"Baby, how are you feeling? Are you sleeping well? Do you have any morning sickness? Have you eaten?"
Quinn chuckled softly, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes as she observed Isaac's evident anxiety. "You're freaking out even more than I am, Sunshine, and I'm the one who is going to give birth." she teased gently, a warm smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "But to answer your questions, yes, I have slept, I don't have morning sickness, and I am waiting for my parents, your parents, and your sister. We're going out to eat lunch together."
"Why haven't I been invited? You're being spoiled, and I'm stuck here with Jay and Ash. It's not fair," Isaac complained, his lower lip jutting out in an exaggerated pout. "They keep bothering me, wanting to know who we're going to choose as godparents. They've bombarded me with so many questions. I wish I was there with you."
"They're your brother and your best friend. Plus, when's the last time you spent time together? Don't look at me like that; you know you miss spending time with them, and it'll help clear your head a little."
"I hate that when you're right." His frown softened at her reasoning, his gaze drifting down to her belly as a tender smile spread across his face. "Hi, baby girl," he cooed, his voice filled with tenderness as he addressed their unborn child. "Daddy misses you a lot. I hope you're not giving your mom too much trouble. Can't wait to have you in my arms."
Quinn's expression shifted slightly as she felt a kick from within, a mixture of discomfort and amusement flickering across her features. "Yeah, she's definitely your daughter," she remarked with a wry grin, her hand instinctively moving to soothe the spot where the baby had made her presence known.
"Why do you say that? And why is she suddenly my daughter?"
"I barely ever kicked my mom when she was pregnant with me. I feel sorry for what your mom went through with you, and then you had the audacity to be a carbon copy of your dad."
"Afraid our baby girl is going to come out looking exactly like me?" Isaac countered with a smirk, his tone teasing. "She'll have everyone wrapped around her cute little finger."
"Including boys?"
"Including boys. She'll have them all on their knees begging. After all, her mom was Head Cheerleader and had boys throwing themselves at her feet left and right, didn't she?"
"Thought you'd be the type of dad who wouldn't want his precious baby girl to date any boy until she was at least 30. Aren't you a cool dad, Hargrave?"
"She's going to end up dating anyway, so I'd rather have her tell us than sneak around behind our backs. It'll keep my sanity in check and there's alway going to be a hockey stick lying around the house if I need it. We're going to be the coolest parents in the world. Trust me."
Quinn's hand drifted to rest on her pregnant belly, her expression softening with a mixture of anticipation and affection. "Can't believe we're just a week away," she murmured, her voice filled with wonder. "And as much as I'm going to love this baby, I can't wait to get back to a normal-ish size. You are coming to the gym with me, just so you know."
"Anything for my baby mama," Isaac replied with a playful wink, his words causing a faint blush to rise to her cheeks. "I'll be prepared to fight whoever tries to take you away from me," he added, flexing his arm proudly.
"You'll end up laughing. You always do. I'm telling you, if some girl tries to flirt with you like that one in that yoga class did, I'm dragging her by her hair."
"She was just teaching me how to correctly do that yoga pose. I was the only guy in the room, and I'm not as flexible as you are, baby."
Quinn's expression darkened, her lips pressing into a thin line as she recalled the incident. "She was literally grinding on your dick, Isaac, not giving two shits about me," she retorted, her frustration evident. "Was it because she was skinnier than me?"
"Baby, no, of course not. I love you and our baby girl. You know I would never cheat on you," he affirmed with an adoring smile, his hazel eyes shining with sincerity. "You're my cute featherweight whale, remember? You're mine."
"Smooth. You're lucky I love you."
Isaac nodded in agreement, his smile widening with relief. "Luckiest man in the world, baby," he affirmed, his gaze unwavering as he met hers through the screen. "By the way, the baby's room is already finished. I think you'll like it."
"I hope you haven't filled it with hockey stuff, Hargrave," she remarked, her expression turning serious as she narrowed her eyes at her fiancee through the video call. "My baby is not going near those swooshing blades of death."
"Swooshing blades of death?"
Suddenly, Jayden's voice boomed from behind Isaac. "Blondie, you are giving birth to another Hargrave," he exclaimed, his tone filled with fervor and conviction as he leaned into the camera's view. "You are giving birth to the heir to the Hargrave Empire. That baby is going to be on ice as soon as she can balance herself on her cute little feet. She's Ace's kid, it's like universal law or something. I thought you grew up with him, you should know this stuff by now."
Quinn shot a pointed glare at Isaac's best friend, her irritation evident in her expression. "That's precisely why I'm saying it," she retorted sharply. "Shouldn't you be worried about getting a ring for Ellie or something?"
Jayden ignored his best friend's protests and insults as he boldly shoved his friend out of the way, bringing his face closer to the screen to address her directly, his eyes narrowing inquisitively.
"Why do you say that? Has she said something?"
"I mean, she hasn't said something, but a woman knows these things."
"That doesn't answer my question."
"Quinn, hi," Asher's voice chimed in, his face appearing on the video call alongside Jayden's. "How are you? My niece?"
"Fuck you, Ash. I was here first."
"Shut up, both of you," Isaac interjected, his voice tinged with annoyance as he attempted to push them both back, his efforts only serving to further entangle them. "I was here first having a conversation with my fiancée before you two idiots appeared."
"We're helping you fix the apartment, you should be grateful."
"I'm telling Mom you called us idiots."
"Can you both go out for a moment, just a moment, so I can finish the conversation. In private. If you go, I'll buy a couple of beers later."
Jayden's eyes lit up with mischief at the mention of beer, but he raised an eyebrow defiantly. "And some pizzas?" he added, testing Isaac's resolve.
"And some pizzas. Now please go."
"Bye, Quinn," Jayden and Asher chimed in unison before disappearing, their laughter fading into the background as the door closed behind them.
"We are not having them and Santana in the same room when you give birth," Isaac stated firmly once the door was closed, his tone resolute.
"Actually, that's what I wanted to talk to you about. I was thinking we could just have your parents and mine visit when I give birth."
"If that's what you want, that's what we'll do. God knows we have quite an extended...and noisy family. Can't have them barreling in once you've given birth."
"Is that something you've also read?" Quinn teased, a fond smile curving her lips. Isaac had been devouring books to educate himself about childbirth and parenting. He had even started watching cartoons and reading children's stories.
"I, um, yeah. I'm freaking out a lot, aren't I?"
"Don't worry. Seeing you freak out comforts me a lot and makes me forget that I too am freaking out about giving birth. It's a little scary too."
"I'll be there with you, baby. I'll be your cheerleader. I can even wear your uniform if you want. Red was always my color."
"Coach would probably yell at you."
"I'm serious, Quinn. You're the strongest person I know," Isaac insisted, his voice soft with sincerity as he gazed at her through the screen. He scratched the back of his neck with a hint of embarrassment, his gaze filled with genuine concern. "I feel a little useless not being able to do anything but hold your hand. I wish I could do more."
"Just buy me a cheeseburger with a lot of bacon and we'll be at peace. But seriously, having you by my side is more than enough. I don't think I could have done it alone."
Suddenly, the doorbell rang, interrupting their conversation, and Quinn turned towards the door, hearing the voices of her parents entering along with Isaac's parents and Gabrielle. She made a gesture indicating that she was on the phone and turned back to look at her fiancé.
"I have to go now," she said with a sad smile, her gaze lingering on him. "But I'll see you tomorrow, right?"
"And my pancakes," Isaac added with a fond smile, his hazel eyes shining with love and anticipation. "I love you, baby," he said as he looked up at her. Then, he directed his attention to her belly, his expression tender. "I love you, baby girl. See you tomorrow."
"We love you," Quinn echoed, her hand gently caressing her belly as she spoke. "We'll be waiting for you."
1 week later
Quinn's steps echoed softly through the dimly lit hallway of their cozy apartment, her hand gently cradling her swollen belly. Her thoughts were consumed with a simple task – fetching a glass of water from the kitchen. She had decided not to wake Isaac; after all, he hadn't slept for days, consumed by the anticipation of their baby's impending arrival.
With each step, she felt a peculiar sensation in her abdomen, a fluttering that seemed to grow stronger with every passing moment. She paused, hand resting gently on her protruding belly, and then it happened – a sudden gush, warm and unmistakable, soaking through her pajamas and pooling at her feet.
"Isaac," she called out, her voice trembling with a mix of excitement and apprehension. From the depths of their bedroom, her fiancé stumbled through, his hair tousled wild and eyes wide with alarm.
"What's wrong, baby? Are you okay?" he exclaimed, his voice laced with concern as he rushed to her side, his hands reaching out to steady her.
"The baby... it's coming,"
"Does it hurt? Can you...Can you walk?"
Quinn shook her head, a mixture of emotions swirling in her eyes. "It doesn't hurt, it's just... weird," she admitted, her nose wrinkling in discomfort. "I feel gross."
"Let's get you cleaned up, okay?"
With gentle hands, he lifted her effortlessly, cradling her in his arms as he carried her towards the bathroom. Carefully, he helped her undress, his touch delicate and considerate, mindful of her discomfort.
He turned on the shower, adjusting the temperature to a soothing warmth before helping her step inside. The water cascaded down her body, washing away the sweat and tension that had accumulated during the ordeal, offering a moment of respite amidst the chaos.
"How do you feel?"
"It's weird," she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur as she stroked her belly, her fingers tracing gentle circles against her skin. He nodded in understanding, his gaze never leaving her as he assisted her in putting one of his baggy T-shirts, some sweatpants, and a pair of flip flops.
"Look at us. We're matching," he joked lightly as he quickly dressed in similar attire. Quinn managed a small smile in response, her eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions - anticipation, excitement, and a hint of nervousness.
He reached out and helped her stand up. With each step, his heart pounded in his chest, the reality of impending fatherhood sinking as they stepped out into the cool night air, his hand resting protectively on her belly. Carefully, he helped Quinn into the passenger seat, ensuring her comfort before settling into the driver's seat beside her.
The car ride to the hospital was a tense journey filled with a mix of anticipation and nervous tension. His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles turning white as he navigated the quiet streets, his mind racing with a thousand thoughts. Beside him, Quinn sat, her hand clasped firmly in his grip.
Isaac stole worried glances at Quinn every now and then, his heart clenching at the sight of her contorted face. He longed to take away her discomfort, to ease her suffering in any way he could, but all he could do was offer her his presence and his silent support.
As they finally pulled up to the hospital entrance, he scooped her up into his arms, her slight frame feeling fragile and vulnerable against his chest. Ignoring the stares of passersby, he strode purposefully into the hospital, his voice ringing out in the quiet night air as he sought assistance.
"My fiance's water broke!"
Instantly, a flurry of activity erupted around them as nurses and orderlies rushed to their aid. A wheelchair appeared at their side, and with gentle care, Isaac lowered Quinn into it, his heart swelling with love and pride as he looked down at her.
"You're doing great, baby," he murmured, his voice soft with emotion. "I'm here."
Suddenly, a nurse appeared next to him and pushed the wheelchair towards the elevator . With a warm smile, she introduced herself "Hi, I'm Isabella. Don't worry, you are in good hands," she assured them both, her voice a soothing balm to their frayed nerves. "The contractions, how close are they?"
"They're about two minutes apart."
As the elevator doors slid open, Isabella guided the wheelchair towards the maternity ward with practiced ease. The journey through the maze of corridors was a blur, Isaac's mind consumed with worry as they drew closer to their destination. The team of nurses and doctor stood ready and waiting, their faces a mask of focused determination as they ushered them into one of the rooms.
"Hello, I'm Dr Thompson," A woman greeted them, her voice calm but authoritative as she assessed the situation. "How far along are you, Quinn?"
"37 weeks."
"We're going to get you into a gown and onto the bed, okay?"
As Quinn changed with the nurses' help, Isaac stood nearby, his heart heavy with worry. His hands gripped the baby's and Quinn's bags tightly, his eyes flickering between his fiancée and the medical team with a mixture of apprehension and determination. Once they stepped away, he approached her and took her hand, his touch gentle as he brushed away strands of hair from her flushed face.
"How are you feeling, baby?"
Her eyes flickered with uncertainty, her breaths coming in short, shallow gasps as she shook her head in despair. "I can't do it," she whispered, her voice trembling with fear and exhaustion. "I-"
"Yes, you can." Isaac interrupted, his tone both soft and firm as he squeezed her hand gently, his eyes locking with hers. "You're Quinn Fabray. You're the strongest woman I know. I need you to relax and push. I'm here, okay? I promise I'm not going anywhere, but I need you to push when Dr. Thompson tells you."
"Are you ready, mom and dad? You'll have your little one here before you know it. Quinn, when you feel the next contraction, I want you to push, okay?"
"I can't do this," Quinn whimpered, her voice laced with desperation as tears welled in her eyes. "I can't do this."
"She needs to relax, Isaac or something could happen to the baby." Dr. Thompson said, her tone gentle but firm as she addressed him directly, her eyes flicking to his hand still tightly clasped in Quinn's.
The young man nodded, his heart pounding in his chest as he turned back to his fiance, his gaze filled with unwavering determination and love. Her eyes met his, wide with fear and he offered her a reassuring smile, a silent promise that they would get through this together.
"Hey, look at me, okay?" he said softly, "Forget the rest. It's you and me, okay?"
Quinn nodded, her grip on his hand tightening as she focused all her attention on him, blocking out the chaos of the delivery room around them.
"Do you remember the first time we met... after my accident?"
"Y-Yeah."
"You looked beautiful, baby," Isaac continued, his words filled with sincerity as he reached out to gently cup her face, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. "I may have not recognized you, but my heart did."
Gently, he brought her hand to his chest, just above his heart, where his heart thudded with a rhythm so fervent it seemed to echo in the room.
"Feel that? That's how my heart danced the moment I laid eyes on you. And every time I see you, it's like it wants to leap out of my chest. I fell in love with you that same night and I haven't been able to get you out of my head ever since."
Quinn's breath caught in her throat, her eyes glistening with unshed tears as she listened to his words.
"Keep talking, Isaac," Dr. Thompson interjected, her voice breaking through the haze of emotion that enveloped them. "I think I see the head."
"You flooded my days and my nights," Isaac whispered, his voice filled with tenderness as he pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Your voice, the way you said my name, it repeated in my head non-stop. I thought I was going to go crazy. What was it about that blonde McKinley cheerleader that bewitched me so completely? It was as if you cast a spell upon me, a spell I couldn't break free from. You wanted me all to yourself, didn't you?" A playful smirk tugged at the corners of his lips. "You greedy little thing."
Quinn's breaths came in shallow gasps as she struggled to focus through the waves of pain coursing through her body. "You're... you're mine," she gasped, "Always been mine."
"I'm all yours. And that baby in your belly is ours. Ours. Yours and mine. Do you know how many times I've dreamed of having a family of my own? Millions of times and you've given me that. A family. Our family."
Locking his hazel eyes with her green ones, his voice was filled with unwavering determination as he spoke. "Quinn, listen to me. I need you to push, okay? I promise I'll be here the whole time. I won't move, but I need you to push for me. For our baby. Don't you want to know which one of us won the bet?"
"Y-Yeah."
"Then push. I'm right here with you."
As Quinn braced herself for the next contraction, she felt a surge of determination wash over her. The room seemed to fade away as she focused all her attention on the task at hand. The rhythmic sound of her heart pounding in her ears drowned out the distant hum of the hospital machinery.
With a deep breath, she pushed, her muscles straining against the weight of the moment. Dr. Thompson's voice cut through the haze of pain, guiding her through each agonizing moment with calm reassurance.
She gritted her teeth and pushed harder, her entire body trembling with effort. Beads of sweat glistened on her brow. Every fiber of her being was focused on one singular purpose – bringing their baby into the world.
And then, finally, after what felt like an eternity, a loud cry shattered the tense atmosphere. Quinn collapsed back against the pillows, her chest heaving with exertion, tears of relief streaming down her cheeks in a cascade of raw emotion.
She had done it.
She had brought new life into the world.
"It's a girl," Isaac whispered, his voice filled with awe as he looked down at her, his eyes brimming with tears. "It's a girl."
