Disclaimer: I don't own anything but Luke!
Ruthie sighed, bored with what she knew she was about to hear. She knew perfectly well what he was about to ask her. Just the same, she knew just how she was going to answer him. She just hoped she could compose herself to prevent the need for medical attention.
"Will I what? Punch you and give you a black eye? Sure, I'd be more than happy to. You really don't know what you're asking for though. I mean there's the swelling, the bruising of not only your face but your pride. Consider the pros and cons before something like that," she advised. T-Bone repositioned himself with a grimace of pain.
"Will you forgive me?" he asked quietly. She felt her eyes practically bulge out of her head. Was he for real? The sad truth of the matter was that yes, he was just the guy to say something so ridiculous.
"You have got to be kidding me," she laughed, rolling her eyes. "Why would I even consider something like that with all the hell you've put me through?" she asked. Now she wanted to not only leave him there and go back upstairs and sleep like Martin had suggested, but beat him to a pulp with her own two hands. Ruthie knew she was capable of it. However, her civil side won out as she struggled to keep her fisted hands to herself.
"Listen Ruthie; just hear me out before you say anything, okay?"
"Why would I?" she asked already working on closing the door. She almost had it closed before another hand pushed it back open, making her teeter slightly. Regaining her momentary loss of balance, she used the door frame to stay standing.
"I know I've been a jerk in every term used in the English dictionary," he started.
"No you haven't. What you're doing now brings a whole new meaning to the word," she said.
"So it's wrong to ask your girlfriend for forgiveness when you've done wrong?" he asked.
"Stop right there. There are two things wrong with that sentence. Can you guess what they are?" T-Bone could only shake his head, confused.
"Again with the circles," she sighed. "I told you once and I'll tell you again. I am NOT your girlfriend anymore. No amount of begging or pleading will make me change my mind on the idea. Two, you already did ask and you failed miserably."
"Ruthie, I know I've hurt you in the past and I'll never be able to say sorry enough for those things. That's exactly what that is though, the past. You can't go back and change it. One can only move on and learn from his past mistakes."
"Oh god you sound like one of those famous people from about 200 years ago!" she shouted, annoyed. Still T-Bone pressed on, ignoring completely what she had just said.
"Your family and God made me realize that I don't want to end up like my parents." Ruthie frowned, realizing that where he didn't want to be in life was exactly where he was headed. Subconsciously she took her injured leg between her hands and rubbed it. "I want to go to college and be important. Not just trash on the street."
"Well good for you," she said seriously. "What does that have to do with me?"
"You have made me realize that I can't live without you," he went on. Ruthie smirked inside and was suddenly reminded of a Hallmark card. That's what annoyed her most. T-Bone couldn't think for himself. He couldn't come up with his own apologies. "I am truly, from the bottom of my heart, sorry for sleeping with Tiffany. If it makes you feel better, I was thinking about you when it happened," he smiled. Ruthie wanted to just as quickly rip it off of his face.
"Okay so what you're saying is that since you were thinking of me while you cheated on me I'm supposed to say its okay? That it's all a misunderstanding and throw myself at you as if it never happened?"
"Is it working?" he asked. Again she had to resist letting her hand touch his face.
"Not even close," she seethed. His face quickly fell as he felt himself shrinking at her death glare. "If you were thinking of me, then you would not have done it in the first place. You would have stopped and gone to me. Instead you go get a girl pregnant!" she yelled. From behind her she hard Aaron screech along with her and smiled. "Now if you'll excuse me Theodore I'm going to go be with my family now. I'm sorry you wasted your time in coming all the way over here," she said. With that, she hobbled her way back up the stairs slowly. She hadn't even made it up the first two when she felt a hand grip her shoulder and cringed.
"What did I tell you about walking away from me?" he growled. Ruthie felt her heartbeat accelerate at the dark tone in his voice. Just as quickly, she was overcome with sheer relief when she saw Martin make his way down to her, now fully awake.
"Get. Your. Filthy. Hands. Off. My. Girlfriend. NOW!" Martin said with a deadly calm. She saw Aaron's face fall, tears quickly building in his eyes as he began a loud whimper. One that she knew would quickly become a cry.
"Shh sweetheart it's okay," she whispered taking him from her livid boyfriend. The little boy fell into her arms, quickly seeking protection from the monster his father had just become. "It's okay baby. I know Daddy scared you," she said softly beginning a rhythmic motion when she felt him dig his wet cheeks into her shoulder. Anger flared in T-Bone at the sight of Ruthie holding the frightened child. She wasn't holding his son. The first child in her arms was supposed to be his. Not Martin's. He had half the mind to rip the kid right out of her arms.
"Oh come on! I didn't know what I was doing!" he said defensively.
"So you were drunk," she stated. T-Bone froze. He honestly couldn't remember. Had he had alcohol that night? He did remember wanting to eliminate pain. What better way than drowning yourself in a numbing substance? At the same time the idea of it made him sick. He wasn't his father. He'd never be his father. He promised himself never to touch that stuff. Not after seeing the pain it could cause the ones he loved. "You always give people second chances, the ability to tell their side of the story. Can I at least have that much?"
"In case you haven't noticed, I gave you that second chance at the hospital," Ruthie said playing with Aaron's hair.
"That doesn't count!" he said desperately.
"Did words come out of your mouth?" she asked.
"Yes," he said quietly.
"Consider that your second chance," she said.
"But after everything I've done for you! I was your shoulder to cry on, your comfort when this jerk left you! Does that count for nothing?"
"Not really. You and I both know my heart wasn't into it. Why would I waste time lying to myself when I know that I'm committed to Martin?"
"He's using you!" T-Bone shot back.
"No, Martin saved me. Saved me in a way you never could have. Aaron and I are going upstairs, get rid of the loser for me, I've had enough of this," she said failing to suppress a yawn.
"Go back to bed baby. I'll be up in a minute," Martin said kissing her forehead gently. Martin smiled, satisfied when he saw the anger in T-Bone's face. From behind T-Bone Martin could see Kevin's less than pleased glare.
"He shouldn't even be setting foot in this house," Kevin said.
"You can't tell me what I can and can't do," T-Bone laughed. "I came here because I needed to speak with Ruthie," he finished.
"I think you have said enough to her to last a lifetime. Unlike you, I'm going to listen to my girlfriend. Goodbye T-Bone, have a delightful evening!" Martin shot back; taking Ruthie's shaking form in his arms.
"Martin if you don't mind I'd like to talk to Kevin for a minute," Ruthie said quietly. Martin looked down at her worriedly. He was filled with a mix of concern and anger when he looked into her eyes. Reflection of the light showed a sheet of glistening tears. Signs of the pain that the pathetic excuse of a man had put there. Tears he instinctively met with a soft palm. He smiled when he felt her sink into his touch sniffling quietly.
"I don't know what's wrong with me," she laughed. "I've never cried so much," the last part came out in a whisper.
"It's okay," Martin reassured her softly. "You don't always have to be so strong. It lets me actually do my job right," he chuckled.
"You already are doing your job right. Or should I say jobs," she smiled.
"There's always room for improvement," he said. "I'm always here if you need me Ruth," he told her while kissing her temple.
"I know," she smiled. "Take him upstairs and wait for me there. He's already asleep." Martin nodded, gently taking a now asleep Aaron out of Ruthie's arms. Running her fingers along his peaceful face tenderly, she placed a soft kiss on his cheek before shooing them up the stairs. Waiting until she heard the click of the bedroom door she turned her attention to Kevin.
"Can we talk in the living room?" she asked.
"Sure. Do you need any help?" Ruthie only nodded leaning all of her weight on her good leg letting air pass through her teeth in pain. Kevin quickly jogged up behind her and lifted her up off the ground. Ruthie let out a squeak in surprise and laughed.
"I'm not completely useless," she said defensively. Having heard her but true to Kevin form, ignoring her all the same he continued on to their destination.
"I never said you were," he grinned.
"So why haven't you put me down yet?" she asked.
"I don't wanna," he said childishly.
"You know I could just lean on you while I walked," she said.
"This is more fun," he countered.
"For who exactly?" she asked.
"It could be both or just me. Make your choice," he said.
"I'm gonna have to walk eventually," she said.
"Yeah and until then you get the full service deal. So shut up and let me have my fun," Kevin demanded playfully.
"And if I chose not to?" she asked.
"Refuse my services and I get to carry you over my shoulder. I can't guarantee there won't be any spinning," he said. Ruthie's stomach heaved at the idea of the mini rollercoaster ride. She was instantly reminded of the real life one that had broken down at the fair, leaving her stranded up there for hours. On said ride the only company she had was of all people, Kevin. As was his norm he wouldn't stop talking for the entire time, leaving Ruthie to question why she'd chosen him to join her. Of course, that alone made her quickly examine his sanity. Not that he had very much left of it. What remained however, she was still not too sure about.
As they swung through the kitchen door that joined the living room she felt herself being tossed into the soft cushions. As much as she hated the idea of having to be carried the giggle that escaped turned into a full laugh. Ruthie quickly sobered up and glared at how he had put her there.
"What?" he asked innocently.
"You tossed me," she pointed out.
"Yeah. You landed safely. I didn't hear the crack of bones breaking," he said.
"I'm injured!" she laughed.
"Not anymore than you were yesterday," he said. "You can't tell me you didn't enjoy it," he said. Ruthie had to admit that yes, she did enjoy it. Rarely was it just the two of them anymore. It was nice to be so carefree. She could only ever do that with Martin. Kevin felt different though. He always had a way of making even the most ridiculous seem like the most fun. Take for example, the night he danced around the coffee table. No one else would ever be brave enough to do something so stupid. Kevin was the brave soul in the family who didn't care what anyone else thought of him. He did things because he wanted to and there was no talking him out of it. Not even Lucy could fight it anymore.
"Can I ask you something?" she asked, the happiness quickly draining from her face.
"Anything," Kevin whispered.
"Why didn't anyone say anything about him before?"
"What do you mean?" he asked.
"I mean why didn't anyone say anything about how they felt when I started going out with T-Bone?"
"We did," Kevin said softly.
"No you didn't. None of you did," she said.
"Mom and Dad saw you go over the edge when you almost slept with him. You know they said something then," he pointed out.
"They didn't know about it," she said. "And I didn't actually go through with it," she finished.
"Parents know these things Ruthie. If they had said anything directly they knew you would fight them. Instead they observed, waiting for you to decide for yourself. I'm just thankful you made the right one."
"It didn't feel right," she whispered. "There was just something inside my head that told me not to. Told me to save myself. At the time I didn't know for what. He would never love me the way I wanted. He had a family that took first chair leaving me on the back burner."
"You were never a back burner," he said.
"It felt like it. I really didn't see him wanting to waste his time with me."
"You're never a waste of anyone's time Ruthie. You should know that," he said.
"I do now," she said.
"I still remember how desperately you tried to hide the tattoo," he laughed.
"I failed, didn't I?"
"I wouldn't say failed. More like…D+'d it," he said slowly.
"I crashed and burned."
"Yeah…kinda," he laughed.
"Biggest mistake of my life," she whispered.
"That's just it. It was your mistake. No one else's. You learned from it, right?"
"I spend hours in the shower trying to see if there's some way, anyway I can just scrub it away," she said.
"You can't," Kevin said.
"Thank you so much Captain Obvious," Ruthie said rolling her eyes.
"Hey it's my job," Kevin said laughing.
"Oh of course how could I have forgotten that," she laughed. The laugh soon died on her lips and she turned to Kevin with sad eyes. The idea that T-Bone left without a fight beyond the insults and shoulder grabbing was really starting to scare her. Usually, when he had a point he'd stick around until he won. Seeing the look in Ruthie's eyes all playfulness in Kevin's eyes disappeared.
"What's wrong?" he asked. Ruthie only shook her head.
"Just thinking," she whispered.
"About what?" he asked.
"I can't do this anymore. I can't be scared for my life every second I'm conscious."
"You won't have to. You're done with him and if he can't get that then he's got us to deal with," Kevin told her.
"He'll just keep coming back. He's like a stupid boomerang. One of these days I'm afraid he'll hit me where it hurts most," she sniffled. "I can't Kevin. I can't watch him destroy my reason to live," she confessed. By now all she could see through her flowing tears was a mesh of her brother-in-law who sat in front of her. As he watched her delicate body shaking, he moved in closer, taking her in his arms.
"Shh Ruthie its okay," he whispered.
"No Kev it's not. No one knows what he's capable of. He grew up homeless. He's going to defend himself in anyway he can."
"Do you forget what I used to do little sis?" he asked. "I was a cop. One of the best in my division. Ask Sgt. Michaels. He'll tell you I took down anything and everything that ran from the law."
"Are you sure you're not just trying to make yourself look good?" she chuckled.
"Ruth," he said disappointedly. "When do I ever just say stuff to make myself look good?" She glared at him.
"Okay, okay so there was the old lady down by the casino who left the parking lot going 70 in a 50 zone…" he agreed. "Seriously, what was I supposed to do?"
"I'll tell you what you didn't have to do. You didn't have to rev the engine and burn rubber just to catch up," Ruthie said. "You're working for the law. You know, people who are supposed to set a good example for society," she said wiping her tear-stained cheeks.
"What else was I supposed to do? I couldn't jump out and race after on foot. She was in a car. You know those things that are on wheels and can go a million miles faster than someone who just happens to be running."
"That's why they give you sirens," she said.
"She was deaf! I had to practically scream at her when I finally got her to pull over."
"And that's why they flash pretty colors," she said with another eye roll. I'm pretty sure that if she saw them. How exactly did you get her to pull over anyway? I mean according to you she couldn't see or hear anything."
"Well she eventually saw me pull up behind her. It took her a heck of a long time though," he mumbled.
"Oh yeah because old people don't know what in the world they're doing," she said sarcastically.
"I never said that. I'm just saying she was one of my harder chases."
"Telling an old lady she was speeding was hard?" Ruthie snorted.
"Do you not remember me saying she was deaf?" he asked.
"I can't wait to see that on Cops," she laughed.
"Hey! Then we'll be rich and famous!" he exclaimed. "I don't think that show counts for your fifteen minutes of fame," she said.
"I could be known as the really hot cop who anyone-according to Lucy-would sleep with," he smirked.
"If you had any brains at all you'd turn them all down on the spot," Ruthie said.
"You know I would. As annoying as she can be sometimes Lucy's my other half Ruthie. I don't know what I'd do without her grouchiness," he said seriously.
"Good because the Camden army is about twenty people strong. As tough as you are we could all kick your butt into the next millennium if you did anything to hurt her," Ruthie said.
"Yeah I know."
"Don't tell me he's getting the speech again," Martin laughed. "Don't you think once is enough for us?"
"Shut it Martin," Ruthie growled playfully.
"Shutting. Although, if I don't, do I get to hear you growl again?" he whispered huskily in her ear. Almost instantly her face went red and out of the corner of her eye she saw Kevin gag.
"Keep talking and you'll see what doesn't happen tonight," Ruthie warned.
"Okay guys! Do I need to give you two love birds "the talk"?" Kevin asked. Both heads shot up and shook quickly. On their way up his forehead collided with her temple.
"Ow," she grimaced rubbing it gently.
"Sorry babe," he whispered massaging her sore spot tenderly.
"You two make me wanna hurl," Kevin grumbled. Ruthie and Martin quickly looked at each other sharing a smirk and high five.
"Yes!" they said together. "Our job here is done," they smiled. Ruthie saw Kevin shudder not so discreetly.
"Before you take her away Martin I've got a question."
"What?" she asked, taking Martin's hand in hers and starting subconscious circles on his knuckles.
"How much of a restraining order do we want?"
"The best you've got," Ruthie said.
"I'll talk to Sgt. Michaels about it today and see what we can do. Either way Ruth I can assure he isn't coming within three feet of you," Kevin assured.
"Thank you Kevin," she said giving him a tight hug.
"Anytime."
"Can I steal my girl back please?" Martin asked.
"Yeah, yeah I guess," Kevin mumbled. "Thanks Kevin, for everything," Martin said.
"Over my hot, sexy dead body will this family be torn apart," Kevin said determined.
"That would have sounded really sweet and sentimental had you not said "hot, sexy," Martin pointed out.
"That's how I roll," Kevin said with a smirk.
"Tell me again why this family puts up with you," Martin said with a sigh.
"I provide the fun. Where would everyone else's lives be without a dose of Kevin Kinkirk?"
"Probably just a little bit more sane than we are now," Ruthie said.
"Oh but where's the fun in that?" he frowned.
"What did you need Martin?" Ruthie asked facing him.
"Dr. Camden wanted to redress you," Martin said almost instantly regretting his word choice.
"Wait what? Matt wants to do what with you?"
"Redress the wound dummy," Ruthie said rolling her eyes.
"Well you have to be more specific," Kevin said.
"Can we go before we catch Stupid?" Ruthie asked.
"Sounds like a very good idea."
"HEY! It's not contagious! At least I don't think it is," he said slowly. Within seconds the two were gone, barreling up the stairs before something even more stupid was said.
"Now I just have to try and make myself useful," Kevin mumbled to himself. A smile graced his face when he saw Lucy hobble towards the kitchen sink.
"You know what would be really nice?" she asked to who he assumed to be her pregnant sisters.
"Cake," he heard the three chime. Quickly, panic set in. He'd never baked in his life. That job was usually Lucy's.
"Kevin!"
"Carlos!"
"Yes Luce?" Kevin asked meekly.
"Si me amor," Carlos asked carefully, coming up behind Kevin.
"We want cake and tea," Sarah told them sweetly. The two shared a desperate stare.
"Uh…" they said slowly. Kevin's eyes shifted when he saw Lucy taping her foot impatiently.
"Today would be nice," Lucy said bitterly.
"One second Luce," Kevin said. "How do you bake a cake?" Kevin whispered to Carlos. The Latino only shrugged giving him the same blank stare he had received. "It can't be that hard," Kevin reasoned.
"I'll work on the tea," Carlos said.
"Okay ready, break," Kevin said quietly clapping his hands once.
"This isn't a football game!" Mary said angrily.
"Sorry," Carlos said.
"Now get to it. We don't have all day. Your children are hungry!" Sarah growled.
"Why does Matt not have to suffer with us?" Carlos asked.
"He's undressing Ruthie in the bedroom," Kevin said.
"Wait what?" Carlos asked with a raised eyebrow.
"That's what I said," Kevin replied already starting on the cake by chucking a box of mix into a clean bowl.
"We'll be waiting out in the living room," Mary sighed. Absentmindedly the two nodded.
"Can you pass me the eggs bro?" Kevin asked. Carlos came up from behind with a couple of eggs and ran the tap for the tea. After about ten minutes both boys were done with their designated jobs.
"That wasn't so hard, was it?" Carlos asked.
"They make it look so hard," Kevin laughed. "Easiest thing I've done in my life," he added. Quickly, the exited the kitchen and went to go join the ladies on the couch.
"Hello senoritas!" Carlos greeted, smiling happily.
"That was fast," Mary commented.
"We know how to get a job done," Kevin said.
"Uh huh…" Lucy said carefully. As soon as the unsure reply left her lips, what sounded like a crash, sounded from the kitchen.
"What did you do?" Sarah asked.
"Nada," Carlos said unsure.
"At least we think," Kevin added.
"Why do I smell smoke?" Mary asked glaring at the two of them.
"Ah crap!" Kevin exclaimed running back into the kitchen. Carlos ran after him, slight concern building for the pop he heard as he left earlier. As they entered the kitchen they heard the smoke alarms start to go off. Almost at the same time a baby's cry was heard with a group shout.
"KEVIN, CARLOS! WHAT DID YOU DO?"
"NOTHING!" they shouted back.
"Everyone, out now!"
"Daddy!" Savannah cried. Almost immediately Kevin swooped her up in his arms.
"Yes princess," he asked breathlessly.
"Where fire?" she asked clinging to her father.
"Daddy and Uncle Carlos were trying to make something for a snack and it caught on fire honey," Kevin said.
"We has to stop, dwop, a woll!" Savannah said seriously.
"No sweetie. That's for when your clothes catch on fire. Right now we just have to get out of the house." Just as quickly everyone piled out stepping onto the sidewalk. Having no idea what in the world was happening Aaron wailed as the group commotion continued.
"Shh buddy its okay. Daddy's got you," Martin whispered. "Shh go back to sleep," he said softly, settling the three of them down on the grass.
"He didn't even finish wrapping," Ruthie laughed. As if he had just heard them Matt ran up to them with a doctor's kit in hand.
"Okay, where were we before Kevin made a complete fool of himself?" Matt asked settling down beside them.
"We were wrapping," Ruthie said. Matt brought out his knee indicating for her to set it there.
"Tell me if I hit any sore spots," Matt said. She nodded weaving her hand with Martin's. Almost as soon as he started Ruthie gripped his hand growling slightly.
"Save that for the bedroom Roo," Martin chuckled. She whipped her head around and glared at him. Through that glare she could feel tears building. Martin's hand instantly went up to brush them away. "I'm sorry Ruth. You know I didn't mean it like that," he said quietly.
"It's not you. I just hurt everywhere," she sniffled.
"What can I do to help?"
"Just stay with me," she pleaded.
"I'm not moving," he promised. A few minutes later Matt had finished redressing the injury and had gone to join Sarah somewhere else in the yard. The sound of a fast approaching fire truck was heard. The whine of the sirens quickly startled Aaron awake, making him whimper quietly.
"Mama," he called, tears quickly pouring down his face. Martin silently handed him over without a word. Ruthie cuddled him to her almost instantly, rubbing his back in comfort.
"It's all good sweetie. That's just the really nice fireman who's going to put out the fire. I know they're loud."
"Hey Aaron. Check out the big truck!" Martin said trying to distract him. As soon as Ruthie directed his attention to said truck his eyes became fixed on the large red vehicle. His eyes were wide in wonder as he pointed to it speaking in a language only he knew.
'It's big, isn't it?" Ruthie asked. "Let's watch them put it out with the really big hoses," she suggested. From behind her she could hear Lucy jogging in their direction.
"Oh."
"My."
"God!" Lucy and Ruthie both alternated.
"What?" Kevin and Martin asked together. All the girls could do was point at the men jumping off the truck. No words left their mouths as they just gaped in aw.
"I missed something," Kevin said in his usual confusion.
"I think Luke just lost his place in first…" Ruthie said slowly.
"Which one?" Lucy asked.
"The big, tall, blond, really buff guy over by the hydrant," Ruthie said continuing to stare.
"I don't know. I'd go for the tall, dark handsome guy pulling out the ladder. Never mind I see what you mean. Oooh I like him…" Lucy said.
"Uh uh. He's mine!" Ruthie said.
"I think we're being replaced," Martin frowned.
"Hello. Lucy honey. Over here!" Lucy seemed to be dragged out her daze and reluctantly looked away from her fireman.
"Huh? Oh sorry Kev. Did you see how nicely built Mr. Hydrant over there was?" she asked excitedly.
"Yeah…" he said jealously quickly crawling up every bone. No dude chill. She chose you. She had your kids. It's no big deal. It's just a really well dressed fireman who just so happens to have really nice hair. Oh what am I saying! I'm not supposed to agree with her! She has your ring on her finger. No big deal. As he looked down at the loop on his finger he sighed. Why was he making this such a big thing? He looked at girls all the time. She could window shop too. At the end of the day she'd be in his arms, not Mr. Tall, dark, and handsome.
"Ruthie. Ruthie honey. Hello!" Martin called loudly. Ruthie's head whipped around almost instantly.
"Huh?"
"I'm over here," Martin sighed.
"Oh sorry," she said with a gentle blush on her cheeks.
"I thought so," he smirked.
"You know I love you," she smiled. Martin nodded covering her lips with his in seconds.
"How do you do that man?" Kevin asked.
"Do what?" Martin asked.
"Be completely cool about your girl staring at other guys?"
"It's trust. You just have to pull them away slowly," he said.
"Wow," Kevin said.
"All about trust," Ruthie said playing with Martins hair as she sat in his lap. As she laid her head on his shoulder comfortably the blond came up to speak to them.
"Alright it looks like all the smoke has been cleared. We would advise you to not cook in that kitchen for a couple of days. Just to prevent having to come back. There could also be embers of the fire that was in there somewhere. We don't want a repeat of what just happened. Be very careful not to let those embers turn to a full fledged fires. There's also the worry of smoke inhalation. It would be highly advised to find a place to stay for a few days."
"Thank you," Lucy smiled widely.
"You're very welcome. Stay safe now," he smiled. As he walked away the two girls shared a dreamy look. Simultaneously the apocalypse made another appearance.
"AHHHHHHH."
"Ow my ears," Kevin whined. Martin was smart enough to see the look and had already disappeared onto the other side of the yard.
***
Simon had no idea how long he stood there for. All he knew was that at some point early that morning he came in to the cool white walled hospital room and headed directly for the nursery. His eyes had yet to leave the window that allowed him view of what would soon be his little boy. Very vaguely he could remember a couple of nurses telling him that he had been there long enough. One was even gracious enough to tell him he should go eat something. Of course he denied. He remembered mumbling a decline more than once. Eventually someone had just given him a chair to sit on.
His fingers ran along the layer of glass that separated them. From his end he could see the gentle rising and falling of his tiny chest. Feeling his legs fall asleep under him Simon sunk into the chair behind him. When the feeling returned he gently opened the swinging door. As soon as he walked through his ears were met with tiny cries.
"You finally decide to join us," one of the nurses smiled.
"I couldn't just watch anymore," Simon admitted.
"Very understandable. They have a way of drawing you in, don't they?" Simon nodded making a beeline for the tiny crate where his soon-to-be son laid. As if feeling someone standing over him Luke's eyes drifted open. "You're itching to hold him I see," the nurse chuckled.
"Is it that obvious?" Simon asked sheepishly. As he asked her this his eyes shifted to the incubator beside him.
"Kind of," she said. "It's perfectly normal though. Sit down before you fall over and I'll bring him to you," she said. Simon had half the mind to do it himself but then felt himself shifting from foot to foot uneasily.
"Maybe….I will…" he said carefully. He barely made his way to a near by rocking chair before falling back into it like a boulder.
"Someone looks tired," she laughed. "Hey, Lucas, look guess who's hear to see you?" the young nurse said smiling. All of Simon's muscles tensed as he saw her lift the delicate bundle. She looks a little bit young to be working here. Does she even know what she's doing? Is she even holding him right? It should be under his head. She's not going to drop him; she's not going to… He felt himself sigh in relief when he felt her slip him into his waiting arms. Subconsciously he moved his large hands slowly along his tiny body. He felt even more grateful when he felt nothing out of place. Why am I freaking out like this? Simon wondered. His life lies in your hands he realized. Gee no pressure he thought rolling his eyes subconsciously.
It was then that the night came back to him full force. Luke was his. Or at least he soon would be. It wasn't thoroughly discussed but from the way she acted last night he knew how things would go. It would be a miracle if she even looked at him while he signed the dotted line. The line that once signed, would guarantee him fatherhood. Here he made a choice. In his heart he knew he had made the right one. Now that the thought about it, he had no idea what he was going to do. Did he even know how to be a father? What if he screwed up? Would his child hate him forever? Maybe he shouldn't. Out of the corner of his eye Simon saw Luke's eyes open carefully. He felt a small smile crawl to his lips as he blinked blearily.
"Good morning," he cooed quietly. Simon chuckled when he saw his ears perk in the direction of his voice. "How are you today? Are you being good for all the pretty nurses?"
"He's been a perfect angel," the one who Simon now realized was named Rachel by the name on her tag said with a slight tinge to her cheeks. "This is the first time he's woken all day," she continued. Simon felt his heart warm at the little piece of information.
"Well don't I feel special?" he chuckled.
"Well being a daddy's a very special job," Rachel pointed out. Simon could only nod. Luke's hands squirmed from inside his cocoon taking in Simon's much larger finger. It amazed him how different in size the two were.
"I guess there's no denying it now, is there?" he whispered. "I'm your daddy," he smiled. "I'm gonna need your help little man. I have no idea what I'm doing," he admitted. "I'm going to learn though. With time I'll be the best dad you could ask for. You just have to wait for me to get there. You think you can do that for me?" he asked. Above him he could feel someone standing over them. Looking up he saw Rachel smiling at him.
"This is the best part of my job,' she said. "Watching a father interact with his child just warms my heart. He'll definitely be missed around here. He was one of the quiet ones," she chuckled. With Rose and Umberto as parents Simon somehow doubted that.
"Guess what? We're going home today," he told Luke smiling widely. "Let's go see how Mom's doing," he suggested.
"I think you're going to have to make that trip on your own sweets. We still have to unplug him." He felt his heart sink just a little at the idea of having to give him back. Reluctantly, he did so.
"I'll be back soon," he whispered giving him a ghost of a kiss on his forehead. As the door swung back behind him he found his way to Rose's hospital room. He rolled his eyes when he saw her sitting up in bed painting a fresh coat of paint on her fingernails. For a second he wanted to ask her where she had gotten it but stopped himself. "How are feeling?" he asked.
"Cooped up," she said. "I just want to get out of here," she sighed.
"I went in and saw him today," he said.
"That's nice," Rose said distractedly.
"They tell me he's doing really well. Surprisingly he's one of the quietest ones of the bunch," he added.
"Good," she mumbled blowing on her freshly painted nail. At her demeanor Simon wanted nothing more than to strangle her. What kind of mother pays no attention to the wellbeing of their just born child?
"Good. Is that really all you have to say?"
"What else is there? You told me he's doing okay and that's a good thing."
"Gee, I don't know. Don't you want details or something?"
"Not really," she said.
"Unbelievable. Have you even gone in to see him?" he asked.
"Nope," she said popping the 'p".
"Why?" he asked even though he more than likely knew the answer.
"He's not my worry anymore. He's yours," she said.
"Mine?"
"Yeah. You were the one all for adopting him. He's not my concern."
"Not your concern? Do the hours of labor not cross your mind at all? All that hard work to bring him in and you won't even go and see what you've accomplished?"
"I don't see the point. I'm not the one taking him home. By the way, I hope you know what you signed up for," she said.
"Luke's life isn't some subscription to a magazine Rose!"
"Oh look, you've already named him. Has a nice ring to it," she told him.
"He's a person Rose. Just like you and me he's a living, breathing individual," he snapped.
"And it's all thanks to you. You should be very proud of yourself."
"I am. I have no idea what I'm doing but at least I'm willing to try my hardest to make sure he comes out okay. Sadly, I can't say the same for you."
"Well have fun with that. Don't come crawling back to me when the late night feedings and changing becomes too much for you."
"I'm sticking it out. Like any parent I'm in for the long haul. Apparently your parents weren't that dedicated," he said.
"I can't wait to say I told you so," she laughed.
"Those words are going to die on your lips. You're never going to have to say them. I promise you that," he said.
"Wow. The first promise you ever made me in actual sincerity. Too bad it's to the kid," she said.
"The kid has a name Rose," he growled.
"Oh right I'm sorry Luke then. It's a promise to Luke," she shot back. The name felt like poison on her tongue.
"One of the many to come," he said.
"Of course," she said rolling her eyes.
"I'm gonna go see my son now. Not that it's any of your 'concern'. I just thought I'd let you know. We might not be back. I think we'll head straight home from here. I'll have my lawyer drop the papers by later today. If you need anything though, let me know," Simon said.
"I'm not going to need anything from you," she scoffed.
"You never know Rose, you never know," he said. With that he walked out the door not even bothering a backward glance. He felt a slight spring to his step as he got closer to the nursery. He was a father. Simon Camden was a father.
As he made his way back to the nursery he found himself bouncing on his heals. Again his eyes zeroed in on the one particular baby clad in a blue cap and blanket. Feeling a slight pull he again went through that swinging door. It wasn't that exact door that had him fearing for his life barely 24 hours ago. That room held a completely different meaning. All the same, the dread that filled him was now washed away. He could now make it through with a smile on his face. Looking on at all the brand new lives he didn't know where any of them would be going. Hopefully though, just like the boy he had saved, the little ones that had come into this world would go on to do something great. Hopefully, they would go home to loving families who loved them with everything they had. He hoped that they would be offered everything that they needed and wanted. Simon was brought out of his inner monologue when he heard shuffled footsteps behind him.
"I think someone's ready to go home," he saw Rachel smile. Simon whipped his head around in a slight daze. As she laid his tiny, compact body in his arms the weight of him was yet another reminder of the job he had elected to take on. It not only resembled a person but a responsibility. A responsibility, that with the help of his family he would fulfill.
"I don't think I'm the only one ready to see him get settled in," he said.
"Oh yes, I'm sure Mom's almost as desperate if not more so than you to get him home," she chuckled. Simon had to bite his tongue from keeping the loud laugh that wanted so badly to surface inside. Yeah she's desperate all right. But it isn't to take him home he thought. Instead of replying in anyway to avoid the 20 questions he stayed silent. His focus now, on the little boy in his arms.
"Thank you so much," he told her. "I would shake your hand but…"
"You've kind of got your hands full," she laughed.
"Exactly," he smiled.
"Good luck. It's going to be like that for at least the next eighteen years," she reminded him.
"As I've been told," he said.
"Parenting; one of the most challenging but rewarding gifts offered to you."
"That it is. Lucky me, I get to experience it first hand. I just hope I do it well," he said.
"I'm sure you will. It's one of the few projects that don't come with an instruction manual. You write your own as you go. There are dozens of different styles. Do it the way it works for you. In time things will just come naturally."
"And if all else fails I'll just borrow my parents' version," he joked.
"If that's what works for you then go for it," she said.
"There will defiantly be a lot of help. Being dead center in a group of seven does have its advantages."
"They do say it takes a village to raise a child," she laughed.
"I can see now that they might actually be right. I'm kind of glad I got to experience both."
"You got the joy of being both an older and younger brother. That might really help you later."
"I'm sure it will. Thank you again for everything," he said.
"It's been a pleasure. You be good now," she cooed to Luke who was just waking again. "Come back and visit."
"We will," he said walking back out. As they walked into the waiting area Simon felt Luke nuzzle into him. "I think we'll sit and wait for Grandpa. What do you think?" He knew the question was completely lost to the little boy but for some reason that didn't bother him. As he'd learned with Aaron just a couple of days back, talking to someone who you knew wouldn't answer you had a comfort to it. There was a time when he looked at adults gushing over the little people who couldn't speak a word and thought they were absolutely nuts. Now he understood what the feeling was. If he was to be just like them and be criticized for essentially talking to himself the so be it. "Lets call him and see," he suggested. Holding the phone to his shoulder he waited for the two rings before Eric picked up.
"Hello this Reverend Camden."
"Hey Dad its Simon," he replied.
"Oh hi Simon. Is everything okay?" Eric asked.
"Yeah everything's great. We were just wondering when you'd get here," he said.
"I'm actually pulling into the parking lot right now. I should be there in a couple of minutes."
"Dad, what have I told you about being on your phone while driving," he reprimanded jokingly.
"Now you just sound like your mother. I usually expect that from your sisters," he laughed.
"I have been living at home way too long," he grumbled. Eric only laughed.
"I'll be in soon," he said.
"Did you get the papers? I left them on the office desk this morning."
"Yes."
"Good. I want to get this done as soon as possible."
"I'm sure you do," Eric said. "Now are we sure Rose wants to go through with this?"
"Dad she practically shoved him out the door the minute he breathed oxygen," he mumbled.
"This could be just her insecurity talking," he said.
"I thought I was the future shrink," he chuckled.
"It doesn't take a professional to read into it son," he pointed out.
"You can ask her if you want. I'm sure you'll just get the eye roll like I did a few minutes ago."
"Just to be sure."
"Okay, whatever," Simon said with an eye roll of his own.
"Now, don't be rolling your eyes at me Simon. I'm still your father."
"Me, eye rolling, never!"
"Uh huh," he said. "How come I can see it right now?" he laughed. Simon looked up to see Eric standing right over him.
"Uh, really good vision?" he asked carefully.
"Simon I'm starting to need a prescription to read my sermons. It isn't the supposed really good vision."
"Sorry," he mumbled. "Can we please get this over with?"
"Are you sure you're up for this? Taking on a child is a really big responsibility," he pointed out.
"I don't think I've been more ready for anything in a while," Simon said.
"Alright then, let's go," he said following his son to Rose's room. Once there he knocked on the door lightly. "Rose, can we come in?" he called quietly.
"I thought you said you wouldn't be back," she said bitterly. Her tone told them she was less than happy to have visitors.
"Dad wanted to come back and make sure this is what you wanted," Simon said.
"Well I'm not taking care of the brat. Unlike you I actually have something better to do with my life," she said. Eric raised his brow in surprise but said nothing knowing that they would get an answer like this one. Simon opened his mouth but quickly closed it again not trusting the words that would leave his mouth.
"Are you sure you don't want to at least hold him?" Simon asked.
"I've already said no. Not only that but he'd ruin my perfectly done nails," he said with a glare.
"Dad, please just give me the papers," he said impatiently. Eric nodded making a momentary trade. Taking the sleeping boy in his arms he watched as his son took on what could possibly be his biggest task yet. As he signed the last page he raised his head with a smile. Setting the pen down, he took Luke back with a grin. "Lucas Michael Camden," he whispered.
"Perfect," Eric agreed.
"Let's go home little guy," he said softly.
"Just go already. Before by some miracle I change my mind," she grumbled.
"Yeah right," Simon laughed.
***
After what seemed like forever they had finally gotten the "all clear" to go back in and collect what they could from the house. After retrieving the necessities Martin and Ruthie made it out and spilled the contents onto the open grass.
"Great, now what do we do?" she asked sighing heavily. Martin closed his eyes in frustration when he noticed Kevin was about to make a suggestion.
"No Kevin, please don't say it. I think you've done enough."
"What? I was just going to suggest something. But you know, since you two don't want to hear my genius plan then I'll just keep it to myself," he sighed.
"Oh yeah and I'm sure part of that "genius plan" involved finding a way to have us exiled for who knows how long," Ruthie said.
"Well that wasn't even supposed to happen!"
"And somehow it did," they both said glaring at him.
"Can you two get any creepier?" he asked with a shudder. At that very moment the team glare was accompanied by a simultaneous growl. "Okay then. Apparently you can," he said.
"Okay Sparky. Tell us your plan before we decide to change our minds," Ruthie said.
"Wait I thought Sparky was supposed to get rid of fires," he said confused. "Or is that Smokey? I can never remember," he added.
"You have one minute," Martin told him.
"Okay, okay. I was thinking that…"
"That what?" Ruthie asked.
"Crap I just lost my amazing idea," he said.
"If you forgot it that quickly then chances are it wasn't that amazing in the first place," Martin said.
"HEY!" Kevin said feeling slightly rejected.
"What?"
"That's offensive," he said.
"Yeah well…" Martin said.
"Well what? I can have some pretty decent ideas," he said defensively.
"The fire was obviously was not your brightest," Ruthie mumbled.
"It wasn't a fire. It was just smoke."
"The big red fire truck still came."
"So cool!" Kevin said. "I seriously should have become a fireman," he said slightly disappointed.
"If you wanted it so badly why in the world did you become a cop?" Martin asked.
"Every little boy wants to save the world from bad guys. Have you not seen Bat or Superman?"
"Oooh," Lucy said dreamily. "Am I the only one who thinks he'd look amazing in tights?" she asked.
"Yes!" Martin and Ruthie both replied with a shudder.
"As much as I love you Luce I really don't wanna see him in tights. That's just…"
"Disturbing on so many levels?" Ruthie asked.
"You took the words right out of my mouth," Martin said.
"Okay so before I distract myself even further Sarah, Matt, Kevin, and I have decided that we'll split the load," Lucy said.
"Jee you make us sound like some kind of cargo," Ruthie mumbled.
"I knew there was a reason I came out here. In my defense they were distracting me with insults!" Kevin said.
"Every family has their insult project. Consider yourself lucky," Martin said.
"I think I'm going to be getting even luckier tonight…" As he said this the back of his head was met with Lucy's palm. "Ow!" he whined.
"Little ears not even two feet from you!" Lucy said through her teeth.
"Its not like he understands what we're saying," he mumbled.
"One day he will. Uncle Kevin doesn't have a filter," Martin pointed out.
"I do too!"
"No you don't," the three shot back.
"Okay so maybe it's broken…"
"Never to be fixed again," Ruthie sighed.
"It can too!"
"He never learns does he?" Martin asked.
"Nope."
"Another reason you aren't giving her the sex talk," Lucy said.
"Please don't remind me."
"You got about ten years," Martin said.
"Still too soon," he mumbled. Just then Ruthie felt herself jump a little at the vibrating phone in her pocket.
"What?" Martin asked concerned.
"Phone," she said reaching for it. She smiled when she saw Martin visibly relax. The smile only grew wider as she read the incoming text. "Skywalker's almost home," she said.
"Huh?" Kevin asked.
"Star Wars?" Martin said.
"Luke Skywalker's coming here? To our house?"
"Why do we even try?" Martin asked.
"We keep hoping that one day he'll get it," Ruthie said.
"Does he ever?"
"No," Lucy said with a shake of her head.
"If Skywalker ain't coming then who else is there?" he asked.
"Luke," the three replied.
"Oh," Kevin said finally realizing the joke. "Why couldn't you just say that?" he asked.
"Watching you try—"
"…and fail miserably at figuring stuff out is so much more fun," Ruthie finished.
"Love you guys too," he mumbled.
"Oh come on. If we didn't make fun of you like that then that means we didn't like you."
"You guys must really like me then. I swear this happens almost every day."
"You're so easy to mess with," Martin said.
"In all seriousness though, how long?" Lucy asked.
"He says about five minutes," Ruthie answered.
"Yay!" Lucy squealed.
"OW! MY EARS LUCE!" Kevin whined.
"Sorry," she giggled. After her quick apology she heard Aaron start a quiet whimper.
"Thanks Lucy," Martin mumbled.
"Oops."
"See? I'm not the only one that causes problems!" Kevin said.
"You're right," Martin agreed.
"You just seem to cause most of them," Ruthie said.
"So much love tonight," he mumbled.
"Shh buddy everything's okay," Martin whispered rubbing his belly. "Auntie Lucy's just excited," he said smiling.
"I'm sorry big guy," she apologized.
"Okay new rule. The one who wakes him puts him back to sleep," Ruthie said.
"Yeah I like that rule," Martin agreed.
"Kevin's gonna be doing this a lot," Ruthie said.
"Oooh yay," Lucy said taking Aaron from Martin. "What do you say we go home and get comfy Aaron? We might even read a story."
"You might wanna go get Savvy too. She loves story time," Kevin said.
"Lately she wants Daddy to tuck her in. I think you guys need some one on one time," Lucy said. "Tonight its Auntie Lucy and Aaron time," she said.
"Just as long as she doesn't make me read Dr. Seuss again."
"I don't know about that. Green Eggs and Ham has become a favorite. You and I both know that with you she gets her way eventually," Lucy pointed out.
"Great," he mumbled.
"You two go ahead. We'll wait up and meet you," Ruthie chuckled. Lucy nodded already hobbling next door.
"I'll go get my charge for the night," Kevin said
"Wait!" Ruthie and Martin called jogging towards Lucy.
"Sorry I'm just a little excited," she said. "I think someone wants to say goodnight first," she said as she held a squirming Aaron out to Martin.
"Good night bud," he whispered kissing him lightly on the forehead. "Daddy loves you." Ruthie took him from Martin. She chuckled when she saw his eyes were already half closed.
"Long morning huh sweetheart?" she asked. "You, be good now okay? Please don't give Auntie any problems," she told him. Aaron sighed quietly, not faltering on what had become their own little routine. "We'll be there soon okay? Mama loves you," she whispered dropping a light kiss on his forehead as she gently released his small hand and offering him to Lucy again.
After they had been gone for about a minute Ruthie looked up to see Simon almost floating over to them.
"You okay Simon," Ruthie chuckled. He could only nod as he made his way toward the house.
"I wouldn't go in there dude," Martin said gently directing him toward the Kinkirk house.
"Why?"
"Kevin tried cooking…" Ruthie informed him.
"How long are we exiled for?" he asked.
"I don't know but for the time being Kevin and Lucy were gracious enough to put up with us," Ruthie told him.
"All of us?" he asked uncertainly.
"No just the ones with kids."
"Lucky me," he grumbled.
"It wont be that bad…I hope," Martin said trying to sound comforting. The uneasiness in his voice though rang otherwise.
"Why didn't he become a fireman?" Simon asked.
"He wanted to 'fight the bad guys'."
"His words, not ours," Ruthie said.
"Does he ever grow up?" he asked.
"Nope," Martin and Ruthie both chimed.
"Where was Lucy's head the day she said 'I do?'" Simon asked.
"I honestly don't know. Love clouded her judgment I guess," Martin said.
"It must a heck of a fogy day in Lucyville then. By the time the skies cleared she'd already signed the papers."
"Either that or she just really, really loves him," Ruthie said.
"For someone with zero patience she found a heck of a lot to put up with Kevin," Simon said.
"He kinda fits our whacked out puzzle though," she said.
"He's the really weird center piece. You know the one that has the funky shape but leaves a whole when taken out?"
"Yup. No matter how annoying he still completes this family," Martin said.
"When did we ever get so deep?" Ruthie asked.
"I really don't know," Simon said.
"I blame parenthood," Martin said.
"It's only logical explanation," he agreed.
"When is anything in the Camden puzzle ever logical?" Martin asked.
"Hardly ever," Ruthie agreed.
"There's a first time—"
"…for everything yeah we know," Simon sighed.
***
That night the Matt and Sarah had offered their house for the usual family dinner that had lately become more frequent. Even though it wasn't her own home, Annie set to work with her usual role in family meals. The women were working together in Matt and Sarah's much smaller kitchen, leaving the men to child care. Being of the male species, by habit they had gone to the game room on the second floor.
"Why do we always get stuck with the kids?" Carlos asked.
"I don't know. It might have something to do with them having to go through the birthing process or something," Matt suggested.
"Coming from the doctor, that makes no sense," Kevin said.
"What exactly does the birthing process have to do with leaving the guys to look after the kids?" Simon asked.
"Think about it. Women spend nine months of their lives at a time caring for another life inside of them. Dads are also statistically the "fun" parent. When the opportunity arises men are left in charge," Matt said.
"Not really. Charlie gets away with a lot. Most of it's because Mary says he can," Carlos said.
"Maybe there is no real explanation," Kevin said. His ears perked when he heard Savannah's distinct cry as she barreled through the patio door.
"Daddy!" she sobbed hobbling into the living room.
"Yes baby! What's wrong?" he asked closing the space between them in gathering her closely to him.
"I falled!" she cried. Kevin snuggled her tightly while taking her in his lap. The little girl sniffled, finding a safe haven in her daddy's arms.
"Shh princess it's okay," he whispered. "Now take a couple of big deep breaths and tell me what happened," he instructed.
"Charlie and me was playin' tag and he was runnin' after me. When he got close I runned away like I was 'upposed to 'cause in tag you has to run so the other people don't get you," she said between sniffles.
"Uh huh," Kevin followed. "Did you run too fast?"
"Yeah," she sniffled.
"Where did you fall honey?" Matt asked gently.
"On the sidewalk," she told him.
"Can I see?" he asked. She nodded sticking her leg out onto his lap. They were all met with the bloody image of a very well scrapped knee.
"Oooh you took a nasty spill didn't you munchkin?" Simon observed. She nodded and quickly looked away.
"We'll get this cleaned up and put a nice big Band-Aid on it okay?" Matt said tenderly.
"It hurts," she whimpered.
"I know," Kevin whispered. Carlos' face suddenly brightened at the idea that struck him.
"Hey Savannah would you like to wear the big silly hat your dad had on the other night?" Her face instantly brightened as she giggled.
"It looks silly!" she said.
"It's a lot of fun though," Kevin said. She nodded excitedly at the idea.
"I'll go get the over-sized hat," Simon said. "Hopefully Luke will still be asleep when I get back. If not then decide amongst yourselves who gets the feeding," he added. The group nodded as Simon made the trip back to the currently abandoned house. The minute the door slid closed Luke had decided that now would be the perfect time to wake up.
"Interesting how this happens just five seconds after he leaves," Matt thought.
"It could be some kind of instinct. I don't know," Carlos said.
"He's two days old," Kevin said.
"You'd be surprised how fast kids learn these days," Carlos said.
"So who's it going to be?"
"Martin hasn't really made himself useful in a while," Matt said returning with a first aid kit.
"He's been watching the grill. Technically he has been making himself useful," Kevin said.
"Hey Martin!" Matt hollered.
"What?" he shouted back.
"Can you get that?" he asked.
"Sure. Someone just please watch the grill. The last thing we need is another accident," he said.
"Thanks," Kevin said sarcastically. "Nice to see the level of trust you all have in me." Martin just smirked making his way upstairs. He was thankful to see that only one of them was awake. Aaron was awake but entertaining himself. When Martin walked through the already built nursery Aaron smiled.
"Hey big guy. Just hang out for a few minutes while I check on Luke here, okay?" Martin was glad to see that he seemed to make no objection as he walked away. "Hi Lucas. How's it going?" he asked as he gently lifted him from the small basinet on the opposite side of the room. Feeling a little bit of movement his tiny eyes opened, falling on Martin. A tiny squeak came from his 'o' shaped lips. Gently, he ran his larger hand along his cheek. "Shh it's okay. I know you don't know me yet. Uncle Martin's going to take good care of you though. Your dad's kind of busy right now and I'm the lucky one," he smiled. "Let's just see how we're doing here, okay?" Carefully he laid him out on the yet to be used changing table. He smiled when he noticed that Luke's eyes were closed again. "You're an easy one," he chuckled. "Are we going to eat little Skywalker?" he asked softly. Hearing the gentle tone he sleepily opened them again. "I'll take that as a yes. Now where did he put…? Ah here we go," he said pulling out a premade bottle.
Settling down in the rocking chair Martin held the already warmed (currently surrounded by heating pads courtesy of the hospital) bottle to his lips. "You're a hungry boy aren't you? You'll fit in perfectly," he chuckled.
"I'm sure he will," Ruthie laughed.
"Ma-ma!" Aaron squealed.
"Hi sweetie. How's my big boy?" she asked picking him up. Aaron laid his head down happily, lazily playing with a curl in her hair.
"He's been really quiet," Martin said.
"Isn't he always?" she pointed out.
"I guess. He hasn't said a word since I got in here though. It's kind of surprising."
"You would think he'd put up a fight for a piece of you," she said.
"You do know that would only happen if it was you, right?" Martin asked.
"Not necessarily. Maybe he's just learning to keep himself busy. As long as he's not hurting himself or anyone else he realizes that he doesn't need us around the clock," she defended.
"I still say it was because it was me and not you," he grumbled.
"You really have to give yourself more credit than that Martin. Aaron loves you just as much as he did before," she said rubbing his shoulder.
"He said your name first," he frowned.
"No, he didn't," she smiled.
"Yes he did," Martin shot back.
"No hon he said 'Mama'. He didn't actually say 'Ruthie'. I don't know about you but that's not exactly the easiest name to say. At least for someone who's just learning to talk anyway," she said.
"Same thing," he mumbled.
"Give him time. He'll say it eventually. There will come a time when you want him to go back to being non verbal."
"Sure. Whatever you say," he whispered dropping his head.
"Are we a little bit jealous?" she whispered.
"Maybe a little," he admitted. "Its not so much that he won't say it. It's the idea that he doesn't even notice I'm in the room."
"Oh I'm sure he does," she smiled. "You love your daddy don't you buddy?" she asked turning to Aaron. A wide smile spread across his face as his eyes shifted to Martin. His voice came out strained as he reached for him. "I'll trade you," she said. Martin nodded as the shine that dimmed brightened again.
"Why is it that I always have to fight for snuggle time?" he asked him playfully. Aaron didn't reply but continued to nuzzle into him.
"See? There's no need to be jealous," Ruthie said. "You don't have to fight for it either. Not to mention that if it doesn't happen all the time the few you get mean a lot more. He cuddles with me every chance he gets. As much as I love every one of them it's routine. It's not out of the ordinary. For you, when he does make the choice you'll enjoy it just a little bit more," she said.
"It just makes me feel like you're doing everything. It's not fair to you," he said.
"I enjoy every piece of it Martin. Parenting isn't just a job. It's also a privilege. There's the good and the bad. Most of the bad are out-weighed by the rewards."
"You just sounded three times your age," he laughed.
"I guess I did. It's true though. I haven't even had my own yet and God has blessed me with the choice of a practice run," she giggled.
"It's not really practice," he pointed out.
"Also very true," she smiled.
"I mean sure, by law he isn't. Not yet anyway."
"I don't need papers," she whispered. "I'm saving trees for now. You know, help global warming and what not," she laughed.
"You were always very cautious," he agreed. "Would you like to at some point though, actually legalize it?"
"Should we even be talking about this? She could still be out there. Sandy could very well come back," she whispered.
"Chances of that are like one in a hundred," he said.
"It still could happen," she said.
"I won't let her take him away from you. That is, if the miracle of the century does actually happen. It's not fair to either of you," he whispered.
"As much as I try to hide it I can't help thinking that at some point I could just get too happy, that things could just be too perfect. One day it could all just come crashing down around me," she admitted quietly. Tenderly, Martin wiped a falling tear.
"Nothing's going to crash," he whispered. "I promise I won't let anything come down," he said hugging her to him. "You deserve every bit of this Ruth. Every single gift, every single blessing, you've earned. He's not going to take that away from you," he said softly.
"I keep thinking that this is all just a dream. That one day I'll just wake up and everything I thought I had will disappear."
"It's not a dream baby. If it is then the whole world's asleep," he chuckled.
"I can't lose you," she whispered. "Not again," she sniffed.
"You're really weepy lately. What is it, your time of the month?" he asked jokingly. He was surprised to see her nod. "Oh," he said. "You have to calm down though Roo. Everything is going to be fine. I promise. I signed that contract years ago. I'm not tearing it up. I don't think I'd ever forgive myself if I did. I need you Ruthie. You're my other piece. My puzzle doesn't work with anyone else. Don't make me force the pieces together. We both know that doing that just doesn't work. The end product just looks really bad. Not to mention it could fall apart at any second."
"We do fit, don't we?" she smiled.
"Yeah we do. My heart is yours Ruthie. I'm not taking it back. Keep it safe for me."
"Only if you promise, to do the same for me. I kind of threw away the receipt," she giggled.
"There's that smile," he said kissing her lips gently.
"Dinner!" Matt hollered.
"Shh!" Ruthie hissed.
"Sorry!" he whispered back. "Now get your butts down here before we leave you two with nothing."
"Coming," they replied.
***
As the Camden/Kinkirk house fell silent Ruthie and Martin both sighed heavily. Almost by habit they formed themselves around each other leaving almost no space between them.
"This has become my favorite part," Ruthie whispered.
"Mine too," Martin agreed. "It's a comfort I've kind of grown used to. It's kind of nice to know that after everything good or bad that happens—"
"—that at least one thing stays the same," she whispered drawing light figures on his bare chest with her finger. Her pointer froze when it wondered down to his very visible six pack.
"What?" he smirked.
"Maybe I should just…stop," she said slowly.
"You don't have to. It's actually really relaxing," he said.
"You just want to keep tempting me," she mumbled.
"No," he denied innocently.
"Yes. You know I can't resist you," she whined kissing his very defined arm.
"Just a little bit longer," he promised.
"How much longer?"
"I don't know," he said.
"Argh. It's been four years!"
"I know. Trust me if I could I'd do it right here, right now but I can't."
"Stupid morals," she mumbled. Ruthie could not be more grateful then right at that very minute for the distraction of Aaron's whimper. "I'll get him," she groaned.
"Are you going to be okay?" Martin asked. "Is your leg still bothering you?"
"It's still sore but I'm trying to put some weight on it to start using it again.
"You sure you don't want me to take this one?" Ruthie shook her head beginning to hobble towards the door. Soon she felt herself beginning to shake and sway uneasily. Seeing this Martin came up grabbing her from behind. "Go back to bed," he demanded gently.
"Maybe you should…"
"Yeah maybe I should. Go lay down. I'll be back in a minute," he said kissing her hair and jogging toward the nursery. As he got closer he was met with a bleary eyed Simon.
"How do you do it?" he asked with a yawn.
"A heck of a lot of patience," Martin said.
"I've been up every four hours on the dot."
"Great timing on his part," Martin chuckled. "Aaron was up every two. Depending on the night he's moved on to every six to eight."
"At least you have someone to alternate with," he said.
"You're not doing this alone Simon. Just let us know when you need the help. One person can't do it by himself. Why do you think I had Ruthie over almost every night?"
"I used to think it was just to sneak in some alone time," he said.
"We did that when we could. The real reason was that I needed help. I wasn't afraid to admit it. What surprised me though is how willing she was. After everything I put her through she was still my shoulder to lean on."
"Ruthie has a really big forgiving heart. When she cares that much for someone she's not going to let go that easily. She's not going to leave you even when it hurts her. She's very selfless in that way."
"I don't know how I ever got to be so deserving," Martin whispered.
"There are times I ask myself the same question. What made you so special that she'd be willing to break every time you walked into the room? What made you important enough to still love so deeply even though she knew how much pain you put her through?"
"Love. That's the only reason I can come up with. I'm not going to look a second chance in the face. I got it for a reason and there's no way I'm screwing it up," he said.
"Good choice," Simon replied.
"I couldn't do that to either of us. I couldn't do that to Aaron. I seriously don't know where we'd be without your sister Simon. I really don't."
"If you think about it she's kind of our glue. The one person that holds us all together. The one piece that no one in this family could lose," Simon said.
"The strongest I've ever seen," Martin said reaching to take a very awake Aaron to him. "Your mama's a tough one, isn't she?" he whispered. He cooed quietly, dropping his head on Martin's shoulder.
"I don't know how she could give this up," Simon said softly.
"Who?"
"Both," he said.
"It's a choice they'll just have to live with. As disappointed as I am I wouldn't go back. Your sister's a great mother to my son. I'm sure that in time you'll find your groove. You have amazing potential as a father Simon," Martin told him.
"I just hope I'm good enough," he said.
"No parent is perfect. We're human which gives us an unwritten right to make mistakes. The only thing we can do is learn how to fix them."
"Thanks Martin."
"No problem. Let us know when we can help, alright?"
"Maybe we'll right up an "On Call" schedule. That way we'll all get decent sleep at least twice a week," he chuckled.
"We'll see what works for us," he said as he heard Aaron's even breaths next to his ear. "Right now I have a nice warm bed to get back to. You should probably do the same. The best way to sleep is when he does."
"I think I'm going to do that. Right now I'll just lay right…" Simon didn't even get a chance to finish his sentence before he joined Luke in sleep in the rocking chair.
"Good night little Skywalker," Martin whispered before returning to his room.
***
The perfectly silent house was interrupted by a pounding at the door. Ruthie's eyes shot open when she heard a not so happy Lucy had answered. Throwing the pillow over her head did little to block out the sound.
"Is Ruthie here? I tried the house but it's under police tape. I thought that maybe she'd be here," she heard a voice that had become all too familiar to her tell her sister. Groggily she rose looking over to see that Aaron, who had joined them at some hour of the night, was now fully awake.
"Why don't we let Daddy sleep, huh? I don't know about you but to me it looks like he could sleep for the next ten years," she laughed. Aaron gave a full belly laugh in agreement. "Shh not so loud honey. He's sleeping, remember?"
"No I'm not," Martin mumbled.
"Well you were."
"You should know by now that I don't sleep much longer than you do anymore," he pointed out.
"True. Not that you've tried," she said.
"Oh trust me. I've tried. I've tried and still continue to fail," he said rubbing his sleepy eyes with his fist.
"Okay Sleepy let's head out before Lucy tears her guest to smithereens," she laughed.
"Who would be here at…7am?"
"I don't know," she lied. She knew fully well who it was. If she told him Martin would make her stay. The last thing she needed was a mountain of problems for her pregnant sister.
"Well since my teddy bear decided to be up at this ridiculous hour I guess we should go find out," he groaned.
"Okay let's go then before Lucy decides to sue whoever the unfortunate soul is."
"Sadly, I can see her doing that," Martin said.
"It's Lucy. What else would she do?" she laughed.
"The fact that Kevin has a licensed weapon probably doesn't help," he said.
"My thoughts exactly." So reluctantly Martin shuffled out behind her. Today he kept extra close to be sure that they didn't get a repeat of the night before.
"Kevin, get out here!" Lucy hollered.
"Uh oh. She's calling Kevin. This can't be good. Oh you have no idea Ruthie thought.
"Do I need my gun?"
"More than likely!" Kevin barreled out of bed holding his gun out in front of him. Lucy looked up behind her when she saw T-Bone's eyes rolling. Now is not the time to admire his bare chest! Lucy thought to herself.
"Get out of my house!" Kevin barked.
"Not before I talk to Ruthie," he said determined.
"Step off my property or I shoot," Kevin said harshly.
"You're not going out there!" Martin whispered just as harshly.
"Yes I am!"
"No you're not!"
"He's not going to leave if I don't at least talk to him. She's pregnant Martin!"
"Kevin's got the weapon!"
"Which shoots bullets. Those bullets make noise. It's going to wake the kids. Do you really want people as young as five exposed to that?" she asked.
"No but I still don't want you near him."
"I'm a big girl. I'll have Kevin right behind me if something happens."
"Okay," Martin said dejected.
"Thank you," she said pecking him on the lips.
"But if he touches you…"
"You'll kick his ass, I know," she said.
"Watch your language," he smirked.
"Sorry." Slowly she came up behind Kevin. "T-Bone what do you want now?" she asked angrily.
"To talk."
"So talk," she said crossing her arms.
"Alone," he said eyeing Kevin who still held the gun up and ready.
"Sorry bucko, not going to happen."
"Kevin, drop the gun," Ruthie said taking his arm gently.
"Are you nuts?"
"Drop the gun," she said. Slowly he laid it by his feet, a hard look still carved in his features."
"Are you crazy?" Lucy shrieked.
"Talk. You have two minutes. Once those two minutes are up Kevin can do what he wants with you."
"And I can't do that now because…?"
"One minute," Ruthie said. Again as he had done earlier T-Bone dropped to his knees. This time however, he said nothing. He simply held open the velvet box that before had stayed closed. All four on lookers found their mouths on the floor.
"Marry me."
"You really are crazy. There's no way in hell I'm marrying you," she laughed. Getting up off his knee he advanced towards her.
"Please," he said pleadingly.
"Uh let me think about that for a minute. NO."
"Just try it on," he said.
"How many times do I have to say it?"
"Just to see how it looks. It's the least you could do."
"Lucy be a dear and get my cuffs," Kevin said not breaking the stare he had on a very insistent T-Bone. After a few minutes T-Bone saw his opening when he noticed Kevin turn around to watch his wife for a second.
"Try. It. On," he growled. Ruthie's eyes widened as she realized that he wasn't asking anymore. Instead he was putting it on himself. As he placed it on he held her wrist in a tight grip as she tried to fight him off.
"Don't touch me," she growled.
"I'll do with you whatever the hell I please," he said quietly, taking her hand and forcing on the piece of jewelry. She could feel tears beginning to gather in her eyes as she felt her wrist being crushed. "There we go baby. It wasn't that hard was it?" he asked menacingly. She stayed silent not trusting herself to say a word. "Was it?" he growled. All she could do was shake her head.
***
"Get down here, fast!" Martin whisper-shouted.
"On my way." Within seconds Martin was met with the dial tone.
A/N: WOW! Over 40 pages and more than 13,000 words! Hopefully this was worth the wait! Please review and let me know how we did! This is a record breaking chapter. Let's aim to get as many reviews as we can too!