A/N: The second to the last chapter of this story is in Jayden's POV and spans roughly nine months after his final battle with Master Xandred.

This chapter is dedicated to two people: Young at Heart 21 and Shadow Leaf Nin.

Chapter 35- The Family

Shiba House
Panorama City, CA

It was the day after Lauren's funeral.

We were back at the place we operated, trained, socialized, ate and slept. By we, I meant my Samurai team, Mentor Ji and Mentor Yaki. Currently, we were outside. The roof half there, half not, the sides nowhere to be seen but in the tiny pieces littering the ground, the inside all fucked up because Master Xandred's intention was to destruct everything near and dear to me. We took our time to assess the damage.

The cost was not a pretty penny.

Unless, we used Samurai Symbols.

Wait, we depleted our powers, thanks to the last battle.

Great.

That asshole, even after his demise still lingered.

My childhood home, a place I once shared with a family I come to know as my adopted family, took my first steps, drew my first Kanji Symbol, had my first kiss, was ruined. I wondered how they felt because, for me, I felt like shit. I had to salvage the residence that's been in their family for generations. The home that Mathew and Lauren last lived in and the place Nina once occupied. They brought me to this home, shared this place with me, and most of all, loved me.

It had to be restored. It just had to.

The upside of of this, all was well in the world. My family, their friends and their family were out of the danger zone, back in their respective homes, and no longer targets. Thank goodness because I hated them being in harm's way. They paid their dues, when they were rangers and battled the forces of Rita Repulsa, Lord Zedd, King Mondo, and Divatox. In addition, their children didn't need to be involved, poor Naddy received a first degree burn too. That was the only injury noted. They were safe, resuming their normal routines, going on with their lives.

As they should.

"Hello," I answered my phone, after feeling it vibrate erratically against my thigh.

"Jayden," it was my dad, "how is it over there?"

"It's a lot of damage," I replied, as I watched my friends and mentors comb through the debris. They needed my help. "Dad, can I call you later?"

"Turn around," my dad ordered, which caused my face to crease with confusion.

I twisted my body, 180 degrees to be exact, and I gawked at the plenty of people, their bodies exuding authority, corralling around my father. My eyes brightened with hope. I didn't do that too often, but, lately, I've been doing it frequently.

"Hey, guys," I notified. I headed over to my dad and the cavalry.

"Thought you could use some help," my dad said around a chuckle.

I finally placed my phone back in my pant pocket and nodded that it was greatly appreciated. "Andros," I shook his hand. I stepped to the left and introduced myself to two people I didn't have much interaction with at the ranger reunion. "I'm Jayden. You are Captain Bill Mitchell, Mrs. Angela Fairweather-Rollins and Ryan Mitchell." They smiled at me, which was comforting and a warm invitation into their lives. "Hello." I continued down the line.

"It's very nice to meet you, and it's about time," a man with affluence brimming chuckled, as he glanced at my father in a friendly way, "I'm Mr. Collins. My son is Wes and my daughter in law is Jen. It's an honor to meet you. I've heard so much."

"The pleasure is mine," I responded. Next to him was a man my dad told me so much about, and a factor in his choice for Paleontology as a major in college. "Anton Mercer."

The owner of Mercer Industries gave me a hug rather than a handshake. "If you didn't know my son is Trent, my wife was the former henchwoman Elsa, and I was once the body for Mesogog, but I live a more simple life running a multi-million dollar corporation." He had a sense of humor. It was dry, but present. Better than the villain he was before.

I continued.

"Hi," an older man, but not too old, with an organized appearance said his hello. "I'm Andrew Hartford. I was in charge of the Operation Overdrive rangers. I'm sure you've already met my son Mack."

"Yeah, I have," I didn't go into too much detail, interrogating about how Mack came to be. That was a conversation for another time.

I felt a feminine arm slink it's way to cross over my stomach. My arm caressed her thigh tenderly. A public display of affection it was, one that I reveled in, was proud to showcase.

"Uncle Kanoi, Cam," Mia waved with her free hand. "You came to help too?"

My dad shook his head. "Something like that," he stated. "Sensei."

"The Earth thanks you for your service," the wise man started, "but I have a feeling you sacrificed a lot."

"We did," his niece vouched.

I was positive they were speaking about Lauren, who found a little place in my heart.

"Well, dad and I will help you all restore some of your power, so it can remain with you for the rest of your life," Cam offered, "but, that's only if you want it. Other than that, of course, we will be here to help rebuild this place."

"We'd love your help, all of your help," Mentor Ji accepted, and he ushered them along with Mentor Yaki.

I watched as they broke into groups. Additional help came in the way of Alpha 8, the newest robot hailing from Edenoi. He clinked and clanked it's way with an internal computer programmed in his metal body. The camaraderie seen and heard. I was thankful for it and wished my other family had the chance to participate in. At least, from above, they watched.

I sensed they did.

My dad walked my way, his right arm slung over my back.

"Looks like you have friends in higher places," I believed I used that term literally. "Thanks, it really means a lot to me."

"You deserve this; my friends in higher places, as you like to call them, this is their gift to you. They've missed 18 of your birthdays."

I turned to him, shocked by what he was saying. "Really?"

"Really. Every single incarnation plans to lend a hand some way or another. It's quite touching," he admitted. "As for your mom and I, us getting them together is just the start of how much we owe you. We have a lot more to make up for."

"But you don't have to," I countered honestly. "I know you and mom are my birth parents, Sophia and Tristan are my siblings, blood related siblings. I love you all to death," I truly, truly meant that. The reasons they gave me up, I understood. I held no grudges against them. All that they did to find me, that showed me how much they wanted me in their life. How could I stay mad or bitter towards them? "Really, I do, and I love you."

"I love you too." He hugged me. When my dad parted, I could see a tear stuck in the corner of his eyes. He was strong enough to hold it back. He looked me, into my eyes. "I have question." I nodded for him to ask. "Do you want to move to Reefside?"

It was time for my friends to return home.

The Shiba House was resurrected. All the time, effort and money was worth it. It didn't even look like it had been under attack. There were some added features like security cameras, flat screen TVs, a garage and an outdoor pool. It was nice, but the grounds weren't going to be as occupied as before.

They were packed and ready to leave here, close this chapter in their lives.

As was I.

I made the decision to move in with my family for the summer, so I would be gone for only three months.

Mentor Yaki and Mentor Ji were still going to live at the Shiba House. The two came to the front to inquire about our plans now that the world was rid of evil.

"I have scored the golden ticket," Antonio was the first to speak. He showed us a brochure with a luxury cruise ship on the front. "An around the world fishing expedition. This is a trip of a lifetime." I gave it up to Antonio for always looking at the world with such optimism, and, as my oldest friend, I was going to miss him. "I'm going to catch fish no one has ever heard of!"

"Sounds fishy," Mia piped, "but in a good way."

"What about you Kevin?" Mentor Ji asked.

"Well, I spoke to my dad. I just barely have enough time to train for the Olympic qualifying tournament. It's definitely going to be hard work, but I..."

I listened to Emily give him some words of encouragement. It was her way of making Kevin to not be so analytical. Oh Kevin, please don't be that analytical. When he put his mind to something, he the efforts resulted were flawless. I couldn't wait to see his name displayed on the screen, representing USA. He would bring home the gold.

"Thanks guys, well, what about you Emily," Kevin asked.

"No major plans. I'm just excited I get to go home and take care of my sister," she answered. She's exhibited bravery, even though she wasn't supposed to be the Yellow ranger. I always commended her for doing so. "There's no other place I rather be, but home with my sister."

Mentor Yaki tipped his head to her. "Mike, what about you?"

I looked at Mentor Yaki. His eyes locked with mine. A mutual respect bridged us together. Despite the hurtful things spewed from his mouth, and the many times I cursed him privately, I was happy to know him. He deserved this break; he's been through so much.

"I'm going with Emily," the former Green ranger confessed, his hand interlinking with hers. Along with the others, I watched them smile at each other, and I was ecstatic. They were great for each other. This would be a good summer for him, before he returned back to school. Furthermore, I hoped to see a wedding invitation in the future.

All eyes landed on my beautiful girlfriend, who had an ethereal glow encompassing her delicate features, next. Pregnancy did her well. She smiled. "I'm going back home for a little. My parents and I have a lot to discuss. Then, I'll be joining Jayden in Reefside."

All last night, we discussed our plans regarding the Nightingale. Abortion was not an option, we believed she was too far along anyways. Adoption wasn't either. Adoption worked well for me, in an odd, unconventional way, but I could not picture myself nor Mia signing the paperwork to give our daughter up. The choice we made was to raise this child together. She was ours; no one else's, and that was it.

As far as this this break was concerned, it's not a break up. Our relationship had sustained it's worse; there was no doubt we were going to to stay together. It was just a period for us to reunite with our family on a personal and flexible level.

Of course, I was bound to meet her parents, and they were bound to meet mine. That was farther down the line.

"Don't forget to invite us to the baby shower," Emily reminded, as she gave all of us her loving embrace.

The others agreed.

One by one, or two, they left to go home.

Mia stayed a little longer, so we could have a more private goodbye.

"I love you," she declared, her hands in mine.

"I love you, and we will be together soon."

"I know. Call me later?"

"Of course," I kissed her passionately. All the memories from the beginning to now flooded my mind. All the trials and tribulations was worth it, to see her content. Between Mia and I, it's been a long road. I never thought when the Pink Samurai ranger walked through the Shiba House doors, I'd fall for her, let alone get her pregnant.

We consummated one time.

One time.

That one time shaped the rest of our lives.

And I wouldn't take it back.

"I have to go," she whispered against my lips, the vibration of her doing so sensed. It would loom, until we were reunited. "I'll see you later."

"See you later."

Her fingers slid against my palms and down my fingers, as she walked to the car waiting for her on the outside.

"Just for a little bit," I gave myself a pep talk. Before leaving the Shiba Grounds to venture to Reefside, California, I said my farewells to the Mentors. First was Yaki. "Thank you for everything."

"Listen to yourself," Mentor Yaki dismissed my words. This was a side of him I had never seen. Not wringing my neck verbally, and him joking, it was a first. Hopefully, the first of many jokes to come. "You're welcome. I may have treated you like you weren't a part of the Shiba Clan, or were a mistake to adopt, but I should have never thought that about you. You're a gift, really. Now, you are the last surviving member of the Shiba family. Carry that with pride."

"You don't mind," I asked, since that was a hefty title bestowed to me, and I hope it wasn't just by default.

"No, you are," he entrusted.

That was affirming. "Take care of Mentor Ji for me, while I'm gone."

"Of course," Yaki nodded he would. "Have fun." He left.

Mentor Ji and I walked to the BBQ set. We sat and conversed.

"Do you remember when you would come out here to 'practice'," he reminisced. "But, really, you were out here fooling around with Antonio," there was a lightness to his voice, when he spoke about it. A far cry, from when he stomped to the yard to get me back on track."It's okay... I should have realized it; Antonio was a friend not a distraction."

"You ate your words," I chided, thinking how far he's come to favor the past Gold ranger. From start to now, their relationship did a 180. A 180 that benefited everyone in the house. "I also have to say thank you. I'm glad you were chosen as my mentor. As much as I showed my anger towards you, lashed out and almost abandoned my duty twice, you still stuck by my side."

"There wasn't a moment of hesitation to do so. Well, once, after I ingested a bottle of alcohol, but you get what I'm saying."

"I do," I swore. I took my time, before I brought it up again. "I meant it, when I said I want you to be the Godfather to my child. Mia's agreed too."

Mentor teared at the request. He was a big softy, underneath his gi. He hugged me. "If I had a son, I wish for him to be like you."

"That's nice to know." I found myself becoming sensitive and reminiscing. It was going to be a vast change to not wake up to Mentor's cooking or orders, but change was good. I grabbed my suitcase and started to head to the gates, my lips curled into a grin.

A new journey waited beyond.

Xxxxx

Youth Center
Angel Grove, CA

It was weird to see my sister hold hands with her boyfriend.

As soon as we arrived, she picked out Brennan. They stepped away from prying ears and towards the workout bench. I watched the public display, saw her exaggerate her laughter over something that probably wasn't funny, and witnessed the subtle touches exchange. I thought I was going to be sick. She was too young for that sort of thing. I doubt Mia and I looked like that when we were around one another.

Prior to coming here, my parents said this place was essential to their high school years. According to my mom, this was where she first laid her eyes on my dad, she took her pregnancy test here, something about it was safer here than home, and Coach Schmidt discovered her. My dad said he watched my mom practice gymnastics, he's helped her built a float, and their first slow dance happened in this place. Both came here after school to unwind, workout, study or drink smoothies. It was also the location of school dances, functions, and exhibits. They also implied not everything that happened here was all dandy like an infamous letter was sent here, which broke them up for a little.

Not once, on the other hand, did they mention this was a breeding ground for immorality.

I excused myself from the table occupied by my parents, little brother, Jason and Trini and stomped towards them. Not one of them stopped me.

Along the way, I couldn't help but think Sophia could be with the twins, Kayla and May, doing something, oh, I alleged, girly, not flaunting her relationship.

"Sophia," I called as nicely as I could. She kept talking to Brennan, making oogly eyes at him, building his ego more than a boy his age should have. "SOPHIA!"

"What," she sassed me, glaring.

Brennan gulped in fear. I heard it. "Oh, hey, uh, hi," he stuttered, getting up from the bench, "you must be, uh, Jayden. It's nice to finally meet you."

I examined his hand and him. He was actually built. No fat was on his body, and I wondered what his parents fed this kid. "So, you're Brennan."

"Sir, yes, sir," he saluted, his knees quaking. I wasn't trying to take it that far, but that was okay. He needed to know to respect his elders. "So, what are you guys talking about here?"

She rolled her eyes, seeming to forget I have spoken to him before, and we made a deal. "You have got to be kidding me. You just met him, and you're already giving him a hard time?" She accused, and she was right.

"I'm your brother; it's my job," I argued.

"At first I was okay with it..."

"Sophia," Brennan yelled, offended.

She shushed him with a finger, "...but I think you're going to murder him!"

"I wouldn't even know how," which was true. Instill fear, now that was necessary.

She crossed her arms in anger and partly agitated by me. "Right," the world trailed with no confidence. "Go look in the mirror."

So I may have looked intimidating, but I was just looking out for her. "Ready to spar?" I was already in my training gear, and that was one purpose of coming to the Youth Center. The other was to spend time with the Scott family.

Besides, sparring in the Oliver house was like a rite of passage. All of us have sparred with one another. I've beaten dad a couple of times, haven't won once with mom though. I went easy on Tristan with Sophia not going easy on me. I needed a new person to fight.

"Sure," Brennan agreed without hesitation. He led the way.

As we got into position, I heard my little sister yell for our parents, saw her stampede towards them, her finger pointed wildly at us. She wanted this stopped, but I wanted this to happen. I was sure he, her boyfriend, wanted it too. An audience formed around the perimeter, whispers from the audience rolling together producing a roar. A possible warning of some sorts because I was older, and he was younger.

Oh well, it was none of their concern.

It was between me and him.

I bowed respectfully, as did he. Our feet tapped the mat with each step we took. Our arms came up defensively too. His technique was unlike anything I've seen. Before, he might have showed fear, but I didn't see any now. Perhaps, when he sparred he transformed. He did a one-two punch, I blocked. I advanced a strike to his side, a kick to his other side. He dodged both. As we circled, my thought of where to hit next weighed on my mind, I slowly gained a new respect for the guy in front of me. He outsmarted me, by faking left, but instead by going right, his fist made contact. My back singed with pain, so I countered with my own blow to his gut. He grunted. He went to sweep my feet beneath me, but I hopped to avoid it.

I caught a glimpse of my sister, our brother pitched on her hip. She watched in anticipation. My parents wondered what either of us was to do next. Kayla and May cheered me on, not too surprising, while Jason and Trini stayed focused.

Again, we faced one another.

We yelled. My power fueled moves picked up more speed, as did his. The crowd started to go wild. I swung my arm, then my foot. I did a back kick. He shuffled his feet and altered his fists along the way. I bent back, my body swayed to deter his black-belt moves. He came at me. I had enough space, took the opportunity and front flipped. Behind him, I launched an attack. He grasped my wrist, he twisted, flipping me in the process. I kicked my body up. I spun to face him quickly. I fought back, the final kick I administered forced Brennan to his stomach.

The match claimed was mine.

As the crowd starting parting, I helped my sister's boyfriend up. I patted his back in consolation.

Tristan waddled over to me, and I scooped him up. "Yay, Jayden," he praised. I kissed his cheek obnoxiously, this little boy beginning to have me wrapped around his finger.

"Thanks Tris."

Sophia went to Brennan and sent me a look of anger.

"Sophia," I attempted to calm her down. It was all in fun really; she didn't need to take this so seriously.

"You hurt him on purpose," she snapped, overprotective of him.

"Soph, no he didn't," Brennan defended, he moved Sophia behind him and offered me his hand. "Nice match. Dude, you gotta show me some stuff another time."

"Hey, you weren't so bad yourself, and yeah, whenever you come over."

"Soph, it's cool, your brother is cool," Brennan told her.

Sophia softened, as she saw we were civil to one another. I held my arm out of her. She hugged me. "Okay, fine," she surrendered, then whispered. "When we get home, don't go to bed right away."

Basically, she was insinuating we had to go a few rounds in the basement. What did I just get myself into!?

"Picture time," mom chimed, while holding her cell phone. She captured the three of us, her three children, in one picture. She, then, came up to me, and I let Tristan go with dad. I bent down, and she took a picture of us. I smiled because she was smiling. She told me how she felt when she gave me up for adoption. She went through a depression. It wasn't postpartum, and it didn't happen directly after she relinquished her parental rights. It started when she was training for the Pan Globals. I believed her, when she said 'not one day went by that I didn't think about you'. I loved when her and I had heart to heart talks. She's an amazing mom. "You just had to give him a hard time, huh?" She possessed a mother's intuition to a tee.

"Brother's test," I administered one, and he passed with flying colors. "Can I have a copy of that picture?"

"Of course! I'm really glad you chose to spend some time with us," she relayed.

"Well, you're my mom and this is my family, of course."

We walked to the table.

Over the past month, I've grown to love my family even more. They treated me like a prince. I was given my own room, and it was decorated just the way I liked. Dad and mom taught me how to drive and prepared me to get my driver's license. I learned more about my parents, my little sister, and Tristan's likes and dislikes. It was like I was never apart from them. They had done so much for me already; I wasn't sure what else they could do for me.

"Are you excited Mia is coming," mom asked. I nodded. Of course I was. Elation filled my body. A month without her felt like forever. We sat down, and she looked at dad, Sophia and Tris like they were in on something. "Well, can she be here tomorrow?"

"I'll have to get her," I wondered why there was a sudden rush for Mia to come. The Scott family also appeared to be in on the little secret too. "Can someone tell me what's going on?"

"When mom and dad take a break from their busy lives, we go on a one month sabbatical," Sophia replied, grinning. She never ceased to amaze me. She's resilient, tough and knew big words.

"You'll like it," Tristan added on top of that.

"More like love it," Trini swore.

"Oh yeah," the twins chorused in agreement.

My curiosity was piqued now.

"Where are we going?"

Xxxxx

Paris, France

It was nice to know my parents were financially stable.

"Jayden, look," Mia pointed toward the window of the chauffeured limo we shared with my family at the majestic Eiffel Tower.

As the shadow of the monument cascaded over my body, it was one of the many instances I believed I was dreaming. I watched it in awe. I never thought I would get this opportunity, but my parents gifted that to me. I kept my eyes outside, my hands wrapped securely around Mia's, her sweet scent filling my nose. I got the impression she felt exactly the same way I did.

Yesterday, I drove to pick Mia up. She was surprised I was behind the wheel, directing a car. Usually, I was directing a team. She invited me inside to meet her parents, which caught me off guard. I knew it was bound to happen, but, honestly, I was about to pee on myself. It was more common to meet parents prior to getting pregnant, not the other way around. I entered the Watanabe home and saw Terry, who had already come to terms with becoming an Uncle, point towards the kitchen. Mia assisted me along, and I met them. Linn, her mother, previous Pink Samurai ranger who was injured in her last battle and moved around with the help of a cane, and Kana, her father and Sensei Kanoi's half-brother, greeted me.

They revealed they weren't too appreciative of their daughter 'with child', but they accepted and supported she was. At first confused, they clarified. After her tenure as a ranger, she was supposed to move on, possibly enter culinary school because she needed to 'hone her craft'; I knew what that meant, or make something of her life. Now, she was an unwed pregnant woman. I wanted to counter, but they explained after a long and hearty talk with their daughter, it was obvious she wanted this, and she spoke so highly of me.

I promised I was never going to leave her side; I valued her as a person and respected her as the mother to my child. Most importantly, I was in love with their daughter.

They smiled, and I introduced them to my parents, who had been waiting outside.

Both sets of parents were cordial, and Mia's parents and Terry had plans to visit Reefside after we returned to the states.

The limo came to a stop in front of an opulent brownstone.

The chauffeur opened the door. Dad, mom, my sister, then Tristan exited first. I hung back, and Mia remained by my side, both of us nervous for what was to come.

Tonight, I was to meet my mom's mom and stepdad for the first time. This was their plan, the primary reason for us coming to Paris, France. My parents debriefed me already. As far as they, these grandparents, were concerned, they didn't know I exist. I was scared, afraid they're not going to accept me, and be angry with my parents for keeping such a big secret. On top of that, they were going to have a great-grandchild.

Which explained, Mia's presence. She was four months. With her thin frame, she was starting to show. It was a spectacle to see, on the other hand, my daughter was flourishing inside her stomach.

I stepped out of the car, the woman, other than my mom and sister, I regarded to the highest esteem right behind. I took a deep breath, as mom knocked on the door.

"Hey," Sophia tugged on my shirt, "don't worry. Grand-mère and grand-père are going to love you."

"Grand-mère and grand-père," Mia repeated perfectly.

"Bien," Sophia complimented.

The door swung open. An older woman with smooth skin and feathered dark brown hair stood there.

"Mon chérie, Tommy," she hugged them first and kissed both sides of their cheeks. When she saw Tristan, she peppered him with kisses. She embraced Sophia, a peck given to her cheek. They went inside, and I wished we were near them already. When she came to me and Mia, she looked at me, as a stranger, then behind to the family she was familiar with, then back at me questioningly. "Who are you," she asked, no hint of anger or anything. She was inquisitive, somewhat caught off guard.

"Je suis votre petit-fils," I revealed. I'd been practicing that one statement the whole plane ride. It meant, I'm your grandson.

"Is this a joke," she questioned my parents. I didn't expect her to welcome me with open arms; I did expect for her to take two looks at me and interrogate my parents. I waited to say anything else. They shook their head. It's been confirmed through DNA testing, not like Ninjetti powers were as accurate. I knew I was their long lost son, when they brought me back to life. I hoped she didn't think we were pulling her leg. "If you're my petit-fils," she swallowed roughly, puzzled by this, "then, where have you been?"

I looked at my parents for help, but they encouraged me to tell the truth. "Saving the world." I grasped Mia's hand tighter for comfort, her other hand wrapped around my forearm.

"You too," she surprised me, as if she knew the truth: her daughter was the original Pink ranger and her son in law was the original Green and White ranger. Maybe, my parents clued them in. She stared at me, her eyes traveled to the person next to me, and then back at me. She was trying to read me, to determine the truth. It probably sounded far fetched to her, and there was a lot of explaining to do. "Who's this," she inquired about the young woman behind me.

"Ma copine, Mia."

"Mia," Grand-mère repeated. I was beginning to think she didn't know much about us coming. "It's nice to meet you, Mia." She welcomed the both of us inside.

That was step one.

The kids, including Mia and I, were seated inside the communal living room. My parents and the adults who owned this place went to the kitchen to speak privately. I assumed it was about Mia and I, mostly about me.

As I waited, I looked around. There were several pictures on display, not just painted pictures by Pierre, but photographs too. They ranged, mother and father in high school, when they got back together, and wedded in marital bliss, a younger Sophia, a baby Tristan, all of them from their last visit, when Pierre was hospitalized. I gathered this was a tight knit family. I pictured myself spread among them, seeing if I blended, fit in. I couldn't say I did or didn't.

Not until I felt acceptance from her.

"Jayden," my mother called. I saw the puffiness around her eyes, the remnants of tears clear as day. She excelled at being so quiet, when crying. I hugged her to alleviate any stress she might have been under. "They want to talk to you."

"Mia too?" I wondered if she could come.

"Just you."

I was apprehensive, at first. Uneasiness lurked in my stomach, making me teeter on an imaginary tightrope line. No matter where I turned, no matter how I tackled the situation it could backfire, and i could fall to my doom. If I walked in there, my head held high, they could shoot me down with one look. If I walked away, then I dished disrespect and never allowed them the opportunity to speak on the matter. I went with the first, since they allowed me in their house.

Still, my imagination was wild on how this could go.

"I can go with him," my little sister offered.

"No sweetie, grand-mère and grand-père just want Jayden," my mom denied.

"I didn't travel all this way for nothing," I tossed my apprehension to the side and went in. My dad was exiting. He patted my back in confidence. Wish I had the confidence, but warily, cautiously, I made myself known. "Bonjour," the last bit exhaled through my teeth.

"Bonjour, comment allez-vous," Pierre greeted. I believed it was with open arms. His smile was confirmation.

I nodded thankfully.

When I saw grand-mère, or my mom's mom, look away, my jaw tensed, and I looked down in disgrace "I'm sorry..."

"Why are you sorry," she asked.

I shrugged. I picked head up, my fingers found security by gripping the island counter top we congregated at. "I thought saying sorry would make everything better. Don't blame mom and dad..."

"You're already calling them mom and dad," she interrupted, surprised.

"Am I not supposed to," I countered. "I've been calling them that for awhile now."

"Charlotte," Pierre's accent was strong, thick, authentically made, "quelle est la solution?"

"Beaucoup," she answered, "il est trop indulgent." I saw how much this was tearing her apart. I came up to her, wrapped my arms around her and gave her a hug. She didn't resist. "Stop that," I listened to her manufactured French accent, a hint of happiness heard.

That was step two.

I parted, returned to where I was before and spoke to them. "I forgave them. They did what was best, considering their duty, and... we're reunited. I'm with them now."

"I'm not angry towards you. A little towards my daughter and son in law. She could've told me, and I mean long ago, when she first got pregnant. I could have helped in some way, done something, other than have them give you up," she said, much to my surprise. "But it was because of a certain part of their life they had to hide, they believed this was the best route." I nodded she was correct. I would have been a target then like how I was when I was the Red Samurai ranger. "Plus, what 15 year old wants to admit they're carrying a child ? If I'm showing anger, it's towards them, never would be towards you."

"Really?"

She nodded sincerely. I felt and saw it. She teared, allowing a wall I was sure stayed up with my parents, collapse in front of me. "Can I hug you again?"

I nodded, a few tears coming down. Again, I wrapped my arms around her, she reciprocated. We laughed a little, our connection beginning to form.

"You're so handsome," she used her knuckle to wipe her tears. "Pierre, est -il pas beau?"

"Tout à fait," Pierre commented, and I could care less I didn't understand them. He came to me, and we exchanged an embrace. "You zo tall, verry handszome. Who iz da pretty lady wiz you?"

Is this step three-complete? I wasn't sure, but I didn't care.

"Ma copine, Mia," I answered.

"Vos française est si bon," he said in his native language, a laugh partnered with that one statement. Something, I was happy to hear from him.

"Do you love her," Grand-mère asked finally in English. I saw this twinkle in her eye.

It was the same twinkle in mine."De tout mon cœur... she's pregnant with my child."

For the second time tonight, they were caught off guard with my confession. A quizzical look was exchanged. The past channeled the future, or the future channeled the past. That's just how it was. It wasn't intentional it was something that happened. I hoped they understood, no back lash was needed.

Please.

"Your parents know," my grandma wondered.

"Yeah. I told them before I even knew they were my parents."

Bring her in," Pierre said, a smile on his face. I admired Pierre. He had no children, other than my mom. His grandchildren, including me, aren't his blood, yet, he was a man with a big heart. I knew he would be bursting at the seams when it came to mine and Mia's little girl.

I went to the kitchen's swinging door, called my girlfriend and waited. By my side, I heard her stomach rumbling she was hungry. For her sake, I hope dinner was ready. The first hour here, all that's been done was talking.

Mia walked to them. They engulfed her into a warm hug and spoke to her in French. I stayed, watched, and knew everything was going to be okay.

When they were finished, grandma asked for me to get everyone. I did. The food was reheated, and we sat at the large dinner table, an eight course feast spread on top. The hosts dedicated this dinner to me. In the last bit of their toast, they said :

"To many more dinners with you, our notre petit-fils, you, our petite-fille dans la loi, and you, our grand petit-enfant."

We dug in.

Before he sipped his wine to help the food digest much smoother, Grand-père asked. "What's next for you Jayden?"

Xxxxx

Astro Megaship Mark III
Undisclosed Location in Space

It was luck to have such great role models surrounding me.

There was Ji, but he wasn't here. He was on an all expense paid excursion, traveling the world with Mentor Yaki. I had to thank Mr. Collins, Mr. Mercer and Mr. Hartford for paying for it. Then, there was the people I was currently with.

Tonight, I was aboard the greatest spaceship originated on KO-35.

After I was rushed out of the ranger reunion, so the rangers could search for Cole, I never got the chance to look around the place. So, this was my chance, and I took it. There was lot of advanced technology, stuff people on Earth would die to develop. If only Lauren could see this. She fancied the technical stuff and enjoyed learning how things worked. If she was on here, my God, her time could be occupied for days, possibly weeks.

There she goes, making an appearance in my mind again. She's happy for me, I knew it.

For he's a jolly good fellow, for he's a jolly good fellow,
for he's a jolly good fellowwww, which nobody can deny!

I laughed, turning around to hear some of my fellow Reds sing me this song. They even brought me a cake. Funny, it wasn't my birthday, but then I got a better look on the cursive lettering, 'Congratulations to the soon to be father, Jayden!'. I let them finished singing. After they were done, I blew out the candles.

The countdown was on. Mia was due in three months, a little girl was confirmed in her stomach via ultrasound a month ago. My nerves were through the roof, or should I say the top of this place. I was going to be a dad, responsible for another person's life, a human being, a little girl, my daughter. It was mind blowing.

I blew out the candles.

"Oh cake," Rocky screeched in excitement. He never stopped eating. Before we came here, we were at a dinner party at the Mercer Mansion to celebrate Mrs. Mercer's birthday.

The men groaned, a plethora of reasons could be given.

"Let me make sure Rocky doesn't eat the whole thing," Jason volunteered to keep watch, and he tailed the Ape Ninjetti.

Next, we went to the common room. My dad, Jason, Rocky, Andros, TJ, Leo, Carter, Wes, Eric, Cole, and Conner gathered to help me celebrate. It was like a male's version of a baby shower. Mia's was a month and a half away, and the spouses were helping to plan. That was great because I needed some guy time.

We lounged, each of us received a slice of cake.

"Any advice," I asked the men in front of me. They've been through this before, they were all fathers, so I wanted to get their insight. I admired the other Red rangers for what they've done on and off the field.

Rocky nodded. There were no drinks on board, but that didn't mean he had some prior. I was sure his mind was clear. "When you make midnight runs to the store, don't ever get her something she doesn't want."

That was good because I just got my license. It was great to be the age where I didn't have to wait a miserable six months before testing.

The men cheered in concurrence.

"You don't know how many times I got chewed out by Taylor because of that," Eric vouched.

"It's not because of that, bay-bee," TJ teased, offending the former Quantum ranger.

"What did Cassie chew you out for recently," Eric challenged, which made TJ shut up very quick. "I thought so."

"Oh shit," Conner piped, chuckling. "Seriously though, food is important. I speak from experience. I don't know how many times I had to go to Denny's to pick up a Grand Slam with extra syrup and a side of nachos. If you need further proof, ask Jason." He smirked.

My eyes landed on Jason, and he scratched the back of his neck. "I got Trini the wrong doughnut one morning, when she was pregnant with Bren. You would have thought Scorpina possessed her body; she was crazy!"

"Besides food, compliment her once in awhile," Carter mentioned, over the cackling bunch near us. "Dana always thought she looked fat."

"Same thing with Jen," Wes spoke up, shaking his head. "I think all of the guys can agree our wives or spouses looked absolutely radiant."

That's true. I couldn't get over the glow Mia had. "What else," I queried, interested.

"When her water breaks, don't pass out," Cole educated. It was nice to see his life as Deker was behind him. He looked great, moved on, and he deeply apologized for what happened with Sophia. He admitted he would have continued the curse, if it meant saving her. My dad said no, while I agreed. It as out of his hands. "Have you been around an angry Filipina?"

"No, but I've been around mom scolding dad," I answered; dad forgot to do something, and she confronted him.

My dad received all the jokes.

"It's basically same thing," Leo quipped. "All ranger women are scary. Is Mia like that?"

It was off topic, but I replied anyways.

"Yeah; when she thought I was a robber, she administered a swinging kick to my face."

"Ohh," the men screamed, shaking their heads and sympathizing for me.

I concluded it didn't matter the color, Pink or Yellow, since that was the most common, all ranger women were scary in their own way.

I faced my dad. We've had a one on one talk previously. He told me, when I was given to the Shiba family, it was the hardest thing he ever had to do. He always hoped, when we crossed paths, I would forgive him. I told him I did. Still, he held some remorse. After hearing I was a Power Ranger, he said he cursed heaven to hell. He never wanted me to be one, but it was out of his hands.

Dad gave some advice.

"In the delivery room, give her as much encouragement as you can and be strong." The role models around me nodded their heads that was the truth. "As soon as you lay eyes on your child, you will find yourself to be the biggest sissy in the world and bawling your eyes out."

"How many people can I have in the room?"

"Depends, sometimes three, sometimes less. It's about the procedure," Jason responded. "With Brennan it was natural, it was me and our mothers. With the twins, it was C-section, and I was the only one allowed."

"Be there, you have to, or, you'll regret it," Conner promised. "Thankfully, I've never experienced something like that, but you get what I'm saying."

"So, do you think you're ready to be a father," Rocky questioned, before taking another bite of his cake.

Xxxxx

Indian Reservation
City Limits of Angel Grove

It was a surprise to know I was part Native American.

Dad drove Tristan and I to the reservation just outside of Angel Grove's city limits, while my mom, girlfriend and sister went shopping. If this shopping trip was anything like the extravagant one in Paris, then I was more than happy to depart from them. Dad wasn't kidding when the saying 'shop til you drop' was made for mom and Sophia. Mia was definitely picking up after them too.

Dad's SUV parked in front of a rustic, wooden cabin. I exited, then unbuckled Tristan from his booster seat and started to carry him. Dad knocked on the door. When the door opened, my jaw dropped. If dad kept his hair long like the pictures I've seen, then he would look like this guy's twin.

"David," Dad greeted with a tight embrace.

"Tommy, or shall I say Dr. Tommy," David joked, instigating a play boxing match, then hugged again. I laughed at them. When he saw Tristan and I were there, he parted. "Tristan," he exclaimed first.

"Uncle David," my younger brother screeched cheerfully. He held his hands out, and David gladly took him from my arms. He swung my brother around in a circle with glee.

David made eye contact with me finally. "My nephew, Jayden." He placed Tris down, careful to not break the eye contact. He scrutinized me, my features and he, too, was wowed. "Jayden!" He lifted me off the ground, a hug given—18 years worth. "You are so big!"

"Well I would think so," I quipped, still laughing at his enthusiasm.

"Come in, come in," he urged.

I entered his home. It was filled with Native American artifacts and Bruce Lee memorabilia. It was an eclectic mix, but it was his mix. Dad clued me in they were adopted separately. David stayed on the reservation, while he assimilated as a city kid. As I looked around, overhearing my dad and David exchange quips about everyday life, I stopped at a picture. It was of a man with long gray hair, attired in his native dress and standing with pride. I grabbed the picture.

"Who is this?"

"That's Sam Trueheart, my adopted father," David answered, as he escorted me to the living room to tell me more about Sam. "I'm two years older than your father. When our mom was giving birth to your dad, she died unexpectedly. Our dad passed away prior to that. Sam, a tribal chief, took the both of us in. Sam was somewhat psychic. One day he woke, had the urge to take Tommy to an adoption agency, left him there, and he came back without a recollection of what he'd done."

"You didn't know," I asked David about my dad separating from him.

"No, I didn't," David replied honestly. "It was like a my memory was toyed with. It worked out for the best though. My father was adopted by his parents, who are wonderful. Have you met them?"

I nodded. They welcomed me with open arms and treated me like I was a chronic factor in their lives. They even thought about buying me a car.

"Great! Think about it, if your dad stayed on the reservation, then he would have never had several tenures as a Power Ranger, and he would have never met your mom. You wouldn't be here," he thought from a different perspective, and he was right. "I love being here anyways. I, now, oversee the entire reservation," Uncle David finished.

"What happened to Sam?"

"He passed away three years ago in his sleep. It was heartbreaking," David revealed. I could see it was from his face it was.

"I wish I could have met him."

"I'm sure he wanted to meet you too," he spoke on Sam's behalf. "Are you the Phoenix," he asked all of a sudden.

"Yeah, I am," I wondered where he was going with this. I watched David stand and head to the back. I looked at my dad quizzically, and he shrugged his shoulders. He, too, didn't know what this was about. I saw David return, and he handed me a blanket. I accepted the item. When I unfolded it, I was surprised to see what was intricately sewn, my life's story. My fingers wallowed over every single ridge, indentation, coming to realize the time, effort and love it took to make something of this caliber. "Is it for me," I handed it off to my father, who had Tristan on his lap, so they could both see.

David nodded it was. "I don't have any use for it," he chuckled. "No offense, but the bird theme is your guys'."

"You said Sam has been working, before he died," my dad asked. Again, my Uncle bobbed his head. "How did he know to add a nightingale?" He showed us the singing bird was near my bird.

"I can't explain. You know Sam had his ways," David was bemused about the elder. "There's a Nightingale now? Man, this Ninjetti thing is crazy!" He wasn't kidding. I learned that long ago. "By the way, who is the Nightingale?"

Xxxxx

Reefside Court House
Reefside, CA

It was a day to remember.

I stood before the judge, not one ounce of fear settled in my body. I started this process, after the battle with Master Xandred ended. To finish, it shouldn't take long at all.

"Young man, please raise your right hand. Starting today, how do you want to be legally acknowledged," the judge scribbled on whatever sheets of paper littered podium, before staring me in the eye directly.

I looked at the stoic bailiff, the stern court reporter, the other authorities that milled in and out of this place. Then, right behind, I saw my family—dad, mom, Sophia, Tristan, my dad's adopted parents, David, Mentor Ji, mom's mom and stepdad, and my very pregnant girlfriend, who was due any minute now. Right outside. in the court parking lot, so they wouldn't have to clamor inside this court room, my extended family—Jason, Trini, their children, Rocky, Aisha, their son and daughter, Adam, Tanya, their kids, and finally, Billy, Hayley, and their son.

It was a momentous occasion. I was combining the names of both my families, and taking the surname I felt most comfortable with.

"Jayden Thomas Mathew Shiba Oliver," I stated for it to be recorded.

Known from here on out, I was an Oliver.

The judged smiled. "By the power invested in me by the state of California, your name change has been granted. Good luck, Mr. Oliver."

Before I left, I had to sign some paperwork with my newly chosen name to make it legally binding. A cursive 'O' was much simpler than a cursive 'S'. I never got that damn letter, when learning cursive.

I exited the courtroom, a smile plastered on my face. I joined everyone that gathered, hugs shared all around. I noticed Mia was off to the side, her face alarmed. I maneuvered to get closer to her, ask her what was going on.

"She's coming," she exhaled in pain. "Oh God, she's coming!" Water gushed down her leg, and it wasn't pee.

I almost fainted, but remembered Cole's wise words and regained consciousness quickly."THE BABY'S COMING!" I screamed in a state of panic.

Everyone else shouted with me. Their elation transforming into seriousness. The women yelled for the men to head towards the car, my mom called the hospital, where Mia's primary OB-GYN was located, and we were ushered to our personal car. To outsiders, it looked crazy to see 30 people scurry towards one itty, bitty sedan. Everyone continued talking, speaking, and I could only think to get to the hospital. I entered the car, Mia next to me shouting expletives and to hurry, but all I could so was smile.

When everyone, who was closest to us, paved the way for me to leave, I did. A minute later, I adjusted and looked in my review mirror, close ten cars trailed behind.

The newest addition to the Oliver family would be here by tonight.

I was sure of it.

We've already thought of her name, and it was going to be a long one, but she deserved the best.

Jayla Lauren Shiba Watanabe-Oliver.

I couldn't wait for her to be here, to be apart of such a great family.