Summary: Thomas has a surprise for his family and Gloriana has one too that nobody sees coming.
Authors note: for the 41 days of cheer, day 3 pets. This one does have a time skip in so it’s about fast forward about two years after the events of the book. Enjoy!
Thomas Mendez shook his head as he looked at his daughter in the backseat. She was sleeping with her head rested against the door. Next to her was Lucia trying to fix Luz’s homework as best as she could. His new step-daughter didn’t have to do that for her.
“Lucia,” he said with a warning in his voice.
She sheepishly tucked Luz’s homework back in her bag and put her hands in her lap. In the front seat next to him Gloriana stirred slightly in her own sleep. It had been a long day at work as he concentrated on the road. Everyone was going to be here today for a good reason.
The younger girl still alert looked out the window and frowned.
“Thomas where are we going?” asked Lucia seeing the rows of trees. This was not the way to get back to the house she now lived in. In fact, it looked like they were going in the opposite direction. She frowned as they passed the city and headed toward the country side.
“It’s a secret and a surprise,” he said winking at her.
She perked up excited and peered around getting a better look out the window. She didn’t want to wake Luz but this must be a good surprise and there wasn’t anyone awake to talk to her with about it.
“Can I guess?” she asked pressing on for details.
“Hmm, okay only one question because if there was anymore you might figure it out.”
Lucia nodded gravely and thought of her first question. Was it something she talked about or something different? “Alright, I trust you because you’re really good at taking care of us and you make my mom happy,” she said simply. “Is it a fun surprise?”
Thomas paused hearing that. He was good at being her new dad, as he broke into a small grin. Well, that was a nice surprise. He kept his eyes trained on the road flying past the edge of a farm.
“Yes and I think all of us will love it.”
She nodded happily and breathed hard onto the window drawing a smiley face in the fog she produced.
“Lucia do you really think that I’m doing a good job at being your dad?” he asked cautiously. It had been awhile since she had heard from Guy. She probably wasn’t even used to having him around all the time just yet. Much less having her picture him kissing her mom.
Lucia had her thinking face on before nodding. “Yea I think you’re doing a great job. Like I said before you take care of us and I can tell my mom really loves you. I like having a dad in my life since I really think that I need one.”
He smiled and turned out a gravel driveway to a farm. They had been driving for the last two hours and had stopped for sandwiches an hour back. Lucia had already woken up Luz and started to climb out of the car. Gently Thomas reached over and woke up Gloriana.
“Let me sleep,” she mumbled.
“What if I kiss you awake?” he teased.
“Do it.”
Laughing she waited for him as Thomas leaned over the console and gently kissed her cheek. She pouted and never opened her eyes.
“This is the only angle that I have. You have to get up otherwise there’s no surprise for you.”
“Okay fine you won,” she said tossing the blanket she used on the floor in front of her and opened the door.
Together the small family got out of the car and saw the barn in front of them. A young couple waved them to come over. Luz and Lucia chasing after each other and already in the lead. Thomas took his wife’s hand and smiled at her sincerely wiping a stray dark hair from her face. In response she just kissed his cheek back and walked over to the couple.
The pair waiting for them stopped and the woman put a finger on her lips.
“Alright I’m Alma and this is my husband Jack,” said the young woman with a large sunhat on.
“I have a friend named Alma too,” said Lucia excited trying to investigate the barn doors.
“It’s a nice name,” she said crinkling her nose as she smiled herself. “Anyway, we have to be quiet because your surprise doesn’t really like surprises.”
With that Jack opened the door and lead them to the first stall. Inside on the floor surrounded by straw and various toys was a dog. A female black and white border collie dog eyed them but yipped at the sight of Thomas. Surrounding her was puppies about five of them sleeping soundly.
Aww, cooed the girls looking at the puppies.
“You have yourself a really nice dad,” said Jack, “one of those puppies are yours.”
“REALLY!?” shouted Luz and Lucia making the puppies wake up and bark.
Thomas just nodded and covering an ear. Jack and Alma just gestured for them to calm down and to play the puppies to figure out which one they wanted.
The puppies were eager to play with them as Gloriana picked one up to his face.
“I can’t wait to go home with you,” said Gloriana before cradling it close to her. “Seriously what brought on you buying a puppy?”
“Well you got this pet insurance from your new job I figured that we’d use it. After all who wouldn’t’ want a dog? Who knows if we’ll have any kids together so I figured a new member of the family would be fun.”
At that Gloriana bit her bottom lip and didn’t look at him as he said that. His eyes grew soft in concern and wrapped an arm around her. Her jean jacket already had fur covering it her own brown eyes downcast. A pink flush to her face.
“Oh Thomas, um, I was going to wait until this weekend when we had everyone there, but I am expecting.”
Stunned himself he watched as she let the dog she was holding down and put a hand on her stomach. “Surprise?”
With that he wrapped his arms around her in a tight hug lifting her slightly and swinging her around. The girls didn’t even seem to notice playing with the puppies. That didn’t seem to matter as he kissed her lips softly. This was just the day of surprises.
Book: Open Heart (about 5 months after the end of Book 1)
Word Count: ~1000
Rating: PG
Summary: Bryce and Cassie’s weekend trip to Cape Cod didn’t exactly turn out as planned
Author’s Note: The last of my very late Autumn prompts, renting a cabin! This one was requested by @octobereighth way too long ago, but I’ve finally delivered! Trying to be efficient here and also use this for day 14 for 41 Days of Cheer (travel) because I live by myself and therefore feel no shame with a little double dipping!
“Stop hogging all the blankets,” Cassie moaned as she tugged at the fleece currently spread across the center of the bed.
Bryce opened his mouth to retort, but it hurt too much to speak. His throat felt raw and burning, like hundreds of little scalpels were being dragged along his pharynx. He wanted another cough drop, but they were all the way in the bathroom, and the ten feet between the bed and the sink might as well be ten miles for how far away it felt.
This was not how Bryce had pictured this weekend going when he’d suggested to Cassie that the two of them rent a cabin on Cape Cod for a long weekend as a mini getaway after Cassie mentioned having to go from August to April without a week of vacation. But between trying to avoid the insanity of summer costs on the Cape and conflicting rotation schedules, they hadn’t been able to get out there until November.
The cold weather would have been bad enough, but Bryce was confident they would have been able to adapt, find ways to enjoy themselves in spite of the biting winds and gloomy skies. What they hadn’t counted on was an early influenza season. And while being in the OR for his trauma call rotation meant that Bryce always got to wear a mask around patients, Cassie was in the ED this block. Of course, they’d both gotten their flu shots this year, but as they’d informed patients countless times, the flu vaccine didn’t provide perfect protection. This year, they were both in the unlucky camp.
Cassie had warned him that she’d had some chills and rigors a couple of days before they were set to leave, offered to cancel and steer far clear of him, but Bryce had blown off her concerns, convinced that she was just imagining that she’d caught influenza when it was far more likely that she’d contracted some other, less severe virus. He had clearly been very wrong.
So, instead of a romantic getaway in a little cabin for 4 days, 3 nights, they were instead both miserable, aching, febrile, congested, and just plain gross-feeling. They were paying $145 a night to lay around in bed, buried under every blanket they could find in the rental. If Bryce wasn’t so exhausted, he might have been more annoyed by that fact, but all he could find the energy to do was to roll over before falling back asleep.
Bryce drifted off at some point, even though it was the middle of the afternoon. Between the flu and his weird sleep schedule on his current rotation, falling asleep during the day was very easy. Eventually, he woke up shivering, reaching to tug some of the blankets back from Cassie, but finding her half of the bed empty.
“Cassie?” he croaked out, his voice raspy, dry, and distorted.
A few seconds later, Cassie shuffled around the corner, wrapped in a blanket and carrying a glass of water. “Here’s your Tamiflu,” she said, her voice barely louder than a whisper as she set the glass of water and a couple of pills on the bedside table, “and some ibuprofen.”
Bryce picked up the orange and white capsule, but left the three red tablets on the nightstand, shaking his head, “I don’t need ibuprofen.”
“Bryce, you have a fever.”
“I know. The fever is an evolutionary advantage that helps the human body fight off viral infections. I’m not going to purposely undo that.”
“Fine, be miserable.”
“Fevers are only uncomfortable as you are spiking one. Once you reach your new-” Bryce countered, but he was cut off as Cassie let out a miserable groan.
“Enough, enough,” she said, crawling back under the covers on her side of the bed, mumbling something about “doctors” and “terrible patients.” Bryce took a sip of water to take the Tamiflu, noticing that Cassie hadn’t bothered to unwrap the blanket she’d been wearing as a cape as he did so.
“You planning on sharing that blanket?” he asked as he set down the glass of water and grabbed his phone in exchange.
“No,” she answered matter-of-factly before rolling to face him.
Bryce just stared at her for a moment, but when she raised her eyebrows defiantly, he knew how he had to respond. Mustering all his energy, he flung his body over to her side of the bed, wrapping his arms around her and grabbing at the blanket.
“Bryce!” she rasped out, wheezing out a few chuckles at his sudden move. Unfortunately for them both, the blanket somehow ended up on the floor in the midst of it all. “Now look what you’ve done,” she said, her tone much more playful than her words, wrapping her arms around his neck as they settled into a loose cuddle.
“Gross, you’re all clammy,” she added with another couple of weak giggles.
“One, you are just and gross and clammy as me. Two, this situation is one hundred percent your fault, so you’re gonna help me pick out a restaurant for dinner.”
“Bryce, you’re insane if you think I’m leaving this cabin.”
He just shook his head, holding up his phone, “Delivery, Cassie. I don’t plan on letting you leave this bed.”
Normally, an innuendo like that would lead to some flirting back and forth before things escalated, but given the circumstances, Bryce was glad to draw a genuine laugh from Cassie, even though it did trigger a bit of a coughing fit. Sure, this was probably no one’s idea of a good weekend trip, but it could be a lot worse. At the end of the day, most trips were more about the company than the destination, anyway.
A family Christmas (Beckett x MC, Thomas x Katrina)
Annotation: This is Christmas Eve and Katrina invited both her brother and his roommate to celebrate this holidays with her and her new family. Her fiancée and two daughters her and his. Does she has some secret motives of inviting seemingly stranger to join their family reunion? What secrets will this evening reveal and what reaction will have everyone on the news announced? Will here be a kiss under mistletoe and who will kiss whom? Or this will be just simple evening spend as a family.
Author note: I would love to say a huge thank you to @fluffy-marshmallow-heart for the perfect name to this one shot and to @annekebbphotography for a moodboard I loved it from the first sight :) Also this fanfic is a part of my ongoing at the moment Series Consequences but you don’t need to read it to be familiar with what will happen in this one shot.
English isn’t my native language so please forgive any errors you see. I tried no proofread as much as possible. Also I know I’m kind of late to the party, but I really want to submit this fanfic for two days of @jlpplays1-41daysofcheerchallenge for Day 8: Family and Day 32: Expecting
Words: 4052
Warnings: *fluff/make out*
It was Christmas Eve, and Beckett was pacing around their living room. He was stopping here and there to throw a subtle look toward Maeve, who was sitting on a built-in window seat, seemingly occupied with reading the book. Her legs tucked under her, a warm blanket thrown over her laps. He ran his hands through his hair oblivious to the questioning look she has thrown in his direction.
The nervous habit of his, noted Maeve, biting her lower lip, watching how his hand ran through his hair again.
"What is wrong?" She asked, closing the book, and turning her attention fully on the man in front of her.
"Why--- why do you think that something is wrong?" He asked, and his hands raked through his hair. His heart thundered audibly.
“Because you paced in front of me like a wounded animal for at least half an hour without even saying a word.”
Not to mention, you look all dishevelled and nervous, thought Maeve, taking in his appearance.
“I— I didn’t,” Beckett tried to protest, catching her sceptical gaze. “Okay, I may have paced— but I wasn’t nervous. I was thinking,” hesays, swallowing hard before sitting next to her on a comfortable Window seat. “I— I just wanted to ask you— I mean Katrina wondered if you—would you like to join us for celebrating Christmas? I mean, if you— if you have no other plans.”
“Are you asking me out?” Maeve smirked, raising her eyebrows.
“No… it’s not what I meant. I mean…,” he groaned in frustration, feeling flustered from her question. His hands raking through his hair once again, dragging them down his face. “You are impossible,” he mumbled in his hands before starting to get up. “Forget it, I will tell Katrina that you have other plans,” he says, ready to leave when he felt a small hand catching his, pulling him back to the seat.
“Beckett, I will gladly join you and your sister’s family for a celebration. Thank you for the invitation,” she murmured, hesitantly placing a soft kiss to his cheek, taking him by surprise.
“Are... are you sure that you don’t mind to spend the holidays with my sister and Thomas? And--- and me, of course. It's just for an evening--- I mean dinner,” Beckett started to babble, blushing. The pleasant tingling still lingering on his cheek where her lips touched his skin.
“Beckett, stop babbling,” Maeve laughed lightly, meeting his gaze. “I like your sister’s company, and Thomas seems a very nice guy. Besides, I love their little mischief-makers. So since your sister kindly invited me to join your celebration. I will gladly accept,” she murmured before starting to babble herself. “If you don’t mind, of course. She is your family, after all, so if you think this will be weird then---I will totally understand if---,” she spoke, stopping when she caught his amused gaze, smiling sheepishly at him.
“Who is babbling now?” Beckett asked, raising his brow, a soft smile touching his lips, and they looked into each other's eyes for a long moment. “And I don’t mind,” he said, his cheeks flushing from the eagerness lacing his voice. And he cleared his throat before adding in a more calmer tone, ignoring the way his heart still pounded. “I just thought you may have other plans with your family and friends, that’s it. Don’t you have any?”
“No, I don’t,” she shook her head, continuing to explain. “My mom is working during the holidays’ season, while Shreya and Griffin both left to visit their families. So...”
“Then... then I’ll meet you in an hour. If this is sufficient enough for you to get ready? Their home is in a nearby town but still some time away, and with snow forecast and ice-covered roads, we really need to get ready soon if we don’t want to be stuck in traffic. But if this is too short notice, I can wait. Take as much time as you need,” he babbled again, till he felt a small hand softly placed on top of his.
“Beckett, I’ll see you in an hour,” she murmured, leaving for her room.
It was an hour later when he stood downstairs, waiting for Maeve, checking his watch for the hundredth time. Unconsciously, raking his hand through his hair till he heard a soft chuckle from behind.
“Are you nervous?” Maeve giggled, watching how the tips of his ears started to turn pink, and he turned around to reply.
“Just so you know, I’m not nerv—-,” the words froze on the tip of his tongue. And he felt how the wind was knocked out of his lungs when his eyes landed on the girl in front of him.
Her golden hair was put into a curly updo, and her lips were glossy and pink like a beautiful rose. Her bronze dusted cheeks wore a natural blush, and her smoky eyes met his hesitantly. Her hands reached to the hem of her mid-thigh’s loose sweater dress with a white snowman on the red field. Her hands fiddling with the hem, what he noticed, she did when she was nervous. The pair of black knee-high boots completed her look. She smiled at him shyly, taking a step closer to him, letting him help her to put a coat.
“You didn’t tell me what dress code you usually have for Christmas. So--- I hope this is to your satisfaction.”
“You--- you look amazing,” he whispered hoarsely, the words leaving his mouth even before he could stop them. And his hands lingered on her shoulders for a heartbeat longer than necessary. “I mean--- your dress is amazing,” He corrected himself hastily, a soft blush touching his cheeks.
“Sooooo, what plan do we have?” Maeve asked curiously when they finally left the house. “Are we taking two cars or just one. And if just one, then who is driving?”
“We can take my car if you don’t mind. And I can drive us to them. But on the way home, you can drive it,” Beckett suggested.
“Sounds perfect,” Maeve replied before taking a passenger’s seat.
The drive to the place took a little bit more than two hours, and they finally pulled into a driveway near to the two-story redbrick cottage. A small chimney poked out of the snow-dusted roof, and there were two little windows with plants on either side of the entrance that had an iron door knocker in the shape of the fallen star and a soccer ball. There was a greenfield on the side of the driveway with a children's playground off the road. The field and the driveway were already covered in a thin layer of snow. And it was still unhurriedly falling from the sky.
Getting out of the car, Beckett looked around. And a sigh left his lips. He was happy for his sister, and he hoped that someday he will be as happy as she is with a family of his own and a place that he could call home. Free from his mother, who was still trying to control every aspect of his life, still trying to meddle into something, in which she did not have a say. He was lost in thoughts until he was pulled out of them by a gentle touch on his elbow. He could feel the warmth from Maeve’s touch spread through his body, and a faint blush dusted his cheeks before he cleared his throat.
“Shall we?” Beckett asked, offering his hand for Maeve to take.
Without saying anything, she placed her hand on top of his. Their fingers interlacing, and the faint blush touched her cheeks. Taking a deep breath, they went toward the front door, trying to step carefully on the icy stairs leading to it, hearing excited children’s voices coming from the inside.
As soon as he reached for the door knocker, the door swung open, and two laughing children rushed at Beckett, who only had time to crouch in front of them, grabbing the girls and effortlessly lifting them into the air.
“Girls, let him go. It’s not very nice to meet your guests like that,” Katrina laughed, coming into the view, followed by Thomas. “Sorry, Bean,” she said, ignoring his attempt to object and giving him a kiss on the cheek before warmly hugging Maeve. “I’m so happy my brother finally got the courage and asked you to join us. I was nudging him for weeks,” she said, and Beckett felt how the tip of his ears turned pink, and he mumbled something inaudible.
“Glad you both could make it,” Thomas said, shaking Beckett’s hand and kissing Maeve’s, making both little girls erupt in a fit of giggles.
“Girls, be nice,” Katrina warned them, warmly raising her eyes at her fiancé, the silent dialogue passing between them before she turned back to girls leaning on their level. “Now, go to the kitchen and continue to chop more chili for Pozole. I’ll be back in a moment. I’m sure Beckett and Maeve would appreciate some quiet time in the study room to relax after their drive.” Katrina said to the girls, nudging them gently in the kitchen’s direction, and sending a meaningful look towards Thomas once again.
“It’s another thirty minutes till dinner will be served, and I’m sure you are tired from your journey,” Katrina said, looking after Thomas with a gentle smile before turning back to Beckett and Maeve.
“We can help,” they said in unison but were interrupted by Katrina, who ushered them on the second floor.
“You are our guests, so just relax, and I send girls after you when it will be time for dinner. Beckett, relax. I promise this won’t take long,” Katrina laughed, opening the door and looking at her brother, who shifted uneasily on a threshold before coming inside, followed by Maeve.
When they entered the study Beckett’s eyes widened in awe, landing on a massive oak bookcase along the wall. He had so many questions for Katrina he wanted to ask but before he could she left the study closing the door behind. Leaving the two of them in the privacy of the room lit only by the Christmas lights and the warm glow of the crackling fireplace. They shared an astonished look before Maeve turned her gaze at the books lying on the shelves, starting slowly move along the bookcase. Her attention was completely drawn to the variety of books that Thomas had, trying to ignore the way Beckett’s presence made her feel in the intimate atmosphere. But still feeling him with every bone and cell of her body, feeling the air electrifying in the room. His eyes not leaving her, admiring the way how the lights played in her hairs, bewitched by the way her fingertips gently grazed over the books’ bindings looking for the one that would catch her attention. She could feel him slowly move closer to the bookcase, picking one of the books he noticed from afar, filling the room with the rustling of pages. The books’ smell soothing her nerves, making her heart to calm, and she didn’t realize when the distance between the two of them got shorter.
Finally, after some time, she spotted the book in an old leather binding, stopping for a moment to take it from the shelf before turning around bumping straight into Beckett’s firm chest. His hands wrapped securely around Maeve’s waist, the book falling from his hand. His eyes darkened, locking on hers, and their hearts started to beat faster.
“Sorry, I didn’t see you,” she whispered, feeling how her voice betrayed her, and she raised her eyes, her gaze landing on the mistletoe right above them. The silent ohhhh left her lips, and her eyes widened, meeting Beckett’s. “I think--- you know, so not to break a Christmas tradition we… we must kiss,” she said, pointing him on the mistletoe above them, watching how his face flushed. Feeling how her own cheeks became warmer, and she lowered her eyes, trying to avoid his gaze.
Her heart thundered inside her chest, and her pulse rising, when she felt his knuckle resting under her chin, tilting her head up. His head inclined a little and his eyes meeting hers his blood setting aflame when she nibbled on her lower lip, rolling the pink flesh between her teeth. The air crackling with a tension between them, and he slowly lowered his head, his lips brushing hers in a fleeting kiss before pulling back slightly, murmuring against her lips. Their eyes closed, and their foreheads pressed together.
“If tradition obliges us to do so… who am I to decline,” whispered he, his lips meeting Maeve’s once again, hesitantly at first, breaking the kiss for a moment to look her deep in the eyes. Looking for any sign of doubt or hesitation in her eyes, but meeting none.
His thumb tentatively ran along her jaw before cupping the side of her head. Their eyes locked on each other breathing the same air, and his pulse quickened. He could feel how his head started to spin, intoxicated by her closeness, and he felt this inevitable pull between them. The one he felt every time they were close, the one he tried to resist these past months but this time--- this time he did not want to fight it anymore. Slowly he pulled her closer toward him, and their lips met. His tongue ran along the seam of her lips, silently asking her for permission to enter, feeling how her lips parted invitingly, and he slipped his tongue inside. Their kiss deepened, and his hand slide along the curves of her body, cupping her backside. Her body molding into his perfectly, and he groaned into their kiss, forgetting for a moment where they were. Their kisses growing heated, the fire of passion igniting between them, their tongues dancing together, and their lips move in unison. He groaned bringing her closer to his body, letting her know exactly what she was doing to him. His hand running lower along her body oblivious to the two pair of eyes watching them, until a fit of giggles broke them apart. And they heard a two set of legs running downstairs, cheerful scream following them through the house.
“Daaaaaad, uncle Beckett trying to swallow Maeve’s face, as you do sometimes with mum’s,” Luz giggled on the way downstairs, taking two steps at the time. Beckett’s eyes met Maeve’s with horror pooling in them. His cheeks visibly darkened with a blush, watching how unsuccessfully she tried to hide a chuckle behind her arm. And he could hear Thomas stammering voice ringing from the kitchen, followed by Katrina’s laugh.
“Luz, we… I… how? You aren’t supposed to see this,” he spattered, feeling how his face started to burn, turning crimson, looking at Katrina for support but getting met by her laugh.
Beckett and Maeve stood in a study room, looking at each other the silence hanging between them.
“I think we got carried away a little,” Maeve spoke first, a soft blush touching her cheeks and her eyes shining in such a way that left Beckett breathless. He took a step closer to her once again, his heart thundering in his chest, feeling how something changed between them, in this room, the mistletoe still hanging above them.
“I think they came up to let us know that dinner is served,” he whispered. His eyes dropping to Maeve’s lips, and he licked his own, feeling that they became dried out, and he swallowed hard. “We are still standing under it,” he nodded toward a plant. His lips brushed against hers before meeting them in a lingering kiss, not able to stop it even if he would want. It took them another couple of moments before they finally parted, pressing their foreheads together, Beckett’s hands still resting on Maeve’s waist, their eyes closed. “You go first,” Beckett whispered hoarsely, nudging her lightly toward the door.
“Don’t you think they are quite aware of what we were doing here? I bet your sister orchestrated all of this,” she said, rolling her eyes and stepping aside from Beckett to place a book back to the shelf before leaving the room.
A moment later, she felt Beckett catching up with her. His hand brushing hers before they enter the kitchen, blushing slightly when they were met by smirking gazes from Thomas and Katrina. The girls giggled, whispering something to each other before jumping from their seats excitedly, approaching Beckett and Maeve.
“Dinner is ready, may I ask, what took you so long?” Katrina asked. Her eyes met Beckett’s who lowered his gaze. His cheeks flushed, and the glossy pink lipstick was smeared over his lips, noticing the knowing glimpse in Katrina's eyes. But before he could reply anything, he felt two small hands taking his, watching Lydia grabbing Maeve’s hand and pulling them both toward the dining area.
In a moment, they stood in a cozy dining room festively decorated. His eyes widened when he looked around. The Christmas lights were lit around the room, the big Christmas tree stood in the corner, and a pile of wrapped gifts lay under the tree. And in the middle of the room stood table with various bowls and utensils on it emanating a divine smell from it. Not even a minute passed when they heard Katrina and Thomas calling them, bringing the plates of hot meals, and inviting everyone to take their seats around the table.
“You want to say that you made it all by yourself? As--- with your own hands?” Beckett asked, looking incredulously on the table in front of them laid for six persons.
“Why do you look so surprised?” Katrina chuckled, serving to everyone the main course.
“I just guess, I never expected you to become a cook,” Beckett smiled, taking a spoonful of Pozole feeling arresting flavor tickling his taste buds. His eyes closed in pleasure, and he moaned with delight. “Wow, Katrina, when did you become such a great cook?” he asked, raising his eyes to meet his sister's.
“I can’t take all the credit, brother. Say thanks to my little helpers over here and Thomas,” she replied, winking at girls.
“Yes, I and Lydia cut the chili peppers,” Luz said proudly. “And we also made a coo---,” she started to say before cease talking, catching Katrina’s warning gaze.
“What did you do----?” Thomas asked suspiciously, watching girls share conspiratorial smiles.
“Mum asked not to tell you, but you will find out soon,” she said, smiling proudly.
“Wait, did I imagine it, or did she call you mom for the second time today?” Thomas whispered to Katrina, watching her nod. “Where did this come from, not that I mind, even opposite it makes me the happiest person in the world, but she never…”
“We discussed that last week, and after a short talk, we agreed that this what we both want. You know considering---,” her voice trailed off, and she placed a soft peck to Thomas’ lips before adding quickly. “But it doesn’t mean that I am replacing Soledad. It just means that I love Luz just as much as Lydia and that you are my family,” Katrina whispered, raising her eyes and looking around the table. “You all are my family. The family I love and need,” she said, shaking her head when Beckett tried to object. Making it clear to him, that she already considers Maeve as part of their family, even though he stubbornly denies his feelings for her. And the way his eyes changed every time he looked at her thinking that no one sees made her think that he already falling in love with this girl, probably even not realizing it himself yet.
After they finished the Christmas dinner, it was time to unwrap the gifts and girls excitedly ran toward the tree, joined by adults in a moment. They all sat on the soft cushions that were placed around the Christmas tree. Both girls comfortably sitting on Thomas’ laps, when Katrina handed them their gifts, and they eagerly started to unwrap them. Huge excited smiles on their faces, when they got matching t-shirts with a text on them, “Big Sister TO BE”. Thomas looked at them with confusion, but before he could say anything Katrina took another two gifts handing them to her brother and Maeve, biting her lower lip while suppressing a smirk at Beckett’s shocked expression when he unwrapped his gift first. Taking out the baby bottle with a text that said, “Feed me”. His face paled, and he choked on the drink he just drank.
“How do you---” Beckett sputtered, ceasing to speak when he felt Maeve’s hand taking his and squeezing it firmly to attract attention, showing him her gift. A t-shirt that said, “Honorary Auntie”. His eyes widened when a realization hit him, and he looked at Katrina, watching her nod in confirmation. His eyes lighting up, and he smiled at his sister.
“Daddy, now our turn to give you our gift. We made it our self,” Luz said proudly, rushing toward the tree, taking everything on her way. Her body smashing into Beckett’s, sending him toward Maeve, and he wrapped his hands around her instinctively. Her hand pressed to his heart, feeling how it started to thunder inside his chest. The blush instantly creeping up his neck, coloring his cheeks pink. And he sputtered apology while his hand was still wrapped securely around her waist. Their eyes meeting, and they could feel the pull that started to draw them closer before Thomas’ voice pulled them to reality, making them instantly move away from each other. Their faces flustered, and they mumbled something avoiding each other gaze.
“Luz,” Thomas exclaimed before she was back with a gift in her arms. Lydia and she stood side by side, handing him a tin of cookies, their eyes glistening with joy, and they watched him closely. He slowly started to open the lid, saying a silent prayer, that it was not something dangerous, what Luz could consider a cool thing to have. In a moment, his eyes landed on a single gingerbread cookie with icing on it, and his eyes widened when he read the text. Blinking he read it once again. “Daddy to be… again”
He looked at Katrina, a silent question in his eyes, watching her nod in confirmation. And she hesitantly handed him a beautiful silver pen holder, that was engraved with the date that was about 9 months from now. His heart sped up when he opened it, and his eyes landed on the last gift from Katrina, the one that meant everything to him. Throwing a glimpse to the gift, he already guessed was in the box, he moved closer to Katrina wrapping his hands around her tightly. His lips found hers, kissing her passionately, murmuring between their kisses again and again “Thank you.”
The girls both scrunching their noses saying “Ewwwww.” in unison, making everyone laugh. Beckett’s hand hesitantly found Maeve’s, lacing his fingers through hers, giving it a light squeeze, sharing a subtle smile with each other.
“How… how long did you know?” Thomas asked, still holding Katrina in his arms.
“For a week,” she replied, hiding her face on his chest.
“Did… did girls know?”
“They found out the same day, and we came up together with all this plan. This was their idea to reveal this on Christmas Eve when all family will be together,” she clarified, smiling at Beckett and Maeve. Her gaze fleetingly slid to their interlaced fingers.
“Luz KNEW for a week?” Thomas exclaimed in amusement.
“Yes, daddy. You see, I can keep secrets when they are important.” Luz wagged her tongue, and everyone laughed, watching the little one sit with a proud look on her face.
“Are you happy?” Katrina asked hesitantly.
“I couldn’t wish for a better Christmas. The woman I love, amazing children, and family with whom we can share this news.”
“Merry Christmas,” said Katrina.
“Merry Christmas,” everyone replied, looking outside. Watching how the snow was falling to the ground, making it fluffy and white. Snowflakes slowly circled from the sky, the feeling of happiness filling the air.
Mother of the Year/ MC and Luz bonding + MC x Thomas Mendez
Summary: late one night Gloriana and Luz spend time together and bond over their small family.
Authors Note: I didn’t write last nights prompt (had to work early) so I hope I did okay on today's! Set after a time where MC and Thomas had their first child together. I just wanted to do something that wasn’t completely just a MC and LI pair so I hope this came out just as sweet as it would be the other way.
Gloriana stirred as she heard the whimpers coming from down the hall from the baby monitor. She blinked up for a minute and then headed for the door. Thomas shifted next to her but didn’t wake up as she opened the door to her sons’ room. From the crib big brown eyes blinked up at her and whimpered for her. Tears in his eyes reaching out for her as she hurried over to him.
“Oh, come here,” she said pulling him up and checked the diaper. Nope, just hungry, she thought and cradled him close. He made those cute baby noises as she just smiled. Moments like this was what she loved about having babies. “Yea let’s get comfy.”
She sighed rocking him some and headed down the steps. Luz still sleeping soundly as she rounded into the kitchen. She plugged the kettle in and found the hot chocolate packets because that was the best way to make it.
Once that was done, she settled down and unbuttoned the top of her nightshirt.
“Come on, latch on,” she said to him encouraging the infant. “I will not be outfoxed.”
She guided Nicolas’s head to her chest. He finally latched on as she fist pumped, score! He’d be done in about ten minutes or a half hour as she made herself comfy. Glancing down at him Gloriana smiled. He looked a lot like Thomas minus the fact that his skin was slightly tanner. She kissed his head as his tiny hand clung to her finger. It was moments like this where she was thrilled to have a baby.
Soon she found herself rummaging around for the tv remote. The only thing on this late would be… well anything since they had Netflix. Humming to herself and adjusting him, she looked at her to watch list. Jane the Virgin was next in the list.
About twenty minutes into the episode was the rustling from the kitchen. Cautiously she turned to the opening not to startle the young boy. From the corner of her eye she saw the flash of pajamas pass by the living room door. She knew that pair from countless loads of laundry.
Stepping in front of her and froze up a little was Luz holding a class of chocolate milk.
“Luz what are you doing up?” she whispered.
“Getting a drink of water…”
The young girl looked down at her glass and sheepishly pulled it back as if she hadn’t already seen it. Gloriana just giggled and shook her head patting the spot next to her. It was Friday she’d let it slide. She paused her tv show as Luz shuffled across the hardwood floor.
“It’s okay I have hot chocolate,” she said holding up her mug.
They clinked together their cups cheering to each other. It was quiet as she switched the show to something both would enjoy. Scrolling through the list she stopped on something that they would watch. Which just so happened to be Ducktales, although not necessarily the same one she had watched growing up.
She turned on the newest episode as they enjoyed it together. All while trying to stay quiet in order not to wake Thomas. He had to go in tomorrow despite it being the weekend because he wanted to put in hours on at least one Saturday a month. She only wished that Lucia would be here, but she was with Guy. It gave her more time to spend with her step daughter though.
The episode ended and Nicolas was asleep in her arms was it quiet. Luz’s eyes started to flutter up and down trying to keep her own self awake. Then finally turned the focus to her and smiled at her.
“Does that hurt when you feed him like that mom?” she asked not thinking about it.
Gloriana gasped more to herself and felt her heart beat wildly in her chest. Luz was usually good at calling her by her first name, so this was the first time she called her mom. She adjusted Nicolas on her shoulder and burped him.
“At first it does but not anymore,” she said smiling shyly at her. Keep it cool she thought and bit her bottom lip. “Luz that’s the first time you’ve called me mom.”
She paused and felt her heart flutter getting excited at the thought of being call that. In a weird way it made her feel happier then she thought it would. Maybe it was the hormones from the birth but that was touching and nearly made her want to cry. Smiling more to herself Gloriana pulled her into the best side hug she could do.
“Thank you.”
Luz thought about it but didn’t really look at her nodding and then shook her head. “Actually, it’s not really,” she admitted, “I tell the kids at school that your my mom all the time.”
“Really?”
“Yea, I mean the thing is, I kind of, well I see you as my mom,” said Luz looking at Gloriana. “I mean, you’ve been great helping take care of me and I love that I’m sisters with Lucia. You make my dad really happy and I love you.”
Okay now she felt like crying and wanted to squeeze her into a tight regular hug but couldn’t because she was holding a baby.
“I love you too Luz and I’m really happy to hear you call me mom. I just don’t want to ever think that I’m replacing your birth mom though. I mean she loves you and we both want you to be happy.”
Luz paused and nodded a small sad smile on her face. Pulling her close Gloriana stroked her hair back and kissed her head. It was quiet as she just felt her breathing against her shoulder.
“Thank you,” she said in a small voice. “I don’t remember my mom much well anymore and I miss her, but I really like having you here. You’re my family and too and I don’t ever want to lose you too.”
Ok there was that tug in her chest as she sighed and hugged her tighter.
“Oh Luz, Lucia and I aren’t going anywhere. If you ever want to talk about her or anything. You can always find me or your dad okay? I don’t ever want you to feel as if you can’t. We’re a family and we stick together,” she said as Luz nodded and smiled at her.
Luz nodded. “Thanks mom,” she said.
“Now we should probably get to bed, I don’t think that we should be found awake when your dad gets up at five. Would you like to help me put your brother back to bed?”
Luz nodded and stretched out leaving Gloriana to yawn and pushed aside the nursing pillow she had used. She bit her bottom lip and followed up the steps to the bedrooms. Together the two girls scurried to the nursery. She laid him in the cot flat on his back and Luz made sure everything was put away.
“Want me to put you to bed now?” she asked to her daughter.
“I think I’m good but thanks for the talk.”
Giving her a proper hug this time, the two headed to their rooms. Heading to the bed and climbed in next to Thomas she smiled to herself. Next to her Thomas’s eyes fluttered open some and saw her. She leaned in and kissed his lips softly while his hand wrapped around her waist. Lazily he rubbed a circle around the small of her waist soothing he.
Pulling apart she cupped his face and rubbed her thumb against his cheek.
“Did he go down okay?”
“Perfect.” His dark eyes glancing down at her and his hand slowly going to her slight tummy she had from the birth. “Perfect,” she muttered kissing his cheek this time. Then on her forehead and then down a bit and pulled apart slightly. “And I have something to tell you tomorrow too. Just have a good day at work.”
She couldn’t wait to tell him what happened but refrained. She could only hope that Thomas would understand. He nodded at her not letting go of her. Briefly, she closed her eyes as Thomas closed his own eyes.
“I love you Gloriana and…” She could feel the warm radiating off his body and closed the gap between them letting her head rest against hi chest. “I love you.”
“I love you too.”
With that they fell asleep in each other’s arms until morning when they would do it all over again the next day.
Book: Mother of the Year (about one month after the end)
Word Count: ~1500
Rating: PG (some mild innuendo)
Summary: Levi hadn’t had a reason to celebrate any holidays for a long time.
Author’s Note: Alright, started off Hanukkah with a Seth piece, let’s end it with a piece featuring my newest Jewish LI, Levi. Just starting to dabble in some MOTY fic here. I loved that book a lot and found all the LIs really compelling, so even though it’s a standalone, I’m still gonna play around with these characters. This piece is for Day 29 of both the Choices December Challenge (Sunset) and Day 30 of 41 Days of Cheer (Celebration) because I am unabashedly working time zones to my advantage here.
Levi hadn’t played dreidel in years. Nah, scratch that. It had been several decades. That fact made him feel older than the fact that he was at a point in his life where dating a woman with a 10 yo kid was a reasonable thing ever did.
Honestly, Levi had never really felt that connected to his faith. If someone had pushed him on it, he’d have to say he really didn’t believe in anything spiritual or religious. Being Jewish to him was more about his connection to his family, and as he got older, he knew he’d gotten more and more disconnected there. It was just strange, being the unmarried, intermittently unemployed uncle, so often, he’d chosen to work instead of going to his grandmother’s for any of the holidays.
But when Zoey had asked him about Hanukkah across the dinner table the other night, he’d been caught off guard. She was so genuinely curious, because of course that smart little nerd wanted to know everything.
“Levi, you’re Jewish, right?” she’d asked between bites of spaghetti.
“Yeah, why are you asking, Rocket?”
“Well, we were learning about winter holidays in my world cultures class, and Ensley was talking about how she got the new iPhone for Hanukkah, and I was just wondering if you celebrated Hanukkah or not. I’ve never been Jewish or anything, so I don’t know exactly how it works.”
Levi had swallowed his mouthful of spaghetti before he answered, “Uh, I haven’t really celebrated Hanukkah in a few years.”
“Why not?”
“Haven’t had anyone to celebrate with, I guess.”
“Do you have to be Jewish to celebrate Hanukkah? Because we could celebrate with you, right mom?”
Tara had locked eyes with him, clearly trying to make sure he was okay with Zoey’s plan. They hadn’t really talked about his background, so he was grateful that she was trying to gauge his feelings about the topic, but he honestly didn’t care. If Zoey wanted to try out Hanukkah, who was he to throw a fit about that? So he’d shrugged and given Tara a little smile. And that’s how he found himself on the floor around the coffee table now, playing a game of dreidel with the two of them.
“So, all you do is spin the top? That’s it?” asked Zoey, a skeptical look on her face that was almost comical.
“That’s it, Rocket.”
She frowned at that, “But there’s no strategy then. It’s all just luck.”
“Yup.”
“Huh, that’s kinda boring.”
“Zoey!” chided Tara, shooting a look at her daughter, “Don’t be rude. You were the one who wanted to celebrate Hanukkah, remember?”
Zoey bit her lip and looked down before glancing up at Levi. “Sorry, Levi. I didn’t mean to say your game was boring. I’m sure it will be a lot of fun.”
Levi just shrugged, “No worries, Rocket. I didn’t make the rules.”
And so they’d started a game, using some leftover rocket parts as their pieces, passing around the little top and taking their turns. But after about 50 rounds, Levi could sense not only Zoey getting antsy, even though she was trying her damnedest to sit still and stay interested, but Tara was also frequently checking the time on her phone when she thought no one was looking. Levi honestly couldn’t blame them. He’d forgotten how long and dull dreidel games could be. In fact, he was impressed that Zoey had stuck with it as long as she had.
“Hey, Rocket?”
“Yeah, Levi?”
“I think you’re right. This is a boring game.”
Zoey blinked at him before giving him a bright smile. Tara just shook her head.
“It’s not that bad, Levi.”
“Nah, you don’t have to pretend. I totally forgot how long this could drag on. I don’t know how I had the patience for it as a kid. So what do you say, kiddo? Should we call it?”
Zoey looked between him and Tara, who gave her a slight nod. Zoey paused for just a second longer before nodding, “If that’s okay with you guys.”
“Completely fine with me,” said Levi, “It’s just a little game to pass the time, anyway.”
“Thanks, babe,” said Tara, squeezing his shoulder as she stood up, wandering into the kitchen to check on the frozen lasagna she had in the oven. Not exactly traditional Hanukkah food, but hey, nothing about him or Tara’s life was exactly traditional.
Levi hefted himself off the floor and onto the couch, watching as Zoey much more nimbly hopped up and took a seat on the couch next to him.
“Is there something else we could do to celebrate Hanukkah?” she asked him as she crossed her legs beneath her on the couch.
Levi paused for a moment, trying to think of what he could share with her. He wasn’t sure if any of the chocolate he had was safe for her, and handing out candy right before dinner seemed like a great way to annoy Tara. He didn’t own a menorah. Suddenly, an idea hit him.
“Did your world cultures teacher tell you about the reason we celebrate Hanukkah?”
Zoey nodded proudly, “Yup! It’s because after the Maccabees fought and reclaimed their temple from the Syrians, they only had one jar of oil for light. They sent out someone to get more oil, and when he got back eight days later, that tiny jar of oil was still burning.”
“Exactly. That’s why we celebrate after sunset and usually light candles. Basically, a lot of the shi… stuff Jewish people do to celebrate Hanukkah focuses on oil or light. And I bet you have something squirreled away in your bedroom that uses some oil.”
Zoey chewed on her lip for a couple of seconds before she answered, “Well, the engine kit I got from Luz and Thomas for Christmas uses oil, but that’s a different type of oil.”
“Well, I say the type of oil doesn’t matter one bit. So what do you say, how about we work on that after dinner?”
She grinned brightly at him. “I’ll go get things ready,” she said as she climbed off the couch and bounded into her room.
“Only five minute until dinner!” cried out Tara, “And you need to wash your hands before then!”
Some muffled sounds of agreement drifted out of Zoey’s room. Deciding to see if Tara needed any help, Levi strolled over to the kitchen. “How can I be of assistance?”
Tara glanced up from the green beans see was stirring on the stove top. “The bread could use slicing. It’s on top of the fridge.”
“On it.”
As he grabbed a cutting board from the cabinet and the serrated knife from the drawer, Tara spoke again, grabbing the oven mitts and pulling the lasagna from the oven.
“Quite the history lesson I got there. All I knew about Hanukkah prior to tonight I learned from Adam Sandler.”
Levi laughed at that, “Chanukah Song or Eight Crazy Nights?”
“Both, of course! It’s a shame it’s the last night, though. Otherwise we could have had eight crazy nights of our own.”
Levi turned to face her at that, stepping closer so that they were practically touching. “That is a shame. I guess we’ll really have to make tonight count, then,” he said, wiggling his eyebrows comically. Tara smirked at him at that, but any response she might make was cut off as Zoey bounded into the room.
“Hands all washed, Mom,” she said, walking into the kitchen and grabbing three sets of silverware out of the drawer as she went to set the table, oblivious to what she’d just interrupted.
“Levi’s just finishing up slicing the bread, then we’ll be all set,” said Tara, stepping away from him, turning back to the stove, and grabbing the green beans to drain. He had to marvel at her ability to go from sexy as hell to mom mode without missing a beat, but as she brushed past him, she oh so casually dragged her hand across the front of his jeans, throwing him a wink.
Levi just shook his head, grateful that he had a few moments of slicing the bread to redirect his thoughts, calm down enough to get back in the family mindset. Compartmentalizing was something he was getting better at since he started seeing Tara, but she was still infinitely better at it than him. Probably because she had years of experience compared to his few months. And while with other girlfriends, an innuendo-laced conversation like that would have led to a burnt and late dinner, Levi honestly didn’t mind having to wait until Zoey was in bed. Tara was worth it. They both were worth it. So he sliced the bread and joined his two favorite girls at the dinner table. He never thought this would be his life, but it was amazing how comfortable it felt. It felt nice, and honestly - it was probably the best holiday gift he’d ever received.
Summary: it’s raining, and Thomas expects his day to be ruined, but who knew that the bad weather on his wedding was good luck.
Authors Note: So I was going to write an Open Heart for today but pushing back for tomorrow (it fills it better). Instead it’s mother of the year story in honor of the book ending. I wish it wasn’t and I’m pretty sure I’ll do a couple of more with this book (especially Luz and Thomas).
Also wondering if anyone would be interested in seeing a story with Guy’s point of view? Like how he’s alone and his ex has this new life and catches a sweet moment kind of thing? Let me know. For the 41 days of cheer day 13: weather. Happy reading.
Thomas looked down at the weather report his eyes wide before silently cursing under his breath. No. No. Nooooo, he thought desperate at the weather forecast. It was going to rain on today of all days. That meant that he had to move the party inside and that wasn’t going to be nearly as fun if they couldn’t grill anything. Dang it, he just wanted today to go over well.
Frowning he rubbed his head for a moment. Too bad he couldn’t call Gloriana about it, because one she was with Alma. Two she didn’t even know about the surprise party afterward anyway.
“Dad!” called Luz from down the hall. She threw open his door before flying over and landing on top of the bed. “It’s Friday! You have to get ready the wedding is at noon. Woo, we get to miss school for the wedding!” With each word she was bouncing little by little.
“Luz come on, I have to braid your hair!” called Lucia down the hall. He glanced at the clock and surprised to see that it was ten already. Oh no. Ok not only was the weather going to ruin his wedding day but he was going to be late too.
Shooing her out the door Thomas found his favorite green tie and the rest of his nice clothes. Making sure he looked okay did he check his watch and start toward Luz’s room. To think the one next to hers would be Lucia’s.
From the door he stopped and smiled watching them for a minute. Lucia had done some sort of double French braid before combining it into one. Luz making sure that their dresses were okay before slowly putting everything on. They looked beautiful dressed in knee length gowns perfect for the courthouse and everyday wear.
Stomach flip flopping he went into the room and sat down at the edge of the bed.
“You girls look great,” said Thomas rubbing his leg a little. “Luz do you care if I talk to Lucia alone for a minute?”
His daughter smiled at him before turning to the door.
“I’m going to wait in the car,” she said before tapping a finger on her wrist, pretending she was wearing a watch. “Don’t be late, we can’t have everyone waiting.”
With that he was left alone with Lucia who had finished putting her hair supplies up. Smiling shyly at him Lucia sat down next to Thomas on the bed. It was quiet before he took her hand and adjusted so he could sit directly in front of her.
“Today is a big day for your mom and I, but I know that it’s going to be a big day for you too. You’ll have another dad in your life and a sister,” he said taking a breath watching for her reaction. Lucia just nodded solemnly but didn’t say anything. “I know we talked about it before and I just wanted to check in with you. Do I still have your blessing to marry your mom?”
Lucia’s eyes grew wide before breaking out into a laugh and nodded her head up and down empathetically.
“Of course, Thomas, you’re great and you really make mom happy. I can’t imagine you not being with her. I don’t think that you need my permission, but it’s still a yes.”
A bit relieved that she said he just pulled her into a hug before kissing the top of her head. Lucia grinned before kissing his cheek back.
“You’re pretty strong Lucia Day and I would’ve hated to hear you say no,” said Thomas before pulling her off the bed and then down to the car.
Luz was impatiently waiting before waving for them to hurry. That was just a short talk, but they must get there on time. Gloriana was going to be waiting and he couldn’t wait to see her walk down that aisle. Even if it was just at the courthouse.
To his dismay it was starting to rain as they pulled into a parking spot. Producing umbrella’s, he headed inside to find that Alma was already there looking for them.
“Come on lover boy, nearly everyone is here the only person that’s not here yet is Eiko and she told us that she would be. Did you leave the key so that Marcus could get in to start setting up for the party?”
She wheeled over as they started down the hall. He nodded filling her in on that they would have to move everything inside. Lucia had taken one of his hands as he smiled at her Luz had ran ahead to get the front row seats.
“Thomas,” said Lucia as they stood just outside the doors of the courthouse wedding room. It was a pretty sweet set up if it wasn’t raining the stain glass would be beautiful. Plenty of light and could seat up to twenty even though they only had ten. “Congratulations, I can’t wait to move in with you and Luz next week.”
She hummed going forward and sat on her mother’s side of the church. Thomas just walked down the aisle first reaching the justice of the peace. The girls had stood together talking to themselves. His parents had made it in and waved to him. Eiko had slipped to an empty seat near them. Levi had taken a seat on Gloriana’s side of the room. Thomas had to frown as he saw Guy sitting there. Probably because his days with Lucia technically started when school let out. Whatever the reason he was there, he wasn’t going to push it.
Despite the rain thundering down and he could hear the excited chatter from behind the door. Finally, the doors in the back had opened at precisely noon sharp.
Gloriana walked down the aisle holding her dad’s arm. A gorgeous lace white gown showed off her every curve. The gown simple to wear anywhere as it reached midcalf length and her hair thrown up into intricate braids.
“Ahh don’t you two look nice,” teased the justice of the peace, Bernadette who had met them after jogging one day.
Gloriana had smiled at him nice and wide twirling ever so slightly to where the dress fanned out. Her brown eyes bright and wide as they met each other’s.
“Thomas and Gloriana, today you enter as individuals, but you will leave here as husband and wife, blending your lives, expanding your family ties, and embarking upon the grandest adventure of human interaction,” said Bernadette.
Taking each other’s hands Thomas squeezed hers as the final I dos were said.
His lips had found hers at the words you may kiss the bride his arms encircling her waist. Now this, this was the best part of his day. Gloriana had cupper chis cheek before parting. Lucia and Luz cheering from the sidelines.
“I love you Thomas and I can’t imagine not having you in my life,” she said softly. “You know they say it’s good luck to have rain on your wedding day.”
They heard the thumping again from above as he shook his head. “Huh, you think I should have known that,” he said teasing her keeping her close to him.
Straightening up they stayed close together just smiling nonstop.
“Wait, before everyone leaves, we do have something that I want to say,” said Thomas as Lucia and Luz stood up. “Girls?”
“Our surprise is that we have something waiting at home mom.” Lucia paused for a moment not sure what to call Thomas’s house now. After all she was moving in with them next week.
“It’s party time mom,” said Luz cheerfully as Gloriana pulled her into a hug from behind. “Everyone here is invited except…” She paused and seemed to catch herself before playfully turning around. “Unless you are free Bernadette.”
The adults just laughed as Thomas was relieved that she didn’t say Guy. Although he did like how his face slacked at hearing Luz call Gloriana mom in front of everyone. Forgetting about that situation Gloriana had laced her fingers through his.
“You planned a party?” she asked, “well that is great gift.”
“And it’s gets better,” he whispered kissing her cheek softly. There was nothing that could get in their way. “Alma said that she would watch Luz. We could…”
“It’s perfect,” she said grinning. “Who know we might get a baby of our own.”
He flushed and started to stammer before just shaking his head. They were still young enough to have another baby. Who knows? Maybe he would have a third beautiful daughter come along. Still holding hands, they walked out of the courthouse hand in hands ready to party.
Summary: Gloriana has her baby and everyone seems to bring the same gift.
Authors Note: while I decide what to write my next story based on, I’m going to do another Mother of the Year. I might do D&D tomorrow or try to write something I haven’t before. I guess we’ll see! Enjoy I have plenty of stories to go around for the month.
Gloriana Mendez (nee Day) wasn’t sure which was worse carrying a baby during the summer or the winter. On one hand it was hot in the summer and everything was just uncomfortable. On the other hand, at least the roads might not be closed. Which they were last night when they came in because of a near whiteout.
That didn’t matter as she held her son in her arms. Brown eyes blinked up at her and whimpered. The green baby blanket around him was wrapped around him and pressed to her chest. Tiny fingers wrapped around her pointer finger. Her own eyes not leaving the tiny face.
“Gloriana,” said Thomas as he snapped her out of staring. “You did a great job bringing him into the world.” He leaned in and pressed his lips to hers pulling her as close as he can. She kissed back eager before separating and rested their foreheads pressed against each other.
“He looks like you, He has your smile,” she said exhausted and laid back on the pillows around her. “We should let everyone in to meet him. Or at least get Lucia and Luz in here.”
“Well we have to give him a name first,” said Thomas looking down at the infant. They had several names in mind of what to pick. Including the kind that would work in English and Spanish since they agreed on having a name that was part of their heritages. Since his family was from Mexico and hers from Honduras it seemed natural to have a Spanish like name. “He’s not a Lucas or a Luis like we thought….”
She smiled at him and shook her head agreeing. Adjusting on the bed she moved for him to hold the infant. Thomas picked him up and grinned he was so handsome and pressed a kiss on his small head. Lucia had dozed off next to him some drool escaping her lips as he wiped it off for her.
“He looks like a Nicolas,” she mumbled and curled up next to her husband.
Looking down Thomas could see it too. He kissed her head and took him completely from her arms. He was so tiny and vulnerable. Gloriana nodded off completely as he held the infant close to him this time. Nicolas shifted but didn’t really cry out. He had a son and that same fuzzy feeling as holding Luz for the first time returned.
“I love you,” he whispered his finger being wrapped around by his small hand. “Yea I already like being your dad.”
The knock on the door startled him out of the moment and went over to Gloriana waking her up. After making herself a little presentable did they let in their first guests. Lucia and Luz peered over to the baby in her arms. They could only see the girl’s anxious faces turn to an excited one. Brown eyes sparkling and whispering between them.
“We pulled our money together and got him a gift,” said Luz proudly. “Tada!”
Lucia had handed Thomas a small bag and pulled out a blue hat. It was tiny with golden stars decorating it and a pouf at the top.
“We couldn’t get the whole set, but I think it works,” said Lucia. “See it has stars on it and it’s really tiny.”
“Or if it’s still too big he can grow into it,” added Luz.
“You girls want to look at your brother?” asked Gloriana this time now fully alert and more awake then before.
Cautiously they stepped forward and looked at Nicolas. Luz had made a face with smile on the infant’s face. Lucia had hugged Thomas and peered over at him waving softly as if he’d see her.
“Hi,’ said Lucia her voice small. “I’m your sister Lucia and this is your other sister Luz.”
The small family gathered around and watched him for a moment before having to give him to a nurse for any farther testing and the birth certificate information.
About an hour passed before finally, other friends could enter the room next. Not all at once of course since they didn’t want to overwhelm the baby. Levi rushed in first since he just came in by himself. This time holding a small gift of his own.
“I have a gift it’s small, but weather inspired. His first snow hat,” said Levi adjusted to look at the baby. Gloriana laughed seeing the bright red hat that looked a little like Santa’s. “He’s an adorable kid. You call me when he’s old enough to learn tools or guitar. Oh, who am I kidding? I might already be there.”
“You can show me tools,” said Luz nodding at him.
The two shared a fist bumped before Alma and her husband came in next. She had married her long-time boyfriend last year and it was nice to see them happy together. Levi even had a spring in his step it seemed.
Next the duo came in and Alma rolled in clapping when she saw them.
“He’s so cute and tiny. You enjoy this before he learns how to say no trust me on that my nephew loves saying it,” said Marcus.
“I know you have a lot of clothes already but since he’s born during a snow storm, I figured why not get a hat? His head is probably cold and I’m glad got here first because Eiko has one too I’m told,” said Alma pressing the gift to them. “Let me see the baby!”
Giggling she only passed him over for the two to take turns holding. Gloriana had a feeling that others would have that mind set and they would need space for hats. There was three all in one day with more coming. That didn’t seem to matter though as she pulled Luz and Lucia close to her. They had the present first.
“You girls are going to be great big sisters, your is better.”
Gloriana kissed their heads and pulled them close watching everyone around them. Now was the moment that she loved.
“Oh, I know we are,” said Luz proudly. “And nobody could say otherwise.”
“And he’ll never go hatless in winter,” said Lucia giggling.
Together she and Thomas laughed alongside the girls. The snow day had to inspire the gift for the day. She just shook her and nodded along, if they knew it then there was nothing left to say. They were going to enjoy being a family together.
