Chapter 45: The New Beginning
Author's Note: I own nothing. I just like to play with the characters that were created by Stephenie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended.
Also, thank you for those of who have commented and offered well-wishes in my difficult time. It means a lot to me. Writing these stories has been my strength (as silly as that sounds) and has grounded me.
Thank you so much for reading and reviewing. It means so much to me. More than you can imagine. These stories (this one in particular) are my babies and I adore the reviews and comments I receive. Much, much love to ALL of you!
Chapter 45: The New Beginning
After our fateful appointment with Dr. Forks, Edward drove me to the district office. I met with the superintendent and explained the change in my medical status. He was extremely surprised at the unexpected turn of events. He was also distressed when I told him that due to my pregnancy and triplets, I would be unable to take the principal position at Cherry Blossom. He understood and said that my teaching position is there for me. I smiled and accepted it. Dr. Sancken also said that if I do apply for another administrative position, he'd do everything in his power to push me through. We shook hands and Edward drove us home.
When we got home, Edward was insatiable. We celebrated our news three times. One time for each baby. We also christened three rooms: the kitchen, the living room and the purple princess room. We were laying in the purple princess room on the queen bed that was in the guest bedroom in our old house. I had my head nestled against Edward's chest. "Are you happy, Edward?"
"Extremely," he said as he ran his fingers along my naked back. "Are you?"
"Now that I'm over the whole 'guilt' thing, yeah," I smiled as I kissed his neck. "We're having triplets."
"I can't believe it," Edward said as he kissed my forehead. "We have to come up three names. Damn."
"I do have a suggestion. For one of the girls," I said, my face blushing.
"Let me hear it," Edward said as he cupped my chin. "It'll probably be beautiful since you thought of it."
"Oh stop it," I said as I smacked his belly. "Anyhow, what do you think of Elizabeth Tanya? For your mom and your first wife?"
Edward looked at me and tears filled his eyes. His face broke into a beautiful grin. "Perfect."
"Okay, one down, two to go," I said. "I would love to name our boy after you and your father, but that would be insanely confusing with EJ. What was your father's middle name?"
"Same as mine, Anthony," Edward explained. "But I hate it. So did he."
"Anthony is out. What's Carlisle's middle name?"
"Um, Stewart," Edward replied with a scrunched nose.
"Oh, Baby Stewie," I cooed.
"Fuck no," Edward said with a pointed glare. "I will not name my son 'Stewie.' What's Charlie's middle name?"
"David," I answered.
"David Anthony Masen," Edward offered. "We still get the Anthony in there."
"Two down, one to go," I said. "One more girl's name. I refuse to name her Madison or any trendy name. Blech."
"I'm with you. What's your mom's middle name?"
"I refuse to even acknowledge her. She behaved atrociously at my first wedding and we haven't spoken since. It's Elaine, though."
"I don't like that anyway. How about Marie like you?" Edward suggested. "Marie Esme?"
"We have our baby's names," I smiled. "Elizabeth Tanya, David Anthony and Marie Esme. Perfect."
"Just like their mother. I love you, beautiful girl," he said.
"I love you, too, Edward," I replied as I kissed his soft lips. Suffice it say, we had round four after that. I married a sex god. Nice.
xx AFS xx
I was standing in front of the mirror, gazing at my rapidly changing body. Everyone was coming over for dinner and we were going to announce our news about our beans. I couldn't find anything to wear. I felt huge. "Edward! I need your metrosexualness."
"My what?" Edward laughed as he strode into our closet.
"I'm as big as a house. I have nothing to wear," I moaned. "I need your style assistance."
"Okay, that's just sad. What did you call it?"
"Metrosexualness," I said as I bit my lip. "Come on, help me here. I'm a mess. They're going to be here in…" I grabbed Edward's wrist and looked at his watch, "forty five minutes."
"Bella, you could just wear a burlap sack and you'd be beautiful," Edward chuckled.
"Not helping, Edward," I said as I stomped my foot.
"Did you just stomp your foot? I swear this pregnancy is causing you to revert back to your childhood," he laughed as he searched through my clothes. He pulled out a blue wrap dress and set out my black ballet flats. "Do you need help changing, too?"
"Thank you, Alice," I said as I fluttered my eyelashes at him. He rolled his eyes and left the closet. I pulled on the dress and slipped on the shoes. I put on my necklace from the rehearsal dinner and the earrings from the wedding. I fluffed my hair and applied a bit of makeup. I padded down the spiral staircase and found Edward checking the chicken piccata that he had made for our family. He also checked the angel hair pasta he had going on the stove. "Smells good, Dr. Masen."
"I know. You married me because I can cook," Edward said as he put a hand over his aproned heart.
"No, I married you because you are great in bed," I teased. "I married a sex god. Damn."
"I rock," Edward said as he shook his ass. "Have I ever left you unsatisfied?"
"That would be negative, ghost rider," I laughed. "And recently I've been pleased multiple times."
Edward looked at me with a lascivious grin. "That will continue tonight, beautiful girl. I love feeling you come all over me," he said as he pulled me to where he was standing. "It's so hot. Even more so with the baby belly. Seeing you filled with our children. It's amazing."
I arched a brow at him. "That's a little strange. Explain that to me, please," I retorted.
"Bella, seeing you like this. There are no words for me to describe it. You are glowing. Your skin is radiant, your hair is thick and you look so healthy. Beautiful. Exquisite. You were beautiful before, now you're absolutely gorgeous. I love seeing you with the baby bump because I know that you have our children inside of you. They are growing and flourishing. I am so incredibly happy and so much in love with you. With them. I'm rambling but I don't know how to explain it," Edward said as he kissed my lips and then kissed my belly. "I love you, my angels."
And cue tears.
"Don't cry love," Edward said as he cupped my face.
"That was so sweet," I blubbered. "God, I won't miss these damn hormonal moments." Edward chuckled as he turned back to the pasta. The doorbell rang and I went to answer it. Rose and Emmett were standing on the doorstep. Rose was beaming and waving her left hand in my face. I captured it and held it. "Is this what I think it is?"
"Yep. Emmett proposed!" Rose screeched. I joined her and hugged her and Emmett.
"When? How? Spill it," I said brokenly. I led them into the family room and we sat down. Edward had put the pasta into the fridge and sat down next to us. "Rose! Come on!"
"Last night, Emmett took me to La Bella Italia," Rose said as she bounced in her seat. "We ate dinner and split some dessert. As we were settling the bill, Emmett dropped his credit card on the floor. However, he didn't get up. He knelt before me and…you finish it, Em."
"I told Rose that she was the light in my life and that I couldn't imagine my existence without her. I pulled out the ring and handed it to her and asked her to be my wife," Emmett said as he kissed her temple. "She smacked me and accused me of lying. Then she told me to shut up. Finally she said yes."
"Congratulations, Emmett and Rose," Edward said warmly. "We should toast your engagement."
"Let's wait until everyone is here," I suggested. As I said that, the doorbell rang and Edward hopped up to get it. Carlisle, Esme, Alice, Jasper, EJ and Jacob walked in. Ren was invited but he had to work. We had already told Charlie and Sue.
Edward was hesitant to have me fly while I was pregnant with triplets. So, Charlie and Sue were having their wedding in our backyard in August. It wasn't ideal, but it was the best solution for everyone. Sue was adamant that I be involved in her wedding. My changed medical status just changed the location. It didn't stop the fact that Charlie and Sue were getting married.
I shook off my random mental lapse. Alice chuckled and said that she had 'pregnant' moments all of the time with EJ. Rose agreed when she was pregnant with her daughter. She spaced out more often than not. Edward got a bottle of champagne and we toasted Emmett and Rosalie's engagement after they regaled the rest of our guests with their story.
Soon after that, Edward led everyone into our dining room. He still hated the color on the walls, but he wouldn't dare cross me. I was vicious whilst I was pregnant. I could fly off the handle very quickly. However, my temper fizzled as quickly as it flared. But poor Edward got the brunt of it. He got our dinner and placed it on the table. Everyone dug into the food and it was blissfully quiet as we all gorged ourselves on Edward's delicious meal.
Alice told us that she was coming back to Cherry Blossom for the fall. She wanted to stay home with EJ, but decided against it. She was on the brink of insanity and the stay at home moms were driving her nuts. Jake said that he moved in with Ren and they were talking about having a commitment ceremony. Things were up in the air, but it was in the works. Esme told us that she was working with Sue in planning her nuptials. They had become very close while at our wedding. I was happy that our families got along so well.
As we were drinking the coffee. Tea for me. Damn it. And enjoying my rum cake, Edward and I decided to share our big announcement. "We have some good news and some bad news," Edward began.
"Is the baby okay?" Esme asked. Her eyes wild with worry.
"The baby's fine," Edward said. "That's not the bad news." He looked at me and laced his fingers with mine.
"After our appointment with Dr. Forks, Edward drove me to the district office. I decided to not take the principal position at Cherry Blossom."
"What? Why?" Jake asked. "You'd be so awesome at it!"
" That brings us to the good news," Edward said. "We found out the gender."
"Am I buying blue or pink clothes?" Alice asked as she bounced in her seat. Jasper put his hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her.
"Um, both," I answered. "At the doctor's office, we found out that we're having triplets."
Chirp. Chirp. Cue crickets.
"Triplets?" Carlisle squeaked.
"Yes, triplets. Two girls and a boy," Edward said proudly as he kissed my temple.
"We even figured out names. Elizabeth Tanya, David Anthony and Marie Esme," I said.
"TRIPLETS!" Alice shrieked, waking up EJ who was napping on Jasper's shoulder. "You're having THREE babies! Holy Fuck!"
"Mary Alice Whitlock," Esme said. "Watch your damn mouth…oops."
"Esme Cullen," Edward chastised. "Watch your mouth."
"Oh, shut it, Edward," Esme giggled. "Congratulations. Triplets. I can't believe it."
"We can't either. It's taking a lot to wrap our heads around it. So, that's why I can't take the principal job. With three newborns, I'll be a mess," I explained. "I will be back as a language arts teacher at Cherry Blossom. So, that's good."
"Do you know who is going to be the new principal?" Emmett asked.
"No. However, I'm hoping it's not either one of the asshats who interviewed with me. They were tools," I replied, wrinkling my nose.
"I love the names," Rose said. "So perfect for your children."
"Thank you," Edward said. "I can't wait to meet them." He placed his hand on my belly and in solidarity, one of the beans kicked. "Whoa."
"You felt that?" I asked.
"Yeah, I did. I figured it would be later, but it's going to get cramped," Edward said as he rubbed my belly. "Nice to meet you too. Daddy loves you."
"That is so stinking cute," Rose said. "You two are going to be the best parents."
"What about Jasper and I?" Alice whined.
"You're good, but do you see how much they are in love? With each other? With their babies?" Rose asked.
"I do. I'm so happy for you, baby brother," Alice sniffled. "You too, Bella."
We all hugged and our family left. Edward and I did the dishes and I went upstairs. I removed my dress and curled up in the bed. As soon as my head hit the pillow, I was down for the count. Telling out family that we were having triplets was exhausting work. I faintly remembered Edward crawling into bed behind me and kissing my neck. "I love you, beautiful girl. You are going to be the most wonderful mother."
"You're going to be the best daddy," I murmured as I snuggled into my pillow. "Shrine to the 409…"
"Good lord, she's sleep talking again," Edward chuckled.
"Hmmm…."
xx AFS xx
"Sue, there is no way I can fit in this dress," I moaned as I held up my bridesmaid dress she had made for me. "I'm the size of a large country."
"Bella, you're beautiful. It'll fit," Sue chided.
Leah was playing with her children on the floor. Kevin tossed a toy across the room and he giggled. "Kevin, don't throw," Leah scolded. "I swear, the kid is going to be pitching for Mariners by the time he's out of diapers."
"He's adorable, Leah," I smiled. "So is Kaya. She's a beauty."
"Takes after her father," Leah giggled. "The beauty so ain't me."
"Oh hush, Leah," Sue admonished. "You're beautiful."
"You're supposed to say that. You're my mom," Leah snorted. "Are you ready to be Mrs. Swan?"
"Definitely. I'm so happy that I have both of my daughters here with me," Sue said as she hugged us both. The beans kicked at Sue and she giggled. "The triplets are excited too."
"They're excited all of the time. Sleep is a rare occurrence with these guys," I said as I laid my hand on my belly.
It was August 7th and we were getting ready for Sue and Charlie's wedding. Emmett applied to be an ordained minister online and he was presiding over the ceremony. I still chuckled at that. I put on the navy blue dress and zipped it up. Surprisingly it fit. And it fit well. My voluptuous breasts were contained in the fabric and I actually felt pretty. I was still huge, though. I had gained nearly twenty pounds since the appointment where the bombshell was dropped that we were having triplets. I was also like a dog in heat. Edward actually had to tell me to cool down. He complained that his cock was getting raw from all of the lovemaking we were doing. However, he still made me feel good. When he wasn't up for anything, he still went down on me or finger fucked me. Such a dutiful husband. I'd rather it be his cock, but beggars can't be choosers.
I adjusted my hair and looked at Sue. She was radiant in her simple off-white sheath dress. It had a lace overlay and hugged her body. She looked elegant and I could see why Charlie loved her. Leah was wearing the same dress as me except hers was much smaller. She also was much smaller. She wasn't pregnant with the next David Beckham. To emphasize my point, I got a kidney jab. Oomph.
We headed downstairs and got our bouquets. Edward was wearing his navy tuxedo from the Craven Christmas Ball. He had a red boutonnière in his lapel and he looked delicious. "My, my, my…you look good enough to eat," I said as I put my hands on my hips.
"I could say the same for you, beautiful girl," he said as he kissed my shoulder. "Hello my babies." Edward kissed my belly and put a hand on it, rubbing gently. "How are you?"
"Huge," I answered.
"Bella, you're gorgeous," Edward warned.
"Please. You can't put your arms around the small country that was my waist," I grumbled.
"Yes, I can," Edward said as he stood behind me. He placed his arms around me and rubbed my belly tenderly. "See?"
"I'm still huge. Will you still love me if I don't lose all of the baby weight?"
"I'll love you forever, Bella," Edward said as he nuzzled his nose against my hair. "You smell so good, baby." I smiled and enjoyed his embrace and his soft kisses he placed against my neck. "Let's get your dad hitched."
I nodded and picked up my bouquet. Jared, Leah's husband and Edward were my dad's best men. Leah and I were her matrons of honor. The guests were in their seats. Edward offered his arm to me and I gladly took it. We walked slowly to the make-shift altar we had set up. Emmett looked very official in his black suit. Edward separated from me and we stood while Jared and Leah walked up the aisle, holding their children's hands. After a few moments, the string quartet that Esme talked Sue into getting began playing a romantic waltz. Everyone stood up. Charlie and Sue walked down the aisle together. Charlie looked incredibly dashing in a matching tuxedo as Edward and Jared. He looked at Sue with such love and reverence. They reached the front of the aisle and Emmett asked everyone to sit down.
He walked Sue and Charlie through a poignant and touching ceremony. He used parts of Sue's heritage in the ceremony. She was a part of the Quileute tribe in La Push. Emmett used an old legend from the tribe as he did his vows for them. I was a blubbering mess. But then again, I cried at the drop of a hat. Charlie and Sue exchanged rings and kissed. Emmett let out a whoop as everyone clapped.
We had a quiet dinner in our backyard for the newlyweds. It was a catered affair. There was some dancing, but not a lot. Charlie was worse than me when it came to dancing. He didn't want to make an ass of himself. So, we compromised. After the short dance portion, Charlie and Sue headed to their honeymoon. They were staying at the resort where we got married. Leah and Jared were staying with us and Edward was going to drive them to the airport in the morning.
I fell asleep on the couch in the living room as Edward was cleaning up. I faintly remembered Edward gingerly lifting me and carrying me to our bedroom. The fact that he can do that while I'm the size of a Volkswagen is amazing. He removed my dress and tossed a t-shirt over my body. He kissed my forehead before tucking me in. I nestled against his pillow and fell into a deeper sleep.
xx AFS xx
"Mrs. Masen?"
"Yes, Bryn?" I replied.
"There's a delivery for you in the front office," Bryn said with a shy smile.
"Thanks, Bryn." I got up from my chair and waddled to the office. To my chagrin, Franklin Bendis was offered the position as principal and he gave me shit every day. I glared at his closed office door as I went to Mary Ann's desk. "A student runner said I had a delivery?"
"You look like you're about to pop, Bella. When are you due?" Mary Ann asked.
"October 31st. However, I'm having multiples, I'll probably go early," I shrugged. "The sooner the better. I am dying here. My belly has its own zip code."
"Well, you look great, despite your belly. Your delivery is on the counter," Mary Ann said as she pointed to a large bouquet of flowers. "Can I clone your husband?"
"Nope. I got his clones. Right here," I chortled as I patted my belly. "Thanks, Mar."
I looked at the flowers and inhaled deeply. I found the card and pulled it out. They were from Edward.
My dear Mrs. Masen,
I can't believe a year ago we were single and just beginning our path together. Now, we're married and expecting our angels. What a difference a year makes. Our fresh start, with each other. Happy birthday, love!
I love you more than my own life.
Your Edward
PS – No scavenger hunt. I still hate the idea of you driving…
"God, he really is perfect," I sniffled. I picked up my flowers and carried them back to my room. I sat down and finished planning for my day. Alice skipped into my room and sat on my desk. "Hey, Elf."
"Farms or Zoos?" Alice asked.
"Excuse me?"
"Theme for David's room. Farm or Zoo?"
"Neither. Edward and I are going for cars," I said as I input grades into the computer.
"Fine. How about for Lizzie and Marie? What kind of theme do you want for their room?"
"Princess. Since they will be Daddy's little princesses," I smiled sweetly. "We already have the room painted and decorated. So, stop plotting, Elf."
"You're not making your baby shower very fun," Alice pouted.
"Alice, stop. I love you tremendously, but I don't want this huge extravaganza for my baby shower. Edward and I already have both rooms furnished and decorated thanks to your mother. The rest of the stuff we'll get on our own," I shrugged.
"Bella," Alice whined.
"No, Alice. I hate being the center of attention," I said with a tone of finality. "And don't try to get Edward to help you. He agrees with me. We are perfectly capable of buying our own baby items."
"But it's for three babies. It's going to be expensive," Alice said.
"It is expensive, but we can afford it," I said. My back cramped up and I grimaced. "Ouch."
"You okay?"
"I'm fine. Just Braxton Hicks," I said as I rubbed my back.
"I'm calling Edward," Alice said as she rummaged through my desk. She dialed Edward's cell. He picked up right away. "Edward? Bella's back is hurting…Okay, hold on. He wants to talk to you."
"Hello, Dr. Masen," I said dryly.
"What hurts? Explain to me exactly what you're feeling," Edward said.
"My back is spasming. I think I'm just having Braxton Hicks. I'm fine," I said. "I may have tweaked my back when I carried the lovely flowers down to my classroom. They're beautiful, by the way. Thank you."
"You're deflecting, Mrs. Masen. With multiples, you could go at any time after thirty weeks," Edward said.
"Edward, I'm…" I hissed as another cramp rippled through my back. "Son of a bitch that hurt."
"Bella, you are coming to the hospital," Edward said sternly.
"But…"
"Now," he barked. "Hand the phone over to Alice."
I grimaced and handed my cell phone to Alice who was nibbling on her finger. "Edward?... Yeah, I'll take her…Relax, she's fine…Love you, too." Alice hung up the phone and starting throwing things into my bag. "We're going to the hospital. Come on, Bella." She slung my bag over her shoulder and assisted me off the chair. "You head to the office and I'll pull the car around."
I nodded and walked back to the office. My back was throbbing and then I felt something trickle down my leg. I yelped out in pain. Franklin was coming out of his office and found me leaning against the lockers. "Mrs. Masen? Are you okay?" he asked with genuine concern.
"No. I think my water just broke," I moaned. "I'm heading to the hospital. Mrs. Whitlock is driving me. Can you help me to the front of the building?"
"Of course," he said stiffly as he helped me to the front doors. "I'll sign you and Mrs. Whitlock out. Good luck, Mrs. Masen."
I nodded and waddled to Alice's car. She helped me into the front seat. "Phone, Alice. I need the phone."
"Who do you want?"
"Edward," I moaned as I grimaced in pain.
Using her hands free link, Alice dialed Edward. "Dr. Masen," he said brusquely.
"Edward, my water just broke," I sobbed. "It hurts."
"Bella, breathe, baby," he said. "Alice, how far away are you?"
"About ten minutes."
"Bells, I'm going to hang up and call Dr. Forks. I'll meet you at the emergency room. I love you, beautiful girl."
"I love you, too, Edward," I moaned. Alice hung up the phone and she sped down the street to Craven Memorial. I was going to become a mother today. The greatest gift I could ever wish for. I could ever want. I would share my birthday with my angels. But it was too soon. I was only 31 weeks along. Can I do this? Can we do this? I couldn't focus as I felt a ripping pain go across my belly and I let out a scream. Is labor supposed to feel like this?
"We're almost there, Bella. Deep breaths, sweetie," Alice said. She held my hand and breathed with me. We pulled up to the emergency room. Edward was at the door with a gurney. Rhonda was by his side. She was bouncing on her toes. As soon as Alice stopped the car, Edward opened the door and picked me gently.
"How far apart are the contractions, Alice?" Edward asked as he placed me on the gurney.
"She had two in the ten minutes we drove to the hospital," Alice said.
Edward captured my face and I stared into his green eyes. "It's too early, Edward," I bawled.
"No, they're fine. They'll be small, but the babies are fully developed. We may have to give you some steroids to increase their lung function, but they'll be perfect," Edward said soothingly. We flew through the ER and headed up to labor and delivery. I had another contraction in the elevator. Edward eased me through it, cooing in my ear. I sobbed as I collapsed against the bed.
We got into our birthing suite. Edward assisted me out of my clothes and into a gown. He then strapped on a monitor around me to listen to the babies' heartbeats. Dr. Forks came in and she checked to see how I was doing. I was honest and said miserable. Rhonda put in my IV before she darted back to the ER. As Edward said, Dr. Forks administered some steroids to promote lung development. I started crying.
"It's too soon," I said.
"Bella, your babies are fine. You need to relax," Dr. Forks said. "Now, I'm going to check to see how far along you're dilated. Okay?"
I nodded and sat back on the bed. She felt around and rattled off some numbers. "You're about four centimeters dilated. Do you want an epidural?"
"Fuck yes," I moaned. "Sorry."
"No big deal," Dr. Forks chuckled. "I'll call an anesthiologist."
"Thank you, Dr. Forks," Edward smiled. He sat down next to me and placed his hands on my belly. "You ready, little ones? Ready for the world?"
"They're ready, but I'm not," I said.
"Bella, you're going to be a wonderful mother," Edward smiled. "I'm going to put on some scrubs and I'll be back okay? Three minutes, tops."
I nodded and rubbed my huge belly. Edward darted out. I heard him speak with Alice and she danced in. "Hey Elf."
"Hey, Bells. I'm going to head to your place and get you some clothes. Also, Jasper and I are going to pick up your car from school. It's the one with the baby seats."
"Thanks, Alice," I said.
"Happy Birthday, Bells. This is the most perfect present," Alice said as she hugged me. "I love you, sis."
"Love you, too, Elf."
Alice grinned and left the room. She left my cell phone and bag on the nightstand. I picked up the phone and dialed my dad. I told him that I was in labor. He said that he and Sue would be on the next flight out. I also texted Rose and Emmett about my abrupt departure from school. Edward came back in. He was wearing blue scrubs and his white lab coat. God, he's so fucking yummy. And mine…le sigh…
You're having a baby. No scratch that, THREE babies. Do not think about sex. That's what got you into this mess in the first place. Yes, your husband is fucking gorgeous. But it ain't happening sister.
"Bella, you're looking at me like I'm something to eat," Edward chuckled.
"No, I was just daydreaming about the hotness that is you," I snorted. I grabbed my belly and Edward looked at the print out next to my bed. "Fuck me. This hurts. Where is the man with the epidural?"
"He's on his way, love," Edward said as he rubbed my back. "Breathe, baby. Breathe through it."
"That will NOT make the pain stop," I snapped.
"I know," Edward said as he laughed nervously.
"Are you laughing at me?" I squeaked.
"Never, love," Edward said as he sobered up. As he was rubbing my back, another doctor came in. He was an older gentleman with a friendly face. "Dr. Morris, this is my wife, Bella."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Masen," Dr. Morris said with a smile. I grimaced in return. "Let's get you situated. Dr. Masen if you could help your wife sit up and have her legs hang off the edge of the bed."
Edward helped me and he untied my gown, exposing my back to Dr. Morris. Edward held me and I rested my head on his shoulder. As I sat there, another contraction ripped through me. "Oh, GOD," I cried as I gripped on Edward's arms.
"It's okay, baby," Edward soothed as he ran his fingers through my hair. Once my contraction was over, Dr. Morris administered the epidural. I stayed sitting until my body relaxed. Edward helped me back into the bed and he combed my hair out of my face.
"Can you hand me my bag?" I asked. Edward placed the bag on the bed and I found a ponytail holder. Groggily I lifted my hands to pull my hair away from my face. I couldn't get my hands to work right. "This isn't working…"
"Let me help you," Edward chuckled as he pulled my hair up and put into a messy bun. "I'm not a hair stylist, but it'll do."
"Thanks," I said with a shy grin.
Carlisle came in a few minute later. He wanted to see how I was doing. I shrugged and gave him a loopy grin. Oh lord. Why do drugs affect me so? "Bella is enjoying the wonders of the epidural," Edward chortled. "She's so high."
"Am not," I said as I tried to smack Edward's arm. I missed and ended up smacking the fetal heart monitor. "Ow."
"Right," Edward teased.
"How far along is she?" Carlisle asked.
"When Dr. Forks last checked her she was at four centimeters," Edward explained.
"You know you could check, too, Edward. You've been through obstetrics," Carlisle said with a quirked brow.
"Noooooooooooo! I told Edward that he is NOT delivering our babies. That's just weird," I said drunkenly.
"If you would rather, I could check," Carlisle offered.
"Nooooooooooooo…there is no way in hell that my father's fingers are going anywhere near my wife's hoo ha," Edward said as he waggled his finger at Carlisle. "We'll wait."
"Did you just say hoo ha?" Carlisle and I asked.
"Yes. Yes I did. Would rather I call it something else?" Edward challenged.
"Vagina, Edward. It's called a vagina," Carlisle snickered.
"I fully know what it's called, Carlisle. I did go to medical school," Edward argued.
"If you both don't behave, I'm kicking you both out and calling Jake," I threatened. "He won't touch my 'hoo ha' with a ten foot pole. Since he's gay."
"I'll behave, I'm sorry," Edward said, his head dropping to his chest.
"I'm sorry, too, Bella. I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable," Carlisle said as he blushed.
"It's okay, but don't do it again," I warned.
"At least we know the epidural is working. She's had two contractions since our discussion of her hoo ha and no screaming," Edward said as he pointed to the print out.
"Whoopty doo," I said as I twirled my finger. Edward laughed and Carlisle headed out of the room. He passed Dr. Forks who did the actual exam. I was six centimeters dilated. I was moving rapidly. Hopefully, our babies would be born tonight. Edward turned on the television. I called the school and told them that I was going on my maternity leave. Franklin had already informed the office since he escorted me to Alice's car and had to have my amniotic fluid cleaned up behind his office.
I then pulled out my journal and began scribbling in it. It was almost full. I had written a lot in it. Most of them were written as letters. Letters to Edward, to our children, to our families. Tonight's journal entry was to our babies.
September 13th, 2011
Dear Lizzie, Marie and David,
My angels.
Today is your birthday. At least I hope it will be. Mommy went into labor at school today and I'm writing this to you as I'm anxiously waiting for your arrival. Ironically enough, it's Mommy's birthday, too. Having the three of you today would the most precious, most perfect gift I could ever ask for.
I can't wait to see your beautiful faces and finally see who's been kicking my kidneys. My daughters, you will understand the pain of childbirth and sympathize with your mother's pain. My son, take after your father and be extremely patient. And don't have your grandfather offer to check to see if how dilated you are. That's just weird. I'll explain when you get older. I promise. Or you could ask your father. He'll probably turn fifty shades of pink and run away.
Anyhow, I wanted to let you all know that I love you so much. I was so excited to find out that I was pregnant with you. I found out the day after I married your daddy. It made our wedding so much more special, knowing that you were a part of it. Even as 'Beans.' That's what we called you until we found out your genders. And actually we originally thought that there was just one of you. Imagine our surprise when we discovered there were three.
I hope Daddy doesn't expect any more Beans. Because if he does, he's barking up the wrong tree. I'll save all of my love for you.
I love you, my angels. My beans. Mommy is very excited to meet you and hold you and love you and kiss you and… well, you get the idea.
Prepared to be spoiled by Auntie Alice and Uncle Jasper. You will learn all about gross things from Uncle Emmett. You will learn all about fashion from Auntie Rosie. Nana Esme and Grandpa Carlisle will love you and kiss you. Grandma Sue and Papa Charlie will be there for you always. Most importantly, Mommy and Daddy will be your shoulders to cry on, your support when you need it, disciplinarians if necessary and providers of all unconditional love.
All my love,
Mommy
I closed my journal and placed it in my bag.
"Who did you write to today?" Edward asked.
"Our angels," I answered. "It is their birthday today."
"It is," Edward said as he kissed me sweetly. "It's yours too."
"I know. I'm old. 33, blech," I groaned.
"I'm 33, too, Bells," Edward said as he arched a brow. "Am I old too?"
"No, you're perfect."
"Hardly, Bella," Edward laughed. I hissed and grabbed my belly. "Baby?" He looked at the print out and he smashed the call button. Before the nurse could get a word in, Edward barked out orders. "One of the babies is in distress for Isabella Masen. Get Dr. Forks in here now and prep an OR."
"Who am I speaking with?" the nurse asked.
"Dr. Masen. Do it. NOW," he yelled.
"Edward, what's wrong?" I asked.
"One of the baby's heart rates is dangerously low. We need to get them out of there." As he explained, Dr. Forks came rushing in. She looked at the print out and agreed with Edward. They transferred me to another gurney and rolled me into an operating room. I was going to get a C-section.
"Edward, I'm scared," I whimpered as they strapped me down to the table. "What if…"
"Don't worry about that love," Edward said as he tucked his hair into a surgeon's cap. "They're going to be fine. Just fine." He caressed my cheeks and kissed my forehead. I began trembling uncontrollably. Edward went to a supply closet and tossed a warm blanket over my chest. Dr. Morris checked on my epidural and I was fine for the emergency C-section that they were about to perform.
Dr. Forks came in and she was covered. She spoke to me, but I couldn't focus on her words. I just nodded dumbly, trying to quell the tears that threatened to fall down my cheeks. A nurse put a mask over Edward's face and he kissed me one last time before he tied it. "I love you, Bella."
"I love you, too," I whispered, my teeth chattering.
I felt a tugging sensation on my belly. Dr. Forks' voice was distant. I felt like I was in a tunnel. Edward held my hand as they did whatever they did to my body. I felt a more harsh pull on my belly and I whimpered. "What's happening?"
"They just opened up the uterus," Edward explained. "Dr. Forks is getting ready to remove one of our babies."
I nodded and leaned my cheek against Edward's hand. A few moments and a smack later, a baby's cries filled the OR. "Congratulations, you have a boy!"
"David Anthony," I whispered weakly. Edward looked at me and he had tears in his eyes. "Go to your son, Edward. I'm fine." He was torn. "Go." He nodded and moved his mask down. He kissed me sweetly. "I love you."
"I love you more, beautiful girl," he said. He pulled his mask back up and went to the crib where they were working on David.
More tugging and another smack. "Congratulations, you have a girl," Dr. Forks announced. "And she's quite the screamer."
"Elizabeth Tanya," I said. I felt my eyelids get droopy. So tired.
Finally there was a harsh pull to my body and I let out a yelp. There was another smack and more cries. "Another girl."
"Marie Esme," Edward said as he sat down next to me. "Bella, are you alright?"
"That didn't feel right, Edward," I whispered. My eyelids fluttered.
"Bella, stay awake, love. Keep your eyes open for me," Edward said forcefully.
"Dr. Masen, your wife is hemorrhaging," Dr. Forks was saying. I floated in and out of consciousness.
"Do whatever you have to do to keep her alive," Edward snapped. "Bella, please, stay with me. Bella? I love you. Don't leave me. You promised you wouldn't leave me."
"Dr. Masen, you have to go," Dr. Forks said. "I'm sorry. Now."
One of the nurses dragged Edward away and my eyes shut. I heard a clamor of metal falling on the floor and then blackness. Silence.
xx AFS xx
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
I moved my head. Ow. My eyes slowly opened and I saw Edward sitting next to me, his hand linked with mine. He was asleep. I shifted in the bed. REALLY OW! "Edward?" I rasped.
His eyelids fluttered and he rubbed his face. "Bella?" he said as he looked at me. "Oh, you're awake. Thank God."
"What happened?" I asked.
"When Dr. Forks delivered Marie, there was a complication. It caused your uterus to begin hemorrhaging. You were bleeding out," Edward said. His eyes exhausted.
"Obviously, I'm still here. What happened after I drifted?" I asked.
"They couldn't stop the bleeding. Dr. Forks had to perform a hysterectomy," Edward said sadly. "I'm so sorry, love."
"Well, I told you that these kiddos were only ones you were getting out of me," I joked lightly. "Now, I really can't have anymore."
"Bella," Edward said.
"Sorry," I mumbled.
"I almost lost you," he said with frown.
"But I'm here," I said. "With a few less parts. Where are our children?"
"In the NICU," Edward said. "They were fully developed, but small. Dr. Forks wanted to keep them there overnight."
"When can we see them?" I asked.
"Anytime you want. It's good to know the boss," Edward joked. "Let me get a wheelchair. I'll be right back." Edward got up and left the darkened room. I sat up and groaned. I lifted my gown and saw the nasty staples across my belly.
"You will never want to be with me when you see this," I sighed as Edward came back with a wheelchair.
"Bella, I will always want you. Even when we're old and gray and pooping in our depends, I'll want you." He looked at my scar and he shrugged. "That's actually better than most I've seen. You will have minimal scarring."
"Right," I said dryly. "How am I going to do this? It hurts to move."
"Very slowly," Edward emphasized. He gently put my feet on the ground. He turned and rolled the wheelchair to the side of the bed and locked the brakes. "Put your arms around my neck." I did and Edward lifted me until I was standing. I whimpered as I moved. "Okay, now shuffle to the chair." I nodded and moved to the chair, easing my body into it.
"Christ on a cracker, that hurts," I moaned.
Edward pulled out my chart and checked something. "I can give you something for the pain. You're due."
"After we meet our children," I said. Edward smiled and went behind me in the wheel chair. "How much do they weigh? What do they look like? Are they healthy?"
"Whoa, slow down, Bella. One question at a time," Edward laughed as he pushed me through corridors of Craven. "David was the biggest at four pounds, seven ounces. Lizzie was four pounds, four ounces. Marie is the runt at three pounds, fifteen ounces."
"Don't call my daughter a runt, Masen," I said.
"Sorry, love. They all have full heads of hair. God help our daughters, they have the same mess as I do," Edward laughed as he ran his hand through his own hair, ruffling it.
"I love your hair, Edward. It suits you."
"Thanks, beautiful girl. David has dark brown hair, almost black," Edward said. "And they are perfectly healthy. Being in the NICU is just a precaution since they were premature."
I nodded and nibbled on my fingernail. We reached the NICU. Edward used his swipe card to let us in. He put a protective top over my gown. He did the same over his scrubs. The nurse smiled at him and he rolled me into the quiet nursery. There were three bassinets in a row. Edward parked me next to them and he gingerly picked up one of the babies. He placed her into my arms. "Lizzie," he whispered. He turned and picked up the next baby. Carefully he placed him into my other arm. "David." Finally, he picked up Marie and crouched in front of us. "Our family."
"Oh, Edward," I cried as I looked at the sleeping faces of my children. "They're perfect."
"Just like their mommy," Edward said reverently. "Bella, I'm so blessed to have you. To have our angels. I'm so glad that you gave me a chance."
"I was so ready to give up, Edward. Thank you for waiting for me," I whispered. "With you, everything was how it was supposed to be. I got my fairy tale ending. With my very own prince charming. We've had our bumps along the way, but I wouldn't change anything about our relationship. About us. I love you. All of you. Your intelligence. Your compassion. Your beauty. Your wit. Your twisted sense of humor."
"My sense of humor is not twisted," Edward scoffed. "That would be yours, my dear."
"Okay, I concede. I do have a twisted sense of humor. Anyhow, you were my new beginning. My fresh start. And I'm eternally grateful for everything that you have given me. Given our children."
"Now, we start a new chapter, beautiful girl. The first book ends and a new one begins. I love you, Isabella Marie Masen."
"I love you, Edward Anthony Masen. Thank you."
"No, thank you." Edward kissed my lips and he smiled at me. "We love you, too, angels. You are going to be the biggest part of our lives."
"The most cherished part."
Edward sat down in the rocking chair next to me and we held our children. Gazing at their perfect faces. This was the end of a chapter in our lives. A tumultuous chapter. But it was filled with joy and happiness, culminating in the three angels in our arms. Never in all of my life did I expect to be so happy or so blessed. I had a husband who treated me with the love and respect that I desired. He made me feel special and sexy. I have a family who supported me in my decisions and cared about my life. I had friends who fun and spunky. They make me laugh. They make me cry. But most importantly they rounded out the perfection that is my life. Now, my life is complete. I have three beautiful children and loving husband. The only thing that's missing is a dog. Let's get the kids out of diapers before we think about that, huh? I couldn't wait to take the next steps in our lives. Together. As a family, with my husband by my side.
Now, a new beginning…
FIN