Lena shifted on the couch again her hand rubbing her belly.
"Doing ok love?" Stef asked
"Yeah, I just can't get comfortable" Lena sighed. Callie watched her feeling a little sorry for her. Lena had always been such a thin women, all the extra weight must be hard on her.
"It's getting late anyway" Stef said looking at the kids scattered around them.
"Can we just finish this movie?" Noah asked half asleep his head on Stef's shoulder.
"Tomorrow buddy, we gota put mom to bed" Stef told him. They all started up the stairs. Callie was the last one up. Lena was at the top of the stairs when she put her hand to her belly suddenly.
"Lena?" Stef asked noticing her.
"I think… I think I just felt something" Lena said.
"like a contraction?" Stef asked. Callie could tell she was trying to calm her excitement.
"I don't know, maybe?" Lena said
"Come on let's get you to bed, Callie run down and grab the stop watch" Stef said. Callie nodded going back down stairs she grabbed it from the coffee table bringing it into the two women's room.
"Are you going to go to the hospital?" She asked.
"not yet, It's still early, little pains like this could go on for days" Lena said.
"But if they get bigger we will time them and see that happens" Stef said taking the stop watch from her.
"Ok, well wake me up if you go?" Callie asked.
"We will" Stef assured her.
"Ok" Callie said and suddenly found her wrapping her arms around Lena.
"I'm ok sweetie don't look so worried" Lena laughed a little.
"I know, ok good night" Callie said going into her room
"That's five minutes" Stef said as Lena took a deep breath straightening up in the chair rubbing her back.
"Ugh I wish we had gotten a little more sleep" Lena said walking over to the bed and sitting down.
"I'm going to double check the bag is set then we should go" Stef got up going over to the suitcase that had been sitting under the chair in their bedroom for a few weeks.
"Oh the phone chargers" Lena said getting up.
"Hey no no, sit I'll get everything just relax" Stef said jumping up and gently forcing Lena to sit back down.
"honey" Lena chuckled a little then caught her breath rubbing her belly again.
"Ok just breath" Stef said taking her hand and holding it until it passed. Suddenly Lena shot up.
"Oh I think my water just broke" Lena said
"Ok, I'll get you some new pants, but then we really have to go love I don't want to deliver this baby in the front seat of the car, I'v done it before but I really don't want to ruin that interior, it's brand new" Stef said making Lena smile. Stef helped Lena change and stood her up from the bed.
"Ok ready?" Stef asked. Lena nodded and Stef picked up the bag taking Lena's elbow to help her down the hall. They tried to walk quietly but when the passed the girls room they heard someone wake up.
"What's going on?" Mariana asked appearing in the doorway looking half asleep.
"Mommy's in labor, we're going to head to the hospital" Stef said.
"Should I get dressed?"
"No no, It will be a while still, go back to sleep and you can come when you all wake up" Stef said.
"Oh princess will you tell Callie? I told her we would let her know" Lena said as they went down the stairs. Mariana was a lot more awake now as she went back into her room shaking Callie awake.
"Mom's water broke Mamma is taking her to the hospital" Mariana said.
"Are we all going?" Callie asked sitting up.
"No mamma said it was going to be a while and that Brandon can take us later" Mariana said. Callie glanced at her clock. 3:00am.
"Did they leave?"
"Not yet, come say goodbye with me?" Mariana asked.
"Yeah" Callie nodded reaching for her sweater throwing it on. The boys rooms were still dark and quiet as they tiptoed downstairs.
"Oh babies go back to sleep its so early" Stef said as she was helping Lena put her shoes on.
"We just wanted to say bye" Mariana said wrapping her arms strongly around Lena's neck. Lena smiled hugging her back kissing the top of her head.
"We can't go with you now?" Callie asked as Stef stood up.
"No sweetie you guys get some sleep. When the boys are up Brandon will take you. You won't miss anything i promise" Stef smiled running her fingers through Callie's hair.
"ohh there's another one" Lena said catching her breath and holding her belly. Callie was glad to see she didn't seem to be in to much pain yet.
"Ok we should get going. go back to sleep loves I promise to call you if I don't think you will make it in time" Stef said pulling Lena into a standing positing.
"We'll help you to the car" Callie said grabbing the two hospital bags and Mariana took Lena's hand so Stef could go ahead and open the door. They walked out into the dark chilly night. Callie threw the bags into the back as Stef helped Lena into the car.
"I'm ok I promise" Lena laughed at Mariana's concerned face watching her.
"Everything will be fine" Stef whispered to both girls giving them a kiss on the forehead before going around and getting into the drivers seat.
"Bye mommy" Mariana said giving Lena a kiss.
"Good luck" Callie said reaching in to give her a hug before shutting the door. They stood in the front yard watching them pull out of the driveway.
"Anyway your going to be able to go back to sleep?" Callie asked Mariana.
"No way, can we wake Brandon up now?" Mariana asked. Callie laughed.
"Your such a mommy's girl. Momma is right its probably going to be a long time before we see a baby, mine as well get some sleep" Callie said leading the way back inside.
"Do you think mom's going to be ok?"
"Of course, she will be fine" Callie assured her.
Callie, wake up" Noah shook her awake. Callie opened her eyes feeling them burn from lack of sleep as she glanced at the clock. 6:30. She and Mariana had just fallen back to sleep an hour ago.
"What's wrong?" Callie asked
"No one made breakfast. Where's mom and momma? They aren't in their room or outside" Noah said.
"They went to the hospital. mom is having the baby, Why don't you go have some cereal and watch cartoons" Callie shooed her brother away.
"But it's Saturday. Mom always makes pancakes on Saturday" Noah wined.
"Shhh don't wake up Mariana, come on" Callie sighed getting out of bed they made their way downstairs.
"With blueberries" Noah said sitting at the table as Callie began to mix everything together.
"Callie?"
"Yeah buddy"
"Is mommy going to love this baby more then us?" Noah asked.
"No way, mom is just adding to the melting pot that is this family. She won't love it anymore then you or me or Brandon or the twins. Brandon is momma's baby and she doesn't love him more right? Don't worry, you get to be a big brother!" Callie said trying to excite him.
"Do babies cry a lot?"
"You sure did! Some babies do. But this baby has so many people to hold it and love it I have a feeling we are going to get a very happy baby" Callie said. Jesus and Brandon came down the stairs.
"your cooking, where's mom?" Jesus asked.
"Your up early" Callie said without answering his question flipping the pancakes on the grill
"Mariana woke us up. Where's mom?" Brandon asked again
"She went into labor a few hours ago. momma took her. As soon as we eat we can go" Callie said.
"What! no one woke us!" Brandon said as Mariana hopped down the stairs fully dressed.
"Let's go to the hospital!" She said.
"Ok Callie just pack those up. everyone grab something to do and meet at the car" Brandon said as they all scattered throughout the house. Callie threw some pancake into a plastic bag for later and ran upstairs to grab her phone and laptop. She looked over at her night stand and suddenly cracked up laughing.
"What?" Mariana asked as the boys appeared in the doorway.
"It's 7:00 am on a Saturday and we are all awake and dressed. When has that ever happened?" Callie asked. They all chuckled and smiled a little.
"Last one in the car has to pay for gas" Brandon called as they all grabbed their stuff running down the steps.
"Hi, Lena Adams-Foster's room please" Brandon said leading the pack of kids to the front desk.
"And you are?" The nurse asked.
"Her kids" Mariana said. They got a questioning look Callie understood. None of them looked anything like Lena but they were directed down the hall.
"Umm I don't want to go in there" Jesus said as the five of them stood outside the door.
"Me either" Brandon said and they all nodded
"Let's text Mama so she knows we're here" Mariana said pulling out her phone she quickly texted Stef. A few minutes later the door opened and Stef came out smiling.
"Look at all my babies up at the crack of dawn, that must be some kind or record for you teenagers" She laughed gathering them into a hug.
"How's mom?" Mariana asked.
"She's getting there, it may be a while yet, but she will be glad to know you are all here. There's a waiting area right down there you can set up camp, and a cafeteria downstairs" Stef said.
"Ok call us if you guys need anything" Mariana said.
"Does anyone want to come say hi to mom? She'd be happy to see you" Stef asked. The three boys shook their heads violently and stepped back.
"Is it…safe?" Mariana asked.
"Yes yes, nothing will come flying out at you, come on she will be so glad to see you" Stef ushered Mariana into the room. Before Callie could stop her Mariana grabbed her hand pulling her in with her. Lena sat up in the bed the TV in the corner muted.
"Hey mom" Mariana said going over to hug her.
"Hi Miss Thing! look at you up so early" Lena smiled. Her wild curls were thrown in a messy bun over her head. Callie blushed a little staying near the door.
"Do you need anything?" Callie asked.
"No sweetie i'm just happy your here, I missed my girls" Lena smiled at her.
"Callie made pancakes today" Mariana said.
"Noah woke me up looking for you and then begged me to make him some" Callie said.
Lena laughed. Suddenly she lay back on the pillows letting out a long breath. Stef stepped up taking her hand in her own and brushing some curls from her forehead. Lena let out a long breath as Stef whispered something in her ear. Callie was surprised to see how calm and relaxed everything was. Not at all like the movies with people screaming. It made her feel better to see Lena was totally in control of the situation. Lena opened her eyes sitting up again rubbing her belly.
"The boys to afraid to come in?" She asked taking a sip of the water Stef offered her.
"Yes" Mariana nodded making Lena laugh.
"How much longer do you think?" Callie asked.
"The doctor thinks maybe another hour" Lena said.
"Can I get you guys Coffee or anything?" Callie asked again.
"None for me but I bet Momma would benefit from some, we were up all night" Lena said.
"I'll go grab some" Callie said as she and Mariana left the room.
"How is she?" Brandon asked as the girls rounded the hall into the waiting room.
"About an hour to go they think" Mariana sat down while Callie went to the hot beverage machine putting in some money.
"But she's ok?" Jesus asked.
"Yeah, she has everything calm and soothing she's got it under control" Callie assured him.
"Good" Noah said. Callie picked up the cup and went back down the hall knocking on Lena's door before answering. She seemed to be in the middle of another contraction eyes closed breathing steady while Stef rubbed her back. Callie quickly put the cup down and backed out of the room.
Noah watched a movie with Jesus on his computer. Brandon listened to music eyes closed fingers tapping out beats on his knee. Mariana texted and half watched the movie with the boys. Callie was trying to read but she kept steeling glances at her siblings. She wondered how a baby would fit into their little family and kept thinking about the question Noah had asked her. Would Lena love this baby more then them?" Lena was the one who always said it was love not DNA that made a family. But Lena had always been the one person in the house who didn't share DNA with anyone. Now she would. She would have her own little baby girl that was her DNA. Callie wondered if it would change her mind.
The hour passed slowly. Callie kept glancing at her watch. When it went by she sighed. Who knew how long it was going to take, the checkpoint they were all looking forward to had passed. Suddenly Stef poked her head out of the room and waved her over. Callie jumped up. She heard a long drawn out moan as she got closer to the door.
"Is she ok?" Callie asked.
"Yes, it's almost time run and get mom a bottle Gatorade." Stef said. By now all the kids were standing up watching them. Callie ran down to the vending machine as Stef went back into the room.
"What's going on?" Mariana asked.
"momma says it's almost time" Callie grabbed the drink she knocked on the door not wanting to go in. There was no answer. Callie opened it going in. Lena offered her a weak smile.
"Doing ok?" Callie asked her.
"Just getting tired" Lena nodded accepting the bottle from her.
"I think this will help love, help you rehydrate faster" Stef said opening it and holding Lena's shaky hand helping her drink
"Almost there" Stef said placing a cool rag on Lena's forehead when she was done.
"Sit, tell me how everyone is" Lena patted the side of the bed. Callie sat down taking Lena's hand in hers.
"The boys are watching a movie. I think Mariana is telling everyone in the whole world the baby is coming" Callie said making Lena laugh.
"I'm sorry this baby decide to come on a Sunday getting you guys stuck in the hospital" Lena said.
"We're to excited to care" Callie said as Lena's grip tightened on her hand. Stef recognized the sign of what was coming and replaced Callie's hand with hers.
"Can you go find the doctor love and ask him to come in I think we are just about ready" Stef said gathering Lena in her arms. Callie nodded rushing up to the front desk. She flagged down the doctor sending him to Lena and went back to sit with her siblings.
"Any time now" Callie said as they watched her. Everyone put their things away and they sat in silence listening for something to tell them the baby was here.
"We should wash our hands, hospitals have gems, we can't hold a new baby with germs" Brandon said. They all nodded.
"I saw a bathroom down the hall" Jesus said they all stood up and walked down going into the bathroom to wash their hands meeting back in the hallway.
"Now what?" Noah asked.
"Now we umm can't touch anything" Brandon said as they all looked at their clean hands
"We didn't think this through vey well" Mariana said as they made their way back down the hall standing outside Lena's door. Brandon paced the hallway back and forth. Mariana leaned against the wall. Jesus played i-spy with Noah Callie didn't know how long they stood there when suddenly they heard a tiny cry. Everyone smiled looking at each other as the cry got stronger.
"Momma" Mariana yelled at the door.
"In a minute" They heard Stef call back.
"She sounds so little" Mariana said smiling.
"Are you kidding! listen to those lungs we're all screwed" Jesus said making them laugh
"Either way she sound healthy" Brandon said putting it into perspective for them. Stef popped her head out a few minutes later.
"You guys can come in soon they are just cleaning mommy up, you have a healthy baby sister" she said beaming. Mariana squealed throwing her arms around Stef as Stef laughed gathering all the kids up.
"And mom's ok?" Brandon asked.
"Yes yes they are both fine, Mom's tired, but happy" Stef laughed. She went back in promising to be back in a few minutes.
"I can't believe she's finally here" Jesus said.
"Watch out dude your soft side is showing" Callie laughed as Brandon punched his shoulder.
"I can't wait to see her" Mariana said rubbing her hands together. The doctors came out and Callie got a glimpse of a little pink bundle in Stef's arms before the door shut again.
"Oh my love, she looks just like you" Stef whispered putting the now calm baby in Lena's waiting arms.
"Hi Baby" Lena whispered running her hand over the dark curls on the infant's head. The baby turned at the sound of her voice trying to get closer.
"Ohh she knows her mommy" Stef laughed a little reaching out to kiss the babies little fist.
"So we still like the name?" Lena asked.
"If you do, I love it" Stef nodded.
"I do, I think it's perfect" Lena smiled looking up at her.
"Just like her" Stef agreed before giving Lena a long kiss.
"Ok bring the kids in" Lena said.
"Oh no one more minute of peace please" Stef smiled running her finger down the babies' cheek. She couldn't stop staring at her.
"Come on women! I want me kids" Lena laughed.
"Ohh I love it when you call be women" Stef laughed giving Lena another kiss before getting up and going to the door.
"Ok come on quietly" Stef waved them in as they all filed in.
The late morning light shown through the window. In the bed Lena sat up glowing with pride a tiny bundle wrapped in her arms. They gathered around the bed and Callie took her first peek at the baby. She had milky dark skin, the prettiest shade Callie had ever seen. She had a little fist balled up near her face as she was curled up comfortable in Lena's arms.
"She's beautiful" Mariana said breathlessly.
"Everyone meet Francesca Madelyn Adams-Foster." Lena smiled.
"After grandpa?" Brandon asked turning to Stef. Stef nodded and Callie thought she saw a tear in her eye as she looked down at the baby.
"What a big name for a tiny baby" Mariana whispered.
We thought we could call her Frankie for short" Lena smiled.
"I love it" Jesus said.
"Can I hold her?" Mariana asked. Lena gently shifted the baby into Mariana's arms. Frankie gave a grunt, unhappy to be moved but soon settled in Mariana's arms.
"She's so little, Hi baby sister" Mariana said her eyes welling up.
"She looks just like you mommy" Noah said standing on his tippy toes to peak in at the baby.
"Tiny bump" Jesus said taking is fist and ever so gently tapping it against Frankie's.
"Can I have a turn?" Noah asked.
"Yeah. sit here with Momma i'll help you" Stef said sitting on the couch pulling Noah to sit next to her. She took the baby and helped Noah put his arms around her as Callie snapped a picture.
"You mister are going to need to get good at holding your baby sister. When all these teenagers move out in a few years it will just be you to keep her busy" Stef smiled at Noah looked down at the baby in aw.
"I bet she is going to love her littlest big brother" Lena smiled watching them. Everyone took a turn to hold the baby and admire her as Callie watched. She didn't want to step on anyones toes. After a little while Jesus got hungry. He took Noah down to get their moms some food. Mariana and Stef curled up on the couch both their eyes looking heavy. Brandon left to go call Lena's mom who was on her way to the airport.
"Callie you didn't get to hold her yet" Lena whispered.
"That's ok, she looks so happy there" Callie said as the baby who was nestled in Lena's arms again.
"You know, in a few days I have a feeling we are going to be begging one of you kids to hold her instead of you all begging to like today." Lena smiled.
"Oh there's enough hands in the house. I'm sure at least one person will always like her" Callie said making Lena laugh.
"You hold her Callie" Lena offered the baby out to her. Callie sat next to Lena on the bed ever so gently taking the tiny infant in her arms.
"She's the most perfect baby ever" Callie whispered fixing the blanket and staring down at the baby.
"You know sweetheart I know you have good your memories with your real mom and to you those are irreplaceable. And I am so glad you have them, but sometimes, at times like this, I wish I had know you as a baby, I would have loved to see you grow up" Lena whispered.
"I would have liked that too, Maybe if you were an aunt or something" Callie smiled at Lena.
"What do you think about being a big sister?"
"I think Mariana will be a little more pleased to make space for her then she was me" Callie said making Lena chuckle
"Oh Callie girl, You and your sister have such a special bond, I hope even though Frankie is so much younger then you she has that" Lena said.
"Me too, god mom she's so pretty, she looks just like you, Does it feel different, To have someone in the family with your DNA now?" Callie asked. Lena thought for a minute.
"I never looked at it like that. It is different but only because it's more painful then signing adoption papers all in all, she's just another piece added to my heart" Lena said making Callie laugh a little.
Brandon took them home a little while later so Stef Lena and Baby Frankie could get some sleep. Noah passed out in the car before they even left the parking lot.
"I wish they could come home today" Mariana sighed.
"Soon enough we'll have a screaming baby keeping us up all night" Brandon said.
"We should bring them dinner, Mom hates hospital food" Jesus said.
"And clean up the house" Callie said.
"Ugh this baby sounds like a lot of work already" Mariana sighed.
"I have to pick up Gram and Gramps, you guys take Noah inside and start dinner for Moms" Brandon said pulling into the driveway.
"I'll go with you to get them" Callie said.
"Ok we'll be back soon" Brandon said as they twins and Noah climbed out of the back seat.
Brandon parked the car and Callie followed him into the airport.
"I think it's over here" Brandon looked a the gate.
"It said they just arrived, they might still be getting their bags we should look there" Callie said pointing to the board. Brandon lead the way to baggage claim and he and Callie stood off to the side.
"There they are" Callie said when she spotted the familiar faces.
"Gramps!" Brandon waved his grandfather over.
"Oh there you are!" His grandfather pulled him into a hug patting his back while Lena's mom gave Callie a warm hug. Callie loved how Gram hugged her just like Lena did.
"How is my girl and the new baby?" Gramps asked as Gram put her arm around Callie and he and Brandon grabbed the bags.
"They are good, We left them to rest for a little bit but we were going to go back later and bring them dinner" Brandon said.
"Good boy" Gramps said.
"The baby is so beautiful Gram she looks just like Lena" Callie said.
"On I can not wait to meet her!" Gram smiled hugging Callie's shoulders. They chatted on the ride home Brandon talked about piano and Callie showed Gram some of the pictures she had of the baby.
"Oh is that the cutest thing!" Gram said when she saw the one of Stef helping Noah hold her.
"She's so perfect" Callie smiled admiring the photo.
"Sounds like someone is in love" Gramps winked at her from the front seat.
"Hey we're back" Brandon called as they walked into the house.
"Gram! gramps!" Mariana cried running in from the kitchen.
"Hey darling, look at you so pretty" Gram said giving her a warm hug.
"Did you bring us presents?" Noah asked.
"Oh of course we did, Have we ever come without presents? come on gather around" Gramps said sitting on the couch.
"here you are" Gram said handing each of them a thin box. They tore them open each person holding up their own shirt.
"Mine says 5 Adams-Foster" Noah read.
"I'm 4" Mariana said. Jesus was 3, Callie was 2, and Brandon was 1.
"We figured now you guys have enough for a team we should get you the jerseys" Gramps said.
"this one is for your sister" Gram said waving a last box.
"Can we wear them to the hospital tonight?" Noah asked.
"Oh course I think your mom would love that" Gram said.
"Noah and I made dinner if you guys want to come eat, and then we can bring the rest to moms" Mariana said.
"That sounds wonderful" Gram nodded as they gathered around the table. Callie had to admit it felt weird doing the family things with out the moms around. The ate and chatted after Mariana and Callie cleaned up the table while Jesus and Brandon did the dishes.
"Can we go see mommy now please?" Noah begged.
"Yeah, we'll have to take momma some clothes" Brandon said.
"I'll grab the leftovers" Mariana said.
"I'll get the gift for mom" Callie said running up the stairs. She grabbed the gift she and Mariana had just finished putting the finishing touches on. They piled into the car and Brandon drove all of them to the hospital.
"Hello" Gram whispered going into the room
"Hey momma" Lena smiled, she was sitting up in the recliner. Stef was on the couch next to her.
"Hi baby, you look wonderful, where's my granddaughter" Gram asked
"They should be back from the nursery any minute" Stef said accepting a hug from Gram before giving one to each of the kids.
"mom look what Gram got us" Noah said taking off his coat showing off his shirt.
"Oh wow it has your name on it' Stef said.
"Not just that" Brandon said as the rest of the kids showed their shirts.
"Oh my goodness look at you" Lena laughed.
"Wow, those will be handy when we go out" Stef said
"And of course the little one" Gram said handing Lena a package.
"Oh, thanks mom" Lena gave her a hug.
"Wow, looks like we're late to the party" the nurse said wheeling the baby into the room.
"Oh no she is the life of the party, Hi there baby girl" Stef cooed taking the baby from the crib cuddling her before placing her in Lena's waiting arms.
"Oh my goodness look at that doll" Gram cried. Gram and Gramps crowed around Lena and the baby Stef stepped back with the kids.
"How's everything going guys?" Stef asked turning to the 5 older children
"Good, Mariana made dinner and we cleaned up, the house is still standing" Brandon said.
"Oh thank you guys for stepping up." Stef smiled at each of them.
"We brought leftovers" Mariana handed her the container.
"Thank you baby, Mommy will be so happy to see this."
"When are you coming home?" Noah asked.
"Soon love, I'm going to stay here with mom tonight but I will pick you guys up from school tomorrow and we will come here to visit mom and I will go home with you guys at night. And Mom and Franky will be able to come home Tuesday" Stef said.
"We have to go to school tomorrow?" Noah sighed.
"Yes love, but after we'll come see mommy ok" Stef said. After a little while Brandon left to take Gram and Gramps to their hotel. Callie took another turn holding Franky and Noah curled up in Lena's lap.
"Can't you come home today mommy?" Noah asked.
"Oh, I will soon sweetie, don't worry" Lena promised.
"Ok They are settled in" Brandon said coming back into the room.
"Thank you B" Lena smiled
"Can we give Frankie her present now?" Noah asked
"Oh a present" Stef smiled as Callie handed the baby to her and Mariana handed Lena the bag.
"Oh my goodness, did you guys make this?" Lena asked pulling out the patch work quilt.
"Yeah, we found a box of our old clothes don't worry we washed them all." Mariana said.
"And we added the picture of all of us in the middle" Callie said stretching it out so they could see the family picture in the middle.
"This way we figured she can always have a little bit of each of us" Mariana said.
"They all have a meaning, See this is my favorite shirt, and Jesus's wrestling Jersey" Brandon said pointing to different fabrics
"And this is that princess dress I wore for a month straight, and these are the shirts Callie and Noah were wearing the first day they came to us" Mariana pointed out. There was fabric from Mariana's quincenera dress, Brandon's baby clothes, extra fabric saved from Lena's wedding dress and some from one of Stef's old police uniforms.
"It's beautiful guys, what a lovely thought." Stef said. Noah yawned and the same time as Lena.
"Ok, I think we have all had a long day." Stef said.
"Aww do we have to go home, we could stay here with you" Mariana said as she cuddled Frankie in her arms.
"Oh, Miss Thing, as much as I love the idea of you all staying here with us tonight, I don't think we have enough room" Lena said
"And I don't think any of us would sleep" Stef added as Mariana handed the infant back to Lena.
"Ok, guys, get to bed on time, and don't press snooze to many times, Noah your in charge of getting all these big kids up for school. I will pick you right after and we will come back to see mom ok" Stef said. The kids nodded and gave them each a hug and kiss before heading home.
"I miss mommy" Noah sulked as Brandon pulled the car into the driveway.
"We're going to see her tomorrow, why don't you go grab a shower and then I will play a game with you" Callie said as they all piled out of the car.
"So now what?" Mariana asked as they all stood inside the door Noah heading upstairs.
"Ok well it's Sunday night right, so is all homework done?" Brandon asked. The four teenagers nodded.
"Ok so we need to make lunches for tomorrow" Brandon said.
"I can do that" Jesus said.
"I'll help" Mariana said.
"Ok, it's trash night so i'm going to bring that to the curb"
"I'll go get Noah's stuff ready for tomorrow" Callie said as they all fanned out to different parts of the house. A few hours later Callie read to Noah before putting him to bed and went downstairs finding the rest of the kids in front of the TV. She pulled over the laundry basket Stef had started to fold the night before to finish it. At 10:00 on the dot Brandon turned off the TV.
"We should get to bed" He said. Callie was surprised that no one argued with him. She put the laundry in the basket to be put away tomorrow following Mariana up the stairs as Brandon made sure all the doors were locked. She brushed her teeth crawling into bed with her book when Brandon appeared in the doorway.
"You guys all set?" He asked.
"Yeah" Callie said. Mariana nodded.
"Ok, don't forget your alarms ok momma's not here to wake us up, good night" Brandon said.
"Night" the girls called after him. Callie heard him go across the hall and tell Jesus the same thing before going into his own room. Callie turned out her light checking her alarm again.
"That's cute" She whispered as Mariana turned out her own light
"What?" Mariana asked.
"That moms are gone and Brandon steps up"
"He has been doing that since we were kids, Gram and Gramps would come for a weekend and moms would go away and he got all parental on us" Mariana said. Callie could practically hear her rolling her eyes
"Yeah, but's super cute" she said again.
"He's so big brother" Mariana laughed.
"So you think he'll make waffles tomorrow morning, I could go for some of those" Callie said.
"Not a chance he got his cooking skills from Momma" Mariana sand making Callie laugh.
The next morning everyone came down on time and sat down to cold cereal as Mike let himself in the front door.
"Oh good your all up" He said as everyone greeted him.
"I was afraid I would have to wake you all up" He laughed messing Noah's hair.
"What are you doing here?" Mariana asked him offering him a bowl.
"Your momma asked me to take you guys to school, B your taking Lena's car and meeting everyone at their school after so your momma can take you all to the hospital" Mike said.
"And we can see mommy?!" Noah cried.
"Yes and you can see your mommy! Go grab your backpack big guy it's getting late!" Mike told him as Noah jumped off his stool.
"Alright lunched made?" Mike asked.
"Yeah, Brandon is on top of everything" Jesus said.
"Good man B!" Mike slapped him on the back. ok Jesus, ladies let's finish up and grab your stuff. B you leave in a few minutes too ok, no one can be late today!" Mike called going back to the front door as everyone put their bowls in the dishwasher.
"I'll run it before I leave" Brandon said.
"Ok, see you later" Callie called over her shoulder following Mike and the rest of the kids out to the car.
Callie was surprised to see Stef and the other kids sitting out on the picnic table in the court yard when she left school
"What's going on?" She asked
"Ok she's here will you tell us now?" Mariana asked.
"Callie sit, ok guys, So I have some bad news, mom may have to stay in the hospital a little longer then we had planes.
"What happened?" Mariana asked.
"mom's ok. she's just losing a little more blood then they like, After you guys left she got a little light headed they gave her some extra last night and she's ok, but they have to watch her closely for a few extra days" Stef said.
"What about the baby?" Mariana asked.
"Frankie is perfectly fine, we can actually go and get her tonight"
"And visit mommy?" Noah asked.
"Actually sweets they moved mom's room so there are no kids aloud in there, or a lot of people, i'm sorry bub you will have to wait a few days until you can see mommy" Stef said gently.
"Can I call her?"
"Oh course she would love to hear your voice she misses you all so much" Stef said
"ok so, so what is this going to look like?" Brandon asked.
"We aren't exactly sure yet, We may have to ask you guys to help out a bit. Frankie is coming home today which means I won't be able to leave the house because she's to little to take anywhere. So B, Callie, Jesus and Mariana, I think if you guys could take turns visiting mom, if there is one of you there for a few hours after school everyday I think it will make her really happy. It won't be for long, we just have to get through the next few days ok" Stef said. Everyone nodded.
"Ok Babies, I'll take you home now and then Callie you want to come with me to get Frankie?" Stef asked. Callie nodded.
"Ok, Thank you guys for doing so much the past few days, Mom and I are both very proud of you" Stef said.
"Mom's really ok?" Mariana asked.
"Yeah of course, she just misses you all" Stef said.
"Ok love Frankie is just getting checked out one last time why don't you run down and see mom, she's on the third floor room 328" Stef said. Callie nodded heading back to the elevators. The third floor was not at pink and baby cute as the original floor was. Callie found Lena's room and went in quietly. Lena was resting, she looked pale and sick. Her eyes fluttered when she heard Callie come in.
"Hey sweetheart" She whispered trying to sit up but looking like it took a lot of effort.
"Hi" Callie said shyly from against the door.
"come here" Lena laughed a little and Callie went to her being wrapped in a big hug.
"Noah is so pissed your in here" Callie told her making her laugh.
"Oh i'm not to happy about it myself" Lena said.
"We are taking Frankie home"
"I know, i'm so glad she will be home with you guys, I wish I could go too" Lena sighed.
"We will take good care of her." Callie promised. There was a knock on the door and Stef came in.
"Someone wanted to come say good bye before she came home with us" Stef whispered carrying the baby into the room.
"Oh my goodness, I'm glad she gets to go home today but I wish I was going with her" Lena said sadly.
"You rest up love, you will be home with us soon." Stef said holding the baby out so Lena could kiss her little cheek.
"How are you going to do this by yourself, All the kids alone and she won't sleep tonight…" Lena started
"Hey, you let me worry about that, I have however long we need until I have to go back to work, I'll sleep when she sleeps the kids will help, your parents are here for one more day. we will be fine I promise, you just relax and don't worry" Stef said.
"Oh my parents! are they still coming over to the house for dinner tonight?" Lena asked.
"I redirected them to you if that's ok" Stef said.
"Yeah, yeah no send them here with food, that way you don't have to cook on top of everything else" Lena said.
"Stop worrying about me, you just get better so you can come home to us" Stef said kissing her forehead.
"Ok you have everything?"
"We are all set mommy I promise" Stef said. Callie leaned down giving Lena a hug and kiss before accepting the baby from Stef so she could say good bye.
"I'll call you later ok, Brandon and Mariana will be by after school tomorrow" Stef said. Lena nodded.
"Oh, My love, I can't believe I have to leave you here" Stef said. Callie watched them the baby nestled in her arms.
"Ok see you soon" Stef said giving Lena another kiss and following Callie out the door.
"Poor mom" Callie said as Stef knelt to buckle the baby into the carrier.
"Yeah I know she's sad about not being able to be with Frankie for a few days" Stef agreed.
"But we can handle it, I mean she's been sleeping the whole time how much work can she be" Callie said.
Callie rolled over in her bed 11:30pm. Downstairs the baby was howling at the top of her lungs. Mariana was asleep with her head between two pillows. Callie sighed getting up. Stef had been down there for at lest two hours. She passed the boys room and saw the door closed with blankets shoved under it to keep the noise out. Brandon was asleep with headphones in his ears. Callie descended the stairs and saw Stef pacing the living room with the baby trying to calm her.
"Sorry sweetie did she wake you?"
"Oh no, I never fell asleep" Callie said.
"Oh i'm sorry love, she knows mom's not here and she doesn't want to take the bottle" Stef sighed.
"Can I hold her?" Callie asked. Stef nodded passing her the baby. Frankie howled balling up her tiny fists and legs. Her face was red and her dark hair was spewing out in all directions having lost her hat.
"What's wrong with her?" Mariana asked coming down the stairs
"Oh she's just boing a newborn" Stef sighed shaking out her arms. Callie felt bad about waiting so long to come down. Stef had been walking with the baby to calm her since they had gotten home.
"Frankie, hey Frankie" Mariana cooed to the baby who howled louder. Stef spread a blanket out on the floor.
"Here love put her here i'm going to try to swaddle her again" Stef said as Callie lay the baby on the blanket Stef wrapped her up tight so only her head was peeking out.
"Oh man's she a burrito" Mariana said.
"Don't leave her on the table Jesus will eat her" Callie said. Stef laughed picking up the baby who was still screaming.
"What can we do?" Callie asked.
"Mariana will you bring the buggy in here please, Callie go grab my phone, I didn't want to do this but I don't think I have a choice" Stef sighed as Mariana wheeled the strolled into the living room Stef lay the baby down and took her phone pressing the speed dial and putting it on speaker.
"Hello" They heard Lena's sleepy voice say.
"Hey love i'm sorry to wake you"
"Is everything ok?" Lena asked.
"I think she needs to hear your voice" Stef said she put the phone near the babies' head in the bassinet and sunk down into the couch rolling he stroller back and forth slowly.
"Francesca, hi baby, Francesca" Lena cooed and suddenly the babies' cried got softer.
"Hi, hi love, what are you doing to your momma, you don't want to sleep" Lena went on as the baby grew quiet.
"It's working!" Mariana cried.
"SHhh" Callie put her finger to her lips. She took the stroller from Stef and slowly wheeled it around the coffee table. Lena talked softly through the phone, she hummed and sang Callie watched as Frankie's eyes closed. She stopped pushing her and picked up the phone taking it off speaker.
"She fell asleep" Callie whispered.
"Oh good, Thank you of helping, how's momma?" Lena asked.
"ummm, she's asleep" Callie said looking over to the couch were Stef and Mariana were curled up together.
"Oh your poor momma" Lena laughed a little.
"We miss you, even Frankie can feel the emptiness" Callie sighed.
"I miss you guys too sweets" Lena whispered.
"I should probably go to bed, I'll talk to you tomorrow"
"Ok, Good night, sleep well" Lena said and Callie hung up the phone. Ever so gently she took the bassinet off the stroller putting it on the stand by the couch. She turned off the lights leaving only a lamp on and put Stef's phone on the charger near her.
When Callie woke up the next morning Mariana was in her bed in their room.
"I take it that baby didn't sleep through the rest of the night?" Callie asked as they both sat up.
"She woke up around 1 and Momma put her in the car to drive her around. I don't know what happened after that I came up here" Mariana said. Callie threw on her clothes and went downstairs. Noah was at the table eating cereal, Jesus was making lunches, Frankie was asleep in the swing in the nook and Stef was nursing a big cup of coffee.
"How was the rest of the night?" Callie asked.
"Oh she fell asleep at sun rise, apparently she is not aware of day and night yet, thank you for your help last night love" Stef said.
"cereal for breakfast?" Brandon asked coming down the stairs.
"Unless you want to make something" Stef nodded.
"So I can go visit mom today right?" Mariana asked.
"umm yes, ok guys listen up, Brandon your dad is coming to pick you up in five minutes everyone else please walk to school today, Brandon after school you can take my car to pick up the rest of the kids and then you and Mariana can go take some food to mom and sit with her. She will be happy to see you guys. Jesus your in charge of dinner tonight, I don't care if you buy it, make, it order it just tell me how much money you need" Stef said.
"I wish I could go see mommy" Noah said.
"I know love, we will call her before bed tonight' Stef said as the doorbell rang.
"Oh no, if that is your mom's parents send them away" Stef sighed. Callie got up to answer it.
"Hey" She greeted Mike who stepped inside and followed her into the kitchen.
"Wow, you look good" He laughed at Stef.
"Oh, I am way more rusty then I thought, this was a lot easier when I was 21" Stef sighed.
"when will you get Lena back?"
"Not soon enough" Mariana sighed making them all laugh a little.
"Oh man is that her" Mike said going over to the swing.
"If you wake her you die" Stef warned him. he ignored her.
"Wow you forget how little they are" Mike whispered
"Humans are born little but with big eyes because it makes the parents less likely to eat their young, their big eyes make them more attractive to the species" Noah said.
"Well ok, makes sense" Stef nodded
"Alright B we better go before your late, I'll drop him off after school, I can pick up the rest of the kids this afternoon" Mike said.
"That would be lovely thanks" Stef nodded
"ok, get some sleep or something your a mess" Mike said as Stef rolled her eyes.
"Oh is that what I need, thank's I couldn't figure out why I can't hold my head up" Stef called after him.
"Are you going to make it through the day?" Callie asked picking up the breakfast dishes.
"Yes love, thank you but if I keep you home from school we both know mom will have a stroke, besides Gram and Gramps are coming soon to say goodbye so maybe I can hand her off for a little bit" Stef said.
"You just have been up since like Friday morning" Callie said remembering her mom had not gotten any sleep since Lena had first gone into labor.
"I am good my love, thank you. But I tell you what, this afternoon when you get home I may take you up on some babysitting while I close my eyes ok?"
"Ok" Callie smiled.
"Have a good day love" Stef said giving Callie a kiss on the forehead.
"bye momma" Callie said following Jesus out of the house.
"What are you making for dinner?" Callie asked Jesus as they walked through the front door with Noah. Mike had dropped them off and Brandon and Mariana were going right to the hospital.
"I was just going to order a pizza or something."
"Ok but remember Mariana is off carbs, and Brandon can't eat that much cheese, And Noah hates any kind of meat on Pizza" Callie said
"So your telling me to get something else?" Jesus asked.
"What about the chicken soup in the pantry with some salad" Callie offed
"I don't know how to cook that" Jesus said.
"I will, if you do the dishes for me tomorrow" Callie turned to him.
"Deal" Jesus said shaking her hand.
"Where's Momma?" Noah asked.
"I don't know, don't be loud ok it sounds like Frankie is sleeping" Callie whispered
"Come on man i'll help you with your homework at the table" Jesus said leading him into the kitchen. Callie went upstairs peeking into Stef's room. Stef was asleep on the bed, piles of laundry gathered around her, an unfinished bottle sat on the table next to her bed, she was wearing the same clothes since yesterday. Callie when over to the bassinet, Frankie was swaddled up tight sleeping. Callie snapped a picture sending it to Lena then took the bassinet from it's stand ever so gently and carried it downstairs. Setting in on the stand they had set up downstairs.
"what are you doing?" Jesus whispered.
"Momma has not slept in two days, I'll take care of her for a little bit" Callie answered sitting down to start her homework on the couch. Frankie woke up a little while later and Callie quickly made a bottle for her and Jesus fed her on the couch while Callie started dinner.
"She's burped and fed" Jesus said carrying her into the kitchen.
"Thank's just put her in the swing" Callie said cutting up the carrots.
"Hey" Brandon called coming in with Mariana.
"How's Mommy?" Noah asked.
"She's good, she's looking a lot better I think they are releasing her tomorrow" Mariana said.
"Oh that's so good" Callie smiled.
"Yeah she was happy to see real food" Brandon nodded.
"I bet, this is almost ready, Noah can you set the table?" Callie asked.
"Were's momma?" Brandon asked
"She has been sleeping since we got home, she needed it, we can save her some" Callie said putting the bowls on the table as they all sat down in their seats. Jesus looked at the empty end of each table.
"This feels so wrong" Mariana said reading his mind.
"Well if mom's coming home tomorrow it wont last long right" Callie said. In her swing Frankie started to fuss. Mariana jumped up to get her and sat back down with the baby nestled in her elbow.
"So how was everyones day?" Jesus asked making them all laugh
"What, that's a question moms usually ask" He said a little offended.
"Is there a schedule for tomorrow?" Brandon asked.
"I think we should skip after school activities again tomorrow, if Mom is coming home maybe we could all have dinner together and a movie night" Callie offered
"Your right" Mariana agreed
"We can stop at the grocery store on the way home from school tomorrow and pick up some more things to make for dinner" Brandon said.
"That's a good idea, we should get mom's favorite" Jesus said making everyone nod.
"And apple pie, she loves that" Noah piped up. Frankie squirmed and Jesus jumped up quickly grabbing a blanket for Mariana to wrap her in.
"Who's night is it for dishes?" Mariana asked when the baby was settled.
"Mine" Brandon raised his hand.
"I can pack lunches while you do that, tuna ok with everyone?" Callie asked. They all nodded.
"I'll help" Jesus told her.
"I'll go over your homework with you after dinner Noah" Mariana said. He nodded in agreement.
"Well, look at this" Stef said making them all jump.
"How long have you been there?" Mariana asked as they all turned to see her leaning against the doorway.
"long enough to know I have the best babies in the world" Stef laughed squishing the twins in a hug and kissing their cheeks
"We didn't want to wake you" Callie said.
"Oh, thank you love, wow look at all this what a wonderful job, look at you all" Stef smiled looking around the table at each kid.
"What?" Noah asked
"You made a healthy dinner, your sitting at the table not in front of the TV, your telling each other about your day, your planing for the next one, your helping each other out.." Stef smiled
"Well…It's what we always do at dinner" Mariana shrugged.
"Oh my babies you guys are wonderful and I love you so much" Stef smiled
"Sit, here we saved you some" Callie said placing a bowl in front of Stef's spot as they sat together.
"Welcome home!" Everyone cried as Stef opened the door leading Lena in the next afternoon.
"Oh it's so good to be home" Lena smiled
"Ok Jesus get the other bag in the car. B can you help mom upstairs to our bed, Callie bring the baby. everyone upstairs in 5 minutes please" Stef called Callie gently lifted Frankie from her swing. As soon as Lena was settled in her bed she put her arms out for the baby and cuddled her as soon as Callie handed her over.
"Oh it's good to be home" Lena signed sitting up with the baby tucked into her arms.
"It's good to have you home" Callie said sitting cross-legged on the bed as everyone came in.
"Ok guys first mom and I really want to thank you for all you did the last few days. You all really stepped up and took care of each other and we really really appreciate that" Stef said.
"I missed you all so much but when momma told me how you were helping out and working together I was really happy" Lena nodded beaming at all the kids.
"We are going to make you dinner" Noah said snuggling up close to Lena with his head on her shoulder.
"Thank you my love" Lena kissed his forehead.
"We thought we could have a family dinner and a movie night?" Mariana asked
"But it's ok if your not up for it" Brandon added quickly.
"No, no of course I am!" Lena cried.
"Ok guys let's let mommy rest for a little bit we can call you when dinner is ready" Stef said as the kids all jumped off the bed. As Stef was following them out of the room Mariana turned to stop here.
"No momma, we're making dinner, you stay up here" Mariana said pointing her back into the bedroom and closing the door behind her.
"Well ok" Stef laughed a little climbing next to Lena on their bed.
"Oh my gosh I could look at her all day" Stef sighed taking the baby in her arms as Lena curled up around both of them.
"It's so good to be home" Lena sighed happily
"Oh it's good to have you home. I missed you" Stef nodded kissing her forehead.
"And you managed the two days alone with five kids and a newborn?" Lena asked.
"Oh the kids were a breeze, I have a feeling this girl is going to give us a run for our money" Steph said running her hand over Frankie's long curly black hair.
"Just like her momma" Lena whispered. when suddenly there was a crashing sound downstairs.
"My bad!" Jesus called as Stef and Lena both burst out laughing.
"Oh my goodness welcome home my love" Stef said kissing Lena again.
The doorbell rang early Saturday afternoon. Lena was sitting in the nook reading, Frankie dozed in there swing near by. Stef had taken the boys to the market with her and Mariana had asked to go to the mall with Lexie. They had begged Callie to come but Callie was not the kind of girl to spend all day shopping.
"Can you get that sweetie!" Lena called trying to make her voice travel up the stairs.
"Coming" Callie yelled back down taking the steps two at a time wondering who was at the door. She opened it as a red haired women stood there a suite case in her hand.
"Oh..you must be Callie" The women cried pulling her into a tight hug. Callie wracked her brain trying to remember if she knew who this women was. Thankfully Lena appeared in the doorway of the kitchen.
"Oh Sharon! Did we know you were coming!" Lena asked making her way over as the women gathered Lena into a hug. Callie was still confused as the women pulled away.
"Well I didn't call. Stephanie is going to be so mad at me…but what do you expect you had a baby, god look at you, you can't even tell can you?" She sighed looking over Lena's thin figure.
"Callie this is Stef's mom" Lena said and Callie finally put everything together.
"It's nice to meet you" Callie smiled.
"oh call me Grandma, now where is this girl" Sharon said dropping her suitcase and looking around the living room.
"Let me bring her to you have a seat" Lena said heading back into the kitchen as Sharon sat on the couch. Callie chose a chair next to her.
"Oh Callie, your momma talks about you all the time, she's a big fan of yours" Sharon winked at her.
"Yeah, I like her too" Callie smiled as Lena came back in.
"Oh my golly isn't she a doll! Look at those curls!" Sharon cried as Lena handed her the baby, Frankie gave a little whine in protest but then settled back down. Lena smiled sitting down next to Callie.
"She's absolutely beautiful look at that face, oh man I forgot how little they are" Sharon said.
"Well sure when they all look like this now" Lena smiled putting her arm around Callie.
"How is the sleeping going?" Shannon asked
"Oh we get about two hours at a time, she's getting better though. that's one good thing about so many people in the house, I think she call tell night from day by the noise level" Lena laughed.
"Well she's as cute as a button" Sharon smiled tapping a finger on Frankie's nose.
"So how long are you here for?" Lena asked.
"just a few days, but I booked a hotel! I don't want to put you guys out"
"Oh no no there i sure need we have the room" Lena cried.
"Sweetie you have six kids, there's no room" Sharon said.
"Brandon will be happy to bunk with the boys and you can take his room" Lena said. Callie gave a little smirk she hoped she was there when Lena told him and Jesus they would be roommates for a while. Frankie gave a cry and quickly got louder.
"Oh she's hungry, I'll take her upstairs, Stef should be here any minute" Lena said taking the baby and heading upstairs to nurse her.
"So Callie, tell me about you" Sharon said leaning back on the couch. Callie shrugged giving a little smile. She hated being the center of attention.
"Hello" Stef called coming through the front door saving her.
"Hey Callie girl grab a bag sweets?" Stef said seeing Callie in the living room.
"Sure, but um look who's here" Callie said.
"Who love?" Stef asked walking further into the house to see into the living room.
"Mom" Stef said
"Surprise!" Sharon cried jumping up to give her a hug.
"What…what are you doing here?" Stef asked.
"Oh can't a grandmother come see her new granddaughter!" Sharon said.
"Umm yeah but a call would have been nice" Stef muttered.
"Hey grandma!" Jesus cried coming in he dropped the bags on the floor as the women gave him a hug.
"Love where's mom?" Stef asked Callie.
"Upstairs with the baby" Callie said taking the bags from Stef as she went up the stairs.
"See I told you she would be mad" Sharon said giving Callie a wink.
"It's just a phone call, just to say hey can i come for the weekend" Stef sighed flopping down onto the bed face first. Lena laughed a little.
"Sweetie she's excited she wanted to see the baby, the kids will all be happy to see her" Lena said
"But…ugh" Stef sighed again.
"Listen she will stay for a few days entertain the kids we may get some quiet time alone it won't be so bad" Lena tried again.
"Ugh your right, your right, and I should be happy she's here right. I mean she took a plane to get here my dad would never drive the three blocks to come down." Stef said pulling herself up and sitting next to Lena as Frankie started squirming. Lena handed the baby to Stef fixing her shirt as Stef put the baby over her shoulder patting her back.
"I know your mom drives you crazy, but she's just here for the kids this time, you could probably get away with spending less time with her" Lena offered
"I love her, she just stresses me out"
"Well that's what mom's do, be grateful you only have one, our kids are going to be pulling their hair out when they have two moms coming to visit them" Lena joked as Stef lowered the baby into her elbow.
"Oh no, we are a delight" Stef cooed rubbing her finger down Frankie's tiny nose.
"Oh there you are, I was going to make dinner for tonight, what about some hotdogs?" Sharon asked as Stef and Lena came back down the stairs.
"That's not healthy" Noah said before Stef could answer.
"Oh don't tell me you are on a health kick too, I swear everyone in Florida is on some kind of diet" Sharon sighed
"It's not a kick mom we always eat healthy Lena likes to eat well and it's good for the kids too" Stef said as Lena slipped Frankie into her swing turning in on low as her eyes were already closing slowly.
"Well what can I do? I came to help out" Sharon said.
"How about you take the big kids out, they have been kind of cooped up the past few weeks" Stef offered.
"I can do that! I can take them out to eat and bowling! Do they all like bowling?"
"Bowling is good" Lena nodded.
"alright, troops!" Sharon yelled. Frankie startled and let out a shriek.
"Now you did it"Noah whispered as the four teenagers wondered into the living room.
"Oh my bad" Sharon laughed covering her mouth as Stef took the baby into her arms trying to sooth her.
"Ok guys, Grandma is going to take you out for a treat ok! Please behave and look after each other" Lena said as the kids quickly grabbed shoes relieved to get out of the house for a while. Lena felt a little guilty, they had not done anything fun since before the baby was born.
"Ok where do we want to eat?" Sharon asked.
"Mexican" Jesus said.
"No way, Italian" Mariana cried.
"I want burger king!" Noah yelled.
"No burger king, what about that sandwich place" Callie cried
"That shut down, Chinese is on the way" Brandon said.
"I'm not eating Chinese" Mariana cried.
"Sandwiches? what kind of food is that, I need real food" Jesus argued.
"I want pasta then" Noah cried.
"Ok, ok!" Stef raised her hands calling for quiet.
"Little tip never ask the 5 of them what they want because you'll get 5 different things. You give three options and we vote" Stef said.
"Ok, so Chinese, because B is right it's close, or the little diner on Main, you guys know you can all find something you love there, or Mexican" Lena said.
"Diner" The kids all said nodding to each other.
"Ok perfect!" Sharon cried.
"Miss Thing you need a sweater over that" Lena said looking at Mariana's strapless dress.
"Mom" Mariana sighed.
"You can wear my jean jacket" Callie said pulling it from the closet handing it to her.
"Oh, that actually looks cute" Mariana said putting it on.
"Ok, so your all set, have fun!" Stef called as everyone gave her and Lena a quick hug and kiss and left.
"Oh man" Lena sighed sinking into the couch. Stef sat down next to her as Frankie settled into her arms.
"Now what?" Stef asked.
"You ever think…this is how normal people do it, married for one year, one new baby and nothing else" Lena said.
"Hey I did this, it's not all it's cracked up to be" Stef laughed.
"It is kind of boring" Lena laughed putting her feet up.
"Oh yeah, i'd rather have the 4 teenagers, the crazy little boy and new born, it makes life more exciting" Stef smiled
"mmm you make life more exciting" Lena sighed closing her eyes.
"Ok, you take a nap, i'm going to go heat up some leftovers and watch the dvr" Stef smiled kissing her forehead.
"Perfect" Lena winked.
"Alright I picked up the troops, everyone is doing homework" Sharon told Lena wondering into the nook where Lena was folding a basket of laundry
"Thank you very much. Stef just went to go pick up some paperwork and she is bring home dinner" Lena said.
"Let me do that for you" Sharon said reaching for the basket.
"Oh no, thank you but I feel like I am losing my mind staying home all day" Lena let out a little laugh.
"Yeah I remember that. Have you decided what your join to do about returning to work?" Sharon asked.
"Well, I'm on leave until the summer anyway. When September comes we are going to take it slow. Stef will cut down her hours a little, I can bring the baby to work somedays and work from home. We are really hoping to skip daycare but we might get a nanny a few days a week" Lena sighed.
"Well and Brandon will be home more with his collage classes right?"
"Yes but we don't want to subject the kids to babysitting" Lena laughed a little.
"Oh no? Free babysitting!"
"Yes, maybe sometimes we will ask but we don't want to be scheduling them in, they are kids first"
"Well, I know one girl who I bet will jump to it whenever you ask" Sharon said raising an eyebrow. Lena gave a little smile, she knew exactly who she was talking about. All the kids loved and fawned over the baby, but Callie had taken a special interest in her and seeing her oldest daughter bond so much with the infant was enough to truly melt Lena's heart.
"She has come such a long way" Lena nodded as the front door opened.
"Hi babies!" Stef called. Suddenly the upstairs of the house came alive and Lena laughed to hear the kids come down the stairs. Jesus grabbed the takeout bag from Stef's hands bringing it over to the table. Brandon and Mariana reached for plates and Noah grabbed cups as they lay everything out.
"Wow they must be hungry" Stef laughed walking over to Lena greeting her with a kiss and gently kissing Frankie's fingers.
"Come on guys!" Jesus called as they got up walking over to the table.
"Mhhm this smells good" Lena said as Stef took Frankie in her arms sitting on her stool picking up her fork.
"So how was school?" Stef asked.
"Jesus got detention" Mariana said giving her twin a face.
"Hey!" Jesus yelled
"Why?" Lena asked
"It wasn't my fault!" Jesus said.
"It was my fault" Noah said looking down at his plate
"Well what exactly happened?" Stef asked surprised.
"Some of the 7th graders were picking on him and Jesus heard them" Callie said.
"So what did you do?" Lena asked Jesus.
"I just made sure they know not to pick on my little brother" Jesus shrugged.
"He didn't do anything bad, he just got caught yelling at them and it looked bad" Brandon said.
"I wanted to hang them on the flagpole by their underwear" Jesus said making Noah giggle.
"Well i'm glad you were able to restrain yourself" Stef muttered giving him a look.
"So did the other boys get into trouble?" Lena asked.
"Yeah, two weeks detention" Jesus said.
"Good" Mariana said.
"What were the boys saying to you Noah?" Lena asked.
"Just stupid stuff" Noah muttered.
"They made fun of him for having two moms, and called him a baby" Mariana said.
"You all saw this?" Lena asked
"Yeah, we all gave them a good talking to" Brandon said.
"But Jesus is the only one in trouble?"
"Well he was the only one dumb enough to keep talking to them when principal Knight came outside" Mariana said.
"Well, Thank you for sticking up for your brother, all of you, and Noah you know what those kids said is not true" Stef said addressing them all.
"I know, Mariana and Callie said it was just because they were jealous" Noah said brightly.
"That's right" Lena nodded
"So am I grounded?" Jesus asked.
"For what?" Lena asked.
"Getting detention" Jesus said.
"Well since you all admitted to doing the same thing we would have to ground all of you, but no, none of you are grounded" Stef said glancing at Lena who nodded.
"In the future Noah tell a teacher when something like that is happening" Lena said.
"Well you weren't there" Noah gave her a pointed look.
"Don't worry mom we have it under control" Mariana said giving Lena a smile.
"Well look at you little man, your own personal body guards" Stef laughed