• Every Stumbled Step •

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden had no idea how she was going to last until after graduation. The doctors kept saying it was only a little longer; she'd be fine as long as she took care of herself. However, they were not the ones having to buy dresses for the ceremony, and they weren't the ones running around trying to finish up college work before it was marked late. No; all they did was sit in their stupid office and pretend that everything was going to be just peachy. She was so sick of it all. On the bright-side, she had found a dress that didn't make her look like a whale, and she was already planning ways to get her pretty figure back once these babies were out and screaming. Really, though, that was the only bright-side; she was still exhausted, still had work to catch up on, and she was still supposed to be "calm". Like Ayden had ever been calm in her life. She tried, despite the odds being entirely against her, mainly because she didn't want to hurt the babies by being stressed out. It was bad for both them and her, so she did her best to keep from screaming every time something else was added onto her to-do list.

She had gotten excused from school for the day, one of the only perks of being pregnant, and stayed home to work on the last of her essays and compositions. Once these were done, all she had to do was finish up her graduation fees and get her cap and gown; then she was done. Of course, there was also the fact that she could pop the twins out any day now, but she kept trying to forget about that. They needed to stay the full term so they were fit and healthy when they came into the world, even if it killed their mother in the process.

Besides her assignments, there was another reason Ayden had chosen to stay home. She'd been feeling off since last night, though she hadn't said anything for fear Cal would rush her off to the hospital over a tiny cramp. As the morning went by, however, the "tiny cramps" got worse. Not what she expected contractions to be, but there was pain every couple hours and it was beginning to worry her. No; she'd be fine. She had a doctor's appointment in a day or two, anyways, so she could mention the strange feelings then.

Trying to ignore the endless possibilities of why she was hurting, she turned to her piano and began the piece she'd been working on for school. She remained so for an hour, the pains returning, this time closer together. A sharp one caused her to groan, and she finally started to realize that maybe this was worth a trip in. Kimmie was by her side the second she attempted to get up off the bench, studying Ayden worriedly as she went to grab her car keys and phone. She was just about to send a text off to Caleb to let him know where she was going when Kimmie began yapping loudly. Ayden grave a frustrated sigh and tried to see what the dog was barking at when, upon looking down, she noticed the puddle of water forming on the floor. Shit. Well, at least she had an explanation for the cramps.

Ayden rushed out of the apartment as calmly as possible, using the stupid breathing exercises that the doctor had talked to her about for when this very moment arrived. She sent the text off to Caleb while she was in the elevator, hoping he'd answer it, even if he was at work. It said something along the lines of, Going into labor. Meet you at the hospital. Nothing else, as she also needed to to call her doctor and let her know what was going on. Out of the two of them, the doctor was much more important right now. The woman promised to be waiting at the hospital for her, saying that she just had to keep calm and that the contractions would probably be getting worse by the time she walked through the doors. Ayden could only try not to swear and hang up the phone.

She went down to her car, not even thinking about taking a taxi. The stupid drivers took to long, anyways, and she'd feel much calmed driving herself. Ayden eased herself behind the wheel and left the parking lot, heading towards the hospital and keeping her breathing steady. "Stay calm, Ay; you can do this. You can do this," she repeated between breaths, driving as quickly as she could without being too dangerous; she'd never been a safe driver in the first place.

Ayden pulled into the hospital parking lot, gripping the steering wheel even tighter as the stupid contractions began to get worse and a bit closer together. She was not ever doing this again. She waddled through the doors, being rushed off to a room straight away by the nurses who already began chastising her for driving herself here in her "condition". If they didn't shut up, they were going to be the ones with "conditions" to worry about, and theirs would be a hell of a lot more painful than hers.

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 910!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

With the babies coming soon, Cal had taken on extra shifts at work to save up more money. They had a pretty decent nest egg in the bank but he didn’t feel it would be enough for twins. This time around though, it was a staff meeting that had him at work at an hour he was used to filling with school work. They were having a few big name comedians coming in and everything had to be perfect for their arrivals. Cal didn’t mind these nights, he was behind the bar and didn’t have much if anything to do with the backstage set ups going on. But he still had to be present at the meetings to tell them which alcohols needed to be ordered and whatever else his stations were running low on. Inventory was a pain in the ass, but it was all part of the job he actually enjoyed. Finally, after listening to all the rest of the people talk about what they needed to make the arrivals of the celebrity comedians’ smoother, it was his turn to go through what he needed for the bar he stationed. It was one of the bigger ones at the back; he’d proven himself to be able to handle it by himself. Unfortunately, it also meant it went through more supplies than the rest, but that too, was expected. He handed his boss an inventory slip, outlining everything his station would be in need of within the next week or so.

He felt his phone vibrate in his pocket but since he was still in the meeting, he couldn’t answer it. He was hoping it was nothing important. It only took another five minutes, but by then he was on edge and just kept hoping it was something trivial; someone at school wanting his notes from the past lecture. Cal stood once the meeting was over, digging his phone from the back pocket of his pants and checked the message. His backside hit the chair long before he felt it. He let a whoop, jumping back out of his chair again, jumping and running around. He jumped on Dawson’s back, slapping him lightly when he landed on his feet again. “Ayden’s having the babies. Dude, I gotta go, cover me?” he asked, running over to Will, picking her up and twirling her around, uncaring if she slapped him or yelled at him later for it. He kissed her forehead before setting her down and racing through the building to the employee lot out back. He dug out his keys as he went, hitting the button for the locks as he got to the door. He slid behind the wheel, barely remembering his seatbelt as started the engine and pulled out of the lot. Driving through New York wasn’t much different than the streets of downtown Seattle but Cal didn’t mind at all as long as he got to the hospital in time. Someone would cover his shift, he’d told Dawson and Will knew, too. Everything at work would be handled and all he’d have to do would be call his boss later and fill him in on everything that happened. He tried calling Ayden at red lights but couldn’t get her. He didn’t know what to think about that and kept repeating that he would be there on time, there was nothing to be worried about, and he was going to get there.

He pulled into the hospital parking lot, cutting the engine. He opened the door, about ready to push himself out when the seatbelt caught and held him in place. He was losing it in the rush to get to Ayden. He stopped, taking a breath. Ayden was in there without him, and he needed to be calm for her when he walked through those doors and found her. They were prepared, they were ready for this. This time, Caleb unhooked the seatbelt before getting out of his car, slamming the door and hitting the alarm button. He moved through the doors quickly, heading straight for the nurse’s station. He must have looked the part of nervous father to be, or husband because the nurse took one look at him and asked for his wife’s name. He told her and within minutes, he was being escorted to her room. He thanked the nurse and knocked on the door before pushing it open slightly and slipping through. “Hey, Little Fire,” he said, going straight to her, laying in the bed. He took her hand, bent over to give her a quick kiss. “How we doing?” he asked, keeping his voice as calm as he could.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 777
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes || <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden could do this. She'd been to all the birthing classes, gotten all the pep-talks from the nurses and doctors, read every book on pregnancy she could borrow from the public library; she could do this. It was just like with sports, right? You had to push yourself as hard as you could, but, once you held that championship trophy, all the blood and sweat was worth it. Surely, two healthy, beautiful babies counted as trophies, and the ordeal of bringing them into the world was her current basketball game. She'd survived the games with fractured ankles and wrists; she could survive giving birth when she was healthy as a ahorse.

The nurses set her up in her own "luxury" suite, speaking calming and hopeful words to her as they helped her into a paper gown and filled her in once again about how everything was going to be just great. The doctor came in and did a couple tests, talking with her for a bit, reassuring her that Cal would be here in plenty of time, and that the babies were doing great. The pain coursing through her body was, apparently, a good sign, though it felt like just the opposite. She'd always been able to handle pain well, though this was a complete different kind. Cuts, broken limbs, and black eyes -- she dealt with those in her sleep. But, contractions? They were a whole new level of agony.

Ayden had had a hospital bag packed for weeks, mostly thanks to Caleb's insisting they "be ready." There were magazines in there, a spare phone charger, some clothes, the camera because they would both be too excited to remember it when the time came; just random stuff they thought they'd need. Luckily, she'd at least managed to grab it before leaving the apartment. The nurses had taken it, along with her purse, before practically chaining her to the bed, leaving all of her survival supplies out of reach. Her phone was over there, and it killed her to not answer the familiar ringtone, but she wasn't allowed to move; hopefully, Cal would just be here soon.

Giving up on attempting to get her favorite magazine, Ayden leaned back against the pillows and closed her eyes, counting her breaths. In, out, in, out; you're doing great, Ay, just ignore the-- "Fuck," she groaned, wincing as the next contraction slammed through her body. She fell back against the bed as the pain faded, wishing that this was all already over. Upon opening her eyes, a small smile found its way onto her face as she saw Caleb coming in. At least he wouldn't be missing the birth of his babies. "You made it," she answered, reaching up a bit to return his kiss. "The doctor said things looked good, and that we're all doing fine," she said, trying to get comfortable on her pillows again. For supposedly being high-end, this bed was not even as comfortable as the couch in their apartment. Looking back to him, she gave him a smirk, adding, "You freaking out yet, or did the people at work get to see most of it?"

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 560!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

The entire drive over to the hospital, Caleb kept running through the things he needed to do as the husband and father. He’d read all the books Ayden brought home, made sure he was well versed in everything he could get his hands on. It was all going to be a piece of cake; a painful piece of cake. He hoped Ayden had grabbed the go bag or he would be rushing home to get it himself. It was inconvenient that he could reach Ayden, in case he had to stop on the way and gather what she’d missed. Dawson was keeping up with texts if the ringtone dedicated to his best friend going off every five minutes meant anything at all; probably a bunch of messages teasing and taunting. He would check them later, at the time, he had wanted to just get to the hospital and Ayden, now he just wanted to be next to her, holding her hand and making sure everything went as smoothly as the doctors say.

Now that he could see Ayden with his own eyes, he felt his heart slow beat by beat. She was alright and right next to him. He could relax now. He smiled down at Ayden, using his free hand to brush some stray hairs away from her face. “I did. I wouldn’t have missed this for anything in the world,” he said. He nodded, listening to what the doctor said. “Good, good, I’m glad,” he said, lifting her hand to his lips. He let go of her hand to help fluff the pillows behind her head. There probably wouldn’t be a chance now that she would be comfortable completely but he was damn well going to try and help out a little bit. He took a minute after leaving the pillows; he looked around the room as he pulled the chair behind him a little closer to the side of the bed. He was sure they were going to be there a while and though he knew from the classes he would be on his feet once everything kicked into high gear, for now he could sit and they could talk.

He took her hand in his again, brushing his lips across her white knuckles, the only telltale sign so far that she was in any real pain. He chuckled, flushing as he ran his free hand through his cropped hair. “Well, actually, they saw a bit. I went a little wired for a minute or two,” he said admitting to be a little on edge. “I was in a meeting when your text came through and then I was sort of stunned and then,” he said, chuckling and hoping Ayden would find it equally amusing, told her the rest. “I went a little crazy, jumping around. I slapped Dawson on the back, kissed Will’s forehead and twirled her around I was so excited about it all- so if I don’t make it home after my next shift you know why,” he said a little sheepishly. It was a onetime thing and honestly, he was surprised Will had allowed him to pick her up in the first place. “I think I got it all out of my system so I can be here for you, anything you need,” he vowed, squeezing her hand lightly as he kissed her again; a little worried about what she would have to say about it all.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 574
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes || <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden needed a distraction right now; any sort of distraction, really. A TV show, a book, Caleb talking at the speed of light; anything to keep her mind off of the fact that, shortly, one of the biggest moments of her life was going ot happen. Her wedding day had been nothing compared to how nervous and excited she was right now, and she had a feeling that nothing would ever really live up to this. Still, she couldn't handle thinking about it right now; that made it real, and that made the entire list of "problems" real, too. She'd read in those books some of the things that could go wrong, especially when carrying twins. One of them didn't make it, the mother didn't have the strength to survive the birth, the bleeding never stopped; she'd had nightmares focusing around all the fears. Thinking about them would only bring up the idea that she couldn't do this, and she couldn't afford those thoughts right now. She had to stay calm.

Though she wouldn't admit it out loud, she did feel a heck of a lot better now that Cal was here. She wouldn't have wanted him to miss this for the world, no matter how much it hurt or how many things might go wrong. He was, and had been, her rock through all of this; she needed him here right now if she was going to come out with her sanity in tact. "Did you text your parents yet? Or Gramps?" she said, knowing that his family would probably want to be informed about it all, especially since some of them couldn't see the babies right away. His grandfather would most likely be at the hospital to see the twins as soon as they were born, which, really, Ayden had no problem with; he had paid for her pretty room. "Stop fussing," she scolded gently as Cal began to fluff her pillows. "If you want to really help, go sneak me a burger or something from the cafeteria. These nurses say I won't get to eat anything good for the next few days after the twins're born," she said, her head falling back against the pillow again. She'd try and keep up a relaxed composure for him, though that would probably crack as soon as the contractions began to get worse.

Ayden readily let him have her hand, her fingers squeezing his tightly as a stronger pain ripped through her. The doctor had warned that it'd be a little while; once they started coming within a few minutes of each other was when everyone would kick-start into action. She let out a strained laugh at his story, biting her lip and working on her breathing once more as he continued. "You better make it home. You're the idiot who got me pregnant; you're not allowed to bail now, or go running off kissing other girls' foreheads," she said back, her tone almost completely serious. He definitely wasn't allowed to leave now; he had to stay here and at least take charge of one of the kids he'd fathered. Ayden laced her fingers through his, accepting his kiss and giving him a smile in return. "I'm okay, Cal, really. Just... are we really ready for this?" she met his eyes, trying to see his answer. They didn't have a choice now, which she knew; but, despite their lack of options, were they really ready for this?

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 623!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

Never once throughout all of this did Cal think Ayden wasn’t strong enough, or ready enough to go through the pains of child birth. She was everything to him; he couldn’t picture a single day without her. He shook his head at her question, running his free hand through his hair. “No. I was too concerned about getting here that I never thought about letting anyone else know,” he said a little sheepishly. He lifted a hip, fishing the phone from his pocket. His hand wanted to shake, but he couldn’t let it as he scrolled through the contacts, searching out his mother first. He only left her a quick message. Babies are coming! Call you after! Xoxo -C. He knew if his parents weren’t together, she would pass the message along. He didn’t ask about texting her mom or dad, with everything that happened between them, he didn’t want to chance getting her blood pressure up and something happening to their babies. So instead, he kept his mouth shut and found his grandfather’s number next. For a man going only a few years shy of ninety, he was very young and energetic and was probably more tech savvy than his grandson! Cal sent him a quick text as well. It was along the same lines, just had more information. At hospital, babies are coming. All’s good, keep in touch. Gramps was in the state, close enough that it was possible for him to get to the hospital, but his parents were back in Seattle. And if anything, god forbid, were to happen, it would be his grandfather he’d want with him anyway. The older man had been there through pretty much everything in Caleb’s life.

Cal laughed, “I can’t, it’s in the handbook,” he said teasing but stopped fussing with the pillows and everything. He knew Ayden hated it all, but for right now, there wasn’t much she could do herself, so it was up to him. “But I promise you can have a feast of whatever you want the day we bring you and the twins home,” Cal promised. And hopefully, the surprise waiting for her would be worth the trouble it was. He wasn’t going to say anything since it was a surprise for when Ayden and the twins could come home; right now, all he could do was hope she’d love it. Now that she was really in the hospital with the twins was when all the real troubles outside would begin. There was so much to do and Ayden wouldn’t be in the hospital all that long. Not much time to get things done.

Chuckling, Cal leaned forward to press a quick kiss to Ayden’s forehead. “I wouldn’t leave you for anything,” he said, shaking his head. “And it was a onetime thing! Believe me, if I tried it again, I really wouldn’t survive!” He was still a little surprised she’d let him that time and he was positive there would be jokes and teasing when he finally got back to work. And that reminded him that he should check the messages he knew Dawson at least had sent him during the drive over. His phone in hand, he checked those chuckling at them. “Dawson sent me about a hundred messages while I was driving over. He wants a smoothie,” Cal said, rolling his eyes and stuffing his phone back into his pocket. With his free hand, he brushed more pieces of hair away from her face. He knew when the babies were ready to meet them, this would be pointless but for now, he felt like it was calming them both, his brushing her hair away. “Yes, without a doubt, little fire. You’re going to be the best mom in the world,” he whispered, squeezing her hand lightly.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 634
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes || <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden had no clue about the surprise Cal and Gramps had planned; she'd been too busy working on finals and preparing herself for graduation. The twins technically weren't due until after she and Cal finished college, so she'd been prepping herself for having to be very much pregnant in photos. There had been fees and school work, too, so she'd had her mind pretty occupied with it all; definitely too occupied to notice any extra phonecalls or any tell-tale signs Cal might have dropped. She really didn't have the time to focus on it, especially not since she'd been worrying about readying the apartment and herself for when she and the twins returned home. The nursery, the kitchen, the living room, keeping Kimmie's things away; it was better to get it all done now and save herself the trouble once she was out of the hospital. From the way she felt right now, Ayden knew she'd be counting the minutes until she was free again. Why hadn't she made Cal grab her food on the way over?

As he talked, she attempted to pay attention to what he was saying. She was friends with both Will and Dawson; she was glad they'd dealt with the most of Cal's freaking out, even if Will would probably kill him later for pressing any part of his body to hers. But, no matter how hard she tried, the contractions rocketing through her body were demanding most of her focus. They were getting a hell of a lot more painful and closer together; these babies really wanted out. "The button on the wall. Call the doctor," she said tightly, wincing in pain as another ripped through her.

Ayden bit her lip hard, working on her breathing like they'd done each week in that stupid class. Back then, she'd thought it was pointless and a waste of time; now, now she was starting to see just how useful it could be. She had to keep herself calm for the babies, though, no matter how much she hurt or how much she wished this was all over. They'd all come this far, and she'd be damned if one of them wasn't going to make it out now. Reaching out for Cal's hand, she squeezed hard, years of piano playing and sports strengthing the fingers that seemed so gentle. "Stay here," she whispered, gulping as she met his eyes. For the first time in her life, Ayden Turner was actually scared; scared because her life, and that of the babies, depended on how this all turned out.

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 458!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

Ever since his grandfather told him of his plans to buy them a bigger place in the city, Cal had been trying to come up with a good reason behind the surprise move, while painting and getting some new furniture. He knew Ayden wouldn’t be pleased that his grandfather went a bought them a brownstone; even if there was a small apartment in the basement, formally used as the servants quarters he was claiming as his own. Cal knew they needed the space and the brownstone was big enough, too big even. But there was no getting out of it now and Cal was going to make the best of it all. He’d already painted the nursery and their room from the ick beige it was. Part two of the plan could start now that Ayden was in the hospital, having the babies. He’d been slowly moving little things over to their new house. Every time he took another bag of things over, he swore it would be that time that Ayden caught him but she hadn’t.

That text he sent his grandfather had another meaning. Since Ayden was in the hospital, they could begin packing up the apartment and moving everything over to the new place. Having everything sorted out for when Ayden and the babies were allowed home was part of the plan. So he could take them straight to the new place. He was telling Ayden about work because he thought talking would help keep her focused and her mind of the contractions but half way through his tale, he could tell they were getting closer together and harder to deal with. He slammed on the breaks at Ayden’s words, using his free hand to slap the button she was talking about. “Deep breaths, little fire, you can do this,” he said, gripping her hand. “The doctor and nurses will be right in,” he added, brushing hair from her forehead.

Those babies really wanted out. And where the hell was the doctor; should’ve come running when he hit the button. All the books, all the classes they took, he couldn’t remember any of them. The only thing he could remember was the breathing exercises. “I’m not going anywhere, little fire. Right by your side,” he said, in as soothing a voice as possible. The door opened a minute or so later and a nurse rushed in followed by the doctor. Now everything would move fast. He let go of Ayden’s hand for a minute as the nurses checked her vitals and everything and he grabbed the camera from the ready bag they’d packed at least a month beforehand. He wasn’t sure if he’d get a single picture, or capture any video but he would try. Once the nurse left her side, Cal took up his place again, gripping Ayden’s hand. After all this, he was sure to be found in the emergency room, getting his hand set from the bones she was going to break but it would be worth it.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 504
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes || <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden was happy with the little apartment. It had served its purpose for the college days, and they'd been able to afford the rent without landing themselves in debt of any sort. With the addition of the twins, she knew things would be cramped and tight, but she figured they'd find a way to handle it; they always did. So what if they were on top of each other? They had a roof over their head and a place to sleep. She didn't need anywhere fancy to raise her children; all she needed was some place comfortable and decent. There had been thoughts about maybe looking at a bigger space, but definitely nothing fancy or expensive. She wanted to be able to afford it between her and Cal's wages, and not owe money or her independence to anyone else. If there was one thing she valued, it was her independence and freedom, especially since her parents had been so cruel as to take that from her.

Before looking at new places or even considering them, Ayden needed to focus on bringing the twins into the world safely and soundly. With the help of the doctors and nurses, she was planning on getting through this without any scars or tears, and she hoped everyone would be out of the hospital within a week. She just wanted it all over with. "I hope so," she said through gritted teeth, wincing at the pain from her contractions. These people better hurry up; she got the feeling the babies weren't going to wait that much longer, even if they needed the medical crew to help out.

Looking up at Cal, she couldn't help a weak laugh. "You're freaking out more than I am." She gave him a smirk, sighing with relief as the nurses and doctors came rushing in. Ayden frowned as Cal's hand left hers, but the next contraction distracted her from calling out for him again. She groaned quietly, her eyes closing in an attempt to block out the pain. They only opened again once Cal's fingers were slipping back into hers, and she squeezed once again; harder than before. He was surely going to have one or two broken by the time this was over but, at the moment, Ayden honestly didn't care. Everything hurt too much to care about more than the pain surging through her body.

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 417!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: BABY BUMP
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

Cal wasn’t worried about money or the new place as much as he should have been. It would be difficult to explain that they wouldn’t have to worry about gathering rent on their salaries; the mortgage of the townhouse was some part of his grandfather’s plan. But it wouldn’t be now that he drops the news on her. It was still going to be a welcome home surprise! And it wasn’t like this was the best time to be bringing up their new home what with Ayden currently in labour and about to deliver without the aid of medical personnel. He hit the button again, wondering if maybe he hadn’t hit it hard enough, but quickly abandoned that though when he felt another contraction wrack Ayden’s tiny frame. If he came through this with no broken bones to go along with his two healthy babies and perfectly fine wife, it would be a miracle.

“Husbandly duty,” he said with a strained chuckle. Ayden’s grip was a killer one. He nodded to the doctors as he searched the bags, listening to the nurses and doctor with half an ear as they went through the plans with Ayden again. As much as he wanted to help her, he knew this was all on her. He could be there to hold her hand, encourage her and feed her ice chips but that was it. ”Later, probably tomorrow, another nurse will come in with some paperwork you’ll need to fill out for the babies, birth certificates and the like,” one of the nurses said to Cal. He stared at her for a minute, getting a grip on her words, before nodding, “Alright, thanks,” he said before returning to Ayden’s side.

”Alright mom and dad, are we ready to meet the twins?” the doctor asked as though this were a walk in the park and Ayden wasn’t breaking bones in his fingers. He nodded to the doctor as if wanting him to go on with this. Cal had no idea what he was doing, despite reading all those books, he knew nothing! ”You’re all set to deliver these babies. A few good pushes and baby A will be here, then there will be at least a minute of breather while baby B adjusts, alright?” she said, nodding encouragingly at Ayden. Cal nodded, understanding though he was well aware she wasn’t speaking to him. Then she turned to him, her eyes wrinkled at the corners with a smile meant to be reassuring. “Alright, dad, hold mom’s hand and breathe with her, you know what to do,” she said, before turning back to Ayden. Cal held onto Ayden’s hand with both of his, murmuring reassuring things and encouraging her, telling her how much he loved her as the doctor called out push in a loud voice once, then twice. “Almost there, little fire, come on, once more,” he said, feeling his fingers go numb with the third push.

A second later a loud wail echoed through the room. Cal started grinning, happy tears falling from his eyes as he looked down at Ayden, leaning over to kiss her forehead. ”Here you are mom and dad, baby A is a boy! Congratulations!” the doctor said, handing the baby off to one of the nurses to be checked over and cleaned up. The camera in his pocket was completely forgotten but the memory of this day would last forever anyway as he laughed and brushed hair from Ayden’s sweaty forehead. There wasn’t but five minutes for a breather before Ayden’s grip started breaking his hand bones again. “Uh, Doc, round two,” Cal said, his voice strained with the pain running up his arm from his wife’s grip. ”Alright, same thing again, Ayden, ready?” she asked, encouraging again. He helped as best he could with soft words and getting his hand broken as his wife did all the work again. He felt terrible that there was really nothing he could do but that wasn’t going to stop him from being there, holding Ayden’s hand and talking to her to keep her focused. He knew he couldn’t keep her mind off the pain but he could try.

Shortly, though it felt like hours, another baby’s cry echoed through the room, matching the level of the first. Cal laughed, happy tears still streaming down his face. ”And baby B has arrived in the world. You did a good job mom,” she said, passing the second baby over to a nurse for the same inspection as the first. “You did good, little fire, I love you,” Cal said, kissing his wife, laughing. A few minutes later, both babies swaddled in blankets were handed to Ayden and Cal just stared in awe of the sight. As he moved his hand, his arm brushed his pocket and he remembered the camera he’d stuffed there before everything went really hectic. He pulled out the device, hitting the on button; he waited, lined up the shot and clicked, taking a picture of Ayden holding their baby boy and baby girl in her arms big grin on her face looking down at the two babies in her arms.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 860
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes || <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

THE NEXT DAY

Ayden couldn't believe everything that had happened in the last 24 hours. It was still surreal and, every time she looked down, she expected to see the huge bump protruding from her stomach, like it had been for what felt like forever. When it wasn't there, it only reminded of what she'd gone through in order to get rid of it. Somewhere in the big, busy hospital, two little babies were probably sleeping, waiting for the time when they could go home with their excited parents. She still couldn't believe that they were actually alive and breathing though, instead of inside of her, feeding off the life she loved so dearly. It'd taken her looking at the picture Cal had taken for her to finally register that, yes, she'd made it through child birth alive and that, yes, the twins were doing just fine.

Honestly, she didn't really remember the birth. She remembered crushing Cal's hand, and she remembered holding the babies afterwards to smile for the picture, but, anything between that was basically a blur of pain, tears, and swearing; lots of swearing. Ayden didn't really want to remember though, as selfish as that sounded. All she needed was the image of holding her two beautiful children at the end of it all; the rest of it she could forget about. But, she'd probably never forget the pain; that was more memorable than both the twins combined.

She'd spent the night and morning curled up on her hospital bed, sleeping the agony of labor and exhaustion off. For the first time in months, she actually slept. No waking up from discomfort or babies jumping on her bladder; she slept all alone, and as peacefully as any newborn. It was hard work getting the two kids out, so she thought she at least deserved a few hours of rest, though it was distrurbed by nurses flitting in and out, bringing news of the twins and saying she could come down in a wheelchair whenever she was feeling strong enough. Truthfully, she only registered half of what they all said, including Cal and whatever other visitors stopped by; all she wanted was to sleep.

Around noon, Ayden finally began to feel like she could get up. The exhaustion still hung heavy over her, and her body ached in ways it never had before, but she felt better; rested, mainly. When the nurses had brought in her "lunch" that feeling had been quickly replaced by anger and frustration. Pudding and rice did not make up a meal; they were a hefty snack, at most. It had taken a look from Cal to keep her from tossing the "food" onto the scrubs of the nurse. She really hated hospitals.

After being forced into eating, Ayden declared she was well enough to go see the twins. The doctor cleared her, ordering in a wheelchair and giving them instructions on how to get down to the nursery. With a bit of difficulty, Ayden got into the chair and wrapped up in a warm blanket, keeping herself covered and comfy. She let Cal push her down to wherever they were going, relaxing back into the chair and just enjoying the ride.

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 556!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

Cal had been down to the nursery twice already since the babies were taken down after they got to spend a few minutes with them. Ayden slept a lot afterwards, leaving Cal to waste time texting everyone. He slipped out once for an hour so he wouldn’t wake Ayden up talking to his parents. They were booking a flight out to New York to see the new additions to the family. His mother hadn’t mentioned it to Ayden’s folks, though she only knew half the story. He figured then would be a good time to tell his parents what he didn’t realize they already knew. He had fashion in his blood, thanks to his mother, only he wanted to create pieces any woman would covet. His parents would be too into the children to say anything about it.

When he’d come back in to the ward, the nurses nearly stopped him from coming in. The nurses went through a shift change and he’d forgotten his pass, though it was quickly remedied and only reminded that his wife needed rest and so did he. He slept in the chair next to the bed. Since they were first time parents, the babies were taken down to the nursery to be taken care since they were prematurely born. But both were healthy and of good weight so they should have to stay in hospital for long; which was good because Cal knew Ayden would want to get them home as soon as possible, as did he. Gramps had stopped by for a time, as did some friends who’d found out where the couple were. None stayed very long, leaving after only a few minutes. Cal’s grandfather was the only one that stayed for long and when it was time for him to leave, Cal walked him out so they could talk about the homecoming surprise. Ayden would be in the hospital another day or two unfortunately, so there was still some time to get the apartment emptied. Cal couldn’t help now, but the older man had a good moving company and some friends who would help pack their things; mindful of Ayden’s piano and his sewing machine.

And after a mini-fight about food, Ayden had said she was well enough to go see their babies. He called the doctor to make certain. She ordered a wheelchair, declaring it was regulation but Cal could see it annoyed his beautiful wife more than she let on. Still, she sat in the chair and Cal pushed her down to the nursery. He knocked on the door, waiting for a nurse to hold the door open wide before pushing Ayden through and over to the twin babies. ”It’s feeding time if you’d like to try it out before they’re brought into the room with you,” the nurse said, in the middle of heating up the tiny bottles. Cal held Ayden up and over to their babies. ”Aren’t they beautiful, little fire? Just like they’re mama,” He said, pressing a kiss to Ayden’s temple.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 506
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes ||He wasn't being very talkative >.< <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden had wanted to see the babies sooner, but her body was just not up to moving. She'd never been one to waste an entire day though, especially when there were two little babies to be seen who she'd only held once. She knew the dangers premature birth came with; those stupid books had been packed full of facts and threats. If anything did happen, she didn't want to be asleep and completely miss it all. Plus, she really did want to see them. They'd only been in her arms a few seconds before the nurses whisked them off again to be checked and fussed over. She'd recieved her own bit of fussing, the doctor reminding her once again how hard this all would be for any first-time mother carrying only one child; with two, things got complicated for the mother, and they'd just wanted to make sure everything really was okay. So far, she hadn't felt anything but exhaustion, which the doctor said was a good sign.

Still, she and the twins weren't going to be released until at least a few more days had passed, so she had plenty of time to sleep and relax before full Mommy-duties began. She was kind of excited about that part, despite the fact that she'd be home alone for awhile since Cal had to work and she didn't. She'd gotten off thanks to her kids, one thing she was already thanking them for; though, after changing a hundred diapers in a day, she may begin to change her mind.

Ayden stayed silent through the ride, still thinking all of this extra fussing was ridiculous. She didn't mind the ride, however, but the blanket was pushing it a bit. She kept her mouth shut, despite wanting to make a sarcastic remark, and went along with it all. As the nurse opened the door, she couldn't help craning her neck to see the two little babies that belonged to her and Cal. "One of them's a boy, if you forgot," she teased gently, smiling warmly down at their children. They looked so peaceful asleep; so tiny and sweet. As the nurse heated up the bottles, Ayden nodded quickly, really wanting to hold one of her babies for a second time. Looking up at Cal, she smirked, "You want the boy or the girl?"

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 416!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: Will be here soon!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3

[Caleb Sebastien Turner]

Cal had been down to the nursery a couple times while Ayden had slept and recovered as much as she’d let herself. But he’d never gone in, just stood outside and got the nurses to open the blinds so he could show off the beautiful babies he claimed as his own. He had an appointment to add a couple more tattoos to his ever growing collection; their feet with their initials in pink and blue. It wouldn’t be until after the three loves of his life were home and comfortable; though he did have to stop by to give the artist a copy of the twins’ footprints and give them their initials, written under each foot respectively so they wouldn’t get mixed up in the redraw. It, like the new brownstone was going to be a hopefully happy surprise. He knew how much Ayden loved his tattoos. She always said he wouldn’t be the same without them.

Cal already had plans to help Ayden by taking over any duties she needed him to, cook every meal if he had to and take their babies off her hands whenever he wasn’t at work; though now that would be a little more difficult with two jobs. The internship he had through the fashion house wasn’t exactly paying top dollar, though they were paying him a pretty penny considering he was starting there practically right out of college and at the moment any added income would be so helpful, so he was staying on at Gotham for the extra pocket money. One kid would have been rough on the wallet, but they had two kids; that was twice the money. Thankfully, because he’d called his bosses at both places, he’d managed to get two weeks off from Gotham and to start two weeks after he’d been supposed to at the fashion house. The time didn’t match up since he wasn’t starting the internship after graduation, but it helped a lot. And oddly enough, they wanted to see pictures and meet the twins though they hardly knew Cal himself, having only been to the fashion house a handful of times to get acquainted with the space.

Standing over the babies in the nursery, Cal couldn’t help but have to hold back a couple happy tears. When he was sixteen, he’d never thought in a million years he’d actually be right where he was. He had always figured he’d love Ayden from afar and have his heart broken as she fell in love with another man and had his children. But here they were, happily married with newborn twins; his babies. It was still a bit of surreal shock that it was all really happening, that Ayden really had just given birth to their babies. She was his hero more than she knew. She was so strong, so tough to go through what she had; she really was the love of his life and she had given him the two greatest gifts anyone could ever ask for from their soul mate; children. Cal chuckled, against the back of Ayden’s head. “I know that, little fire. But they’re still small enough I can get away with it,” he said teasingly. “You did good, Ayden,” he said, pressing his lips to her hair again.

Cal laughed softly so as to not wake the other resting babies. “You want me to choose which of our babies I want to hold? Isn’t that like picking favourites?” he asked teasing though his little girl had already stolen his heart. That child, neither of them would be able to do no wrong with him. He was already wrapped around their teeny tiny fingers, just like he was with their mother and knew it well. “I want to hold my little princess if it’s alright with you. I haven’t had a chance to hold Cassidy yet,” he said, stepping up beside Ayden to reach down into the plastic tub of a crib they seemed to put all newborns, and pick up the little girl with thick hair the colour of her mama’s. Already her fingers were long and thin, perfect piano fingers; just like her mama, this one. He was careful, cradling her head in the crook of his elbow, holding her close to his chest as his other hand went to her side to make sure she was well protected. The nerves he had about being a good daddy to these little angels went away the moment he had one of them in his arms. The rest of the time, he worried like crazy that he would do something to mess them up, but once one of those little darlings was safe, wrapped up in his arms, he felt alright.

Tag || Baby Mama!
Words || 789
Location || Le Hospital
Clothes || Reality
Music || I Must Be Dreaming by The Maine
Notes ||New graphics are coming... obviously xD >.< <3

[Ayden Karissa Turner]

Ayden was actually kind of excited to be playing stay-at-home mommy for awhile. She knew that, eventually, her paid leave would end and she'd have to go back to work, but, for awhile, she'd get to enjoy her two babies with absolutely no distractions. School would be over soon, which meant she'd really have nothing; no finals, no job, no anything. Just her and the twins, spending quality mommy-baby time together. She'd probably begin to long for more company after awhile, but, looking at the two angels in the nursery, she wondered how she'd ever need anyone else besides them and Cal.

It was still surreal to realize that she and Cal were here together, and that they were both holding the newest additions to their family. She hadn't ever imagined them like this before everything had come out and the wedding had occured. Growing up, Ayden had only ever seen them as best friends, the kind that would marry different people and would raise their kids next-door to each other so that they'd grow up with friends of their own. But, now, she couldn't imagine any other future but the one they'd created. Them and the twins; a happy little family living in a too-small apartment but comfortable, nonetheless.

Ayden couldn't keep the smile off her face as she leaned against Cal, tilting her head up to press a gentle kiss to his lips. "Was your crushed hand worth it?" she whispered back, smirking jokingly up at him. Looking down at the babies, she knew all the pain was worth it. The sleepless nights, the morning sickness, the cravings and odd foods; all of it was worth it. These babies were the best thing she'd ever done, and she planned on keeping them as pure and innocent as possible for as long as she could. "Yes, unless you'd like to hold both at the same time," she laughed back quietly, shaking her head at him. "You know, she's already your favorite; 'Daddy's princess' is going to be her nickname," she smirked back. Ayden grinned as the nurse handed her Adrian, tucking the little guy close to herself and smiling softly down at his sleepy face. She pressed a kiss to the top of his fuzzy head, cuddling him carefully against her warm body. Cal could have his princess; this little guy was going to be Ayden's pride and joy, and she already knew it.

She took the bottle the nurse handed to her, letting Adrian suck on it as he pleased. "They'll get to come upstairs soon, right? This wheelchair's not exactly as comfortable as the bed," she stated, smiling and cooing at her baby boy as he drank the warm milk. Ayden hoped the twins would get to come to the room soon; she'd much rather have them up there than cramped in this room with the other sleeping newborns.

• • •

TAG: Soon-to-be Daddy!
LOCATION: The Hospital!
WORDS: 525!
MUSIC: Here by Rascal Flatts
OUTFIT: HOT MAMA!
NOTES: <3 <3 <3