All things Twilight belong to Stephenie Meyer; I just like to play with her characters.
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HUGE thanks to my betas darcysmom and twimom817; my pre-reader EdwardsmyObsession1971. These ladies offer me their unending support and encouragement with each chapter I write and I honestly can't thank them enough.
HAPPY BREAKING DAWN PART 2 PREMIERE DAY!
(Yes … I am actually posting this from my iPad at LA LIVE!) I've been camping out and hanging out with lots and lots of Twifriends. This truly is an AWESOME fandom.
When You Least Expect It
Chapter Seven
Diagnosis
"Thank you. Umm … Mrs. Cullen … there is one thing …."
"What do you need sweetheart?"
"Would you mind staying a few more minutes? I could really use a quick shower, but I know my Dad won't be by tonight and I don't want to leave Kaden alone."
"Of course, Bella. Do what you need to do. We'll be just fine. Take your time, sweetheart."
"Thank you, Mrs. Cullen. I hated to ask but …."
"Nonsense, Bella! It's my pleasure and please, call me Esme. Sweetheart, remember, I'm a mom. Before I met Carlisle, I was a single mom too. Rosalie was all I had in the world. It was tough but we did okay."
"How did you meet Carlisle?" I asked.
"He was doing an internship at my pediatrician's office. Rosalie had an awful sinus infection and couldn't breathe. She was four years old if I recall correctly. Carlisle was so sweet and patient with her. A few days later, I bumped into him at the grocery store and we got to talking. We had so much in common and he adored Rosalie. We married eight months later and a year after that, Carlie was born. Edward was a surprise two years later."
"I can only hope to be as lucky in my life as you have been in yours."
"Bella, you're a beautiful and caring young woman. There is someone out there for you – you have to believe that."
I nodded and gathered up my things. I thanked Esme again and stepped into the bathroom. I quickly showered and twisted my hair up on my head, wrapping it with a scrunchie. When I stepped out of the bathroom, Kaden was awake and Esme was feeding him some soup.
"Mommy!" He exclaimed happily.
"Hey, Little Bear," I smiled. "Are you eating some soup?"
"Uh huh … Ms. Esme maded it. It's yummy."
I looked up at Esme and smiled appreciatively.
"Well, Mr. Kaden, I best get going. I want you to feel better soon, okay?" Esme smiled, ruffling Kaden's hair.
"'Kay."
"Thank you again, Esme. I can't tell you how much …."
"Bella, stop. I'm glad to do it. Now I better find my son so we can be on our way."
"Tell Edward thank you again for me, please?"
"Of course, sweetheart, but I assure you it was his pleasure."
Esme smiled once again before slipping out the door leaving Kaden and I in the cold, sterile room. We spent the afternoon watching cartoons and reading. Nurses came and went and I kept trying to corner someone – anyone to tell me what was going on with my son. Thus far no one had been able to tell me anything.
"The doctor will be by shortly." Smiled the nurse.
Needless to say, I heard that on more than one occasion. I understood that it was a holiday but it's not like we were here by choice either. Finally, that evening after the nurses changed shifts a young doctor breezed in with Kaden's chart in her hand.
"Hi, I'm Dr. Weber. How's Kaden feeling this evening?"
"Better, I think. He's been eating today so that's a step in the right direction, right?" I asked.
"Definitely. His fever is still erratic it looks like. Other than that, everything looks good."
"What's causing the fever?"
"He's got a UTI. It's more common in little girls, but obviously, little boys aren't immune to them."
"But how?" I asked, completely confused.
"Do you give him bubble baths?"
"Oooh! Bubble baths! I love da bubbles!" Kaden giggled adorably.
I nodded sheepishly.
"Well there ya go." Dr. Weber frowned. "So, no more bubble baths buddy."
I frowned at my son's fallen face. He looked forward to bath time every night because of the bubbles. I hated to take that away from him too.
"Don't beat yourself up over it, Mrs. Newton. It happens, and you're not the first parent to learn that while bubble baths are fun they can be very dangerous. Now … I'm going to have the nurse come in and give him some more antibiotics in his IV and we'll see where we are with that in the morning. If you have any more questions, I'll be on the pediatric floor until seven a.m."
"Thank you, Dr. Weber."
After the doctor left Kaden's room, I helped him to get ready for bed. He'd managed to eat a bit more soup that I had one of the nurse's heat up for him before the doctor came in and I could tell that he was tired and ready for bed. A nurse came in and checked his vitals one more time and she administered the antibiotic the doctor had ordered.
I sat on the bed next to Kaden and he nestled into my side. I began to read him Where the Wild Things Are – it was his favorite book. I had just finished reading when I felt someone's eyes on me. I looked up to see Edward standing at the foot of the other bed with a wry smile on his face.
"Edward … hey. I didn't expect you to come back."
He quietly explained that he hadn't planned on coming back but he felt bad about me being on my own taking care of my sick son. He muttered something about it not seeming fair to him.
I carefully pulled my sleeping son away from my side and carefully tucked him into his bed and walked toward Edward.
"Life isn't always fair, Edward," I said quietly. "Sometimes you just have to take what life hands you and make the best you can with it."
"You seem to do a pretty amazing job, Bella."
I had to admit that it felt nice to hear that I was doing okay with my son from someone other than my dad. I felt like Dad told me that because it was an obligation not an observation.
"It's not without effort, Edward. I think you know how that feels as well as I do."
Edward nodded and looked at me with a furrowed brow. I felt naked and vulnerable under his scrutinizing gaze.
He asked me how old I was and how old Kaden was and I answered him without question. He apologized – not wanting to be disrespectful but I had nothing to hide from him. He seemed shocked when I told him that Kaden had turned three a few months before. I watched as several emotions played across his handsome face and I took a deep breath and blew it out sharply.
"Look, Edward, I know you probably have a ton of questions but I don't know if I'm ready to tell you about my situation yet. I appreciate everything that you've done for me and for Kaden. You coming here … well, it means a lot to me."
Edward watched me curiously as tears filled my eyes and overflowed. I was helpless to stop them.
"I can't think about anything other than getting him home and well right now," I sobbed. "I need him to be okay, Edward. He's my whole world."
I hadn't cried at all since Mike left except for the first night Kaden was in the hospital. My heart was filled with sadness for my son and the life that I wanted so badly to give him - only I had no idea how.
I suddenly felt warm arms around me as Edward held me to him. I sobbed into his chest as he held me tightly. I hadn't felt that much comfort in a very long time. Maybe since before Kaden was born.
"He's going to be fine, Bella." Edward murmured into the top of my head.
Suddenly it hit me that I was in a very compromising embrace and sobbing into the shirt of not only my boss but THE Edward Cullen. I quickly pulled out of his embrace and wiped the tears from my eyes.
"I'm so sorry, Edward," I sniffled.
"Sorry for what, Bella?" Edward asked quietly.
"For being an emotional, snot-sobbing mess. That was totally unprofessional of me. I mean … you're my boss."
"Good thing I'm not wearing the boss hat tonight then. If I remember correctly, I hugged you first, Bella because you needed it. I'm here as your friend right now because it sure seems to me like you could use one of those right about now."
"Thank you," I whispered.
Edward stayed for a little while longer, leaving only when the nurse came in and told him that visiting hours had ended thirty minutes ago. He seemed hesitant to leave and I promised him that Kaden and I would be fine.
"If you need anything … anything at all, you call me, okay?"
I nodded as he reached out for my iPhone and programmed his number into my address book. He handed me his phone and asked me to do the same for him.
"Eric should have given it to me but for whatever reason he didn't," Edward explained. "Just in case I needed to let you know of a change of plans at the last minute."
He reached out and took my hand in his as he got up to leave and squeezed it gently.
"Let me know how Kaden's doing tomorrow will you?" Edward asked.
"Of course. Thank you for coming, Edward. I really appreciate it and please thank your mom again for the food. Kaden finished all of the soup she brought."
"She'll be happy to hear that. Take care, Bella."
I watched as he retreated from the room and I wondered again what the underlying reason was that he came back. I thought about it all night as I lay in the uncomfortable hospital bed next to my son.
The next day was much the same. My dad came just before lunch and brought some sandwiches for us and chicken soup for Kaden.
"He looks better," Dad noted.
"Yeah, he does, but then again, he's eating again."
"Did they say when he'll be released?"
"Not yet. The doctor was in last night and she said that he would be released when they stabilize the fever. I was hoping that they'd release him today. They took the IV out around eight this morning. They said since he's eating and drinking again that he won't need it."
Dad chuckled.
"I bet he was happy about that."
I nodded.
"How are you doing, Bells? You doing okay? Are you getting enough sleep?"
"I'm doing okay, Dad. As well as I can be doing with my son in the hospital. Edward's mom sat with Kaden yesterday afternoon while I took a quick shower and cleaned up a little."
"Shit, Bells. I'm sorry. I should have been here so you could do that. I wasn't thinking about it … it's just … you know the hospital isn't my favorite place."
"I know, Dad and its okay. I can't expect you to sit here with me. Did you have a nice dinner at the Legion yesterday?"
Dad nodded but didn't say how his dinner was. He moved over to Kaden's bed where Kaden was sitting intently watching Disney Junior and began talking to him.
Dad left the hospital around three when Alice arrived. I'd left her a message wishing her a Happy Thanksgiving and when she called back to wish me the same, I'd told her about Kaden. She was going to Santa Barbara for the day to spend the holiday with her boyfriend's parents but she'd be back in plenty of time to go Black Friday shopping with the rest of the crazies.
"I got something for my favorite little man!" Alice sing-songed as she danced into the room.
She pulled a little die cast Lightning McQueen from her purse and Kaden squealed in delight.
"Who sent the balloons?" She asked.
"Oh, umm … that was Edward."
"Edward?"
"Yeah, my boss."
Alice's eyes looked like they were ready to bug out of her head.
"Let me get this straight … your boss sent your kid a bouquet of balloons?"
"Yeah. It was really sweet of him but he wanted to put a smile on Kaden's face since he knew he wasn't feeling well."
"Who the hell are you working for, Bella? He's obviously a great guy if he's sending your three year old get well balloons."
"He is a great guy, Alice. He and his mom stopped by here yesterday with a ton of food and then he came back again last night to keep me company for a bit."
"Oh. My. God! He likes you, Bella! Who is this guy?"
"I can't tell you who he is, Alice. As much as I'd like to … it's in my contract. I can't even tell my Dad."
"But he's a celebrity right? Hmm … that means that I'll have to think of all the celebrities I can that are named Edward."
I wanted to pinch myself for telling Alice his first name because really - how many celebrities were named Edward? It was only a matter of time before Alice figured out who he was and then I'd be screwed – I'd never hear the end of it.
Alice's eyes went wide as realization dawned on her.
"Oh. My. God! You're working for Edward Cullen!"
Shit.
"Alice …." I groaned.
"I'm right aren't I?"
"I can't tell you if you are or not. Alice … I signed a contract. I can't tell you who I'm working for."
"That's okay," Alice sang. "Just the thought of you working for Edward Cullen is enough to fill my head for days. I mean, can you imagine? He's SO handsome. But you already know that don't you. You've seen him up close and personal like. Ooh! Does he smell good? God, Bella. You are SO lucky – but be careful with him because he's just coming out of that relationship with that Lauren what's-her-name."
I sat quietly while Alice prattled on and on. I decided to give her a fan-girl moment – or five.
"Alice … breathe." I laughed.
"But it's so nice to think of that little slice of heaven in the midst of all this crap, Bella," Alice said sadly.
It was nice to daydream but that didn't do me any good, and at the moment, my reality was happily running his little car up and down the rails of the bed making squealing noises. I didn't have the time and energy to fantasize about things that wouldn't happen. I had to think about the here and now.
Alice broke me from my reverie when she asked if I'd heard anything from Mike.
"Nope, nothing."
"Not even on Thanksgiving? He didn't call Kaden or anything?" Alice asked.
I shook my head.
"God, Bella. I just want to kick his ass."
"Mommy! Auntie Alice said bad wurd!" Kaden hollered.
"I know, Little Bear. Auntie Alice will put a quarter in the cuss bucket, won't you Alice?"
Alice glanced at me apologetically. My phone buzzed on the table next to me and I picked it up to see I'd gotten a text from Edward.
How's Kaden feeling today? – E
I quickly typed back a response.
I think he's better. He's eating again and getting some of his energy back. – B
"Who are you texting?" Alice asked.
"None of your business," I smirked.
"Oh ho! You're texting Edward," Alice grinned.
"Maybe," I grinned back.
My phone pinged in my hand.
Good. Do you want some coffee and some company? – E
I did want some coffee and maybe his company too, but it would be utter disaster to have him here with Alice. I'd never hear the end of it.
Coffee sounds so good but my friend Alice is here and I don't think it would be a good idea for you to come while she's here if you know what I mean. – B
That's okay. Text me when she leaves and I'll stop by for a bit. Are you doing okay? – E
I was just about to text him back when Alice grabbed my phone from me.
"Alice! Give me my phone back!"
"Nope," She said popping the p.
"Alice … please? I don't want him to worry." I begged.
"He's worried?" She asked, peaking her brow.
"He just wants to know if I'm okay." I admitted.
"Annnnd what are you going to tell him?"
I rolled my eyes.
"That I'm fine of course. God, you can be so annoying!"
"I may be annoying but I'd bet my next paycheck that he likes you." Alice grinned.
"Shut up, Alice. You don't even get a paycheck." I grinned, taking my phone back and sending a text off to Edward.
Alice stayed until dinner time. My good friend and her boyfriend, Jasper was making them dinner and she still needed to stop at the store and pick up a few things. I hugged her as she walked toward the door.
"Thanks for coming, Alice. Tell Jazz I said hi."
"Anytime, Bella. You let us know if you need anything okay?"
I nodded and turned back to Kaden who was eagerly eating a container of red Jell-O. I had just settled down on the sofa next to him when the nurse came in to check his vitals again.
"Will the doctor be around tonight?" I asked the nurse.
"Umm, yeah. Dr. Weber is on duty this evening, she should be here doing her rounds. I'm sure she'll be by sooner or later."
I nodded.
"He's doing better, right?" I asked.
"Just by looking at his chart, he's doing much better. His fever has been stable for the past twenty-four hours and he's eating again. I'd say he's doing great."
What the nurse told me was exactly what I needed to hear. As she finished her task and walked out of the room, my phone buzzed.
Bella … is everything okay? I didn't hear back from you and I'm starting to get concerned. – E
I quickly typed back a reply.
Sorry! I got sidetracked by Alice. I'm fine, I promise. I'm waiting for the doctor to come. – B
Do you still want me to come by? I can do an evening coffee run. =) – E
It was sweet that Edward wanted to know if I still wanted some company and there was a part of me that wanted to text him back and say "Yes! Come and keep me company!" but the rational side said "No, maybe next time". As if I wanted there to be a next time.
That's not necessary and it's getting late. I don't want to inconvenience you. –B
You're not, Bella. It's my pleasure – unless you don't want me to come. – E
His last text seemed so sad. Did he really think that I didn't want his company? I couldn't let him think that – not for a moment.
Edward – please don't think that I don't enjoy your company. I do – very much so, but it's getting late and it's been a long day. I'm waiting for the doctor to come and Alice was here all afternoon. I love her but she's tiring. Can I take a rain check on the coffee and company? – B
No sooner had I fired off the last text to Edward than the doctor came in with a big frown on her face.
"What are you guys still doing here?" Dr. Weber asked. "You guys should have gone home hours ago."
"I've been sitting here waiting all day for someone to tell me what's going on. No one said a word about Kaden going home today. It's been a frustrating day."
"I can imagine," Dr. Weber sympathized. "Well, I think that since Kaden is stable and he's eating, he's ready to head home. They took the IV out this morning and the last round of antibiotics seemed to have done the trick. I see no reason whatsoever that he should stay here another night."
"Really? I can take him home?" I asked.
"Absolutely. If you want to get him dressed and all his things ready to go, I'll sign off on the paperwork and have a nurse come in to help you out."
"Thank you, Dr. Weber." I said appreciatively.
I dressed Kaden in his footie pajamas and quickly threw everything else into my overnight bag. I decided to quickly send Edward a text.
Good news! Doc says Kaden can go home. We're sleeping in our own beds tonight! – B
The nurse came in and helped us to get our things. She offered to carry them for me since Kaden wanted me to carry him. I was so happy to walk out of that hospital, and I hoped that I'd never have the need to sit in the children's ward again.
An hour later, I had my son tucked into his Lightning McQueen bed with his Tow Mater from Edward tucked tightly under his arm.
"Good night, Little Bear," I whispered as I kissed his forehead.
I checked my phone one last time as I set my alarm and saw that I had a text from Edward.
See? I told you he'd be fine. Go home and get some rest. My offer for coffee is good anytime. – E
The thoughts of Edward's warm arms around me and his quiet reassurance that everything would be okay filled my dreams that night. The timbre of his rich, velvety voice in my head lulled me into the most peaceful dreams I'd had in a long, long time.
A/N: Thank you so much for all the lovely reviews. I apologize that I haven't been able to keep up with them as I would like to, but I've been a bit busy ;) I do read them all and I appreciate each and every one of them. Thank you for reading.
As ever, I'd love to hear your thoughts.