Mary Simone 2/2
Mary Simone 2/2
*~*~*
It was two hours later, but Blair felt like he was in a time warp. His pains were coming faster and lasting longer and he knew it was unlikely that he would be leaving the loft. Jim was in the kitchen, warming up some soup and Simon sat stiff and silent in the chair, pretending to be watching a movie on Lifetime.
"Ooohhh." That one was the worst yet. A vice like cramping started in his back and worked its way around to his belly.
Jim rushed in, soup forgotten and sat by him as he doubled over, resting his upper body on a pillow. He rubbed small circles on Blair’s lower back, firm stokes, but not too hard.
"I'll get the soup." Simon said, making a quick retreat to the kitchen.
"Poor man," Blair mumbled into the pillow, already tensing as the next wave of pain hit.
Jim kept up the gentle strokes, laughing a little as he spoke. "Don't mind him, babe. He just doesn't know where he fits.
"And I feel bad about that, man." Blair hissed. "I don't want him to be uncomfortable. Jim, help me up."
Together they stood, the pillow falling to the floor. "Where do you want to go?" Jim asked, holding on to Blair tightly.
"I don’t know...mmmm...just walk. I need to walk." Blair hung on to Jim's side as they moved slowly toward the balcony. The sun had set. The streetlights had all come on. There was more activity than the evening before when Blair had stood looking over the city. People were out, digging out cars and snow blowing the sidewalks and someone had used a snowplow on the parking lot.
"Better," Jim asked moments later, letting Blair lean against his side.
"Yeah, let's try the chair." Blair was already moving toward the dinning room.
"Hey," Jim moved around him, pulling the chair into the living room. "I've got it. Take it slow. Simon, can you get the pillows."
Blair found himself straddling the chair, the pillows pushed down in front of him. He leaned into their softness, shifting his pelvis forward to take some of the pressure off his back and hips. It was nice, until the next contraction hit. He hung onto the rungs, moaning softly into the pillow.
"Can I rub your back, babe?" Jim asked from behind him.
He nodded his head, still riding out the wave of pain. Something cool touched his back and he jumped.
"Just some lotion, Chief. Relax." Jim rubbed and soothed; finding just the right spot with his sensitive fingers. "That's it. Slow down your breathing."
Blair drifted for a time, but the peace he had found was blown apart with a clutching, squeezing pain less then three minutes later. "Oh."
"Just breathe," some part of him heard Simon's smooth voice. "Just blow the pain away."
And he did, small breaths at first, until the pain passed and he lifted his head to find his friend standing in front of him, holding both his hands tightly.
"Thanks," he managed, laying his head forward on to the supporting pillows, but he didn't let go of Simon's hands and when the next contraction came, Simon squeezed lightly, talking all the while until it was gone.
He sipped his soup between pains and shifting from the chair to the couch and then back to the chair. He walked around a bit and even leaned against the support column until he was totally and utterly exhausted and finally laid down on the inflatable bed.
Jim pulled the covers up around his chin, propping him up on pillows, with a few under his knees to take the pressure off his back. He tried to sleep, drifting in and out when he was afforded the opportunity.
At 8:35 the doorbell rang, waking him from a light sleep. He kicked at the covers as Jim practically ran to open the door. Relieved to see his midwife he finally relaxed and sank back into the bedding, smiling as she came into the room with her partner...Jenna, maybe? She knelt down and greeted him, taking his hand, smoothing his hair from his sweaty forehead.
"You look great." She smiled, taking his wrist, pressing lightly on the pulse point. Her smile was easy, her brown eyes shining behind her thin framed glasses. Blair noted with a funny sort of detachment that she had her hair pulled up into a bun. In all the mouths that he had been seeing her, she always had her hair down and flowing well over her shoulders.
"Hello, Blair. Remember me?" Mary Ellen's work partner sat on the bed near his hip. He nodded yes, although he still wasn't sure about her name. She was a pleasant looking red head; tiny freckles dotted her slightly pointed nose. Blair had only met her a few times, as well as the other partner. Although he was hoping that Mary Ellen, his old friend, would be helping at the birth, he knew that it could be anyone of the midwives. It just depended on when he went into labor.
"Jen, can you set up what we need?" Mary Ellen asked, motioning for Jim to come sit on the bed.
"I'll help." Simon said, moving away to help unload the boxes that the women had brought with them.
"So how are you doing Blair?" But even as Mary Ellen asked the question, a horrible pain shot through his stomach. He tried to roll to his side, but couldn't make it over. He felt hands helping to position him more comfortably as he panted through the contraction.
"Oh, oh, oh...something is happening," he cried into the pillow.
Mary Ellen hung on to his hand, rubbing her free hand up and down his arm. "It's okay, you're doing great.
"Oh...ow, ow, ow." He tried to stifle the noises he was making, but sometimes he couldn't help the sounds that came out.
"Blair. I know we talked about this and you said you and Jim would decide when the time comes." The midwife had moved closer, talking softly so only he and Jim could hear. "I like to give my clients as much privacy as possible, but you need to tell me what you want."
Jim looked up and then to Blair, clearly leaving him the decision.
"Well, I think you should help when you think it's needed and I'd like Jim to be holding me when I push, so you can catch the baby. Jim?" Blair looked anxiously to his partner.
"Sounds about right," Jim smiled, sliding down to support Blair's back with his body.
Just then another wave of pain clutched him and he moaned into the pillow. "God...this is different...something is diff...owww."
"Where do you feel the pain, Blair?" The midwife asked, gently feeling his belly. Blair could tell just by looking down that his stomach looked different, flatter at the top.
"It's all in my lower back and here." Blair rested his hand below his belly.
Mary Ellen took a few more seconds to feel his stomach. "It looks like the baby has moved down. I can check if you want. I think we're close to the pushing stage."
Blair just nodded, allowing Jim and Mary Ellen to move him and the linen where she wanted. The covers were pulled up and around so his legs were exposed. He shivered, even though the loft was a comfortable temperature.
"Simon," Jim called. "Can you go upstairs and get a pair of socks out of the top drawer."
Blair could see Simon climbing the stairs as he was turned unto his right side. Mary Ellen touched his thigh and he jumped a little. She soothed him a small pat. "It's just my hand, Blair. Relax." Jim helped by holding his left leg up a little. He could feel her cold fingertips at his opening, shivering as she pressed in. It hurt, just a little.
"Wow," she withdrew her hand and pulled off her surgical gloves. "I can feel the baby's head. You can start pushing with the next contraction." She stood and disposed of the gloves in a bin that she had brought with her.
Simon can down and handed Jim some white socks. Blair smiled as Jim helped him get them on. He wondered if Simon knew they were Jim's.
He opted to stay on his side for a while, knowing that it could be an hour or more of pushing. When the next pain came he pushed quietly, slowly breathing through the contraction. No one but Jim noticed. Everyone else was sitting at the dining room table, drinking a fresh pot of coffee that Simon made. Even Jim sipped on some as he held Blair's hand, sitting beside him on the bed.
Several more contraction later, Blair felt really tired, but it didn't seem like he had gotten anywhere. It was starting to feel uncomfortable too. His hip and back were aching and he felt hot, a few stray hairs sticking to his neck.
"You want to try another position?" Jim asked, kissing his hand lightly, holding it to his chest. "Mary Ellen?"
The midwife came closer, setting her mug on the coffee table. "How's it going?"
"I think he's just wearing himself out on his side." Jim said. "Maybe we can try something else."
She nodded, thinking a minute. "It would probably be easier on you if we let gravity help. I brought the sling and stool...or you can try standing for a while."
Blair didn't like the looks of the sling, although when he tried it on an office visit, it was comfortable. It just looked weird, hanging by your arms with your bottom exposed. "Maybe we can try the stool."
Jim helped him to sit up as Mary Ellen and Jen set things up. They asked where they wanted the stool, so Jim decided that facing the balcony windows would be nice. The snow was still falling, the flakes tiny as the storm died down.
Blair had a few more contractions as they placed the towels, stool, and a large metal bowl under it. Another larger, cushioned stool was placed behind it for Jim. It looked strange, but actually felt pretty comfortable when Blair had tested it months earlier. The seat was kinda shaped like a toilet bowl, but the front was open so the midwife could easily have access to Blair and the baby.
Once everything was in place, Mary Ellen turned to help Jim get Blair to his feet. They had to stop every few paces as Blair's contractions were coming fast now; it seemed like one right on top of the other.
Blair sat down with Jim supporting him. He felt Jim move closer once he sat, snuggling up behind him, allowing Blair to lean against his chest and rest his head on Jim's shoulder.
Mary Ellen and Jen sat on the floor in front of him, busying themselves with whatever they might need during the delivery, trying to give them some space.
Blair noticed that Simon wasn't in his line of sight. "Where's Simon?" He asked, craning his neck to look over his shoulder.
"You want Simon, Chief?" Jim asked, his fingers intertwined with Blair's.
"I can give Simon something to do." Mary Ellen said.
Blair nodded as another pain burned through his belly and down to his tailbone. It still hurt, a lot, put he could feel his baby moving down with each push.
"That's it, babe." Jim's free hand roamed his stomach, feeling the baby moving from the outside. "That was a good one."
Mary Ellen had left, settling Simon on a chair slightly off and back from Blair and Jim's right side. This way, he would be able to see the baby being born without seeing the more intimate areas of Blair.
Jen handed him a few towels and smiled at his slightly paling face. "I'm going to hand you the baby once Blair has held him. That way Jim can help Blair finish up, okay?"
Simon just nodded, swallowing a small lump in his throat.
On the next push, Blair felt an odd pressure, but it wasn't as painful as before. Mary Ellen was leaning in and looking up at his opening. "I can see the baby's head."
A second later Blair was pushing again, this time it felt like something was coming loose, pulling at him. "Excellent, Blair," the midwife praised. "Give me your hand."
Blair picked up his head from Jim's shoulder and let go of his hand. He allowed Mary Ellen to pull his hand down and under him, where she placed his fingers on something soft and slippery.
"Can you feel your baby's head?" Her words startled him. He rubbed his fingers over the slightly rounded surface.
It was his baby.
His and Jim's baby and he could feel the top of its head.
"Oh wow...wow, it's so soft." His heart was beating fast, yet steadily. He couldn't believe that his baby would soon be there and that he would soon be able to hold and cuddle their child. He suddenly remembered his partner. "Jim? You want to feel?"
Jim's hand slipped quickly down between Blair's leg and Blair could almost feel him rubbing their child's head, Jim's arm tickling his thigh.
Even with Jim's hand on the baby's head, Blair pushed with the next pain and the whole head slipped out. "Oh, babe." Jim's voice was filled with his excitement. He reached up and clutched Blair's hand as the next contraction came.
"Wonderful, Blair." Mary Ellen had her hands under him, supporting their baby as a shoulder and then another popped out. "Take another breath and push again. Your baby is almost here."
Blair did and with one last push, he could feel his baby being pulled from his body. Jim hugged him from behind, mumbling how much he was loved and what a great job he had done. Mary Ellen immediately pulled the baby up, unwrapping the cord from the baby's neck and then body before she could get enough length to lift the child into Blair's arms.
Jen laid a warmed towel over the baby and rubbed roughly as Mary Ellen suctioned out the baby's mouth and nose. Soon a small whimper turned into a full blown cry as the child was wrapped in a fresh towel and positioned a little better. A tiny cap was placed on the baby's head and then the women stepped back to give the new family a chance to get to know each other.
Jim reached around and stroked his baby's cheek, watching as the tiny mouth puckered. Blair unwrapped the towel, checking for fingers and toes before remembering that he still didn't know if he had a daughter or son.
"Go ahead, babe." Jim said, watching over Blair's shoulder, as his child was unwrapped fully. Blair laughed, and then turned his head as best as he could to kiss Jim. "Oh, man. A girl, Jim. We have a girl."
They took a few minutes to study the baby and then Mary Ellen stepped closer.
"We can cut the cord now." She clamped the baby's cord a few inches from her belly and then clamped it a few more inches away. "Which one of you wants the honor?" She asked, holding up the surgical scissors.
Jim reached forward, careful not to put too much pressure on Blair's back and skillfully cut the cord.
The baby was content to look up at her new father, nuzzling after a few minutes at his chest.
"I think she wants something, babe."
Blair nodded, not sure what to do next.
Mary Ellen stepped closer, showing Blair how to hold the baby to his chest so she could suck. It was a weird feeling as his baby latched on, the little noises making both men smile.
"I'm going to give her a few minutes, but she probably won't nurse too long. She's had a hard day." Mary Ellen laughed. "It's good though, because she'll stimulate more contractions so you can deliver the afterbirth."
Blair held his child for several more minutes until the sucking noises died down and then totally stopped. She hadn't let go of his nipple though, so Mary Ellen showed him how to break the suction with his pinky finger.
Once she was free, Jen stepped up and held out her arm. "I'm just going to hand her to your friend, so you can finish up and then we'll get you both settled."
Blair reluctantly let her go, knowing that she was still in the same room.
"Are you feeling any pains?" The midwife asked.
"Umm, not really. Just a little cramping." Blair could feel the grimace on his face as soon as the words were out.
The midwife encouraged him to relax against Jim, as she pressed into his belly, all the while leaning down to look at his opening. "I can't see any tearing, but I'll have a better look once I get you into bed."
The baby started to cry and Blair stiffened, trying to look around Jim to see what was happening.
"She's fine," Mary Ellen assured. "We just have to get a little blood and give her a shot."
Blair knew that, but he still didn't like the new sound to his baby's cry. A horrible cramping out shadowed his thoughts and he had a weird urge to push again.
"Go ahead, Blair." Jim whispered, knowing that his body was trying to expel the afterbirth.
"One good push and it will be out." Mary Ellen said, still massaging his stomach.
Two minutes passed before Blair felt the urge again and pushed down, feeling something ooze out and splat into the bowl below. "That's it Blair. You ready to get cleaned up?"
Mary Ellen waited until Jim was standing before helping Blair up. He was a little wobbly, but quickly adjusted to his new position. He could now see Simon holding his baby. Jen was leaning over her, pressing her tiny foot against a piece of white paper.
The dining room chair was brought over, covered with a thick white towel and Blair was urged to sit. "How are you feeling? Any lightheadedness, nausea?"
"Nope, just a little sore, but besides that..."
"Good. We are going to measure and weigh the baby and then you have a few choices." Mary Ellen moved to her supplies, pulling out a fish scale and a small cloth carrier, with a tiny floral print. "We will be staying for as long as you need us, or until we can get a ride out of here." She laughed.
"We have to make sure you and the baby are okay. We also have to make sure the baby is nursing and we are going to help give her a bath. Do you want to get into the shower before you lay down? If you want we can clean the baby up and have her ready by the time you are finished. Or you can help with the bath, whatever makes you comfortable."
Blair thought for a second, looking to Jim for some kind of clue.
"Why don't we get you cleaned up, babe? Simon and the ladies can give her a wash up and then you can rest with her the rest of the night." Jim looked to his friend, noting the puffy eyes and wide smile.
"Yeah, that's good."
"Okay, you can get in a shower, but you're going to need Jim's help. We'll have her all dolled up by the time you get done." Mary Ellen moved into the kitchen, running the tap water, holding a small Rubbermaid container.
With one last look at Simon and his daughter, Blair allowed Jim to pull him up and shuffled into the bathroom.
*~*~*
Before Blair knew what was happening, Jim had him sitting on the closed toilet seat, the water for the shower already running. His partner knelt in front of him, pulling him into a tight hug, kissing his neck and ear. "Oh, God Blair. You did it. I can't believe we have a baby."
Blair had a sudden urge to giggle. It was a little hard for him to fathom too.
"Come, on. Let's get you in." Jim pulled him up and Blair untied and dropped his robe. Jim helped him over the rim and under the spray. The warmth relaxed Blair and he turned so the current ran down his back.
Jim kept the curtain open; making sure Blair was staying on his feet before gathering up the slightly stained robe and tossing it out the door. Jim stepped in the shower and pulled the curtain closed.
Blair leaned forward, enjoying Jim's supporting, roaming, and knowing hands. Jim helped him wash his body and hair, taking extra care around his tender bits. Once the shower was done, Blair was helped over and out. Jim worked carefully to dry and pamper his partner, soothing lotion, helping Blair dress in a loose fitting sweat pant and soft cotton button up shirt. Once dressed, Blair leaned against the basin to brush his teeth and take care of his whiskers.
Jim insisted he sit, while helping to towel dry his hair. Once it was reasonably dry, Jim took his time combing out the tangles and then pulling it back and out of the way.
"Ready, babe?" Jim leaned down to help him stand.
They walked out hand in hand to find that the living room had been totally cleaned, the stool and supplies put away in a crate by the front door, all the dirty linens gone. Mary Ellen and Jen sat at the dinning room table, writing notes in Blair's chart and the baby was snuggled up in Simon's arms.
Their friend smiled as Jim led Blair to the couch. He sat a bit stiffly, trying to find a comfortable spot. Simon stood, waiting until Blair was settled before handing him the baby.
"Umm, Blair." He looked up from his baby, his eyes questioning. "I uh, I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for letting me a small part of this..." Simon seemed like he didn't know what else to say.
"Hey, you're welcome, man." Blair said. "I'm glad you were here."
Jim came from the kitchen, carrying a glass of juice for Blair. "Okay, that's enough of the mush."
They all laughed, settling in to enjoy the evening and company.
They took turns holding the baby, all cooing over the sweet child. Blair found it harder and harder to hide his yawns, soon his eyes started to droop. "Hey, babe. I'll hold the baby while you rest." Jim reached over and handed the baby to Simon.
"Let's get you settled." They walked the short distance to the bed and Jim eased him down. The blankets were already pulled back, so he lay down and allowed Jim to help him get comfortable.
Mary Ellen walked up just as Jim was standing. "I just need a second."
Blair nodded and Jim went back over to pick up his baby. He watched with hooded eyes as Mary Ellen sat on the mattress. "I just need to take a brief look."
The blanket was shifted and Mary Ellen moved his leg slightly, checking his opening for any tears. "This looks good, Blair. I see a very small tear that should heal pretty quickly." Her hand shifted to his tummy, pressing in small circles. "You look great." She pulled the blanket back over to cover him and patted his leg through the thick blanket. "You need to rest while you can."
Blair fell asleep before she finished talking. Jim got up to check on Blair and then laid his sleeping daughter in her cradle. He joined Simon on the couch, settling in for the evening.
*~*~*
A tiny whimpering woke him. Blair shifted carefully to look toward the living room and found Jim pacing the floors with his crying baby. He was so intent on settling her that he didn't hear Blair call the first time.
"Jim?" Blair moved up on the bed, trying to sit.
"Hey, you're awake." Jim and Mary Ellen came over, she adjusted the pile of pillows to support his back and Jim laid the baby into Blair's outstretched arms.
"Has she been crying long?" Blair asked, rocking the tiny infant, even as he struggled to unbutton his shirt.
"On and off for a little while, but we wanted you to get more rest. You've only been sleeping for a few hours." Jim settled in next to him, watching as Blair got his shirt open and the baby up close enough to latch on. The greedy sucking sounded through the loft.
"Blair, I want you to allow her to nurse for about five minutes and then switch sides. It's important that you remember to switch, that way you won't get too sore.
Blair nodded, watching her retreating form. "What time is it?" He asked after a while, still watching his daughter; amazed each time that the tiny hand clung to his finger.
Jim looked at his watch. "It's a little after midnight. How are you feeling?"
Blair looked up at him, a wide smile on his face. "I'm feeling great. Love you."
"Love you, too." He leaned in and kissed Blair, soft and gentle.
"Umm, I hate to interrupt." Simon moved a bit closer, trying not to look at the baby nursing.
Blair smiled. "Hey, no problem."
"I just wanted to tell you we are heading out. I'm going to drop the ladies back at the clinic."
"The transport finally arrived?" Jim asked.
"Yup, so we are going to go and give you guys some time to yourselves." Simon moved to help the midwives pick up their boxes. "I'll call you tomorrow and see how things are going. I'm sure the guys will want to visit when you're up to it."
Jim stood and walked them all to the door. "Umm, thanks for all your help. All of you," he glanced toward Simon.
"It was our pleasure," Mary Ellen gave him a quick hug. "I'll be by in six days to check on the baby and Blair and do another blood test. Call me if you need me." Then she was gone down the hall, followed by Jen.
"Well," Simon stood still for a second, glancing past Jim to Blair still nursing the baby. Jim could hear him as he talked and cooed to her, switching her to the other side. Simon stepped into the hall patting his pocket. "I got all the vital details. Bouncing baby girl, born at 10:38 pm, weighing in at 7 pounds and 4 ounces, measuring a long 21 inches. What am I forgetting? Oh yeah, do you have a name yet?"
"Hmm, not really. We couldn't agree on a girl's name. I think we'll give it a few days, let her tell us what her name should be."
"Well, then. I'll be talking to ya." And then Jim was left alone with his little family. He closed the door and locked up, scanning the loft to see if he had forgotten anything.
He took swift strides back to Blair's side, slipping in and under the covers, resting his head on Blair's shoulder, watching as his precious child stopped sucking and closed her eyes, mouth still attached.
Blair sat up a little more, resting the baby on his shoulder as Jim ran his hand up and down the tiny back. Once a small burp escaped the tiny lips, Blair handed the baby to Jim. They rested for a while, just holding the baby and each other.
It had been a long but amazing day.
After a while, Jim put the baby in her cradle and then lay back down, pulling Blair close. The pillows were pushed up until they were both lying flat, facing each other. It felt so nice when Jim put his hands behind Blair and snuggled him close. He shivered when his partner ran a warm hand up and down his back.
"You okay, babe?" Jim asked, just inches from his face, a gentle kiss dotted Blair's eyelids and nose.
"Yes. Thank you, Jim. Thanks for taking good care of me. I love you." Blair snuggled closer still, resting his head close to Jim.
Jim kissed the top of his head. "I love you, too. Thank you for this wonderful gift." Even as he said the words, he knew that Blair had fallen asleep, finally relaxing his body enough to rest. Jim smiled as he listened to Blair breathe, as he watched the slight rise and fall of his lover's chest. He could feel Blair's warm skin against his and he hugged his partner tighter.
And then the most amazing thing happened. He heard a sound that he had been hearing for months, but it was different now, clearer. He picked out his baby's heartbeat, remembering every rhythm, just as he had done with Blair.
He fell asleep, listening to the gentle beating.
*~*~*
Blair hurried down the steps, still trying to buckle his belt. All his pants were a little big, but he wasn't complaining. Just as he reached the nursery door, the baby's crying stopped.
"Shhh...sweetie. Don't wake up your daddy's." His mother sat in the rocker she had brought them, humming quietly. The baby was looking at her, for now content to study someone new.
He waited a few minutes, watching his mother and child. She sang softly, the tune familiar. The room was dark, only the small lamp by the crib on, a light scarf draped on top to dim the brightness. The sky outside was just lightening, the soft morning glow filtering in through the fire escape door.
It was hard too imagine that this used to be his room, although he hadn't slept here in years. A crib sat where his bed used to be, a changing table and white dresser where he used to have his desk. It was funny, because even though they had bought all the major pieces, they hadn't set up the room.
When Naomi arrived the day after the baby was born, she went right to work, putting the crib together, taking all the presents from their packaging and putting away the tiny clothes, placing stuffed animal on the shelves and dresser. The bedding was heavily debated, but in the end she gave in, placing the simple white comforter in the crib.
"Mom?"
She looked up, smiling from ear to ear. "You okay?" She stood, still rocking the baby.
"Yeah, but I think she's hungry." He sat in the rocker, accepting the baby. His mother placed a pillow on his lap, taking some of the strain off his arms and back.
"It's amazing." She cooed at the baby, watching as she nursed. "I can't believe I'm a grandmother. I'm too young to be a grandmother."
Blair laughed, "Well, Grams, don't tell that to your granddaughter."
"Oh, no Blair. Not Grams. Mom, Mom maybe." She kissed him on the head, caressing the baby's face before moving to the French doors. "I'll make us some tea and breakfast. We have a long day ahead of us. Morning Jim."
"Morning, Naomi." Jim pushed past Blair's mother and leaned over to kiss his baby's cheek. Blair waited patiently until he had goggled over their daughter. "And how are you doing today?"
"I don't think she's going to answer, man." Jim's mouth moved up to his, the kiss slow and sweet.
"She's too busy being a little piggy."
"That she is." Blair handed her off to her other father to be burped. Blair stood, his shirt still open, allowing Jim to sit and rock their child. He went to the dresser to pull out a clean sleeper, gathering the things needed for her bath and headed to the kitchen.
This was another morning ritual that Jim seemed to enjoy. He would take the baby, bathe and dress her and then put her in her cradle until after breakfast. It was a routine that seemed to work. It allowed Blair to get a shower and rest.
His mother took the small tub and shooed him to the bathroom. The hot spray was heavenly, the water streaming over his tired body, refreshing and awakening him, soothing achy parts. The mornings were pretty rough for him, being awaken every two to three hours by a demanding little girl.
Jim was great about helping out, but the demands on Blair's body could be a little overwhelming sometimes.
He briskly dried himself, sighing when he noticed his leaky nipple.
Oh, man. This was definitely one down side.
Breakfast was ready when he came out of the bathroom. Jim had moved the cradle within view and he and his mother sat at the table, waiting for him.
"Feeling better, sweetie."
Blair sank into his chair, scooping a huge pile of eggs unto his plate. "Yeah, thanks."
Jim ate quietly, reading the paper, sipping his coffee. Blair finished his plate and got more, his mother refilling his glass of juice. He was glad to have her here this past week. In fact he was a little worried about how they would cope when she left.
Dishes were done and the table cleaned up. Blair sat on the couch, watching the daily news, Jim took a shower and his mother drifted between the laundry room and living room, folding and sorting the endless piles of clothing.
"I'm going to the store to pick up some things for this evening. Do you want to come?"
Blair stifled a yawn, nodding his head. He hadn't been out since the baby's birth; it would be nice to get some fresh air. "Let me just tell Jim."
"Okay," his mother took a basket up to his room; he could hear her opening and closing drawers.
When Jim got out of the bathroom, Blair told him his plan. "You sure you'll be okay, Jim?"
"I'll be fine. Go and get out for awhile."
Blair kissed him on the cheek and then grabbed his coat. "Love you."
*~*~*
Jim leaped for the phone as soon as he heard the first sounds of the ring. "Ellison."
"Hey, Jim."
"Hello, Simon." A quick glance toward the cradle insured that the baby was still asleep. It seemed that every little noise disturbed her.
"Just calling to see if you need me to bring anything for tonight."
"Umm...no, we're good. Blair's out now with his mother, getting a few last minute things."
Simon hesitated briefly. "So how is he doing?"
"He's doing okay, tired. This last week has been a learning curve for both of us, but it's going good."
"Good, well I'll see you guys tonight."
"See ya, Simon." As he hung up the phone, the baby stirred, her little mouth opening and closing.
Soon she had worked herself into quite a fit. Jim rocked her, changed her diaper, and paced the floors, talking and humming and singing. She would quiet down and then start up again, rooting around his chest. "Ya got the wrong daddy, Sweetheart."
He tried the rocking chair, kissing her little head, bouncing her gently. He studied her tiny face for the thousandth time, memorizing every little detail, her soft skin and sweet smell, the sound of her tummy rumbling. "I can't believe you're hungry again, squirt."
Jim moved back to the living room, cradling his daughter close. "Daddy will be home soon. He just went with Gram's to get some things for your party tonight. It's going to be so much fun. All your aunts and uncles are coming to see you."
A tiny whimper soon turned into a full out tantrum.
Well, that didn't work.
*~*~*
Blair had gotten home to find Jim pacing with the baby, rocking her over his shoulder, patting her back. She wasn't crying, but Blair could tell that she wasn't happy.
After her second breakfast, she was content to lie in her crib.
The rest of the morning was a blur. Naomi and Jim started on the food for the party and got the loft ready for company.
Blair rested on the sofa, reading the pamphlet from the pump kit. Jim was a little surprised when Blair had shown him, but they had discussed what they would do before the baby came. Blair loved feeding his daughter, even though he was really sore at the moment, but he would have to go back to work at some point and this way Jim could feed the baby too.
By late afternoon, Blair was laying down for a nap. He had a little while before his midwife would be coming for a check up and the baby was fed, freshly changed and being spoiled by her Grams.
Grams, yup, that's going to stick.
He drifted for a while; a goofy grin emerging each time he thought about his new baby, his new family. He thought about the upcoming celebration, too. Their friends and family would be helping them welcome their newest addition.
It was a hard decision, Jim wasn't really religious and although Blair still sometimes practiced Jewish rituals they weren't going to raise the baby Jewish. When she was old enough, she could make her own decision.
When he was pregnant, it didn't matter if they had a girl or boy. In fact he was a little worried to raise a daughter, but at least now they don't have to worry about circumcision...that was a hot topic for months, each of them listing the pros and cons, but that was one issue they never quite resolved.
Sometime later he heard the baby mewl, but she quieted right back down. Someone was walking around downstairs, the floorboard by the baby's room squeaked. A few minutes later she was crying in earnest and Blair sat up, quickly getting out of the bed and moving to the steps.
"It's okay, Chief. Mary Ellen just finished with the blood test." Jim came up, sitting on the edge of the bed, their daughter still whaling in his embrace.
Blair held out his arms, letting her nurse until she settled down to sleep. The band-aid on her foot looked way too big and Blair made a mental note to take it off as soon as possible.
Jim settled her on the bed, lying next to her. "Mary Ellen still needs to look at you, babe. You want me to get her." His voice was a mere whisper, not wanting to wake the baby.
He was going to get up and go down stairs, but Jim stopped him with a hand on his arm. "You rest, I'll go."
The steps creaked, the midwife stood at the top waiting for him to invite her into the bedroom. "Hey, M.E."
"Hey, yourself." She moved to the bed, setting down her case and looking to the tiny little girl sleeping on her side. "She’s doing great, Blair."
"Yeah," he agreed. "So..."
"Right. I just need to look you over. You want to get undressed and I'll be back in a minute. She sat out a thin sheet before going back downstairs.
He took off his boxers and t-shirt, lying down and covering himself with the sheet. Naomi was talking to Mary Ellen, asking some questions. A short while later she was back, pulling some things from her case.
"It will only take a few minutes." She said, pulling the sheet back a little and examining his chest. Her hands were cold, but gentle, pressing in a circle, moving inward toward his nipple, finishing with a small pinch. She moved to the other side, this time a tiny drop of liquid came out. "The tissue feels normal. Soreness is to be expected for a while, but you shouldn't feel any pain."
She moved her hands under the sheet palpating his belly. "Everything here feels normal too. Are you feeling any soreness here?"
"No, the only thing that has been bothering me is my chest." Blair shifted as she pulled the sheet back up, bending his knees when she scooted down the bed.
She slipped on a glove, moving the sheet off one knee to feel his opening. He was still pretty tender where she was touching. Her hand moved to his thigh, pushing his leg a little to get a better look. "Everything looks great." She straightened up and gathered up her things. "I'll see you in my office in six week. Any questions?"
Blair sat up, pulling the sheet around him. "Not really. Are you going to make it back here tonight?"
"Wouldn't miss it for the world."
*~*~*
The party was in full swing, all of the guests eating and laughing and babbling to the guest of honor.
The baby was carefully passed around the room, plenty of waiting arms vying for their turn. His mother sat on the sofa by him, arm around him, absently rubbing his shoulder.
Jim's father handed him a plate. "Umm...thanks Bill."
William Ellison nodded, moving to sit on the other sofa, smiling when the baby was placed in his arms. "Hello, beautiful. I'm your grandpa."
Simon and Megan sat too, chatting with Naomi and Joel. Brian and Henri clustered around the table, talking with Jim and the other guests. Blair noted that Brian had spent the better part of the evening talking with Mary Ellen.
It seems like everyone was having a good time.
Soon Jim joined him, patting his knee. "How are you doing, babe?"
Blair leaned into his side, content to sit and watch everyone interact with their baby. He leaned up to kiss Jim, "I'm doing great. You about ready to make the announcement?"
"Yup," with one more kiss Jim stood and cleared his throat.
Everyone quieted, waiting to hear what their host had to say. "I, uh just want to thank everyone for coming and joining in our celebration. It means a lot that you all have chosen to spend your evening with us."
Naomi stood, "I think it's almost time for a toast." She went into the kitchen, getting out the needed glasses.
Blair noted that Simon was holding the baby and smiled at Jim.
"Well, while we're waiting for the champagne, I also have an announcement."
"Don't tell us Blair has another bun in the oven." Brown laughed, the whole room joining in.
"God, no." Blair piped in. "Maybe in a few years."
"As I was saying..." Jim said, shooting a look to Brown. "I would like to take the time to thank those people who were there for me and Blair the night the baby was born. Mary Ellen, you'll never know how much it means to us that you came out in that storm to help us. When Blair first told me about you, I was not sure if I was comfortable with the whole idea, but throughout all our time together, well you won me over. So thank you for taking such good care of Blair."
Naomi had just finished handing out the glasses; even Blair was given some apple juice in a flute glass.
"Yes, thank you, M.E." Blair stood, drawing his friend into a tight hug.
"To, Mary." Naomi said, and everyone raised their glass in a toast.
"I want to say something too." Blair moved to Jim's side, arm loosely around his waist. "Before Mary Ellen could arrive, Jim and I had someone else who helped. So I would like to thank Simon. I know that the whole thing was a little hard on you at first, not really sure what to do to help, but I gotta tell ya, man...you really, really helped me through the hardest part. So thank you for being such a good friend."
"To, Simon." Jim said, and again glasses were raised.
"So in honor of those friendships," Jim said. "I would like to properly introduce our
daughter, Mary Simone Ellison Sandburg.
The room irrupted in applause; baby Mary stirring in Simon's arms. Mary Ellen was
hugging Jim and Blair, thanking them for the honor.
"I don't know what to say." Simon passed the baby to Blair, hugging him briefly. " It's a
real honor."
"Hey, man. The honor is all ours." Blair rocked his tiny bundle, moving around to thank
everyone for coming.
Soon the room emptied, Naomi deciding to take a bath to give them some privacy. "I'll
clean up the mess in the morning," she called.
They settled in on the couch, taking turns cuddling the tiny infant. Jim got up to start a
fire in the wood stove, Blair was feeding his baby.
The room was quiet, peaceful.
Jim sat down next to Blair, scooting as close as he could, just watching his daughter. "It's
hard to believe, babe, She's so perfect."
"Yeah, she is." Blair leaned in, kissing softly. "To Mary Simone."
"To Mary Simone."
*~*~*
The end
*~*~*
It was two hours later, but Blair felt like he was in a time warp. His pains were coming faster and lasting longer and he knew it was unlikely that he would be leaving the loft. Jim was in the kitchen, warming up some soup and Simon sat stiff and silent in the chair, pretending to be watching a movie on Lifetime.
"Ooohhh." That one was the worst yet. A vice like cramping started in his back and worked its way around to his belly.
Jim rushed in, soup forgotten and sat by him as he doubled over, resting his upper body on a pillow. He rubbed small circles on Blair’s lower back, firm stokes, but not too hard.
"I'll get the soup." Simon said, making a quick retreat to the kitchen.
"Poor man," Blair mumbled into the pillow, already tensing as the next wave of pain hit.
Jim kept up the gentle strokes, laughing a little as he spoke. "Don't mind him, babe. He just doesn't know where he fits.
"And I feel bad about that, man." Blair hissed. "I don't want him to be uncomfortable. Jim, help me up."
Together they stood, the pillow falling to the floor. "Where do you want to go?" Jim asked, holding on to Blair tightly.
"I don’t know...mmmm...just walk. I need to walk." Blair hung on to Jim's side as they moved slowly toward the balcony. The sun had set. The streetlights had all come on. There was more activity than the evening before when Blair had stood looking over the city. People were out, digging out cars and snow blowing the sidewalks and someone had used a snowplow on the parking lot.
"Better," Jim asked moments later, letting Blair lean against his side.
"Yeah, let's try the chair." Blair was already moving toward the dinning room.
"Hey," Jim moved around him, pulling the chair into the living room. "I've got it. Take it slow. Simon, can you get the pillows."
Blair found himself straddling the chair, the pillows pushed down in front of him. He leaned into their softness, shifting his pelvis forward to take some of the pressure off his back and hips. It was nice, until the next contraction hit. He hung onto the rungs, moaning softly into the pillow.
"Can I rub your back, babe?" Jim asked from behind him.
He nodded his head, still riding out the wave of pain. Something cool touched his back and he jumped.
"Just some lotion, Chief. Relax." Jim rubbed and soothed; finding just the right spot with his sensitive fingers. "That's it. Slow down your breathing."
Blair drifted for a time, but the peace he had found was blown apart with a clutching, squeezing pain less then three minutes later. "Oh."
"Just breathe," some part of him heard Simon's smooth voice. "Just blow the pain away."
And he did, small breaths at first, until the pain passed and he lifted his head to find his friend standing in front of him, holding both his hands tightly.
"Thanks," he managed, laying his head forward on to the supporting pillows, but he didn't let go of Simon's hands and when the next contraction came, Simon squeezed lightly, talking all the while until it was gone.
He sipped his soup between pains and shifting from the chair to the couch and then back to the chair. He walked around a bit and even leaned against the support column until he was totally and utterly exhausted and finally laid down on the inflatable bed.
Jim pulled the covers up around his chin, propping him up on pillows, with a few under his knees to take the pressure off his back. He tried to sleep, drifting in and out when he was afforded the opportunity.
At 8:35 the doorbell rang, waking him from a light sleep. He kicked at the covers as Jim practically ran to open the door. Relieved to see his midwife he finally relaxed and sank back into the bedding, smiling as she came into the room with her partner...Jenna, maybe? She knelt down and greeted him, taking his hand, smoothing his hair from his sweaty forehead.
"You look great." She smiled, taking his wrist, pressing lightly on the pulse point. Her smile was easy, her brown eyes shining behind her thin framed glasses. Blair noted with a funny sort of detachment that she had her hair pulled up into a bun. In all the mouths that he had been seeing her, she always had her hair down and flowing well over her shoulders.
"Hello, Blair. Remember me?" Mary Ellen's work partner sat on the bed near his hip. He nodded yes, although he still wasn't sure about her name. She was a pleasant looking red head; tiny freckles dotted her slightly pointed nose. Blair had only met her a few times, as well as the other partner. Although he was hoping that Mary Ellen, his old friend, would be helping at the birth, he knew that it could be anyone of the midwives. It just depended on when he went into labor.
"Jen, can you set up what we need?" Mary Ellen asked, motioning for Jim to come sit on the bed.
"I'll help." Simon said, moving away to help unload the boxes that the women had brought with them.
"So how are you doing Blair?" But even as Mary Ellen asked the question, a horrible pain shot through his stomach. He tried to roll to his side, but couldn't make it over. He felt hands helping to position him more comfortably as he panted through the contraction.
"Oh, oh, oh...something is happening," he cried into the pillow.
Mary Ellen hung on to his hand, rubbing her free hand up and down his arm. "It's okay, you're doing great.
"Oh...ow, ow, ow." He tried to stifle the noises he was making, but sometimes he couldn't help the sounds that came out.
"Blair. I know we talked about this and you said you and Jim would decide when the time comes." The midwife had moved closer, talking softly so only he and Jim could hear. "I like to give my clients as much privacy as possible, but you need to tell me what you want."
Jim looked up and then to Blair, clearly leaving him the decision.
"Well, I think you should help when you think it's needed and I'd like Jim to be holding me when I push, so you can catch the baby. Jim?" Blair looked anxiously to his partner.
"Sounds about right," Jim smiled, sliding down to support Blair's back with his body.
Just then another wave of pain clutched him and he moaned into the pillow. "God...this is different...something is diff...owww."
"Where do you feel the pain, Blair?" The midwife asked, gently feeling his belly. Blair could tell just by looking down that his stomach looked different, flatter at the top.
"It's all in my lower back and here." Blair rested his hand below his belly.
Mary Ellen took a few more seconds to feel his stomach. "It looks like the baby has moved down. I can check if you want. I think we're close to the pushing stage."
Blair just nodded, allowing Jim and Mary Ellen to move him and the linen where she wanted. The covers were pulled up and around so his legs were exposed. He shivered, even though the loft was a comfortable temperature.
"Simon," Jim called. "Can you go upstairs and get a pair of socks out of the top drawer."
Blair could see Simon climbing the stairs as he was turned unto his right side. Mary Ellen touched his thigh and he jumped a little. She soothed him a small pat. "It's just my hand, Blair. Relax." Jim helped by holding his left leg up a little. He could feel her cold fingertips at his opening, shivering as she pressed in. It hurt, just a little.
"Wow," she withdrew her hand and pulled off her surgical gloves. "I can feel the baby's head. You can start pushing with the next contraction." She stood and disposed of the gloves in a bin that she had brought with her.
Simon can down and handed Jim some white socks. Blair smiled as Jim helped him get them on. He wondered if Simon knew they were Jim's.
He opted to stay on his side for a while, knowing that it could be an hour or more of pushing. When the next pain came he pushed quietly, slowly breathing through the contraction. No one but Jim noticed. Everyone else was sitting at the dining room table, drinking a fresh pot of coffee that Simon made. Even Jim sipped on some as he held Blair's hand, sitting beside him on the bed.
Several more contraction later, Blair felt really tired, but it didn't seem like he had gotten anywhere. It was starting to feel uncomfortable too. His hip and back were aching and he felt hot, a few stray hairs sticking to his neck.
"You want to try another position?" Jim asked, kissing his hand lightly, holding it to his chest. "Mary Ellen?"
The midwife came closer, setting her mug on the coffee table. "How's it going?"
"I think he's just wearing himself out on his side." Jim said. "Maybe we can try something else."
She nodded, thinking a minute. "It would probably be easier on you if we let gravity help. I brought the sling and stool...or you can try standing for a while."
Blair didn't like the looks of the sling, although when he tried it on an office visit, it was comfortable. It just looked weird, hanging by your arms with your bottom exposed. "Maybe we can try the stool."
Jim helped him to sit up as Mary Ellen and Jen set things up. They asked where they wanted the stool, so Jim decided that facing the balcony windows would be nice. The snow was still falling, the flakes tiny as the storm died down.
Blair had a few more contractions as they placed the towels, stool, and a large metal bowl under it. Another larger, cushioned stool was placed behind it for Jim. It looked strange, but actually felt pretty comfortable when Blair had tested it months earlier. The seat was kinda shaped like a toilet bowl, but the front was open so the midwife could easily have access to Blair and the baby.
Once everything was in place, Mary Ellen turned to help Jim get Blair to his feet. They had to stop every few paces as Blair's contractions were coming fast now; it seemed like one right on top of the other.
Blair sat down with Jim supporting him. He felt Jim move closer once he sat, snuggling up behind him, allowing Blair to lean against his chest and rest his head on Jim's shoulder.
Mary Ellen and Jen sat on the floor in front of him, busying themselves with whatever they might need during the delivery, trying to give them some space.
Blair noticed that Simon wasn't in his line of sight. "Where's Simon?" He asked, craning his neck to look over his shoulder.
"You want Simon, Chief?" Jim asked, his fingers intertwined with Blair's.
"I can give Simon something to do." Mary Ellen said.
Blair nodded as another pain burned through his belly and down to his tailbone. It still hurt, a lot, put he could feel his baby moving down with each push.
"That's it, babe." Jim's free hand roamed his stomach, feeling the baby moving from the outside. "That was a good one."
Mary Ellen had left, settling Simon on a chair slightly off and back from Blair and Jim's right side. This way, he would be able to see the baby being born without seeing the more intimate areas of Blair.
Jen handed him a few towels and smiled at his slightly paling face. "I'm going to hand you the baby once Blair has held him. That way Jim can help Blair finish up, okay?"
Simon just nodded, swallowing a small lump in his throat.
On the next push, Blair felt an odd pressure, but it wasn't as painful as before. Mary Ellen was leaning in and looking up at his opening. "I can see the baby's head."
A second later Blair was pushing again, this time it felt like something was coming loose, pulling at him. "Excellent, Blair," the midwife praised. "Give me your hand."
Blair picked up his head from Jim's shoulder and let go of his hand. He allowed Mary Ellen to pull his hand down and under him, where she placed his fingers on something soft and slippery.
"Can you feel your baby's head?" Her words startled him. He rubbed his fingers over the slightly rounded surface.
It was his baby.
His and Jim's baby and he could feel the top of its head.
"Oh wow...wow, it's so soft." His heart was beating fast, yet steadily. He couldn't believe that his baby would soon be there and that he would soon be able to hold and cuddle their child. He suddenly remembered his partner. "Jim? You want to feel?"
Jim's hand slipped quickly down between Blair's leg and Blair could almost feel him rubbing their child's head, Jim's arm tickling his thigh.
Even with Jim's hand on the baby's head, Blair pushed with the next pain and the whole head slipped out. "Oh, babe." Jim's voice was filled with his excitement. He reached up and clutched Blair's hand as the next contraction came.
"Wonderful, Blair." Mary Ellen had her hands under him, supporting their baby as a shoulder and then another popped out. "Take another breath and push again. Your baby is almost here."
Blair did and with one last push, he could feel his baby being pulled from his body. Jim hugged him from behind, mumbling how much he was loved and what a great job he had done. Mary Ellen immediately pulled the baby up, unwrapping the cord from the baby's neck and then body before she could get enough length to lift the child into Blair's arms.
Jen laid a warmed towel over the baby and rubbed roughly as Mary Ellen suctioned out the baby's mouth and nose. Soon a small whimper turned into a full blown cry as the child was wrapped in a fresh towel and positioned a little better. A tiny cap was placed on the baby's head and then the women stepped back to give the new family a chance to get to know each other.
Jim reached around and stroked his baby's cheek, watching as the tiny mouth puckered. Blair unwrapped the towel, checking for fingers and toes before remembering that he still didn't know if he had a daughter or son.
"Go ahead, babe." Jim said, watching over Blair's shoulder, as his child was unwrapped fully. Blair laughed, and then turned his head as best as he could to kiss Jim. "Oh, man. A girl, Jim. We have a girl."
They took a few minutes to study the baby and then Mary Ellen stepped closer.
"We can cut the cord now." She clamped the baby's cord a few inches from her belly and then clamped it a few more inches away. "Which one of you wants the honor?" She asked, holding up the surgical scissors.
Jim reached forward, careful not to put too much pressure on Blair's back and skillfully cut the cord.
The baby was content to look up at her new father, nuzzling after a few minutes at his chest.
"I think she wants something, babe."
Blair nodded, not sure what to do next.
Mary Ellen stepped closer, showing Blair how to hold the baby to his chest so she could suck. It was a weird feeling as his baby latched on, the little noises making both men smile.
"I'm going to give her a few minutes, but she probably won't nurse too long. She's had a hard day." Mary Ellen laughed. "It's good though, because she'll stimulate more contractions so you can deliver the afterbirth."
Blair held his child for several more minutes until the sucking noises died down and then totally stopped. She hadn't let go of his nipple though, so Mary Ellen showed him how to break the suction with his pinky finger.
Once she was free, Jen stepped up and held out her arm. "I'm just going to hand her to your friend, so you can finish up and then we'll get you both settled."
Blair reluctantly let her go, knowing that she was still in the same room.
"Are you feeling any pains?" The midwife asked.
"Umm, not really. Just a little cramping." Blair could feel the grimace on his face as soon as the words were out.
The midwife encouraged him to relax against Jim, as she pressed into his belly, all the while leaning down to look at his opening. "I can't see any tearing, but I'll have a better look once I get you into bed."
The baby started to cry and Blair stiffened, trying to look around Jim to see what was happening.
"She's fine," Mary Ellen assured. "We just have to get a little blood and give her a shot."
Blair knew that, but he still didn't like the new sound to his baby's cry. A horrible cramping out shadowed his thoughts and he had a weird urge to push again.
"Go ahead, Blair." Jim whispered, knowing that his body was trying to expel the afterbirth.
"One good push and it will be out." Mary Ellen said, still massaging his stomach.
Two minutes passed before Blair felt the urge again and pushed down, feeling something ooze out and splat into the bowl below. "That's it Blair. You ready to get cleaned up?"
Mary Ellen waited until Jim was standing before helping Blair up. He was a little wobbly, but quickly adjusted to his new position. He could now see Simon holding his baby. Jen was leaning over her, pressing her tiny foot against a piece of white paper.
The dining room chair was brought over, covered with a thick white towel and Blair was urged to sit. "How are you feeling? Any lightheadedness, nausea?"
"Nope, just a little sore, but besides that..."
"Good. We are going to measure and weigh the baby and then you have a few choices." Mary Ellen moved to her supplies, pulling out a fish scale and a small cloth carrier, with a tiny floral print. "We will be staying for as long as you need us, or until we can get a ride out of here." She laughed.
"We have to make sure you and the baby are okay. We also have to make sure the baby is nursing and we are going to help give her a bath. Do you want to get into the shower before you lay down? If you want we can clean the baby up and have her ready by the time you are finished. Or you can help with the bath, whatever makes you comfortable."
Blair thought for a second, looking to Jim for some kind of clue.
"Why don't we get you cleaned up, babe? Simon and the ladies can give her a wash up and then you can rest with her the rest of the night." Jim looked to his friend, noting the puffy eyes and wide smile.
"Yeah, that's good."
"Okay, you can get in a shower, but you're going to need Jim's help. We'll have her all dolled up by the time you get done." Mary Ellen moved into the kitchen, running the tap water, holding a small Rubbermaid container.
With one last look at Simon and his daughter, Blair allowed Jim to pull him up and shuffled into the bathroom.
*~*~*
Before Blair knew what was happening, Jim had him sitting on the closed toilet seat, the water for the shower already running. His partner knelt in front of him, pulling him into a tight hug, kissing his neck and ear. "Oh, God Blair. You did it. I can't believe we have a baby."
Blair had a sudden urge to giggle. It was a little hard for him to fathom too.
"Come, on. Let's get you in." Jim pulled him up and Blair untied and dropped his robe. Jim helped him over the rim and under the spray. The warmth relaxed Blair and he turned so the current ran down his back.
Jim kept the curtain open; making sure Blair was staying on his feet before gathering up the slightly stained robe and tossing it out the door. Jim stepped in the shower and pulled the curtain closed.
Blair leaned forward, enjoying Jim's supporting, roaming, and knowing hands. Jim helped him wash his body and hair, taking extra care around his tender bits. Once the shower was done, Blair was helped over and out. Jim worked carefully to dry and pamper his partner, soothing lotion, helping Blair dress in a loose fitting sweat pant and soft cotton button up shirt. Once dressed, Blair leaned against the basin to brush his teeth and take care of his whiskers.
Jim insisted he sit, while helping to towel dry his hair. Once it was reasonably dry, Jim took his time combing out the tangles and then pulling it back and out of the way.
"Ready, babe?" Jim leaned down to help him stand.
They walked out hand in hand to find that the living room had been totally cleaned, the stool and supplies put away in a crate by the front door, all the dirty linens gone. Mary Ellen and Jen sat at the dinning room table, writing notes in Blair's chart and the baby was snuggled up in Simon's arms.
Their friend smiled as Jim led Blair to the couch. He sat a bit stiffly, trying to find a comfortable spot. Simon stood, waiting until Blair was settled before handing him the baby.
"Umm, Blair." He looked up from his baby, his eyes questioning. "I uh, I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you for letting me a small part of this..." Simon seemed like he didn't know what else to say.
"Hey, you're welcome, man." Blair said. "I'm glad you were here."
Jim came from the kitchen, carrying a glass of juice for Blair. "Okay, that's enough of the mush."
They all laughed, settling in to enjoy the evening and company.
They took turns holding the baby, all cooing over the sweet child. Blair found it harder and harder to hide his yawns, soon his eyes started to droop. "Hey, babe. I'll hold the baby while you rest." Jim reached over and handed the baby to Simon.
"Let's get you settled." They walked the short distance to the bed and Jim eased him down. The blankets were already pulled back, so he lay down and allowed Jim to help him get comfortable.
Mary Ellen walked up just as Jim was standing. "I just need a second."
Blair nodded and Jim went back over to pick up his baby. He watched with hooded eyes as Mary Ellen sat on the mattress. "I just need to take a brief look."
The blanket was shifted and Mary Ellen moved his leg slightly, checking his opening for any tears. "This looks good, Blair. I see a very small tear that should heal pretty quickly." Her hand shifted to his tummy, pressing in small circles. "You look great." She pulled the blanket back over to cover him and patted his leg through the thick blanket. "You need to rest while you can."
Blair fell asleep before she finished talking. Jim got up to check on Blair and then laid his sleeping daughter in her cradle. He joined Simon on the couch, settling in for the evening.
*~*~*
A tiny whimpering woke him. Blair shifted carefully to look toward the living room and found Jim pacing the floors with his crying baby. He was so intent on settling her that he didn't hear Blair call the first time.
"Jim?" Blair moved up on the bed, trying to sit.
"Hey, you're awake." Jim and Mary Ellen came over, she adjusted the pile of pillows to support his back and Jim laid the baby into Blair's outstretched arms.
"Has she been crying long?" Blair asked, rocking the tiny infant, even as he struggled to unbutton his shirt.
"On and off for a little while, but we wanted you to get more rest. You've only been sleeping for a few hours." Jim settled in next to him, watching as Blair got his shirt open and the baby up close enough to latch on. The greedy sucking sounded through the loft.
"Blair, I want you to allow her to nurse for about five minutes and then switch sides. It's important that you remember to switch, that way you won't get too sore.
Blair nodded, watching her retreating form. "What time is it?" He asked after a while, still watching his daughter; amazed each time that the tiny hand clung to his finger.
Jim looked at his watch. "It's a little after midnight. How are you feeling?"
Blair looked up at him, a wide smile on his face. "I'm feeling great. Love you."
"Love you, too." He leaned in and kissed Blair, soft and gentle.
"Umm, I hate to interrupt." Simon moved a bit closer, trying not to look at the baby nursing.
Blair smiled. "Hey, no problem."
"I just wanted to tell you we are heading out. I'm going to drop the ladies back at the clinic."
"The transport finally arrived?" Jim asked.
"Yup, so we are going to go and give you guys some time to yourselves." Simon moved to help the midwives pick up their boxes. "I'll call you tomorrow and see how things are going. I'm sure the guys will want to visit when you're up to it."
Jim stood and walked them all to the door. "Umm, thanks for all your help. All of you," he glanced toward Simon.
"It was our pleasure," Mary Ellen gave him a quick hug. "I'll be by in six days to check on the baby and Blair and do another blood test. Call me if you need me." Then she was gone down the hall, followed by Jen.
"Well," Simon stood still for a second, glancing past Jim to Blair still nursing the baby. Jim could hear him as he talked and cooed to her, switching her to the other side. Simon stepped into the hall patting his pocket. "I got all the vital details. Bouncing baby girl, born at 10:38 pm, weighing in at 7 pounds and 4 ounces, measuring a long 21 inches. What am I forgetting? Oh yeah, do you have a name yet?"
"Hmm, not really. We couldn't agree on a girl's name. I think we'll give it a few days, let her tell us what her name should be."
"Well, then. I'll be talking to ya." And then Jim was left alone with his little family. He closed the door and locked up, scanning the loft to see if he had forgotten anything.
He took swift strides back to Blair's side, slipping in and under the covers, resting his head on Blair's shoulder, watching as his precious child stopped sucking and closed her eyes, mouth still attached.
Blair sat up a little more, resting the baby on his shoulder as Jim ran his hand up and down the tiny back. Once a small burp escaped the tiny lips, Blair handed the baby to Jim. They rested for a while, just holding the baby and each other.
It had been a long but amazing day.
After a while, Jim put the baby in her cradle and then lay back down, pulling Blair close. The pillows were pushed up until they were both lying flat, facing each other. It felt so nice when Jim put his hands behind Blair and snuggled him close. He shivered when his partner ran a warm hand up and down his back.
"You okay, babe?" Jim asked, just inches from his face, a gentle kiss dotted Blair's eyelids and nose.
"Yes. Thank you, Jim. Thanks for taking good care of me. I love you." Blair snuggled closer still, resting his head close to Jim.
Jim kissed the top of his head. "I love you, too. Thank you for this wonderful gift." Even as he said the words, he knew that Blair had fallen asleep, finally relaxing his body enough to rest. Jim smiled as he listened to Blair breathe, as he watched the slight rise and fall of his lover's chest. He could feel Blair's warm skin against his and he hugged his partner tighter.
And then the most amazing thing happened. He heard a sound that he had been hearing for months, but it was different now, clearer. He picked out his baby's heartbeat, remembering every rhythm, just as he had done with Blair.
He fell asleep, listening to the gentle beating.
*~*~*
Blair hurried down the steps, still trying to buckle his belt. All his pants were a little big, but he wasn't complaining. Just as he reached the nursery door, the baby's crying stopped.
"Shhh...sweetie. Don't wake up your daddy's." His mother sat in the rocker she had brought them, humming quietly. The baby was looking at her, for now content to study someone new.
He waited a few minutes, watching his mother and child. She sang softly, the tune familiar. The room was dark, only the small lamp by the crib on, a light scarf draped on top to dim the brightness. The sky outside was just lightening, the soft morning glow filtering in through the fire escape door.
It was hard too imagine that this used to be his room, although he hadn't slept here in years. A crib sat where his bed used to be, a changing table and white dresser where he used to have his desk. It was funny, because even though they had bought all the major pieces, they hadn't set up the room.
When Naomi arrived the day after the baby was born, she went right to work, putting the crib together, taking all the presents from their packaging and putting away the tiny clothes, placing stuffed animal on the shelves and dresser. The bedding was heavily debated, but in the end she gave in, placing the simple white comforter in the crib.
"Mom?"
She looked up, smiling from ear to ear. "You okay?" She stood, still rocking the baby.
"Yeah, but I think she's hungry." He sat in the rocker, accepting the baby. His mother placed a pillow on his lap, taking some of the strain off his arms and back.
"It's amazing." She cooed at the baby, watching as she nursed. "I can't believe I'm a grandmother. I'm too young to be a grandmother."
Blair laughed, "Well, Grams, don't tell that to your granddaughter."
"Oh, no Blair. Not Grams. Mom, Mom maybe." She kissed him on the head, caressing the baby's face before moving to the French doors. "I'll make us some tea and breakfast. We have a long day ahead of us. Morning Jim."
"Morning, Naomi." Jim pushed past Blair's mother and leaned over to kiss his baby's cheek. Blair waited patiently until he had goggled over their daughter. "And how are you doing today?"
"I don't think she's going to answer, man." Jim's mouth moved up to his, the kiss slow and sweet.
"She's too busy being a little piggy."
"That she is." Blair handed her off to her other father to be burped. Blair stood, his shirt still open, allowing Jim to sit and rock their child. He went to the dresser to pull out a clean sleeper, gathering the things needed for her bath and headed to the kitchen.
This was another morning ritual that Jim seemed to enjoy. He would take the baby, bathe and dress her and then put her in her cradle until after breakfast. It was a routine that seemed to work. It allowed Blair to get a shower and rest.
His mother took the small tub and shooed him to the bathroom. The hot spray was heavenly, the water streaming over his tired body, refreshing and awakening him, soothing achy parts. The mornings were pretty rough for him, being awaken every two to three hours by a demanding little girl.
Jim was great about helping out, but the demands on Blair's body could be a little overwhelming sometimes.
He briskly dried himself, sighing when he noticed his leaky nipple.
Oh, man. This was definitely one down side.
Breakfast was ready when he came out of the bathroom. Jim had moved the cradle within view and he and his mother sat at the table, waiting for him.
"Feeling better, sweetie."
Blair sank into his chair, scooping a huge pile of eggs unto his plate. "Yeah, thanks."
Jim ate quietly, reading the paper, sipping his coffee. Blair finished his plate and got more, his mother refilling his glass of juice. He was glad to have her here this past week. In fact he was a little worried about how they would cope when she left.
Dishes were done and the table cleaned up. Blair sat on the couch, watching the daily news, Jim took a shower and his mother drifted between the laundry room and living room, folding and sorting the endless piles of clothing.
"I'm going to the store to pick up some things for this evening. Do you want to come?"
Blair stifled a yawn, nodding his head. He hadn't been out since the baby's birth; it would be nice to get some fresh air. "Let me just tell Jim."
"Okay," his mother took a basket up to his room; he could hear her opening and closing drawers.
When Jim got out of the bathroom, Blair told him his plan. "You sure you'll be okay, Jim?"
"I'll be fine. Go and get out for awhile."
Blair kissed him on the cheek and then grabbed his coat. "Love you."
*~*~*
Jim leaped for the phone as soon as he heard the first sounds of the ring. "Ellison."
"Hey, Jim."
"Hello, Simon." A quick glance toward the cradle insured that the baby was still asleep. It seemed that every little noise disturbed her.
"Just calling to see if you need me to bring anything for tonight."
"Umm...no, we're good. Blair's out now with his mother, getting a few last minute things."
Simon hesitated briefly. "So how is he doing?"
"He's doing okay, tired. This last week has been a learning curve for both of us, but it's going good."
"Good, well I'll see you guys tonight."
"See ya, Simon." As he hung up the phone, the baby stirred, her little mouth opening and closing.
Soon she had worked herself into quite a fit. Jim rocked her, changed her diaper, and paced the floors, talking and humming and singing. She would quiet down and then start up again, rooting around his chest. "Ya got the wrong daddy, Sweetheart."
He tried the rocking chair, kissing her little head, bouncing her gently. He studied her tiny face for the thousandth time, memorizing every little detail, her soft skin and sweet smell, the sound of her tummy rumbling. "I can't believe you're hungry again, squirt."
Jim moved back to the living room, cradling his daughter close. "Daddy will be home soon. He just went with Gram's to get some things for your party tonight. It's going to be so much fun. All your aunts and uncles are coming to see you."
A tiny whimper soon turned into a full out tantrum.
Well, that didn't work.
*~*~*
Blair had gotten home to find Jim pacing with the baby, rocking her over his shoulder, patting her back. She wasn't crying, but Blair could tell that she wasn't happy.
After her second breakfast, she was content to lie in her crib.
The rest of the morning was a blur. Naomi and Jim started on the food for the party and got the loft ready for company.
Blair rested on the sofa, reading the pamphlet from the pump kit. Jim was a little surprised when Blair had shown him, but they had discussed what they would do before the baby came. Blair loved feeding his daughter, even though he was really sore at the moment, but he would have to go back to work at some point and this way Jim could feed the baby too.
By late afternoon, Blair was laying down for a nap. He had a little while before his midwife would be coming for a check up and the baby was fed, freshly changed and being spoiled by her Grams.
Grams, yup, that's going to stick.
He drifted for a while; a goofy grin emerging each time he thought about his new baby, his new family. He thought about the upcoming celebration, too. Their friends and family would be helping them welcome their newest addition.
It was a hard decision, Jim wasn't really religious and although Blair still sometimes practiced Jewish rituals they weren't going to raise the baby Jewish. When she was old enough, she could make her own decision.
When he was pregnant, it didn't matter if they had a girl or boy. In fact he was a little worried to raise a daughter, but at least now they don't have to worry about circumcision...that was a hot topic for months, each of them listing the pros and cons, but that was one issue they never quite resolved.
Sometime later he heard the baby mewl, but she quieted right back down. Someone was walking around downstairs, the floorboard by the baby's room squeaked. A few minutes later she was crying in earnest and Blair sat up, quickly getting out of the bed and moving to the steps.
"It's okay, Chief. Mary Ellen just finished with the blood test." Jim came up, sitting on the edge of the bed, their daughter still whaling in his embrace.
Blair held out his arms, letting her nurse until she settled down to sleep. The band-aid on her foot looked way too big and Blair made a mental note to take it off as soon as possible.
Jim settled her on the bed, lying next to her. "Mary Ellen still needs to look at you, babe. You want me to get her." His voice was a mere whisper, not wanting to wake the baby.
He was going to get up and go down stairs, but Jim stopped him with a hand on his arm. "You rest, I'll go."
The steps creaked, the midwife stood at the top waiting for him to invite her into the bedroom. "Hey, M.E."
"Hey, yourself." She moved to the bed, setting down her case and looking to the tiny little girl sleeping on her side. "She’s doing great, Blair."
"Yeah," he agreed. "So..."
"Right. I just need to look you over. You want to get undressed and I'll be back in a minute. She sat out a thin sheet before going back downstairs.
He took off his boxers and t-shirt, lying down and covering himself with the sheet. Naomi was talking to Mary Ellen, asking some questions. A short while later she was back, pulling some things from her case.
"It will only take a few minutes." She said, pulling the sheet back a little and examining his chest. Her hands were cold, but gentle, pressing in a circle, moving inward toward his nipple, finishing with a small pinch. She moved to the other side, this time a tiny drop of liquid came out. "The tissue feels normal. Soreness is to be expected for a while, but you shouldn't feel any pain."
She moved her hands under the sheet palpating his belly. "Everything here feels normal too. Are you feeling any soreness here?"
"No, the only thing that has been bothering me is my chest." Blair shifted as she pulled the sheet back up, bending his knees when she scooted down the bed.
She slipped on a glove, moving the sheet off one knee to feel his opening. He was still pretty tender where she was touching. Her hand moved to his thigh, pushing his leg a little to get a better look. "Everything looks great." She straightened up and gathered up her things. "I'll see you in my office in six week. Any questions?"
Blair sat up, pulling the sheet around him. "Not really. Are you going to make it back here tonight?"
"Wouldn't miss it for the world."
*~*~*
The party was in full swing, all of the guests eating and laughing and babbling to the guest of honor.
The baby was carefully passed around the room, plenty of waiting arms vying for their turn. His mother sat on the sofa by him, arm around him, absently rubbing his shoulder.
Jim's father handed him a plate. "Umm...thanks Bill."
William Ellison nodded, moving to sit on the other sofa, smiling when the baby was placed in his arms. "Hello, beautiful. I'm your grandpa."
Simon and Megan sat too, chatting with Naomi and Joel. Brian and Henri clustered around the table, talking with Jim and the other guests. Blair noted that Brian had spent the better part of the evening talking with Mary Ellen.
It seems like everyone was having a good time.
Soon Jim joined him, patting his knee. "How are you doing, babe?"
Blair leaned into his side, content to sit and watch everyone interact with their baby. He leaned up to kiss Jim, "I'm doing great. You about ready to make the announcement?"
"Yup," with one more kiss Jim stood and cleared his throat.
Everyone quieted, waiting to hear what their host had to say. "I, uh just want to thank everyone for coming and joining in our celebration. It means a lot that you all have chosen to spend your evening with us."
Naomi stood, "I think it's almost time for a toast." She went into the kitchen, getting out the needed glasses.
Blair noted that Simon was holding the baby and smiled at Jim.
"Well, while we're waiting for the champagne, I also have an announcement."
"Don't tell us Blair has another bun in the oven." Brown laughed, the whole room joining in.
"God, no." Blair piped in. "Maybe in a few years."
"As I was saying..." Jim said, shooting a look to Brown. "I would like to take the time to thank those people who were there for me and Blair the night the baby was born. Mary Ellen, you'll never know how much it means to us that you came out in that storm to help us. When Blair first told me about you, I was not sure if I was comfortable with the whole idea, but throughout all our time together, well you won me over. So thank you for taking such good care of Blair."
Naomi had just finished handing out the glasses; even Blair was given some apple juice in a flute glass.
"Yes, thank you, M.E." Blair stood, drawing his friend into a tight hug.
"To, Mary." Naomi said, and everyone raised their glass in a toast.
"I want to say something too." Blair moved to Jim's side, arm loosely around his waist. "Before Mary Ellen could arrive, Jim and I had someone else who helped. So I would like to thank Simon. I know that the whole thing was a little hard on you at first, not really sure what to do to help, but I gotta tell ya, man...you really, really helped me through the hardest part. So thank you for being such a good friend."
"To, Simon." Jim said, and again glasses were raised.
"So in honor of those friendships," Jim said. "I would like to properly introduce our
daughter, Mary Simone Ellison Sandburg.
The room irrupted in applause; baby Mary stirring in Simon's arms. Mary Ellen was
hugging Jim and Blair, thanking them for the honor.
"I don't know what to say." Simon passed the baby to Blair, hugging him briefly. " It's a
real honor."
"Hey, man. The honor is all ours." Blair rocked his tiny bundle, moving around to thank
everyone for coming.
Soon the room emptied, Naomi deciding to take a bath to give them some privacy. "I'll
clean up the mess in the morning," she called.
They settled in on the couch, taking turns cuddling the tiny infant. Jim got up to start a
fire in the wood stove, Blair was feeding his baby.
The room was quiet, peaceful.
Jim sat down next to Blair, scooting as close as he could, just watching his daughter. "It's
hard to believe, babe, She's so perfect."
"Yeah, she is." Blair leaned in, kissing softly. "To Mary Simone."
"To Mary Simone."
*~*~*
The end