January 21st

It was another chilling afternoon in NYC. The snow had finally stopped but the weather remained too cold for the season. Everything was still clean white outside, very beautiful almost magical. Claire and Owen moved to The Big Apple three mounts ago. Crest needed a trusted person to take over some of his business while he was abroad. It didn't take much thinking for Owen; he didn't mind leaving Miami for the colder and grayer New York as long he was with Claire; she was his everything. Luckily Owen's job could have been done from a distance, but there were times when he had to travel; sometimes for weeks. This time the trip was shorter, only four days and the main reason was his eight and a half mounts pregnant girlfriend. Claire was due in two weeks and she was getting nervous as the time passed. Even though she didn't show it much, Owen knew that she was scared the way she was never scared in her entire life. Claire always said that maybe she is not mom-material; that maybe she won't be able to handle the toughest job in the world. Owen gently remained her that it was not a job that she has to do by herself when she had him; he was her partner, friend, lover and he was never leaving her or the baby.

Owen stopped before their new apartment door, looking for his keys. It was Crest's baby present; at least the first of many. Both Owen and Claire tried to convince him that it was too much, but Crest insisted that his best employees deserved it. It was quite big, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a small study for Claire. The kitchen and living room were conjoined, facing Central Park. It didn't have much furnishing mainly because Claire was working long hours and Owen was always on route, so they decided that they will buy everything once they have enough time.

Babe, I'm home. Owen was anxious to see Claire; he dropped his bag and locked the door behind him. He gave the room a quick glance, noticing the half eating grilled cheese sandwich on the table, right next to the "What to expect when you are expecting". Claire read it twice, but Owen didn't even get to the middle.

Babe? For a moment Owen thought that Claire wasn't home.

Bedroom! Her voice sounded tired, but that was something normal. After all growing another human life was to say at least exhausting.

He crossed a little narrow hall, walked pass what was about to be the nursery. Even though the baby was on its way, the room wasn't habitable. The bassinet was still wrapped; the only other furniture was the rocking chair that Owen's mom sent as a present. Aside the four different color stripes painted on each wall, the room was all white, but very depressing. Owen let Claire decide what color the room should be. She couldn't pick between the antique white and the baby pink if the baby was a girl; or the baby blue eyes and baby blue for a boy. For Owen didn't mean much, it was either going to be pink or blue. He gave up the after the third time they argued about shades and coloring. But they both agreed that the gender of the little Dearing-Grady or Grady-Dearing should be a surprise. Of course he secretly wanted a girl that will take after Claire; while she was dreaming of having another Grady boy.

Owen found Claire in the bedroom; pacing back and forth in front of their bed with her eyes closed. She was clearly tensed. Owen could not help but to smile when he saw her; she was the most beautiful creature on the face of this earth. He backed at the door frame, just so he could steal couple of moments for himself; simply to admire her. Claire was dressed in gray sweatpants and one of Owen's old t-shirts that read "The Park is open"; her hair was up in a casual pony tail and oddly she was barefoot; one hand massaging the back; the other stroking her belly. If he were to describe her he would have said that there was nothing more perfect than her at this moment. Claire only gained 20 lbs during the pregnancy; each of them going to all the right places. His t-shirt perfectly fitted her big but tight tummy. When she first found it, it was almost like it was shoved at the bottom of one of his boxes, Claire asked him to throw it away. After the events in JW she thought it was in poor taste. But after all the cleaning around the old apartment, Claire was left without clean clothes to wear, so the damn thing came in handy. She first wore it one of the hottest summer nights Miami had seen. Needless to say, when Owen saw her in it the night got even hotter and steamier.

Claire finally opened her eyes just to see Owen staring at her, with such love and care in his eyes, she almost cried. They were separated for only four days, but it felt like ages. The damn hormones had her on an emotional rollercoaster the past few weeks. It was infuriating.

What is this time, not enough sleep, too much sleep? Not enough food or too much food? Maybe it's because you can't no longer see your feet? Owen was still standing by the door and his attempted to make a joke about her state failed miserably. Claire was not in the mood for jokes at her expense.

No, it is only having your baby!

Yes, yes, I know! My big headed baby, that won't let you sleep or breath! Now come here and give me a kiss. Owen opened his arms, inviting Claire into his embrace, but his enthusiasm got quickly scolded.

Claire faced him, now with both her hands on her back. Owen was 6.2 and twice her size, but she clearly was the scary one right now. Her eyes became glassy, but still throwing lightning bolts at him.

No, no, no, no! I am actually, quite literally having your baby right now, as we speak! But, please, how was your flight?

Owen didn't get if she was kidding or being serious about it. The baby wasn't due for another two weeks, so the probability about it was next to zero. At least he thought that way. It didn't take him long to know how wrong he was.

Son of a bitch! There it was again, the shooting pain in her lower back, that made her entire body feel like a rag doll squeezed and then torn apart. The contractions had gotten stronger and closer between in the past hour. She felt her intestines as they were twisting inside of her. It was the worse feeling one could feel, but it was only the beginning. The pain was about to get even greater and unbearable. She was glad that Owen was home with her, but in the name of everything she saw holly, she wasn't going to admit that she needed him or that she missed him. Part of this was his fault and she was going to make him pay for it.

Owen got to her in no time; not sure if it was ok to touch her. He just waited for her to say something; Claire, was that what I think it was? Are you… Claire only nodded in response, completely incapable of speaking. The pain ate the words before they could reach her lips.

The pain stopped the way appeared; with a blink of an eye. Claire realized that Owen was standing next to her; not sure what to do.

I am fine, but they are getting closer between. Claire was doing the breathing exercise they practiced, but without much success.

Babe, you should have called me! Why didn't you call me? Claire could sense Owen's frustration and his rising upset.

Don't worry, the contractions started this morning. I thought it was indigestion, the back was already killing me, and so I didn't pay it much attention. The pain got more persistent so I called my OBGYN, who is guess where… Costa Rica, on vacation. He told me it was not that uncommon the baby to be few weeks early. He gave me number of his colleague. Now we have to wait until the contractions are close enough, I don't want to spend longer than usual in the hospital. What's the time?

5.35 pm. How far apart are they? Owen was more nervous that Claire; Claire was the strong and patient one here, stoically taking the pain and discomfort.

16 minutes, but the last time they were 23 minutes… I guess we are not far from the moment of truth.

Should we go to the hospital, you don't look so good?

The doctor said they won't admit me this early, the contractions should be at least few minutes in between. Don't worry I will be fine! Claire tried to encourage Owen, but in the moment she was the one to be told she can do this, that she and the baby will be fine. But right now I need to sit down; I have been walking for the past 20 minutes…

Claire kind of crushed on the bed, backing her hands behind her. Owen kneeled before not sure how to help her. Owen Grady was the most fearless and strong person she had ever met, aside of her of course, but around her he was a marshmallow; very gentle and kind; the perfect boyfriend and the perfect father for her baby. All of the bantering and arguing they did was still there, but it was only in sign of affection. They characters always clashing, but the love was way to stronger.

I don't know how you do it?

Do what?

This! Owen was gently massaging her legs, as if it would help. Claire didn't care about the pain or discomfort when he was with her. It was weird feeling; the first night after they got back from the Island, after Patterson and Ingen, Claire and Owen were so overwhelmed by everything they couldn't talk about anything serious. But after that things changed; Owen was constantly "attacking" her just to talk to the baby. He was always telling her belly stories about how Blue once tried to bite his fingers off; how Charlie and Delta never listened to his commands, and the poor Echo being the youngest one always falling behind her sisters. Claire didn't like the stories, but Owen was so enthusiastic and happy she didn't have enough strength to say something.

It's an instinct! Claire awarded him with a brave smile. I don't think there is a woman on this earth to give you satisfying answer, we just do. Only god knows how I haven't given up yet!

My girl is not a quitter; you can do everything with such ease even in your sleep.

That's true, but you're definitely having the next one! Claire didn't know exactly how she got to the probability of them having another baby, but she kind off loved the idea. Owen raised his eyebrows, not very sure of what Clair just said.

When he first met her, Claire wasn't what most people would call forthcoming or cheerful person, she was all about work and numbers. It was normal, but not everyone saw it that way. But when Zach and Grey got lost he saw her caring side; the way she crossed the Island, most of the time chased by a very angry and murderous dinosaur, just to make sure they were ok, Owen knew that there was so much more about her; Claire deserved all the respect as a professional and a woman and he didn't doubt that she would be amazing life partner and friend. He fell for her; it was something he had never felt for anyone else.

I am not sure it would be a good idea; the little guy has the best possible living arrangements with you. Me on the other hand, I won't be able to provide such high level of comfort and care!

Claire couldn't help but to smile.

I guess so; this is why it's coming early than expected.

No, it's just eager to meet his beautiful mama!

More like to meet his dad, the raptor whisperer! Now Owen was the one breaking in a smile!

You are not gonna let that one go, are you?

Nope!

Then, I will make you pay me for every time you call me that stupid thing!

Yeah, how? Claire was daring him; she loved to tease him as much he loved to do the same with her. Owen slowly leaned over her; their eyes locked on each other and kissed her. He was so gentle and careful, afraid not to break his porcelain princess, his marble queen.

Claire moaned and pushed him back. The contraction was way too stronger than the previous one. More painful and significantly longer, the baby was really coming. She squeezed his hands so hard he thought she could break his bones. No man can go through so much pain without punching a wall, while Claire was so self-possessed and focused. She never seized to amaze him.

It's passing, but… What's the time?

5.47 pm only 12 minutes, maybe it's time to make you ready and go to the hospital, do you want me to call Karen or your mom?

Oh, God, no! We will call them when everything is over; my mom won't let the doctor do his thing… we will call them when there is something to tell! Ok? Claire gave Owen very insisting look; more like a threatening one so he got the message very fast.

I am not that crazy to fight you on that right now!

Good! Now help me up and let pack some things!

Owen packed some of her clothes, some of the baby stuff she had already chose, took her favorite pillow, which was actually Owen's pillow, and left for the hospital. The traffic was not a problem, even in city like New York; it was way too cold for the regular people to be outside. They got to the hospital around 6.30 pm just after one of the contractions had stopped. They were only 10 minutes apart, but very painful.

Do you want to lie down; it may ease the pain a little?

The only way the pain to stop it's when the baby comes out; I prefer walking. Where is the doctor, the nurse said he was here… I swear to god, I will kill someone if he doesn't show up.

Well, aren't we in a mood already! Doctor Stack appeared behind Claire just as she was threatening the life if some poor fella. Right next to him was the OBGYN nurse that looked like she was at least 7 mounts pregnant. Claire thought it was funny. She relaxed a little.

Miss Dearing, my name is Dr. Stack and will be your baby doctor tonight. How are we doing? He was reading her chart and talking at the same time and that reminded it of her; she used do the same thing. The contractions are 11 minutes apart, but your water haven broken up yet. We will wait a little longer, but if nothing happens we will have to do it ourselves, ok?

Claire nodded in response. Good! Not let me check you. This is nurse Stack… she will be your delivery nurse, you can ask her anything if you want. Owen was about to ask about the name, when the nurse got to the subject first. Yes, married 16 years, still going strong and this is our forth. That's for me; let us take care of your baby and his mama, shall we? The nurse smiled at Owen and he took a step back as if he was inviting them to the room.

Ok, Claire still got some time to the big show; you're six centimeters dilated, but we need to be at ten to deliver the little… Stack was about to spill the news, but when he was Claire shaking her head got the subtle hint… one, and the contractions have to be at least minute apart. You can walk around; do some exercises, whatever helps you kill the pain. I see you don't want any drugs going for natural birth and so far you're doing great. If you have any questions nurse Stack is at your disposal. I will come to check you in an hour ok…

Thank you! Claire felt relieved that everything was going well. Stack wrote something in the chart and left, leaving the nurse to prep Claire for the birth.

So, walking, again! Care to join me!

Babe, I am not gonna leave your side ever again!

You better!

…

The little Dearing-Grady or Grady-Dearing, they couldn't decide which way to go, was born on January 21st at 22,35 pm; weighting little under 7 lbs, but kicking and screaming strong. The perfect baby had taken everything after his handsome daddy; Claire couldn't be happier. Claire did great, mainly because Owen was with her the entire time; he even got to cut the cord. The first time the nurse gave her the baby she felt so blessed, she couldn't believe her lucky star, but when Owen held him she could swear her life was complete; she needed no job or carrier to know the true happiness; she only needed her two men. The nurse took the little one so he could be washed and checked; he was little under the normal weight, being born earlier than expected, but he looked healthy and strong. She once again asked about the name… Claire answered.

Dearing-Grady. Mathew Dearing Grady. After his father. Owen's middle name was Mathew and she had been thinking about it for quite some time now. After seen her precious son, she knew exactly what his name was.

Even though he didn't show it much, Claire knew Owen was in the clouds right now, so proud of his son; another Grady in Claire's life, but she love the Grady boys, she couldn't imagine her life without them.

Early in the morning, both the mother and the baby were asleep, leaving Owen awake to watch them. They agreed to call their families first thing today. Claire woke up, checked the baby sleeping in the crib next to her and then focused on Owen.

You should go home and get some sleep. You haven't even eaten since yesterday.

I had I sandwich, but maybe you're right, I should go home to fix the nursery.

Don't worry about that, he will sleep with us for now, in the crib we got for our bedroom. We will fix it later.

How are you?

Tired, in little pain, but I'll live.

That's my girl. Owen kissed her on the forehead. By the way, I have a present for you. I didn't get a chance to give it you, but now with the baby here seems appropriate. Owen took something from the inner pocket of his jacket and sat on the bed. I know we haven't talked about it, but we didn't plan the little one either, so… Owen left the small square box in front of Claire.

Claire didn't believe her eyes. Is that…

Open it! Her hands were shaking, but she forced them to calm down and opened the box. Inside it was the most beautiful ring she had seen.

I remember you saying no ring on the special finger no first name privileges. What do you think of becoming Mrs. Dearing-Grady?

Claire couldn't speak, so she just cried out thank you!

For what?

Not making me change my name! And yes, I would love to be your wife!

Hey, are you crazy, with your reputation maybe I should change mine.

Maybe you should!

But you have to buy me ring too, I am no fool, all those other women must know I am taken.

What other women?

There is only one, always and forever!

The kiss the exchange was like a promise about the life ahead them.

Owen and Claire married on June 21st in a small and very intimate ceremony. If possible it would have been just the two of them and Matt, but friends and family always come first. She chose simple white satin dress and Owen was wearing classic slim fit black tuxedo. He felt weird, used to wear only his old jeans and shirts, but he didn't want to upset Claire. Everything changed when he saw her walking down the aisle. The satin perfectly matched her smooth porcelain skin; her hair was loose and wavy. She was holding Matt, making all sort of funny faces to keep him from crying! They chose him to be their ring bearer, because Zach and Gray played to cool for that. In that very moment, when Claire made "say hello to daddy" with his little hand, Owen knew what true happiness was and from now on he didn't need anything else from life!

And about the "you are having the next one" argument, Claire didn't mind doing it again and she did; another three times!

THE END