DISCLAIMER I DO NOT OWN BROTHERS CONFLICT IN ANYWAY SHAPE OR FORM
"Alright, go ahead and back it up here," Masaomi instructed the delivery driver from Stork Specialities diaper delivery.
Natsume stood next to him watching was the big truck back up to the other storage unit.
"I know Azusa and I joked about needing a whole storage shed for the diapers but I didn't think we'd actually use one," he mentioned.
"Well you are going to need them," Masaomi insisted.
"Oh I have no doubt," Natsume agreed, "I'm just greatful for the discount they offered for our circumstances."
"...and up and down, and up and down. Doing good," Tomori encouraged Ema doing a slow step up exercise.
Ema kept stepping up and down on the exercise step with the help Tomori holding her arms.
Both were distracted by the sound of a truck backing up and the two moved to the window to ea look.
"Oh good! The diapers are here!" Ema said happily.
"Yeah, good to get those stocked up!" Tomori said.
Ema breathed a happy sigh.
"Oh, things are really coming together!" she said, "I just wish it could have been in our own home."
"Oh, I know," Tomori said, giving her a hug. "I think we're done with your exercise for now."
She walked over to Ema's water bottle and grabbed it for her.
Ema drank it with haste.
"I should get to work," she said as she finished.
"Did you want to do it in your room or downstairs? I can get your laptop for you if you want," Tomori offered.
"Well it might be nice to do it downstairs, so I can mingle with everyone else," Ema decided.
"Sure," Tomori said, "Do you need help getting to the living room?"
"No," Ema assured her, "I could probably get my own laptop...,"
"No, no, let me get it for you. I need to get my own things for work anyway," Tomori insisted.
"Okay," Ema said as she slowly started to walk out towards the the living room while Tomori headed upstairs.
Ema had just sat down when she saw Natsume and Masaomi walking back in.
"Are the diapers all stored up?" she asked.
"Yep, all set and ready for the babies," Natsume said as he and Masaomi joined her on the couch.
"How did your exercises go?" Masaomi asked.
"They're a little hard but I trust you and Tomori's recommendation for them," Ema admitted.
"Oh yes, you'll thank us in the long run," Masaomi said calmly.
"Are you going to be okay for the day then?" Natsume asked.
"I think so, Tomori's getting my laptop right now so I can work," Ema said.
"Do you want me to stay home with you today in case you need help with anything in regards to your work?" Natsume offered.
"No, no you should go to work as much as you can before you have to start staying home with the babies," Ema insisted.
"I'll be here for a while anyway, I have a late shift," Masaomi also mentioned, "and I know a thing or two about computers."
Natsume nodded at him, "thank you."
"See you losers later," Wataru suddenly called out as he walked through the room with his backpack.
"Have a good day at school Wataru," Ema said.
"Thanks Sis," Wataru smiled back at her. "Not too much longer till Summer Vaca!" He did a little happy dance at his announcement.
"What are you planning on doing during your summer vacation?" Natsume asked.
"I don't know," Wataru said with a shrug.
"I take it you didn't get that summer job I suggested you try doing?" Masaomi said with all knowing smirk.
"Well...," Wataru trailed off.
"Hmm," Natsume gave him a disapproving stare.
"Oh come on Natsu! I don't have many of these left!" Wataru whined.
"Well, if he doesn't have a summer job, he can help you out more with the babies," Masaomi said smug.
"Hey there you go, I don't mind that!" Wataru agreed.
"We'll see about that," Masaomi said, "anyway, get to school."
"Going, see you later," Wataru said as he continued to hurry out.
"I would hope Wataru would start acting more serious with his free time," Natsume said.
"Eh, he's just like half of us were. We'd either spend our summer vacations lounging around or working hard," Masaomi joked.
"And figures Wataru would be a part of the half that lounge," Natsume muttered.
"Why, what did you do during summers?" Ema asked.
"If I wasn't doing extra work at school, I worked part time at the local shop down the street," Natsume said.
"That's where most of us got our first job at," Masaomi said. "What about you Ema? What was summer like for you usually?"
"Well occasionally I'd maybe get to join my dad in one of his trips, or he'd help arrange for me to take a trip somewhere special. Other than that I'd try studying and did eventually get a part time job at local book store. Too bad it's not there anymore. The owner retired and sold it right before I moved here."
"Hmm," both brothers replied.
"Let's go, you got your lunches?" they suddenly heard Rika asking as she led Mizu and Kadia through the living room.
"I have them," Ukyo said chasing after them with two lunch pails.
"Mizu, come here," Masaomi called out to his son.
Mizu ran to his dad who hugged him goodbye.
"Have a good day at preschool," Masaomi encouraged his son.
"I will daddy," Mizu said happily. "Soon it's going to be summer vacation!" He did a little dance just like Wataru's.
"Well you still enjoy it while you can," Masaomi insisted, tapping Mizu's nose. "You too Kadia."
"Uh-huh, sure Uncle Masa," Kadia said looking around.
"Daddy, where's mommy?" she asked, "I want to say goodbye."
"She should be down soon, she had to get something for me," Ema said.
"Hi, got it right here for you Ema," Tomori said as she suddenly came in, carrying both Ema's work bag and her own.
She then turned and looked at Kadia.
"Off to school then?"
"Uh-huh!" Kadia said reaching up for her mom.
Tomori quickly obligated, hugging Kadia tight.
"You be good girl today okay?"
"Always am," Kadia bragged.
Natsume could see Mizu roll his eyes at her comment.
"You picking them up?" Tomori asked Ukyo.
"That was the plan," Ukyo assured her, "even if I leave the office early."
"And I should get going if I'm going to drop them off," Rika mentioned, looking at her watch, "come on kids."
Both Kadia and Mizu ran to the door.
"Have a good day everyone, take care," Rika called back as she to headed out. She did paus long enough to blow Masaomi a kiss. Masaomi happily pretend to catch it.
Tomori also graced her husband with a kiss.
"I'll make sure to do the shopping this afternoon then," she told him.
"Thank you dear, I'll see you tonight," Ukyo said. They waved to Ema, Natsume and Masaomi before walking out together themselves.
"Is it normally kinda crazy when it's time to take the kids to school?" Natsume asked.
"Oh yes, and this was a good day," Masaomi said.
"Do Ukyo and Rika usually take the kids?" Ema asked.
Masaomi nodded, "it's on the way to both their offices so one will usually drop off while the other picks them up. Though there have been times Tomori or I have had to, or even one of the other relatives living here. But that's how it is sometimes."
"Maybe we should check this school out, in regards of how close it's to the house or our offices," Ema said to Natsume.
"Think they can handle quadruplets?" Natsume asked Masaomi.
"I should hope so, it's the same preschool mom sent us all to after all," Masaomi said with a grin, "it even still has two staff members that remember all 13 of us."
"Are you serious?" Natsume asked.
Masaomi nodded.
"Well, I will have to see if it's possible to send our four there."
"I don't really remember the preschool I went to," Ema mentioned, "we moved by the time I started traditional elementary school. It'd be nice for the kids to go to a place with memories."
She and the guys were distracted by the sound of somebody else walking through the room and all glanced over to see Emiko walking through, holding a bunch of her school books and her backpack. she seemed to be focused on getting everything ready.
"Have a nice day Emiko," Masaomi called out.
"Oh yes, thank you, Masa," Emiko managed to say, though still focused on getting her things in order.
She did manage to glance up towards Ema.
"I'll work on those schedules when I get home from school today," she assured her before hurrying out the door herself.
"Thanks," Ema called out after her as Emiko dashed out.
"She's usually in a rush herself in the morning. She says it's just the way she was brought up," Masaomi mentioned.
"She must know what it means to be on time to where she needs to be," Natsume said, "I should be going myself." He stood up and kissed Ema goodbye, "I'll check back in on you around lunchtime. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call if you need for anything."
"Thanks," Ema said with a blush.
"Don't worry, we'll take good care of her," Masaomi insisted as both watched Natsume leave himself.
Once they were alone, he asked, "so anything I can get you before you get started with your work?"
"I could go for a cup of tea," Ema said.
"On it," Masaomi said, as he hurried to the kitchen.
Ema set to work opening her laptop and going to her work files.
She had barely started going over tasks, when she once again hear someone coming into the room.
She looked up and saw Sunako dragging herself across the room, looking as though she was still asleep.
"Sunako?" Ema asked.
"Uh," was all Sunako would respond, waving her hand in Ema's direction as she kept dragging herself across the room.
Masaomi casually moved out of her way as she staggered past him.
"There's times where she's not a morning person," he joked as he placed Ema's tea, as well as a croissant down on the table in front of her.
"Thank you," Ema said.
"Anything else you need?" Masaomi asked.
"No, I think I'm good," Ema said.
"I'll let you work in peace then, but I'll be near if you need anything, work or otherwise," Masaomi said kindly as he walked off, leaving Ema alone.
Ema kept focusing on her laptop.
Soon she saw her video chat activating, and Keitorin's imagine appear.
"Hey, how's it going Sensi?" Keitorin asked.
"Good, I was going over the ideas I have for interview article for the pop group Horizon Dust. I was thinking maybe a school setting based on their recent hit "Bad Boy at the Back of Class". What do you think? Any other suggestions?"
"No, actually that sounds great," Keitorin insisted, "we can even look into a location shoot since it's almost summer vacation and a lot of schools will be close to empty."
"Thank you," Ema said, "speaking of location shoots, have we found one for the bridal gown shoot for BRIDAL IDEALS?"
"Mmm, yes, we actually found two places and we're thinking of dividing up the shoots, and letting Rika do a part of it," Keitorin suggested.
"Sure, it'll be good practice for her. What places did you find?" Ema asked.
"I'm sending you the links right now," Keitorin said.
"Hi Ema," Ema suddenly heard Azusa say as she saw him walking through the room as well.
"Hi, Azusa," Ema managed to greet before looking back at the links Keitorin had sent her. "They look great, have you been able to decide what dresses you want at what location?"
"Uh, no, we've been unsure to decide on that," Keitorin admitted.
"I'll take a look and help figure it out," Ema promised.
"Thank you," Keitorin said.
"Anything else besides the usual business?" Ema asked.
"Yes, can you check in around two when I do the shoot for STYLE AND RISE WEEKLY? I could use your input on the overall look before we get started," Keitorin said.
"Sure," Ema promised.
"Great, until then I'll leave you to your work," Keitorin said.
"Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or have some concerns," Ema said before logging off.
"How's your work going?" Azusa asked as he suddenly sat down beside her.
"Not too bad, getting it to do it from home like this," Ema said, managing to take a sip of her tea.
"Are you working today?" Ema asked.
"Not today really," Azusa said, "I'm waiting to hear from my agent about an upcoming audition. I'm just trying to stay out of the room while Sunako's working on her book. She's close to finishing it and she gets a little hyped up when she gets close to an end, even if she's ahead of schedule."
"Oh I see," Ema said, "did you want to watch TV or something?"
"Oh no, I was just going to read a little, research for that part. You don't mind if I stay down here with you, do you?"
"Of course, I'd enjoy the company," Ema said.
Azusa nodded, before he pulled out his reading material.
He and Ema rested and work in peaceful silence for a while.
That was until they were interrupted by a loud shout.
"HEY GUESS WHO'S BACK!"
"Ah!" Ema cried, almost dropping her laptop, as she and Azusa looking up as Tsubaki and Haruhi struded in, with suitcases.
"Miss us?" Haruhi asked. She walked over to Ema and kissed her cheek. "You're looking good for somebody who nearly got herself squashed by a tree."
"Thanks," Ema said.
"Yeah, good to know you and Subaru got out okay," Tsubaki said, "just too bad you can't say the same for your house."
"Yes, well Natsume and I are fortunate that not only do we have a place to stay that came house the four babies, but that the original owners and mother were able to come to agreement over how to rebuild and take care of the damage," Ema explained.
"Oh that's good," Haruhi said. "Well, I hate to dash, I did promise my agent I'd call her when I got back from our honeymoon. She says she was a part they want me to try out for."
"Oh yes, of course," Ema said as Haruhi walked off.
"I should probably check in with mine too, see if he has any news for me," Tsubaki mentioned.
"Yes, you should," Azusa mentioned, "I'm expecting a call from mine about an audition. I'm actually reading up on the material it's based on right now." He held up the manga book he was reading. "I'm sure they may want you to possibly audition too."
"Interesting," Tsubaki said looking at the cover, "I'll get on that once I get our bags taken care of." He patted Ema's head, "and we can get caught up too."
"You know she is trying to work, right?" Azusa called after his twin as Tsubaki walked away, dragging his and Haruhi's suitcases. He looked over at Ema. "If he gives you too hard of a time, let me know. I knock some sense into him."
"I'm sure he'll be fine," Ema said as she went back to her work.
"Still, let me know," Azusa insisted as he returned to his own research.
"Well this is going to be interesting," they heard Haruhi mentioned as she came back into the room.
"Do you have an audition then?" Ema asked.
"Yeah," Haruhi confirmed, "some kids' show about girl superheroes. It sounds cute."
"Is that that one where it's like there's been these heros in the past and for the first time all the heroes are girls or something?" Azusa asked.
"That's the one," Haruhi said, "I'll know more details once I go in for the audition."
"Well I hope you get it," Ema said encouragingly.
"Thanks, should probably get as much work in as I can before the baby comes," Haruhi said.
"Huh?" Azusa and Ema both said in surprise.
"What, think I'm already pregnant?" Haruhi asked with a smirk, "well if I am it's a shocker to me as well. But I'm pretty sure there's no bun in the oven at the moment, yet."
"Oh sure," Azusa said.
"Although, hopefully there will be soon. I told Tsubaki I want one as soon as possible and he's on board with it."
"Well here's hoping for the best," Ema said.
"In the meantime, think we can borrow one of yours?" Haruhi asked.
"What?!" Ema said shocked.
"She's kidding," Azusa muttered.
"It's true," Haruhi said, fighting a laugh. "You should have seen the look on your face!"
"Right," Ema said as she returned to her work.
"Honestly, where's your sense of humor girl?" Haruhi asked, "anyway. You know what might actually be a good thing about you staying here? We can try throwing you a baby shower, and have it right here. Plenty of room."
"You want to throw me a baby shower?" Ema asked.
"Heck yeah," Haruhi said, "I'm sure most of the other ladies were thinking about it. Even your friends from work. We should totally throw you one!"
"But, but, that's kinda asking a lot don't you think? Given that I'm expecting four?" Ema asked.
"I'm sure your family and friends will find a way to work with that minor detail," Azusa with with a smirk, "they'll probably have to make it a co-ed party since so many of us brothers will want to attend."
"Well, okay, I'll let you guys figure it out," Ema said, "I really have to get back to work."
"Oh yeah, sorry," Haruhi said, "I should go find Tsubaki anyway." She started to leave but stopped just before.
"You realize that if I throw you your shower, I'll expect you to throw mine nine months or so from now," she said with smirk.
"You really think you're going to get pregnant that quickly?" Azusa asked.
"Oh yeah, just watch, next mother to be is gonna be me!" Haruhi declared as she hurried off.
"Think she will?" Ema asked.
"Who knows," Azusa said, "but I'm sure there's going to be a little Tsubaki running around here soon enough."
He suddenly looked terrified.
"Oh God, a little Tsubaki!" he said, "why do I put these kinds of images in my head!"
"So your sister-in-law is that convinced she's getting pregnant so soon?" Dr. Senyu asked with a chuckle at Ema's next appointment.
"Not only that but she wants a multiple birth like mine," Ema told him.
"Oh dear, many people wish that but then geta rude awakening," Dr. Senyu said.
"Any advice on how to maybe help sway her away from such a notion?" Natsume asked.
"Well, if the sight of Ema's body as it is hasn't turned her off of the idea, possibly the aftermath of having four at once. You'll have to deal with feedings, diaper changing, baths, getting sick all at once. Usually that's what persuades most women and men away from wanting a multiple pregnancy."
"Oh joy, something we'll get to experience," Natsume muttered, "and we didn't even want a multiple pregnancy. We just wanted one to start out with."
"Well too late now," Hikaru suddenly said, trying to suppress his laughter.
"I'm sure you'll find it worth it in the long run, Natsu," Louis insisted kindly.
"Oh I know, I know," Natsume said.
"Speaking of which, shall we begin with the ultrasound?" Dr. Senyu asked. "I really want to check in on those two that got pushed together."
"Oh yes," Ema said, preparing herself for the wand again.
Dr. Senyu started moving it around, scooping out the four babies.
"Awe, isn't that just a precious sight!" Hikaru said.
Louis meanwhile remained silent.
"Louis, aren't you impressed?" Hikaru asked.
"Oh! Yes of course!" Louis replied, "just a little awe struck I suppose."
"Hmm" Hikaru said with a raised eyebrow.
"How are the two close together?" Natsume asked.
"Here they are," Dr. Senyu said as he moved his wand over some more. "Oh good, they have managed to drift apart. Not as much as I would have liked, but good enough for now."
"Is it going to be a problem, Doc?" Natsume asked.
"Nah," Dr. Senyu assured him and Ema, "as long as Mrs. Asahina continues to take it easy. Rest as often as you can, with the small amounts of exercise daily. That'll hopefully loosen them up more. But if they don't move any further apart than they are now, they should still be safe."
"That's good to know," Ema said.
"Yes, nothing like hearing your baby will be in trouble when it comes time to deliver," Louis said softly. Everyone looked over at him and saw he did look a little nervous about something.
"Louis, is everything alright?" Ema asked.
"Sorry Chi, I guess I didn't realize what an impact seeing your babies this way was going to have on me," Louis explained. "Can really make a man think."
"Yeah, it does," Hikaru agreed, "makes me more convinced my prediction was correct about their genders."
"Oh brother," Natsume moaned.
"So you're the one who made the prediction?" Dr. Senyu asked.
"Yes," Hikaru said, "and I heard you wrote it down in the file."
"I did, and you're still convinced that's what each one's going to be?" Dr. Senyu asked.
"I am," Hikaru replied smug.
Dr. Senyu merely nodded and shrugged his shoulders.
"It'll be interesting to see for sure," he said, "just as much as the predictions your niece and nephew made about their genders."
"Oh and what were their predictions?" Hikaru asked amused.
"Let's see Mizu, that's his name? He predicted all boys. While Kadia? Right? She predicted all girls," Dr. Senyu told him.
Hikaru looked even more amused.
"Those kids," he said, "they're a hoot. Can't wait to see them again."
"When are you coming back to the mansion?" Ema asked.
"Well I was at least going today, if only to pick up the kitten."
"You're getting a kitten, Mr. Asahina?" Dr. Senyu asked, going over some of his paperwork.
"Oh no it's not for me it's for a friend. Our brother found an abandoned litter and I offered to help give one a good home with a friend who was looking for a pet," Hikaru explained.
"A whole litter?" Dr. Senyu asked intrigued. "are they still looking for a home for any of the others?"
"I think there's was at least one left they were still looking for a home," Natsume said.
"Would uh your brother be alright with the idea of maybe letting my family take it in?" Dr. Senyu asked timidly.
"You sir?" Ema asked.
"Yeah, my kids kinda want a pet and my wife said she'd prefer a cat if we did," Dr. Senyu explained.
The four siblings all looked at each other.
"We'll definitely ask him. He'll probably be here on the next visit, so he can even bring the kitten for your family can meet it," Natsume said.
"Wonderful thank you, I'll let my family know. This'll get them excited!" Dr. Senyu said, also clearly excited by the notion.
"It'll be nice to do something kind for our doctor huh?" Ema said as she and her family left the clinic.
"Yeah, he's been super nice and patient with us and our family over these past months," Natsume said, "hopefully he won't have to deal with us again."
"Unless Haruhi gets her wish," Hikaru mentioned, "or somehow someway one of our other brothers has as determined sperm as dear Natsume."
Natsume glared at him.
"Do you think he knows about the pills?" Ema whispered.
"He could, but he's also not a gossip," Natsume whispered back.
"Who did you start out seeing when you first learned you were pregnant Chi?" Louis asked.
"Uh Dr. Kawari, from Tomori's clinic," Ema recalled, "he was nice."
Louis nodded.
"Why do you ask?" Natsume inquired.
"Hmm, I guess just a random curiosity," Louis said, as he quickly got into his car, "I should get home and check on Yuki. She hasn't been feeling well lately."
"Nothing serious, I hope," Ema said alarmed.
"Hopefully, we're waiting to see," Louis said as he took off.
The other three watched him drive off.
"Think it's something serious with Yuki?" Ema asked.
"Let's wait and see, let Louis and Yuki figure it out and fill us in, when they're ready," Hikaru said.
"You don't think?" Natsume started to ask.
"Like I said, let them worry about it first before we jump to conclusions," Hikaru said all knowingly.
When the three returned to Sunrise and started walking through the living room, they came across Haruhi talking on the phone. Nearby sat Rika, Tomori and Ukyo going over some list of sorts.
"Oh hang on, they just got home, I'll ask," Haruhi said to whoever was on the other line, "Hey, Ema, Natsume, how would you feel about letting Mie's mother attend your baby shower?"
"Why?" Natsume asked.
"I don't know, Mie was just asking," Haruhi said.
"I guess if she wants to," Ema said.
"They said yes," Haruhi told Mie.
"Who all are they inviting?" Natsume asked.
"Well, all of the brothers and girlfriends that can come," Rika listed off, "and some of both your co-workers that you said you'd like to come from both your jobs."
"So it's going to be fairly big?" Natsume asked, a little disconcerting.
"Big, but not long," Haruhi assured him, "we're going to try and keep it under two hours, three hours tops?"
"Oh yes, that'll be good," Ema said.
"And we're keeping the food simple too," Tomori said, she and Ukyo looking up from their list.
"It's so nice you're all doing this for us," Ema said.
"Anyway, where's Yusuke? Anyone know?" Hikaru asked.
"Last I heard he was upstairs in his room with Emiko," Ukyo said.
"Let's go see him," Natsume said leading Ema to the elevator.
"I'll take the stairs and see you both up there," Hikaru said.
"Not feeling too good about the baby shower?" Ema asked, once they were alone.
"I just don't like the idea of it being too big and elaborate, thus risk overwhelming you. You know what I mean? I might have felt less worried, if you were just expecting one," Natsume explained.
Ema nodded, "I'm sure it'll still be fine. And I still appreciate it."
"Well yeah, of course," Natsume agreed right as the elevator stopped and they got out. They could see Hikaru already at Yusuke's door, knocking.
"Yusuke, Yusuke, open up please," Hikaru sang.
"Oh my God, what?" Yusuke snapped as he yanked open the door.
"Well hello to you too," Hikaru said smug, "I'm merely here to collect the kitten for my friend."
"Oh sure, come in," Yusuke said as he stood aside to let him in.
"Yusuke, wait, we need to ask you something," Natsume said as he hurried to stop them.
"Oh hey, what's up?" Yusuke said as he let him and Ema in.
"We were wondering if you still needed a home for one of your kittens," Ema asked, "our doctor expressed interest in taking it in for his family."
"Oh really?" Emiko asked from her desk where she was working. "Because actually, my classmate that said maybe changed her mind. If your doctor wants her, he can certainly take her."
"I can bring her with me when it's my turn to visit your appointment," Yusuke offered. He walked over to the box and pulled out two of the white stripe kittens.
He handed one over to Hikaru who cooed over it.
"You are going to love your new mommy," he promised his kitten.
"And here's the last one," Yusuke said holding out the other white stripe kitten to Natsume.
"Has Masa and Ukyo decided to let the kids keep the tuxedo kitten then?" Ema asked looking into the box where the tuxedo kitten was looking up curious.
"Well they haven't said yes, but they also haven't said no. So we're hanging on to him for now," Yusuke said.
"Well she'll do just fine for our doctor. He didn't say he wanted anything specific with the kitten, just as long as he got one for his wife and kids," Natsume said as he gently petted the one Yusuke was still holding.
"Sweet, that'll take care of everyone then," Yusuke said, "Even Tux. I think it's beyond obvious now he's staying here too."
"Well I hope he's happy here," Ema said as she managed to pet the little kitten.
"Yes thank you, Yusuke, our doctor will be most pleased by this come our next appointment," Natsume said.
"Eh sure, just as long as these kittens all get a good home," Yusuke said casually.
Ema noticed Emiko looking at Yusuke with a big smile of admiration.
"He's going to make a good father some day," Ema heard her whisper before turning back to her work.
Before long, two weeks had past and it was time again for Ema's appointment.
When she and Natsume arrived at the clinic, they found their way blocked by a huge crowd of women.
"What going on?" Ema asked.
"Can only imagine," Natsume muttered as he stood on tiptoes and strained his neck. Sure enough at the center of the crowd was Kaname flirting with all of them.
"Oh figures," he said as he tried to get around the crowd with Ema.
"Excuse us! Can we get through!" Natsume said out loud as the two kept trying to move past the crowd.
"Natsume, is that you?" Kaname called out from the center.
"Yes!" Natsume shouted back mad. "and we're trying to get through so we can check in! Do you all mind!"
"Oh, you heard him ladies, let's let him and my sweet sister-in-law pass," Kaname said as he seemed to guide the crowd towards the waiting room, making way for Ema and Natsume.
"Creepy Monk!" Natsume muttered as he led Ema towards the reception desk.
There they saw the receptionist watching the crowd with a longing face, no doubt wanting to join.
"Excuse me!" Natsume had to snap to get her attention.
"Oh yes! Yes! Sorry!" the receptionist said as she quickly turned her attention to the pair in front of her.
"Ema and Natsume Asahina for Dr. Senyu please," Natsume said, "plus two."
"Right, yes of course," the receptionist said, putting in the information. "Dr. Senyu will be with you shortly. Please take a seat."
"Where?" Natsume muttered as he looked back at Kaname's ever growing circle now within the lobby. A few other occupants were also looking annoyed at their presence. Particularly the other men.
"Hey guys," he and Ema suddenly heard. They both turned and saw Yusuke walking towards them in his police uniform, holding the kitten.
"Sorry if I'm late, I had to run home to get the kitten for your doctor," he explained before noticing the huge mob.
"Oh, I see Kaname's here," Yusuke muttered.
"Yes," Natsume groaned.
"This clinic isn't too careful, it'll have a few more patients nine months from now," Yusuke said.
"Yeah, right?" Natsume agreed.
"Hey, I heard that you two!" Kaname said, "you know me. I'm a holy man, I wouldn't dare violate my holy vows."
Natsume and Yusuke shared a look of disbelief.
"Anyway, where can I sit down?" Ema asked.
"Oh ladies, ladies, please, move aside for my dear sweet sister-in-law, she's carrying a heavy but lovable burden after all," Kaname said as he managed to guide the ladies over a little to make room for Ema to move towards an empty chair.
"Thank you," Ema said as she managed to sit down.
"Anything for you, my sweet kind carrying sister," Kaname said as he moved out of his crowd of women and knelt in front of her.
"After all, if I want to maintain my position of favorite uncle, I must fullfil my duties of tending to your every need while you are with child, four times over."
"Favorite uncle? Really?" Yusuke said as he and Natsume tried to join Ema and Kaname.
"Is that a kitten in your hands Yusuke?" Kaname asked.
"Oh yeah, I brought her for Ema's doctor," Yusuke explained.
"What a lovely little girl," Kaname said as he managed to snatch the kitten away from Yusuke. "Oh such a cutie. I love animals so much."
"Awe!" cooed all the women from Kaname's crowd.
"Brother," Yusuke muttered. He tried getting the kitten back, but Kaname kept her just out of reach.
"Such a sweetie, oh I wish I could keep you!" Kaname kept saying.
"Oh but we're going to give her to Dr. Senyu," Ema said quickly.
"Ah, another love of my life taken from my grasp," Kaname said.
Ema heard Natsume groan and then felt him gripping her hand as though in a protective manner She squeezed it back in reassurance.
"Asahina?" an assistant asked coming into the lobby. He paused a little seeing the big crowd of women.
"Uh, I'm pretty sure some of you have work to do," he mentioned sternly.
Several women groaned and walked away reluctantly.
"Take care my angels. One must not falter from ones duties," Kaname said after them.
That earn him a big, "Aww," from all the women, both the ones going and staying.
"Let's go!" Natsume said as he and Yusuke helped lead Ema out of the lobby and down the hallway.
"Wait, what about the kitten?" Yusuke asked.
"Oh, you're the one who brought the kitten for Dr. Senyu?" the assistant asked, "you can just leave it up here with the receptionists."
"Ah, yes," Kaname said as he carried the kitten over to the front desk, "please tend to this lovely creature, while I go and introduce myself to my unborn nieces and nephews."
"Oh sure," the receptionist said with dreamy eyes.
"Oh and call Dr. Senyu's family so they can come down and get her," the assistant mentioned.
"Oh right, right!" the receptionist said, going back into business mode.
"I will never understand just what kind of hold Kaname has over women," Yusuke said.
"I'm just glad it didn't work on you," Natsume said smiling at Ema.
"Me too," Ema said with a blush.
"Thank you for bringing the kitten Officer," Dr. Senyu said as he prepped Ema for her ultrasound.
"Yeah sure, and you can just call me mister or Yusuke," Yusuke said.
"Very well," Dr. Senyu said, "let's see if we can get done what you and your brother are here to see."
He started running the wand around Ema's belly.
"And here they are."
"Wow!" Yusuke said as he watched the screen.
"Ah, the four little angels!" Kaname said happily.
"How are they looking, Doctor?" Natsume asked.
Dr. Senyu moved his wand around some more.
"Great!" he said happily. "The two that were squished together are now even further apart! That's good! they're now far enough apart that it won't hurt them during the birthing process."
"Oh, wonderful," Ema said happily. Natsume also smiled in relief.
"I would like to discuss the birthing process if that's alright," Dr. Senyu said.
"Do we need to step out for it?" Yusuke asked.
"Up to you," Dr. Senyu said, "I just wanted to discuss the plans for scheduling the birth."
"Oh yes, that's getting closer isn't it?" Natsume asked.
"Yes it is," Dr. Senyu going over his notes, "and the more I review everything in regards to your condition Mrs. Asahina, I'm thinking July 3rd is our best day to perform operation."
"July 3rd huh? Then that's what it will be," Ema said happily.
"Now, before that day, I'll actually want to have you admitted to the hospital two days earlier on July 1st, so we can monitor you and the babies, in case we need to deliver sooner for whatever reason. Don't worry, I'll make all the arrangements."
Ema and Natsume nodded.
"I've already started to assemble a team of doctors that'll be on hand to tend to each baby once its born," Dr. Senyu continued.
"Is that normal practice?" Natsume asked.
"Oh yes, the babies are still going to be small and will have some health issues that'll come from that. It'll be best if each has their own doctor looking after and monitoring their condition on a personal level. Just to make sure they are provided for in regards to whatever health issues they may have."
"Right," Natsume said. He looked towards Ema who was doing her best to keep a brave face.
"Hey, you know, not only will they have good doctors looking after them, but they'll have an uncle offering up prayers for them as often as he can, along with many of his fellow monks. So you know they'll be covered on all bases," Kaname also spoke up.
"Thank you, Kaname," Ema said.
"Anything to help you feel at ease during and after your birth," Kaname said, patting her head. He looked over at Natsume. "Same goes for you little brother."
"Yes Kaname, thank you," Natsume said sincerely.
Just then Dr. Senyu's phone rang.
"Hello?" he answered, "oh very good." He looked up happily from his phone.
"My family's here to see kitten!" he explained happily as he hurried out.
The others followed after him.
When everyone returned to the waiting area, they saw a woman holding the kitten while a young boy and girl were petting it with delight.
"Well, what do you all think?" Dr. Senyu asked as he approached his family.
"We love him dad! Can we really keep him?!" his son asked.
"I'm guessing so," Dr. Senyu said looking at his wife who was nodding in agreement.
"It's actually a girl though," Yusuke mentioned.
"It's a girl?" Dr. Senyu's daughter asked.
"That's what the vet said," Yusuke replied.
"He's the one who brought her," Dr. Senyu explained to his family.
"Let's call her Fuzz then!" his son quickly said, "in honor of the cop!"
"Fuzz?" asked Mrs. Senyu.
"Well she is also fuzzy," said the boy.
"I like it," his sister mentioned.
"We'll see if it sticks," Dr. Senyu said.
"Kids, you should go thank the kind officer," Mrs. Senyu insisted.
Both kids ran over to Yusuke and bowed, "thank you officer, for our new kitten."
"No prob, just take good care of her," Yusuke said, "cause if you don't, I'll arrest ya!"
"I'm sure he will too," Dr. Senyu also joked.
"Well we should go," Natsume said as he led Ema away to the door.
"Good luck on your birth madam," Mrs. Senyu called out after them, "I don't mean to brag, but you couldn't be in better hands than my husband."
"That's exactly what we're coming to realize," Ema said.
"Well that was interesting," Yusuke said as they all left the clinic.
"Yes, who knew so many angles could be found in a place like this. I think Tomori's been holding out on me," Kaname said.
"Or she's trying to make sure her staff doesn't get overwhelmed," Yusuke muttered.
"You sure seem to have a way with kids, little Yu-Yu," Kaname teased.
"Don't call me that!" Yusuke snapped.
"But I'm serious, you do have a good way with children. The kiddos at home, the doctor's kids back there. When are you and that lovely Emiko going to settle down and bring life into this world?"
"Me and Emiko?" Yusuke said in shock. "Oh gosh! I don't think that's going to happen for a while!"
"Oh, why? You both seem so happy together," Ema said.
"We are!" Yusuke insisted, "it's just that she's still trying to earn her degree. Her first attempt failed and she's really determined to get it right this time. Things like getting married and or having a baby would be too much for her right now. I want to see her reach her goals for herself first before we worry about a new goal for us."
"That sounds very reasonable," Natsume praised, "I think that'll make it so when and if you do propose, you'll know it's right and both of you are ready."
"Thanks, I knew you'd get it," Yusuke said, "see you back at the residence."
"I hope he's discuss this whole thing with the lovely Emiko, in case she's actually wondering why he hasn't made a move as such," Kaname said.
"Good point," Natsume agreed, "we should perhaps clear that with him."
"Thank you for this most glorious experience you two," Kaname said, "and I meant what I said. I have been offering up prayers since learning of your miracle and I will continue until they are all home safe with their mommy and daddy."
"Thank you Kaname," Ema said.
"I guess there are times he can be tolerated," Natsume mentioned as he drove home.
Ema looked over at him. "Natsume?"
"Yes?" Natsume asked.
"Do you ever get angry with me about this whole thing?" Ema asked timidly.
"Mad at you? Why would I be mad at you?" Natsume replied.
"Well, it's kinda my fault this happened," Ema confessed, "I was the one who was getting panic over not getting pregnant and even though Tomori said we should have been able to conceive a child naturally, I still pressed the matter to the point we took those pills that had the risk of giving us a multiple pregnancy."
"It wasn't just you!" Natsume insisted, "I may not have expressed it as much as you had, but I was getting a little worried too. I'm not getting any younger and I still wanted to have a good time with my children as they grew up. The main reason I was hesitant to take the pills was because I was a little worried it would make me less of a man."
"You'd never be that in my eyes," Ema assured him.
"Thank you, and no I've never been mad at you over this. This is what has happened to us and this what we will face, together with love. I actually can't think of our lives now without these four. It wouldn't seem right without them."
Ema sighed happily.
"Okay, good, I did sometimes worry I burden you with this whole thing," Ema said.
"When you're married to the person you love, it's not a burden, just a step you take on the journey of your life together. This just happens to be a big and somewhat difficult step," Natsume assured her. "But it's one we're getting across."
"Thank you," Ema said as she managed to lean over and kiss Natsume's cheek. "sorry I even brought it up."
"Don't be, it's natural to sometimes have these thoughts and feelings, especially at a time like this. I'm just glad you thought to ask me about it," Natsume said. "it's good to know we can still talk and catch could call confide in one another. A trait I hope we can pass on to the babies."
"Me too," Ema agreed, rubbing her enormous belly happily.