Unexpected Fight

by Kaylee Ryan

  “Thank you, Seth.”

  “You need anything?”

  “No, I think we’re good.”

  “All right. I’m going to head out and grab a shower. I’ll stop back by later. Call if you need anything.”

  Tyler goes to move to get up, but Seth holds up his hand to stop him. “You’re where you need to be. I’ll see you in a few hours.”

  Tyler settles back against the bed, his arms holding me tightly. “Get some rest,” he whispers, placing a kiss on my temple. I settle against his chest, his heart beating in my ear, his arms around me. And finally, I let exhaustion pull me to sleep.

  It’s been a week today since I was discharged from the hospital. Dr. Hatfield kept me longer than she originally said, but I didn’t complain. She’s doing what’s best for me and the babies, so regardless of how much I hated being there, I kept it to myself. Instead, I sent up a silent prayer for the boys to be okay, praying to whoever will listen to watch over my babies and me.

  The week after my discharge was a lot of resting. Sitting on the couch, lying in bed, and kicking back in the recliner. My mom and mother-in-law, even Kendall and Knox, hung out with me at different times to keep me company. Knox wanted me to get on the floor and play trucks with him like I normally do. It broke my heart to tell him no. I explained that the babies needed me to sit. He doesn’t understand, but luckily, I was able to find a cartoon he liked so he snuggled up beside me on the couch and let the TV grab his attention while Kendall and I chatted. It was a long week, but the bleeding has not returned, so I’m hopeful that things are moving in the right direction.

  “You ready?” Tyler asks, walking into the living room. He’s fresh from a shower. My husband has been working crazy hours, just so he can take time off for all my appointments. Ridge has assured him it’s not necessary, but he insists. He knows they’re a small company, and he doesn’t want to let anyone down.

  “Yes.” I go to stand and he rushes toward me, offering me his hand. “Thank you, sir.” I smile up at him.

  “That smile makes it all worth it.”

  “Come on, crazy man. We have an appointment to see our boys.”

  His eyes light up. “It never gets old.”

  “Nope. I think I’ve watched the video a hundred times.”

  “Me too,” he confesses.

  We pass the kitchen, and I stop to rinse our breakfast dishes. “Reagan, I can get those.”

  “It won’t take a minute.”

  “I know,” he says, taking the plate from my hand. “And that minute will be when we get back, before I go back to work. Your only job right now is to rest and take care of our boys.” He rubs my belly affectionately.

  “I hate that everything is falling on you. I feel so helpless.”

  “You feel helpless?” he asks. “Reagan, do you have any idea how helpless I feel? I watch you day in and day out, as your grow with our babies inside you. I watch as you have to sit around when I know you want to do anything but. I have to sit back and let you take the brunt of this condition, of growing our babies. Reags, a few dirty dishes are nothing compared to what you’re doing.”

  “You went to the grocery store alone. You’ve been cleaning and doing the laundry.”

  “No, baby. I’ve had help. Lots of help. From our friends and family. I’m getting help. It’s you that’s doing all the heavy lifting when it comes to your life and theirs. Don’t stress over any of that.” He gives me a sweet, chaste kiss. “Now, I believe we have an appointment with our sons.”

  I don’t fight him. I accept his tender kiss and allow him to lead me to the garage, to my SUV. The ride is short and quiet. As soon as we sign in, we’re taken back to the ultrasound room. I’m shocked when the knock on the door produces Dr. Hatfield.

  “Hello,” she says happily. “How are you feeling?”

  “Great. No bleeding.”

  “Good news. Our ultrasound tech is backed up today, so you get me.” She laughs.

  “We’re good with that,” Ty tells her.

  “Excellent,” she says cheerily. She sets up the machine, and pulls up my shirt and tugs the waist of my maternity pants down. Spreading the warm gel on my belly, she begins. Tyler’s hand is holding mine tightly as we wait with bated breath to hear what she has to say.

  “You’re killing me, Doc,” Tyler finally says, no longer able to take the silence.

  “I’m sorry. I’m just focusing on measurements. The placenta is now only covering about 20 percent of the cervix. The babies are growing right on schedule. Strong heartbeats. Everything is looking great. I want you to stay on bedrest, as you have been. It’s okay for bathroom breaks and the shower, but I want your feet propped up and you taking it easy.”

  “I’m all over it, Doc,” Tyler says with conviction.

  “Yes, I’d say you are.” She chuckles. “Any questions for me?”

  “Delivery. Do you think this will be cleared up by then?”

  “I do. However, I can’t say for certain, but I have a feeling lots of bedrest will be in your future.”

  “Healthy babies,” I tell her. “That’s all that matters.”

  “Healthy babies and a healthy momma,” Tyler corrects me.

  “That is our goal. Okay, I will see you back in two weeks unless you need me before then. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water,” she reminds me before heading out the door.

  “You’re amazing,” Tyler says, kissing me softly. “Thank you for all that you’re sacrificing for our family.”

  “I’m not in this fight alone,” I remind him. “We make a good team, Mr. Justice.”

  “You bet your ass we do.” He kisses me again, this time deeper, cradling my face in the palms of his hands. His tongue pushes past my lips, and I open for him. However, it’s short lived when he pulls away, resting his forehead against mine as he battles for his breath. “We better save this for home.”

  “You miss it?” I ask.

  “Miss what?”

  “Sex.”

  “Sure, I miss sex. Not because I want to get off. It’s the connection that I share with you. However, I know it’s not safe, and your safety and the safety of the babies are all that matters to me. We have the rest of our lives for that. Come on.” He pulls away and offers me his hand. “Let’s get you home.”

  Chapter 20

  Tyler

  * * *

  We’ve made it to twenty-seven weeks. When I say we, I really mean Reagan. These past several weeks have been hard on her. She’s going stir crazy being cooped up in the house. It doesn’t help that the weather has turned colder. We’re over halfway there and thankfully, her placenta previa has corrected itself. However, due to her being high risk, she’s still on bedrest, just not as stringent. That brings us to our plans for the day.

  Today we’re going to dinner at her parents’ place. What she doesn’t know is that it’s also her baby shower. Our moms wanted to surprise her.

  “I swear, I think each day I move a little slower,” Reagan says as she waddles into the living room.

  “You’re carrying two growing boys,” I remind her, even though I don’t need to.

  She smiles and rubs at her belly affectionally. “I think they’re out of room.”

  “They’re going to be big like their daddy,” I boast, because I can’t seem to help myself.

  “I’m going to be way outnumbered in this house.” She chuckles.

  “Well, I’ll just make sure to think girl the next time.”

  “Next time? Can we get these two here first?” Worry flashes in her eyes, but I don’t let her go there.

  “Sure, but we have one more bedroom to fill, and we can always add on, and then there’s the basement,” I tell her.

  “Exactly how many babies are in this plan of yours?”

  “As many as you’ll give me.” I wink. “Are you ready to go?”

  I watch as she runs through her mental checklist before nodding. “Yes, but let me pee first.”

  “Okay, ba
be. I’m going to take the cake and cookies out to the SUV. I’ll be back in to help you.”

  “I can manage,” she says, accepting my kiss and turning for the hallway.

  Last week we went and bought a new car for her. We settled on a Ford Explorer with third-row seating. We went to look at minivans, but I talked her out of it. The Explorer has a large cargo area when the third seat is down. Plenty of room for strollers and diaper bags and anything else we might need.

  Loading the desserts into the back seat, I can’t help but smile. She has no idea what’s going to happen today, and I’m stoked. We need double everything, and we’re blessed that our friends and family want to do this for us. It’s even better that we’re surprising Reagan. She gives so much to everyone else; she deserves to be surprised and pampered. She’s only been to the doctor’s office since she was discharged from the hospital. Sure, she’s had lots of company, but it’s not the same as getting out of the house.

  “Ready,” she calls as she comes walking toward me. “I locked up.”

  “Great.” I head to the passenger side and open the door for her.

  “You spoil me, Ty.” She smiles up at me.

  “One, I love you, so there is no such thing as spoiling. Two, you’re doing all the work here.” I reach out and place my hand on her belly. Over my sons. “Anything that I can do to make your life easier, I’ll do it.”

  “Be careful. I might just get used to it.”

  “Good.” I wait until she’s buckled in to shut the door.

  “Who’s coming today?” she asks once we’re on the road.

  “Your parents, Ridge, Kendall, Knox, other than that, I’m not sure.” I feel bad lying to her, but it’s a surprise. It’s not like I’m being malicious.

  “It’s nice we can all spend the holidays together. Although it does feel a little weird having Thanksgiving a week early.”

  “Yeah. Your mom didn’t mention why?”

  “Something about working around everyone’s schedules or something like that. I’m not really sure. To be honest, I just made sure I had the date right and asked what I could bring. She tried to say since I was pregnant, I got a free pass. Then I talked to Kendall, and she said she was bringing pumpkin roll. I called Mom out on it as you already know,” she says.

  “Babe, you’re having two babies.”

  “I know, but Dr. Hatfield cleared me to do a little more, and you helped me because you’re husband of the year. I’m able to do things. I just move a little slower and these guys often limit my reach.” She laughs, rubbing her belly.

  I reach over and rest my hand on her bump. “We make a good team,” I say, changing the subject. Keeping this a secret is harder than I thought it would be when our moms suggested it. One thing’s for sure, she has no idea it’s coming.

  Pulling into my in-laws’ driveway, I’m not sure what to expect. I see Ridge’s truck as well as my parents’ car. That’s it. I don’t know how they pulled it off, but they nailed it. I park behind Ridge and reach behind the seat to grab the cake carrier and the container of cookies.

  “I’m starving,” Reagan comments as we make our way to the front porch. “I can’t wait for Mom’s broccoli casserole.”

  “I’m sure she made it just for you,” I tell her. That I know is not a lie. Reagan has been talking about her mom’s broccoli casserole for weeks. I sent Heidi, her mom, a message earlier in the week telling her Reagan would be disappointed if she didn’t get it this weekend. She assured me she would make a batch just for her.

  “Mom, Dad, we’re here,” she calls as we enter the house.

  “In the living room, sweetheart,” her mom answers.

  My hands are full of our desserts, but I walk close beside her into the living room. As soon as we enter, a round of “Surprise” rings out. I look over at my wife to see tears shimmering in her eyes as she takes in the scene before us.

  “It’s your baby shower,” I whisper into her ear.

  “You guys,” she says, her voice gruff with emotion.

  “Come sit.” Her mom guides her to a chair next to Kendall, who is due any day.

  “How are you feeling?” Reagan asks her.

  “Well done.” Kendall laughs.

  “I feel that way now, so I can’t imagine what I’ll feel like in twelve more weeks.” Again, I see the worry flash in her eyes, but it’s gone before anyone can take notice. I notice because she’s all I see.

  “You have two though, so I’d say we’re pretty even,” Kendall replies.

  “Why didn’t you tell me?” Reagan asks her, looking around the room with a giant smile in place.

  “Hey, I’m not for spoiling surprises. I can tell you that we started planning this two months ago at my shower.” She shrugs unapologetically.

  “All right.” My mom stands and joins Heidi at the front of the room. “We’re going to eat first, then play a few games before we get to gifts.”

  “Right, so go on into the kitchen and make yourselves a plate.”

  “Hey, man,” Kent greets me. “How’s it going, Momma?” he asks Reagan, touching her belly.

  “Good. Thank you for coming. All of you.” She peers around him at Seth and Mark, who are waiting to say hello. “I know this isn’t really a guy thing.” She smiles up at him. I know the effect of that smile.

  “You’re family, Reagan, even before this guy and his super sperm,” Seth chimes in, making us all laugh.

  “Go get something to eat.” She waves them off and they do as they’re told.

  “Stay put. I’ll go make you a plate,” I instruct. I’m expecting her to tell me she can do it on her own, but she simply nods, accepting the help. Leaning in, I kiss her softly on the lips. “Thank you.”

  “For what?”

  “For these two.” I place my hand over her belly just as one of the boys kicks, and I can’t hold back my smile. “For loving me, for being my wife. I can go on and on.”

  “Right back at you, Justice. Now food. Damn,” she mumbles.

  “What?”

  “I really wanted broccoli casserole.”

  I throw my head back in laughter. “Good thing your mom made it for you.”

  “She did?” Her eyes light up. “Go, before it’s all gone.” She pushes me away, both of us laughing at her antics.

  “Thank you.” Reagan wipes a tear from her eye. “Today has been incredible. Thank you all so much for the gifts for the boys and for being here with us today.”

  My hand that’s resting on her lap gives her thigh a gentle squeeze. I pulled my chair right up next to hers as we opened gift after gift from our friends and family. I can’t imagine there is anything that we’re missing for the boys.

  She turns to look at me. “How are we going to get all of this home?”

  “We got you, Reagan,” Mark assures her.

  “We’re going to start loading up the trucks now.” I give her a quick kiss and get to work.

  The cargo area of our Explorer, as well as the back seat, is fully loaded. Mark’s back seat of his truck is loaded down, as is Dawn’s car. Ridge puts the two high chairs and the two bouncing seats into the back of his truck. We say our goodbyes and head home. I can see that Reagan is tired, and I know she’s going to want to go through all of this stuff. Her next-door neighbor growing up, Amelia, was there and it had been years since they’d seen each other. She was nice enough to make a list of who gifted what as we opened our gifts so that we can write thank-you cards.

  By the time the guys and I get everything carried into the house, my wife is sound asleep on the couch. I want to curl up with her, but instead, I unpack the high chairs and bouncing seats. She can tell me where she wants them when she wakes up. Looking around the living room, I’m amused to see our house has turned into baby central, and I couldn’t be happier about it.

  Twelve more weeks, God willing, and we get to meet our boys.

  Chapter 21

  Reagan

  * * *

  I startle awake when I fe
el wetness coat my legs. I lie here for a few minutes, making sure I’m fully awake before climbing out of bed. As soon as I stand, more fluid rushes to the floor.

  It’s time.

  I’m thirty-nine weeks today. I send up a silent prayer that I was able to make it this far. This pregnancy has been a bumpy road, filled with fear and worry. Dr. Hatfield kept reminding me that multiple births deliver early, but here we are. The last couple of weeks, I’ve been back on bedrest. My husband and our family made sure I followed orders. Kendall and Knox, and their new baby girl, Everly, have spent many days with me. My mom and my mother-in-law have also been here every step of the way. I’m so grateful for all of them. I don’t know how I would have done it staring at the same walls every day without their company.

  Sitting on the edge of the bed, I reach back for Ty, but he’s too far away. “Tyler.” I tug on the cover.

  “Yeah, baby,” he asks groggily.

  “Ty, it’s time.”

  “Time for what?” he asks, and then it must sink in because he’s jumping out of bed and slipping on the hardwood floor as he steps in front of me. “Are you sure? Are you okay?” he asks in a rush.

  “I’m sure. My water just broke,” I say, my voice cracking.

  “Hang on, guys.” He caresses my belly tenderly. “Take it easy on your momma today.” He leans in and presses a kiss to my belly, and then my lips. “Tell me what you need, Reags.”

  “I need to change clothes. Our bags and the boys’ bags are packed and by the front door.”

  “Right. Okay. What do you want to wear?”

  “Just grab a pair of leggings and clean panties.”

  “Got it.” He rushes around the room, gathering my clothes and then helps me get dressed.

  “Grab a few towels for the seat in the car,” I suggest.

  “Not worried about the car, Reagan.”