Unconditional Love

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

Two weeks later.

Chapter 141

“Argh,” Connor jumped up on the couch and waved his plastic pirate sword around, hitting it against the one Brax was waving about. Zak was jumping around at Brax’s feet, wanting to be a part of the game too. “Argh.” Connor said again as hit the sword on Brax’s chest.

“Ahh buddy careful.” Brax said as he lifted him from the couch and took a seat, sitting Connor on his knee.

“Why you stop Darryl?” Connor questioned.

“I need a rest,” Brax sighed. “We’ve been running around a long time.”

Connor furrowed his eyebrows as he straightened up the bandana on his head. “You’re not fit enough.”

“Oi cheeky,” Brax lightly tickled Connor’s side, resulting in some giggles. “Listen, you know how your mummy and I have been together for a year tomorrow?”

“Oh you have?” Connor questioned.

“Well yeah,” Brax nodded. “And well sometimes men and women get married, so....”

“Do you want to marry my mum, Darryl?” Connor questioned. “Is that what you are going to ask?”

“It was,” Brax gave a smile. “Do you think that would be okay with you?” Brax asked.

“Eh, yeah,” Connor nodded. “You could Darryl,” Connor smiled. “I’d be good at a wedding.”

Brax gave a little laugh. “Oh yeah?” Brax questioned. “You think so?”

“I do,” Connor gave a nod. “I didn’t get to be at mummy’s wedding to daddy so I could be at this one, right?”

“Oh yeah of course you’ll be there,” Brax smiled. “You probably get an important job too, but we’ll think about that nearer the time. We won’t be getting married for a while yet, I just want to ask your mummy if she will marry me, okay?”

“Right,” Connor smiled. “She’ll be excited when we tell her about this.” Connor voice was all high and squeaky as his face showed excitement.

“No we can’t tell her,” Brax shook his head. “It has to be our little secret, okay?”

“Mummy said you shouldn’t keep secrets,” Connor shook his head. “So we need to tell her.”

“Well this kind of secret is allowed,” Brax told him. “I want it to be a surprise when I ask mummy so she can’t know beforehand, alright? It’s a good kind of secret so it’s okay, I promise.”

“Hmm,” Connor scratched the side of his head as he thought about this. “Okay,” Connor gave a little nod. “Did you get her a ring to wear like she used to have daddy’s?”

“I haven’t yet,” Brax shook his head. “I thought that me and you could go shopping tomorrow to get one, what do you say?”

“Me?” Connor hit his chest. “I can help?”

“Oh yeah,” Brax nodded. “You know mummy better than anyone so you need to come help me pick one that she’ll like.”

“Cool,” Connor widened his eyes. “I’ll get the best one, Darryl,” Connor nodded his head. “I really will.”

“I’m sure you will,” Brax smiled as the door opened and Charlie walked into the room. “Babe what you doing home?” Brax questioned as Charlie joined him on the couch.

“Nice to see you too,” Charlie sighed. “And loving the look by the way.” Charlie looked to Brax and laughed a little as she looked to the red bandana that was around his head.

“We is pirates mummy.” Connor told her.

“I see,” Charlie smiled at her son as Zak tried to get her attention. “And Zakky is too.” Charlie laughed as she saw the little bandana tied around his neck.

“I’m going to get him some biscuits,” Connor said as he jumped down to the floor. “C’mon Zak.” Connor shouted at the dog and Zak followed him through to the kitchen.

“So, of course it’s nice to see you,” Brax smiled as he moved closer to Charlie on the couch. “But I didn’t think you were back from work till later that’s all.”

Charlie exhaled as Brax’s hand went onto her stomach and started to rub it. She winced lightly as he rubbed the exact spot that was injured. “Don’t freak out because I’m fine and the baby is fine, but, well Georgie and I were trying to arrest someone and he was resisting and I ended up getting kicked in the stomach.”

“Oh my God, Charlie,” Brax raised his voice. “Are you sure Pip is okay?”

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded. “Georgie took me to the hospital and apart from a little bruising everything is fine. I got made to take the rest of the day off though.”

“This is why I hate you going into work now,” Brax sighed. “I hate the fact your job puts you in danger as it is, never mind the baby too.”

“So what, you want me to sit at home and twiddle my thumbs all day?” Charlie questioned.

“No, but surely you can ask the Inspector to just.....I don’t know, let you stay in the office till you’re maternity leave?”

“Babe,” Charlie shook her head. “There’s no need. This is the first time anything like that has ever happened and it probably won’t happen again. I can’t stop doing my job.”

“But it’s putting not only you but our baby in danger, please Charlie,” Brax exhaled. “Maybe you could take your maternity leave early.”

“No, I can’t,” Charlie shook her head. “I’m going to keep working, okay. It’s my choice, not yours.”

“That’s my baby, surely I get a say in where she goes?” Brax sighed.

“Not when he’s in my stomach,” Charlie sighed as she stood up from the couch. “I’m not stopping work earlier than planned.” Charlie said before she walked off up the stairs, leaving Brax sitting on the couch as he sighed.

******

Brax and Connor were walking around the mall, heading for the jewellery store to get the ring, while Charlie was working. “Can we buy more clothes for Pip when we are here?” Connor questioned as he took Brax’s hand into his and gave a little skip.

“Nah,” Brax shook his head. “The baby has enough clothes eh bud.”

“I guess,” Connor sighed. “Are we just getting a ring for mummy?”

“We are indeed.” Brax smiled as they walked into the jewellery store and over to the ring section.

“Afternoon sir,” The sales assistant smiled. “How can I help you today?”

“He’s going to marry my mummy,” Connor grinned. “She’s having a baby too.”

“Ah wow,” The man smiled down at the boy. “That’s nice.”

“Yeah,” Connor grinned. “When is the baby coming now Darryl?” Connor questioned as he looked to him.

“Eleven weeks,” Brax answered with a smile. He was getting very excited for the baby and felt now, after a year together that the time was right to ask her to marry him. “Not that much longer.”

“Hmm,” Connor sighed. “I wish Pip was here now. It takes so long.”

“It does,” Brax put his hands on Connor’s shoulder as he stood behind him, looking down at the rings. “But the baby just needs to be ready before she comes out.”

“I know.” Connor sighed.

“So, eh, yeah I’d like to look at the engagement rings.” Brax smiled as he looked up to the man.

“Sure. Well we have a fine selection here,” The man smiled as he looked from Connor to Brax. “Is she a yellow gold or white gold lady?” The man questioned.

“White,” Connor answered. “Mummy doesn’t have nothing in the other one.”

“Right,” The man nodded as he picked out a tray of the rings. “Well I’ll let you start looking at these ones.” The man smiled. Brax and Connor looked over the rings.

“Mmm nope,” Connor shook his head. “They’re not right.”

“Connor, give them a chance,” Brax gave a little laugh. “We need to pick one.”

“Not these ones,” Connor shook his head. “Darryl you need to get this one,” Connor hit his hand against the glass window. “It’s the best.”

“Wow that’s a nice ring,” Brax smiled as he looked down to it before looking to the price tag. “Ahh mate, that’s a lot of money. It’s $4,400.”

“Yes I can read you know. I’m in Year two now.” Connor glared up at Brax as he spoke.

“I know you are,” Brax gave a little laugh. “But that’s a very lot of money to spend on a ring,” Brax exhaled. “I was thinking more like half of that.”

“Darryl,” Connor exhaled as he continued to glare up at him. “Mummy would like that one best,” Connor said. “She would,” Connor gave a nod of his head. “I know her.”

Brax gave a little laugh as he looked down to the ring. “I know she’d love it but....we have the baby coming soon and -”

“Darryl Braxton,” Connor put his hand on Brax’s arm. “It’s this one.”

Brax exhaled as he looked down to the ring again. There was no denying that it was a gorgeous ring. It was probably one of the nicest in the cabinet. “Can I see it please.” Brax said as he pointed to the ring. The sales assistant nodded as he picked the ring from the cabinet and placed it on the little velvet pillow that was on the counter top.

“Wow,” Connor widened his eyes as he saw the ring up close, seeing it sparkle against the light. “She’s gonna love it.” Connor did a little jump.

“Looks like someone has made up your mind for you.” The sales assistant laughed.

“Well he told me I was to help pick.” Connor answered.

Brax picked the ring up and held it in his hand. The diamonds glistening against the light. He imagined proposing to Charlie and this ring was defiantly what he pictured in his hand. “Yes, I’ll take this one.” Brax smiled as he handed the ring back to the sales assistant.

“Do we pick the others now too?” Connor questioned.

“What others?” Brax screwed his face up as he looked to the boy confused.

“You know the other ring,” Connor answered. “That mummy and the daddy wears?”

“Ahh no,” Brax shook his head. “We’ll get them nearer the time, okay?”

“Right,” Connor nodded. “You tell me when and I’ll pick okay?” Connor questioned.

Brax gave a little laugh. “Sure mate wouldn’t come without you.” Brax rolled his eyes as he looked to the sales assistant.

“I’ll just take you over to the till and we’ll get this paid for.” The sales assistant said Brax and Connor walked over to pay for the ring, Brax exhaling nervously hoping that by the end of the night, the ring would be sitting on Charlie’s finger.

[Danni02]

Thank you for the comments. I hope this one is okay. I’m not feeling it.....

Chapter 142

Ruby and Romeo were snuggled up in bed together. “So, I’m thinking of emailing Rachel again now.” Ruby said as she rested her elbow against the mattress as she put her head against her hand, propping herself up slightly, rubbing her other hand over Romeo’s chest.

“Oh yeah?” Romeo questioned.

“Yeah,” Ruby answered. “You know I can’t believe it was over 3 months ago I mailed her anyways. Where has the time gone?”

“We’ve just had so much fun travelling.” Romeo grinned.

“I guess we have,” Ruby smiled. “I can’t believe she’s 6 months old already though. I bet she looks so different. Do you think she’ll give me more pictures?”

“Of course,” Romeo answered. “She said she would, right?”

“Yeah, I guess so,” Ruby gave a little smile. “Aww what if she says she’s crawling?” Ruby eyes lit up. “Aww I bet she is. She’s going to be a clever one.”

“Oh yeah?” Romeo questioned. “Well I don’t know, I mean you are her mother.”

“Oi,” Ruby hit Romeo’s chest. “Cheeky, I was a very clever baby thank you very much.”

“Hmmm, but you couldn’t say Charlie till you were 4 years old?” Romeo raised his eyebrows.

“How did you know that?” Ruby questioned.

“I dunno,” Romeo gave a little shrug. “I guess Charlie told me.”

“Well Charlie is a hard word.” Ruby said, defending herself.

“No,” Romeo shook his head. “Something like.......deliberately would be a hard word for a young one. Not Charlie.”

“Shut up,” Ruby hit his chest again. “She’s going to be clever like me, okay?”

“Well you did pick a very handsome, clever, funny, fiancé.” Romeo said.

“Did I?” Ruby questioned. “Where is he then?” Ruby looked around the room, mocking a look of confusion.

“So cheeky,” Romeo gasped as he pulled her closer to him again. Ruby laughed lightly before placing a soft kiss on Romeo’s lips. “But no, I agree. I think Aimee will be a clever little one and think you should give her an email. She might even be able to reply for herself,” Ruby shook her head as she hit his chest again. “Will you stop hitting me.” Romeo sighed as he rubbed his chest.

“Well be serious,” Ruby said. “I’m talking about the daughter I gave up here. I don’t think we can joke about that.”

“I think it’s good you can,” Romeo smiled lightly at her. “Shows how comfortable you are with your choice.”

“I guess,” Ruby gave a little smile. “Anyways, I am going to email Rachel later on today.”

“Later on?” Romeo questioned.

“Mmm, once we get up.” Ruby said.

“So, we’re not planning on getting up yet?” Romeo questioned.

“Uh-uh,” Ruby shook her head as she pulled him in for a kiss. “Not yet.”

“Ah so we are going to sleep?” Romeo gave a cheeky grin.

“Uh-uh,” Ruby shook her head. “Now, come here.” Ruby placed a soft kiss on his lips, as Romeo wrapped his arms around Ruby, letting the kiss deepen.

******

Charlie walked into the house after a hard day at work. She’d been out on her feet most of the day and all she wanted to do was have a nice long bubble bath and have an early night. “Hey,” Charlie yawned as she walked into the kitchen where Brax was putting Zak’s bowl down, filled with his dinner. Zak jumped in excitement before he started to munch away. “No pirate look today?” Charlie questioned. “Shame. I sorta liked you in that look.”

“Ah really?” Brax raised his eyebrows as he wrapped his arms around Charlie’s waist, pulling her close for a hug. “Well play your cards right and maybe you will see me as a pirate again.” Brax grinned suggestively.

“Oh,” Charlie raised one eyebrow. “So will I be your pirate wench?”

“You can be whatever you want baby,” Brax gave a grin before placing a soft kiss on her lips. “How was work today?” Brax questioned as he pulled back, but remained hugging his girlfriend.

“Busy,” Charlie yawned. “But I did speak to Inspector Grieves before I left today and I told him of your concerns and while he did say that it shouldn’t stop me doing my job he understands that there are situations in which I need to put myself a risk, so, until my maternity leave starts I am officially on desk duties.”

Brax gave a little smile. “Thank you. I just worry when you are out there and want you and Pip to stay safe.”

Charlie gave a smile back. “So, where’s Connor?”

“He’s upstairs packing,” Brax answered. “Said he’s had enough of living here with us two so he’s moving into a bachelor pad.” Brax laughed.

“Oi,” Charlie hit his chest. “Be serious.”

“He’s packing,” Brax said again. “He is going to Bianca’s for the night because I am taking you out.”

“Oh,” Charlie gave a little smile. “So you did remember what today was then.”

“Of course I remembered.” Brax sounded somewhat offended.

Charlie gave a little smile before yawning again. “So, I don’t want to seem ungrateful or anything but I am so tired,” Charlie said. “Do you think maybe we could just move this to another night?”

Brax widened his eyes. No. No they can’t do it another night. Another night wouldn’t be their 1 year anniversary. It wouldn’t be the same proposing on any other night. “Aww c’mon, it’s our one year anniversary. We need to go out to celebrate.”

“I don’t think I’d be the best company,” Charlie pushed away another yawn. “I’m struggling to keep my eyes open as it is.”

“Go for a nice shower,” Brax said. “It’ll refresh you and you’ll feel ready for a nice night. Don’t you want to celebrate a year with me?”

“Of course, but...” Charlie trailed off. “All I want to do right now is sleep.”

“Well like I said go have a nice shower and it’ll wake you up. I’ll take Connor to Bianca’s and come home and get ready then we’ll go out, okay?” Brax had put a lot of thought and plans into his evening so he didn’t want it not to happen now.

“Mmm,” Charlie gave a little nod. “Sure.”

“Oh hello mummy.” Connor said as he ran into the kitchen, his overnight bag over his shoulder as his school bag was in his hand, Darryl the lion sitting snug under his arm.

“Hey squirt how was your day?” Charlie questioned.

“Fine,” Connor answered. “We just stayed in the house, we didn’t go out, really we didn’t.” Connor shook his head as he looked to Brax.

“Oh right.” Charlie looked confused as to why her son was telling her this.

“Yeah,” Connor said. “I’m ready Darryl.”

“Right.” Brax let go of his grasp on Charlie and stepped closer to Connor.

“Bye buddy, you be good for Bianca okay?” Charlie questioned and Connor nodded his head as he gave his mother a hug and kiss. “Bee will take you to school tomorrow but mummy will pick you up okay?”

“I wish it wasn’t Monday tomorrow.” Connor sighed.

“I thought you liked school?” Brax questioned.

“I do but mummy was working all weekend so I no see her much,” Connor sighed. “We could go to the park tomorrow.”

“I’ll take you after school, how does that sound?” Charlie questioned before once again yawning.

“Yeah,” Connor gave a little cheer. “Right Darryl. You take me to Bee’s house now.” Connor started to run through the house towards the front door.

“I’ll be right back.” Brax placed a kiss on Charlie’s cheek before he walked out of the house with Connor.

Charlie exhaled lightly as she walked through the house and up the stairs to her bedroom. She took her police shirt off and lay in on the chair by her bed before sitting down and taking her boots off. She yawned as she stood back up and took her pants off, before giving her face a rub as she shook her head, trying to wake herself up a little more. She looked down to the bed, that looked warm and inviting and thought a 5 minute rest before jumping into the shower sounded lovely. She lay down onto the bed and put her hands around her bump. If baby was now sleeping after a long day then she should get to as well. “Just 5 minutes before getting in the shower.” Charlie mumbled as she exhaled and closed her eyes and almost immediately fell asleep.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments. I hope this one is okay...

Chapter 143

Brax walked back up the stairs and into the bedroom. He exhaled lightly as he saw Charlie lying on the bed. “Baby,” Brax spoke quietly. “Charlie....Charlie.....earth to Charlotte,” Brax bent over her so he was able to see her face. “Babe.” Brax lightly shook her shoulder.

“Mmmm,” Charlie moaned as her eyes flickered open. “You woke me up.” Charlie yawned as she pushed herself up in the bed to sitting.

“You were supposed to be getting ready.” Brax sighed as he rubbed her back.

“Sorry,” Charlie rubbed her eyes. “I told you I was tired.”

Brax sighed as he continued to rub her back. “Well I do think you look very sexy laying there in your underwear.”

“You mean my ugly maternity panties?” Charlie screwed her face up.

“Nothing ugly about red and silky,” Brax gave a cheeky grin. “But seriously, you’re not going to get ready?”

Charlie gave a yawn as she leaned herself into Brax, resting her head against his chest. “I guess.”

“Watch you don’t get too excited.” Brax sighed.

“Sorry, of course I want to celebrate our anniversary but I’m just so tired. I’ve been on my feet for 9 and a half hours of a ten hour shift. I’m exhausted and I just want to rest.”

“I’ve looked after an energetic 6 year old all day.” Brax gave a little laugh.

“I’m creating life,” Charlie said as she hit her hand off her stomach. “If it really has to be tonight then I’ll go for a shower and we’ll go out but I am asking you, please, to just consider moving it to tomorrow night. I’ll be much better company because I have tomorrow off work so I won’t be as tired.”

Brax exhaled lightly as he looked into Charlie’s eyes. She did look extremely tired, but tonight was the night he was going to propose; there was no question about it. “Well regardless of whether or not you are tired you need to eat, so, how about I go get us a chinese and we can eat that then we’ll have a nice bath together then get an early night?”

“Mmm, I like the sound of that,” Charlie gave a smile. “And I’m sorry but I promise I’ll make it up to you tomorrow night.”

“You better,” Brax raised his eyebrows suggestively as he placed a soft kiss on her temple. “Right, I’ll go get the food and you put some clothes on. As much as I like seeing you with next to nothing on, we are eating outside so please dress reasonably well.”

“Outside?” Charlie questioned.

“Yup,” Brax gave a little nod. “And I am not taking no for an answer this time.” Charlie pushed herself off the bed as she walked over to her wardrobe.

“Something nice.” Charlie said as she opened the wardrobe door as Brax left the room to go to the chinese restaurant to get their food, new idea’s running through his mind at how could still make the night special now that they weren’t going out.

******

Brax looked back at what he’d created in the garden and smiled lightly to himself. Sure it wasn’t as good as what he’d planned, with the yacht at sunset, but he was going to make this work. He still wanted it to be special. He took a deep breath as he put his hand over his pocket where the ring was laying, before taking it out, and taking a look at it. He smiled to himself before hiding the box under the blanket and walking back into the house. “Baby?” Brax questioned as he made his way back up the stairs. “You better not be sleeping again.” Brax said as he walked into their bedroom to see Charlie running a brush through her now down and straightened hair.

“Nope,” Charlie yawned. “Like you told me too I was making a bit of an effort.” Charlie answered as she put the brush down on the dresser before standing up and walking over to him.

Brax smiled as he saw her in a red dress, loose fitting of course, given her bump. “You look great.”

“I feel like a beeched whale.” Charlie moaned as she put her hands onto her stomach.

“With that neat little bump?” Brax shook his head as he walked closer to her. “Never. You’re gorgeous.”

“You scrub up nicely too,” Charlie smiled at Brax as she looked him up and down. He was wearing a pair of black pants and a blue shirt. “Little bit over dressed for the garden, no?”

“Well it’s our one year anniversary,” Brax answered. “I still want to look smart even if we aren’t going out.”

“I’m really really sorry,” Charlie leaned her head against Brax’s chest as he wrapped his arm around her back. “But it would be a waste going out tonight,” Charlie said as she fought back another yawn. “I can’t keep my eyes open.”

“Well please keep them open for a little while,” Brax said as he took her hand and led her down the stairs. “Just until dinner is finished at least.”

“I’m trying my hardest,” Charlie gave a smile. “I did have a wash you know and splashed my face several times with very cold water.” Charlie told him. “But, my body just won’t wake up.”

“Well like I say we’ll eat dinner, have a nice bath then we can snuggle in bed together.” Brax smiled. He was going to make the best of the night, and maybe, it being a little more low-key than he first imagined would make it all the more special. After all, it didn’t matter where or how he proposed, the most imported thing was that he was and Charlie’s answer, of course, which he hoped would be a yes. Brax lead Charlie out of the house to the back garden and her jaw dropped in awe at what he had done.

“Brax, this is gorgeous, did you just do it just now?” Charlie looked around the garden. There was a blanket laid across the middle of the grass, as lit candles and the bunch of roses Brax had bought and intended to give Charlie before they went out were now scatted in a path leading up to the blanket with a single rose laying in the middle, next to two glass of apple juice, that right now, represented champagne for the two of them.

“Well I had to make the night special,” Brax smiled as he led her down the path between the roses and candles. “We only get one chance to celebrate a year together, you know.”

“True,” Charlie gave a smile as Brax helped her down to sitting before sitting down next to her and handing her a glass of the apple juice and they clinked their glasses together before they both took a drink. “You know you could have had beer tonight,” Charlie said. “I don’t want to stop you drinking.”

“I don’t mind,” Brax put the glass down. “I said I would stop in support of you,” Brax gave a smile as he cupped Charlie’s cheek in his hand and lightly rubbed it with his thumb. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too,” Charlie smiled as she leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on Brax’s lips. “So, where’s the chinese?” Charlie questioned.

“It’s keeping warm in the oven,” Brax took a deep breath. He was nervous but trying not to show it. “I eh...I thought we could just sit for a few minutes first.”

“I like the sound of that.” Charlie smiled as cuddled herself closer to Brax.

Brax took her hand into his and rubbed it gently, deciding now would be as good a time as ever to ask her to become Mrs Braxton. He took a deep breath, before pulling away slightly, causing Charlie to turn to face him. “Charlie, from the moment I met you I knew you were special and when we started dating I thought I was the luckiest man alive,” Brax smiled as he rubbed Charlie’s hand lightly. “We have a fantastic life together and I know that it’s only going to keep getting better. Being with you and Connor and getting to be a father to our own child together, is all I’ve ever wanted and more. I can’t wait for us to be a family. I love you more than anything and I want to spend the rest of my days with you by my side. Raising Connor and Pip together and going on many adventures,” Brax took a deep breath as he picked up the ring box and brought it into Charlie’s view. “I would be honoured if you would become Mrs Braxton,” Brax smiled as he opened the box, the ring now in full view for Charlie. “Will you marry me?” Charlie’s eyes widened as she nodded her head. She opened her mouth and tried to speak but no words came out. Brax had really surprised her with this. “Is that a yes?” Brax gave a little laugh.

“Yes,” Charlie answered. “Of course. Yes yes yes.” Charlie said before leaning forward and pulling Brax in for a kiss.

Brax pulled back for a moment and put the ring onto her finger. “It’s absolutely gorgeous,” Charlie looked down to the ring on her finger, the diamonds glistening. “Wow I...” Charlie gave a little laugh. “I so didn’t expect this tonight.” Charlie put her hand onto her chest and felt her heart beating very fast.

“Well I’m glad I surprised you,” Brax smiled as he raised his eyebrows before leaning forward and placing another kiss on her lips, this one becoming deeper and more passionate. Charlie wrapped her hands around Brax’s neck as he pulled her body closer to him, the kiss only become more passionate and intense.

“Mmm,” Charlie smiled as they pulled back and rested their foreheads of each other’s. “So, did I ruin some big plans for tonight?” Charlie bit her lip as she looked up to him.

“I had plans,” Brax nodded. “But this...” Brax looked around to the path of candles and roses in the privacy of their own home. “It was probably more us.”

Charlie gave him a smile before looking to the side. “The sun’s about to set.” Charlie said as she rested herself against Brax’s chest, Brax’s arm wrapping around his fiancée and resting it gently on her bump and they sat there together and watched the sun setting, both of them with a big grin on their faces, at having just gotten engaged.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments. Hope this one is okay..... Just wanted to wrap things up before fast forwarding again in the next chapter.

Chapter 144

Brax stood at the door of the bedroom, watching, wondering if he should wake her. She’d gone to bed around 9pm the night before, after their chinese and bath together, and fell asleep almost immediately, and now, at almost 10am, she was still showing no signs in waking up. Brax walked further into the room and got onto the bed, lying next to Charlie. He smiled to himself as he gently ran his hand through her hair. He loved her more than anything and couldn’t wait to make her Mrs Braxton, but figured they’d probably wait a while before actually getting married. They had enough going on right now, especially with the baby arriving in a few months. He moved his hand away as she stirred a little, before her eyes flickered open. “Morning sleepyhead.”

“Mmm, what time is it?” Charlie said as she gave a big stretch.

“10.” Brax answered as Charlie cuddled herself into him, Brax placing a soft kiss on her forehead.

“I told you I was tired,” Charlie gave a little laugh. “Have you been a creep and watched me sleep all morning?”

“No,” Brax gave a little laugh. “I just got here actually, considered waking you up but thought I should just leave you to sleep.” Brax said.

“Good boy,” Charlie smiled. “You’re learning.” Charlie joked.

“Getting there slowly eh,” Brax gave a little laugh as he continued to rub her back. “So, what are your plans for today?”

“Eh,” Charlie exhaled. “Well if I recall correctly, I have some making up to do,” Charlie said as she ran her hand over Brax’s bicep. “We got engaged then I kinda fell asleep on you so...” Charlie raised her eyebrows.

“Ahh, I like what you are thinking,” Brax smiled. “Sex in the morning hmm.” Brax raised his eyebrows.

“Sex?” Charlie screwed her face up. “I didn’t mention anything about sex.”

“But you said....” Brax scratched the side of his head. “You said you’d make it up to me. I thought that meant...”

Charlie gave a little laugh. “Aww look at you getting all worried because you thought you were getting some and now you think you’re not.”

“Baby don’t tease me.” Brax pouted. Charlie laughed lightly before she leaned forward and placed a soft kiss on his lips.

“Mmm,” Charlie moaned lightly as the kiss deepened. She ran her hands down his arms and pulled at the bottom of his t-shirt before she pulled away and stood up.

“Whoa whoa,” Brax sat up on the bed. “What’s this. You teasing me then leaving me hanging?” Brax questioned.

“I need a shower,” Charlie answered. “I thought that maybe you could join me if you want though.” Charlie said as she raised her eyebrow suggestively.

“You don’t even need to ask.” Brax jumped off the bed and ran over to Charlie, wrapping his arms around her waist as they walked through to the bathroom together.

******

“Wow,” Bianca widened her eyes as she looked down to the ring on Charlie’s finger. “Wow.” Bianca repeated.

“It’s the best huh?” Connor grinned from the seat next to his mother.

“Sure is buddy,” Bianca answered. “It’s lovely.”

“Yeah we got the best ever one,” Connor said, the smile never leaving his face at his happiness. “I’m so happy mummy said yes, we’ll really be a good family huh?”

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled as she ruffled her sons hair. “The best.”

“And Ruby and Romeo too?” Connor questioned. “Me, you, Darryl, Pip, Zak, Ruby and Romeo?”

“Yeah,” Charlie answered. “Of course.”

“So are we going to hear wedding bells soon?” Bianca questioned.

“No no,” Charlie shook her head. “We have the baby to worry about right now. No wedding for a while.”

“Darryl said I’ll be in it mummy,” Connor beamed. “Will I be?”

“Sure you will,” Charlie smiled down at her son. “We’ll get you a really important job huh?”

“Cool,” Connor grinned. “And will Pip be in the wedding too?”

“Sure will.” Charlie smiled.

“Aww doesn’t that make it seem all the more special?” Bianca questioned. “Getting to have your kids in the wedding?”

“A bit yeah,” Charlie nodded as she ran her hand over her stomach, feeling the baby kicking. “That’s all that matters to me really,” Charlie exhaled. “Rubes, Connor and Pip being there.”

“And Aunty Bee,” Connor said. “Bee needs to be there and Zak. We need to have Zak too.”

“I’m not sure about Zak,” Charlie laughed. “Dogs don’t tend to be at weddings.”

“Oh,” Connor sounded a little disappointed. “Well Bee needs to be there mummy okay?”

“Okay,” Charlie laughed lightly at her son. “Mr wedding planner eh.” Charlie laughed as she gestured her head down to her son. Bianca laughed lightly as she watched Charlie with her hand on her stomach.

“Little one active then?” Bianca questioned.

“Always,” Charlie nodded. “I’m getting a bit sick of it now. I wish it was time for him to be born.”

“Ah I’m sure it’ll be here before you know it,” Bianca smiled. “You got any names for the little one yet?”

“Pip,” Connor grinned. “This is Pip, Bee.”

“I know Pip,” Bianca laughed. “I meant names for once the baby is here.”

“Oh, I like Maisie,” Connor grinned. “It’s going to be Maisie.”

Charlie laughed at her son. He really wasn’t letting go of the Maisie idea. “For a girl we have Jessica or Georgia,” Charlie said. “Or Maisie,” Charlie added as Connor glared up at her. “But for a boy,” Charlie shook her head. “We have so many names,” Charlie sighed. “So might be a bit of a struggle.”

“Well I’m sure if a boy’s name is needed you’ll get the right one.” Bianca smiled.

“Oh yeah, and we have the little one to help.” Charlie smiled as she looked down to her son.

“I told you mummy,” Connor sighed. “Maisie.”

“You can’t call a boy Maisie,” Charlie told him. “I mean a name for a boy.”

“Oh, then Darryl junior.” Connor grinned.

Charlie rolled her eyes. “Yeah, I don’t think so buddy.” Charlie said. “But I guess there’s still time to choose.” Charlie said.

“Yeah there is.” Bianca smiled at her friend. Her sessions with Wendy where helping her greatly and she knew now more than ever before that Charlie was going to be great with this new baby.

******

Charlie and Connor walked back home after the diner with Bianca too see Brax bringing the garage door down. “Darryl, what you doing?” Connor questioned.

“Eh,” Brax rubbed the back of his head as he turned to face them. “I eh....had a little surprise for your mummy.”

“Not me?” Connor pouted.

“Well I guess you too, yeah.” Brax answered.

“Well can’t we see?” Connor questioned. “You need to show us.”

“Yeah,” Brax smiled as he took Charlie’s hand into his. “So, I know that you have your car which can seat 5 and is fine for a family car, but I dunno I felt I needed to get a proper car of my own.”

Charlie screwed her face up. “But you have the Ute. You love that thing.” Charlie said as they walked up to the garage and Brax opened the side door, Connor running in to see a car better suited to a family.

“I know, but, I need to grow out of it,” Brax answered. “It only has two seats and we’re a family of four,” Brax exhaled. “You know it’s not practical anymore and I got a good price so I was able to get a decent family safe car without adding too much more money.”

“Babe,” Charlie looked down to the black 5 door car he’d bought. “You didn’t need to. My car would do us fine for family days.”

“I’m a family man now,” Brax said as he rubbed her bump. “Isn’t that right, squirt?”

“Yeah,” Connor nodded. “This is cool Darryl and look mummy it even comes with a car seat for Pip.”

“You bought another car seat?” Charlie questioned as she looked into the car window and saw that it was completely different from the one she remember buying.

“Well I figured it would be easier having one in each car,” Brax said. “You know, save us moving the one from your car back and forth.”

“Yeah mummy, see, it’s good then,” Connor smiled. “Can we go for a drive in it Darryl?”

“Sure,” Brax smiled. “Has mummy took you to the park yet?”

“No,” Connor shook his head. “We just see’d Bianca at the diner.”

“Right, well how about we take this car out for a spin and head to the park?” Brax said.

“Yeah,” Connor gave a little jump. “Can I try the front seat?” Connor pleaded.

“Afraid not buddy,” Brax shook his head. “You’re booster seat is in the back.”

“Aww,” Connor huffed. “Well c’mon let’s go to the park.” Connor opened the car door and jumped in.

“You coming?” Brax questioned.

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled before leaning into Brax and placing a kiss on his lips.

“Not that that wasn’t lovely, but what was that for?” Brax questioned.

Charlie smiled before kissing him again. “I love you.” Charlie said before opening the front passenger side car door.

“I love you too.” Brax smiled before opening the garage door, and getting in his new car to take his family to the park.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

This chapter skips forward two and a half months in time. Ruby and Romeo are now back in the bay, currently living in a caravan and looking for a place to rent. Ruby returned to her job at the diner and Romeo continues to work at Angelo’s and with his surf school.

Chapter 145

Brax lightly rubbed Charlie’s back as they stood, looking down to the little teddy bear shaped headstone. It was June 9th and the second anniversary of Lily’s death and also the day that their baby was due. So far, Charlie hadn’t had any feelings that the baby was going to arrive, but there was still time in the day yet. Brax exhaled lightly as he watched Connor taking great care into putting the fresh flowers into the little holder. It was only the second time he’d been there, the first being back in March, on her second birthday. Charlie usually went to the grave once a month to bring fresh flowers and take away the dead ones, Connor sometimes going up to the grave with her, but today, on the anniversary of her death, they all made the trip together. “Is that good mum?” Connor questioned as he rubbed his hands onto his t–shirt as he stood up.

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled down at her son as he rested his head against her stomach. “It’s real good buddy,” Charlie ran her hand over Connor’s head as she spoke. “Do eh.....do you think I could just have a minute?” Charlie questioned as she looked up to Brax.

Brax gave a little nod as he stopped rubbing her back and looked down to Connor. “Right bud, we’ll get these dead flowers away to the bin huh?” Brax questioned as he bent down and picked up the bunch of wilted flowers before he and Connor walked away.

Charlie took a deep breath before taking a step forward and putting her hand down onto the headstone before she bent down onto her knees. “Two years baby,” Charlie exhaled. “Gone by so quickly. I often think what you’d be like now. I picture a cheeky little face running around with Connor. You two driving mummy crazy,” Charlie gave a little laugh. “Mummy’s got a new baby coming, but hopefully not today,” Charlie said as she lightly rubbed her stomach. “This day is your day. Baby can have any other day,” Charlie took another deep breath as she felt the baby kicking. “It doesn’t mean I’m going to forget you, Lils. I promise mummy will never ever forget. I never ever want to. You’ll always be my special little girl. But hey, the next time mummy visits you she might bring your little brother,” Charlie pursed her lips together as she once again rubbed her stomach. “Or I guess a little sister,” Charlie said quietly. “We’re going to meet Rubes now. And Romeo and grandma Morag. Have a little bite to eat at the diner,” Charlie ran her hand over the lettering of Lily’s name. “Brax said we can’t do much today because we need to be ready to get to the hospital. Bless him, he’s excited for his baby coming,” Charlie gave a little laugh, most probably of nerves. “Mummy’s scared though baby girl. I am, all the sessions with Wendy and I’m still a little scared,” Charlie bit her lip. “I’ll get through it, right?” Charlie questioned. “I can be happy with this child?” Charlie took a deep breath before turning around to see Brax and Connor waiting by the car. She smiled over at him and he walked down to her and helped her back up to standing.

“You ready to go?” Brax questioned and Charlie gave a little nod before looking back down to headstone.

“I’ll come visit again soon baby girl.” Charlie gave a little smile before she took Brax’s hand and walked back to the car.

******

Much to the relief of Charlie, the 9th passed without any signs of the baby coming. But then the 10th passed and so did the 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th and now, on the 15th and six days overdue, Charlie was getting very irritated. She sighed as she put the bowl of pineapple chucks down on the coffee table. “It’s not working.” Charlie moaned.

“Give it time,” Brax gave a little laugh. Charlie was trying to induce labour, so had been eating pineapple chucks, chilli’s, been on a long walk and had some castor oil and still nothing was happening. “Pip will come when she is ready.”

“I’m ready,” Charlie sighed. “I’m uncomfortable and need him to come now,” Charlie rubbed her stomach. “C’mon baby, come out and meet everyone now.”

Brax exhaled as he continued to rub at her ankle, pressing lightly in circles. Charlie reading that acupressure can induce labour. “You’ve just made such a nice home for her in there that she just doesn’t want to leave.”

Charlie scrunched her face up. “Shut up.” She didn’t mean to be so blunt and knew that Brax was just trying to be sweet, but, she was fed-up with being pregnant and just wanted the child to be born.

“Aww c’mon baby,” Brax exhaled as he continued to rub her ankle. “Pip will come when the time is right.” Brax said as Charlie leaned to the side and picked up another chilli before taking a bite.

“This baby is coming today,” Charlie said as she swallowed, feeling a little heat in her mouth. “Ahh,” Charlie reached out for her glass of water and took a long drink. “Besides there is something else on the list that we haven’t done yet,” Charlie said. “Something you haven’t actually wanted to do with me for the last month.”

“I don’t want to hurt the baby.” Brax answered, knowing Charlie was on about sex.

“You wouldn’t,” Charlie sighed. “Please, this could work and by tonight you could be holding our little Pip in your arms,” Charlie gave a smile. “Don’t you like the sound of that?”

Brax smiled lightly. “I do,” Brax said. “But, the baby will come when she’s ready.”

Charlie banged her glass down and threw the chilli onto the table. “Brax please,” Charlie sounded most frustrated. “I’m tired and uncomfortable and you started this so it’s only fair that you help finish it.” Charlie hit her hands against her stomach as she spoke.

“I’m not going to have sex with you,” Brax said as he picked up the list of ways to induce labour that Charlie had printed off. “Okay so if you really want to keep trying, then, we have....”

“We’ve tried them all,” Charlie sighed as she pulled the piece of paper from Brax’s grasp. “Well except from sex or nipple stimulation.” Charlie said as she glanced back at Brax.

“Nipple stimulation?” Brax gave Charlie a questioning look.

“Yeah,” Charlie nodded her head. “You know, fondle my nipples a bit.” Charlie said.

Brax gave a little laugh. “And that will lead to sex, right?”

“So, would it really be so bad?” Charlie questioned. “I thought you were supposed to like sex. You’re a guy, right?” Charlie questioned. “Isn’t it always on your mind?”

Brax laughed once again. “Most often.”

“So then please,” Charlie pouted. “I thought you’d be well up for this. I thought you’d want to meet the little one and on the plus side you get some fun before he arrives.”

“She’s obviously not ready,” Brax said. “I get this must be frustrating and uncomfortable for you, but, it won’t be much longer and Pip will come,” Charlie sighed before putting the piece of paper down and putting her hand onto her breast and started to fondle it gently. “You’re just going to do that right in front of me?” Brax questioned.

“Clearly you won’t so I need to do it myself.” Charlie answered.

“Yeah but....it’s.....” Brax rubbed the back of his head. “You know....I.....” Brax cleared his throat before moving on the couch, straddling over Charlie as her legs were lying across the couch. Putting one had on the edge of the couch to hold himself up slightly so he wasn’t lying against her bump. “You can’t tease me like that.” Brax said softly.

“I wasn’t teasing you,” Charlie shook her head. “I was just trying to get the baby to come.”

Brax exhaled as he looked into Charlie eyes. “You’re really ready for this aren’t you?”

“Eh....yeah.” Charlie screwed her face up.

“Right,” Brax smiled lightly before placing a soft kiss on her lips. “Let’s get this baby to come.” Brax said softly before the kiss deepened, Charlie wrapping her arms around his neck. Brax ran one of his hands up Charlie’s stomach and started to gently fondle her breast. They smiled into the kiss, letting it deepen as their tongues explored each other’s mouth. “Mmmm.” Brax gave a little moan as he moved slightly on the couch so he was laying closer to Charlie, but not in harm of her stomach. Charlie moved one of her hands so it was running down his back, before she went underneath his t-shirt and onto his bare skin, running her hand in little circular motions around his back and the kiss continued to intensify.

“Ohh.” Charlie gasped.

“I know,” Brax raised his eyebrows as he started kissing her neck. “This is nice.”

“No,” Charlie pushed Brax back. “My waters just broke.”

Brax widened his eyes as he jumped up from the couch. “Oh gosh we eh....” Brax ran his hand over his forehead. “That was pretty quick,” Brax laughed nervously. “We need to get Connor,” Brax made his way for the stairs. “Connor, Connor...” Brax shouted.

“Brax.” Charlie said calmly as she sat up on the couch.

“Connor mate,” Brax started to make his way up the stairs. “Why’s he not answering?”

“Because he’s at school.” Charlie replied.

“Of course,” Brax gave a little laugh. “Eh, okay so we’ll get your bag,” Brax came back down the stairs and picked up Charlie’s hospital bag that was ready to grab when they needed it. “Oh wow we’re having a baby,” Brax ran to the kitchen and grabbed his car keys before running back through the house and opening the front door and leaving the house. Charlie shook her head as she pushed herself up from the couch just as the door opened and Brax walked back into the house. “We need you.”

“That would help,” Charlie said as she walked over to Brax and saw a look of pure terror on his face. “You alright there?” Charlie questioned.

“Mmm,” Brax gulped as he leaned against the wall, putting his hand on his chest as he suddenly looked as white as a sheet. “It’s just eh....it’s a bit scary.”

“Don’t worry; I’ll do most of the work,” Charlie said as she rubbed his arm. “Look at me,” Brax looked down to his fiancée. “Take a deep breath,” Charlie breathed in then out with Brax. “Now all I need you to do is drive me to the hospital, do you think you’ll can do that?” Charlie questioned.

“I.....yes.” Brax nodded before taking another deep breath.

“Good,” Charlie gave him a smile. “Now, out to the car.” Charlie said and Brax turned and walked out of the house. Charlie put her hand onto her stomach and took a deep breath, taking a minute to compose herself so she was ready for what was about to come, not only with the labour but for once she brought the baby home.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

Chapter 146

Morag and Connor were sitting eating their dinner at the table. “Grandma, has mummy still not got the baby?” Connor questioned. “She went to hospital ages and ages and ages and ages ago.” Connor sulked, bored of the waiting game when it came to labour and birth.

“I know, but sometimes it can take a long time.” Morag answered.

“But how?” Connor asked as he took a drink of his apple juice. “Don’t the doctors just take Pip out?”

“Not quiet,” Morag answered. “But hopefully Darryl will call us soon with news.”

“Yeah,” Connor agreed. “And we can go to the hospital right away to see mummy and the baby?”

“If mummy wants you there,” Morag answered. “She’ll probably be tired after having the baby.”

“Oh okay,” Connor sounded a little disappointed. “Why are you still here anyways, grandma?” Connor wondered. Morag had been in the bay for almost 2 weeks. She’d never been there that long before.

“Oh well I don’t have anything going on at work so thought I’d come visit my favourite little guy,” Morag smiled down at Connor. “And I can give your mummy and Darryl a little bit help now that the baby is coming.”

“Cool,” Connor smiled. “Maybe you could stay forevers and evers.”

“Oh maybe one day,” Morag gave him a little smile. “You’d like that then?”

“Oh yes,” Connor nodded as he swallowed some of his dinner. “I’d love you to stay here forevers grandma, but not this house,” Connor shook his head. “There is no room here.”

“Oh I am sure I could stay with Alfred.” Morag smiled down at her grandson as the door opened and Ruby walked into the house.

“Hey, no word from Brax yet?” Ruby questioned as she put her bag down on the couch before walking through and into the kitchen.

“No, nothing,” Morag answered. “I guess you haven’t heard either?”

Ruby shook her head as she took a seat at the table. “No, it’s been what.....8 and half hours since Brax called to say they were there?”

“Yeah,” Morag gave a little nod. “Although I remember with Connor she was in for 21 hours before he arrived and with Lily I think it was even longer,” Morag answered. “So, it could be a while yet given her passed births.”

“Yeah.” Ruby agreed.

“When we do go to the hospital can we take a baby grow for Pip?” Connor questioned.

“I’m sure you’re mum and Darryl will have already packed one,” Morag said as she looked back to Connor who pulled a sad face. “But sure, you can take another one if you’d like too.”

“Yey,” Connor cheered. “I’ve had enough dinner, can I go pick one now?” Connor questioned as he jumped down from the table.

“Sure,” Morag gave a nod and Connor ran out of the room in excitement. “So how was work today?” Morag asked as she looked back to Ruby.

“Pretty quiet,” Ruby answered. “I just wanted to get away in case Charlie had had the baby and the fact it was quiet made it go really slow,” Ruby rubbed her hand against the table. “But I guess we’ll just have to keep waiting.”

“Yeah,” Morag agreed. “Romeo not around tonight?”

“He’s working,” Ruby answered. “Hence why I am here to hang out with my lil bro and you.”

“Oh so we are you’re second choice, are we?” Morag looked offended.

“Of course not, I didn’t mean it like that I meant -” Ruby was cut off by the sounds of the house phone ringing. Morag stood up from the table and walked over to answer.

“Hello.....oh that’s lovely.....yes of course I’ll bring him right away.....yeah Rubes is here anyways.....do we have a name yet?........Ah okay, well I’ll bring them in now, okay, see you.” Morag hung up the phone and turned around to see Ruby was standing right behind her.

“Well what was it?” Ruby looked intrigued.

“It was -”

“Was that Darryl?” Connor thumped down the stairs as he held the little white baby grow in his hand with a little monkey in the top corner. “Did mummy have Pip?”

“Yes,” Morag nodded. “She had a little -”

“No grandma, no,” Connor squealed as he covered his ears with his hands. “I want a surprise at the hospital. Let’s go, quickly.” Connor pulled on Morag’s hand as Ruby grabbed Morag’s car keys from the table before they left the house, eager to see the new baby.

******

Charlie was holding the baby in her arms as Brax sat on the bed next to her, his arm wrapped around her as he looked down to his new born child. Born at 5.12pm and weighing a small 5lbs 7oz, he was tiny but perfect. “I’m so proud of you baby,” Brax paced a soft kiss on the top of Charlie’s head. “You did amazing.”

Charlie looked up to Brax and smiled before looking back down to her son. His blue eyes scanning around the room, as the little white hat that the nurse had put on his head covered his little tuft of sticky up chocolate brown hair, just like his mothers. Brax had been concerned over his son’s size at first, but the nurse assured him that he was perfectly healthy and would catch up with what his weight and height should be within the first year of his life. “And you’re happy with a son?” Charlie asked. “I know you wanted a daughter.”

“Of course,” Brax smiled as he took his son’s little hand in his and rubbed it gently. “He’s my little Pip and I love him so much.”

Charlie smiled up at Brax. “Do you want to hold him?” Charlie asked. “You haven’t held him yet, have you?”

“He looks comfy in your arms,” Brax answered feeling nervous. “You can keep him a little longer.”

“No, please, I need you to take him,” Charlie said. Memories of Lily were rushing back to her and right now, she needed the baby out of her arms. “Please Brax.”

“I’ve never held a baby before,” Brax admitted. “And he’s so small. I don’t want to hurt him or crush him.”

Charlie gave a little laugh. “I promise you won’t. He’s your son, you need to hold him,” Charlie held the baby out and Brax took a deep breath before taking him into his arms. “Mind the head,” Charlie moved Brax’s arm slightly so he was supporting the head. She smiled as she saw him gazing down lovingly at his son. “See you’re doing fine.”

“Yeah,” Brax smiled. “So eh, we need to name him.”

“Yeah,” Charlie answered. “All the names we had, I’m not sure he looks like any of them, if you know what I mean.” Charlie pulled a face as Brax gave a gentle nod.

“I know, none seem right, do they?” Brax said. “I eh, I love Daniel but -”

“Aww Daniel,” Charlie gushed. “It’s lovely. What’s the but for?”

“My dad.” Brax said.

“Oh, he was a Daniel, wasn’t he?” Charlie asked.

“He was,” Brax nodded. “Well he was known as Danny, but his birth certificate said Daniel. So, people would probably shorten it to Danny and...nah dad doesn’t deserve to have a child named after him.”

“It doesn’t have to be Daniel after your dad,” Charlie answered. “It can be because we like the name and he’s doesn’t have to be known as Danny. It can be Dan or Daniel...you know, you call the kid Daniel so call him Daniel.”

Brax gave a little laugh. “Nah, it would be too much like after my dad and like I said, he doesn’t deserve to have a child named after him,” Brax exhaled lightly as he looked down to his son who was falling asleep in his arms. “Besides, he doesn’t really seem like a Daniel. I think he’s more of a.....Ryan or a.....a Joseph.” Brax smiled.

“Ahh Joseph,” Charlie gushed. “Brax I love it. That has to be his name.”

“Oh yeah?” Brax smiled. “And does he get a middle name?” Brax asked and Charlie gave a little nod. “You have anyone that you want to honour?”

“Eh, well Connor has Ross after my dad,” Charlie exhaled. “So, we can’t use that again,” Charlie gave a little laugh. “My grandpa on my dad’s side was a Commissioner in the Police Force and was uber strict. When I went to his place to visit I couldn’t move for fear I’d make a mess or do something wrong. And his name was Barnaby so....” Charlie trailed off as she shook her head.

“Barnaby,” Brax gave a little laugh. “You’d grow up hating us with a name like that huh mate?”

“Yeah,” Charlie laughed as she looked to her son, sleeping in his daddy’s arms. “But my mum’s dad was awesome,” Charlie smiled as she remember him. “He was into magic and used to always pull coins from my ears and amaze me with all these cards tricks,” Charlie smiled fondly. “We used to call him Marvellous Mike,” Charlie laughed. “Michael. Michael was his name.”

“Michael, huh?” Brax raised his eyebrows as he looked down to his son, bringing his arms down a little so Charlie could see him better.

“Yeah, I like it.” Charlie smiled as she looked to her son and gently rubbed his forehead.

Brax smiled as he looked to his son. His son who he would be able to teach how to surf, take camping and help with his homework. He was looking forward to doing everything with him and couldn’t wait to be a father to him. “Welcome to the world Joseph Michael Braxton.”

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

Chapter 147

Connor skipped excitedly down the hall as Morag and Ruby walked a little behind him. He burst through the door and his face lit up as he saw Brax sitting holding the baby as Charlie cuddled close to him. “Hey buddy.” Charlie smiled down at her son as he ran across the room and climbed up onto the bed and sat close to his mother.

“Hello,” Connor grinned as he looked down to his brother. “What kind did you get?”

“What kind do you think it is?” Brax questioned as Charlie wrapped her arms around her son, placing a soft kiss on his temple as Morag and Ruby walked into the room.

“Uhm....” Connor scratched the side of his head. “It looks like a boy.”

“Yeah,” Charlie smiled. “This is Joseph Michael Braxton.” Charlie said.

“Aww Charlie that’s a lovely name.” Morag smiled as she looked down to the baby. “He looks very little.”

“He was,” Brax answered. “Only 5lbs 7oz.”

“Aww what a little cutie,” Ruby smiled down at her baby brother. “I think he looks like daddy. With mummy’s eyes and hair colour.” Ruby said as he saw the chocolate brown hair peeking out from the edge of the hat.

“Gonna be a little heartbreaker,” Charlie joked before looking back up to Morag and Ruby. “Do one of you want a hold?”

“Not right now,” Morag shook her head. “I’ll go for a coffee. Let you have some family time.” Morag said and Brax gave a little nod before Morag walked out of the room.

“Rubes?” Brax questioned. Ruby looked down to Joseph before she shook her head lightly as Aimee entered her thoughts. “No I....” Ruby cleared her throat. “I’ll let Connor have time with you. I’ll catch up with Morag.” Ruby said before she made a quick exit from the room. Charlie looked a little confused before she looked back to Connor.

“I bet you want a hold, hmm?” Charlie questioned.

“Yeah,” Connor’s eyes widened in excitement. “I brought this for him mummy. For Joseph to wear.”

“Aww wow it’s a nice one,” Charlie smiled down at her son. “But he has one on right now so how about we keep this one for tomorrow?”

“Yeah okay,” Connor smiled as he handed the little baby grow to his mother. “It’ll be big anyways eh? He’s so little.”

“Yeah but he’ll grow into them.” Charlie told her son as she leaned to the side and put the baby grow on the bedside table.

“We should go buy clothes for a tiny baby,” Connor suggested. “Can you get them?”

“You sure can buddy,” Brax told him. “Maybe we could do that before mummy and Joseph come home huh?”

“No no,” Charlie shook her head. “He has enough. He’ll grow into them.” Charlie said again.

“Oh well,” Connor gave a little pout. “Can I hold him then?”

“Yeah,” Brax put the baby into Connor’s arms and he giggled nervously before looking down to his baby brother. “So what do you think?”

“He’s cute,” Connor answered. “And I will show him to play soccer and play legos and scalextrics and read him books because I am reading better now, I am,” Connor nodded. “He’d like me to read to him eh?”

“He sure will.” Charlie smiled, feeling herself tearing up at watching her son with the new baby. She couldn’t help but think of him and Lily, seeing the same joy on Connor’s face as there was two years ago.

“You alright?” Brax spoke quietly as he rubbed Charlie’s back.

“Mmm,” Charlie gave a little nod as she leaned her head into Brax’s chest. “It just....it’s an emotional day as it is for me and I can’t help thinking about....” Charlie trailed off.

“I know,” Brax said softly. Of course today was going to make her think about Lily. “If you want to we can...” Brax stopped talking as the door opened and a nurse walked into the room.

“Well you must be Connor. How’s your little brother then?” The nurse smiled down at the baby.

“He’s little,” Connor answered. “But he’s the coolest.”

The nurse smiled as she watched Connor cooing down at Joseph. “Well do you think you could give him back to mummy because we’re going to try a feed.”

“Oh okay.” Connor exhaled sadly as he passed the baby to Charlie. Brax saw the nervous look on Charlie’s face. When Joseph was first born, he wouldn’t take the breast so had to be bottle fed in the end, but now it was time to try again he could see a hesitant look on Charlie’s face. He wasn’t sure if it was because she didn’t want the closeness of breastfeeding with this child, or if she was just worried he wouldn’t accept again.

“Right Connor, why don’t me and you go catch up with Rubes and grandma for a snack and leave mummy to feed Joseph in peace?”

“Okay, but we come back later?” Connor questioned as he jumped down from the bed.

“Yeah,” Brax nodded. “Well come back and say goodbye.” Brax gave Charlie’s arm a light rub before he stepped off the bed. “See you soon buddy.” Brax said as he placed a soft kiss on his son’s forehead before leaving the room with Connor. Charlie exhaled lightly as she looked to the nurse.

“You sure we just shouldn’t bottle feed him a while longer?” Charlie asked.

“The sooner you get him on the breast the better,” The nurse gave her a little smile. “Unless you really don’t want to breastfeed. We are not here to force you.”

“I do,” Charlie answered. “I eh....I think it’ll help me bond more with him.” Charlie spoke quietly as she lightly rubbed her son’s back. The nurse gave a little smile. She knew Charlie’s past circumstance, but wasn’t about to go into it in any detail.

“Good,” The nurse smiled as she moved Charlie’s singlet up her body, letting her breast show. Charlie brought Joseph closer to her, his face looking at the breast. “C’mon baby,” The nurse gave Joseph’s cheek a little rub with her index finger. Joseph latched onto the breast this time, but still didn’t suckle. “Is he taking anything?” Charlie shook her head. The nurse put her hand near the top of Charlie’s breast and rubbed it gently. Trying to stimulate Joseph into sucking.

“Ahh,” Charlie winced. “That’s it, he’s taking some.” Charlie exhaled looking uncomfortable.

“Good,” The nurse smiled. “And the pain will go away soon,” The nurse gave Charlie a smile. “Well I’ll leave you to it.” The nurse said before walking away and out of the room.

Charlie exhaled as she looked down to Joseph. “Well baby it’s going to be a rough ride for a while. It’s not going to be easy but I’ll get there. I know I will. But in the mean time you have a brilliant daddy and an awesome big brother who love you and will care for you like you deserve,” Charlie lightly ran her hand over her son’s little head as she watched him feed. “And thank you for being a boy,” Charlie pursed her lips together as she let a tear roll down her cheek. “You’ve made it a little easier for me. I know it’s still going to be tough but the fact you’re a boy....it has made things a little easier, so really, thank you for that.” Charlie sniffed back as she watched her son feed. She knew that the next few months were going to be difficult, but knew with the help and support of those around her that she would get on just fine.

******

Brax and Connor joined Morag and Ruby at the table in the cafeteria. “He’s the coolest brother huh?” Connor grinned as he looked up to Ruby.

“He sure is,” Ruby gave a weak smile as she played with her engagement ring. “You going to help Charlie and Brax look after him?”

“Oh yes,” Connor nodded. “I said everything but the stinky nappies.”

“Aww that’s good,” Ruby gave him a smile. “Joseph will be lucky to have a brother like you.”

“Yeah.” Connor grinned.

“So, how has Charlie been so far?” Morag questioned as she looked up to Brax.

“So so,” Brax exhaled. “I know it’s going to be tough for a few months at least,” Brax answered. “She eh, she had a little hold though so she’s not completely against holding him and we’ve left her and the nurse trying out this breastfeeding thing again, so she wants to feel close to him.”

“Well that’s good,” Morag smiled. “But it’s early days I suppose. We don’t know what’s going to be around the corner.”

“No,” Ruby answered. “But she’ll have Brax and you. And I’ll be around when I can.”

“What you meaning?” Connor screwed his face up looking confused. “She’s the best mummy ever always.”

“Yeah she is mate,” Brax ruffled his hair. “So Rubes, you and Romeo keen to plan a wedding soon then?” Brax said, changing the subject for the moment.

“Yeah,” Ruby nodded. “Ideally we’ll be married by the end of the year,” Ruby gave a hopeful smile. “But we have just spent all our money on travelling so we’ll see.”

“Isn’t the parents of the bride supposed to dish out?” Brax laughed.

“If you want to be old fashioned,” Ruby gave a little laugh. “But like I said, we’ll see how things plan out.”

“You’re having a wedding too?” Connor beamed. “Will me and Joseph be in that one too?”

“Sure you will buddy,” Ruby smiled down at her brother. “We’ll need to find you a special job won’t we?”

“Yeah,” Connor grinned. “I like this. A new baby brother and two weddings,” Connor said. “It’s good stuff after daddy died.” Connor gave a little sigh of sadness.

“You alright bud?” Brax asked as he lightly rubbed Connor’s back.

“Uh-huh,” Connor sighed. “I sometimes miss him is all but my new baby brother Joseph is making me really happy.”

“Good,” Brax smiled. “Well how about we go get some ice-cream and a drink and then we’ll go back and see how mummy and Joseph are doing?”

“Yeah.” Connor grinned as he jumped down from the seat and took Brax’s hand as he walked over with him so they could pick out a snack to have before going back to see Charlie and Joseph before going home for the night.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

Chapter 148

“Aww he is so precious,” Bianca cooed as she cradled Joseph in her arms. “I can’t believe he’s over full-term though, he’s just so tiny.”

“I know,” Charlie answered. “I guess I just have small babies.”

“Yeah. Small but so so cute,” Bianca gushed. “How is Connor with him?” Bianca questioned.

“He’s besotted,” Charlie smiled. “As is daddy.” Charlie said as she moved slightly in the bed, before wincing as she ran her hand over her abdomen.

“Are you alright?” Bianca looked concerned for her friend. “Did you have a C-Section?”

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “I got my tubes tied.”

“Oh,” Bianca widened her eyes. “So this is the one and only for you and Brax then?” Bianca said. “How does Brax feel about that?”

“Clearly fine or I wouldn’t have been able to go ahead with it,” Charlie answered. “He said Joseph is all he needs and that he’s going to be there for Connor too and he’s happy with that,” Charlie gave a little smile. “Remember I have wanted this a long time. He happened because I was refused this.” Charlie said as she pointed to her son.

“Well yeah but surely you’re glad he did?” Bianca questioned. “He’s your son.”

“I know,” Charlie gave a little nod. “And I’m not saying I’d be rid of him. He’s my son and he’s made Brax so, so happy, but it wouldn’t be fair to not give me what I wanted. I waited a year from when I first got refused and this is still what I wanted, so thankfully this time they listened.”

Bianca exhaled lightly as she looked back down to Joseph who was beginning to wake in her arms, his blue eyes flickering open. “Hey cutie, you excited to see your aunty BeeBee?”

“Of course he is.” Charlie smiled.

“Hmm, aunty BeeBee thought you were going to be a little girl, she did, really, yeah.” Bianca cooed as she lightly rubbed his little cheek with her index finger, his mouth opening slightly.

“I’m so thankful that he’s a boy,” Charlie was honest with her friend. “I don’t think I’d be coping so well if it was a Jessica in your arms right now,” Charlie exhaled. “And I love how he looks like Brax too,” Charlie smiled down at her son. “I feel like there’s not so much against me now.”

“Aww well I still think you’d be a fantastic parent no matter what Joseph turned out to be.” Bianca gave her friend an encouraging smile. Charlie opened her mouth to reply but didn’t talk as the door opened and Connor burst into the room.

“Mummy,” Connor grinned as he ran over to her. “I brought Joseph his giraffe teddy.” Connor climbed up onto the bed and sat close to his mother before looking down to Joseph in Bianca arms.

“Aww thank you,” Charlie ran her hand over Connor fair hair. “I’m sure he’ll love that.”

“Yeah.” Connor gave a little giggle as Brax walked into the room and gave Charlie a soft kiss before sitting down next to Bianca.

“Hey, how’s mummy and Pip doing now?” Brax cooed as he looked down to his son in Bianca’s arms and gently brushed his hand over his forehead.

“Good,” Charlie smiled. “He had a good feed just before Bianca got here and I’m feeling a little better now after the surgery this morning.”

“Great stuff.” Brax gave his fiancée a smile.

“What you have surgery for mummy?” Connor questioned. “Are you sick?”

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “It just means mummy can’t have any more babies.” Charlie told her son. She may as well be honest with him.

“Oh,” Connor sounded surprised. “Why?”

“Well Rubes, you, Lily and Joseph, you’re mummy’s kids and you are all so fantastic that mummy doesn’t need to have anymore more.” Charlie said and Connor gave a little grin.

“Do you think I am fantastic Darryl?” Connor questioned.

“Of course,” Brax nodded his head. “The best ever,” Connor smiled shyly as he hid his head behind the giraffe teddy. “So you going to tell mummy what you got up to at school today?”

“Nothing much,” Connor shrugged. “I told everyone about my new baby brother Joseph and my teacher said it was really nice and she liked his name, do you like it BeeBee?” Connor said as he looked to Bianca.

“I love it,” Bianca smiled. “Suits him perfectly.”

“Have you asked her yet?” Brax questioned as he gestured to Bianca.

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “I was waiting on you to be here too.”

“Asked me what?” Bianca glanced from Charlie to Brax back to Charlie again, looking slightly puzzled.

“We’d like you to be Joseph’s godmother.” Charlie told her friend.

“Ah,” Bianca felt touched. She felt the same as she had over two years ago, when Charlie and Angelo had asked her to be Lily’s godmother. “Of course, I’d be honoured.”

“Great.” Brax gave a little smile.

“Who’s my godmother?” Connor questioned. “Is it BeeBee too?”

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “Aunty Leah is your godmother.” Charlie told him.

“She lives far away now.” Connor sighed.

“Yeah but uncle Paulie is your godfather too,” Charlie told him. “So you have him too talk to if you need to.”

“Mum,” Connor sighed. “He lives far away too. I will have BeeBee too okay?” Connor looked so serious as he glared up at his mother.

Charlie gave a little laugh. “Sure you can always talk to BeeBee.” Charlie said as she ran her hand over Connor’s hair.

“Well Joseph baby, I think it’s time you came to give daddy a big cuddle,” Brax cooed as he took the baby from Bianca’s arms. “Yeah, there’s daddy’s little boy,” Brax cooed down at his son. “Aww you’re so handsome. Just like your daddy aren’t you?” Brax gushed, full of love for his son.

Connor pouted sadly as he watched Brax with Joseph. He bowed his head down before leaning into his mother, Charlie wincing slightly as he leaned against her stitches. “You alright squirt?” Charlie asked as she ran hand continuously over her sons head.

“Yeah,” Connor squeaked. “When you coming home mummy?”

“Eh, tomorrow, I think.” Charlie answered and Connor gave a little smile before exhaling, keeping his eyes on Brax with the baby.

******

Romeo put the smoothies down on the table and took a seat next to his fiancée. “So, do you want to go to the hospital after this?” Romeo questioned. “Visit your mum and the baby?”

“Eh, I might just wait till they are home,” Ruby exhaled. “Let Brax and Connor be at the hospital with her.”

“Everything alright?” Romeo questioned, concerned for her. “Seems like you don’t want to see the baby?”

“I just don’t like hospitals,” Ruby sighed but seeing the look on Romeo’s face, Ruby knew he didn’t buy that for one second. “Yeah okay it’s making me think about when I had Aimee,” Ruby spoke quietly as she played with the straw from her drink. “Joseph is just....well he’s a baby.”

Romeo moved his chair closer to Ruby and wrapped his arm around her, letting her head fall into his chest as he rubbed her arm. “He’s also your little brother,” Romeo exhaled. “I know that sometimes you are going to feel like you miss Aimee and wish she was around, but Joseph is going to be the next best thing. He’s your little brother and you can get to have this great relationship with him.”

“Yeah,” Ruby gave a little nod. “I suppose I will can but I’m scared me giving up Aimee is going to stop me from getting close to Joseph.”

“You know,” Romeo paused for a moment. “Don’t force it with him. Just be around him as much as you can. You’ll get used to him being around and you can develop whatever sort of relationship you want to have with him. You’re great with Connor and he loves hanging out with his big sister and one day, Joseph is probably going to be same,” Ruby smiled as she looked Romeo in the eye. She leaned up and placed a soft kiss on his lips. “Not that that wasn’t lovely, but what was that for?”

“Thank you,” Ruby smiled. “You’re great.”

“Well,” Romeo mocked a cocky smile. “That’s nothing new to hear is it?”

“Ha,” Ruby poked his side. “Seriously, I love that you always know what to say to make me feel better. I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve you.”

“I think I’m the one who needs to ask that question,” Romeo smiled. “I’m the lucky one.”

“Hmm, maybe we are just both lucky,” Ruby smiled before placing another kiss on his lips. “You know, we bring out the best in each other...blah blah....all that mushy crap.”

Romeo laughed lightly. “Maybe so.” Romeo said before placing another kiss on Ruby’s lips, both of them letting this one get a little bit more passionate.

They stopped kissing as someone cleared their throat close to them. “Well are you going to stop pashing this chick long enough to buy me a drink?” Romeo turned to face the voice and was shocked at who it was.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments. I hope this one is okay....

Chapter 149

“Well are you going to sit staring all night or are you actually going to introduce us?”

Romeo cleared his throat before looking from the girl to Ruby. “Rubes this is my sister Mink, Mink this is Ruby, my fiancée.” The girls smiled at each other as they shook hands.

“Fiancée,” Mink widened her eyes, shocked that her little brother was engaged. “What’s the rush bro you’re only 21.”

“She’s the right girl so why not?” Romeo questioned. Mink screwed her face up and she looked Ruby up and down.

“So Ruby,” Mink glared at her. “What makes you think you are the right girl for my brother?”

“I eh....” Ruby paused as she looked from Mink to Romeo then back to Mink.

“Staring with hello might have been nicer,” Romeo exhaled. “Why don’t you just sit down at get to know each other? I’ll go get you a smoothie.”

“I don’t want a smoothie,” Mink laughed. “Can’t you get me something stronger?” Mink asked as she took a seat at the table and pulled Romeo’s smoothie closer to her, taking a drink anyways.

“Not in here.” Romeo shook his head.

“Well then what about at your place?” Mink asked. “You still living in that big house with the caravans?”

“No,” Romeo shook his head. “We live in a caravan right now,” Romeo told his sister. “Looking for a place to rent.”

“A caravan, how cosy,” Mink rolled her eyes. “You work up there though?” Mink pointed up to the restaurant and Romeo gave a little nod. “Sweet, let’s go get a proper drink then.” Mink stood up and walked over to the stairs before walking up towards the restaurant.

“I think I’ll go home,” Ruby said as she stood up, picking up her smoothie to take with her. “Let you two catch up.”

“No no,” Romeo stood up and grabbed hold of her arm. “Please don’t leave me alone with her.”

Ruby sighed as she looked to her fiancé who pouted at her. “Right, let’s go for this drink then.” Ruby spoke quietly before she and Romeo walked up to the restaurant after Mink.

******

Charlie, Brax and Connor walked into the house, Connor jumping around in excitement because his little brother and his mummy were now allowed home. Brax put the car seat down on the coffee table before lifting his son out and into his arms. Zak jumped up from his bed, intrigued at the new member in the house. He walked across to Brax and looked up to him as he sat on the couch, laying Joseph along his knees. “Zak this is Joseph.” Brax said as Charlie warily held the dog back, but Zak didn’t seem threatened at all.

“He’ll be okay with him mummy,” Connor said as he pulled at Charlie’s hands. “He’s the best dog.”

Charlie let go of Zak as she received a gentle nod from Brax. Zak put his front paws up on the couch and wagged his tail as he looked down to the baby. He gave him a little sniff before he licked his little hand. “Don’t lick the baby.” Charlie sounded freaked out as she leaned forward and picked the dog up and moved him back to his bed. Zak let out a little whimper and looked up to her with big puppy dog eyes before lying down in his bed.

“It’s fine,” Brax gave a little laugh. “At least he’s only licking him, could have been worse.”

“I guess,” Charlie looked down at Zak and gave a little smile. “Right what time is it?” Charlie said as she looked down to her watch. It was almost 4.30pm. “He doesn’t need fed yet so...okay....” Charlie exhaled as she sat down on the chair.

“No but I think he needs his nappy changed,” Brax screwed his face up. “He’s feels heavier all of a sudden. I think he’s been potty.”

“Can I get the nappy and wipes for you mummy?” Connor jumped up and down excitedly.

“You sure can,” Charlie smiled at her son. “There’s still some in my hospital bag.” Charlie told him and Connor ran over and opened the bag as Brax lay Joseph down on the couch.

“This is your area, mummy.” Brax said as he looked around to Charlie.

“No no,” Charlie gave a little laugh as she stood up from the chair and walked closer to Brax, looking down on him and her son. “It’s definitely you’re turn. He’s 3 days old and you’ve yet to change one. You’ve got away with it long enough, c’mon, you’re shot.”

Brax screwed his face up as he pulled the poppers on his baby grow open and moved it up his body. He undid the tabs on the nappy before opening it up. “Ha yes it’s just wet,” Brax grinned as he looked down to his son, and in that moment Joseph started to pee, spraying it all over Brax’s t-shirt. “Ahh.” Brax screeched as he pulled the clean nappy from Connor’s hand and held it out in front of him like a shield.

“Don’t use the clean one.” Charlie gasped before she laughed at her sight of her fiancé’s t-shirt sprayed with their son’s pee.

“What was that?” Brax questioned. “Why did he pee on me?”

“It was funny,” Connor giggled. “Silly Joseph.”

“Little boys can do that,” Charlie told Brax as he took a wipe and rubbed it over his son’s bottom, before Connor passed him another clean nappy. “You know they are all nice and warm down there then bam it’s cold.” Charlie explained as he removed the wet nappy and put the clean onto his son, gently but firmly pressing down the tabs before doing up the poppers again.

“You could have warned me that that might have happened,” Brax said. “Let me be prepared.”

“I know but it was funnier this way,” Charlie answered as she folded up the wet nappy and put it along with the one Brax used as a shield and the used wipes into the nappy bag and tied it up in a knot. “You want to put that in the nappy bin?” Charlie questioned and Connor nodded as he took it in his hands and ran off to the bin.

“Hmm I’m not so sure,” Brax sighed as he lifted Joseph back into his arms. “Now baby, if you want to do that again, make sure it’s mummy you pee on and not daddy, okay? That sound like a good deal?”

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “I think it should be daddy all the time.” Charlie said as Brax passed her Joseph before he stood up from the couch.

“I’m going to go change my t-shirt,” Brax said. “Actually how about we take Joseph up the stairs to see his nursery?”

“Yeah,” Charlie gave a weak smile. “But you know he’s staying in the moses basket in our room for a while, right?”

“Yeah but still, it’ll be nice to show him his room,” Brax smiled. “You coming up too squirt?”

“Yeah,” Connor ran back into the room before rushing up the stairs. Charlie and Brax followed him up, Connor bouncing excitedly at showing his baby brother his bedroom that he’d help create. “You will love this Joseph, really, it’s the coolest.” Connor opened the door and Brax walked in followed by Charlie who was cradling Joseph in her arms.

“Right, baby this is going to be your bedroom when you are a little bigger, yes it is,” Charlie cooed down at her son. “Connor and daddy did this especially for you, they did.” Charlie looked into her son’s big, blue eyes.

“Do you think he likes it?” Connor questioned.

“Yeah, of course,” Brax smiled down at Connor. “Thee best nursery ever bud.”

“Yeah.” Connor grinned as he tried to see Joseph’s face.

“Here, I’ll help you.” Brax went to lift Connor up before he swerved away from him. “No, you have pee on you. You are stinky.”

Charlie laughed. “Yeah stinky, go change.”

Brax pouted sadly before looking down to his t-shirt and screwing his face up. “Yeah, I’ll go change.” Brax laughed at himself before he left the room.

“Mummy, you know if you move this it turns into a bath,” Connor said as he ran over to the changing table and pulled at the changing mat on top. “Can we bath Joseph now?”

“No,” Charlie shook her head. “He doesn’t need a bath sweetie,” Charlie said. “You can help mummy when he does though, okay?”

“Okay.” Connor sighed.

“You and Brax need to take Zak out for a walk though,” Charlie told her son. “How about you stop in at the restaurant on the way home and bring home some pizzas for dinner?”

“Yeah,” Connor cheered. “Darryl, Darryl it’s pizza for dinner.” Connor ran excitedly out of the nursery and off to get Brax. Charlie took a deep breath as she looked down to her son in her arms.

“Well this is it pip,” Charlie exhaled. “No more nurses at the hospital for back-up. It really is just me now,” Charlie pursed her lips together as she gently rubbed her son’s cheek with her index finger. “Like I’ve promised I am going to try my hardest for you okay, because you deserve that, yeah,” Charlie took another deep breath. “Oh and great job peeing over daddy,” Charlie gave a little grin. “You keep all those for daddy too okay, and next time try and leave a stinky poop for daddy. Let’s see how he handles that hmmm,” Charlie gave a little laugh as she looked down to her son. His cute little face starting up at her, his eyes a deep, deep blue and his little bottom lip moving ever so slightly, like he was gently sucking on it for comfort. “Mmm mummy does love you,” Charlie whispered. “I do baby.” Charlie placed a soft kiss on his forehead before leaving to go back down the stairs with her son.

[Danni02]

Thanks for the comments.

Chapter 150

Charlie was holding a sleeping Joseph in her arms when Brax, Connor and Zak came back into the house, Connor carrying the pizza’s for their dinner. “Mummy we got meat feast and ham and pineapple,” Connor told her as he ran through the house and placed the pizzas on the kitchen table that Charlie has set with plates, cutlery, condiments and juice. “Come and get it.”

“C’mon Zakky boy, I’ll get you your dinner too,” Brax said as the dog followed him though to the kitchen, jumping around in excitement as he watched Brax getting him his dinner and put fresh water in his bowl. “So, how’s pip been?” Brax questioned.

“Good,” Charlie smiled as she walked into the kitchen, watching as Connor and Brax opened the boxes of pizza. “He fell asleep not long after you left.”

“So you’re not going to put him down?” Brax questioned as he pointed to the moses basket sitting behind the couch.

“I’ve just been holding him,” Charlie answered quietly. “He seems comfy here.”

“Right,” Brax screwed his face up a little. “Well you should probably put him down for now. You don’t want him to get too used to him sleeping in your arms and it’s time for you to eat.”

“It’s only the first time,” Charlie answered as she took a seat at the table watching her son digging in to the meat feast pizza. “And I can eat and hold him at the same time.” Charlie answered as she leaned forward and put a piece of pizza on her plate.

“Charlie,” Brax exhaled lightly as he leaned forward and rubbed her arm. “He’ll be fine in the cot,” Brax stood up and took Joseph from a reluctant Charlie. He walked over and put him into the moses basket before waking back across to the table. Charlie looked at the moses basket and tried to fight the urge to get up and check on her sleeping son. “He’s sleeping, it’s fine.” Brax lightly rubbed her arm before placing a soft kiss on her head before he sat back down. Charlie took a deep breath before taking a bite of his pizza.

“So, Connor,” Charlie looked round to her son, hoping conversation would distract her. “You have a nice walk?”

“Yeah,” Connor answered. “We went to the park and we threw the ball for Zak. He is a lot better at bringing it back now.” Connor grinned. Charlie smiled at her son before looking over to the moses basket.

“I just need to check on your brother.” Charlie said as she stood up from the table and walked through to the living room and looked into the moses basket, watching as her son’s little chest moved up and down. She smiled lightly as she put her hand over his chest, feeling it moving.

“Charlie leave him to sleep,” Brax shouted through to the room. “Come eat.”

“I’ll eat later,” Charlie lifted Joseph back into her arms, snuggling him close to her. She lightly rubbed his back before looking towards the door as the doorbell rang. “Oh hello stranger,” Charlie said as Ruby walked into the house. “Where have you been hiding these past few days?”

“Hey sorry, I thought I’d just give you time to bond as a family and you know, work and stuff.” Ruby answered as she walked with her mother through to the kitchen.

“Ruby, have some pizza,” Connor grinned. “There’s plenty.”

“Sure.” Ruby walked over to the cupboard and picked up a plate before re-joining them at the table.

“Ruby you should see Joseph,” Connor grinned. “He’s the coolest.”

“Yeah he is.” Ruby gave a little smile as he looked to the sleeping baby in Charlie’s arms before picking up a slice of ham and pineapple pizza.

“So, where’s Romeo tonight?” Charlie asked before taking a bite of her pizza.

“Well his oh so lovely sister came to town,” Ruby said as she rolled her eyes. “So, I’m leaving them to talk.”

“Oh.” Charlie answered.

“Indeed,” Ruby sighed. “You know she stayed with us last night in the caravan.”

“Oh, be a bit cramped, no?” Brax questioned as he took a second slice of pizza and laid it onto his plate.

“Just a bit,” Ruby replied. “I’m hoping Romeo is going to ask her to get one of her own. It’s cramped enough with the two of us in there as it is.” Ruby exhaled.

“Still no luck on the house hunting then?” Brax questioned.

“Not yet, but we’ll find the right place at the right time,” Ruby answered before giving Joseph another glance. “He not better off sleeping in the moses basket so you can eat?”

Charlie exhaled as she bit her lip. “He’s fine here.” Charlie answered.

“Right.” Ruby looked confused as she exchanged as glance with Brax.

“Hey Ruby after dinner can you play soccer on X-box with me?” Connor questioned. “It’s been so long.”

“Sure I can,” Ruby gave her brother a grin. “You ready to be beaten?”

“No,” Connor shook his head. “I’ll will again.”

“Haven’t you got homework to do?” Brax questioned.

“Yeah,” Connor sighed. “You will make me do that first ay?”

“Afraid so,” Brax nodded. “But maybe after your homework me and Rubes will go play proper soccer with you outside eh, how does that sound?”

“Can Joseph come watch?” Connor questioned.

“Eh, yeah,” Charlie answered her son. “I’ll bring him out for a little bit.” Connor cheered before having some more pizza. Brax took a drink of his juice as he watched Charlie eating as she held her sleeping son. He gave her a smile as she noticed him watching her before they carried on eating their dinner.

******

Brax and Connor walked back into the house after Connor’s day at school. As soon as Charlie looked down to her son, she knew something was wrong with him. “Hey, buddy what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” Connor shook his head as he looked down.

Charlie looked up to Brax confused. “I don’t know,” Brax gave a little shrug. “He hasn’t said a word all the way home,” Brax said as he walked further into the room and looked down to Joseph. “How’s he been?”

“Yeah fine,” Charlie answered. “Still sleeping.” Brax left Charlie looking over a sleeping Joseph to go pick Connor up, and was slightly surprised to see she hadn’t moved. She was still in the very same spot looking down at their son as he slept.

“Aww that’s daddy’s good boy.” Brax looked down to his son and smiled. In that moment Connor burst into tears as he threw his school bag down on the floor before running off up the stairs.

“Connor sweetheart,” Charlie looked up in the direction of the stairs before running up after her son. She walked into his bedroom to find him hiding under his bed covers. “Hey, buddy,” Charlie pulled the covers back and took a seat on the bed next to him, lightly rubbing his back. “What’s wrong?” Connor breathing was heavy as he pushed himself up in the bed as leaned against his mother.

“I want....I want daddy,” Connor cried. “I miss him too much and I wish he was here.”

“Aww sweetheart,” Charlie pulled her son closer to her, wincing through the pain from her stiches as he sat up onto her knee and rested his head against her chest. “I know it’s sad and I know how much you miss him, but, daddy is in heaven, you can’t have him back but you have Brax and he loves you so much and he’s always going to be here for you, alright? Anything you need or want and Brax will make that happen just like daddy would have.”

“No because he isn’t my daddy and never can be,” Connor shook his head. “They said so mummy.”

“Who did?” Charlie wiped her thumbs over Connor’s face, moving his tears from his cheeks as she tried to fight back her own tears, her heart breaking at her sons upset.

“The bigger boys at school,” Connor answered as he sniffed back tears. “They said Darryl will never be my daddy and Joseph isn’t my brother either.”

“Well they are wrong, okay?” Charlie rubbed her son’s back. “Brax is a daddy to you. He loves you very much and Joseph is your little brother.”

“They said....he was....only half.” Connor breathed heavily as he tried his hardest to stop himself crying.

Charlie continued to rub her sons back, hoping it would bring him so comfort. “Well yeah, he’s what’s known as a half-brother because you have different daddy’s but he is still your brother, okay, nothing will ever change that.”

“Well what half of him is my brother?” Connor questioned.

“Aww sweetie,” Charlie managed a little laugh. “All of him is your brother. But, it’s just known as half, okay, but it doesn’t change anything. You two are still brothers and no-one can take that away from you okay?” Charlie once again wiped her hands over Connor’s face, removing his tears.

Connor gave a little nod. “But what about my daddy?” Connor questioned. “I won’t ever have one again and I can’t ever call him daddy,” Connor cried. “I miss him.”

“I know you do,” Charlie held her son close as she gently rocked him. “But sweetheart, if you want to, you know that you can call Brax daddy?” Charlie said.

“Really?” Connor wiped his hand over his face before looked up to his mother questioningly.

“Of course,” Charlie sniffed back a tear. “He loves you like a son and I’m sure he’d be thrilled if you wanted to call him daddy. Do you think you’d like that?”

“Well yeah,” Connor nodded. “He is so good to me. Just like a daddy should be. He showed me to surf and he plays soccer and builds my legos and plays scalextrics and X-box. Just everything like daddy would have done.”

“Yeah.” Charlie smiled as she saw a little smile forming on Connor’s face.

“And it doesn’t mean I forgotted my daddy does it?” Connor asked. “I still love daddy so so much.”

“I know you do,” Charlie rubbed her son’s head. “But you can still love Brax and call him daddy too.”

“Yeah,” Connor smiled. “I want too.”

“Okay,” Charlie smiled as she placed a soft kiss on her son’s forehead. “Now, why don’t you go down and tell Brax?” Charlie said. “I’m sure he’ll be stoked.”

“Yeah,” Connor jumped down from the bed. “You need to come too mummy, come on.” Connor took her hand and pulled her from her bed as she wiped some tears from her eyes. She walked with an excited Connor down the stairs to see Brax in the living room, looking lovingly down at his son.

Connor looked up to Charlie and she knew what he wanted her to do. “Brax, Connor has something he wants to ask you.”

Brax looked around to Connor, intrigued. “Yeah, what is it bud?” Brax questioned.

“Well I’d love you to be my daddy,” Connor said and Brax’s face lit up as he looked to Charlie before looking back down to Connor. “Can I call you daddy?”

“Aww buddy I’d be honoured.” Brax felt himself welling up and Connor smiled as he ran over to him and jumped up into his arms. Brax held Connor tightly as he placed a soft kiss on his temple.