Chapter 57: A little celebration never hurt anybody.
'Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.'
Becca was nervous for Sharon to come over and check her over. She was five and a half months pregnant. Her belly was getting bigger by the day. Betsy had made her a few dresses, which gave her some confidence and put her at ease.
If she couldn't work as a nurse in town she at least wanted to help out anyway she could. She wanted to be useful. She hated seeing in the house doing nothing while he worked his ass off for them.
It was starting to get warmer. The colder weather was subsiding as Spring came before they knew it. It would only be a matter of time before the baby was here. They had a lot of preparations left before the baby came while also grappling with whomever was after them. It was heedless to say she had a lot on her plate.
She walked out onto the porch, seeing Joel working out on the farm. She felt bad for him. He was patrolling every night while trying to maintain the upkeep on the farm. It wasn't fair to him either.
He was exhausted. He would come in the house, eat, shower and go up to bed. He would sleep for a few hours before he went back out on patrol.
He was spreading himself too thin. She would see it on his face whenever he walked into the house, but he would never admit it. He didn't want her to worry about him, but he needed understand she was his wife. She would always worry about him.
She walked off the porch and picked up her pail to milk the cows. She had some time before Sharon arrived and she wanted to get her chores done. She liked to help Joel around the farm. This was her home too. They shared responsibilities between all three of them. He shouldn't have to do everything on his own.
Joel looked up and saw Becca walking towards him. He smiled to himself as he watched her walk. Her stomach was protruding from her dress. She couldn't hide it anymore. She had a slight wobble to her walk, which he would tease her about it affectionately calling her a penguin.
She would just roll her eyes and laugh. He knew she would be a beautiful pregnant woman. The nausea was completely gone. Her face was fuller and she had a glow about her. He only wished things could be normal. As close as it could be anyway considering the circumstances.
He smirked as he nodded down at the pail in her hand,'Your water already break, darlin?'
She rolled her eyes and laughed,'Hush you. I'm milking the cows.' She grinned,'I figure I need the practice.'
He understood what she meant and his eyes lowered down to her chest. Her tits have gotten bigger with her pregnancy too. Not that he's had a chance to enjoy them. He's been so busy between patrolling, the farm and work in town. He could come home and pass out.
It's been almost two weeks since they been intimate. He knew she wanted it. Her hormones were going crazy. He wanted it too. He was just so damned exhausted all of the time.
She didn't seem angry or put off by it. She seemed to understand it wasn't for lack on his part. Intimacy was important in a marriage. Even though they weren't having sex; they never missed an opportunity to show their love for each other in other ways.
He placed his hands on her waist as he pulled her against him,'Ya know ya don't have to do chores. You can relax.'
'I know.' She shook her head and sighed,'I want to though. It keeps me busy and active. It isn't going to kill me to milk some cows.'
He held her face in his hands and stroked her cheeks,'I just don't want ya to think ya have to is all.' He sighed as he leaned down and pressed his forehead against hers, whispering,'I miss ya, baby girl.'
She placed her pail on the ground as he gently pushed her against the wall of the barn.
She smiled softly as she placed her hands over this that were resting on her face,'I'm right here.'
He growled softly as he nuzzled his nose against hers,'You know what I mean.' He licked his lips as his eyes raked over her slowly,'I miss ya.'
'I miss you too.' She frowned,'You're working yourself too much. You need to rest. You'll be no good to anyone if you don't take care of yourself. We need you.'
He closed his eyes, relishing on her words. It's been so long since anyone needed him. They more or less looked at him as a means to an end. No one's ever told him they needed him before. It's why he got up everyday and didn't stop. He knew they needed him.
He pressed his lips against hers, kissing softly as she leaned closer against him. His tongue slid against hers and he felt her trembled. He smiled against her mouth. She wanted him just as much. He could feel it.
She broke the kiss first and grabbed his hand, 'Come on.'
He held tightly onto her hand as he let her lead the way. They walked inside the barn and gently pushed him to sit back on the bench. His eyes widened as she climbed onto his lap.
Becca's mind was made up as soon as she first laid eyes on him this morning. She was going to make them feel good. They've been too edge these past couple weeks.
She started undoing his belt and unbuttoned his jeans. His eyes looked over her face as he shook his head, laughing slightly,'We doin this here?'
She smirked as she reached inside his jeans and pulled his cock out,'What gave you that idea?'
He gritted his teeth as he sat up, letting her pull his jeans down slightly. He was already halfway hard as she jerked and pumped him. He was fully erect as she situated herself on his lip. His cock twitched in response as she chewed on her bottom lip.
He shook his head in disbelief. She was so sexy. After he found out she was pregnant, his attraction to her became stronger. Just knowing she carried his baby stirred something inside of him.
He slid his hand between them and ran his fingers over her bare pussy, testing her wetness. His eyes widened when he discovered how wet she was for him. She was willing and ready.
She positioned him at her entrance as she sunk herself fully down upon him. She could feel his balls pressed against her ass. He was so deep inside her she could feel him at the entrance to her womb.
His eyes intently watched her face as she started rocking against him. He always loved watching her face as he slid inside her. She would bite her bottom lip as her face scrunched up at the size of as he stretched her out. It's been a couple weeks for them. The longest they've been without each other since she got back. Her body needed a moment to readjust to him again.
She held onto his shoulders for balance as she slid herself up and down on his cock, riding him at a leisurely pace. They knew they couldn't take their time, but they were allowed this moment together. They deserved it.
He placed his hands on her hips as he helped her along. He slammed her down on his cock as he arched his hips up, bringing himself deep inside her. She threw her head back and moaned softly as she started bouncing in his lap.
His eyes widened as she rode him hard and fast. He's never seen her like this before. All wild for him.
He buried his head in her cleavage, sucking and licking on her skin. He whimpered against her skin as he felt her cunt fluttering around him. He felt himself close to the edge. Almost two weeks of built up emotion culminating to the surface.
His hips jerked against her as he came. He rubbed her clit with his thumb as she writhed on top of him. She kissed him hungrily and deeply to muffle her screams as she came. She clenched her eyes tightly, the intensity of her orgasm making her see stars.
She laid her head against his chest as he stroked her back. He chuckled softly as he pressed his nose against her hair,'Not that I'm complaining, but what was that?' He shook his head,'You ain't fucked me like that before.' His eyes held hers,'Fuckin loved it.'
Her cheeks reddened as she hid her face in his chest,'I wanted you so I had you.'
Her words floored him. They touched a part of him he long kept buried deep down inside. She touched all the parts others couldn't reach. He didn't allow anyone that full compliancy over himself. Until he met her. He gave himself to her fully and willingly.
'Good answer.' He kissed her forehead before she climbed off his lap,'Feel free to do that whenever you want. I'll never complain.'
She looked up at him and smirked as she cleaned herself up,'Same goes for you too, buddy.' She leaned up and kissed his cheek,'Now I'm off to really milk those cows before Sharon comes over.'
He grinned as he buckled up his belt,'You made sure to milk me first, huh?'
She rolled her eyes and groaned at his corny joke,'I never want to hear you say anything like that ever again.'
He laughed as he watched her walk out of the barn. He bent down and picked up his hat, putting it back on his head. Today was a good day. So far at least. It was still the morning yet.
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Sharon walked onto the porch and knocked on the door. She wasn't allowed to walk right in anymore. They kept the door locked at all times.
The door opened with Joel and Becca standing there. Sharon sighed. She wasn't this man wasn't here. She really didn't feel like dealing with him today, but he refused to leave her alone whenever she was there. He didn't trust her. Becca seemed to lose trust in her too.
Sharon averted her eyes between them, giving them a small smile,'Good afternoon.'
Becca gave her a small smile as she opened the door wider for her to enter,'Good afternoon.'
Sharon bit back a frown. There used to be a time when the young woman used to be so happy to see her. They spent over four years working side by side together. She at least thought Becca would have some faith and trust in her. She would embrace her warmly. She could barely even look at her now.
Joel closed and locked the door behind them as the two women walked into the living room. He stood in the entryway of the living room and crossed his arms over his chest, leaning his shoulder against the wall. He didn't trust leaving Becca alone with Sharon. Not after the shit she's pulled in the last couple weeks.
Sharon sat down next to Becca on the couch, taking a few things out of her bag. She took her blood pressure as she looked down at her belly,'How are you feeling?'
'Good.' She nodded,'Tired but good.' She looked up at Joel and smiled softly,'Baby's been moving a lot.'
He returned her smile affectionately, remembering the look on her face when she felt the baby move for the first time. Not the quickening, but an Honest to God movement. He remembered to himself how happy he had been to feel their baby move. It was alive and thriving. It's all they could ask for.'
Sharon smiled softly as she took off the blood pressure cuff and placed the stethoscope against her chest,'Your blood pressure is good.' She placed the stethoscope against her stomach,'The baby's heartbeat sounds strong. Do you want to hear it?'
Becca's eyes widened and she nodded,'Hell yeah I do.' She motioned towards the stethoscope,'Let me hear.'
Sharon chuckled at her enthusiasm and handed her the ear piece to the stethoscope to let her hear her baby's heartbeat.
Tears filled her eyes as she heard the rhythmic thumping inside her ear. It was strong and steady. Healthy and alive. She wished they had ultrasound equipment so she could see their baby, but this would be the best she had for now.
In just a few months they would have the real thing. She was excited to be surprised. They truly didn't know if they were having a boy or a girl. They were going into this blindly.
She shook her head in disbelief as tears fell from her eyes. She held her hand out towards her husband,'Come and hear it.'
He walked over and sat down next to her on the couch. She placed the stethoscope up to his ear, letting him take a listen.
She watched his face as his eyes widened. He had a look of pride and happiness on his face. He was so handsome like this. Happy.
He laughed incredulously as he shook his head, tears filling his own eyes,'That's our baby?' He waited for Becca to nod as he shed full on tears,'That's…He took a moment to clear his throat,'The most beautiful thing I ever heard.'
He cupped the back of his wife's head as he kissed her softly, whispering,'I love you so much. Thank you. Thank you for giving this to me.'
Becca smiled tearfully as she held tightly onto his hand,'You don't have to thank me. I wanted this too. With you. No one else. I love you too.'
Sharan had tears in her own eyes as she watched the exchange between them. She saw Joel's wedding band gleaming on his hand and she smiled sadly remembering Richard. He would be so happy for them.
She looked away and shook her head. Was it really worth it? Did he really have to die for them?
Joel looked over at Sharon, seeing the contemplative look on her face. He took a deep breath and curtly nodded his head towards her,'Thank you.'
Her eyes widened at his words. She didn't expect to hear that from him considering she wasn't his favorite person right now. Maybe he understood she wasn't here to hurt anyone. Not really anyway. She was never supposed to hurt anyone. It was her duty to keep them alive.
Becca turned to Sharon and gave her a small smile.'Thanks.'
'None needed.' Sharon smiled tightly,'It's my job.' She sighed as she got up from the couch,'I have to get back to work at the hospital.'
Joel got up with her and picked up her bag to carry it,'I'll walk ya out.'
Sharon sighed as she nodded reluctantly. She wasn't thrilled about it, but he wouldn't kill her. Too many witnesses out in the middle of the day.
Becca watched them with a heavy heart as they walked out of the living room. She shook her head and sighed to herself. She wanted to believe Sharon, but there were too many variables. She would rather be safe than sorry. God only knows what Joel is saying to her out there.
Joel closed the door behind them as they stepped onto the porch.
Sharon looked up at him and held her hands out in front of her,'What did I do now?'
'Where's the kids?' He took a step closer to her,'Where are the fuckin kids, Sharon.'
'I don't know.' She shook her head,'I honestly don't know. I…I woke up one morning and they were both gone. They didn't leave a note. They didn't take any of their stuff. They just left. I've been trying to search for them. I reached out to some contacts and no one has seen or heard of them.'
He narrowed his eyes and laughed,'So two young kids go vanishing and no one knows where they are?' He snorted,'You're too damned old to be playing games. I'm too old too.'
She took a step closer to him as well, feeling her anger rise up at his insinuations,'How dare you think I had anything to do with those kids missing. I love those kids.'
He wondered if he should ask about Lizzie, but decided against it. He didn't want to reveal all his cards too early. He didn't want anyone tipped off. He looked forward to the element of surprise. Just like what was done to them.
He handed her the bag and grinned,'I never said you did anything to those kids. You said that. Thanks for taking care of my wife, but we're done here.'
Sharon laughed and shook her head. He was standing there wearing her husband's wedding band that she gave to Becca out of love. He had the nerve and audacity to tell her what to do. She didn't know how Becca stayed married to this guy. He was a selfish prick.
'You want to alienate the people who care about your wife to control her.' She frowned,'You think by keeping her locked away here you're helping her.' She snorted as her eyes roved over him,'You're not helping anyone but yourself. Have a nice day.'
She walked off the porch and climbed onto her horse. He crossed his arms over his chest, watching her as she rode down the trail. He wanted to make sure she was heading into town and not Battleground.
He wouldn't take stock in her words. Becca had free roam to go wherever she wanted. She was in control of her own life. She chose to stay here and protect her pregnancy.
Becca walked onto the porch. She followed his line of sight and sighed as Sharon turned towards the entrance of town,'What did you say to her?'
'The truth.' He shrugged,'I just asked her about the kids. I ain't letting her think we know anything else.'
She nodded as she hugged herself,'You think she's really involved?'
'I don't know.' He shook his head as he placed his hand on her lower back.'She knows something though. You can better believe that shit.'
She nodded silently, knowing her husband was right.
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Joel and Ellie were upstairs in the nursery setting everything up. He put the crib near the window. He hoped she would like it. He spent almost three months on it, making sure it was sturdy and durable. He must've made so many different adjustments to make sure it would be suitable enough for their baby.
Ellie was making sure the blankets were folded neatly on the changing table. It was another piece of furniture he made. It matched the crib and he thought she would appreciate it. He remembered it being beneficial for whenever he had to change Sarah.
Fuck all the public bathrooms they didn't have a changing table. He stopped going to some of his favorite places for that reason, which was probably for the better. He got himself in trouble in a lot of those places. He didn't think seedy bars were suitable enough for a baby anyway.
When Sarah was born it changed his perspective on a lot of things. He stopped being reckless and careless with his time. He worked everyday and came him to his daughter instead of going to the bar every single night. His priorities changed.
When she died, he lost sight of all that. With getting married and Becca being pregnant. His priorities shifted once again. He didn't have himself to worry about anymore. He had a wife, teenager and baby to think about.
He smiled as he watched Ellie fussing around the nursery, making sure her surprise was perfect. She seemed just as excited as they are about the baby. She seemed excited to have a sibling. He was relieved she wasn't mad about it. Sometimes teenagers get moody about new babies, but she seemed happy not to be the only kid in the house. She called them boring.
Him and Ellie have been working on it almost the entire day. Becca was at Tommy and Maria's house while she distracted her. They've all been planning this baby shower for a month. They thought she deserved it. Every new mother should be able to celebrate the birth of the child. Regardless of what was going on around them. He intended for them to do just that.
Becca was sitting in the backseat of Tommy's car. He was blaring Lynard Skynard's Sweet Home Alabama from an old cassette tape. The car seemed to be older than her, but he only drove it short distances anyway.
She felt a little nauseous in the backseat of the car. She wasn't used to being in a car anymore. She was starting to experience motion sickness. Being pregnant didn't help either. It was hot as hell and she was carrying around an almost full grown baby.
She placed her hand on her stomach, smiling as she felt the baby move. It always gave her comfort whenever she felt the baby. It reminded her of what they were fighting for.
She spent almost the entire day at Maria's. While she was glad to get out of the house and spend some time with her sister; she was curious as to why Joel kept her away from the farm. He usually liked to have her close by. She wondered what he was up to.
She stared out the window as she saw the ranch in the distance. Tommy pulled his car down the driveway and she saw a few horses posted outside. Her heart started pounding in fear thinking about what was going on.
Why was she kept away from home? What was Joel protecting her from? She thought they were past him keeping things from her.
Tommy perked the car on the grass as they all got out of the car.
Ellie stared out the window of the nursery, her eyes widening when she saw Becca, Tommy and Maria getting out of the car,'They're here!' She ran out of the nursery and ran downstairs in the kitchen where Betsy and her son were setting up,'They're here! They're here.'
Ellie ran outside to greet them as Betsy laughed, shaking her head.
Joel came down the stairs with an exasperated look on his face, hoping Ellie wouldn't spoil the surprise. She had a big mouth sometimes, which is why he didn't want to tell her about Lizzie. She would try to settle things her own way.
He followed her out onto the porch as she ran down to them. He looked at his wife, heavily pregnant and beautiful as ever in the maternity dress Betsy made for her. It was a deep green and made of a loose material to keep her comfortable. It fit her perfectly being specially made for her. He loved the confidence the dress gave her. Everyone should feel comfortable in their own skin.
Becca met his eyes and smiled softly. She walked up to him on the porch and leaned up to kiss his lips,'Miss me, Mr. Miller?'
'You bet your sweet ass I did, Mrs. Miller.' He stroked her hair,'Come inside. There's something I wanna show ya.'
Her eyes widened up at him as she looked back at Maria and Tommy, wondering what was going on.
Joel opened the door and let her walk in first. He smirked at Maria and Tommy as they walked into the house with the baby. Ellie looked up at him and grinned. She was probably more excited than he is.
Becca walked into the house as Betsy and their son popped up from behind the couch as everyone let out,'Surprise!'
Her eyes widened as everyone shouted in unison. She saw the banner hanging on the wall, 'CONGRATULATIONS BECCA.'
The banner was yellow and there were baby bottles drawn on it. She recognized the writing immediately and the drawings. Ellie.
Ellie walked over to her and grinned proudly,'Do you like it?'
She wrapped her arms around and hugged her tightly,'Of course I like it. I love it. Thank you so much.'
Ellie blushed as Becca held her tightly. She shrugged as she shifted on her feet,'It was nothing.'
Becca saw the chair sitting by the window under the banner. It was decorated with ribbons and flowers. She saw the small pile of gifts next to her chair.
She turned to her family and shook her head in disbelief,'I cant believe you did all this for me. I'm so grateful. Thank you.'
She burst into tears and covered her face with her hands. She was overwhelmed with emotions. She thought she was coming home to a disaster and ending up having the greatest gift of all. She underestimated the people in her life.
Joel and Tommy shared a knowing smile. Tommy warned him that pregnant women cry at everything. He wasn't lying. Becca cried this morning because she dropped her favorite coffee mug. That had been a doozy. It took him almost a half hour to calm her down.
He wrapped his arms around his wife and hugged her tightly,'It's okay, baby girl. We wanted to do something nice for ya. Ya deserve it.'
She hugged him tightly as she looked up at him. He was wearing a crisp white button down that was tucked neatly into his clean denim jeans. His boots were polished. His hair was slicked back. He always made an effort whenever it came to special occasions. He was a Southern gentleman at heart. Grit and all.
Becca turned to Betsy and held her hand, squeezing it gently,'Thank you, Betsy. For everything.'
She shook her head and kissed both her cheeks,'I was happy to do it. Anything for you two.' She ran her hand down the dress and grinned,'This dress looks beautiful on you.' She winked,'You'll have to tell me the designer.'
'She's really great.' Becca laughed,'A little ornery, but she makes a mean marbled tres leches cake I really enjoy though.'
Betsy smiled knowingly as she looked over at Joel,'You'll be happy then. I also made enough for everyone this time.'
Becca's eyes widened with glee. She remembered when Betsy brought over the Mexican dessert. She devoured it in one sitting. Joel and Ellie were sad they didn't get any. She should've felt bad, but she didn't. She was eating for two. She did make them brownies that night though. They griped weren't the same but they ate them anyway.
Joel smiled softly at Becca mentioning one of his favorite desserts. She seemed to take a lot of interest in his cultural upbringing. She was fascinated by his culture and would try out his mama and Abuela's recipes. He loved that she was leaning into it. She always joked she was white and boring. He disagreed. There wasn't a damn thing boring about her. She was a fucking great time. In and out of bed.
Maria grabbed her hand as she pulled her over to the chair,'Come on guest of honor. We have presents to open!'
She brought Becca over to the chair and made her sit down. She placed a paper plate on top of her head that was covered in ribbons and flowers to match her chair. Maria tied the ribbon underneath her chin to keep it secure.
Becca grinned as gingerly touched the handmade hat. The women gathered around her as Joel, Tommy and Betsy's son, Amadis. They called him Am for short. He was a good kid, smart and quiet. He had a mind for engineering and for building things. Joel and Tommy took him under their wing. He would make a great architect. He had a mind for detail.
Joel watched as Betsy started handing her presents. He crossed his arms over his chest as he saw the bright smile on his woman's face. She was so happy. He wanted her to look like this all the time.
He felt bad that only a handful of people were here to celebrate with her. She told him she had a lot of friends before the outbreak. Twenty five years ago, she probably would've had so many of her friends at her baby shower. It would be big and extravagant, nothing like this, but he couldn't give her those things. She seemed happy with what she had.
Tommy bumped Joel's shoulder as he nodded towards the women,'You making guesses on what you're having?'
He scratched the back of his neck and shrugged,'We just want it to be healthy.' He smirked,'I think it's a girl though. She thinks it's a boy.'
'What if it's both?' Tommy laughed at the look of horror on his face and clapped his back,'Stop sweating it. I remember you being afraid of the same thing when Esther was pregnant.'
Joel sighed softly as he thought about Sarah,'She would be happy about this. She would've loved Becca and Ellie. She would be excited to have a sibling.'
'I know.' Tommy nodded as tears filled his eyes,'She was always bitching about finding you a girlfriend.' He leaned closer to his brother, whispering,'She's watching us now. I know you don't believe that's stuff but it's the truth. I firmly believe Sarah had a hand in bringing you three together.'
Joel didn't have a response for his brother. While they grew up believing in God and religion always had a strong presence in their household; he's turned his back on God a long time ago. The last time he prayed was when Becca was shot. He knew she wasn't comfortable with God either. It was a sensitive subject for her and something they would have to work on.
'I'm not trying to be preachy.' Tommy bumped his shoulder again,'Don't get weird on me.' He shook his head,'I'm just saying what I think.'
He looked over at the women, making sure they weren't watching them. They were chatting excitedly with each other as Becca admired the gifts. They didn't even exist right now.
'I know.' Joel nodded and sighed,'I know Sarah woulda wanted this too.' He wrapped his arm around Tommy's shoulders,'Ya tell your old lady how I used to bust ya outta jail?'
Am's eyes widened as he stared at Tommy in surprise,'You went to jail, goody two shoes?'
Joel cackled at that and nodded,'Sure effin did. Almost every other week he was landing his ass in jail.'
Tommy flared up at Joel and elbowed his side,'You weren't supposed to tell anyone about that. I have a reputation to uphold.'
Joel narrowed his eyes as he stared at Am,'Ya mean you want a reputation as being a tight ass?' He shook his head,'Take it from me, kid. Tommy was like having another child at one point. He would eat all our food and make me bail him outta jail whenever he got into a fight.'
Tommy's cheeks reddened as he grumbled.'I was just a dumb kid. I grew up.'
Joel smirked as Am laughed behind him. He hoped Tommy looked cooler to the teenager. All the kids in town made fun of him for always following the rules and doing what he's told. They called him a 'geek' and a 'kill joy' whenever he caught them breaking curfew while patrolling. Hopefully this would gain him some respect in town with the younger kids.
Tommy placed his hand on Am'a shoulder and gave him a serious look,'Don't end up like me. I was an asshole.'
'Still are.' Joel snorted,'The only difference is your hair is grey.'
Tommy's eyes widened incredulously as his entire face turned red,'I didn't get gray hair until you showed up.'
Becca called Joel over and he walked over to his wife. He laughed to himself as he gave Tommy the middle finger behind his back. It was fun to tease him. It was too easy. He knew what buttons to push. Tommy could be a little princess sometimes. He was always vain. Something's would never change.
He crouched down in front of his wife as she held up a blanket,'Look at what Betsy made for the baby.'
Joel looked over the blanket in awe. It was a Mexican Falsa blanket. It was stitched with vibrant colors and the ends were fringed. It reminded him of the blankets his Abuela used to make whenever a new child was born into the family.
His eyes filled with with tears as he ran his hand down the fringed edges of the blanket,'My Abuela made Sarah a blanket like this for when she was born.' He turned to Betsy and shook his head,'It's gorgeous. Thank you.'
Betsy nodded and smiled tearfully,'My pleasure. Anything for my nietos.'
Becca and Joel smiled at each other. Grandchildren. Did she expect them to have more than one? They were happy with just one, knowing they were getting older and it wouldn't be wise to have another one. They wouldn't hurt an old woman's feelings by telling her that.
Joel was grateful for Betsy. Ever since he belief her here to help Becca she's been here every single day. She's been helping Becca set up the nursery for the baby. She's helped her through mood swings and weird cravings. Her knowledge and experience was invaluable to them.
Becca was shocked to discover Betsy used to be a midwife back in Mexico. She thought it would be safer than a doctor. She didn't want to take the risk of Sharon taking her child or having someone else do it. They needed someone they could trust.
Becca showed him the rest of her gifts. Betsy also made her mittens and booties for the baby, which Becca proudly exclaimed would be the first thing on their baby's little feet and hands. She seemed enthralled by how small they were.
Ellie gave her drawings she made to put up in the nursery. She had Joel carve her out some frames to put them in. She admired the vivid drawings of the farm, of her and Joel together. She even sketched a portrait of their wedding.
It meant the world to her that Ellie did this. She had been sad she didn't have any pictures from their wedding. She wanted to remember that day for the rest of her life. As if she could ever forget it. This was the next best thing. She would love them forever.
Maria gave her some reusable diapers as well as supplies for the baby, which were very much appreciated. She was apprehensive about raising a baby in a post apocalyptic world. There wasn't a guidebook for this.
She was glad she would be able to breastfeed. At least their baby would get nutrients. All she could hope for is her age didn't hinder her from feeding her child. Maria warned her about milk drying up when you have children later in life. She didn't know what she would if she couldn't feed her child.
After all the gifts were unwrapped they all went into the kitchen to eat.
Joel was going to wait until after everyone left to show her the nursery. He wanted it to be private them. This would be something special for the three of them. He wanted to share it with the people he loved most in this world.
He smiled as Becca sat at the kitchen table, digging into the tres leches dessert.
He leaned over her and snagged a piece, popping it into his mouth. She glared up at him and slapped his hand,'Hey, don't steal a pregnant woman's food. That's grounds for a beat down.'
He laughed as he kissed the top of her head,'I really do believe that, darlin.' He sat down next to her with his plate and slid his chair closer to hers,'You having fun?'
'Yeah.' She nodded and smiled softly,'I really am.' She cupped his cheek and looked over his face,'You having fun? I know baby showers aren't typically for guys.' She shrugged,'If the guys weren't here I would barely have anyone here.'
He heard the sadness in her voice and rubbed her back, whispering,'I know you miss your family and your friends.'
She shook her head as he wiped the tears off her face,'I just wish mama was here to see this. She would be so happy to be a grandma. It's all she talked about when I got married. It's why we were trying…before.'
He nodded as he slid his hand up to the back of her neck,'I've always been a firm believer that everything happens for a reason.' He held her gaze firmly,'Ya weren't meant to have Ben's baby. You were meant to have mine.'
She blinked her eyes in surprise. He was usually never one to talk about fate or destiny. He seemed to believe it. She believed it too.
'You're right.' She nodded and smiled tearfully as the baby kicked,'Your little soccer player keeps kicking my bladder.' She leaned up and rubbed her back,'It's a wild one.'
He gave her a wolffish grin as he kissed her lips, tasting the sweet dessert,'I only make wild ones, baby girl.'
She smiled against his lips, knowing he was right.
Maria was standing by the counter with Tommy as she looked over at Joel and Becca. She smiled as they leaned in close to each other. He whispered something in ear and she blushed, laughing as she playfully elbowed his side.
She nodded towards them as she took a sip of her tea,'Has he always been like that?'
Tommy followed her eyes and shook his head,'With women or with Becca?' He smirked,'Cause I've never seen him like this with another woman before. Not even Esther.'
Maria remembered her husband talking about Esther. He apparently introduced them when they were nineteen. They had been hot and heavy for awhile. The attraction between them was intense and they spent every waking moment together, which was the problem.
Esther ended up getting pregnant and they got married. Sarah wasn't even six months old before bailed, leaving her rings and a note saying she couldn't handle being a wife and a mother.
Joel had been devastated, but he worked hard to take care of his child and give her a good life. Only to lose her tragically. Tommy told her he was never the same after that.
'What about Tess?' She frowned,'Weren't they together for years?'
'I wouldn't say together.' He sighed,'They had a complicated history. They butt heads a lot, but they loved and respected each other.'
Maria nodded and looked over at them. Joel had his arm wrapped around her shoulders as they talked to Betsy, Am and Ellie.
'What happens?' She crossed her arms over her chest,'Why would Tess do something like that to him?'
Tommy looked over at them and shrugged,'I honestly don't know. I've been asking myself the same question. I never thought in a million years Tess would do something like that. I thought she loved him. She seemed to trust him more out of anybody. He trusted her too.'
'Maybe that was the problem. They trusted each other too much.'
Maria walked over to the rest of the group and sat down with them. She started laughing and joking as Betsy told a story.
Tommy sighed to himself. Maria was right. When you trusted people too much you lose sight of things and became blind to their faults.
Maria and Betsy helped clean up before they left. Becca had a lot of fun, but she was tired and ready for everyone to go home she wanted to spend some time with her husband and daughter. She loved these moments most of all. When it was just the three of them. Four in just a few months time.
Becca was about to head up the stairs when Joel took her hand, letting Ellie run up first,'Hold your horses there, pretty girl.' He smiled mischievously,'We got one more surprise for ya. We saved the best for last.'
She looked up at him as her face scrunched in confusion. She wondered what other tricks they had up their sleeves.
'You can come up now!' Ellie shouted from upstairs,'Make sure Becca's eyes are covered.'
Joel smirked as he tied the bandana around her eyes and tugged on it to make sure it was loose enough for her,'You okay?'
'I'm more than okay.' He grabbed her hand as he led her up the stairs,'Do I get a hint?'
'It's upstairs. There's your hint.' He playfully swatted her ass as he walked behind her,'Now git.'
She laughed as she slowly walked up the stairs blindly. He kept a firm hand on her back and kept her steady so she wouldn't fall. The entire way up he never let go of her.
He led her into the nursery and patted her back,'You can look now.'
She pulled the bandana off her eyes and found herself standing in the nursery. She spun around as she looked around the room. She looked at the crib, which looked to be handmade and meticulously carved. There was a small mattress inside and a handmade mobile hanging above it. She smiled as she saw the tiny stethoscope, giraffes and horses.
She started to cry softly as she saw the two horses baring Sadie and Dusty's likenesses. She ran her hand through the mobile as the small bells rang softly. It was one of the most beautiful things she's ever seen.
She saw the rocking chair by the window. It was painted white and had a pillow propped against it. She could imagine herself sitting in the rocking chair with the baby in her arms as they stared out the window, watching Joel out in the field. She looked forward to that so much.
She walked over to the changing table. There were nursing blankets neatly folded on top of it. She ran her hand over the cherry wood. Their baby would be happy in here. She was happy in here.
She turned to Joel and Ellie, shaking her head in disbelief,'You guys did all this?'
Ellie patted Joel's back and grinned up at him,'He made the rocking chair, crib and changing table. I decorated though.'
Becca's eyes widened at Joel and she shook her head,'So that's what you've been doing in the barn out there for all hours of the night.' She smirked,'I thought you were looking at dirty magazines or something.'
'All the good ones are outta publication.' He snorted,'Believe me I've looked.'
Becca laughed as she wrapped her arms around him,'We can have Ellie draw some for you.'
'Like in Titanic?' He grinned,'Gonna paint ya like one of her French girls.'
Becca cracked up as Ellie looked at them weirdly, crossing her arms over her chest,'Is that another pre outbreak thing I thankfully missed out on?'
Becca smiled as she wrapped her arms around her,'What are they teaching you in history class?' She frowned,'You should know what Titanic is. One of the greatest movies of all time.' She looked up at Joel and frowned,'You think Leo survived the outbreak?'
'Not a chance.' He grinned,'That little snowflake couldn't even handle holding onto a door to literally save his life.'
Ellie averted their eyes between them and rolled her eyes,'Tommy and Maria were arguing about this too. Why wasn't there enough room on the door?'
Becca and Joel laughed as Ellie looked at them oddly. She needed to find out about this movie. Why couldn't they both fit?
Becca wrapped her arms around them both tightly,'All jokes aside. This is the best gift I could ever have.' She kissed both of their cheeks,'Thank you. A thousand times thank you.'
Ellie shrugged as she hugged her back,'You're welcome. It was really Joel's idea. The baby shower too.'
Joel narrowed his eyes at her as he grinned at him. The little shit. He told her not to say anything. He didn't want to take all the credit.
'I didn't do it alone.' He shrugged,'I suggested and the girls ran off with it.'
Becca smiled as she held his face in her hands,'You're such a sweetheart.' She leaned up and kissed all over his face,'I love you so much.'
He smiled sheepishly as she looked at him like he hung the moon. No one's ever looked at him this way. Like nothing else in the world mattered but him. He would never get used to her looking at him like that.
'I love ya too, baby.' He kissed her forehead and rubbed her back,'You deserve all this and more.'
Ellie's eyes widened at the tender exchange between them. When she first met Joel he had been cold, distant and grumpy. He was still a pain in the ass, but he was different now. Calmer.
She never thought Joel was capable of being this way. He was sweet towards Becca and nice. Very nice. She didn't think he had it in him. He talked to her so patiently.
He didn't treat Tess this way. His behavior towards her was more business than pleasure. She always saw their relationship as being one sided. Tess was in love with him. Joel was just there biding and borrowing his time. She always knew they wouldn't last. Whether it be death or otherwise.
Ellie left the nursery to get a shower before bed. Becca walked over to the rocking chair and sat down.
She placed her hand on her belly as she stared out the window. She could see their entire ranch and the beautiful mountains beyond.
'I remember standing by this very window when I would stay here at night.' She shook her head and laughed,'That seems like such a long time ago. So much has happened. It's crazy this used to be the guest bedroom and now it's a nursery.'
He nodded as he walked over to her. He kneeled down in front of her and rested his cheek against her stomach as he covered his hands over it. She smiled as she ran her hands through his hair.
He would do this every night as they lay in bed together. He would rest his ear against her stomach, listening to their baby move inside her. Sometimes he would whisper things into her belly. She never asked him what he said. It was a private conversation between them.
He looked up at her and sighed wistfully as she gently scratched her scalp,'I can't wait for our baby. Tommy brought up something tonight.'
'What's that?'
He rubbed her belly as he nuzzled into it,'He said Sarah brought me you and Ellie. And this baby.'
'That's a beautiful thing to say.' She shook her head,'It's a very nice thing to say too. Do you think that?'
He considered it for a moment and sighed,'I don't know. I ain't ever been spiritual, but maybe she did. Maybe she didn't. It feels good to think she did.'
'Then think it.' She shrugged,'You can think whatever you want. I like to think she did too. I think everything happens for a reason.'
He snorted and nodded,'I'm beginning to think that too.'
She heard Ellie walking into her bedroom and patted his back,'Lets so say goodnight to our girl. Mama's tired.'
He pulled himself up from the floor as he grabbed her hand, helping her up from the rocking chair. He held onto her hand as his eyes raked over her ass, which has gotten bigger with her pregnancy,'How tired we talking?'
She glanced back at him and smirked,'Not too tired to do what you're thinking. If that's what you're asking.'
He laughed and nodded,'Oh, I'm asking, honey girl. Been thinking about it ever since ya walked outta here this morning wearing that dress.'
She smiled as they walked down to Ellie's room. Today had been a good day. No one died. Everyone was happy, safe and sound. For today at least. Tomorrow was a new day.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
The figure dressed all in black look out on the farm with their binoculars. From their vantage point they could see a light on in the top window. People had just left the property. They were celebrating the birth of a baby. Her baby. Did she really think she could hide it? They knew everything.
The figure jotted down notes in their book, grinning to themselves. Their boss would be very happy with this news. They would have not two people for the cure, but three.
The more the merrier.