Disclaimer: Stephenie Meyer and affiliates owns all that is Twilight. No copyright infringement intended. Jasper is so wonderful and handsome . . . oh, sorry my mind must have wandered. . .

Author's Notes: Hello darlings, I hope this chapter finds everyone well. Just quickly wanted to thank all who are taking the time to read this story. I also wanted to thank all of those who have added this story to their alerts and favorites; you rock. And to all of those who left reviews, again your responses were immense and so wonderful to read. Thanks! Also thanks to Karen E Teague again for taking the time in looking at my mistakes and making this chapter even better. Much love.

This chapter will be moving the time along, and the next chapter is going to be what everyone has been asking for (and no not a marriage proposal . . . LOL . . . the other thing). So without much ado . . . enjoy!

Chapter Twenty-Five

14 September-5 October

It felt amazing to have someone depending on me. The last ten years of my life seemed like me depending on others. I leaned on Carlisle and Esme for love, support and family. I depended on Shelly and her words of wisdom; I also leaned on Bella from the start. And now I was the only holding her up. I was able to be there for her, and comfort her.

Life with Bella was something I couldn't really describe.

My nights were spent talking to the little beauty. I was also afraid if the baby was a boy; my calling him beauty wouldn't turn out to well. I guess I would have to tell him I actually called him butch, but he must have misunderstood in the womb. I loved my time I spent with the baby. It was my time to actually unwind and clear my mind from my sometimes over hectic days at the hospital. I would keep my hand on Bella's bump, pouring out the details my day feeling as he or she responded to me with little kicks. He or she would listen, some nights he or she was more active, and other nights the sound and pitch of my voice would sooth the little one.

Conversations

"And then she came up to me trying to get my phone number. It's not like this is the first time she has tried to hit on me, can you believe her audacity baby," The little one nudged my hand and the steady beat of its heart encouraged me on.

"I know it's like enough is enough, and learn some control. I had to learn my control, so she should also have to learn. Haven't they ever learned the meaning of the word no? What kind of slu…"

"Jasper if you finish that word, you will learn the meaning of enough is enough. I'm tired, fat, and my child likes to kick the heck out of my bladder," Waking Bella was the last thing I wanted, well besides the fact of surviving the night with all of my bits intact.

"Sorry angel. No more bad words," Bella's answer was a huge unladylike snore that probably split her nasal cavity in two. I mean damn, how could her nose actual still work. The poor baby probably thought a bomb went off in its mommy's body. I'm sure the house moved on the foundation about a foot. However, these thoughts would stay in my head forever; I wouldn't give Bella anymore ammo to point toward my bits.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

"We lost a patient today. I know better than to burden you with this baby, but you always listen to me. The hardest part about losing someone is the faces of the family members. You see, they have their hopes placed on your shoulders in making their loved one better. They depend on your knowledge and your skills in making sure all is well. But sometimes baby, there is only so much that can be done. It's never right and it always never seems fair, but nothing can be done. If I could save everyone I would, but there is only so much I can do, and it hurts that I was never enough. Having to watch their faces crumple in absolute heartache is the worst part of my job. The only thing I am ever able to give them is my comfort, and only that is artificial feelings. It works for a while, but then they leave, and have to face their grief without my gift as it should be," Tears gathered in my eyes, as the little one gave me the only comfort it could, the reassurance it was there and listening. Its kicks were my hope for a new life, and a better opportunity.

"Thanks baby. I knew you would understand; you always do."

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo

You know baby one of our patients was finally able to go home today. You remember the little boy I was telling you about." I swear that child understood all I said. Whenever I asked a question, it would always let me know it was listening. "Well he was finally released. After two months in the hospital after being hit by a speeding car, he was able to go home. It really is days like these that make me love my job. I don't always have the best of days, but when the sun shines, it makes it all worth it. You know Carlisle tried telling us what saving a life could do, but until you are there and are actually able to participate and witness, you never feel the full effect. The joy that fills your body is almost indescribable, and your high can last for hours. I may not be human, and I may not have adrenaline, I would have to ask Carlisle, but the rush is still there, and it's amazing. When you become a doctor, you'll see," I got my customary kick and my face lit up even more.

"Jasper," Bella said groggily, "Please stop trying to pigeon hold my child into becoming a doctor. It can be anything it wants," Well I guess today was one of her grumpy days.

"I know angel, I was trying to tell the baby about my wonderful day."

"That's fine and all, but my day consisted of peeing, eating, sore ankles, peeing, eating, not being able to even get up from the couch, and peeing. So if you could wrap up your 'I-had-a-wonderful-day' speech I would like to get back to my sleep before I have to wake up in ten minutes and pee some more," Talk about too much info on bowel movements.

"Sorry angel, no more talking tonight. How about I just sing to yo . . ."

"No thank you just shut the hell up. Don't you ever sleep," And that was that. She was cute when pissed off and trying to blow the roof off in her sleep with her constant snores.

I also had conversations with Bella and her wants for her child. She wanted what every parent did, for her child to happy, safe, and healthy.

"I know it sounds cliché in saying I don't care about the sex of my child, but I can honestly say that is the truth, at least regarding me. It's one of the reasons I didn't want to know the sex. I wanted to love my child for it, and not for anything else. I want my child to have ten fingers, and ten little toes. I want him or her to have a healthy birth and to feel my love. It's all I could really ever ask for. Does that make any sense or am I just a rambling pregnant woman?" I gave her a smile and rolled my eyes at her silliness.

"Yes Bella, it makes perfect sense. You love your child regardless of anything else. Your love is eternal whether it is a boy or girl. All you could ever ask for is love and good wellbeing for your unborn miracle. Every day I can feel your love increase for the baby. I hear you talking to him or her, and I can feel the love laced in each word you utter. So I understand where you are coming from, and I respect you all the more," I finished my flowery diatribe, and wondered when I became such a sap. It had to be around the time I lost myself to a fallen angel.

"You are always on the same wavelength as me Jazz, and you always phrase my words so beautifully and eloquently. Your command of words is brilliant, and you make the rest of us layman look stupid," She teased me.

"As if I could ever do anything of the sort regarding, my very intelligent friend. But enough about our English vocabulary, the question I would like to know is simple. Do you have any names in mind for the baby?" I asked her after she was done eating and we were relaxing in the living room.

"I've given it some thought," She replied, with her cheeks becoming flushed. I wondered why she felt embarrassed at her answer.

"And," I encouraged her to continue. Bella played with one of her curls and refused to look at me. "Are you planning on answering me?" I asked her and she continued to ignore me. I knew I had to go to the extreme. I silently slide over closer to her side and gently tickled her side. Bella immediately screamed her laughter while trying to move from me. "Are you going to answer me now?" I asked while still gently tickling her side.

"Yes Jasper!" She screamed, and I felt victorious. "I'll tell," She squealed. I stopped and allowed my curiosity to take over. When Bella finally recovered a few seconds later, she tried to give me a scolding look, but I just smirked at her.

"Fine, but for the record I want to point out your tactics were completely unfair. Not only can I not defend myself, but I can barely move." She said with her arms folded over her ever growing baby bump. The little kitten was upset. I just gave her a smile and one bloomed on her lips. "Okay you win, but please don't think I'm stupid," She pleaded with me.

"Bella," I said in exasperation. "I would never think you're stupid. Now open up that pretty mouth and tell Jasper what you want to name beauty/butch," She giggled while rolling her eyes.

"Stop with that horrid nickname, Jasper." She said in exasperation but still laughing.

"Fine what are the names choices for BB?" I rephrased and Bella gave me a rewarding smile.

"Well if it's a boy I was thinking of naming him after my father Charles, Charlie for short. His middle name would be after his father because it would be the right thing to do, and I know Mike would love his child," She said, and I could feel the sadness behind her words. I became jealous of Mike and the piece of Bella that he held. I grabbed her hand and gave her the time and support she needed. After a few moments she calmed down, gave me a grateful smile, and continued. "His name would be Charles Michael. And if it's a girl," Bella said her cheeks becoming a rosy-pink. "I was thinking of the name, you promise not to laugh," She asked instead and I could feel her sincerity. I wondered at her hesitation in telling me the name.

"I promise angel I won't laugh, but I have to admit you have my curiosity very peaked," She bit her cheek and her left dimple made an appearance. I leaned forward and kissed her faint dimple because it begged for attention, and I wanted to give her my reassurance. Bella inhaled and then let it go. The build-up was sending me over the edge.

"Okay," She said and twisted her fingers together, "If it's a girl I like the name Cheyenne," She nearly whispered. I looked at her, waiting for the reason she was embarrassed about the name. She refused to look at me so I lifted my hand, placed it under her chin and pulled it towards me. Bella barley opened her eyes as if not wanting to see my reaction.

"I'm in the dark here, angel. I think Cheyenne is a beautiful name and very different. Care to explain why you seem to have reservations about the name," She gave me a shy smile, and slightly pulled away. She removed my hand from her chin and placed it in hers. I entwined our fingers and waited for her to begin talking. Bella closed her eyes and I could tell she was going to a place far away.

"As you know my mother is all over the board. She goes through phases faster than anything. Well when I was about fifteen she wanted to experience life in the west. I kid you not when I say she wanted to be a cowgirl. For some odd reason the idea appealed to her immensely. I had no desire to leave Phoenix, but once Renee has an idea in her flighty head it's hard to persuade her otherwise. After school let out that summer, she rented a house in Wyoming and so along with her daughter, she moved to live her latest idea of fancy. I was very upset with her. I wanted nothing to do with Wyoming or whatever lifestyle they had there. I just wanted to go home, and spend my summer in relaxation. I hated the idea of living somewhere I had no knowledge of. When we arrived in Wyoming we made our way to the capital and settled in Cheyenne. The first month passed quickly, and what I thought I would hate with a passion, melted," I could feel her excitement as she spoke with a look of joy on her face.

"It was so beautiful Jasper. The sky was so big, and the surrounding mountains were amazing. The people were so nice, and for the first time, I actually felt like I fit in somewhere. All of my preconceived notions of Wyoming left and I embraced living there. I actually made friends and for the first time, in a long time I was happy, but then Renee pulled the rug out from under me again. I should have expected it," I hated her sadness, and once again I was angry at her mother for her complete lack of making her daughter happy. I gripped her hand tighter, and Bella gave me a grateful smile.

"I should have realized that something I loved and enjoyed would have been the opposite for Renee. We never really saw eye to eye on anything. After the first month she became bored and her romanticism of the west and becoming a cowgirl lost their appeal. So with a broken heart I packed up my things again, said goodbye to the friends I had made, admired the wild beauty of the state, and drove home to Phoenix with my mother," Bella finished her tale and I gently pulled her into my arms. Bella wrapped her arms around my waist and buried her head in my neck. I let her cry out her frustrations. She was upset with her mother. She was disappointed in her lack of caring what her daughter ever wanted, and she was sad she never really understood her mother or her crazy notions.

"It's okay angel. I promise it will be fine," I whispered into her hair. Bella mumbled something about pregnancy hormones, but I knew it was deeper than that, but I allowed her the concession. "I still don't quite understand the name Cheyenne, angel," I continued to whisper. Bella pulled back and her face was flushed from her crying, but a smile played on her lips.

"When I became pregnant I thought I couldn't handle it. The very idea of something so unknown scared me beyond reason. I wasn't sure if I would be able to handle the changes and all that comes with being a mother. The fear almost overwhelmed me. But then I started to think what if. I became comfortable with the idea of being a mother. I told you about the mother and her child, and I knew that I wanted my own moments with my child. The correlation between the name and my story are the feelings. When I moved to Cheyenne I was frightened and scared. I wanted nothing to do with the place and knew nothing about it. But after sometime and giving it a chance I fell in love, the same with my baby. Cheyenne represents an idea to me, a somewhat utopia of happiness, when I was actually happy and embraced the idea. Just as I loved the place, I loved my baby and wanted to name it," Bella finished and her embarrassment was back. I saw no reason for her awkwardness. The name was beautiful, but the notion or the idea behind the name was even more beautiful. Bella wanted to name her child after something that brought her happiness after she gave it a chance, just like her baby. Bella's spirit was beautiful and I smiled a soft smile at her answer.

"That was a wonderful story Bella, and I think Cheyenne would be the perfect name for a girl, just as Charles Michael would be perfect for a boy," My angel just gave me a grin, and my heart fell even more to her.

There was also a conversation in which I completely froze and feared the worst; Bella would see me for the monster I was and leave me behind for good.

It was a good think, I realized after wanting to gag at the smell, that I l knew how to cook. There was never a need for me to learn and if people actually knew what I ate they would wonder where I had learned and why. There was a simple answer to that conundrum, Charlotte. While attending Yale, I had taken a short trip during a spring break vacation to visit. Suffice it to say, I had gotten in trouble for something beyond my control, and as punishment Charlotte made me take cooking lessons. The reason this was punishment is I cannot stand the smell of human food. It is simply grotesque to me, and the smell actually made me gag on occasion. It was something of a sore spot for me, but I still loved Charlotte.

"Are you alright Jasper? You look even paler than normal," Bella said in surprise. Usually when I cooked for her I could contain myself, but tonight was proving difficult. I often heard humans talk about foods they preferred above others, and tonight I understood why. Often I cooked for Bella on my own. I never wanted her to overextend herself. In not having her in the kitchen, I was able to hold my breath, and not worry about the nuisance. Tonight however that wasn't the case. Bella insisted on helping for once, and for some reason, I couldn't deny her.

So I had to smell what she would be having, and it truly made my dead stomach roll. I braced my hands on the counter and bent over at the waist. For some reason the smell made me want to hurl. After trying to calm my tumultuous stomach, I stood up and gave Bella a shaky smile.

"I'm fine angel. I just cannot understand how you can consume this shit," I told her quite honestly. I usually never swore around Bella, but there was no other word to describe her dinner choice. Bella gave me an exasperated look while rolling her beautiful colored eyes.

"Jasper, there will be no cursing around the baby. From the many stories you have told me about your family, I'm sure Esme would not approve," I had to concede that to her. And in that moment Bella looked extraordinarily like Esme; I held back a shutter. "Besides, I happen to like Liver and Onions. It's good for the baby and me. I thought you would approve of my healthy eating habits," She said giving me the eye from where she stood. Bella hadn't even held her unborn child yet, and already she had mastered 'the eye' stare that all mothers seemed to come equipped with.

"It's alright angel, whatever you want is fine wit . . ." I said but couldn't finish on account I gagged after a particularly strong wave of the smell hit my senses. I bent over the counter again in hopes of holding my stomach together. Today was not going well. My face felt clammy, but I knew that not to be the case, I didn't sweat after all. I felt a hand on my back, rubbing small circles, trying to give me some comfort and support. I instantly felt warm, and after a little more time, my overactive stomach finally settled somewhat.

"If I had known that you would have reacted this way Jasper, I promise I would have made something else. I really am sorry," Bella said in a soft voice filled with guilt. Of course I should have known she would find some way to take the blame. I reached behind me and pulled my sad angel into my arms.

"It's not your fault Bella," I said with a smile in my voice. She was such a martyr. "I could have left the kitchen at anytime," Although for me to totally escape the smell, I would have needed to go outside, but I said nothing. "If you want to eat Liver and Onions," I said with an actual shutter, "then you shall eat it. Don't apologize for your cravings," Bella wrapped her small arms around my waist, her baby bump stopping her from being closer. She exhaled a large breath, and I could feel her anxiety start to rise. I wondered for the millionth time what was going on in her brain.

"Jasper, may I ask you something personal. It's just something I've noticed, but if you don't want to answer, I'll understand," She said with trepidation in her voice. I became worried, wondering what question she would ask that would make her feel any fear. But I knew no matter the question, I would probably answer her.

"Lay it on me Bella," I said in a light voice, trying to keep the situation and her anxious nerves calm.

"I hardly ever see you eat anything," She started in a small voice, keeping her head plastered on my chest "I don't understand how you can survive Jasper without eating .I promise I have not looked into this. I trust you when you asked me to. I'm just curious, but more than anything I'm worried about you, Jazz," My heart fell at her words. This was one of those pivotal moments that my love for Bella was tested. Did I tell her the truth or lie to her. I had planned on telling Bella some truths about my situation. I wanted her to know exactly who she was living with, and the potential danger she was in even associating with me. But I kept pushing it back; I wanted Bella to stay with me. I didn't want to give her a reason to leave me. They were all selfish reasons, but I simply needed Bella in my life. I didn't know how to survive without her anymore.

"Bella," I murmured to her, waiting for her expressive face to look at mine. When she granted me with her beautiful, I looked into her jade speckled eyes, giving all my love to her. "My life is so complicated. We have talked about some things that make me different, and it seems like you have found another thing to add to the list. If it were in my power to tell you everything about my existence I would, Bella. But there are certain, shall I say, set of laws that have stopped me. Please angel; just give me some time to work everything out. Please just have a little more faith in me," I beseeched.

"Always Jasper, no matter what you may say to me I will love you now and forever," I could feel her conviction, but I was still scared of her reaction and her potential refusal

"As will I little one. But to answer your question in the most basic of terms, I do have a special diet I follow. There are very unique things required for my life. My life has been so very private, and I'm not use to discussing them with others outside of my family. Just give me some time, please," I asked again while touching the apple of Bella's smooth skin. She just nodded her head, and eventually pulled away.

I purposely reached out and felt her emotions. I could feel her curiosity, but underneath everything else I felt her acceptance and love for me. It really did amaze me that someone could be so accepting of another without, little to no information. It proved to me the depths of Bella's love.

"Are we okay?" I asked just to be certain of my position in her life; sometimes words were needed. Bella turned around from the nasty piece of meat that truly looked like a human liver, and gave me a sly smile. I immediately put my guard up.

"Sure Jasper. But since you can't tell me certain things about your life, I was wondering if you could possibly demonstrate something," I knew her little ploy and damn it if it didn't work. Guilt was a dirty little tool at one's disposal.

"Perhaps," I said carefully, but I could even hear the uncertainty lingering in my voice. My eyes looked at her with caution, but her face showed innocence. She turned around again and a moment later she was facing me while holding a fork in her little, evil hand. "You can't be serious, angel," I said, real fear straining my voice. Her smile turned into a frown, and I felt guilty at making her sad.

"I understand Jasper. I'm sure my cooking isn't as good as yours, and it would be unfair of me to ask you to try it. I just wanted to make sure you are really okay," She said while her voice became smaller and smaller. Damn Esme for making me into such a sap. Where was my iron clad resolve and control? Oh, yes it left me deserted with just one look from Bella.

"Fine," I said through gritted teeth. I just wanted her sadness to end. I warily looked at the slimy brown meat that was tinged pink in the middle. The smell started to play with my stomach again, and it brought me back to patients with uncontrollable bowel movements. I stifled a gag that tried to shake my throat, and approached Bella. Her face still had a frown, but I could feel her happiness. I placed my hand on hers that held the offending piece of supposed meat, and slowly brought it to my lips. I willingly forced my head from turning to the side, and with courage that came from somewhere unseen, I placed the thing into my mouth.

I instantly gagged, and Bella's face fell. I really was trying to be brave, stronger vampires would have fallen already. Venom filled my eyes and clouded Bella from my vision. The only thing I could focus on anyways was swallowing the shit in my mouth and looking forward to a time when I would be able to regurgitate it out of my body. After one of the most painful minutes of my life, I allowed the bile to finally slide slimily down my throat while trying to fight the continuous gag reflexes. I could feel my stomach roll as the offending piece of meat finally settled like a rock in my body. I brought my hand to my mouth, trying to stop myself from throwing up in front of Bella.

When I finally felt like a vampire again, and not a sick human I heard a most peculiar sound in my ears. After I cleared my eyes of the steadfast venom that pooled, I could see my little demon holding onto the sides of the counter trying to stop herself from falling over her laughter. I was in shock by her response. Bella was the worst liar there was. Her very cheeks gave away her lies by turning red. And yet she was able to trick me into believing her innocence, and sadness. I wasn't sure if I should have been impressed or angry, but with Bella's feelings of Joy, it was difficult to feel anything but that. Bella was finally able to collect her laughter. When the tears were wiped from her eyes, and the last laugh, laughed, Bella gave me an indulgent smile.

"Very good Jasper, I must say I'm impressed myself. The fact that you were able to keep that down was medal worthy. Also, never say when it really matters, I can't play with the big boys," She finished with a smirk on her mouth and her arms folded over her baby bump. I guess she had finally repaid me for my tricking her. Damn my angel was something to behold.

"Touché darling," I relented while throwing my hands up in surrender. Bella had brought so much into my boring and secluded world. Even though we had serious conversations, and moments of doubt, I learned we could move past anything. I was truly blessed in having such an amazing friend.

The rest of the evening was spent in laughter and us making fun of ourselves. My love for her was endless, and with each moment that passed with her in my presence, I truly loved her a little bit more.

Bella also had appointments every other week. She had ultra sounds and blood work. The doctors wanted to make sure she and the baby were well and progressing, especially after her few stays in the hospital. I couldn't accompany her all the time, because I was still working at my internship, and my hours were not really conducive to hers. But her doctors were pleased with her progress, and even thought she looked happier than ever.

I cherished the nights that I was free to spend with her. She had become my best friend and the gap that always seemed present in my life, which could be filled by no one, was filled by my angel. I still kept Bella to myself; still not ready to share her with others. The normality my life took with Bella's presence was almost perfection. I had no reason to complain.

And in the chaos of learning to live together and meshing our schedules, our lives became colluded and we lived in our own little world. Nothing seemed to penetrate our warm bubble, and as I became secure in Bella's friendship and love I had a feeling that things were finally settled or so I had hoped.

Author's Notes Continued: I hope the chapter was somewhat satisfactory. I know it may seem more of a filler chapter, but it was still necessary. Firstly, it pushed the time along by three week, and now Bella is in her eighth month of being pregnant. Secondly, it was more of a chance for Jasper and Bella to further their relationship, and get to know each other even more. Lastly, it was more Bella and Jasper together; need I write more. :P

So I hope you will tell me your thoughts. Did the time progression go alright? Did you find the chapter too boring and unnecessary? Did you like the scene with Jasper having to try Bella's wonderful cooking (mwahaha)? How did you like the names picked out? I know that the boy's name is clichéd, but it just seemed like something Bella would do, however; I could be totally wrong.

On a more respectful note, I know that tomorrow is the ninth anniversary of 9/11 in the United States. So I just wanted to pay my respects to the victims and the families who lost loved ones and anyone else who may have touched their lives. May your day be a little brighter on such a hallowed day. :*)

Again thanks to everyone, and I hope all is well with you. Much love. :P