~ The Nipple Factory ~
by JLNicky and Hunnybakedham
JLNicky says - Ahhh! The great conclusion! You'll never guess. We took a few liberties about the birthing process since GASP never been there, never done that! Hope you laugh with us. I had a great time writing this with Hunnybakedham. She is a nut. Hope we can do it again sometime. Thanks for reading. Is my biological clock ticking? Do you hear it?
Hunnybakedham says - This was a whole lotta fun writing, who would have thought our off the wall conversations would lead to something productive?? It's literally been a coke-snorting trip into madness and let me tell you the bubbles hurt. It's been a fun journey into Bedlam as JLNicky's smart-mouthed sidekick and thanks for coming on the ride with us. Who knows we might even do it again.
The Nipple Factory (part 3 of 3)
CONCLUSION
Two weeks had passed and Sheila was still gathering up the garbage and leftovers from her family's staying at Bobbi's during the day. She wanted the place to be clean when the babies arrived and she found herself constantly picking up dishes and fast food containers. These, along with various business electronic devices such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), cell phones, blackberry units and more were driving her to distraction. She grimaced every time she found one. In giving the devices back to the owners, she would give them an additional glare. They just rolled their eyes. Sheila felt that the electronic devices were unhealthy to be around during a pregnancy. She had read that information in a book somewhere.
Another Mc Donalds wrapper! How can a cheeseburger that costs less than a phonecall have any nutritional benefits? How the hell do the triplets survive on this stuff? Grilled cardboard, fake cheese and a sugar bun, don't they know that to maintain a healthy body they need to eat from the entire food pyramid? And no, pickles do not count. I always thought it was donuts for cops, not cheeseburgers.
How the hell does James still have a wife? There are coffee rings everywhere he goes! I am going to find a whole new incredibly painful use for drink coasters if the boy doesn't start using them as god intended.
I must be adopted.
I hope I was adopted; too bad the Patton genes run strong and disprove that theory.
Another PDA? Mmmmmmm the question that must be asked is; Do PDA's float, and do they work after BEING FLUSHED DOWN THE TOILET?
Lately, that was her hobby. She would spend all day cleaning up after everyone, make some sort of healthy meal for Bobbi to drink, then find herself lying on the couch drifting off to some book that she'd bought at the Piggly Wiggly. While waiting in an interminably long line and reading about pregnant women and their needs and wants.
Little did she know, she was being watched.
"Mom, you do know she will hit page 53 soon don't you?"
'The Mom' in question, looked over at her second eldest daughter and just grinned. Sometimes being the Boss is so good! Especially, when you read that same book many years ago. Every one of her children was given a copy when their own kids were on the way. Page 53 dealt with the crowning of the head in all its full color four page glory; or perhaps that should be gory.
"Wait until she hits page 68 and sees the placenta being passed." The mother says quietly, with a sly smile.
Hillary chuckles at her mother's evil sense of humor and remembers some other gory pages. "What about pages 95 and 96?"
"Ooooh! The Caesarean sections. Do you remember that picture?"
"Yeah I had nightmares for weeks, hoping I wouldn't need one."
"How about the section on breach births?"
Hillary and Mom both cross their legs in sympathy.
***
She had watched Bobbi as much as possible for the last three days and recognized some of the signs that Bobbi becoming extremely sore from being bed-ridden. Bobbi's twists and turns while trying to get comfortable; had Sheila looking up the proper massage technique for Bobbi's special circumstances. After studying the movements described in the book Sheila watched for any opportunity to ask Bobbi if she could help.
They had hardly spent any time together, except for the occasional minute, or two before they were interrupted again. Sheila had barely been able to communicate her interest in the pregnant woman. She hoped Bobbi understood that she had someone on her side. Not just for the babies, but a new friend, or maybe something more. Every time Sheila looked into those green eyes, she felt her heart begin to flutter wildly in her chest. The woman made her melt. It was a peculiarly fascinating feeling. One idea, which Sheila wanted to explore more and more as the days passed by and her interests grew with every look. Not that her family had any idea of letting her spend a moment alone with the little French temptress.
It's a conspiracy. They are all out to get in the way and keep me from my target. I haven't ever failed a mission and I do not intend to start now. I just need to be patient and bide my time, they will slip up and give me my opportunity.
Don't make me use Lucy people! Family, or not, you are in my way.
After the majority of the family had left for the evening to return to the motel down the road, Sheila thought she might be able to put her plan into action. The apartment held only Bobbi, Sheila and her two sister's Hillary and Hailey. Hill and Hailey were way over in the living room area, 14 feet away, discussing some FBI case that had been announced on the news earlier that day. Sheila had spent those 30 minutes of T.V. time waiting to turn it off. The electrical neon waves emitted from a television were known to cause birth defects. She had read that somewhere too.
Sheila walked over near Bobbi's bedroom area and watched frowning as Bobbi grunted and groaned and moved to another spot on the mattress to find a more comfortable position.
"Can I help you with anything, Bobbi?" Sheila asked in a low tone, fearing her sisters would jump up and come over at any minute. It seemed that whenever Sheila wanted to spend any time with Bobbi, one of her siblings, or her mother would rush over to stop her.
Bobbi opened her eyes and looked over at Sheila standing near by. The pain she was trying to ignore showed in her tired expression.
"How about a back rub? Sheila asked, stepping closer to the edge of the bed. "I read up on how to do them for pregnant women just in case." Her worried look evident.
Bobbi blinked then closed her eyes and sighed. Giving a quick nod she felt the bed mattress dip as Sheila put a knee on its surface.
Sheila's strong hands slid over the robe that Bobbi was wearing. They ran down the middle of her back to the lower back muscles and sent Bobbi heavenward. She groaned her appreciation as Sheila touched the sorest ache she had been suffering for weeks. Sheila couldn't hold back the smile as she gave Bobbi a small bit of relief from her pregnant state.
Ooohh, mercie! She has the hands of a saint. They seem to be finding every ache and pain I have. Mmmm, just a little lower. Oh oui, perfectionner! Aaaaahhhhh, right there qu'il exactement. As nice as ze family is, I wish that they would let us be alone un jour…sometimes. I want to talk and get to know her so beaucoup plus. Much better if she is as talented as this in everything. These hands could be put to such better use if I wasn't about to burst. She has such kind eyes and such an ass. Rock hard and perfectly ripe, like a cantaloupe ready to eat. It feels so good to have her be in service to moi.
Sheila tried to control her breathing and not pant recklessly.
I wonder if I'm having a heart attack? I didn't know it could beat this fast without being shot at with an M16. I know my hands are shaking, but I can't help it. Her skin feels so good! Even through the satin robe, I can feel how smooth it is. No one ever told me that it was this nice to touch someone else. Hell, my skin, certainly doesn't feel this nice!
Before Sheila realized it Bobbi seemed to have fallen asleep, soothed by the Major's fantastic touch. Sheila couldn't resist letting her hands slide down over the exposed skin as the robe rested high on Bobbi's hip. Bobbi released a heavy sigh and rolled back onto her back. The robe opened to reveal muscled thighs and tan flesh. Sheila stared, letting her eyes roam from the fully exposed hip up over the cotton t-shirt, covering the woman's protruding stomach. She looked at the slowly rising full breasts and soft shoulders. As her eyes lifted higher she ran into the open gaze of emerald seas looking back. Sheila felt a heat suffuse through her body. The twinkle floating in the depths of those green eyes had Sheila rising from the bed and backing away shyly.
Oh God. I'm totally busted at being a pervert. Like I could help it? She is so beautiful; I guess it's true what they say about pregnant women, they glow. I'm in so much trouble here.
Mon Dieu, those eyes, they are dangerous. So blue and the way they twinkle, so very deep. I am in such trouble with this one.
"Thank you for ze massage, Mon Cherie!" Bobbi's smile was radiant with pleasure. Sheila managed to give a lop-sided smile before turning at the sound of Hillary calling her name.
***
After two weeks of babysitting, the two adults portions of the family had to return to their lives. The critical nature of Bobbi's pregnancy seemed to have eased with the direct interference of the Patton family. Sheila found herself saying goodbye and hearing last minute suggestions.
Megan hugged Sheila briefly and winked. She suggested that Bobbi, might like a ring to go with ready-made family. Sheila blushed and told her to go back to her spooky area 51.
Hailey flexed a few muscles and suggested Sheila might want to increase her carb intake to handle the little spitfire. After the kids were born she was gonna need it, wiggling eyebrows hinted to Sheila suggestively.
James ran his manly hand over the soft dark hair of his daughter back in her snuggle pack resting on his chest. He smiled at Sheila. Wishing her good luck he promptly turned to his mother and kissed "the boss" on her motherly cheek. Telling her he would visit soon he grabbed the ever present baby bag and hoisted his belongings to follow his sisters. Emily had practically slept through the entire stay as she listened to her dad's voice doing business on his phone.
Sarah, Samantha, and Sandra were on vacation and decided to stick around and help with the factory. Sheila couldn't thank them enough as she felt the niggling ounce of doubt for her sanity crawl back under the rock she had trapped it with before. The three girls would provide the perfect measure of security and leave the time before motherhood as rest for the pregnant Bobbi. This would leave Sheila free to look after her. The girls were a godsend. Sheila gave a huge sigh of relief to hear Sarah comment, "We just wanted to make sure there wouldn't be any strain on the little 'French gal'."
Hillary hugged her sister and explained the natives at home are getting restless having to eat T.V. dinners every night. Her two other sons and husband had called faithfully every night and asked when she was coming home. Toby had been having a blast. He was flourishing under the attention he had received from his Aunts and Uncles. He had even spent a good two hours, sitting with Aunt Sheila and her Bowie Knife Lucy. She had let him hold it and everything.
Bobbi had watched the scene between aunt and nephew with a tear in her eye, it was very sweet even if there was a shiny sharp knife involved. It may have been strange, but it was very tender. It was obvious just how much she loved the young boy and the knife. After some of the women Bobbi had dated a little obsession for a knife was an easy thing to deal with. At least, she didn't have two-way conversations with it.
Riley had been called within a week's time to return to her assigned projects. A rocket lift was schedule in two months in Cape Canaveral, Florida. She had to prep her staff and inspect the equipment she had produced for the astronauts. Her parting advice to Sheila was one word…"Microwaves."
Amy had decided to stick around and help if needed. She walked the twin brothers, Mathew and Michael, down to their car after they both kissed their mom and sisters goodbye.
Sheila could hear them sniping at each other all the way down the hall.
"Save your breath God Lover... You'll need it to blow up your date seeing as you're not allowed to have a real one."
"Well Mike your proctologist called me... they found your head."
"Oh my poor collared brother, hey did I tell the one I heard at Hooters?
Picture this: New York City, man is going to jump off the building. Up rushes a good Irish cop. The cop yells up to the man, "Don't jump! Think of your father!"
Man replies "Haven't got a father; I'm going to jump."
The cop goes through a list of relatives, mother, brothers, sister, etc. Each time man says "haven't got one; going to jump."
Desperate the cop yells up, "Don't jump! Think of the Blessed Virgin"
Man replies "Who is that?"
Cop yells "Jump, Protestant! You're blocking traffic!" Michael laughs at his own joke. Amy does her best to cover her own snort.
"Dear Lord, Michael, you do know that The Book of Revelations was written about lawyers don't you? And do I have to remind Mom of the time you tied Brownie the kitten to 3 balloons and let her float over the neighborhood?"
Bobbi had watched the mass exodus and was once again, totally amazed. She sat on her bed in her clean house; feeling rested, well fed and cared for. Nearly breaking down into tears, she watched as the family she had learned to love in such a short time, picked up and left. Watching carefully, she kept a close eye on the tallest woman there who continuously said goodbye to one sibling after another. Bobbi realized, that she was trying to avoid the thoughts of her Sheila leaving too.
Mama Patton, turned to check the sweet little woman only to see the French tigress, her eyes full of unshed tears, following her eldest child's form around the room. Staring at her possessively, without thought.
And Touchdown! Scoring for a redhead daughter-in-law even if Sheila doesn't know it yet, she has already been tagged and bagged.
As the crew left and the door was shut, Mrs. Patton watched as Sheila headed directly toward her heart's desire.
Aww! They look so cute together; one more kid married off, three to go. Now, I just need to get them married before the babies come.
Bobbi scooted over on the mattress to allow room for Sheila to sit, even though chairs had been drawn near the bedside for visitors. Hearing a knock at the front door, 'The Boss' thought that one of the kids might have forgotten something.
She moved to answer and found a stranger standing outside. A short, fat, bald man, was glancing at his watch and tapping his foot impatiently. His surprised expression lasted for only a second as he looked over the woman standing between him and his patient. He quickly took the stranger in stride and shrugged it off.
"I'm Dr. Grimblen and I'm here to check in on my patient? Is Rosamonde Delacroix in?"
"Yes she is in. Where the hell have you been? Do you regularly leave your bed-ridden patients without support? Is she just supposed to survive the third trimester, without a checkup?"
Doctor Grimblen, looked outraged at the accusation. The short woman's voice had risen louder and she was still blocking his entrance.
"She could have called me, madam. It is not in my schedule to check on my patients every month. This is a scheduled appointment, which she and I arranged." Mrs. Patton's expression darkened, as she eyed the liar. One thing she did not tolerate was a lie. Her fifteen children had each tried the trick and lost the battle and as the mother of her kids, she knew every trick in the book.
Bobbi had already mentioned her Médecin Obstétricien had been absent, even when she had called and left messages at his office. The Patton clan had immediately called their family doctor and a very nice older man had arrived to give Bobbi a thorough check up. He had even brought her a video to watch for the expected procedures. Bobbi had clearly been emotionally and physically reassured at his ethics and kindness to her. As the Patton crew had told her he would do…he reached in his bag before leaving and handed her a rootbeer-flavored lollipop. Sheila had waggled her eyebrows as she watched Bobbi promptly unwrap it and suck it into her mouth. Her sister Hailey had rolled her eyes and shook her head. Sheila stood across the room and watched fascinated as the lollipop was sucked inward. A towel was tossed at her head from the kitchen as her mother gained her attention and pointed to 2, or 3 cereal bowls that were left in the sink. Sheila had sighed.
The obviously not needed wannabe doctor was relieved of his duties, as Mama Patton opened the door and calmly called her growling daughter over to remove the nuisance. Sheila strode to the door and eyed the shorter man as she noted his small leather bag. Her eyes narrowed at him and Doctor Grimblen, suddenly felt a momentary loss of control over his bladder. The tall commanding woman seemed to prowl closer as her stealthy walk became that of a hunter seeking it's prey as she came at him from across the room. Mama Patton smiled and wished she could capture that intimidating tactic herself. Her shorter, broader frame just couldn't manage it.
Sheila reached outside the door and grabbed the blazer shoulder pads to practically lift the man to his toes. She half dragged, encouraging him to move back down the hallway toward the factory's exit.
Mama Patton smiled and shared a wink with Bobbi. Bobbi let her small grin grow wider. She blinked and yawned as she sat waiting for Sheila to return. Snuggling back down into her bed she blinked at the suddenly dimmer lights. Mama Patton had sat down across the room after turning off the overheads in the once again empty rooms.
The sudden quiet of the loft was delightfully soothing to her body. She loved the Pattons and the encouragement they had given her. The love they had shared was immeasurable. But, the quiet was health giving. For once, her babies were either resting, or without complaint. Bobbi closed her eyes and felt a soft touch of stroking fingers run her bangs back off her forehead before making gentle circles on her aching back. Feeling every muscle loosen up and relax, she took the bull by the horns and the major by the hand. Pulling the hand around her enlarged middle and capturing the stunned blue eyes with her own; she asked a simple question.
"Stay?"
Sheila simply nodded with a strangely dopey look on her face before lying down on her side. Bobbi immediately snuggled back into the long strong body feeling better than she had in years. The large hand splayed across her stomach felt just right protecting her sleeping babies.
***
"Go Long!" Baby One cried to his brother "Here comes the pass." He watched in horror as his pass went wide and the 'Football' got tangled up in various cords and things. "Oh crap, now how do I get her out of there, knew we should have found something else to use as a ball."
Baby Three knew she was stuck, stupid boys, thankfully her stumpy thing had never grown, so her brain had stayed intact, and too bad she wasn't big enough to defend herself from the brutes she shared a 'woom' with. What she wouldn't give for a 'woom' with a view.
"Help me; we have to get her out of there." Baby Two said to Baby One. He grabbed the runts legs and pulled with all his might while Baby One was pulling on his legs.
It was bound to go horribly wrong and so it did, when Baby Two lost his grip and his hands slid down baby three's legs suddenly.
We have all seen dominoes and know what happens next.
When the fall out had cleared Baby three was still trapped up above and Baby One's was stuck head first down below and now there were strange ripples around they're home.
"Crap. I'm gonna be grounded till I'm 3." He then tried to pull his brother out to no avail.
When the cocoon around them tightened dramatically, he knew that he was in real trouble.
"Oh Crap! Houston we have a problem."
***
Bobbi yelled the first thing that came to her mind.
"Sheilaaaaaaaa!" The cry was near hysterical and had Sheila running from making the bed with fresh sheets to the door of the closed bathroom. Before she busted it down with her bare knuckles it was flung open inward.
"My water just broke!" Bobbi whispered to the tall figure taking up the doorway. Sheila turned paler than the white sheets she still held trailing behind her in one hand.
"Waa…water…bb..br..broke?" Sheila couldn't stop the stutter. Her last nights visit to the VCR video movie from hell to watch the birthing tape had her vocals in a constant state of the beginnings of a scream.
Sheila reached out and dropping the sheet, she helped Bobbi come back toward the bed. Sitting her down on the side Sheila raced to the phone and picked it up.
Once again by rote she dialed Hillary and without a pause called in a Code 2/ Code 4. She heard an excited squeal on the other end of the phone, but hung up to grab the small suitcase her mother had packed for the 'going to the hospital' occasion.
Practically half carrying her companion, she juggled the suitcase and for some strange reason, she had picked the sheet back up off the floor and it was trailing behind her on her way to the car.
They rushed to the hospital and were situated in the delivery room within minutes. Sheila was strangely enough given scrubs and told to wash and get ready. She was so panic stricken that she followed along docilely, a lamb to the slaughter, a rat to the cheese trap, a bug to the zapper. The disguised nurses who were a secret society of sacrificing heathens had already held a forum and sacrificed Sheila to walk the Green Mile of death row. Sheila was guided into the room where a loud rebellious voice was screaming for more drugs.
The red hair was drenched with sweat as Bobbi laid in a small twin bed with her legs propped up for delivery. Her smaller hands were waving in the air as she ranted. "You peons of pain! Listen to me, crackzepot women! I want zegood ones. Give me American drugs, not those cheap rip off versions flooding in from ze poor countries. Zut! Real brand name Morphine, not that façade' watered down copycat Merde.
Sheila immediately reached out and held the closest waving hand and squeezed it for reassurance. Bobbi looked up with unshed tears in her eyes and swallowed at the kindness Sheila's gaze held.
"You'll be just fine, sweetheart!"
"Stay?" Bobbi asked in a tiny voice.
"Forever!" Sheila stated simply. Bobbi heard the truth in the promise and finally felt the shifting sands beneath her feet solidify.
The huge contraction quickly swept her into the rolling tide of chaos once again. At that moment, a nurse came in and announced that the Doctor had arrived. Another nurse held a needle the size of an elephants trunk and Sheila tried to avoid looking at the bulging stomach that the nurse had uncovered in fear of seeing that one special alien foot come pressing outward.
She managed not to squeeze to tightly as she watched the needle sink inward and disappear into her future wife's body. For a second she was tempted to lean down and peek underneath the mattress to see if the tip had protruded.
Bobbi didn't even wince as she was to busy trying to pant. The Doctor walked in and he smiled at the two women. The nurse aided him with his mask and he walked over. Checking Bobbi's vitals as Bobbi panted roughly.
"Now would be a really good time for a lollipop Doc. I'm pretty sure she will let you live if you have a few!" Sheila watched the ever-increasing breathing taking place and tried to calm her own fear down of Bobbi panting her way out of the bed.
Then to everyone's relief; the drugs kicked in. Bobbi blinked a few times, then leaned back into the pillows behind her and smiled up at Sheila.
"You've got the cutest ass! I want to bite your cantaloupe!"
Sheila blushed scarlet and looked around the room hoping everyone had missed that little drug induced exclamation. But, alas, no! The three other nurses were looking back with various wrinkled facial expressions hidden behind the masks. All their secret society of sacrificing heathen's expressions managed to actually cause further blushing for the tall, dark haired militant. The Doctor coughed and pretended to study his clipboard.
"How far along is the dilation?"
"Nine centimeters, almost ten."
"Fine. Fine. Lets get to work." He said as he uncovered a tray nearby. Sheila eyed the formidable instruments on that tray. Her eyes roved over the huge forceps and gigantic tongs, stopping in shock at the sight of a giant leather catcher's glove. She gasped. The doctor's snicker brought her blue eyes to focus on him. Twinkling brown eyes full of affection at the young woman showed laughter and humor.
Bobbi's slurred voice broke the quiet atmosphere. "Come on Doc. Let's push these puppies outta here!" she groaned dramatically.
Sheila grabbed the other waving hand and caught it before the nurses' tray on the other side of the bed got flung to high heaven. Bobbi just slumped down and relaxed as Sheila rubbed their hands together.
The contractions must have increased as Bobbi feeling the pressure moaned in her drugged state. The doctor took his chair near the end of the bed and lifted the paper cover. His head was out of sight for about one minute, when Sheila heard the most awe-inspiring sound she had ever listened to.
The strong cry of a baby's vocal demand echoed around the room. Doc laughed and held a set of surgical scissors toward Sheila. She eyed the blood smattered gloves he wore and realized she was being offered the gift to sever the cord. Her swallowed fear slid down her throat as she barely nodded and hesitated for a second. Reverently she pulled her own scalpel out of its waist bound casing. Lucy gleamed under the florescent lights. "May I?" She asked Bobbi who was completely fascinated with the reflection of the blade in those large hands. The doctor rolled his eyes at the scene and waved to a nurse to sterilize the blade. The deal was struck. Sheila looked down at Bobbi finding drowsy eyes and a soft understanding smile.
"Hurry Sheila. The next one is almost here." Sheila reached over and found the bit of flesh bonding mother and child together and sliced it apart. She saw the blood spattered baby held by the nurse being moved to be cleaned and weighed and measured. She had forgotten to check the sex. Frowning she watched as the second baby slid outward. Her gorge trembled at the sight, but she held it in check.
"Wow he certainly didn't want to come out, he was fighting hard to stay inside." Chuckled the doctor.
The squall of vocal anger rent the air as baby number two was pulled from his womb cocoon. Sheila this time noted the dangling baby boy appendage as she quickly sliced through his cord too.
The doctor handed of the boy to a nurse and began to frown after a minute and glanced over at a nurse nearby having a silent conversation.
Sheila could feel it as the tension was rising swiftly in the room. The obvious beeping noises had quieted earlier and suddenly it registered as a loud and obnoxious squeal.
What the hell? Last time I heard a noise like that our chopper ended up in the Gulf and I had to swim 12 clicks to shore, while dragging two guys behind me. Please God! I know that I'm not the best little catholic in the family, but please look after them both. I will take care of them for the rest of their lives if you can just do this little bit for me. I promise to make them all happy and look after them the best I can.
As her prayer was being said, she was playing with an antique ring that was resting in her pocket for just the right moment. It had been given to her by her grandmother many years ago.
And if your interested in what Bobbi was thinking, it went a little something like this. Oooo eeee ooo ahhhh ahhhh ting tang walla walla bing bang. Agadoo doo doo push pineapple shake the tree. Agadoo doo doo push pineapple grind coffee. To the left, to the right, jump up and down and to the knees. Come and dance every night sing with a hula melody…
Baby One's thoughts were more along the lines of Being sucked down that drain headfirst really messed up my hair, geez, it's gonna stand up on end forever now. But if they give me some of that peanut stuff I might forgive them for touching the 'do.
Baby Two's thoughts were divided equally between pickles, ice-cream and how long he was going to be grounded for.
Baby Three was strangely quiet. The struggle to get free had left her exhausted. She did however know that she was going to kill her brothers for playing football with her.
"Nurse lets put her under and perform the C-section. Looks like baby no 3 is gonna be a girl just as stubborn as her two moms." He smiled a tight smile toward the two women. Bobbi was still dancing in her head but Sheila frowned and tightened her grip on the Bowie.
The Doc eyed the tall woman and shook his head. "Bobbi will be fine Sheila. We are just going to get inside and extract the baby. No worries."
And that's what he did, perhaps with a little help from above. Sheila asking for help certainly got some attention upstairs.
The third child nicknamed Pepper, was born 4 pounds and 6 ounces during a C-section in surgery on November 17th. She was the identical triplet to her two brothers, peanut and pickle. Both born 6 pounds 2 ounces, fifteen minutes earlier.
Sheila was gloriously led to hold the three babes as their mother recovered from the anesthesia. Her entire retinue of siblings and her mother showed up at the maternity wing to look through the window at their newest relatives. The nurses in the babies wing took one look at the mass crowd, full of tall, dark and beautiful people. They were obviously all related, then one glance at the oblivious woman holding three newborns and broke out the apple cider to hand out to the family behind the glass pane. They all celebrated as they watched a bonding take place between Sheila and the babies. She fell in love with the little tykes as she gazed at their wrinkled faces. They gazed up bleary eyed at her dark hair and blue eyes trying to imprint onto the future human jungle gym they would learn to climb on.
"Hey guys, you know, I'm gonna be around a long time, even if your mom doesn't know about it yet. So I hope you guys don't mind having me around."
Although Sheila couldn't hear them, each of the babies approved of the idea. Mom had been much more relaxed and she was happier, since the major came into their lives, even if they didn't quite understand what a 'Major' was just yet, they figured it for a good thing.
Sheila was stunned that so much time had passed while she was bonding with the newborns, when the nurse came to take them up to Bobbi.
"Moms awake, would you like to introduce them to her?" She asked kindly, it was nice to see a 'Dad' so obviously in love with their kids.
"Uhhh yeah, how about it kids, wanna meet Mom?"
***
Bobbi was just waking up from the anesthetic when she heard a soft gurgle and the low tones of the Major talking to one of the babies.
"So Pickle, when should I ask her? Should I do it now? On one knee beg her and give her the ring? Or should I wait and try dating her first?"
Pickle would have smiled if he could have, instead he just gurgled his approval for the first idea. Peanut from his crib agreed whole heartedly. Pepper just snuggled closer to Sheila's heart, liking the strong thudding against her face.
If Sheila had been paying attention to Bobbi, instead of the kids she would have seen a lone tear making it's way from beautiful green eyes, she might have also seen the huge grin that graced Bobbi's face as well.
"Then again kids, what if she says no?"
"She wouldn't." Bobbi said not wanting Sheila to talk herself out of it.
Sheila put Pickle and Pepper back into their cribs and made her way over to the bed.
"Ok so uhhhmmm," She fumbled around in her pocket for the small box and pulled it out. Opening the lid she showed Bobbi it's contents. A delicate antique diamond ring with two smaller emeralds glimmered in the stark hospital light.
"I know we haven't really known each other all that long, but I don't think life would be the same without you. So ahhhh…." Sheila's original question became blurry in her head, but Bobbi got it loud and clear.
"Oui."
"Really?"
"Yes, I would love to."
"Your sure? I mean…."
"Major, I order you to get that cute butt down here and just kiss me."
"Yes Ma'am, I have a feeling I might be saying that a lot in the future."
"Major, shut up."
Their lips touched. Sheila had never felt so giddy. She practically fell ontop of Bobby with lightheadedness as the soft lips she was pressed against opened. Small guiding hands came up to turn her slightly to deepen the taste. Ambrosia. Sheila craved more. They broke apart, to breath each other in as they stared at each other. The glinting fire building in those green eyes made Sheila tremble with an unknown hunger.
"That was ze most incroyable, passionné…" Bobbi searched for words.
"I liked it too. Can we do it again sometime?" Sheila asked shyly. The nurse at the door cleared her throat and broke up the love fest. She glanced at the three babies resting near their mothers.
"Ten more minutes."
Sheila, blushing scarlet at being caught smooching, just nodded. Bobbi winked at the nurse who winked back.
"So am I ever going to get to meet our little ones?"
Sheila lost her embarrassment and felt stunned "Ours?
Bobbi nodded and reached out to touch the hand near her.
Well this little guy is Pickle, he's named for all the pickles you ate." She said placing him in his mother's arms. "This one is Peanut, who was named for the same reason." She placed him in the crook of Bobbi's free arm. "And this little heart breaker is Pepper." She said not relinquishing her hold of the small girl with the soft reddish blonde hair.
"Pepper?" Bobbi asked curiously.
"Well yeah, you went through so much Pepto-Bismol, it had to be her. And Pepto, just isn't a cute nickname." She explained with a grin.
The nurse came in to find the happy family camped out on Bobbi's bed. With Sheila laying next to Bobbi, as they held Pepper and the boys in their arms.
"Ready to try breastfeeding Mom?" She asked kindly placing each of the boys into a crib. She had Sheila hand over Pepper, the tiny girl was placed in Bobbi's arms and the nipple was put near her mouth. The baby took to it like she was a desert nomad finding an oasis. Sheila watched the entire ritual and found herself amazed at the beauty. She practically fainted, when the nurse told her to get comfortable and prepare for her own breast-feeding. She looked down at her pert breasts and decided that maybe the nurse was funning with her. The nurse soon returned with Peanut and held him out to Sheila. Sheila swallowed and took him. She glanced once over at Bobbi and found a huge smile on her face as she looked back. Her green eyes sparkled.
Sheila put the little boy bundle into the crook of her arm and found a baby bottle being thrust into her face. She couldn't help, but notice the company logo of Babies 1st Nipple stamped around the edge of the rubber thingy attached on top of the milk drink. Sheila grimaced and then looked down at the baby. She shook her head and brought it to his mouth. The 'thingy' disappeared instantly into the suctioning orifice. He guzzled the drink and looked back up at her thankful for being fed. Sheila's grimace turned into a soft smile of wonder. She glanced back at her girlfriend and saw the same soft smile of wonder as Bobbi watched her own arm full of love.
***
Seven days later, the Patton clan descended onto the Floridian household of one Mrs. 'The Boss' Patton. The happy holiday occasion of Thanksgiving was about to be celebrated. Smith, Wesson, Greenback, Spook, Klingon, Razorback, Warthog, Wildboar, Animal, Abel, Cain, Squid, Wingnut, and Piglet all arrived with families in tow. Hillary's three boys, Hailey's three girls, James's Emily, Samantha's twins, Sandra's twins, Nicole's four kids, and Amy's single child all grouped together to form the Patton family portrait of the next generation. The adults and spouses clapped and cheered for the children's rapid-fire lists of Christmas wishes.
Suspiciously Mrs. Patton kept looking out the window. All of her children had made it home, but for the eldest and her new family. She smiled remembering the two panicked phone calls from Sheila, since the arrival of the children. One to tell her Bobbi simply wouldn't stop crying at the fact she was no longer pregnant and the kids were fine. The other to explain that she had put in her retirement paperwork without notice. Her military career at the supply depot had ended and the kids were fine.
Mrs. Patton felt sure that the five of them, would be arriving any moment. She glanced back to see the entire house filled to the brim with Patton's and kin, wondering how the neighborhood had withstood the trails she had placed upon it. Looking back out the kitchen window she watched a Suburban van pull up in front. Her daughter was driving a mini van. If Mrs. Patton had been drinking a soda, she would have spewed it across the windowsill.
How times change, she used to show up to family gatherings on that monstrous Harley, all chrome and noise. That was when she wasn't on some top-secret black-ops mission, doing God knows what; God knows where! My poor heart was never so happy to hear that she was retiring. Now I only have three more to work on. I want more Grandbabies.
She watched as Sheila jumped out of the driver's side and ran swiftly around to the passenger door to open it for Bobbi. Mrs. Patton smiled as she watched the smaller woman slowly move from the van. The red hair gleaming in the afternoon sunshine was bright and cheerful. Bobbi's mouth was moving and her hands were waving with additional emphasis to her comments. Sheila just stood looking at her, watching with fascination.
And so it begins Sheila, keep you're trap shut, do as you're told, follow you're superiors orders and you might live long enough to enjoy married life. And remember the most important rule; never piss off a redhead, especially one you sleep with.
Mrs. Patton remembered her own departed Charlie and sighed with the memory of his stupidity. It was adorable at times.
Hillary wandered over to see what was so captivating.
"Watch her forget the kids!" Mrs. Patton commented as Hillary looked out the window.
"Yep. Bobbi is waving furiously toward the van. Sheila just qualified to join the ranks of husbands in this family that lost their IQ after marriage. I wonder if she sold her bike?"
"I bet, she remembered to lock the car though." Hillary said under her breath as she burst into a fit of giggles.
"Yep. She has to go to the driver's side to unlock the back hatch to get the stroller. She looks like she is about to pull out the Bowie."
"Wait! She is going to forget the baby supplies. THAT will cause her blood to burn."
"Bobbi looks like she is smiling. THAT will be the last straw." Hillary murmured as the two relatives watched Sheila stomp back to the Van and Yank the side door open once again, almost yanking her shoulder out of joint when the locked door refused to budge.
"Ouch! Bobbi shouldn't really be laughing. Did I laugh, Mom?"
"Yes, dear. We all laughed. It's a family tradition."
The 44 Patton relatives sat down and in the style repeated each year held hands with the ones next to them and gave Thanks in prayer. The solemnity of the moment was promptly indulged by each of the 15 children when they all stated the one thing they were most thankful for along with the one thing they couldn't have made it through the year without.
Sheila started the list, being the eldest.
"My new family and disposable diapers! Thank you!"
Hillary nodded in total agreement as she glanced around the room at her triplets and husband.
"Dinner time with my family and paper plates!"
Hailey rolled her eyes. She looked over to her partner and then at the three little blonde girls they were raising.
"Mommy's patience and the infinite clothing line for Barbie."
James snickered and glanced to his wife and daughter.
"My wife and daughter and rubber ducky hour!"
The list continued down the age of the siblings.
Megan gave thanks for the "soldiers back from war and Riley gave thanks for the for "the successful three prior launches she had been involved with and the X-Files Complete special edition, all 9 seasons in one set along with Lucy Lawless doing a cameo in Battlestar Galactica." Hailey yelled 'Hallelujah', Michael rolled his eyes. Sarah looked at her twin sisters, with their matching plump bodies and then their two sets of twin kids. She looked down at her physically fit trim and toned body and shook her head. She was thankful for her 'good health and 100% effective contraceptives!" Samantha sighed at her sibling's vanity and tsked in her direction. She was thankful for 'her desk job' on the force and tee ball tee's." Sandra laughed. She was thankful for no undercover work that year and for Cable TV making her able to see the Australian Rules Football with the Sydney Swans, taking the Grand Final by 4 points."
Nicole groaned at her sister and muttered 'how does she have time?' Being the only child with more than three children, she did a quick sweep of the room to see where her four kids were. Her husband held her hand under the table and gave the rest of the table a dopey grin.
"I'm thankful for my families support, while I travel and for the fact that there is no such thing as 100% effective contraceptives. I'm pregnant again! Yay!" The whole table broke into exclamations of surprise and congratulations and one gasp of dismay that came from Sarah.
As the room quieted back down Michael gave a tilt of his head and smiled his endearing grin. I'm thankful for my marriage to God and my parishioners good health and welfare!" Matthew nodded his head.
"Yes, yes. It's a great deal. I get to sin and you can save me later. I'm thankful for continued success in my sinning career as a lawyer and blondes, brunettes, and redheads. May they forever need lawyers!
Teagan sat to the left of Matthew and grinned at his audacity. She looked a little pale from the below deck lifestyle she had lead for the past few months. Her eyebrow cocked as she looked around the table. I'm thankful for fresh air, sunshine and my son's ability to write me." Amy smiled and ruffled the nearby head of her youngster, who was seven. He grinned at his mom with the obvious love for her shining strong.
"I'm thankful for being assigned stateside for war time and MP3's." Amy declared. Everyone nodded. Jessica sat at the end of the table near her mother and shrugged. Her gesture was a perfect replication of her oldest sister. Bobbi watched in fascination. "I'm thankful that my assignment is complete and Gabbie only had to talk once." Jessica commented on her nicknamed handgun that she held dear to her side throughout the academy.
The family all waited with anticipation for Mrs. Patton to state her thanks. She looked around the table at her clan and shook her head. "I am very thankful for the new additions that have been made to our home. Those that are about to arrive," she glanced in Teagan's direction, "and those that arrived unexpectedly." She looked at Bobbi and the babies all being held by members of family near her. I am thankful for you all and for all the grandbabies I am blessed with. I'm thankful for all those grandbabies yet to come." She said as she turned glaring eyes at the childless ones.
Meagan laughed at the obvious command. "You're a tyrannical fascist, mom. You'd be hard to beat on the hill."
Toby had wandered near the table as the adults held their grownup conversation. He listened to Meagan and frowned.
"Did you just call Grandma a dinosaur?" The whole table burst into laughter and the feast went into full swing.
Four weeks later…
Sheila lay on the bedroom floor surrounded by three cribs and two changing tables. The three babies where lying on her, or around her as she talked to them.
"Who would have thought? Hey kids? Me? With a fiancé and kids? I know, I never thought the day would come, but I sure am glad it did."
C'mon, show me the knife again; I just wanna see it sparkle. When I grow up I want a big shiny knife just like yours, except I'm gonna call mine Elmo. Peanut thought determinedly.
Pickle on the other hand, was wondering when he could have his lunch and a nap. Keeping up with daytime television was hard work. Now I have to wait until tomorrow to find out if Hope is going to be blind forever and if they can exorcise the demon that has taken over Doc's body. What will Bo do to save the day?
C'mon Major Mom, I want ze snuggle, pick me up rapidement! Why do those two boys talk funny? Why do the grown ups take so long to do as I tell them? Are they deaf or something? Se pelotonner, avec moi! A SNUGGLE! PICK ME UP BEFORE I THROW A TANTRUM YOU WILL NEVER FORGET!!
Then it happens. Sheila picks up the littlest baby and cuddles her in the crook of her arm. Reaching over to a small book nearby Sheila painstakingly says "I love you and your brothers in French." Pepper giggles and squeals happily. Tantrum averted.
"You think it will work on your mama? She may laugh at me you know?"
"No likely!" Bobbi says huskily, her voice full of happy tears. "Put the babies to sleep and come to our bed, mon amant."
Sheila gave Bobbi a wide-eyed, thrilled and excited look. Carefully, yet swiftly, she tucked the little ones into their beds.
Sheila returned to the queen-sized bed where she had slept every night since their arrival back from the hospital. The two women shared a deep bond from the first moment they met. Circumstances being what they were, they had only imagined furthering their relationship. Bobbi lay in the bed a silk nightgown fitting to her soft curves. She was reading one of the books Sheila had picked up. Babies 1st Year was the title on the cover.
Sheila looked over the glorious woman in the bed and couldn't stop her heart from racing as she knelt with one leg on the bed. The movement had Bobbi adjusting as her silk nightie road upward. Sheila noticed a small stretch mark along Bobbi's thigh. She reached out and traced the mark. Bobbi let the book fall from her nerveless fingers.
"Sheila?"
"Hmm?"
"Touch me!"
Sheila never took her focused gaze from the skin beneath her fingers.
"I am touching you, Bobbi!" Her mesmerized eyes watched her own fingers tracing a pattern.
"Touch everywhere, sweetheart! Make love to me!"
Sheila's eyes swept upward. Swallowing the instant spark of fear she looked into those deep green eyes and saw a love shining outward. Her panic receded as she leaned down to kiss her soon to be lover.
"Sheila?" Bobbi reached up and stopped the descending lips with a single finger.
The Major hesitated as her lips were pressed with the small digit. "Hmm?"
Bobbi smiled and glanced slightly down at the overly dressed woman. She reaches down and traces over a nice bulge Sheila has on her body. Sheila flushes with heat.
"Take off your clothes first and put Lucy away, baby. I think we can handle this one without the warrior weapon, don't you?"
Sheila nodded and then backed off to remove her clothing. Setting the scabbard-covered blade on the nightstand she turned back to her woman. Their eyes met and the air grew tension filled as they adjusted to each other in a whole new light. Sheila felt a sudden overwhelming urge to gather her lover into her arms and never let go. She took a quick look at Lucy and decided that she would understand. Lucy definitely liked Bobbi. She moved toward her lover and promised silently that she and 'Lucy' would just spend some time together tomorrow…or maybe the next day.
The End.