But Seriously... - Sequel to Truly, Madly, Deeply - Part 7b
Here it is, after a bit of a delay, the next part of But Seriously..., in which Stephen tears Christine a new arse, plans on beating the shit out of Clarkson are made, and we learn if Paul and the twins are going to make it...
Title: But Seriously….
Author: Shinigami518
Rating: PG-13, but with some bits of R in it for mpreg, swearing, some violence, and insanity
Main Character(s) and/or pairings: Ryan/Colin, Tony/Paul, Josie/Richard, Jeff/OFC, Stephen/Hugh (growing), OFC/OMC
Summary: few weeks after their wedding, Paul and Tony take the next step in their relationship: Parenthood. Paul undergoes the "Mpreg Operation" as Alicia and the trio calls it and now he and Tony are to be parents. Keeping this a secret from the news is going to be a bit hard, but with the help of their friends, they are ready.
View Affirmation here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View Against All Odds here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View Truly, Madly, Deeply here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View last chapters here:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5a
Part 5b
Part 6
Part 7a
Shortly afterwards…
“C’mon, c’mon, c’mon, pick up.” Julie muttered as she taped the side of her mobile phone in apprehension, waiting for the call to go through. Finally, she heard a soft click.
“Hello?”
“Mom, its Julie.” Julie began.
“Julie, what’s going on? Is the show over?” Janet asked from the other side of the phone.
“Yes, it’s done but we got a huge problem.” Julie answered, tugging at her collar with her freehand.
“Did something happen to you or the girls?” Janet started to worry.
“No, nothing happened to us, it’s-.” Julie began to answer, but was cut off by Ian honking the horn of his car.
“Get the hell out of the way!” Ian shouted in aggravation. Julie stared at the man sitting next to her in surprise.
“Wow, Ian, feeling edgy?” Melissa tried to laugh, checking her watch while sitting in the back with Paul, timing the contractions. Both she and Julie ended up in Ian’s car while Samantha and Alicia were getting Tony.
“Who was that? Are you in a car?” Janet questioned.
“That was Ian; we’re in his car on-.” Julie started.
“Ian who?”
“Ian Hislop, Paul’s friend on the show we-.” Julie answered, but once again was cut off.
“Why the hell are you in the car of someone-?!” Janet shouted. Julie rubbed her forehead in annoyance, feeling a migraine coming.
“Mom, can you let me finish a sentence, for Christ sake!?” Julie snapped, pulling the phone from her ear and screaming into the speaker. “Paul’s having the twins and Ian’s giving him, me, and Lissy a ride to the hospital.” Julie went on, trying to calm down.
“What!? Right now!?” Janet exclaimed in disbelief. Julie rolled her eyes, silently grateful that her mom hadn’t given her a hard time about her yelling.
“Yes, right now and we’re on our way to-,” Julie paused before looking over at Ian. “What hospital are we going to?” Julie asked, covering the speaker of her phone.
“St. Matthews.” Ian replied, not taking his eyes off the road. Julie put her mobile back to her ear.
“St. Matthews. You can ask Richard or Josie for directions, I’m sure they’ve been there before. Just meet us there as soon as possible.” Julie told Janet.
“Just get there in one piece, honey.” Janet told her daughter. Julie nodded silently.
“I’ll call you when we get there. Bye.” Julie stated, and then hung up.
“You know where you’re going, right?” Melissa asked Ian a bit worriedly.
”I do. I was the one who actually brought him there when he had that scare several weeks-.” Ian replied stoically, until his words were cut off by a loud cry of pain from Paul as a contraction tore through his body.
“God Shit Damn It!” Paul cursed, wincing in pain. “Is this what my mum went through with me?!” Paul asked, gritting his teeth.
“Pretty much, depending on the woman.” Melissa replied, checking her watch as she timed the contraction. She frowned and looked up at Ian. “That one was several second shorter than the last one.” She announced. Julie, pocketing her mobile in her purse, started to look extremely worried by her friend’s announcement.
“They’re coming closer. I can’t believe this is happening...” Julie said softly, feeling the fear rising in her chest.
“Julie, don’t you dare go cold turkey on us right now. We gotta keep cool heads here!” Melissa snapped. Her frown disappeared as she, too, gained a look of fear as the realization dawned upon her: Paul was in labour, they were on the way to the hospital, and he wasn’t due for a week. “Oh shit, Paul’s having the twins. Ohshitohshitohshit….” Melissa whispered in shock and began to repeat “ohshit” to herself in a mantra similar to the one she had after seeing Paul getting struck by Jeremy minutes earlier.
“Is she like this a lot?” Ian asked Julie, still keeping his eyes on the road.
“Sometimes she is, especially when she’s worried or stressed about something.” Julie replied.
“You learn… to ignore it… after a while.” Paul remarked as the contraction lessened. He then turned slightly to face Melissa, still repeating her “Ohshit” mantra over and over. “SHUT UP!” Paul snapped in rage, effectively silencing Melissa, leaving the blonde silent and blushing in embarrassment.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Meanwhile…
Alicia pulled up in front of Paul and Tony’s flat and exited the car with Samantha right on her tail.
“Tony! Tony, we got a problem!” Alicia shouted, running to the door. The door swung open and Tony exited the house, Julian right behind him.
“Alicia, Sam, what is it? Why isn’t Paul with you?” Tony asked, running up to the two women.
“Ian, Julie, and Melissa are bringing him to the hospital. He’s having the twins!” Alicia replied, stopping in front of Tony. Tony paled drastically.
“What? Now!?” Tony asked, shocked.
“He’s not due for-.” Julian began to say.
“Sometimes these things happen, especially when Jeremy Clarkson decides to aggravate you with some insults and then punches you in the face.” Samantha cut Julian off, still pissed off about what happened. Tony stared at Samantha and Alicia, the shock turning into anger.
“What did he do?” Tony asked, coldly.
“We’ll explain on the way. Right now, we gotta get to the hospital as soon as possible.” Alicia interrupted, grabbing Samantha by her hand and dragged her back to the car.
“We’ll be one step behind you!” Julian exclaimed, turning to go inside to grab the keys, dragging Tony with him.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Later…
St. Mathews
Waiting Room
Dr. Addy and his crew were waiting for Paul, Ian, Julie, and Melissa at the emergency entrance as Ian pulled up. While Ian and Julie helped Paul out and into a waiting wheelchair, Melissa told Dr. Addy about the distance between each contraction, which had now become less than five minutes apart and starting to grow closer. Ian, meanwhile, agreed to stay with Paul until Tony arrived. Dr. Addy allowed that, and told the two women to tell Tony that he would be at room 38 before being brought to surgery.
The small group was then joined outside by Janet, Josie, Stephanie, and Christine, who arrived just several seconds after they did. Christine, thankfully, did not make a giant deal about it, except for the fact she paled drastically when she saw Paul, suffering from a contraction, in pain and in a wheelchair. Melissa just glared at her sister in response and dragged her inside, where the women were soon joined by Richard, Robert, and Will, who arrived after Paul was brought in.
Once in the waiting room, Richard told the two girls that he called Stephen and Libbi and they were on their way. Julie and Melissa, meanwhile, were too busy worrying and praying that Paul would be ok. After everything that’s happened in the past hour…
“PAUL!!!!”
Everyone’s thoughts were interrupted when they saw Tony running down the hall, Julian, Alicia, and Samantha following right behind him.
“Tony, thank god you’re-.” Melissa sighed in relief.
“Where’s Paul?” Tony asked, completely blowing off and storming past Melissa.
“Dr. Addy’s getting him ready for surgery. Ian’s with him, waiting for you.” Richard explained, placing a comforting hand on his old friend.
“Which room is he in?!” Tony asked, growing anxious and annoyed, wanting answers.
“Tony, calm down…” Josie began
“Calm down? CALM DOWN!? The man I love is in this place, in labour with OUR children, over a week before he should because of an insensitive prick insulting him and punching him after ANOTHER insensitive person who thinks she knows everything because she’s a nurse and is also a bigoted bitch and you are telling me to CALM DOWN!?” Tony snapped at the brunette, stressed and angry. Christine recoiled at her mentioning from Tony.
“Big E, Little E - Room 38.” Julie announced at random. Tony turned to face the young woman, his anger softening for the moment.
“Is that where he is?” Tony asked hopefully. Julie nodded yes.
“Ian said he’d be outside the room, waiting for you to get there. Paul’s waiting for you, so get your ass in gear.” Julie calmly told Tony. Tony then ran over, cupped Julie’s face with his hands and kissed her deep on the lips.
“Thanks!” Tony smiled once he pulled away. He then ran past her and the others and ran through the doors. “I’m coming, Paul!” Tony exclaimed as he ran past a few doctors and patients.
Julie was left standing frozen in place, her face the colour of a well done lobster, her glasses sliding down her nose, and a look of surprise on her face.
“Hm, lucky sod.” Alicia whispered, a coy smirk on her face.
“Why’d he kiss only her? ‘Licia, Sam, and I helped.” Melissa complained.
“Perhaps it’s because she told him what he wanted to know. Which reminds me, who are “Big E” and “Little E”?” Julian replied, then asked out loud.
“They’re NASCAR drivers: Dale Earnhardt and son, Dale Earnhardt Junior. They were their nicknames when Earnhardt Senior was still alive and racing.” Robert explained to Julian. Will, meanwhile, walked over to his sister and stared at her in concern.
“Either way, I think Tony broke her brain with that kiss.” Will examined, snapping his fingers in front of his sisters’ face to get a response from her.
“Eww.” Christine shuddered. Melissa sighed in annoyance before turning to face her older sister.
“Don’t you dare go ‘eww’, Chris. He was just releasing some of his excitement. Fortunately, or unfortunately depending on your viewpoint, Julie was the recipient of it.” Melissa stated coldly, narrowing her eyes.
“Still, he’s - what - 50? And Julie’s turning 22 in September. That is just so… so…” Christine snapped in irritation.
“Just so what, Christine?” a cold, but very familiar voice asked, approaching the two sisters. Christine paled drastically once more as she came face-to-face with a very annoyed and angry Stephen Fry.
“Oh, this is gonna be good.” Samantha smirked.
“W-what?” Julie asked, shaking her head as she came to senses.
“Welcome back,” Samantha greeted her now conscious friend, “I think Stephen’s gonna read Chris the right act for what she’s been saying.” Samantha went on, pointing to the scene that was starting to unfold in front of them.
“….Sweet.” Julie grinned, ready to see something awesome.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Meanwhile…
“Ian!” Tony shouted, running over to the balding man, who stood worried outside of the room. Ian looked up and sighed in relief.
“Tony, thank god.” Ian remarked as Tony ran up to him.
“How is he? Did he go-?” Tony asked, his heart beating a mile a minute.
“Dr. Addy and his people are getting him ready right now. Paul demanded that they wait for you.” Ian replied, cutting Tony off. Tony then turned away, shaking slightly, hands on his head.
“I can’t believe this. It’s finally happening.” Tony panicked, the full realization of him becoming a father taking over. Ian reached out and turned Tony back around to face him.
“Tony, get a hold of yourself! I know you’re probably scared to death right now, but I was too when Victoria and I went through this the first time.” Ian demanded, then tried to sooth the panicking man.
“I-I don’t know if- what if I mess up? What if I-?” Tony asked, his words disjointed, worry in his eyes.
“Tony, you’ll be fine. Just calm down and get in there. Paul needs you right now.” Ian told Tony, gently shaking him. Tony bit his lip and, after a few seconds of silence, he nodded. He then took a deep breath to settle his nerves. “You ok, now?” Ian asked.
“Now I am.” Tony replied.
“Good, now get in there.” Ian smiled, then patted Tony’s shoulder. Tony began to move past Ian and reached for the door, but stopped.
“Ian?” Tony began.
“Yeah?” Ian asked, already starting on his way the waiting room..
“Thank you, for - you know - everything you’ve done.” Tony thanked his friend.
“Hey, what are friends for? I’ll tell everyone you’re with Paul. Let us know if everything goes alright.” Ian grinned, then rushed off to join the others. Tony smiled for a moment, then turned and entered the room.
Paul sat on a bed, already in a hospital gown and minus his glasses, which were in his hands, watching Dr. Addy and his assistants rush around, getting things ready to transfer Paul to surgery. His hair was slightly damp from sweat, obviously from a recent contraction. Paul looked over at the door and smiled tiredly.
“Tony, you made it.” Paul sighed in relief.
“Like I’d miss this for anything!” Tony ran over and embraced Paul. “I’m not going to leave your side during this, I swear it!” Tony vowed, his face buried in Paul’s shoulder.
“I’m glad you’re here, Tony. I don’t think Paul would’ve gone through with this if you weren’t here. Stubborn as hell, I tell you.” Dr. Addy remarked, walking over and checked Paul’s pulse. Tony shot Paul a disappointed, but caring look.
“Paul, you shouldn’t have-.” Tony began to scold, taking Paul’s glasses and pocketing them in his jacket
“I’m not having these kids without you.” Paul stated firmly, hand on his stomach in emphasis.
“See if the room is ready yet, Alana. We have to operate as soon as possible.” Dr. Addy told a nurse, the same red head that had been with him when he gave the good news to Paul and Tony months before.
“Yes, sir.” Alana nodded, then turned and left the room. Paul then took Tony’s hand in his.
“I need you to do something for me, Tony.” Paul began, becoming quite serious.
“What is it?” Tony asked, growing worried.
“If something happens to me during this surgery, if I end up…,” Paul paused, then took a deep breath, “…promise me you’ll look after our babes and don’t you dare repeat what you did 12 years ago.” Paul went on, fingering the ring on Tony’s finger with his thumb. Tony recoiled back in shock.
“W-what? But Paul-.” Tony exclaimed, startled.
“Just promise me, Tony-,” Paul started to say, but was cut off by a sharp pain as a contraction hit him, “Oh damn shit fucking hell, that bloody hurts!!” Paul swore loudly, almost crushing Tony’s hand with his own.
“I noticed.” Tony winced, getting his hand free after a few seconds. He then took a deep breath. “And… I promise, Paul.” Tony relented, reaching out and gently stroking Paul’s damp hair.
“You… Thank you, angel.” Paul breathed, riding out the last of the contraction. Tony began to blush softly.
“Why did you have to call me that? That’s what I call you, silly.” Tony asked. Paul just smiled.
“Because you’re my angel, Tony.” Paul replied matter-of-factually.
“Are you sure they haven’t given you painkillers yet?” Tony asked again, smirking slightly. This time Paul laughed softly.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
If anyone had walked in at that time and saw Stephen Fry yelling at a young woman, you’d have thought it was a skit or a commercial he was filming. In actually, Stephen was pretty much tearing Christine a new asshole about everything she said about Paul, Tony, the babies, and the girls.
“Hey, remind me to never ever piss him off.” Will remarked to Alicia.
“Noted. I’ve seen him angry before, but when it comes to things like friends and family, watch out.” Alicia nodded with a grimace.
“I wish I had some popcorn.” Melissa sighed, enjoying the scene very much.
“I wish I brought me camcorder.” Julian smirked, equally enjoying the verbal beating that was going on.
“Shouldn’t we stop this?” Janet wondered out loud, looking around in worry.
“No way, not while Stephen’s riled up like this. Besides, she deserves this.” Richard shook his head. The sound of door slamming open startled half the people in the room as Ian ran in to join them.
“Tony’s with Paul, they’re taking him to…,” Ian trailed off, noticing the scene played before him. Stephen was yelling at some blonde, a small crowd, which included several of his and Paul’s friends, was watching this, while the rest of the people were either sitting or standing around, staring at him. “Did I… miss something?” Ian asked slowly.
“Just Christine - that’s the blonde being chewed out by Stephen over there - saying something she shouldn’t have in front of Stephen. How’s Paul?” Julian replied, and then asked.
“Contractions were less than four minutes apart now. Dr. Addy’s got him ready for surgery.” Ian explained.
“So what do we do now?” Robert asked, looking around at his friends.
“We wait… and pray.” Julie replied, sitting down in a chair.
“And we better give the others a call about this.” Samantha noted.
“I better call Victoria. She’s probably wondering where I am right now.” Ian remarked, walking away while pulling out his mobile.
“I already called Libbi, she’s on her way here. Richard, we better call Lee, Caroline, and the others.” Josie told her boyfriend.
“Right.” Richard agreed.
“Libbi? That’s Paul’s sister, right?” Stephanie asked, recalling the woman she saw before at the wedding.
“That’s her, mom. From what I’ve heard, she’s been quite supportive of this.” Samantha nodded, answering her mother.
Will, meanwhile, walked over to Alicia, who was now sitting on one of the couches, looking down at her clenched hands.
“Worried?” Will asked, sitting down next to her. Alicia nodded.
“I’ve know Paul ever since I was a kid. I… if you had seen the amount of pain he was in back at the studio... I never want to see him like that ever again.” Alicia told Will, softly and sadly. Will said nothing, but put his arm around the woman and began to rub her shoulder with his hand.
“If this Dr. Addy’s as good as everyone says he is, then Paul’ll be just fine.” Will assured, leaning against her.
“I hope so.” Alicia nodded, resting her head on Will’s shoulder.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
A little later…
Paul was now lying on the operating table, Tony standing next to him in hospital scrubs, holding his hand. Dr. Addy and his people had already given him an epidural and were getting the last bit of pre-op preparations ready. Silently, Paul looked up at Tony and tightened his grip on his hand. Tony looked down at his companion, who stared at him with pain and tear-filled blue eyes. The look spoke volumes. They were both afraid, but yet excited as well.
“Paul, it’s time.” Dr. Addy spoke up from behind the surgical mask. Paul gave a short nod, then took a deep breath to calm his quickly beating heart.
Dr. Addy began to make the first cut.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
“Tell me.”
Melissa looked up to see Christine, pale as a sheet and fighting tears, looking down at her sister. The older Anderson girl was done being read the right act by Stephen, who was now talking pleasantly, but worriedly with Richard and Josie.
“What?” Melissa spoke, narrowing her eyes in apprehension.
“Tell me everything… about Paul and Tony. What they’ve been through, their lives, their demons, everything.” Christine replied, shakily. Melissa glanced over at Stephen, who shots her a nod in response.
“Sit down, Chris. I’ll tell you all I know. What I don’t, you can ask Julian or Stephen.” Melissa relented, patting the spot on the couch next to her.
“He’s not going to yell at me again, will he?” Christine paled, asking worriedly. She was obviously still shaken up by Stephen’s tongue lashing.
“Not unless you provoke him, annoy him, or just piss him off. Now, who do you want to learn about first?” Melissa shook her head, the asked, curiously.
“Erm, well, I don’t know. Paul, I guess.” Christine replied, nervously and still worried. Melissa just stared at Christine, still surprised by her sister’s actions. She then sighed, patting the spot next to her again. This time, Christine sat down next to her.
“Alright, well, first off, Paul’s full name is Paul James Martin. He changed it to Merton when he joined Equity - that’s like the Screen Actors Guild… I guess.” Melissa began to explain.
Across the room, Julie stood alone, staring at the door exiting the waiting room and into surgery, looking worried still.
“He’ll be fine, honey.” Janet assured, approaching her daughter.
“I hope so, mom. He was in so much pain… it scared me. Still does. I don’t…” Julie trailed off. Janet then reached around and pulled her daughter into a comforting hug.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
Paul was fighting back tears, trying his best not to look at what was being done. Mostly in fear from throwing up, partially in fear of something going wrong. Tony kept his eyes on Paul, one hand still holding Paul’s, the other stroking Paul’s hair, doing his best to calm his partner down.
Then, finally, after a minute or two of painful waiting…
“Waaaa.”
The soft, whimpering wail of a newborn broke through the tension. Paul and Tony looked over at Dr. Addy, their hearts stopping, awaiting the news.
In Dr. Addy’s arms was a tiny newborn baby, covered in blood and fluid, crying as it gasped its first breath of air. Through his mask, Dr. Addy smiled and nodded.
“A girl.” He spoke, joy radiating with each word. Paul finally let the tears fall, as did Tony.
“Our daughter.” Tony smiled, tears in his brown eyes. Paul nodded, grinning weakly.
“One down, one to go.” Dr. Addy noted as a nurse held the squirming girl as he cut the umbilical cord. Alana came over and wrapped the baby in a towel while Dr. Addy returned to his previous position over Paul. “Paul, you still with us?” Dr. Addy asked.
“I-I am, Zach.” Paul nodded, his voice a bit weak, mostly from exhaustion.
“Just hold on a little longer, Paul. It’s time for baby number two to enter the world.” Dr. Addy told the brunet.
“R-right. L-like I have a choice.” Paul remarked softly with a small laugh, tightening his grip on Tony’s hand.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
Julian, Stephen, Josie, and Ian, who had finished his call to his wife, were now pacing nervously. Melissa was still telling Christine everything she knew about Paul and Tony, trying her best to answer all her questions. Samantha had now joined Julie, Janet, and Richard in staring at the door in concern and apprehension.
“Shouldn’t they have told us something by now about Paul and the twins?” Samantha wondered out loud.
“They’re probably working as fast and as safely as they can. Remember, these things take time.” Robert replied, sitting with Will and Alicia. The sound of footsteps slapping the linoleum floor startled everyone as Libbi, Paul’s little sister, came rushing into the waiting room, a look of concern on her face.
“Where is he? Is he alright? Did he have the twins yet?” Libbi shouted, looking at everyone in the room.
“He’s in the operating room right now, having the C-section. Tony’s with him as we speak.” Ian answered. Libbi turned to face the shorter man and grabbed his shoulders.
“Ian, how did this happen? He was scheduled to have them until next week! I mean, I know babies tend to come early, but… what happened?” Libbi asked, frowning in dread.
“It’s a long story, Libbi…” Ian sighed, gesturing her to a couch to sit.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
It was almost over. Just a few more moments, Paul thought to himself, staring up at the ceiling. He was beginning to grow quite tired from both the pain he was in earlier and from the surgery. Tony still kept at his side, keeping his hold on Paul’s hand.
Then…
“Waaaa.” The second baby cried out as it was brought into the world.
“And we have a boy!” Dr. Addy announced proudly, holding the newborn in his hands. Paul glanced over at the child and smiled wearily.
“One of each… I knew it…” Paul said softly through a smile. Tony tore his eyes away from his son to look at Paul. His joy turned into concern when he saw Paul’s tired eyes and weary expression.
“Paul? Paul, are you-?” Tony asked.
“M’fine, Tony… just… just so… tired…” Paul replied drowsily, his eyes closing while speaking the last word, his head falling to the side.
“Paul?” Tony asked, breaking the handhold and grabbing Paul’s shoulder, giving him a gentle nudge. No response. “Paul?!” Tony began to panic. Dr. Addy, who had now giving the newborn to one of his nurses, heard Tony’s exclamations and turned to see what was wrong.
“Oh shit, he’s losing blood! Alana, Thomas, patch him up, now!” Dr. Addy cursed, then demanded. Tony grabbed Paul’s hand once more as Dr. Addy’s assistants began their work.
“Paul, stay with me, you hear? Don’t you dare die on me, Paul!” Tony exclaimed, tears in his eyes.
Paul didn’t respond…
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
About an hour later…
Alicia was curled up on the couch, sleeping with her head resting on Will’s lap. On the other couch, Julie laid curled up, asleep as well with Julian watching over her.
“I hate this,” Libbi sighed, checking her watch as she paced around the room, “Why haven’t they told us anything yet? Shouldn’t it be over by now?” She asked out loud.
“Yes, but the problem is that all births are different, and not all of them, sadly, go smoothly.” Stephen told Libbi.
“You think there were complications?” Robert wondered.
“There are chances of that happening, especially in caesareans. That’s why I…,” Christine spoke up, then paused. She had been told everything Melissa could say about Paul and Tony, leaving both of them emotionally exhausted. “That’s why I’ve been mostly against this, why I’ve been so against this. It’s too risky for men to go through this, even deadly.” Christine went on.
“Chris, why didn’t you say any of this yesterday or earlier today, let alone not say it the way you did?” Melissa exclaimed in surprise, walking up to her older sister.
“You were right, ‘Lissa. I’ve been so stressed about dad and I just…,” Christine slumped into a plastic chair in sadness, “God, I’ve been such a damn fool, saying everything the wrong way, upsetting and hurting everyone, including my own sister.” Christine moaned, burying her face in her hands.
“Jesus, could’ve told her that.” Samantha muttered under her breath, ignoring the dirty look Stephanie shot her over that remark. Melissa, meanwhile, put an arm around her sister and pulled her close so their heads could touch in comfort.
“Chris, I’m still mad at you, but you are still my sister and I still love you. Next time, however, think about what you’re going to say and how you do it, ok?” Melissa told Christine softly. Christine nodded sadly, a weak smile on her lips.
“Finally asleep?” Janet asked, referring to Julie as she sat down next to Julian. She had just returned from a small smoke break outside of the hospital.
“Poor girl’s been so worked up about Paul; she finally worried herself to sleep.” Julian sighed, gently stroking Julie’s hair with one hand. His other hand held Julie’s glasses, which he handed to Janet.
“She wasn’t this back when Ryan and Colin had their babies, why is this so different?” Will queried, hoping not to wake Alicia up.
“Maybe it’s because she’s connected more with Paul than with Ryan and Colin. Remember, she’d only known Ryan and Colin for a short time before they had their babies. With Paul, however, she’s known him for about two years. It’s one thing when it’s someone you’ve known for a short time. It’s another when it’s someone you really known for a while.” Josie explained.
“She’s also seen how dangerous this whole thing can be, too. She’s been remembering what happened to Ryan and Colin these past few-.” Samantha put in. Her comment was silenced by the opening of the doors to surgery as Dr. Addy, weary and drained, entered the room.
“Dr. Addy, is-?” Stephen began to ask, but was cut off by the sudden appearance of Josie, Melissa, Julian, and a now awake Alicia, who crowded Dr. Addy, all four asking a barrage of questions about Paul and the twins at the same time.
“For crying out loud, let the poor man breath!” Ian exclaimed in exasperation. This finally woke Julie up from her sleep. She sat up, groggy and blinking her eyes.
“W-what’s going on?” Julie asked, confused and rubbing her tired eyes with her fists. Looking around, she spotted Dr. Addy and the small crowd around him. Julie shot to her feet. “Is everything ok?” Julie asked, worried. Her worry increased when she notices the doctor was frowning.
“There were… complications… during the surgery.” Dr. Addy began, seriously.
Julie fell back on the couch, pale as a ghost. “Oh no…” she whispered. Christine paled as well, shaking her head.
“Is he-?” Libbi didn’t finish. She didn’t want to know if it was true.
“He started to lose blood after we delivered the second baby, but my crew and I managed to stop the bleeding before it became too serious. The cause was, unfortunately, the artificial womb. Because of the stress he was under during the delivery, it caused some muscle tears and became detached. We ended up removing it completely, and we’ve got him on a I.V. drip, plus we have a blood transfusion going right now for the blood he’s lost.” Dr. Addy explained, remaining serious.
“So what the heck does that mean?” Will asked, trying to comprehend what he said.
“He said that Paul suffered from some minor blood lose due to the artificial womb detaching during the delivery and causing several tears, but it’s been repaired, the womb’s been removed, and he’s having a blood transfusion.” Christine translated, still pale over the revelation.
“So does that mean Paul’s going to live or not?” Ian asked, growing frustrated.
“He did pass out from the blood loss, but we got him stabilized. We just have to wait and see, but for right now, he’s going to be ok.” Dr. Addy replied, his seriousness beginning to fade as a smile slowly began to appear on his face. There were mass sighs of relief, along with several “Thank God” comments.
“And I bet Tony’s staying right at Paul’s side.” Richard smiled.
“Richard, where else would he be?” Josie winked at her boyfriend.
“What about the babies?” Stephanie spoke up.
“They’re being checked out as we speak. They were a bit underweight, but most multiples tend to be like that. The little girl certainly has a large set of lungs, while her brother was a bit quieter when they were born.” Dr. Addy explained, the smile on his face growing bigger.
“‘Little girl’?” Melissa repeated in surprise.
“‘Her brother’?” Will echoed in confusion.
“One of each.” Ian remarked, then chuckled. “He never fails to surprise anyone, does he?”
“Never a dull moment around you guys.” Samantha shook her head, a smile crossing her lips.
“He lived… and the babies lived, too…,” Christine said in amazement. She then let out a small laugh. “You people are unbelievable.” She commented.
“You learn to live with it. My advice: hold on tight and enjoy the ride.” Julie shrugged, a relieved smile on her face as she put back on her glasses.
“I believe that’s what I told Paul when he asked me about taking his relationship with Tony to the next level.” Stephen remarked. There was a large mix of grins, giggles, and groans amongst the group of friends.
“Ugh, too much info! So now what?” Stephanie grimaced, then asked.
“Call the others; let them know the good news.” Josie replied.
“Lee, especially. He nearly shat a brick when Richard told him Paul was in labour.” Will agreed, recalling the man’s reaction to the phone call they received.
“He’s been leaving voice messages on my mobile, and Suki’s been text messaging me and Josie.” Richard said, taking out his mobile.
“Vicki’s been worried, too.” Ian noted, dialling his home number.
“We better tell Ryan, Greg, and the others back home, too.” Samantha added. Melissa let out a small ‘eep’ as a look of dread appeared on her face.
“Shit, I now owe Jeff 50 bucks and a striptease lap dance.” Melissa muttered, paling. Everyone turned to stare at the younger blonde.
“You… had a bet on Paul’s pregnancy?” Janet asked slowly.
“J-just whether or not the twins would be fraternal or identical. If they were identical, he’d give me 50 bucks and…,” Melissa gulped, then began to blush, “…and we’d role-play as Lewis and Betty from Revenge of the Nerds. If they were fraternal, I’d give him 50 bucks and a striptease, plus lap dance.” Melissa went on.
“Melissa, Christine was wrong when she called you a freak. You’re just a sex-and-boy-crazed perverted weirdo.” Julie remarked, disturbed by her revelation, as were several of the people there, including Christine and Josie.
Next part will come sometime in the future...
Title: But Seriously….
Author: Shinigami518
Rating: PG-13, but with some bits of R in it for mpreg, swearing, some violence, and insanity
Main Character(s) and/or pairings: Ryan/Colin, Tony/Paul, Josie/Richard, Jeff/OFC, Stephen/Hugh (growing), OFC/OMC
Summary: few weeks after their wedding, Paul and Tony take the next step in their relationship: Parenthood. Paul undergoes the "Mpreg Operation" as Alicia and the trio calls it and now he and Tony are to be parents. Keeping this a secret from the news is going to be a bit hard, but with the help of their friends, they are ready.
View Affirmation here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View Against All Odds here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View Truly, Madly, Deeply here:
Epilogue, but with all parts linked
View last chapters here:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5a
Part 5b
Part 6
Part 7a
Shortly afterwards…
“C’mon, c’mon, c’mon, pick up.” Julie muttered as she taped the side of her mobile phone in apprehension, waiting for the call to go through. Finally, she heard a soft click.
“Hello?”
“Mom, its Julie.” Julie began.
“Julie, what’s going on? Is the show over?” Janet asked from the other side of the phone.
“Yes, it’s done but we got a huge problem.” Julie answered, tugging at her collar with her freehand.
“Did something happen to you or the girls?” Janet started to worry.
“No, nothing happened to us, it’s-.” Julie began to answer, but was cut off by Ian honking the horn of his car.
“Get the hell out of the way!” Ian shouted in aggravation. Julie stared at the man sitting next to her in surprise.
“Wow, Ian, feeling edgy?” Melissa tried to laugh, checking her watch while sitting in the back with Paul, timing the contractions. Both she and Julie ended up in Ian’s car while Samantha and Alicia were getting Tony.
“Who was that? Are you in a car?” Janet questioned.
“That was Ian; we’re in his car on-.” Julie started.
“Ian who?”
“Ian Hislop, Paul’s friend on the show we-.” Julie answered, but once again was cut off.
“Why the hell are you in the car of someone-?!” Janet shouted. Julie rubbed her forehead in annoyance, feeling a migraine coming.
“Mom, can you let me finish a sentence, for Christ sake!?” Julie snapped, pulling the phone from her ear and screaming into the speaker. “Paul’s having the twins and Ian’s giving him, me, and Lissy a ride to the hospital.” Julie went on, trying to calm down.
“What!? Right now!?” Janet exclaimed in disbelief. Julie rolled her eyes, silently grateful that her mom hadn’t given her a hard time about her yelling.
“Yes, right now and we’re on our way to-,” Julie paused before looking over at Ian. “What hospital are we going to?” Julie asked, covering the speaker of her phone.
“St. Matthews.” Ian replied, not taking his eyes off the road. Julie put her mobile back to her ear.
“St. Matthews. You can ask Richard or Josie for directions, I’m sure they’ve been there before. Just meet us there as soon as possible.” Julie told Janet.
“Just get there in one piece, honey.” Janet told her daughter. Julie nodded silently.
“I’ll call you when we get there. Bye.” Julie stated, and then hung up.
“You know where you’re going, right?” Melissa asked Ian a bit worriedly.
”I do. I was the one who actually brought him there when he had that scare several weeks-.” Ian replied stoically, until his words were cut off by a loud cry of pain from Paul as a contraction tore through his body.
“God Shit Damn It!” Paul cursed, wincing in pain. “Is this what my mum went through with me?!” Paul asked, gritting his teeth.
“Pretty much, depending on the woman.” Melissa replied, checking her watch as she timed the contraction. She frowned and looked up at Ian. “That one was several second shorter than the last one.” She announced. Julie, pocketing her mobile in her purse, started to look extremely worried by her friend’s announcement.
“They’re coming closer. I can’t believe this is happening...” Julie said softly, feeling the fear rising in her chest.
“Julie, don’t you dare go cold turkey on us right now. We gotta keep cool heads here!” Melissa snapped. Her frown disappeared as she, too, gained a look of fear as the realization dawned upon her: Paul was in labour, they were on the way to the hospital, and he wasn’t due for a week. “Oh shit, Paul’s having the twins. Ohshitohshitohshit….” Melissa whispered in shock and began to repeat “ohshit” to herself in a mantra similar to the one she had after seeing Paul getting struck by Jeremy minutes earlier.
“Is she like this a lot?” Ian asked Julie, still keeping his eyes on the road.
“Sometimes she is, especially when she’s worried or stressed about something.” Julie replied.
“You learn… to ignore it… after a while.” Paul remarked as the contraction lessened. He then turned slightly to face Melissa, still repeating her “Ohshit” mantra over and over. “SHUT UP!” Paul snapped in rage, effectively silencing Melissa, leaving the blonde silent and blushing in embarrassment.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Meanwhile…
Alicia pulled up in front of Paul and Tony’s flat and exited the car with Samantha right on her tail.
“Tony! Tony, we got a problem!” Alicia shouted, running to the door. The door swung open and Tony exited the house, Julian right behind him.
“Alicia, Sam, what is it? Why isn’t Paul with you?” Tony asked, running up to the two women.
“Ian, Julie, and Melissa are bringing him to the hospital. He’s having the twins!” Alicia replied, stopping in front of Tony. Tony paled drastically.
“What? Now!?” Tony asked, shocked.
“He’s not due for-.” Julian began to say.
“Sometimes these things happen, especially when Jeremy Clarkson decides to aggravate you with some insults and then punches you in the face.” Samantha cut Julian off, still pissed off about what happened. Tony stared at Samantha and Alicia, the shock turning into anger.
“What did he do?” Tony asked, coldly.
“We’ll explain on the way. Right now, we gotta get to the hospital as soon as possible.” Alicia interrupted, grabbing Samantha by her hand and dragged her back to the car.
“We’ll be one step behind you!” Julian exclaimed, turning to go inside to grab the keys, dragging Tony with him.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Later…
St. Mathews
Waiting Room
Dr. Addy and his crew were waiting for Paul, Ian, Julie, and Melissa at the emergency entrance as Ian pulled up. While Ian and Julie helped Paul out and into a waiting wheelchair, Melissa told Dr. Addy about the distance between each contraction, which had now become less than five minutes apart and starting to grow closer. Ian, meanwhile, agreed to stay with Paul until Tony arrived. Dr. Addy allowed that, and told the two women to tell Tony that he would be at room 38 before being brought to surgery.
The small group was then joined outside by Janet, Josie, Stephanie, and Christine, who arrived just several seconds after they did. Christine, thankfully, did not make a giant deal about it, except for the fact she paled drastically when she saw Paul, suffering from a contraction, in pain and in a wheelchair. Melissa just glared at her sister in response and dragged her inside, where the women were soon joined by Richard, Robert, and Will, who arrived after Paul was brought in.
Once in the waiting room, Richard told the two girls that he called Stephen and Libbi and they were on their way. Julie and Melissa, meanwhile, were too busy worrying and praying that Paul would be ok. After everything that’s happened in the past hour…
“PAUL!!!!”
Everyone’s thoughts were interrupted when they saw Tony running down the hall, Julian, Alicia, and Samantha following right behind him.
“Tony, thank god you’re-.” Melissa sighed in relief.
“Where’s Paul?” Tony asked, completely blowing off and storming past Melissa.
“Dr. Addy’s getting him ready for surgery. Ian’s with him, waiting for you.” Richard explained, placing a comforting hand on his old friend.
“Which room is he in?!” Tony asked, growing anxious and annoyed, wanting answers.
“Tony, calm down…” Josie began
“Calm down? CALM DOWN!? The man I love is in this place, in labour with OUR children, over a week before he should because of an insensitive prick insulting him and punching him after ANOTHER insensitive person who thinks she knows everything because she’s a nurse and is also a bigoted bitch and you are telling me to CALM DOWN!?” Tony snapped at the brunette, stressed and angry. Christine recoiled at her mentioning from Tony.
“Big E, Little E - Room 38.” Julie announced at random. Tony turned to face the young woman, his anger softening for the moment.
“Is that where he is?” Tony asked hopefully. Julie nodded yes.
“Ian said he’d be outside the room, waiting for you to get there. Paul’s waiting for you, so get your ass in gear.” Julie calmly told Tony. Tony then ran over, cupped Julie’s face with his hands and kissed her deep on the lips.
“Thanks!” Tony smiled once he pulled away. He then ran past her and the others and ran through the doors. “I’m coming, Paul!” Tony exclaimed as he ran past a few doctors and patients.
Julie was left standing frozen in place, her face the colour of a well done lobster, her glasses sliding down her nose, and a look of surprise on her face.
“Hm, lucky sod.” Alicia whispered, a coy smirk on her face.
“Why’d he kiss only her? ‘Licia, Sam, and I helped.” Melissa complained.
“Perhaps it’s because she told him what he wanted to know. Which reminds me, who are “Big E” and “Little E”?” Julian replied, then asked out loud.
“They’re NASCAR drivers: Dale Earnhardt and son, Dale Earnhardt Junior. They were their nicknames when Earnhardt Senior was still alive and racing.” Robert explained to Julian. Will, meanwhile, walked over to his sister and stared at her in concern.
“Either way, I think Tony broke her brain with that kiss.” Will examined, snapping his fingers in front of his sisters’ face to get a response from her.
“Eww.” Christine shuddered. Melissa sighed in annoyance before turning to face her older sister.
“Don’t you dare go ‘eww’, Chris. He was just releasing some of his excitement. Fortunately, or unfortunately depending on your viewpoint, Julie was the recipient of it.” Melissa stated coldly, narrowing her eyes.
“Still, he’s - what - 50? And Julie’s turning 22 in September. That is just so… so…” Christine snapped in irritation.
“Just so what, Christine?” a cold, but very familiar voice asked, approaching the two sisters. Christine paled drastically once more as she came face-to-face with a very annoyed and angry Stephen Fry.
“Oh, this is gonna be good.” Samantha smirked.
“W-what?” Julie asked, shaking her head as she came to senses.
“Welcome back,” Samantha greeted her now conscious friend, “I think Stephen’s gonna read Chris the right act for what she’s been saying.” Samantha went on, pointing to the scene that was starting to unfold in front of them.
“….Sweet.” Julie grinned, ready to see something awesome.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Meanwhile…
“Ian!” Tony shouted, running over to the balding man, who stood worried outside of the room. Ian looked up and sighed in relief.
“Tony, thank god.” Ian remarked as Tony ran up to him.
“How is he? Did he go-?” Tony asked, his heart beating a mile a minute.
“Dr. Addy and his people are getting him ready right now. Paul demanded that they wait for you.” Ian replied, cutting Tony off. Tony then turned away, shaking slightly, hands on his head.
“I can’t believe this. It’s finally happening.” Tony panicked, the full realization of him becoming a father taking over. Ian reached out and turned Tony back around to face him.
“Tony, get a hold of yourself! I know you’re probably scared to death right now, but I was too when Victoria and I went through this the first time.” Ian demanded, then tried to sooth the panicking man.
“I-I don’t know if- what if I mess up? What if I-?” Tony asked, his words disjointed, worry in his eyes.
“Tony, you’ll be fine. Just calm down and get in there. Paul needs you right now.” Ian told Tony, gently shaking him. Tony bit his lip and, after a few seconds of silence, he nodded. He then took a deep breath to settle his nerves. “You ok, now?” Ian asked.
“Now I am.” Tony replied.
“Good, now get in there.” Ian smiled, then patted Tony’s shoulder. Tony began to move past Ian and reached for the door, but stopped.
“Ian?” Tony began.
“Yeah?” Ian asked, already starting on his way the waiting room..
“Thank you, for - you know - everything you’ve done.” Tony thanked his friend.
“Hey, what are friends for? I’ll tell everyone you’re with Paul. Let us know if everything goes alright.” Ian grinned, then rushed off to join the others. Tony smiled for a moment, then turned and entered the room.
Paul sat on a bed, already in a hospital gown and minus his glasses, which were in his hands, watching Dr. Addy and his assistants rush around, getting things ready to transfer Paul to surgery. His hair was slightly damp from sweat, obviously from a recent contraction. Paul looked over at the door and smiled tiredly.
“Tony, you made it.” Paul sighed in relief.
“Like I’d miss this for anything!” Tony ran over and embraced Paul. “I’m not going to leave your side during this, I swear it!” Tony vowed, his face buried in Paul’s shoulder.
“I’m glad you’re here, Tony. I don’t think Paul would’ve gone through with this if you weren’t here. Stubborn as hell, I tell you.” Dr. Addy remarked, walking over and checked Paul’s pulse. Tony shot Paul a disappointed, but caring look.
“Paul, you shouldn’t have-.” Tony began to scold, taking Paul’s glasses and pocketing them in his jacket
“I’m not having these kids without you.” Paul stated firmly, hand on his stomach in emphasis.
“See if the room is ready yet, Alana. We have to operate as soon as possible.” Dr. Addy told a nurse, the same red head that had been with him when he gave the good news to Paul and Tony months before.
“Yes, sir.” Alana nodded, then turned and left the room. Paul then took Tony’s hand in his.
“I need you to do something for me, Tony.” Paul began, becoming quite serious.
“What is it?” Tony asked, growing worried.
“If something happens to me during this surgery, if I end up…,” Paul paused, then took a deep breath, “…promise me you’ll look after our babes and don’t you dare repeat what you did 12 years ago.” Paul went on, fingering the ring on Tony’s finger with his thumb. Tony recoiled back in shock.
“W-what? But Paul-.” Tony exclaimed, startled.
“Just promise me, Tony-,” Paul started to say, but was cut off by a sharp pain as a contraction hit him, “Oh damn shit fucking hell, that bloody hurts!!” Paul swore loudly, almost crushing Tony’s hand with his own.
“I noticed.” Tony winced, getting his hand free after a few seconds. He then took a deep breath. “And… I promise, Paul.” Tony relented, reaching out and gently stroking Paul’s damp hair.
“You… Thank you, angel.” Paul breathed, riding out the last of the contraction. Tony began to blush softly.
“Why did you have to call me that? That’s what I call you, silly.” Tony asked. Paul just smiled.
“Because you’re my angel, Tony.” Paul replied matter-of-factually.
“Are you sure they haven’t given you painkillers yet?” Tony asked again, smirking slightly. This time Paul laughed softly.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
If anyone had walked in at that time and saw Stephen Fry yelling at a young woman, you’d have thought it was a skit or a commercial he was filming. In actually, Stephen was pretty much tearing Christine a new asshole about everything she said about Paul, Tony, the babies, and the girls.
“Hey, remind me to never ever piss him off.” Will remarked to Alicia.
“Noted. I’ve seen him angry before, but when it comes to things like friends and family, watch out.” Alicia nodded with a grimace.
“I wish I had some popcorn.” Melissa sighed, enjoying the scene very much.
“I wish I brought me camcorder.” Julian smirked, equally enjoying the verbal beating that was going on.
“Shouldn’t we stop this?” Janet wondered out loud, looking around in worry.
“No way, not while Stephen’s riled up like this. Besides, she deserves this.” Richard shook his head. The sound of door slamming open startled half the people in the room as Ian ran in to join them.
“Tony’s with Paul, they’re taking him to…,” Ian trailed off, noticing the scene played before him. Stephen was yelling at some blonde, a small crowd, which included several of his and Paul’s friends, was watching this, while the rest of the people were either sitting or standing around, staring at him. “Did I… miss something?” Ian asked slowly.
“Just Christine - that’s the blonde being chewed out by Stephen over there - saying something she shouldn’t have in front of Stephen. How’s Paul?” Julian replied, and then asked.
“Contractions were less than four minutes apart now. Dr. Addy’s got him ready for surgery.” Ian explained.
“So what do we do now?” Robert asked, looking around at his friends.
“We wait… and pray.” Julie replied, sitting down in a chair.
“And we better give the others a call about this.” Samantha noted.
“I better call Victoria. She’s probably wondering where I am right now.” Ian remarked, walking away while pulling out his mobile.
“I already called Libbi, she’s on her way here. Richard, we better call Lee, Caroline, and the others.” Josie told her boyfriend.
“Right.” Richard agreed.
“Libbi? That’s Paul’s sister, right?” Stephanie asked, recalling the woman she saw before at the wedding.
“That’s her, mom. From what I’ve heard, she’s been quite supportive of this.” Samantha nodded, answering her mother.
Will, meanwhile, walked over to Alicia, who was now sitting on one of the couches, looking down at her clenched hands.
“Worried?” Will asked, sitting down next to her. Alicia nodded.
“I’ve know Paul ever since I was a kid. I… if you had seen the amount of pain he was in back at the studio... I never want to see him like that ever again.” Alicia told Will, softly and sadly. Will said nothing, but put his arm around the woman and began to rub her shoulder with his hand.
“If this Dr. Addy’s as good as everyone says he is, then Paul’ll be just fine.” Will assured, leaning against her.
“I hope so.” Alicia nodded, resting her head on Will’s shoulder.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
A little later…
Paul was now lying on the operating table, Tony standing next to him in hospital scrubs, holding his hand. Dr. Addy and his people had already given him an epidural and were getting the last bit of pre-op preparations ready. Silently, Paul looked up at Tony and tightened his grip on his hand. Tony looked down at his companion, who stared at him with pain and tear-filled blue eyes. The look spoke volumes. They were both afraid, but yet excited as well.
“Paul, it’s time.” Dr. Addy spoke up from behind the surgical mask. Paul gave a short nod, then took a deep breath to calm his quickly beating heart.
Dr. Addy began to make the first cut.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
“Tell me.”
Melissa looked up to see Christine, pale as a sheet and fighting tears, looking down at her sister. The older Anderson girl was done being read the right act by Stephen, who was now talking pleasantly, but worriedly with Richard and Josie.
“What?” Melissa spoke, narrowing her eyes in apprehension.
“Tell me everything… about Paul and Tony. What they’ve been through, their lives, their demons, everything.” Christine replied, shakily. Melissa glanced over at Stephen, who shots her a nod in response.
“Sit down, Chris. I’ll tell you all I know. What I don’t, you can ask Julian or Stephen.” Melissa relented, patting the spot on the couch next to her.
“He’s not going to yell at me again, will he?” Christine paled, asking worriedly. She was obviously still shaken up by Stephen’s tongue lashing.
“Not unless you provoke him, annoy him, or just piss him off. Now, who do you want to learn about first?” Melissa shook her head, the asked, curiously.
“Erm, well, I don’t know. Paul, I guess.” Christine replied, nervously and still worried. Melissa just stared at Christine, still surprised by her sister’s actions. She then sighed, patting the spot next to her again. This time, Christine sat down next to her.
“Alright, well, first off, Paul’s full name is Paul James Martin. He changed it to Merton when he joined Equity - that’s like the Screen Actors Guild… I guess.” Melissa began to explain.
Across the room, Julie stood alone, staring at the door exiting the waiting room and into surgery, looking worried still.
“He’ll be fine, honey.” Janet assured, approaching her daughter.
“I hope so, mom. He was in so much pain… it scared me. Still does. I don’t…” Julie trailed off. Janet then reached around and pulled her daughter into a comforting hug.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
Paul was fighting back tears, trying his best not to look at what was being done. Mostly in fear from throwing up, partially in fear of something going wrong. Tony kept his eyes on Paul, one hand still holding Paul’s, the other stroking Paul’s hair, doing his best to calm his partner down.
Then, finally, after a minute or two of painful waiting…
“Waaaa.”
The soft, whimpering wail of a newborn broke through the tension. Paul and Tony looked over at Dr. Addy, their hearts stopping, awaiting the news.
In Dr. Addy’s arms was a tiny newborn baby, covered in blood and fluid, crying as it gasped its first breath of air. Through his mask, Dr. Addy smiled and nodded.
“A girl.” He spoke, joy radiating with each word. Paul finally let the tears fall, as did Tony.
“Our daughter.” Tony smiled, tears in his brown eyes. Paul nodded, grinning weakly.
“One down, one to go.” Dr. Addy noted as a nurse held the squirming girl as he cut the umbilical cord. Alana came over and wrapped the baby in a towel while Dr. Addy returned to his previous position over Paul. “Paul, you still with us?” Dr. Addy asked.
“I-I am, Zach.” Paul nodded, his voice a bit weak, mostly from exhaustion.
“Just hold on a little longer, Paul. It’s time for baby number two to enter the world.” Dr. Addy told the brunet.
“R-right. L-like I have a choice.” Paul remarked softly with a small laugh, tightening his grip on Tony’s hand.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
Julian, Stephen, Josie, and Ian, who had finished his call to his wife, were now pacing nervously. Melissa was still telling Christine everything she knew about Paul and Tony, trying her best to answer all her questions. Samantha had now joined Julie, Janet, and Richard in staring at the door in concern and apprehension.
“Shouldn’t they have told us something by now about Paul and the twins?” Samantha wondered out loud.
“They’re probably working as fast and as safely as they can. Remember, these things take time.” Robert replied, sitting with Will and Alicia. The sound of footsteps slapping the linoleum floor startled everyone as Libbi, Paul’s little sister, came rushing into the waiting room, a look of concern on her face.
“Where is he? Is he alright? Did he have the twins yet?” Libbi shouted, looking at everyone in the room.
“He’s in the operating room right now, having the C-section. Tony’s with him as we speak.” Ian answered. Libbi turned to face the shorter man and grabbed his shoulders.
“Ian, how did this happen? He was scheduled to have them until next week! I mean, I know babies tend to come early, but… what happened?” Libbi asked, frowning in dread.
“It’s a long story, Libbi…” Ian sighed, gesturing her to a couch to sit.
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Surgery Room 2
It was almost over. Just a few more moments, Paul thought to himself, staring up at the ceiling. He was beginning to grow quite tired from both the pain he was in earlier and from the surgery. Tony still kept at his side, keeping his hold on Paul’s hand.
Then…
“Waaaa.” The second baby cried out as it was brought into the world.
“And we have a boy!” Dr. Addy announced proudly, holding the newborn in his hands. Paul glanced over at the child and smiled wearily.
“One of each… I knew it…” Paul said softly through a smile. Tony tore his eyes away from his son to look at Paul. His joy turned into concern when he saw Paul’s tired eyes and weary expression.
“Paul? Paul, are you-?” Tony asked.
“M’fine, Tony… just… just so… tired…” Paul replied drowsily, his eyes closing while speaking the last word, his head falling to the side.
“Paul?” Tony asked, breaking the handhold and grabbing Paul’s shoulder, giving him a gentle nudge. No response. “Paul?!” Tony began to panic. Dr. Addy, who had now giving the newborn to one of his nurses, heard Tony’s exclamations and turned to see what was wrong.
“Oh shit, he’s losing blood! Alana, Thomas, patch him up, now!” Dr. Addy cursed, then demanded. Tony grabbed Paul’s hand once more as Dr. Addy’s assistants began their work.
“Paul, stay with me, you hear? Don’t you dare die on me, Paul!” Tony exclaimed, tears in his eyes.
Paul didn’t respond…
<<<<<<<>>>>>>>
Waiting Room
About an hour later…
Alicia was curled up on the couch, sleeping with her head resting on Will’s lap. On the other couch, Julie laid curled up, asleep as well with Julian watching over her.
“I hate this,” Libbi sighed, checking her watch as she paced around the room, “Why haven’t they told us anything yet? Shouldn’t it be over by now?” She asked out loud.
“Yes, but the problem is that all births are different, and not all of them, sadly, go smoothly.” Stephen told Libbi.
“You think there were complications?” Robert wondered.
“There are chances of that happening, especially in caesareans. That’s why I…,” Christine spoke up, then paused. She had been told everything Melissa could say about Paul and Tony, leaving both of them emotionally exhausted. “That’s why I’ve been mostly against this, why I’ve been so against this. It’s too risky for men to go through this, even deadly.” Christine went on.
“Chris, why didn’t you say any of this yesterday or earlier today, let alone not say it the way you did?” Melissa exclaimed in surprise, walking up to her older sister.
“You were right, ‘Lissa. I’ve been so stressed about dad and I just…,” Christine slumped into a plastic chair in sadness, “God, I’ve been such a damn fool, saying everything the wrong way, upsetting and hurting everyone, including my own sister.” Christine moaned, burying her face in her hands.
“Jesus, could’ve told her that.” Samantha muttered under her breath, ignoring the dirty look Stephanie shot her over that remark. Melissa, meanwhile, put an arm around her sister and pulled her close so their heads could touch in comfort.
“Chris, I’m still mad at you, but you are still my sister and I still love you. Next time, however, think about what you’re going to say and how you do it, ok?” Melissa told Christine softly. Christine nodded sadly, a weak smile on her lips.
“Finally asleep?” Janet asked, referring to Julie as she sat down next to Julian. She had just returned from a small smoke break outside of the hospital.
“Poor girl’s been so worked up about Paul; she finally worried herself to sleep.” Julian sighed, gently stroking Julie’s hair with one hand. His other hand held Julie’s glasses, which he handed to Janet.
“She wasn’t this back when Ryan and Colin had their babies, why is this so different?” Will queried, hoping not to wake Alicia up.
“Maybe it’s because she’s connected more with Paul than with Ryan and Colin. Remember, she’d only known Ryan and Colin for a short time before they had their babies. With Paul, however, she’s known him for about two years. It’s one thing when it’s someone you’ve known for a short time. It’s another when it’s someone you really known for a while.” Josie explained.
“She’s also seen how dangerous this whole thing can be, too. She’s been remembering what happened to Ryan and Colin these past few-.” Samantha put in. Her comment was silenced by the opening of the doors to surgery as Dr. Addy, weary and drained, entered the room.
“Dr. Addy, is-?” Stephen began to ask, but was cut off by the sudden appearance of Josie, Melissa, Julian, and a now awake Alicia, who crowded Dr. Addy, all four asking a barrage of questions about Paul and the twins at the same time.
“For crying out loud, let the poor man breath!” Ian exclaimed in exasperation. This finally woke Julie up from her sleep. She sat up, groggy and blinking her eyes.
“W-what’s going on?” Julie asked, confused and rubbing her tired eyes with her fists. Looking around, she spotted Dr. Addy and the small crowd around him. Julie shot to her feet. “Is everything ok?” Julie asked, worried. Her worry increased when she notices the doctor was frowning.
“There were… complications… during the surgery.” Dr. Addy began, seriously.
Julie fell back on the couch, pale as a ghost. “Oh no…” she whispered. Christine paled as well, shaking her head.
“Is he-?” Libbi didn’t finish. She didn’t want to know if it was true.
“He started to lose blood after we delivered the second baby, but my crew and I managed to stop the bleeding before it became too serious. The cause was, unfortunately, the artificial womb. Because of the stress he was under during the delivery, it caused some muscle tears and became detached. We ended up removing it completely, and we’ve got him on a I.V. drip, plus we have a blood transfusion going right now for the blood he’s lost.” Dr. Addy explained, remaining serious.
“So what the heck does that mean?” Will asked, trying to comprehend what he said.
“He said that Paul suffered from some minor blood lose due to the artificial womb detaching during the delivery and causing several tears, but it’s been repaired, the womb’s been removed, and he’s having a blood transfusion.” Christine translated, still pale over the revelation.
“So does that mean Paul’s going to live or not?” Ian asked, growing frustrated.
“He did pass out from the blood loss, but we got him stabilized. We just have to wait and see, but for right now, he’s going to be ok.” Dr. Addy replied, his seriousness beginning to fade as a smile slowly began to appear on his face. There were mass sighs of relief, along with several “Thank God” comments.
“And I bet Tony’s staying right at Paul’s side.” Richard smiled.
“Richard, where else would he be?” Josie winked at her boyfriend.
“What about the babies?” Stephanie spoke up.
“They’re being checked out as we speak. They were a bit underweight, but most multiples tend to be like that. The little girl certainly has a large set of lungs, while her brother was a bit quieter when they were born.” Dr. Addy explained, the smile on his face growing bigger.
“‘Little girl’?” Melissa repeated in surprise.
“‘Her brother’?” Will echoed in confusion.
“One of each.” Ian remarked, then chuckled. “He never fails to surprise anyone, does he?”
“Never a dull moment around you guys.” Samantha shook her head, a smile crossing her lips.
“He lived… and the babies lived, too…,” Christine said in amazement. She then let out a small laugh. “You people are unbelievable.” She commented.
“You learn to live with it. My advice: hold on tight and enjoy the ride.” Julie shrugged, a relieved smile on her face as she put back on her glasses.
“I believe that’s what I told Paul when he asked me about taking his relationship with Tony to the next level.” Stephen remarked. There was a large mix of grins, giggles, and groans amongst the group of friends.
“Ugh, too much info! So now what?” Stephanie grimaced, then asked.
“Call the others; let them know the good news.” Josie replied.
“Lee, especially. He nearly shat a brick when Richard told him Paul was in labour.” Will agreed, recalling the man’s reaction to the phone call they received.
“He’s been leaving voice messages on my mobile, and Suki’s been text messaging me and Josie.” Richard said, taking out his mobile.
“Vicki’s been worried, too.” Ian noted, dialling his home number.
“We better tell Ryan, Greg, and the others back home, too.” Samantha added. Melissa let out a small ‘eep’ as a look of dread appeared on her face.
“Shit, I now owe Jeff 50 bucks and a striptease lap dance.” Melissa muttered, paling. Everyone turned to stare at the younger blonde.
“You… had a bet on Paul’s pregnancy?” Janet asked slowly.
“J-just whether or not the twins would be fraternal or identical. If they were identical, he’d give me 50 bucks and…,” Melissa gulped, then began to blush, “…and we’d role-play as Lewis and Betty from Revenge of the Nerds. If they were fraternal, I’d give him 50 bucks and a striptease, plus lap dance.” Melissa went on.
“Melissa, Christine was wrong when she called you a freak. You’re just a sex-and-boy-crazed perverted weirdo.” Julie remarked, disturbed by her revelation, as were several of the people there, including Christine and Josie.
Next part will come sometime in the future...