DISCLAIMER I DO NOT OWN BROTHERS CONFLICT IN ANYWAY SHAPE OR FORM
BEEP BEEP BEEP
Ema and Natsume both opened their eyes to the sound of their alarm going off. Neither one moved right away but stared up at the ceiling.
Juli yawned and stretched as he walked out of his little house and looked down at his human companions.
'Wonder how they're feeling?' he thought.
Ema only took her eyes off the ceiling when she felt Natsume taking her hand. She glanced over at him.
"You ready?" he asked.
"Yeah, I think so," Ema said softly.
"Let's get you up and dressed then," Natsume said as he moved to get out of bed.
Ema sat up as well, holding her back.
"Take it easy, Chi, you're still only two days away," Juli said as he jumped down from his house.
"I know," Ema said.
"Here Ema," Natsume said as he brought over a dress decorated with pink and red roses.
"Thank you, I wanted to wear the dress mother got me," Ema said as she managed to stand up on her own. Natsume still helped her take off her nightgown and slip on the dress.
"How do I look?"
"Like the most beautiful expecting mother of Quadruplets," Natsume said kindly.
"Flirt," Juli said as he inspected Ema's prepared suitcase. "Looks like everything's there and ready to go."
"I should hope so," Natsume said, "prepared that bag myself, with you looking over my shoulder the whole time, literally."
"That's what I'm saying," Juli said.
He was startled when Ema reached down and stroked him.
"Don't worry Juli, I'll be okay," she assured her friend.
"Let's get you downstairs for your breakfast," Natsume said.
He was surprised by the cats suddenly appearing next to him rubbing up against him and Ema.
"We'll miss you guys too, but I'm sure you'll love the new little brothers and sisters we're going to bring you back," Ema said happily.
"Make sure you keep those kittens away from Juli," Natsume said as he scratched both their heads.
"They'll be okay, right?" Ema asked.
"They'll be fine, just worry about yourself," Juli said.
"He's right," Natsume said, "come on, breakfast is waiting."
Ema nodded and carefully walked out with her husband and to the elevator.
When they reached the downstairs, they found every member of the family living in the residence waiting for them.
"Good morning," they all said happily.
"Good morning," Ema said.
"Ready for your breakfast before you head to the hospital?" Tsubaki asked.
"Mmm, I can smell it from here! Smells good!" Ema said. She and Natsume headed to the dinging table and found a huge breakfast feast spread out across the table complete with a huge banner over the table that read;
Good Luck Ema and Natsume!
"This looks amazing!" Ema declared.
"Have a seat, enjoy some real food while you can," Haruhi said as Natsume pulled out a chair for Ema
"Hey now, hospitals serve some decent food," Masaomi insisted.
"Well I'm greatful for this, thank you," Ema said
"And don't worry Aunt Ema, we made sure it's all good food for you to have your babies with," Kadia said happily, "Mommy and Daddy made sure!"
"Yep, was up early to make sure we got a decent meal," Tomori said.
"I did most of it, you mostly just told me what to make," Ukyo pointed out.
"Yes, and that's why we make such a good pair," Tomori shot back, grazing him with a kiss.
Ukyo smirk and let out a chuckle.
"Mmm, it's delicious," Ema said as she ate.
"Too bad you can't go to the hospital and make Aunt Ema's food for her Uncle Ukyo," Mizu joked.
"Yeah, right," Wataru said.
"I'm sure they'll provide good nutritious food for Ema while she's staying there," Ukyo said.
"Why do you have to go in so early Aunt Ema?" Kadia asked.
"It's just a safety precaution sweetheart," Tomori answered, "They need to monitor the babies as they prep them and your aunt for the birth."
Kadia looked at Ema and then at her mom.
"Are you going to help deliver Aunt Ema's babies, Mommy?"
"No, I didn't get that training done," Tomori said.
"Have you ever thought about it?" Emiko asked.
"Nah, I like where I am now, the head of my own clinic and helping everyday women bring their babies into the world," Tomori insisted.
Emiko nodded, "but you wouldn't discourage others from taking more courses, right?"
"Course, why you thinking about taking some advanced training?" Tomori asked.
"Well, I should make sure I can get through my current courses. But I wouldn't deny I was intrigued with the idea," Emiko explained.
"Then you should go for it!" Yusuke encouraged his girlfriend, patting her hand.
"You're always so encouraging," Emiko praised him. "but at the same time I don't want to hold out on our lives together."
"Well, something you'll have to worry about once you after finish your current courses," Natsume said.
"It's too bad you can't practice with Aunt Ema while she's in the hospital," Mizu again joked. Wataru was the only one who snickered at his joke.
"You're just a regular bowl of fun, aren't you kid?" Emiko said.
Mizu shrugged, looking cocky.
"Of course, I'm sure Emiko will probably be able to help out once we bring the babies home," Ema mentioned.
"I was planning to," Emiko promised.
"Oh sure, let the person with professional training have all the fun," Tsubaki said, even though he was winking at Emiko.
"Oh there'll be plenty of ways to help," Masaomi insisted, "but in the meantime, Ema still has to have the babies." He looked at his watch.
"Aren't you guys supposed to get checked in by 10?"
"Yes," Natsume said, also looking at his watch, "but Ema should be allowed to finish her meal. She needs her strength after all."
"Mmm," Ema said as she blushed, "I'm almost done though."
She took a few more bites of her food, leaving her plate perfectly clean.
Natsume also finished his food and then helped Ema to stand.
Everyone else stood too and began following them to the front door.
"Good luck Ema, we'll all be there at the hospital the day you give birth!" Masaomi said.
"Well, at least your brothers will, I'm sure," said Rika, "unfortunately some of us still have to work or tend to the kids. But we'll be there with you in spirit."
"Thanks Rika," Ema said, she gave Rika a hug. Rika gave off a huge happy smile.
"Can we get a hug too Aunt Ema?" Kadia asked eagerly.
"As best you can," Ema said as Kadia wrapped her arms around Ema's belly as far as she could stretch. Right after she let go, Mizu also hugged Ema as far as his arms could stretch.
"Good luck Aunt Ema!" he said.
"I get a hug too, right Sis?" Wataru asked.
"Of course," Ema said as she opened her arms for him.
"I hope I'm the first uncle the babies see!" he said, "I'll be there on your due date and I'll stay all day if I have to!"
"We'll see about that," Tsubaki said as he pulled his brother away.
"My turn for a hug of good luck," he said hugging Ema before she could say anything.
"Me too," Haruhi said as she pushed him aside to hug Ema as well. "And a rub on your belly for good luck in getting pregnant myself."
"Sure, 'cause that's how it works," Natsume said, "anyone else want a hug before we get going?"
"I'll take one," Emiko said as she walked over and hugged Ema, "one I can also pass on to Keitorin when I see her next."
"Thank you," Ema said.
"Yusuke?" Emiko asked, looking his way.
"Yeah, sure," Yusuke said as he wonder over and hugged Ema, "I'll be there on the day, I promise."
"Thank you, Yusuke!" Ema said.
"Well, I guess I should get a hug in too," Azusa said as he came for his turn, "it'll be fine Ema, you'll be fine, and the babies will be fine."
"Thank you, Azusa!" Ema said right as she was graced by a hug by Sunako.
"Take care!" Sunako encouraged.
"Thank you, and thanks for all the books you got me to read while I'm in there," Ema made sure to mention.
"Of course, and if you need more, just let me know," Sunako assured her.
"Thanks," Ema said.
"Well let me get in, get my hug!" Tomori insisted as she hurried and hugged Ema next, "if you get nervous or anything please let me know. Call me whenever, I'll be there for you!"
"Okay, I'll remember that," Ema said.
Next thing she knew Ukyo was hugging her.
"We are truly blessed by this birth of your babies, we all couldn't be more happy for you," he said.
"And I'm blessed I'm bringing them into such a great family," Ema said.
"Guess I get the last one?" Masaomi said as he took his turn for a hug.
"I'll be checking in on you for the next two days in general. So you'll never be alone, even if Natsume has to leave for whatever reason," he promised her.
"Thanks, thanks everyone for the encouragement," Ema said happily.
"Yes, this has been an ordeal, but you've helped out already more than you could ever known," Natsume said. He took Ema's hand and the two of them headed out side by side.
"Bye guys!"
"Bye!"
"Good luck!"
"We love you!"
"Can't wait!"
They could hear the words of encouragement all the way to their waiting car.
"Well, it's not starting too bad," Ema said said, once she and Natsume were off.
"Nope, we're all going to be just fine," Natsume said with an actual smile.
"Is it at all weird that I'm feeling both scared and excited?" Ema asked.
"Couldn't be, because I'm feeling the same way," Natsume assured her.
Ema nodded.
The two drove on in silence until they both could see the hospital coming into view.
They had both driven past the hospital before and had even gone in, sometimes to simply visit Masaomi. Or when Mizu and Kadia had been born.
But now it looked both inspiring and ominous.
Natsume wasn't sure if it was just in his head or he really was starting to drive slower as he drove towards the extended stay parking garage.
"Good morning," the guard at the entrance said, "name?"
"Asahina," Natsume said.
"Oh yes, here you are," the guard said as he marked them off and gave Natsume a pass. "You have a reserved spot, number 33 on the third floor."
"Thank you," Natsume said as the guard lifted the barrier and he drove in.
Each time Natsume drove up, Ema found herself taking in a deep breath, trying to prepare herself for both the joy she was feeling and the fear.
"There's number 33," she said when Natsume got to the third floor and drove around a little.
"Right near the sky bridge, good," Natsume said as he parked. "Let me get the bags out and then I'll come help you out."
"Okay," Ema agreed. She did her best to wait patiently for Natsume to do as he said he would and all too soon he was at her door, opening it for her.
"Need some help out?" he asked, offering her his hand.
"Yes please," Ema said as she grasped it.
"1, 2, 3..," they both counted as Natsume managed to help pulled her out.
"Alright, good," Natsume said. He and Ema kept holding hands as they secured the car, grabbed the bag and finally headed across the bridge.
As they walked, another couple was walking past them, or as it were, the husband pushing his wife in a wheelchair, while holding a baby.
An elderly woman, no doubt a grandma was with holding their bags.
They didn't even seem to notice Ema and Natsume as they passed them, even if the father made sure to maneuver around them.
"Well that's a happy sight," Ema said softly.
"Yeah, and we'll probably get to do that more than once," Natsume said as they kept walking.
Once on the other side of the bridge, they followed the hallway until they came to check in desk.
All around them were either other pregnant women waiting or new mothers leaving with their new babies.
Ema watched the leaving mothers with sense of urning. She noticed a lot of the other pregnant women were doing the same.
"May I help you?" the receptionist asked.
"Checking in for Ema Asahina," Natsume said.
"Asahina?" the receptionist said as she looked through her computer, "oh, yes, here we go. You're one of our special cases. We'll get you checked in, in no time."
She picked up her office phone.
"Party Asahina has arrived. Party Asahina has arrived," came her voice over the loud speaker.
Immediately several staff arrived, including one with a rather comfy looking wheelchair.
"Here you Mrs. Asahina," the wheelchair pusher said, patting the seat.
"Hey how come she's getting check in right now? I've been waiting for 10 minutes!" one woman angrily snapped.
"Yes, I told you, Dr. Gaman will be with you in a moment. Just be patient, you haven't even been feeling contractions. That's what you've said anyway," said the receptionist.
"Just because I haven't felt contractions doesn't mean I don't know that my baby's coming, and I've been waiting longer than she has. And you even brought her a special looking wheelchair. I mean what's up with that?"
"Well, Ma'am she's a special case. She's expecting four, so we're going to have her go to a special room while she's here."
The woman and her husband gave Ema a surprised look.
"I still don't think she should be seen before us or get special treatment," she muttered.
"Let's hope your baby is born smarter than you then," Natsume said under his breath.
"What?" the woman tried to ask as they started to roll Ema down another hallway.
"So, Asahina, does this mean you're related Dr. Asahina?" one of the attendants asked.
"Oh I knew it! She's getting special treatment because she has family working here!" they all heard the woman shouting.
"Ma'am calm down! You're upsetting the other patients!" the receptionist was heard scolding.
"In answer to your question, yes we are related to Masaomi Asahina," Natsume said as they headed away from the lobby and the rude lady.
"He's our brother," Ema said.
"Oh, yeah, I see it now. You just like your big brother," said one of the attendants.
Natsume eyed him before looking towards Ema who just shrugged.
Soon they were taken into a huge room that almost looked like their old apartment. It even had a kitchen of sorts, just minus a stove. It did still have a microwave. And even though it had the typical hospital bed, there was also a comfy looking armchair with leg rest, in addition to a few other chairs.
"This is where you can sleep when you spend the night Mr. Asahina," one of the attendants mentioned, "and when you're not using it, you're free to sit here if you get tired of the bed. It's closest to the monitors so that you can still be kept track of while here. Of course you're free to walk around if you want, and that includes going to the cafeteria for your meals if you wish. You'll have a nurse go with you of course and they'll probably keep you in a strict diet as per request by Dr. Senyu."
"When can we expect to see Dr. Senyu? Do you know by chance?" Natsume asked.
"I'll go see if I can find out for you," another attendants offer, "should probably get your standard schedule anyway."
He hurried out while another attendant helped Ema out of the wheelchair and over to the bed.
Do you know how to work the buttons here?" he asked.
"I think so," Ema said.
"The guy coming back will have a sheet showing which does what, just in case," said the attendant said.
"Is there anything else you need or want Mrs. Asahina?" the third attendant asked.
"Can you help me set up her gaming council with the TV? Natsume asked.
"Sure thing," the man said as he showed Natsume where and how to set it up.
"Here you go dear," Natsume said, handing her the controller.
"Thank you Natsume, that'll keep me busy," Ema said happily.
"Looks like Dr. Senyu will be in to see you around 2:30 this afternoon," the other attendant said as he came back in with a few other papers. He handed them off to Natsume.
"Thank you," Natsume replied looking through them all.
As he did, an attendant attached a cord to Ema's hand.
"This is to help monitor your heart rate and blood flow," he explained, "it's real easy to take off and any nurse or staff can reattach it."
"Okay," Ema said, starting to feel nervous again.
"Anything else we can do for you folks in the meantime?"
"No, I think we should be okay for now," Natsume assured.
"Alright, well good luck to you both," the head attendant said as he and his fellow coworkers headed out.
"Well, here we are," Ema said awkwardly once they were alone.
"Yeah, and now all we can do is wait for the next two days until the due date," Natsume said as he sat down in the chair next to Ema.
"Think you'll be comfy in this chair?" Ema asked.
"Yeah, actually," Natsume said looking around the chair with slight amusement.
"Are you going to spend the night here with me, the whole time?" Ema asked.
"Well yeah, I didn't pack my overnight bag as well for nothing you know," Natsume said.
"Okay, but I wouldn't have held it against you if you had gone back to the residence each night," Ema insisted.
"Nah, not until after the babies are born," Natsume maintain.
"But you are going to the office between today and tomorrow and the next day, right?" Ema asked.
"Oh, sure," Natsume acknowledge, "I do have a few meetings I need to attend. But they won't be too long and I'll be back as soon as I can. I probably won't even leave until Masaomi's shift starts so I know there's someone here you know and can rely on. Even if he's down in pediatrics."
Ema smiled at his kind words.
"Do you want to play a little before you go?" She asked.
"Yeah, sure, what one do you want?" Natsume asked as he dug through one of their bags.
"Damn!" Natsume said as Ema killed his character.
Ema giggled.
"We can play a different game if you want," she offered.
"And let you tell Tsubaki I couldn't beat you at my game?" Natsume muttered, "he'll never let me forget it."
"And he won't tease you over all the other times I've beaten you?" Ema pointed out.
"Good point, no let's just keep playing this one. I'm having fun, even if I keep losing," Natsume insisted.
"You're not letting me win are you?" Ema asked.
"Are you kidding? You think I'd insult you like that?" Natsume said.
Suddenly the door open.
"Hello, how's everything going?" Masaomi asked as he stuck his head in.
"Masa, hi," Ema said happily.
"Wow, you got yourself one of those fancy rooms," Masaomi said as he walked in and looked around. "It's nice. Course you'd probably need a room like this if you're staying for so long."
"I like it," Ema said.
"Well if you're here now, I better head out to the office. I wanted to wait until I was sure Ema had someone to help support her while I was gone," Natsume said as he stood up and put away a few of his things.
"Don't worry, I'll be here for her if she needs me," Masaomi promised.
"Hopefully I won't have to bug you too much so you can still do your own work," Ema said.
"Just text me on my phone if you do need me for anything. It'll be quicker," Masaomi said.
"And call me if you need anything too," Natsume insisted as he gave Ema a quick kiss. "I'll be back by the time Dr. Sayu will be here."
"Thanks, have a good day at work," Ema said.
She and Masaomi watched as Natsume left the room.
"So, do you need anything while I'm here?" Masaomi offered.
"No, I'm just perfect," Ema insisted, "I have my games and my books from Sunako. I should be well covered. But could you change the game to a different one. This isn't any fun without Natsume to play it with."
"Sure thing," Masaomi said.
"Let me know if you get lonely or anything," he added once he was done and headed out.
"Thanks Masa, have a good day at work," Ema said as she instead focused on her game.
For the rest of the day, Ema kept playing or reading or just watching her TV, keeping herself busy. Occasionally, a nurse would come in to check in on her, and at least once help her walk around the hallways to give her some exercise.
She was actually surprise when Natsume returned.
"Back so soon?" she asked.
"Yeah, got out as soon as I could," Natsume said as he got himself situated, "has Dr. Senyu been by yet?"
"Uh no, it's still a little early," Ema said.
"Good," Natsume said, "How was your day?"
"Not too bad, kept myself entertained," Ema said calmly.
"Good," Natsume said.
"How was work?" Ema asked.
Natsume groaned, "I hate to imagine what'll happen once I'm for good after tomorrow."
"Well you always call in and make sure everyone's working," Ema suggested.
"I could, but I'm going to want to focus on you and taking care of the babies more than whether or not people are slacking off at work," said Natsume.
"Well, I wouldn't hold it against you if you had to," Ema said as a form of comfort.
"Thank you," Natsume said, kissing her forehead.
Just then they both heard the door opening.
"Good afternoon," Dr. Senyu said as he walked in, followed by a few other doctors, two men and two women.
"Hey isn't that Dr. Kawari?" Ema asked.
"Yes, hello, the door greeted, "I've just finished earning my advanced degree and Dr. Senyu asked me to help assist."
"Assist?" Natsume asked.
"Yes, there's usually a team of doctors to help look after the babies once they're out. I figure now would be a good time to introduce you to the team," Dr. Senyu explained, "There's of course Dr. Kawari. Then there's, Dr. Senzoku, Dr. Osango and Dr. Kumi."
The three other doctors all bowed their heads in respect. "Each has had experience with tending to premature born babies and I have no doubt will work well with yours. In fact Dr. Senzoku herself was also an assistant with me during the birth of the septuplets."
"Thank you, I'm sure our babies will be in good hands," Ema said.
"Speaking of which," Dr. Senyu said as he came over and examined Ema's monitor, "how are you feeling? I hope you've been relaxing and taking it easy."
"I have yes," Ema said.
"Good, not only do we need to keep your strength up but you need to be calm too. No need for stress yourself out more than you probably are."
"Yes, I have been feeling both excited and nervous for this," Ema said.
"Totally normal," Dr. Senyu assured her, "all the more reason you'll have to stay relax through tomorrow and the day of."
"Are the video games necessary?" Dr. Osango asked.
"For my wife, yes," Natsume said.
"All good," Dr. Senyu said, "I'll come check on you tomorrow around the same time. And by the next day at the same time, you'll be giving birth."
"Can't wait," Ema said, squeezing Natsume's hand.
"In the meantime, I'll be giving you your first dose of drugs to help induce your labor," Dr. Senyu said as he gave Ema a shot.
"Ah!" Ema moaned.
"We'll give you two tomorrow and one more the day of," Dr. Senyu told her, "they'll help make birth safer."
Ema nodded, "as long as they're all born safe."
"They will be Mrs. Asahina," Dr. Senyu assured her, "the two that were squished together are even further apart from the last ultrasound. I have no doubt they'll be fine, all things considered."
"Thank you, doctor," said Natsume.
"Everything's going to be just fine," Dr. Senyu insisted as he and the other doctors all headed out. Dr. Kawari turned and looked back one last time. "Tomori has been going on and on over how excited everyone is for you and these babies. I can only imagine how everyone's going be once they're all born."
"Thank you," Ema said.
"I can only imagine too," Natsume muttered, but with a smile.
The next came and went before Ema or Natsume could react and then it was the day of the birth.
The day seem to start out as it had two days ago, with both waking up to the sound of the alarm and having to squeeze each other's hand to fully wake up. They did their best to keep calm and rational throughout the day.
"Feeling alright?" Natsume asked his wife.
"I think the babies are playing with butterflies in my stomach," Ema joked.
Natsume had to chuckle at that as well.
The moment was interrupted by the sound of the door opening.
"Hey, so when are they going to go through with it all?" Tsubaki asked as as he and Azusa, and Wataru all walked in.
"What are you doing in here?" Natsume asked annoyed.
"Told you we'd be here when the babies are born," Tsubaki said, making himself comfy in the armchair
"Yeah, but the procedure won't be untill this afternoon," Natsume pointed out.
"We can wait!" Wataru declared.
"Yeah, well, you'll have to wait in the lobby for now! Ema needs her peace and quiet before the operation!" Natsume ordered.
"Then that's where we're going to go," Azusa said as he grabbed Tsubaki by the scruff of his collar and hauled him up. "Come on Wataru."
"Oh, I wanted to stay here and chill with Big Sis!" Wataru whined.
"Yeah me too!" Tsubaki also whined.
"You heard Natsume, come on be respectful," Azusa said, trying to get both his brothers to leave.
However his path was blocked by another coming into the room.
"Hello, did I miss the birth?" Hikaru asked as he strudded in, looking around.
"No, it's not scheduled until 2:30, but for now you'll have to wait in the lobby," Natsume instructed.
"Oh, alright, let me just wish my precious sister good luck," Hikaru said as he walked over to Ema's bed and kissed her cheek. "How is it pregnant women always look more beautiful?"
"Thank you Hikaru," Ema said with a blush.
"Come on Hikaru!" Azusa said, trying to get the newcomer brother to follow him and their other two brothers out.
"Hello?" someone else called out as the door opened and Kaname came in.
"Oh no," Natsume moaned.
"Sorry you're early Kaname, I'm scheduled to give birth yet," said Ema.
"Oh what a pity," Kaname said, "looks like I'll at least be able to give some of the lovely female doctors, nurses and other female staff some spiritual guidance."
"Don't you dare!" Natsume warned.
"Oh my!" Iori said as he too suddenly came in with a vase of flowers, "I see I came at a bad time. I just wanted to drop off these flowers for Ema and then go wait in the lobby."
"That's just fine, that's what we all should be doing," Azusa said as he helped move some of his other brothers aside for Iori.
"Sorry for crowding you Ema," Iori said as he put his flowers down next to Ema.
"It's Iori, at least you understand you have to wait in the lobby," Natsume said.
"Oh here's where everybody is," Louis said as he too suddenly appeared in the room, "I went to the lobby and no one was there, so I thought I'd come see if anyone else has shown up."
"Oh yes, they're here," Natsume muttered, "and they should be joining you in the lobby!"
"Oh God! No way!" Futo muttered as he came in, taking off his sunglasses in annoyance. "I was hoping to come with Ema good luck alone. But good luck with that with all you losers here!"
"Oh cram it Pops," Tsubaki said.
Futo looked like he was about to respond when suddenly he was bumped from behind.
"Watch it!" he snapped at the person who had bumped into him.
"Sorry," Subaru said.
"Subaru! You came too!" Ema said happy to see him.
"Yeah, but I can wait until after the birth," Subaru offered looking out at all his brothers already in the room.
"Yes! You can! You should! All of you!" Natsume insisted.
"Oh, okay," Subaru said as he turned to leave, only to have his path blocked by Yusuke coming in.
"Oh hey, you're here," Yusuke greeted his older brother kindly. Then he noticed all the others in as well.
"What the hell! Guys come on! Give the mom some breathing room!"
"Yes, thank you Yusuke!" Natsume insisted, "you can help Azusa get them out!"
"Gladly!" Yusuke said as he grabbed a brother.
"Why do you always go for me first?" Futo mocked.
"Can it!" Yusuke warned.
"What the heck?" Ukyo said in shock as he Masaomi came in. Masaomi looked like he was trying to suppress a laugh. Ukyo just shook his head.
"We should have known you guys all end up here," Ukyo said.
"Come on guys, it's way too crowded in here, especially for Ema," Masaomi said.
"That's what Natsume's been trying to say!" Azusa said.
"We just wanted to wish Ema good luck!" Wataru insisted.
"I'm sure she knows," said Masaomi, "now come on, everyone out."
"What the hell! What is this!" Dr. Osango said suddenly coming in, "who are all these people! Get out! This isn't a safe environment for a pregnant woman!"
"Sorry Dr. Osango, these are some of my other brothers. They've come to wish our sister good luck," Masaomi explained.
"Well I appreciate the family support, but they still shouldn't be crowding in here! And I really must insist they all leave! We're here to take their sister in and have their nieces or nephews born," Dr. Osango insisted.
"Is it that time already?" Ema and Wataru both asked.
"Yes Mrs. Asahina," Dr. Osango said with a smile, "now could you gentleman please step out so we can make room for the bed to take your sister to the operation room?"
That got everyone to finally move fast out of the room.
"Thank you Doctor," Natsume said with relief.
"No problem," Dr. Osango said as Ema's transport bed was wheeled in. He walked over and gave Ema another shot.
"Last one of these, Mrs. Asahina," he assured her, "the next step is to give birth."
"Right," Ema said.
"You'll be just fine, I can speak for nearly all my colleagues, including the new guy that you'll be fine," Dr.. Osango said as Ema was moved to the transport bed and wheeled out of the room. He and Natsume were right behind it.
Outside in the hallway, their brothers all stood waiting.
"Well looks like you got yourself a full on escort," said one of the assistants as he pushed Ema down the hallway.
Ema looked up at each of her brothers as she passed them. Each smiling down at her.
"Good luck Ema," they all said as they came into view.
"Good luck Chi," Louis said.
They also all smiled at Natsume as he passed.
"Good luck to you too Natsume," they each made sure to mention.
"Thanks guys," Natsume made sure to say each time.
The 12 brothers kept watching until Ema and Natsume were out of sight.
"Alright, let's go wait in the lobby until we hear any news on the birth," Masaomi suggested. He and a few of the other more responsible brothers all started to help push the more goofy ones back down the other way.
"Don't you have to go back to work?" Subaru asked Masaomi.
"No, my shift is over for the day. I just want to wait here until we know for sure Ema's had her babies," Masaomi said.
"Yeah, that's what we're all going to be doing for the next hour or so huh?" Futo said, making sure to put his sunglasses back on and keeping his head down.
Ema looked around the birthing room in fear and awe.
"I swear this room looks like one of the levels of that alien game we we're playing earlier," she said to Natsume as he was getting dressed up in scrubs himself.
"I guess it does a little, doesn't it?" Natsume said.
"Well, alien room or not, it usually works well with delivery," Dr. Senyu teased as he came to the table Ema was laying on. "How are you feeling?"
Ema responded by taking a deep breath.
"Oh," she moaned.
"Sounds like she's getting close," Dr. Senzoku said quickly.
"Yeah," Dr. Senyu agreed, "do we have the incubators all ready?"
"Set and ready," said Dr. Kawari.
"Mrs. Asahina, are you feeling any slight discomfort other than contractions?" Dr. Senyu asked.
"Nothing too bad," Ema said, as she took another deep breath.
"Doctor?" Dr. Senzoku said.
"I think we should be good to go," Dr. Senyu, "everyone get ready. That includes you too Natsume."
"Right," Natsume said as he took his place next to Ema, and took her hand.
"Hey Masa, how long does a C-section take?" Wataru asked.
"Well a regular one with one baby can take up to maybe 45 minutes," Masaomi said calmly, reading through a magazine. "but this a quadruplet birth we're taking about. So it could take a little longer.*
"Oh!" Wataru moaned.
"Hey, you're the one that wanted to come here and wait," Ukyo said, also thumbing through a magazine.
"I know, I just want to see the babies so badly!" Wataru complained.
"Oh you probably won't even get to see them right away," Masaomi said, "they're going to be in the NIC-ICU so they can get the special treatment they'll need."
"Oh, poor babies," Wataru said.
"Don't worry, Tomori swears by Dr. Senyu," Ukyo said, "those babies are in good hands and you'll see them before you know it."
"I really can't wait though," Wataru whined some more.
"Ahhh!" Ema moaned loudly.
"It's alright, you're doing good!" Dr. Senyu said as he he helped guide one of the babies out, "here comes your first baby!"
"Can you see, Natsume?!" Ema managed to ask between moans.
"I think so!" Natsume said looking over at where Dr
Senyu was finally pulling the first baby out.
"Whaaa!" the baby cried out.
"Here we are!" Dr. Senyu announced happily, "congratulations, it's a...,"
"So how has Yuki and Kyo been doing?" Subaru asked Iori and Louis as they continued to wait.
"They're good," Both of his brothers replied.
"Although it's a little hard for Yuki with her morning sickness and work," Louis said.
"Kyo's lucky, her research lab has a private bathroom," Iori said.
"I was really surprised when I heard," Subaru said, "but I'm happy for you guys. I hope everything goes well for both of you and your girlfriends."
"Thank you," both said again.
"Is it true you and Yuki aren't going to officially get married, Louis?" Subaru asked.
"No, we don't think we have to," said Louis.
"Well, whatever suits you guys," Subaru said before looking at Iori, "how about you?"
"Oh we're going to get married. Her mother won't allow me not get married. But at least we can wait until after the baby comes. Let us get settled with our new lives with our child," Iori said, "which I should mention, do you think Mie can find a good location?"
Subaru smirked, "just say when. She'd cancel the prime minister for you guys. Her and her mother. She's actually got quite found of you guys and proud of how you're both handling your situation."
"Thank you," said Iori.
"Yes, I hope we can live up to their praise," said Louis.
Ema tried to strain her head to see her first born who was already in the incubator being tended to by one of the doctors.
"Ema, I know you're excited over your first baby, but we still need to get the other three out," Dr. Senyu said. "I need you to give me a push."
"Yes of course," Ema said, as she squeezed Natsume's hand tight.
"You got this," Natsume whispered as Ema let out a cry of pain.
"Good! Good, here's comes baby number 2!" Dr. Senyu said as he presented the second child, "it's a...,"
"What the heck are you doing?" Yusuke whispered to Futo who was sitting in the far corner of the lobby by himself with his sunglasses on.
"Just trying to no draw attention to myself," Futo said softly. "so stop bringing to me! Idiot!'
"If you're so concerned about it, then why did you come?" Yusuke asked.
"You think I was going to miss Ema's birth?" Futo said, "I intend to be here until I hear she's given birth safely and those babies are going to be alright! Besides I promised Keitorin I'd give her updates on the whole thing."
"Fine, if that's how it has to be. But you look kinda sitting here like that. If you weren't my brother, I'd be tempted to take you in for questiong."
"I'd bet you'd love that," Futo said with a smirk.
Ema smiled a weak smile at the sight of her two new babies. She wanted to hold them so badly, but knew they had to be tended to and she still had to focus on getting her other two babies out.
"You ready?" Natsume said, forcing himself to take his attention away from the babies as well and instead help Ema finish.
"Yes, yes," Ema said.
"You're doing great work, Ema," Dr. Senyu said as he prepared for the next birth.
"Doctor, do you want the scissors to cut the cord for the next one now?" Dr. Osango asked.
"Hmm, yeah that might be a good idea," Dr. Senyu said. Dr. Osango handed hims the scissors and Ema could feel a slight tug inside of her before hearing a new baby crying.
"Here we are, baby number 3!" Dr. Senyu announced happily, "it's a...,"
"Mmm," Kaname hummed as he watched an attractive woman walk by.
"Think she's a patient or just visiting?" he asked.
"Oh I'm sure you'll find an excuse to give her some of your spiritual guidance," Hikaru said, he too reading his own magazine. "Makes me wonder how many women you're giving your spiritual guidance will end up here or another hospital nine months from now."
"Oh please, I have some control," Kaname started to argue, only to again get distracted by another woman walking by. "Oh, what a vision."
"Isn't it standard practice for monks to become sterile or something along those lines?" Hikaru asked smug.
"Oh, aren't you a kidder," Kaname said, "do you think it's too late for us, to maybe create a little us?"
"Hmm, to be honest, I have no real desire to create a little me," Hikaru admitted, "I feel I'm a limited edition."
Kaname chuckled, "maybe I am too. Maybe there doesn't have to be a second Kaname in the world."
"But you never know, perhaps something might trigger a new model or two," Hikaru said as he too happened to glance at an attractive woman walking past. He also seemed interested in a man walking past.
"I honestly think and feel we still have time. If we truly want one, we can probably still have one."
"I think perhaps you're right," Kaname agreed.
"Of course I am," Hikaru bragged.
"And in the meantime, nothing wrong with sampling the field," Kaname said, eyeing another woman.
"Down Boy, Down," Hikaru said.
"Okay, looks like we just need to get the last one out," Dr. Senyu said.
"Is this the smallest one?" Natsume asked.
"Yep, but don't worry, we got it covered," Dr. Senyu assured him. "everyone else ready?"
"Set and ready Doctor," Dr. Kawari said, the only one who didn't have a baby to tend to.
"Here, baby number 4 is coming out!" Dr. Senyu announced.
"Ahh!" Ema cried.
"Whaaa!"
"That's it? That's the last one?" Ema asked.
"Yes, we got them! They're all here!" Natsume said, actually trying hard to grasp the whole concept himself.
"Yep," said Dr. Senyu said, "and baby number 4 is ...,"
Tsubaki hummed to himself.
"This is comfy," he said.
"Any chance, you could get your head off my lap?" Azusa asked annoyed.
"Hmm, no, too anxious," Tsubaki said.
"Oh my God!" Azusa muttered. "How much longer do you think?"
"I'm curious about that too," said Tsubaki, "Should it be taking this long? Do you think Ema's alright? Do you think the babies are okay?"
Azusa looked down at Tsubaki and saw his brother looked legit worried.
"What would happen if this was Haruhi? God, maybe having a multiple pregnancy wouldn't be a good idea."
"Oh maybe, maybe not," Azusa tried to comfort him, "there could be problems with a single pregnancy. You shouldn't worry about it. Especially since she hasn't even gotten pregnant yet. Mom had us safe, and that was years ago. And look how far technology in birthing has come. You should just be happy when Haruhi gets pregnant, regardless of how many she's expecting."
"You're right," Tsubaki said.
Azusa nodded, but before he could say anything else, he noticed someone familiar finally heading into the lobby.
"Tsubaki!" he shouted as he jumped up, knocking Tsubaki to the ground.
"Hey! Tsubaki shouted, rubbing his back.
Azusa ignored him and instead hurried to Tsubaki.
"Hey, it is Natsume!" Wataru said as he too jumped up. Several other of the brothers jumped up and hurried over to him
"Hey, stalker, Natsume's here!" Yusuke shouted at Futo.
"Everyone here?" Tsubaki said, wiping himself with a wipe.
"So, what's the news?" Masaomi asked.
Natsume took a deep breath with a huge smile.
"Two boys, two girls, in that order. Just like Ema wanted," he said happily, "I have two sons and two daughters! And I think they're going to be okay!"
"Yay!" nearly all his brothers shouted happily.
"When can we see them?! What are their names?!" Wataru asked eagerly.
"Calm down, calm down," Natsume tried to restrain Wataru.
"How's Ema?" Tsubaki asked.
"She's fine, she's being taken back to the room for rest and recuperation. But she said I could come and let you guys know what happened and to come see the babies fast," Natsume said as he led his brothers down the hallway.
"We actually get to see them?" Wataru said happily.
"Yes, but not for long," Natsume explained, "they set it up for you guys to come in, get a quick glance in person, but it'll be fast. Don't forget they're really tiny and are in the NIC-ICU for a reason."
"Yes of course Natsume, we'll all be respectful and quick as you and the doctors wish," Masaomi said right as they all came to the NIC-ICU doors.
"Everyone put on a mask and gloves please," Natsume instructed as he helped himself to some as well from a box nearby.
His brothers quickly obeyed and soon Natsume was leading them past the doors and into a corridor.
Natsume led them to a window where inside directly were four incubators, each holding four different babies.
"Guys," Natsume said as his brothers all lined up in front of the window.
" I want you to meet my and Ema's sons Hayase, and Boton, as well as our daughters Amaya and Roza."
All his brothers looked awe struck as they gazed at their new nephews and nieces.
Natsume too looked at his children with pride and love.
"Congratulations Natsume," Masaomi said.
"Thanks," Natsume said, truly happy of the sight in front of him.
He and Ema were finally parents.