Baby stuff! Baby stuff! The chapter you (and I) have been waiting for! Ever since she was first introduced back in chapter 22, we finally get to meet her for real.
The story Alastor reads can be found here:
(I honestly am not sure if the story fits per say, but I honestly liked it and thought it was cute.)
I will note, that i went as far as watching actually live birth videos on YouTube to see what happens and what goes on when in labor. I myself have never been pregnant before so i wanted to make sure it was someone correct to some extent. So i tried my best to try and put all i learned and watched into this chapter.
Ch 65: Elena
(Heart's POV)
The trip we took to the bayou was very wonderful. Those four days out there were fun and enjoyable. Besides the times we enjoyed our intimacy, just being together was nice. Would be weird to think that soon it wouldn't be like that anymore. Either way we tried to keep our minds off things that we were worried about.
We spend time out on the porch a lot, usually in the morning. Alastor had his coffee and I just drank some tea. Was nice to relax in the cool morning air and listen to everything waking up. Wyatt even came to greet us, and the big gator would come up right to the door of the screened in porch and just relax there. The gator enjoyed our company for the mornings and then I didn't see him again throughout the day.
When our four days were up it was time to go back home and back to the real hellish world, as sad as that was. I know those few short days we stayed away would be a wonderful reminder. Plus, I am sure we won't get another vacation for a long while. At least alone.
The next month seemed to go by fast and soon I was in week 37 of my pregnancy and I will be honest, as much as I love being pregnant, I want it to be over. Not in a bad way of course. It's just gets harder when my pelvis is in constant pain when I walk. My feet had swollen so that didn't help with my walking either. Luckily Alastor was there to keep me company and help me out.
I started to not leave the house when I entered my ninth month. Not because I wanted to but because I had to. I physically had trouble moving. Our bed became my little nest of blankets and pillows. I had trouble sleeping and took naps when I needed to, I would always get these weird bursts of energy now and then. That got me moving. Literally the only time I went out was when I had to go see Dr. Talon.
Other than that, I stayed home. Alastor stayed home more often too. Cutting his broadcasts short some days. I knew he was just worried about me. He just didn't want to say. He left his shadow there to watch over me, even though Rufio was there. I knew he left it just in case for his own wellbeing. If something happened, then Alastor would know.
Lizzy also decided to come over a little more as well. Since I couldn't come to her, she came to me. Was nice to have those days with my sister. Mainly she was over when Alastor was away so that was another person to help if needed. The one day she was over I showed her the nursery and she thought it was so cute. Lizzy told me that she wanted to come over to help when the time came. I told her that was ok because I feel she deserved to be here during that time. She was my sister after all.
As I sat at home this evening, I sat in the study. Listening to the radio I had on while I was in the chair looking out the window. Rufio was laying on the couch asleep at the moment. I honestly wasn't feeling well today. That made Alastor worried, but I reassured my husband that I was fine and that he can go do a short broadcast today. He was honestly unsure about leaving but didn't want to argue so he left.
He left his shadow of course, which was currently curled up at my feet. I already ate dinner that Alastor made before he left, and I felt a wave of sleep start to come onto me. I gave a yawn. At least I was tired. Would be nice to actually sleep tonight instead of tossing around awake. Of course, sometimes someone didn't want me to sleep some nights. Already was being kept awake by the kid.
As to why I wasn't feeling well was because of the pain I was experiencing. I remember what my childbirth teacher taught me that I might have these 'practice contractions' that are called Braxton Hicks contractions. When I had them, I had to practice my breathing. They aren't real ones, but I have been experiencing them more and more frequently over the last two weeks. These ones today were a little more intense and sometimes left me out of breath. I could mainly be ok with the pain, but it just made me uncomfortable.
Part of me was wondering if they were real or not. It was hard to determine but I guess time would tell. Especially when I felt another one come forward while I sat there. I clenched my teeth together a moment and let out a small hiss of pain. I was more surprised by it then anything. My noises must have alerted Alastor's shadow because I saw lift from the floor and stand beside the chair to look at me.
"I'm ok. I'm ok." I was reassuring it. The shadow wasn't convinced as it got up into the chair with me and then draped itself over my shoulders. "At least your coldness helps my mussels."
I just heard it let out a hum in response. When the pain finally subsided, I tried to turn my attention back to the radio. Alastor was starting to read a story. It was how he closed out his later shows, so I sat back to listen.
"A very short story to close out today. I apologize for the shortness of tonight, but I have things that need to be taken care of back home. Dinner for one and two there is a little wolf in my home that needs attention."
I gave a laugh from Alastor's words. He knew what to say to tell me that he would be home soon. I continued to listen to the deer demon.
"The story today is short. It's honestly different from ones I have read before. Don't think I am going soft now my dear listeners, oh no, not for a moment. This is just a little request for tonight from a friend and I was happy to read this little story for them. I feel this can even be fitting for my dear old mother, some days I do miss her so. Plus, I feel it's a little fitting for some things that have been going on right now. Especially for that wolf I have back home."
I rolled my eyes. I can only imagine what he had in mind. This should be interesting.
I heard Alastor clear his throat before he started to read.
'Mother's Love by Temple Bailey
"Is this the long way?" asked the young mother as she set her foot on the path of life. And the Guide said:
"Yes, and the way is hard, and you will be old before you reach the end of it. But the end will be better than the beginning."
The young mother was happy, and she would not believe that anything could be better than these years. So she played with her children, she fed them and bathed them, taught them how to tie their shoes and ride a bike, and reminded them to feed the dog and do their homework and brush their teeth. The sun shone on them and the young mother cried,
"Nothing will ever be lovelier than this."
Then the nights came, and the storms, and the path was sometimes dark, and the children shook with fear and cold, and the mother drew them close and covered them with her arms. The children said,
"Mother, we are not afraid, for you are near, and no harm can come."
And the morning came, and there was a hill ahead, and the children climbed and grew weary, and the mother was weary. But at all times she said to the children,
"A little patience and we are there."
So the children climbed and as they climbed they learned to weather the storms. And with this, she gave them strength to face the world. Year after year she showed them compassion, understanding, hope, but most of all unconditional love. And when they reached the top they said,
"Mother, we could not have done it without you."
The days went on, and the weeks and the months and the years. The mother grew old and she became little and bent. But her children were tall and strong, and walked with courage. And the mother, when she lay down at night, looked up at the stars and said:
"This is a better day than the last, for my children have learned so much and are now passing these traits on to their children."
And when the way became rough for her, they lifted her, and gave her strength, just as she had given them hers. One day they came to a hill, and beyond the hill they could see a shining road and golden gates flung wide. And Mother said,
"I have reached the end of my journey. And now I know the end is better than the beginning, for my children can walk with dignity and pride, with their heads held high, and so can their children after them." And the children said,
"You will always walk with us, Mother, even when you have gone through the gates."
And they stood and watched her as she went on alone, and the gates closed after her. And they said,
"We cannot see her, but she is with us still." A mother is more than a memory. She is a living presence. Your Mother is always with you. She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street, she's the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick and perfume that she wore, she's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well, she's your breath in the air on a cold winters day.
She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a rainbow, she is your birthday morning. Your Mother lives inside your laughter. And she's crystallized in every tear drop.
A mother shows through in every emotion - happiness, sadness, fear, jealousy, love, hate, anger, helplessness, excitement, joy, sorrow - and all the while hoping and praying you will only know the good feelings in life.
She's the place you came from, your first home, and she's the map you follow with every step you take. She's your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy, but nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, not space - not even death!'
I would be lying if I said I didn't cry from that, "Oh Al." I whispered.
It was so sweet, and he knew that I have been having my worries about stuff lately just as much as he has. I've noticed him drinking a glass of whisky once and a while for these last few weeks. It was just one and it was probably just to calm his nerves.
"Definitely a beautiful story, indeed! Again it was just a short one today. A little different but do not worry. Things will be back to normal next time!" Alastor gave a big and evil sounding laugh. "Until next time darlings, The Radio Demon is signing off. Au revoir!"
I heard music start up and it was a song Alastor always liked to play for me when he ended off. I knew he would be leaving the station and be on his way back home now. The music went until he came back on.
I sat there and let the song play on and as I did, I felt sleep wanting to take over. I tried to stay awake so that I could greet Alastor when he got home, but that was becoming difficult. Alastor's shadow noticed my having trouble staying awake. It put one of its hands on my face. I looked over to it and gave a smile. At least it would help a little bit with the coldness.
While I sat there and waited, I then felt the baby waking up again. I only knew because of the strong kick to my side. Oh man. Not now. Now I won't be able to get to sleep. I let out a sigh and just placed a hand on my stomach.
I started to just rub it unconsciously. "You really don't want me sleeping do you?" I felt a kick to my hand and just let out a chuckle. "This will be all worth it in the end. I wouldn't change the time I had like this for anything. Was truly an experience. I know I'm excited to finally meet you in person and not in a dream." I then laughed a little. "Who says dreams don't come true right?"
The only response I was given was from her when she gave a soft kick against my hand. I smiled so wide from that.
Soon I saw Alastor walking down the road to the house, I knew he wouldn't be too long. The station was only down the street. His shadow even perked up and looked out the window as well. When Alastor got closer to the house he looked up and saw me in the window. I gave him a small wave. It made him smile in return.
He entered the house and I heard him on the steps. That got Rufio's attention as he put his head up from the couch. He let out a small growl. I told him to stop and that it was only Alastor. The hound did as told but kept an eye on the door to the study. Soon the door opened, and I saw the deer demon poke his head in. His shadow got off my shoulders and returned to the feet of its master. I was already missing the coldness on my back.
He walked over to me, "How are you feeling dearest? Any better?" Alastor asked.
I let out a sigh and shook my head. "About the same really. Now someone is up, and I know I won't be able to sleep."
"I was about to say, I'm surprised to see you awake." Alastor pointed out. He got to me and leaned down to place a small kiss on my head.
"Sleep was in my horizon, but that got thrown out the window." I told him.
His smile lessened a moment, "Do you want to get up? I'm sure you are starting to get uncomfortable in the chair?" Alastor asked me.
"Yes please." I quickly answered, putting my arms out.
Alastor went and grabbed my hands and managed to help pull me out of the chair. He wrapped his arms around me to hold onto me a moment until I found balance. Once I did, he left his hands on my sides.
"Man that feels better. My pelvis is really hurting." I breathed out.
"Are you going to be ok?" Alastor made sure.
Nodding, I said, "I'll be fine. I'm going to lay down in bed for now. See if I can get to sleep."
"If you're sure then I'll help you if you need it."
"Thanks Al."
Walking out of the study I headed down the hall to the bedroom and walked inside. Alastor was behind me just in case and Rufio was behind him. When we got through the doorway, the hound ran over to his bed and laid down. He watched us as we crossed the room and I eventually sat myself down on the bed.
"You want to get out of your dress?" Alastor wondered.
"Yea, probably would be best if I did." I answered.
"Need help getting that one off?" Alastor asked.
"I can do it. I just have to slip it off." I pointed to the end of the bed. "Can you grab that big shirt I was wearing last night."
Alastor reached and grabbed the shirt I had sitting on the end of the bed. I managed to stand up and slip off my dress I had on. It was stretchy so I was able to get it around myself and let it fall to the floor. I, unfortunately, had to keep my bra on since I didn't want to ruin the bed with my breasts starting to get ready for the baby as well. That was weird when that started to happen. Anyway, I went to reach for the shirt Alastor held out to me and he pulled it away from my reach a moment.
"Al, come on." I groaned.
He just had a smirk on his face, "Can't I admire you for a few more moments?"
A blush came onto my face and I covered it with my one hand while I wrapped the other around myself. Alastor chuckled. He reached over to take my hand away from my face and then placed a kiss upon it. He let go of my hand and then handed my shirt back out to me.
Taking the shirt I shook my head then put it on. "Hope you enjoyed the peep show?"
Alastor let out a small radio chuckle. "Was very wonderful. Don't know when I'll get more like it though."
"Ah, so you get them while you can huh?" I joked.
"Perhaps." Alastor took my ear between his fingers. "Now lay down love. Try to sleep."
Relaxing against the touch I let out a small sigh of relief. "Hopefully. Think you can do me a favor?"
"Anything my wolf." Alastor said softly.
"Can you play the violin for me?" I asked as I looked up at him with pleading eyes. "It's been awhile since you've played for me. It always was good at putting me to sleep."
"Aw now when you give me a look like that, how can I say no?" Alastor smiled and kissed my head.
Alastor stepped away from me and I managed to get into bed and lay on my side, facing him so that I could see. The deer demon snapped his fingers and his violin appeared in his hands.
"I'll play one song. Who knows, maybe the fawn will like it too and put her to sleep for you."
"That would be fantastic." I wagged my tail.
Alastor tested his strings a moment to make sure they were in tune before he put the bow to them and slowly started to play a song.
(You can imagine him play a cover of I Will Always Love You, but just the violin nothing else)
As soon as he started playing, I was relaxed and closed my eyes to see if it helped ease me into my sleep. I felt the baby moving but they were less sporadic and seemed to be calming. Maybe it did do well for her as well.
Either way, it was nice to just feel her kicks lessen and slow down. Eventually they stopped and I was also soon at that stage where I was going to sleep. With everything relaxed I was just listening to the song and my tail wagged a little. It's been so long since I heard him play so it was a relief to me as well.
When he was finished, I was almost asleep but still conscious enough to hear. I was just on the edge of sleep. I heard Alastor walk up to me and place a kiss on my temple. He whispered goodnight to me, and I then felt him placing his hand on my stomach. He rubbed it for a moment until he removed his hand. I heard his heels cross the room and leave, the door closing softly.
Eventually with the quiet now, it was just enough to push me into the darkness of sleep. Finally. I hoped I could get a good night's sleep tonight.
I didn't know how wrong I could be.
When I opened my eyes next it was because I felt a slight bit of pain across my abdomen. I blinked open my eyes and looked at the clock at the bedside. It was almost 4:30 am, not the time I would like to be up at all. I looked over my shoulder to see Alastor still asleep, he was laying on his stomach with his head away from me.
Sitting up in bed I felt the pain again but at the same time, I felt a wetness between my legs.
Oh shit.
Pulling back the cover a little, I noticed a small wet spot on the bed. I tried to not be alarmed about anything or wake Alastor, so I headed into the bathroom. I sat on the toilet just in case, but I had a feeling I already knew what was happening.
My water had broken.
I was honestly scared. I wasn't expecting this to happen. Not yet anyway. It was early. Only by a few weeks but still, I wasn't planning for this. Then it made sense about the pain I was feeling yesterday evening. It was my body getting ready for this. Signs of early labor. I groaned as I put my face in my hands as I sat there still.
Keep calm and don't rush, I had to remember. It honestly made me glad I decided to give birth at home, I didn't have to go anywhere. With my water breaking that just means things were going to speed up now. Things were going to come very fast. I had to call Dr. Talon. I had to let him know what was going on. I don't know if he wanted me to, but I'll write in my journal for him as well.
As I sat there, I felt another wave of pain hit me. It was a little stronger than the one I felt in bed. I made sure I took a deep breath in, reminding myself that I was ready and that I was well prepared. Even with my water breaking I still felt fine. I must still have been in early labor because the contractions were still far apart, and I was still able to function without much pain.
I felt her give me a good kick to the side. "You aren't helping me with the pain kid." I whispered. Even so I knew that her moving around was still a good sign.
Finally I stood up and went back into the bedroom to grab my phone. Rufio noticed me and got up, giving a stretch, and followed me. Trying to be quiet, I walked out of the bedroom and down the stairs. I went to the back door and Rufio went out while I sat on the porch swing to call Dr. Talon.
Once I got a hold of him, I apologized for waking him up early first before telling him about my water breaking not that long ago. He just informed me to relax for the time being and call back when my contractions got closer together and the pain was getting stronger to the point where I couldn't talk and had to focus on breathing. After that he can get everything together and head over to the house.
When I was done with the scientist, I sent a text message to Lizzy. I would call her, but I knew she would be asleep, and she was not happy when she woke up. I figured she'll wake up and see the message. I wanted her to come over and be here, but for the time being I had to do what I had to. I sat there and just felt the baby moving around a lot, it was probably getting uncomfortable in there. It just didn't help when she did it when I was in pain. I had to remember to make sure I could feel her though. As long as she was moving it was ok.
All done on the phone and Rufio back up onto the porch, I headed back inside. I wanted to see if I could get any more sleep. I knew I would need my rest today so I'm hoping I could get another hour or two in. When I got back into the bedroom, Alastor was still asleep. I grabbed a small towel from the bathroom and put it on the wet spot in bed and got back in. When I did that seemed to stir Alastor a moment as he shifted his head to the other side.
I saw him open his one eye a little, "You ok dear?" I heard him ask sleepily.
As I settled back into bed I said, "I'm fine, don't worry. Just had to let Rufio out. Go back to sleep."
Alastor yawned and closed his eye and I heard his breathing go even again. I laid on my side and closed my eyes, hoping to get a little more sleep. Of course while I laid there, I felt another contraction hit so I tried to stay calm. Once it passed, I tried to relax and sleep. I managed to slip off into the darkness of sleep.
Sleeping wasn't going to be my friend today, I kept waking up. I maybe got in another hour, but I knew it wouldn't be much. I gave up and just sat up in bed. I looked over at the clock, 6:20 am. I mentally groaned. This was going to be a long day. As I sat there another contraction hit me, so I sat there and tried to breathe it out until if passed.
I got up and decided that I should try and have something to eat before I wouldn't be able to. I grabbed my notebook and headed downstairs, Rufio in tow. I grabbed some cereal then sat down at the table. Rufio sat next to me and put his head on my thigh.
Looking down at him and went to pet his head. "Be a good boy Rufio. A lot of stuff is going to happen today."
Rufio looked at me with a tilt of his head.
Chuckling, I said, "I know it's confusing, but you'll have to protect more than me after today."
The hound just looked at me still, but he was enjoying the pets.
As I sat there, I wrote in my notebook stuff that was happening and at what time. At least this way I could keep track of my contractions. I also did a pain scale for myself, one to ten. Today was going to be long and very strenuous.
Writing in my notebook I noticed that they were about 8 minutes apart and only lasted a minute. It would be no time that it would start to get closer together. They were starting to get stronger, but I was only rating my pain at three or four. I remember my childbirth teacher telling me that since it was my first time that things will last a little longer. As for how long we didn't know. Could last a whole day, which is what I didn't want.
I wanted to be finally done being pregnant. As much as I loved it, I was over it in this last month. Although I knew it would be worth it in the end. I can finally meet my daughter after all this time, and I couldn't be happier because of it. This was such another life changing event, for both of us. I couldn't wait for it all to come together.
Soon my phone started to ring, and I noticed it was Lizzy, so I quickly answered it. "Hello?"
Lizzy started to sound frantic over the phone. "Heart! Oh my god, are you ok!?" I took my phone away from my ear for a moment. "I just looked at your text! What's going on!? Please tell me things are ok! How are you feeling!?"
"Lizzy calm down! I'm fine." I quickly reassured her. "I'm just having early labor contractions. It's nothing to worry about right now." I explained.
"Are you sure? I can come over now. I can be there in like no time flat. I want to be there for you sis." Lizzy said, but she did sound a little calmer.
"Well, can you not freak out while you're here?"
"I promise! I promise I won't. I can even bring Kota with me."
"You don't have to come over right now Lizzy."
"I have to! Otherwise I'll just be a mess all day being worried."
"Alright, well just send me a text when you're almost here ok?"
"Sounds good. See you soon!"
Lizzy hung up the phone and I gave a sigh. I felt another contraction hit and this was way bigger than the last. I put my head in my hands as my elbows rested on the table. I tried to take deep calming breaths until it would pass.
I jumped in surprise when I felt a hand on my back. Looking over my shoulder I saw Alastor. I saw that look of concern on his face.
"Darling, why didn't you wake me up if you were having contractions?" Alastor asked softly.
"I wanted you to get your sleep." I said as I let out a breath.
"Dear you know that I can live without sleep for a while." He reminded me.
"I know, but I felt bad waking you up." I told him. "Lizzy is going to be coming over soon."
"Did you tell Dr. Talon what was going on?"
Nodding I answered, "Yes I told him when I woke up the first time. My water broke but I haven't had anything crazy yet. The contractions have just been mild so I'm not in active labor just yet."
"Yet."
I sighed. Then wrote the last contraction down in my notebook. Six minutes apart now. This was all becoming scarier. Alastor took his hand and rubbed up and down my back.
"You want to go back up into bed sweetheart?"
"Not yet, I think I'm going to go and sit on the couch for a little bit."
"Well come on then."
Alastor helped me up and sat me down on the couch. He sat next to me and held my hand the whole time. He was just waking up and I think the realization of me going into labor were starting to hit him. I knew that he was starting to become worried, but he tried his best to stay calm. There was just silence between us at first.
Alastor finally decided to break it, "So...this is it huh? We might be getting to meet our fawn today?"
Letting out a breath, I nodded, "I guess so. We've been waiting for this day and now that it's here it's kind of scary."
"A little bit, yea. We can get through it." Alastor squeezed my hand.
Putting my ears down for a moment, I said, "I'm just afraid of what might happen."
"Nothing will happen dear. Don't worry. Keep your mind off that stuff. Just think of the result."
"I'm honestly excited to meet her. In person I mean."
"And not in a dream." Alastor chuckled.
That made me chuckle to, "Hehe, yea very true." I looked up at him, "Weird to think of a dream coming true right?"
Alastor smiled, "Some dreams can come true if you try hard enough." He leaned down to kiss my forehead.
"I love you Al."
"I love you too. We can do this. You can do this."
I gave a nod of confidence. I gripped onto his hand as another contraction hit me. They were getting stronger now. I honestly didn't know how much I could take from it. I would try though.
Another hour went by and I soon was feeling more of the pain. It was starting to be bad. I stopped really focusing on things. My mind just on the pain and trying to control my breathing. This was going a little faster now.
Lizzy finally showed up and when she saw me in pain during a contraction, she held my other hand for me. Reassuring me that it's all going to be ok. Kota even had a worried look on his face. She was here now, that's what mattered.
Soon everything was starting to be three minutes apart and it was getting stronger with pain. When one hit, I lost all of what I was doing and let out a groan from the pain. I felt it was time to call Dr. Talon. I think he needed to be here. Calling him was hard as I tried to stay on the phone with him as I was hit with another contraction.
All he said was to keep control of my breathing and he would be there soon. He had to inform the other doctor what was going on. Once they had everything they would be over soon. He told me to stay relaxed. Massages would help me as well as making sure I was changing positions every so often. I was most likely going into active labor now.
When I got off the phone it was hitting me that this was happening and that I felt ready to do this but I'm not. I started having doubts and stuff. I was getting scared and worried. Thankfully Alastor and Lizzy both were there to keep me calm. Eventually I moved from the couch and wanted to get back into bed. Alastor fixed up all the pillows so I could sit up if I needed to. Mainly I kept my shirt on that I had but I might lose it at some point later on.
Once I was all comfortable in bed. The contractions were really hitting me hard now. They got very painful and I was starting to lose concentration on my breathing. I wanted to breathe fast and I couldn't do that. It was just ridiculous the amount of pain I was having now. Plus they were still three minutes apart so I tried to sit back and relax after each one if I could.
Alastor sat by me on the bed while Lizzy had a chair pulled up beside the bed. I felt like I was going to really hurt Alastor by squeezing his hand, but he assured me that he was fine. The pain was starting to become intense as I started to groan from the pain. I clenched my teeth together, gripped the sheets under me and I even let out a scream for one. That kind of made everyone worry.
Finally Dr. Talon had arrived at the house and of course, brought some company along with him. Besides the other doctor, Charlie and Vaggie were with him and they wanted to come be here for this. I was honestly happy to see them. Dr. Talon introduced his friend he brought, Dr. Hill who was a small male Imp. Once we all said our hellos to each other and got questions out of the way. The doctors kicked everyone out. All except Alastor who I begged to stay with me. They just wanted to check me over, everyone would be back in when they were done.
Luckily, they took Rufio because the hound was starting to become wild with every time I had a contraction. He was just confused on what was going on. He saw I was in pain but didn't know by what or who.
Alastor actually growled in annoyance when the doctors had to go down below to check on me, but I slapped him on the arm and told him to behave. How else was I going to have this baby? He had to get over himself for just today. Just because they were poking at me down there didn't mean anything. When they were done, they told me I was only halfway there and I mentally groaned. That kind of tipped me over the edge hearing that. The doctors left to give us some alone time for the moment and get the others who went downstairs.
I don't know how much more pain I could take. I could try and bear with it as much as I could. I was getting so emotional now when another contraction hit, and I honestly couldn't hold myself back. My whole sense of what was going on out the window as I took deep breaths of air and wasn't doing them correctly. I almost felt like I was going to hyperventilate.
Alastor got worried and tried to help. "Heart calm down. You're not doing your breathing right."
Tears fell down my face now and I gripped on to his shirt, "I can't do it Al. I can't. I can't."
"Yes you can." Alastor grabbed my other hand and held onto it. "You can get past this. Try not to worry about the pain. You need to focus."
"It's too much. I don't know. I can't." I breathed out.
"You want the epidural?" Alastor asked.
I nodded as I cried.
"Are you sure?" He made sure.
"I just want to sleep. I want to rest. I feel so stressed. I can't do it anymore." I continued to cry and just wrapped my arms around him.
Alastor held onto me a moment and I felt him kiss my ear. "Calm down, my love. Everything will be ok." He whispered to me. He was just trying to keep me calm but he was having such a hard time because I was giving him a hard time.
Alastor put a hand to the back of my head and softly started to pet me. He ran his hand down my back and would rub it as he went. I wasn't lying though. All this pain was getting to me. I was getting exhausted already. I knew I needed all my strength, but I wanted to rest. Was bad enough that I couldn't get a good night's sleep before this all started. I honestly think I was just being cranky.
"Well the doctors are downstairs. I need to go get them for you."
"No! No! No. Please. Al, please! Please just stay here. Stay with me. Don't leave." My grip on him tightened and I felt that maybe I would crush the skinny deer demon. I felt another contraction hit and I screamed softly into his shirt. My tears fell again as the wave of pain hit me for the next minute.
Once it passed, I managed to finally catch my breath and I felt the wave of exhaustion hit me. I knew it wouldn't last though. I looked up at Alastor with a sniff. "I'm sorry Al. I don't mean to cause you a problem."
"It's ok darling. I know your emotions are all over the place right now." He put his one hand on my cheek and wiped away some tears, "I'll send my shadow to go get them. Don't worry. I won't leave you."
Leaning into his touch I gave out a small sigh of relief.
"Usually I like to see demons in pain, but not you my dear. Not like this or when it does this to you."
"I know Al. I'll be ok. At least I hope so. It will pass."
As he said, he sent his shadow to go get Dr. Hill and he was happy to do my epidural for me. Besides the pain in my back at first when he put it in. It felt like a relief off my shoulders. When the medicine finally started to kick in it was weird to not feel my legs anymore, but it was to help me, so I was glad. When I didn't feel the pain anymore, I was finally able to sleep. Alastor helped me lay down on my side in bed and relax. Even if it were for a little bit, I could finally shut my eyes without much worry.
While I was out asleep, Alastor managed to slip out of the room and see everyone that came. I was honestly glad to see everyone. He didn't stay away to long because he didn't know when I'd wake up from my nap. Luckily, I was able to shut my eyes for an hour and I did feel a little better after that.
When I woke up the doctors checked me again and they said that I hopefully had another hour or two to go and I was relieved of that. At least me not feeling the pain helped. Everyone came up to see me and make sure how I was doing. It was nice to see Charlie and Vaggie again. It had been a short time since I locked myself up in my house. Just hated they had to see me as a sweaty and crazy mess. They didn't mind though.
Lizzy stayed with me while Alastor took a break. I'm sure I was driving him up a wall. Since the pain wasn't really blinding me, I was ok for him to go. Even so, I knew it wouldn't be long before I wanted him to come back. Lizzy distracted me from things and made the time go a little faster.
What I was hating was the shakes I started to experience. That was something I didn't know would happen. When Lizzy was around, she asked Dr. Talon about it and he told us that it was just my body reacting to the labor. Something that usually gets left out and it sucks. It was hard to get through them but luckily, they only lasted for about an hour. If anything they were just now and then instead of constant.
It was a little after 4pm when they said that I was finally dilated enough. To hear those words made me scared for this next part. I was hoping it won't last long but before I would know it...she'll be here. I just had to get past this last hurtle.
They set everything up that they needed in our room. They made one of the dressers a place where they can do what they need to afterwards. Plus Lizzy surprised me by getting me a bassinet that would be right next to the bed. She had some time and ran out to the store since she noticed I didn't have one yet. I was grateful for that. So I had a place to put the baby to rest and she could be close by.
They kicked everyone out. Only one left was Alastor, they said it was ok for him to be there. Plus I wanted him. They told me it was time, I was ready. I was so nervous, and my shakes came back. Alastor sat in bed with me and had his arm wrapped around my shoulders. My arms wrapped around him tightly. They gave us a few minutes together before anything happened.
My head was tucked into the crook of his neck, "Al, I'm scared." I whispered.
"Why little wolf? Everything will be ok." Alastor whispered back.
I closed my eyes and held onto him tightly. "I know, but I still have a nagging in the back of my head."
He ran his other hand through my hair, "Don't let it take over your thoughts. Think of something else. Think of the goal at the end of this." Alastor moved his hand to take my chin in his hands so that I could look up at him, "You can picture her in your arms instead. It will all be alright."
"And you won't leave me?"
"I'll be here the whole way. You don't have to worry about a thing." Alastor kissed my head
I tried to clear my mind. There was one thing I had to do. Sooner than I could think we'll have Elena here with us. It was almost crazy to think really.
Soon there was a knock on the door, and it opened to show Dr. Talon and Dr. Hill. They walked up to us as they stood beside the bed.
"Are you ready?" Dr. Talon asked.
"No, but I have to be so...I guess I am." I breathed out.
They both nodded.
"We hope you don't mind that we invited a helper?" Dr. Talon said as he gestured to the door.
I looked past him and saw Lizzy standing in the doorway. I basically smiled. If there was anyone, I would have wanted besides Alastor with me, it would be my sister. She had changed her shirt for a nurse's shirt like the one Dr. Talon was wearing. Probably to protect her clothes just in case. She walked over to us and stood on my other side.
"Thanks for being here sis." I thanked her in a whisper.
Lizzy grabbed my hand and gave it a squeeze, "I wouldn't miss it for anything. I'm here for you."
I gave her such a big smile.
"Let's get started then." Dr. Talon announced.
Fifteen minutes, I was at it for this long and I honestly was ready to give up. I wanted no more of it. Even with myself being numb from my mid back down, I still felt something. I felt the pressure and I wasn't enjoying it. It was weird. My body going through the motions, even without me doing much. It was weird.
Tears were falling down my face. Not so much as in pain but out of frustration. I've read of emotions going all over the place at this time and it honestly was true. Alastor was on one side of me and holding my hand while also holding my leg up for me since I couldn't do it myself. Lizzy was on the other side holding my other leg. Pillows piled up against my back so that it made it easier to bare down. I had removed my shirt and was just in my bra, I was already starting to get hot.
I had already yelled at Alastor and accidentally slapped him in the face. Lizzy was almost busting a gut laughing from that. Luckily for her I hadn't snapped at her just yet during this time. Of course two minutes later, I was back to him wanting to hold my hand and I was apologizing to him left and right about what I did. He told me not to worry about him and to worry about the baby instead.
He was true about that. I needed to stay focused. I needed to concentrate on what I was doing. I tried to listen to Dr. Hill as he counted down from ten to one for me each time I tried to push. I was giving myself some seconds of rest, but I now wanted to get it over with now as quickly as possible.
Alastor was just being there to help and I'm sure he wanted to see how this all took place. More than once I had caught him looking and I was ok with that. It was a curious thing, even I was curious, but I wasn't too worried about that. Was interesting to see how life was born, even in this crazy place. Although Alastor was mainly quiet through the whole thing. He was probably trying to figure it all out. Or just left in shock about what was happening. Every once and a while I had felt him kiss my ear to reassure me and it did help for a little.
After the last push I just felt this wave of just wanting to give up, I didn't want to be here anymore. I didn't want to be doing this. The flood of 'I can't' that escaped my lips was mixing with my overwhelming tears of frustrations. Alastor tried to help and calm me but his words were not getting through.
Lizzy was the one that snapped me out of it. "Heart! Shut the fuck up! Look at me." The wolf demon yelled.
Doing as told I looked at my sister through tear blurred vision.
"You can fucking do this! You've gone through harder shit then this to give up now. You NEVER give up! Never! Even when you're down as fuck. Everything you've worked for has gotten you up to this point. Do you want to see your daughter or not?"
"I-I-I do." I stuttered out.
"Ok good! Now fucking push this baby out or I'll rip it out to shut you up!"
Lizzy wouldn't actually do that. She just said that to motivate me. Although that doesn't mean I felt the rise of Alastor's static for that split moment.
Taking a few breaths I managed to try and get myself back on task.
Three more times I managed to push and made progress. I was close. Just a little more. I felt the pressure and was honestly uncomfortable, but I knew it wouldn't last long.
"Come on Heart, one more." Lizzy said to me.
Alastor had gone quiet again and I saw him just staring now. He honestly seemed frozen in place. His ears were even back a little. I tried not to focus on him for that moment though. I was almost free.
With everything I tried to give, despite my tiredness, Dr. Hill counted for me again and I bared down to push. As I did, I felt that pressure I was feeling go away and that when I knew...it was over.
I got my breath back and then fell back against all the pillows I had. I closed my eyes and let out a sigh of relief. My breathing was a little fast but I tried to calm myself after all that.
"4:33pm on February 12th. Congrats guys." Dr. Hill said as he wrote down the time in a book so they wouldn't forget.
"You did it, Heart." Lizzy whispered to me.
It wasn't until I heard a cry fill the room that I opened my eyes and looked down to see Dr. Talon taking care of this red covered mass. Dr. Hill was helping him as they cleaned out some fluids from the nose and mouth. They were both trying to clean her off good.
"Well it's definitely a girl." Dr. Talon said as he rubbed her back. "She seems to be ok, but we can check her over momentarily. I'm sure you'd like to hold her for a few minutes before we do that."
Before I knew it, they lifted her up, wrapped loosely in the towel she was in and placed on my chest. She was still crying like crazy from what just happened, and it made me glad to hear her crying. It let me know that she was ok. I tried to fix the towel a little more so that it held her in better. Kept her warm. To let her know she was still safe with me.
It was over. I did it! Our daughter was finally here and all I could do was cry as I looked down at her. Although this time my tears were of joy instead of frustration.
As I had seen her in my dreams, she had red hair as well as red wolf ears with the black tips. I even saw a little bit of tail hanging out of the towel. Her eyes were still shut as she continued to cry but I'm sure she had Alastor's red eyes. She was here. She was in my arms. It wasn't a dream. There was no way it was. She was real.
Lizzy was touching Elena's head lightly and playing with her ears.
Dr. Hill asked Alastor if he wanted to cut the umbilical cord, the deer demon agreed and did so. He honestly seemed so stiff as he sat back next to me on the bed.
When I looked over at Alastor he was still staring. Most likely in shock still of what all just happened. He looked at Elena in my arms but said nothing. He did nothing. Although I noticed that his grey skin did look a little paler than normal. I honestly thought he was going to faint.
"Alastor, are you ok?" I asked him worriedly and put a hand on his forearm.
That seemed to snap him out of whatever trance he was in. "Sorry. I'm ok. I promise. I'm just...amazed at what I just saw."
I chuckled. "Well are you going to say hi to your daughter or not?"
Alastor's smile grew after I said that. He leaned back over until he was touching my shoulder. He looked down at the small baby still in my arms.
He went to reach his hand to her but stopped and pulled it back. "She's so small."
"Baby's usually are." I informed him as she started to softly cry still.
"I'm afraid to hurt her. For once I'm actually afraid to hurt something." He admitted.
My smile got a little bigger. "You won't, Al. It will be ok. Trust me."
Alastor was hesitant but then moved his hand again. Slowly he moved it down until it rested on the newborn's back. His nervousness seemed to melt away once he did so. He had a calm look now upon his face. Even his ears went back slightly from the moment.
"See that's not so bad." I whispered to him.
"No...no I suppose not." Alastor laid his head on top of mine. "She is a little fawn."
"She looks more like a pup honey." I corrected him.
"Doesn't matter. She is still my fawn." Alastor's gaze didn't leave the newborn as he ran his hand along her back.
Lizzy then added in. "Well she'll most lightly have antlers because she has these small bumps on her head. So there's one trait, besides the red of course." She said as she touched Elena's small head again.
We both gave out a chuckle.
I looked up and saw that Dr. Talon was crying now as well. My ears went back in worry for him. "Marcus, what's the matter?"
"Nothing." He quickly said, wiping his tears. "I'm just so happy to see everything work out ok. You may have been part of an experiment Heart and so was your daughter. In the end. I'm just happy to see you so happy."
My ears went back up, "I was happy to let you experience this Dr. Talon. I was happy to have gotten a chance to be a part of this. The whole way through. What I did I would never want to take back."
"Thank you, Heart. That means so much to me. You and she are a breakthrough for those down here in hell. It helps me out to help others." Dr. Talon told me as his tears lessened.
Alastor leaned his head over to kiss my still somewhat sweaty head, "You did a very wonderful job my wolf. This wait was worth it."
"What we went through was worth it." I smiled up at him. "Everything we ever faced all led to this. We did it. Together." I kissed his cheek. "Through all these dark times we finally have something to look up to."
Alastor smiled as he looked down to Elena and reached up to touch one of her ears. It flicked a moment from the touch, but she let him touch it. He let out a small chuckle, "She's our little light at the end of this very dark tunnel."
"I couldn't agree more with you."
No this isn't the end. I still want to explore some things with Elena now in the picture. Focus on her growing up a little. The story isn't over. It's just a newer beginning.