Dear Ms. Rivera and Ms. Morris,
If you ever come across this story, I hope you find it entertaining. I sincerely hope that you could sense the friendship and love between your characters. Even though they were just characters in my story, I hope you know that I tried very, very hard to do you both and your friendship justice. I admire, respect, and love you both and so I hope that I have created a story that magnified this. You have a fan in me for the rest of your careers!
Sincerely,
Chrissie
Always Me & You
Chapter 23
Heather and Naya were getting ready to go out for the evening.
"Hurry up. We can't be late tonight and I don't know about the traffic!" Naya exclaimed nervously.
"I know, Sweetheart…I know," Heather assured her, "Can you zip me up?"
Naya nervously fiddled with the zipper. Once she got it to the top of Heather's gown she said, "Turn around, baby!"
Heather did and Naya simply replied, "Stunning…simply stunning."
"You're not too bad yourself!" Heather said lovingly as she walked to get her small purse.
Naya had begun to show a little. Heather was the only person besides Naya who could see the newly formed baby bump. Naya asked, "Hey, baby?"
"Yea…"
"Do you want to tell 'everyone' tonight on the red carpet?"
"Do you?"
"I think it might be too early. It's only been a month…" Naya said.
"I agree! Hey, maybe we can call Tracey, the photographer, to take some family portraits when you start to show more. Then we send those out! Does that sound okay?" Heather asked.
"Perfect…good idea! I'll call her next month."
Beep Beep
"Hey, Nay…I think the driver's here!"
"Ok, let's go."
Heather and Naya ran out of the apartment, locked the door, and got into the town car to take them to the Nokia Theater.
As they drove, Naya was suddenly quiet.
"You okay, my beautiful Naya?"
"Yes, I'm fine. Just thinking."
"About?"
"The past year and all of the amazing things that have and are happening to us."
"I know. Who would have guessed it?"
"You know, Heather, how much I love you, right?"
"Of course! I love you so much more…" Heather winked and smiled at her amazingly beautiful wife. "Whatever happens tonight please know that our whole family and I love you and we are so immensely proud of you."
Heather rubbed her stomach.
"Right, baby?" Heather said.
"Yes!" Heather yelled as quietly as she could to imitate their growing baby.
"Haha!" Naya laughed.
Naya gave her a passionate kiss and then squeezed Heather's hand tightly. They held hands as they rode to Hollywood. Once they arrived, Naya started to get out of the car, but then turned around to face Heather.
"Naya, it's okay. I'm right by your side."
"Oh I know that. I gotta get into my 'I'm Naya 'fucking' Rivera' mindset, right?" Naya smiled and looked at her gorgeous wife.
"That's my girl!" Heather said, proudly. She kissed Naya on the cheek and stared at her for a quick second.
She finally gets it! Awesome!
As the driver held the door open, Naya and Heather emerged from the car, hand in hand.
They were immediately transformed from their everyday life together, which was beyond wonderful, to the glitz and the glamour of a night like this one.
They stopped and posed for pictures with photographers from all of the magazines. They really did it for their supportive fans which had tripled since their wedding. They've heard that they are now "HeYa" which they loved. Naya posed first and tried to face each camera. Then she pulled Heather next to her for some pictures. Heather and Naya extended their ring fingers and the paparazzi took what seemed like millions of photos. Then they were pulled away by a personal assistant for the Emmy's.
"Do you want to do separate interviews or interviews together?" she asked.
"Together, please," Heather said.
"Yes, together," Naya agreed.
"Ok, the line starts here. I'll be behind you just in case!"
"Thank you." Heather said as she grew nervous. Naya saw this and grabbed her hand.
The first interview was with Ryan Seacrest with "E!"
"Next we have Naya and Heather Rivera from GLEE!" Ryan said.
"Hey, Ryan…how are you?" Naya asked as she waved at the camera.
"Good darling, how are you two? How's the married life going?"
"It's wonderful…" Naya responded.
"Yea, best decision I've ever made!" Heather added.
"Oh, that's great, you two. Good for you." Seacrest said, "Who are you wearing?"
"Um, I'm not sure. Baby, could you read the tag, please?"
Heather peeked at the label on Naya's dress and said, "Armani!"
"Cool. And you, Heather?"
"Armani…we picked out dresses together!"
"Do you two do everything together?"
"Um, pretty much. We are a married couple!" Heather exclaimed as they held out their left hands for Ryan and the camera to see their rings.
"Oh, yeah, that's right!" Seacrest said dumbly.
They laughed.
"Well, have fun in there!"
"Thanks, Ryan…"
Naya and Heather walked away.
"Boy, if I wasn't so in love and married to you…" Heather said dreamily.
Naya cackled out loud and shook her head.
Further up the interview line, Dianna and Lea were asked the same questions. Then they walked up to Billy Bush and Access Hollywood.
"Hi, Dianna…" Bush said and reached forward to kiss her on the cheek.
"Hi, Billy!" Dianna replied and leaned forward too.
"Hey, Lea," Billy said and smiled.
"Hi, Billy. How are you?"
"Fine, fine…how are you ladies?"
"Good," Dianna replied.
"So who are you here with tonight?" Billy asked.
Dianna and Lea looked at each other and then Dianna said, "Each other!"
Billy looked confused and asked, "No strapping young men to dangle on your arms?"
"Nope…Just us!" Lea said.
All of the sudden, Billy looked down to see the two young stars holding each other's hands. The audience didn't see the closeness because of the barrier between the stars and the television interviewers. He had always enjoyed when he interviewed both Lea and Dianna so he said, "Well, ladies…have a good time tonight!"
Dianna went to hug Billy and she whispered into his ear, "Thank you. When we're ready…you'll be the first to know." When the hug was over, Billy just smiled. He seemed happy for them and when they felt ready he would help them announce their news.
Then Dianna and Lea walked over to sign some fan autographs and took candid shots with them. Then they went into the building and to the rest room.
Once inside the room, Dianna said, "I think Billy is happy for us. Oh, by the way, when we're ready to come 'fully out' we gotta have him interview us. I whispered that into his ear."
"Oh, ok. He's a nice guy! Hey, Di?" Lea asked.
"Yes, Lea," Dianna replied, "I know what you're going to ask me!"
"Oh, you do, do you?" Lea smiled.
"Yea, you're going to ask me when we might be ready to 'come out' publicly. Am I right?"
"Yes, you are. I don't want to rush you, but I love you and I want everyone to know it," Lea whispered and smiled.
"I think soon. I mean we've done everything else…we're committed to each other. We've met each other's families, moved in together, and came out at work. I need to apologize for something though!"
"For what?" Lea said and looked confused.
"For not proposing to you right away."
"Yea, what's up with that?" Lea joked.
"I know right?" Dianna said and playfully smacked herself on the head.
"Di, listen…" Lea walked up to her and held her hand. "All I truly want is you, totally. I want your all of your heart. You've had mine for the longest time. I want to publicly announce this!"
Just then Dianna had a thought and she tapped her pocket of her dress coat with her free hand.
"You done in here?" she asked and dragged Lea out of the restroom.
"Where are we going?" Lea asked, surprised.
"Just follow me."
They walked into the main lobby. Dianna stopped and looked at Lea and asked, "Stay there for a second, my love?"
"Ok…" Lea replied, but looked confused.
Dianna walked up to the personal assistant who was assigned to them and asked, with a huge smile on her face, "Hi, could you do me a favor?"
"Of course, Ms. Agron! What do you need?"
"Could you ask Billy Bush from Access Hollywood to meet us for an exclusive?"
"Of course. You can go sit in there," the PA motioned to a private room behind Lea.
"Thank you. It means a lot."
"Give me five minutes!"
"Of course." Dianna agreed. Then she turned around and walked with Lea into the vacant room.
"Di! What's going on?"
As soon as they were both inside the room and the door was closed, Dianna said, "Nothing, but this…"
Dianna quickly retrieved the ring box from her pocket when Lea looked away for a moment. When Lea looked at Dianna again she already had the box opened, was on her bended knee, and she looked directly into Lea's eyes. She said, "I am so in love with you. I have been for the past year, no, since the first time we met. I want to spend the rest of my life with you…Lea, will you marry me?"
Just as Dianna said that, Billy walked into the room.
"Oh, I'm sorry! I'll wait outside?" asked Billy stunned. The camera guy was just as stunned so he wasn't filming.
"No, Billy, come in." Dianna said, but never took her eyes off of Lea. "Well…"
"You are so full of surprises, Dianna! That's just one thing I love you for…" Lea started.
"I try," Dianna said, still on her knee, "Will…you…marry…me!" Dianna said.
"I have wanted to see you in this position for the longest time…I am so truly in love with you. I truly do love you 'unconditionally' and with my whole heart and life. Yes, I will marry you." Lea smiled at Dianna.
Dianna then took the diamond encrusted ring out of the box and pushed it onto Lea's slender finger. Then Dianna got up from the position, pulled Lea to her, and kissed her sweetly on the lips.
"I love you!" they both whispered to each other in unison.
"Is this the big announcement," Billy happily asked.
The women were startled because they forgot he was in the room.
"Yes, yes, it is!" Dianna said, overjoyed.
"Congratulations! Can I ask you three questions on the record?"
"Sure," Lea said. After she said this the camera guy started to shoot footage.
"When did this start? Who asked who out?"
"Pretty much a year ago. When the Riveras' relationship really began. I declared my love for her first. But then she asked me out," Lea answered.
"How far along are you two in the relationship?"
"Um," Lea said and held up her engagement ring, "I guess I don't understand the question!"
"Oh, I'm sorry. It didn't come out the right way. I meant did you meet each other's families…do you have 'your song'…are you living together?"
"Yes…'Unconditionally' by Lori Michaels…and yes we are." Dianna answered.
"Wow! Good for you."
Billy motioned to Tommy, the camera guy, and he stopped filming.
"May we ask you two questions?" Dianna asked.
"Of course!" Billy responded.
"Number 1…Did your camera guy get my proposal on film? And two…Can you please wait for a few days before airing this?" Dianna asked, pointedly.
"The camera guy didn't. Right, Tommy?"
Tommy shook his head and said, "No."
"This will air on Tuesday night. After all of the Emmy footage does on Monday night. Is that okay?"
"I think that's okay…Lea?" Dianna said and looked at Lea who still had a huge smile on her face.
"Yeah, that's great. We don't want to take anything away from tonight's festivities." Lea said.
"Can I ask one more question?" Billy was overly excited with the question he thought of.
"Yeah, sure!" Lea said and laughed. Tommy got his camera ready and said, "Ok, Billy."
"Why do you love her, Lea? And then the same question for you, Dianna."
The camera guy did a close up on Lea as she said, "Oh wow…She lights up my life…She shows me everyday how to live life to its fullest…She is more than just my best friend, she is my whole life and my love…She is my entire heart!" Lea had tears in her eyes.
Dianna saw this and reached out for her hand.
The camera guy did a close up on Dianna as she declared, "Lea is my world. Every time I see her smile at me I know that everything will be alright. I've wanted to marry her for as long as I can remember. She understands me and accepts me 'unconditionally'!"
The camera then went back to Billy. "Thank you so much ladies. I think that's it. If I have any more…" Billy said.
"Contact me," Dianna said.
"Will do. Thank you again for this…I truly appreciate it. You got to hurry or you'll miss the beginning of the show." Billy said as he waved good-bye and exited the room.
Dianna and Lea stopped for a moment and exchanged a passionate, but quick peck on the lips. Lea looked down at her finger and then looked up at Dianna and said, "Thank you. I love you."
"Oh, by the way, I was told to 'go marry her and be happy'!" Dianna said and smiled.
"By who?" Lea asked and smiled.
"Your Dad!" Dianna exclaimed and then grabbed Lea's hand and they ran to their seats and sat down. Immediately Naya saw the look of happiness on Dianna's face as she and Lea sat there hand in hand.
"Why are you so happy?" Naya inquired. Then she looked down at Lea's ring finger.
"Well, I'm gonna need a 'best man'…will you do that for me?" Dianna said and beamed.
"You asked her to marry you?" Naya screamed and jumped up and down and then nodded her head in a 'yes' motion.
"Yes, I did! There's more..." Dianna started to say, but the lights dimmed and the orchestra began to play the intro song.
Just then the host, Ellen DeGeneres, walked out onto the stage to thunderous applause, hoots and hollers, and cat calls.
"Welcome to the 66th annual Primetime Emmys Awards…I am your host for the evening…Let's see who we have in the audience tonight. Oh look! It's Heather and Naya Rivera…" The audience erupted with applause for the two.
"Congrats on your wedding! You're crock pot is in the mail!" Everyone laughed and Heather raised her hands over her head in a "raise the roof" movement as the camera captured it. Then Ellen continued her monolog.
"Our first award is for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series and here to present the award is Eric Stonestreet!" Ellen said.
Eric walked out on the stage, looked at the prompter, and read, "I am happily here to present the award to one of these four amazing actresses. Three have been nominated before and we have one newcomer to the group. The nominees are…"
He took a deep breathe and kept reading:
"Sofia Vergara: 'Modern Family'."Showed clip of Vergara on "Modern Family".
"Jane Krakowski: '30 Rock'."Showed clip of Krakowski on "30 Rock"
"Betty White: 'Hot in Cleveland'."Showed clip of White on "Hot in Cleveland".
"Naya Rivera: 'GLEE'."Showed the "Tell me you love me" clip.
As the clip rolled Heather grabbed Naya's hand and whispered, "I love you more than you'll ever know." Naya looked at her for a few seconds.
Eric announced, "And the winner for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series is...NAYA RIVERA!"
The camera landed on an awestruck Naya as she didn't know what to do. All she thought to do was to kiss Heather sweetly on her lips. After the kiss stopped, Heather told Naya, "I told you the trophy is as good as yours, Sweetheart!"
Heather pulled her up and kind of pushed her into the aisle to climb the stairs. Eric was at the top of the stairs and assisted her with the rest of the way up.
He then presented her with the Emmy. Naya shook with excitement as she accepted the award with her left hand and her ring shimmered in the light.
Her GLEE family was on their feet and made as much noise as humanly possible for her. Lauren had tears in her eyes for her friend. Dianna and Lea yelled loudly for her. Jane and Lara applauded loudly for her. The rest of the family yelled, screamed, and clapped their hands in excitement. Heather was the proudest wife in the whole room.
"I can't believe this…it feels so surreal! I can't believe that I won against Betty White!" Naya yelled and bowed in front of the living legend from onstage. The camera got a shot of Betty who blew Naya a two handed kiss and smiled. The audience laughed and some people clapped their hands.
"Oh my God, there are so many people I need to thank. First to my entire family at GLEE…you guys push me every day to always do my best. Ryan, thank you for seeing something special in me. I need to thank my agent. I need also to thank my entire family. Finally, I want to thank my loving and always supportive wife, Heather Rivera…"
Heather stood up so that Naya could see the tears that streamed down her face. She gave Naya a standing ovation of one.
"You have always been there for me and loved me no matter what. I am honored and blessed to be your wife!"
The music started to play which meant that her time was running out.
Before she walked away from the microphone, Naya said, "Always me & you!" Naya patted her stomach and then looked directly at Heather. Heather smiled widely as she knew what the signal meant. Naya then raised her Emmy award with her left hand over her head victoriously. Then with her other hand she blew Heather a kiss which Heather pretended to catch. Then Naya and Eric walked off the stage.
When Naya returned to her seat after she talked to the press, she was still in shock that she was holding her Emmy award.
I can't believe it…I just can't believe it!
Heather kissed her roughly in excitement on her cheek, and said, "I'm so proud of you, my beautiful Naya!"
She turned her head, smiled, and said, "Thank you, baby! You are my inspiration in life."
Heather's eyes watered and said, "Aww, thank you. I love you with my entire heart." She made an outline, with her fingers, on her chest of a big heart.
After the ceremony was over, the after-parties started.
"How many do you want to go to?" Heather asked.
"Maybe, one, if that's okay? I'm actually very tired and I'd just like to go home and have a cuddle party with you."
"Sure! I love those parties. We'll pick up some sparkling cider on the way home…I don't think the driver would mine."
"Cool!"
They walked into the room and the place exploded with applause for Naya and then Heather walked away for a few minutes. To top off her amazing night, the legendary Betty White came up to Naya and said, "Congrats! I love GLEE! 'Santana' doesn't take anything from anybody!"
"Haha! Thank you, Ms. White! I loved the 'Golden Girls'!"
"Thank you, dear. Hey I noticed you patted your stomach at the end of your speech, are you and your tall wife expecting?"
"Yea, ma'am…we are! Our bundle of joy should be here in April."
"Wonderful!" Betty White said and smiled as she was escorted away.
"Thank you," Naya called out, flabbergasted at the conversation she just had.
Heather came back with two sodas and asked, "What's up, sweetheart?" She handed Naya her glass and then took a sip.
"Betty White watches GLEE!" Heather spat out her soda after she heard that.
"Really?" she asked as she wiped the soda from her face.
"Yup. She made a Santana reference!"
"Cool!"
Then they danced for awhile as different people came up and congratulated Naya. Sofia walked up to them and said, "I'm very happy for you…Heather, whenever you want to make another viral video I'm in!"
Heather high fived her hand and Sofia walked away.
Then Naya asked, "I'm getting tired…Could we leave soon?"
"Of course, Sweetheart!" Naya and Heather made their way to the entrance when Dianna and Lea came up to them.
"Congrats Naya!" Lea said.
"I should say the same thing to you!"
"Why?" Heather said and looked puzzled.
Then Lea held up her ring finger and Heather gawked at it. "Holy shit! That's beautiful."
They all laughed.
"I asked Billy Bush from Access Hollywood to meet us in a private room for an exclusive. He walked in as I finished my proposal. He was shocked. The piece is airing on Tuesday night!" Dianna said, proudly.
"Yep!" Lea said with a huge smile on her face.
"Wonderful! Let me know if you need anything." Naya said.
"Just a 'best woman', if you're up to it?" Dianna asked hopeful.
"Of course, Di!"
"Hey, Heather, would you stand up for me?" Lea asked with a big smile on her face.
"Me?"
"Yea…um…unless you don't want to?" Lea asked uncertain.
Heather didn't say anything. She picked Lea up and swung her around. Lea was shocked. Dianna and Naya wore surprised looks on their faces.
After a few twirls, she returned Lea back to the ground and smiled down at her.
"So…um…is that a yes?"
"Absolutely!"
"Great! Thank you."
"No, thank you," Heather said touched.
"Ok, we were on the way out…I'm getting tired…"
"Yeah, we'll see you tomorrow…"
"Good night you two!" Lea said.
"Naya, congratulations. You deserve this and everything else that is coming your way! I love ya!" Dianna said and hugged her friend tightly. Naya hugged her tighter.
Then Heather and Naya walked out of the hotel ballroom hand in hand. Once they were outside, they got their car and asked the driver to go to a grocery store. He offered to get it. He ran in, and in five minutes they were back on the road.
During the car ride home, Naya looked at her award. Heather saw her looking and just kissed Naya's head. When they arrived home, the driver helped them out of his car and gave Heather the plastic bag with the cider. They said their good-byes and the driver rode off.
Once inside the house, Heather asked, "Where do you want to put your award?"
"Geez, I don't know…"
"Next to our marriage license, on the nightstand upstairs, or on the kitchen table…" Heather looked around.
"Anywhere but the nightstand…"
"Why's that, Sweetheart?"
"Wouldn't it be too much 'pressure'?" Naya said straight faced.
"Pressure?"
"Every time we would make love you'd know you were making love to an Emmy award winning actress…" Naya smiled.
"I've always known that, but now it's official!" Heather returned and smiled widely.
"Oh, ok…" Naya overdramatically said and winked
Heather laughed and then said, "Seriously, where it is going?"
"Right next to the framed picture of you and me at our wedding." Naya said assertively.
"Okie dokie!"
Heather watched proudly as Naya walked over to the table that had the photo of them on it and put her award next to it. Naya looked at it and sighed happily.
Naya turned around and noticed that her wife watched her place it there.
"How does it look?"
"Meant to be there!"
"Just like I'm meant to be…" Naya ran to Heather who opened her arms wide, "Here!"
Heather wrapped her arms around Naya's body and said, "Absolutely."
"I love you so much!" Naya exclaimed in the hug.
"I love you more!"
They stood in that position for a few minutes. Heather said, "Do you want to open the cider?"
"Sure…I am thirsty." Naya got out two wine glasses as Heather tried to open the bottle. She finally did and the cork popped up and flew somewhere they couldn't see. She filled each glass half way and carried them to the couch. She handed Naya her glass and Heather sat down next to Naya.
"I want to make a toast!"
"Ok, baby!" Naya said.
"Do you remember when we sat on this couch as our relationship was beginning?"
Naya nodded and answered, "I do…I was so nervous!"
Heather looked deeply into Naya's brown eyes and continued, "It was the beginning of my life….My life with you as my lover and best friend. From the first time I ever saw you, I knew, just knew that we would end up like we are right now…"
"Oh really?" Naya smiled.
"Without a doubt. Having you in my life makes it an adventure everyday. I love you for that. You've given me more then I could have ever dreamed was possible. You've given me a reason to truly live. And I love you for that! So…" Heather said and raised her glass. Naya held hers up as well. "…I love you and congratulations on your well deserved Emmy award!" They clink their glasses together and took a big gulp.
"Thank you baby! I love you."
"I want to go upstairs to hold you." Heather said and extended her hands out to Naya who grabbed them and was pulled up.
"Don't forget the cider!" Naya said as she walked up the stairs first. Heather grabbed everything they needed and followed her up the stairs to their room. When she got up there, Heather put everything down and noticed that Naya was using the bathroom so she unmade the bed and got in. Naya came out of the room in her pajamas and rushed to the bed and got in. Then she grabbed Heather and swiftly laid her down on the bed. She maneuvered herself on top of Heather and began to kiss her passionately. Heather responded to every kiss Naya gave her and every caress she left on her skin. They made love the entire night. It wasn't frenzied at all. It was very slow, seductive, and passionate.
As they lay there afterward, Naya asked, "Baby?"
"Yes, Sweetheart!"
"I think it's time to move to Santa Cruz."
"Really?"
"Yep. I think the sooner the better. I don't want to be as big as a house when we're moving into our actual house!"
Heather laughed, but said, "You're not going to be as big as a house, sweetheart!"
"Thanks for the confidence builder…"
"You're welcome. I think we should hire movers to help us this time. No offense to our friends, but it'll be quicker. They have a lot of stuff going on!"
"Great idea! You're right! Two of them are planning a wedding!"
"If we call the mover this week, we could actually be finished by next weekend. Is that too fast?"
"That's perfect, Heather!"
"I'll call someone tomorrow when we get to work."
"Thank you. I'm sorry, but I'm so tired. I'm going to go to sleep. I love you and thank you for being right by my side tonight!"
"I'll always be right by your side!"
After hearing what Heather told her Naya fell asleep and slept the entire night.
When they arrived to work the next morning, Heather did exactly what she promised and called a moving company and set it all up. They would be moving the next weekend. Then she called her Mom and told her of the plans.
"That's great, dear! I'll talk to your landlord for you."
"Thanks, Mom…It just feels right to do it now way before our baby comes."
"Of course. Please congratulate Naya on her win last night! I was so happy for her!"
"Thank you. Oh, remember on the boardwalk when I was telling you that I didn't think Naya saw what everyone else sees in her?"
"Yea, I remember!"
"Before she got out of the car at the red carpet she finally realized it!"
"Fantastic!"
I know. I got to go to do a scene! I'll talk to you later!"
"Bye!"
Heather hung up the phone. She then texted Naya. "Everything's all set for next weekend."
Naya's phone vibrated and she read it.
Then there was a knock on the door and Lauren walked in.
"Hey Nay!"
"Hey young lady…You're chipper this morning! Did you have fun last night?"
"Too much!'
Naya laughed. She motioned to Lauren to sit.
"I was so happy for you last night…"
"Aww, thank you."
Lauren smiled and continued, "I think the reason why I was so happy is because you're my best friend!"
Naya looked at her and smiled widely.
"Now I know you married your first best friend, and then there's Dianna…"
"You know what!"
"No what?"
"I can have three best friends!" Naya said simply.
"You can?" Lauren said flabbergasted.
"Of course!" Naya got up from her seat and hugged Lauren tightly.
"Thanks, Naya!"
"Aww, you're welcome! I wanna tell you first that we're moving this weekend to Santa Cruz."
"Oh, that's great!"
"Yup…It just feels right to do it now before I turn into a blimp!"
Lauren smiled.
Just then Dianna and Lea came in. "Hey everybody!"
"Hi…I'm glad you're here."
"What's up?"
"We're moving to Santa Cruz next weekend!"
"That's great!"
"Yea, terrific! You need help?"
"Heather just called a moving company so I think we're good, but thanks. You two have a lot of planning to do."
"Planning?" Lauren asked.
"Yup. Dianna proposed to me last night!" Lea said proudly.
"Really?" Lauren asked, happily. Lea held up her ring finger.
"Terrific! Another wedding!"
"Yay!"
Heather walked in, frowned, and asked, "How come no one invited me to this party?"
"Sorry baby! You're here now!" Nay walked up to her and kissed her on the cheek.
"Did Nay tell you that we're moving this upcoming weekend?"
"Yep," Lauren said.
"Congrats!" Dianna said and Lea nodded.
"I just wanted to come to say hi and tell you what I told you before, Naya! I have to go find Jane! See you later…" Lauren smiled.
"Bye, young lady…and thanks for calling me 'your best friend'!"
"Geez, I have to share you again!" Heather said and winked at Lauren.
"You have such a tough life," Lauren fired back, surprised everyone in the room, and smiled.
"Nice!" Naya said and applauded her, "Take a bow!"
Lauren bowed overdramatically. Then she left the trailer.
"Ok, we've been talking…" Lea said.
"Ok," Naya responded.
"Lea and I want something very simple. Nothing overdramatic…" Dianna said.
"Nothing overdramatic?" Heather said and looked at Lea.
"What?" Lea smiled. Then she got serious. "All I want to do is marry Dianna. We could go to City Hall with our parents and you two and I'd be totally happy with that!"
"Me too!" Dianna agreed.
"I'm not trying to change your minds, but you do know you get one of these a lifetime?" Naya asked.
"We know. Like Lea said we just want to get married. So City Hall is it?" Dianna asked.
"Yup!" Lea answered.
"We haven't told everyone else…only Lauren!" Dianna said.
"I think you two should tell them," Heather suggested and Naya nodded.
"Ok, we'll do that later!" Lea said.
"What do you need from us," Naya asked happily.
"Well, considering you're pregnant, just come on the day we tell you and help us then!" Dianna instructed.
"That's all?" Heather asked.
"Yes, you too, HeMo!" Lea said.
"Okay," Naya said.
"Can we at least text GLEE and tell them to meet at one of your trailers today?"
"Sure!" Dianna said, "Have them meet in mine in a half hour?"
Lea nodded.
"Done!" Heather said as she popped out her cell. "Ryan too?"
"Yes," Lea said.
"'Hi y'all, please meet in Dianna's trailer in 30 for a big announcement. Someone pls bring Ryan too. Naya and HeMo for Dianna and Lea' Sound good?" Heather asked.
"Hit the send button on that!" Dianna said proudly.
"Ok, my heart…When are we getting married?" Lea asked.
"Two weeks from Saturday? October 2nd?"
"Wow!" Lea said happily. She kissed Dianna's cheek.
"As soon as we tell GLEE we have to call our families and see if your parents can come out!" Dianna said.
"Oh definitely."
Heather looked at the clock and said, "We should go to your trailer, Di!" They exited Naya's trailer and walked over to Dianna's. They talked about dinner afterwards.
"I'll take care of that!" Dianna said since she had the best spot in her mind.
They cleaned up Dianna's trailer just in time to hear their first knock on the door. It was Lauren who said, "Is it alright I'm here since I already know?" Dianna grabbed her hand and pulled her gently inside. She plopped herself down next to Naya and Heather who whispered into Lauren's ear, "You knew I was joking with you before, right Lauren?"
Lauren said, "Of course HeMo! Did I upset you with my comment?"
"Not at all. She's rubbing off on you…" Naya overheard that and playfully jabbed Heather in her ribs. Heather rubbed the spot with one hand and held her other hand up for a high five which Lauren smacked.
Within ten minutes everyone was there and quietly waited for the news.
"Hi, Thanks for coming…We have news. Last night before the Emmy awards, I proposed to Lea…"
"And I said, 'Yes!'" Lea held up her engagement ring and everyone applauded loudly.
"When's the wedding?" Jane asked.
"It's two weeks from Saturday," Lea replied.
"You two also don't waste time do ya?" Dot said and laughed.
"I just want to 'go marry and be happy'!" Dianna said and Lea smiled as she remembered who said that to her love.
"Where's the wedding gonna be?" Matt asked.
"City Hall…nice and simple…" Lea answered.
"Great!" Cory said.
Naya and Heather were quiet, but then Heather said, "If I may, we have news also…" Heather looked at Dianna and got her approval. "Naya and I are moving to Santa Cruz next weekend with movers helping us."
The people in the small room exploded with applause again.
"We want to be all moved in long before the baby comes!" Naya added.
"Well, if either couple needs help with anything I am there!" Kevin said and everyone nodded their heads in agreement.
"Thank you guys…" Dianna said sincerely.
"We gotta get to work, right Ryan?" Jane asked.
Ryan enthusiastically shook his head. Everyone left Dianna's trailer and huddled outside for a few minutes.
"What's their song, Naya?" Chris asked.
"'Unconditionally' by Lori Michaels. You can do a Google search to find the lyrics. Amber can you take charge of this project? Heather and I are a part of their ceremony."
"I'm all over it!"
"Cool. Thanks." Naya said to Amber.
"I'll find it and then we can practice hopefully twice!"
Everyone nodded.
The rest of the week went by so quickly and Friday night was upon them. They finished the last of the packing project and collapsed onto Heather's couch in her apartment for the last time.
"Are you getting sad you're moving out of your home?" Naya asked as she lay on Heather's chest.
"Nope…"
"Not at all?"
"Nope…"
"Why not?"
"Cuz we have so much to look forward to in our new home." Heather simply said.
Naya kissed her hand.
"This apartment was great, but before you became more of a part of my life it was so empty. You've added so much life and love to it. Also where ever you are is my home. We could live in a box and I'd be pretty happy because you're there with me."
Naya reached up and kissed Heather sweetly on the lips. Heather instinctively maneuvered herself on top of Naya and continued kissing her.
"Wow!" Naya said when the kiss broke.
"I love you so much." Heather whispered.
"I love you too!" Naya said, excitedly.
Then Heather removed herself from atop of Naya and pulled her up to the bedroom where Heather pulled Naya into her body and just held her. Naya could feel Heather's breathe on her neck and this comforted her immensely. Then they both fell asleep and didn't wake up until their alarm sounded the next morning.
The movers came on time at nine, thirty. They did everything so quickly that Naya and Heather were completely and happily shocked. They were especially careful with Naya's Emmy award.
"Congrats!" one of the movers said, "I loved your speech!"
"Thank you." Naya replied as she watched the mover wrapped her award in so much bubble wrap. Then she saw him gently place it in a separate box that read, "Fragile!"
They loaded everything in their truck. Heather and Naya got into their separate cars and then the entourage headed to Santa Cruz. The whole ride took forty-five minutes.
Not bad! The real test will be on Monday morning. Naya thought to.
Once they arrived at their new home the movers unloaded the contents of their vehicle which wasn't too much. The women decided to take their couch because it held special meaning for them and it could come in handy when they had multiple guests. The movers unloaded the photos of their wedding.
"We can hang these for you, Mrs. Rivera! Just tell us where?"
"Which Mrs. Rivera are you talking to?" Heather said confused, but with a smile.
"Doesn't matter!"
"I'll take that job," Naya volunteered. The mover followed Naya into the house and she instructed him of where to place each photo. Then her award came out of the box and Naya knew to put that over the fireplace in the living room.
Within an hour the whole moving in process was complete. They paid and tipped the movers and thanked them for their assistance.
They enjoyed their first "official" night in their new home and fell asleep rather early.
The rest of that week was awesome. Naya was very surprised that the commute from Santa Cruz to LA wasn't bad at all. They could do it in forty-five minutes when everything went smoothly.
Lea and Dianna had a busy week. They picked up their wedding bands and outfits. Then they drove to the airport and picked up Lea's parents from New Jersey and brought them to their hotel. Dianna's and Lea's families had a pre-wedding dinner where the families got to know each other more. Secretively, Dianna called the sushi restaurant where they had their first date and asked if they could have their reception there. The owner happily said that they could close the restaurant for the afternoon for them.
"Di, we need to call a restaurant to book our reception!" Lea yelled.
"No, I took care of it!"
"Oh ok…where?"
"It's a surprise!"
On Saturday, Heather and Naya came to Lea's apartment around twelve on Saturday to help them get ready. They tried very hard to keep them separate.
"Hold onto this for me?" Dianna asked Naya.
"Sure, what?" Naya asked.
Dianna handed Lea's ring over.
"Wow! Aww, it's gorgeous!"
"She'll love it, right?" Dianna said nervously.
"She's going to love it, Di, cuz it came from you." Naya said and slid the ring into her pocket.
As Heather helped Lea get ready she asked, "Please hold onto this for me?"
"Sure…anything!"
Lea handed Heather the ring.
"Aww, it's pretty."
"You think she'll like it?"
"Absolutely. I love my ring not because it's big and flashy…"
"No?"
"Of course not!"
"Then why?"
"Because it came from the most beautiful woman in the world…Naya!" Heather said and got teary eyed.
Lea smiled widely.
Heather then put it in her pocket.
It was almost time to go to City Hall so Dianna and Naya ran out of the apartment first.
"We're out!" Naya yelled to Heather to signal it was okay for Lea to come out. Just then two big limos pulled up. The driver got out and said, "Dianna Agron…"
"Yea, but we didn't reserve limos…"
"Compliments of Lea's parents!" He said as he opened the car door.
Just then Heather and Lea came out and Dianna wanted to say something to Lea so she asked, "Cover my eyes?"
Naya did as she was asked.
"My heart, your parents bought us limos." Dianna smiled behind Naya's hands.
"Oh cool!" Heather covered Lea's eyes as she said that.
Then Lea's car arrived and they all got in their separate cars and were taken to the City Hall.
They got there and walked inside. As soon as they arrived, their friends and family started to applaud. The other people looked at them, but quickly understood what was happening and applauded them as well.
"I love you Dianna," Lea said as Dianna and Naya walked into the court.
"I love you too, Lea!"
Everyone followed Dianna into the room and GLEE stood to the side.
As the door opened they started to sing, "Unconditionally". It was Amber and Cory who sang the song and the rest of their friends hummed.
Will you love me unconditionally?
Will you love me now and love me when things just don't go right?
Will you give me unconditionally-the trust that we both need-cause I believe in love...unconditionally.
Lea and her father walked slowly down the aisle towards Dianna who stood there in shock at how beautiful Lea was as she walked to her. When Lea got there her father kissed her on the cheek and then took a seat next to her Mom.
The judge said a few words and then Dianna spoke.
"Lea…I love you! It's as simple as that. I love you for so many wonderful reasons and I am beyond happy that you want to share your life with me. This wedding is perfect for us. We are surrounded by the people who are the most important to us. We have their love and that is all we could ever ask for. I know that I have your love unconditionally. And you have mine."
Dianna looked at Lea and smiled.
"Dianna, from the first moment we met I knew you were a special person. I just knew that you'd become important. I love you for taking a chance on me. I love you for loving me the way you do. I love that you just wanted to marry me and it didn't matter where. The thing that I love the most about you is your ability to love someone fully and completely. I will now and forever love you." Lea said and smiled at Dianna.
"Rings?"
Naya handed Lea's ring to Dianna. Dianna said, "I want you to know that I love you with my entire heart and life. I will always be right here for you." She slid the ring onto Lea's finger and massaged it as it laid there.
Heather gave Lea Dianna's ring. Lea said, "I love you. I want you to know you have my heart, love, and life. You've had it since the day we met. I will always be next to you. I can't wait to see what we do together." Lea slid the ring onto Dianna's finger and squeezed her hand.
"You may now kiss your bride, Dianna," the judge announced.
Dianna gathered Lea up into her arms and planted a big and passionate kiss onto her awaiting lips. The applause erupted and when they stopped kissing, the judge raised his hands joyfully and announced, "I want to introduce to you for the first time, Dianna and Lea Agron!"
Lea and Dianna walked hand in hand out of the room. Naya and Heather walked behind them and held hands as they exited the room.
"We did it!" Lea said and began to cry.
"No tears! It's a happy day." Dianna said with tears in her own eyes.
Then their friends came out of the room and hugged them.
"Where's the party?" Cory asked happily.
"It's at 'En Sushi'!" Dianna said.
Lea recognized that place because it was where Dianna took her on their first date.
"Yay!"
Dianna's parents took Lea's parents to the restaurant.
"Nay and Hemo…take the other limo!" Lea said.
"Sure?"
"Absolutely."
Heather grabbed Naya and ran out of the courthouse. They all laughed.
The rest of Dianna and Lea's special day flew by. They all ate sushi and had a good time. Naya asked if she could order a piece of chicken because when she looked at the sushi it made her nauseas. She also noted that she became emotional as Dianna and Lea danced.
"You okay?"Heather whispered.
"Hormonal and emotional!"
"Wow! You really are." Heather gave Naya her napkin. Lauren smiled.
The time after Lea and Dianna's wedding and Naya's due date flew by quickly. Heather noticed how beautiful Naya was with everyday of her pregnancy. She was glowing. They called Tracey, the photographer, who travelled to Santa Cruz and took photographs of Naya and Heather. They posed outside of their house, at the beach, and at a park. The film was developed and the photos were shipped within a week. Then Naya and Heather mailed them out to their family and their friends.
When Jeannie received hers in Arizona she wanted to surprise them so she did some research and got in touch with Dianna.
"Hello?"
"Hi, is this Dianna Agron who works with my daughter, Heather?" Jeannie asked hopeful.
"Mrs. Morris?"
"No, please call me Jeannie!"
"Ok, Jeannie. How may we help you?"
"We?"
"Well, yes, me and my new wife, Lea."
"Congrats! I want to come to surprise Heather and Naya…"
"Hi, Mrs. Morris, this is Lea also on the phone."
"Hey, Lea, it's Jeannie. Anyway, are you planning a baby shower for them?"
"Actually, yes, Jane is in charge of that! It's on March 26th at our studio. Did you want to come out for that?"
"Yes, I'll call a hotel…"
"No, you won't…You can stay with us," Lea suggested and Dianna seconded it.
"I wouldn't be putting you out?"
"Not at all. Both of your daughters have done so much for us that this is the least we can do…So when you have your flight information please let us know." Dianna said.
"Thank you both very much. I'll be in touch."
Naya and Heather went to every doctor's appointment together. They had three ultrasounds. It was first one where Dr. P. announced, "It's a girl!"
Heather jumped up and down and did her own happy dances several times a day. Naya watched some of them and just laughed. When they were at work, Heather got Lauren to do a happy dance with her and it was too cute. Naya recorded it on her video phone.
"Elizabeth Marie Rivera is on her way!" was her new personal mantra and she told everyone who listened.
Naya called her Mom one day.
"We're so proud of you, Nay!" Yolanda said.
"Does it hurt?" Naya said scared.
"Honestly…yes."
"Geez, thanks Mom," Naya shot back. "I'm sorry!"
"No, it's okay. I understand. What you get to take home with you makes up for any pain you'll feel." Yolanda
The first time that Liz kicked happened when Heather and Naya were lying on the couch. Heather had her hand on Naya's stomach.
"Whoa!" Heather yelled after she kicked.
"That was the first one…hey…take it easy in there you hear?"
Heather held Naya's free hand and said, "I don't know if I've ever thanked you…"
Naya pulled herself up with help from Heather, awkwardly turned around to face her, and said, "Thanked me for what?"
"For so many things, but most importantly for carrying Liz for us!"
"Aww, thank you…" Naya said and started to cry.
"Sweetheart, please don't. I keep forgetting…"
"It's okay."
"I hope she has your smile!" Heather revealed.
Naya looked up at Heather and kissed her sweetly on the lips. This lasted for a long time.
During Naya's eighth month, Heather knew that Jane was planning a surprise baby shower for Naya.
At noon on March 26th , Dianna and Lea came to Naya's trailer, pulled her off of the couch, and asked her to go with them somewhere.
"Okay," she said warily. "My ankles hurt though."
"I'll rub them when we get there." Dianna said.
"Where are we going exactly?"
"You'll see!" They dragged her to the "choir room". The door was shut, but Naya could see people inside.
Dianna opened the door and pushed Naya in first.
"Surprise!" her friends, her Mom and Nickayla yelled.
Naya started to cry. Yolanda ran up to her and pulled her into a hug.
"You okay?" she whispered.
"Damn hormones!"
She laughed.
Heather walked up to her, kissed her, and said, "Welcome to your baby shower!"
"Did you know about this?" Naya asked as Lauren escorted her to her seat.
"Maybe!" Heather winked.
Naya smiled and sat as Lauren asked, "Water? Soda? Pickle?"
"May I have some water…and that pickle?"
"Sure!" Lauren ran to get the food.
"Naya, we wanted to give you this baby shower to show you how much we all love you. You are an amazing person who has taught each one of us something about life and love. I hope you know you're loved. And Elizabeth Marie will be overly loved and you have at least ten baby sitters right here!" Jane said with Lara next to her.
"Thank you, Jane…Thank you, everyone. I feel so happy right now."
"You're welcome."
"Ooh presents for Liz!" Naya said as she noticed the boxes which sat on a table. Then Dianna and Lea handed her each present and Lauren wrote down who it was from.
"That's from me," Lauren said excitedly.
"Well, let's see what we have…" Naya tore off the wrapping paper, opened the box, and found at least ten bibs. One read, "Young lady #2!" Another one read, "Diva in training!" And other one read, "Property of GLEE!" When she read the last bib she laughed out loud, showed Heather, and then turned it around. It read, "I want a sweet lady kiss, Mommy!"
"Where did you find these, young lady #1?" Naya chuckled.
"There's a personalized bib website on the Internet and I told them what phrases I wanted and they did the rest." Lauren said, proudly.
"Thank you." Naya said and smiled at Lauren.
"This is from me and Lara," Jane said.
"Thank you." Naya and Heather tore at the wrapping paper of the tall package together. It was a huge stroller.
"This is the Bentley of strollers," Heather said thoughtfully and was amazed.
"I have one if I may?" A voice from the hallway yelled as she walked into the room. Heather stood up and ran to Jeannie who had surprised both of her daughters.
"Hi, Mom!" Heather said and ran to her. "How did you get here? When did you get here?"
"We picked her up yesterday…" Dianna said and smiled warmly. Lea held her hand and also smiled.
"They've been so hospitable. They slept on the couch and I got their room." Jeannie commended.
"Yesterday?" Heather said dumbfounded. Heather ran up to Dianna and Lea and threw her arms around them and said, "Thank you. I truly appreciate it!"
Naya slowly got up with Jane's help and waddled over to her Mom.
"Hi, Mom!" Naya said and hugged her tightly.
"Hey, Naya! I love you!" Jeannie announced as she fully took Naya's figure into her mind.
"Um, I love you too!"
"Go sit down and open this up!" Jeannie said and handed Naya her gift.
"What is it?" Heather asked.
"I don't know Heather…Come open it with me."
They opened the box and found a hand made baby quilt with pictures of Heather and Naya from the different photo shoots they've done together. There was a photo of Heather's entire family and there were photos of Naya's family as well. Then in the middle of the quilt was an embroidered saying which read, "Elizabeth Marie Rivera ~ our beautiful girl!"
Heather and Naya were crying so Jeannie walked over to them and wrapped her arms around both of them.
"Thank you, Mom," Naya said.
"You're welcome."
"Thanks…" Heather hugged her Mom. Once the hug broke Jeannie went to say hello Naya's Mom and sister. Heather had an idea and she whispered it in Naya's ear.
"Would it be okay if Mom stayed with us until Liz comes? I want her to be able to meet her first granddaughter the day that she arrives!"
Naya looked up at Heather and smiled warmly. "Oh course, baby…You didn't need to ask! Go tell her."
Heather kissed Naya on the cheek and ran over to her Mom and pulled her away from a conversation.
Naya watched as Jeannie's face lit up with excitement as she heard the news. She hugged Heather tightly and then blew a kiss to Naya.
Naya's ninth and final month was upon them so she stayed home from work, by Ryan's urging and persistence. Heather had to go to work, but she kept her cell phone in her pocket the whole time in case Jeannie texted her. Naya had a surprise planned for Heather so when she left for the day. After enough time had passed, Naya said, "Ok, Mom...You ready?"
Jeannie said, "You sure you want to take a trip to surprise her at work?"
"I'm so bored…"
"Ok, let's go. I'm going to take your overnight bag, just in case!"
"Good thinking."
They got out to Naya's car and Jeannie drove to their studio in Los Angeles. On the ride there, Naya grabbed her stomach and Jeannie noticed her action.
"You okay, Naya?"
"Yep. She's really kicking and my back has started to hurt a little…not much, but a little."
"Let me know if anything else happens."
They pulled into the parking lot and Naya took Jeannie to her trailer first and they dropped off their belongings.
"You ready to go find your daughter?"
"I get to come?"
"Of course…I need a walking partner!" Naya said and opened the door. They walked around the lot and then Naya asked, "Where is Heather filming today?"
"Auditorium and choir room."
"Thanks" Naya said as she walked away. Naya suddenly felt something much sharper than a kick from her stomach area. Jeannie rushed up to her and said, "What's happening?"
"I think I might have had a small contraction."
"Ok, ok, honey…I'm sorry, but I need you to just sit there and I'll go find her."
"You sure?" Naya said, but sat down on a park bench.
"Where is she?"
"Auditorium or choir room."
Then Jane appeared out of the blue and walked over.
"Naya, you're not supposed to be here! Hi, Jeannie."
"Hi…Can you tell me where the auditorium might be? I gotta get Heather." Jeannie said and tried not to sound too frantic, but Jane read her face.
"In that building. I'll stay here with Nay!"
Jeannie ran the fastest she has ever run in her life. Naya screamed again and that only made her speed pick up. She searched frantically for her daughter and bumped into Cory.
"Hey, JeMo!" he said.
"Hi, Cory, where's Heather?"
"Um…" Cory said and then scratched his head.
Jeannie gave up and ran away from him. Then she saw Lea and ran up to her, "Where's my daughter?"
"Hmm…I think she's in the choir room," and pointed. "Why?"
"It's time!" Jeannie said as she ran away to the room. She found Heather sitting in a bucket seat reading "What to Expect When You're Expecting". She looked up and said, "Mom! What's wrong?"
"It's time…"
This was all she had to say. Heather shot up from the chair and bolted out of the room with her mother right behind her. They saw Dianna and Lauren as they walked around and Heather yelled, "It's time!" Dianna and Lauren turned around and joined the small group who ran to Naya.
They finally saw her and Jane doing breathing exercises.
"Get her to the hospital as soon as possible. Her contractions are getting bad." Jane demanded.
"Jane, call her parents and tell them to meet us at Cedar Sinai Medical Center." Heather asked.
"Will do. I'll be there later."
Jane sent a text to GLEE which read, "It's time! Meet me at my trailer in ten!"
Everyone saw the text, dropped everything and ran quickly to Jane's trailer.
In the car, Heather called the doctor and told her office to have Dr. P. meet them at the hospital. Then she did everything she could think of to help her wife breathe.
"You're doing great, Naya!"
"I'm scared, Heather!"
"I'm right here. You're amazing, you know that?"
"I do, but it still hurts!"
"I'd do anything to take that away for you. Keep breathing!" Heather breathed with Naya.
"We'll almost there," Jeannie said.
"Step on it!" Naya demanded and Jeannie pressed harder on the gas pedal.
"I love you," Heather said with tears streaming down her face.
"I love you too. It's gonna be a long day so please stop crying…"
"Um, ok." Heather said as she wiped her tears away.
"Ok, we are here," Jeannie said as she pulled up to the Emergency door and ran in to get help.
A few second later, a nurse came out with a wheelchair and they helped get Naya seated.
Then they hurried into the building as Naya's family arrived.
"Come on…" Yolanda said as she quickly hugged Jeannie and pulled her inside.
The receptionist at the desk said,"Fill these out!" and threw a packet of paperwork at Heather.
"But, I…"
"Here, Heather, I'll do it," Yolanda assured her and Heather handed them to her mom and then sprinted to Naya's side.
"Baby?" Naya asked because she was nervous and didn't see Heather next to her.
"I'm right here, Sweetheart, I'll always be right here!" Heather kissed Naya's hand.
Then they got Naya a room on the maternity floor.
Dr. P. walked into the room and said, "How are we doing?"
"I'm afraid!" Naya answered honestly.
"Nothing to be afraid of, Naya! You're gonna do great!" Dr. P. said positively.
"When can she have the epidural? I hate to see her in any pain."
"Soon, Heather, soon. So you're in 'active labor', but that may take a while. I suggest you take walks around the floor. Heather here can give you massages, and just prepare yourself for later. I'll come back to check on you in a while…"
"Thank you, doctor!"
Then her parents and Jeannie found them. They were concerned, but Heather said, "It's not happening yet. Why don't you get something to eat? We'll let you know if anything changes."
Naya's family did some errands and went to eat quickly. Jeannie hung around with them.
"If it's alright with you, sweetheart, I'm going to call Jane!"
"Ok. Come right back?"
"Wild horses couldn't keep me away!"
Naya smiled. Heather left the room.
"Mom…" Naya said.
"Yes, Naya," Jeannie said as she walked up to the bed.
"Thank you."
"For what, dear?"
"For being there for me today!" Naya grabbed Jeannie's hand and squeezed tightly.
"Aww, Naya, we're family, remember that! I'm always going to be there for you…all of you!" Jeannie said and kissed her forehead.
Heather walked back in and noticed the sweet interaction.
"Hey, Baby!"
"Hi, I see someone is calmer now!"
"Hey, cut me some slack…it's my first time here…"
"You want to do this again?" Heather smiled.
"Ask me that question sometime tomorrow," Naya said.
They all laughed. Naya's family came back and her Mom carried a milkshake with her.
"Here you go," Yolanda said and handed her the drink.
"Thank you." Naya downed that shake too quickly.
"Sweetheart, pace yourself…"
Naya shot Heather a look.
"Or not!"
They all laughed.
"Oh, by the way, everyone is coming later and Ryan gave them the day off so they could stay until the baby arrives." Heather said.
"Wow! That hasn't happened ever!"
"Yup."
Ten hours and the epidural later, Dr. P. came in to check on Naya who had begun to have more and more contractions.
"Ok, ladies, she's fully dilated. We ready to meet your daughter?"
"Yes," they both said in unison.
"Ok, let's go…" Dr. P. said as the nurse started to push her to the delivery room. By that time everyone was in the lobby and had been for some time. The small room was in the same direction of the delivery room and they saw them as they rushed by. They stopped quickly, Lauren ran up, grabbed her hand, and said, "I love you, Nay!"
Naya smiled.
Once they were in the room, Heather got into scrubs. Then she never left Naya's side.
"I hate you, HeMo!" Naya yelled as she felt another horrible contraction come.
"I know you do…but you know what?" Heather smiled as she was totally aware that this was part of the process.
"No, what?" Naya said as she gritted her teeth.
"I love you so freaking much!" Heather said and kissed her on her head.
"Ok, Mommies! It's time to meet your daughter! Ok, Naya, I need you to push as hard as you can!"
Naya gathered all of her energy and strength and pushed for the first time.
"Very good…take a break and then I need another push from you! You up for it?"
"No," Naya said because she got scared.
"Naya, you're up for anything. You're the bravest person I know. You're 'Naya 'fucking' Rivera'!" Heather said as she kissed her on her sweaty forehead.
"Ok…" Naya surrendered.
"Naya, PUSH!"
Naya pushed with everything she had.
"Ok, I see the head," Dr. P. exclaimed. Heather leaned over and saw her daughter's head.
"Liz has a full head of black hair…"
"Naya, push again!"
Naya pushed again as hard as possible.
"Good job…Almost there!"
"I'm so proud of you!" Heather beamed with pride.
"Ok, on this last push, I need you to give it everything you have. This is when you're going to meet your daughter for the first time. Do you wanna do that?"
"I do…" Naya said exhausted.
"Ok ready everybody? On three…One…two…three!"
Naya pushed like her life depended on it. Heather provided the support she needed to be able to push.
"AHHHHHHHH!" Naya screamed. Heather was momentarily scared, but then D. P. said, "Here she is!"
Liz started to cry. It was then that Naya lay back on the mattress and cried. Heather took her lips in a passionate kiss. Then she took out her camera phone and snapped Liz's first official photo.
"She's perfect, Naya…Just perfect." Heather said flabbergasted at what Naya just did for her. "Thank you…I love you so much."
"Do you want to hold your daughter for the first time?"
Naya extended her arms out and the nurse placed Liz into them.
"Well, hello! Nice to meet you finally…We love you so much. And you have a waiting room full of people who love you too. Baby, you want to hold her?"
"Of course…" Heather picked her up gently and maneuvered her around so her head was securely against Heather's upper arm.
"Hey, you. I'm your Mom!" Heather said with tears that streamed down her face.
"We're actually parents, Heather…" Naya said as the idea truly hit her.
"I know, Sweetheart. There's one else on this planet that I'd like to go through this experience with, you know?"
"I totally agree."
"Ok, Liz, let's play our first game! Let's see how much you look like your Mom." Heather gently held Liz up and did a side-by-side comparison with Naya.
"Hair, check…Complexion, check…Eyes…" Heather said as Liz opened her eyes again. "Check! Ok, it's official!"
"What's that?" Naya smiled.
"She is going to a knockout when she gets older just like her Mom…"
Naya carefully reached for Heather who bent over for a kiss.
"Do you want to go tell everyone?" Naya asked.
"Sure…Do you want me to bring Liz or wait until later?"
"Let's wait…"
"I'll come with you," Dr. P. said and smiled.
"Thank you so much!" Naya said and grabbed the doctor's hand.
Heather then gave Liz back to Naya.
"I'll be right back."
"We'll be waiting right here!" Naya said.
Then Heather and Dr. P. left. The nurse stayed, but didn't interfere.
"Ok, you…I want to let you know how your Moms met. She is my best friend…and we work together on GLEE. Your GLEE family is waiting to meet you. This all started because I was brave enough to write your Mom a letter. Yep. I told her that I loved her and do you want happened next? She changed my entire world when she told me she loved me too. You're never going to want for love. We have plenty of that for you…I love you so much, Liz!" Naya said as she cried with happiness. Liz cooed after Naya finished her sentence.
Meanwhile out in the lobby, Heather saw their family gathered in a large group. When she walked up to them, she exclaimed, "She's beautiful…just like her mother!"
Yolanda and George ran up to Heather and hugged her. Jeannie sat there and cried and Lauren tried to comfort her, but she was crying also. They hugged each other tightly. The rest of their family hugged and high fived each other.
"Congratulations, Heather…" Jane said and wrapped her arms around her.
"Thank you from the bottom of my heart!" Heather said with tears in her eyes.
"For what?"
"For sitting me down and helping me in the very beginning. If it weren't for that, I don't know if I'd have a daughter today!"
"I was honored to do it! Lara is coming soon."
"Cool. I want to talk to my Mom," Heather said as she walked toward her.
"Hi, Mom, you okay?" Heather sat down next to Jeannie.
"I'm just so happy. How did Naya do?"
"There's nothing that woman can't do!" Heather said and remembered all of the pain Naya went through.
"I know…"
"I'm the luckiest woman in the world!" Heather suddenly realized and lunged at her mother for a hug.
"You're father is so proud of both of you. And your sisters are sorry they couldn't come out to see you all. They will though."
"Thank you…" Heather stood up and said, "Hey, everyone, I'd like to say thank you for everything. We love you."
Everyone applauded and then Heather turned around and went back her family.
A little while later, they transported Naya back to her room. Everyone waited there and as soon as the nurse took Liz to the nursery they all followed right behind her.
"I'm going to close my eyes for a while. I'm exhausted. I love you." Naya said when they were alone in the room.
"I love you so much. There are no words…" Heather leaned over and kissed Naya on her lips.
"You know what, baby?"
"No what, sweetheart?"
"Now it's always me and you!"
"Always me and you…and her!"