Well, everyone, this is it. The moment you've all been waiting for. After everything they have been through, is the Loud Family finally going to gain a new member? Are they going to lose a daughter in the process? We shall find out.

I would like to thank DukeyDukeyDoo, Maikoh Locklear, and stanningjonarbuckle for helping me proofread this chapter. And now, without further ado, here is the big one. I hope you enjoy it.


Chapter 43: Marty's Birth

It had been a long, difficult, drama-filled, and occasionally danger-ridden journey for Bobby, Lori, Lincoln, Ronnie Anne, and the rest of the Loud Family. Almost nine months ago, Bobby and Lori showed their love to each other at the local mini golf course after Lori discovered some truth about Bobby's father, Alex Santiago. As a result, Lori was now pregnant with Bobby's child, and it took about a month for her to find out about it. Bobby had also learned about his girlfriend's pregnancy thanks to some intervention from Clyde and was willing to help Lori through the whole thing. Then after several hardships and bumps in the road, as well as a couple of fallouts with Bobby and Ronnie Anne's father, it seemed like everything was going almost smoothly. But then, Alex suddenly struck back at the Louds, and he struck back hard.

During his time in prison, Alex had planned to capture the Louds and would prepare to kill all of them before claiming Royal Woods as his own (though the latter was clearly an afterthought after one of his followers brought it up). However, his plans were thwarted, and he was forced to take his own daughter as collateral for he was now alone. However, Lincoln went after him along with Luna and Lynn, with some help from Castleton, Koch, and T-Bone. When Alex was finally defeated, Ronnie Anne wanted to kill him, but she was able to stop herself from going over the edge thanks to Lincoln and Castleton's intervention. But the battle was not without casualties as the lives of Koch, as well as those of Castleton's subordinates, Joseph and Lang were lost.

And as if that wasn't enough, Lori had gone into labor while she and the others made their escape, and it was only a matter of hours until her baby finally arrives. And while she was in labor, some surviving remnants of Alex's gang held the group at gunpoint with the intent on killing them, completely demoralized by their leader's treachery. However, thanks to Mr. Dupree, the FBI had arrived and saved everybody. Following Alex's defeat, Lincoln, Ronnie Anne, Luna, and Lynn heard the cataract sounds of Lori's screaming echoing through the woods and realized that the baby was coming. Knowing that time was of the essence, the four kids ran back to their family as fast as they could.

[By the time Lincoln and the others returned to the main road, they could see an ambulance parked beside it along with two squad vans bearing the words "FBI" on both sides as Lori was laying on a stretcher being handled by two paramedics. The paramedics loaded Lori into the back of the ambulance while an extremely worried Bobby joined her for the ride. At that same time, a group of FBI units boarded the squad van that was parked in front of the ambulance and Katherine was sitting in the back of said squad van waiting to be taken back to town.]

[The medics then shut the back doors and rushed to the front of the ambulance before getting in and driving away as the siren blared. The FBI van drove in front of the ambulance, escorting it to the hospital with its own siren blaring. Rita then saw the four children and called out to them.]

Rita: "Kids!"

Lincoln: "Mom!"

[The three Loud kids ran over to their mother and embraced her.]

Rita: "Oh, thank God you're all safe!"

[At that moment, Clyde ran over to Lincoln and hugged him as well.]

Clyde: "I thought I'd never see you again, Lincoln!"

[Lynn Sr. had tears in his eyes as he embraced Luna tightly.]

Lynn Sr.: "We were so worried about you kids!"

Luna: "I'm alright! Don't nobody worry about me!"

[Albert also ran over to the kids and lifted his grandson off the ground before pulling him in for a tight hug.]

Albert: "Thank heavens you're okay! I guess T-Bone really came through."

Lincoln: "He sure did! Can you please put me down now?"

[As Albert set Lincoln back onto the ground, the two FBI operatives approached Trent before the suited man ordered them back to the woods. Both men obliged and made their way back to assist their teammates.]

[Just then, Lynn Sr.'s eyes widened with shock as he noticed his fifth daughter's left hand with two fingers missing and stained with blood.]

Lynn Sr.: "Holy Toledo! Lynn Jr., what happened to your fingers?!"

[Lynn hid her injured hand behind her back as she bit her lower lip.]

Lynn: "It's kind of a long story, dad. But you can definitely blame Alex for that."

[Albert clenched his fist as he thought about what Alex did to Lynn.]

Albert: "Oh, now he's really done it!"

Lisa: "Just come over and I'll get your hand bandaged."

[Lynn walked over to Lisa as the young genius got her first aid kit ready. It was pretty lucky that she brought it with her during the whole chase, even more so that neither Alex nor any of his goons bothered to take it. As Lisa started bandaging Lynn's hand, Ronnie Anne looked at the remaining siblings.]

Ronnie Anne: "What's going on here? Why was there an ambulance here? And where are Bobby and Lori going?"

Luna: "Yeah, dudes! What's the haps with Lori and Bobsled?!"

[Lisa spoke as she was nearly finished bandaging Lynn's hand.]

Lisa: "Apparently, our eldest sibling has gone into labor and she and Roberto are now being transported to our local medical establishment to have their progeny come into existence even as we speak."

[Everyone looked at Lisa with confused expressions and the young genius groaned.]

Lisa: "They are going to have the baby!"

[Lincoln and the other three were shocked and worried at the news.]

Lynn: "Already?!"

Luna: "Oh man! I was so not prepared for this!"

Lincoln: "But Lori's baby isn't due for another fifteen days!"

Lola: "Well, it's not our fault if the baby couldn't wait! So, why don't you tell him what you said?!"

Leni: "I already did, Lola. Don't you remember?"

[Lola groaned and smacked her own forehead. Deidre then walked over to the four kids.]

Deidre: "Have any of you kids seen T-Bone or Castleton?"

[Ronnie Anne put her hands in her hoodie pockets before answering Deidre.]

Ronnie Anne: "They're back in the woods dealing with my ex-padre."

Albert: "I'm guessing that macho man is finally finished?"

Lincoln: "I think so, Pop-Pop. He put up quite a fight back there."

Luna: "Alex is done, and this time for good."

Deidre: "He better be. Because if he's still breathing, I've got a boot with his name on it that's eager to get acquainted with his ass."

Lana: "What we need to focus on is how are we gonna get back home. Vanzilla's out of service and my toolbox is back at the house."

Lincoln: "Dang it... Does anyone have any ideas?"

Leni: "I don't know...? Call a taxi?"

Lynn: "There's not a cab for miles, Leni! Uh, doi!"

[Luna spoke in her British accent.]

Luna: "Besides, there's no way a cabbie's gonna fit a baker's dozen."

Luan: "Fourteen if you count Pop-Pop."

Lisa: "If I may add, why would we need to go home at this very moment if our Lori's first-born is mere hours away from arrival?"

Lola: "Well, what if we get bored of waiting?"

Lisa: "All the same, need I remind you that this is a life changing moment for not only Lori, but for all of us as well?"

Lola: "I know, and I want to meet my nephew as much as the next member in our family. But it'll take hours to get to the hospital without a car."

Mr. Dupree: "I don't think my car can carry every one of you, so that's a negative as well."

[Rita sighed.]

Rita: "We might just have to wait it out and hope that somebody will find us here."

Luna: "And if not, we'll have to take the long way home. On foot if we have to."

Lola: "But I don't want to walk all the way to the hospital!"

[And with that, Lola folded her arms and pouted. Just then, Albert saw something that made him scowl.]

Albert: "Well look who it is, everyone. The big cheese himself in all of his moldy glory."

[Everyone looked over and their expressions turned to anger as they saw an unconscious Alex being dragged out of the forest by a few FBI units. Accompanying them were Castleton and T-Bone, who limped behind them as they were still injured. Alex's disabled legs scooted along the ground as the FBI operatives carried him by his arms. The Loud sisters gave Alex a lot of jeers for everything he has done to them while Lincoln and Ronnie Anne simply glared at the big man. Clyde was also angry at Alex but remained silent as he crossed his arms.]

Leni: "Jerkhole!"

Luna: "Wife beating wanker! This is the end! Of you!"

Luan: "Unfunny deadbeat clown!"

Lynn: "You messed with the wrong family, you finger-biting, fat-ass, cheat!"

Lucy: "May you rot in the deepest pits of Hell, you demon in man's clothing!"

Lana: "Bad dog! Bad dog!"

Lola: "Sibling snatching scumbag!"

Lisa: "Go back to the sludge where you came from, you robot murderer!"

[Lily stuck her tongue out and blew a raspberry at Alex.]

Lynn Sr.: "Well put, Lily."

Rita: "I only have two letters for you, Alex Santiago: F and U!"

[Rita pointed her index and middle fingers up as she said each letter.]

Deidre: "Yeah! And I'm following that with C, K, and U!"

[Deidre raised one middle finger and then the other before pointing both of them at Alex. At that moment, Clyde finally managed to speak as he glared at Alex.]

Clyde: "You had a chance, Alex Santiago. A chance to turn your life around, but you threw it away. And now you must answer for it."

[Of course, Alex didn't hear any of those insults as he was still out cold. Alex was then thrown into the back of the second FBI van before they got in and drove away with Alex in tow. Castleton, Wes, T-Bone, and Trent stayed behind as the van drove off while its siren blared.]

Rita: "And don't you EVER come near my family again, you bastard! Do you hear me?!"

[Lynn Sr. put his hands over his wife's shoulders to calm her down. By that time, T-Bone limped over to Albert and Mr. Dupree.]

Mr. Dupree: "You know, if it were up to me, that man would've had a bullet in his brain by now."

Albert: "I'd have all of his teeth taken out if I had the chance, the big baby."

T-Bone: "Took the words right out of my mouth, Al."

[And with that, the two men bumped each other's fists.]

Castleton: "All the same, we best let the FBI handle him. Whatever happens to Alex is none of our concern now."

Lucy: "I sincerely hope that's the end for him this time."

Lisa: "Considering the number of times he's threatened our lives, three to be exact, and the fact that he is now paralyzed, from what I could observe, the chances of him going for a fourth wind are highly unlikely. As such, I can safely conclude with 100% confirmation that Alex Santiago is officially down and out for the count."

Leni: "He really didn't have to do all these things. He could've just left us alone and moved on."

Lynn Sr.: "Well, what's done is done. Nothing we can do about it now."

Deidre: "I still can't believe that Palmer would side with Alex after over thirty years on the force. I know he was only trying to protect his daughter, but did he have to risk the lives of many citizens to do so? What do you think, Castleton?"

[Castleton just sighed. He still couldn't fathom the fact that his former superior would turn his back on the R.W.P.D. like that, even if it was to keep his own daughter safe from death's door. He also thought about Koch, who despite his role in Alex's attack, died while trying to stall Alex. This was a hard and troubling blow to Castleton's life, coupled with the deaths of Joseph and Lang.]

Mr. Dupree: "I think Ian might need some time to think things over."

Deidre: "I can't blame him, honestly. From what I've heard, Palmer's been like a second father to him. And the losses of Joseph and Lang don't exactly help either."

T-Bone: "And I heard about what happened to Koch as well. We found his body on the way back here and it was a pretty nasty sight. From what Cass told me, Koch risked his own life just to help take down Alex. I will never forget what he did to me and Rodd prior, but... I guess the poor son of a bitch was just down on his luck."

Deidre: "I hate to admit it, but... Maybe you've got a point there."

[Just then, another group of FBI units arrived with a wooden box before setting it right next to the group.]

FBI Operative: "I take it these devices are yours?"

[The Loud family members reached into the box and took out their cell phones, as well as Luna's MP3 player. The phones have previously been taken by Alex's goons and stored in the barn so that they wouldn't try to contact the police. Trent then walked over to the team leader and spoke to him.]

Trent: "Status report, Charlie Leader."

Charlie Leader: "We have secured the field on the hill, sir..."

Trent: "That's good. Any news on Rosato?"

Charlie Leader: "Negative, sir... No sign of Rosato. Nothing but three dead bikers and a lone puddle of blood."

Trent: "Damn. He must be one real slippery bastard."

[As the operative continued speaking with his superior, Deidre looked over at Clyde, who was talking with Lincoln about his last encounter with Alex. As Deidre continued to observe the conversation, she thought to herself.]

Deidre: I think maybe it's time... I just hope he understands.

[Deidre took a deep breath before she walked over to Clyde.]

Deidre: "Hey, uh... Clyde, is it? Do you mind if we had a little talk? Just the two of us?"

[Clyde looked at Lincoln, who simply shrugged at his best friend.]

Clyde: "Sure thing, ma'am."

Deidre: "Thank you."

[And with that, Deidre took Clyde by the hand, and they both walked across the road.]

Deidre: "You know, Clyde. I really wasn't expecting my best friend's kid to be your best friend."

Clyde: "Well, Lincoln and I have been pretty close since Halloween five years ago. We may have the occasional rift from time to time, but we're still Clincoln McCloud all the way."

[Deidre let out a small chuckle after hearing that name.]

Deidre: "Just like his mother and me. Anyway, I'm glad you have someone looking out for you for all these years...apart from your fathers, of course."

[Clyde tilted his head and raised his brow as he continued to stare at the woman.]

Clyde: "Uhhh... Where exactly is this going? If you have thoughts on your mind, you're more than welcome to share them with me."

[Deidre looked away for a moment as she rubbed her arm.]

Deidre: "Well, this is going to be a bit of a shock, but I'll try to explain it as delicately as I can."

Clyde: "Explain what? How long have you known Mrs. Loud exactly?"

Deidre: "I've known her since high school... But... I've also known you since you were a baby... If only for a little bit."

Clyde: "You knew me? What are you saying?"

[Deidre took a deep breath before getting down on one knee and looking into Clyde's eyes as the McBride boy continued to look with curiosity.]

Deidre: "Clyde... I've never told you this before, but... The thing is that... Clyde, I-"

[Before Deidre could reveal the truth, the whole group heard a vehicle's horn beeping and turned to see a familiar red minivan approaching them.]

Clyde: "Dads!"

[The van pulled over to the side of the road and the McBrides got out before running over to Clyde and embracing him. Tears leaked from the taller McBride's eyes as he hugged his son tightly.]

Howard: "Clyde! Oh, my baby, you're safe!"

Harold: "Thank heavens! Are you hurt?"

Clyde: "A little shaken, but I'm alright. This woman saved my life!"

[Clyde motioned over to Deidre, who simply crossed her arms and flashed a small smile at the two McBride men.]

Howard: "We can't thank you enough!"

Harold: "He's right, Deidre! Words cannot express how thankful we are for our son's safety."

Deidre: "I'm only doing my job, Mr. McBrides. No need to thank me."

[Rita then turned her attention to the McBrides and walked over to them.]

Rita: "Harold, Howard, I know this might seem inconvenient, but could you maybe drive us to the hospital? Lori's having her baby and our van is out of service."

[Harold and Howard's eyes widened at the news before the two men looked at each other. Then they looked at the overturned Vanzilla nearby and saw what Rita was talking about.]

Clyde: "Please, Dads? They have no other way to get there, and they really want to see the baby arrive."

Lana: "We promise we won't be any trouble if you help us out."

Lola: "Yeah! Cross our hearts."

[The two McBrides looked at one another again. They never forgot about the time the Loud sisters came over to their house and stressed them both out. But seeing how dire this situation was, as well as their need to repay Deidre for saving Clyde, their answer to Rita became clear.]

Harold: "Alright, Rita. Whatever needs to be done."

Howard: "We'll grin and bear it until we get to the hospital."

Lynn Sr.: "Thank you both so much! Alright, everyone, let's go for a ride!"

[With that, the Loud family, Clyde, and Ronnie Anne piled into the van and Harold started the engine before looking over at Deidre again.]

Harold: "Once again, thank you for your help. We would ask you to come, but the van is pretty packed, as you can see. Sorry about this."

Deidre: "It's fine, Mr. McBride! Besides, I think I got things handled here... You just...keep a sharp eye on your son. Okay? I'll probably even be back in town later... Who knows?"

[Harold nodded, and the group set off for the hospital, leaving Deidre where she was at the clearing. She watched the van go off in the distance as a tear started to fall down her cheek. She had a chance to tell Clyde who she really was, and she just missed it. But with what was still going on, now wasn't a good time to tell him just yet. Maybe she'll have better luck once the fiasco in Royal Woods is all settled.]

Deidre: "Good luck, old friend... We'll meet again soon... And you too...sweet pea. The next time I see you, you'll know the truth... Hopefully."

[Deidre sighed while T-Bone walked beside her and put his arm around the woman.]

T-Bone: "You going to be alright, Burg- *ahem* Detective Hayes?"

Deidre: "Yeah, T-Baby... You heard what the little genius said. Outlaw Al and his so-called Loud Silencers cult have just been silenced themselves. There might be a few stragglers left out there, but without their savior, they won't last a week on their own."

T-Bone: "You got a point there, D. I doubt that any of them will want to keep backing that asshole El Jefe now."

Albert: "Well, Lester, I think our work here is done. Now how about taking me to the hospital?"

Mr. Dupree: "Ah, why the hell not, Albert? I'm not letting you miss your first great-grandson come into this world, am I?"

[As Mr. Dupree got into the driver seat of his car, Albert looked over at T-Bone.]

Albert: "You coming with us, T-Bone?"

T-Bone: "Can't, Al! I've yet to be exonerated. You best get going without me!"

Deidre: "Don't you worry about T, Pops. I'll be sure to vouch for him during the process."

Albert: "Ok, then. See ya later, D. It was nice seeing you again."

[And with that, Albert ran to Mr. Dupree's car and got in the passenger seat. As soon as Albert got his seatbelt on, Mr. Dupree started the engine as he drove to the hospital.]

T-Bone: "You take care out there, Al! And tell your great-grandkid I said hi!"

Albert: "Will do, T! Hope you get out soon!"

Deidre: "And tell Rita that I might be seeing her again real soon!"

Albert: "I'll make sure not to forget about that, Deidre!"

[As T-Bone and Deidre watched Lester and Albert drive off, the two heard footsteps coming from behind them.]

Castleton: "Bonneville? Detective Hayes?"

[Both T-Bone and Deidre turned around and saw Castleton walk up to them with Wes right beside him.]

T-Bone: "What's the word, Sarge?"

Castleton: "First of all, I want to say... Thank you for your help."

T-Bone: "Hey, no problem, Cass-man. Sorry about your partner, though. I know I was kind of rough on him, and for good reason, too, but... Hearing how he sacrificed his own skin to save yours, I can't help but feel pity for him."

Deidre: "Yeah... I knew he wasn't a saint, but I think he has atoned for his past deeds."

Castleton: "I know... When the chief comes back, I'll tell him everything about the events that happened, especially Bonneville's part in stopping Alex. Both of your efforts will not be forgotten. But for now, Terrance... If you're ready..."

T-Bone: "Say no more, Sarge. Now that Alex and the Loud Silencers are done for, I think I'm ready to turn myself in right about now."

[T-Bone put his hands behind his back and turned around, allowing Castleton to cuff the biker's wrists. Afterwards, Castleton and Deidre escorted the former BoEMC sergeant-at-arms to Castleton's cruiser and put him in the back seat. Once he was seated, T-Bone looked up at Deidre as the woman leaned on the car and looked at T-Bone through the window.]

Deidre: "Don't you worry, T. We'll make sure you're back on your feet once all this is over, or my name isn't Deidre Burgundy Hayes."

T-Bone: "Thanks, Burg. I'm sure that every one of Alex's biker chumps in town are either dead or arrested by now. But now that BoEMC and SoEMC are almost completely wiped out, I might have to start looking for a new hobby or career. I think I'll go into law enforcement somehow, maybe bounty hunting at the very least."

Deidre: "I'm sure we can work something out for ya, T. After all, you're one of the few remaining good guys."

[T-Bone gave his comrade a smile while Castleton got in the driver's seat. Deidre then got in the car's passenger seat before putting on her safety belt while Wes joined T-Bone in the back.]

Castleton: "So, Hayes. What are you going to do once things have settled down?"

Deidre: "Well, let's just say I have some unfinished business that I need to take care of in Royal Woods, which is why I'm planning on moving back there. Rita and I still have some catching up to do. Plus... I need to speak to the McBrides about something."

[Castleton turned his head to look at Deidre.]

Castleton: "Speak to the McBrides? About what?"

Deidre: "They were caught in Santiago's crime spree, so I want to go check in on them once the dust settles. Also, I have to tell them something about... their adopted son."

Castleton: "Detective Hayes, what do you know about the McBride Family? And their son for that matter?"

[Deidre looked ahead for a few seconds before answering Castleton's question.]

Deidre: "It's kind of a personal question, Castleton. That's all I can say."

Castleton: "I understand, Hayes. But what about your superiors in the D.P.D.?"

Deidre: "I'll call and tell them that I'm taking a leave of absence. I'm sure they'll understand. Maybe I'll find a new line of work while I'm in town, and maybe I'll bump into Rita again. What about you? You headin' back to the station?"

[Castleton sighed.]

Castleton: "I don't know if I want to go back to the R.W.P.D., not after that whole business with Palmer."

Deidre: "Yeah... I hear you. What are you going to say to the chief?"

Castleton: "We'll see once he comes back. But for now, let's just get out of here. This place has nothing left but bad memories."

Deidre: "No argument there, Sarge. Let's go."

[Castleton started the engine and turned on the siren before he and Deidre drove back to Royal Woods with T-Bone and Wes. As Castleton drove down the road, he looked at Wes through the mirror.]

Castleton: "By the way, Wes... We still need to have that talk about your... interaction with Miss Mulligan."

[Wes sighed as he lowered his head in shame.]

Wes: "Yes, Sir... I'll explain when we're alone."

Later that evening, back in Royal Woods...

[The McBrides, Louds, and Ronnie Anne arrived back in Royal Woods, followed by Mr. Dupree and Albert. As they drove through town, the kids could see police and FBI patrolling the streets and restoring order to the town. Bikers were being lined up and arrested by SWAT teams and rounded up in vans to be taken to jail. In other places the several dead bodies of bikers, law officers, or innocent citizens were being covered and taken away. Firefighters were also putting out any fires that were caused by the rioting bikers, on cars, trucks, and buildings. Paramedics were also tending to any injured officers or citizens on the streets or in any of the buildings. Howard was on the verge of tears as he also saw the sights passing by.]

Leni: "This is horrible. All those people didn't have to suffer for that meanie's plan."

Lisa: "It's going to take a matter of days for everyone to recover from this crisis, if not weeks. But all the same, Alex Santiago's outlandish plan was doomed right from the start."

Lucy: "But at what cost? All this violence and destruction just for one family? It takes a lot of nerve for someone as soulless as Alex to do the things he did."

Ronnie Anne: "Don't I know it."

[Harold adjusted the rear-view mirror and looked at the kids through it.]

Harold: "Alright, kids. I think it's best not to talk about Alex anymore."

Howard: "Harold's right. This conversation is just too upsetting for me to handle."

Lynn: "They might have a point there. Besides, the faster we get to the hospital, the faster my fingers can get fixed. Oh, and we need to be there to see Lori's baby arrive."

[Finally, the McBrides, Louds, and Ronnie Anne arrived at Royal Woods General Hospital, which was one of the few buildings unaffected by the chaos in town. The facility was being used as a safe haven to house and treat any innocent people injured in the chaos and there were a few FBI troopers guarding the building in case any remnants of Alex's rogues showed up and tried to seek refuge or even hold more citizens hostage. In any case, Harold parked the van in front of the building before the Louds and Ronnie Anne got out.]

Clyde: "Good luck, Lincoln! We'll be with you in a few minutes!"

[And with that, the McBrides went to look for a place to park the van.]

[At the same time, Albert and Mr. Dupree arrived and stopped in front of the hospital before Albert got out.]

Albert: "Thanks for the lift, old friend!"

Mr. Dupree: "Best of luck to you, Al! And give my regards to the new kid!"

Albert: "I'll keep that in mind!"

[As Mr. Dupree drove off, the Louds, Albert, and Ronnie Anne ran towards the building and through the automated doors before stopping at the front desk where a nurse sat in her chair reading a magazine. Lynn Sr. rang the bell on the desk numerous times to get the nurse's attention. The nurse, getting bothered by the noise, lowered her magazine and looked over at the father of eleven.]

Desk Nurse: "May I help you, sir?"

Lynn Sr.: "I'm looking for my daughter! She's having her baby! Which room is she in?!"

Desk Nurse: "What's her name?"

Lynn Sr.: "Lori Loud! She recently came here with her boyfriend! Where is she?"

Desk Nurse: "And her doctor's name?"

Rita: "Elaine Crawley, MD!"

[The secretary nurse started searching through her computer files until she came across the very file she was told about.]

Desk Nurse: "Ah, yes. Lori Loud. She's in room 502 on the fifth floor."

Lynn Sr.: "Thank you so much! Oh, and my other daughter here's got two fingers bitten off and she needs major medical attention."

[Luna took the dismembered fingers out of her skirt pocket and put them on the desk before the nurse took a good look at them. Then, the nurse turned her attention to the athletic Loud's bandaged and bloodied hand.]

Desk Nurse: "Oh dear, that is serious... We'll have to get her to the emergency room as fast as possible. She'll have to stay here in the meantime."

Lynn: "Just get going, guys. I'll be okay. I'll meet you once my hand's all fixed up."

[With that, the group made their way to the elevators while Lynn sat in the lobby. Lynn Sr., Luna, Luan, Lana, Lisa, and Albert went in one elevator while Rita, Lily, Leni, Lucy, Lola, Lincoln and Ronnie Anne went in the other just as the doors to Lynn Sr.'s elevator closed. Rita pushed the button to the fifth floor and the doors closed before the elevator started going up. As Rita's elevator was past the second floor, Lincoln spoke to the readers.]

Lincoln: "Well, everyone, this is it...the moment of truth. Once Lori's baby arrives, a whole new life is going to begin for us. I just hope that everything goes smoothly from here on out."

Lola: "Would you stop talking to the walls, Lincoln? It's not helping."

Rita: "Lola, shhh!"

[Finally, the elevator arrived on the fifth floor after the first half of the group emerged from the other. When nearly everyone was back together, the whole party continued their way to the maternity ward.]

Meanwhile, in Room 502...

[Lori laid in her bed while wearing a baby blue hospital gown. She was in extreme pain as Bobby held her hand while Dr. Crawley sat in a chair monitoring them.]

Lori: "I'm so scared, Bobby... Hi... Thank you so much for standing by me through this."

Bobby: "Hang in there, Babe, okay? Just don't forget your breathing."

[Lori glared angrily at her boyfriend before speaking to him through gritted teeth.]

Lori: "Don't you patronize me, Santiago! I've already got enough of that from Lisa!"

[Bobby let out a nervous chuckle in response to his girlfriend's mood swing.]

Bobby: "Sure thing, babe."

[Bobby then looked over at Dr. Crawley.]

Bobby: "How much longer, Doctor?"

Dr. Crawley: "It shouldn't be too long, Bobby. I'd say about a couple more hours until everything is ready."

Bobby: "I really hope so."

[At that moment, they heard a knock on the door.]

Dr. Crawley: "Who is it?"

"It's Rita. I got my whole family with me."

Dr. Crawley: "Wait right there, Rita. I'm coming."

[The doctor got up from her chair and opened the door to find the Loud family and Ronnie Anne waiting for them with Rita at the front. Bobby caught sight of his sister and ran over to embrace her tightly.]

Bobby: "Nie-Nie! Oh, I'm muy happy you're alright!"

Ronnie Anne: "Don't mention it, Bobby."

[Lori let out another pained yell, prompting Bobby to run back over to her side again.]

Dr. Crawley: "Ah! Rita! You're just in time. I don't know what exactly happened to you out there, but I don't think I should pry into that matter. Anyway, it would seem that your daughter has almost fully dilated. I could use some extra help, if you don't mind. Lori will need at least one of her parental figures by her side through this experience, if that's okay with her."

Rita: "That would be nice."

[Dr. Crawley then looked over at Lori.]

Dr. Crawley: "Lori?"

Lori: "I'd literally be lying if I said no thanks. Ahh!"

[Rita then turned around to look at her family.]

Rita: "Alright, everyone into the waiting room. I have to make sure Lori pulls through this."

[The kids started to complain about not being in the room to help or at the very least watch.]

Lynn Sr.: "Kids, listen to your mother!"

Albert: "C'mon, kids. Your mother and Lori need all the space they can get."

[The kids groaned as Lynn Sr. and Albert led them back to the waiting room.]

Luna: "It's always the same every time."

Luan: "Well, that baby better come out soon. We've all been aunt-ticipating this moment for months!"

[Luan laughed, and as per usual, her siblings and Ronnie Anne groaned. Not even Lynn Sr. or Albert were in the mood to laugh as they were still worried about Lori.]

Ronnie Anne: "Luan, I never thought I'd say this... But I am getting really sick of the puns..."

Luan: "Then maybe you should see a doctor. I mean, there's plenty of them around this establishment."

[Luan laughed again while Ronnie Anne groaned and put her hands over her face.]

Luan: "Get it?"

Ronnie Anne: "I had to walk right into that one, didn't I?"

One hour later...

[About one hour had passed since the Louds and Ronnie Anne arrived at the hospital. Everyone was in the waiting room as they waited for news in their own way. Lincoln and Ronnie Anne were pacing back and forth, Leni was reading a fashion magazine, Luna was chilling on her seat while drumming her fingers on the arm rests, Luan rocked left and right on her chair, Lucy sat under her own chair writing a poem, Lana and Lola were sitting beside their father, Lisa was making notes on how long it's been, Lynn Sr. was playing with Lily, and Albert simply sat down watching his grandson and the young Santiago girl pace.]

[Seeing his grandson pacing reminded him of himself, waiting for Rita to give birth to Lori. The only member of the Louds who was still not present was Lynn, as she was in the emergency room having her fingers fixed. At that moment, Luan decided to make a joke.]

Luan: "Hey, Lincoln, it's been an hour. Don't you think you and Ronnie Anne oughta pace yourselves?"

[As usual, Luan laughed while nearly everyone else groaned. Albert and Lynn Sr. remained silent.]

Luan: "Get it?"

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah...we do... But it doesn't help."

Lincoln: "She should be glad that Lynn isn't here right now. Not that it bothers her in the slightest."

Luna: "You might as well get used to it, R.A., because the waiting is the hardest part...and I should know."

Lisa: "We should ALL know that by now, third-eldest sibling."

[At that moment, Clyde and his fathers entered the room. Lincoln stopped pacing for a moment when he saw them.]

Lincoln: "Clyde, you made it!"

[As Harold and Howard took their seats, Clyde approached Lincoln as the Loud boy went back to pacing.]

Clyde: "Where's Lori? Did she have the baby?"

Lincoln: "No, Clyde. Not yet."

Clyde: "Oh... Well, any news on Lynn?"

Ronnie Anne: "Not at the moment. We're not sure if she's going to get her fingers back."

Clyde: "Oh, well... She could still play sports without them, can't she?"

Lisa: "That is a possibility, Clyde, considering that our fifth eldest sister has just lost her left middle and index fingers. But, even if they get reattached, they might not work as they used to. Worst case scenario, her ability to play sports will be limited."

[Just then, a news report came on the TV hanging from the ceiling in the corner of the room.]

"We now return to Channel 3 News with anchorman, Tucker Tucket."

[Most of the Louds, the McBrides, and Ronnie Anne watched the screen as Tucker spoke.]

Tucker: "Good evening, folks. We have just received some breaking news regarding the LSR's raid on Royal Woods. The leader of the LSR, Alex Santiago, has finally been recaptured by FBI members in the woods near his hideout outside of town after being paralyzed by R.W.P.D. sergeant Ian Castleton of Castleton Files fame. Without their leader, the remaining members of Santiago's gang in town are either standing down or attempting to fight back with very little success. Though it seems that few others managed to escape, they shouldn't pose a threat to our beloved town without motivation. The Detroit Police Department and the FBI are now helping to restore order all over town and the LSR are capitulating. It'll be a long recovery for the citizens of Royal Woods, but it'll all be worth it in the end. As for Alex Santiago himself, he will be transported out of the state of Michigan, sent directly to death row in Ohio and be placed under maximum security. And because of the severity of his crimes committed since the Saint Valentine's Day Breakout, as well as his role in the Clubhouse Massacre, plans for his execution will soon be underway."

Leni: "Like, that's great."

Luna: "Yeah! Good riddance to bad rubbish! Hopefully, things can only get better."

Tucker: "In related news, a small group in the LSR, whose name shall remain unsaid, was found dead outside of the LSR's hideout. The leader of this all-woman group, Katrina Blue, was responsible for at least 65 counts of child rape and murder since 1977 and had attempted to do the same thing to 12-year-old Lincoln Loud and Clyde McBride along with three other accomplices. However, Blue had committed suicide following the deaths of her accomplices at the hands of undercover Detroit police detective, Deidre Hayes, whose brother was also a victim of Blue decades prior."

[The small screen on the program then showed an image of Deidre. The Loud sisters were shocked at this news before looking at their only brother, who nearly had his innocence taken from him along with Clyde. Ronnie Anne also gave her friend a hug when she also found out about this.]

Lincoln: "I'm okay, girls. But I'd rather not talk about that."

[Clyde put his arm around Lincoln.]

Clyde: "I have to agree with you there, buddy. That was a pretty near experience for the both of us, though it could've been much worse."

[Harold and Howard were also shocked at this news. The slender McBride was also pretty mortified, both at the fact that his son nearly had his innocence stripped from him and at how Deidre dealt with Katrina and her group, so much so that he was on the verge of tears.]

Howard: "Oh my word..."

[Harold held his husband's hand for comfort.]

Harold: "Howie, let's not try and think about it anymore. Our son is okay, and that's all that matters."

[Howard let out a sigh of uncertainty.]

Howard: "I know, Hare-Bear. It's just..."

Harold: "It's okay. The hard part is all over...for now."

[Howard looked over at his son, who was still standing by Lincoln. He was glad that Clyde was okay but was also worried that the boy had to witness Deidre kill those women, even if those women were awful people that wanted to have their way with Clyde. He wanted to get up off that chair and hug his son tightly, but he knew that Clyde was right... Things could've ended up being much worse for him if Deidre hadn't shown up.]

[Lynn Sr. was also shocked at the news before becoming lost in his thoughts.]

Lynn Sr.: I'm going to have a word with Rita about this soon.

Tucker: "And in unrelated news, our very own field reporter and occasional co-anchor, Katherine Mulligan had to be let go today after rumors of leaving Lincoln Loud on the streets outside the Tetherby Mansion have resurfaced and were later confirmed to be true, as well as recent rumors of relations with Castleton Files cameraman, Wesley Delmar. We here at Channel 3 News know how important it is to take out the trash every night, so without further ado, let's watch the footage."

[The scene then transitions to the outside of the Channel 3 studio where Katherine's old camera crew were filming the whole thing. There were also news teams from other stations covering the scene as well.]

Gordy: "Oh man, this is gonna be so sweet."

Reg: "Shh, shh! Here she comes."

[Just then, the front doors opened, and two hefty security guards were escorting a downtrodden Katherine out of the building while tears and mascara streaked down her face. Once they were outside, one of the guards shoved Katherine forwards and she fell face first onto the pavement before the second guard threw a loaded trash bag at her. The bag broke and its contents were all over Katherine as soon as it landed on her.]

Aaron: "That's for making me crash my helicopter, Kathy!"

Chad: "See you in the funny papers, Muddigan!"

[As the guards went back inside and shut the doors, another reporter walked up to Katherine as she got back up.]

Reporter: "Miss Mulligan? Do you wish to comment on your recent firing?"

[Katherine simply looked into the camera with her tear-stricken face as she angrily explained what happened to her.]

Katherine: "One, I was a scapegoat in a bigger picture. And two, if there's anyone who's at fault for this, anyone at all, it's Alex Santiago. He and his gang are the ones to blame! He even hired a group of child molesters to aid in his work! CHILD MOLESTERS! I was nearly raped by those criminals, for God's sake! I hope he gets the death sentence soon, that DIRTY MOTHER-"

[The footage then cuts to the colors screen as a long beep goes off.]

[Tucker then moves his eyes left and right for a bit before clearing his throat.]

Tucker: "Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag now. Or in this case, out of the studio. But in all seriousness, auditions will be held for Mulligan's replacement once normality has been restored to our town. This is Tucker Tucket saying: Stay tuned."

[As the program cut to commercial, Luan decided to crack a joke.]

Luan: "Well, I guess Kathy will be getting her own show now: Trash Talk!"

[Luan laughed while everyone else groaned, as per usual.]

Luan: "Get it?"

[Ronnie Anne grabbed Lincoln by the arm and spoke quietly into his ear.]

Ronnie Anne: "Ok... Lincoln, remind me to prank Luan hard once April Fool's Day rolls around this year."

Lincoln: "I'll make sure not to forget about that, Ronnie Anne."

[As Lincoln kept pacing, he looked down at the ground and muttered to himself.]

Lincoln: "I just hope that Lori and her family will be safe at their apartment when that day comes."

Meanwhile, in the maternity ward...

[Two hours have passed, and Lori had recently been transported to the delivery room to have the baby. After a few minutes, Dr. Crawley came in wearing medical scrubs and gloves followed by Bobby, Rita, and two nurses, all of whom were also wearing medical scrubs and gloves.]

Dr. Crawley: "Alright, Lori. Let's see how you're doing."

[Dr. Crawley walked over to Lori and checked her cervix until she felt the baby's head.]

Dr. Crawley: "Yep. It looks like everything is ready."

Lori: "About damn time."

Dr. Crawley: "Yes, and we better get started right now. No time to waste."

[Bobby and Rita each stood on one side of Lori and held her hands while the two nurses held both of the 18-year-old Loud's legs.]

Bobby: "This is it, Babe. This is the moment we've all been waiting for."

Lori: "I know... It's so hard to believe it."

Dr. Crawley: "Alright, Lori. I'm going to count to ten, and when I say three, you start pushing until I make it to ten. Then you just keep on doing it a few more times until the baby is finally out. Okay?"

Lori: "Yeah, I got it."

Dr. Crawley: "Okay... Are you ready? One... Two... Three... Push!"

[And with that, Lori groaned as she started putting all pressure on her pelvis and stopped to take a breather when Dr. Crawley counted to ten.]

Dr. Crawley: "That's a good start, Lori. You're doing fine. One... Two... Three... Push!"

[On Dr. Crawley's cue, Lori started pushing again for another ten seconds before taking time to breathe. This kept on for at least a few minutes and Lori was in extreme pain from the whole experience.]

Lori: "AARGH! Get this baby out of me! I can't stand it!"

[Lori reached her fourth ten second mark and took another breather.]

Bobby: "Come on, Babe! You're doing great!"

[Lori gripped her boyfriend's hand with extreme force as she stared daggers at him.]

Lori: "Am I FEELING great?! You literally did this to me, you dimwit! I oughta-"

[Lori screamed in pain as she started pushing again while squeezing the hands of both her boyfriend and her mother incredibly tight. Dr. Crawley started again slowly as this was going on.]

Bobby: "Ah-ah-ahhhh! My hand!"

Dr. Crawley: "And stop."

[As Dr. Crawley reached 10, Lori stopped pushing for a moment and started breathing again.]

Rita: "Owch! Now, I think I know how your father felt!"

Lori: "Sorry!"

Dr. Crawley: "You're almost there, Lori! Just one more push!"

Lori: "I don't know if I can do it! This is so hard!"

Bobby: "C'mon, Lori! I didn't risk my life to save you and Ronnie Anne for you to give up! If you can talk down to my father, then you can bring our baby into this world! I believe in you!"

Rita: "He's right, honey! Just one last push for your family! One last push for a lifetime of happiness! I know you can do this!"

Bobby: "Be strong, Lori... This one's for our little bumblebee."

[Upon hearing the encouraging words from her boyfriend and mother, Lori gave them both a smile before speaking.]

Lori: "Okay... I'll give it all I've got."

Bobby: "Gracias, Babe. You can do it."

Dr. Crawley: "Okay... I think this is it! Do you need something for the pain?"

Lori: "No... I think I'll be fine. I literally want to see little Bumblebee come into this world."

Dr. Crawley: "Alright then... One... Two... Three... Push!"

[And with that, Lori started pushing again as she felt her inner walls beginning to stretch out. Dr. Crawley started counting to ten again as the baby's head was now crowning.]

Dr. Crawley: "I can see the baby's head! Just a bit more!"

Bobby: "You hear that, Lori? Our little bumblebee's almost here!"

Dr. Crawley: "One... Two... Three... Push!"

[As Dr. Crawley began counting again, Lori screamed and tightened her grip on Bobby and Rita's hands as she pushed with all of her strength. Her walls stretched further with every passing second, and then...]

Lori: "!"

[Lori let out a soft gasp, and after a few seconds of silence, the small cries of an infant filled the whole room as he entered the world. Bobby and Rita looked ahead to see the small newborn child being carried by Dr. Crawley as he cried. Lori saw her child for a brief moment and smiled before passing out from exhaustion. As Lori closed her eyes and laid her head down on her pillow, she heard three voices warping down before everything went black and silent.]

Dr. Crawley: "Alright...there we go..."

Rita: "Oh my... goodness..."

Bobby: "Babe... are... you... alright...?"

15 minutes later...

[Lori moaned and slowly opened her eyes to see that her boyfriend and mother were still beside her. They were all back in Room 502, but the lights were dimmed. She also noticed that Bobby and Rita each had a bandage on one hand due to the injuries sustained from Lori's tight grip.]

Rita: "Oh, Lori! You're awake!"

Lori: "I... What did I miss?"

Bobby: "Not a whole lot, from what I saw. You were amazing back there, babe."

Lori: "Was I? Wha... Where's my baby? Is he okay?"

"Indeed he is."

[Lori turned her head towards the doorway and saw Dr. Crawley enter the room followed by one of the nurses from before as said nurse held the sleeping baby wrapped in blue blankets in her arms.]

Dr. Crawley: "Congratulations, Lori. Your baby boy is the picture of perfect health."

Rita: "And a pretty picture at that."

[Lori was in awe as she saw the bundle in the nurse's arms. The nurse then handed the baby over to Lori and she cradled him in her loving arms. As Lori looked over her baby, his skin was a light tan, and he had a small tuft of black hair on his round head. He looked exactly like the child she saw in her dreams, something which Bobby also agreed on. After hours of being in immense pain, as well as dealing with Alex and his cronies prior to her labor stages, Lori was now holding her firstborn child for the very first time. The eldest Loud sister felt tears leaking from her eyes again as she continued to look down at the baby's face.]

Lori: "Oh, Boo-Boo Bear. He is literally perfect."

[Bobby wrapped one arm around Lori, and the other around his newborn son. He couldn't have been happier than he and Lori felt at that very moment. Dr. Crawley wished everyone the best of luck and left the room along with the nurse while shutting the door as quietly as she could.]

Bobby: "You did it, Babe... He's amazing."

Lori: "Literally...right? He looks just like you...mostly."

Bobby: "That's true... He's got my hair and your nose as well. He's like a little ángel, isn't he?"

Lori: "Of course he is... Our little angel... Our little baby bumblebee."

Bobby: "That, he is... After everything that's happened to us... I think it was all worth the wait. You should've seen me cut the cord earlier."

Lori: "Well, can you blame me? Giving birth wasn't exactly a cakewalk... But I'm literally so happy that Bumblebee is finally here."

[Rita smiled as she watched the couple doting over their first child. Seeing this took her back to the day when Lincoln was born. She saw herself in her bed holding her son while her husband looked down at them with a smile on his face. The mother of eleven felt tears forming in her eyes at the sight but decided to stay strong as she wiped them from her face.]

Bobby: "You okay, Rita?"

Rita: "I'll be fine... I... better go tell the others the good news. Just don't go anywhere until I get back. Okay?"

[Lori smirked at her mother.]

Lori: "Mom, I'm literally not going anywhere right now."

Rita: "I know, Lori."

[With that, Rita turned around and started walking out of the room. She was almost out of the doorway when she heard her daughter speak up.]

Lori: "Mom?"

[Rita turned around to look at her daughter.]

Rita: "Yes, hon?"

Lori: "Can Lincoln be the first to see the baby?"

Bobby: "And Ronnie Anne too? And maybe the Clydesdale as well?"

[Rita nodded and left the room, closing the door as quietly as she could. Bobby and Lori looked at their baby as he yawned and slowly started to open his eyes before looking around, adjusting to the light. As Bobby and Lori looked at their son's eyes, they were about as blue as the moon outside.]

Bobby: "Look at that, babe. He has your eyes."

[The baby looked up at the blonde human.]

Lori: "Hi, my little bumblebee... It's mommy. Welcome to the world."

[And with that, Lori began to nuzzle her baby, who smiled at his mother's affection.]

Bobby: "He already knows who you are, Babe. He was laying right on top of you while you were out."

[Just then, the baby turned his attention to the human with black hair who was leaning over the bed.]

Bobby: "Hola, little guy. I'm your papi. You arrived a little earlier than expected, but it's so nice to finally meet you."

[Bobby put his hand on his newborn son's head and caressed it lovingly, making the baby smile and gurgle. Bobby's eyes started tearing up as he looked at his son before touching Lori's forehead with his own.]

Bobby: "I knew you could do it, Lori. I really am proud of you."

Lori: "Oh, Bobby Boo-Boo Bear. I love you with all my heart...literally both of you."

[And with that, Bobby and Lori pressed their lips together and kissed each other. Lori then gave her son a kiss on the head before Bobby did the same.]

Bobby: "I love you too, babe, and bumblebee."

[Bobby then turned his attention to his newborn son.]

Bobby: "Your mami and I have thought of the perfect name for you, hijo. Won't your uncle be surprised?"

Meanwhile, in the waiting room...

[The Louds, McBrides, Albert, and Ronnie Anne continued to wait for news. Lincoln and Ronnie Anne were still pacing, Leni was looking through another fashion magazine, Luna played air guitar as she listened to music on her MP3 player, Luan had her arms and legs crossed as she sat in her seat, Lynn (who had recently came back from surgery) was doing sit-ups on the floor, Lucy remained under her chair as she continued to write her poem, Lana and Lola were playing with a puzzle, Lisa continued to write notes, Lynn Sr. was now fast asleep in his chair as Lily sat on her father's lap while holding on to his sweater, Clyde was also pacing with Lincoln and Ronnie Anne as his parents watched him, and Albert was checking the clock every few seconds. However, the McBride boy was pacing for a different reason.]

[As Clyde continued to pace, he thought about that woman who saved him from being stripped of his dignity. The same woman that had something to tell him before his fathers showed up. There were so many questions racing through his mind, and they were driving him crazy.]

Clyde: What was it that she wanted to say? What exactly does she know about me? Maybe if I see her again, I'll know.

[Just then, Rita came into the waiting room with a smile on her face.]

Rita: "Everyone, I have great news..."

[Most of the Louds, the McBrides, and Ronnie Anne looked at her in anticipation while Lynn Sr. remained fast asleep.]

Rita: "The baby is here, and he's perfectly healthy!"

[After making a small collective gasp, the Loud sisters let out a chorus of delightful squeals. Lincoln continued to stare at his mother with wonder while Clyde and Ronnie Anne shielded their ears from the noise (the latter had done so before the squealing started as she had lived with them long enough to know what was coming).]

Lisa: "Once again...EEEEEEEE! Our first nibling is here!"

Howard: "Oh joy!"

[Howard embraced his husband as Harold hugged back.]

[Lynn Sr. woke up from his nap due to his daughters' squealing.]

Lynn Sr.: "Huh? Wha-Wha-Wha? What-What did I miss?"

[Leni ran up to her father and grabbed his cheeks before looking him right in the eyes.]

Leni: "He's here, Daddy! The baby's here!"

Lynn Sr.: "Oh, is that it?"

[Lynn Sr. sputtered and stood up as the realization of those words hit him before grabbing Leni's shoulder with his free hand and looking her in the eyes.]

Lynn Sr.: "He is?!"

[Leni gave a nod at her father and the patriarch of the Louds felt a little faint at the news but was happy nonetheless.]

Lily: "Baby here, Daddy!"

Lincoln: "Mom... I'm an... uncle now?"

[Rita leaned forward and put her hands on her son's shoulders as she looked him directly in his eyes.]

Rita: "That's right, Lincoln. You're an uncle now."

[A smile slowly formed on Lincoln's face as he processed his mom's words. Ronnie Anne put her hand on her friend's shoulder to get his attention.]

Ronnie Anne: "Those are four words you never thought you'd hear this early in your life... And I never thought I'd hear them too."

[Clyde, forgetting about the brief ringing in his ears, wrapped his arms around Lincoln and Ronnie Anne, squeezing the two friends against one another.]

Clyde: "Congratulations, you two!"

[Lincoln and Ronnie Anne blushed as they looked at each other before Albert walked over to them and tousled his look-alike's hair.]

Albert: "I couldn't agree more, Linc. I am officially one of the greats now! I just can't wait to meet the little guy."

[The Loud sisters gathered around their mother wanting to see their newborn nephew, but the blonde woman whistled for everyone to settle down.]

Rita: "Now, girls! Lori wants Lincoln, Clyde, and Ronnie Anne to meet the baby first."

[The Loud girls groaned in disappointment while Lincoln, Clyde, and Ronnie Anne looked up at Rita with surprise.]

Lynn Sr.: "Now, don't you worry, girls. As soon as they're done, it'll be your turn. Why don't you come over to the nursery window until then? You'll see him there."

[The girls perked up as they heard this. Even though they'd still have to wait to see the baby in person, they had the chance to look at him at the nursery until then. Albert took Lily from Lynn Sr. and carried her in his left arm.]

Albert: "Just be careful not to disturb any of the little whippersnappers behind the glass. They could be sleeping."

[Lincoln and Ronnie Anne walked hand in hand as they, the Louds, Albert, Clyde, and Clyde's fathers followed Rita to the maternity ward. When they got there, everyone was looking at all the babies through the nursery window until they saw the slightly tan-skinned newborn sleeping in one of the beds, the bed which had the name "Loud-Santiago" written on it. The Loud sisters let out a collective "Aww!" as they gushed at the sight of their infant nephew through the window, including Lily. Lincoln, Ronnie Anne, and Clyde were also looking through the glass and were equally in awe over the baby.]

Leni: "O-M-Gosh! He is, like, totes adorbs!"

Luna: "More than adorable, Lens. He looks like an angel."

Luan: "You're not kidding there! I am simply in Awe-nt over this little guy!"

[Luan chuckled, but her family and Ronnie Anne were so focused on the baby that they forgot to be annoyed. Her father didn't even laugh as he was still fixated on his grandson.]

Lynn: "Aww, look at that cute little volleyball shaped head of his sleeping."

Lucy: "He's so adorable, even my dark heart can feel the warmth."

Lana: "Cute little bugaboo, isn't he?"

Lola: "Oh! He's so handsome...like a little prince."

Lisa: "Mother nature is simply beautiful."

Lily: "Baby..."

Albert: "That's right, Lily. Baby. That right there is your nephew."

Howard: "He is so adorable, Hare-Bear. It really makes me forget all about...everything that's happened today."

Harold: "Indeed he is, Howie. Such a darling little one."

[As Lynn Sr. and Rita kept looking at the baby through the window, the father of eleven started to tear up.]

Rita: "Look at him, Lynn. It's our first grandchild. Isn't it wonderful?"

Lynn Sr.: "Yeah... I know I said I wouldn't cry, but..."

[Lynn Sr.'s face crumbled as he continued to stare at his grandson. Finally, he couldn't hold back the tears anymore as he ran into Howard's arms, crying on his chest. The slender McBride embraced Lynn Sr. as the Loud patriarch made muffled sobs.]

Lynn Sr.: "I'm actually a grandfather now... I... already... love... him... so... much!"

Howard: "Now calm down there, Lynn... Please... You're going to get me...all..."

[And with that, Howard also started crying as he continued to embrace the father of eleven.]

Harold: "Okay, you two. I think it's best not to disturb the little ones."

[And with that, Harold guided the two crying men back to the waiting room.]

[Just then, a nurse arrived and carefully picked up the baby before taking him to Bobby and Lori's room while everyone watched.]

Rita: "Lincoln, Ronnie Anne, Clyde... If you three are ready, let's go meet the newest member of the family."

[Lincoln, Clyde, and Ronnie Anne looked at each other before answering Rita.]

Lincoln: "We're ready, mom."

Clyde: "That would be very nice, Mrs. Loud."

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah, so lead the way."

[Rita then guided her son and his two friends as they followed the nurse to Lori and Bobby's room.]

Luna: "You three take care now. When my turn comes, I will be the one to hold him in my arms."

[As soon as Rita approached the door to Room 502, she knocked on it softly a couple of times before slowly opening the door to see her eldest daughter holding the blue bundle in her arms and staring lovingly at the baby's face as Bobby stood beside her while also staring at his son's face. The two parents looked towards the matriarch of the Louds with their smiles still on their faces.]

Rita: "Go right ahead, kids."

[The three 12-year-olds walked into the room as they looked at the beautiful sight before them while Rita followed them in.]

Lori: "Here he is, Linky. Come and meet your nephew."

[Lori then showed the baby to the 12-year-old trio as they approached the bed.]

Lori: "Sweetheart, this is your Uncle Lincoln and Aunt Ronnie Anne."

Bobby: "And Uncle Clydesdale. He's particularly family as well."

[Lori let out a giggle.]

Lori: "Of course he is."

[Bobby took his son in his arms before getting down on one knee and handing the baby over to Lincoln. Upon taking the baby from his honorary brother, the snow-white haired boy looked down at his nephew as the newborn looked back up at his uncle.]

Bobby: "So... What do you think, little bro?"

[Lincoln was on the verge of tears as he kept staring down at the baby.]

Lincoln: "He's perfect... What's his name?"

[Bobby and Lori looked at each other for a brief moment and then back at Lincoln before the new father revealed his son's name.]

Bobby: "Martinez García Angelo Lincoln Loud-Santiago."

[Lincoln's eyes widened with astonishment as he stared at Bobby.]

Lincoln: "Uh... What?"

Ronnie Anne: "You serious?"

Lori: "Absolutely... But literally... We call him Marty for short."

[Finally, Lincoln let the tears flow down his face when he finally processed the thought of his name being used.]

Lincoln: "That's...a great name... I think it suits him... It really does..."

[And with that, Lincoln started to sob softly as he held the baby in his arms, prompting his mother to crouch down and pull her son in for a hug. Lori and Bobby looked at each other for a brief moment before looking back at Lincoln again. Ronnie Anne just smiled at her white-haired friend as she patted his back.]

Ronnie Anne: "Yeah... Glad to know that you're being honored. Just take it easy. Alright?"

[After a few more seconds of crying, Lincoln broke from his mother's embrace and wiped his eyes before looking down at Marty again. Lincoln then motioned his index finger over his nephew and began speaking to him as if he were speaking to the readers.]

Lincoln: "Hi... I'm your Uncle Lincoln. You are a part of the biggest family you can ever have. You've got your mommy and daddy, your grandparents and one uncle, that's me, but you also have 10 aunts who are really eager to meet you. Your life is going to get really Loud, but we all stick together like a true family should."

[Rita smiled and put her hand on her son's head as he finished his welcoming speech to Marty. The baby then grabbed Lincoln's finger with his tiny hands before sucking on it. Lincoln's heart melted even more as this happened while everyone else awed at the sight.]

Lincoln: "He's kinda got a strong grip, doesn't he?"

Clyde: "I can see that, Lincoln."

Lori: "Oh, Linky... That was literally the sweetest thing you've ever said to our child."

Bobby: "Yeah... Not only are you a great bro, but I think you'll be an awesome tío, too."

Rita: "Bobby's right, Lincoln. Though you might have to repeat what you said to the baby when he's a little older."

Lincoln: "I know, Mom. I just wanted to get a head start. And who knows? Maybe he'll be into reading comics with me someday."

[Just then, Lincoln felt a hand on his shoulder and turned his head to see Ronnie Anne.]

Ronnie Anne: "Alright, Lincoln. No need to hog my sobrino. Let me see him."

[Lincoln nodded and handed Marty over to Ronnie Anne. Upon taking Marty, the young Latina looked down at the baby with a warm smile as she held him close.]

Ronnie Anne: "Hey there, little guy... I'm your Tía Ronalda. Or Auntie Anne, whichever you prefer. But I'm only the first member in the aunt colony. As your uncle Lincoln said, you have quite a lot of aunts who just can't wait to meet you. You have your mami and papi taking care of you for the next eighteen years, but whenever they're not around, nobody can hurt you as long as I'm near."

[The baby looked up at his aunt before closing his eyes and leaning his head against her chest. Ronnie Anne's heart melted, and she started to feel wetness in her eyes as she looked down at her nephew. She was really glad that she didn't pull the trigger on her father earlier, otherwise, she never would've met her new nephew. Lincoln and Clyde were also in awe over that adorable display of affection as were Lori and Bobby.]

Bobby: "I think he really loves you, Nie-nie."

[Ronnie Anne wiped her eyes with her free arm while Lincoln wrapped his own around Ronnie Anne and pulled her close as he looked down at the baby.]

Ronnie Anne: "I can see that, Bobby. I love him too. You guys did great."

Lincoln: "So did you, Ronnie Anne. I'm really proud of you."

[Ronnie Anne blushed as Lincoln's cheek touched her own. Bobby and Lori smiled as they looked at their younger siblings.]

[Clyde then turned his attention to Lori.]

Clyde: "Can I hold him, Lori?"

[Bobby and Lori looked at each other and smiled with a nod each before turning their attention to Clyde.]

Bobby: "Sure thing, Clydesdale. Go right ahead."

Lori: "Just be careful with him, okay? He's very delicate."

Clyde: "Don't worry about it. I've read plenty of books about babies to know about handling them with care."

[Clyde looked over at Lincoln.]

Clyde: "Plus, Lincoln taught me about being a big brother that one time before my family had Nepurrtiti."

Lincoln: "Thanks, Clyde. Though technically, you're an uncle in this case."

Clyde: "Right."

[With that, Ronnie Anne handed the baby to Clyde. Marty looked up at Clyde as the McBride boy looked down at the newborn in his arms with awe.]

Clyde: "Wow... I don't think I've ever seen a newborn up close before. You two really did well."

[Just then, Marty looked down and began to fuss, much to Clyde's worry.]

Clyde: "Uh-oh... I think he's starting up."

[Marty then began crying. Clyde tried rocking him for a bit, but he wasn't calming down.]

Clyde: "Yeah, I think this little guy needs his mama."

Lori: "You are literally good at this, Clyde. Here, give him to me. He must be hungry. "

[With that, Bobby walked over to Clyde, who handed the crying baby to him. Bobby then walked back over to Lori and gave her the baby. The eldest Loud sibling lowered the top of her gown and Marty latched onto his mother's breast before happily sucking its contents.]

[Lincoln stared at the scene while Clyde had his hands over his own eyes to prevent himself from seeing the whole thing. Ronnie Anne gave the white-haired boy a weird look as he continued to watch.]

Ronnie Anne: "Please don't stare like that, Lame-O. It's so weird."

Rita: "Now, Ronnie Anne, it's nothing to be ashamed of. Besides, I remember when Lincoln was just born. He was really fast when I was feeding him."

Lincoln: "Awwwww, Mom!"

[Rita let out a small giggle as she put her hand on her son's head.]

Rita: "Alright kids, I think we better let Lori do her feeding. Leni will be next to see the baby."

[The three kids nodded before following Rita out of the room. Ronnie Anne gave the baby one last smile and a wave before she was out the door.]

Ronnie Anne: "I'll see you again soon, Martinez."

[By that time, Marty had just finished feeding from his mother and Lori wiped the baby's mouth with her thumb.]

Bobby: "You're a real natural at this, Babe."

[Lori then held Marty up to her shoulder and patted his back.]

Lori: "Well, I've literally seen my mother do this with all of my siblings, so yeah. A little observation can go a long way."

[The baby let out a small burp. Bobby tousled his son's hair with a chuckle as the baby gurgled.]

Bobby: "Such a good boy."

[Lori smiled again as she continued to rock her baby.]

[Just then, there were a few soft knocks on the door before it opened, revealing Rita and Leni.]

Leni: "Hey, guys! I'm here to see the baby."

Bobby: "Well, come right in, Leni."

[As Rita and Leni entered the room, the second-eldest Loud child walked over to Lori's bed and looked down at Marty before gushing at him again while the baby looked up at his aunt with curiosity.]

Leni: "Awwwww... He is, like, super cute. I'm so, so happy for you guys."

Lori: "Thanks, Leni."

[Leni put her hands over her eyes as the baby looked on with confusion.]

Leni: "Hey... Where is baby?"

[Leni then removed her hands from her eyes and looked down at the infant again.]

Leni: "There you are!"

[The baby gurgled at his aunt's game before Leni put her hands over her eyes again.]

Leni: "C'mon. Where is baby?"

[And again, Leni removed her hands from her eyes.]

Leni: "There he is!"

[However, as Leni removed her hands from her eyes, she accidentally bumped one of her fingers against her sunglasses, and they fell over her eyes. The ditzy fashionista moved her head left and right to see nothing but darkness.]

Leni: "Uh, guys...? Where's the baby? I can't see him now. Where did he go?!"

[Leni was starting to panic as she looked around to try and find Marty, who was once again looking up at his aunt with confusion. Lori rolled her eyes and lifted the sunglasses off of her sister's face and Leni saw the baby again.]

Leni: "Oh! There he is!"

[Marty gurgled once more as Lori handed the baby to her former roommate. The eldest Loud sibling and her boyfriend watched as Leni gently rocked the baby for a bit before kissing his cheek. After handing the baby back to Lori, Leni reached into her purse and pulled out her cell phone.]

Leni: "I totes need a picture with this cutie!"

[And with that, Leni planted the side of her face against Lori's. Bobby noticed this and planted his side against Lori as well, not wanting to miss the chance for a photo.]

Lori: "Oh, what the hell?"

[And with that, Lori smiled as Leni took a selfie with them, Bobby and the new baby. Once the picture was taken, Leni posted it publicly on social media, hoping to earn some likes from it. Rita could only smile as she watched this adorable display.]

Rita: "Alright, Leni. I think we better let Luna have her moment."

[And with that, Leni started to follow her mother out of the room with a smile on her face as she gave a wave to the new family.]

Leni: "Bye for now, mommy and daddy!"

[However, Leni was so distracted that she didn't look where she was going and bumped into the wall beside the door, making the baby giggle. Leni rubbed her face as she regained her bearings and left the room. As soon as Leni was out of the room, Lori looked down at her baby again.]

Lori: "Your Aunt Leni may be a little clumsy, but she is literally quite a sweetheart."

[Just then, Lori got a call on her cell phone. She checked her phone to see that the call was from Carol.]

Carol: "Hey, Lori! I just heard and saw the news! Congrats to you and Bobby! I can't wait to see my godson up close. At least when the situation in town eases up."

Lori: "Thanks, Carol. How are things going with you?"

Carol: "My family and I are still okay. Oh, and Errol's with me as well. Should I tell him that he's a godfather now?"

[Lori smiled as she heard her best friend's message. She was glad that Carol was safe in her house with her family during the whole incident. Lori then proceeded to text her response to her former rival:]

Lori: "Literally. You two are officially godparents now."

Carol: "Thank you, Lori."

Errol: "Yeah, thanks."

[Outside the room, Leni had gotten a text on her cell. She checked the message and saw that it was from Chaz. It read:]

Hey, Leni. Is that your nephew? He's a handsome little guy. Probably even more so than me.

[Leni smiled before sending a thank you text to her boyfriend.]

Thanks, Chazzy. Given how cute he is, I can't wait to have our own baby someday.

[Leni then finished the text with a heart emoji before sending it to Chaz, who simply replied with a heart emoji herself. Leni herself sighed dreamily as she lowered her phone.]

Leni: "Chaz is such a sweetheart."

Rita: "Alright, Luna. I think you're next."

[Luna smiled as she followed her mother into the room. As soon as she was in, the rocker smiled upon seeing Marty in Lori's arms before giving him a wave.]

Luna: "Hey there, little dude. Aunt Luna is in the house."

[Luna walked over to Lori's bed and Lori handed the baby to Luna. As Luna held Marty in her arms, she started singing to him. Lori, Bobby, and Rita were in awe over this. As Luna sang, she sat on a rocking chair and started rocking Marty.]

[As Luna finished singing, she got a call on her cell. (Luna's phone was muted as to not disturb the baby and it was set at vibrate.) Upon checking the phone, she saw that the call was from Sam and answered it before the blonde rocker teen appeared on the screen.]

Sam: "What's up, Lunes? I just saw your nephew's picture on social media, and he is soooooooo cute! Is he with you?"

Luna: "You know it... Here he is, in the flesh."

[Luna turned her phone to face Marty. Sam gushed at the sight of her girlfriend's newborn nephew as Luna smiled at her.]

Sam: "Oh my gosh! He's such a cutie."

Luna: "I'm glad you're liking him, Sammy. He's a sweet little baby and a little mama's boy."

Sam: "I'll bet."

Luna: "So, how and you and your fam doing in town?"

Sam: "I think we're doing well. George and Ruth are also staying with us. I heard that the chaos is subsiding and we're just waiting until it's safe to go back out."

Luna: "And Chunk? What about him?"

Chunk: "I'm right 'ere, luv."

[Chunk appeared on the screen and tipped his hat at Luna.]

Luna: "Hey, Chunk-man! We were just talkin' about you."

Chunk: "I 'eard, Lunes. Anyway, the Sharps allowed me to park me van in their garage. We should be out by tomorrow morning, if not sooner."

Luna: "That's great, Chunk. It's good to know that you're all okay. Especially you, Sam."

Sam: "Thank you, Luna. I really can't wait to see the baby in person. See you around."

[And with that, Sam blew a kiss at Luna as the third-eldest Loud sibling kept her smile before Chunk spoke again.]

Chunk: "Neither can I. Cheers, mate. And give Bobby my regards."

[Chunk tipped his hat at Luna again as he said those last two words before the video feed cut off.]

[After playing with the baby for a few more minutes, Luna got up from the rocking chair and walked over to Lori.]

Luna: "Well, I think my time is up. You best prepare yourselves for Luan."

[Upon handing Marty back to Lori and giving him a kiss on his cheek, Luna left the room with a smile and a sign of peace.]

Bobby: "I can't wait to sing to him, Babe."

[Lori reached her hand out to her boyfriend's cheek and caressed it.]

Lori: "Yeah, Luna has a very nice voice. But I can never forget yours."

[Bobby responded by kissing his girlfriend on her lips.]

Bobby: "C'mon, Lori. I can't take all the credit. You try your best at singing yourself."

Lori: "That's true, Bobby."

[Bobby then sighed as his smile faded.]

Bobby: "I just wish I still had my guitar. Alex practically destroyed mine."

[Lori put her hand on her boyfriend's cheek.]

Lori: "It's okay, Boo-Boo Bear. Maybe you can get a new one sometime soon."

[Bobby's smile returned from Lori's reassuring words. At that moment, Luan entered the room along with her mother. The comedienne smiled as she saw the baby in her older sister's arms before walking over to the bed.]

Luan: "Why, hello there, little guy. Aunt you a sight for sore eyes?"

[Luan laughed before she started tickling Marty's chin, making the newborn giggle. The sight was enough to bring a smile to both Lori and Bobby. Marty then started reaching out for Luan, and his mother happily gave him to the comedienne. Luan cradled the baby in her arms and made some funny faces, making Marty giggle yet again.]

Lori: "You are literally amazing, Luan."

Luan: "What can I say? The little fella was bound to go ga-ga over me."

[And with that, Luan laughed again before nuzzling her nephew on the nose. Just then, she got a call on her phone. She looked at the caller ID and saw that it was from Benny before answering it.]

Luan: "Heya, Benny."

Benny: "Hi there, Luan. Your nephew's a real sight to behold. Aunt you proud of your sister?"

[Luan laughed at her boyfriend's puns.]

Luan: "Good one, Benny."

Benny: "I'm glad you think so, Luan. Nothing like a little humor to lighten the mood at my house."

Luan: "Thanks... Speaking of which, how are things back there?"

Benny: "My family and I are doing okay. They're saying on the news that things are quieting down in town, so the curfew should be lifted by morning."

Luan: "I appreciate the news flash, Ben."

Benny: "You're welcome, but I think I better let you get back to your quality time with your nephew. I'd like to meet him up close later, if that's okay."

Luan: "Thanks a bunch, Benny. You take care out there."

[And with that, Benny hung up and Luan continued to play with Marty.]

[When it was time for Luan to leave the room, she gave the baby back to Lori and gave him a quick kiss on his head before walking to the door. Before Luan was out the door, she smiled and waved at Marty.]

Luan: "See you later, baby gator."

[Lynn was next. As the athlete entered the room with her mother, she saw the baby in Lori's arms. Lynn walked up to the bed and leaned forward to look at Marty.]

Lynn: "Awww... He's even more adorable up close."

[Lynn then put her good index finger on Marty's nose as she started making baby talk.]

Lynn: "Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy? You are... Yes, you are. I hope you grow up to be strong like me."

[And with that, Lynn started rubbing her nose against Marty's before the baby grabbed his aunt's nose with both hands.]

Lynn: "Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow!"

[Lynn shook her head for a bit and tried to pull away before Marty let go. The jock stumbled backwards for a bit before falling butt first onto the floor, making the newborn giggle again.]

Lori: "That's right, sweetie. Aunt Lynn fall and go boom."

[Lynn rubbed her nose with her good hand as she spoke with a rather nasally voice.]

Lynn: "Dang! That kid's got a strong grip, I'll give him that. I wonder if he can hold a ball with those hands?"

"I'm here now."

[Lynn yelped in fright as she heard the familiar soft voice of her sister and roommate speak right beside her. The jock then got back on her feet and quickly left the room as Lucy walked over to her eldest sister. She then placed her hand on Marty's cheek as she looked at him.]

Lucy: "Hello there, young blood, and welcome to our world."

[And with that, Lucy gave her nephew a kiss on his forehead before Lori handed the baby over to her. The goth held Marty in her arms as she continued to rock the newborn before nuzzling his cheek.]

Lucy: "I have written a poem for you while we were waiting, but I know every word of it by heart. A special welcoming gift from me to you."

[Lucy looked over at the baby's parents.]

Lucy: "What's the little one's name?"

[Lori and Bobby looked at each other for a brief moment before the former looked at her sister again.]

Lori: "Marty."

[Lucy cleared her throat and gently rocked the baby as she recited her poem.]

Lucy: "Marty... For the past nine months you've grown in the womb, and yet that enclosed space was nearly your tomb... But now that you're out in the world oh so vast, we welcome you to our family with open arms at long last... Marty..."

[A mascara-stained tear ran down Lucy's cheek as she finished her poem. Lori smiled warmly as she watched while Bobby felt misty-eyed upon hearing the entire poem.]

Bobby: "That was beautiful, Lucy."

Lori: "He's right... A little morbid, but you've literally outdone yourself over your last one."

Lucy: "Thank you. That praise means a lot coming from you."

[At that moment, Lucy got a call on her cell phone and answered it to hear Rocky's voice.]

Rocky: "Hey, Lucy. I wanted to let you know that my family and I are hiding at Liam's farm, and I also wanted to congratulate you on the birth of your nephew."

Lucy: "Thanks, Rocky. I'm happy to know that you're safe. We should hang out again once things return to normal in town. I'd like to show my nephew to you when the time is right."

Rocky: "I'm looking forward to it, Lucy. I'll see you next week, hopefully."

[And with that, Rocky hung up and Lucy put her phone back in her pocket before nuzzling Marty again.]

[After a while, Lucy was finished and handed Marty back to his mother.]

Lucy: "Bye for now, Marty. I hope the bond between us will be as strong as it is with me and your uncle Lincoln."

[After giving Marty one last kiss on his nose, Lucy followed Rita to the door. The goth looked back at Marty and waved at him before she was out of the room.]

Lori: "I'm glad you took your Aunt Lucy well. You never know when she's going to show up."

[Lana and Lola were next as Rita brought them into the room with her. Immediately, the twins raced up to the bed and leaned over it, staring at the baby with awe.]

Lola: "Awww, he is so adorable."

Lana: "No argument there, Lols. He's a sweet little guy."

[Lori handed Marty to Bobby, who handed the baby to Lana in turn.]

Lola: "Hello there, little darling. How about a kissy-kissy or two from your dear Auntie Lola?"

[Lori, Bobby, and Rita watched the twins, making sure they didn't end up having a struggle over the baby like they usually did with other things. To everyone's surprise, they were both behaving well as they spent their time with Marty. Lola gave the baby numerous kisses on his face as Lana held him in her arms. Lana, on the other hand, moved the blankets a bit to expose the baby's stomach, allowing Lana to give him some tummy farts, making the baby giggle in delight. The three adults could only smile in awe as the two 7-year-olds continued to play with the newborn.]

Lola: "Ooooh, I can't wait to play dress up with you! You are just so pwecious!"

Lana: "Your mom and dad aren't going to be the only ones cleaning up after you, Marty. I can tell you that much."

[Lana chuckled as she lovingly rubbed Marty's head.]

Lana: "Wait 'til you see Hops and my other animal friends."

[When they were done, Rita took the baby from Lana and handed him back to Lori before guiding the twins out of the room. Lola was disappointed at first because she wanted to spend more time with the baby, but her mother assured her that she will again soon, and she obeyed. Lori then put her thumb on her tongue and started wiping the lipstick marks off of her son's face.]

Lori: "Your Aunt Lola... She literally knows how to make a grand entrance, doesn't she? And your Aunt Lana knows how to take care of animals."

[Lori then let out a soft giggle as she nuzzled her baby again.]

[Lisa was next as she and Rita entered the room. As Lisa got to the bed, she turned around to look up at her mother.]

Lisa: "Assistance please, Mother."

[Rita lifted her second-youngest daughter up and put her on the bed. The young genius then adjusted her glasses as she examined her nephew with awe.]

Lisa: "By Gregor Mendel's ghost. He is so tiny."

[Lisa kept looking over Marty as she smiled.]

Lisa: "And the features on your progeny. The blue eyes, the small, pointy nose, the small tuft of black hair on his head. Such a lovely infant. You and Roberto must be very proud."

[Lori nodded at her second-youngest sister while Bobby rubbed the back of his own head. Lisa was also trying her best not to cry as she put her hand on her nephew's cheek.]

Lisa: "Now that you are here in this world, Martinez, I officially qualify as an aunt. Welcome to the family, greetings and salutations, etcetera, etcetera. I have no doubt that you were brought here on this Earth to do great things."

Rita: "Alright, Lisa. I think your time is up now."

Lisa: "Very well, mother. But I will be seeing Martinez in the not-too-distant future."

[Lisa looked back at Marty with a smile on her face before patting the baby's head.]

Lisa: "Won't I, Nephew?"

[And with that, Lisa got off the bed before following her mother out of the room.]

[A little while later, Rita returned with Lily in her arms as Lynn Sr. and Albert followed behind her. Lily saw the baby in Lori's arms as her mother went closer to the bed.]

Rita: "Here he is, Lily. Meet your first nephew, Marty."

[Lily set her youngest daughter on the bed as Lori held her close.]

Lori: "Marty, this is your Aunt Lily. What do you think, Lily?"

[Lily's eyes were in awe as she stared at her nephew with a soft gasp.]

Lily: "Maw...tee. Maw-tee. You...Maw-tee. Me...Awn-tee Lily."

[Lily put both of her hands on Marty's cheeks as she babbled baby talk before giving the baby a kiss on his forehead followed by a hug. Rita watched in awe as her youngest daughter continued to interact with the baby as the eldest Loud sibling and her boyfriend did the same.]

Rita: "Aw... Look, Lynn, Dad. They love each other already."

[Albert put his arm around his daughter's waist and pulled her close to him.]

Albert: "There's no doubt about it, baby girl. He is a Loud after all."

Lynn Sr.: "I can...see that, Honey."

[Lynn Sr.'s face crumbled, and he started to whimper before speaking again.]

Lynn Sr.: "I-I-I-I need a moment!"

[With that, Lynn Sr. went into the bathroom and shut the door before he began to sob intensely. His sobbing could be heard by everyone in the room, and it sounded like a dying whale. The patriarch of the Louds was crying so much that a puddle began to appear from under the door.]

Albert: "Welp... There he goes again. I think it's gonna be a while before he makes a proper introduction."

Rita: "Well, can you blame him? This IS his first grandchild, after all. I wouldn't expect him to react any other way."

[Rita then scooped her grandson in her arms and gave him a kiss on the forehead.]

Rita: "Besides, who can resist such a cute wittle face?"

[Rita then spoke some baby talk at Marty and the baby gurgled, bringing a smile to her father's face. Albert approached Rita and tickled Marty's chin.]

Albert: "Hey there, little fella. It's your great-pop-pop here. By the way, some good friends of mine said hello as well."

[Just then, Albert got a video call on his phone. He answered it and there on the screen was his girlfriend, Myrtle, who was sitting in the cafeteria at Sunset Canyon.]

Albert: "Myrtle! How the heck are ya?"

Myrtle: "Hey there, Albert! I just saw Leni's latest text. Lori had just had her first baby. Oh!"

[Myrtle then noticed Rita holding Marty in her arms.]

Myrtle: "And speaking of baby, is that your great-grandbaby I see before me?"

Albert: "Of course it is, Myrtle. Say hello to Marty."

[Rita handed Marty to Albert and the war veteran held the newborn in his free arm as Myrtle looked at him through the screen with awe.]

Albert: "Well? What do you think of him?"

Myrtle: "Oh, he is just downright adorable! I could just eat the little dickens with some chocolate sauce and whipped cream right about now!"

[Albert laughed in response.]

Albert: "Oh, that Myrtle. Isn't she just a hoot?"

[Rita could only smile before Albert handed Marty back to her. Lynn Sr.'s cries continued from the bathroom as Albert looked down at his great-grandson before turning back to his phone.]

Albert: "So how are things going back at the home front?"

Myrtle: "It is absolutely crazy, Al! The police have been questioning everyone about the incident. And now they're questioning Sue about how she handled the situation."

Albert: "I'm guessing things aren't looking too good for her?"

Myrtle: "She's claiming that she tried to call for help, but then she got locked up in the closet by those bikers. I don't really buy that one bit, to be honest. We all know what REALLY happened after all."

Albert: "Ooooh, boy. I have a feeling she'll be awful mad when I get back to Sunset Canyon, if she's still there, that is. Until then, I think I'd better lay low and spend a few nights elsewhere for a while."

Rita: "Don't worry, Dad. We'll clear this up once Lori, Lynn, and Marty are discharged. In the meantime, you're welcome to spend the next few days with us."

Albert: "Thanks, Honey."

Myrtle: "Ask Rita if I can come over. I want the little darlin' to see his great-gran-gran in person."

Rita: "Of course you can, Myrtle. We'll make it a Family Day."

Myrtle: "Oh, goody! I better go get ready!"

[Just then, Albert got a message from Ruth.]

Albert: "I better go now. My sister's calling me."

[As Myrtle gave her boyfriend a wave goodbye, Albert hung up before answering Ruth's call.]

Ruth: "Hey, Al! Hey, Rita!"

Albert: "Hey there, Sis. I assume you heard about me on the news?"

Ruth: "Yes, but I called to congratulate you on my first great-great-nephew. Is that him I hear crying in the background?"

Rita: "No, that's just Lynn. He's just really happy to see the baby."

Ruth: "Really? Cuz' I thought Lori only had one baby, not two."

[Ruth laughed while Albert rolled his eyes at his sister's joke. After a few seconds, Ruth stopped laughing before she cleared her throat and spoke again.]

Ruth: "But in all seriousness, you tell Lori that I'm proud of her, and Bobby too. And tell them to bring the kid over for a visit sometime soon."

Rita: "We'll keep that in mind, Ruthie. And thanks for the compliments."

Ruth: "Anytime, Sweetie. Love ya."

[And with that, Ruth hung up. By then, Lynn Sr.'s cries had died down.]

[In the bathroom, Lynn Sr. sat on the toilet with his face stained with tears and a puddle by his feet as he sniffled. He had been crying ever since he saw the baby and was now fresh out of tears. Just then, he heard his cell phone ringing. He looked at the caller ID and saw that it was from his father, Leonard Loud. He answered the call and saw his father on the screen.]

Leonard: "Hey there, Lynnie!"

[Lynn Sr. wiped his eyes before speaking to his father.]

Lynn Sr.: "H-Hey, Dad. What's going on?"

Leonard: "I just got a message from Leni...and I'm a great-grandfather now... Is that right?"

[Lynn Sr. nodded with a smile in response.]

Leonard: "And judging by the look on your face, I'd say you took it...well?"

Lynn Sr.: "You could say that."

Leonard: "Can I see the little minnow? Just for a moment?"

[Lynn Sr. nodded, stood up and walked out of the bathroom, trying his best not to slip on the puddle he made with his tears. Rita was now holding Lily in her arms again as she watched her husband come out of the restroom. He then stopped next to Lori's bed and looked down at his grandson.]

Lynn Sr.: "Hey there, little baby. Sorry about that poor first impression. Your grandad just needed to relieve himself...of his emotions."

[Lori rolled his eyes at her father before he spoke to her.]

Lynn Sr.: "Anyway Lori, Gramps is on the phone, and he wants to see the baby."

[Lori smiled and handed the baby over to her father before the patriarch of the Louds sat on the edge of the bed as he held Marty in his free arm. He then aimed his phone to where his father could see the baby.]

Lynn Sr.: "Here he is, Dad... Your great-grandson, Marty... So? What do you think?"

Leonard: "Wow...he's so small... I am just... I'm..."

[And with that, Leonard started to tear up as he continued to stare at his great-grandson, and he was doing his best to keep himself from breaking down. All Lynn Sr. could do was smile warmly at his father.]

Lynn Sr.: "I know, Dad... Just let it all out."

[On his son's cue, Leonard started sobbing his eyes out before hanging up on his side. Ronnie Anne, who had been watching from the slightly open door, looked at Lincoln with a smirk on her face.]

Ronnie Anne: "Yep... Runs in the familia."

[Lynn Sr. put his cell phone back in his pocket before looking at his eldest daughter.]

Lynn Sr.: "I'm so proud of you, honey. You've really come a long way since May."

Lori: "Thanks, Daddy. But I couldn't have done it without Bobby."

[Lynn Sr. then handed Marty back to his daughter, and the eldest Loud sibling cradled her baby as Bobby wrapped his arm around his girlfriend.]

Bobby: "Gracias, Babe. And if it wasn't for your brother, there would've been no escape for me and Ronnie Anne. I'm happy that you took us into your home. I know this was earlier than we ever have anticipated, but I'm happy that we can raise our baby together. I promise that I'll be the best dang dad I can ever be for Bumblebee."

Lori: "I know that you will, Boo-Boo Bear."

[And with that, Bobby gave Lori another kiss on the lips. Lynn Sr. then gently rubbed Marty's head as he looked down at him.]

Lynn Sr.: "Welcome to the family, Marty. You make a mother proud."

[Lynn Sr. then looked over at Lori and Bobby before speaking to Marty again.]

Lynn Sr.: "You make YOUR mother proud, in fact... And your father, too."

[While Lynn Sr. was still spending time with the new family, Rita looked over at her father.]

Rita: "Dad, can I speak to you in the hall? I have a couple of questions I need to ask you."

Albert: "Sure thing, pumpkin."

[And with that, Rita handed Lily over to Lynn Sr. before she and Albert walked out of the room. As they stood in the hallway, Rita looked through the door and saw Lily sitting on her father's right knee as she played peekaboo with Marty, who was now being held in his grandfather's left arm as the baby giggled at his youngest aunt. The sight alone brought a smile to Rita's face before she carefully shut the door. Rita then leaned her back against the door as she looked at her father.]

Albert: "Alright. So, what is it that you wanted to ask me?"

Rita: "First of all, I want to ask you about this T-Bone. How long have you known him?"

Albert: "Oh, I've known T-Bone for about almost a year at this point. He even told me a few stories about his time in that club... BoEMC, was it? I can't remember too well. But anyway, he's a swell guy, once you get to know him."

Rita: "After helping us out, I can definitely see that... Secondly, how's Deidre doing? I've been meaning to thank her for helping me save my family... Especially Lincoln, Lori and Marty."

Albert: "Well, I think she might be a bit busy helping out with the cleanup effort in town. But she told me to tell you that she might plan on staying in the neighborhood for a bit longer once everything's fixed."

Rita: "I see... Do you think by some chance that I'll see her again?"

[Albert smiled and put his arm around his daughter.]

Albert: "Don't you worry, hon. You two were the best of buds since high school. Like two peas in a pod and so on. I just know you'll run into her again soon. Plus, I think she'll be thrilled to see Lil' Marty."

Rita: "Thanks, Dad. I really hope that we can truly patch things up."

[And with that, Rita gave her father a hug and Albert returned the embrace.]

Albert: "You will, Rita. Soon enough, you will."

[A little later, the whole family was now gathered in the room as they admired the baby. The Loud sisters and Ronnie Anne continued to gush over their nephew while Luan was filming everything with her video camera. Even Harold and Howard were present with Clyde to see the baby up close.]

[Just then, Lincoln received a call on his cell phone. He checked the caller ID to see that it was from Liam. Upon answering the phone, he saw Liam on the screen along with Rusty and Zach as they were calling from inside Liam's barn.]

Liam: "Howdy, Lincoln!"

Rusty: "What up, L-Dog?"

Zach: "Hey there, Linc."

Lincoln: "Hey, you guys! How are you doing?"

Liam: "Rusty, Zach, and their families had to get away from the ruckus happenin' in town 'cuz of them biker folk, so we're all huddled up in the barn 'til it all blows over."

Zach: "How are things on your end, Lincoln?"

Lincoln: "It was a pretty wild ride, Zach. For me, Clyde, my family, Bobby, and Ronnie Anne. But we're alright and we're at the hospital."

Liam: "So your sister's had the baby? Rusty's little brother mentioned something about that earlier."

[Lincoln gave his friends a smile of approval.]

Lincoln: "Of course. We're all in Lori's room now. Why don't you take a look for yourselves?"

[Lincoln then aimed his phone towards his family and the three boys caught sight of the baby.]

Liam: "Boy howdy, Lincoln!"

Rusty: "Hey, congrats, man."

Zach: "That's great news."

Lincoln: "Thanks. But it's going to take a few days before Lori and the baby are discharged."

Liam: "Well, we'll be sure tah see the youngin' by tomorrow. See ya."

Lincoln: "Thanks again, and bye."

[As the rest of the family kept admiring the baby, Ronnie Anne walked over to Lincoln and took his hand.]

Ronnie Anne: "Lincoln...can I speak to you for a bit? Since everyone else is busy here, I think now's as good a time as any."

[Lincoln nodded and hung up before he and Ronnie Anne walked to the other end of the room. Ronnie Anne leaned her back against the door as she and Lincoln looked at each other.]

Lincoln: "What is it, Ronnie Anne? Is there something on your mind?"

Ronnie Anne: "Not much, really. I just wanted to give you a little something."

Lincoln: "Like what, exactly?"

[Almost immediately, Ronnie Anne grabbed Lincoln by the collar of his shirt and gave him a deep kiss on the lips. Lincoln's eyes widened in surprise as he felt Ronnie Anne's lips connect to his before Ronnie Anne finally stopped and let go.]

Ronnie Anne: "That's for everything you've done for me up to this point."

[Lincoln was feeling dazed and lovestruck at Ronnie Anne's act of kindness and it took a few seconds for him to snap back to reality.]

Lincoln: "Woah... It was...nothing, really."

Ronnie Anne: "I mean it. If it hadn't been for you, who knows where I'd end up if I actually killed Alex. Or if I hadn't escaped from the life that he forced us to live."

[Ronnie Anne looked back at the rest of the family as they were still admiring Marty.]

Ronnie Anne: "And I might never have gotten to see my first nephew. Thank you, Lincoln... For standing by my side through all of this. You're one of the best things to ever happen to me."

[Ronnie Anne gave Lincoln a quick kiss on the cheek and went to rejoin everyone else. Lincoln put his hand over where Ronnie Anne had kissed him and smiled as he blushed.]

[While everyone was still adoring the new edition to the Loud family, Lincoln turned to look at the readers.]

Lincoln: "Well, folks, it's been an eventful nine months, but we've finally made it. Alex is gone for good, my first nephew has just arrived, and I got a nice kiss from Ronnie Anne. We've all hit plenty of snags along the way, but I have no doubt that things are going to get better from here on out. Though I get the feeling that there might be a few loose ends, but maybe it'll all be settled before long. In the meantime, I think we can enjoy this moment going forward."

Rita: "Lincoln, come join us for the picture."

Lincoln: "Coming, Mom!"

[And with that, Lincoln joined the rest of his Family before Harold snapped the photo on the camera. It was the perfect picture of the Loud Family (Plus Bobby and Ronnie Anne) and their newest addition. The long and difficult road of Lori's pregnancy had finally come to an end. And though it would take some time for Royal Woods to recover, the Loud Family has gotten bigger with just one new member.]


A/N: Well, after over six years of working on this story, Marty Loud-Santiago is finally here, and the third act has been concluded. You may be thinking that this story is complete. Well... Not exactly. You see, Bobby and Lori's baby may have finally been born, but there's still a few loose ends that need to be addressed, like the situation between Clyde and Deidre, Castleton's dilemma, what happens to Alex, etc.. So basically, I have an epilogue act in the works that aims to wrap up most, if not every unresolved plot point established through this roller coaster ride of a story. We'll also be seeing Bobby and Lori raising their baby throughout this act with some occasional help from their family. The process won't be as fast as it was years ago since I have real life stuff to deal with as well, but it'll all be worth it in the end, hopefully.

In any case, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, but there is still a lot to do before this story can finally come to a close. I will see you next time.


Gamelover41592: Over for Alex, maybe.

boygenius2020: It already came. Koch sacrificed himself to help Castleton from Alex.

Geo Soul: Indeed, it is.

Master Fan Reader: And the baby is here now.

Maikoh Locklear: Thanks.

MoreABoutThomas: Looks that way.

That Engineer: If you're referring to Alex, the embrace of death would've been sweet for him if Ronnie Anne actually went through with killing him. But that would also give him the satisfaction of destroying her mentally, hence why Lincoln and Castleton stepped in.

wollyworld: Thank you.

Omni Spectator: Thanks.

HyperPixel357: I have no doubt that Alex will die soon. Besides, there's no way he's going to escape again without the use of his legs.

AA25: Alex isn't behind bars again yet, but he will be soon.

Guest: I'll bet.

Ellis97: There's no way he can escape again now that he's crippled.

Batdude365: There are plenty of methods of execution for Alex. The chair seems to be uncommon in prison systems nowadays.

Guest 2: I've no doubt that Alex is finished this time.

Benjamin: Thanks. By the way, I don't think Alex will be planning any more attacks on Royal Woods for the rest of his life since he's lost the use of his legs.

DarthWill3: Well, I think things will be easing up somewhat now that Alex has been dealt with.

Guest 3: Maybe he'll know about them soon. But not right now.