Author: GemmaGemroForever
Title: Big Surprise
Fandom: Sons Of Anarchy
Main Pairing(s):Gemro [Gemma/Nero]
Background Couples:Jax/Wendy
Summary: Gemma & Nero are together, but they are in for an unexpected surprise.
Rating: M
Disclaimer: No characters belong to me they belong to Kurt Sutter & FX.
Author's Notes: See chapter 1 for full notes.
I own nothing, but my OC's which are as follows: Gemma's O.B. Allison Shyer, receptionist Shelly, nurses Melissa & Nicole, Lucius's caregiver Kayla, Trisha the other receptionist, Dr. Jamie Booker, Dr. Samantha Booker (they are sisters), Dr. Paula Campbell, Dr. Carla Becker (pediatric cardiologist), Dr. Ramona Jessup (one of the NICU nurses, Amy Anderson (Atalaya's primary nurse), Dr. Amber Coleman, Dr. Tim Drake (Trauma room doctors), Pamela Cole (Social worker), Dr. Christina Jacoby (pediatrician), Dr. Julia Parker (Audiologist)
Some notes for this chapter: Again Spanish in this chapter, translated with google...The Red Velvet is back! (you guys hopefully remember that restaurant from a few chapters back..right?) The Motorcycle Shop is made up in addition for this story contractors built a fireplace in his and Gemma's room sometime after they got married. I'm gonna say in this story Neeta used to care for Abel, but doesn't anymore because he's in daycare now. This chapter will contain sexual content read at your own risk. Since the time I wrote this chapter I've discovered Gemma's house has an upstairs to it so I've edited this chapter to reflect that the best I can and fixed the scenes dialogue saying the nursery is upstairs and that it has front stairs to the front door so from now on I'm gonna try and in cooperate this into the story.
FYI: I want to thank my friend Michaela for the idea of putting a bit of drama into Gemma's adoption of Lucius. I'll be beta-ing the rest of this story on my own.
Thanks to everyone whose still loving this story and staying with me for more of the Padilla's family's adventures.
I'm going to add in the Neeta character because personally I loved the character and liked semi-friendship that was starting to develop between her and Gemma and I think they both liked each other as friends or were starting to as I felt Gemma deserved friends (especially women) and should had some though NOT Luann as they weren't really friends to her in my honest opinion (plus Gemma and Luann's friendship was really weird to me anyway) I don't care what the fandom says Gemma needed friends.
Another long chapter...sorry guys it just happens
Anyway enough of my talking, on with the story...enjoy!
Chapter 26: Llegar a un acuerdo (Coming To Terms)
Previously On Big Surprise:
10 Minutes Later:
The door finally opened and out walks both doctors, Julia has Talaya in her arms rocking her a bit looking up at both parents as Gemma and Nero also looking up at them wondering what they are about to say. After some tense silence Gemma found her voice
"W-ell?" she asked, a bit shakily, exhaling deeply, with her face now tear stained
Nero swallows hard, finding his voice as well "So?" He asked, calmly trying to stay strong for his wife and daughter.
St. Thomas Hospital: Audiology Department: 2:30pm
Dr. Parker spoke up "I've finished the tests and she's got 60-70 percent hearing loss in both ears, it's a severe loss" Gemma audibly gasps putting her hand up to her mouth just standing there looking blankly at the two doctors in shock she can't move, but is still holding onto her husband while Nero remains stoic.
"What?" Gemma says her voice barely above a whisper
"She has 60 db in her right ear and 70 db in her left, it's a severe loss" Dr. Parker repeated.
she's got 60-70 percent hearing loss in both ears, it's a severe loss
she's got 60-70 percent hearing loss in both ears, it's a severe loss
she's got 60-70 percent hearing loss in both ears, it's a severe loss
Those words echo through Gemma's head and it's spinning
"Oh my god" she mumbles suddenly letting go of her husband dropping the carrier onto the floor and her purse and the diaper bag turning around she briskly walking away which turns into running a bit.
Nero watches her run with concern on his face after a few seconds his head spins around facing the doctors
"Uh, I..think she needs time to herself" he said, finding his voice
They both nod in understanding as Nero bends down picking up Gemma's purse, the carrier and the diaper bag
Meanwhile Gemma keeps walking and running a bit until she reached the women's bathrooms pushing the door open going inside over to the sink holding onto it she instantly breaks down crying softly.
After a few minutes Gemma has composed herself then turns on the cold water splashing it onto her face and after a few seconds grabs a paper towel drying it sniffling and wiping her eyes with her fingers, after a few more minutes of looking at herself in the mirror she walks to door opening it and leaves to return to her husband and daughter. Once there Gemma looked up at the two doctors exhaling deeply
"I'm sorry" she said, her voice a bit strained the two nod understandingly while Nero has held onto her purse for her
Gemma walked over gently taking her daughter from the doctor into her arms looking up at them
"Is there anything can we do to help her?" Gemma asked, trying read into the doctor's eyes, but getting nothing.
Dr. Parker looked over at Dr. Jacoby then back over to Gemma
"Unfortunately, no" She responded, shaking her head back and forth.
"What?" Gemma whispered
Both Gemma and Nero look down, Gemma at her daughter sadly and Nero at the floor in both sadness and helplessness that he can't help his daughter right now.
Silence fell on everyone for awhile until Gemma looked back up at the doctors as does Nero
"Are you sure there's nothing we can do?" Gemma asked once more, swaying her daughter slowly, looking at the doctors desperately
"Well not right now...but" Dr, Parker spoke trailing off, clearing her throat
"But?" She asked, in a bit hopeful tone
"Not ri-ght now?" Gemma stammered a bit trying to understand, feeling a bit numb and still in shock by the news
Dr. Parker nodded "We can't help her right now because she's not a candidate for anything such as surgery because she's too young, but there is a possibility of helping her later on"
"How?" She asked, her face lighting up hearing that news
"With hearing aids, speech therapy and sign language though cochlear implants could also be a possibility for her as well" She explained
"You two will also need to need to take signing classes as well so you can learn how to communicate with her" She continued "But cochlear implants would also most likely destroy her residual hearing and she does has some"
More silence comes Gemma and Nero as they take in everything the doctor has just said.
After a few moments the couple spoke up
"How much of a possibility?" they ask simultaneously
"I believe a good one because though her hearing problem is severe she can be helped, there are options" the doctor smiles
"But we'll have to wait and see once she's a bit older and we can do more" Dr, Parker explains truthfully
Both Gemma and Nero smile a little bit at the news "Thanks" Gemma says "Thank you, doctors" Nero says
"Do you two have any other questions?" Dr. Parker asked
"When can we help her with this?" Gemma spoke up
"Not for awhile I'd say 6 months to a year or so, it just depends" She responded
Gemma swallows hard hearing that, nodding looking over at her husband whose looking at her unsure what to say
"We can discuss this more when she gets older, but for now try and adjust to it I know it's not going to be easy" the doctor says, adding "I'm so sorry" she says, somberly
"Can we go now?" Gemma asked, snappily even a bit impatiently changing the subject
"Yes" Dr. Parker nodded
Gemma turns around to Nero whose now holding the carrier bending down moving the strap up and gently placing Talaya into it strapping her securely placing the carrier cover down and her blanket on top of the cover and the other one back over her legs so she's warm.
She stands up and Nero hands her her purse back "Here, Mama" he whispered
"Thanks" she mumbled grabbing her purse placing the strap over her shoulder then picking up the diaper bag placing that strap over her other shoulder as Nero gently picked up the carrier and the two start walking to elevators pressing the button waiting for the doors to open seconds later they ding and the doors open and the two step inside turning around, Gemma presses the 1st floor button to reception silently trying to understand why this is happening to their daughter and how to handle it all.
The two arrived at the first floor within a few seconds the elevator doors open and they step out walking over to the reception desk
Trisha looked up at the couple
"Can I help you?" she asked
"We are here to pay the bill for our daughter Atalaya Padilla" Gemma explained
"Sure" she smiles
Gemma opens her purse grabbing her wallet opening it taking out her insurance card handing it to the receptionist
"That'll be 2,000.00, please" Trisha said, taking the card
"Babe, you need to get her onto your insurance or at least on the same one as you are" Nero spoke up
"I know, honey and I will when we get hone" Gemma replied, grabbing her credit card also handing it to Trisha
Trisha quickly grabs her credit card and pushes it into the chip reader before taking it out and handing it back Gemma and puts the rest of the money onto her insurance card handing it back to her. Gemma grabbed the cards placing them back into her wallet closing it and throwing it into her purse closing it.
"Thank you, have a good day" said Trisha
Gemma and Nero say nothing and walk out of the hospital and to the car they are running a bit because it's so cold.
Once at the car, Nero quickly opens the back door placing his daughter onto her dock clicking on it tightly uncovering her and pulling back the carrier cover while Gemma places the diaper bag down onto the floor and Nero moves out of the way as Gemma closes the door shivering she runs around to the passenger door opening it up getting inside buckling up closing her door and Nero gets in as well buckling up Gemma hands him her keys from her purse he takes them putting the key into the hole starting up the car, turning on the heater and pulls out of the parking lot and starts driving home silently while Gemma just looks numbly and sadly out the window placing her manicured index finger up to her mouth keeping it there.
While driving Nero slowly looks over at his wife for a moment while still trying to keep his eyes on the road he reaches over grabbing her hand holding it into his.
"It's gonna be alright, Mama" he says, looking back to the road letting go of her hand putting it back onto the steering wheel. She doesn't say anything, just continued looking out the window.
Nero pulls into their driveway slowly, stopping and then parking the car and turning off the ignition pulling the keys out looking over at his wife sadly unsure if what to say to her.
"Can I have a few minutes alone?" she asked, finally looking over at him
"Sure, Mama, I'll get her, just don't stay in here too long out it's cold" he responded
He unbuckles his seat belt getting out of the car shutting the door then going to back seat opening the door grabbing Talaya from her dock pulling down the carrier cover and blanket over her and placing the other blanket over her legs and the diaper bag putting the strap over his shoulder and closing the back door and walks up the door putting the key into the hole opening it stepping inside placing his daughter onto the counter uncovering her and pulling back carrier cover walking to the door closing it and goes over to his daughter smiling at her noticing she's peacefully asleep setting down the diaper bag next to her then moves over to the sink to wash his hands after a few moments they are washed and he dries his hands with a paper towel throwing into the garbage can turning back around facing Talaya walking over the few steps to her and starts talking.
"Hey. niña" (Hey. baby girl) he gently rubs her belly she squirms a bit, but stays asleep
"Sé que no puedes oírme, pero te amo, Mija" (I know you can't hear me, but I love you, Mija)
"Mami también te ama, sólo que está asustada" (Mommy loves you too, she just scared okay)
"Ambos te amamos mucho y siempre estaremos aquí para ti" (We both love you so much and will always be here for you)
"Te ayudaremos lo mejor que podamos" (We're gonna help you the best we can)
After a few minutes Nero stops talking as the news hits him like a ton of a bricks he quickly goes over to the sink and breaks down crying hysterically.
15 Minutes Later:
Meanwhile back in the car Gemma has been sitting there for at least 5 minutes now not getting out, but doesn't really feel the cold leaning her head down she starts crying hysterically
Back in the house in the kitchen another few minutes have past and Nero is still talking to his daughter and Gemma is still not inside yet.
Nero sighs still looking down at his sleeping daughter whispering "Estoy preocupada por mami, ella todavía no ha llegado" (I'm worried about mommy, she's still not here yet) "Ya vuelvo, nena" (I'll be right back, baby girl)
Without another word he walked over to the door opening it shivering as the cold air hit him again stepping outside his hand closed the door quickly rubbing his hands over his arms as he continued walking over the car
Once there he lightly knocks on the window, she gasped audibly startled uncovering her face looking over at him. sniffling slowly rolling down the window a bit, with her face is now tear stained
"Hey, Mama" he said, looking at her worried
"Hey baby" she whispers
"I was getting worried when you didn't come back inside" he explains, shivering
"Why don't we go inside now it's freezing out here?" he asks, looking at her
"I'm sorry" she breaks down again
"It's okay, Mama, I know this isn't gonna be easy" he says, truthfully
"Come on" he opens the door holding out his hand to her grabbing her purse off her lap, she takes it into hers and he helps her out shutting the passenger side door wiping her tears away gently with his fingers.
She finally feels the cold and shivers he wraps his arm around her and they walk back inside the house "It'll be okay, Mama, we'll be okay" Nero says as he closes the door.
Once inside Gemma takes her purse from him setting it onto the table opening it grabbing her phone and insurance card from her wallet walking over to the couch sitting down
"I'm gonna call my insurance company and get her onto my plan" she announced, flipping up her phone looking down at her card dialing the number placing the receiver up to her ear waiting for someone to answer.
"Okay, Mama" he says
After a few rings a lady answers "Can I help you?"
"Yeah this Gemma Teller Padilla, I'd like to add my daughter onto my insurance plan" Gemma states exhaling deeply
"Sure, what's her name, ma'am?" she asks, clearing her throat
"Atalaya Bennett Padilla" Gemma answers
A Week Later February 14th - Morning – 9am:
It's Valentine's Day the warm sun is beaming it's way through the curtain closed windows of Gemma and Nero's bedroom where Gemma is already awake staring up at the ceiling while her husband is sound asleep beside her. Suddenly she turns around onto her side just watching him sleep soundly.
Cooing comes over the baby monitor in Gemma and Nero's room which awakens Nero just a bit his eyes slowly flutter open staring over at his wife smiling sleepily.
"What is this a staring contest or something, Mama?" he jokes
She shook her head chuckling "No, I just love watching you sleep" she explains
"Mm-hmm okay, she's awake" he states, still looking at her
"I know, but she seems fine for now" she says, yawning
After a few moments of silence he breaks it "Happy Valentine's Day, baby"
"Happy Valentine's Day, my pimp daddy" she says back, smiling while reaching under the covers to his chest tracing his scar with her fingers
"So do you have anything special planned for us today?" she asked, raising her eyebrow
"Maybe" he answered, simply, but a bit wickedly trying his best not let on anything
"Come on..give me a hint?" she asked, begging desperately caressing his goatee trying to get him to talk
He shook his head no got out of bed bending down from the floor grabbing his pants putting them on quickly buttoning and zipping them up.
Gemma groaned frustrated rolling over away from him "Fine" she says arms crossed in a huff upset he's basically forgotten about Valentine's Day especially since it's the first one they'll have together since Talaya was born.
Suddenly a loud crying comes through the baby monitor, he looks over at her feeling bad about his demeanor and attitude towards her at the moment, but inside knows she won't be mad at him for long because he does have something very special planned for them tonight "I'll get her"
With that he walked into the bathroom to wash his hands a few minutes later his hands are washed and dried.
Walking out of the bathroom he walks upstairs to the nursery opening the door quietly going over to his tiny daughter's crib pulling down the bars picking her up gently into his arms rocking her a bit grabbing her pacifier from inside her crib.
"Oye, oye, está bien, nena, papá está aquí" (Hey, hey it's okay, baby girl, daddy's here)
Talaya has quieted down a bit, but is still crying softly "I know your hungry, let's get you a bottle" he says to her walking over the the changing table grabbing a burp cloth from underneath the table placing it onto his right shoulder and walks out of the nursery and downstairs into their bedroom.
"Babe, did you pump last night?" he asked
"There's two bottles of breast milk in the fridge" she said, a bit coldly
Nero sighs shaking his head sadly walking over their door opening and closing it going into the kitchen over to the fridge bending down carefully grabbing the bottle of milk closing the door to the fridge and walking over to the microwave opening the door placing the bottle inside shutting the door pressing 1 minute on the number pad and starts the microwave.
While waiting for the bottle to warm up Nero continues talking to his daughter
"You're gonna be okay, I promise" he whispers, kissing her on the forehead
"I love you, baby gi-" he says, stopping mid sentence as beeping from the microwave startles him a bit.
"Your bottle's warmed up" he smiles down at her walking over to the microwave opening the door grabbing the bottle out shutting it, he tests the bottle on his wrist making sure it's not too hot for her to drink, it's not, but it is warm.
He places the bottle inside her mouth and she instantly starts drinking a bit too fast
"Whoa, slow down, baby girl" he cautions, holding the bottle rocking her slowly taking a seat down in one of the empty chairs at the kitchen table.
After drinking an ounce of milk Talaya fusses a bit and stops sucking Nero takes the bottle out of her mouth placing her onto his right shoulder and pats her back a bit hard, but gently trying to get her to burp.
"Vamos, niña, eructa para papá" (Come on, baby girl burp for daddy) he whispered, within seconds Talaya lets out two burps "Good girl" he rubs her back gently suddenly she starts making sounds and he feels her stomach moving up and down "Oh you got hiccups, Mija" he chuckles a bit "You drank your milk too fast, huh?" he says knowing it's true switching her position to his arms he put the pacifier into her mouth moving it around after a bit she starts sucking on it. "Let's get rid of those hiccups first then finish the bottle" he suggested as she looks up at him cooing.
Five minutes later her hiccups are gone so he takes out her pacifier and places the bottle back into her mouth and she starts eating again this time slowly.
After a few more minutes Nero looks down at his daughter again and she has stopped sucking the bottle is now empty and her eyes are closed, she's fallen back asleep, he kisses her on the forehead taking out the bottle placing her pacifier into her mouth and she sucks on that. He carefully gets up from the chair walking over to the dishwasher opening it quietly as he can and placing the bottle and lid inside closing it walking back to their bedroom opening the door and closing it quietly once there he walks over to Talaya's bassinet placing her gently inside.
"Night, night, Mija" he whispers, caressing her cheek a bit with his finger quickly before walking away and to his wife leaning down to her noticing she's back asleep as well.
"Mama, she's fed and asleep okay, I'm gonna go out for a little bit I'll be back later, I love you" she doesn't respond back to him as he kisses her the forehead moving a few of her strands of her blonde highlights away from her face quickly before standing back up staring down at her smiling at her for a few moments before walking to the door opening it stepping out closing it quietly.
Walking into the kitchen he quickly grabs a piece of paper and pen and scribbles a note to her so she doesn't worry when she wakes up.
Hey Mama,
I went out for a little awhile. Talaya's fed and asleep in her bassinet, but you'll have to change her when she wakes up I think. I'll be back later. I love you, Gem
Love, your pimp daddy
Once the note is written he puts down the pen placing it on the fridge underneath a magnet then grabs his keys and sunglasses from the counter putting them on walking over to the back door opening it stepping out into the warm sun closing the door quietly.
"Shit, it's hot out here" he exclaimed, groaning "It's gotta be about 90 degrees"
Exhaling sharply he walks over to his car getting inside starting it up driving away to began planning his and Gemma's special day.
He arrives at the The Red Velvet restaurant after 10 minutes of driving pulling into the parking lot he looks around for a parking space finally finding one after a few seconds he parks turning off the ignition taking out the keys opening the drivers door getting out shutting it walking inside.
Once in the restaurant he walks over to the reservation desk taking off his sunglasses the restaurant reservationist at the desk looks up at him.
The man smiled "Can I help you, sir?" he asked
Nero smiled back "Yeah, can I make reservation for tonight?" he asked
The reservationist looked down into his book sighing to himself then back up at the taller man "Yes, sir we have reservations at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm tonight" he answered back cheerfully.
"Uh, 7pm is okay" he answered back quickly
"Okay how many?" the man asked, curiously
"Two for Padilla" Nero answered back
"Alright, we'll see you two tonight" he smiled
"Thank you" Nero walked out of the restaurant and to his car getting in and starting it pulling out and driving onto the store for the next part in his Valentine's plan.
It doesn't take him long to arrive at the store once there he drives around looking for a parking space after a few seconds he finds one close to the entrance pulling into it he stops the car and parked turning off the ignition taking out the keys opening the door getting out shutting it and walked inside.
Once in there he walks down the isles trying to find the cards and flowers after going down a few more isles he stumbles onto the cards section relieved he looked around at all of the cards grabbing three and opening them reading the inside words of them to himself.
After thinking a brief moment he decided on the third card next he walks over to the flowers section looking around at the selections he grabs a beautiful bouquet of red roses off the shelve, then goes to get a big red bow and last he goes over to isle where the Valentine's chocolates are and the chocolate covered strawberries once there he picked out a 10 pound box of chocolates in a heart shaped box and the strawberries smiling happily going from the aisle to the register paying for everything and walks out of the store.
While walking out to his car he takes out his phone flipping it up dialing Jax's number after a few moments he answered.
"Hey partner, what's up?" he said
"Hey, Mano I need your help with something" Nero stated
Meanwhile back at the Padilla's Gemma's eyes slow fluttered open she sat up in the bed yawning a bit rubbing her eyes of sleep she glances over Talaya's bassinet smiling – she's still asleep.
She looked over at her husband's side it's empty she starts panicking a bit "Oh my god" she whispered to herself quickly throwing the covers off herself she got out of the bed briskly running to the door opening it going into the kitchen breathing heavily looking around frantically until she noticed a piece of paper on the refrigerator she quickly goes over there reading the note after a few seconds her panic slowly stops and her eyes close in relief, her eyes open and she removes the note throwing it away in the garbage can walking back into their bedroom and lies down again.
Back in the store parking lot Nero is still on the phone with Jax by his car.
"What goin' on?" Jax asked, stuffing his hand into his pocket with a cigarette in his mouth outside walking around T.M.
"Well I want to surprise your mom with a present for Valentine's Day she was upset with me earlier" he explained
"What did you do, Nero?" he asked, grabbing his cigarette inhaling it blowing out the smoke into the air
"Nothin' it was a misunderstanding, Mano" he assured him
"Okay, man, whatever" he smiles on his end, taking another hit of his cigarette
"I need help buying her a motorcycle" Nero said
Jax goes silent after a few minutes Nero spoke up "Mano, you still there?" he asked
"Yeah, I'm here, partner" he said, sighing heavily
"Nero, you want to buy her motorcycle so she'll forgive you for whatever shit you did to her?" he asked trying to figure out if he heard him right.
"Nah, Mano, I want to get her one because I love her!" he snapped, defending her, scoffing
"Listen if you don't want-" he snapped again
"No, no I'll help just calm down, Jesus Christ" Jax spoke a bit irritated smoking the last bit of his cigarette dropping it onto the ground stubbing it out with his shoe.
"Good, I'll call you back" he hangs up flipping his phone down putting it back into his pocket getting into his car placing the bags with the flowers, chocolates, strawberries and card onto the passenger seat and sat there trying to calm down from his phone call with Jax inside starting to regret calling him for help.
10 Minutes Later:
Nero is still sitting in his car, he's not exactly calmed down yet, but is better than he was a few minutes ago grabbing his keys from inside his pocket he started his car and drives away to the motorcycle store.
The Motorcycle Shop 10:30am:
He arrived at the shop quickly finding a parking spot again closest to entrance pulling into the spot and parks turning off the ignition taking the keys out sighing he got out of the car placing his keys into his pocket and walked to the entrance going inside.
Nero's looking around the store when suddenly a manager comes up to him
"Can I help you, sir?" the man asked
He turns around to the sound of the voice
"Uh yeah I'm looking for a motorcycle" he answered back
"Okay sure this way, follow me" he said, motioning him back with his hand
Nero followed the manager back until the other man stopped in front of the bikes they have "Well here they are, sir" he announced
"Thanks" Nero said
"Sure, anything else you need, let me know" the manager said before walking away
Once the man's gone Nero sighed walking around checking out all of the motorcycles trying to figure out which one to get Gemma and if not lying himself too.
After an hour of looking and going back and forth on which one to get Gemma, Nero settled on a red and black 2009 Harley Davidson motorcycle which is priced at 20,000 dollars
Once the decision is made, Nero walked back over to the manager
"Excuse Me?" he said, looking up at him
"Yes sir, did you find what motorcycle you are looking for?" He asked
Nero nodded "Okay you'll need a helmet" the manager said
"Yeah I know, I'll need two though it's a present for my wife for Valentine's Day" he explained
"Oh well that's great, I'm sure she'll love it!" the man said, in a happy tone
Nero nodded walking away to find the motorcycle helmets finally after a few minutes of strolling down some isles he found them after looking at a few he decided on a black one for him and a red one for Gemma, he picked up both helmets taking them with him over to the motorcycle.
Suddenly the manager comes back to him
"Sir, did you find everything you need?" he asked, looking at the taller man
"Yeah, thanks" Nero replied, smiling
"Okay, you can take the motorcycle and helmets over to the check out" he said
Nero nodded placing the helmets in his one hand while walking the bike over to the check out counter
A few people are in front of him in line while waiting he grabbed his phone from inside his pocket flipping it up dialing Jax
After a few rings he answered
"Hey" he said
"Hey" Nero said
"I got the motorcycle and I'm about to pay for it and leave" he explained
"Can you come here and help me take it back to the house?" he asked
"Where are you?" he asked, walking around the kitchen
"At the bike shop store" he replied, looking up keeping an eye on the line
"The Motorcycle Shop?" he questioned, making sure he's thinking of the right store
"Yeah" Nero confirmed
"But Gemma will hear and see it though" Jax pointed out
"Shit, that's right, well just uh never mind I'll figure something else out" he said, hanging up flipping his phone closed placing it back into his pocket
"Hello?" Jax said, shaking his head
"Nero..?" he said, scoffing hanging up flipping his phone closed placing it back into his pocket as well
"Whatever, I don't give a shit" he whispered
Nero is finally at the front of the line
"Hello, sir" the cashier said, smiling up at him
"Hey" he smiled back at her
"Is this it?" she asked, motioning to the motorcycle and helmets
Nero nodded taking out his wallet from the back pocket
"Okay then" she said, ringing up the items
"That'll be 25,000, please" she said
Nero sighed a bit in frustration while opening his wallet giving the girl his card.
"How am I gonna get this thing out of here?" he wondered, mumbling to himself
Another half hour has passed back at the Padilla's when a shrill crying comes from the bassinet Gemma's eyes slowly fluttered open sitting up in the bed she peers over looking down her at her daughter smiling a bit sadly "Hi" she whispered as Talaya's dark brown eyes opened a little, but not looking at her.
Inhaling and exhaling deeply Gemma gets up from the bed walking into the bathroom closing the door behind once inside she goes to the bathroom quickly and after that brushed her teeth and washed her hands as she's drying her hands on the towel she looked at herself in the mirror noticing her face is a bit pale and her face is still a bit tear stained.
At that moment she closed her eyes trying to wake up a little more when a louder crying reaches her ears she runs to the door opening it going over to the bassinet instantly picking up her daughter rocking her "Shh, it's okay, mommy's here" she says, Talaya quiets down a bit feeling the motion, but is still fussing.
"Okay, okay, hold on" she says as a smell comes to her nose "Uh oh someone needs their diaper changed, yes" Gemma walks upstairs to the nursery taking the baby with her going inside once there walking over to the changing table she gently places Talaya down onto the table and starts taking off her clothes and then carefully the diaper looking down exclaiming "Ooh, stinky baby!" she opens up the wipes grabbing a few wiping her baby down gently while Talaya looks on not paying attention to her mother, Gemma sighs sadly continuing to change her diaper.
After another moment the new diaper is on and the dirty diaper is folded up along with the dirty wipes inside to which Gemma throws into the diaper pail beside the changing table closing the lid "Ooh, mommy has to changing that bag" she remarks.
"All done, baby girl now lets get on you dressed for the day" she said as Talaya coos and wiggles about a bit she quickly grabs a few wipes from the container wiping her hands clean then throws them into the pail then bends down onto the second level of the changing table looking through the clothes on there finally settling on a pink sun dress standing up she carefully, but quickly puts on the sun dress.
Carefully picking up her daughter from the changing table bringing her downstairs with her into the kitchen placing her into the carrier part of her stroller buckling her securely inside placing the both the carrier cover and stroller cover down pulling the handle in front of her.
"Mommy will be right back, baby" she says, walking away
Gemma goes back up into the nursery quickly packing Talaya's bag with diapers, pacifiers, bibs, burp cloths, extra clothes, blankets, her diaper rash cream and a few of her toys then zips it closed picking it up placing the strap onto her shoulder she walks out and back into the kitchen over to the fridge opening the door grabbing out the bottle of breast milk she pumped last night placing it into the front pocket of the diaper bag then putting the bag underneath the stroller grabbing her purse, keys and phone from the counter she pushes the stroller over the kitchen door stopping for a moment quickly grabbing a pen and piece of paper writing Nero a note.
Hey baby,
I've taken the baby out for a short walk around the neighbor, be back soon.
Gemma
Once the note is written Gemma tacks it onto the fridge underneath a magnet and opens up the back door pushing the stroller outside closing the door behind her locking it and pushing the stroller down the drive way and onto the sidewalk slowly.
Back inside the store Nero has paid for everything and called Lyla to meet him over at the store. After a few minutes she comes into the store looking around seconds later she spots him.
"Hey Nero" she smiles, walking over to him
"Hey, I need some help" he says
"Oh okay" she says, looking up at him
"What do you need help with?" she asks
"This" he nods looking down at the motorcycle
Lyla looks down at the bike "Wow, is this for Gemma?" he nodded adding, "Valentine's Day present..actually it's for both of us" he explains she smiles nodding "I think she'll love it"
"Look I need you to drive my car back to the house while I ride this thing back I can't do both...obviously" he explains
'Right of course" he handed her his keys
"Nero, Gemma's home with the baby wouldn't she hear the bike?" she pointed out
"Yeah, but let's hope she's not home because I want to surprise her with it" he explained
"Hope your right" she says, sighing
The two walk out of the store the short distance to Nero's car
"I hope this bike will make up for this morning" he commented
"What?" Lyla asks confused
"We had a misunderstanding earlier, she thinks I forgot about Valentine's Day" he explains
"Oh..my" Lyla says, looking down a bit
"Well you didn't" she pointed out
"I know and she's upset you know" he says
"Yeah well you two will make up I know it" she assures him smiling
She gets into car closing the door "I'll take the other helmet" he smiles handing over the red helmet, Lyla grabs it putting it onto the seat with the bag, strawberries and flowers starting up the car she pulls out of the parking lot starting to drive to Gemma and Nero's house, Nero puts on his black helmet snapping the buckle closed gets on the bike starting it up and rides it back to the house himself.
20 Minutes Later: 12pm
Lyla pulls into the driveway of the house stopping and parking taking out Nero's keys from the ignition when suddenly seconds later Nero rides up the house stopping turning off the motorcycle and taking off the helmet placing it onto the handle looking over at the blonde smiling a bit before looking down putting the kickstand down getting off walking over to her opening the drivers door "Thanks for the help" she nodded getting out closing the door taking him his keys back "Good luck" she smiles
"Now how are you gonna get home?" he asks, making eye contact with her
"I don't know, but I'll figure it out" she says
After thinking "I'll just take a cab back" she says, walking away and from Gemma and Nero's house once on the sidewalk she flags down a cab within seconds a cab pulls up and Lyla gets inside closing the door and the cab pulls away.
Meanwhile Nero has quickly puts the bike away from the back door hiding it for now in the backyard and grabbed everything he bought earlier quickly he runs to the backyard placing the big red bow onto the motorcycle then walks to the back door grabbing the door knob and tries getting in and realizes it's locked, he finds the house key on his ring putting it into the hole opening the door stepping inside the house closing the door.
"Gemma?!" he called out throwing his keys down onto the counter
"Mama?!" he called again, placing everything he bought down onto the kitchen table
"Gem?! he called starting to panic
Turning around facing the fridge he noticed a note walking over he reads it he smiles relief washing over him taking the note down off the fridge he throws the piece of paper away in the garbage.
Hearing the yelling Kayla comes into the kitchen yawning and rubbing her eyes of sleep
"Hey what's going on?" she asked, confused
Nero gasped "Oh!"
"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you" she said
"I didn't mean to wake up you and Lucius" he shot back
"It's okay, what's going on?" she asked again
"Nothin' everything's fine, I just panicked a bit because Gemma wasn't here, but she left a note on the fridge" he explained
"Oh okay" She walked out of the kitchen and back into Lucius's room with him the two are still trying to wake up.
Once Kayla has left he walked over to the counter grabbing the chocolate covered strawberries then goes over to the fridge opening it placing the strawberries inside closing the door and sits down in one of the empty chairs waiting for his wife to come home.
Within a few moments Nero hears the door knob rattle a bit his stomach does flip flops a bit quickly grabbing the bouquet of roses, candy and the card he takes a deep breath as the door opens slowly and in walked Gemma with their daughter.
Looking up she gasped not noticing her husband's there "Hi" she says, a bit coldly
"Hey Mama" he smiles, standing up walking over to her holding the candy, roses and card in his hands
"Now do you really think I would forget Valentine's Day, baby?" he asked, handing her the roses, card and candy to her
Her anger and coldness quickly faded away to a bit of shock taking the candy, roses and card from him and a happy smile comes across her face
She deeply smells the roses whispering "Thank you" a smile comes across his face again nodding "You're welcome"
Nero pushes the stroller a bit away from her and grabs the diaper bag from her shoulder and her purse and keys placing everything onto the counter grabbing her into his arms holding her as her lips move closer his until they are only an inch apart "I'm sorry" she whispers as Nero makes the next move cupping her face with his hands bringing locking his lips with hers kissing her passionately she does the same slipping her tongue into his mouth moaning quietly.
The two continue kissing until frustrated and hungry screaming comes from the stroller carrier they stop kissing reluctantly pulling away looking up at each other "I'll get her and put her into the bassinet" he whispers "But she's probably hungry" she pointed out "Right" he nodded, letting her go.
Gemma walks over to the sink quickly washing her hands while Nero walks over to the stroller bending down to get the diaper bag he grabs the bottle of milk from the front pocket going over to the microwave opening the door taking off the lid placing the bottle inside closing the door pressing 1 minute on the keypad and presses the start button and places the bag onto the counter.
After a few seconds Gemma's done washing her hands and is drying them then throws away the paper towels into the can.
Walking over to the stroller carrier she unstraps Talaya picking her up into her arms trying to calm her down "Shh, it's okay, baby, I know you're hungry" she sways her back and forth slowly the motion stops the baby's screaming, but she's still fussing. Just at that time the microwave beeps indicating the bottle is done Nero opens the door again grabbing the bottle from inside shutting the door turning the bottle upside down and turning his hand to show his wrist he tests the bottle "Ouch!" he exclaims quietly "It's still a bit too hot, Mama" he stated "Oh man" she groans still trying to keep Talaya calmed.
Quickly Nero bends down to the cabinet opening the door grabbing a pot turning on the cold water filling up half of the pot with the water then turns it off placing the bottle inside the pot and patiently waits for it to cool down a bit.
5 Minutes Later: 12:10pm
Nero turned around to the pot taking out the bottle testing it again on his wrist "Okay, it's perfect" he hands her the bottle and she places it inside her mouth and Talaya instantly starts eating while he walks to the diaper bag unzipping it grabbing a burp cloth and a bib placing cloth onto her shoulder "Thanks" she says sitting down in the chair and he places the bib around Talaya's neck snapping it closed she watches her baby girl eat.
"Mama, after your done put her into her bassinet because I want you to come outside with me" he says
"Why?" she asks, looking over at him
"You'll see" he smiles
"Okay" she says, nonchalantly
"You'll love it, I promise" he says
Moments later Talaya stops sucking and Gemma takes the bottle out of her bottle turning it up seeing how much she's drank "2 ounces" she says, putting the bottle down onto the table then switches positions placing her onto her shoulder patting her back a bit hard, but gently within a few seconds Talaya lets out two big burps. "Good girl" she kisses her on the back of her head.
She's now quiet and cooing a bit "Well I think she's okay now she drank 2 ounces out of the 4 that were in the bottle, we'll save it for later" Gemma says, looking over at him, he nods walking over grabbing the bottle and lid placing the lid on top of the bottle and putting the remaining milk inside the fridge.
Gemma continues patting her back and she burps again spitting up a little bit standing up she walked out of the kitchen and to their bedroom opening the door going over to the bassinet she gently laid Talaya down "Go to sleep, baby okay" she whispers, rubbing her belly a bit as she continues cooing.
With that she grabs the walkie talkie from the table clipping it onto her jeans walking out of the bedroom closing the door quietly leaving it open a crack going out into the kitchen to joini her husband.
"Well where's that present you promised?" she asks, walking over to him wrapping her arms around his neck.
"Give me a minute" he pulls away from her walking out of the kitchen and to his son's room opening the door standing in the doorway he smiles at the scene before him.
"Hey you two did you have breakfast?" he asked
"Hi, Papi, we missed it, woke up late" Lucius replied
"Oh, so did Gemma and I" he said
"It's lunchtime now, Papi" the boy stated
"I know" he said
"I'll make him something. Nero" Kayla cut in
"Thanks, Kayla" he smiles again
Walking into the room he sat down on the bed smiling brightly at his son leaning over giving him a kiss on the forehead.
"You gotta get up, Mijo" he says
"I know, but I don't want to" he whines a bit, rubbing his eyes of sleep
"Come on, lets go" he says, sternly, patting his knee
Lucius sighs tiredly trying getting up, seeing this Nero quickly helps him sit up in the bed while Kayla gets up from the floor grabbing his crutches that are leaning against the wall handing them to Nero.
"Thanks" he in turn handed them to his son "Here you go, Mijo" he smiles a bit taking them putting his arms into them and gets up with his father's help and starts walking slowly out of the room and into the kitchen, Kayla and Nero follow closely behind.
Once they get into the kitchen Nero walks over to Gemma again and she wraps her arms around his neck kissing him quickly.
"Well?" she says, impatiently
"Okay come on, it's outside" he smiles letting go of her taking her hand into his
He looks over at Kayla and Lucius who are standing there looking at them wondering what's going on
"We'll be right back gotta go outside for a few minutes" he explains, they nod
Nero and Gemma walk to the back door Nero opens it stepping outside with Gemma she closes the door behind her so the heat doesn't come in.
"Shit..it's hot!" she exclaimed
"I know" he said, letting go of her hand
"I'll be right back, stay here" he stated, sternly
With that he walked back to the backyard to where the bike is putting up the kickstand walking it to where Gemma is suddenly he has nervous butterflies in his stomach wondering how she's going to react to this gift.
Seconds later he brings out the bike setting the kickstand down
"Happy Valentine's Day, Mama" he announced, motioning to the bike with his hands
He looks up at her silently praying for a happy reaction, Gemma's stunned unable to speak right now and her mouth gaps open a bit in shock
I hope this is a good reaction Nero's thinking in his mind putting his hands down
After what feels like hours although it's only a few seconds Gemma finds her voice again
"You did this for me?" she says, her voice a bit whispered, looking up at him
"Yeah" he says
"It's mainly for you, but I got it for both of us" he explained
A bright smile comes onto her face "Thank you" she says
Nero sighs in relief "I'm glad you like it"
"When can we ride it?" she asked
"Well we have get licenses first" he pointed out
"Right" she says
"We'll go to the DMV soon and get them" she stated, truthfully
"One more thing I made reservations at our restaurant tonight for a special romantic Valentine's dinner" he says, walking over to her holding her
"The Red Velvet?" she questioned
"Yep" he kisses her on the forehead
"I love you" she whispers "Thank you for my gifts, I forgive you"
he smiles "I love you too, Mama"
"Let's go back inside and share the candy in bed" she suggested
"Sounds good to me" he says
They let go of each other and walk back inside together closing the door once inside Gemma walks over to the counter grabbing the big box of read heart chocolate candy while Nero turns around to the fridge opening it bringing out the chocolate covered strawberries "I'm taking these in there with us, too" he motions to the strawberries hearing that Gemma turns around looking at what he has in hands "Okay I officially forgive you now!" she exclaiming smiling, he chuckles a bit "Come on, bedroom" she smirks "Uh we'll be in the bedroom" Nero tells Kayla and Lucius they nod looking at each other unsure of what to say.
Gemma quickly gets to their bedroom opening the door a bit more quietly going inside she walks over to Talaya's bassinet looking in she's fallen back asleep again she smiles "Your such a good baby" she whispered going over to their fireplace starting a fire then walks over to the bed sitting down opening the box of candy and unclipping the walkie talkie from her jeans placing it on the table next to her waiting for her husband to join her seconds later Nero comes inside closing the door quickly and quietly.
"Is she asleep?" he asked, she turns around facing him nodding "Good"
He walks over to the bed getting inside underneath the covers, Gemma does the same laying down moving closer to him handing him the candy he shook his head, pushing it away "No, baby, it's yours you eat it" he takes off his shirt throwing it down onto the floor "Ooh" she smirks, tracing his scar with her fingers "Don't get any ideas, baby" he whispers shaking his head as she grabs one of the chocolate candies from the box eating it. "Mmm, good candy!" she exclaimed
"Damn babe, did you turn on the fireplace?" he asked, finally taking a piece of the candy eating it
"Yeah" she said, taking another piece of candy biting into it, it's coconut
"It's too hot for that" he stated
"Yeah you're right, let me turn it off" she says starting to get up, but he stops her "I'll get it" he gets up walking over to the fireplace turning it off with the blow poke
After turning off the fire he goes back into the bed underneath the covers and they continue eating a bit more of the candy then moves onto the chocolate covered strawberries, Nero feeds his wife the strawberry "Mmm" she closes her eyes taking some into her mouth eating it slowly after a few minutes she opens her eyes taking another one of the strawberries feeding her husband one "Mmm" he exclaims.
After an hour Gemma and Nero are out of their bedroom, Gemma has her phone in her hand while Nero went to Disoa for a bit to check on the girls
She flips her phone open dialing a number putting the receiver to her ear waiting for an answer after a few rings the person picks up.
"Hey it's Gemma, can you come over to the house I need a favor?" she asked
A knock at the back door interrupted Gemma's undressing sighing she quickly puts her shirt back briskly running out of her and Nero's room to the door.
She opens the door smiling a bit at the woman standing on the other side
"Hey come in, thanks for coming, Neeta" she says, stepping aside
The other woman stepped inside "Hey Gemma"
"Sit down at the table here and I'll be right back" Gemma says, she sits
Gemma quickly rushes back to the nursery where Nero is changing Talaya's diaper
"I hope you washed your hands" she commented
Nero sighs a bit annoyed "Of course I did, baby, relax"
"Good" she said
"Whose that at the door?" he asked, looking up at her for a moment
"The babysitter" She replied
"Oh you called one?" he questioned
"Yeah" she smiled
"And you trust this person with our baby?" he asked
"Yeah" she nodded
"Okay" he says, simply
"Really I do" she empathized
"Alright Mama, I believe you" he says
"Thank you" she says
"We'll be right out" he says
With that Gemma grabs the breast pump on her way out along with two bottles and lids leaving the room going back into her bedroom sitting down onto bed stripping off her shirt putting it onto the bed she unclasps her nursing bra placing the suction cups onto her breasts then unscrews the lids placing the bottles onto the pump and waits for the milk to come out within seconds the bottles start filling up with milk. The bottles are filled up after a few more minutes, Gemma quickly takes off the suction cups turning off the pump then unscrews the bottles carefully and places the lids back onto them and puts the covers on so they stay fresh. She places the pump onto the table for now along with the bottles for a moment and starts getting dressed into some fresh, clean clothes which consists of a light black t-shirt, a light brown plaid over shirt and some blue jeans and blue socks and red satin thong panties and bra standing up she grabs the two bottles of milk and walks out of the bedroom into the kitchen placing the breast milk into the fridge and sits down across from the other woman
"Neeta, the favor I need is a babysitter for my baby Talaya and I trust you after all you looked after my grandsons very well" Gemma said
"Oh sure I can do that" she smiles
"My husband will be right out with her" she says
Just then Nero arrived into the kitchen with baby Talaya in his arms she's awake, but at the same time half asleep.
Neeta and Gemma stand up from their chairs walking the few steps over to Nero and Talaya
"Neeta, this is my husband Nero and our baby Atalaya" Gemma says
"Nero, this is Neeta, the babysitter she used to babysit for Abel and Thomas" she explains
"Oh, hi" Nero shakes her hand
"Nice to meet you, Nero" Neeta smiles at him
"So we have to go to the DMV in a bit then we'll come back for awhile and later we are going on a Valentine's date so can you watch her?" Gemma asked
"Sure of course" the other woman replies
"I know she'll be in good hands" Gemma smiles
"Oh and before you touch her each time wash your hands..uh germs she was premature and we're trying to be careful" she explains
Neeta nods "Of course, I understand" Neeta walks over to the sink and washes her hands after a few minutes she's done.
"Good" Gemma also walks over to the sink washing her hands after drying them and placing the paper towels into the garbage can she goes over to Nero carefully taking Talaya into her arms in turn bringing her over to Neeta placing her into her arms.
"This is Neeta, baby girl she's gonna take care of you for a bit, but mommy and daddy will be back later okay" Gemma whispers to her even though she can't hear her she kisses her on the forehead.
"Oh and another thing, Talaya has hearing issues" Gemma states
"I'm sorry, Gemma" Neeta says, somberly
"No one knows just yet we just found out, but I just thought you should know, don't tell anyone" Neeta nods understandingly
"Thanks" Gemma says. Just standing there not moving looking over at her baby girl
"Gem, you okay?" Nero asked
"I don't want to leave" she admitted
"Babe, she'll be fine with Neeta" he assured her
"I know, but..." she sighed
"Gemma, I promise it'll be okay" Neeta walked over grabbing her hand squeezing it
"I'm sorry, Neeta, it's just.." She trailed off
"I know, now go, we'll be fine" she reassuringly said
"Okay, okay, I'm going" she surrendered
"Well baby, lets go" she says, looking over at him
He nods walking over to his daughter kissing on her cheek "Adiós cariño, te amamos y te extrañaremos" (bye, baby we love you and we'll miss you)
Both Gemma and Nero jot down their cell phone numbers and the pediatricians number, Nero tacks them onto the fridge
"Okay there's our cell phone numbers and the pediatricians number over at Saint Thomas Hospital, but first call one of us you have a problem" Gemma states in a serious tone.
Neeta nods "Of course, Gemma"
"We'll see you later and there's two bottles of breast milk in the fridge and everything you need is upstairs in the nursery" Gemma walks over to the counter grabbing her purse, sunglasses and keys, her phone is already in her purse "Yeah I know there is" Neeta says while Nero grabs his wallet and sunglasses and they head to the door opening it, but Nero stops for a moment turning around facing Neeta
"My son, Lucius and his caregiver are in his room as well so uh if you need any help with the baby she can also help a little too" he says
"Thanks for letting me know" he nodded stepping outside with his wife closing the door behind them heading out
"Babe, which car are we taking?" She asked
"Mine" he replies
"Okay, can I drive it?" she asked
Nero looks over at her surprised "You want to drive my car?"
"Yeah why not?" she smirks
"Okay Mama, go ahead" he hands her his keys while she puts her keys into her purse she opens the door getting into drivers seat closing the door as Nero gets into the passenger side closing that door.
Starting the car she pulls out and they head over to the DMV.
A Few Hours Later: California DMV 2pm
Gemma and Nero arrive at the DMV a bit later, Gemma pulls inside the parking lot and parks into the nearest space to the front door turning off the ignition and taking out the keys handing them to him.
"Well that was fun" she chuckles
"Yeah" he nods, agreeing
"You know, baby, this car needs seat belts" she concluded
"I know, I'll see what I can do about that if I can do something" he says, getting out closing and going over to Gemma's door opening it for her and she gets out grabbing her purse moving out of the way as Nero shuts the drivers side door.
Gemma takes his hand into hers and they walk into the DMV together. Once inside the establishment they notice the long line of people ahead of them
"Holy shit baby, it's crowd in here!" Gemma whispers quietly in an annoyed tone
"I know, we'll be in here all day" Nero groans looking over at her
Seeing as they have no choice they wait in line hoping they aren't in here all day because they have a date tonight.
"Babe, when is our reservation tonight?" She asked, while they wait
"7pm" he answered back
"And what time is it now?" she asked
Nero looked down at his wrist watch replying "2:15"
"Oh well we still have plenty of time before our date tonight" she whispers smirking seductively
"Babe, we're in public" he pointed out whispering
"So, it's never stopped us before" she implied, still whispering
A few hours have now passed and it's now 4pm and Gemma's feet are killing her from standing all this time "Ugh" she groans
"What's wrong, Mama?" he asks, concerned
"My feet are killing me" she groaned again trying to rub her feet with her one free hand
"Sit down Mama, I've got you" he said motioning to the empty chair near them
Gemma went and sat down in the chair "Ah!" she exclaims in relief, continuing to rub her feet now with her two hands
"Babe, did you take your meds?" he asked
"Have you?" she challenged. smiling
"Come on Mama, this isn't funny" he snapped, looking over at her seriously
"Of course I did sweetheart, why do you think my feet hurt and are swollen?" she pointed out, glaring at him
"Okay, okay I was just askin'" he said, backing off
"Did you?" She asked, smartly
"Yeah" he says, sighing rubbing his hands over his face in frustration
"Good" she says, leaning back in the chair closing her eyes tiredly
Two more hours pass and they are finally getting up to the top of the line with now only two people ahead of them.
Gemma gets up from the chair walking over to her husband putting her head onto his shoulder, she's exhausted.
"I'm tired, baby" she complains, murmuring
"I know, me too" he whispers
"Hopefully we'll be out of here soon" he says
"Mm-hmm" she murmurs again
After a few more minutes go by Nero checks his watch again
"Babe, it's 4:30" he says
"Okay" she says, stifling a yawn
Finally they are at the head of the line "Thank god" Gemma whispered thankfully to herself
"Next!" the lady shouted out
They walk up the counter looking up at the woman
"Can I help you two?" she asks, looking at them
"Yeah we want to get motorcycle licenses" Gemma replied back
"Okay sure for both of you?" she asks, motioning to them
"Yeah" Nero spoke up
"Okay then, please fill out all the information on these papers and then you'll both need an eye test" the lady says handing them both the papers and two pens Gemma grabs the papers and pens handing one pen to Nero and the other paper to him and they start filling everything out.
After awhile Gemma and Nero have filled out the information on the papers handing them to the lady
"Thank you, now you'll go over there to get an eye test and next your pictures taken" she explained, pointing over to the other side of the counters.
Gemma and Nero walk over to the line where the eye tests are being given luckily there's not too many people over there and they are glad for that.
After half hour passes it's now 5pm all their tests and photos are taken and the paperwork is filled out and finished and they hand everything into the lady
"Okay you two you should get your licenses in about 90 days and here's your temporarily licenses for now" she hands them their photo copied papers with the licenses on them.
"That'll be 20 bucks, please" the lady says
Gemma starts getting out her wallet when grabbed her hand stopping her "I got it, Mama" he whispers
"Thanks" she smiles
He takes out his wallet from pocket opening it taking out two 20 dollar bills handing them to the lady.
"Thank you, have a nice day" the lady says, cheerfully
Nero puts his wallet back into his pocket taking his wife hand into his and they finally walk out exhausted.
When they get outside it's slowly starting to get dark out "Babe, can you drive?" she asked
"Sure" she hands him his keys
They get to the car and Gemma walks over to the passenger side opening the door getting inside closing the door while Nero gets into the drivers side closing the door starting the car he pulls out of the parking lot and the two head back home again.
After driving for a bit Nero looks over at his wife noticing she has fallen asleep he smiles before turning his eyes back onto the road.
Another few minutes pass when Nero pulls into the driveway of their house and parks turning off the ignition taking out the keys.
Nero looks back over at Gemma not wanting to wake her up, but knows he has to
"Mama?" he calls out shaking her gently on the shoulder
"Hmm?" she murmurs
"We're home, time to get up" he says
She groans slowly opening her eyes looking over at him "Sorry, I fell asleep"
"It's okay" he smiles
She rubs her eyes of sleep opening the passenger side door getting out grabbing her purse and closing the door walking around to his side waiting, he gets out closing his door placing his keys into his pocket.
He takes her hand into his and they walk up the back door opening it going inside closing the door behind them.
Once inside they throw their stuff up onto the counter tiredly and both walk back to their bedroom opening and closing the door quietly going over to the bed they get in Nero sets the alarm for 6pm and the two try to nap a little before their romantic date tonight.
6pm:
A loud buzzing wakes Nero up rolling over his hand turns off the alarm groaning he sat up in the bed looking over at his wife she stretches and her eyes slowly flutter open and she turns her head looking at him after a few minutes she sat up "Wow that was a long sleep" she says sarcastically, Nero chuckles as she rubs her eyes of sleep.
"I guess we should get dressed" she states
"Yeah, I'm gonna check on the baby and Lucius first though" he says, getting up from the bed
"Okay" she says, getting up as well
Nero walked out of their bedroom and to his son room looking in the doorway
"Hey you two" he says
They look up at him "Hi, Papi, me and Kayla already had dinner she made me hot dogs and macaroni and cheese"
"Good, Mijo, Gemma and I are going out on a date" he stated
"Oh for Valentine's Day?" he questioned
"Yeah so you be good okay and we love you" he says, smiling
"Okay I will" he smiles
"I'm gonna go and check on your sister now" he walks away and into the nursery looking inside noticing Talaya is asleep in Neeta's arms and she's in the rocking chair rocking her a bit.
"Hey, how did she do?" he whispered
"Okay" Neeta says, quietly
"She just ate and I changed her diaper" she stated
"Good, Gemma and I are gonna go on our date in a bit" he says
"I hope you two have a good time" she smiles "Thanks" he smiles back
"I told Gemma I was just gonna check on the kids before I got ready" he tells her
"Of course" she says
"Well I'm gonna get ready now, I'll let Gemma know" he walks out and back into their bedroom
He returns back to the room where Gemma's removing her clothes after a few seconds she's naked with the exception of her satin laced panties and bra Nero smirks checking her out as she walking to her closet Gemma can feel his eyes on her she stop turning around to face him
"You checkin' me out, Pimp daddy?" she asks in a low groveled voice
"Yeah so what?" she snorts turning back to her closet trying to pick out the perfect dress for tonight
Finally after looking through the dresses she has she decides on a short low cut cleavage showing almost see through black dress
She puts it on quickly turning around showing him
"Well what do you think?" she asked, striking a pose
"Ooh Mama lookin' sexy" he complimented
"Maybe we shouldn't go out tonight" he commented, starting to walk over to her, but she puts up her hand
"Oh no we are going out tonight" she empathized
"Now get that brown ass dressed" she says, seductively
"Yes, Ma'am" he smiles
He walks over to the closet looking inside for something to wear deciding on black pants and black tank top along with a black blazer and some socks.
Gemma checks out the time on the beside clock "It's 6:30, babe"
"Okay" he quickly starts getting dressed while Gemma goes to get her 4 inch black high heels putting them on.
"Well, I'm ready" she announced
Nero looked up as he continuing to get dressed himself
"Nice!" he complimented
"Oh Talaya's fine, Neeta's feed and changed her and she's asleep again" Gemma smiles "Good, good, what about Lucius?" she asked
"He's fine too, already ate dinner and him and Kayla are in his room I guess reading or something" he shrugs his shoulders
Gemma nods going into the bathroom to put on her makeup and spray on some of Nero's favorite perfume he loves on herself after she's done she comes out facing him.
"I'm gonna go and wait for you in the kitchen" she walks out of the bedroom and into the kitchen grabbing her purse and keys while waiting she opens up her purse making sure she's got her phone with her, she does "Good" she sighs in relief.
Back in the bedroom Nero has changed his underwear to clean ones and put on some fresh boxers gotten his shirt and pants on then grabs the blazer off the bed putting it on closing the button at the bottom and goes into the bathroom to finish getting ready.
After another moment or two he's ready and walks out turning off the light in their bedroom closing the door quietly.
He arrives in the kitchen "Ready, Mama?"
"Yeah, bye guys, we love you and we'll be back later" she yelled
"Bye!" Kayla and Lucius say in unison
"Bye you guys have a good night!" Neeta yelled back
Nero grabs his wallet, but leaves his keys on the counter "We're taking the SUV right?"
"Yeah" she replied, reaching for his hand to which he takes protectively
The couple walks to the door stepping outside as the cool air hits them "Ooh!" Gemma exclaimed
"It's cool out here" she places her hands onto her biceps rubbing them trying to get warm
Do you want me to go and get your jacket?" he asked, looking at her
She shook her head "No, I'll be okay I think"
"You sure, Mama?" he asked
"Yeah lets go, I don't want to be late" she said, in a bit worrying tone
"Don't worry babe, we'll not gonna be late" he concluded
"I hope not" she says, still unsure
Nothing more is said as they rush to Gemma's SUV she gets inside the passenger side shutting the door while Nero gets into the drivers side closing the door Gemma hands him her keys and he starts the car buckling up and she puts on her seat belt as well and Nero pulls out of the driveway heading to the restaurant inside Gemma's hoping they get there on time.
6:40pm:
Gemma and Nero are still driving to the restaurant when suddenly the cars in front of them slow down and stop Nero quickly slams on the breaks and the SUV comes to a screeching halt Gemma gasps holding onto the glove box.
"Jes..us Christ!" she yelled out a bit shaky
"Babe, you okay?" he asked, looking over grabbing her hand
"Yeah, what the hell is going on?" she asked, placing her hand over her heart as it's beating fast now
"I don't know I can't see from back here" he said, looking up over the steeling wheel at the cars trying to figure out what's wrong up ahead.
"Are you okay?" she asked "Yeah, I'm fine" he says, breathing a bit heavily
After looking a few moments Nero spots something in his line of vision, but just barely
"I think it's a an accident or traffic jam" he concluded
"Shit, now we'll gonna be late to the restaurant!" Gemma yelled in anger
"Relax Mama, these things usually don't take too long to get figured out" he squeezes her hand in reassurance
"Oh yeah where you have been lately, living under a rock?" She shot back
"We're in California there's nothing worse than a traffic jam or an accident to kill the time" she quipped
"Glamorous life, Mama" he remarked
"Now what?" he asked, looking at her like she's got the answer
She stuck up her hands up in defeat "I don't know!" she exhales deeply in frustration crossing her arms
Suddenly Gemma's phone rings she opens her purse grabbing her phone flipping it open putting the receiver up to her ear
"Hello?" She answered
"Hi Gemma, this is Pamela Cole the social worker for the adoption" she replied
"What do you want?" Gemma asked, coldly
"I wanted to set up another appointment with you and Lucius for next month" she says
"Look lady-" Gemma started
"No Gemma, this is a requirement for the adoption now you need to cooperate" Pamela pointed out
"This never would have been an issue had these assholes not treated me like shit because of some goddamn record!" Gemma snapped angrily
"Well I'm sorry this isn't on me" Pamela says calmly
"Yes it is you-" Nero places his hand on her shoulder "Don't, Mama" he whispers
Gemma sighs heavily trying to compose herself "Okay, okay, what time do you want to come?" she asked, a bit more calmly
"Let me check my schedule...lets go with March 16th at 3pm" the other woman replied
"Alright, fine" Gemma says "Thank you for calling" She hangs up flipping her phone closed putting it back into her purse.
"Well that just ruined our evening" She says to herself sarcastically, but in a truthful tone
"Mama, just calm down okay and have a romantic evening with each other" Nero says trying to make her feel better
"This isn't making me feel any better, we are gonna be late!" She yelled, motioning to the cars in front of them
"Babe, come on your acting like it's my fault!" he yelled back
"We could have walked to the restaurant by now!" She yelled again
"Stop!" he screamed
Gemma swallowed hard going silent wanting to cry right now looking over at him then gazing out the window as tears roll down her cheeks
After five minutes of silent Nero spoke up "I'm sorry, Mama"
"I'm upset about this mess we're in right now and I just wanted this Valentine's Day to be special for both of us" he explained
She's still silent "Come on Gem, talk to me" he encouraged, taking her hand which she snatched back
Gemma slowly turns her head facing him, but because of the darkness he can't see her face and the tears on it, she sniffles carefully wiping her eyes with her fingers at the same time trying not mess up her mascara which is running down her face a bit.
Hearing her sniffling is making Nero feel horrible right now "Oh baby, I'm sorry" he whispers
"I hate it when we fight thank goodness we don't do it often" he says
"I'm sorry, too I'm upset about this mess too and that call" she says, looking over at him
"Ugh, I wish we'd move already" she says, frustrated
"You do know we're gonna have to make up later" she whispered
"I know" he whispered
"A little make up sex huh?" he guessed raising his eyebrow
"You got it" she smiled
6:50pm:
Finally just when Gemma and Nero can't take it anymore the cars in front of them start moving and the cops and others start motioning the cars to move
"Thank god!" Gemma announced, happily "We're moving!"
Gemma opens her purse grabbing her phone flipping it up checking the time "Damn, it's 6:50, baby"
"Shit, I'll drive fast then" he said, taking off
"You better hope we don't get pulled over" she remarked, sighing
Nero drives as fast as he can hoping they can make it Gemma keeps her phone out looking at the time. After a few tense moments on the road he pulls into the parking lot of the restaurant
"What time is it, Mama?" he asked
"6:55" she replied back
"Good, we made it" he smiles relieved looking around for a parking spot Gemma points to one "There's one" he pulls into it and parks turning off the ignition taking out the keys placing them into his pocket unbuckling his seat belt and getting out of the car shutting the door then going over to Gemma's side opening the door for her she takes off her seat belt grabbing her purse getting out throwing her phone into her purse closing the door taking her husband's hand into hers and they briskly walk towards the restaurant together hoping they can enjoy the rest of their evening.
7pm:
Seconds later the two entered the restaurant walking up to the reservation desk there are a few people ahead of them so they wait.
Finally they move up to the first in line
"Can I help you?" the manager says
"Yeah two for Padilla" the manager checks his book
"Ah yes sir of course smoke or non smoking?" he asks
"Smoking" Gemma spoke up
"Okay table 10 follow me" Greg the hostess says
Gemma and Nero follow the man to their table "Have a seat and I'll be back with menus and waters to start" Greg says
"Thank you" Gemma says as Nero pulls out her chair she sits down
"Thanks, babe" she smiles
Nero goes to the other side and sits down across from her
Gemma sits there silently just staring at her husband
"What?" he asked looking at her
"Nothing" she says, simply
"Babe, what's wrong?" he asked, concerned
"I'm just stressed and exhausted okay" she explained
"I know I'm too and I'm sorry about that fight, I feel awful I made you cry" he leans across the table taking her hand while gently caressing her face with his fingers
Suddenly their waiter Greg appeared at the table with two menus and two waters setting everything down in front of them
Looking up Gemma smiled "Thank you"
"Thanks" Nero spoke up
"I'll give you two a few minutes" he walked away from the couple to check on his other tables
Gemma and Nero kiss quickly before he let go of her hand grabbing his menu opening it looking through it, she opens her purse grabbing her reading glasses taking them out putting them on opening her menu.
As the two are looking through their menus Gemma peered up from hers eyeing one of the hostesses
Nero noticed this "What's wrong, Mama?" he asked, looking up at her
"Nothing wasn't that the hostess we had the last time we were here?" she asked, nodding over at the girl
He looked over at who she's referring to nodding to his wife "Yeah, I think her name was Cassie why?"
Gemma shook her head going back to her menu saying nothing
"Well I think I'll have filet Mignon and a salad" Gemma says to herself, closing her menu putting it down
"Mmm yum" Nero remarked, still looking at his menu
"And I think I'll just have a large salad" he said, closing his menu placing it onto the table
Gemma sighs tiredly leaning back into her chair looking up at her husband
"I'm-" she's about to say, but is cut off by Greg
Just then their waiter returns to the table
"Are we ready to order now?" he asked, taking out his pad and pen
"Yeah I think we are" Nero spoke up
"Go ahead, babe, ladies first" he smiles
Gemma looked up at the other man "I'll have the filet mignon and a medium salad with everything, but tomatoes" She takes off her glasses placing them back into her purse.
"Okay" he says, writing everything down "Anything to drink?" he asked
"A bottle of red wine, but non alcoholic" she replied
"Okay sure" he said, turning to Nero "And you, sir?" he asked
"Just a large salad with everything in it" he said
"Alright" Greg said "Anything to drink other than the wine?" he asked
Nero shook his head "No, thanks"
"Okay then, I'll be back with your meals in a bit" Greg walks away leaving them alone
"Mama, what were gonna say before he interrupted?" he asked
"I was going to say I'm tired" she replied
"I'm tired too" he admitted
"Taking care of a new baby is exhausting" he nodded "Yeah"
"We should go to bed early tonight" she concluded
"Sounds good" he said
"Are we still having sex tonight?" he asked, smiling
"Well..if we're not too exhausted" she admitted
"I got an idea...the shower" he suggests
"Ooh" she smirks
While waiting for their meals Cassie looks over at them instantly recognizing the two looking to see she has no people waiting she walked over to their table.
"Hi!" she smiles
Gemma and Nero both look up at her
"Hey, sweetheart" Gemma says
"Hi" Nero smiles at the younger woman
"I recognize you two weren't you here a few months back?" She questioned
"Yeah" Gemma confirmed
"I thought so, well I just wanted to tell you two it's nice to see you back" she says
"Thank you, honey" Gemma smiles at her
"Well I hope you two have a nice evening and enjoy your food" she smiles, walking away back to her station
"That was nice of her, Mama" Nero remarked
"Yeah it was" Gemma commented
7:15pm:
Waiter Greg finally comes over with their meals and the wine on a tray
"Here's your wine" he says, setting the bottle down in the middle of their table along with some napkins "And your food" he sets down Nero's salad in front of him with a fork and Gemma's food down in front of her with another fork
"Thanks" Gemma says
"Thank you" Nero says
"You're welcome" he says "Let me know if you need anything" they nod and he walks away
Nero pours some wine into their glasses and they start eating their meals.
7:30pm:
"Whew, I'm done" Gemma remarked eating the last bit of her salad then taking a drink of her wine
Nero's still eating his salad
"Thanks for this beautiful Valentine's Day" Gemma smiles
"You're welcome, Mama" he says, swallowing his bite of food taking a sip of wine
"Mm, this wine is amazing for being non alcoholic it doesn't even taste that way" he commented
"Yeah it does" She drinks the rest of her wine
After 10 minutes Nero is done with his salad and his glasses of wine the bottle is half empty now
"I'm taking this with us, baby" Gemma says, grabbing the wine bottle
"Alright we can have more when we get home" he smiles
"Yep" she smiles
After a bit Greg returns to their table
"So how was everything?" he asked
"Amazing" Gemma complimented
"Good, well here's your bill and you two have a nice night" he says, putting the bill down onto the table and walking away
Gemma picks up the pad with the bill on it looking at it
"Jesus Christ!" she whispers loudly, Nero grabs the bill from her hand looking down at it
"Wow, it's okay, Mama I got it" he says, standing up from his chair walking over to her pulling hers out
"Thanks, babe" she gets up grabbing her purse "I've got to pee, I'll be right back" she walks back towards the women's bathrooms
"I'll go pay the bill!" he yelled
"Okay!" she yelled back
Nero walks over to the register giving the cashier the bill
"Okay that will be 1,000 dollars please" the lady says
Nero takes out his wallet from his pocket opening it giving her the exact amount
"Thank you, sir" she puts the money into the register "Have a nice rest of the night" he nodded walking away and waits patiently for his wife to come out of the bathroom.
After a few minutes Gemma comes out of the bathroom going over to her husband "Hey" she smiles handing him the bottle of wine he takes it from her.
"Hey, lets go home and continue our Valentine's Day at home" he says taking her hand into his and walk out of the restaurant happily.
7:35pm:
Gemma and Nero are in Gemma's car buckled up, Nero starts the ignition and they head home while in the car Gemma opens her purse flipping her phone open looking for any messages from Neeta there's none.
"Well it looks like Talaya's okay, there's messages from Neeta" Gemma comments
"Good" Nero says, his eyes still on the road, but his hand moves to her leg rubbing it sensually moving up slowly to her thigh, she gasps
"Honey...eyes on the road" her breath hitches a bit
"They are, baby I can't help it the way you look in that dress is making me hard" he admits
Gemma gently pulls his hand off her leg even though inside she doesn't want him to stop
Nero places his hand back onto the steering wheel wanting to get home
8pm:
Nero pulls into the driveway parking turning off the ignition taking out the keys handing them to her
"Thanks" she puts her keys back into her purse unbuckling her seatbelt, while Nero unbuckles his seatbelt getting up shutting the door walking around his wife's side opening her door she grabs the wine bottle getting out Nero pushes her up against the door shutting it his lips lock furiously onto hers passionately they moan softly as their tongues slip into each others mouths.
Nero's hands move to her legs moving to her upper thighs as Gemma's hands wrap around his neck gasping and moaning at his touch.
Nero moves his hands from her legs to around the front of her panties his hand goes inside them feeling around reaching her opening the slick wetness makes him even harder "Mm, yeah, Mama" he murmurs still kissing her as his two fingers push back her folds rubbing her clit circling it ever so slowly
Gemma moans loudly "Oh...god!"
Finally his two fingers slide into her opening thrusting slowly, he feels the wetness squishing around his fingers
"Damn, Mama, your so wet" he whispers
"I know..shit!" he continues thrusting inside of her
She whimpers "Baby, inside"
"Wait..until we get into the shower" he breathes heavily
"I don't think..I can" she breathes
After a bit he removes his fingers from her bringing them up "Shit" he whispered, letting her go still breathing heavily pulling away from him
"Jesus Christ" she breathes trying to compose herself
"Come on, lets go inside" she says still breathing a bit heavy
He nods taking her hand into hers they walk up to the back door opening it stepping inside Nero closing the door grabbing the wine he puts the bottle onto the counter while Gemma throws her keys and purse onto the counter, Nero takes his wallet from inside his pocket putting it onto the counter then quickly washes his hands over at the sink.
After a few moment he walked over the cabinet opening the one where the wine glasses are grabbing two of them he sets them down grabbing the wine pouring some into the glasses
"Here, Mama" he hands her the glass
"Thanks" she says, taking a sip
He grabs his glass of wine and they walk into their bedroom closing the door
Once inside Nero sets the glass down onto the table
"I'm gonna go check on the kids, be right back" he says "Okay, I'll be waiting" she walks towards the bathroom turning around facing "Baby...don't be long" she says, in a low voice
He walks out of their bedroom closing the door quietly going upstairs into the nursery turning on the night light walking in he sees Talaya asleep in the crib while Neeta is asleep in the rocking chair walking over to the other woman he shakes her shoulder
"Hey, we're home" he whispered
Neeta slowly opens her eyes looking at him standing up "Oh hey sorry"
"It's okay, let me get my wallet and pay you" she nodded walking out of the nursery downstairs with him and into the kitchen.
Once there he grabs his wallet opening it paying her "Bye, Nero, tell Gemma bye for me" she takes the money "I will, thanks a lot"
He walks her to the door opening it and she steps outside walking to her car leaving.
Seconds later he closes the door quietly throwing his wallet back onto the counter quickly going into his son's room checking on him
With his head in the doorway he looked inside noticing they are playing checkers together
"Hey you two, we're home" he announced
"Hi, Papi!" Lucius smiles
"Hey, Mijo, whose winning?" he asked
"He is" Kayla spoke up
"He's good!" she complimented
Nero chuckles "Yeah I know"
"Well Gemma and I will be in our bedroom continuing Valentine's Day" he says
"Okay have fun" Kayla smiles raising her eyebrow
"Oh we will" he tells her
Nero closes the door to his son's room so hopefully they won't hear him and Gemma
He arrives back into their bedroom closing the door quietly once inside he walks towards the bathroom closing the door looking on the floor Gemma's dress, thong panties, socks and high heels are already scattered on the floor and the shower is running with the shower curtain closed.
Quickly taking off his clothes he walked over to the shower pulling back the curtain a bit stepping inside closing it again to keep the steam
"Hey, Mama" he wraps his arms around her naked body, his hands cover her breasts
"Hey" she whispered, shivering at his touch moaning a bit
"How are the kids?" she asked
"Fine, Talaya's asleep and Kayla and Lucius are in the bedroom playing a game of checkers" he explained
"Good, good" she says "Neeta said bye" he says, she nodded turning in his arms as his arms wrap around her pushing her gently up against the wall "Let's finish what we started" he whispered instantly locking lips with her passionately
He growled, slipping his tongue into her mouth she does the same moaning a bit louder, his hands move again to her upper thighs rubbing them.
His hand presses against the wall as her legs wrap around his torso she can feel his dick hard against her inner thighs
"Oh!" she moans "Baby please inside now!" She begged, mumbling
He obliges pushing himself inside her thrusting at a medium-slow pace "Yes!" she moans again
"Ah!" she cries out in pleasure
After a half hour they have switched positions Gemma's hand is pressed against the wall of the shower as Nero's dick in her ass thrusting hard "Ah!" his one hand is around her waist "Shit, baby, your so tight!" while his other free hand is holding hers squeezing it as they continue making love wanting to climax together.
"Ah!" she cries out "Shit, I'm gonna cum!" she shouted
"Me too!" he yelled
He trusted harder and faster "Oh..my..god" she breaths
"I'm...cumming!" she screamed
"Mm, yeah, me too" he whispered, breathing heavily
They climax together both breathing heavy and sweating a bit and their legs shaking.
"Oh damn" Gemma whispered leaning back into him as he held onto her
"God, baby" he kisses her on her neck "I've got you, just relax"
"I know" she says, swallowing hard
After an hour they get out of the shower turning off the water stepping out of the tub Gemma bends down opening the cabinet grabbing two towels handing one to him and they dry themselves off and she grabs her clothes from the floor opening the door walking out into their bedroom while Nero picks up his clothes from off the floor walking into the bedroom, Gemma throws her clothes into the laundry basket and put on her robe while Nero places his clothes into the basket then put on some boxers and they get into the bed together underneath the cover Gemma grabs her glass handing Nero his clinking their glasses together taking sips of their wine "Happy Valentine's-" they start to say in unison as a screeching cry comes through the monitor looking at one another "It's your turn" they pointed to each other laughing "There's goes our Valentine's Night" Gemma remarked
"Yeah, but at least we got in the sex" Nero quipped proudly
They both laugh hysterically getting up walking towards the door...
"Wait baby!" Gemma stopped him
"What?" he looked over at her
"We have to wash our hands first..." She walked to the bathroom going inside
He just nodded following her "Glamorous, life, Mama, Glamorous life we've got"
To Be Continued...
[Notes]: So I really struggled what to do with the babygoing back and forth for awhile and at first I was going to go with a mild hearing loss, but when I looked this up I discovered that plot wouldn't have worked with what I wanted to do.