Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

104. Chapter 104

Chapter 104

When JJ and the other kids finally returned home, Natalie was still in the master bedroom staring at Jae's picture on the floor. JJ made sure Salem and Nesia stayed outside to play while JJ helped Natalie off the floor and forced Jae's picture out of her arms. She appeared as though she were in a daze.

"Mom," JJ said when he got Jae's picture out of Natalie's arms and replaced it on the dresser. "Did something happen? Did you have another nightmare?" Natalie nodded weakly. "Do you want me to make you some coffee?" Natalie nodded again, so JJ helped Natalie back into bed so she was sitting on the edge and left the bedroom to go downstairs and make coffee. Once he had a cup made for himself and for Natalie, JJ went upstairs and saw Natalie where he'd left her, but she was holding Jae's picture again. "I miss dad too," JJ muttered as he came over and sat beside her. He offered Natalie her cup and she accepted it in one hand but held Jae's picture in the other.

"He's haunting me," Natalie finally said.

"What?"

"Your father," Natalie said solemnly. "He's haunting me."

"You mean with the dreams?" JJ said and Natalie nodded. "Mom, I know dad's death hit you really hard. It hurt me a lot too, but dad haunting you? Really, mom."

"You don't believe me?" Natalie asked.

"I believe that you miss dad and catching the bouquet last night was a slap in the face to you," JJ said. "Amber didn't do it on purpose but out of all the single broads, it had to land on you."

"Don't use that word, JJ," Natalie scolded meekly. "I was alright for a little while," Natalie continued. "But last night, I started seeing him everywhere in the house. I had another dream last night about that blue bird that's perched on our patio railing. He brought me a flower. Then I saw that man again."

"What man?"

"I don't know," Natalie said. "I kept seeing visions of our tribe's past. I saw the death of the third wife. Her brother had brought that vampire that attacked us."

"Mom," JJ said, "that vampire attacked because Taha Aki's son's killed her mate. She was taking revenge."

"I know, but he was still there. He watched. He'd said to Taha Aki 'it was supposed to be you'. Then I saw a vision of him standing above Taha Aki holding one of the chief's teeth in his hand." JJ stared at Natalie trying to keep his features neutral, but he was worried about what she was saying. "I asked your father why he was showing me all these things. He said he couldn't make me happy anymore and that this person and I would heal together."

"Try not to let it bother you, mom," JJ said. "They're just bad dreams."

"I don't want anyone else," Natalie said. "I love your father. I'll never stop."

"No one's asking you to stop loving dad," JJ reassured. "No one will ever be dad. No one will ever be better than him or even as good as him." JJ looked at Natalie and saw the sad look on her face. He felt his chest hurt a little and wrapped his arm around Natalie's shoulder and stared down at Jae's picture. "Do I really look like dad?"

"You're a mirror image," Natalie said. "It used to hurt so much, but it's a little easier now."

"I'm sorry, mom," JJ said.

"Don't be sorry, JJ," Natalie said. "You're handsome like your father."

"Am I? Uncle Hailey often tells me the same thing that I look like dad."

"You really do," Natalie said. "Were it not for your smile, I'd have thought it was your father in your uncle's wedding pictures. It's the smile. You don't smile like your father did. Not anymore."

"There hasn't really been anything worth smiling about," JJ said sadly.

"We can be happy for your uncles," Natalie said.

"Ah yes," JJ said. "Happy for Uncle Kevin and Aunt Amber; happy for the woman responsible for dad's death in the first place." This time, Natalie hit JJ's knee like she used to when he was a boy and it startled him.

"Shame on you," Natalie said. "Amber never asked for what happened. Your father chose to join the war and he had his own reasons besides helping your uncle. Don't you dare blame Amber and Kevin for your father's death. You're father died at the hand of a sniper and your Uncle Nathan saw that man dead by his own hand."

"All the good it did," JJ said. "Dad's still dead and now you're saying he's haunting you."

"We're done with this discussion," Natalie said with irritation thick in her voice. There was a moment of silence before Natalie cried a little. "You shouldn't hold a grudge like this. You should remember your father as he was and keep living your life."

"I am living my life," JJ said and stood from the bed. "I'll get some food ready for Salem and Nesia." JJ returned downstairs to make lunch while Natalie stayed upstairs. She didn't go to the bar that night and Ada María had to make up an excuse for her but promised she'd return the following day. Ada María would make sure of it.

By this time, Amber and Kevin were nearly to California where they would catch their boat. As a general rule, they nearly never left their private car preferring to remain with each other rather than in the dining car with other patrons. Kevin would leave to obtain some food when he absolutely needed to, otherwise he was with Amber. When they arrived in California, they stayed the night at a hotel near the docks where they'd board in about two days. Once they were on the boat, they had a room in one of the cruise suites that offered a lovely view of water. It was the first time Amber had genuinely enjoyed a boat ride. They would be on the cruise for a while so they developed a little routine during the cruise. They'd made love every morning and then they'd take a bath together, get dressed, and walk around on deck hand in hand enjoying the view of the ocean. During their walks, they'd started talking to an older couple that had invited them to their table that night as a means of congratulating them for their marriage. Within two days, they were on a first name basis with the couple.

"Are we joining David and Carol for dinner again tonight?" Amber asked as Kevin was getting the bathtub ready for them. They'd remained naked from their love making that morning.

"I let them know we'd join them again tonight," Kevin confirmed and checked the water. David tells me Carol absolutely adores you."

"The feeling's mutual," Amber smiled. "I promised her first thing when you and I return that I'd carve her a candle. I'll give her some design options tonight."

"Good advertisement to be sure," Kevin smiled. "They said they're from Los Angeles right?"

"I think David works in Los Angeles but Carol's family owns a vineyard and they live in Napa."

"Oh, yeah," Kevin said. "David promised he'd send us some wine."

"It's my payment for the candle," Amber smiled. "Three bottles she said."

"That's not half bad," Kevin said. When the water was to his liking, he held out his hand and Amber walked to him so the two of them could get into the large tub. Kevin got in first and Amber joined him so she was sitting in the water with her back to his chest.

"I think mom and daddy will enjoy the wine," Amber said. "You too of course."

"You didn't tell them you don't care for wine did you? I wouldn't want to offend them," Kevin smiled.

"I didn't say a word of refusing to drink it," Amber said. "I attempted to say by then I'll likely be in no condition to drink, but she insisted a glass of red wine with dinner is good for a baby."

"I've heard that," Kevin said. "I'd consult Kyle about that first, though. It could easily be wishful thinking of a wino." Amber giggled a little and Kevin kissed her neck. "It's probably too soon to ask if you're pregnant."

"Far too soon," Amber nodded. "We can always worry about whether or not our honeymoon was 'successful' when we get back home. We still have a few more weeks to get me pregnant."

"That's true," Kevin said and kept kissing along her neck. "Did you want to give it another try?"

Amber giggled again from Kevin's kisses tickling her, "Not a moment's peace."

Kevin chuckled, knowing Amber was teasing, and kept kissing her. He moved his hands all over her body touching her everywhere including between her legs until she was ready for him. When she was ready, Kevin helped Amber onto her knees so she was holding the edge of the tub while Kevin was on his knees behind her so he could slip inside her and make love to her again. It was a delightful change to the routine they'd developed. Once they were satiated, they got out of the tub and dried each other off, got dressed, and went about their walk on deck where they eventually met up with David and Carol and had a good time together before dinner was announced. They dressed nicely for dinner and met David and Carol and what had become their usual table.

"So tell me, Kevin," David said as he lit his cigarette once they were all seated for dinner. "How does a man start a law firm at the tender age of 26? That is how old you were correct?"

"Luck and the right connections," Kevin smiled.

"You simply must tell me," David chuckled and offered Kevin a cigarette that he politely refused. Carol took the cigarette in Kevin's place and David listened as he lit his wife's cigarette.

"Well, I wasn't joking when I said a lot of it had to do with luck. My best friend and I had joined the army at 13 to start."

"Gracious, whatever for?" Carol asked.

"There were a number of reasons, but one of my reasons was a desire for more in life. It's certainly what I got. I saved the lives of two of my commanding officers and one of them was son to the Dean of Yale. He gave me a spot at the university as a thank you. I was able to get my little brother into the school to study medicine too. After I graduated, a friend of mine and I worked for a law firm in Connecticut. My partner had been the one to initially suggest we start a business of our own and 1929 had seemed the best time to do it. At the time anyway."

"It's a relief the business survived the crash," David nodded. "I recall when the crash occurred. Carol's family were already going through hard times courtesy of prohibition. Her family had resorted to selling wine illegally. You'd be surprised how many cops are willing to keep their mouths shut if you give them a reason to. We were terrified the crash would bring the vineyard to an end, but with the thirties came the re-legalization of alcohol so our sales improved quite a bit."

"I can imagine," Kevin said. "I spent the majority of the thirties bringing home virtually no money just to make sure our business stayed up."

"That's improved I hope," David said.

"Drastically," Kevin smiled. "It started getting a little better slowly but surely later in the thirties, but with the war, the economy improved. And of course the people we generally represent didn't go to war."

"Your poor business partner, though," David chuckled. "You left the man alone with a business for so long."

"It was necessary, though," Kevin said and then, desperate to change the conversation noticing Amber was slightly uncomfortable with the potential of the war coming up, asked, "So you said you're a real estate agent?"

"Indeed and its good business in Los Angeles, I assure you," David smiled. "If you're ever interested in purchasing a summer home in California, I can get you a good deal. I'll even make sure it's a beachside property."

"That sounds lovely," Amber swooned a little. "Perhaps we should."

"Perhaps we can make a little deal where you make Carol a few extra candles and we get a house out of it," Kevin joked.

"Oh, darling," Carol giggled, "perhaps we could do such a thing."

"I know you kid, Carol, but I don't know if I can accommodate that kind of a deal," David smiled. "But in all seriousness, if you're hurting for a little summer home in LA, you just give me a call and I'll set you up with a quality deal."

"I'll tell you what," Kevin smiled, "If I take you up on that offer, if you ever need a lawyer, just let me know and I'll give you a good deal too."

"It would be my pleasure to burden you with my legal problems," David joked with a smile. "In fact, why don't you and Amber join us in Los Angeles after we return to America and I can take you on a tour of the beach houses."

"Do you suppose we could?" Amber asked, now excited with the prospect if only with the possibility of going to Los Angeles. "Your brother speaks fondly of his time in Los Angeles and I would love to visit."

"Sure," Kevin smiled and patted Amber's knee.

"I'm curious as to what made you decide to open your law firm in Washington State," David said. "D.C. certainly, but state? Surely it would be more profitable to operate out of New York. That's law city."

"My family's in Washington," Kevin said. "Besides, as much as I did like the East coast, I was home sick."

"Have you considered opening a second law practice in New York? It would be a lucrative business venture and you can obtain positive recommendations from current clients and maybe even old clients that might remember you fondly."

"I can always bring the option up with Alphonse," Kevin said. "In fact, he may adore the idea." Kevin chuckled a little to himself.

"What's funny?" David asked.

"Well, Alphonse is married but he and his wife do not get along to put it mildly. His wife hated moving to Washington and was eager to remain or return to New York. If we opened a business in New York and had to go between Washington and New York, it would infuriate his wife something awful. I think he might appreciate that."

David chuckled, "He's the one who has to live with it I suppose." Kevin didn't speak further on the topic as David continued. "I personally find keeping one's wife happy is the wiser of actions."

"You are very good at that, darling," Carol smiled and patted Amber's hand. "You make sure Kevin here keeps you happy. If he's ever doing any less than what's best for you, you tell me and I'll ensure he's 'taught a lesson'," Carol said with a wink and Amber giggled.

"That's very kind of you, Carol," Amber said.

"And you know what, you encourage Kevin to open a law practice in New York. Why, he may very well go into politics! That's a lucrative profession if ever there was one. So long as you have a thick skin of course. Oh, dear Amber, think of it! You could have a house in D.C. a house in Washington State AND in LA!"

"I'd vote for you," David chuckled.

"I'll hold you to that," Kevin joked along with them with a smile. After dessert, David invited Kevin to have brandy with him and, upon Amber insisting he enjoy himself, he agreed. They went on the deck with their drinks and enjoyed the view.

"Once again, congratulations to you and Amber. She's truly a breathtaking young woman," David said.

"There's no one like her," Kevin smiled. "I'm hoping your wife's offer to teach me a lesson will never be needed."

"I'm sure it won't," David chuckled. "She's only teasing. I do hope you'll consider the recommendation of opening a law firm in New York. I do think it would benefit you and your business partner."

"I'm sure it would," Kevin nodded. "I was very fond of New York those times I could go. Amber enjoyed being there when last we'd visited too. I can't say politics will ever be on the table, though."

"No? You're certainly charismatic enough for it."

"I already sold my soul when I became a lawyer," Kevin joked. "Being a politician requires a degree of depravity I can't sink to."

"That's a shame," David said. "You'd certainly make an excellent politician I'd say."

"Well, thank you for saying," Kevin smiled.

Kevin and David stayed on deck for another hour finishing their drinks before retreating to their own cabins. When Kevin returned, Amber was already in bed, so Kevin undressed and got into bed with her, pulling her close to his chest once he was under the covers. Amber moaned in her sleep and snuggled closer to him while he kissed the top of her head and fell asleep with Amber in his arms. He awoke the next morning to Amber's kisses and tender caresses. He was still half asleep when she gently pushed Kevin onto his back and slipped him inside her, but he was fully awake when he reached his climax. When they reached the Panama Canal, all the cruise guests went out on deck to watch the canal work before they returned they left Panama for Brazil. That portion of the trip took about three days before they finally reached Salvador. Carol and David would be staying at a hotel near the water, so they parted ways promising to visit one another at some point during their shared week in Salvador.

Kevin rented a car for the week but it was only for the purpose of carting their luggage to their blue house on the hill. He made sure the car was parked on an even flat surface that was originally for carts when the house had first been built decades ago. Kevin got their luggage while Amber walked up the small steps to the front door. Kevin had the key, so she waited at the top of the steps while Kevin brought all the suitcases up the steps. Once there, Kevin pulled out the key and unlocked the door, letting them in. Amber stepped in first. The house was in good order: clearly cleaned recently.

"So this is where your brother and niece stayed during their misadventures," Amber smiled. "It's very cozy."

"It is," Kevin said. "This is the first time I've seen this place in person."

"Did Nathan say what room we're permitted to use?" Amber asked.

"He said we could use the master bedroom," Kevin said. "I've been reassured on several occasions that Ada's brother would ensure the sheets are clean. If there is even a lingering smell, I'll buy new ones for us to sleep on."

Amber giggled, "I'm sure that won't be necessary Kevin." Amber took her suitcases and they went upstairs together going to the master bedroom at the top of the stairs. Once all the suitcases were put down, Kevin went straight to the bed and smelled the sheets. Clean linens. In fact, they were brand new.

"Good," Kevin said, "Ada's brother was kind enough to give us new sheets."

"That's good news," Amber said as she went to the window to take in the view.

It wasn't a direct view of the water but she could see it off to the side. The greater view was of the town filled with colors from all the houses in the neighborhood. The sun was hot on her skin and the air was thick and humid, but the smell of the ocean and the sounds of the waves were so calming. Amber kept looking out the large window with her hands on the window sill until Kevin walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. He started kissing her neck and Amber breathed in and laid her head back against his shoulder.

"How do you like the view?" Kevin asked.

"It's lovely. I wish there was a clearer view of the ocean, though."

"That's from Scarlet's room I'm afraid," Kevin smiled. "Unfortunately, we aren't technically allowed in her room."

Amber giggled, "We'll stay out then." Kevin nodded absently as he continued to kiss Amber's neck.

"I know it's not a view of Paris," Kevin said his right hand trailed down and started pulling up her skirt. "But I remember describing a fantasy in which we were on a balcony and looking out on the city while we made love. It's not a balcony, but it's a large enough window." Amber blushed and trembled when Kevin's hand had lifted the skirt of her dress and touched her bare skin. "And it is still a view of a city."

Amber licked her lips and lifted her hand so she was touching his head. She leaned her head more to the side so Kevin could kiss her from her ear down to her shoulder and back again. Kevin's hand trailed up until he was between her legs. Then he slipped his hand under her panties so he could start rubbing her intimately. Amber sighed and returned her hand to the window sill so she could keep herself upright. She moaned his name when his other hand trailed up to her breast still covered by her bra and sundress. That same hand then trailed behind Amber so he could take down the zipper of her dress. Once it was all the way down, Kevin unclasped her bra so it was loose and finally planted his hand on her bare skin. He brushed his hand over her, leaving her dress on, until he reached her breast again and cupped it in his hand. Amber moaned again and placed her left hand a little further towards the right so she could use her right hand to reach behind.

She started by putting her hand on his hip and moved her hand around until she found his belt. Then she followed it to the buckle and fumbled to undo it all while Kevin kept rubbing his finger over her and slipping them inside her. Kevin nipped at her ear causing her to whimper and stop momentarily until she regained her senses enough to finally undo his belt. Then she managed to unbutton his pants and pull down the zipper so she could slip her hand in. Once she was holding his erection, Kevin took in a sharp breath and bit her neck a little harder. They stayed that way for another minute touching one another while their clothes kept them separated. Then finally Kevin pulled down Amber's panties and lifted the back of her dress back up. Amber kept holding him until he was at her entrance and let go so he could slip inside her. Amber returned her hand to the sill so she could stay upright.

Kevin's left hand stayed on her breast while his right hand kept a hold of her skirt but was flat on her hip while he began to move. Since the window was open, Amber did her best to make sure she didn't moan too loudly, but she couldn't help sighing from time to time. Amber turned her head and kissed his forehead. When he felt her kiss him, Kevin lifted his head and started kissing her. When their lips met, Kevin started thrusting with just a little more force and faster. Since his lips were there to keep the sounds at bay, Amber let herself moan and cry as if they weren't before a window. There was something so exciting about what they were doing and thinking of it made her blush.

Soon, Kevin's right hand went back down between her legs again so he could touch her at her most sensitive spot. Amber uttered a whimper of excitement and it earned greater urgency from Kevin his hand. After realizing she'd been louder than intended, she made sure to keep her voice down despite the pleasure she felt until she felt the coil within her snap and she couldn't fight another high pitched cry. She kept herself upright through it while Kevin continued to thrust until he finally reached his own climax, gripping her hips and nearly falling over her. Amber did her best to turn her body without causing him to leave her so she could wrap her arm around Kevin to kiss him. He placed a hand on her chest so he could keep her close and kissed her back with a satisfied passion.

"I love you," Kevin whispered to her.

"I love you too," Amber answered and they kissed again.

The two of them enjoyed their time in Salvador. They went to the beach whenever they were able and would just lay in the sand on a blanket soaking up the sunlight. When a party had broken in the street for what appeared to be another couple's wedding, Amber and Kevin joined and danced along with everyone. Amber was sad to leave when their week in Brazil came to an end, though it was alleviated when they met up with David and Carol again on the cruise ship returning to California upon which they arrived in Los Angeles. As promised, Kevin and Amber spent a few days with David and Carol enjoying the city and, upon David's insistence, seeing some seaside properties that went as high as $38,000. David promised that, just because he liked Kevin, he'd knock off $8000 from whichever property Kevin and Amber liked. Of course, there were several that Amber thought were just beautiful, but with a view of the ocean at each of the houses David showed off as well as up to date beautiful kitchens in each, there was plenty to love.

After spending a few days in Los Angeles, Amber and Kevin said goodbye to David and Carol, thanking them for their generosity and for taking them around the city and showing them all the ocean view houses, and finally left for Washington by train. Once they'd returned to Seattle, they went straight to Kevin's house – their house – and Kevin carried her over the threshold romantically before bringing their suitcases back in. Amber found their Ketubah on their kitchen table framed and ready to be hung and smiled at it.

"Where should we hang this?" Amber asked.

"I'd love to hang it in our room," Kevin said. Amber surprised him when she gently shook her head and walked to their living room with the Ketubah. She perused the walls in the large family room space to find a large section of the wall where Alice had hung all their wedding pictures. There was also a wedding book on the corner table with the lamp.

"Let's rearrange the pictures a little so we can put our Ketubah at the center of it," Amber suggested. Kevin smiled and went to the pictures looking at how Alice had them arranged.

There was a picture at the center of a circle of pictures. The one in the middle was a picture of Amber and Kevin together at the altar. It was the picture that was taken of them right after they'd signed their Ketubah. Surrounding that picture were a few memorable moments like when they had cut the cake, a picture of Kevin and his family, Amber and her family, their bridal parties both separate and together and even a picture of Amber walking down the aisle.

"Those photographers your aunt hired did a wonderful job," Amber praised almost tearing up and seeing moments from their wedding day in black and white on the wall.

"I think I know what we can do," Kevin said. He retrieved a few spare nails and hammer and started rearranging the pictures just enough so there was room for a second frame in the center of the circle of pictures. Once he'd rearranged the pictures for that spare space, Kevin put in one more nail, took the Ketubah and hung it right below their picture at the altar. "What do you think?"

"It's perfect," Amber smiled and admired Kevin's handy work. Then she went to the wedding book on the table and opened it. The first picture was that same picture on the wall of them together at the altar with the date of their wedding and their names on it. She went to the couch and Kevin sat beside her while she looked through the book seeing all the pictures taken when she'd been getting ready, when they'd been at the synagogue, pictures of Kevin and his groomsmen, the family, the reception and everything in between. Alice had ensured it was arranged in such a way that it felt like they were living the day all over again.

The following day was when everyone came over to their house to welcome them home. Amber made a big dinner with Anna and Renesmee's assistance. Kevin and Amber received their fair share of gentle teasing asking them if Amber was pregnant yet, but it was obviously too soon to know if she were and Kyle was kind enough to reinforce that fact for the guests. If course, it was met with more teasing asking him when he and Evalina would finally have children. Kyle's response was to put his drink to his lips and drink until it was gone and walking away. Kevin and Amber returned to work the following Monday and everyone was ecstatic for their return. Particularly Kevin's as there were a number of cases that clients wanted him to handle and were being kept either on hold or being handled by Harold or by Alphonse.

"So?" Linda asked Amber after Kevin had retreated to his office and they were alone. She nearly ran from her desk over to Amber's eager for any tidbits. "How was it?"

"Our honeymoon?" Amber asked.

"No, the latest episode of The Guiding Light. Of course your honeymoon!" Linda smiled and sat down beside Amber pulling the seat close. "How was the cruise and how was Salvador? Did you go to the beach a lot or did you stay in? How do you like being a married woman?"

"Oh," Amber smiled. "We had a wonderful time. The cruise was lovely and Salvador was gorgeous. We went to the beach a few times in the week we were there, but we often preferred staying in."

"I'm sure you did," Linda teased with a wink. "I had thought you two were returning last Monday. Did something happen?"

"We spend a few days in Los Angeles," Amber said. "We met a couple on the cruise and they insisted we visit with them for a while, so we did and enjoyed LA."

"Did you get to go to Hollywood? Oh! Did you get to meet anyone famous?"

"I'm afraid not," Amber said. "We mostly looked at ocean view houses."

"Really? You two aren't moving to California or something are you? I hope not," Linda said.

"Not at all," Amber said. "David, the man we'd met, is a real estate agent in LA and he and Kevin got along really well and said he'd give us a good deal if we wanted a summer home, but we decided not to. It's a shame. They were beautiful homes, but it is a little silly to have a home in California we'd barely go to."

"Well, that's why it's called a 'summer' home. You're there for the summer."

"David also suggested Kevin and Alphonse should open a practice in New York."

"They certainly could," Linda said with a grin. "Does Mr. Black intend to bring it up with Mr. Heidelberg?"

"I would imagine so," Amber said. "I just don't know when. I think Mr. Heidelberg would love the idea especially if Kevin brings up that it would infuriate Mrs. Heidelberg."

"Is there anything Mr. Heidelberg does that doesn't infuriate his wife?"

"I'd have to think about that and get back to you," Amber joked and Linda giggled.

"So," Linda said, "Do you think you'll be retiring soon?" she asked and winked again.

"Honestly, we've only been married a month," Amber sighed. "We've been trying since we got married, so I'm sure I'll be pregnant soon if I'm not already but it's too soon to tell."

"Have you been feeling different? Sensitivity, nausea, anything of the like?"

"Not lately, but when I do, you'll be the first I tell, Doctor," Amber teased and Linda laughed patting Amber's shoulder.

"Well, if you ever feel nauseated through the day, let me know. I have some lemon and chamomile oil in my desk for you to breath in."

"Thank you, Linda," Amber smiled and finally got to work.

Kevin was focusing on work all day, only speaking to people when they came into his office to talk to him. Amber made a point to leave him alone that day so he could get caught up with his work. She was in the same boat trying to get caught up too. Linda left at five but Amber stayed and worked but she was also waiting for Kevin. She said good night to Harold and Alphonse as they left and when they were gone, she poked her head into Kevin's office to see him staring at a deposition.

"Are you hungry?" Amber asked and Kevin's head shot up.

"What?"

"Are you hungry? It's 7."

"It is?" Kevin said and then glanced at his clock and groaned. "I'm sorry. Were you waiting for me to be finished?"

"It's alright. I was getting some work done too," Amber said. "Did you want to stay a little longer?"

"No, I can take this home," Kevin said. "I'm really sorry. I lost all track of time."

"It's alright, really," Amber reassured and walked over to Kevin. She leaned down and kissed his cheek. "When we get home, I'll make something quick for dinner."

"Thank you," Kevin smiled and kissed her back. "Let me pack this and we'll go home. I'm still pretty behind so if I lose track of time again, let me know and I'll take home what I'm working on."

"I can ask daddy to drive me home tomorrow after he finishes work if it makes it easier," Amber suggested.

"That's fine," Kevin said. "If I'm too late, feel free to call me."

With his work packed in his briefcase, they finally left and locked up the offices before finally going home. The remainder of the week played out much the same as that first Monday back. On Tuesday Amber stayed after to work and waited for Kevin to finish. Then the last three days, she took a ride home with Levi and made sure dinner was ready when Kevin finally came home, but he still had work that he brought home. Friday evening came and Kevin was working late in the night in his at home office. Hoping to help him relax, Amber made hot chocolate and put it on a little coaster on his desk. When she did, he looked up a little surprised.

"Sorry; did I startle you?" Amber asked.

"It's fine," Kevin said. "You made me hot chocolate?"

"I thought you deserved a little treat," Amber smiled. "Next we decide to go on vacation, we'll not take so long. I'm worried the work load you came home to is taking a lot out of you."

"It just means I'm in high demand. That's a good thing," Kevin said and sipped the hot chocolate. "Will you be upset if I go into the office tomorrow?"

"Not at all," Amber smiled. "Just don't be too long okay? I promised daddy we'd have dinner with him and mom tomorrow."

"I'll be home by one, I promise," Kevin said. "Hopefully I'll be caught up by next week."

"Do you want me to go in with you tomorrow?"

"No, you relax," Kevin said. Amber smiled at him and pulled on his chair enough so she could sit on his lap. Kevin smiled in response and gave her a kiss. "Thank you for being so understanding. I know I've been a little distance since we got back. I'll make it up to you."

Amber nodded and gave Kevin another kiss. He still had some more work he wanted to get done, so he held Amber on his lap while he worked. She turned around on his lap so his left hand could rub her back and his right hand could be free to write. Amber ended up falling asleep in Kevin's lap, so he went ahead and worked late into the night making sure not to bother her. Around one in the morning was when he brought her upstairs and joined her in bed only to wake up bright and early and leave for work. He whispered to Amber he was going to work and would be back by one and then kissed her cheek. She grumbled an acknowledgement, barely awake, and was able to kiss him back.

As he promised, Kevin got himself caught up midway through their second week back and was able to relax a little. That Thursday, he even left early so he was leaving at the same time as Amber usually did. They stopped by a butcher and bought a few pints of blood under the guise of making blood sausage and Kevin made his own dinner. They ate dinner together, sat on the couch together listening to the radio and went to bed together, made love and fell asleep in each other's arms. The remainder of the week was the same as that night and Kevin didn't go into work that Saturday so he and Amber could have all of the weekend together. They went to a movie together and saw Flamingo Road starring Joan Crawford, they took a walk in the park together and even stayed in a hotel overnight for a change of scenery before returning home the next day and just staying in. Then they went to work together that Monday like normal and everything was more or less normal until it was midday. Amber was on the phone with a client getting them penned into the schedule when the door to the office swung open.

"Where's my husband?!" the voice screamed. Amber and Linda both jumped when they saw Ana in the doorway appearing ready to burst.

"Mr. Heidelberg, Mr. Black and Mr. Foster are in a meeting Mrs. Heidelberg," Amber finally said and stood from her chair. "They're expected to be in and out of meetings all day. I can inform Mr. Heidelberg you came and make sure he knows to contact you the moment he's able."

"He will be 'able' right this instant!" Staying calm, Amber nodded her head and asked Ana to take a seat while she went to the conference room in the back of the floor where everyone was held up. She gently knocked on the door before stepping in and, as luck would have it, they were deep in conversation with a client and it appeared rather serious.

"Amber?" Kevin asked when he saw her.

"I'm very sorry to interrupt, but I have Mrs. Heidelberg up front demanding to speak to you," Amber said to Alphonse. She was a little surprised when he appeared slightly amused.

"I'm very sorry, gentlemen," Alphonse said. "I promise I'll make this quick." Alphonse stood from his chair and left the room closing the door behind him. "She must have found out about New York," Alphonse chuckled a little to himself.

"New York?"

"Didn't Kevin tell you? We talked it over and we both agree a second practice would be an excellent idea, so we're going to go through with those plans."

"I knew you and Kevin were talking about it. I didn't realize the decision was made," Amber said.

"We decided this past Friday. I heard you two were busy so he may have been planning to tell you today. Regardless, Harold knows of course. He must have told Anastasia, she would have told Ana I assume and now she's throwing a little temper tantrum."

"She's demanding to speak with you, so I think it best not to make her wait too long," Amber said.

"Tell her to meet me in my office then," Alphonse said and went to his office. Amber went back to the front and then escorted Ana to Alphonse's office. The screaming match that seemed the follow, even past the soundproofing of the rooms, was enough to make Amber's and Linda's skin crawl.

"What on earth did he do to make her so angry?" Linda asked.

"I think Kevin and Alphonse decided they would proceed with setting up a second practice in New York and Mrs. Heidelberg found out about it."

"Why should that upset her?" Linda said.

"I would assume because it means Kevin and Alphonse will need to shuttle back and forth from New York from time to time and she will not be going," Amber said.

"Oh," Linda said as realization went over her face. "Yes, that would upset her quite a bit I think."

Ana was in Alphonse's office for well over fifteen minutes just screaming at him. The sound proofing made it hard to understand what they were saying exactly but they could still hear them. Eventually, Ana swung open the door and stormed out of Alphonse's office. Amber and Linda stood from their chairs at their desks almost out of instinct as Ana walked towards them looking through her purse for something. Then she looked at Amber and gave her a scrupulous look.

"Is something the matter Mrs. Heidelberg?" Amber asked respectfully.

"You look a little green," she said. "You may want to consider putting on some rouge before coming into work. Make yourself look presentable." She finally found what she was looking for and left the office leaving Amber stunned. Linda walked from her desk and, just as the doors had closed and Ana couldn't hear them, Linda said, "Well, a pox on you too," and went to Amber. But she seemed to notice whatever Ana was talking about.

"Amber?"

"What?"

"Are you alright? You do look a little pale."

"I'm alright," Amber said. "I'll be fine. She just startled me."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure," Amber promised. "I'll be fine."

Amber excused herself and ran to the ladies room so she could see what Linda was talking about. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she noticed she did look a little pale but she wasn't sure why. With no other recourse, she washing her face and pinched her cheeks to bring back some color before returning to her desk. Since Kevin was going to be late with the remaining meetings he, Alphonse and Harold had for the day, Amber took a ride back with Levi. She presumably looked better by the end of the day seeing as Levi didn't say a word about her appearing under the weather. When she returned home, she got started with making dinner right away. She'd had a chicken marinating all day and went straight to putting it in the oven to start cooking before getting started on a side.

While Amber was cooking some potatoes, she started feeling slightly nauseated. She sat down for a minute making sure the lid to the pot was slightly open so steam could release and took a moment to sit down. She woke up to the sound of the oven timer going off and she was able to get the chicken from the oven. It was cooked well, but she'd overcooked the potatoes so she switched gears and turned them into mashed potatoes with the things she'd planned to add when she roasted them. By the time she finished making dinner, she got a plate ready and put it at the table, but Kevin wasn't home yet. She'd assumed as much. He'd warned he'd be in and out of meetings all day. While she was getting the remaining food put away and cleaning, she had a sudden desire to try everything. She took a piece of the chicken and took a bite.

She was surprised at its taste. She didn't take dirt. Rather she tasted the fresh rosemary, sage and garlic she'd used and found the moistness of the meat pleasant. It was remarkable. She'd never made anything in her life and wanted to eat it. She took another bite, enjoying her handy work, and by the time she realized she needed to stop, she'd peeled away a whole breast of the chicken only leaving a wing and leg remaining to pack as a lunch for Kevin. She felt rather embarrassed for it but put the food into a little container and into the icebox before getting back to cleaning. By the time Kevin finally returned home, she'd already cleaned all the pots and the kitchen.

"I'm sorry I'm so late," Kevin said as soon as he walked in the door.

"Did everything go alright today?" Amber asked as she approached and gave Kevin a kiss.

"Everything went very well," Kevin said. "It's part of the reason I'm so late. I didn't get a chance to ask you. Was everything alright with Ana? Alphonse seemed in chipper spirits when we finally reconvened."

"She was upset and just wanted to speak to Alphonse," Amber said. "Seeing as she was so upset with Alphonse, I assume that means he agreed to the idea of expanding to New York?"

"He loves the idea," Kevin said. "We've been on and off the phone with contacts all day trying to find a prime location. Alphonse and I are planning to go to New York next week to look at the properties and we'll decide then."

"Will you be able to run the firm from here?"

"We will," Kevin said. "We'll just have to go back and forth a lot for a while. After next month, Alphonse is going to stay in New York until we get things settled down. From there, it'll be a matter of the two of us or Harold going back and forth depending on cases."

"Tell me more at the table," Amber said and led Kevin to the dining table and sat down beside him. "I'm sorry if it's cold."

"It's my own fault," Kevin smiled. "It'll be good regardless."

"So anyway, do you think there will be the clientele needed for the practice to thrive?"

"We have contacts that we've represented years before and they agreed to put in a good word for us and our clients here speak highly of us. That's to say nothing of our success percentage. That alone speaks for itself. Alphonse will run things in New York for now and once we have the firm on its feet, I think I'll buy an apartment in New York so I have somewhere to stay when I have to go."

"David will be disappointed," Amber teased. Kevin looked at her with a smile and chuckled.

"I'm sure he'll forgive me," Kevin said and enjoyed his dinner. "Do we have beer by chance?"

"I think so," Amber said and went to the icebox. She pulled out a bottle and brought it over, undoing to cap with her hand.

"Thank you," Kevin said. "I was thinking."

"What's that?"

"Alphonse and I will really only need two days to look at the properties and decide the best location. We'll be in New York another two days after that. I was thinking maybe you would like to join me?"

"As wonderful as that sounds, it would be cruel to leave Linda alone like that and so shortly after we just got back from our honeymoon. I'll join you next time."

"Alright," Kevin said a little sad but he smiled. "Alphonse and I can go back to Yale for the day or something. See if the campus has changed, see if by some unlikely chance any of our old professors are there."

"I think that will be fun for you two," Amber smiled and kissed Kevin's cheek.

The following day, Amber was preoccupied with ensuring that any clients that had appointments to following week were moved to the current week. Kevin and Alphonse would likely spend all of Wednesday, Thursday and Friday cooped up in their offices with clients late into the night. Amber insisted she remain on those days just to make sure there was help. That coming Wednesday, Amber was fine in the morning, but in the afternoon, she started feeling rather light headed. She felt something else she'd never felt before too: hunger. It was the strangest feeling ever.

"Linda?" Amber said and caught the woman's attention.

"Yeah?"

"Do you happen to know if there's anything to eat in the break room?" Amber asked.

"I don't think so," Linda said. "Nothing that someone hasn't brought in themselves. Do you need to run out and get something and I'll cover for you?"

"If you could, that would be wonderful," Amber said and grabbed her purse. "I'll be right back."

Amber ran out of the building and down the street to a local bakery. She stared at the food on display but she didn't have the vaguest idea what to get. She didn't know what she liked. She took longer to decide than she would ever want to admit, and due to her indecisiveness and for inconveniencing the shop keep for so long, she could a dozen pastries. One of each thing. When she returned with the huge bag of food, Linda gawked at her a moment, but then seemed to have a rather knowing smile and continued working without saying a word. Amber started with the onion bagel. Her father's favorite. She went to the lox next. Her mom's favorite. She put cream cheese on her bagel, put on the salmon and capers and onions just as her mother did and ate it.

"Could you spare some?" Linda asked a little while later.

"Sure," Amber said and looked in the bag. "Was there anything in particular you wanted?"

"I'll try the lox. I've always wanted to try that," Linda said and made herself a bagel just as Amber had and then tried it, smiling. "That's delicious."

"It is," Amber said. "I never used to like fish honestly. This is my mom's favorite."

"Things tend to change when you're eating for two," Linda said and surprised Amber. "Frankly I'm offended you didn't tell me. I'd thought you said you'd tell your doctor first."

"I….it didn't even…oh," Amber said, feeling silly for not thinking of it but now that she had, it seemed obvious. "I don't know for sure. I'll need the doctor to confirm for sure."

"And when is that?" Linda asked.

"This weekend," Amber lied. Kevin was leaving Saturday by train so she'd meet Kyle after that. She just needed to call him.

"Oh so Mr. Black won't know until he gets back?" Amber shook her head. "Oh, Amber," Linda smiled and whispered with a little whine. "This is wonderful!"

"Not too loud," Amber said. "I want Kevin to be the first to know for sure. Except the doctor I suppose."

"My lips are sealed," Linda said and accentuated her point by stuffing more bagel into her mouth.

When Linda was gone, Amber called the first number she thought of, Renesmee, and asked if she or Kyle could see her after Kevin left that upcoming Saturday. Renesmee confirmed she would sent Kyle and would be joining him. With her appointment officially set, Amber did her best to make sure Kevin didn't notice anything odd. She ate all that remained of her food but brought in one thing under the guise of buying Kevin some dinner before his next appointment. Though everything she ate promptly was expelled when she got light headed and felt a pressure in her throat. Thankfully, she wasn't gone long enough for Kevin to notice and she did her best to make sure she didn't look amiss by the time he did see her. Holding up that charade proved a pain for the remaining two days, but she soldiered through until it was Saturday.

"Are you sure you don't want to come with?" Kevin asked when he was getting ready to leave. "We have another hour and a half before the train leaves, so you can pack really quick."

"No, no, you and Alphonse go," Amber insisted. "I don't think you two have been able to just spend time together in a long time so I think you'll be better off having this time to yourselves."

"Alright," Kevin smiled and gave her another kiss. "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too," Amber smiled and kissed him back. "Don't worry, Kevin. I know it's for business but you two will have a wonderful time together."

"I'll still miss you," Kevin said. "I'll give you a call as soon as we get to New York and make sure you have my room number and the hotel's number. I'll be home by next Monday."

"I'll be lonely without you," Amber said and kissed him again. "Go on. I don't want you to miss your train. I love you."

"I love you too," Kevin said. The two shared one more kiss before Kevin took his suitcases to his car. Amber stayed in the doorway and waved goodbye to Kevin as he pulled out of the driveway. He waved back and finally drove off.

Amber didn't go back inside until she couldn't see Kevin's car anymore. Once back inside, she went to the kitchen to find something to nibble on. She settled on some crackers they had in the pantry. It was another hour before Kyle and Renesmee came to the house. Amber let them in and Kyle had everything he needed on his back or in a briefcase.

"Oh Amber," Renesmee smiled and hugged Amber right away. "I'm so happy for you and Kevin. He'll be thrilled when you tell him."

"Slow down, mom. We need to make sure she's pregnant," Kyle said with a gentle chuckle. "Of course, if you're saying you like regular food, I think it's safe to say you're pregnant. A blood test will just make us sure."

"Can you do a blood test here?" Amber asked.

"Of course," Kyle said. "Would you rather do it down here or upstairs?"

"Down here's fine," Amber said. "Before you start, did you want anything? I have water, beer-"

"I don't drink when I have a patient," Kyle said. "Water's fine."

"Okay," Amber said and went to the kitchen to pour Kyle a glass of water.

"So how have you and Kevin enjoyed being married?"

"I'm pregnant aren't I?" Amber joked.

"We'll know for sure shortly," Kyle chuckled. Amber walked over with the water and gave it to Kyle.

"So how does a blood test determine I'm pregnant?" Amber asked.

"It checks the levels of hCG in the blood," Kyle said. "It can detect pregnancy as early as 7 to 12 days after conception, but I've yet to meet a woman that catches it that early."

"Will you be able to tell how far along I am?"

"Unfortunately, that's purely a guess," Kyle answered. "When was your last period?"

"About two weeks before the wedding," Amber said.

"In that case, I'd guess you're roughly 7-10 weeks. That would mean you'd likely deliver sometime in April. Maybe March if you two conceived sooner than I'm thinking. Although I think early to mid-April is the month to expect."

"April," Amber smiled. "That's a good month to have a baby."

"Just sit on the couch for me, Amber," Kyle said. Amber sat on the couch while Kyle finished the set up. He got a sterilized needle ready and a tourniquet. "Mom, talk to Amber and keep her distracted while I draw blood."

"Amber," Renesmee said as she went on the other side of the couch ensuring Amber was looking away while Kyle worked. "Kevin doesn't know right?"

"No," Amber said. "Granted you and Kyle will know, but you're my doctors. That aside, I want Kevin to be the first to know."

"He'll be so happy," Renesmee smiled. "Kyle."

"It'll happen when it happens, mom," Kyle mumbled just before applying the needle to Amber's cleaned skin. She winced a little but it wasn't so bad and Kyle was done in seconds. "Okay, Amber. Worst is over. Give me a second to test it and I'll let you know." Kyle took the blood where he had another little machine to check her blood.

"Levi Jacob or Anna Heather Renesmee right?" Renesmee asked.

"Yes," Amber nodded. "Although if Kevin has his way, if we have a girl he'll be calling her Heather."

"I like Heather," Renesmee agreed. "I think it's a beautiful name."

"While we were in Italy and we'd agreed we wanted to get married, Kevin flipped a coin and said we'd have a girl."

"A coin flip is no way to be sure," Renesmee smiled.

"Okay Amber," Kyle interrupted them. "Congratulations. You're pregnant."

"Really?" Amber smiled. Even if she'd been rather sure, it was something special to know for sure.

"Really," Kyle smiled. "I would bet you'll delivery in April. In the meantime, you'll be seeing a lot more of me over the next several months. Kevin comes back from New York Monday, right?"

"Yeah," Amber said. "I want to keep this between us until then. I want to tell him and I want it to be in person."

"Absolutely," Kyle said. He reached into the briefcase he'd brought and took out an herbal blend. "Since we know for sure you're pregnant, I'd recommend making yourself a mug of this every morning. Drink it the way you would tea. I have some small tea strainer in there for you. Out half a tablespoon of this in the strainer and steep in hot water for at least five minutes. And since you'll be eating, I'd like to go over a little diet plan for you."

"What's wrong with what I make for Kevin?"

"Nothing, but you need other things. I want you to incorporate walnuts into your diet. Soak them at least an hour before you eat so you'll absorb the nutrients better. And I know your friends gave you a bunch of wine, but avoid more than not. I won't get on your case if you have a glass of red wine once and a while, but no more than half a cup at a time. And only wine. Nothing else. Drink plenty of water and if you're ever feeling dizzy or unwell, just lay back for a bit. You've already started experiencing morning sickness so whenever it comes up, try laying down for a bit. Sometimes that helps. Just fair warning, it will happen whenever it wants to."

"Yes, I've learned that much already," Amber said. "Is there any food I need to avoid?"

"Coffee," Kyle said rather confidently. "You don't smoke, but ensure you don't start. Try to avoid restaurants or crowded places where a lot of people are smoking too. It's bad for you regardless but it's bad for the baby too. No alcohol as I said except a half cup of wine every couple of days. No more than that though. And the less, the better. I say avoid processed foods too. No soda pops or whatever that shit is they started selling at the inn back home. It's not so bad as the other things I mentioned, but don't make a habit of eating too much candy either. A good rule of thumb that I tell everyone is if you didn't make it yourself, don't eat it."

"Is he always this demanding of his pregnant patients or just me?" Amber mumbled to Renesmee.

"Kyle's a very good doctor, Amber," Renesmee reassured. "I certainly wasn't so demanding when I had the dominant role of treating them, but then, there are more things to worry about it seems."

"So Kevin really hasn't noticed you eating?" Kyle asked.

"I try to hide it from him," Amber admitted. "I can't believe I didn't realize I was pregnant the instant I realized that roast chicken tasted good, but when I felt ravenous and bought 1 of every pastry from the bakery down the street, Linda made a joke about eating for two and that's when it finally occurred to me. I've made a point to avoid letting him see me eat ever since."

"Well, once he knows, make sure you stop doing that," Kyle said. "If you aren't craving blood and need regular food, then you need to eat regularly. 3 meals a day and snack on vegetables or fruit in between."

"Will I…..gain weight?" Amber asked nervously.

"Of course you will," Kyle said very matter of fact. "You need to gain at least some weight. As I tell everyone: pregnancy is not the time to be concerned with your weight. I doubt you'd gain too much weight, but if you do, let me know and we'll go over what you're eating in a day and your activity levels and we'll adjust. Also, rest when you need to, but make sure you stay active. Make a point to walk around as often as possible, especially in the later months. Walking around and keeping active helps with dilation I've found. But don't overexert yourself either. No weight lifting, no aerobics, no….whatever the latest trend is. Just regular walking or running. Just be careful when you run. You're going to get really top heavy really quick."

"Kyle," Renesmee warned a little. "Stop scaring her."

"I'm just helping her get prepared," Kyle said. "Do you mind if I check your fridge and pantry?"

Amber shook her head stating it was fine and Kyle went to the kitchen to check what they had. They needed more food. So Kyle insisted they all go to the grocer together so he could help her pick what she needed to start eating. He wasn't generally so invasive with regards to diet for new moms, but then, most of his patients already ate, so a brief synopsis usually did the trick. With Amber, he just wanted to be sure. When they got to the grocer, all Kyle's instructions began to make her head spin. He emphasized color above all else. Reds, oranges, yellows, greens – especially greens – purples and effectively every color of the rainbow. If it was a pretty color, she'd best eat it so long as it was within the guidelines he'd given her. Renesmee was kind enough to write down everything Kyle was saying, so it would make things easier for Amber. By the time they left, they had the cart filled with what seemed the entire produce aisle and several grains and spices. Part of it was having Amber try things and find out if her newly acquired taste liked them.

That Sunday when she went to the Synagogue with her parents, it was hell keeping the pregnancy a secret. She wanted to tell them so badly, but she refrained. She wanted Kevin to know first. Amber received a call on Tuesday from Kevin letting her know they'd arrived in New York and would be looking at properties that very day. Kevin told her how much he missed her and already couldn't wait to be home. It took everything in her not to blurt out that she was pregnant right over the phone, but she didn't say a thing. Only that she loved him and the house was lonely without him and she couldn't wait for him to be home. From there, Kevin would call every evening with updates. By the second day, he confirmed that he and Alphonse had found the perfect place for the new law firm. After they'd signed the deed for the property, they already had a few perspective clients that took them all out to dinner to celebrate. Alphonse would return to Washington with Kevin and pack more things before immediately returning to New York for what would be a 6 month stint.

When it was finally Monday, Amber felt butterflies in her stomach the whole day. She called Linda stating she wasn't feeling well and would be staying home that day. Kevin told Amber he'd be going to the office right after returning, so Amber knew she'd have the day to prepare and she asked Linda to make sure Kevin didn't worry too much and to make sure he stayed at least until six so she could get everything done. She would make sauerbraten with spaetzle and she made sure to buy some good beer that she knew Kevin liked. The roast would take all day to cook, but she also burrowed her mother's oven to make several batches of mushroom tarts. Thankfully, her father and mother weren't home so she was able to get things done in secret. She made sure to clean up thoroughly once she was done and arranged the mushroom tarts on a fancy dish on the dining table. She tried one and couldn't believe she liked it. She felt rather proud of herself.

While Amber was getting everything ready, their phone started to ring. "Hello, this is the Black residence," Amber said answered the phone.

"Amber? It's Kevin," Kevin said. "Are you alright? Linda said you stayed home sick?"

"Yeah," Amber hurried to remember the plausible explanation she'd planned beforehand. "I wasn't feeling well this morning so I asked Linda to cover for me today."

"Do you want me to come straight home? I just got back to the office, but I can come home if you need me," Kevin said.

"Oh, no, Kevin, I'm alright," Amber insisted. "I'm already feeling much better. I'll be back to work tomorrow. I just needed to rest this morning but I'm all better. I'll have dinner hot and ready for you when you come home, okay?"

"Are you sure you don't want me home now?" Kevin asked.

"No, no, you have work to do," Amber insisted. "Just be home by 6 and dinner will be ready. Really, I'm already much better. You don't have to worry."

Kevin was silent on the other end but eventually said, "Okay, if you insist. I'll be home by 6."

"I can't wait," Amber smiled. "I love you."

"I love you too," Kevin said. They finally disconnected and Amber returned to getting things ready. She only had four hours.

While the sauerbraten was in the oven and the Spaetzle was cooking, Amber ran upstairs and get herself dressed in something really nice. She had on Kevin's dog tags, her Star of David, both her bracelets, a pair of earrings he'd gotten her a while back and, wanting to make it special, she wore her silk nightgown. When she looked at herself, it was slightly odd. Her hair was dolled up, she had a little makeup on, she had all this jewelry and yet she was wearing only a nightgown. Looking at herself, it looked to her like she was making her intent rather obvious. She hoped she was wrong and went back downstairs with the little present she'd wrapped for Kevin. As she promised, dinner was ready at six on the dot just as Kevin was coming home.

"Kevin," Amber said and went right to him to hug him. He dropped his suitcases and hugged her back. "I missed you."

"I missed you too," Kevin said. "I wish you could have come with us. The property hunting aside, we had a good time."

"I'm glad to hear it," Amber said. "Although I'm sure you miss me making you dinner."

"I really did," Kevin chuckled and kissed Amber's neck. He looked at her and saw how she was dressed. "You wore all your jewelry all day?"

"Not all day," Amber smiled. "I'm sorry to be so underdressed but I wanted to stay comfortable. Dinner's ready. Sauerbraten with spaetzle and I made you some mushroom tarts."

"Really?" Kevin asked. "I should go on business trips more often if this is what I come home to," he joked.

"Come on, before it gets cold," Amber giggled and led Kevin to their dining room. Everything was already platted for him and a cold beer out and ready.

"Did something happen?" Kevin asked as he sat down, a little bewildered.

"I just missed you is all," Amber played coy. Kevin smiled and ate one of the mushroom tarts. Then he saw the tiny box on the table.

"What's that?"

"Just a little something for after dinner," Amber said. "So how did things go in New York? You said you found a good office building?"

"We bought a floor of an office building on 74th Street in Manhattan toward the Upper East Side. So we have a view of Central Park and everything. At least mine and Alphonse's offices do. Alphonse is buying a penthouse in the Upper East Side next he goes back. That'll be next month. If everything goes as planned, I'll buy an apartment there too."

"Kevin," Amber said.

"Yeah?"

"Make sure you buy one with at least three rooms, okay? I think it would be lovely for me to come with you sometimes and, if you go during the summer, we can bring our children."

"I was thinking that," Kevin smiled. "It'll be the same building as Alphonse. I can't say we'll have the penthouse, but we'll see."

"Oh, it wouldn't have to be a penthouse," Amber said. "You know Alphonse just tends to be a little high maintenance."

Kevin chuckled, "Indeed he is. It'll be somewhere nice though. With a view of Central Park. I know you loved it when we went."

"I really did," Amber sighed. "It might not be a summer home in LA, but New York is still lovely for a vacation spot."

"That's true," Kevin said seemingly with a strange, knowing smile. "I told Alphonse I'd go to New York after him, so I would need to be there for a few months. Will you come with me?"

"Kevin," Amber said, realizing she may need to just tell him now, "I don't know if you should go next year. At least, not until after April."

"Why? What's in April?" Taking a deep breath, Amber grabbed the present and offered it to Kevin. He took the present, looked at Amber a moment, and then opened it. The tiny box opened to reveal a little pacifier. "What's this?" Kevin asked.

"It's a pacifier," Amber said. "It's a little thing babies put in their mouths to suck on and it's supposed to be soothing."

"Never had these when-" Kevin started, about to say they didn't have these when he was a kid, but it dawned on him what Amber was telling him and he looked at her. "You're pregnant?"

"Yeah," Amber nodded with a bright smile.

"When did you find out?"

"Right after you left for New York," Amber said. "Kyle did a blood test and verified I'm pregnant and I've been waiting all week to tell you. I wanted to wait until you got home before I told you."

Kevin smiled, feeling so many things all at once. He was happy they were finally having their first child, but he was scared because he was about to face fatherhood but he was excited for it because they'd wanted children for so long. It was almost overwhelming. He looked at the little white pacifier and was about to cry. Amber's smile broadened and she went to his lap and held his head to her chest while Kevin held her close.

"Really? I'm going to be a father?" Kevin asked.

"You're going to be a father, Kevin," Amber said and Kevin started rocking her back and forth in his chair.

"Does anyone else know yet?"

"Only your mother and Kyle," Amber said. "I wanted to tell you first."

"Thank you," Kevin said and hugged her a little tighter. "We're finally having a baby."

"Mhm," Amber nodded and kissed the top of Kevin's head and then she giggled. "You make it sound like we've been trying for years."

"We've been wanting this for years," Kevin said. "We've been wanting a lot of things for years. After so long of talking about these things, they're finally happening. It's enough to make my head spin. But I've never been happier. So when are we officially announcing we're having a baby?"

"We can call your parents now if you want and I'll go get mom and daddy. If nothing else, I want to tell our parents at the same time."

"I'll tell your parents to come over then," Kevin said. He lifted his head and gave Amber a big kiss. He stood up taking her with him and then spun her around a second. Once he hand her back on her feet, he gave her one more kiss. "I'll call your parents while you get changed. Unless you're alright with staying in your nightgown."

"Don't be ridiculous," Amber blushed and brushed away a happy tear. "I'll change really quick." Amber kissed Kevin before running upstairs to get into something more appropriate while Kevin called Amber's parents and asked them to come over for a second. About ten minutes later, there was a knock at the door and Kevin opened it to welcome Levi and Anna inside.

"Is everything alright, Kevin?" Anna asked. "You were so adamant that we come over."

"I'll tell you in a second. Did either of you want something to eat? Amber made sauerbraten and mushroom tarts."

"I'd love some," Anna agreed and Levi did as well. They made themselves up a plate of food as Amber returned downstairs in a casual dress and welcomed her parents. Once they were at the table, Kevin had brought the phone with him.

"Why'd you bring the phone?" Levi asked.

"I needed to call my parents really quick," Kevin said. "Sorry, but just bear with me." Kevin dialed the number to his parents' house and waited for them to answer. Jacob was the one to answer. "Dad, it's Kevin."

"Evening Kevin," Jacob said. "Did you need me or your mother?"

"Get mom too," Kevin said. It seemed a little silly to, but Kevin waited until Jacob confirmed he had Renesmee with him. "Mom with you dad?"

"She's here," Jacob said.

"Okay, good. So Anna, Levi, the reason we asked you over is because, apparently, while I was away in New York, Amber found out she's pregnant."

"You're pregnant?!" Anna nearly screeched and dropped her fork and ran around the table to Amber to sit beside her. "Oh, Amber, you're really pregnant?"

"Seeing as your mother's underwhelmed, I assume you already told her?" Jacob chuckled.

"Hush, Jacob, I am NOT underwhelmed. I was only there when Kyle confirmed so I already knew but I'm no less thrilled."

"You knew about this for a week and you haven't said anything?" Levi asked.

"I wanted to tell Kevin first," Amber said.

"Oh, Amber," Anna was crying and hugged Amber. "Levi, did you hear that? We're going to be grandparents."

"I heard her, dear," Levi smiled, a little beside himself. He was even getting a little teary eyed.

"Daddy," Amber smiled and went to Levi to hug him.

"So dad, how does it feel to be a grandpa?" Kevin asked.

"The same way it did the first eight times," Jacob joked. "We'll spread the word for you. And congratulations, Kevin. This is a long time coming."

"Thanks dad," Kevin said. He said goodbye to Jacob and hung up the phone while Amber and her parents were crying and hugging each other. Amber even started crying since both her parents were.

"When are you due?" Anna asked.

"Kyle said to expect the baby early to mid-April," Amber said.

"Oh, Amber," Anna said. "There's so much to do. Oh! We'll tell everyone at the synagogue this Sunday and we'll make sure you're registered somewhere for baby gifts. I think Macy's. That's where all our friends were registered and they have lovely things. Or we can shop around."

"I'd let my family worry about that, honestly," Kevin said. "Once my dad tells my mother's side, I'm pretty confident we'll want for nothing. Wouldn't surprise me if we saw them in the next hour and they're getting ready to turn a guest room upstairs into a baby room."

"Oh! Speaking of which," Anna said. "Amber, I think we should start with white and yellow for color. Then once the baby's born, we can decide to add either blue or pink."

"Purple," Amber said. "I would rather purple if it's a girl."

"Purple will go beautifully I think," Anna agreed. "I'll buy some patterns and work on some baby clothes. And we'll make sure Rabbi Kowalski knows. If it's a boy, we'll need to arrange a Bris." Almost as a reflex, Kevin flinched.

"My poor son," Kevin mumbled.

"It'll be alright, Kevin. Once it's over with, he won't even remember," Anna said. "If you have a girl, no such tradition applies."

"Alright," Kevin said. "Kyle said he'd look after you through the pregnancy right?"

"He promised I'd see a lot more of him," Amber nodded. Then their phone ringed and Kevin answered it.

"Black residence," Kevin said.

"Yeah, no shit," Embry's voice came with a laugh on the other end. "You find out you and Amber are having a baby and you don't call me? Do I mean so little to you?"

"Sorry, Embry, I was meaning to call you after we told our parents," Kevin smiled.

"Yeah, likely story," Embry joked. "So when's the baby due?"

"Kyle's saying April," Kevin said.

"Okay, April's a good month," Embry said. "I'll come over this weekend and bug you. We'll have drinks and celebrate the end of your life as you know it."

Kevin laughed, "Thanks for the well wishes, Embry. I'll see you this weekend."

As Kevin had suspected, his aunts Rosalie, Esme and Alice were at his house in an hour elated about the news and already trying to pick what room should be converted to the baby's room. They agreed yellow and white was a perfect start and they'd fix it up a little more once they knew the baby's gender after it was born. When Amber and Kevin went to work the following day, they both had a little glow about them. Particularly Kevin. Once he was settled in, her went to Alphonse's office.

"I have good news," Kevin said once he came in.

"What kind of good news?" Alphonse asked.

"Amber's pregnant," Kevin said. "Baby's due in April."

"I hope you have a girl," Alphonse said and Kevin chuckled. "What you lose your spine."

"Amber already took it, Alphonse. I don't think I have any more spine left to lose."

"You say that," Alphonse said. "But if that's a little girl, you'll learn how much spine you had left and it'll promptly vanish."

"Thank you for the warning Alphonse," Kevin said.

"But in all seriousness, Kevin, congratulations. I know this probably means a lot to you," Alphonse said.

"It really does. Were you really scared when you'd found out Ana was pregnant?"

"No," Alphonse said. "I was relieved because it was a box that needed to be ticked. I only got scared when I held my daughter for the first time. I'd cared nothing of the matter until the midwife put Anastasia in my arms. Then I cared. Then she was real and she was my little girl and I loved her. More than I ever thought I would. I'd assumed I'd think little of the baby and our servants would raise the child. That's more or less how I grew up. But I loved her instantly and that was strange. That's when I got a little scared. Seeing as this isn't a responsibility forced on you, I imagine you're happy about it now."

"Any words of advice? One father to a soon to be father?"

"You'll not sleep properly for the next several years," Alphonse said. "We had a nanny that took care of Anastasia in the middle of the night and we still couldn't always sleep. Her crying would wake us. Seeing as you two will be attending to the baby yourselves, it seems a little more grim."

"I'm beginning to suspect you're the wrong person to ask for advice," Kevin chuckled.

"I'm really not," Alphonse smiled. Alphonse pressed a button on his phone and told Harold to come to his office after which he went to a little section of his office where he had brandy.

"You bellowed, sir?" Harold asked as he entered the room.

"Yes, I did," Alphonse said. "Good news. Your boss and his wife are having a baby."

"Are you?" Harold asked. "Congratulations sir," Harold said and held out his hand for Kevin to shake which he accepted.

"Thank you, Harold," Kevin smiled. "The baby's due in April."

"Oh! It'll be a year younger than Hal. Almost exactly," Harold smiled.

"I've told Kevin's he's to have a girl," Alphonse said and walked over with the glasses of brandy, handing each their own glass. "Teach you a little humility."

"Didn't teach you any," Kevin said and Harold spit out his brandy in laughter.

"What are you laughing at, boy?" Alphonse said but Harold kept laughing.

"I'm sorry, sir, but that was funny," Harold said. "Admit it: you know that was funny."

"Doesn't mean I gave you permission to laugh," Alphonse said and took a sip of his own brandy. "Prost," Alphonse lifted his glass to Kevin's and their glasses touched before they both sipped.

"Sir, you didn't include me," Harold said.

"You lost your privileges boy," Alphonse said.

"Why are you being so sour this morning?"

"Because I had the misfortune to find out you and Anastasia are taking Ana with you to New York? What's this I'm hearing about you buying her a penthouse?"

"She was really upset with you and Anastasia was trying to calm her. I offered to calm her down."

"Sucker," Alphonse grumbled. "You'll waste no such money on the harpy. If she wants a penthouse in New York, she will pay for it with the allowance she's given monthly."

"Jesus, Alphonse, she's your wife. Not a child."

"She behaves more like a spoiled child then Anastasia ever did," Alphonse muttered. "You've made no arrangements yet to that effect?"

"No sir," Harold said.

"Good. Keep it that way," Alphonse said.

Despite his crabbiness with Harold, Alphonse still made sure to congratulate Amber personally at least once that day. Since the baby was due in April, Harold agreed he would go to New York in Kevin's stead so he'd be home for the birth and so on. He'd go to New York after Harold and Kevin was hoping, by then, he, Amber and the baby could all go together since he'd be there for a while. Anna, when she'd arrived at the Synagogue that morning for work, announced to everyone that she was to be a grandmother and many well wishes came their way. When Amber returned home from work first, she hadn't waited ten minutes before she heard a knock at her door and there were several women from the synagogue at her door carrying more food than she imagined any number of people could eat. She kept them amused and thanked them for their kindness and good wishes and listened intently whenever anyone gave any bit of advice, contradictory as it often was.

"Don't use formula ever! It's poison!" one woman claimed.

"Denise, don't spread shut horrible false information," another had said. "My doctor said that formula is perfectly healthy."

"It should only be used if the baby won't latch on," another said.

"Oh! And have you chosen a school yet?" another asked. Before Amber could even offer an answer, she was interrupted.

"You need to do that soon! The school in our neighborhood is wonderful. I highly recommend it. The teachers are very good and they're not afraid to give the children a good firm smack with the ruler when they misbehave."

"What hospital will you deliver at?"

"I'm having a home birth," Amber was finally able to chime in.

"Oh, wonderful!" some said while other's said, "What? Why? It must be in a hospital with a doctor!"

By the time Kevin finally got home from work, Amber felt like a deer in headlights and was thrilled that Kevin could briefly distract the ladies that had come to visit. He received an onslaught of congratulations for the new baby and, of course, the expansion to New York after which Kevin was told to ensure he get the baby into a school on the east coast as they were very good. Why, Ethel's young nephew was on the east coast studying medicine and they were all very proud. They ladies didn't start trickling out of their house until eight and when they were gone, Kevin was about to faint.

"They're all gone?"

"Yes," Amber nodded.

"Jesus fuck, thank God," Kevin muttered. "So what advice did they give?"

"Um….I can formula feed, but I shouldn't because it's poison. The school in our neighborhood is very good but a private school is superior and a few of them send their kids to that school and I'd be silly to send our child to a public school. I was told a home birth is a wonderful idea and it's a horrible idea and I need to have the baby in a hospital with a doctor. I was told I'm having a boy because they can already tell I'm carrying low and I was told I'm having a girl because they can tell I'm carrying high. I was told to take prenatal vitamins from the pharmacy and I've been told to use what Kyle gave me because it's more natural and someone else said it was useless voodoo and I needed to use medicine."

"So nothing useful?"

"Not in the slightest," Amber said.

"I say just defer to Kyle. He's delivered more babies than I can count and he knows what to expect. He's seen just about everything, so we're in good hands. Don't let everyone else's pregnancies worry you. If there's one thing Kyle's made clear to me, it's that every pregnancy is different and you're better off calming down and listening to your doctor than panicking over things not worth panicking over. If they give you more advice or something, just grin and bear it politely and just follow Kyle's advice. Him or my mom. They're the experts."

"Alright," Amber said. "I'm just so nervous now. What if I do something wrong?"

"Amber, you won't do anything wrong," Kevin reassured and hugged her. "Kyle's already given you instructions for the first step, so just follow those and you'll be just fine. If you even suspect anything's wrong or even if you're just worried about something, just let Kyle know and he'll know what to do. I promise."

"Really?"

"Really. Don't worry, Amber. Kyle knows what to do and he'll take good care of you and our baby."

"Okay," Amber smiled and finally relaxed. "Do you think we should send the baby to the school in our district or a private school down town?"

"Let's actually have the kid before we start deciding what school to send them to," Kevin chuckled and kissed Amber's head. "It'll be alright, Amber. If you're ever not feeling well and want to go home, just let me know. If you decide you want to stop working, let me know and we'll start looking at a new hire."

"Did you want me to stop working?" Amber asked.

"Only if you would prefer to," Kevin said. "You can work as long as you want, but let me know when that changes to we can adjust."

"I don't know if I'm ready to stop. I'm so used to making my own money," Amber said. "Perhaps mom and I can think of starting our business."

"Just say when," Kevin smiled and kissed her again.

The remainder of the week, Amber went through work as usual. If she started having any dizziness or was feeling sick, she'd retreat from her desk and give herself a moment to recover before returning to her desk. The sickness was coming more frequently, though, and that weekend just couldn't come soon enough. Kevin went into the office Saturday and promised he'd return home by 1 so Amber used the morning to just relax. She'd dressed eventually and tried doing some house work, but the smell of the laundry soap was making her want to throw up so she put a cloth over her nose and pushed through before running out of the laundry room so she could breath. She was content to wait for the washing machine to be done and listen to the soap operas on the radio when she heard a knock at the door. She was about to stand and answer, but whoever was at the door had a key it seemed and let himself in. Amber relaxed when she realized it was just Embry.

"Embry, it's just you," Amber sighed. "I'm sorry. I've had so many visits from the women at the synagogue; I'm a little worn out."

"Didn't mean to startle you," Embry chuckled and put down his set of keys. "Kevin not home yet?"

"No, he went in early, but he said he'd be back by one," Amber said.

"Working on a Saturday," Embry shook his head gently laughed. "Only Kevin." Embry finally looked at Amber and then…..he didn't know. Something about her was different. Aside from the obvious. She wasn't even showing really. She appeared slightly tired to be sure but…she seemed beautiful. There was something tugging at him but he didn't understand. "You're looking well, Amber."

"Thank you, Embry," Amber smiled, completely oblivious to Embry's sudden change of mood. "Can I get you something to eat? We have so many leftovers from the food we were given and I'm eager for someone to help get rid of it."

"I'd like that, thank you," Embry said and followed Amber to the kitchen. She plated up something they had in the fridge and handed it over to Embry with a fork. Then she made her own plate and Embry chuckled a little. "You're eating?"

"Should have been my first clue I was pregnant," Amber said. "It started when I ate a whole chicken breast. Kyle has me on such a strict diet. A few ladies brought all these sweets and I had to tell mom to take them to work."

"Kyle would know best," Embry said. "So you're due in April?"

"That's what Kyle said," Amber nodded. "You're the oldest of 12 aren't you? Any advice?"

"Don't hang the baby upside down by the ankles or mom will yell at you," Embry joked and Amber giggled.

"I'm confident I won't do such a thing, Embry," Amber said.

"Kevin did it to Nathan when we were kids, so keep an eye on him," Embry said.

"A little brother is different than a son or daughter," Amber said. "I've been hearing nothing but advice lately. It's enough to send me into a panic."

"Don't worry too much," Embry said. "Worrying isn't good for the baby."

"Nothing's good for the baby so it seems," Amber grumbled and poked her fork at her food. "Honestly, everyone contradicts one another and its infuriating."

"Well," Embry said, "One thing my mom always did when she was pregnant. If she started getting stressed out or aggravated, she'd throw all us kids at dad and retreat to our teepee or, later on, hers and dad's bedroom and just take a nap. That always did the trick to calm her down."

"A nap," Amber smiled. "That's the best advice I've gotten."

"Also, if anyone tells you to sleep when the baby does, don't listen to them. They don't know what they're talking about. I mean, when that baby's awake, you're feeding them, you may be changing them, making sure they aren't putting something in their mouth, not to mention everything else you have to do like laundry and shit. When that baby's asleep, so are you. Unless, of course, you're like my mom and had at least five other helpers. At least by the time the twins were born."

"Is it safe to guess you're as much a father to your siblings as Embry Sr. is?" Amber teased.

"Please," Embry rolled his eyes. "By the time Kevin and I had come home from the war, Aidetzi and I were pretty much the disciplinarians. Dad or mom would intervene if needed, but it usually wasn't. One good hard look from me and the younger ones would stay in line. They knew better."

"Sounds like you've been a dad all your life," Amber giggled.

"Seems that way," Embry smiled.

"I guess that'll only help. I'm surprised you never imprinted. Your younger siblings maybe not. They haven't been around quite like you have and a few of the others. But you've seen the world. Or most of it."

"I guess I haven't seen enough of it," Embry said. "And honestly, I can't say as I'm too interested. I've raised enough kids. All my siblings are grown, so I intend to enjoy my retirement from child rearing."

"It's a shame," Amber smiled. "I think you'd be a great father. A husband, I'm not so certain, but father to be sure."

"Hold on, what's that supposed to mean?" Embry asked with a chuckle. "What's wrong with me that I'm not husband material?"

"I don't know," Amber said. "I've just never really seen you with anyone and yet I've heard of so many. I was just under the impression you were uninterested or feared commitment."

"I don't fear commitment, Amber," Embry smiled. "I just never met anyone worth committing to. Big difference. And hell, maybe one day I will but it's not a priority."

"If you say so," Amber smiled back. "I'd suggest perhaps introducing you to a few young women from my synagogue but I don't know if they'd go for you since you're not Jewish."

"Kevin's not Jewish and you married him didn't you?"

"We're different," Amber said.

"So back to you. How've you been feeling?"

"Depends on the hour," Amber said. "Sometimes I feel fine and other times I'm just tired or don't feel well. I have so many times where I have to step away from my desk because I'm scare I'll throw up on my desk."

"Yeah, that's an unfortunate side effect. My mom had the same thing, but it was always different with each pregnancy. It was worse when she was pregnant with the triplets or the twins. And Grae for some reason. But he was an accident in every sense of the word," Embry chuckled.

"Yes, I heard the lie you told about your parents naming him such because it was the color of the sky at the time."

"That's no lie. It's the truth," Embry laughed. "Swear on my life that's true."

"Caevia swears that's not true," Amber giggled.

"All I'll say is….what's that line from Shakespeare? 'You are protesting to much'?"

"'Me thinks the lady doth protest too much'," Amber said.

"That's it," Embry said.

"If I thought you'd do it, I would ask you to be our nanny," Amber teased.

"No," Embry said. "I'm a contractor now. I'm retired from child rearing, remember?"

"I understand," Amber said. "Oh, God, what's the matter with me? Did you want something to drink? We have beer if you'd like. Or water."

"Beer sounds good," Embry said and Amber went to the fridge to grab a beer that she opened for him and put it on the table in front of Embry. "It's a shame you're pregnant otherwise I'd offer to let you taste it. Seeing as you finally like food, now's as good a time as any to try."

"Oh no," Amber shook her head. "Kyle said if I can drink anything it's only red wine and it's sparingly. No beer."

"Oh well," Embry shrugged and took a sip.

It was a while before Kevin finally came back home and when he did, Amber was on the couch folding some clothes and listening to the radio while Embry was helping her finish the laundry. The following day when she went to the synagogue with her parents, Amber suggested to Anna that maybe they could go through with starting their own business but Anna rather adamantly said no.

"Now is not the time to do something like that," Anna reasoned. "Remember how stressful it was to open our own business in Berlin? You don't need that right now. You focus on staying healthy and keeping yourself relaxed and we'll worry about starting our business once you've recovered enough from giving birth.

"But it'll give me something to do," Amber said. "I want to retire from the law firm, but if I do, I won't have any income."

"Darling," Anna said, "you're a married woman. A pregnant married woman no less. An income is your husband's responsibility at least for now. After the baby's born, we'll start looking at opening our own candle shop. We can keep working out of our homes for now. Right now, your only worry should be staying well and healthy. Let Kevin worry about bringing the money in."

"I suppose," Amber sighed. "Still. I'm so used to making my own money. The idea of Kevin giving me an allowance bothers me."

"I know how you feel, Amber," Anna said. "I spent years as a house wife but there really is something special and fulfilling about making your own money. I promise we'll open that business soon. I just want you to relax for the next few months. You focus on my grandchild," Anna said with a smile and gently rubbed Amber's still mostly flat belly. She was sure it had rounded at least a little but no one noticed and it certainly wasn't enough that her clothes didn't fit.

After that first Saturday, Embry had become a frequent visitor on the weekends. Amber was glad for the company on those Saturdays when Kevin had to work but she was even happier for the help with the housework. She'd started teasing Embry that she should buy him a little maid outfit. He rejected the notion quite firmly. Embry would come over after work on weekdays from time to time too. He was still feeling really strange towards Amber but he couldn't pin what it was. It wasn't love. Not at all. No more than what he already felt just by virtue of his best friend loving her so much. It was something else.

When Amber was about four months along, she was still working at the law firm. She was getting sick a lot more often and Kevin was getting worried, contacting Kyle asking him if it was normal. When Kyle came over to check on Amber, there was nothing amiss. She was just still feeling the effects of morning sickness. He gave Amber another herbal remedy to help alleviate any nausea and it helped a little. Soon, though, even with the herbal treatment for her nausea, she was getting so tired and it was hard for her to focus. But she insisted she wanted to keep working, not ready to give up making her own money and, in truth, fearing boredom. It came to a head, though, one afternoon in December. She'd felt sick on and off all day and everything seemed to hurt but she kept her head up and worked. Then a gentleman entered the law firm and Amber and Linda stood to welcome him.

"Good afternoon, sir," Amber said. "Did you have an appointment?"

"Yes, with Mr. Foster," the man said. He glanced down and noticed Amber's belly and seemed…..put off. "Shouldn't you be at home resting, ma'am?"

"I'm quite alright, sir," Amber answered with a begrudging smile. She'd been hearing that since her belly started getting round and she was damned tired of it. "Just give me one moment while-" Amber stopped speaking suddenly when she felt a gag reflex. She feared if she kept speaking, she'd vomit all over the man's suit. Knowing immediately what the problem was, Linda hurried to assist.

"Sir," Linda said. "May I have your name and I'll inform Mr. Foster that you're here?"

"Yes, it's Mrs.-" he stopped when, not being able to stop it anymore, Amber grabbed her trashcan under her desk and just vomited. She tried to keep herself hidden behind the desk as best she could. Afterwards, she felt worlds better physically, but it did little to relieve her intense embarrassment. "Are you alright ma'am?"

"Yes sir," Amber moaned. She felt as though she might do it again.

"Follow me please sir," Linda said, eager to get the man away from Amber. She brought the man to Harold's office and left as soon as the man was settled and went right back to the front. Amber had thrown up again. She took the garbage from Amber, placed a service call for someone to come immediately to clean the garbage can and then took Amber away from her desk taking her to the bathroom and plopped her onto the couch. "Are you alright or did you want me to take you to one of the stalls?"

"Yes please," Amber mumbled and Linda helped her to one of the stalls. Amber started dry heaving, but she just didn't have anything left in her.

"I'm going to get Mr. Black," Linda said.

"No, no, just give me a second," Amber said.

"Amber, you need to go home. Don't worry about me. I'll take care of everything."

"I'll ask Kevin to take me home, I promise. Just give me a second."

Reluctantly, Linda nodded but she stayed close just in case. Finally, Amber recovered and no longer felt nauseous but her head was pounding. Once she was better, Linda helped Amber back up and got her out of the bathroom and helped her to Kevin's office. Amber assured Linda she was fine and sent her back to her desk. Amber gently knocked on the door and let herself in to find Kevin on the phone appearing extremely irritated. When Kevin saw Amber walk in, he thanked whoever he was on the phone with and quickly hung up before standing from his desk and going right to Amber.

"Are you alright?" Kevin asked.

"I'm alright now," Amber said.

"Harold told me his client was complaining about you getting sick. Are you sure you're better?"

"Really, Kevin, I already feel much better. I just think I need to go home for today."

"Sure," Kevin said. He grabbed what he needed and they left his office. Kevin told Linda to hold his calls and that he'd be back in an hour. Amber followed Kevin out of the building to his car and sat in the passenger's seat while Kevin got in the driver's seat. "If you need me to pull over at any point, let me know okay?"

"I'll be alright," Amber insisted. Rather than push, noticing Amber was starting to get frustrated with him, Kevin nodded and got onto the road to go back to their house. Once they were home, Amber got out of the car herself but Kevin was quick to stay close to her and went back into the house with her.

"Did you want me to help you upstairs?"

"No, Kevin, I can do it," Amber said.

"I'll call Kyle and ask him to come a little early. I know he said this isn't unusual but I feel like this should have passed by now."

"Okay," Amber mumbled while Kevin went to their phone and called Kyle. After a brief conversation, Kyle confirmed he'd be over in another hour.

"Do you want me to stay here while we wait for Kyle to get here?"

"No, you said you'd be back in an hour. I'll be alright. I'll have dinner ready by the time you get home."

"Do you think Anna would mind cooking for us tonight?" Kevin suggested.

"I can ask her," Amber said. Kevin sat on the couch beside Amber. "I'm sorry about earlier. I tried holding it in, but I just couldn't."

"It's alright," Kevin said. "Harold wasn't mad. He knows better. But apparently his client was giving him quite an earful about having a pregnant woman working for us." Amber's shoulders slumped a little and Kevin took her hand. "How about when I get back, I'll get a request out and you can train someone. If nothing else, they can work for us until after the baby's born." Amber didn't say anything and seemed less than pleased with the possibility. "Amber, I know you don't want to stop working but under the circumstances it really does seem like it may be better for you."

"I won't stop suffering morning sickness because I'm at home all day, Kevin," Amber said with a hint of frustration and sarcasm.

"Maybe it will," Kevin said. "It would be less stressful for you."

"I'd prefer stress over boredom," Amber said. "Besides, Kevin, if I stop working, my pay goes away."

"Amber, I can keep giving you your pay," Kevin said.

"Kevin, that would be stealing from the law firm and if you're talking about just giving me pay from your own check, I don't care for being given an allowance."

"Amber," Kevin started but stopped and groaned, rubbing his head. "Amber, I don't know what to do." Amber didn't say anything. "I'll get back. I'll be home by six but if you want me home sooner, I'm a call away."

"Okay," Amber said. Kevin leaned over and gave Amber a kiss on the cheek and stood from the couch.

"I love you, Amber," Kevin said.

"I love you too," Amber said and Kevin finally left to return to the office. As promised, an hour after the call had been placed, Kyle came over and, rather unexpectedly, Embry was with him. "Embry? What brings you here?"

"I heard about what happened and I wanted to just check on you," Embry said. "How are you feeling?"

"I've been feeling fine since last I'd been sick," Amber said. "I forgot to drink that herbal blend you gave me."

"Okay, that would do it," Kyle said and walked over. "So at this point, it's still largely morning sickness symptoms?"

"Basically," Amber said. Kyle asked Amber to follow him upstairs while Embry stayed in the living room. Kyle gave Amber the check-up she'd been supposed to have that weekend. Everything was normal and the baby was coming along fine.

"Everything's normal," Kyle said. "I know Kevin won't like this answer, but it really is just pregnancy. I've been told it's the worst flu one can have."

"I'm gathering that," Amber grumbled. "Kevin's saying he's going to put out an add to have me replaced."

"He only meant bringing on a new hire for you to train so you can go on maternity leave. You're not being replaced."

"Yes I am," Amber said.

"No you're not, Amber," Kyle said firmly. "Look, Amber, I know you don't want to, but it really would be best if you were to stop working."

"I'm pregnant; not an invalid."

"I never said you were an invalid," Kyle said. "I'm only saying that, given how pregnancy has been affecting you, I would prefer you relax. I can have Evie come to see you and take you on walks regularly so you're getting some fresh air but aren't alone just in case."

"I feel like none of you are listening to me," Amber said. "Even my own mother isn't listening to me. I suggested we could work towards the business and she told me now wasn't the time and that it was Kevin's responsibility to take care of my right now."

"Sure it is," Kyle said. When Amber glared at him, Kyle sighed. "Look, Amber, I know this is frustrating, but try to see it from Kevin's point of view. You two finally started the life you wanted together and all this sickness is worrying him. It doesn't matter how many times I tell him it's nothing to panic about. It still worries him. He's just trying to look out for you and make this easier for you. He just doesn't know how to make this easier."

"I'm tired of being treated-" Amber started but she suddenly felt nauseated again. Kyle quickly grabbed his herbal blend and put it in an ashtray to light. Once lit, he put out the fire and gave Amber the smoke to breath in and it cleared the sickness right away. "Thank you," Amber mumbled.

"You're welcome," Kyle said. He stepped out of the room a moment and told Embry to brew up a cup of the blend Kyle had made to treat Amber's nausea. When he returned, Amber was still breathing in the gentle smoke and was rubbing her hand over her belly.

"Had I known this was such a trial, I'd have suggested we adopt," Amber said.

"You still can if you really want to, but I'd suggest waiting until this one's born first," Kyle said trying to joke, but Amber just stared at him unimpressed. Embry came in with the tea Kyle had requested and put it on the nightstand.

"Can I?" Embry asked, wanting to rub her belly. Amber nodded and then Embry kneeled down and put his hand on her belly. Last he'd done something like this was when his mother had been pregnant. When he was a boy, he'd want to touch her belly all the time hoping he could make a baby kick, though he'd grown tired of it as he got older. Now, though, he had a renewed interest. "Does the baby have a time of day it prefers to kick?"

"Morning," Amber said. "The baby's a lark."

"Better a lark than a nightingale," Embry joked. That time, Amber did giggle just a little. "That's what I wanted to see."

"Thank you for cheering me up a little," Amber said.

"My pleasure," Embry smiled and kept rubbing his hand over Amber's belly hoping he might feel a kick.

"To my right," Amber said, suddenly feeling a kick. Embry followed Amber's direction and got his hand to Amber's right side and was able to catch a gentle little kick.

"There's the little bugger," Embry chuckled. "You should start behaving yourself kid. You're mom's morning sickness is making her awfully crabby." Despite her smile, Amber swatted Embry's head. The baby kicked a little more perhaps from the excitement. "The baby should kick more often at night."

"Dear God, no," Amber grumbled.

"I say that only because Kevin doesn't always get to feel the baby kick. He said he's heard you tell him the baby's kicking and try to put his hand on your belly to feel it but most times the baby's stopped by then. I think he's only felt the baby kick once or twice. It makes him a little sad. It would be easier if the baby kicked at night when you two aren't desperately trying to get ready for work."

"I can scold the baby I guess, but I can't guarantee it will help," Amber said.

"Baby," Embry said, tapping his finger on Amber's belly. "Start kicking a little more at night, okay? It'll make your daddy very happy if you did." Embry tapped his finger over the spot a few more times and felt the baby kick again, though that could easily have been in irritation at the constant tapping.

"Alright, Embry, you can stop," Amber smiled and pushed Embry's hand away.

"Make sure you drink that tea I gave you to fight the nausea okay?" Kyle said. "And the prenatal tea."

"Do you suppose you could tell if we're having a boy or a girl?" Amber asked.

"Sorry, Amber, but even if I read the baby's mind, it's too dark in there to be sure," Kyle chuckled. "I can tell you, though, that the baby's doing great. No pain or discomfort, nothing wrapped around its neck or anything."

"Wait, what?" Amber jumped.

"Sorry, I phrased that poorly," Kyle said. "There are cases in which the umbilical cord could get wrapped around the baby's neck. If that does happen, I'll know it instantly and I'll fix it, but I don't suspect that will be an issue here. In fact, the baby doesn't like the cord that much. If it gets too close the baby just punches it away. I suspect you feel the baby doing that from time to time."

"I would assume those are the harder 'kicks'?"

"Most likely," Kyle said. "I know it's frustrating, but this sickness really is nothing to worry about. It's just sensitivity to smells above all else and that's rather common. The tea will help with it. Although, Amber, and I know you don't want to hear this but I'm saying it anyway, it really might be good for you to start your maternity leave or retire. You're not moving around as much as I'd like you to when you're at work and that's not good. I'll make the recommendation to Kevin and I'll start asking Evie to be a frequent visitor so she can take you out and about to move around. The walking and fresh air will do you good."

"If you say so," Amber grumbled.

"I know you want to keep working, Amber, but under the circumstances, an early maternity leave would be more to your benefit and the baby's."

"Alright," Amber said.

"I'll go ahead and leave you be for today," Kyle said. "If anything changes, feel free to call me. Otherwise, I'll see you again this Saturday."

"Thank you, Kyle," Amber said.

"Did you want me to get going too?" Embry asked.

"No, you can stay. I'd actually appreciate the company."

"In that case, how about I take you for that walk or something?" Embry suggested. Amber smiled and nodded. After Kyle left, Amber quickly drank the tea before she and Embry left the house to walk around the neighborhood. If she got tired, they would stop and sit down somewhere. They ended up sitting in the park down the road together watching children playing with their mothers watching them closely.

As luck would have it, a few of the women at the park were ladies from the synagogue and they came over to talk to her and ask her how she was doing. She refrained any mentioning of throwing up in front of a client and only advised she'd not been feeling well and Kevin had brought her home. What followed was a bizarre compilation of the ladies praising Kevin for being so thoughtful while also calling him cruel for making her work. Amber reminded them, again, that it was by her insistence that she was still working and the ladies responded by saying Kevin should consider being a little more firm with Amber. She said nothing but was getting irritated with them, so Embry suggested, making a point to state it was doctor's orders, that they get back to walking around. Amber gladly agreed. By the time they returned to the house, Amber was about ready to fall asleep and went upstairs to do just that. She was sound asleep by the time Kevin came home from work and Embry was in the kitchen warming up leftovers.

"Embry?"

"Hey, Kevin," Embry said. "Sorry to surprise you. I came over with Kyle. Amber's upstairs asleep."

"Okay," Kevin said. "How's she feeling? What did Kyle say?"

"She's feeling better. Kyle said this morning sickness is normal. There's no rule as to how long a pregnant woman can suffer it. She'd forgotten to drink that anti-nausea tea he'd given her and that's why she was really feeling sick today."

"But she's better now?"

"Yeah, she is. Kyle suggested she move around outside so I took her for a walk through the neighborhood."

"Thanks," Kevin said. "Was she still upset with me?"

"She's over it," Embry reassured. "She's not mad at you so much as she's upset in general. Kyle agreed with you that it might be time for her to start maternity leave. He said he'd start sending Evie over so Amber has someone to talk to and keep her busy."

"Okay," Kevin said. "I guess that makes me feel a little better about putting out an add."

"Amber knew you'd be doing that?"

"I told her I was. She didn't take it very well."

"Personally, I'd suggest letting her train whoever you bring in. Give her another two weeks or so after the new hire comes in or something. I think that'll make her feel better."

"I'll do that," Kevin said. "Thanks for everything you've been doing. It helps a lot. If I didn't know better, I'd say you were trying to weasel in my marriage," Kevin joked.

"Christ no," Embry chuckled. "I love her, but I love her the way I love my sisters. It's merely an undying devotion to the woman that made my best friend happy. Speaking of which, how does a glass of brandy sound?"

"I think I'm out of brandy, but I think I have scotch."

"Even better," Embry said and searched for the aforementioned liquor. As he said, there was scotch but then Embry noticed all the wine. "You know what, fuck it. Let's crack open a bottle of wine."

"Sure," Kevin said. "Isn't that terrible? We've had those for months now and we haven't opened a single one. Carol will be disappointed."

"She'll understand," Embry said. "Her husband will make her understand anyway. You're still talking to David about-"

"Yes, and keep quiet," Kevin said. "I want to surprise her."

"Oh, she'll certainly be surprised," Embry chuckled while he got two wine glasses and filled them. "Have you heard anything from Alphonse about the office in New York?"

"Last I spoke with him, everything was going very well," Kevin said. "He's just hired someone. He's a Yale alumni and everything."

"Keeping it within the family I see," Embry smiled.

"It just worked out that way," Kevin said. "A little while ago, we hired a Harvard graduate and he was top of his class and everything. We won him as an employee based on our reputation alone."

"What about cases?"

"The case load is still a little lower than what we have here but that will change really quick," Kevin said. "New York is where a lot of business is. To word it as David did, New York is law city. I think once we do really well on the cases we have now, the rest will come after."

"You're not going to move to New York are you?" Embry said.

"No," Kevin said. "Alphonse might but I won't. I will have to go there from time to time, though."

"Maybe I should join you some time. Last we were in New York we were returning from the war. I'd like to go to New York and actually enjoy myself."

"I thought watching Nathan get a tattoo was fun," Kevin said.

"Yeah, that was fun," Embry said and came over with their wine and handed Kevin his glass. They tasted it at the same time. "That's not half bad."

"That is really good," Kevin said. "I tried their wine at their house, but that had been aged about seven years. These have only been bottled two years. Even so young, it's really good."

"Won't be a chore to finish that bottle," Embry said. "I heated up some food."

"Good, thank you. I realized I was hungry once I noticed it was time to go home."

Kevin and Embry ate dinner and drank the bottle of wine together talking and catching up. Amber didn't come downstairs and when Kevin went upstairs to check on her, she was still asleep. It was late by the time Embry left since he needed to make sure he sobered up before he drove home. When Kevin went upstairs, Amber was still asleep, so he got ready for bed as quietly as possible and got into bed with her. He moved closer until he was holding her and kissed her head. She moaned a little in acknowledgement but didn't wake up. Then Kevin started rubbing Amber's belly hoping that maybe he'd get a kick. After he rubbed her belly for a minute, he finally felt a little kick and smiled.

"Someone's up," Kevin whispered with a smile. As gently as possible not wanting to disrupt her, Kevin helped Amber onto her back so he could have his face close to her belly. "How was your day, baby?" Kevin whispered as he continued to rub her belly. Amber stirred but still didn't wake. Deciding he didn't want to risk waking her by talking, he tried to push his thoughts to the baby. "How's my baby doing?" Kevin felt a little kick against his hand and smiled broader. "How about I tell you a story?"

Kevin didn't feel a kick that time, but in spite of that, he told the baby a little bedtime story. He told the baby about how he and Amber met. He didn't present any images but instead only told of the battle and finding Amber and bringing her to the synagogue. He felt the baby kick one or two more times through the story and after he was done, he gave Amber's belly a little kiss and told the baby good night before he finally went to bed. The next morning, Kevin woke up to the smell of breakfast in the air. Specifically pancakes. When Kevin went downstairs half dressed, he saw Amber in her nightgown making breakfast.

"Morning," Amber smiled.

"Morning," Kevin smiled back. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm alright," Amber said. "I was feeling a little lightheaded yesterday, but I'm better now. I drank both teas your brother gave me so I think I'll be better the rest of the day."

"Okay, good," Kevin said. "I felt the baby kicking last night. I told him how we met."

"Did you?" Amber said. "I'll bet the baby enjoyed that story. I have some waffles ready."

"I was thinking it was pancakes," Kevin smiled.

"Same batter just cooked differently," Amber said. "I already had one with syrup and walnuts. You'll like them."

"I know I will," Kevin said as he went into the kitchen. He hugged her and kissed her neck. "I'm sorry about yesterday."

"It's alright," Amber said. "I was just embarrassed and upset. Kyle agrees with you about me retiring. Embry told you I assume? Or had he left by the time you came home?"

"No, he was there," Kevin said. "We had wine and dinner."

"How romantic," Amber teased.

"Yes, very," Kevin smiled. "I hope he asks me on another date. I had a wonderful time."

Amber giggled, "He has been very helpful."

"He has," Kevin said and started rubbing Amber's belly again and he got excited when he felt another kick. "The baby's been rather active it seems."

"I doubt this has anything to do with it, but yesterday Embry said to the baby to kick more often for you because it would make you happy."

"Leave it to a baby to mind anyone except their parents," Kevin chuckled and kept rubbing. "Last time I felt anything like this, my mom was pregnant with the twins. She used to complain I was leaning on her and hurting her."

"You're certainly not hurting me," Amber said. "Kevin, about yesterday…..did you happen to…"

"I did put out an ad," Kevin said. "But I want you to train them. So once we've found a new hire that's to standards, you'll train them for about 2 weeks before you go on leave."

Amber smiled a little and rubbed Kevin's arm. "I appreciate that. I know I've been difficult-"

"No, Amber, I'm being difficult," Kevin said. "I'm worrying too much, Kyle tells me I'm worrying too much and I'm putting that on you unfairly." Amber reached her hand up and patted Kevin's head.

"We're new parents," Amber reassured. "Kyle was telling me of all the children he's delivered, the running theme is the first child, the mothers are always worrying about everything and by the second child, they don't have nearly so many worries."

"So by our second, we'll be experts?"

"I think so," Amber smiled. "Now have your plate of waffles. Were you planning to go into the office today?"

"Not today," Kevin said. "I'd rather spend the day with you."

Amber smiled and they shared a kiss before Amber finished platting up the waffles and giving them to Kevin. She made herself another plate as she'd done previously and they ate breakfast together. By the time they returned to work, they had a stack of resumes that Kevin and Amber started going through. If she ever felt unwell, she'd go somewhere to lie down and Linda would take over the task. After three weeks of going through resumes and interviews, they hired a young woman fresh out of college with promising credentials and a previous customer service work history from her high school and college years. Once she was in, Cassandra was her name, Amber took over training her and made sure she knew what would be expected of her and what she'd have to do.

"How do you feel, Cassandra?" Amber asked Cassandra on her last day before she started her maternity leave.

"I'm feeling confident," Cassandra smiled. "If I need help, I'll just bug Linda."

"Be sure to," Linda said. "I'd prefer you ask too many questions than have something not done right."

"Yes ma'am," Cassandra said.

"'Miss' will do just fine," Linda said and they smiled.

"So when are you expecting?" Linda asked.

"April," Amber said.

"This is yours and Mr. Black's first child right?"

"Indeed," Amber said. "My parents are thrilled. They've all been going crazy with baby things. So has Kevin's side of the family. My baby shower's going to be in February."

"That's so exciting," Cassandra smiled. "Do you think it's a boy or a girl?"

"I don't know," Amber said. "When Kevin and I set a date for our wedding, we'd flipped a coin and that determined we would have a girl, but that's hardly tangible. Years ago when I still lived in Germany, we'd flipped a coin to see what the baby would be had we started having children by then and it was determined a boy."

"Perhaps the coin was right the first time," Cassandra smiled. "How has the baby room been coming along?"

"It's finished being painted and the bed we had in there has been put to storage. Kevin's dad is carving a crib for us and our friend Embry's mother is weaving us a little baby basket. Those are the only things I know for a fact about. I registered for a lot of things from Macy's but I don't know what of those I'll get."

"It's under Black, right?"

"It is," Amber said. "But don't worry yourself about getting us something."

"If you insist," Cassandra said. "I've been dying to ask this but can I touch your belly?"

"Go ahead," Amber said and Cassandra eagerly put both hands on Amber and started feeling around. She was a little disappointment when she didn't feel the baby kick but Amber just explained the baby was usually asleep through the day and night.

After that last day of work, Kevin and Amber drove home together and Amber wasn't so upset as she'd been previously. With Hanukkah having started, she had something else to keep her occupied at the synagogue. Rabbi Kowalski was setting up little games and tournaments for the kids and the mothers all provided prizes in the form of toys. The children gambled with chocolate gelt and the winner would take all. Seeing as she could actually appreciate the candies, Amber requested she be able to join the tournament. She'd not lost her touch, winning a good chunk of the games but ultimately losing to a little boy that, upon his mother's 'encouragement', let all the kids have a portion of his candy he'd won. While Kevin was at work, she'd gotten the house decorated for Hanukkah. She put their Menorah on a table by the window and put in the candles she'd carved specifically for them.

While they did some celebrating with her parents, Kevin and Amber spent the majority of celebrating Hanukkah together. Kevin even sang with her while they lit the candles just as she'd taught him. The whole family met for Christmas at the Cullen house and Amber received a plethora of baby clothes for both genders ranging from tiny new born dresses, tiny suits, little shoes and socks, hats and even several boxes of Johnson & Johnson brand disposable diapers that were all the rage.

By February, Amber was truly waddling around and she frequently complained of feeling like a beached whale. Evie was often with her, as Kyle had promised, so Amber would have someone with her when she went walking. Of course, with all the snow, it was harder to go outside so she'd walk around the house instead. She had her baby shower on a Friday with several of her guests bringing food along with their gifts. She was still opening presents when Kevin returned home, taking a half day at work because he wanted to be home for that day.

"Kevin, look!" Amber said when Kevin came home. "Look at this little mobile your father made us." It was all crafted from wood just as the crib had been and the pieces were carved to look like animals like a deer, a wolf, an owl and a raccoon.

"Dad made that?" Kevin said and came over to look at it. "It'll match the crib."

"Oh, speaking of which," Amber said and looked at Renesmee. "Show him the baby blanket you made."

"I hope that will work," Renesmee said holding up a big quilt that had little animals embroidered in yellow thread on pale blue and pale purple fabric to mimic what Jacob had carved. "And your Aunt Esme made a little mattress to go into the crib."

"I made sure it was extra soft," Esme smiled. "I made little pillows too to make sure the baby doesn't turn while sleeping."

"Sounds like we're set," Kevin smiled and saw all the carved wooden toys. "Dad's really been busy making toys too."

"I think we'll save those for when the baby's a little older," Amber said. "We got plenty of toys that are softer and more forgiving."

"I had wooden toys when I was tiny and I turned out just fine," Kevin joked and kissed Amber's cheek. "What's left to open?"

"I just have a few left," Amber said. "Did you want to join us?"

"Just let me get things put away and I'll be back," Kevin said and pressed a kiss to Amber's check.

He got rid of his briefcase and changed into something more casual before returning downstairs to watch Amber open their remaining presents. By the time Amber was finished opening all their presents, they had everything they could possibly need for the baby whether it was a boy or a girl. As such, the following day, Kevin worked tirelessly to get the baby's room ready. He set up the crib Jacob had carved them and put the rocking chair that Jacob has also carved them in a corner near the crib and hanging the wooden mobile, setting up the changing table and dresser until and following any and all direction Amber gave as to where things needed to be until it was absolutely perfect. Amber sat in the rocking chair to test it and it was perfectly sound and strong per Jacob's level of craftsmanship.

"Do you think the baby will like it?" Amber asked Kevin after looking around the room from the rocking chair.

"I think so long as you're in the room holding him, the baby will love it," Kevin answered and Amber smiled.

"Do you think it's a boy?"

"According to our previous coin toss, it's a girl," Kevin smiled and sat on the floor beside her placing his hand on her belly to start rubbing. "Coin toss or no, I think it is a girl."

"Why do you say that?" Amber asked.

"Just a hunch," Kevin smiled. "Would you rather have a boy?"

"I would like to give you a son," Amber said. "But I'll be happy to have a little girl."

"Since staying home, have you been feeling better?" Kevin asked.

"So long as I drink those teas your brother gave me, I'm usually fine," Amber said. "He's scolding me for not gaining much weight but given how often I just can't keep food down, I don't know why he's surprised."

"So long as you feel healthy, that's what matters," Kevin said. Kevin kept rubbing Amber's belly until he finally felt a kick and smiled. "Do you think you'll want to have another child after this?"

"I just need to forget what it's like to be pregnant before we do," Amber smiled. "I'm told by the ladies at the synagogue that they always forget most things about labor. They say it's God's way of making sure women are willing to have more children."

"How manipulative," Kevin chuckled. He went on one knee so he could pull Amber from the rocking chair and bring her into his lap on the floor. Once Amber was comfortable, she wrapped her arm around his neck and put her free hand over his on her belly. "We'll wait a few years before we have another baby. When you want to, just say the word and we'll have another."

"I will," Amber said. "Doesn't mean we can't practice in the meantime."

Kevin smiled back at her and gave her a kiss before making love on the floor of the baby room. The remaining time seem to pass in a blur. Embry stopped by with another gift for the baby in the form of a teddy bear that they put right in the baby's crib. He also noticed over the months that the further along Amber was getting, the more drawn to her he was. Kevin was aware. Of course he would be. Whenever Kevin was able to go on patrol, it would be with Embry and he'd always hear his thoughts about it but they didn't really talk about it. Embry didn't really want to. He just wanted Kevin to be happy for the new baby.

When it was finally April, Amber was still feeling mostly the same except feeling the baby being oddly positioned compared to normal. Kyle affirmed this meant the baby was in the correct position and to expect to go into labor soon. Once they knew that, every morning before leaving for work, Kevin would remind Amber to call him the instant she needed him and he'd drop what he was doing and return home. Renesmee and/or Evalina became constant presences at the house, ready to get Amber prepared and call Kyle the instant her condition changed. Renesmee slept in the remaining guest bedroom starting April and made sure Amber was moving around to help Amber along. It wasn't long before she was feeling bouts of pain, but they weren't what she imagined. Renesmee explained it was most likely her body preparing for labor. It was midway through April before Amber started feeling any significant amount of pain and it was while she was walking in the park with Evalina.

"Are you alright?" Evalina asked.

"I had a pain," Amber said. "It felt sharper than the others."

"Has it passed yet or is it still going on?"

"It stopped a second ago," Amber said. "It didn't last very long."

"Alright," Evalina said. "Let's go back to the house. If you feel it again, let me know and we'll keep time."

"Okay," Amber said. They started walking back and she felt another sharp pain on the way, but it only lasted a minute.

When they returned to the house, Evalina told Renesmee what happened and she instructed Evalina to return Amber upstairs and get the bed prepared. She didn't call Kyle yet since it wasn't likely Amber would go into active labor for quite some time. She did call Kevin to give him an update but made sure he didn't come home since Amber wasn't in active labor yet. By the time Kevin came home from work, Amber was still only feeling the sharp pain once every two or so hours and it was only lasting 1-3 minutes.

"Do you think she'll have the baby tonight?" Kevin asked after he'd been given an update and was sitting with Amber on the bed.

"I doubt it," Renesmee said. "She's having contractions but they're not close enough together. I went ahead and checked if she's dilated but it doesn't appear she is. So we still have a while. You should be fine to go to work tomorrow. We'll call you the moment anything changes, so you have nothing to worry about."

"Are you sure?" Kevin asked, but he directed his question to Amber. "I'll stay home if you want me to."

"If Renesmee says you're alright to go to work, than I agree with her. I'm not in so much pain yet."

"Alright," Kevin said. "I'll go to work tomorrow, but I'm staying home the day after that. I'd rather be here when it's time to deliver."

"I know," Amber smiled.

Her parents came over that afternoon with dinner as had become the habit since April. Renesmee reassured them she would call them as soon as Amber's condition changed so they would remain in the know. Renesmee was estimating the baby would be born in another two or three days. She called Kyle as well letting him know what was going on and he agreed with Renesmee that it would likely be another 2 or 3 days. The following day, begrudgingly, Kevin left for work and promised once again that if they needed him to just call him and he'd be home right away. For most of the morning, nothing really changed. Amber would feel a sharp pain for no longer than five minutes and then it would pass. Amber insisted she be able to go back downstairs and did some cleaning during that long period of rest. It was around 2 in the afternoon when she felt the sharp pain again and had to stop cleaning for a moment. Renesmee stood by and watched to get an idea of how long this contraction lasted. However, this one lasted upwards of ten minutes. When it wasn't ending like before, Renesmee got Amber upstairs and they waited for the contraction to end.

"Has it passed?" Renesmee asked when Amber appeared to relax. When Amber nodded, Renesmee said, "Alright. I'm going to check how far you've dilated. Evie, once I check, give Kyle a call."

"Okay," Evie said and Renesmee checked Amber's progress. She was a little surprised to see Amber was six centimeters dilated.

"Well that escalated quickly," Renesmee said. "She's six centimeters dilated."

"Should I tell Kyle to come?"

"Yes, ask him to come," Renesmee said. "Once Kyle's here, we'll have a chance to monitor further progress."

"Should we call Kevin?" Amber asked.

"We can if you like but I don't think we'll have to worry for a few more hours. If I had to guess, I'd say it's more likely the baby will be born tonight."

"I'll decide in another hour," Amber said since she was able to relax a moment. Evalina called Kyle and asked him to come as instructed.

By the time Kyle made it to the house, Amber was having another contraction that was lasting longer than the previous contraction. He asked Amber a few questions and listened to the baby through her belly. He opened his mind and was able to determine the baby was in no danger with umbilical cord. The baby had apparently swatted the cord away as it was moving and the muscle memory of it made Kyle chuckle a little. Kyle encouraged Amber to wait one more hour before they called Kevin and at the end of that hour, he checked how far along she was. She'd dilated an additional two centimeters, but she still had two more centimeters to go, so Kyle finally called Kevin.

"Heidelberg and Black, this is Cassandra. How may I assist you?" a young woman answered the phone.

"Cassandra, my name is Dr. Kyle Black. I'm Kevin's little brother. His wife would like him to return home as soon as possible. She's dilated quite a bit since this morning and if the pace continues, she'll deliver before he typically returns home."

"Of course, I'll inform him now," Cassandra said.

"Thank you, Cassandra," Kyle said and ended the call. Back at the office, as soon as she was off the phone, Cassandra got up from her desk and went to the large conference room towards the back of their floor and knocked gently, letting herself in before she was given permission. Kevin and Alphonse were in the office with a few clients.

"What's the matter, Cassandra?" Alphonse asked.

"I'm very sorry to interrupt, Mr. Heidelberg, but I just got a call from Dr. Kyle Black. Mr. Black, he said Amber wanted you to return home. He thinks she'll have the baby shortly."

Kevin wasted no time and stood from his chair. "My apologies, gentlemen, but I need to return home. Alphonse, I'll return Monday. If you need me to come in before then, you know where to reach me."

"I hope it's a girl," Alphonse smiled and Kevin left the building once he had all his things and drove home. Kyle had called Amber's parents by then. Levi would come after he got off work and Anna left the synagogue and went straight to Amber's and Kevin's house right away.

"Amber?" Anna said as soon as she was upstairs. Amber was in the midst of another contraction. Anna sat on the edge of the bed and held Amber's hand. "How are you feeling, Amber?"

"It hurts," Amber whimpered and held her mom's hand.

"It's alright, Amber, it'll pass, I promise," Anna said. "You called Kevin right?"

"We have," Renesmee said. "He'll be here shortly."

"Good," Anna said and continued to comfort Amber through the latest contraction. By the time Kevin finally made it home, that contraction had passed and she was trying to relax. She felt loads better when she saw Kevin.

"How's she doing?" Kevin asked Kyle as he got on the bed and took the spot behind Amber so she was in his arms and upright.

"She's approaching ten centimeters and the contractions are becoming more frequent. Her water hasn't broken yet. It may very well not break until it's time to deliver. That's not unusual."

"How much longer do you think it'll be before that happens?" Kevin asked.

"Based on her progress, I would estimate another one to two hours," Kyle said.

"Okay," Kevin said and rubbed Amber's belly. The baby was kicking more than normal so Kevin rubbed the spots where the baby was kicking hoping her might sooth the baby.

Another hour passed before Levi came to the house. He came upstairs to check on Amber before returning downstairs to wait. Anna joined him so he wouldn't be alone, but she frequently returned upstairs to check on Amber. The contractions continued to come closer and closer together as time dragged on. And time really did 'drag'. Each contraction felt like it was taking hours and each rest period felt like seconds. When a contraction returned, Amber would squeeze Kevin's hand and sometimes would be unable to help but cry. With his other hand, Kevin kept rubbing Amber's belly trying to be soothing. By seven that evening, the contractions seemed relentless and, upon her water breaking, the pain intensified horribly. Amber kept squeezing Kevin's hand as though she might break it. Were Kevin not flexing in slight resistance, she very well would have. Kyle checked her cervix and determined she was dilated fully.

"Alright, Amber. It's time to start pushing. Take a deep breath and when I count to three, I want you to push." Once Amber nodded, Kyle started counting and on three Amber started pushing. She had to stop when the pain was just too much. "I'll count up again," Kyle said. He did so, giving Amber a second to recover, before he reached three and Amber pushed again. She could feel the movement of the baby and could feel the baby's head. Determined, Amber kept pushing until Kyle had a hold of the baby and the room filled with a cry. "It's a girl," Kyle announced and for the first time in hours, Amber was crying with joy instead of pain. Anna came running upstairs after hearing the baby crying.

"May I come in?" She asked.

"Sure," Kyle said. "Mom, can you clean the baby. Anna, you can see her while mom does that."

"It's a girl?" Anna cried and followed Renesmee after Kyle cut the cord and Renesmee was walking to the little vat of warm water they'd prepared. "Oh, Amber, she's beautiful!" Anna cried a little more as she looked at the baby.

"I told you it was a girl," Kevin whispered in Amber's ear and kissed her. She didn't answer as she continued to focus on Renesmee waiting for the baby. Once she was cleaned up, Renesmee dried off the baby and then wrapped her in a little yellow blanket before finally bringing her over to put in Amber's arms.

Truly she was beautiful. She had brown hair like her father and when she finally opened her eyes, they were brown too. She had Amber's dainty nose, Kevin's eyes and ears, Amber's lips and chin. The hair on her head, having dried slightly thanks to Renesmee's cleaning, was already full atop her head and she was trying to grab for something.

"Try feeding her," Renesmee suggested. Amber did just that and pulled her robe aside so she could try to breastfeed. Their little daughter latched on right away and the room was finally peaceful.

"I'll tell your father," Anna smiled. "Come grab us once the baby's done feeding. Levi will want to hold her." Anna left the room to relay whatever Levi hadn't already overheard. While the baby was eating, Kevin brushed her tiny cheek.

"I can hold her before them right?" Kevin joked.

"Let her finish eating and you can hold her," Amber said.

"When there's a moment's peace, we'll get her birth certificate signed," Renesmee said. She sat on the edge of the bed and looked at the baby with a smile. "Anna Heather Renesmee?"

"I'll call her Heather," Kevin said.

"Heather suites her," Renesmee agreed. While Kevin rubbed Heather's cheek, she reached up her tiny hand and grabbed Kevin's finger. She opened her eyes looking up at Amber while she was eating.

After Heather finally finished, Amber pulled back her robe so she was covered and Kevin took Heather in his arms. He was almost scared he'd drop her so he stayed completely still once she was in his arms. Renesmee went to get Levi and Anna and Anna quickly took Heather in her arms and cooed to her and handed her over to Levi so he could hold his granddaughter. Kevin called the office requesting Alphonse when he had a moment. Amber was sleeping after delivering the placenta at last and Kevin was holding Heather in his arms while sitting in his office.

"How's Amber?" Alphonse asked once Kevin got to him.

"She's sleeping now. She's earned a good rest after today."

"So is it a girl?"

"Yes, Alphonse, it's a girl," Kevin smiled and looked at his daughter who was sound asleep snuggled into his chest over his heart. "Her name's Heather and she's beautiful."

"Good," Alphonse said. "Serves you right to have a girl," he teased with a chuckle. "I'll call Harold so he and Anastasia know Amber had the baby. Anastasia will be so excited to meet the baby."

"I know," Kevin said. "When are they coming back from New York?"

"In another two months," Alphonse said. "Of course, Anastasia may just decide to come back early to meet little Heather."

"That would be so kind of her," Kevin said. "I think come Saturday, we'll invite people over to meet her. Amber should be feeling better by then."

"I look forward to meeting her," Alphonse said. "Congratulations, Kevin."

"Thank you, Alphonse. I'll see you on Saturday," Kevin said. Once he'd hung up the phone, he sat back in the chair and just looked at Heather while she slept until Anna came back begging to hold her again and swooping the baby away to cuddle and coo.

The following day was when a few more family members came over, Embry bring among them. Amber was up and walking around now but was still a little sore. She was surrounded by family members when Embry came into the house and Kevin was there to greet him.

"There you are Embry," Kevin said and hugged him. "Did you want something to drink?"

"Just water's fine for now," Embry said. "So I'm told it's a girl?"

"Yeah, it's a girl," Kevin smiled. "We've been calling her Heather. Her birth certificate says Anna Heather Renesmee Black but we all agreed to call her Heather."

"I can't wait to meet her," Embry smiled back. "Congratulations Kevin."

"Thanks Embry. And thank you for all the help over the past several months."

"It's my pleasure," Embry said. "Anything for my best friend's wife and daughter. Now, about that beer."

"I thought you wanted water."

"Changed my mind," Embry said. They laughed and went to the kitchen to get themselves beers from the fridge.

Since Amber was surrounded on all sides by relatives, Embry stayed with Kevin so they wouldn't bother Amber further. Soon, Rosalie snatched the baby away and started signing softly to Heather while rocking her back and forth, smile broadening when Heather smiled at her. Since Heather was with Rosalie, she was finally in view from the kitchen.

"Now that Rosalie has her," Kevin said and started approaching. Embry turned to follow after. Rosalie handed Heather over but continued to hover over her. Kevin encouraged Embry to come over while Rosalie cooed to Heather with a smile.

Heather was smiling her toothless smile while Rosalie tickled her belly and kept her amused as Embry approached. Once he could finally see Heather, he felt extremely strange. What he'd felt before when he'd felt drawn to Amber intensified and he felt a pull on his heart he never felt before. When Heather finally looked at him, the little girl smiled and reached for him.

"You want to hold her?" Kevin asked, taking Embry from his trance.

"Yeah," Embry nodded and accepted Heather in his arms. He did his best to appear as he normally did but it was a terrible chore. Just looking into Heather's brown eyes while she smiled at him adorably, he realized he'd imprinted on the little girl. With the realization came a sense of peace. Peace that immediately stinted when he realized he'd have to tell Kevin.