A/N: I hope you don't mind or that you like the format this chapter is in. Since it's the end of Yorktown, I decided to do it a new way, y'know?
Chapter 16: The World Turned Upside Down
October 17, 1781
After a week of fighting, a young man in a red coat stands on a parapet.
A white flag.
Genevieve blinked. Is it truly? Looking at her fellow soldiers, she saw the same amazed disbelief upon their face.
We lower our guns as he frantically waves the white handkerchief.
Now she truly felt the aching burn of her wounds. A bayonet had grazed her thigh and she had a few bruises. There were hurrahs and she raised her musket to the air. Victory pumped in her veins and she hugged the nearest soldier who grinned, yelling in French.
And just like that it's over; we tend to our wounded, we count our dead.
Genevieve watched as the doctor made a makeshift sling. He guided the arm of a soldier through it before straightening. "Thank you." The American said.
"Rest. Do not strain your shoulder or you risk permanent damage." Nodding, he let him go to tend to other patients as George Washington lead a soldier's chorus. Her eyes scanned the crowd and she got up, slipping between the soldiers. Her leg was bandaged and her bruises would heal with time. Finding a familiar face, she felt joy flash in her core. God, it's good to see you.
"Alexander!" She called and he looked over his shoulder. A small cut was scored across his cheek and bandages wrapped around his hands. He grinned and engulfed her in a hug. "John?"
"Safe." She let out a sigh of relief as George Washington entered the tent where their captive was. The redcoat drummer who had signalled the surrender had been taken as a prisoner and was now being held in one of their tents. Many soldiers raised their heads when they noted his destination.
Black and white soldiers wonder alike if this really means freedom.
"General Washington?"
Not yet.
The exhausted expression said it all.
October 18, 1781
"Find John Laurens. We're to leave to negotiate a surrender."
We negotiate the terms of surrender. I see George Washington smile.
They returned, the party of three, at night. Alexander raised his head first as Genevieve lowered hers between her knees. Nausea was stirring in her stomach and she tried to swallow it back. For a moment, it seemed it settled and she finally looked up.
"Let's go." The tight-lipped smile on George Washington's face gave Genevieve hope. With luck, this would all be over soon. "They were not granted the Honors of War in revenge for Charleston. Another small victory." John's strong words were full of conviction. Taking his hand, she got up. "Come on, let's sleep and wake up to see victory stain the sky at dawn." Despite the great news, she realized with a heavy heart that she had not yet spotted him. It weighed down her gut and nearly made her sick again.
"I haven't seen Lafayette," she murmured in his ear and he sent her a nod.
"I'll look out for him," he whispered. Stumbling to their shelter, she ducked into the tent. No one was inside, obviously and she collapsed on the cot as the urge to heave came back again. Closing her eyes, she tried to fall asleep.
After a few moments - it was really hours - she felt a rough material, damp, brush against her cheek. Stirring, she closed her eyes tighter and found the blackness disturbed by a warm orange glow. Seeing the light through her eyelids, she attempted to turn around.
"Mon amour, stay still," a gentle voice ordered quietly, the material drawing away. A hand on her waist kept her still as another brushed back stray hairs. There was the sound of dripping water before the material returned, wiping at her forehead this time.
"I'm tired," she mumbled sleepily and there was an amused chuckle. Opening her eyes just a bit, she saw the vague shape of Lafayette. He sat on the bed, cloth in hand and smiling down at her. "Where have you been?"
"Busy, ma chérie," he leaned down to kiss her forehead and she raised her chin so he kissed her lips instead. Smiling, she basked in his warmth. The candle illuminated the tent and she realized no one else was inside. "I had to organize the final papers. The surrender is early tomorrow and then we move in to escort them out of Yorktown."
"Where is everyone?"
"Outside. They could not sleep," he returned to his task of gently wiping away the blood and grime on her face. Propping herself up onto her elbow, she hugged him tightly. He dropped the damp cloth and hugged her back. "The war is over,"
"The war's over," she echoed, drawing back. He brought her into a sitting position. An arm on his back, she held herself up with the other as he kissed her cheek and rested his neck on her shoulder. "Lafayette," emotion overwhelmed her and he pulled her back, smiling. He knew exactly what she was trying to say.
"I know, ma moitié." Breathing in, she let the tears trace down her face as her eyes slid close. His heartbeat pounded under her hand and his shoulders rose and fell with every breath. For a moment, she thought it a dream - that Lafayette was dead in a ditch somewhere. But when he pulled back and kissed her firmly on the mouth, she knew it was real. Together at last.
We escort their men out of Yorktown. They stagger home single file.
October 28, 1781
Tens of thousands of people flood the streets.
They rode through the streets, cheering and screaming in triumph as the army marched through. She watched as flowers were thrown and kids ran up to soldiers. Châtain nickered, raising his head high as she rode beside Lafayette. Together, along with Alexander and John, rode behind Washington, Rochambeau, Greene and the other leaders of the army.
There are screams and church bells ringing.
The tolls of the bell rang in her ears, almost like when a couple was wed. Looking at Lafayette, she felt her heart swell. He sent her a giant grin, leaning over to kiss her. One hand on her hat to keep it from falling off and the other on the reins, she pecked him chastely.
Alexander paused, seeing a woman beaming brilliantly with her sisters. Gesturing for the other three to follow, he lead them to where Eliza could barely contain herself. Alexander jumped off his horse, sweeping his wife up into a spin. Kissing, the Hamiltons hugged each other tightly.
"Alexander, the baby!" Eliza laughed. Hercules Mulligan embraced Lafayette while Peggy and John shared their very first kiss. Genevieve, meanwhile, was tackled by her siblings while her father barely contained his tears.
"It's over," he seemed to say over the deafening roar, "The war is truly over."
"It is," she brought him in for a hug. "God, it's finally over." She realized, looking at her father in complete amazement. "The British are gone."
"Yes, Genny, that's quite clear," her father teased and she shot him a faux-foul look. Looking at her siblings, she grinned at Bennett and Ettie. Pulling back, her brother glanced at the girl who still stood where they were. Keeping Ettie to her side, a hand in hers, Genevieve sent her brother an amused look. His blush told her who it was. The girl who Bennett could never shut up about.
"Genny, uh, this is my… uh," he stumbled, a mess as Lafayette looked at his soon-to-be brother-in-law, confused.
"Bennett, what's going on?" Genevieve prompted and her brother became even redder. The girl took a hesitant forward, curtseying.
"Ms. Alcott?" Nodding, the brunette felt her sister leave her side to take the girl's hand. Lafayette wrapped an arm around his fiancée as she crossed her arms. "Joan Hopwood, I work at the corner store with my parents."
"Pleasure to meet you," she said genuinely. The girl tucked a lock of dark hair behind her ear and Bennett grinned nervously.
"Go on," he whispered, "She's kind once you get to know her."
"And, uhm, I like your brother. Very much so," The poor girl was stumbling so much, clearly daunted by her physique and her uniform. Lafayette snorted, hiding his smile in her hair as Hercules coughed to cover his own. The Schuyler sisters were all taken in by John and Alexander but once they had finished, they returned back to this scenario.
It took all the willpower of John to not say something inappropriate. Instead, he smiled and kissed Peggy's cheek. Alexander just beamed as Eliza and Angelica just outright grinned at how young they were.
"That's good. He's a very dashing man," Genevieve praised to Bennett's embarrassment, "Bennett, she makes you happy?"
"Yeah,"
"Then, are you asking for my blessing or something?" Joan nodded, "You don't need it." William Alcott laughed faintly, his lungs wheezing. Concern pulsing in her, she regarded her father carefully as he waved it away.
"Thank you, Ms. Alcott."
"Genevieve," she amended and the girl nodded again. Genevieve nearly chuckled at how much of a wreck the two of them were. "Come on, let's go home."
And as our fallen foes retreat I hear the drinking song they're singing. The world turned upside down…
"Mr. Alcott," in the den was peaceful. Only the Alcotts, minus Genevieve, were inside as the fire roared. Genevieve was setting up in her room and Lafayette had managed to slip away. His pocket weighed him down as he approached his fiancée's father. Sitting down, he flushed when everyone looked at him. "I want to speak to you."
"What is it, son?" The term was so fondly used and Lafayette looked to the fire. It crackled and flared, painting the room in a gorgeous orange. "Does Genny want to see me?"
"It's something to do with your daughter, actually." He mumbled and he dug his hand into his pocket. Taking out the box, he slowly opened it to reveal the golden ring. Ettie gasped, immediately running over and nearly knocking Lafayette over. Her hands rested on his shoulder as she bounced up and down.
"Let me see!" Bennett followed after, closing the book he was reading. He whistled and Lafayette blushed deeply.
"I want to marry her and she already said yes, but I have to ask you: May I have your blessing?" William Alcott answered by hugging him.
"Yes, a million times over, yes." Lafayette hugged his soon-to-be father back with a relieved smile. Ettie joined in, as did Bennett and it was all cheery as Ettie smiled up at him. A young sister that looks up to me, he thought ecstatically, A younger brother I can teach everything to. That was what was waiting for him as soon as he married her. "Keep her happy, son,"
"I will. I promise," the marquis murmured as the blonde girl looked at Bennett excitedly.
"We're going to have another brother!"
"Finally!" Bennett exclaimed and they dissolved into laughter again.
The world turned upside down…
Next was Philip Schuyler. Lafayette knew that if he did it without his, at least, tolerance, the old general could make his life hell. He was in the drawing room. The Schuyler sisters had offered to accompany him as mediators and unfortunately, due to Eliza's state, that meant Alexander, and in tow, John, came along.
The Frenchman couldn't tell if the two would cancel out the daughters' effect on their father.
"What do you want, boy?" Stiffening, he looked at the man. A silver cane was laid against the couch as his wife sent him a supportive smile. Catherine looped her arm through her husband's as the Schuyler sisters stopped their conversation with Alexander and John.
"Sir, I've come to ask-"
"Sit down, for God's sake. Your pacing is making me nauseous,"
"Dear," Catherine said shortly and sent her husband a look. So they don't just get that death glare from their father. Lafayette mused nervously, sitting down across from the man. "What is it, Lafayette?"
"Sir," he tried again, knowing his accent pissed Philip Schuyler off, "I've come to ask you for your blessing."
"For what?" He was really trying to worm it out of him. Swallowing, Lafayette looked into his hands.
"Father, you know just what." said Angelica tartly. She was in no mood for her father's games either. Lafayette raised his head again, looking at Angelica gratefully before shaking his head. He could do this.
"For your blessing - to marry Genevieve."
A pause. Then a rough laugh. "Why in God's name do you need my blessing? You need William's - are you daft, boy? Or do they not teach you what to do back in France?"
"No, sir."
"Then why are you asking me?" He asked, tone derogatory.
"If you think about it," Peggy cut in artfully, "you consider Genevieve one of your own," her eyes sparked, "as our sister. Would it be considered daft to ask you, Father?" Schuyler was quiet and Catherine smiled, seeing her husband reasoned by her daughter an amusing sight. Schuyler relaxed, huffing in annoyance.
"To be clear, you're still not good enough for her."
"I know that, sir." Lafayette replied readily, "But I will try my hardest to be what she needs," his stare scanned the marquis, testing his words. "I love her more than anything in this life. I will choose her happiness over mine every time."* They were quiet, honest, bearing how truly in love he was.
"Hun," Catherine muttered under her breath and Schuyler looked at her. They seemed to have a stare-off until Philip Schuyler finally nodded.
"Fine. Marry her, but if she comes running home with her heart broken," his fingers wrapped around the silver cane out of instinct. Lafayette could make out the faded scars on his knuckles, "I'll gut you." Lafayette felt slightly relieved as his mind jotted it down that the Schuylers would literally tear him apart.
The world turned upside down…
"You look beautiful," a voice at the door made her turn around. Lafayette leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. Smoothing out invisible wrinkles, she smiled at him. "As always,"
"Dashing," she returned and he came into her room. Straightening his lapels, she smiled up at him. His beard was neatly trimmed and they were both finally at peace. Sighing, she hugged him. "I cannot wait to be your wife."
"And I your husband." He murmured, arms encircling her. Raising her head, she kissed him deeply. A hand came to cup his face and he placed another kiss against her lips as soon as the first one ended. "Let's get to dinner before we get too distracted,"
"Of course."
The world turned upside down…
"Joan, how long have you known my brother?" Genevieve asked politely as Lafayette shared a glance with Hercules. The tailor nodded firmly and Lafayette nodded, nervous. His palm was sweaty as he played with the ring.
"We met a few years ago," the girl said, clearly daunted by all the heavies she was eating with. For a middle-to-lower class girl eating with four soldiers, Philip Schuyler, his daughters and a man as bulky and strong as Hercules Mulligan wasn't normally what she expected on a normal day. But this wasn't a normal day.
"And I've never heard of you?" She asked, tone teasing as she glanced at her brother. He rolled his eyes.
"You were at war, if you don't remember, Genny,"
"Ah, so it was a secret affair."
"Shut up."
Lafayette sipped his soup, looking at his friends. They all knew his plan. Hercules kicked him under the table and he winced, choking. The other guests shared strange looks at the thump but didn't comment on it. Sending a glower across the table, Lafayette felt another hand pat his back. Genevieve sent him a small smile and the dinner continued on.
As it neared its end, wine was filled in their crystalline glasses and Lafayette stood, finally working up enough nerve to stand up. He raised his glass, the wine cold under his hot hand. Eyes were on him and he swallowed nervously but a cool hand slipped into his. Meeting Genevieve's collected green gaze, his confidence rose and he nodded to himself.
"A toast," wine glasses rose, "to the end of the war." He met Alexander's eyes, then to John, and Hercules, "To hope. To… to new life." A well-meaning smile at Eliza who blushed. "But, for me, most importantly, to a woman who I cherish more every single day. Genevieve," he squeezed her hand, setting the wine glass down as Eliza placed her hand in front of her mouth, smiling excitedly. Peggy turned to Angelica, both beaming like children.
"Lafayette?" She asked uncertainly as he pulled her up. "What is this?" Her shock was so genuine that had anyone who didn't know they were already engaged were watching, they'd have thought this was completely unplanned. As it were, even everyone who did know didn't think he'd do it so soon.
"There are so many things we have not done, have not learned. Yet, we know so much more than we did when we were nineteen. We know love… affection… passion... but I want to do so much more with you. I want to learn what it's like to be married, to have children, to grow old together. Genevieve," he chuckled breathlessly and she bit her lip, shock slowly wearing off. "I love you and I know you have told me that many times but je ne peux pas imaginer ou avoir un vie sans toi. I just can't."**
He looked at his friends who were all proudly watching. Hercules nodded at his pocket and Lafayette lifted the flap of his pocket in his jacket, taking out the golden ring. Genevieve gasped, smiling in disbelief as he took her left hand. "Lafayette, you didn't have to-"
"But I do. I want everyone to know that you're mine - that we are one. That no matter what happens, we will always love each other. That is our legacy. That is, if… if that is what you want." He added shyly and she laughed shakily, a few loose tears tracing her face.
"Of course, you idiot. I'd be honored to share your legacy," she watched as he slowly slid the ring onto her finger. The emeralds set into the pale gold reflected the glint of happiness in her eyes as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He picked her up, their shoulders shaking from the endless laughs and happiness. John lead the cheer and Bennett whooped loudly. When Lafayette finally set Genevieve down, he immediately pressed a desperate kiss against her lips.
"I'm making the dress!" Hercules claimed and the Schuylers shared pleased looks. William wiped a few tears from his eyes as Ettie stood, hands clasped in front of her mouth. When the now-publicly engaged couple parted, the brunette grinned.
"You know," she whispered over the loud celebration. He cocked his head at her, "I never liked Alcott as a name anyway."
"Oh, hush," he grumbled and she laughed, turning to the others. Ettie barreled into Lafayette who hugged the girl back. "Bonjour, ma petite soeur." And as the servants came in with slices of cake, the white dollops of cream adorning them, they settled back down. Genevieve looked at her left hand, watching the pale gold play in the light with a smile before Lafayette entwined his fingers with hers. Leaning towards him, she kissed him before smearing cream across his face.
Angelica snorted but gawked when Alexander, ever the trickster, poked her face with a cream-dipped finger. And then it was chaos, conversation buzzing between them. It was just one big happy family.
November 7, 1781
Down, down, down, down...
Genevieve opened her eyes sleepily, feeling Lafayette's warm form pressed against her back. Her whole body was sore, especially her chest and she felt sick. For the past few days, she'd been dead tired and now, she could barely move as Lafayette stirred.
"Are you awake?" He inquired softly and she turned to him slowly, nodding with a tired sigh.
"Just barely," she mumbled and he kissed her forehead as she burrowed into his chest. "I'm exhausted." His chest rumbled with chuckles as he hugged her close to him.
"Are you still sick?" He asked quietly and she groaned. His arms slipped away as he got ready for the day. He had to be measured for his suit. Hercules was insistent that he make the clothes and dresses.
"I think so," she said, "everywhere aches." He chuckled again when she took up the whole bed as soon as he got up. Leaning over, the marquis brushed hair behind her ear and kissed her cheek goodbye.
"I'll come back at around noon and we'll go the Schuylers. Hopefully you'll be better then," he murmured and he got no response. She was already fast asleep.
.
When noon did indeed chime throughout the apartment, Genevieve finally managed to get herself out of bed and towards the bucket where she threw up. Sighing, she wiped her lip and clutched the bucket between her legs. God, I've never felt this sick. I thought it'd be over. We've been back for a little over a week, she thought, annoyed. It had persisted ever since the dinner where Lafayette had given her the ring. October twenty-eight, she remembered the date quite clearly. Counting the days since then, she realized it was the seventh.
Her blood chilled.
A hand rested on her abdomen. A missed bleeding. It could just be the celebration - the excitement. It's okay, she told herself. And it is just a stomach flu. It's getting colder out - sickness is bound to spread.
The door clicked. She stood, head becoming light and she stumbled back to the ground, throwing up. "Love, do you need to stay home?" Lafayette was immediately at her side, drawing her hair back as she coughed. Leaning against him, she sighed.
"I'll be fine," she tried to get rid of the acidic taste in vain as he helped her up. He gave a half-smile, wiping away the spit. "I'm just insanely hungry."
"Good thing I bought something for you. I do not want my future wife to starve," he teased, gently taking her hand and helping her to the living room. The appetizing smell of fresh bread flooded her senses and she inhaled deeply. "Good?"
"Fantastic," she agreed and they sat down on the couch, opening the bread bag and having lunch right then and there. Luckily enough, her nausea receded in the afternoon and she was able to spend the rest of the afternoon in the presence of her family.
November 22, 1781
Freedom for America, freedom for France!
"You're Ms. Alcott, aren't you?" She looked up as she scanned the aisles for beans at a little boy, nearly twelve. Smiling, she turned towards him and nodded. Her head protested at the up and down movement but she ignored it.
"Yes, I am. And who are you?" The brunette asked in turn. He seemed extremely excited as he looked up at her.
"My name's Myles Frampton and I'm eleven years old." He recited proudly, "I want to be in the army when I grow up." It was every boy's dream. She prayed that he'd grow out of it as Bennett did.
"Really?" She gasped in fake-amazement, "You must be very strong to be in the army."
"I was hoping you could tell me how you got in. Mother says it's terribly inappropriate for a woman to be there but I think you're really smart." Myles rambled and Genevieve grinned. She was about to answer when he added, "Is it true that you and Major General Lafayette are getting married?"
"Who told you that?" Genevieve asked, genuinely curious. The affair was kept under wraps and she knew that in time, people would notice the ring on her finger but she didn't think it'd be so soon.
"Mother," Myles informed, "but she doesn't like it. She thinks that Mr. Lafayette should settle down with a more appropriate lady. Like my sister, she said."
"Well, then," she huffed, slightly peeved. This wasn't the first time someone had expressed their opinion on her past occupation. "Tell your mother that should Lafayette love your sister more than he loves me, I will allow him to marry her instead." Myles laughed at her humorous tone. Gesturing for her to lean down, he bit his lip to hide his smile. Lowering herself down to his height, she waited for him to lean in.
"I don't like my sister, anyway." He whispered nefariously and she smiled, straightening. There were a patter of footsteps and a call of her name.
"Gen, did you find the beans?" Turning around, she saw Lafayette approaching her. Myles gawked at the sight of the famed fighting Frenchman. "Oh, bonjour." The man turned to his fiancée in amusement, "I told you explicitly not to talk to strangers, love," He kissed her cheek as she rolled her eyes. He did say that as a joke before they came in.
"Major General Lafayette!" Myles squeaked, "It's an honor to meet you, sir."
"He's a fan, dearest," she told him, voice stressing on the last word. Lafayette gulped. He was in for it when they got home - probably to be a victim of her mood swings.
"I see," he crouched down in front of Myles, "Well, then, mon ami, what do you want to know?" Myles opened his mouth, about to allow a river of questions to flow out of his mouth when a woman came around the corner.
"Myles Frampton!" The woman called, her voice stern as she marched over to her son. "I have been looking everywhere for you!" Myles groaned, head lowered. "I am so sorry. I hope he hasn't bothered you two," Mrs. Frampton added with a quick glance at the two before fussing over her son. Genevieve smiled slightly, knowing that the woman did not think highly of her.
"It is of no problem," Lafayette excused. The woman's head immediately snapped up at the accent. Her mouth fell open slightly and she stumbled to curtsey.
"Major General Lafayette, I didn't - I am so sorry to bother your very busy day." Mrs. Frampton rose as Lafayette drew his head back in a kind-of confused manner.
"It is of no problem," he repeated, "Your son is very charming, if Genevieve's face is anything to tell by." The brunette shot her fiancé another look and he grinned.
"Genevieve? As in… Alcott?" Mrs. Frampton asked, finally taking a good long look at Genevieve.
"Yes, ma'am," she replied. "Your son is, indeed, an energetic child. Wants to join the army one day." Myles grinned and she winked at him.
"As if you'd know. They claim for you to have saved the army in the Battle of Brandywine but that is impossible. Women do not belong in the battle field." Lafayette's arm on her hip helped her keep a cool head and she forced a smile.
"I assure you, Mrs. Frampton, I am more than capable of firing a gun and fighting for my life." Genevieve's tone was so polite that if Lafayette had not known her, he would've thought it genuine. "If a scar would change your mind," she raised her right arm.
"Cool," Myles breathed and Mrs. Frampton paled, as if just seeing the pink waxy cicatrix was sickening.
"We must go, Myles." Mrs. Frampton spun around, dragging her son with him as he waved energetically.
"I hope we meet again, Ms. Alcott! Goodbye, Mr. Lafayette!" He yelled and they laughed as he disappeared around the corner.
"You know what else he said before you came?" She whispered and he leaned over to hear. The smile had yet to fade from both their faces. "She wanted to set you up with his sister. I said if you loved her more than you did I, you could marry her instead. So," she raised her eyebrow, "do you love me more or not?"
"Do you really need an answer to that, love?" He asked and she shook her head before he cupped her jaw and kissed her deeply.
December 3, 1781
Down, down, down…
"And do you, Genevieve Alcott, take Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, to love, honor and obey, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself solely unto him for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," she whispered, sliding the golden ring onto his finger.
"If there be anyone present who may show just and lawful cause why this couple may not be legally wed, let him speak now or forever hold his peace." No one spoke, obviously. "Then, by the authority vested in me by God, I now pronounce you man and wife and what God hath joined together, let no man nor woman put asunder." Lafayette grinned excitedly as Genevieve looked at the priest. "You may now kiss the bride," leaning forward, she captured his lips in hers. They shared their first kiss as a married couple as cheers rose around the church. Pulling apart, the two looked at their friends and family as they cheered the loudest in the front rows. Hercules, John, Bennett and Alexander being the groomsmen, the Schuyler sisters and Ettie as the bridesmaids, all were clapping and whooping from the sidelines.
Genevieve smoothed out her pale lilac dress, turning to the crowd. They were all on their feet and she grinned from ear-to-ear. Looking down at the beautiful gown again, she peeked at Hercules. Raising her head, she gave him her brightest smile. He had really outdone himself with the dress. He gave a thumbs-up and she repeated the motion and mouthed, thank you. He waved it away.
The gown was beautiful, a pale pastel lilac that rested against the wooden frame of the crinoline. Her corset was intricate enough with little flowers and lacings, and she wore a elegant flower crown attached to the veil. Her hair was pinned up in a bun, courtesy of the Schuyler sisters and they had managed to convince her to allow them to paint her lips a shade of red.
Lafayette was wearing a tailored tailcoat, gold epaulets to show off his military rank and buttons engraved with little decorations. The fabric was a deep navy blue, making the gold in his jacket and on his finger pop.
"Wait a minute," she muttered, and he turned towards her. Her thumb rubbed against his lip and he realized that some of the lip paint had smeared on him. "You look quite dashing in red." She mumbled and he scrunched up his nose at her. They shared their secret smile - the smile only reserved for each other. "We're married, love."
"You don't know how long I've waited for this moment."
December 7, 1781
Gotta start a new nation; gotta meet my son...
Another missed bleeding. That just confirmed her suspicions. The wedding was only a few days before and she was pregnant. It must've been the night they got engaged back at Yorktown. Touching the little bump on her abdomen, she grinned to herself. There was a tiny child inside her.
Lafayette was outside in the main living room as the morning sun filtered through the windows. He was working on something or other already but she was too tired to care until now. Now, a new energy filled every movement and she raised her head to call for her husband, "Lafayette?"
"Oui?" He called from the other room, distracted. Letting his shirt fall back over her stomach, she stood. Appearing at the door, she smiled at him from where he was at the desk. Going over to him, she smiled softly at the ring on her finger. He looked at her, smiling brightly when he saw her as he always did since the war had ended.
Going behind him, she hugged his neck as she did when he was pouring over Yorktown plans ages ago. He leaned into her, turning to kiss her cheek. "Stand up, please." Pulling away, she allowed him room to do so as he scooted back and stood, turning to face her. Grabbing his hands, she lead him closer to the couch.
"Gen, what is this?" He asked playfully and she ignored him, ordering him to sit down. He did so, confused still, "Is this one of your mood swings?"
"No,"
"Are you hungry?"
"No,"
"Did I do something wrong?"
"No." Lifting her shirt, she beamed radiantly down at him. The warmth bathed him in heat as he watched the gentle curve of her navel rise and fall. That had never been there before - he had never noticed it, at least. Reaching a hand gently up to it, he saw his hand shake. Genevieve took in his wide eyes as he gazed at her like a goddess, his shaky hands and his disbelieving expression as a good thing. "If anything, love, we have done something right."
"Is this…" his voice was breathy and quiet. Her hands took his firmly, placing them on either side of the bump. "Gen, are… am I…" his breath hitched when she nodded.
"I'm pregnant, Lafayette," she confirmed, "I've missed two bleedings and I'm tired, all the time. Eliza was always throwing up in her first few months and so have I - this isn't a stomach flu. Laf, we're going to have a child." He stood, bringing her into a ginormous hug as he squeezed the life out of her. He whispered endless thanks and she smiled, kissing his neck.
"Thank you," he murmured, pulling back and she held his face in her hand, stroking his cheek.
"This is something we did together. Something we will continue to do together." She told him firmly and he nodded. The marquis looked absolutely in awe and immediately dropped to his knees, whispering, rambling more like, in French to her. "You know that he can't hear you yet," she teased and he sent a look at her. that just said pure unadulterated happiness.
"It is never too late to start with my child," he shot back, kissing just below her belly button. "Je t'aime,"
"Je t'aime,"
December 25, 1781
Down, down, down...
"This is one situation I didn't expect to be in," she muttered, pulling the shawl over her arm. Lafayette had painted on a smile but he tipped his head towards her at the brunette's words.
"Do you mean the political part?" He inquired just as quietly. "Or how we are in Mount Vernon?"
"Both," she said as a man approached them. He was small, with a large forehead and vaguely reminded her of some woodland creature with his twitching nose. Looping an arm through Lafayette's, she graced the man with a polite smile.
"Ms. Alcott, monsieur Lafayette." The man gave a tight smile and offered a hand. "John Adams,"
"John Adams, a pleasure," she curtseyed, placing a hand in his. He took it and placed a swift kiss before releasing it to shake her husband's hand. "It's a surprise to see you," she continued pleasantly. This was not Lafayette's element. "I had heard that you had replaced Henry Laurens as the ambassador to the Dutch Republic."
"Yes. Negotiations are in order for him to be released in exchange for Cornwallis - that is, if you have kept him in one piece." Laughing lightly, she watched out of the corner of her eye as Washington sent them a look, more specifically at Lafayette. "His son - John, was it?" A nod, "He'll be glad to know of it. Any advice on where to look for him?" Adams gave a purposeful look around and Genevieve shook her head, waving the matter away.
"No worries, Mr. Adams, I'll see to it." Lafayette finally spoke and John Adams gave the Frenchman a firm nod.
"Thank you." There was a pause where the short man tried to find something to say. He had a purpose to approach the two but had lost it at the mention of his predecessor. Genevieve's small smile told him nothing and neither did Lafayette's pleased mask so he just bowed slightly and said, "It was a pleasure meeting you."
"And you as well," Genevieve watched him walk away. Lafayette grinned genuinely, turning to his wife. "Well, looks like I've learned a few things from the Schuylers after all."
"Ah, you and your brilliant mind," he kissed her forehead and she leaned on his shoulder. They began to walk through the crowd, spotting a few of their friends here and there, sneaking in a wave or wink whenever they could meet eyes.
"Come on, there's a few more people I want to talk to." She urged and he groaned playfully yet a bit genuinely. He didn't exactly enjoy how friendly she had to be in politics, no matter if it were fake or not.. "Hush, it'll be fun," Lafayette didn't believe it but he took a glass of wine off a server's plate and followed her anyway.
January 22, 1782
We won! We won! We won! We won!
Eliza Hamilton had been in labor for over twenty hours and in those twenty hours, Genevieve had heard every single homicidal promise to her husband, every attempt Alexander made to comfort his wife, and every variant of 'but just imagine how cute the baby will be when he's actually here!' from her sisters.
Genevieve, herself being about sixteen weeks pregnant now, was in the room as the baby worked its way out of her best friend's body. The doctor was sitting between Eliza's legs, cradling his hands underneath his head as she let out a heart-wrenching scream. Alexander and Angelica, both holding one hand respectively, were wincing with every squeeze on their hands. Peggy wiped at her sister's forehead as Genevieve made sure the doctor was fully ready.
A tray of tools - clamps, scissors, a needle - was beside him and she held a linen ready for when he finally slipped out. Glancing at the closed door, she could see the shadows of the other four men pacing back and forth. John, Hercules, her husband, and Philip Schuyler had put aside their differences and came together in joint worry.
"One more push, Eliza," Alexander urged although even Genevieve could see how nerve-racked he was. The doctor had threatened to kick him out of the room and it took a harsh scolding from Angelica to get him to get his act together but they could see it was slipping. All of them were tired and hungry.
None of them were pushing a baby out of them though so they couldn't complain.
"I can't," Eliza gasped, tears tracing down her face but Alexander kissed her temple. Another moan spilled from her mouth as the doctor looked up from between the cloth-covered knees.
"Mrs. Hamilton, one big push and it'll be done. Okay?" A terse nod, a big breath, and then push. Eliza's screams echoed in her ears as she trained her eyes on the head, emerging slowly then suddenly, it just slid right out. No, it wasn't the right term. He.
"Eliza, he's beautiful," Genevieve wrapped him in a linen, holding it close to mother still as the doctor clamped and cut the umbilical cord. Making sure the baby wouldn't get cold, she carefully wiped away the blood and mucus from the baby. His eyes were scrunched tight and a tuft of dark hair adorned his head as he opened his mouth to let out a raspy cry. Swaddling him tighter, she slowly brought him over to Eliza and Alexander.
Angelica stood to make way, gasping at the tiny face. "Eliza," the single word told how proud the eldest was of her younger sister. Gently placing the bundle in the mother's arms, Genevieve drew back to where Angelica and Peggy were. Eliza's mouth opened in a smiling gasp, pulling back the linen to gently stroke the baby's chest. All strife disappeared, tears becoming happy ones as her son cried out for his mother. Alexander leaned towards his wife, immediately falling in love with him. The doctor quickly helped birth the placenta and making sure it was completely detached before standing, dipping his hands in the hot water basin and drying them. Genevieve wrapped the engorged pouch in another towel and setting it off to the side before washing her own hands.
"Let's give them some privacy," the doctor suggested, packing up his tools and gesturing to the women. Nodding, they streamed out of the room and the four men perked up. "She's perfectly fine. Send for me if something does occur," he took his leave down the hall and descending the stairs. Lafayette left out a sigh of relief and Schuyler went into the room to see his newest grandchild. Hercules and John mimicked their French friend's actions, resting against the wall.
"She's fine," Genevieve affirmed. Peggy slipped into John's embrace, exhausted.
"You think we can get something to eat? Or maybe time to sleep?" Hercules mumbled blearily, rubbing his eyes. "Or do we have to stay for the naming."
"Aren't you good at etiquette," Peggy teased, earning her a half-hearted glare from the Son of Liberty. Angelica rolled her eyes, stretching her arms above her head and letting out a yawn.
"Come on, I'm sure there's something left in the kitchen." The woman said, gesturing for them to follow. Genevieve walked beside her husband, his arm around her waist and just barely touching her growing bump as she leaned into him.
"Sounded painful,"
"I know," she replied, "and not just for Eliza. Alexander and Angelica will have bruises on their hands tomorrow."
"Ah, so will you break my fingers when mon petit comes?" He asked and she shot him a irked look that lost its power in her state of exhaustion.
"Maybe," she allowed finally, resting her head on his shoulder again, "but it'll be worth it."
"Indeed it will,"
The world turned upside down!
A/N: First things first, thank you all for the enormous feedback, love and appreciation in this fic. We reached 80 reviews quickly, something I never thought would happen. I'm honestly so grateful for all of you guys and I cannot express that enough. Secondly, I'd like to thank BriCat03 for inspiration during the proposal scene! She helped me with some of the french, hehe. Thirdly, I dunno if any of you caught that last chapter but the Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells your Story bit was symbolic if you think about it.
Who Lives - I wrote from Burr's view for the first time.
Who Dies - Alexander and John exchange words
Who Tells Your Story - Angelica and Eliza make an appearance
ALSO, IF YA KEEP FLOODING ME WITH REVIEWS, I MIGHT START PMING MY RESPONSES AND ONLY PUBLISHING GUEST RESPONSES 'CAUSE I DON'T WANNA CLUTTER THIS UP.
REVIEWS:
Kitty of 2 kingdoms: I agree with Laf screaming. Honestly, it's so out of character that it's in character, if you know what I mean? Thank you for reviewing!
RiseUpWiseUp: I may or may not kill John, no promises! I'm not sure yet! Aaron isn't gonna die, we all know that. He has to kill Alexander at the end (whoops, spoiler)
toomanydamfandoms: I READ YOUR FANFIC AND I REALLY LIKED IT! WRITE MORE! YOU CALLED ME CINNAMON BUN AGAIN! AHHHH! THANK YOU!
BriCat03: Okie dokie here's your chapter ;) I hope this... SATISFIES you. Okay. HERE IS FLUFF TO HEAL YOUR HEART.
4EverTheWhiteSpirt: Gen and Herc are all good now. Herc just didn't like how Gen disappeared in the beginning. Thank you for reviewing!
PaintingMusic14: Awh, that's so sweet! Thank you so much for reviewing - I don't believe this is worth dropping everything but I'm glad you think so. Just... don't drop emergency duties. That'd be pretty bad.
Strawberry Cat: I agree. I've had terrible experiences with OCs, both in reading and writing, so I strive to make mine at least tolerable :P
Dulharpa: Thank you so much!
Chiruka: Yess! SIMPLE GESTURES MEANING MORE IS THE BANE OF MY EXISTENCE. That's why I like to add lots of hugs! Your review literally made my day when I first got it and I still re-read it again with a huge smile! Good luck with your tests!
stranger ways: THANKS!
ToshimiOkami: Thank you! I hope you went over those lectures eventually though. Don't wanna fail class or anything!
You don't need it: That... that... thank you. Especially 2cnd-new-episode-of-the-new version-of-Samurai-Jack-intense. That sentence is now permanently in my vocab to describe awesome stuff.
2sourlemons: She is totally alive! It was all a dream.
* "I love her more than anything in this life. I will choose her happiness over mine every time." Because I love Congratulations/Angelica's part in The Reynolds Pamphlet
** "...je ne peux pas imaginer ou avoir un vie sans toi. I just can't." Translate: I cannot imagine or bare to have a life without you. If it's wrong, someone correct me.