Sloane: It is certainly...concluded Sloane: You're asking a six month pregnant woman if she's feeling LIGHTER? Sloane: I'm kidding. Honestly yes, i'm not happy about how it all went down but i'm glad it's all just...not only in my head anymore.

Bora: It's not an ideal conclusion but it's a conclusion nonetheless. Bora: You feeling lighter now it's all out in the open? @dancingdanvers

Sloane: Nope, Axel didn't wan't us to do one because he said we didn't NEED anything. I said boo you I want to open presents

text thread | 📲 bradley x sloan

Bradley: do you have a gift registry for the baby?

“Yeah…yeah that’s fair I can understand that.” Sloane sniffed as she hugged her big brother, annoyed because she knew the tears were going to come thanks to hormones. She had literally no control over it anymore - even though she wasn’t upset in a bad way he was here, not by a long shot, she still ended up in tears. As his eyes searched his face she nodded, quick to bring her hands up to brush away the wetness from her cheeks, even though it was moments later replaced with more. 

“I’m okay, even though I know crying isn’t going to make any of that seem true but I really am. It was a mess for a while but…” Sniffing again she wiped at her nose with the back of her hands, avoiding her brothers eye contact so as not to dissolve into emotions again. “It’s all much better now. Uh…I found out I was pregnant about…four months ago - I’m six months now.” She wasn’t going to go into any more detail about how it happened because this was her brother after all and just, no. “I wasn’t really seeing anyone seriously, or like dating anyone or anything.” God there was so much to fill him in on she was just now realising as she stood in front of someone who knew zero of the story. 

“Yes…please. I’d love that.” Had she been pissed off by how Soren cut the family off? Yes. Hurt too, but now he was back, and with the daunting things going on in her life she wasn’t going to straight up spit in the face of someone who didn’t even have the facts. “You have a shit load to fill me in on too, you’re not off the hook.” Giving him a warning glance. 

Soren actually couldn't remember the last time he'd seen his sister when it wasn't through a FaceTime call or pictures on social media, so it was almost strange seeing her in person for the first time in... well, a really fucking long time. But even more so when he couldn't help but look to her baby bump that was pretty hard to go unnoticed now.

"I didn't want to risk mom and dad finding out." Soren wrapped his arms around his sister to return the hug, and when it was over he let his eyes search her face. "Are you okay? Like, what the fuck? When did this happen? I didn't know you were seeing anyone." Not that it was really any of his business who Sloane saw, it was more so the fact that he'd successfully put distance between himself and his family, and while he thought that would be the best for him, he was now wondering if he should've tried to stay in contact better. There was even a twinge of hurt in him that he had to find out he'd be an uncle this way. But it was his own fault.

"Let me take you to lunch and we can catch up?"

@dancingdanvers

Sloane: Your cousin can suck it, i'm doing it Sloane: trustttt me it IS - huge Sloane: well that's why i'm your friend, you do the business decisions, i do all the other ones :P The perfect duo Sloane: I'm sure you were eh...fine

Fia: I would tell you to pay the favor in return if I were to ever have one, but my cousins would have you beat. Fia: It better be noteworthy news! Fia: I have a killer instinct when it comes to business decisions because its just facts and numbers. Everything else, oy. Fia: I think I was rather great at six, but whatever!

Sloane: I didn't doubt i would be in good hands Sloane: You'll be glad I didn't tell you over text when you get hereeeeeee ;) Sloane: Yes well, that's dumb and i've told you so. Stop dying in the process - start killing instead. Trust me it's much less painful honey Sloane: I prefer a name that is not straight out of baby Fia's six year old mouth!

Fia: See. You'll be in good hands. You're welcome. Fia: Fine, fine, fine. 👀 Fia: I know, I'm the more wholesome one out of the two us. Except I die in the process on the way to the top of the hill. FIa: Yes, the ho-ha. That's what I called it up until I was 6 apparently. AKA the VJJ.

Sloane: Okay - i love ALL these things Sloane: Because it's too big of a deal to tell you over TEXT Sloane: HA see, I wouldn't say some bullshit like that. Hormonal or otherwise. Sloane: .... Sloane: the ho-ha?

Fia: It's gonna be FABULOUS. Good food, fun drinks, games, photos, prizes, and of course the opening of gifts. Fia: Hmmmmm...why can't you just say it now?! Fia: Was trying to trick you. Was going to say your empathetic side due to the hormones were shining through. Fia: You never know. They could come out the ho-ha and be like "HI MAMA!"

Sloane: Okay, damn that's actually really exciting. I'm excited to see vibe options now. Sloane: OH also I have something to tell you when you get here this weekendddd Sloane: When did I tell you that? That sounds literally nothing like me I was obviously lying Sloane: Oh THANKS. You're doing me such a huge favour. I think I have like....a WHILE before it comes out the baby's mouth

Fia: Okay, I'll text you vibes and you can just let me know which one you like. But of course, run it by Axel. Fia: I know people. They can be my hands and eyes to track his movement. Fia: Not everything has to be so serious! That's what you told me. Fia: Well it's practice so you don't cringe or have a full panic attack when the baby says it for the first time.

Sloane: Well i mean...if you wanted to i'm not going to STOP you...i love a party. Especially when it's all about meeee Sloane: Lol, i'd pay good money to watch that altercation go down Sloane: hmm...I don't know...people not taking it seriously would probably make me want to smack my head against a wall Sloane: Or theirs. Sloane: Don't call me mom! One person gets to do that and i'm not ready for it to start happening yet oml

Fia: Yeah, why not? Everyone deserves to have one if they can! Fia: Well, I will handle him if he tries it. Lock him in a room until the party starts or something. Fia: Nah, you can spin it for like fun birthday parties or bachelorette/bachelor party activity for the adults! Fia: Unless you know you're trying to have the next Dance Moms. Fia: No thanks. I'm good. Well equipped with how the birds and bees works. Thank you mom.

Sloane: Throw me a shower? You'd really want to do that? Sloane: Umm, i don't know if Axel knows how to not use his money I have to be honest, he hears one word of you throwing us a shower he will try to pay Sloane: this is true....okay i'm not teaching a bunch of Karen's to dance, but I like the idea of cultivating the talents of future Prima's Sloane: PFFTTT - we'll go in the guest room like furthest away from the master, you won't hear anything unless you're TRYING to

Fia: I mean the basic blue, pink, or green/yellow is so boring. Spices it up a bit when you have a theme of course. Fia: Honestly, you should just let me throw it for you. We just gotta get your registry together and Axel is not allowed to use his money. Just give me a guest list and leave the rest to me. Fia: You could offer both competitive and noncompetitive options for kids. Maybe even some adult dance classes for fun! Fia: You better shower before you hop back in bed with me. 😑 I'm a light sleeper, so don't be causing too much ruckus.

Sloane: What do you mean we can do it neutral, boho, a color, a theme...? Like, that's how people do it? Sloane: Well your adjacent uncle is hot as fuck and him in protective dad mode is a real turn on apparently. Words I never thought i'd ever say. Sloane: Maybe, like open a dance studio or something. I just miss performing, you know? Sloane: FINE - drama queen :P probably works better tbh, that means i can sneak back into his bed when you fell asleep for a quickie before coming back to our room HAHAA

Fia: Yeah, like we can do it neutral, boho, a color, a theme and your guest have to comply. The last one I went to was an Alice in Wonderland theme and you had to come dressed as a character or in a shade of baby blue. Fia: Ew. But cute. But also Ew. Remember he's like an adjacent uncle. Fia: If you couldn't make it back on the big stage, would you maybe want to teach in a more professional role? Fia: No offense, but I don't know if I want to lay where ya'll get it on. So, I'm fine with the next best room haha.

Sloane: Huh, the more you know I guess Sloane: it's actually kind of adorable and sexy, I can't lie. He's being so caring it makes his dumb face even more kissable. Sloane: Age is a factor but...i don't know. We'll see. I want to go back. Like, a lot. Sloane: Do it!! he can go into a guest room and we can go in the big bed. Or he can stay in the master and we'll go into a guest room or something. Sleepover!!!

Fia: Oh yeah. You're supposed to show and be the guest of honor. Dolled and everything. Invite whoever you want. Get a registry and they can only come in if they sent or brought a gift. Fia: It's so funny to see him go all PROTECTIVE MODE. Fia: Ehh, I don't know all the rules with ballet, but if you have the talent and the drive, why the heck not? Fia: Uh...so I was gonna shoot him a text and just be like can I crash there when I come into town? I gave up my rental.

Sloane: If it makes you feel any better, sometimes I feel like I don't have a sister sooo... Sloane: not really. Is it? See, I know nothing about this shit. I'm not really expecting one at this point - it's no biggie. Sloane: This....is very true. Plus he'll probably insist on like, getting us driven there and back in some huge car. Sloane: My age is going somewhere though, and that somewhere is UP. Sloane: YAY! staying at Axel's with me for how many nights please?

Fia: I mean I know you have a sister...but I would like to put my bid in for godmother if I am allowed. Fia: Did you have ideas yet?? Technically it's supposed to be thrown for you and you just show up and have all eyes on you. Fia: Yes, yes, He's gonna Airtag you. I'll get a 5 hour lecture to keep you guys safe. Fia: You do it at your own pace. The ballet is not going anywhere. Fia: Yup! Thursday night to Sunday night.

Sloane: Yay!! Good news indeed Sloane: Terminally tired. Can't even be bothered to think about things like a baby shower or hospital bag let alone organise them. Sloane: Ughhhh I wishhhhhhh - maybe I can convince him to let me come up for a couple of days though. Well not convince him, I can do what the fuck I want, but you know what I mean Sloane: Depends how long it takes me to 'snap back' or whatever i guess. Sloane: You're back here at the weekend right?

Fia: Much better. Got cleared by the docs to resume activities per normal. Fia: I miss you too babe!How are you? Fia: It's good to be back home and see old faces again. You sure I can't convince Axel to just keep you here with me until you're due? Fia: You definitely should!

Text || Sloane & Fia 💛🥰💄

Sloane: How is your head?  Sloane: Don’t tell anyone I said this but I miss you Sloane: How is LA?  Sloane: I’ve been thinking of looking into the LA Ballet Company for after the baby is born, or maybe San Diago @fiaxsousa

Sloane didn’t turn around when she heard Astrid’s tone of voice, swallowing hard as she pulled a face while still looking away. There it was, the disbelief, not judgment but certainly … surprise. To say the least, the very least. “You know…how I was sleeping Jake and Axel overlapping for a little while…” She tried to tiptoe around the issue at hand, feeling pangs of guilt in her chest when she remembered how Jake had found out about it all. “Well I ended up needing to do a paternity test obviously. We talked about that.” Finally turning around she twisted her fingers together, hands in front of her chest. “Well, turns out Axel is actually the baby’s father. Even though I slept with him far less than Jake in that...window.”

Astrid felt selfish, she felt selfish because she wasn't there for her friend and made it all about herself. Yes, she knew she needed to be sad too about her own breakup but she didn't have to leave Sloane all alone at that party and flea the scene, "Okay," She said as she followed the woman. When Astrid heard what the woman said she was filled up with a complete shock, "Sloane...what do you mean the baby's real dad??"

@dancingdanvers

“Right, of course, that was about he time you…stopped being around.” Around was a strong way to put it since she hadn’t actually noticed him being such. She’d hardly noticed him being around when he was there, but she couldn’t help but smile a bit when she heard that she wasn’t too far off his name. 

“Paxton, that’s right, you dated the little blonde who was like Betty Crocker. Are you guys still together?” No idea what had happened to half the people she went to school with because as much as she’d made it her business to find out since getting back from New York she had also had certain people that went totally under her radar just because they weren’t her kind of people. Honestly, she thought they were boring. They were too nice. 

Hand that wasn’t holding the shopping basket going to her stomach Sloane smiled tightly, still not used to this whole shock thing people had going on when they saw her stomach. It made her feel weird and out of place. “Yes, it’s my first. So all still very new to me. Have you got any kids?” 

"I am," Paxton nods at her deduction of him being older. He goes on to say he graduated at least two years before her, but her stab at his name just as him chuckle. The first two letters are right, but he didn't have much hope in the sense of her really remembering. He was the wallflower, not the one in the spotlight. Not like her.

Still, he committed to this interaction so he insists. "No, Paxton. And I hung out with Carrie and Kayla mostly. Carrie's closer to your grade." Pax rounds the endcap of the aisle to make it less impersonal with product between them, and his eyes immediately catch one very important detail. "Oh, wow."

"Uh, congrats! On the baby." Just because he's 'behind' in that aspect doesn't mean others his age aren't building families. "Is it your first?"

@dancingdanvers

Sloane swallowed, seeing the look on Sterling’s face and wondering what kind of judgments were running through her head. Well she’d asked the question so the redhead had decided to be honest - at this point Axel knew the truth and Jake had left town so…it was fairly cut and dry. People would start noticing she wasn’t with Jake soon if they hadn’t already. “Yes, no he’s going to be around for the baby, I’m actually living at his at the moment. Since…well I was living with Jake but that’s obviously not happening anymore.” Pulling a face as she chewed the inside of her cheek pensively. She wasn’t going to go back to living at her mom’s house that was for sure - it would be a living nightmare. “It might…look it sounds fucked up but it might be for the best that’s it Axel. He can give the baby considerable financial security, not to mention he seems … dare I say excited. Not that Jake wasn’t, he absolutely was, but I’ve known Axel for longer. The only difference is I doubt this will end in a ring on my finger and a white picket fence but maybe that’s okay.” The redhead shrugged, looking down at the floor as she scratched the back of her neck, hoping it wasn’t too obvious that this actually did make her a little sad. 

"Oh..." Sterling breathed, unsure of what else she could say. That was a hell of a lot to unpack and she wasn't quite sure where to begin. She also didn't want to come off as judgmental with any of her questions but... god, did she have a lot of questions. "Sooo... is Axel gonna at least be around for the baby?" Sterling's heart ached at the thought of Sloane being alone in this. It had been hard on Sterling when Lucky left but she at least had a nanny to help out and her big sister and dad. But what about Sloane? She supposed her parents were going to help and, of course, Sterling would help as much as possible. But Sterling knew how awful that longing to have the baby's father there was. She also knew how upsetting it was that Sunny didn't know her father for the longest time, and Sterling would've done anything for Sunny to have always had the joy she does now since she knows her father and when she spends time with him.

@dancingdanvers