious man thought.
The big fireman upstairs heeded Hank's plea after the second ring when Roy answered the phone. "Hello Desoto residence, this is Roy."
"Hi Roy, it's Hank." Hank couldn't keep the growing anxiety out of his voice.
Roy picked up on the anxiety and immediately turned on work mode. "Hi Hank, what's going on? Is everybody okay?"
"Yes…and…."
The former paramedic in Roy kicked in. "Did Kim's water break?"
"Like a flood. She woke up screaming from her nap and begged me to call you and Johnny. Is he…"
Roy cut Hank off. "He's standing next to me with his keys in his hand. We'll be out the door in ten seconds after we got off the phone."
"How long ago?"
"Just minutes before I called you."
"Do me a favor?"
"Yes?"
"Leave the front door unlocked and time her contractions."
"Will do. Mike is timing the contractions while she calls her doctor. She doesn't want to go to the hospital, but I wanted her to touch base with them."
"Thank you."
"I also had Mike and Jerry help her to her feet so Jamie can lay down the rubber sheet. What else can I do?"
"Time her contractions. Keep her as calm as possible."
"Will do."
"See you as soon as possible."
"Please be safe."
"Always," Roy said with a smile on his face.
Hank and Roy hung up.
KMG 365
Hank turned and headed back to the bedroom. As he approached the room, he took a deep breath and smiled. He knew he had to keep a good balance between being a fire chief and a nervous dad and grandpa-to-be.
That line was tested as he got to the doorway and heard his daughter having a heated conversation.
Hank stayed quiet as he heard Kim growl into the phone. "Look, lady, I have been on the phone waiting for somebody to pick up. All you had to do was tell me that Doctor York was already at Rampart. I don't care that it's New Year's Eve, my kid is going to be here at some point today, and I want to talk to my doctor even though I don't plan on going to the hospital."
Kim hung up the phone, angry. Jerry spoke before Hank could. "I take it; she was less than thrilled that we want to deliver at home."
"To say the very least. I heard every excuse in the book, from we shouldn't listen to what a paramedic knows about delivering kids. They are just glorified, ambulance drivers."
Hank and Mike both growled at the last comment. Kim continued. "Oh, believe me, guys, I won't tell them that waste of space's thoughts. However, I am not sure where my doctor is."
Hank asked, "Baby, what hospital does she work with?"
"Rampart."
Mike asked, "Do you still have the nurse's station's number by the phone?"
"For Dixie?" Hank asked as he picked up on his friend's thoughts.
"Yes."
"Yes."
Mike turned to Kim, "Kim, I'll go get a phone number for you to call." He turned and jogged out of the room.
"Thank you, Mike. Dad, are the guys…."
"Both of them were at Roy's house. They were heading out the door as soon as we got off the phone."
Kim started to calm down. "Thank you. I am so sorry I was getting upset when you came in."
"Don't be. She's just lucky I didn't take the phone from you."
Jamie smiled warmly. "That's putting it nicely."
Mike returned with the phone number in hand. "Here you go."
Hank took the number. "Thank you." He walked over and picked up the phone, and dialed the number.
Three rings later, a familiar and warm voice answered. "Good afternoon, Rampart General Hospital. This is nurse McCall."
"Hi Dixie, it's Hank Stanley." Hank smiled as he let out a quick breath.
"Hi Hank, is everything okay?" Dixie asked, concerned.
"My daughter is in early labor and wants to talk to her doctor. All we could get out of the less than friendly answering service is the doctor is already at the hospital."
"I can have the doctor paged for you," Dixie said with a smile in her voice. "Do you know the name?"
"York."
"Hang on." Dixie put Hank on a brief hold.
After just a couple of minutes, a new voice filled the Chief's ears. "Hello, this is Doctor York."
Hank smiled, "Hello Doctor York, my name is Hank Stanley. I am going to hand you over to my daughter Kim; she is one of your patients."
Doctor York's voice filled with excitement. "Yes, Sir."
Hank handed over the phone as Kim fought off another contraction before she spoke with her doctor. This conversation went a lot smoother than the one with the answering service.
KMG 365
At Roy's house, the blue-eyed man turned to Johnny, and the rest of the family gathered around him. He wore an ear-to-ear smile.
Johnny grinned as he asked, "It's time, isn't it?"
"Sure is, and Kim is asking for us."
Johnny grinned, "Let's go; we can't keep Kim waiting."
"Very true."
Johnny sobered, "It's good to know B shift is on duty if we need something."
"I called Dwyer this morning. He's at 51s tonight."
"Good to know."
The conversation was being held as the men, and their families ran out the door. Lauren and Joanne had the food. Jenny had her camera while Chris was closing the door to keep the group moving. The girls and Chris dove into the back of the Rover while Johnny and Roy dove for the front seat.
As was traditional, Roy was in the driver's seat with Johnny next to him. Johnny had the only kit they could put together without their paramedic certifications at his feet. The mood in the vehicle was tense but excited.
Johnny's voice was all work. "Did he say how long ago her water broke?"
"Just a few minutes before he called me."
"This is her first."
"Right. Mike is already there. He is helping Jerry walk her around and helping monitor the timing of the contractions."
"Good boy, Mike."
The truck went quiet again. Behind the two captains, their families were grinning ear-to-ear. This was a rare opportunity to see the duo work together. Ten minutes after they got off the phone, Roy pulled up into Hank's driveway. The Rover was the last vehicle that fit it in the driveway.
KMG 365
The engine was barely off when both men jumped out of the Rover. Their doors were barely closed when another car pulled up just to the left of the Stanleys mailbox. Inside the vehicle were Marco, Lucy, and Chet.
Marco spoke quickly. "Lucy, honey, stay here a minute."
"Yes, dear."
Marco shut the engine off. The two engineers both jumped out of the vehicle. They quickly made up the ground between them and Johnny and Roy, who had not stopped.
Marco asked quickly. "What's going on?"
Johnny spoke with a smile. "Kim's water broke."
"Finally." Chet grinned as the foursome reached the porch. They barely slowed as Roy opened the door and ran through it.
KMG 365
Behind them, Joanne and Lauren had their hands full, so Chris and Jenny helped Lucy bring several things inside.
Lucy was concerned. "Is everybody okay in there?"
Lauren smiled. "Kim's water broke. Hank called the guys because she wants them here."
"Chet and Marco just followed their captains into the house to assist."
"Exactly."
"It's going to be an amazing night. Jen, I am so glad you brought your camera."
The teenager smiled, "I am too. Something tells me we are going to have several memorable moments."
"You said it."
KMG 365
The sound of the men bounding through the front door made Mike and Hank smile in the bedroom. Hank gazed at Kim. "They're here, honey. I'll be right back."
"O…okay, daddy," Kim breathed heavily as she fought through another contraction.
Hank turned and ran out of the room. He looked down the hall and called out, "Boys, down here."
Roy and Johnny turned on their heels and headed down the hall. Chet and Marco followed to see if they could help. The girls and Chris took the rest of the food and drinks into the kitchen and set everything up.
Jenny looked over at her mom and smiled. "Mom, I'll be back."
Joanne knew what Jenny was going to do. "Jen, just make sure you stay out of their way."
The teenager smiled, "Yes, mom."
Jenny headed down toward the bedroom. As she promised, the teenager took up camp across the hall. She had her full camera bag with her and decided to use her mid-range lens to capture the precious moments across the hall.
As Jenny settled in, Lauren looked at Joanne with a slight pout on her face. "I am slightly jealous of her."
"Why?"
"I've never seen the guys work together. The day I got hurt, Johnny wasn't allowed to work on me."
Joanne smiled, "Well, let's go see if we can help them out."
"It's a tight room."
"We'll try."
Joanne and Lauren headed for the room where all the action was centered.
KMG 365
After letting Roy know the contractions were about fifteen minutes apart, Mike backed out of the room. It was getting tight. After a quick stop in the bathroom, Mike walked into the living room. He smiled as he joined Chet, Marco, and Chris.
Marco asked, "How are things going?"
Mike smiled, "Hank is nervous as all, but Kim is doing good. The guys are looking her over. Jerry, Lauren, and Jamie are keeping her calm."
"Good."
Chris swallowed nervously before he decided to take the opportunity to ask the trio a curious question. "Marco, Chet, Mike, can I talk to you?"
"Of course, mi Sobrino," Marco answered with a smile.
"When did you guys you wanted to be firefighters?"
Chet smiled, "Before I answer your question, can I ask you one?"
"Yes?"
"Why are you asking? I mean, I don't mind at all. I'm just asking."
Chris took a breath. "The last few weeks, I have been feeling like I am hitting a crossroads in my life. I know the last half of your junior year is important. It sets up your senior year and potentially what you do after high school."
Chet and Marco smiled as Chris kept going. "I mean, I love football, but I don't know if I am going to chase that after school."
"That makes sense," Marco commented. "To answer your question, I realized I wanted to be a firefighter when I was ten. My grandparents owned a little roadside food stand in Mexico." Marco swallowed, suddenly taken back in time by a painful and scary memory.
Chet was surprised to hear his best friend starting to tell a story he did not know. He reached out and laid a comforting hand on Marco's neck. "Take your time, my friend; there's no rush."
Mike quickly added. "We're here for you; there is no rush. Trust me, Kim isn't going to give birth any time soon."
Marco nodded as he took another breath before he continued the story. "From the time I could walk and understand instructions, I helped them in the kitchen every summer. When I was ten, I showed up to work and found the stand in flames. I didn't even think as I ran inside and rescued my grandparents. By the time I got both of them outside, the local firefighters had shown up. I watched in amazement as they worked hard to save the food stand. It was a favorite of theirs."
Marco took a breath; he dropped his head for a moment before he picked it up and finished the story. His voice was thick once he spoke again. "They weren't able to save the stand. I remember having tears in my eyes as I promised both of my grandparents I would do everything possible to keep other people from losing their businesses, homes, or lives. They made me promise I would come back here and do just that. I applied for the apartment on my eighteenth birthday."
Marco took another breath as he blinked back the memories and forced himself to come back to the present. He was surprised to see Mike, Chris, and Chet staring at him.
Chris swallowed hard as he said. "I never knew that."
Chet commented, "I didn't either."
Marco responded, "That's because until now, I've never wanted to go there. Yet, with the 51 family expanding tonight, I figured all bets were off."
"Thank you for telling me," Chet stood and hugged his best friend. Chris followed him with a hug before he sat back down.
Chris turned to Chet. "Okay, Uncle Chet, what's your story?"
Chet smiled, "Actually, my story Is short and simple. It'd be kind of like yours if you join the department."
"Oh?"
Chet grinned, "Yes. My brother followed our family into becoming firefighters. My brother is a member of the FDNY."
"Why did you come out here instead of staying in New York?"
"I wanted to get away and start my own story after I got home from the Army."
"That makes sense. Although if I follow this line of work, I would love to stay in this department."
"Oh, I don't blame you. I wasn't exactly welcome in my hometown when I came home, so I came here and started my life on the west coast."
"Wow, really, I never knew you had a brother." Chris nodded. He had had a few questions and conversations over the years with his father about Roy's time in the Army and the way things were when he returned, just months before Chris was born.
Mike smiled, "I guess it's my turn."
Chris smiled, "If you don't mind."
"Not at all. When I was growing up, I was torn about what to be when I grew up. I loved cooking, but a school presentation from a friend's dad put the idea of joining the fire department in my head. A close call during a cooking competition cemented my decision. I joined the department as soon as I was done with a quick stint in school."
Chet grinned, "We got the best of both worlds when you cooked at 51s."
Marco asked, "Does that help you at all, Chris?"
"A bit. I am going to make an appointment with my guidance counselor when we get back from Christmas break and then do some more research."
"That's a good idea. Let us know if we can answer any other questions for you."
"I will."
KMG 365
While Chris talked to Mike, Marco, and Chet, Johnny and Roy were back in their comfortable work pattern as they checked on Kim. Jerry hovered close by but was kept out of the way by Hank. For his part, the Chief felt a lot of relief watching the former paramedic duo work.
Jerry asked nervously, "Is she okay?"
Roy spoke in an understanding tone. As a dad of two, he knew the nerves that Jerry was feeling. "Easy Jerry, they are both just fine."
Kim asked, "Can I get up and move around?"
"If you feel up to it, yes, you can. However, there are two crucial things you need to keep in mind."
"Yes?"
"At this point, since your water broke, you cannot have anything to eat at this point. However, I would highly recommend water. We want to keep you hydrated."
Kim nodded, "I understand. Honestly, I haven't been hungry since after breakfast when the contractions started to pick up until my water broke."
"Okay. The other thing to keep in mind is now is not the time to hide your pain and discomfort. When the contractions start getting closer, you need to tell us."
"I…I won't have to go to the hospital, will I?"
"Ideally, no. If things start getting to a point beyond what Johnny and I can do now, we'll call a squad. They will be in touch with the hospital. The doctor may want to see you based on what's going on, but that's a bridge to cross later. We don't have to worry about it until we get there, okay?"
"O…Okay," Kim's voice was laced with nerves.
Jerry looked over at Johnny, who was between him and his wife. "Excuse me, Johnny."
The understanding man moved and let the couple embrace. Jerry's voice was calm and soothing. "Sweetheart, you call these guys the dream team, right?"
"Yes."
"Then lean on them and trust them. Everybody knows you don't want to go to the hospital. If anything, they may call a doctor, but that's about all."
Kim started to calm down. "Okay, honey. Can you help me up?"
Johnny and Jerry gently helped Kim to her feet. The couple kissed before Kim started to walk around. She smiled at Jamie. "Mom, can you call sissy for me?"
"Of course, honey."
Kim turned back to Johnny. "Johnny, is Lauren here?"
Lauren stepped into the room with an ear-to-ear grin. "Did you think I would be anywhere else?"
The duo walked toward each other as Kim teared up. Lauren rubbed her back gently. "Hey guys, can I have some time with my girl. I promise if we need you, I will let you know."
"Yes, honey," Hank said with a smile as he ushered everyone out of the room.
KMG 365
The group gathered in the living room where Jamie called Rosie and Jerry called his parents. The group also spent time relaxing or attempting to in Hank's case.
Roy walked up to the nervous man and smiled. "Cap, breathe, trust me. Kim is going to be one of the easier deliveries Johnny and I have been a part of."
Jerry heard the comment and became curious. "What do you mean, Roy?"
Johnny chuckled, "He means we've brought kids into situations that were shall we say, dangerous."
"Oh?'
"The worst one was the lady who gave birth in the middle of a massive wildfire."
Roy shuddered, "Oh yeah, that was a hair-raiser. We called the hospital from the lady's landline and had them in our ears when the little one made a screaming debut."
"We had just enough time to grab mom and baby after the delivery and run to get them out of the flames."
Jerry was stunned. "Seriously?"
Hank chuckled, "Seriously. I remember that one. The fire was not exactly behaving for us when that call came in."
Roy sobered, "Cap."
Hank took a breath; even now, his former title brought a sense of calm when one of HIS guys said it. "Yes?"
"We have a backup plan in place too."
"Oh?"
"I talked to Charlie Dwyer before I left this morning. He is on duty at 51s tonight with Bob Bellingham, who offered to make the shift so Tony could get married tonight."
Hank smiled, "I remembered seeing that time off request." He sobered, "Thank you, Roy."
Roy smiled, "You're welcome, my friend."
The group settled into wait. Used to missing meals while on duty, the firefighters decided to wait until Kim could eat with them before they would eat. The majority of the family members decided to do the same, except for a few light snacks.
KMG 365
After one of her many bathroom trips, Kim decided to see what everybody was doing. Kim smiled as she walked into the room, finding the crowd had grown by three with the addition of her sister and in-laws. She greeted the newcomers with hugs and kisses.
Lauren walked up to Johnny. "Hey, honey."
Johnny gave her a quick kiss. "Hey, sweetheart. How's our girl?"
"You may want to go make sure you have your kit in go status."
"Oh?" Johnny's tone change caught the ear of the firefighters who quickly gathered around the duo.
"Before her last bathroom trip, I was timing her contractions. She's down to just about two minutes apart."
As if to illustrate the timing, Kim was suddenly leaning heavily on Jerry during yet another contraction. Johnny timed the length and the time between the next. "Pally, let's go." Roy nodded. The simple sentence spoke volumes to the others. Roy and Johnny were just about out of the room when Kim's plea made them move that much faster.
KMG 365
Kim cried out, "J….Johnny, please, I need…." Kim stopped, cut off by another contraction.
The strangled cry sent the former paramedics into work mode.
Jerry's mom, Lissa, spoke with nervous energy. "Why aren't we on the way to the hospital?"
"Because she is delivering here," Jerry sputtered as the room sped up.
Jenny ran down the hall to take her photography post across the hall. Johnny said, "Hank, the footboard comes off, right?"
"It'll be off by the time you get her down there. Mike."
The quiet man nodded and followed Hank down the hall. On the way, they grabbed the two screwdrivers they needed for the quick job.
"Marco, I need the basin filled and put on that end table by the bed. The wash clothes are in it."
"You got it, Cap." Marco took off.
Johnny and Roy had crossed the room in seconds. The Irishman was behind Kim in two strides. Roy called out, "Chet!"
Johnny spoke gently but with a note of authority. "Kim, sit back."
"O…Okay." Kim said as she finished another contraction. "My legs are heavy anyway."
"I know they are my friend. We're going to get you through this, I promise."
Kim gently sat back and was quickly caught by the three firefighters. The trio moved her down the hall with practiced ease, much to the astonishment of Lissa and Greg. Jerry followed the foursome down the hall and into the bedroom.
KMG 365
In the room, Mike and Hank quickly removed the footboard of the bed. They also made sure the room was as clean and ready as it could be. They were to the left of the bed when Kim was carried into the room with her head buried into Jerry's shoulder, crying.
Jerry gently rubbed her back and slowly calmed her. "It's okay baby, I know it hurts, but it's almost done."
Johnny spoke. "Kim, we are going to move you to the bed. Jerry, can you make sure the heating pad is under the changing pad on the changing table? Please don't turn it on yet. I want to make sure it's ready."
"Okay."
Johnny nodded at Roy as they reached the bed. The simple gesture was followed by Kim half-laying, half-sitting in the bed.
Once Kim was in place, Roy smiled over at Jerry. "Daddy, are you catching?"
Jerry blushed, "I'll try, but I don't usually do good with blood."
"Hank, if needed…."
Hank smiled and finished the thought. "I'll catch the catcher. Now, which one of you is going to catch if he can't?"
Johnny smiled, "Last I checked, it's Roy's time to catch."
Roy grinned as he took off his shirt, revealing a dark blue t-shirt. Johnny helped him glove up for the examination. Johnny stood to the side, writing down information as Roy checked on Kim and the baby.
Roy smiled, "Good news Kim,"
"Yes," Kim panted through another contraction. They were getting closer.
"You are at nine centimeters."
"O…Only nine." Kim winced and whined.
Roy chuckled, "Yes, sweetie, but you are getting close."
As Roy spoke, Johnny started setting up the needed equipment. The others were gathered throughout the house, but most had an eye in the room. Johnny got a fresh set of vitals after getting everything set up.
KMG 365
Johnny smiled at Kim. "Kim, does your phone work?"
"Yes."
"Good."
Jerry spoke up, "Honey, can I get you anything?"
"A cold towel for my forehead and your hand."
Jamie spoke up, "I'll get the towel."
Johnny took another set of vitals and relayed the information to Roy.
Lauren groaned as he finished, "R..Roy."
Roy's head snapped around, recognizing the sound of distress. "Yes, Lauren?"
"C…can you recheck me? Suddenly, I feel like there's a lot of pressure."
"Sure."
Jamie came back in just as Roy smiled and rechecked Kim. A quick nod at Johnny and the younger man grinned as Jamie laid the cool cloth on Kim's forehead as Kim yelped again.
Roy poked his head up and grinned, "Kim, good news. You've reached ten centimeters, and the baby is crowning."
The mood in the house was a mix of excitement and nerves at Roy's announcement. Johnny grinned, reached over, and dialed a very familiar number, the one to the Rampart nurse's station.
"Hello, Rampart General Hospital. This is Nurse McCall," Dixie's warm voice soon filled the Captain's ears.
Johnny grinned, "Hi Dix, it's John Gage."
Dixie's smile filled her voice at the sound of her friend's voice. "I take it things are getting going at the Stanley house?"
"You know it. We're good so far, but…."
"We'll stay here. Can you get me a new set of vitals?"
"Stand by." Johnny nodded as he put the phone on his shoulder and got the vitals for mom and baby. He also handed Roy a few supplies that a simple nod had asked him for. Johnny picked the phone up and relayed the information.
Doctor Kelly Brackett responded to the information. "Sounds like you guys are ready to go over there. Let us know if we can do anything for you."
"Will do, Doc. Thanks."
KMG 365
Johnny put the phone down as he worked with Roy, much to the amazement of Jerry's parents, who were waiting in the hall.
Lissa looked at Mike, who was standing next to her. "How are they doing that without even talking to each other?"
Mike laughed. "They worked together for seven years and developed what is really like their own language."
A few steps from Mike, Marco, and Lucy were joined by Lauren, Joanne, and others in silent, comforting prayer for baby and mom. They were also praying for the skills of Roy, Johnny, and the crew from Rampart.
KMG 365
As Kim progressed with her pushing, Johnny rechecked the vitals. Everybody was still in excellent shape.
Roy looked up and smiled at Jerry. "Daddy, do you want to help deliver your precious bundle?"
Lauren stepped into the room. "Jerry, I've got Kim."
Jerry nervously walked up to where Roy was. Instinct took over as Hank walked closer to Jerry. Jamie and Johnny held Kim's legs while she grabbed Lauren's hand and cried out through another push.
Jerry swallowed hard as he looked down between his wife's legs. Suddenly, as she pushed again, the mix of fluids and blood started getting to the dad-to-be. He began to sway, and Hank reached out and grabbed him.
Johnny grabbed a few smelling salts and handed them to Hank. The older man smiled as he called out, "Chet!"
Suddenly, the Irishman appeared. Johnny handed him the smelling salts before he helped Hank get Jerry out of the room.
As they reached the hall, Hank called out, "Mike, call 51's."
Mike nodded and took off for the living room.
KMG 365
Kim looked over at Johnny as she caught her breath between pushes. 'Is…is Jerry okay?"
Johnny smiled, "He's fine, Kim; your dad and Chet are with him. Trust me; he is not the first I've seen pass out during birth."
"Why…why did he want Mike to call?"
"To check him out for you. He'll also want to have them on standby for you."
KMG 365
As Kim continued to push, Hank and Chet helped Jerry to the couch. Chris supplied them with a cool towel and some water for Jerry. He stayed with them in case they needed anything. Mike walked through the living room into the kitchen and dialed a number he had memorized years before.
Luck was on the Captain's side as Charlie Dwyer's voice filled his ear after the phone rang three times. "Good evening, Station 51. This is Paramedic/Firefighter Dwyer."
"Charlie, it's Mike Stoker."
The sound of his friend's voice had Dwyer's hands moving in seconds. He grabbed his notebook and wrote a quick message to his partner for the evening, Jack Ingram. Then he started taking notes.
"Roy told me about Kim Stanley. Is she in active labor?"
"She's pushing. Roy is going to catch the baby because the dad nearly passed out in Chief's arms. Dad is sitting on the living room couch. Kim is actively pushing."
"Do you know if they have set up an exam table for the baby when they arrive?"
"Johnny had dad, Jerry, help him set one up. There is a heating pad under the changing pad on the changing table."
"Good boys. Tell them Jack is calling in the still alarm now. We'll be out the door in seconds."
"Be safe."
"Always."
The line went dead as Charlie hung up. Mike jogged back into the living room.
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Hank looked up as Mike smiled. "They're on the way over now." He sobered up, "How are you doing, Jerry?"
Jerry blushed as he answered. "Embarrassed more than anything else, but I'm okay, Mike. Thanks for asking."
"You're welcome."
"Can you please check on Kim for me?"
"Of course." Mike turned and headed down the hall back toward the room.
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While things were happening in the front of the house, things were progressing quickly in the bedroom. Johnny and Roy continued to work together as Jamie and Lauren helped keep Kim as comfortable as possible.
Just minutes after Mike called 51s, the bright red Dodge truck pulled up. As the lights cut through the night and reflected into the house, Chet looked up. "I'll go help them."
Hank smiled, "Thanks, Chet."
As Chet ran toward the front door, Hank and Jerry, who was feeling better, headed back toward the bedroom. Both of their jaws dropped as they reentered the room.
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As Hank and Jerry reentered the bedroom, the baby's head and shoulders landed in Roy's arms. As they did, though, it was clear the umbilical cord was wrapped around the baby's neck. "Kim, don't push for a minute. Johnny, come here."
Johnny put the phone on speaker as the staff from Rampart continued to listen in.
"Wh..what's wrong?" Kim asked, her voice full of concern as she switched to short breaths.
"The cord is around the baby's neck. We'll have it off in a second." Roy spoke with a confidence and calmness that came from years of tricky deliveries.
Johnny was Roy's side in seconds as he slid on gloves. Johnny carefully removed the umbilical cord from around the baby's neck with a loving, practiced touch. The pulsing material fell harmlessly to the side.
Roy smiled, "Okay, Kim, are you ready for the big finale?" Kim grunted as he nodded. Roy smiled, "Just a couple of more pushes, and you and Jerry will be a family of three."
Johnny and Roy joined the others in the room in encouraging Kim during the final few pushes. Not long after the cord was removed from the neck, the brand new family member was in Roy's hands. Roy and Johnny worked together to fill the stressful few seconds between the arrival and the first cry.
Roy encouraged the baby to take a breath as the duo rubbed the baby with firmness. "Come on, baby girl, scream at me. Let me hear that voice that's gonna wrap your grandfather around your fingers."
After a few seconds, the newly arrived baby girl obliged Roy with a hearty, chesty scream. The scream brought a cheer and a loud sigh of relief for everyone in the room.
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The baby's scream filled Charlie, Chet, and Jack's ears as they entered the house.
Charlie grinned, "Seems like we missed the big event."
Chet grinned, "Sounds like it."
The trio made a quick trip through the house to the room. They smiled as they saw Roy lay the baby on Kim's chest.
Johnny looked up at the sound of footsteps and grinned. "Charlie, can we use your scissors to get this young lady to her mom for good?"
Charlie grinned and handed the requested item to Johnny. "Of course, boys. After you cut the cord, we'll need to call Rampart."
"They're on the phone; they've been listening to the whole thing."
With that announcement, Jack touched base with a very relieved and overjoyed Dixie McCall and Kelly Brackett.
Roy looked at Jerry. "Daddy, are you ready to cut the cord?"
"Yes," Jerry smiled.
Johnny and Roy helped Kim deliver the afterbirth while the exam was taking place. Roy helped Jerry cut the cord. Once the cord was cut, the yet named baby girl quickly met her mom and dad before Charlie whisked her off to give her a good once over. Both men couldn't help but feel a pang of slight disappointment that they couldn't do the exam.
From across the hall, Jenny made sure she kept her camera on the changing table. She had caught much of the proceedings in precious pictures.
After a few minutes, Charlie grinned as he looked over at Hank. "My friend, would you like to bring your granddaughter over to your daughter?"
Hank grinned, with tears of joy in his eyes, "It'll be my pleasure."
Jack smiled as he asked, "Dixie is asking if baby girl has a name?"
Jerry grinned at Kim, "Sweetie, do you want to tell them?"
"Only after Lauren sits down, these boys don't need any more work tonight."
Curious, Lauren quickly found a small stool at the foot of the bed. Johnny stood lovingly behind her to make sure she wouldn't fall. "Yes, sissy?" Lauren said with a smile.
Kim grinned with tears of joy in her eyes as she was finally able to spill the secret she had kept for months. "Ladies and gentlemen, meet Jessica Nicole Williams."
Lauren started to cry as Johnny wrapped his arms around her. The duo was thrilled to hear the name. Charlie smiled at the squirming infant in his arms. "Miss. Jessica, I'd like to introduce you to your grandfather, one of the most family-oriented men I've ever met, grandpa, Chief Hank."
Hank grinned as his eyes glistened during the handoff. He laid a gentle kiss on his granddaughter's head. "It's nice to meet you, sweet girl. Let me get you back to your mama. I promise I will hold you for quite a while later on."
Hank kissed Jessica again before handing her to a waiting Kim. Then he kissed his daughter. All of this was captured in photos by Jenny as the group started breaking up and moving back to the living room. They all knew they would turn with the precious baby in due time.
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Lauren took a few minutes to get over the shock of realizing she now shared her middle name with her niece. Johnny leaned down and kissed her deeply as he helped her to her feet. Roy hung up with Rampart.
A tired but happy Kim looked at the crowd in the room. "Guys, I say this with all my heart. I love you all, but please, can I have some time with just Jerry and our girl for now. Lauren, I need and will talk to you in a bit, but she is hungry right now."
Lauren smiled warmly, "The queen takes precedence, Jerry."
Kim smiled at Charlie and Jack. "Thank you for checking on her and putting quite a few minds at ease."
Charlie smiled warmly. "Our pleasure. Congratulations."
"Thank you."
"Roy, Johnny, to say thank you will never be enough."
Roy and Johnny grinned, "It says it all, Kim. We'll see you in a little bit."
As requested, the group left the new parents alone. Roy and Johnny had the equipment in hand for Jack and Charlie.
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Hank waited until the group was in the living room before he turned to Charlie and Jack. "Guys, thank you…."
Charlie cut his friend off with a hand on his shoulder. "Hank, it was our pleasure. Now you can relax and enjoy the next few days."
"They're going to fly."
"Make sure you take lots of pictures."
Roy spoke up, "My daughter is taking care of that part. At least for tonight, anyway."
"Good deal."
Johnny smiled, "Come on guys, we'll walk out with you."
"Thanks."
Johnny and Roy followed the paramedics out the door with the extra equipment. None of them realized several eyes were watching them inside.
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Johnny and Roy both sucked in a deep breath as Charlie opened the side compartments of the familiar squad.
Johnny's voice was a bit thick as he asked. "Charlie, do you still like the same layout you've always liked?"
"Yes," the senior paramedic answered.
Jack climbed in the passenger's seat as Roy and Johnny helped Charlie reload the squad. The former medics were slow in backing away from the vehicle as if they were letting it recharge them.
He laid a hand on each man's shoulder. "Boys, take your time. I knew it would hit when we showed up tonight, but hopefully, she gives you the strength that you always put into her."
Roy and Johnny closed and locked the doors slowly and tapped them lightly. Roy nodded as they heard Jack put the squad back in service. Seconds later, Charlie was back in the seat, and the all-too-brief reunion was done as the squad had a call.
Johnny's grin was tinged slightly with a pang of missing. "Damn, this is an amazing night, and yet it reminds me how much I miss that little truck."
Roy nodded as the duo turned and started back toward the house. "I know exactly what you mean, Junior. Thank you for letting me catch tonight."
Johnny smiled, "My pleasure, Pally, my pleasure."
The duo grinned as they headed back toward the house. There were just a few hours left in a life-changing year, and they looked forward to spending them with the expanded family.
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Hank watched the short exchange between the duo and the squad in the living room with a pang in his heart. He knew he was the reason the pair was away from their beloved truck. While he was grateful, their reaction to seeing it reminded him there was still a lot to do with the idea of the paramedic engine.
Lauren looked at Joanne as the guys turned around. "I never realized how connected to that squad they were until now. I mean, I knew it meant a lot to them, but wow."
Joanne nodded and swallowed hard. "I know what you mean, Lauren. You have to figure; though, they spent nearly as much time in that truck as they did at home the last seven years. It was where they talked, cried, screamed, celebrated, and worked tirelessly."
Mike smiled, "Not to mention caught a nap or two during nasty wildfires."
"They were so happy helping Kim, and I know that put her at ease."
Hank smiled, "Not to mention her nervous father."
Everybody chuckled as the mood lightened as Johnny and Roy walked back into the house.
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The rest of the night saw the group spend time together. Jerry's parents couldn't thank Roy and Johnny enough. After being fed, Jessica made her family debut and was loving passed around during the family meal. Smiles and cheers filled the house as midnight struck and the calendar turned to 1980. By the end of the night, Jenny had used several rolls of film, making sure she caught the special moments.