There is a lot going on in this chapter. A. Lot. But there are just a few chapters left and I needed to move the storylines along since time jumps will start after this chapter. Small ones first, then bigger with each remaining chapter.
Carrying On!
Chapter 17- His Dreams Were Coming True
Carl was in the middle of leaping across the sofa, to the loveseat, to the matching overstuffed chair and around again when his mother charged upstairs and set his little mischievous ass straight.
"Carl! You know better! This is NOT your personal space!" Michonne hollered and Carl quickly stopped jumping on the couch and smiled at his mother innocently.
By the second week of June, everything that Michonne owned was sitting in large boxes throughout their new house that was miraculously done on time. Michonne finally thought the house was near perfect and Rick was relieved snarking that completion dates come to fruition when you leave stuff alone and stop changing thangs. Michonne responded with an elevator gaze for the record books. Carl was excited about his new home more than anybody else, believing the entire upstairs was solely his domain and could do whatever he wanted including vaulting across Michonne's old living room furniture that was now occupying the spacious second floor living area.
"BUT…," Carl tried to plead his case, but Michonne put her hand up halting her son's usual antics.
"But nothing Carl! Just because your dad's and my bedroom is downstairs and yours is up here DOES NOT mean this whole area is your little private boy cave!" Michonne clarified for the umpteenth time.
"Man cave mom," Carl grinned and Michonne almost smiled but decided to purse her lips tightly instead.
Carl was not going to distract Michonne with his little charms today.
"Like I said, BOY CAVE! You have YOUR room, Carl. That's It!" Michonne hollered and narrowed her eyes at Carl who looked skeptical.
"And THAT ain't even yours. Your room is mine and your mama's. All of this up here is me and your mama's. Remember that. Now stop jumping on the furniture and go finish unpacking your boxes, Carl. Now!" Rick ordered, and Carl moped all the way to his room garnering a humorous grin from his father.
"That boy," Michonne smirked and was about to give her husband a kiss but was interrupted by Abe.
"I'M RETURNING THE FAVOR WHEN ROSITA AND I MOVE!" Abe shouted from downstairs, "Y'ALL UP THERE RELAXING WHILE YOU GOT ME DOWN HERE DOING ALL THE WORK!"
Rick chuckled and gave Michonne a quick peck on the lips before heading back downstairs to finish setting up the rest of the furniture. Rick and the guys started with Carl's second floor bedroom then moved Michonne's old furniture into the upper family room. The living room furniture, dining room, and kitchen table were completed next. Currently, Abe and Darryl were setting up Rick and Michonne's master and T-Dog was on his way to the house to help Rick take care of the guest bedroom and nursery as soon as the last of the furniture arrived.
"I'm coming. Hold your horses!" Rick hollered as he strode down the steps.
There was a lot going on, but Rick was on cloud nine, excited to move from the farm into their own home, ready for the privacy that came along with it, especially since Carl had reverted back to sleeping in his own space again. Rick was tired of Michonne keeping her legs tightly closed simply because she would be horrified if any of the multitude of people living at the farm heard their sexy, and sometimes loud antics inside their little room. Michonne also refused to go behind the barn again and that left Rick sexually frustrated for the last several weeks. Rick was ready for that bed to be set up and Abe and the rest to be gone.
"What y'all got planned after we finish?" Rick cluelessly asked and Darryl looked at him incredulously.
"What the hell you mean 'What y'all got planned after we finish?' Darryl mocked, "Michonne promised us a meal and some drinks. Sasha will be here in about thirty minutes and my pregnant wife is gonna be ready to eat! Me too! You were supposed to be smoking some meat. In fact, why it don't smell like meat Rick!" Darryl almost shouted and Rick looked confused as hell.
"I didn't say we were having ABar-B-Que, Darryl. I said we are having Bar-B-Que. Calm down greedy," Michonne chuckled, and Darryl eyed her in disbelief, "And it's only 10:30am. Sasha needs to stop and get her some breakfast."
"You calling me greedy?" Darryl grinned in amazement, "Ain't that the pot calling the kettle!"
"Hush Darryl, I ordered from Franklin's Meat Joint, that new restaurant that just opened. You know him, right Rick? You give Franklin the evil eye because he was eyeing your mama?" Michonne giggled and Rick sucked his teeth.
Rick annoyingly noticed that Franklin grinned a little too widely at Ella and gave her extra helpings and a free dessert when they all ate at the place a week ago at its grand opening.
"Uh huh," Rick muttered under his breath, "He needs to focus less on my mama and more on getting them ribs tender."
"Nah Rick. Don't lie. That perfectly seasoned meat was falling off the damn bone and you know it. Don't hate on that man's food just because Frank was licking his lips at your mama more than you were licking your fingers after shoveling that delicious brisket through your pie hole," Abe laughed and quickly stopped when Rick tilted his head and squinted his eyes, "Sorry boss. Stop looking at my neck please."
That got all of them to laughing and Rick joined in. Rick had since learned to embrace what happened instead of avoiding the issue and making the atmosphere awkward and uncomfortable for everyone anytime a person kidded about his infamous deed. What happened was going to be mentioned and Rick figured it was easier to own it instead of ignoring the notorious nibble. Once Rick accepted that nugget of wisdom, most people talked about it less and less. All except Abraham Ford it seemed.
"I'm picking up the order in a few hours Darryl, so keep working," Michonne commanded pointing at the headboard of the bed they were assembling.
Not only was their house progressing, but Rick and Michonne's lives were also. Carl was already making tons of friends at the King County Recreation Center. He was also learning how to play baseball, and it seemed Carl was a natural and Rick attributed Carl's inherent talent to DNA. Rick was a pretty good baseball player in high school, at least before he quit the team, along with everything else short of life after Michonne left. Their small farm wedding was only a week away and Michonne had to actively take deep breaths to keep from being overwhelmed by it all. Between the move, the wedding, being four months pregnant, and officially starting work at Dixon and Hawthorne Law Firm, it was all a little consuming. Michonne was exhausted just trying to persuade Rick as to why it was better to use her soon-to-be maiden name for the office instead of Grimes. Rick finally acquiesced when Michonne convinced him it was best since the Grimes name was associated with the Sheriff's department. Michonne was inundated and depleted, but she was enjoying every tired minute of her life.
"Well good, and I hope you didn't skimp on the meat Michonne. I will probably need seconds and thirds after all this work. We been at it since 7am!" Darryl snapped and elevatored eyed Michonne who snorted.
"You will get what I give you and like it, Darryl!" Michonne returned and Darryl grinned realizing just how much he missed arguing with penny-pinching, deal making Michonne.
"I will just eat your share of meat, and you can get full off the sides then," Darryl laughed, and Abe and Rick shook their heads at the verbal shenanigans.
"You would take nourishment from my unborn baby Darryl!" Michonne sniffled with faux disbelief poorly hidden by her slight smile.
"How are we gonna eat if we don't ever finish because all y'all want to sit around and shoot the shit all day! Darryl, get the damn mattress please!" Abe ordered and Darryl laughed and complied.
A few minutes later, the doorbell rang and Michonne was thrilled that their new guest room, and nursery furniture arrived earlier than expected which meant the guys could finish setting everything up before they ate the heavy meal and food comas set in. Michonne watched Theodore pull in the driveway and was surprised when Shane jumped out of the passenger seat while T-dog pulled his tools from the trunk.
"Hey Shane, how are you? I didn't know you were coming. Did you bring Vivian?" Michonne asked looking around, "She can go up to the game room with Carl. We set that up first!"
"Nah, she is still in Manville. Lori's parents asked if she could stay for the summer. It would give me time to clean out the house and get my head together, so I agreed. They have been a huge help," Shane explained and Michonne subtly narrowed her eyes wondering if Shane was that naïve.
"Shane, we will help you clean out the house!" Michonne offered and watched Shane shake his head.
"It's all right. It's mostly me going through all of Lori's things and taking down the nursery. I think I want to do all that alone, you know?" Shane explained and Michonne nodded her head in understanding.
"Ok, but if you change your mind Shane, we are all here for…. Hey, Theodore, perfect timing! You and Shane can help Rick set up the guest room and nursery," Michonne directed as she watched Shane closely.
"Of course. Hey, I thought I would smell BBQ by now. Is it a BBQ or a Cookout?" T-Dog probed having his mouth set for ribs and sausage and not hamburgers and hotdogs.
"I swear…," Michonne uttered with a deep breath, "I am getting the food from Franklin's," Michonne assured and could not help but to grin at T-Dogs wide, gap-toothed smile.
Michonne let Rick know Shane and T-Dog were in the guestroom and Rick was shocked that Shane came to help. Shane told Rick he just needed a break from being alone and needed some good company.
"The party has arrived!" Andrea hollered when she entered the house twenty minutes later followed by Rosita and Sasha.
"MOVE ANDREA! I HAVE TO PEE!" Sasha demanded while trying to wobble around the feisty blond and into the house as fast as she could.
"Oh crap. Rosita, help me find the toilet paper box! Andrea, you start in the kitchen please!" Michonne shouted and darted into the house.
Sasha evil eyed Michonne indicating she better hurry up and ambled slowly to the guest bathroom.
"FOUND IT!" Rosita cheered and hurriedly gave a roll to Sasha just before she shut the bathroom door.
By the end of the evening, most of the boxes were unpacked, and all the furniture set up. The leftovers that were not snatched by the group were put away in the refrigerator and Carl was in the game room asleep on the couch. Rick and Michonne were getting settled in bed.
"I'm surprised Rosita and Abe didn't want to stay here. I wonder why they wanted to go to the farm instead?" Michonne pondered as she slid underneath the covers.
"Are you making a big country breakfast in the morning?" Rick asked with a chuckle.
"No. It's oatmeal and toast Rick. I am tired!" Michonne replied incredulously and Rick grinned and kissed her cheek.
"Well, mama is. And now that there is a spare room at the farm, it was not even a contest. Abe ain't passing up that meal," Rick chuckled, "He even requested biscuits and gravy like the farm doubles as a damn diner complete with menus."
"And you know Ella is gonna make it," Michonne laughed then frowned when Rick began to lift her sleep shirt.
Michonne just told Rick she was tired!
"Mama said we are living in sin," Rick chuckled and kissed her naked breast.
"Did Mrs. Ella say that for real?" Michonne asked, eyeing Rick, and pulling down her pajama top.
"Yup, so I guess it's best to keep sinning so my mama ain't no liar. At least we are consistent. We have two babies out of wedlock too!" Rick grinned and kissed Michonne on her neck, sliding her t-shirt up again.
Michonne worriedly edged away from Rick and Rick was confused.
"Rick! I can't believe she thinks that!" Michonne hollered and lightly slapped his hand away when he attempted to pull her back towards him.
"She was just playing Michonne. She's just not ready for us to leave the farm. She liked having us there and wanted us to stay another week and move after the wedding. She is going to miss seeing Carl every day is all," Rick assured still trying to get Michonne to open up dem legs for daddy.
"We live ten minutes away from the farm, and like fifteen away from the bed and breakfast. She will probably still see us every day. Besides, she is at her construction site more often than not," Michonne reminded anxiously.
"Yes, but we ain't there for breakfast and dinner. She invited us to come in the morning, but I told her we wanted to cook and eat the first morning in our new home as a family. She is gonna have to get used to us not being there sooner or later. Now, about that sinning," Rick repeated and pulled Michonne closer to him.
Michonne placed her hands tenderly on his cheeks and lovingly gazed into his deep beautiful blue eyes.
"We are going Rick. So let's get some sleep. We are both exhausted and have to be up early to get to the farm in time," Michonne directed scooting to her side of the bed and turning her back to him.
Rick blinked excessively at his fiancé who was now on the other side of their California King sized bed, and he blew out a breath of frustration.
"Fine Michonne, but if she asks you to move back until the wedding, I am putting my foot down! You hear me?" Rick asked with accusing eyes, but Michonne did not respond, "Michonne? I know you ain't sleep that fast. You hear me!"
Michonne began to fake snore and Rick repeated his statement before he annoyingly fussed with the covers in an attempt to get comfortable. Rick made one last ditch effort to change Michonne's mind about sexy time and squeezed her ass. Michonne slapped his hand away and moved even farther away for him.
"You look beautiful Michonne," Rosita gushed and Michonne took a deep breath.
Michonne was standing in Ella's room at the farm looking at herself in the mirror on her wedding day.
"It's not too much for a farm wedding? I planned to purchase a simple summer wedding dress, but when I saw this one, I just knew it was meant for me," Michonne admitted looking at the white, floor length, mermaid hem dress filled with crystals that sparkled when light hit the dress just right.
"It's perfect Michonne," Andrea complimented then went to console a crying Sasha.
The ladies were using Ella's upstairs master bedroom as a wedding party dressing room. Rick and his groomsmen were using Hershel's downstairs master bedroom to get ready for the nuptials.
"I heard after the FBI scrubbed Greggory's computer, they found he had been embezzling money for years," Rick hollered over to Darryl who was in the bathroom looking at himself in his Mister of Honor suit.
"Is this Mister of Honor thing weird?" Darryl asked, walking out of the bathroom wearing his tan linen suit and light blue shirt underneath.
"It's different, but not weird. You were her closest friend since we were teenagers. Who else would she pick?" Rick chuckled at Darryl's nervousness.
Rick, being the groom, thought he was going to be the only nervous man in the wedding party.
"This farm is a gold mine for everything," Abe exclaimed, "Birthday parties, weddings, camping, hotel-like stays. Ella's and Hershel could make a killing with this side business."
"Yeah, it has gotten quite a bit of use over the last year," Rick laughed considering himself lucky Michonne did not take his mama up on her offer to move back to the farm before the wedding.
When Michonne thought about it, she realized she and Rick had been living in sin at the farm also and got Ella to admit it was all just a ploy to get Carl back in the house.
"I guess that explains why King County never changed," Darryl grunted at Rick's original comment.
"Cuz of the farm?" Abe asked perplexed.
"No man, cuz of the embezzlement," Darryl corrected, "When Chonne and I came back and drove through the town nine months ago, we noticed everything was exactly the same. We wondered by there had been no upgrades or nothing after eight damn years. I guess now we know why."
"Well Andrea and Sasha changed all of that," Shane grinned as he walked into the room.
"Hey man," Rick smiled and noticed the melancholy that was hiding behind Shane's grin, "You good? I would understand if…."
"Where's the best man?' Shane deflected and looked around the room with that same sad smile.
Rick eyed Shane and decided to leave it alone and let him grieve Lori for how he saw fit. Just as Rick was about to answer Shane's question, Carl burst into the room.
"There he is! Where were you son?" Rick asked with a wide grin impressed with Carl's handsomeness in his light blue linen suit and tan shirt underneath that matched his own.
Since the wedding was outside in the middle of the hot Georgia summer, Michonne insisted on lightweight, comfortable suits for the guys and the same for the ladies who were wearing cute tan and light blue ankle length, sleeveless summer dresses that tied at the shoulder. Sasha loved not only the look, but how light and breezy the cotton summer dresses were because all she seemed to do lately was sweat.
"Mom, Sasha, and Rosita would not let me leave! They kept kissing me and telling me how cute I looked. It was annoying," Carl uttered as he shook his head and hopped on the edge of the bed, "I'm not cute! I'm a man!"
"Well, I don't know about that, but you do cut handsome figure in that suit. You look like a good-looking version of me," Rick smiled and gave his son a kiss on the top of his head.
"You got your daughter with you today?" Rick asked, wondering if Vivian was with Lori's parents.
Michonne informed Rick how weird the parents were acting with Vivian at the hospital and at the funeral, and the request for their granddaughter to stay with them for the summer. Michonne saw desperation in their eyes as if Vivian was a replacement for Lori, or at least a way to keep a part of Lori close to them. Michonne wanted to be wrong, but in her gut, she knew what Lori's parents were up to and Shane was making it easy. But again, it was just a hunch, and she did not want to start unfounded drama by mentioning it. All she could do was suggest that Shane bring his daughter home to help the youngster get settled into a routine sooner rather than later. A clueless Shane was not taking the hint.
"I was gonna bring her but Lori's parents insisted that a four-year-old would not sit still at a long wedding and reception so she stayed with them," Shane responded, and Rick closed his eyes tightly thinking Michonne just might be correct.
Rick, however, would have to talk to Shane about it later. Today was his wedding day and he wanted to keep everything as joyful as possible. Pastor Gabriel stuck his head inside the room and informed the men it was time to take their places. Darryl and Carl left the room first, as they had double duties.
"On our way," Rick smiled to the pastor who was instrumental in Michonne's survival nine years ago.
When Rick and Michonne were planning the wedding, she was adamant that Father Gabriel officiate the ceremony and he happily agreed. Michonne was worried when she decided to move the wedding up from August to June and prayed that Father Gabriel was available and when he told her he would make the date work, Michonne was relieved.
"You nervous?" Pastor Gabriel asked as he stood next to Rick at the altar.
"Oh yeah," Rick blew a deep breath, "I have been waiting for his day since I was fourteen."
"So has Michonne," Father Gabriel grinned, "Don't let her tell you any different."
To calm his nerves, Rick scanned the audience and noticed a few surprises. Morgan made it to the ceremony with his wife Jenny who was well into her pregnancy. When Morgan grinned and waved, Rick was less nervous for a minute as he happily waved back. Rick squinted and smiled in amazement when he noticed his old high school friend that he had not seen since graduation in attendance. Scott gave Rick a thumbs up and Rick returned the gesture.
As he continued to look around anxiously, he saw his mother already crying and Mrs. Letty pulling a tissue from her purse. Rick also saw Franklin sitting on the other side of his mother. Rick cut his eyes at the BBQ master before scanning the rest of the guests, then out towards the outdoor reception tables that had wild Azure Bluet flowers sat in vases atop each. Rick squinted up at the sky and wished he had not listened to penny-pinching Michonne and paid for the tent cover, then back at the tables glad he insisted on the individual table umbrellas instead. The sun was high and hot, and the shade would be a welcome relief for all the guests along with the nice breeze that was blowing. When he heard the music, Rick was jarred abruptly from his weather-related thoughts and became lightheaded and felt his knees weaken. Rick focused and prayed he did not faint at the damn altar.
"Take deep breaths Rick and remember, today the Lord seemed fit to bless you and make all of your dreams come true. There is no room for nervousness under HIS plan," Pastor Gabriel advised, and Rick nodded and calmed.
When the music started, Rick stood at attention and watched the wedding party start to make their way down the aisle. First out was Sasha and Darryl, and Rick wondered if she was going to have the baby right at the altar. Even though she was not officially due for another two weeks, Sasha FELT she was overdue, and she fully blamed her stubborn husband for their stubborn son. Rick stepped from the altar and pulled an empty chair from the front row and placed it where Sasha was designated to stand. He was not about to make a heavily pregnant woman stand up for the entire ceremony. Sasha was appreciative as she plopped down immediately, and Darryl darted back to the house.
Rosita and Abe followed next, each taking their places on the bride and groom side respectively. Andrea and Shane were last. Michonne made Andrea a bridesmaid immediately after what she did for Carl because she officially became family that day. After they were all in their places, Rick heard the wedding march, and he took several shallow breaths once Pastor Gabriel told everyone to rise. When Rick saw Michonne standing at the edge of the white runner, his breath hitched. Michonne was not in summer attire like the rest, and she was beyond beautiful in her fancy dress that sparkled all around her like she was the sun. Michonne had the same Azure Bluet flowers that were on the tables weaved intricately throughout her locs.
"My God," Rick uttered in adoration and Father Gabriel smiled and patted him on the shoulder in agreement.
Rick's eyes then cut to the two who were giving her away, his Best Man, and her Mister of Honor. Darryl held her left hand and Carl her right as all three marched down the aisle. Rick's heart was beating faster and faster the closer she approached. Rick took a step to meet Michonne halfway, and Father Gabriel stopped him, and the audience chuckled at his impatience. Rick settled back in place wishing Darryl and Carl would stop walking Michonne so slowly towards him. Rick almost yelled for them to hurry.
"Who presents this woman to be married today?" Pastor Gabriel inquired.
"I do," Rick answered and now everyone was outright laughing, and Ella shook her head at her silly son.
"Not you Rick," Father Gabriel snickered and nodded towards Darryl and Carl.
"I do," Darryl grunted and then took his place on the bride's side.
"I DO!" Carl shouted with enthusiasm to the delight of the guests before running to stand next to his father.
"I do," Pastor Gabriel proudly affirmed stepping down to walk Michonne the rest of the way.
Once Michonne was in place, Father Gabriel placed Michonne's hands in Rick's.
"You look beautiful," Rick whispered then got quiet when the pastor started the ceremony.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today…" Pastor Gabriel started.
"CARL! You did a great job! You were the most handsome man up there!" Ella praised proudly hugging her grandson.
"Thanks mom," Rick uttered and sucked his teeth.
"Oh, don't be a hater, Rick!" Ella replied and Rick furrowed his brow then looked at his son who he assumed taught his mother that phrase.
"Don't worry deputy, you were a very close second," Michonne smiled and gave her new husband a kiss.
"Et tu Michonne?" Rick grinned and shook his head at his new bride.
Rick could not believe Michonne was finally his wife. His dreams were coming true right before his eyes.
"Rick!" Scott shouted as he made his way over to the groom.
"Scott! What are you doing here man! It's great to see you!" Rick answered with glee at seeing his old friend again.
"Michonne, you look just as gorgeous as you did in high school!" Scott acknowledged and gazed at her a little longer than Rick would have liked.
Scott thought he noticed a slight bulge in her stomach but knew better than to ask if Michonne was pregnant. Scott chuckled and thought Rick might be back on his getting Michonne pregnant antics because he was almost positive that she was with child. Again. By Rick.
"Thank you, Scott! You look good yourself!" Michonne returned the compliment and unintentionally rubbed her stomach.
Scott noticed the gesture and snorted.
"Rick, when I heard about you and Michonne finding each other again, I just had to come celebrate with you man. I am so happy for you. Is that your son over there?" Scott asked with a laugh as they all watched Ella cut a small bite of cake from the very back to give to her charming grandson.
"Yup, that's my boy," Rick uttered proudly and shook his head at both his son and mother.
"Well, I hope you don't mind me crashing your wedding, like I said, when I heard I just had to come," Scott repeated and this time went to give his old friend a hug, "Hey I might be moving back. I applied for the Principal position at the elementary school for next school year."
"Glad to hear it! It's about time old Mr. Meyer retired. You have my vote. And if you get it, good luck with my son and try not to call me too much," Rick laughed, and Scott furrowed his brow and looked back at Carl.
"Uh…yeah, ok," Scott muttered and looked at Michonne who was shrugging and agreeing with Rick, "Hey is that Tyrese Williams over there?"
Before Rick could answer, he watched Scott hurriedly hug Michonne and almost jog over to the famous ex-football player. Rick chuckled at poor Tyrese who was trying to get away from the guests who cornered him into a conversation about football.
"Rick! Congratulations! It was a lovely wedding!" Morgan exclaimed as he took his turn spreading well wishes.
"Yes, lovely wedding Rick! Michonne! I wish I could have attended my son's lovely wedding," Mrs. Letty emphasized with a faux smile.
"Mom, I told you a thousand times. With all the traveling, we only had time for the courthouse. I can't believe you are still harping on this two whole years later!" Morgan exclaimed with some degree of frustration, "I know you were not there for the ceremony back then mama, but I will make sure you are present for the delivery."
"Delivery? What delivery? Boy if you are talking about some cheese, I'm gonna…," Mrs. Letty threatened but was stopped with a giggle from Jenny pointing at her large pregnant belly and a full-blown guffaw from Rick and Michonne.
"Oh, well now let's not go that far dear. I will just wait in the room to meet my grandbaby. Oh, I can't wait to be a Nana! Just a few more months!" Letty exclaimed and pulled a seven-month pregnant Jenny in for a tight hug.
Rick's face sadly fell when he saw Shane back away from the group and head towards the open bar. Letty looked around for Ella and shook her head.
"ELLA! STOP FEEDING THAT BOY CAKE! RICK AND MICHONNE STILL NEED TO CUT IT!" Mrs. Letty hollered marching off to stop the madness.
They all watched in awe as Carl began speaking animatedly to Mrs. Letty. They heard him say something about Mrs. Jacque's cakes being delicious then shook their heads when Letty grinned and went to cut off another small bite for Carl. Jacque heard her name and went over to join the women and Michonne watched her squeeze Carl's cheeks, kiss him on the forehead, then lose her mind and cut him a whole proper piece of cake. Michonne was flabbergasted.
"Rick, go get our son before he gets sick, please. And before we have nothing to cut!" Michonne ordered and watched as Rick walked over and pulled his son away from the three cake bandits.
The rest of the reception went better than Rick could have imagined. The only thing that would have made it better was if the two could have scurried away for their honeymoon, but with everything coming at them all at once, they decided to put it off for a few months. Sasha was going on an unofficial bedrest, prescribed by her husband and not her doctor, so Michonne was due to take over the firm without her partner bright and early Monday morning and there were quite a few pending cases. They were also scheduled to hire a junior associate and a paralegal/receptionist on Monday morning before Sasha could go into labor. Darryl insisted that if his wife went to work, it had to be as close to Sasha's fake mandatory bedrest as possible. Michonne sucked her teeth when Darryl delivered the monstrosity to the office.
"Once I have the baby, Darryl thinks he is going to put this in our new living room," Sasha laughed at the insane idea.
"Speaking of, how is the new house coming along?" Michonne chuckled as she watched Sasha sprawl back and get comfortable in the oversized recliner then pushing the button to raise her feet.
"It's coming along, Unlike this baby! Anyway, I wish it was done so I could have an actual nursery. We thought about getting a little two-bedroom apartment, but when Ella's face fell, that was that" Sasha giggled, "besides, the house should be ready in two months or so, and moving twice in two months makes no sense. For now, the crib is in our room," Sasha shrugged, "How's yours?"
"I don't like the floors, but Rick said No more changes Michonne! We already moved in and we ain't moving out!" Michonne mocked Rick's accent then rolled her eyes.
"So, when are the floors being redone?" Sasha giggled.
"In two weeks. Rick is pissed but I don't care. This is the house we are going to spend the rest of our life in. I don't know what the fuck I was thinking getting those supposed modern looking raw cement floors," Michonne uttered kicking herself, "We only have to stay at the farm for like two days."
"I know what you were thinking CHEAPO!" Sasha laughed, "And I actually liked the floors. They look almost like marble."
"Well, I'm going for wood instead, so…," Michonne stopped when she heard someone enter the office and she huffed out a breath.
They needed to hire a receptionist fast. Although Michonne was getting back to her old self since the kidnapping fiasco, there was always a need to be cautious and people just walking in with no vetting was nerve-wracking. Michonne got up and peeked around the corner, and after being satisfied the woman seemed safe, greeted her and ushed the applicant into Sasha's office. The woman was tickled to see a petite, but heavily pregnant lawyer engulfed in an extra-large casual lounger. The interview for associate attorney went very well and the applicant accepted the offer on the spot.
"I am so excited! My brother is moving here too!" Exclaimed Yumiko and Michonne and Sasha looked surprised.
"Really?" Both attorneys exclaimed at the same time.
"Yes, he was hired to be the Head Chef at the Serenity Woods Health Spa, Tomichi Okumura."
"Oh YES! Tom! I thought your last name sounded familiar. I got his card at a New Year's Eve party! His food was delicious!" Sasha exclaimed and did not make further eye contact with Michonne.
Michonne wondered why Sasha was suddenly shifting around in her seat nervously.
"Yes! I wanted to come with him for the tasting menu two weeks ago, but I couldn't make it. It must have gone great because he was hired!" Yumiko explained and Michonne cut her eyes at Sasha.
Michonne was suspicious and pulled out her phone.
Michonne: You had a tasting at the spa and did not invite me?
Ella: You were busy with the wedding and moving to the farm. Letty and I invited Maggie. And Carl was there. Sasha too! We all LOVED the food. Oh, and Rick loved it too!
"Rick," Michonne gritted through her teeth.
Michonne looked at her traitor friend sucked her teeth and Sasha laughed uneasily then decided, fuck it, and waved Michonne's evil stare down off.
"When would you like me to start?" Yumiko asked delightedly.
"How about the Monday after the fourth of July holiday? Is that too early?" Sasha asked and Yumiko grinned excited it was sooner rather than later.
"That's great! I'm living with my brother in Atlanta, and he is moving here soon, so it's perfect. I saw this cute little old house for rent when I took a tour through the town before the interview. King County is a whole lot bigger than I thought it would be. How many people live here now?" Yumiko wondered and Michonne shrugged.
Michonne knew a new second elementary school had been approved because the old one was packed to capacity and was set to start building in the early fall and open the following year. They were in the process of moving temporary portable buildings and hiring new teachers to accommodate all the kids.
"That would be a question for city hall, but I would not be surprised if it were touching on twenty-five thousand including the outskirts," Michonne guessed now wondering how many residents there were living in city-like town, "For now, let me introduce you to Aaron who handles the real estate and can show you that house!"
The next interview an hour later for the paralegal/receptionist also went well and Michonne and Sasha were delighted it was two for two. Rick and Carl walked into the office as the new paralegal was walking out.
"Who was that mom?" Carl asked watching the man leave the office.
"Zachary Davis, our new paralegal and receptionist," Michonne answered, and Rick walked to the window.
"He's kind of pretty. If you needed eye candy, I would have sat at the front desk on my off days and let you ogle me," Rick laughed and gave his wife a lusty wink and slutty lick of his lips.
Michonne was about to respond with something risqué, but remembered Carl was watching them interact with a puzzled look.
"If you are offering candy dad, I wouldn't mind some sour straws myself," Carl requested and Michonne changed the subject.
"What do I owe the pleasure of your visit today," Michonne inquired, and Rick laughed at her embarrassment.
"We are here to take your and Sasha's lunch order," Rick chuckled when he heard Sasha shout out with glee.
"I WOULD NOT MIND A TURKEY SANDWICH WITH CHEDDAR CHEESE, LETTUCE, TOMATO, PICKLES, AND SOME OF THAT CHIPOLTE SAUCE! OH, AND SOME FRENCH FRIES!" Sasha shouted, "AND A SIDE OF THE CHIPOLTE SAUCE TO DIP THE FRIES IN! PLEASE! AND A SLICE OF CHERRY PIE!"
"GOT IT!" Rick shouted back then looked at Michonne for her order.
"Let's see..." Michonne tapped her finger on her chin as if deep in thought, "oh I know. I would like some of Tom's tasting menu samples from the spa Rick," Michonne spat.
"Now Michonne, I just so happen to stop by when it was happening and…" Rick began his excuse and Michonne was already over it and ready to make a deal.
"Sure Rick. But I don't want to hear another complaint about the floors," Michonne proposed and grinned when Rick stubbornly agreed, "I will take a BLT, EXTRA bacon and make sure it's crisp but not overcooked. And add some cheddar cheese, and that chipotle sauce sounds good too. And onion rings please. And some of that bread pudding. And lots of ketchup for the onion rings!" Michonne ordered and Rick chuckled at both pregnant women, "And a strawberry lemonade."
"That it?" Rick chuckled.
"What?" Michonne asked puzzled.
"Nothing. I like it when you have a big appetite. It all goes to your…," Rick began licking his lips.
"RICK!" Michonne interrupted and jutted her chin at their son who was listening intently.
"Goes to where dad?" Carl inquired as he looked between Rick and Michonne, "Her big ole fat butt, right?"
"Boy if you don't…" Michonne bit taking a step towards Carl, but Rick intervened and saved his life.
"Did you decide what you wanted Carl?" Rick asked observing Michonne who was mean mugging her son, "from the diner Carl. We are not going to two different places."
"I will decide when I get there, dad," Carl grinned, and Rick ushered his attentive but clueless son out the door.
"I WANT A LEMONADE TOO RICK!" Sasha shouted, "THIS BABY MAKES ME THIRSTY!"
Two weeks later, Michonne, Carl and Rick temporarily moved back to the farm while the floors were being redone and Rick bit his tongue. Michonne did promise no more changes, and she even crossed her heart and sealed it with a kiss. Zachary was starting his first official first day and Yumiko was still getting settled into her office having started the week before. The mid-July day was calm until a client entered through their doors and both new hires witnessed the sheer, unadulterated anger of one Shane Walsh. Michonne was about to get a doozy of a case. One she anticipated deep down in the pit of her pregnant belly when she first observed Wayne's.
"I got it Zachary," Michonne assured and giggled when she noticed her paralegal was prepared to take the deputy down.
"You sure Mrs. Grimes?" Zachary uttered and gave Shane his best I take no shit glare.
"I'm sure," Michonne smiled and focused back on an angry Shane, ushering him into her office, "I take it you are not here for a visit?"
"Lori's parents want to take custody of Vivian. They are trying to take her from me!" Shane hollered as he tossed the envelope down on her desk.
Michonne read the document in its entirety while Shane paced back and forth.
"It says here they are filing for conservatorship because Vivian's current living environment is detrimental to the child's emotional and/or physical well-being resulting from neglect and a harmful living situation?" Michonne stated confused then looked up at Shane, "Why would they believe that Vivian's well-being is in question?"
"Look, I admit. I left Vivian with them while I planned the funeral and let her stay the summer while I got my mind right about everything, but I saw her most days! I never let more than two days go by without seeing my daughter. After I was served with that today, I called them because it must have been an error. They claimed I abandoned my Viv Michonne! I never left her! I just needed time to get my mind right, for her!" Shane hollered in a panic, "I trusted them to do right by us! Right by Lori!"
"Anything else? Because if that is all they have, then they don't have a case? You were in mourning. Still are," Michonne asked perplexedly.
"I thought they were just helping me when they offered to drive Viv down for the weekend a few weeks back. Claimed they wanted to see the new King County, but they were documenting me this whole time! Came to my home and said my house was unfit for a child to live in. Yes, my house was a mess. But I was still going through Lori's things. Her stuff was everywhere! Did I leave a dish or two in the sink? Yes, but I wasn't no slob! They took pictures as supposed proof. My house is spotless now, but of course they ain't got pictures of that," Shane spat.
"Anything else?" Michonne asked, needing to know every small detail.
"They said I had no food in the house, and Vivian was only eating unhealthy fast food while she was with me. We went to the café! Vivian ate real good. Healthy. Lori would be pissed if I was feeding her junk! SHE ATE VEGETABLES EVERY MEAL!" Shane bit and dropped down into Michonne's chair.
"Ok, let me get in touch with their lawyer and see exactly what Lori's parents are planning," Michonne suggested, and Shane blew out a breath.
"So, you will help me? I know Sasha is out and you are busy," Shane uttered with pleading eyes.
"I am never too busy for family Shane. I will take this on for you and we will win. Don't doubt that!" Michonne uttered pissed off at the Wayne's, "What I need you to do is to go and get your daughter right now. You are custodial parent. Not them," Michonne advised, "Go now Shane. I am going to call Manville Sheriff department to meet you there just in case the Wayne's will not release Vivian into your custody."
"You think we need police?" Shane asked, confused.
"Shane, they are documenting you and I will bet my lunch they are hoping you storm over to their house and act just like you did when you got here. They will claim you are verbally abusive with anger issues. Do not engage. Just knock on the door, tell them to hand over Vivian. DO NOT ENTER THEIR HOME. Wait on the porch. The officers will make sure they comply. You just keep calm and keep your mouth closed other than asking for your child. Let the deputies handle any confrontations. Can you do that?" Michonne asked and Shane nodded.
"Yes," Shane responded, "Thank you Michonne. I appreciate you helping me. I don't want to be the kind of parent to Vivian like my mother and father were to me. I want to be present. I want to make sure she knows she is loved, and I put her first."
"You are a great dad Shane, and I will make sure the court knows that," Michonne assured remembering the dysfunctional homelife that Shane had grown up in.
When Michonne called the Wayne's lawyer, she also learned that Lori's parents were using Shane's chosen profession against him too. They implied that with Shane's erratic work schedule, Shane would need a constant barrage of different babysitters for their granddaughter while he worked all hours of the day and night, and Vivian's safety was at risk. Michonne was pissed when their lawyer subtly used what happened with Carl as an example of being the child of a deputy. Michonne took it personally and vowed to make the Wayne's pay for that bullshit. Three days later, Michonne made good on her promise and the Wayne's were highly pissed off.
"Why is your client refusing to let my clients see their grandchild?" The lawyer inquired with a bit of disdain.
"Why are you surprised considered what the Wayne's are trying to do?" Michonne laughed at the idiot through the phone.
Michonne could not believe he did not anticipate the move and prepare his clients. Michonne immediately advised Shane to discontinue allowing Lori's parents to visit Vivian without stipulations and a written agreement until custody was finalized. When Lori's parents found out that Shane, the custodial guardian, had the power to stop all contact, they were shocked. But Michonne had a plan for Shane to prove that he was accommodating, which would only strengthen his case. A strategy to show the Judge his good character and true willingness to put Vivian first.
"They only want what's best for their grandchild!" Alden McAuliffe stuttered in shock.
"Do they? They sure don't act like it. Shane, on the other hand, is a reasonable father who truly wants the best for Vivian. And Shane does not want to keep HIS DAUGHTER from her only remaining grandparents. Mr. Walsh is willing to offer two hours of supervised visits once a week. But only in his home, with Mr. Walsh present along with a neutral person appointed by the court."
"Two hours! One day a week? And who is the neutral person?" Alden hollered flabbergasted at the offer.
"Are you rejecting the offer? Let me know so you and your clients to sign to that fact. As for the court appointed person. That is for you to find. My client is not the one suing for custody. He was perfectly willing to let the Wayne's see HIS Child whenever they wanted. Let me know by the end of the day whether your client will agree to the terms and if so, I will send over the agreement," Michonne ordered and was not surprised when Mr. McAuliffe hung up unexpectedly.
The Waynes not only signed the agreement, but they expedited requesting a court appointed supervisor from Atlanta to serve as the neutral supervisor. The first visit was Sunday, a few days away, and Michonne advised Shane to always stay within the eyesight of the Wayne's and his daughter, but far enough away to give them time uninterrupted time Vivian. Only communicate through the appointed supervisor and do not engage directly with Lori's parents. And finally, stay within the time limits. Do not end it any sooner or extend it any later. Outside of those two hours, once a week, Michonne made sure Shane knew he had a support system, which would also be a positive note in his favor, and Shane was appreciative of his group of very helpful friends.
"Don't worry Shane, you have family here that will help watch Vivian anytime you need," Michonne offered at dinner and Shane nodded appreciatively.
The Grimes were hosting Taco Tuesday on a Saturday for their friends. They were celebrating the new wood floors, and Rick had to admit it was a vast improvement.
"Anytime you need brother," Rick added before taking a huge bite of taco.
"Hell, I don't know a thing about children, but you can count me in too," Andrea offered spilling the filling for her taco, "shit, I got salsa my expensive shirt."
"I hope you don't teach Vivian that word!" Sasha giggled and added a ton of jalapenos to her plate then looked at all the confused faces, "spicy foods help induce labor. I am ready for him to come out right NOW! I am a whole damn week overdue!"
"You are three days overdue Sasha," Darryl corrected, and Sasha rolled her eyes, "Doctor is giving it three more days before they try and induce labor."
"I want this boy out tonight!" Sasha demanded and reached for more of the spicy, pickled fruit.
Sasha shoved a spoonful into her mouth and chewed with aggression. Michonne laughed and pointed at a silly Sasha who soon regretted the decision with watery eyes and excessive coughing.
"Me too," Darryl groaned.
Sasha was officially on maternity leave but went to work every day because she did not want to be at the house alone in case she went into labor. There was no way Darryl could not go to his worksite every day. Seventy percent of the time, Sasha sat in her recliner and hollered around the office until Michonne moved the eyesore into her office to keep the shouting to a minimum. But thirty percent of the time, Michonne put Sasha's ass to work. There were currently seven open cases on Michonne's desk and Andrea was constantly calling, adding more to the law firm's plate. Yumiko was great and super intelligent, but she was a new attorney fresh from passing the bar and needed guidance. It was convenient for Sasha to armchair mentor their new associate thus giving Michonne more time to focus on the bigger cases. Michonne watched Sasha in her coughing fit and prayed the jalapenos did not work. She needed Sasha for those three extra days!
"If spicy food does not work, try sex. I heard it works," Rosita hollered through the phone that was set up at the end of the table against the bowl of tortilla chips so that she could see everyone, "I can't wait to move! I am missing all the fun!"
"Look at me Rosita! I barely have the strength to chew my food! Sex is out of the question," Sasha hollered and sat back on the comfy couch frustration."
"I am so glad I don't have to deal with all that," Aaron muttered and made himself another taco.
"Where's Abe?" Rick asked when he did not see him in the FaceTime frame.
"They called him to work. Busy night here in Atlanta," Rosita sulked and bit her own taco that she made to fit in with the theme.
"How are you feeling?" Michonne asked her pregnant friend.
"It feels weird sometimes, like something is swimming around in there," Rosita answered with a scrunched-up nose.
"It's all in your head Rosita, you can't feel the baby at three months," laughed Michonne, "You have at least two more months before that phenomenon starts. Then you will be weirded out for real."
"My baby is gifted Michonne!" Rosita tried to persuade and sucked her teeth when no one believed her.
Michonne heard a ruckus and got up to check on what her son and his new friends were doing out on the back patio where they were also enjoying their Mexican themed meal.
"Carl! What happened?" Michonne asked gazing at the salsa and guacamole spilled all over the patio floor.
Carl, along with a few kids from his baseball team, all looked at Michonne with faux innocent faces. Cyndee, a tough little tomboy who was Carl's official best friend, pursed her lips. Henry, Mika, and Derrick all had big eyes. Carl had a grin on his face and Michonne was immediately suspicious. Rick came out and asked the same question when he saw the mess.
"Mom. Dad. It was just an accident. Nothing to see here. We are good!" Carl explained and Rick was immediately suspicious too.
When Rick scanned the group, he noticed Cyndee smirk at Carl and Rick was horrified when he realized there were two of them and Cyndee seemed to be one side of the same rascally coin. Rick also noticed Henry holding his left shoulder and Mika's shirt was stained with the condiments.
"What happened Henry? NOT A WORD CARL! YOU EITHER CYNDEE!" Rick ordered pointing at who he knew were the ringleaders.
"Carl dared me to eat a mouthful of salsa then spin around ten times and try to swallow it. I got dizzy and spit the salsa on Mika's shirt and then she punched me in the shoulder, and I fell against the table and knocked the bowls on the floor," Henry admitted and immediately regretted tattling when Carl narrowed his eyes at him.
Cyndee cut her eyes at Henry also and Rick and Michonne noticed the menacing gestures. Henry immediately slunk down in his chair from the duo's intense gaze. Rick and Michonne watched Carl try to speak and they knew their mischievous son was about to spin the tale in his favor, so Rick cut him off.
"There will be no more dares. No more spinning. No more hitting. Do you all understand me?" Rick commanded, "Carl go get some paper towels and clean this up."
"Come on Mika, let me get you cleaned up and get you a fresh shirt," Michonne instructed and cut her eyes at her son on the way inside the house.
Michonne narrowed her eyes at Cyndee too and the girl raised her brow at Michonne. Michonne dared her to do it again with her own raised brow and took a step towards the cheeky little girl. Cyndee fixed her face in a hurry. Michonne had already made a mutual deal with Cyndee's grandmother who was raising the little deviant that if Cyndee was going to be in Carl's life, Michonne was going need to speak to Cyndee just like she spoke to Carl, which was firmly and often through gritted teeth. Mrs. Natania gleefully agreed to the terms after she met Carl and knew she would be doing the same with his little rebellious ass.
"Henry is your shoulder ok? Do you want to still spend the night or go home?" Rick asked and eyed Cyndee the whole time to keep her from making the decision for the boy.
Rick could tell Cyndee was annoyed at being restricted and Rick chuckled.
"I'm fine sir. I want to stay please," Henry answered, and Rick nodded.
Carl came back from the kitchen and tried to hand Henry and Derrick the paper towels and Rick snatched them back.
"I told YOU to clean it Carl," Rick demanded standing with his hand on his hip and head tilted to the side.
Carl turned to his friends.
"I will make y'all a deal…" Carl began, and Rick tugged Carl out of the room and down the hall.
"When I tell you to do something, you do it. Do you understand me?" Rick ordered with a whole lot of bass in his voice and Carl's eyes widened.
"Yes, sir," Carl uttered and left it at that.
Carl was smart enough to follow his father's direct instructions before actual consequences were involved.
"Now what are you going to do when we get back out there?" Rick asked for clarity.
"Clean the mess," Carl answered followed by a hard swallow.
"And who is going to help you?" Rick asked with his blue eyes slightly hidden from his hard squint.
"No one?" Carl answered with more of a question than an answer.
"Cyndee. Cyndee will help you. I have a feeling she was part of this little dare situation too. I want whatever symbiotic thing you two have going on to stop. At least for the rest of the night. You understand?" Rick inquired and Carl nodded with a grin.
Carl did not know what symbiotic meant per say, but based on his father's tone and body language, Carl used his context clues and figured it meant that he and Cyndee were too much alike and to ease up a bit on their shenanigans.
"Ok Dad," Carl grinned and grabbed the paper towels before running back outside, "Cyndee, Dad said you have to help!"
"Why?" Cyndee spat.
"Because he said so! Now get to cleaning!" Michonne commanded powerfully and watched the girl jump out of her chair and tear off some paper towel sheets with a quickness.
Cyndee almost smiled knowing Michonne had already peeped her game and supposed it was due to Carl's similar personality. After the patio was all cleaned, Michonne and Rick refilled the bowls and walked back to their friends.
"That friendship is going to be the death of us Rick. I can feel it. Cyndee is a female Carl," Michonne muttered with some frustration, "How in the hell did they find each other?"
"Birds of a feather," Rick answered before heading back to his plate and taking a bite of his taco.
Michonne sucked her teeth and Rick figured they would just have to deal with the two of the smartest, slickest kids he had ever met in his entire life and hope for the best. Rick took out his phone and chuckled.
Rick: Hey congratulations again on the Principal job. Just to let you know, there are two of them now.
Scott: Two? What? Two jobs? Two Principals?
Rick: No, two troubled youths. Carl made a friend. Lmao. Good luck!
Scott…
Rick laughed and put away his phone and ignored the rest of Principal Scott's texts.
