A/N: Wow, I really am overwhelmed by the support for this work so far. I appreciate it so much! I'm posting two tonight because this chapter is so short. Kiera Cass, the offer for coffee is a standing one. If you drink coffee, I guess I would buy you tea if you prefer? Characters are hers. :)

And, on to the reviews:

IChangedForYou, INFAMOUSkidBlue, Karategirl537,PokemonLuver151, & guest: Thank you all. I'm so glad you're enjoying it.

zeldafanatic0555-I hope it's living up to your expectations.

BeatriceMelarkHolmesEaton-This chapter is short, but the next one is longer. The story will continue. :)

Lady Unimportant-I just couldn't let a 17-year-old just-married America get that kind of surprise. Totally respect those who do, but it would be a totally different take on the "After." Glad you like the choice!

candy1928-Thanks for the encouragement. :) America's learning that loneliness is part of the gig. :-/ Hard lesson.

northernstar-I think that's why I'm writing. I think I'd be obsessing if I wasn't being creative.

Now, on with the story!

Maxon smoothes the hair back from my forehead, touching my cheek gently. "You were amazing, America. I can't even put words to it. I love you doesn't seem strong enough."

I look up from the sleeping bundle on my chest and take Maxon's hand, kissing his palm. "I love you, too. So much." I close my eyes, resting my other hand behind the baby's head.

With my eyes still closed, I whisper meekly, "Maxon."

"Yes, America."

"I'm sorry I implied that your parents never married. And for grabbing you by your belt buckle when you tried to pace by the bed. And for giving you that bruise on your hand. And for swearing that you'll never touch me again. And for threatening to dash your favorite camera against the floor."

He laughs softly, "All in a day's work, love. If it helped you, then all is forgiven." He pulls his chair closer to me, and rests his head near mine. Several minutes later, I add, "I have an idea. How about you have the next one? Because it makes me really tired, and maybe even a little crabby."

He continues to chuckle, "One at a time, my dear. Let's see if we survive this one, first." He takes his camera from the table and snaps a few more pictures. I let him, trying to ignore how horrible I must look. The birth photos are just another rite of passage for us. I breathe slowly, gazing in awe at the new little life in my arms. I never knew how my mother feels about me-how Queen Amberly felt about Maxon-until that very minute. Words feel inadequate, so we say nothing.

We are together quietly for a few seconds more before Marlee pops her head into the room. "Your family, America. I don't think I can keep them out much longer." After one last long look, Maxon and I nod and my family floods the room. I wonder if he regrets buying them a house so close to the palace. Maxon holds up our son, "Calix Shalom Schreave, meet your family."