Author's Note: OS, thanks for adding me to your community! Dr. Blowhole's Princess, thanks for the follow! Birth scene is…here and be aware that its written! I have to admit with typing Chloe's name I've gotten tired of doing the accent marks over the 'e,' so I won't do that anymore. It's still the same pronunciation anyway and if it was in writing, I wouldn't use the marks. :) Just letting you know, before you think I made a mistake. 21 pages long!

(The Lorax and The Once-ler do not belong to me. They're Dr. Seuss' and Illumination's. Same goes for his family shown in the film. Marie, Natalie and Chloe are mine!)

Chapter 13

Family of Four

"Oh!" growled Marie dropping her hairbrush.

It clunked on the floor and Marie knew what that meant. Squatting and holding to the sink, she bent the best she could to get it. She gripped it by the bristles and pulled it up. Grunting she smacked it in the sink's bowl. She was up earlier than usual and her bad attitude was proof of it. She left the bathroom and sat in Once-ler's desk chair to tug on her boots. The clock said five. It was still dark outside, a Friday and March 2nd. It was Once-ler's birthday. Marie found it hard to believe he was twenty-one.

"Alright," sighed Marie. She put on her coat and shook out the Thneed. She tied it as a scarf around her neck.

Marie cracked the door open to check on Melvin. The mule was starting to wake up. Snow had melted the day before letting new blades of grass sprout. The trees were no longer stiff from winter and the animals seemed active with the new season. Spring came very early in Truffula Valley. The river had thawed out and was running again. Flowers were blooming and the scent of lavender, vanilla and talcum powder breezed by; the scent of the Truffula Trees. Marie still doubted that butterfly milk was real.

A cool wind blew through the door and it woke her husband. Once-ler bolted up and shivered. He saw Marie dressed nicely and getting her purse. He glanced at the clock and grunted.

"Marie do you know what time it is?" he said. "What are you doing up?"

"I have to get your birthday present this early," said Marie closing the door to halt the chill blowing in. "It's the only time I can get it."

"Why?" asked Once-ler yawning and inching from his place towards her.

"I said it's the only time I can get it," said Marie exasperatingly.

"Are you going to be okay?" asked Once-ler. "I don't want you to be alone with your due date coming up."

"It's only three days away and the babies aren't going anywhere," reassured Marie. "I'm taking Melvin with me."

"Marie…"

"Once-ler, I'll be back at noon. No more, no less. Everything will be fine. I'll have my present for you when I come back. Today's the only time I can get it. So please let me go and get it for you."

"Okay," sighed Once-ler. Marie leaned in to kiss him.

"Happy birthday Handsome," she chuckled. "You're twenty-one."

"I'm not twenty-one until 8:37," said Once-ler smugly. "I'm still twenty for another couple of hours."

"Alright, but still." Marie kissed his head. "Have a happy birthday; sleep in, fix yourself breakfast, have fun and I'll be back."

Once-ler looked uncertain, but he nodded. There was no way the twins would come so soon. He gave her belly two kisses before lying back down.

"You'll be back around noon?" he asked.

"I promise," said Marie. "It'll be twelve o'clock before you know it. We'll celebrate together when I'm home." She reached for the doorknob.

"I love you," said Once-ler. Marie smiled before stepping out and nodded in agreement.

"I love you too," she answered. With a soft click the door closed and Once-ler went back to sleep, stretching out in the emptied bed.

Marie took hold of Melvin's bridle which was still around his muzzle and led him off with an apple. She had hidden it in her purse just in case he needed motivation. Eagerly he seized it and was obedient during their walk.

"Mr. Lorax," called Marie to the half-asleep forest guardian as they went over a hill. "Be nice to my Beanpole today, it's his birthday!" The Lorax started under the tree he snoozed at and grumbled.

Marie had heard from Dr. Helms that there were two companies in Greenville who may be interested in new inventions; DeSalvo Corp. and Dake Enterprise. Marie thought that maybe if they showed interest in the Thneed it could help Once-ler. Perhaps they would help it take off in marketing. The only time they had walk-in appointments (which were easier to arrange) was at five to eight in the morning. Marie had no choice, but to go that early. The reason to go on Once-ler's birthday was in hope the Thneed would be accepted and it would be a great gift for him. If not, then she would bring a cake for him. Either way, she was bringing a cake home. She wasn't sure if the companies would like Once-ler's invention, but she tried to have her beloved's optimism.

She arrived at the curved building and slowly went past the glass doors. The receptionist, a lady around her forties, simply pointed her down the hallway. Marie entered an open room decorated in red. She took the Thneed off and returned it to its shape.

"Oh, come on in," said the stout, middle-aged man sitting behind a large desk. He wore a stiff grey suit and had his thinning auburn hair slicked in a comb over. He hung up a phone he had perched near him. Marie walked, or more like waddled, up to him with her hands pressed into her lower back. "Goodness! You look like you're ready to burst!"

"I'm not entirely due yet," said Marie. "Mr. Dake, I have a product here that you may be interested in." She held up the pink, twisted material.

"What is it?" asked Mr. Dake. "It looks like a sweater with an extra sleeve."

"This is a revolutionary product; a Thneed," said Marie channeling in Once-ler's suave words. She paused for dramatic effect.

"What does it do?" asked Mr. Dake.

"It can be anything you need," said Marie feeling confident. "It's a fine thing that all people need! It helps soothe a sore back from carrying a baby and it can clean easily. It can be a shirt, a sock, a glove, a hat-" Marie twisted it into the forms. She smiled the whole time and spoke as fast as her tongue could run. She was almost at a loss for words when she finished. She took a deep breath and replied "What do you think?"

"It's interesting, but there's nothing too special about it," said Mr. Dake. "It's not a world changing invention. It's-it's not as serious as the light bulb or cars. Sorry Miss. I suggest you go back home and have some herbal tea before your baby is due. It may help get him or her out faster."

"I'm having twins," began Marie. Mr. Dake got up and gently led her out.

"All the more reason to get home then," chuckled Mr. Dake. "Thank you for your time though. Perhaps you could take to- oh what's his name? DeVito? DiMaggio?"

"DeSalvo," said Marie. "I guess I could try him next. Thank you sir." The portly man waved her goodbye. Marie left feeling disappointed, but she had another chance. She walked to DeSalvo's office hoping for something better.

His office wasn't less intimidating. It was all polished black with white marble accents. Marie felt small and low when she walked in. She was led by the receptionist the same way, a hand gesture.

Mr. DeSalvo was smoking a cigar, reminding her of her father, when she entered. He looked grouchy as she gave a polite smile. He had grey hair thinning and sideburns running down the sides of his face. He was muscly and rough looking. He adjusted his yellow tie against his white suit.

"Shouldn't you be in a maternity ward?" he asked gruffly. Marie bit her lip and dug the toe of her boot into the slick floor. The leather squeaked against the tile.

"I won't be today," she said bravely. "I'm here to show you a product that will fascinate you. It's a Thneed. A revolutionary product to be in every household! It has a thousand uses!"

"That?" laughed Mr. DeSalvo. "Looks more like someone's first attempt at making a sweater!"

"It's super absorbent because of its microfibers. It can be anything you need! A dress-"

"A dress?" laughed Mr. DeSalvo even harder and slapped one of his knees.

"A dress, a shrug, a belt," Marie continued. She draped it over her shoulders to demonstrate a shrug and the best she could around her stomach as a belt.

"Wait I know what it is now," said Mr. DeSalvo. "My girlfriend's told me about some shmuck who's tried selling that thing around the gazebo near Greenville Circle! You're a friend of his I suppose?" He didn't wait for her to answer. It didn't click in his brain that the young, expecting woman was the man's bride. "May I offer you some advice? Tell your friend to give up! That Thneed is pointless! Nobody will buy it!"

"But-"

"Look little lady, erm should I say big lady? Trust me, it won't get anywhere. It's nothing. Why don't you go home before you pop out your bundle of joy on my nice flooring? It's new!"

Marie stood there mouth agape at the man. Then she got mad! "I woke up at four-thirty in the morning, showered and did my make-up for nothing?! I walked an hour here for nothing?! I'm nine months pregnant and you can't show some kindness?! I can't believe-"

"Would you mind leaving please?" asked Mr. DeSalvo. "I have a meeting to arrange right now. Congratulations on your baby."

"Twins! Nobody recognizes twins anymore!" Marie could no longer take it and hurried her way out. If she hadn't been with twins she would've stormed out, but her body had enough weight to slow her down. She gave up the Thneed as she left. She didn't care anymore about letting companies see it, not with how they treated her or said about Once-ler.

Melvin was outside, out of place in the town, chewing on a plant. Marie thought that was good because Mr. DeSalvo didn't deserve such fancy plants with how he acted. She might've acted more irrational had Melvin not had nudged her arm. She sighed, patted his head and guided him for the bakery to buy a small cake. She purchased the only one with marshmallow icing. When Marie glanced at the clock inside it was half an hour to eight. It had felt longer, but it looked like she'd be going home earlier than expected. She and Melvin started for the direction of home.

They passed the park when some sprinklers turned on, getting Marie wet and making her sour. She heard Melvin nicker in gloominess. Her coat, dress, and boots were splattered with water. She felt damper than she should've been from simple sprinklers; something else made her soaked in a different area. Then she realized she felt a liquid gushing down her legs and into her boots. It had a different temperature than the sprinklers and it smelled sweet. Marie's eyes went wide and she gasped.

"It can't be," she breathed. Melvin went still and twitched his ears. "I can't be going-" Marie stopped and remembered what she learned in her baby book. Her water broke and the birth was starting. Today? It was too early! Panic couldn't happen yet.

She still had time before the pain hit. She could walk around for a little in the park and see how it went. Then when the contractions got close she'd go to the hospital, but there was a problem; Once-ler didn't know where she was. She couldn't go home or that'd be a waste to get back for the hospital. He did have that radiophone, so it could be working better this time. She could call him at the hospital. It could all work out. The first hour wasn't too much of worry. Nothing too serious would happen.

"Come on Melvin," said Marie guiding him a different route. "We're going for a walk right now…and a few phone calls." Marie used a pay phone to call Dr. Helms. She felt relieved to hear a kind voice after the two men.

"How do you feel right now?" her doctor asked. She sounded genuine and motherly.

"Not bad," Marie admitted. "I'm wet, but not in pain. I should go when they're a certain time apart, right?"

"Every eight to ten minutes for the contractions."

"Okay, I'm good for now. I'll call Once-ler and let him know."

"Alright," said Dr. Helms. "I'll be there soon. Just walk around for a bit and when the contractions get to every eight minutes then get to the hospital."

Marie tried calling the radiophone that Once-ler had made. However, all she got was static. She grumbled about the invention and that wasn't something she did often. "Stupid phone thing. I hate it! I don't mind the Thneed, but this? I hate the radiophone!" Marie slammed the phone down and waddled around until the contractions got worse. She still couldn't believe that the twins were arriving on Once-ler's birthday!

When Once-ler woke up it was ten in the morning. He didn't feel older as he got up and only wished he was able to roll over and find Marie to kiss. He adjusted more things in the nursery like all the sleepers, socks, booties, coats and onesies as soon as he stumbled out of bed.

"Only three more days," he said to himself with joy. "Three more days and Natalie and Chloe will be here!" He could've stayed in the nursery all morning and count over the things they had, but Marie would want him to find other things to do.

Once-ler did keep himself busy for the morning. He showered off, dressed, made his favorite breakfast and sat outside in the patio chair with a book. The animals seemed distant from him and tighter with each other. Springtime was happening. Pipsqueak didn't seem distant and showed up for some attention. The cub sat in his lap and tried reading with him. He couldn't make out the words, but he loved spending time with his human, the human who saved him.

"Happy birthday Beanpole!" shouted The Lorax from behind him. Once-ler dropped the book in fright. "Waterfall said to be nice to you so how about a friendly game of Poker?" He flipped some cards in his small hands.

"I don't play Poker Mustache," said Once-ler picking up his book.

"You don't know how to play?" asked The Lorax.

"I know how to play, I just don't do it." Once-ler crossed his arms at him.

"Why don't you prove it?" said The Lorax smugly. It started a challenge.

Before he knew it Once-ler found himself, pulled into several card games with The Lorax, winning only two. Pipsqueak played along, though he seemed to play Go Fish instead. He had to admit, Once-ler did enjoy it for his birthday. It felt nice to be one good terms with the forest guardian. The Lorax seemed to be in a good mood playing cards. It had taken up most of the morning, but the good birthday took a nerve wracking turn.

It started when Once-ler went inside to fix lunch when he noticed it was twelve. There was no sign of Marie and if she wasn't nine months along he probably wouldn't had felt too apprehensive. He waited half an hour pacing in and out of the tent.

"Take it easy," said The Lorax. "She's carrying two babies. She's bound to be walkin' slowly so don't worry if she's a little late."

"I know, but I thought she'd be here by now," said Once-ler tapping his fingers against the doorframe. He bit his lip. "I should've gone with her."

"Hey come on," said The Lorax playing Solitaire on his own. "She wanted to go get you something as a surprise. She'll be fine. Pip!" The Lorax scowled as Pipsqueak moved a card to examine. "Put that back! That's a jack! Keep it with the queen." Pipsqueak only chuckled.

Once-ler sat on his bed and watched the clock. Each minute he glanced out the window. He kept waiting to see Melvin and Marie coming up. They didn't come. Once-ler tried to not fear the worse, but he couldn't help but worry that Marie was in danger. He had a nagging feeling that he needed to go find her. He trusted Marie to handle herself, but he still felt concerned. Finally, seeing it was one in the afternoon, Once-ler's nerve broke and he put his fedora back on.

"Where are you going?" asked The Lorax looking up to see the young man stride out.

"I'm going to find Marie," said Once-ler locking the door and putting the key in his pocket.

"I'm sure she's on her way," said The Lorax reassuringly. "How about some Spades?"

"No thanks," said Once-ler. "I'll be back later. Don't steal any marshmallows." Pipsqueak got up to follow him. "Stay with him," he said with kind, parental instincts kicking in and pointing casually to The Lorax. Pipsqueak obeyed and stole another card to examine.

Once-ler half expected to meet Marie, but with each turn and twist on the pathway he knew after half a year he was saddened to see she wasn't there. He couldn't search all of Greenville for Marie, so out of a reflex and wisdom of having a pregnant wife, he went for the hospital they were told to go to. He was surprised to see something stick out in the town of humans when he showed up.

"Melvin?" said Once-ler in surprise, but relief.

His thoughts were confirmed when he saw Melvin standing on the lawn and nibbling at the fresh grass blades. He had a smashed white box at his front hooves. The surprise was seeing smearings of frosting on the mule's lips. Once-ler went up and unfastened his bridle. Melvin shook and dove back down to eat. Once-ler carefully nudged the box, seeing a collapsed red velvet cake. He smiled gently, but he found it hard to believe that Marie had only gone to get a cake. It wasn't a tiered one or decorated specially. It was plain looking, something he could've made at home. If Melvin was on the hospital grass, then Marie had to be inside...in labor.

"Once-ler, fix the stupid radiophone and get down here!" Marie slammed the hospital phone by her bed down. She had been trying to call him again. She was starting to wish she had gone home. Ten minutes apart and thirty seconds long...it had been the same for over an hour.

"Stupid me," she muttered adjusting the sheet over her. "Should've had him come with me."

Marie lay in her bed shaking after she had arrived at the hospital barely able to walk. Contractions hit her between rests. It felt like her menstruation cramps, but a hundred times worse. It felt like it had been days instead of hours. She had been given painkillers, but they didn't seem to work as well as she hoped. The pain was still strong and it had a grip. Being in pain made her only more afraid of what would happen within the following hours.

"Please Once-ler, please come for me." Marie held back tears of worry as she prayed for her loved one to arrive.

Hopefully he would realize she was late and come for her. She hated being alone in her hospital room. She didn't know anyone that well and it made her lonesome. Even Dr. Helms being there didn't satisfy. Marie would glance at the clock on the wall before her, watching the minutes creep by.

"Please let him come. I need him here. I'd be alone if I hadn't come with him to our home." She gasped and slammed her eyes tight as a contraction rattled her. She started hyperventilating as it lasted. She didn't want the Thneed, which was on a table in the room, she wanted him. When it was over she relaxed and rubbed her belly.

"Stay in!" she begged aloud. "Please stay in so Daddy can see you two. He needs to see you born! Don't come out yet!" She lolled her head to the side to see the blue sky outside her window. "It's a nice room isn't it?" Talking filled in the silence and took her mind off the aches. "It's a good place to be born in. Don't come now, just wait."

Marie gave a shaky sigh and started twisting a lock of her hair as she waited for the next contraction. Out of nowhere, she heard a crash from down the hall. She tried sitting up, but gave up because of her tiredness and weight. She shrugged and wiped her face dry from the sweat. The room felt too hot. The sound had been of plastic that thudded on the floor and an upset voice of a nurse hit the walls. Marie flinched from her shrill tone.

"Watch it you Tower!" So much for having politeness in a certain career to help people. "You made me drop my bottles!"

"Sorry! Sorry ma'am! I didn't mean to." Marie's heart leaped hearing the voice. She'd known that voice forever it seemed. She smiled to herself and her big fear was gone. Once-ler was there. She heard him run down and nearly hit the doorway. She tried sitting up again to see him.

"Finally," thought Marie. If she had strength to get up she would've tackled him with a hug and multiple kisses. Once-ler gave a forlorn smile as he rushed in. He looked breathless.

"Hey," he cleared his throat. He clasped her hands and kissed her head. At least she hadn't given birth yet.

"You came," said Marie. It was all she could say for the moment. She ran her hand over his flushed face. "You came." Once-ler nodded from her warm touch.

"I waited an hour and I panicked," he said. "You know Melvin's outside eating a cake?"

"No," groaned Marie. "That's for you! It was the only one with marshmallow icing!"

"Forget the cake," reassured Once-ler. He pulled the single chair up for him. "You're more important. How do you feel right now? Wait, that's the wrong to ask isn't?"

"I've been better," admitted Marie. "The medication they gave me didn't work, but I don't really care about it. I just want to get this over with. How long did you sleep in?"

"Late, but I don't feel any older. I had pancakes and double checked the nursery. That's all I did."

"Nothing else? I told Mr. Lorax to be nice to you. He didn't bother you about trees did he?"

"No. He was nice, nice enough to challenge me to Poker." Once-ler grimaced remembering his losses. "He plays well. Pipsqueak won a few too."

Marie chuckled picturing the cub winning. She could imagine piles of Truffula Fruit being the poker chips. The thought faded as she felt another contraction build up and she gripped Once-ler's hand.

"Ow!" Marie clenched her teeth. "Ow!" She felt Once-ler stroke her arm with his free hand. It passed over and she released her hold. Once-ler leaned against the bed frame.

"Is there anything you need right now?" he asked.

"I need the twins out," huffed Marie. "And I need that DeSalvo and Dake kicked in the shins! Neither could tell I was carrying two!"

"Who?"

"They're two men who run companies here in Greenville and I thought they may want to help you out with your Thneed. They hated it! That's why I left early; I had to meet with them. It was the only time I could and I thought that would be the first half of your present. Both are ruined."

"Well, if it makes you feel better, said Once-ler pulling back a strand of her hair. "I like this one more." His smile was kind and honest.

"It's taking a while to get there," said Marie full of exhaustion. Yet she pleased to see he wasn't upset over the Thneed.

"Do you want me to sing for you?" asked Once-ler. Marie shook her head. She just wanted talking.

Once-ler wished he had brought his guitar with him. He didn't need to sing; having his guitar could be background noise to soothe her. That or she would've bit him for making noise. So began the long wait for the final stage of labor. Marie would cling hold of him with each contraction. After the next few that followed, closer together, Once-ler decided to try something else for her.

"Scratchy sheets," muttered Marie as she kicked them off too cool down.

She exposed her stiff legs and blue hospital gown. She crossed her ankles, still wearing the white socks she had yanked on with a struggle earlier that morning. Once-ler crawled behind her so she was between his legs. He hadn't forgotten her advice from Valentine's Day. Marie gave no objections as she rested against him. She didn't care if someone called her clingy or whiney, she needed him there and the soreness only increased.

"If it helps, you look gorgeous," said Once-ler softly after some peace and quiet.

"I don't feel like it," whimpered Marie feeling a stronger hit. Once-ler stroked her golden curls. He kept waiting for her to snap at him for doing something wrong, but he was doing like she asked. He half expected her to yell "You did this to me! This is all your fault!"

"Now remember if their identical I pick Chloe's middle," said Marie after a pause.

"And if they're fraternal I pick," finished Once-ler. "I still like Esmerie."

Marie closed her eyes so as to not roll them. If that was what he picked, she would like it over time. The hours passed though neither really paid attention. All they knew was that it had been a long time. Once-ler and Marie nearly dozed off since they could always find comfort when resting against each other. The near sleeping would break off before settling in when the pain returned. Marie at one point hugged her front when it really hurt. She kept panting with each force.

Once-ler dared to not ask how long it would take. There was no telling how long birth would be. It had taken his mother a full twenty-four hours for Brett and Chet. Once-ler didn't want it to take that long; he was thrilled to share his birthday with his daughters. He couldn't get a better birthday with the one he was having with Marie.

Marie felt anxious with the long wait. Every contraction that collided, she either gripped the mattress, Once-ler's legs, his arms or his hand. She groaned and nearly cried. Now that Once-ler was there, she was desperate for the girls to move. Dr. Helms came in now and then to see how far she was, but her body and twins were taking their time. While waiting, Marie thought of something she wanted Once-ler to know.

"I don't think I told you this but," said Marie. "If for some reason life didn't have us fall in love, I would still want you in my life and…I would want you there if I had my own kids. I'd want you there when I gave birth and I'd want you in their lives."

"I would if so," agreed Once-ler. "I love this life better. I can only love you because you're the only one for me."

"So are you," said Marie. "I love this life better too. I'm just glad I came with you." Once-ler rubbed her shoulder. Who cared for her uptight parents or even his? They had their own family starting.

Noticing it was warmer than usual Once-ler took his fedora off and slowly waved it. The faint breeze made Marie's damp head cool off. She could smell the mint of his shampoo. Instead of comfort music, she had a comfort scent. She wanted more and so without thinking she lowered his wrist and breathed in deeply. He let go of it for her to hold and shifted feeling his legs tingle with sleep.

"If you hadn't come," said Once-ler slowly. "You might've been giving birth…by yourself."

"Probably Once," said Marie. "Even worse, you wouldn't see the girls."

"I would, but not at birth," said Once-ler. "I'd seen them after my success like your parents' deal."

"What if the deal didn't happen?" asked Marie. "Then what? It never would've happened."

"We don't know that," said Once-ler. "I promise no matter what happened, I would've seen them before they were too big for me to hold-"

Marie sat up and clutched herself as a longer contraction came. Once-ler rubbed her back as she arched. Marie counted in her mind that it had lasted for a whole minute. She grunted as she went back to Once-ler's chest.

"Whoever said labor is a lovely experience is nuts," mumbled Marie.

"It's worth all it," said Once-ler trying to be positive. Marie growled and crossed her arms and thought how only a man would say that.

"I'm just glad we're together," concluded Once-ler from her interruption. He kissed her hand.

Marie flinched feeling it again. It had come faster, only two minutes later. Oh, it felt twice as strong!

"Augh!" she cried as she gritted her teeth. Once-ler hadn't shown too much worry since he arrived, but now he was. He had never seen her in such pain, but he had to remain level headed.

"You're okay," he whispered. "You're okay."

"Shut up," she snapped. "I'm not okay! Oh, it hurts! I can't take it!" She gripped his knees and squeezed. "I can feel them moving! It hurts so bad!"

Only a minute later, Dr. Helms came in, and one look at her patient she knew it was time. She had four nurses with her. Once-ler stood up on the bed and jumped off, almost hitting his head on the low ceiling.

"Let's go," said the doctor. "We've got two to deliver."

"Sir," said one of the nurses. "You'll have to leave."

"What for?" asked Once-ler.

"It's a privacy issue," she said. "Just go to the waiting room where there's coffee." The nurses started moving Marie's bed out.

Marie looked horrified as she left for the delivery room. She didn't want Once-ler to wait. She was angry about him being ignored. As for Once-ler, he stood still watching her leave in disbelief, but he came to his senses and followed. He forgot his fedora alongside with Marie's clothes.

The two doors closed taking Marie from him and he looked at his surroundings. Around the corner was the room for him. He was alone in the waiting room that smelled of stale coffee. Once-ler never really cared for coffee since he was more if a tea drinker. He flopped in one of the chairs. He felt guilty to be outside though it wasn't his fault.

He brooded over the nurse. That was the second nurse who spoke down to him that day. Maybe they knew he was the goofball who tried selling "the weird scarf." There was a terrible silence and then he heard Marie scream. He ran his hands over his head as he listened, heart breaking to hear her in agony.

"Push Sweetie! You're doing great! Don't stop!" Dr. Helms, though not old, had the tone that Marie knew well to be similar to Betsy's. "Okay, now push again in ten." She counted down, but Marie didn't act on it.

"I can't do this!" cried a scared Marie. Beads of sweat poured over her face with her golden curls were moist.

"You're fine," comforted one of the nurses. She wasn't the one who shooed Once-ler out.

Marie had been sitting up, but she fell back with closed eyes moaning. The air was cold as she caught it in her throat. She clung to the sheet so hard her knuckles became pale. She didn't hear doors swinging open or the nurse snapping "I told you to stay out!" The next thing she knew she felt a familiar hand and soothing scents.

"Let him stay already," said Dr. Helms. "He can be here."

Marie looked to see nervous light blue eyes that she loved gazing at her. She didn't feel so afraid. Once-ler came again for her. Marie lost it and yanked Once-ler by the arm. He was face to face with her. She breathed him in. Mint, grass, and cotton began to calm her senses.

"Marie! Start pushing again," said Dr. Helms. "Keep breathing."

Marie obeyed and gave Once-ler more than he bargained for as she held him. He wasn't in a comfortable position as he stayed in her grasp. Not only did she hold his hand, she gripped his sleeve and panted into his neck. Each push she had him closer. Soon she was clinging to his collar, freckled cheek pressed up to her pale one and whimpering. So much for painkillers! It still hurt altogether.

When Marie had a moment to rest Once-ler freed himself. He found curiosity getting the best of him. Still hand in hand, he peered to see the birth, only to recoil in fright. Women; only they could handle it. He panted and put a hand over his mouth. His eyes were big after seeing the effect of giving birth to Marie and he felt helpless. He knew there was nothing he could do to destroy the physical pain, but if he could he would take it away as easily as blinking. It would haunt him for his whole life. Dr. Helms gave a sympathetic smile.

"Get back down here!" ordered Marie to him. "I still need you!" He went back to how she had him. He wouldn't complain of how sore his back was getting from leaning over her. His other hand stayed in her hair. Marie shouted more as the labor went on. She was soaked in her sweat, gown and skin slick as it progressed. It was only an hour of pushing, but it seemed much longer.

"You're almost there," said Once-ler kissing her cheek. He wasn't sure, but she had to be. "The girls are almost here!"

"Only a couple more pushes," said Dr. Helms. She turned to the nurses. "Ladies, get the blankets ready."

"I can't do anymore!" Marie was almost breathless from the worst pain she experienced.

Once-ler kissed Marie's head for encouragement. She thought more about the girls and pushed harder. She was doing it for her and Once-ler. When she saw the girls the pain would be gone and worth it all.

"Hey," he said making sure she was looking at him. "I love you." He kissed her nose.

"I love-you-too," Marie was cut off from the pushing. One more and they heard it; a soft cry.

"She's here," said Dr. Helms smiling.

The tired, young mother stayed back and panted. When she peeked over her legs she saw their daughter. The little being was gorgeous! A moment of sudden love came over Marie and she managed to smile despite feeling another pain starting. There was a purpose in life and it was before her. Marie was amazed to find how instantly she loved her baby. It was expected, but the force was greater than she had imagined. However, Marie didn't have time to stare; she had their second daughter to deliver. She went back to labor and let her husband have his moment.

Once-ler let go of Marie's hand and felt limp (in a good way) seeing the reddish-purple being in the doctor's hands. The baby started crying and flailing her arms. One of the nice nurses put her in a blue blanket.

"I think someone wants to hold you," she said to the baby and approached Once-ler.

With trembling hands, Once-ler held them out and let the tiny baby rest in his arms. He couldn't speak as he stood in awe of the miracle. She stopped crying and cooed. She had messy blonde hair and Marie's heart-shaped face which was scrunched up. Dark blue eyes, Marie's eyes, gazed curiously at him. She was just like he imagined and a lot more. Nothing else existed as Once-ler held her. She was real and his child. His firstborn. Once-ler couldn't control the swelling in his heart as he gazed in wonder over her. There was such a thing as love at first sight. Suddenly, the Thneed was dulled in comparision to what true beauty Once-ler held. She was a million times more special.

"Natalie," whispered Once-ler. It was all he could say because his breath was taken away. He felt the prickliness of happy tears and blinked them away.

"Sir," said the mean nurse. How else could he describe her? "We need to take her right now."

"Now?" said Once-ler almost in a whine. He hugged Natalie closer as if to protect her.

"Yes now," she said impatiently. "You can hold her later."

Very reluctantly Once-ler gave her back, feeling his heart drop to see and hear Natalie cry in the stranger's arms. The nurse left the room. Once-ler sighed, but turned his attention back to Marie.

"One more time," said Dr. Helms. "She's almost out." Marie pushed again and the other was there. The feeling came back of love at first sight with one's own child, twice as much love with having two. It was a feeling that sadly Marie and Once-ler's parents didn't feel. Save for perhaps the father Once-ler never knew. "Looks like you have fraternal twins," chuckled Dr. Helms.

Once-ler lit up at the word fraternal. He won their middle name deal. Chloe was there too, a little smaller than her sister, but crying as well. If not, louder than her twin. She was kicking her tiny legs as she was wrapped up, but instead of being offered for holding she was whisked off.

Marie started shivering with the afterbirth and wished she had the Thneed for warmth. She did get a blanket put over her which helped. There was a sense of joy knowing that she had delivered twins. The worst was over and she was desperate to hold them, but of course she'd have to wait. She wasn't upset about Once-ler choosing Chloe's middle name. She was curious if he would go with his original idea after all.

Birth certificates were filled out and hospital bracelets made with Once-ler taking the helm for certain information. Born on March 2nd, the twins were nine minutes apart and healthy. Natalie was twenty-one inches long and Chloe only twenty inches. Natalie was exactly seven pounds and had arrived at exactly five in the afternoon. Chloe was six pounds and eight ounces, obviously smaller.

Marie was moved to a different room and waited for the twins. The uncomfortable hospital bed felt a little cozier with the thick covers. Once-ler came in after waiting for her to be situated and kissed her tenderly. It was the best day of his life and he couldn't stop smiling in pride of his daughters and wife.

"You did it!" said Once-ler happily. "How do you feel Beautiful?"

"I feel better now thanks," said Marie cheerfully. "It's been quite a birthday for you. I think the girls planned for it. All to surprise you and me."

"Best ever," said Once-ler. "And I didn't need a cake or Thneed selling for it. You look wonderful."

"Right," smirked Marie. She still felt messy. "I look like a wreck." She gave a light shake to her hair.

"You do not," said Once-ler indignantly. "You look extra beautiful." With matted hair, sweat and reddening skin she did look spectacular in his eyes. Of course she looked great to him; she had given life to their babies. She had the look of a blessed mother.

Marie giggled and stretched her arms. She was still thrilled that the twins had arrived. Even though it had been unexpected, she couldn't think of a better time for the twins to be born. It was early spring, her husband's birthday, and their family was complete. The sun had set and dusk fell in. She felt relaxed and peaceful. The girls were being examined and would come soon to be held.

Once-ler slumped down from the chair he sat in. Marie's hugging in labor had made him a little sore, but it wasn't as bad as what she went through. His shirt was wrinkled, his vest askew and his hair was messed up.

"Sorry if I wore you out," said Marie shyly after she eyed what her gripping had done. "I had a tight grip on you."

"Don't apologize," chuckled Once-ler. "I was glad to do it." He flexed one of his hands. Marie had a strong grip.

"So you won the name deal," said Marie. "I'll be happy with anything."

"I have a lot of names in mind," said Once-ler grinning slyly. He folded his arms behind his head. He bounced his knee fast after a minute. "When do we hold them? I didn't get to hold Chloe yet."

"I know," said Marie compassionately. "You got to hold Natalie though. I didn't get to hold either of them." She reached out and gripped his knee. "Don't overexcite yourself." She stifled back a yawn and Once-ler obeyed her gentle command.

"Is there anything I can do for you?" he said. Marie playfully frowned at him. "Or have I done more than enough?" Twins were more from his side.

"More than enough with giving me two," she said, but still looked happy. Marie reached for his hand and felt how soft it was. Once-ler cocked his head still waiting for her answer.

"Anything?" he questioned again.

"No-well," said Marie. "Actually, yes. There's one thing." She inched further into the bed's center and softly moaned. "Just snuggle with me for now."

Once-ler smiled and kicked off his boots. He cuddled up to her and enclosed an arm around her waist. Marie copied his movement. Feeling very comfortable compared to the afternoon's events, she sighed contently.

"I'm proud of you," said Once-ler patting her lower back. He meant it after watching her give birth for he was amazed at how she handled it.

"I gave birth," said Marie. "Any woman can do it." She ran her fingers over his hair. She hadn't gotten great glimpses at their daughters' looks, but she hoped to see their daddy in them.

"You're still amazing," said Once-ler. "That's why I love you so much." They kissed, long and heartfelt with Once-ler nudging his legs against hers.

"I love you too," Marie murmured. Safe against him, she felt peaceful and exhausted from the long day. "I never expected to have this much joy in my life."

She did have a good life. Sure her parents and past boyfriends had been bumps in the road, but they were small. Marie had Once-ler the whole time. Her Once. Her best friend. Her husband. The father of her children. She needed him and her daughters like she needed to breathe. She wouldn't live without them.

"You know, said Marie. "Since the girls were born in March, that means we'll have our first Mother's Day and Father's Day this year."

"Oh yeah," murmured Once-ler softly and beginning to feel drowsy. "Remind me to get you a huge bouquet of roses for your first one."

Marie smiled and began to doze. Once-ler followed pursuit and both slept. They were the happiest parents at that moment. After the exciting day, both needed to rest. They were nothing but fragile bodies pressed together with pleasant dreams after a perfect day.

"Ma'am?" came a gentle tone.

Marie slowly awoke to the voice. She squirmed out of Once-ler's protecting arms. He was out cold and snoring.

"Yes?" said Marie tiredly.

"You're twins are here," said a nurse. She had two plastic cribs near her. "I think they want to be held."

Marie sat up excited. She held her arms out and placed in each arm was a daughter. Marie felt like crying, but it was a good kind of crying. She felt overwhelmed looking at them. Soon the four of them were alone. She saw Natalie who had her face and Chloe had Once-ler's round shape. She noticed they had a combination of noses. Hers from the side and Once-ler's from the front. Natalie's seemed a little bigger. Dark blue eyes squinted open and closed again. They had their mother's eyebrows. Their blonde hair was hidden under their knit caps. They were swaddled up in pale pink blankets and Natalie pried out one arm. She seemed confused at what it was.

Marie was pleased that if she couldn't hold Natalie first then Once-ler did. While she had worked to get Chloe out she had caught glances of the new father. She had never seen Once-ler look as grown-up or euphoric with Natalie cradled against him. Whoever said fathers were not as important as mothers was a fool. They meant just as much. He was a dad and she was a mom. Chloe's sudden burst of crying startled her.

"Oh," said Marie sweetly. "I know. It's been a long day. You're tired." Chloe settled a bit and snuffled. Natalie closed her eyes. Both flinched hearing a snort from Once-ler and whimpered.

"Once! Once-ler!" Marie nudged her foot against her husband's leg. His eyes snapped open and sleepily he looked up. "They're here."

"Here?" Once-ler mumbled in question. He sat up seeing both of them. Blissful, he rested his chin on Marie's shoulder. Adoringly he stared at his daughters. Only then did he see Chloe's face which looked like his and he was astonished to see a piece of him within her. Chloe's eyes were cross-eyed, but straightened as they looked in wonder.

"Aren't they beautiful?" said Marie. She knew the answer.

"Very beautiful," agreed Once-ler. He graced a hand over Chloe's jaw. She was the nearest to him.

"You didn't hold Chloe yet," reminded Marie.

Slowly, Once-ler took his youngest out of Marie's left arm. He cradled her and was in awe again of the new life. Chloe was smaller than Natalie and Once-ler had noticed it when he took hold of her fragile form. Chloe's minuscule hand broke free and it rested over his. Carefully her daddy undid the sleeve that covered up her hand to prevent scratching. The five little fingers resting against two long ones reminded Once-ler that only twenty-one years ago on that day he had been so small. Lightly, he twisted his hand so hers tried gripping his fingertips. His thumb stroked hers as he took in all he could of Chloe like with Natalie. She had long eyelashes that fluttered like a butterfly's wings. She had Marie's shape of lips, but the promise of his smile. Chloe felt comfy in the new set of arms and nodded off.

"Natalie Viola and Chloe...Esmerie," said Marie. "Or whatever you're planning on. Serena?" She was kidding, but Once-ler looked serious.

"No," said Once-ler proudly. "Chloe Eleri Once-ler. It fits her. It's grown on me."

Marie almost protested thinking that Once-ler had caved in, but his expression said he chose it on his own. She was touched he had chosen it after all. She reached for his cheek to kiss it, but instead he leaned for her mouth wanting her completely.

They hadn't been married for a full year and already so much had happened. The pessimistic things in life were dim with the new ray of light of their creations. Neither could describe how the love they had never known until then felt, but it was the purest of all and it wouldn't be lost. Once-ler had almost lost Marie, but now he wouldn't come close to it again. He wouldn't let anything deprive him from the three things he loved most. Marie, Natalie and Chloe were his life.