#descendants fanfic gb
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Descendants, Chapter 43
AN: Sorry about the delay between chapters. Between a really bad cold and the internet going down at my house three times in past couple of weeks, I haven't had a chance to edit and post. Hope you enjoy this extra long chapter.
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"What do you think? The blue or the red?” Patty gestured as she switched between tabs in the browser.
“Definitely the blue. The pattern is... weird on the red one,” squinted Erin at the computer screen. “This would have been easier to do in person now that I’ve thought about it.” She and Patty were sitting in Patty’s apartment and looking over dresses for an upcoming wedding for one of her cousins.
“Yeah, but then it wouldn’t have been as cheap,” said Patty. “And lucky you can buy anything off the rack and website and don’t have to worry about it fitting.”
“I’d take your height and your gorgeous looks any day,” teased Erin with a smile at her friend.
“That might just make up for making me go dressing shopping, even if it is online,” chuckled the historian. She grimaced. “Is there something the matter Erin? You usually don’t come over loaded down with dinner and alcohol and wanting to look at dresses.”
“It’s nothing... really,” said Erin lamely. “I don’t know. I hate to admit I’m wishy-washy, but now I’m sort of glad I don’t have a child yet. I know David and I will soon enough, but... everything feels like a mess. It’s not orderly. Everyone’s...”
“You can’t compartmentalize it,” finished Patty. Erin nodded, her head down. Patty patted her shoulder. “It is nice when things work out and they’re all nice and neat in little boxes, and I’ve seen your desk for six years now, but this is life baby. It doesn't work out like that.”
“Believe me, if it wasn’t for everyone, I probably would have shut down,” said Erin. “In the past few years, I have regained my best friend, lost a job I held dear, saved the world more than few times, gained a new friend...” She smiled at Patty. “Lost a boyfriend, started a business, gotten married, helped plan two weddings, gained a niece, wrote two more books... oh, and gained an antagonistic friend.”
Patty snorted at the last one. Erin and Holtzmann’s friendship was definitely that.
“It has been busy,” agreed Patty. “Not to mention the new team.”
Erin nodded, looking at the dress on the screen for a brief second before looking back up at her friend.
“And you’re not wishy-washy,” said Patty. “You’re just... grateful that you have a little extra free time before life changes.”
Erin went to say something but laughed instead.
“I think... I think you might be right,” said Erin. She looked relieved. “I hadn’t thought of it that way.”
“That’s because you haven’t had your bonafide Patty talking to,” grinned Patty.
“Maybe that’s it,” smiled Erin. “I do love my Patty talks.”
“You should be glad I don’t charge,” said Patty. She picked up one of the wine coolers and opened it. “But this works.”
-----
“So just watching Ellie for a couple of hours?” asked Erin.
“Please,” said Abby. She held Eliana close and was rubbing her back after a feeding. “It is Holtz’s birthday tomorrow as you know and I thought I’d surprise her with a date night out.” They both watched as Beth was hitting Angie with a tube that had been holding a map that had been sent to them from the city of Syracuse so they could get a feel for their new home base. Erin just rolled her eyes.
“I’m almost afraid to ask.”
“There was a bet and it involved hot wings, all I know,” answered Abby. “So do you think you can do it?”
“Nope!” said Erin. “I’ve already got plans.”
“Oh,” said Abby, deflated. “I should have asked sooner. Thanks--”
“You didn’t ask me what my plans were,” said Erin. She smirked at Abby. “See, I can’t babysit for you since I’m already babysitting for Holtzmann.”
“Oh geez,” said Abby, shaking her head. “Holtz asked you to babysit?”
“She already has plans for her birthday,” grinned the redhead.
“Like I would forget her birthday,” said Abby, scoffing. “She knows I already have her present.”
“No, I think she just wanted to have some time for just the two of you,” said Erin, hopping up from the chair in front of Abby’s desk. “But you will owe me.”
“I’m sure you’ll come up with something,” said Abby, waving her hand.
“It’ll definitely be something big since I’ll be keeping Ellie overnight.”
“Overnight?” said Abby, looking directly at her best friend in a state of surprise (and apprehension). “What exactly is she planning?”
Erin just turned and walked back to her desk, not answering Abby. She groaned at the lack of an answer. Now she was going to have to find Holtzmann and figure out what was going on.
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Abby had forgotten that Holtzmann had already left for a speaking engagement that day across town. So she went ahead and started making changes to her plans for her wife’s 40th birthday. She didn’t mention to Holtz that she had to cancel some reservations that she had booked already. For some reason, her wife had already made plans, which irritated Abby a little. She wanted to do something to celebrate Holtz’s birthday besides just a gift. Not that her gift was something to sneeze at. She had found a Special Collector's Edition of the Addams Family pinball game based off of the 90’s movie on Craigslist. Holtz had loved that game growing up and the special edition was rare. It still worked well and was at a decent price. Kevin and Zack had been keeping it in their apartment’s storage unit until Holtz’s big day. She knew Holtzmann was going to love it since she had sunk a lot of coins in one for years, having lived down the street from an arcade.
But still... plans.
And it was Ellie’s first overnight trip apparently. She wasn’t sure she was ready for that, even if it was with Erin and David. Their baby was only ten weeks. She stopped for a moment, realizing.
Two months and a half? Had it already been that long?
Still, she was going to make the best of it. She didn’t mention anything to Holtzmann that evening when she got home. Instead, she just enjoyed watching her wife play with Ellie
-----
The next morning, a local moving company brought the pinball machine over to the firehouse. She wasn’t sure if she was relieved or surprised to see Kevin with them. But at least maybe he had kept an eye on things and made sure they didn’t break anything. He was happy to see Ellie in her sling and even played with her a moment while Abby had to sign some forms. He handed her a present for Holtz and said he was meeting Zack for breakfast before he came back to work. Abby told him to take his time and made a mental note to tell Erin that it was alright that he came in late.
Abby and Ellie went back upstairs after the moving people had taken the machine up to the third floor. Holtz was still sound asleep, so Abby held Ellie close and climbed into bed. She started kissing Holtz’s cheek and jaw. Ellie whimpered next to Holtzmann’s head, which made her open her eyes.
“Tell Mommy Happy Birthday Ellie,” smiled Abby. “She was born 40 years ago today.”
“Ugh,” said Holtz, wincing at that. “I’m getting old Abs.”
“Nah, you’re still young,” said Abby. She ran her hand through Holtz’s hair, which was falling around her ears. She smiled at her wife.
“Speaking of being young, your birthday present is here.”
“You mean Ellie isn’t my present?” said Holtz, kissing her daughter. She laughed at the little spaceship printed t-shirt and pant combo Eliana was wearing, which included little alien printed socks with a matching green hat. “Can I just say that I’m glad our daughter will never be wearing something completely covered in lace and ruffles?”
“At least until she’s old enough to choose her own clothes,” said Abby. “Then we might have to be switching things up a little. She might not even like space.”
“Pfffft, please,” said Holtzmann, blowing air out of her lips. “Ludicrous lies.”
“Well, go see what’s taking up so much space in the living room,” said Abby, patting Holtz’s hip. Holtz started to get out of bed and take Eliana with her, but Abby put a hand over hers.
“Look first, because I think your hands are going to be a little busy.” She grinned at Holtz’s confused face and gestured towards the living area. Abby got up off the bed as Holtz left the room, picking Ellie back up and headed out once she started hearing the screaming.
“You can’t be serious!” exclaimed Holtz. “Abby!”
“I found one,” she grinned.
“I love you,” squealed Holtz, coming over and kissing her wife and Ellie. “You too little one, although you probably didn’t have much to do with this, except for your mother raiding your college fund.
“I didn’t raid her savings,” said Abby. “Considering she doesn’t have any... yet. I did, however, use some of my earnings from the book.”
Holtz nodded and went back over to the machine.
“It still looks the same, except this one doesn’t have the screwdriver and hammer marks from where the owner let me take it apart. But that was an original and not... the special edition." Holtz flailed when she realized the difference. "Abby, seriously. Where did you even find one???”
“Same place I found Kevin.”
Holtz rolled her eyes, remembering that first interview. Both she and Erin had wanted to kick Abby for advertising on Craigslist.
“I love this Abby, thank you.”
“Just don’t take it apart today,” gestured Abby. When Holtzmann pouted, she rolled her eyes. “Seriously Holtz, this could make you money someday. The movie and this game are quite beloved by some online.” The blonde saluted her wife.
“Can I at least... peek inside?”
“Later,” said Abby. She went over to the kitchen and picked up two rolls of coins and brought them back in the living room and gave them to Holtz and kissed her cheek.
“Breakfast in sitting in the microwave. I’m going to take Ellie and go downstairs. You can go to town all you want.” Holtz whooped loudly and went back over to the pinball machine.
“The key for the coin slot is in an envelope on the coffee table when you need it,” said Abby. But Holtzmann wasn’t paying attention. She was already putting in a coin and getting ready to play.
-----
“So she likes her present I hear,” said Patty. The historian had to run upstairs to close their door after Abby had forgotten to shut it all the way. They could hear the sounds from the game all the way down to the first floor. Abby was relieved it hadn’t disturbed Ellie yet. She was afraid it’d bother much like the blender had. Their kid really hated the sound of the appliance. She would scream and turn very red in the face till it was turned off.
“That she did,” Abby said in response. “I have a feeling this will go on for days.”
“Oh lord, I’m glad it’s not at my place,” Patty said. “Good luck with that.”
“It’ll be fine,” said Abby. “I think we’ll end up moving it in, well...”
“Go ahead and say it, Abby,” grinned Patty. “Your guest room.”
“They’re still your rooms,” said Abby, a small pout.
“And I might be needing it when Terrence gets here,” said Patty. “I’m so nervous Abby.”
“You’ll be perfect,” said Abby, rubbing her friend’s shoulder. “We’re all here for you.”
“Cheyenne wants to show him where we work,” said Patty. “Once he’s settled in. She thinks it’ll help him get to know us.”
“Sounds like a nice idea,” said Abby. “Perhaps give him a little familiarity?”
“I think so,” said Patty, looking thoughtful. “He’s going to know little or nothing about us. We didn’t get to talk long when we saw him the other day. Poor kid. His eyes are so... I don’t know if it’s sad or blank or what...”
“Both,” said Abby. “Probably.” She grimaced. “He’s a kid that just lost his mom, been told that there are no other relatives that could give him a place to live, and is being forced out of the home he knows and into the foster system. He’s probably about to have to change schools, make new friends... that’s a lot on a kid’s shoulders.”
“You sound like you have a lot of personal experience.”
“We moved a few times, but I still have both my parents and my brother. If you need someone who understands being an only child and losing a parent, ask Holtz.”
“That’s true,” nodded Patty. “He also has to learn to deal with his new foster parents.”
“That’s a whole other world of problems,” said Abby. When Patty grimaced, Abby leaned in and gave her a side hug.
“You’ll get this worked out.”
“Thanks, Abby,” said Patty. Abby sat back in the chair and started to reach for her iPad when Eliana started to cry in the sling.
“Someone must be hungry,” said Patty.
“Maybe,” Abby said. She picked up Eliana out of the sling and cradled her in her arms. “Her schedule has been a little messed up today because I went and picked up Holtz’s birthday cake and then came back and waited on the moving company. So she might be a little confused.”
“Getting out of her natural rhythm messes with her huh?”
“Today is going to be a mess,” said Abby. She sighed as she bounced Eliana to quieten her down. “Holtz has decided that tonight is Ellie’s first sleepover. She didn’t even ask me.”
“With Erin?” Abby nodded.
“I had wondered about that when Erin mentioned it.”
“I know we’ve been leaving her for a couple of hours to go shopping and such, but overnight...”
“You should talk to her,” said Patty. “If you’re uncomfortable with the idea.”
“She doesn’t know that I know yet,” said Abby. “Erin told me.”
“Still,” said Patty. “You’re on the same team.”
“I know, but it is her 40th birthday,” Abby said with a sigh. “I’d hate to ruin her plans.”
“Your call,” shrugged Patty. “But you might want to let her know for future reference.” Abby looked up to the ceiling and knew her wife was definitely having fun upstairs. She silently agreed with Patty. She was going to have to tell Holtzmann. She wasn’t ready for Ellie to be away for more than a few hours.
-----
“Hey Holtz?” said Abby. She frowned, noticing that the pinball machine was no longer in the living room. But she could hear noises from it. She went to their guest bedroom and found Holtz plugging it in, her whole body underneath the game.
“You moved it?” asked Abby.
“Yeah, Kevin helped,” said Holtz, sitting up. “Ellie’s probably not going to like the noise so much so I figured I could put it in here for now. But once she gets old enough to not be so startled, I’m jailbreaking it back to the living room. It needs to be shown off. There were only a 1,000 made Abs. They’re hard to find.”
“Holtz, honey...” began Abby, grimacing. “I think we need to talk before we go back downstairs for your birthday cake and ice cream with the others.”
“Something the matter?” asked Holtzmann, getting off the floor.
“Sort of,” began Abby. “I don’t even know how to begin. Erin... told me that you had plans for your birthday and that it included leaving Ellie with her... overnight.”
“Oh...” said Holtz, looking at Abby with a frown. “Is this a problem?”
“Is it not for you?” asked Abby. Holtz shrugged.
“Erin and I give each other grief, but I trust her. We trust her with our own lives while we’re out on calls, so how could we not with our child? Patty and Erin are her godparents for a reason.”
“It’s not that,” said Abby. “It’s just... she’s only two months. She hasn’t been away from home yet like that. She’s already being fussy with the day’s schedule being messed up, and--”
Holtz crossed the room. She had a feeling where this was going. When Abby kept babbling on, she pulled her into her arms.
“And whose schedule are you more worried about, hmm?” Abby glared at her. Holtz rubbed her cheek. “I get it, Abby. You don’t want her to be away.”
Abby sighed. “It’s just too soon.” She buried her head in Holtz’s shoulder. Holtzmann rubbed her back.
“Do you remember when you were worried you weren’t going to be a good parent?”
“Still do,” said Abby, muffled. Holtz chuckled and kissed the top of Abby’s head.
“I think you’re doing fine.”
“You could have warned me,” said Abby, lifting her head. “I could have been prepared.”
“Hmm... and where is Ellie now?”
“Downstairs with Patty, sleeping.”
Holtz tweaked her nose. “And you are preparing.” Abby wrinkled up her face at that.
“I’ve already got her bag packed and a little bag with milk ready to go in the fridge, although Erin is already squicking out at the thought of dirty diapers and your boob juice.” Abby laughed at that, which made Holtz smile. She nodded to herself, thinking.
“I think I’m going to send you to take Erin home in the car with Ellie. But I will go get her later, just so it’s not completely overnight. I do request some hours alone with you on my birthday.”
Abby sighed. “I know. I should get used to this. She will have to leave us one day.”
“And I should have thought about that it might have been too soon for an overnight visit,” thought Holtz. “Now that I think about it, what would we do with a free 12ish hours?”
“Work, probably,” said Abby. Holtz gave a noncommittal grunt.
“I should have said something,” she grimaced. Holtzmann rubbed the back of her own head. “I wasn’t thinking.”
“You were just thinking about how Ellie would be with family. Because Erin is family. Seems like someone made a speech about that sometime back.”
“You all are my family,” said Holtz, swaying back and forth. “And if we don’t hurry and get downstairs, there may not be any cake and ice cream left between our family and the new kids.”
-----
It had taken all of Abby’s strength to get Ellie out of her car seat and leave her daughter with Erin at her and David’s home. She knew Erin would take care of their little girl, but this was the first time she would have to be babysat outside of the firehouse.
She couldn’t understand how calmly Holtz could choose to let their child go. Maybe she had the reassurance that she’d see her tomorrow. Abby didn’t have that she supposed. At least, not just yet. Ellie was only two months and still so small.
“Holtz?” said Abby, dropping off her bag and keys on the coffee table in the living room. She was surprised at how quiet it sounded in their space.
“You’re back,” grinned Holtzmann as she peeked her head out of the bedroom. She came over happily and kissed her wife.
“Now come on, we’ve got somewhere to be for the next few hours.”
“What exactly do you have... planned?” asked Abby as Holtz tugged on her wrist. “Because you haven’t told me anything.”
“Well, there’s not really much to tell,” said Holtz. “I just needed three things for my birthday. Well, four I suppose.” She opened their bedroom door with a great flourish. Sitting on the bed was two large pizza boxes, a couple of Pringles cans, two six packs of hard apple cider, and a box of their favorite Krispy Kreme doughnuts on which rested a can of whipped cream.
“I wanted junk food, alcohol, our bed, and--” said Holtz, rubbing her cheek against Abby’s before kissing her ear. “You.” She stood in front of her wife, her arms crossed and looking happy.
“Mostly just the pizza with extra cheese and extra sauce, but you know--”
Abby arched an eyebrow at her lover. “So this was what you were planning for your birthday?”
“Pizza, sex, and beer? Best 40th birthday ever.”
Abby crossed her arms. “You missed out on a nice Italian dinner, a movie, and a trip to one of the new virtual reality laser tag games.”
Holtz stood there for a moment, not blinking.
“You-- you planned that for me?”
“I did have something in mind. You had never told me anything that you wanted, so I wanted to do something for you just to celebrate the day...”
Holtz looked torn for a moment as she wrinkled up her nose.
“Well, this has been my day to be an extreme screw up,” she said with a sigh, rubbing her head.
“But--” said Abby, giving her wife a reprieve with a small smile. “I need pizza, which is the best of all Italian foods.”
“As long as you save room for dessert,” said Holtz, smirking and wiggling her hips in a tease. “Because I am definitely it.”
“It has been a while,” Abby said, a little happy that Holtz’s birthday plans involved something they hadn’t done since things had been so busy. Technically when Abby had gone to her doctor for a checkup a couple of weeks back they had approval, but there had been a lot of work related things and baby things so sleep had won out over making love, as sad as a decision as it was.
“Too too loooooooooong,” said Holtz in a sing-song voice. She leaped onto the bed, getting a little air as she continued to bounce while getting a slice of pizza out of the box. The cheese pulled long and she moaned as she took a bite of the piece, drawing out the cheese dramatically from her teeth.
“It’s my every dream come true,” she said breathily.
“Eating pizza in bed is your every dream come true?” said Abby, leaning against the door frame and laughing a little at her wife.
“Getting to have sex, pizza, my lover, and doughnuts all in one place,” said Holtz, nibbling on a pepperoni. “The best kind of dream.” She didn’t even make a noise when Abby came quickly over to the bed and straddled her body. She unzipped Holtzmann’s pants and pushed on them before going down on her wife.
“Dessert first then,” said Holtz, throwing the pizza haphazardly into the box and leaning her head back against their pillows.
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Descendants, Chapter 36
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“Still nothing?” asked Patty to Holtz.
They were standing in the open doorway of the firehouse, enjoying the light breeze in the air that was cooling off the unusually warm morning.
“Nope,” she said. “1st appointment of this 41st week and they’re still as snug as a bug in a rug. Peanut is not going to grace us with their appearance till they’re good and ready, or Abby gets an induction.”
“She thinking about it?”
Holtzmann looked over to where her wife was talking to Angie and Beth about something. Erin was standing nearby with a large handful of paperwork.
“She’s... unsure,” shrugged Holtz. “I think she wants to wait and see a little while longer. She’s been doing okay health wise. But if she goes into the 42nd week, the doctor wants to jump starting labor with stripping the membranes or breaking her water.”
“That doesn’t sound pleasant,” stated Patty.
“I think we’ll be doing a lot of walking between now and then to try to get things going,” said Holtzmann, crossing her arms. “New York had better prepare for one cranky mommy.”
“Yeah, Abby doesn’t seem so thrilled about this overdue business,” agreed Patty.
“I meant me,” said Holtz, making a disgusted face. “I hate walking.”
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"You going to do the kick count for me? I've got one more to do today and you just gave more sugar," asked Abby. She was sipping on some grape juice on the couch. Erin laughed as she picked up some of the BLT dip she had made with a couple of buttery toast points. They were having a small get together at Abby's request. She had wanted to have all of their family together for a little bit before the baby came. It was a nice thought in Erin's opinion. It had been a while since they had all sat down together, and it had been some time since she had so many guests at her place.
"I suppose since we sent Holtz away for a little bit with Patty to get dinner," chuckled Erin.
"God, I'm glad," said Abby. "If she makes another watermelon joke, I am going down to the bodega across the street and buy one to throw at her head."
Erin laughed at that, gesturing the fruit salad in front of her. Abby groaned.
"Did you have to mention it?"
Erin smirked, dusting off her hands.
"It's kind of hard when my niece or nephew is trying to get as big as one before they're born."
Abby shook her head.
"Thanks for this. I needed a moment."
"It's not a problem Abby. And I'm sure David will appreciate the leftovers for lunch tomorrow."
"He'd better be appreciating more than that," said Abby, with a little bit of spite on her tongue. Erin patted her best friend's hand.
"David's been as sweet and loving as he was before. He was just scared, that's all."
"Funny hearing you say that," said Abby as she finished off the glass. Erin gave her a look for that comment. Abby went sheepish.
"Okay, okay. I make too many jokes about the fact that you were a chicken." She quirked her lips when Erin scoffed.
"Maybe I should have just left you with Holtz and me and Patty eat the snacks and dinner after we had three busts today on our own."
"Nooooo," said Abby, picking up the bowl after moving to put down her glass. "That stuff is delicious."
"Then eat," Erin said. "Holtzmann said she you hadn't been eating a lot the last couple of days."
"I read a lot about how after the baby descends you want to eat everything in sight, but right now I just don't want to touch anything much." Abby made a face.
"You'll get there," said Erin. She heard a knock on the door.
"Ooh, that'll be Cheyenne," she said, hopping up. "She's bringing the sweets."
"Cheesecake?" said Abby hopefully.
"Even better," said Cheyenne as she came in the door. "I tweaked an old recipe from Patty's aunt. They're called labor cookies. It's spicy ginger, meant to start your labor with something with a little extra kick. She swore by them during all her pregnancies." She handed the platter to Abby. "I made them while I was at work. "
"They're still warm," said Abby. She bit into one. Her eyes widened a little.
"I think I get the spicy part." She coughed once and reached for the sparkling grape juice to pour herself another glass.
"No wine?" pouted Cheyenne, looking at Erin, who walked over the box of other cookies Cheyenne had brought in as well.
"In the fridge," said Erin. "I had to keep it out of Abby's reach." She headed for the kitchen.
"I could get through labor drunk," said Abby. "That would be awesome."
"Uh-huh," said Cheyenne, a smile on her lips as she sat down in a chair next to the couch. "Is Kevin and Zack coming?"
"Zack has to work at the shop, but Kevin is coming over as soon as he locks up for the night," Abby said as she reached for another cookie.
"Okay, but if you go into labor before dinner because of those..." said Erin as she brought over the wine.
"I wouldn't care," said Abby, muffled through the cookie. She took a drink of the juice.
"So what exactly are Patty and Holtzmann bringing back for dinner?" asked Cheyenne.
"Lots of spicy Curry, Eggplant Parmesan, Tomato Caprese salad with aged balsamic, I've already cut up the fresh pineapple in the fruit salad, and Holtz is picking up some Red Raspberry Leaf Tea."
"I'm sensing a theme," said Cheyenne to Erin as she poured her a glass of wine after speaking, looking amused.
"All foods to induce Abby's labor, yep." Erin grinned at that. "We're trying our best. Plus, the curry sounded good. And some nice Italian appetizers."
"Anything's better than eating cold leftovers or at the hotel," said Cheyenne. "I'm starving." She reached for the BLT dip. Erin noticed Abby rubbing her abdomen with a small grimace.
"Didn't someone say something about a kick count?" Cheyenne flailed and moved over to on the couch with Abby. Erin laughed and watched as her best friend maneuvered Cheyenne's hand to the spot where the baby had just been kicking.
-----
Abby was still lying on her back a moment after they had finished the non-stress test. They had already done an internal examination to check her cervix for dilation and effacement, taken a couple of ultrasounds, and now the non-stress test just to make sure their child was still doing well.
“Everything is fine,” said Holtzmann, leaning down to kiss her wife on the tip of her nose. “You’re fine and the baby is all fine and dandy in there. The placenta is still working well enough. Your body is just not ready for labor.”
“But I’m ready for everything to be over with,” said Abby with a small huff. She really wasn’t happy she was at her second appointment of her 41st week. Their kid should be out in the world already and being cuddled in their arms. She had eaten half the platter of cookies and was starting to get tired of ginger again.
“Too bad, so sad.”
Abby rolled her eyes and sat up after straightening her clothes.
“I suspect the doctor wants to go ahead and try to start your labor,” said Holtz. “I’m thinking he’s going to come back in here and suggest something.”
“I think he’s worried about with my age and everything that something is going to happen,” grimaced Abby. “I don’t want to have to go to the hospital and do Pitocin and such Holtz.”
“You don’t have to do anything honey unless there’s a firm medical reason why,” said Holtzmann, leaning on Abby. “Being overdue doesn’t count.”
“You don’t mind waiting a few more days and see what happens?”
“As long as you’re comfortable,” said Holtzmann. She rubbed Abby’s shoulder. “I know you really can’t relax.”
Abby sighed. “Maybe we can try the membrane sweep and see if that does anything.” She rubbed her back. “At least it doesn’t involve IV’s and fetal monitoring. Or possible uterine hyperstimulation.”
“Then be prepared to get your feet back in those stirrups,” teased Holtz.
“I’m surprised you’re not finding an appropriate pun,” said Abby.
“Another day. And I will have plenty,” said Holtzmann. “Right now I’m just your baby mama at your beck and call.” She took Abby’s hand, squeezing it.
-----
Holtz was sitting on Erin’s desk on Monday morning. She was about half gone already from exhaustion. She had been extra vigilant on baby watch all weekend, but nothing had happened yet. Abby’s first 42nd week appointment was the next day, and they both had a feeling that the doctor would just send them on to the hospital. Her wife was in an aggravated mood. Abby was now two weeks overdue, and with the membrane sweep, she had been cramping on top of her Braxton-Hicks. If she was honest, Holtz was going to be grateful if the doctor did send them on to the hospital. At least the light would be at the end of the tunnel for all three of them.
“So this is a plan?” asked the blonde hopefully.
“We’ll distract Abby,” promised Erin. “Keep her mind off things.”
“Good,” she yawned. “I need a nap. You can text me if something arises. I think I need a couple of Class III’s all to myself when I wake up.” She hopped down off the desk, stretching.
“You’re supposed to be off-duty, remember?” said Erin after Holtz.
“Uh-huh,” said Holtz, waving a hand behind her. The physicist shook her head.
“Where is Holtz going?” asked Abby, looking after her wife as she came up to Erin’s desk.
“Upstairs,” said Erin. “She wanted a moment of peace and quiet. Jen’s working on something and she just needs a moment to breathe and think.”
“Yeah, neither one of us has had much rest,” agreed Abby. She carefully sat down in a chair across from Erin’s desk. “This kid is killing us and they’re not even here yet.”
“Won’t be long,” Erin said. When Abby didn’t respond, Erin looked up at her. She was rubbing her back and side with a big wince.
“God, I can’t get rid of these Braxton-Hicks,” said Abby with a sigh. For some reason, something seemed off to Erin and she made note of the time.
“Want to help me?” she asked Abby. “We need to finish the evaluations for the Mayor. I don’t know why he wants reports on the new team, but--”
“It’s just so he can feel important,” said Abby. “They pay us and they want paperwork to show for something. Probably to bill the state extra for hosting.”
Erin didn’t respond. They were all in universal agreement that all the local governments like to charge each other for everything they could possibly could. Instead, she showed Abby what she had done so far and they started writing things down together. And in secret, Erin kept an eye on Abby’s Braxton-Hicks contractions. It was easy since Abby seemed to react regularly, even if it wasn't vocal. After a couple of hours, there was a definite pattern. When Abby went to the bathroom for what was about the fifth time that morning, Erin told Patty her suspicions.
“I’d say that is a definite pattern,” she said, leaning her head to the side. “So Abby’s in labor?”
“Having some real contractions at least,” said Erin. “Help me keep her distracted for a little while? I’m going to text Holtzmann and see if she’s awake.”
Patty nodded and it wasn’t long till she had Abby and a couple of the new team discussing something or the other Erin couldn’t hear. It didn’t take much to get people off on tangents, which worked well at the moment. They were all like minded and enjoyed similar things. Erin heard the sound of a someone sliding down the fire pole. She soon found a familiar blonde sitting on her desk.
“Come here often?” Erin said, smirking.
“Let me see,” Holtz said, taking the notepad from Erin where she had written down the times. She ran through the numbers.
“I do think you’re right,” she said with a nod, giving it back to Erin. “I wondered about it a couple of times this weekend, but then they’d end up doing something wildly different.”
“Well, there’s the beginning of a rhythm,” said Erin. She tapped Holtz on the shoulder and pointed to Abby rubbing her side.
“I’ll get her back upstairs soon,” said Holtzmann, bouncing her leg. “I know she needs to get some rest and keep her energy up, but this has been helpful.”
“It’s go time,” agreed Erin. She grinned at Holtz. “You’re having a baby.” Erin noticed Holtzmann had a bit of a glazed over look on her face.
“You worried?” she asked, frowning.
“Thinking,” said Holtz slowly. “So much we need to do.”
“You let us take care of everything here,” said Erin pointedly. “You worry about her and the baby.”
“Then who’s going to worry about me?”
“That’s generally Abby’s job, so I think for the next day or 20,000 days, you’re going to have to worry about yourself.”
“Nonsense Erin. Someone always has to worry about me or I’ll fade away like Tinkerbell.”
“If you think I’m going to sit here and say--”
“Nah,” grinned Holtz. “Just having fun with ya Gilbert.” She hopped off of Erin’s desk, hugged her tight with a squeal, and ran over to the stairs.
-----
Abby was so very irritated at her body. It was not her day so far physically. Her Braxton-Hicks were bothering her, she had been cramping some more, plus the little bit she had managed to eat for breakfast did not even have a chance to settle on her stomach. That didn’t even count the backache that had progressed out to her lower part of her abdomen and hips. Holtzmann had suggested going downstairs and working to keep her mind off things that morning. And while it had helped, she couldn’t take her mind off the Braxton-Hicks. They were just so annoying today. But maybe they’d help push things along and she’d be dilated more for her next appointment. Erin had even tried to entice her with Chinese at lunch, but the thought of anything on her stomach was not an enjoyable one. She had even felt a little nauseous at the water Patty had brought her when she grabbed herself a bottle. She was just so ready to be done.
It wasn’t until a contraction had Abby leaning over a chair and swaying a little to deal with the pain did she realize that something was definitely different than the fake contractions she had been having since she was about 26 weeks. This was not going away no matter how many times she changed positions and it was really starting to hurt.
“Oh geez,” gasped Abby softly. She felt Erin at her side and rubbing her back.
“Breathe Abby. Nice and slow.”
“I think I’m in labor,” she whimpered, leaning her head on her forearms. “Erin...”
“So not the fake contractions then?” Erin asked. Abby stood back up, rubbing her hip.
“I don’t... I don’t think so,” said Abby. “That last one felt kind of... urgent.”
Erin crossed her arms, smiling a little. “The baby is coming, I’d hope it’d be urgent.”
“I’m in labor,” said Abby dazedly. It felt a little weird knowing it was actually happening.
“About time,” grinned Erin, no longer able to hold in her excitement. She hugged Abby. They both laughed at that and held hands.
“Oh my god, I’m in labor,” said Abby coming to the realization of what that meant. She put a hand over her abdomen and pulled back. “I need to--”
“Relax,” said Erin. “And let it come. We can time your contractions and see if it is getting any closer together. Maybe it won’t be false labor.” She pulled out her phone.
“Or better yet, you can let Holtz do it.”
Abby shook her head. “Let her be for a little while. I think she’s having fun upstairs, now that she’s rested and awake.” They both heard a crash and laughter from Jen and Holtzmann, followed by happy clapping from Diana.
“So, timing?” said Abby. Erin nodded and pointed to her phone.
-----
Holtz had been monitoring her texts from Erin, especially now that her wife knew she was having real contractions. Holtzmann was happy the membrane sweep seemed to have worked. Abby was letting Erin help her out for a couple of hours in timing contractions and helping to keep her mind occupied. But it was getting later in the day and she knew they had a long way to go that evening. She headed down the stairs and found Kevin rubbing Abby’s lower back. He looked grateful at Holtz when she approached and squeezed Abby’s shoulder before he went over to his desk and started getting ready to leave for the day. Holtzmann ran her hand through Abby’s long ponytail. She hadn’t bothered to put it up in a bun that morning. Holtz kissed her wife on the neck.
“Come on honey, upstairs. You need to get some rest.”
“Kevin feels nice, don’t want to move,” Abby said, her voice above a muffled whisper. She was leaning against the wall and had her head on her arms.
“Come upstairs with me and I’ll give you all the massages and counter pressure you want,” said the engineer. “The contractions are only going to get longer and closer together from here on out and you need to be somewhere a little more comfortable to wait them out.”
“12 minutes apart and about 35 seconds in length,” said Erin, coming up beside Holtz with her jacket and purse on her arm. “Been holding pretty steady. Oh, and as of 5:00, you both are on maternity leave.”
“Whaaaaaaaaaat?” said Holtz, looking really surprised. “Since when?”
“Since it’s paid for,” Patty said, coming up to the three of them while putting on her jacket. “Three months baby.” She gave Abby a hug first, then turned to Holtz.
“Text me first when Abby’s about to give birth so I can beat Erin to the hospital Holtzy.”
“You know it,” grinned Holtz. Patty hugged her too. Erin huffed loudly and Abby laughed as she moved to look at her best friend.
“You want to come upstairs for a little while?”
“No, I think I’m good for today,” said Erin. “I’m going to let you two have all the fun this evening.” She put a hand on Abby’s baby bump with a smile.
“We’ll be seeing you soon enough.” She hugged Abby once more and headed out the door.
“Were they just waiting for you to come downstairs?” asked Abby, turning to Holtzmann.
“That would be correct,” said Holtz. “They were keeping an eye on you for me, although technically Erin and Patty both do like your company. Not sure what Kevin was doing.”
“Hanging out, I think. Not really sure myself, other than the back rubs he owed me.” Holtz noticed when Abby winced and held her side and back.
“Contraction?” When Abby didn’t open her eyes, Holtz made note of the time in her head, humming to herself as she waited out the thirty or so seconds.
“Upstairs,” said Holtz. “There are snacks, water, blankets, a bed, a couch, a rocking chair... all the comforts of home a lady in labor could need.” She tugged on Abby’s wrist.
“Do we have to do this?” whined Abby slightly.
“I don’t think there’s another option Abs,” said Holtz. Her lip quirked a little. She really wanted to tease her wife, but refrained. “I already called the doc. They said if you’re doing fine and the baby’s fine, just to go ahead and labor on at home and go to the hospital when the contractions are five minutes apart for an hour.”
“Five minutes,” said Abby. “That’s 12 in an hour.”
“Yep. So instead of five in an hour, 12 minutes apart, you get more contractions. It’s more bang for your buck, really.”
Abby pouted and after one more tug, Holtz finally managed to get her to head up the stairs. Holtzmann made Abby sit down on the couch with her feet up.
“How are you feeling?” asked Holtz, smoothing Abby’s hair.
“Very uncomfortable,” said Abby, taking a deep breath. Her back was aching and she rubbed her it forcefully, trying to make a dent in the soreness. “But that’s normal, I’d imagine.”
“I think so,” said Holtzmann. She took Abby’s hand in hers, kissing it.
“Do you want anything?”
“A cup of coffee would be nice. I could use the caffeine.” Abby looked hopeful while Holtz’s face scrunched up in confusion.
“You didn’t have one this morning?” The physicist shook her head.
“Wasn’t feeling up to it.”
“One coffee and breakfast coming up.” Holtz kissed Abby on the lips.
“Breakfast?” said Abby, balking at the thought.
“You need food sweetheart,” said Holtzmann, leaning back down and looking her wife directly in the eye. “Because you probably won’t be eating much at the hospital later between contractions.” She headed for the kitchen.
“I don’t think I’ll want to eat,” said Abby, grimacing.
“And this is why you’re going to eat now,” Holtz instructed her wife as she held an egg carton in her hand that she had just gotten out of the fridge. “Peanut needs food too. They’ve got a journey ahead of them.”
“I want a steak with mashed potatoes with rosemary and garlic.”
“Later,” chided Holtzmann. “Celebratory after birth dinner.” Abby made a face at Holtz’s back. She realized that the living room looked different than it had that morning. There was a lot more pillows on the couch, and a few snacks and bottles of water and soda were spread out on the coffee table. Holtz had even dragged the rocking chair into the living room. As usual, her wife had already taken care of a lot of the details. She smiled, shaking her head.
“I’m keeping an eye on you,” said Holtzmann from in front of the stove as she put bread on to toast. Abby sighed, rolling her eyes at her wife. Overprotective as usual. Her lover was going to be hovering. She pulled out her phone and checked the feed on Ghost News to see there were any new posts. When a contraction got her attention, she rubbed her side with a deep breath, trying to keep her mind calm and relaxed. It was a very hard task, considering. She sunk down deeper into the couch, trying to get comfortable. It did feel nice to have her feet up. When she had been downstairs, she had taken to walking around the place for distraction.
“Is there an extra copy of your birth plan in your things?” asked Holtz.
“Yes,” said Abby, scrolling through the website. “And our insurance information.”
“Good,” said Holtz, pulling out cheese from the fridge.
“What are you making?” asked Abby.
“Scrambled eggs with cheese and toast with apple jelly. I know any sort of meat and fat slow things down digestively, but at least I know you'll eat this.”
That actually sounded good to Abby considering what little she had eaten. The smell of percolating coffee filled the air and her mouth was starting to water at the thought. She got up off the couch and headed over to the kitchen for a cup once it had stopped making. She pulled the butter and jelly out of the fridge for the toast before getting a cup from the cabinet.
“You’re supposed to be sitting down.”
“Gravity,” said Abby, as if it explained everything. She took a piece of cheese off the cutting board and poured a cup of coffee before adding sugar to it. She stirred the liquid and leaned over the skillet, taking in the scent of the scrambled eggs.
“God, that smells good.”
“That would be because you are hungry,” said Holtz. She poked her lover in the shoulder with the back end of a spatula. “You’re going to need energy.”
“Hook me up to one of the proton packs, I’d have an excellent half-life.” The snort that came from Holtzmann made Abby laugh.
“So are we starting with the jokes now or waiting for later in labor?”
“I think we’d better hold off on the corniest ones till I’m pushing this kid out of me.”
“Roger,” said Holtz. Four pieces of toast popped up from the toaster and Abby grabbed plates. She helped butter the toast while her wife piled the eggs onto the two dishes.
“Dinner is served.”
“You are the best honey,” said Abby, smirking at Holtzmann. “So glad I married you.”
“Luckiest woman alive,” winked Holtz. When she saw Abby grimace, she moved and started to rub Abby’s back. “Breathe out through the contraction. Nice and slow.” She concentrated on pressing into her lover’s lower back. Once the contraction was over, Holtzmann found herself with an armful of Abby, her head burying into her shoulder.
“Easy there Abs.”
“I think you’re going to have a big baby on your hands,” said Abby, whimpering.
“Nah,” said Holtz, pulling back. “All I see is a strong woman who is going to need some encouragement over the next few hours.” She handed Abby her plate.
“Now to the couch. You’re going to eat and rest. It’s going to be a long night.”
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Descendants, Chapter 42
-----
Holtzmann was happy to be lazy on a Saturday.
She was on the floor with Eliana who was under her baby gym. Abby had found it herself at Target, surprised that it fit with the space theme they had going on. It was white and silver, and it had clouds, suns, and stars hanging down. It lit up and played music, which Holtz had automatically changed to play a piano version of the theme from Doctor Who for her own enjoyment. She had even hung a plush TARDIS in the middle. Ellie was reaching for one of the stars, which made Holtz grin. So far, their little girl had started early on wanting to get hold of items and had already grabbed two things: Holtz’s necklace and Abby’s glasses. Since she was getting the hang of her hands and grabbing things easily, they had decided to try letting her play in the baby gym.
“You are getting good with those,” cooed Holtz. She had already let Ellie have a little tummy time which had been a bit of an adventure. She had been kicking her legs out and it had really surprised Holtzmann for a moment because it looked like she was going to put her knees down and take off crawling. But as much as the thought delighted her, she really, really didn’t want her baby to be growing up so fast.
“I know I said while you were still percolating that you were going to be building rocket ships by age three, but don’t grow up so fast kid. I don’t think this momma’s nerves can handle it.” She rubbed her fingers across Eliana’s cheek, smiling a little. “You need to stay little and young as much as possible.” Holtz sighed, a little melancholy as she remembered her childhood. “Hopefully your younger years will be spared from losing one of us. Losing a parent absolutely sucks when you’re seven.” The thought scared Holtz, quite frankly. There was always danger on their job, she knew that. But it had never seemed that real till now. Things seemed so much different now that she had a kid. She loved Abby and knew her wife would grieve for her, but she and Ellie both would move on one day. If something happened to her and Abby... and Erin and Patty...
She didn’t want to think about it. Especially if she lost Abby. She hit the spot on the gym that had the music box and it started to play. She hummed along and glanced up at the couch where her wife had dozed off, all stretched out in slumber.
“Your other momma was tired,” said Holtzmann to Eliana. “She is not getting enough sleep.” She heard a knock on the door through the video system. Holtz frowned. They weren’t expecting anyone, and it was the weekend. They didn’t have any clients coming in. If it was Erin or Patty, they would have used their keys and the code.
“Jillian?” she heard through the camera and intercom system. Holtz got up quickly and went over to the screen when she recognized the voice just to make sure she wasn’t hearing things.
“Doctor Gorin! Be right there,” she said into the two-way intercom, surprised that her mentor was downstairs. She hesitated for a moment, not wanting to leave Ellie unattended on the floor with Abby asleep. And they were about to have company, so...
Holtz went over and shook her wife’s shoulder. “Abs, wake up.” Abby made a face in her sleep.
“Doctor Gorin is here.”
Abby’s eyes opened quickly.
“Wha---?” She said, grimacing at her stiffness. “Did you know she was coming?”
“Nope,” said Holtz. “I need to get downstairs.”
Abby nodded and Holtz went over to the fire pole, smiling as Abby got up off the couch and went over to Eliana. Holtzmann started towards the door, opening it with a wide, cheesy grin.
“Rebecca, it’s been so long!” Doctor Gorin leveled her gaze at Holtz.
“Jillian, I do hope you plan on replacing that video system one day in the near future. Five minutes and my cell phone and I could have had it playing you old reruns of I Love Lucy.”
“That was Erin’s doings, not mine,” said Holtz in her defense. “The business is paying for the security.”
“Whoever sold it to her should be incarcerated,” muttered Doctor Gorin. She stepped inside when Holtzmann opened the door wider and let in her mentor.
“Are you here to see the new setup for the containment unit? I know I sent you the specs to go over and your input was very helpful in terms of the outflow to--”
“No, although I would like to see your handiwork while I am here,” said Doctor Gorin. “But I was in town for a meeting and I thought I would come by and see your new experiment?”
“New experiment?” repeated Holtz. She really didn’t have anything new that she was working on that she needed Gorin’s input, but...
“Not your work,” said Doctor Gorin, looking amused. “Your baby, Jillian.”
“OH!” said Holtz, laughing for a moment. “Right. Upstairs. We were just having play time.” Rebecca nodded and they headed for the stairs.
“You’ve been sending me pictures of you and your daughter since she was born. At first, I thought you were joking, but then I saw an article where your wife and your colleague are trying to change the rules of how ghosts are categorized and Doctor Yates was quite pregnant.”
“We have a beautiful baby girl,” grinned Holtz, feeling quite giddy. She felt quite proud to be telling Doctor Gorin this, although she really didn’t know why. “Seven weeks and she’s already grabbing for things.”
“I’m surprised you two want to have children in this environment.”
“Need the next generation,” said Holtz, gesturing up the stairwell. “We’ve already established a new team, and it got us all to thinking about the future.”
“So this is a little Jillian Holtzmann in the making,” commented Doctor Gorin.
“She’s already tried to grab for my necklace,” laughed Holtzmann. “I may have to make her one of her own.”
“Of course,” said Doctor Gorin. Holtz missed the brief smile on her mentor’s face as they entered Holtz’s and Abby’s living space. Abby was still on the floor with Eliana, who was batting like crazy at one of the clouds. Holtzmann could see why Abby didn’t have the heart to move her just yet.
“Doctor Yates,” greeted Rebecca to Abby.
“Doctor Gorin,” said Abby in return with a nod and a smile. “Give me just a sec Holtz, she’s been very playful...”
“No, you don’t have to bother with interrupting her,” said Rebecca, bending down to see Eliana. “She’s a beautiful child Jillian.”
“She looks just like her other momma,” said Holtz proudly. She looked happily at her wife.
“Poor kid,” said Abby, shaking her head, smiling a little back at her lover.
-----
Holtzmann had taken Doctor Gorin down to see all her work on the containment unit after they had spent a little time talking about various things going on in their lives. Ellie had gotten a little hungry after play time but automatically went to sleep after her second breakfast. Later that afternoon, Eliana got to listen to Abby read over an article reviewing the book Abby had helped write with the psychologist. They had proclaimed it a good self-help book as any, which made Abby feel relieved for Erica. Maybe it wouldn’t be too bad for her among her friends and colleagues in the psychology field. Another meal had lead to another nap, which had given Abby a little time to phone Erin and ask her something, which had ended up in a 30 minute conversation about whether she should go ahead and start redecorating their guest room for their future arrival, even if it was going to be a while. When Holtz entered their living space and said Doctor Gorin was staying for dinner, Abby volunteered to cook. Holtz shook her head and said she’d take care of it and that she was going out and getting a couple of things.
“Guess your other momma wants us to stay still today,” cooed Abby to Eliana, who was napping again. Abby kissed her forehead. It was quiet in their living space. Eliana was breathing softly, her small chest rising and falling in her mother’s arms. Abby wrapped the blanket around her a little more. She answered a text from Ariel, who was complaining about one of the kids breaking one of the kitchen chairs while roughhousing with Austin. The brunette smiled down at her daughter.
“Maybe I can convince your mother to try to make some more of the beef stew from that recipe of Cheyenne’s,” said Abby. “You didn’t seem to mind it. In fact, I think this is what they mean by going through a growth spurt. You’ve been eating a lot more.” When little eyes opened and a yawn escaped a little mouth, Abby laughed.
“Guess you had enough of your nap huh?”
“Abby?” said a voice, surprising her as it came up the stairwell. Especially since as long as she had known Holtz’s mentor, she had only ever called her Doctor Yates.
“Doctor Gorin,” she said, standing up and putting down Ellie in the sleeper. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you were still here. I thought you had gone with Holtzmann.”
“I didn’t see any need,” said the older woman. “Also, I thought that maybe while Jillian is away, I could perhaps hold Eliana?”
Now Abby was really taken aback. “Su--sure,” she said. Rebecca crossed the room and sat down on the couch quite primly as Abby took Ellie out of the co-sleeper.
“She just woke up on her own, so I don’t think she’ll be grumpy.”
Doctor Gorin held Eliana in her arms gently. Abby thought for a moment she had even seen a ghost of a smile.
“I never had any children,” said Doctor Gorin after a moment. “I know things are different now and women can... I do believe you get my point. I always thought that Holtz would follow in my footsteps. She seemed the type, always concentrating on the work. I never thought she would want to have children someday.”
Abby had a feeling this story was going somewhere, and she was insanely curious as to where. Mostly because this was probably the most she had ever heard out of Doctor Gorin privately. Not even in their wedding preparations had she talked this much to her, at least. She always spoke a good bit to Holtz, but then Abby was certain Holtz was one of the only people she trusted. Abby couldn’t even imagine what it was like growing up in the science community for Doctor Gorin. Her own mother had married her father when they were quite young and she had leaned on him a lot during her career, especially when she had lost her job. And as far as Abby knew, Rebecca had never married. There had been more than a few times she had often wondered that about herself.
But that had been before Holtz had fallen into her lap, literally.
“She wanted to have a family,” said Abby, sitting back down on the couch. “And the timing of things has worked out for the better.”
“She’s a beautiful child,” said Doctor Gorin, adjusting her glasses. “She will have a wonderful family and upbringing.”
“Sometimes I wish she really could have been biologically Holtz’s,” said Abby, looking at Ellie. “So she’d have her blue eyes.”
“What did the biological father have?” asked Rebecca.
“Hazel,” said Abby.
“Genetics is a funny thing,” said Doctor Gorin. “You never know. I once knew a woman who had biological parents whose eyes were blue and green. You’d think she would have beautiful eyes of one or the other color, but instead, she was born with the darkest brown eyes, which startled all the nursing staff in the maternity ward because they almost looked black. It didn’t help that when she was born she had a head full of black hair just like this little one too.”
Abby laughed. “Was she sure her father was her father?”
Doctor Gorin laughed softly. “They were quite sure, yes.”
“Maybe you can keep your blue eyes,” said Abby to Eliana, teasing a little foot through her blanket.
“At what point do they change?” asked Gorin.
“Six months or so,” Abby said. “But it can keep changing up till three years.”
Rebecca seemed taken aback.
“Babies are interesting, aren’t they?”
“Yes, and this one is definitely Holtz’s science experiment,” said Abby. “She wanted me to drink blue Gatorade all during my pregnancy so the baby would be born blue.”
“Utter nonsense, which suits her I suppose,” said Rebecca. She looked down at Eliana.
“I think we’re all glad you’re not blue.”
Abby smiled, happy at the scene in front of her. She had a feeling that Doctor Gorin was going to become a third grandmother to their daughter. Maybe that meant that Holtz might get to see her mentor more often.
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Descendants, Chapter 41
-----
“Angie has promised Patty that she will go back to school,” said Holtz to Abby a couple of days later while sitting at the dinner table. “I think Patty will call her every day to make sure she adheres to that.”
“I wouldn’t be surprised if she doesn’t go visit and make sure she does her homework,” said Abby. She was in the kitchen cooking when Holtz came back upstairs. After a week and a half, she had taken to going into the lab for little bits of time. Abby had held back on going into work, so to speak. She could still monitor their social media stuff from her tablet, and Erin would send her stuff through email and text. Plus they would wander upstairs themselves to come hold Eliana for a few minutes to give Abby a break. It was driving her slightly stir crazy not doing much outside of their home, but it was what needed to be done. The first two weeks were the worst in terms of getting anything accomplished with a newborn. Abby hadn’t gotten much done in the way of housework or cooking since coming home from the hospital and Holtz was taking care of what needed to be done with a little help from Erin. It seemed like Eliana was always in the need of something. But she had managed to get her to sleep for a moment and was working on making chicken Fettuccine Alfredo for dinner. It was just a jar sauce and dry noodles and frozen chicken, but it still smelled good and she wanted some comfort food. The garlic bread smell coming from the oven was making her stomach growl.
“Laundry?” she asked Holtz.
“Done and put away,” said Holtzmann. “You were out like a light.” She paused. “We go through a lot of baby clothes.”
“And spit up cloths,” said Abby. “I swear the other day I had a pile of eight in just a couple of hours, all used.”
Holtz sat down at the kitchen table. “The trials and tribulations of bringing up a newborn human, I gather.”
“If I had to do this at 20, I probably would have killed someone,” said Abby, shaking her head while stirring the sauce. “I can’t even imagine going to school and doing this.”
“And weren’t you dating someone too at the time? It could have been a possibility.”
“Oh geez. Sam. Yeeeeah, no,” said Abby, shaking her head. “I don’t even want to go there figuratively. Although it makes me wonder if Erin would have stayed if I had been dealing with a two year old.”
“Would you have even written the book?” proposed Holtz. “Babies and toddlers need a lot of care.”
“That’s a good... question,” shrugged Abby as she turned off the pasta. She paused before taking it off the stove.
“But that’s another figurative place I’d rather not go to.”
“At least let’s go to the place where there’s pasta and Alfredo sauce,” grinned Holtz. “I’m hungry.” Abby rolled her eyes at her wife and finished draining the pasta.
-----
"Abby, I think this place is clean enough," said Patty from the couch. "Your parents are not going to care about anything with this little thing in their arms." Eliana was cooing and squirming at Patty, who went back to teasing the baby with her fingers.
"I know, but part of me is itching to do something," said the brunette. "I want to be working." She let out a deep breath before sitting down beside Patty. "I know Erin's gone with the new kids and I'm just... jealous."
"Mmhmm," nodded Patty. "I can assure you though that Erin is just as jealous of you as you are of her if that helps." Abby started playing with Eliana's little hands.
"A little, but then it makes me feel bad because I know this is something she really wants." Ellie made a loud noise and gestured with her little fists, which they had started to take as a sign that she wanted one of her moms instead of being held by one of the other Ghostbusters. Patty handed the little girl back to Abby, who rocked her carefully.
"She wants to go to sleep, I think," said Abby. "She's getting particular about things.”
"Babies do," said Patty. "Cheyenne said to tell you and Holtz thank you for the flowers. They brightened up her work day."
"She went above and beyond with dinner. I thought Holtz was joking when she said she was going to get Cheyenne to cater," Abby stated. She smiled, thinking of her wife. "And on top of that, she went to your office and played with Ellie for a while so we could have a quiet meal. It was sweet."
"Those eclairs were good, weren't they?"
"Oh god, the best," said Abby. Patty grimaced, looking at Abby.
"But are you good? Holtzy was telling me that you've not been handling some things well."
Abby sighed, feeling the world on her shoulders for a few seconds. "It's not... I know it is just my hormone levels going back to normal and the stress... I don't know. I guess I thought I'd have this kid and go back to work, sort of like what dads used to do. I know it was my choice to breastfeed instead of formula and... I don't know. She's just so... needy. And she seems to love for me to do things more than she does Holtzmann."
"You are more familiar to her," agreed Patty. "But Holtzy is getting in a lot of bonding time. She just has to get a little older and need a little less. It'll come."
"I know," said Abby. "It's just how I feel." She looked down at Eliana, who had drifted off in her mother's arms. "I can't shake it sometimes."
"Don't let it fester," said Patty. "That sort of thing will eat you alive Abby. Postpartum Depression is serious."
"Trying," Abby responded. "Sometimes it's hard to get Holtz to understand."
"She'll listen," said Patty. "Even if she can't." Abby nodded before looking down at Eliana. They both heard the sound of a car pulling into the garage below them.
"And it sounds like Mom and Dad Yates are here," grinned Patty. She cooed at the asleep Ellie. "Looks like you couldn't stay awake long enough for them to get here."
"I'm sure Mom will make sure she wakes up," said Abby with a sigh. "You going back to work?"
"Got a lecture this afternoon," said Patty. "You know those gypsy graves Erin and I went and looked at? Turns out they were members of a group that was thought to be lost. They were secret carriers, and members of the Lăutari Clan. They traveled between the U.S. and Europe bringing information during WWI. No one ever suspected traveling musicians. I got in contact with the Romanian embassy and they helped direct me to a professor in Bucharest. We've been exchanging information, and she directed me to another professor right here in New York. He wants to take over his classes for the day."
"That's great Patty," said Abby. "You stumbled upon something, huh?"
"It's interesting to see how they managed to sneak in things," said Patty. "One even carried notes and maps in a secret compartment on the back of his violin."
There were footsteps on the stairs which sounded like the stomp of Holtz's boots.
"And it sounds like I need to go before the family reunion," Patty said as she stood. "Have fun."
"Thanks," said Abby sarcastically. "Sure you don't want to stay? We would always enjoy the extra company."
"Nope!" said Patty. "I'll let you and Holtzy do this all by yourself."
-----
Cynthia Yates had wandered into the kitchen about three in the morning. She had already gotten a glass of water when she noticed Holtzmann sitting on the couch with Eliana in her arms. She and Doug had already spent most of the evening holding their new grandchild. She couldn't get enough of her new granddaughter. She was in love already and knew they would have to make an effort to make trips to New York more often.
"Shh," said Holtz as she approached the living room in a whisper. "She's just about asleep."
"Woke you up crying?" Holtz nodded.
"Came out here so she wouldn't disturb Abby," said Holtz. "She needs the rest, and I suspected Ellie wasn't hungry."
"She just wanted attention," said Cynthia, looking at Eliana's small face with a smile. "Sometimes babies just get lonely."
Holtz rubbed her daughter's cheek. "She misses being in the womb where she wasn't alone."
"Something like that," said Mrs. Yates. "They need constant assurances that someone is still there for them."
"Don't we all," stated Holtz. She could hear Ellie breathing softly.
"She's beautiful Jillian," said Cynthia after taking a drink of her water. "You and Abby are going to raise a smart and talented little girl."
"Abby will," said Holtz. "I'm probably going to break her." She made a face, scrunching up her nose. Cynthia shook her head.
"You're not going to break her. Children are more resilient than you think."
"That is very true," said a voice, chuckling. "I definitely would have broken one if that were so." Holtzmann looked up and saw Doug Yates standing not far from the couch. "I might not have been as careful as I should have."
"Abby and Austin turned out perfectly fine," said Cynthia, looking up at Doug. He took a few more steps and wrapped his arm around his wife's neck. She patted it before giving his hand a quick kiss. "You did well."
"Taking a few years off and raising the kids was one of the best decisions I made," said Doug. "You're definitely not going to break her, Holtzmann." They all three heard the small squeak of a door.
"And why is everyone having a family meeting at 3:23 in the morning?" complained Abby, wiping the sleep out of her eyes as she stood in the doorway of her and Holtz's bedroom. "And without me?"
"Only time we can talk about you is when you're not here," teased Holtzmann. "I was just about to tell your mom and dad about that feminist magazine that found out we were expecting and wants to write a story about us being in STEM fields, finding love, and raising a child together."
"Really?" asked Cynthia. "Sounds like it would make for a lovely article."
Abby groaned. "And more fodder for... whatever group that wants to turn what we have into a bad thing."
"But it's also a good thing," said Doug, going over and hugging his daughter. "It could inspire some people."
"Maybe," agreed Abby, leaning into her dad. "But for now, could we take this moment to inspire some more sleep before breakfast?"
"Nah," said Holtz, moving Ellie around in her arms. "I need to catch up on the latest Yates family gossip."
"And I need to hear more about your friends starting to adopt or take in children," said Cynthia. "I think Patty and her wife will be wonderful foster parents."
-----
“Okay,” said Abby, looking at Holtz. She had just fed Eliana, who was sleeping away in the sling across Holtzmann’s body. “Are you sure you’re going to be fine?”
“Pfffft,” said Holtz as she looked down in the sling. “We got this, don’t we Ellie?” Abby didn’t look too convinced. Eliana’s appetite had increased recently, and feedings were longer and getting more on demand than on the clock.
“Abs, seriously. We’ll be fine. You’re only going to be gone a couple of hours. Ellie has two loving aunts who can help out, and you did pump some extra milk just in case of traffic and construction or the beginning of the zombie apocalypse. We’re good.”
“I just need to see Mom and Dad to the airport and pick up a few things,” said Abby. “It shouldn’t take me long.”
“Flight plan has been logged,” said Holtz with a salute. “Your parents are already waiting downstairs for the cab. You’re cleared for takeoff.”
Abby wrung her hands for a moment, knowing the minute she walked out the door, something was going to happen. She just knew it. She was conflicted for a second. Holtz sighed loudly.
“I will get Kevin to come up here and hoist you over his shoulders and make you go.”
“Like Kevin--”
“Might I remind you of that time you got really drunk after that one really difficult bust that brought back some old nightmares?”
Abby whimpered, preferring not to think of those events. She huffed.
“Fine, I’m going.”
“Bring home the stuff to make cheese steaks for dinner.”
“Yes Mom,” said Abby, rolling her eyes at Holtz, who grinned happily.
“I am, and don’t you forget it. Ellie, wave goodbye to Mommy.” She picked up her daughter’s hand and waved it. “We’ll be fine Abby.”
“I know. It’s just--”
“Bye Abs.”
Abby breathed deep and started for the door. Once it shut behind her, Holtz laughed.
“Your Mommy is way, way overprotective,” she said to Eliana. “But I guess I can’t blame her if I had been carrying you inside of me for so many months too.” Holtz swayed a little, enjoying feeling her daughter so close to her body.
“You and I are going to have fun, Ellie.” Holtz waited a couple more minutes, then headed for the staircase. She peeked her head inside Patty’s office but didn’t see her. Holtzmann went on down to the first floor and saw both Patty and Erin sitting at the conference table. She knew the new team was out on a mission and it was only the four of them.
“She gone?” asked Holtz.
“Just went out the door a minute ago with her mom and dad,” said Patty. “Nearly didn’t make it huh?”
“God, she was trying everything to not go,” said Holtzmann, carefully sitting down in a chair before adjusting the sling so she could take a now awake Ellie out and lay her in her arms instead. “You’d think she was permanently attached to the place.”
“It has been a couple of weeks of cooling her heels here,” said Patty. “And a lot of baby time.”
“Which is why I need to push her out the door,” said Holtz. “So she’s not driving me stir crazy.”
“Wasn’t that what she said about you a couple of weeks ago?” Erin said, smirking.
Holtz made a face at Erin and held her daughter upright against her chest so her head and neck were supported. She started using her hands to make her daughter’s legs dance on the table. Patty and Erin both chuckled as Eliana soft-shoed on the shiny surface. She was somewhat fascinated by what her mother was doing with her feet.
“Hey Erin, pull out your phone,” said Holtz. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her own.
“What? Why?” said Erin, reaching for hers. Holtz grinned.
“We’re making a video to send to Abby.”
-----
Abby heard her text tone go off. She had been trying to hurry after she had taken a little longer in the bookshop she had stopped in on her way to grocery store. She hoped Eliana wasn’t getting fussy on Holtz yet.
“She’s probably getting hungry,” sighed Abby as she stopped to check her phone. But the text hadn’t come from Holtz, but Erin. And it included a video. Abby realized she was standing next to a Starbucks with few free outdoor tables. She sat down her bag from the bookstore and hit play on the video. She was confused for a second before she recognized the conference table. She groaned when she saw Holtz’s gloved hands guiding their daughter’s tiny feet down onto the surface. She was wearing little red and white Vans Holtz had found and insisted Eliana needed. She almost started laughing when a little card was placed in front of the camera that read:
For Mommy.
Eliana seemed to be rather enjoying when *NSYNC’s Bye Bye Bye started to play and Holtz started making her little arms and feet dance. Abby held a hand over her mouth, trying to keep from laughing and crying. She could hear Erin and Patty laughing in the background of the video. Holtz’s own dance moves were questionable, but she was pretty good at coordinating little newborn limbs. Abby did start laughing when a little baby hand was pretending to open and close like in the dance from the music video. She put a hand over her heart.
“Holtzmann...” she said out loud, shaking her head. She watched till the end of the video where Holtz had Eliana wave bye-bye and who coincidentally let out a huge yawn before closing her eyes. Abby texted her wife.
So this is what you’re going to do with our child while I’m out. - Abby
It didn’t take long till Abby got a reply back.
And she’s sleeping like a baby. Doesn’t even know you’re gone. - Holtzmann
Abby almost wanted to be sarcastic and say something about how much she was really needed and that Ellie was a baby, but instead, hit play on the video one more time. She smiled through the whole thing. She started to close it out when she heard a voice.
“Noooo... play it again.” Abby looked up surprised and saw two female Starbucks wait staff standing behind her. One of them had a hand over her mouth like she had been shocked she had spoken.
“It’s so cute,” gushed the other, picking up where her friend had left off. “Is that on YouTube?”
“No, it’s my wife and newborn daughter,” said Abby. “They’re apparently having fun at home.”
“The baby is yours?” gasped the waitress who had first spoken. “So cute! How old is she?”
“Almost four weeks now,” said Abby, feeling bewildered. “You were... watching?”
They both looked sheepish.
“Well, I saw and I pulled her in,” said one of the waitresses as she pointed to the other. “We had come out to clean the tables.”
“We’re sorry!” said the other, still looking sheepish. “We can get you a coffee?”
Abby felt a little weird that they had been watching over her shoulder, but free caffeine...
“One more watch for a coffee?” she offered.
“It’s a deal!” said the waitress who spoke first. Abby laughed to herself and hit play.
-----
“Oh Dad, you need to see these,” said Holtz. She had dragged him into her lab after he had come to meet his grand baby. He had been through the flu and a cold and had not wanted to get the baby sick so soon in her life. So he had stayed at home and Holtz had sent lots of pictures and video. The weather had held back Abby’s parents a couple of weeks too as Michigan and the surrounding area had a couple more snowstorms to round out the season, as did New York. Holtzmann had been a little relieved about it all. It had been a little rough at first, trying to adjust schedules. They had a few stumbling blocks here and there, but Eliana was starting to get into the groove of the whole life thing. She really liked to play, which Holtz had been proud of since she had often played with Eliana while she was still in the womb. She also loved to hear Abby read to her. It didn’t matter what it was, just as long as she could hear her Mommy. Even her just reading her emails and bust summaries was interesting.
“What have you built now?” said Dean Holtzmann, chuckling as he followed Holtz into her and Jen’s shared lab. Although Holtz had enjoyed Jen’s company, she was going to be glad to have everything back in the place where it should be.
“I haven’t shown Abby yet,” said Holtzmann, humming to herself as she pulled out two large boxes from the back of the lab space. “So...”
“Not a peep from me, I promise,” smirked Dean. He watched as she pulled out a mini-proton pack which looked very similar to the ones his daughter and their team worked with.
“Why am I not surprised?” he laughed. Holtz put it in Dean’s hands, turning it on. It lit up with LED lights.
“Please tell me this doesn’t work...” he began. Holtz rolled her eyes.
“Hit the button on the proton wand.”
He did so and laughed when multicolored bubbles came out of it.
“That’s brilliant kid. You might want to patent it and sell it.”
“Nah,” Holtz grinned. “One of a kind prototype. At least, for now.”
“More grand babies?” he said, looking at his daughter bemusedly.
“Let us get through this one first,” she said, opening the other box. This one was a little larger than the other. She took out a little handmade car and sat it on the floor. Dean was surprised. It looked exactly like the Ghostbusters vehicle.
“Is that...”
“A walker,” said Holtz proudly. “And as Ellie gets older, it’ll be a pedal car she can ride around in.”
“That is cute,” Dean said, smiling. “And smart. Although I don’t know about my grandchild riding around in a mini-hearse.”
“Then you probably don’t want to hear that she came home from the hospital in the full sized one then.”
“No, but I do want to see these baby dancing videos that Abby says you keep on making for her and the others and not sharing or posting.”
-----
Erin had come upstairs to talk to Abby about transferring files to the new team once they had gotten settled when they heard a scream from downstairs. It was not long after they heard feet stomping up the stairs.
“It’s official,” said Patty after getting to the top. “Cheyenne and I have our first foster child!” She was still holding onto her phone in a firm grip even though she was slightly shaking. “He’s 13, loves to read, and is big into science. He just lost his mom. I hate that for him.”
“No dad?” asked Erin. Patty shook her head.
“Not in the picture. And no living relatives.”
“Damn,” grimaced Holtz, going and leaning against the arm of the couch. She had followed Patty up the stairs from her lab.
“Patty and Cheyenne will take care of him,” said Abby, getting up from where she had been sitting and talking to Erin and hugged Patty. “Congratulations.”
“It’s a big step,” she said. “But this is what we both want to do.” Abby nodded.
“When will they bring him to you?” asked Erin, getting up and hugging Patty as well.
“Two weeks,” said Patty. “They’re trying to place him quickly since he has nowhere to go. He’s already staying with a neighbor who had sat with him from time to time while his mom was at work.”
“Sounds like you need to get busy then,” Erin added.
“There’s so much we’ve got to do,” said Patty. “They said they’d bring all his things from their place, but I feel like we need to have him something new to welcome him to our home...”
“TV and video gaming system,” piped up Holtz. “He’ll be the happiest teenager.”
“Probably would be the best option,” agreed Erin.
“It works for Holtz,” gestured Abby at her wife. Holtzmann stuck her tongue out at her. A cry interrupted them.
“I’ll go get her,” said Holtz. She headed over to the nursery. Abby sighed, scratching her shoulder.
“I had just put her down...”
“She wants in on the good news,” said Erin. She looked over to Patty, who shook her head.
“Still haven’t heard anything from her.” Erin nodded, biting her lip.
“I kind of got the impression that Sondra might have wanted to keep her grand baby the last time we talked on the phone.”
“Yeah, I was afraid of that too,” said Patty with a grimace. “But there’s still adoption, right? And you did your home study.”
“There is that,” said Erin, trying to smile.
“They really did like you and David,” Patty said sadly. “It’s just... you know, family...”
“I get it,” said Erin with a nod. “I wouldn’t have the heart to accept when I know Deandra’s mother would want the child.”
“Maybe you’ll hear something soon,” offered Abby. She looked over when Holtz brought Eliana over to the group. “Until then, you can borrow ours.”
Erin laughed at that as Holtz nodded vigorously. She deposited a crying Ellie into Erin’s arms.
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Descendants, Chapter 40
-----
Erin and Patty had taken the flowers and such down to the Ecto-1 and brought up the car seat the morning Abby and Eliana were discharged.
Abby was definitely happy to be going home. Nurses coming in and checking on her was definitely something she could do without. She just wanted to go home with Holtz and their daughter and relax. If she was going to become the on demand milk machine for their little one, then she wanted to be able to be on her own couch with Netflix and her Amazon Video account.
And at least she could go downstairs and see how things were going in between feedings. Abby sighed to herself. Ever since the baby was born, she was really struggling privately with feelings of resentment for her decisions about starting a family again. It was really hard since she loved her child already and enjoyed watching Holtz interact with Ellie. She was so in love and already making plans for Eliana’s future. She didn’t mention this to anyone, figuring it’d go away in a few days when things weren’t so hectic and crazy. Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression were very real things and she knew her hormone levels were fluctuating rapidly so it’d take some time to get back to normal.
However normal her life could be with the Ghostbusters. And Holtzmann.
"Okay, going home momma," said Holtz, gesturing to the wheelchair and waiting staffer. They already had Ellie in the car seat, despite her cries of protest at such. It had almost broken Holtz's heart to have do so. But Patty was waiting downstairs with the Ecto-1 and Holtzmann really wanted to get home herself. Once Abby had gotten sat down in the chair, Holtz had deposited the car seat in Abby's lap. She adjusted the plaid shirt on her daughter with a soft laugh. The little beanie type hat and the clothes almost made her look like a little lumberjack. All she needed was a mini axe. She got Holtzmann to hand her cell phone out of her stuff and took a picture to send to her family. Her brother and Ariel and her parents had tons of photos and video already, but one more wouldn't hurt. They were all planning to come up and see their new grandchild and niece. Abby couldn't wait to introduce her daughter to her brother's kids. They were definitely excited about having another kid to play with. Abby was smiling at the sight in front of her as she pocketed the phone. She held onto the handle as the staffer left the room and headed for the elevators.
"It's a good thing you're getting an early start," said the staffer, whose name tag Holtz noticed said he was named Jake. "Snowstorm is coming in sometime after four."
"Maybe we won't have much work then," said Holtz cheerfully. "And I can make you sit down instead of trying to coordinate."
"Like you're going to sit down?" said Abby, eyeing Holtz.
"I have work to do," she said teasingly. "I'm two weeks behind since someone decided to stay inside their other momma for longer than they should."
Abby groaned. She had already forgotten that it had been that long. She was just relieved Ellie had been born. She had definitely been right when she had told Patty that before about the forgetfulness. They waited for the elevator to ding and open so they could go downstairs. The rest of the trip and going out to the car was quiet. Once Erin and Abby had gotten Ellie buckled into the backseat, Holtzmann had demanded the keys from Patty, who shook her head no and pointed to the passenger seat. Holtz pouted, which made them all chuckle at the engineer. Erin sighed from the back and promised Holtz she could use the siren at least.
-----
Diana, Angie, Beth, and Jen had all gushed over the baby once they had stepped back into the firehouse. They had even gotten together and picked out baby gifts. Holtz had loved the stuffed rocket ship, making it swoosh around Eliana’s head. But after a few minutes of work talk, Holtzmann quickly ushered her wife upstairs. She pointed to the couch.
“Sit,” she said. “I’ll go get the co-sleeper so you can keep Eliana beside you.”
Abby was amused when she saw Erin had left the flowers and gifts that had been sent to her in the hospital on their coffee table. She had figured Erin would “forget” the flowers and leave them on her desk so she could look at all the roses while she was working. Holtzmann and Abby had even gotten a visit from one of the childbirth class instructors who had been there visiting a friend who had also given birth as well. After a few minutes, they had figured out she was kin to Jennifer Lynch. In fact, they were sisters. So they had all been amused when a bouquet and a cute teddy bear had appeared later from Penelope and Jennifer Lynch.
Holtz came back out of the baby’s room as Abby was getting Eliana out of the car seat. The blonde strolled into the bedroom and came back out with pillows. She helped Abby by holding Eliana as she sat down.
“Rest, relax. I know you are still very sore.”
“And what are you going to do?” said Abby, eyeing her wife.
“Once I unpack and get out everything we might need for the day, I’m sitting my butt down on the other end of this couch and be at your beck and call.”
“I figured you were going downstairs to your lab,” said Abby, unbuttoning her plaid shirt.
Holtz shrugged. “Not today. Wife and child come first.” She kissed Abby on the cheek and headed towards the bedroom. The paranormal investigator laid Eliana on the breastfeeding pillow they had bought and set her to eat. She lovingly rubbed her daughter’s cheek as she began to suckle.
“I can’t get over the fact that she’s already waking up on her own to eat,” said Holtz, coming into the room with a load of dirty laundry.
“Not like you wouldn’t wake up for food,” mused Abby. “Especially if you were being fed about 8-12 times a day by breast...”
“I would be the happiest gay woman alive,” teased Holtz with a wink as she went through to the bathroom.
“You do realize newborn stomachs are only about the size of an acorn,” said Abby a little loud so Holtz could hear her. “Could you imagine only eating an acorn?”
“No, because then I would be a squirrel,” said Holtz, coming back through. “And I’m already nuts enough as it is.”
Abby groaned, shaking her head. Holtz laughed as she went into the kitchen and got some water. She sat it down beside her wife and kicked off her boots before sitting down on the couch.
“Do you want to get out the ring sling and start trying it?” asked Holtz.
“Maybe in a couple of days,” Abby said. “I think I need the downtime.”
“For good reason,” said Holtz. “You’ve done a major thing to your body. It needs recovery.”
Abby nodded. After she was certain Eliana was finished, she held her upright and started rubbing her back. Holtz scooted closer and took Ellie from her wife.
“You want something to eat?” asked Holtz. “I think Erin and Kevin were going to grab food for everyone, but I can make you something.”
“I think I can wait, but I do have a request for the future meal,” said Abby. “A thick rib eye, medium rare. Mashed potatoes with garlic and rosemary and portabella mushroom gravy. Oh, and that crab and bacon mac and cheese.”
“Ah, the deluxe menu,” grinned Holtz. “Shall I get the wine and dessert list?”
“Only if there are eclairs involved.”
“I think I need to call Cheyenne to do a catered celebratory meal here at the firehouse,” mused Holtzmann. “You must be regaining your appetite after all that nausea.” She rubbed their daughter’s back to help with digestion.
“I think it’s the boobs,” said Abby. “Feeling full is kind of making me hungry.”
“With good reason,” said Holtzmann. “You’re making food so you need to eat.” She patted Abby’s knee. “I know it’s slightly uncomfortable, but...”
“Feels very warm and full,” said Abby, breaking in.
“Booooooooobs,” teased Holtz. She got up and laid a sleeping Eliana in the co-sleeper before kissing Abby on the forehead and running a hand down her cheek.
“Happy to be home.”
“Me too,” said Abby with a soft smile as Holtz straightened her shirt collar.
-----
“Hiiiiii,” said Erin, her eyes marveling at the sight in front of her as she came upstairs the next morning. Eliana was resting on Abby, her eyes looking around. Abby was halfway lying on a bunch of pillows with her daughter facing up and out while nestled in one arm. She had a tablet in the other hand.
“Someone was just fed and hasn’t gone back to sleep,” said Abby, smiling. “So she is investigating the ceiling for cracks and listening to Mommy read to her. I’m sure Michio Kaku is probably very entertaining.”
“But Mommy is saying it, so it can’t be that bad, can it Ellie?” She gestured to the baby. “May I?” Abby nodded and let Erin take Eliana, who whimpered a little at the movement. Erin smiled at her and wrapped her up a little more as Abby sat up and moved her feet to make room for Erin.
“Just enjoying a little quiet time huh?”
“Getting her to rest so I can rest,” said Abby. “Up and down all night. She is not taking well to the environment change. She is alright as long as Holtz and I are holding her, but she does not want to be put down. Our arms are both tired today.”
“Coming home is not going so hot then huh?” said Erin.
“No,” Abby whined. “Someone is fussy.” She sighed. “I know this is a thing newborns do because they don’t know what’s going on, but you don’t realize how annoying it is until nothing seems to want to calm them down. You feel... helpless.”
“I know you know that Eliana has only been in this world for less than 84 hours and you’re all three still learning to respond to each other.” Erin nuzzled the front of Eliana’s little hat. “You and your mommies have just got to learn each other's language.”
The gesture earned Erin an ear splitting cry as Eliana wailed, her tiny face going red.
“Okay, that is definitely a note to self to never do again,” said Erin, bouncing and rocking Ellie a little to try to calm her down. Abby sipped on her bottle of water and smiled, not saying anything.
-----
“She’s asleep,” said Holtz softly as she walked into the bathroom. “I know you’re enjoying that shower Abs, but we all should be sleeping at this point.”
“I know, it’s just--” She sighed from behind the frosted glass. “Do you think you could come in here and help me with something?”
Holtzmann perked up at that.
“Whatever my naked lady desireth,” she said. Abby could already see her shedding her clothes as she was throwing them up in the air. Holtz opened the shower door.
“Now I know Abs that the doctor said--”
“Just get your ass in here,” said Abby. Holtz grinned and climbed in. She ducked her head under the warm water.
“What do you need?” she asked, knocking water out of her ear by banging on the other.
“Massage,” said Abby. She pointed to her chest. “These. I feel so full and it’s uncomfortable. You’re better at this than I am.”
“Roger,” said Holtz. She stood sideways against the wall, deciding to pull on the shower head and aim it at a better angle than her wife had it. She held Abby’s close, who sighed and nuzzled Holtz’s neck and laid a kiss on her jaw. Holtzmann took a hold of the left one and gently began to rub it. She could see where Abby would think it would be like a rock. It definitely was still hard even with all the heat and moisture.
“Just got to put a little love into it,” she teased Abby. “Gentle and smooth.”
“You can do that so well,” said Abby, leaning against Holtz a little more, who got a mouthful of Abby’s wet hair. She blew it out of her mouth with a disgusted look, which made Abby snort at her wife.
“It’s not like you haven’t gotten a mouthful before.”
“Just not that wet and tasting like shampoo,” said Holtz, blowing a raspberry at her wife. She could feel Abby relaxing against her.
“None of that. No napping in the shower.”
“Spoilsport.” Holtz could feel Abby moving a little under her touch.
“Still very sensitive?”
“Mmhmm.” Holtz switched breasts. Abby’s milk was starting to come in and she had been feeling so heavy and full, which was very uncomfortable. Warmth had helped so far, and it was looking like massage was doing a good job too. After a few minutes, she could tell Abby was feeling a little better. She wasn’t squirming under her fingertips as she went between the two.
“Thank you.”
“Not a problem Abs. A beautiful woman asking me to jump naked into the shower with her and massage her breasts. How can a lesbian ever turn that down?”
“As long as it’s just one beautiful woman,” said Abby, teasing Holtzmann. Holtz chuckled and kissed her wife lovingly on the side of the cheek.
-----
“... Syracuse.”
The catch in Erin’s throat made her feel strange for a moment. That meant...
“They’ve found a home.”
“Great rental property,” said Abby, rocking Eliana gently in her arms. All four of the Ghostbusters were sitting around the conference table in the firehouse. They were having a meeting after hours of just the four of them to go over a little bit of business without being interrupted. “State just signed off. It’s downtown, with four floors. Two of them are apartments so they’ll have space to live and work there. The funny thing is that it used to be a club on the bottom floor so there’s a bar. I guess they don’t have to go far to have libations after work.”
“You know, I could build a bar for us.”
“I don’t think so Holtzy. We really don’t have space,” said Patty. “Besides, you can have all the alcohol you want upstairs in your apartment.” Holtz’s eyes lit up at that. It seemed liked she had forgotten she already had free access to booze if she wanted it. Erin grabbed a hold of her collar before she could get up and leave the conference table.
“It doesn’t seem right, does it?” she stated, sitting Holtzmann back down.
“It doesn’t,” agreed Patty. “They’ve become a part of our lives.”
“Except Jen. She can go,” pouted Holtz. “She keeps standing in front of the lab door and not letting me in.”
“She is great at staring Holtzmann down,” Erin teased.
“I just wanted some tools,” grumbled Holtz. “Ladies, I’m dying of boredom here.”
“And how old is your baby now?” asked Patty.
“A week?” said Holtz hopefully, trying to look pitiful.
“We’re going to have to let her go back in the lab so she won’t go stir-crazy,” said Abby. She passed her daughter to Patty so she could get what she needed.
“Let me rephrase that. Before she drives me stir-crazy.” She got up from her chair. “Okay, onto the next order of business, although it’s only semi Ghostbuster related.” She started opening a box that was sitting on the table before picking up a bottle of champagne and four glasses from a chair and placing them beside it.
“Oh, now there are drinks,” said Holtzmann. Abby rolled her eyes.
“You knew it was down here. You went and bought the bottle.”
“Still...”
“What is all this Abby?” asked Patty.
“It is the culmination of a semi-solo project you girls knew I was working on. Finally came from the printers. You all know I’ve been kinda quiet about this. And it was worth it, I think,” said Abby. She started opening the box.
“Erin... you know I love you.”
“Oh here we go,” said Holtz with a sigh, sounding pitiful as she took off her yellow tinted glasses and put them on the table. “I always knew this day would come.” She looked mopey for a second before both Erin and Abby gave her the finger for her comment without hesitation. The nuclear engineer was absolutely delighted in their synchronicity as she grinned widely, eyes dancing between the two. Patty just shook her head and looked at Eliana in her arms.
“You sure you wanna be a part of this world?”
“Yes she does,” cooed Holtz as she leaned into Patty and kissed her daughter’s tiny forehead.
Abby opened the box and started handing out books, making sure to hand the first one to Erin.
“What is this?” asked Erin, looking at the cover.
“Afterlife Assistance: For When Ghosts Come Into Your Life?” repeated Patty.
“A doctor of psychology contacted me online,” said Abby. “Through Ghost News. She was looking for research. She’s been dealing with the aftermath of her own family having to deal with ghosts in their home after everything with Rowan. She noticed the toll it was taking on her children and even though she knew it was probably going to make a laughingstock of her in the community, she wanted to write about how to help those who have been affected. So I helped her with research and we ended up spending a lot of time talking about things... a good bit of it about you.” Abby reached up and scratched the inside corner of her eye under her glasses while looking at Erin. “And how you were so tortured and hurt that people didn’t believe you. Didn’t even want to believe you. I ended up telling her how much I had wanted to help you in high school and how I felt like I couldn’t do anything. So this... turned into a co-author project. Apparently I’m like a magnet for that sort of thing.”
“So is this about me?” asked Erin, feeling dubious.
“No,” said Abby. “It’s a lot of... coping techniques and such to help people or yourself. It’s really new territory. But some of the anecdotes and stories are mine. I helped her gather the rest through the website and contacting former clients for interviews. It’s really a big group project to make people realize they aren’t alone. Especially those who do not know how to help themselves.”
“Dude...” said Patty. “This could be helpful to a lot of people.”
“That’s what we were trying for,” said Abby. “And I think it was Erica wanted to convey all along.”
Erin ran her hand across Abby’s name on the front cover. She was honored that her best friend had taken on this project because she had felt she needed to do so because of their friendship in the past. She opened the front cover and flipped through the two dedication pages, stopping on the one she knew was Abby’s.
To All the Ghost Girls Out There: We Believe You.
Erin hopped up out of her seat and hugged Abby tightly. Tears were spilling out of her eyes as she buried her head in her best friend’s shoulder.
“I could have helped,” she said after a moment. Abby started laughing.
“I know, but it sort of took on a life of its own and really, it’s not my project per se. I just helped it along.”
“It was enough you got a co-author,” said Erin. “Oh my god Abby...”
“I know,” she said. “I didn’t say anything and--”
Erin shook her head, smiling. “It’s great. I wish something like this could have existed before. But I guess it had to wait on us for it to come into existence.” She grinned, leaning into her best friend.
“So do I get the first autographed copy?” Abby rolled her eyes and pulled out a pen out of her pocket. Holtz got up and grabbed the bottle of champagne.
“Bubbly for everyone!” She started handing out glasses after uncorking the bottle far away from the conference table, trying not to make a loud pop which would startle Eliana. It thankfully didn’t, much to both her mothers' relief.
“None for you sweet pea,” said Holtz, kissing the top of her daughter’s head after handing a full glass to Patty. “You can have some milk later.”
“Erica will be here next week,” said Abby after handing Erin back her book. “She wants to meet everyone, so I invited her and her family to come visit. I thought you ladies would like to meet them. She and her husband adopted too.”
“Should be fun,” said Holtz, coming up beside her wife, handing her a glass. “A toast to a new book. This is what, like....”
“Our 10th?” laughed Patty, teasing. “Between us all.”
“Should have gotten a cake then,” said Abby, smirking.
“Sushi!” said Holtz suddenly. “I’ve been craving some Abby, but I knew you couldn't eat it, so...”
“Ordering in for dinner?” said Abby, looking between her friends. “Will David and Cheyenne mind?”
“Cheyenne’s working,” said Patty, who handed off the newborn to Holtz. Erin shrugged.
“He’ll live. He’s still got a lot to make up for.”
-----
Holtz winced when she heard Eliana cry. She started to move and Abby’s hand was on her shoulder.
“Go back to sleep.”
“It’s my turn,” Holtz said softly, trying to wake up.
“She’s just hungry.” Holtz looked up at her alarm clock and saw that Abby was probably right. She rolled over and watched as Abby unfastened her nursing bra while holding their child.
“You can do the diaper afterward.”
“Input and output. You and me,” said Holtz, half-asleep. Abby snorted.
“You would find a joke in getting woken up in the middle of the night.” Holtz frowned at that.
“Abs?”
“It’s nothing,” she sighed. “I was just sleeping well, and-- I’ve just got to get used to the scheduling.”
“Yeah, you’re going to have to keep sleeping when she sleeps,” said Holtz. “Even during the day. I know you don’t like it, but...”
When she heard Abby grumble under her breath, Holtz chuckled. She leaned up and kissed her wife softly. She ran a hand through Abby’s hair, which was down around her shoulders.
“I know it sucks Abs, but it is what it is. We’ve got to learn to work together as a team.”
“Team Input/Output?”
Holtz sighed loudly. “Can we trade?”
“Do your boobs feel heavier than watermelons and are producing milk?”
“That would be a no.”
“Diapers,” said Abby. She wrinkled her nose a little as she moved Eliana carefully. “And I think she needs it.”
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Descendants, Chapter 30
-----
Holtz and Abby had thankfully gotten their parents sent off back to Michigan and Maryland with well wishes and more than a few gifts.
The biggest one for them was that now they could have a few moments of peace and quiet to just themselves. The Ghostbusters headquarters was still closed with Patty and her wife on vacation. Erin and David decided at the last minute to take a mini-vacation to go skiing after Christmas. When Holtzmann questioned Abby about taking a trip, she shook her head.
“Between the speaking engagements, lectures, book meetings, and such, I think I’ve seen too many hotels. I’d just like to stay home for the holiday.”
So for New Years, the team decided to celebrate the new year together at the firehouse with lots of fresh buttery popcorn and sparkling juice. Cheyenne had even made them chocolate truffles with different flavorings before she had to be back at work. Holtzmann had found herself fond of the cinnamon ones as Patty was telling her all about their trip to Hawaii. Erin had already been texting with Abby about being a little upset and would be running a little late, but she hadn’t explained why. After coming in with the traditional champagne for midnight, she sat down beside her best friend and curled up.
“He wouldn’t let me tell them.”
Abby sighed. She had been afraid of this. She liked David, but...
“Did he give a reason why?” she asked, handing Erin one of the truffles.
“He didn’t want to get anyone’s hopes up,” she said. “Just in case we changed our minds.” Erin closed her eyes, enjoying the chocolate. “I am beginning to think that he believes that come April when you are in the throes of motherhood and you and Holtz are dealing with a fussy newborn that I will get disinterested and will want to concentrate on the work.”
Abby knew David had a point there, but she wasn’t about to say that to Erin. Work really was all that Erin had to keep her sane for so many years, up until she had found a family again with them. She had even met David on a mission when they had to clean a couple of ghosts out of the small college’s bell tower where he had taught at the time.
“What do you think?”
Erin frowned slightly. “I don’t... I don’t know?” she said. “Maybe?” She grimaced. “I know that sounds bad.”
“It doesn’t,” said Abby, shaking her head. “Everyone has doubts.”
“I want to have a child... maybe even a baby,” said Erin softly. “I wanted to tell my parents and his family that we were adopting.”
“We?” questioned Abby. “So David was on board with adopting?” The look on her best friend’s face was all she needed to know. She had a feeling what was coming. She closed her eyes.
“Erin, you two are getting a divorce, aren’t you? That's why you took the extra vacation.”
“Sep-- Separated,” said Erin. “He wants some time... alone. To think. I think he’s actually scared of fatherhood.”
“I’m going to have to give him a piece of my mind,” said Abby, her teeth clenched. She started to stand and go find her cell phone.
“Okay,” said Erin, grabbing a hold of Abby’s arm and patting it. “Reel it back in Abby. There’s no need.”
“Someone needs to--”
“I can fight my own battles,” smiled Erin sadly. “But thank you. For trying.”
“So, adoption?”
“Still going through with it.”
“I tried to convince Holtz, and see where it got me,” smirked Abby. Erin laughed softly.
“Yes, but then I wouldn’t get to see your cute baby bump,” said the redhead. She rubbed a hand across it. She leaned into her best friend, who wrapped her arms around her.
“Can I cry now?”
“Always,” said Abby, rubbing Erin’s head, wishing there was something she could do to help her.
“And why am I missing out on this cuddle party?” asked Holtz. “This is preposterous, a travesty even!”
“Come on Holtz,” said Erin. She felt the blonde curl into her back. She laughed when Patty sat down on one of the squashy cubes that Abby and Holtz had for extra seating and blanket storage and wrapped her arms around them all.
“It’s a group hug of the best sorts,” said Abby.
“I’ve had dreams like this,” said Holtz sexily.
“Don’t even go there Holtzy. You’ll make this weird.”
“Too late Patty,” grinned Holtzmann. “Thought’s out there.”
“Urrrgghh,” said Patty. Abby patted her cheek in sympathy.
“At least you get to go home. I have to put up with her.”
“We’re going to miss the ball dropping,” said Erin. Tears were already beginning to go down her cheeks.
“Doesn’t matter,” said Abby. “We can start a new tradition of couch cuddles for the new year. Though we’re going to need a bigger couch for next time.”
“I second that,” Holtz said, picking up Erin’s hand and kissing it before doing the same to Patty. Abby pulled Erin tighter when she felt her begin to sob.
It definitely was going to be an interesting new year. She looked at Holtz, who grimaced when she realized that something was actually wrong with their friend. Patty was rubbing the back of Erin’s neck and shoulders. All three of them shared a grim look as Erin curled into a smaller ball and cried.
-----
“Erin’s asleep,” said Abby to Holtzmann as she closed the door to her and Holtz's bedroom. “Completely conked out after I got her to lay down.”
“And you look about as exhausted as she did,” said Holtz. She gestured for Abby to join her in bed. The brunette curled up on her left side and laid her head on Holtzmann’s chest.
“I thought I was going to have to tell Erin to move and let me check the nursing pads in my bra. I felt wet, but I guess it was from all her crying.”
“She was definitely distressed,” said Holtz. “Patty’s already planning for us to go jump David at work.”
“It would probably be better if you didn’t do that,” said Abby. “I don’t think Erin wants us to fight her battles for her.”
“She told you that, but said nothing about us,” Holtzmann said with a grin.
“You don’t need to Holtz,” said Abby, running her fingers up and down Holtz’s stomach. “Patty maybe.”
“What’s the matter with me?”
“Because you’re having a baby already with the reason Erin’s thinking of children in the first place.”
“Good thinkin’ Abs, but it still doesn’t help that we’d like to get beat his ass for hurting Erin like that.”
“Believe me, I quite understand,” Abby said as she moved around a little. “You’re quite comfy Holtzmann.” She rubbed Holtz’s hip and knee. The engineer looked at her wife in amusement.
“So you want to have New Year’s sex?”
Abby gave her a look. “Can’t I just touch my wife who’s pretty?”
“If by touching, you mean pulling down her boxers and getting her off, then yes please.”
“Now who’s wanting New Years sex, honey?” said Abby, pulling down Holtzmann’s sleepwear. The blonde let out a soft sigh when Abby stroked her labia.
“I just have a need and want for my beautiful partner,” said Holtz, making a face as her hips twitched at the movement. “I had to opt for taking a picture of Erin all curled up on you instead of our normal New Year's routine of kisses. It’ll be good blackmail later, but I didn’t want to share.”
Abby instantly knew what Holtz meant. Since Erin was having issues with David, she would be there with them more. Erin was her best friend after all. The first couple of months after everything had settled from the near Rowan induced apocalypse had been a little testing of Erin and Holtz’s friendship because Erin and Abby had been making up for lost time. But Holtzmann tried to be a good sport about it all since they hadn’t seen each other in 16 years. Not that Abby could really blame Holtz. She had been missing the alone time they had together as well. Higgins had been crappy, but at least it had been just them in their own small lab.
And in about three more months, their little one would be there too. Not a lot of time to be together. She could understand Holtzmann’s bout of jealousy.
“You’ll always come first,” said Abby, rubbing Holtzmann’s clit, which made the blonde moan. “Well, after Eliana or Elijah.”
“Of course,” said Holtz, letting out a pleasured sigh. She stripped off her sports bra. “I have already accepted that taking care and feeding a newborn every two hours will come first.” She gave Abby a smirk.
“Oh no,” said Abby. “I maybe food, but you are involved in playtime and diapers. And after a couple of months, we will be working on them taking bottles from you.” She kissed Holtz, still stroking her sex. Holtz pulled out of the kiss, eyeing her wife with a sneaky look.
“I’ve changed my mind. Getting you off sounds way better right now.” Abby squeaked when Holtz started pushing on her pants. Holtzmann was definitely feeling playful. Not that Abby minded in the least.
-----
“Okay!” said Erin, looking at her friends. “New Year.” They were all gathered around the large conference table in the firehouse. They had all come in for part of a day to get back in the swing of things. Holtz was sitting back in her chair with her feet up on the tabletop. Patty was texting with Diana about their meet up time next week. Abby had her head down on the table.
“What’s the matter with her?” asked Patty to Holtzmann.
“Abby and breakfast this morning were not a good match,” said Holtz, stretching. “Apparently the kid was not fond of apple cinnamon pancakes.”
“We shouldn’t have gone out for breakfast,” Abby said with a grimace. Holtz pushed a bottle of Sprite closer to Abby, who glared at it from where she had her chin perched on the top of her arms.
“I wish I knew how to quit you.” She took the bottle and opened it. Patty shook her head.
“Now there’s an old ass reference. Brokeback came out in what, like 2005?”
“Abby and Sprite are my OTP,” grinned Holtz, running her fingers through her curls.
“OTP?” repeated Erin, confused.
“One True Pairing,” said Patty. “It’s a thing the kids used to say when they talk about their favorite couple on TV or movies... Like I dunno, you two liked Mulder and Scully right?”
“Mulder and Scully were some of the first shipping wars on the internet,” said Erin, laughing. “God, those are some memories.”
“You thinking about all the Usenet group posts?” said Abby, a slight grin. “There were some doozies.”
“Remember when you started that idea that Mulder was really an incubus?” said Erin.
“Oh god, I spent way too much time in the supernatural and paranormal sub-boards back then,” said Abby. “We helped that one fanfic author, remember? They had posted about wanting some science help.” She paused. “Didn’t that story get very popular?”
“Yup,” said Erin. “Even made it into one of the fanzines. She didn’t even thank us.”
“Did we just step into something we shouldn’t have?” asked Patty to Holtz.
“You’re watching history,” said Holtzmann. “That is the starting days of shippers on the internet.” She stole Abby’s soda and took a drink of it. “One of these days our grandchildren will marvel that we used to post on message boards with just text.” Patty rolled her eyes.
“Okay, away from memory lane,” said Erin, holding onto the back of the chair she was standing behind. She glanced at Abby, who was trying not to laugh.
“Are we all ready equipment wise for boot camp next week?” Holtz gave her a salute.
“Great,” said Erin. “That’s one thing we don’t have to worry about. Uhh...”
“Patty and Holtzmann have already taken care of that one call we had over the holidays about an owner’s dead bulldog’s ghost floating in their downstairs den and drooling massive amounts of ectoplasm all over the carpet. Erin, you and I have that speaking engagement in New Orleans in a couple of weeks we need to work on, and Holtz you have that other interview--?” Abby gestured to Holtz, frowning as she couldn’t remember.
“Scientific American.”
“Right,” said Abby. “And--”
“Oh and Abby, the cutoff date for flying is 36 weeks,” added Patty.
“Great,” said Erin. “We’re going to beat it by a whole month.” When Holtz made a face, they all knew what was coming. Erin and Patty’s eyes met each other and Erin looked at her watch.
“What?” said Holtzmann. “I’m not saying anything. Abby and I have already discussed this.”
“Loudly,” added Patty. She watched as Abby took the soda back from Holtz and was sipping on it before holding the back of her hand over her mouth. Abby grimaced before speaking.
“Well today is not the day that I am going to discuss not flying down for the conference. I am exhausted and we have a very large, looming deadline.”
“And Patty and I have got to meet with our accountant later,” sighed Erin. “The edits may have to come this evening.”
“Just as long as they come. We are presenting this in two weeks,” said Abby. “I don’t think we need to be going over this at the last minute the morning of at a Starbucks.”
“We’ll be fine,” Erin said quickly. “Kevin coming in today?”
“Still in Australia for a couple more days,” said Holtz. “He texted Abby that his uncle wasn’t doing very well after a stroke, and his mother wanted him to stay on just in case.”
“Poor Kevin,” said Patty, frowning. “Should we text him back and tell him to stay as long as he needs?”
“I did,” said Holtz. “Abby’s already hired a temp from...?”
“First Source,” she responded. “Her name is Susan and she’ll be here tomorrow.”
“Great,” said Erin. “I guess that’s everything unless someone wants to talk to the Safety Commission for me? And order Holtzmann’s monthly supply of fire extinguishers?”
“I’ll let you do that on your own,” said Patty, standing up and rubbing Erin on the shoulder. “I got a cursed book I want to look over before we head out.”
“I’ve got to set up a few more things in the basement,” said Holtz. “So I am going to need those fire extinguishers.” She winked at Erin in passing. The redhead looked at Abby.
“So... anything back from the editor over the holidays?”
“No, still in limbo,” said Abby. “The book is only 280 pages long. I mean, what can they be editing over there? The length of the actual pages the words printed on? With like, itty bitty sewing kit scissors that only a small breed of goblin can operate.”
Erin tried not to laugh, but the huffy look on Abby’s face made her shake her head and chuckle.
“Patience,” said Erin. “It’ll be worth the wait.”
“I hope,” said Abby.
“You doing anything?”
“Just research. And maybe a nap. Definite on the nap.”
“Exhaustion is really settling back in, isn’t it?”
Abby made a face.
“Go take a nap and rest,” said Erin.
“I feel like I should be doing something,” sighed Abby.
“You are. You’re carrying a baby to full term and the both of you need to get lots of rest before March.”
“You’re sounding worse than Holtz,” Abby said, shaking her head.
“Your wife has a point,” said Erin. She rubbed Abby’s back. “Rest.”
“Tell your niece or nephew to stop kicking me in my sleep.”
“I don’t think there’s anything I can do about that,” said Erin. She grinned and hugged Abby’s shoulders. “You’re the one who wanted to get pregnant.”
“You can stop saying that at any time,” scoffed Abby, burying herself in Erin’s hug.
“My paperwork came in.” Abby took a sharp intake of breath. She didn’t even have to ask what paperwork.
“Filled it out?”
“All I have to do is mail it back in.”
“And Da--”
“Still haven’t heard from him except for a couple of texts.”
Abby pulled Erin into a hug this time.
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Descendants, Chapter 29
-----
After breakfast, Abby’s parents excused themselves from the group to do a little extra Christmas shopping.
When Holtz’s dad got up and got his jacket, Holtzmann got really confused.
“Are you going somewhere?”
“Mmhmm,” said Dean. “And so are you.”
Holtz’s face scrunched up in thought. “But I didn’t plan anything?”
“I did,” he said, smiling. “Come on.” Holtz went and got her jacket and headed into the bathroom where Abby was getting out of the shower. She had said she needed to relax in the hot water after breakfast. Holtz kissed her on the lips before leaning down and kissing her growing abdomen. Abby rubbed her cheek.
“Go have fun with your dad sweetie.”
“How did you--?”
“A wild guess,” said Abby, smiling. She had been that way most of the morning so far. Holtz wanted to stay in and enjoy more of that smile, but New York and her dad were calling.
“Don’t touch the presents!” she yelled back after slipping on her jacket and heading out of the bedroom. She heard a small huff that made her cackle before following her dad down the stairs.
-----
Holtz was ready to start munching on a cheese steak (extra caramelized onions and lots of provolone) after her and her dad got seated at the restaurant with a couple of beers and an order of bacon cheese fries to tide them over until their food arrived. They had been out in the city for most of the morning, doing some last minute shopping for Dean’s friends back home and sightseeing a little. Holtz had enjoyed showing him all the intricate store windows and the Christmas trees around the city.
“I miss my car,” laughed Dean. “It’s been a good while since I’ve had to walk this much.”
“At least it’s not a really cold day,” said Holtz as she looked around the place. She nodded to Ted behind the bar, who waved in return. “No ice on the sidewalks.”
“And you don’t have to go take care of any ghosts,” said Holtz’s dad. Holtzmann nodded.
“I hope we don’t get any emergency calls over the next few days. Abby and I are the only ones here in the city.”
“Things will go smooth enough,” said Dean. He cleared his throat. “Getting scared, excited?”
“Frankly? Terrified,” Holtz admitted. “There’s a new little life that’s going to be dependent on me to teach it how to use a pencil and a toilet.”
Dean chuckled. “I know the feeling. Your mom did all the hard work for me, I suppose.”
“Nah, you taught me how to use a screwdriver. And a crock pot.”
“Do you even use one?”
“The screwdriver? All the time.”
“Smart ass,” grinned Dean. Holtz laughed.
“Babies are hard,” the older man said. “You don’t know if they’re hungry, thirsty, or just tired. And sometimes they don’t know.”
“At least with food I can hand them off to Abby for a while.”
“Abby is going to breastfeed?” asked Dean.
“She thinks it’ll be better for them in the long run. She wants to give them a high quality of life in the beginning. At some point in the future, they’ll be living on a diet of Chinese, coffee, Pringles, and gummy bears. Also large quantities of mac and cheese, along with many bowls of Trix.”
Dean nodded. “The old classic stand-bys.”
Holtzmann started picking at the bacon cheese fries with a slight grimace. “Did you enjoy being a parent to me? I know...”
“I would trade nothing in the world for it,” said Dean, breaking in. “You and your mother were the most important things in my life. You were so tiny Jillian. I was almost afraid to hold you at first. I thought I was going to drop you.”
“Did you? Because I wouldn’t be surprised if you did. It would explain some things.”
“No,” laughed Dean. “But there were times when you got older that you were just... exasperating and we might have felt like it. Especially to your mom when you kept wearing my shirts to school and they’d have grease and grass stains on them by the time you got home. I never did care about that part. They were clothes and you loved them. But she felt like we were setting a bad example that way.” He looked at his daughter’s clothing choices with a smile.
“I think we did okay.”
“You did perfectly. There will never be another one of me.”
“I think the Earth will be all the more glad of it,” chuckled Dean Holtzmann in a teasing tone. Their lunch arrived and they both dug into their sandwiches, enjoying the hot beef and melting provolone.
“I see why you like this place.”
“Yeah, it’s one of Patty’s finds. I think it just amuses her the place is called Shorty’s.” Holtzmann leaned back in her chair.
“You doing anything new at work dad?”
Dean wiped his mouth on a napkin after putting down his sandwich.
“I’m working with a tech company that’s working with one of the fabric companies I consult for. They’re wanting to develop an app that would allow a customer to choose the fabric they want based on some predetermined patterns and colors. But they can edit it to their liking, which is nice.”
“Sounds like you’re going to be busy.”
“If you’re asking if I’m going to be too busy to come back down to see my grandchild, that would be a no. Only the snow and ice could keep me away.”
“We can always come back for more sandwiches,” said Holtz, stacking some of the fries in her sandwich. Dean scoffed and shook his head.
“Alright, but I’m buying next time,” he took a sip of his beer. “I want a real pastrami sandwich piled high with lots of pickles.” He paused. “I’m not going to get any younger.”
“Nah, you’re just getting started,” said Holtz, waving her hand dismissively. Dean grabbed her hand across the table, shaking his head.
“I wanted to tell you, Jillian. I met with a lawyer and went ahead and drew up my will in October. You-- well, you know all the details. We’ve discussed this before. It’s in the safe in my bedroom, along with all the other important paperwork.”
“Dad--” began Holtzmann, grimacing.
“All my wishes are in there,” said Dean. “I know it’s something you don’t want to hear right now, but I need you to know this for in the future. And I’m planning on keeping it in the future. The FAR future, okay? I’d like to see my grandchild graduate with their Ph.D.’s in... whatever and start building the first spaceship to carry people outside of the Milky Way or solve world hunger.”
“Abby’s hoping for first alien contact.”
“That’s the spirit,” said Dean, picking up his sandwich.
“You’d better eat before you lose that to me.”
Holtzmann laughed. “Just like old times.”
“I gained a lot of your sandwiches that way.”
“Nah, I stole them back when you weren’t looking.”
Dean smiled to himself, knowing that he had looked away on purpose. He took a sip of his beer.
-----
Cynthia Yates came back to the firehouse a little early, leaving her husband to wander the streets of Tribeca a little while longer. Abby had given them her key that morning to the firehouse so they could come and go as they wished for the day. She had wondered what Abby was going to do, but her daughter hadn’t let her in on her plans. Cynthia had barely closed the door when she noticed Abby sitting at the long conference table in the space downstairs. She had stacks of paper surrounding her. They looked mostly like notes. Abby was writing furiously in a moleskin notebook and grimacing. An old boom box sat nearby, lightly playing soft Christmas tunes.
“Abby,” she said, trying to get her daughter’s attention as she walked up to the table.
“Mom,” she said after a moment, blinking as she looked up. “Sorry I was--”
“You were busy,” said Cynthia, sitting down. “I assume this is all for a new book?”
Abby shook her head. “Erin and I have been talking about trying to redo the ghost classification system. It needs updating. Since we have the containment unit and the ability to study each specimen, we’ve compiled a lot of a data over the past few years.” She gestured to the piles. “We think we can do it. The only thing is how everyone else is going to receive it.” Cynthia skimmed over the notes that she could see and crossed her arms, sitting back in the chair.
“I think the scientific community will take it very well. They like order. The paranormal groups, probably not so much.”
“They haven’t taken to liking us very much no,” said Abby, rubbing her face. “They don’t like the publicity we receive. It’s not like we actively go out and seek it.”
“I still say that they should have given you and Erin all the accolades for the stuff you have theorized and tested,” said Cynthia. “You have proven there is such a thing as a ghost particle. You have been to another plane of existence and back again, proving it with theory and physical evidence. I keep expecting to get a phone call from you one day in the near future asking me if I’m ready to believe that magic is real.”
“Still working on that,” said Abby, a small smile on her lips. Things went silent for a few minutes, Christmas tunes taking over the in-between. Cynthia Yates had always been one for science. Having been a chemist, she liked knowing things were concrete in front of her. Otherwise, you had disastrous results. She had never been able to understand her daughter growing up. She had been way too much into the fantastical. Her husband had encouraged it, even helped buy her books and such for her to learn more. But the more Cynthia had tried to steer her away from it, the more she wanted it. It had taken a fight with her husband to finally let go.
And once she had, she realized her daughter thought much like her. She believed in science and facts and loved her math and science classes. She had even wanted her mother to teach her more about everything in the evenings. The only difference was that Abby still believed in the paranormal and the existence of other things in this world besides humans and the animals that had been seen. Cynthia had never been able to bring herself to believe in what her daughter did, and had been slightly disgusted when Abby and her best friend Erin had set out to write a book about ghosts the summer after they had graduated college. She felt guilty now that she had even sold her copy of their book back to the bookstore. Her husband had kept his at least.
Abby’s mom picked up one of the stacks of papers. She couldn’t understand anything that was going on, but she really didn’t have to. This was Abby’s life’s work. She herself had been a whistleblower and knew the need for concrete results. It made her proud that her daughter and her friends were a whole damn marching band on the subject of the paranormal.
And wife. That had been startling at first. Especially since her daughter’s wife was a nuclear engineer whose mind was so brilliant that she was surprised even with the incident at CERN that someone didn't have her on their salary. The things she could invent would make them millions upon millions in revenue and would change the world.
But instead, Jillian had settled for being her daughter’s assistant and eventual girlfriend. Although she had never told the woman, she had been grateful that Jillian had come into Abby’s life. Erin’s departure had hit her hard and the hits just kept on coming after that. It had been a rough few years for Abby and her determination to explore the paranormal.
Cynthia Yates admired her daughter’s strength and always would. Especially right now. She couldn’t imagine being pregnant at 44. It had been hard enough in her 20’s. She had noticed that Abby had kept touching her baby bump as to reassure herself the other evening. She had done the same thing with Austin, but he had been a difficult pregnancy. Even the slightest movement had made her feel better. She wondered if it was the same for Abby.
“Mom, do you need something?” asked Abby, getting her attention away from her thoughts. “Coffee, a snack?”
“Coffee would be great,” said Cynthia casually. “Is there a pot down here?”
“Over there at that station behind Kevin’s desk,” said Abby. Her mom nodded and headed over that way. “You’re going to have your grandchild kicking me by the way. I think they respond to the way the smell makes me feel and they get excited.”
“Must be the caffeine rush,” said Cynthia, looking for the scoop for the coffee. “They might need it as much as we do.”
“Yates family tradition huh?”
“I drank way too much of it when I was working. Probably why you and Austin both guzzle it.”
“Like Dad didn’t help at all,” laughed Abby.
“Abby,” said Cynthia. “How are you, really? You haven’t really said much, not even to your father.”
Abby eyed her mother with uncertainty. “It’s kind of hard to talk to Dad about swollen feet and aching hips.”
“I know he’s not going to be able to much of a help, but... you could talk to your father Abigail. We’ve both been concerned about genetics. How is the baby?”
Abby’s arm went across her stomach. “Fine. Good, actually. No problems. The doctor ordered extra tests and everything’s been okay. And we’re keeping an eye on my blood pressure and blood sugar and nothing’s been bad so far. I worried a lot about a miscarriage in the early days. You can ask Holtz. 50% of women over the age of 42 on average have miscarriages in the first trimester. I... worried a lot. Although I don’t know how I fit it in between bouts of nausea.”
“And you’re still having those, aren’t you?”
The smell of coffee wafted through the room, making Abby want a cup. But she had already had one with breakfast, and she was limiting herself to only one till after the baby was on solid foods. She nodded.
“Not as often, but they’ve pretty much been a constant on this whole... journey.”
“I feel like I’ve missed out on so much being in Michigan.” She came over and surprised Abby when she put a hand on the side of her abdomen. “I could be here for you.”
“You’ve done a lot Mom,” said Abby.
“I don’t feel like I’ve done enough,” said Cynthia. “I feel like I’ve done more for Ariel and you’re my actual daughter.”
Abby shook her head. “Mom, Ariel had five with Austin. We’re only having one.”
“Is that all?”
“For the moment, yes,” said Abby. She pushed her mother’s hand a little bit towards her right side, where their little one she was pretty sure was trying to burrow itself in her organs. She had a feeling in the future their child would probably be making a nest of blankets on their bed and never coming out. Her mother laughed softly.
“Moving quite a bit.”
“Tell me about it,” grimaced Abby. She looked up and saw her dad enter the space with a couple of bags, just like Abby’s mom had. He smiled when he saw his wife and daughter together.
“Coffee?” said Abby.
“Always,” said Doug. Cynthia went to pour them a couple of cups. Abby was grateful for the distraction. Maybe her dad could keep her mom occupied till time for their lunch reservations.
-----
Abby was yawning by the time Holtzmann came back into the living room. It was Christmas Eve, not too long before midnight. They had hoped to get a few minutes to themselves before Christmas morning and exchanging gifts with their family. Everything was piling up under the tree, and it was going to be fun getting everything unwedged from each other in the morning.
“Merry Christmas,” said the blonde cheekily as she dangled the mistletoe above her head. Abby scoffed.
“And you think you can get a kiss because of that?”
“Oh, I know I can,” said Holtz, kissing Abby deep. The moan that left Abby’s mouth made Holtzmann grin when they pulled apart more than a few seconds later.
“Because I am the Casanova of the ladies. They all will bend to my will.” Abby waved her off.
“Just as long as they’re not bending tonight. You and I are going to bed and not moving for seven to eight hours and I’m going to hold you all night.”
“Ah... Abby Yates, eternal cuddler is making an appearance.” Holtz pulled closer to Abby, rubbing her fingers through her pulled back hair as she curled into her side. “You okay?”
“Yeah. Mom’s feeling guilty so she’s trying to make me feel guilty. It’s not my fault New York is like a magnet for the supernatural.” Holtz thought for a second.
“So she’s wishing she has spent more time with you while you’ve been pregnant.”
“Apparently,” sighed Abby.
“Makes sense,” shrugged Holtz. “It is a mother-daughter bonding experience, I guess. You are sharing bearing a child. Maybe she feels like you should be coming to her more for advice?”
“Oh no,” said Abby. “That would be the end of everything. Then she’d want to dictate me on this and that, what to be doing, what to not to be doing...”
“Dad told me some good stories today,” said Holtz, cutting in to distract Abby. “About Mom being pregnant with me. He said I was very lazy. Doc thought something was the matter with me till I gave him a good kick while he was trying to see how much I had grown.”
“That does sound like something you would have done,” smiled Abby. “Surprised you didn’t kick him again when you were born.”
“Oh Dad said I screamed right in his ear when he was trying to check my breathing,” grinned Holtz.
“Of course,” said Abby, playfully rolling her eyes. Holtzmann rubbed Abby’s belly.
“And this little one is probably going to smile at all the nurses and charm them with all the Holtzmann suave they can muster even though they have no Holtzmann in them.”
“Someone’s got to,” said Abby. “I kind of doubt I’m going to be very much on the friendly side.”
“I wouldn’t be either if I was mostly naked, in pain, and pushing seven to ten pounds out of my body,” shrugged Holtz.
“Ugh,” said Abby, burying her head into Holtzmann. “Do we have to do that part?”
“I don’t think you can skip it Abs. It’s kind of a requirement.”
“Isn’t there an alternative assignment? A makeup exam?”
“Abby, did you EVER give a kid a makeup exam unless they were deathly ill?”
“I don’t want to do labor Jills.”
“You’re going to be fine,” said Holtzmann. “I’ll be there and there will be more than a few nurses to help out. I still can’t believe you let the doctor talk you out of the birth center.”
“It’s still on the table,” Abby said. “Depending on how my labor is going.”
“You might want to tell him that,” said Holtz. “He probably thinks you’re going to go to labor and delivery.”
“I think he’s worried about my blood pressure shooting up really high or developing pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. They can happen late in pregnancy.”
“Doctors are such worrywarts,” scoffed Holtz, nuzzling her wife. Though she worried about the same things too, she wasn’t going to tell Abby that. That would really put her wife over the edge and she really didn't want to have a stressed out and paranoid Abby on her hands.
“You want to open our main gifts?” said Abby. She looked at the time. “It is after midnight.” She smiled softly at her wife nuzzling her chest.
“I’d love to Abs, but I’m quite comfortable,” winked Holtz.
“I bought you a black leather case to match your jacket,” smirked Abby. “It has zippers.” Holtzmann perked up at that.
She gestured to the tree. “Yours is flannel. It came with a U-Haul.”
“A lesbian joke. Quaint.”
“I know, it’s the end of the year and I’m running out of material before my New Year’s reset.” Holtz reluctantly got up off the couch, skipping as she went over to the tree and picked up the stack of presents tied up with a ribbon.
“One for me...” She looked under the tree and picked up a big box. “And one for you.” She handed Abby the big box while she sat down beside her with the stack. “You already know what it is. Not like you haven’t been hinting for months.”
“You get a new toy and I get a new toy,” said Abby delightedly. She started unwrapping the box.
“Yes!” cried out Holtzmann beside her as she opened the first gift. “It has spikes!”
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Descendants, Chapter 20
-----
“You know Erin, they make paint so that pregnant women can use them safely,” said Abby to her best friend.
“I don’t have to not help paint upstairs. I don't know what Holtz is thinking.”
“Cheyenne, David, and Zack have all agreed to come help us paint,” said Erin. She handed over a stack of paperwork for Abby to sign. Abby took it and picked up a pen as her best friend continued talking. “Besides, it would be nice to have the baby’s room finished for Christmas, don’t you think? For the grandparents' visit.”
Abby sighed loudly and put down the pen, propping her head against her fist.
“I can’t believe Holtzmann was planning that without my knowledge.”
“I’m sure she would have told you.”
“I’d hope so, but there’s planning and there’s... planning,” said Abby. “We’ll have to get them hotel rooms, cook... You know Mom’s not going to want to do takeout.”
“Why not let them stay here? There’s room.”
“What? Where? In yours and Patty’s rooms?”
“Abby, it’s not like there’s anything that terribly personal there if that’s what you’re worried about. And besides, Patty and I have been talking about completely moving out sometime in the near future. You and Holtz are going to need the space.”
She looked at Abby and saw she was struggling with her thoughts.
“Abby, no.”
“But--”
“We know that we can always stay,” said Erin. “But it’s time. We have homes.”
Abby looked away.
“This place was a home for all of us when we needed it,” said Erin, squeezing her shoulder. “And it still is. Patty and I just have a place to sleep elsewhere.”
Abby sighed. “I know that, but there’s just so much change lately. And someone all the sudden has decided to take a tumbling class while I’m trying to arrange my thoughts to say them.”
Erin squeaked when she realized that Abby meant the baby.
“What is it like?” the redhead asked, looking interested. “Feeling something moving around inside of you.”
“It’s a little different each time so far,” said Abby, looking down. “The first time it was like a swoosh, like moving underwater. The second time it felt like little kicks maybe. The third was almost like popcorn popping. This morning I thought they might be rolling around. And this time it sort of like they were tumbling in a circle.”
“That’s awfully descriptive,” commented Erin.
“It’s what I felt,” Abby said. “It’s sort of oddly comforting, you know? They’re in there and moving about.”
Erin nodded. “As they should be. 22 weeks, yes?”
“That would be how far along I am, yes.”
“Baby should definitely be moving,” said Erin. She laid a hand on Abby’s baby bump.
“You could move for your Aunt Erin you know.”
“I think the first time they’re felt outside of me had better be by Holtz or our child will be grounded for the first 15 years of its life.”
“I need something to gloat to Holtzmann about,” Erin said, smirking. “Getting to feel her kid move first is something I can hold over her head for eternity.” Abby sighed and shook her head.
“You two, I swear...” Erin grinned at that, poking Abby on the shoulder.
“Let’s just finish this paperwork so we can get it submitted.”
-----
“Baby is fine, I’m fine. And I do have to take the second glucose test,” said Abby to Holtz.
“Sorry I had that interview. It ran way too much longer than I expected,” said Holtzmann. She had not long walked in and kicked off her boots. Abby was sitting at the kitchen table, looking over something. She had gone to a doctor’s appointment that afternoon and Holtz hadn’t been able to make it back in time to go.
“You don’t have to be at all of them, Jills. I think I’m the only one required to go.”
“You and Peanut,” she said, stretching her arms above her head and yawning.
“The baby has grown a little bit you know,” said Abby. “About the size of an iPad Pro.”
“Are you hinting again?” said Holtz, popping her elbows as she stretched her arms over her head. “I know it’s getting near Christmas.”
“Yes, and only because I’m filling this thing out and I have an irrational need to make you feel guilty,” said Abby.
“What are you doing?” asked Holtz, coming over to the table.
“Birth plan,” Abby responded, grimacing. “I was talking to the doctor about it today and I think he would rather I be at a hospital. He didn’t say it, but he was rather implying. What--”
“It’s your choice Abs.”
“Yes I know, but I was about to ask your opinion.”
“As long as you and the baby are safe, I’m fine with whatever you decide. I know the miracle of modern technology yields an extra feeling of safety, but there’s really nothing wrong with letting a woman labor on their own without it if you’d really want to try a birth center. It’s what our bodies are meant to do. They’re beautiful birthing machines.”
There was a knock on their new door.
“Come in!” yelled Holtzmann. Kevin stuck his head inside.
“Holtzmann, you have a package.”
“Finally! I need my new toys,” she said. Kevin opened the door more and handed her the box as Holtz came over to him.
“What have you ordered now?” asked Abby, looking amused over her shoulder after walking up.
“Boss,” nodded Kevin. It was the only way he greeted Abby and Erin at the firehouse. “Not to pry, but you guys picked out a name yet? Everyone’s so serious downstairs, I never get to ask the fun stuff.”
“I like Zora,” said Holtz, breaking out her large pocketknife. “It’s Serbian for dawn.”
“It’s nice,” said Kevin, nodding. “Perfect for the start of a new family.”
“That’s sweet Kev,” said Holtzmann, smiling. She noticed Abby rubbing her abdomen.
“Somebody must like the sound of your voice this afternoon Kevin. They’re kicking,” said Abby, softly smiling. He looked excited.
“May I?” Abby sighed and nodded. Since the baby had started moving, everyone in the firehouse had started trying to feel for their little one’s movements on a regular basis. No one had any luck just yet, not even her wife, who had all but physically attached herself to Abby's abdomen.
“Nonononono,” said Holtz, coming between Kevin and Abby. She laid a hand on both of them. One on Kevin’s chest, the other on Abby’s baby bump. “No one gets to--” Holtzmann stopped moving when she felt something under her hand. She groped Kevin’s chest a second before she realized it was her other hand. Her eyes widened and she turned quickly to Abby, rubbing the spot where she had just felt a kick as she got down on her knees.
“No, don’t stop,” she said with a whine. She rubbed the spot and Abby was laughing at her wife's tone. Holtzmann felt another kick under her fingers. She let out a squeal and rubbed it again.
“Baby,” she cooed. “You finally kicked for me.” She looked up to Abby’s face with an ecstatic grin. Kevin had taken that moment to leave with a wave and Abby waved back as he headed down the stairs. Holtzmann got up and kissed Abby, surprising her as she wrapped an arm around Abby’s shoulders and pulled her closer. Abby didn’t complain, enjoying the kiss for a few seconds before Holtz pulled back. The blonde was grinning from ear to ear.
“I got to feel them Abs. Finally...”
Abby rubbed Holtzmann’s other hand, which was still on her abdomen.
“Yes, and now you can no longer complain.”
“But I can complain about the lack of good lesbian movies, the need for more greenery in the city, or how I am still saddened that Erin really was allergic to my chinchillas...”
“Yes, those you can complain about,” said Abby. She sighed.
“Can I complain about having to do the birth plan?”
“Complain yes, but you still need to fill it out so I know what you want. And the nurses. Since we all know that the nurses are the ones who really do all the work.”
“I had an idea a few minutes ago,” said Abby, motioning Holtzmann back to the table. She picked up a small booklet. “Mount Sinai West has a birthing center right there in the hospital.”
“Really?” said the engineer. “That’s... handy.” She pulled down the glasses she had on top of her head and started reading it through the yellow tinted lenses.
“They do water births too,” said Abby. “I thought it could be something we could look into after Thanksgiving.” Holtz nodded.
“By the way, Patty said we needed to be there by two. Cheyenne’s already cooking. She also said not to worry about bringing anything. They had it covered.”
“Hopefully I won’t be having to run to the bathroom,” grimaced Abby.
“It’s Thanksgiving. Maybe the baby will give you a reprieve.”
“Here’s to hoping,” said Abby. Holtz tugged on her wife, bringing her closer and into her arms.
“Go finish your birth plan,” she said. Abby sighed loudly.
-----
“I am stuffed,” moaned Erin from the comfort of the couch in the living room of Patty and Cheyenne’s apartment. She was rubbing her stomach and whining.
“You ate too much,” said Holtz, who Erin was lying on. Holtzmann couldn’t say anything though. She had stuffed herself much like Erin had and was in a semi- comatose state. She didn’t even protest or make a snarky comment when the redhead had laid her head on her lap.
“Do you wish your kid had let us know their gender? They weren’t very forthcoming,” said Erin.
“Nah,” said Holtzmann, waving a hand. “I’m fine with not knowing. It’ll be a surprise.”
“Did Abby finish her birth plan?”
“Don’t ask,” sighed Holtzmann.
“I’ll take that as a no,” said Erin. “She’ll make us make decisions, or she’ll make decisions regarding the business, but she can’t make her own personal decisions.”
“It is contradictory,” agreed Holtz. “And we should be glad she’s helping Patty in the kitchen instead of hearing us right now.”
“Cheyenne needed that break,” said Erin. “She’s been going in every direction trying to make things perfect all day.”
“I also think Patty wanted to try to get in some playtime after food,” said Erin. “She wants to be next in feeling the kicks.”
Holtz grinned, happy that their baby was doing so well and that he or she was attracting attention with their movements. At least Abby could put up with their little family’s attention. She hadn’t had too many strangers approach her yet with unsolicited advice or whatnot, but they all knew it was coming. Holtzmann wanted Abby to record it on her phone so they all could make fun of it later.
“Am I giving birth to a food baby?” moaned Erin. “Because I feel like it.”
“Not on my leather couch you’re not,” said Patty, coming into the room, wiping her hands on a dishtowel. “I do not want to hear anything about there being a birth of any babies in my living room. Human, food, or chinchillas.”
“That was one time,” scoffed Holtz.
“I should have never agreed to babysit for you.”
“I hope that doesn’t extend to the future Patty,” said Cheyenne, ducking her head into the room. “Because there will be babysitting.”
Holtz gave Cheyenne a salute, which made her chuckle and go back out.
“Where did you say David was again?” asked Patty to Erin.
“Ice fishing,” she said. “I know how it sounds, but it’s something their dad had always wanted to do. And since their mom... well, he and his brothers decided to take their dad to do something he’d enjoy to get him out of the house for a while.”
“That was nice of them.”
“Yeah, none of us wanted to cook either,” chuckled Erin weakly. “We had all agreed to make it a potluck, but no one wanted to do the turkey and stuffing, not even Josh's husband Mark, who loves to cook.”
“Well, I am stuffed with stuffing,” said Patty, rubbing her stomach and shaking her head. “So I don’t know how no one wanted it.”
They all heard a crash and a small yelp, followed by what sounded like someone falling against the cabinets. Erin almost couldn’t get up fast enough before Holtz scrambled to her feet. But before she could move past Patty, Cheyenne was guiding Abby into the living room.
“Make her sit down,” said Cheyenne. “She got a little dizzy.”
“Abby,” said Holtzmann. “You okay?”
“I’m fine,” she said, waving her off. “I was just standing there too long in one spot washing dishes.” She sighed when Holtz nudged her towards the couch and made her sit down. She started shaking her head and breathing deeply as she did so.
“I also made myself nauseous moving to catch myself.”
Holtz calmly got down on her knees in front of Abby.
“Breathe honey. In and out.” The hand that got put in Holtzmann’s face made all of them chuckle. “Can’t take you anywhere,” cooed Holtz after kissing Abby’s hand several times. Abby scoffed.
“I’d be fine if people wouldn’t worry so much.”
“Uh-huh, and where would you have been if Cheyenne hadn’t come back into the kitchen?” said Erin, leaning into Abby.
“Jabbing herself on the sharp edges of the cabinets before hitting her knees probably,” said Cheyenne.
Abby sighed. “Okay, so I’m a menace to myself at six months. Everyone can go back to what they were doing.”
“Can’t. Holtz moved,” said Erin. “I was going to take a nap on her lap.”
“And no one thought to take pictures?” said Abby, looking at Patty.
“Erin was enjoying it too much as she wallowed in her self-pity at having gorged herself.”
“You know it’s almost not fair Patty that my friends run away after dinner, but yours stick around,” teased Cheyenne.
“I’m waiting on the second round of dinner,” said Holtz, rubbing her stomach. “I need more of those sweet potatoes.” She looked appalled. “I can’t believe I just said that.” Patty chuckled and hit Holtz on the shoulder before turning to her wife.
“Half of yours went to go get ready for Black Friday and the other half went to get drinks,” said Patty. “Which didn’t sound like a half bad idea.”
“We should take Patty and Cheyenne out for drinks since they were such gracious hosts to our antics,” said Holtz. “Erin, what do you think?”
“I say that would be a nice way of showing our appreciation for dinner. And also, alcohol. Abby?”
“Just as long as we go somewhere where we’re not having to deal with tons of people celebrating the holidays, I’m game.”
“Let me finish putting the food in the fridge and I’m up for a beer or two,” said Cheyenne, nodding her head. Erin got up and followed Cheyenne to the kitchen to help.
“Drinks it is,” said Holtz with a wide grin. She gestured to the door. “Come on Patty, I need some Cuba Libres and maybe some Guinness.”
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Descendants, Chapter 28
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Holtz was happily rubbing her wife’s back in childbirth class.
They were sorting through which positions were good for labor and which ones were not. And at the moment, one of the teachers was showing them how to sit in a chair backward with a pillow against their abdomen to help take pressure off their backs between and during contractions. Holtzmann liked this position herself since she could help Abby rock a little against the pillow. She had read some stuff online that rocking helped move the baby along. Not to mention she liked making Abby thrust her hips.
“You are going to really enjoy my labor, aren’t you?” huffed Abby at Holtzmann’s enthusiasm. Holtz started rubbing a spot on the lower part of her spine that she knew Abby would appreciate.
“Coming out of it with a baby and getting to sing the Circle of Life is two life goals I’m going to accomplish with this one event. Plus I’m going to make Erin get up on the rooftop of the hospital to proclaim our progeny the prince or princess of New York. So 10 points life bonus.”
Stephanie and Caroline, who were both beside them, starting laughing to themselves. Holtz had utterly charmed the couple and they had stayed talking to them for about an hour after class the one before. They were a rather young lesbian couple who really wanted a family, and Abby had decided that they liked hearing stories about how they had toughed out being married all these years. Abby and Holtz had hated the thought of telling them that they really hadn’t been married all that long themselves since they hadn’t met till they were older. Abby often had worried that she was robbing Holtz of thoughts of young love early on, even though she was only four years older than her. But Holtz had pointed out jokingly that over 50% of gay and lesbian marriages ended before five years, so they were already ahead of the curve as far as timing in their relationship. Neither Holtz nor Abby could imagine life without the other. Abby loved Holtz’s mind and they could spend hours talking about literally nothing and everything at the same time. Although she wouldn’t admit it, Holtz had enjoyed having someone to go toe to toe with for once. Usually, everyone was afraid of her brain or her eccentricities and left her alone. Abby had challenged her to be more. And in turn, Holtzmann had challenged Abby to be better. They had both strived to do things they wanted to do together.
Which right now, Holtz knew her main goal was to keep her wife happy. They both were listening as the teacher talked about which positions were best for focusing on their partner’s breathing before switching to which ones were best for letting gravity do its job. She kept hitting the one spot on Abby’s spine that would loosen the muscles before rubbing out the soreness in her hips. She was going to turn her fellow Ghostbuster into a limp noodle before the end of class. When the instructor told them to try something to see if it was going to be comfortable for them, Holtz grabbed for Abby’s hand to help her up from the chair. Abby spoke to her softly as they stood.
“Elijah Dean and Eliana Danielle.”
Holtzmann stilled for a moment, realizing what Abby had just said. They had been talking about names lately and had gotten down to a list of twenty they really liked.
“You want to name our possible son after Dad? And take my middle name?”
“Mmhmm,” said Abby with a nod. “You should be glad I didn’t choose Eldandil.”
“They will always be friends to the elves,” scoffed Holtz as she helped Abby down to a sitting position on the floor. “And we need to get you away from naming stuff after things from Tolkien. The wifi upstairs is already named Lothlórien.”
-----
Holtzmann was running around like a mad woman. Abby’s parents and her dad were on their way to New York for Christmas. Abby was a little tired after doing most of the cleaning that hadn’t been done and helping with the decorating so Holtz had sent her to the couch to relax. At least one good thing was that they didn’t have to clean downstairs. That was taken care of by their professional cleaning service who came in twice a month. And it helped that the Ghostbusters had shut down for the holidays. Hopefully, there would be no Christmas ghosts popping up in the near future, but Abby was keeping an ear out for the answering machine. With Patty gone on vacation with Cheyenne, Erin visiting her parents briefly before going to David’s dad for Christmas, there was only one Ghostbuster free and able-bodied. And she was flailing about trying to locate the extra blankets and pillows not in use. Abby laughed but found herself being hit by one of the extra pillows for doing so while her wife was muttering about there being much that still needed to be done before their parents' arrival for the holidays.
“At least we got the Christmas tree up first!” she said muffled before throwing the pillow back to the blonde.
“And all the cleaning and decorations,” sighed Holtzmann. “But it’s everything else that is worrying me.”
“It has been a while since our parents have been in the same space,” agreed Abby. “But they’ll get along. They have a shared vested interest in their children and future grandchild. They’ll be fine.”
“You are calm about this.”
Abby waved a hand. “I’m too tired to care one way or another. Eliana or Elijah is jabbing me with their feet.”
“At least it’s not both,” smirked Holtz.
“No, I think it is both feet,” said Abby. “Oh, you meant-- yeah, I would have killed you.”
“You would have been cute with twins,” teased Holtzmann.
“You can be cute with twins,” said Abby pointedly. “I want to see that, actually.”
“I’ll generate you a mock up,” Holtz said, gesturing lazily with her hand.
“Then come play with the non-twin and help wear them out for a couple of hours so I can help you more,” Abby said, motioning Holtz to the couch.
“You know if it was twins, they’d probably be here already.”
“Don’t even go there Holtzmann,” Abby said warningly. Holtz went and put down the blankets and pillows in the bedrooms and came over to the couch, laying down next to her lover on the sofa.
“You’re kicking Momma huh?” she said to the baby, rubbing Abby’s side. Abby turned over on her back so Holtz could have better access to her whole abdomen.
“Play away,” said Abby. “They won’t be here for a couple more hours.”
A knock came on the door downstairs through the security system. Abby groaned. Holtz kissed her on the lips.
“I’ll play with you later.” Holtz started to get up, but Abby pulled her close for another kiss.
“I’m holding you to that,” she said. Holtzmann arched an eyebrow before getting up. She checked the video system and saw that it was her Dad at the door. She whooped loudly and went down the fire pole. Holtz opened the door wide, happy to see her father.
“Please tell me you’re here to save us from cooking,” said Holtzmann, pulling her dad into a hug.
“Happy to see you too kid.” Holtzmann took Dean’s shoulder bag while he grabbed his bigger suitcase. After three flights of stairs and showing him to his room, Abby was already up and fixing Holtz’s dad a cup of coffee.
“You are a caffeine angel,” he murmured as Abby handed him the still steaming cup over the counter bar. Holtz pointed back to the couch.
“I just got you sitting down.” Abby sighed. Dean Holtzmann chuckled and took a sip of his coffee, running a hand through his thick blond hair. He took a few steps into the kitchen and sat down his cup, surprised as he looked at Abby’s baby bump.
“Let her be just a minute Jillian. The pictures she sends just don’t do you justice Abby. Someone’s growing so quickly.”
“I hope so,” said Abby, rubbing her baby bump. “The kicks are definitely getting harder.”
“Karate champ,” said Holtz. “Lots of kicks and punches.”
“I’m sure,” chuckled Dean. “Since Jillian’s got you on couch arrest, why don’t we all go sit down in the living room?”
“She’s just being overprotective,” said Abby, rolling her eyes.
“And who has been in overdrive since last night trying to get everything ready?” said Holtzmann, giving her wife a look after lowering her yellow tinted glasses.
“So have you,” scoffed Abby.
“Children, play nice,” mused Dean. “At some point you’re going to have to pretend to be adults.”
Holtzmann sighed. “Fine... truce?”
“I suppose,” said Abby, rolling her eyes. They pretended to shake hands, but then Holtz licked Abby’s hand instead. Dean Holtzmann chuckled.
“Now that’s more like my daughter.”
“How was your trip?” asked Abby to Holtz’s dad, shaking her hand as if in disgust.
“It was good,” he said. “Thankfully short on the train. And the view was nice with all the new snow.”
“Yeah, mom and dad’s flight should be landing soon. Hopefully, it won’t be delayed because of it,” said Abby, rubbing her back as she sat down next to Holtzmann on the couch.
“Is your brother coming with his wife and kids?” asked Dean.
“No, they’re going to have their own Christmas. And I think Ariel’s parents are driving back from Indiana after visiting Ariel’s sister.” Holtz gestured to the door.
“While we’re waiting, why don’t I take you down to the lab and show you some of the stuff I’m working on?” said Holtz. “You know you want to.”
“I do,” laughed Dean. “Not sure if I’ll be able to understand any of it, but I always love seeing what you’re working on.” He gestured to his coffee cup. “Can I finish this and thaw first?”
-----
“I think they were impressed,” said Holtz from the glider rocker. She and Abby were in the baby’s room, and she was tired. She should have known the minute Abby’s parents got there that she would be running around like a maniac for her wife. Abby’s mom was tutting her about getting things for Abby and not making her wife get up. She was the one carrying a child and should be resting. Abby had been cackling behind her hands or into Dean Holtzmann’s shoulder. Even Abby’s dad was doing his best not to laugh and even teased Holtz a little (just a little) about taking care of things. She really should have known. Holtzmann was getting a dose of her medicine, she realized.
But at least now she could relax in the rocker. They had found the perfect chair for rocking the baby to sleep. It looked like a large squashy armchair, but it was on a glider system and came with a nice little square ottoman with the same level of squishiness. They had even thought about how it was going to be great to use during labor.
“A lot of work went into this room,” said Abby after putting away one of their baby’s future blankets in a white wicker basket in the closet. “And mostly by you, honey.” Abby came over and kissed Holtz on the lips and patted her knee.
“It’s all good,” said Holtz, yawning as she looked around the room. The crib, chest of drawers, toy box, changing table, and a bookshelf with built in desk and chair were already set up and ready to go for their future child and their growing up. A rug had been put down and an old nightstand had been repainted and turned into a small side table for the rocker. All the space decorations were in place and Holtz had to admit, she wished her bedroom had looked this good as a kid. A white wicker clothes hamper and a small silver trashcan sat beside her on the other side. She had decided between spit up and diaper changes those would be the most used pieces in the room. A co-sleeper and a rocking bouncy seat were in the top of the closet, along with the car seat, just waiting to be used. A highchair and stroller were just out of sight inside. Two diaper bags already hung on the closet door.
“Three more months.”
Abby sighed and tried to fix the hair falling out of her bun.
“I’m not ready for this.”
“You’ve got 90 more days. You’ll be fine. We’re in this together.” Holtzmann yawned. “Although I think I may have to forgo the promise tonight. I’m tired.” Abby gave her wife a sad smile.
“You have been awfully busy today. I can’t believe Mom was going to make you cook by yourself.”
“It’s Cynthia Yates. She was going to make sure you were being babied.”
“Ha, it was just old fashioned--”
“Abs, seriously. You might not have been paying attention, but your mother was fawning over your every movement. She knew every time the baby was kicking because she was watching your hands go to the spot where they were.”
“Someone was definitely putting on a show. I’m probably going to have some very purple bruises in the morning.”
Holtz rubbed Abby’s baby bump. “They were just saying hi to their family.” Abby squeezed Holtzmann’s hand before kissing it.
“There are days I wonder how I made it through life without you.” Holtz stood and took off Abby’s glasses and rubbed her temples.
“We’re going to make it through this. Even the holidays.”
Abby laughed under her breath, which made Holtzmann chuckle and smile.
“Come on, let’s go to bed while they’re still asleep.”
-----
About four hours later, Holtzmann was warm and comfortable lying next to her wife. She didn’t know why she had woken up, but she had for some reason. She thought she had heard a whimper, but chalked it up to someone stubbing their toes on the living room furniture trying to make their way to the bathroom. She had closed her eyes when she heard the whimper again, followed by a soft cry. Her eyes snapped back open, realizing the noise had come from Abby. She leaned up and saw Abby was in the throes of a bad dream, as she was restless in her sleep. Her lover had the bad experience of nightmares after everything with Rowan and Holtz more than a few times had to hold Abby close till she either woke up or moved past the dream. She hadn’t been immune from them herself and had woken up more than a few times to Abby having her in an absolute bear hug. It hadn’t been the most pleasant of experiences at first because not only was Abby her salvation, but she had been the face of her terror. If she ever got to see Rowan in the afterlife, she was going to kick his ass for doing that to her and her wife, provided Erin didn’t get to him first. When she had found out what Rowan had done to her best friend, she had been livid beyond imagination. Holtzmann had decided she was going to sell tickets to that fight in the Great Beyond. It would be one hell of a show. She frowned when she heard Abby whimper again. Holtz knew weird and vivid dreams were common in pregnancy, as Abby had more than a few already. The one where they had blown up Higgins was her favorite because as grateful as they were to the place that had kept them afloat for a few years, they both wouldn’t mind seeing it burn to blazes.
Another soft cry came from Abby and Holtz knew this had to be a really bad dream. She moved the pillow Abby had placed at her back and pulled closer to her wife.
“Shhh... it’s okay,” she said softly, rubbing her wife’s shoulder before dragging it all the way down to her hip and repeating the action. She kissed Abby’s left temple. The action seemed to make Abby stir and her eyes snapped open, much to Holtz’s relief. She wasn’t surprised when Abby turned over quickly and pressed herself into Holtz’s arms.
“That bad?” She felt Abby nod and grimaced. Holtzmann could feel the wet spots starting to form on her tank top.
“Yeah. Just give me a minute,” said Abby. “Felt very real.” Holtz rubbed Abby’s scalp and kissed the top of her head. She sighed deeply, calming her breathing.
“A T5 very much Rowan-like had slipped in through the barrier. We fought and we fought and there was nothing left we could do. One by one you all were gone and I was alone. Like the whole entire planet was gone alone. Then the baby started coming and there was something wrong and--”
“Hey,” said Holtzmann, peppering kisses in Abby’s hair. “It was just a dream. This is what you get for working in a business where you get scared shitless on an almost daily basis.”
Abby shook her head for a moment but laughed softly.
“I think it was the chili cheese burritos you got us for lunch.”
“That too,” said Holtz. “And your fear of being left alone again.”
“There is that,” Abby sighed.
“I’m not going anywhere and neither is Patty or Erin.” Abby smiled a little at that, putting her hand on Holtz’s.
“Did you ever know that you're my hero?”
“Because I’m the wind beneath your wings?” humored Holtz.
“Alright Bette,” said Abby. Holtzmann grinned.
“Go back to sleep Abs.” There was silence for a moment, and Holtz had almost closed her eyes.
“Since we’re both awake,” drawled out Abby, curling her fingers into Holtz’s hair. She knew she had the nuclear engineer’s attention. “I’m thinking about that promise from earlier.” Holtzmann looked at the clock and cocked a half smirk.
“I’m glad I locked the door.” She grinned wolfishly before yelping as Abby kissed her hard, pushing her down into the mattress.
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Descendants, Chapter 27
-----
“Hey Patty!” yelled Erin. “Can you bring down the folders?”
“They’re sitting right beside you!”
“Oh,” said Erin. She hadn’t even noticed them. “Thank you!”
Abby was taking off her jacket and watching Erin be flustered as she put together the introduction packets for the new Ghostbusters team. The dinner was just in a couple of days, and they needed to be ready. She sat down in a chair, rubbing her back. Erin finally looked up and greeted her best friend.
“How was the appointment?”
“Ugh. I have to start going in every two weeks instead of once a month.”
“Third trimester,” said Erin, sliding a stack of paper into one of the folders. “It’s all a very short journey from here.”
“As my mother likes to keep reminding me,” said Abby. “Please tell me there has been a call today.”
“No emergencies,” said Erin. “But you can help me decide what age I want to adopt.”
“Erin...”
“I was thinking a 2-3 year old,” said the redhead. “Since by the time everything gets in order, your little one will be about the same age.”
“And David...”
“He doesn’t know yet.”
“Whatever makes you happy,” said Abby. “Guess you can be Sandra Bullock if you want.” Erin grinned at that and put another stack of papers in a folder. Patty came downstairs about that time and looked over Erin’s work.
“You do realize you’re not even matching them up. You’re just sticking stacks into the folders.”
Erin squeaked and started opening them all as Patty laughed at her. Abby just shook her head. Patty’s arm slipped around Abby’s shoulders.
“How are you doing today baby?”
“We’re both fine,” said Abby. “Growth is good, heart rate is good. I gave more blood to the ever hungry vampires they keep in the back.”
“Think you could come help me?” asked Patty. “I’ve got about five pages of notes from Holtzy and I can’t read a bit of it.”
“Sure,” said Abby. She glanced up at Patty’s eyes and knew this wasn’t about Holtz’s notes at all. She followed Patty upstairs to her office and library.
“What is she doing?” asked Patty. “She’s going to secretly adopt a kid and not tell David?”
“Apparently she’s going to try,” said Abby, gesturing with a hand as she ran a hand down the spines of one of the books on the shelf. It was one of her favorite volumes on the ancient practices of the Mesopotamians. It had a lot of theory on their mathematics and astronomy.
“She’s going to cause us all heartburn by the time this is over,” sighed Patty. “And herself a lot of heartache.”
“David will come around,” said Abby. “He knew how much this means to Erin.”
“But will they both be happy with the decisions?”
“I wish I knew,” Abby shrugged. “Erin won’t let me talk to David.”
“Well, as much as I’d hate to say this, you’re probably the last person who needs to speak to him,” said Patty, gesturing to the baby still forming in her body. “I know you’re her oldest and closest friend, but--”
“I know,” sighed Abby. “Holtz and I are the reason she wants to do this.”
“Uh-huh,” nodded Patty. “Not that any of us are any better, really.”
“Yeah, when did we all become so family obsessed?” asked Abby, crossing her arms.
“I think it happened when we all started planning for the next generation of the Ghostbusters,” said Patty with a shrug. “It sort of started all of us thinking about the future. Although I’m one to talk. I can’t commit to anything about the subject.”
“You and Cheyenne would be amazing parents,” said Abby.
Patty eyed Abby. “You really think so?”
“I know so. You take care of all of us.”
“That’s true,” chuckled Patty. “I’m starting to think Erin was right. Maybe fostering kids would be a good start. We could see what age of a child would be good for us before we commit to adopting one of them.”
“You going to trust Erin on this?” said Abby, rubbing her left side with a wince. She sat down in a chair in front of Patty’s desk, taking a deep breath.
“I know I don’t want to do that,” said Patty, gesturing to Abby’s abdomen.
“Holtz should be glad I love her,” Abby said, leaning back and laying her head on the chair. “When they start kicking my ribs, it gets a little uncomfortable. And annoying.”
“They’re annoying for a reason. They’re kids.”
“God, I hope I remember all of this,” said Abby. “I’ve read after birth you can lose recollection of the pregnancy and labor, sort of like how we feel drowsy after sex. It’s your body’s manipulation into having more children.”
“I promise you, Abby, if you even get that thought in your head again, I will remind you of Holtzy’s overprotectiveness and Kevin trying to rub your belly to feel the baby whenever he can get a chance.”
“Thank you,” said the physicist. “I might need it.” Patty chuckled and gave her a thumbs up.
“Hey Abby!” yelled Kevin from the stairwell. “You have a visitor!”
“I wonder who it could be,” frowned Abby. “I wasn’t expecting anyone today.”
“Let’s go see,” said Patty. They headed downstairs. Abby recognized the little blond haired boy standing next to Kevin’s desk. He started waving frantically.
“I made it!”
“You did,” laughed Abby. “And you brought your mom and sister too.”
“I can’t go anywhere without them,” he said, looking shy. Abby noticed he was looking up at Patty in a sort of awe but was hiding behind his mom’s leg. She grinned at Patty.
“Patty, this is Jake. I met him the other day in Erin’s neighborhood. He loves the Ghostbusters.”
“Hi,” said Jake, peeking out just a little. “I see you on TV all the time in the commercials.”
“Hi,” said Patty, leaning down to be closer to him. “You want to go see our car?” Jake nodded eagerly and Patty extended a hand out to him. He took it happily and Patty looked at Jake’s mom, who nodded.
“He won’t run off. He’s too happy to be here. If he ever runs away from home, I know exactly where he’d go because he’d be here.” Abby and Patty both laughed at that. The pair went off towards the garage.
“Would you like to sit till they come back?” asked Abby. “Then we can go for a tour.”
“Sure,” said Jake’s mom, looking a little relieved. “Been a walk with this one. She slept on the subway, but now she’s wide awake.”
“She’s beautiful,” said Abby. “What’s her name?”
“Caitlin.”
���Hi Caitlin,” said Abby, smiling at the little girl, who smiled back and kicked her feet. Abby saw Erin coming out of the bathroom out of the corner of her eye.
“Erin, come on over. We have a guest.” Erin walked up and smiled at the pair. Jake's mother looked surprised.
“You live in my neighborhood,” she said as she shook Erin's hand. “I’ve seen you and your husband out walking on the bike trail during the summer.”
“Yes, we do,” said Erin, looking surprised. “All the time after dinner when we can. And you are--”
“Samantha Watersmith,” said Samantha. “My son, Jake... he loves your team. Abby invited us to come meet you all.”
“Abby!” said a voice. She turned and saw Holtzmann coming towards her, holding up a bag with a grin. “Got it.” She skidded to a stop once she realized they had guests.
“And now Jake can meet all of us while he's here,” said Abby to Jake’s mom. Patty and Jake were walking back towards them. “Erin, I have some things for Jake before he leaves, don’t let me forget it.” Erin and Holtz shared a grin when Jake walked over all bubbly to Abby about the Ecto-1. Holtz stood back for a moment, enjoying the scene. It wouldn’t be all that long till this would be her life. The thought of their child being that bubbly and bright and excited just made her happy. She took out her phone and took a picture of Abby introducing Jake to Erin, who was shaking her hand happily with both of his.
-----
“We’ve officially been dumped,” said Holtzmann to Abby, hitting the end call button on her phone. She was sitting on the couch and halfway watching an old Batman rerun from the 1960’s. The Penguin was waddling away from after tying Batman and Robin up and leaving them to freeze to death in a large ice chamber.
“Cheyenne?” said Abby from the bathroom, slightly muffled.
“She did get her vacation days from the hotel,” said Holtz with a pout. “Guess we’ll just have to go shopping and cook for everyone.”
“We shouldn’t begrudge Patty an actual vacation,” said Abby, looking exhausted as she came out of the bathroom. She had been fine till Holtz had suggested some popcorn while they watched a movie together. It had annoyed her stomach for some reason and she had ended up throwing up the popcorn and soda they were snacking on.
“Oh Abby, come here,” said Holtzmann. Abby sat down on the couch gently and leaned back into her wife, laying her head on her shoulder. Holtzmann laughed.
“Wanting to be coddled, huh?”
“Mmhmm,” said Abby. “Not even ashamed.”
“It’s a good thing we’re cuddlers. Our kid will be so loved.”
“Can you do me a favor?” said Abby, closing her eyes and sitting up with a grimace. “Lower back.” Holtz obliged. Abby’s appreciative little rumbling noises amused Holtzmann.
“I have a feeling once the baby drops, this is going to become a daily thing.”
“That’s not for another two months, let’s not go there.”
“Only 12 more weeks till baby,” teased Holtz. “All those contractions, sweaty skin, stirrups...”
“Keep your sexual fantasies out of my massage.”
“Nice one Abby,” grinned Holtz. “I shall take my painful barb in delight and with the knowledge that we’ll probably be doing the same thing in just a few weeks when the real time comes. I can’t wait to see what you come up with. I think I need to make a swear jar.”
“For me or for you?”
“Together we’ll have a good start to our child’s college savings plan by the time they’re born just from the time they’re being born.”
Abby laughed softly, shaking her head. It didn’t seem real that they were all that close, but it had been 28 weeks already. Christmas was just that next week. She rubbed an arm across her chest and groaned.
“Holtzmann, you’re doing too good of a job.”
“I didn’t know there was such a thing,” she responded.
“What is it and things starting to happen with back rubs?” Abby said, turning around and showing Holtz her shirt with a sigh. Holtz’s eyes lit up in amusement at the small wet stains on Abby’s light blue t-shirt.
“At least you know your breasts are proving fully functional.”
“Yes, because leaking is the only sign. Not that the areola getting darker and the changes in bras sizes haven't been an indication. Or my really sensitive nipples.”
“It is all for feeding purposes,” said Holtzmann, rubbing Abby’s shoulder. “I know it sucks Abs, but it’s part of the process. That’s why you bought those nursing pads.”
“I know,” Abby said. “And this is what I wanted, to be able to feed our child. It just reminds me that every day this is getting closer to the end.”
“By March we’ll have a little one to look after,” Holtzmann said. “Which is really going to eat into our invention time.”
“I think we’ll manage,” said Abby. She pulled Holtz closer, nuzzling her hair. “I love you and your cuddles.”
“Love you too Abs.”
-----
“Did we forget anything?” asked Abby to Erin as they were standing in front of the drinks. They had taken out the new team for dinner to congratulate them on joining the Ghostbusters. But instead of opting for dessert, they had a “Welcome to the Team!” cake made up with their logo and green ectoplasm like icing dripping off the sides with lots of ice cream waiting for them back at the firehouse.
“We’ve dined them, treated them to champagne and sparkling juice plus ice cream and cake, showed them their new uniforms, and gave them their new identification badges and welcome packets. Holtz is still tweaking their packs, so there’s a small delay in that. They got the grand tour of all accessible areas, except for... the basement.” Erin gave Abby a side grin at the last part, who shook her head.
“Why do I get the feeling this is going to be a disaster?”
“Oh, because it will be,” said Patty, walking up. “Erin and I are going to get the packs.” They all three watched in amusement as Holtzmann invited them all to the basement to see the new upgraded containment unit. Since they had to move everything dealing with it to the basement, they had let Holtz make a few changes, which she had been happy for the distraction and getting to make it new and shiny again. Abby was really wishing for another distraction of her own. She knew focusing on her body and the baby was really going to become the center point in her life soon enough, but she wanted something to do to distract her in the meantime. Her brain was sadly like Swiss cheese these days, and she couldn’t think of anything they could be doing at the present since the book was still in the hands of the editors. She wondered if this was what her mother had meant by being “settled” into her life years ago. If it was, she didn’t like it. She didn’t even bother to argue when Holtz breezed by and handed her the lead apron along with her fetal badge as she handed out regular radiation badges to everyone else. At least with the change of where the containment unit was held, the lab upstairs was a lot safer and she could spend more time in there with her wife. Until it was no longer just Holtz’s lab. But that was a short-term change until the state had a facility ready for the new team to take over and make their own.
Abby followed the group down to the basement past all the boxes of unused and broken equipment, watching and nodding as Holtz explained how the inside walls were lined with eight inches of steel, and the containment room itself had double sealing locks on the doors and an alarm system in case of an emergency. She knew Erin and Patty were upstairs getting dressed and grabbing their proton packs and was trying not to start laughing early. This little initiation was going to be fun to watch. Holtz was giving an explanation of how the alarm system worked when Abby saw her hit a button on the small remote she knew was in her pocket. The alarm started blaring and Holtz yelled for them to follow her out. She got to the door and shut it quickly behind her, leaving the new team locked inside. Abby made a show of being surprised and yelled for Holtz. The blonde gave her secretive grin as she pulled out a small notebook from her pocket and wrote on a piece of paper she put to the window.
“I told them I’m working on it and that it was a false alarm,” she said as Abby looked at her wife. Holtz went over to a console and pretended to be pressing on some buttons. Instead, she hit another button on her remote, making the lights go dark in the space.
“Now no one can read our lips,” she said quietly.
“The ghost ready?” asked Abby.
“Boy is she ever,” said Holtz cackling maniacally. They heard Patty and Erin come down the steps and wait there out of sight. They were in uniform and had the packs charged up.
“You guys ready?” asked Abby. She held her side with a wince as the baby now had all the sugar from the cake and juice in their bloodstream too and was being very active.
“Oh yeah,” said Patty. They were watching the new team, who looked a little worried. Holtz tapped on the remote in her pocket and a containment unit breach alarm went off, sending red lights flashing. The ghost suddenly appeared, scaring the newbies. What the new team didn’t know was the ghost was actually in a mini-containment unit for viewing and research purposes. It could not hurt them or bother them, but the ghost could see them and generally be ghost like without interaction.
“You don’t know how long it took her to realize she couldn’t interact with me when I was testing it,” babbled Holtz excitedly. “The sheer amount of ectoplasm she exuded before tiring out was enough to douse Erin like 20 times.” Erin rolled her eyes and pointed the proton wand in the blonde’s direction, who grinned cheekily.
“Alright, now’s your cue,” said Abby, watching as the ghost tried to swipe at Diana, who hid behind Beth, who was the tallest of the group. Holtz opened the doors and Erin and Patty ran in. Holtzmann was doing her best not to laugh as Patty and Erin put on an act. She wrapped her arm around Abby’s shoulders.
“They are so cute.”
“Just wait till Erin tells them you did that all for show,” mused Abby.
“Erin would never betray me like such,” Holtz scoffed.
“How else is she going to explain to them how quickly a situation can turn dangerous?” Abby said with a smirk. “This is a simulation, but it’s still an initiation.” She paused. “Even though it will be informative for them, they’re probably still going to want to throttle you for locking them up and scaring the crap out of them.” Holtz thought about this a moment.
“Perhaps a hasty retreat?”
Abby arched an eyebrow. “Stand still and take your hits soldier.”
“Yes ma'am, sir,” Holtz said with a fake salute to Abby.
“Besides, I think they’re all still wary of you. Except for Jen. I think she’s got you figured out already.”
“Of course, I would expect no less,” sniffed Holtz. Patty was grinning as she came out of the containment room and stood beside Abby.
“Erin’s still explaining about the containment unit. Everyone seems to think it was a great demonstration Holtzy.” Holtzmann grinned.
“Of course. It was a brilliant idea.” Patty noticed Abby rubbing her baby bump under the apron.
“Someone’s being very active,” Abby said when she saw Patty looking at her. She took a deep breath. “I think they’re trying to kick my lungs.”
“Someone wants in on all the excitement,” smiled Patty.
“Little too soon for that,” said Abby. Patty nodded and it wasn’t but about 10 seconds later Erin came out, leading the others. Abby grinned at her best friend, who grinned back with a thumbs up. The others looked contemplative as they mingled with each other and Patty, Erin, and Abby. Holtz casually strolled into the unit and started turning things off, like nothing had happened. While a containment unit failure was one of Abby’s worst fears, the idea of Holtz being locked inside when it blew was something she didn’t even want to think about. She frowned at the sealing doors before turning when Angie spoke to her.
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Descendants, Chapter 26
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Abby decided to make Holtz squirm and wait for her to get home.
She went for a walk around Erin’s neighborhood. It was a very quiet place with lots of trees and sitting areas. Erin had joined her for a few minutes, pointing out where they were going to put up a new playground before going back in and checking on the lunch she had started making. Abby sat down at one of the outside tables in a small picnic area, enjoying the deep breaths of cold, crisp December air. Sometimes it didn’t feel like there was a large city surrounding them with millions of people going about and living their lives. It was a beautiful day, even if it was chilly. She texted Holtz and asked her if she wanted to go out and grab something to eat. Her wife texted an affirmative, but only if she came home first. She sent a small picture of a yellow and white star on a blue background. She could only imagine what Holtz had been up to.
“Your room is getting closer to completion,” she said to her abdomen, rubbing it. She was certain the baby was asleep, as she had only felt a few little movements here and there. He or she had kicked up a storm during the night. Abby had assumed that was because Holtzmann wasn’t there to play games right before bed. She had to admit, Holtz’s arm draped across her waist during the night was something she missed herself. It had been a while since she had slept completely alone without Holtz. Not that she was completely alone when their child was doing pirouettes at three in the morning.
“I guess we’d better head back home kid,” Abby said, stretching as she stood.
“Mom, look! It’s one of the Ghostbusters ladies,” said a voice. Abby looked around and noticed a little blond haired boy running up to her with wide blue eyes. He couldn’t have been any more than four or five. A young woman came scrambling up behind him, carrying a baby girl who couldn’t have been any more than four months, all wrapped up in a cute Sesame Street blanket.
“Jake, don’t take off running like that!” huffed the woman, holding onto her son’s shoulder. “I apologize. He really, really likes the Ghostbusters.”
“You do huh?” said Abby, bending down to see him. “I like them too. They’re all my closest friends.”
“Really?” said Jake. “I want to be able to shoot ghosts. My mom said one day I could.”
“Maybe,” said his mom, patting his shoulder. “If they let you on the team.”
“It’s always possible,” said Abby, smiling. “Tell you what. If you can next week, get your mom to bring you by our headquarters during the day. You can come meet the others.” Abby could have sworn she had never seen a kid’s face light up so fast.
“You’re not just kidding him...?” said the younger woman, adjusting her daughter in her arms.
“No, I really do work with the Ghostbusters,” said Abby, sitting down. She couldn’t stay bent over like that for long. That took a lot of breath. “One of our team lives in this neighborhood and I was here for a visit.”
“I--uh, wow,” said the woman. “I never actually thought he’d get to meet one of you,” she said sheepishly. “Thank you.”
“We like fans,” said Abby. She reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out a card and handed it to Jake. “I’m Abby, and this is our address. Just get your mom to ask for me.”
“You’re a doctor?” said Jake, looking confused.
“Not like the doctor you see when you’re sick,” smiled Jake’s mom. “She went to school a lot and got very smart.”
“Like me?” said Jake. “I started school this year.”
“Just like you,” chuckled Abby. “But you’ve got a lot to catch up.”
“Okay!” he said happily. “I want to be a Ghostbuster, so I’ll go to school.”
Abby was amused when his mom mouthed “Thank you.”
“Are you having a baby like my mom did?” asked Jake.
“Jake!” said his mom, aghast. Now Abby was very amused.
“I am,” she said. “They have about three more months to grow.” Abby put a hand on the table behind her and helped herself get up. She smiled at Jake. “Maybe I’ll have a little boy like you.”
“I’m so sorry,” the younger woman said apologetically. “I thought I had taught him better than to pelt strangers with such personal questions.”
“He’s no trouble,” said Abby. “But I actually need to get going. I’m meeting my wife for lunch.”
“Thank you for your time,” said Jake’s mom. “I’m sorry we bothered you.” Abby nodded in return and started walking off.
“You mean you can be married and be a Ghostbuster too?” Abby heard in a quiet voice. She shook her head and laughed to herself. Jake was cute, and she couldn’t help but see Holtzmann in him. She hadn’t really given much thought to the gender of their child lately. She and Holtz would be happy with either. But seeing Jake made her start thinking about a son. Her brother had two boys and three girls. If she had a boy, then the grandkids would be even. And she was certain that Holtz’s dad would be plenty happy with a boy.
Maybe they would have a son. At least it was only one baby. She didn’t know what she would do with two boys. Although Holtz would probably love having twins just so she could have double the pranksters. Abby mused on that thought all the way back to the firehouse after grabbing her stuff from Erin’s and getting a cab. It was a bit of a ride, but when she walked in the door of the firehouse, she was happy to be home.
No matter what she had thought or hadn’t thought in the beginning of the whole thing with the baby, this was home. This was her and Holtzmann’s home.
And pretty soon it would be the home to the Yates-Holtzmann family.
“Holtz?” she yelled loudly.
There was a loud stomping upstairs before the sound of someone sliding down the fire pole brought her wife into view. If Holtz’s overalls had been paint covered before, they were now double and triple covered. Holtzmann gestured wildly.
“You’re back!” She came over and wrapped her arms around her wife. Abby kissed her happily and pulled back, looking at her overalls again.
“You look like you’ve been busy.”
“A true artiste never sleeps,” said the engineer. “Which you know, means I’m probably going to crash during work tomorrow.”
“Of course,” responded Abby. Holtzmann pulled on her hand.
“Come on, I want to show you before lunch. Although don’t touch anything. It’s still drying.”
Abby followed Holtz upstairs, setting down her bag and pillow on the couch before heading to the baby’s room.
“I think you’re going to love it Abs. It’s brighter than I thought it was going to be.”
“I’m sure--” Abby started to say, but the minute Holtz opened the door, she was literally speechless. It did not look like the dark blue room she had gotten a quick peek of yesterday. Holtz had said she wanted to paint on the ceiling, but she had done more than that. There were murals on all four walls AND the ceiling.
“Oh Jills...” said Abby, putting a hand on her baby bump and looking around the room. On the lower half of one wall, Holtzmann had painted a half Earth showing off part of the continents. Up a little higher she had put the moon with all its craters, plus a couple of satellites and the International Space Station. There was even a rocket ship headed for it. Up on the other walls were the planets and dwarf planets, along with their moons. She had even depicted the asteroid belt, and in one large section complete with solar flares, a very large orange and red sun flourished. Up on the ceiling where many of the constellations that could be seen from Earth. And in between the planets and their moons in the background were depictions of more stars and galaxies.
“It’s beautiful,” Abby said breathlessly. “And so colorful.”
“The blue let a lot of the color shine through,” said Holtz. “There’s still some detail work, but--” Holtzmann didn’t get to finish her thought as Abby grabbed her and pulled her close for a kiss. The brunette still had tears on her face and Holtz could taste the saltiness. She pulled back and put her hands on Abby’s shoulders.
“You like it?” Abby nodded.
“God, I’m a mess,” she said sniffing, wiping the tears from her cheeks. “I can’t even look at the furniture without crying.”
“We did get some kick-ass baby furniture.” Abby laughed, still wiping her eyes.
“You could have let me help.”
“Nope. I wanted to do this.” Holtzmann grinned. “And we’ve still got to move things and decorate.”
“It’s gorgeous Holtz. I want to take pictures.”
“We can after everything is done. Did you have fun with Erin and David?”
“It was nice,” said Abby. “Short. David was grading.”
“I do not miss those days,” said Holtz. She clapped her hands. “Lunch. I’m starving, then I need a nap. And baby time.”
“I’m going to second you on that nap,” said Abby. “Someone was performing a five hour ballet performance last night.”
“It’s because I wasn’t there, wasn’t it?” Holtz said to the baby. “I didn’t get a chance to wear you out before bedtime.”
“Yes, but you can definitely wear me out later,” said Abby.
“Now there’s a fun suggestion I will take any time of day,” Holtz said with a wink. “Let me get my coat and we'll get food. Then we can work on that.”
“Have I ever said I love you?” said Abby, still looking around the room.
“Just once or twice,” said Holtz as she reappeared, flipping up the collar of her leather jacket with a grin.
-----
“If this is one of those touchy-feely classes where we have to express our emotions about our pregnancy or do any sort of uterus craft work...” began Abby as they walked towards the building where the childbirth classes were.
“Do you think I would sit through that?” said Holtzmann, glancing at her wife with a disgusted look on her face. “Seriously Abs.”
“Just for the sole purpose of torturing me, you would.”
“While the idea is novel, I am not a crafty type, unless it involves metalworking and nuclear material.”
Abby was relieved at that as she started to open the door to the place.
“I do love your craft work.”
“I’m sure you’ll love me more when I learn their counter pressure and massage techniques to use while you’re in labor.”
“So that’s the reason we’re going.”
“The Internet, while one of mankind’s greatest inventions next to me, is not a very hands-on tool. I thought it would be something useful.”
They had made their way over to an elevator and headed for the fifth floor. The elevator was playing an old 80’s hair band song and Holtzmann started pretending to rock out, even throwing horns over her hand and pretending to play air guitar.
“I am still bummed I never got to crowd surf that day,” said Holtzmann.
“Yes, but then you would have been the one with the ghost demon on your shoulders and you were the one with the trap. That would not have worked.”
“But it would have been awesome.” Abby patted Holtz on the shoulder.
“I’ll tell you what, if there are any other jobs at a rock concert, you get to exclusively crowd surf. You can deal with all those pointy rings all you want.”
“Yes!” exclaimed Holtz, pumping both fists in the air. The elevator dinged and opened the doors. Holtzmann grabbed Abby’s arm and started leading her out, much to her confusion.
“I will take that offer, but for now, I need to hear all your pointy and sarcastic barbs while we sit through birthing videos. First class is stages of labor.” She clapped her hands together. “Whoo!” Holtz stopped Abby from doing an about face beside her.
“You can do this.”
“I’m going to be experiencing this. I do not want to watch it.”
“This is why you need to watch it.”
“Really?”
“No,” said Holtz. “But it’s good Abs. You can learn something. It’s only a couple of hours.” She guided her wife over to the doorway of what looked like a large classroom with one side full of tables and chairs. The other side had all manner of birthing balls, bean bag chairs, soft cushiony cubes to sit on. There were more than a few bins of yoga mats and pillows. A large flat screen TV and a whiteboard were on the classroom side while instructional charts were on the other. A few people were already at the tables and chairs.
“I don’t want to watch someone in labor Holtz.”
“Little too late now, I’ve already paid for the classes,” said Holtz, guiding her inside. They both sat down in the back of the classroom, Holtz propping her feet up on the desk.
“Hello ladies,” she said, nodding to a young lesbian couple nearest them. The little wink at the end made one of the women blush as she nodded in return. Her partner eyed Holtzmann, who eyed back before flashing her wedding ring.
“No worries love. I didn’t come here for pregnancy speed dating.”
Abby closed her eyes and shook her head, which made the woman who had blushed laugh.
“Is she always like this?”
“Never turns off,” responded Abby. Holtzmann nodded in agreement to the statement. She hooked an arm around Abby’s shoulders.
“Dr. Jillian Holtzmann and Dr. Abby Yates at your service.”
“Caroline Schaffer. And this is my partner Stephanie Drake. Neither of us are doctors.”
Stephanie eyed the two of them. “If you are doctors, why are you taking a childbirth class?”
“Not that type of doctor,” said Holtzmann. She pointed to both her and Abby. “Physicist and nuclear engineer. We don’t exactly have the best of bedside manners.”
“And they’d kick her out of the hospital if she started practicing,” said Abby, holding a hand to the side of her mouth in a joking manner before smirking at her wife. Caroline laughed.
“So you have a combined I.Q. of everyone in the room. Probably more.”
“Maybe,” teased Holtzmann. “You can never tell.” They all watched as more couples appeared.
“How far along are you two?” asked Stephanie.
“28 weeks,” said Holtz proudly. “My wife is a trooper.”
But before there was any response, the class teachers walked into the room. Holtz did a double take, taking her feet off the desk. One of the ladies who had come in looked almost exactly like Jennifer Lynch, the Mayor’s assistant.
“Is that--?” began Holtzmann. Abby’s mouth was down a little, looking surprised herself. She shook her head.
“I don’t think so. But she looks like her. A lot.”
“Must be a relative,” shrugged Holtz.
“Must be close,” said Abby. The other lady introduced herself and started everyone going around the room and introducing themselves.
“This should be fun, Peanut,” said Holtzmann to Abby’s abdomen. “Your moms are going to meet other parents and watch how you’re going to be born.”
“You’re going to owe me so much for this,” grumbled her wife. Holtz smirked at Abby’s grumpy face and kissed her hand, holding it.
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Descendants, Chapter 25
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“Okay,” said Erin, looking at Patty, Holtz, and Cheyenne.
They were all in older clothes and their hair tied up. Both Holtz and Cheyenne had theirs up in bandannas. They were standing in the baby’s room on the third floor of the firehouse.
“David, Zack, and Kevin are in the guest rooms painting, and we’re going to help each other in between coats. We’re painting the nursery. Paint cloths are down to protect the floors. Please be careful as to not move them as this is a beautiful reclaimed hardwood from the old firehouse days. We’re going to try to get two coats up today so they can dry and Holtz can work on the murals later tonight. This is a fast drying paint, so two coats shouldn’t take more than six hours. Then the boys are going to help bring back in furniture, but we don’t have to help them with any of that. Holtz and Abby are going to take care of the arranging. We just have to get everything out of the various storage spots around the firehouse and back upstairs. We’ve got masks and gloves if anyone wants them, and we’ve got fans up for ventilation and to help with the drying.”
“We definitely need to get the baby diapers and bottles out of the client conference area,” said Patty. “I don’t think all that stuff will help inspire trust in our work come Monday.”
“You should be glad we only came down with all that stuff Friday night,” winked Holtzmann. “Because all the baby things are piling up here and we might have to start stockpiling downstairs.”
“Abby and I were already talking about making a donation box once everything is settled and in place,” said Erin.
“Not me?” scoffed Holtzmann. “I feel wronged! Wronged, I tell you.” She gestured wildly with her hands, pretending to be dramatic for whatever reason suited her.
“Best friends always come before spouses,” said Erin, sticking her tongue out at Holtz, who tried to look offended, but failed. Cheyenne laughed into Patty’s shoulder.
“We’re still getting free pizza and beer right?”
“And all the doughnuts and coffee your little heart desires Patty,” said Holtzmann. “I might even splurge for dinner.”
“As long as it’s somethin’ good,” said Patty with a small smile.
“There is that great Greek place down the way,” said Erin. “I vote for that.”
“Where is Abby?” asked Cheyenne.
“Downstairs, tucked safely away from all paint and fumes,” said Holtz. “She’s going to make all our food runs so I can get her out of here.”
“Overprotective,” said Patty to Cheyenne. “As always.”
“I still don’t know how Abby puts up with her sometimes,” said Erin. “I mean, really Holtzmann.”
“I could say the same thing about you Gil--” said Holtz, but cut herself off when she saw Abby coming up the stairs. She ran over to the doorway.
“Nope,” said Holtzmann. “Downstairs honey. The boys are already working.”
“Sorry Holtz, but this can’t wait,” said Abby grimacing. She marched over to Erin.
“The Mayor’s Assistant is here, and she’s brought a couple of members of the Public Safety Commission. They’re waiting to have a look around.”
“On today of all days,” said Patty, rolling her eyes.
“No, we can do this,” said Erin. “Abby, you and I will take care of them. We’ve got this.”
“Because there’s no fun like a surprise inspection,” said Holtz sarcastically.
“We’ll get rid of them,” said Abby. “It’s not like we haven’t been preparing for this. Everything is in order.”
“You hope,” said Patty. Abby nodded and grabbed Erin by the hand and they both headed downstairs.
“Don’t let them in my lab!” yelled Holtz.
“That’s probably the first place they will look Holtzy,” said Patty. “They know you’re probably hiding another large nuke somewhere.”
“It’s in plain sight,” grinned Holtz. “They won’t ever find it.”
“You mean the thing on top of the car?” asked Cheyenne.
“Nope, Abby’s earrings. Put them together and drop it at just the right height...” Patty rolled her eyes while Holtz demonstrated a large explosion. She grinned and wrapped her arm around her friend, which made Patty laugh. Holtz gestured upwards.
“I’ll take the long roller brush and paint the ceiling while you two paint the walls. We’ll let Erin go around the doorways and such when she gets back. She’s a stickler for details.”
“You’re painting the ceiling?” frowned Patty.
“I’m going to paint the constellations up there later on tonight,” Holtzmann said. “Once the blue is dry.”
“I can’t wait to see this,” said Cheyenne, looking interested.
“I might have to borrow your wife,” winked Holtzmann. “She’s the only thing tall enough around here for me to stand on.”
“I don’t think so Holtzy,” said Patty. “I ain’t your step-ladder.”
-----
“Well, that was complicated,” said Abby as she sat down on the couch downstairs. Erin sat down beside her and leaned her head on her best friend.
“Are we sure we want to add another team?”
Abby laughed. “Little late for that now, isn’t it?”
“It’s a good thing we were prepared,” said Erin. “Or they really would have gotten a hold of us.”
“Did you notice how Ms. Lynch kept looking at me?” asked Abby. “I’m starting to wonder whose safety she was really worried about.”
“Abby, you are nearly seven months pregnant. If you haven’t noticed, people do sort of pay attention to that sort of thing. You have a very cute round bump.”
“I can’t wait to be un-pregnant,” said Abby, not even bothering to be correct. “It feels like I can’t do much.”
“You can and you will,” smiled Erin. “Someone’s got to teach the new recruits the different classification of ghosts.”
“So basically anything that doesn’t involve any actual field work we do.”
“Yep.”
“Ugh,” said Abby, laying her head back against the couch. “I shouldn’t complain. I’m the reason I’m in this mess.”
“Yes,” Erin grinned. “You couldn’t say no to those blue eyes.” Abby rolled her own.
“You should go get back to them,” she said. “Tell them it’s all clear.” Abby picked up Erin’s arm and looked at the time on her watch.
“I’m sure it won’t be long till they want lunch, especially since the coffee and doughnuts were lacking because of the surprise inspection. You know how men are. If you don’t feed them every two seconds, they get cranky.”
“Do I have to?” whined Erin.
“You volunteered for this,” Abby responded. She winced and rubbed her side.
“And someone’s telling you that their room needs to be painted.”
“I can stay down here and keep you company.”
“I’d rather you go up there and get things done and I can sleep peacefully in my bed tonight knowing that it’s finished.”
“Umm...” said Erin, wincing. “You won’t be sleeping upstairs.”
“WHAT?!?!?!”
Erin looked sheepish. “You’re staying at my place tonight. Holtzmann insisted. I think she’s already packed you a bag too.”
“I’m going to kill her. She is getting way, way too overprotective.” Abby tried to get up off the couch but failed. Erin laughed, but bit down on her index finger knuckle to keep from doing so again. She watched as Abby slowed down and used the arm of the couch as support.
“I’m thinking for the next couple of months you need to avoid this couch.” Abby ignored her and headed for the stairs. When she saw Holtz coming down, she glared at her wife. Holtz looked at Erin.
“You told her didn’t you?”
Erin shrugged, trying not to smile at Holtz's mild discomfort.
“Abby... I have a plan. I’m going to be painting all night. I thought you might enjoy spending some... some fun time with Erin.” She started backing up at her wife’s fast approach. After nearly falling, she yelled for Patty to save her and ran up the stairs all the while flailing her arms. Abby sighed and turned and looked at Erin.
“Put the fear in her for me, would you?” Erin saluted like Holtz with a smirk and headed upstairs. Abby groaned. Her lover sometimes. Half the time if she didn’t just absolutely love and adore Jillian Holtzmann, she probably would be very annoyed by her.
-----
“I am so glad to be home,” said Erin after putting some of the leftovers that had been sent home with everyone from the day’s events in the fridge. She kicked off her shoes and laid her head in her husband’s lap. David chuckled and kissed her forehead.
“What time is Abby coming over?”
“Whenever she gets through chewing out Holtz and spitting her out.”
“So an hour or two then?”
“Five.”
David laughed and shook his head.
“I can’t blame Holtzmann though. She is just looking out for them in all the ways she can.”
“As she should be,” said Erin. “David...”
“I know Erin,” he said softly. “I saw how you kept stealing glances at Abby during dinner. I know you’d love to raise a little one with your best friend.”
“I don’t think Holtz would go for the partner swap though.”
“You know what I mean. Your kids growing up together, being best friends...”
“Is it wrong?” frowned Erin.
“No...” sighed David. “It isn’t.”
“What do you think?” asked Erin, sitting up. “About--”
David went quiet for a moment.
“I don’t know.”
“Fair... fair enough,” responded Erin. “I don’t want to push you into anything David. I--”
He smiled sadly and kissed her. Erin closed her eyes and kissed back. She loved being in the comfort of her husband, especially since he always seemed to worry about how she was doing.
“We can talk about it later,” he said. She hugged him, knowing what that answer meant in her heart. She pulled back.
“At least today is done.”
“I feel like I’m covered in paint,” said David. “Patty is more devious than I gave her credit for.”
“At least you don’t look like Holtzmann. She was quite determined to make sure that blonde hair turned blue.”
“Or Kevin.”
“That was Kevin’s own fault. He shouldn’t have tried to sneak up behind Cheyenne. We told him there would be consequences. He should have never let Patty corner him.”
“Everyone I think is going to need showers,” chuckled David.
Erin smiled. “I’m glad we got Abby to take that group picture.”
“I don’t think she was too pleased with the one Kevin’s husband took of Kevin rubbing her belly.”
“Kevin promised her a back rub in compensate. At least he’s been paying attention.”
David rubbed his black hair. “I think I’m going to go get a shower, then head to bed. Tell Abby I said good night.”
Erin nodded and he kissed her on the cheek as he got up and headed towards their bedroom. She propped her feet up on the couch and got comfortable. She knew it would take Abby a few minutes to stop arguing with Holtz and finally give up. All of them knew Holtz was being way overprotective. As long as the place was well ventilated, Abby would have been fine helping. She had wanted to help. But once Holtz got an idea in her head, it was stuck. And she was really stuck on this one. But Erin had a feeling that this day wasn’t so much about the paint, but about Holtz’s work this evening and how she wanted to surprise Abby with it.
At least they had all the basics done. All the rooms were painted and the furniture and things were moved back upstairs.
The doorbell rang and Erin got up to answer it. Abby was standing there with an overnight bag and a body pillow.
“I didn’t win.”
“Uh-huh,” said the redhead. “Didn’t expect you to.” She gestured for Abby to come in and closed the door behind her. “Holtzmann is a force of nature.”
“Tell me about it,” said Abby, taking off her jacket once she had sat her things down on a chair. “I’m scared to see what she’s going to be like when I’m actually in labor.” She headed over to the couch and sat down gingerly, rubbing her back.
“I think by that point, you’re not going to care, Abby,” mused Erin. “You’re just going to want the baby out of you.”
“I want the baby out of me now,” huffed Abby. “But 27 weeks is a little early.”
“Aim for 40 weeks,” said Erin. “It’s a good goal.”
Abby made a face. Erin chuckled and sat down. “I can’t wait to see you with an even bigger and round bump.” She patted her best friend’s shoulder while she made a face.
“Neither can Kevin,” said Abby. “I think Zack was amused by how Kevin kept wanting to feel the baby during dinner.”
“Think they are getting baby fever?” asked Erin.
“Who isn’t these days?”
“David,” said Erin with a sigh.
“He’ll come around,” said Abby. “Heaven knows I had to give it a lot of thought.”
“Maybe,” said Erin, a little soft and uneasy. “I’ve been thinking about adopting on my own.”
“Really?” Abby said, surprised. “You’re going to go through with it even if he doesn’t want to?”
Erin put a hand on Abby’s baby bump. “I want us to have kids together Abby.” She smiled at her friend. “We always wanted to do everything at the same time, and we almost did.”
Abby laughed. “I was not expecting this, however. Really should have been reversed.”
“Oh, I don’t know,” said Erin, grinning. “You being pregnant is my favorite thing.” Abby elbowed Erin.
“I want to see you with swollen feet.”
“I can’t wait to see you and Holtzmann holding your baby.”
“I just want to go back to work full-time,” sighed Abby. “We need a new... mystery.”
“You and Patty.”
“She has the right idea,” said Abby. She paused for a moment. “I’m glad the safety people are now taken care of, even if we had to run through the place and hide all the baby stuff.”
Erin nodded. “It’s something off our minds at least. Now we can get the new kids up and running.” She looked at Abby.
“Is Holtz still planning a ghost hunt with the penguins for them?”
“If she is, she hadn’t told me,” said Abby. She shook her head. “Really, Holtz?”
“Probably was going to try to keep that a secret for as long as possible,” chuckled Erin. “Are you and Holtzmann going to need help decorating?”
“I think we can do that,” said Abby. “I need to do something.”
“I think you’re just going to have to accept the fact that your wife thinks because you’re carrying the baby, you get off scot-free from everything.”
“I know,” Abby said, picking up her pillow and folded it, putting it at her back. “Maybe I need to talk to David.”
“Abby, no.”
“What? On your behalf...”
“So you want to argue with a law professor?”
“Well, I could mention that there was a recent study that said women over 35 getting pregnant are mentally much sharper later in life.”
“Yes, because I’m sure David is worried about my intelligence level.”
“You never know.”
“Now I know you went batty sitting downstairs while we were painting,” Erin huffed.
Abby smirked. “I think I lost all sensibilities some time ago while waiting for you to come back around.”
“You ready to get some sleep?” asked Erin, ignoring the barb.
“Might as well, said Abby. “Guest room?”
“Should be ready. I can get an extra blanket out of the closet if you think you’ll need one.”
“Erin...”
“Don’t say it, I know.”
Abby sighed and put a hand on her friend’s shoulder.
“Just be careful, okay?”
Erin nodded and hopped up off the couch. Abby wished she could get up that quickly as she carefully stood to follow her best friend.
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Descendants, Chapter 24
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Abby had watched curiously as Kevin took a couple of packages up to Holtzmann in her lab.
She had four or five delivered already the last couple of days, mostly small things, which meant that they weren’t equipment or her weekly shipment of fire extinguishers. She almost didn’t want to know, so instead of getting up and going to find out what her wife had been ordering, she reviewed the notes from the previous day’s bust in an old warehouse. She was glad her sniffles and coughs were now down to a minimum, and no one else had started showing any symptoms of the flu. It looked like she was going to be the only unlucky one.
“Finally!” she heard from the stairwell. There was a small whoop of joy. Both Erin and Patty looked at Abby. They both were sitting at the conference table with her. She shrugged. She had no idea what Holtz was up to.
And probably didn’t want to know, if she was being honest. They all heard some sort of noise like ripping paper, followed by boots coming down the stairs. In Holtz’s hands, she carried two white gift boxes, medium sized, one on top of the other. She put them down in front of Abby.
“Nothing is going to jump out at me, is it?” said Abby, giving her wife a look. Holtz put a hand on her hip.
“I did make you a pinky promise if you remember. No practical jokes until after the baby is born.”
Abby looked skeptical.
“Just open them,” scoffed Holtz.
Abby took the lid off the first box.
“Oh my goodness,” laughed Erin. “It looks just like you Abby.”
Inside the box was a newborn outfit that was almost like looking in a mirror. There was a tiny red and gray plaid shirt, dark skinny jeans, a pair of baby black Converse, and a black sweater.
“It’s baby’s first outfit,” Holtz said, beaming. “I thought that it’d be perfect for when we take him or her home from the hospital.”
“So this is what you’ve been getting packages of recently,” Abby said, a little amused. She had to admit, little versions of the things she wore were sort of cute. Only Holtzmann...
“Wait till you open the other,” said Holtz, grinning.
“I think I have an idea,” said Patty, laughing.
“So do I,” said Erin, trying not to do the same. Abby opened the second box and wasn’t surprised. Inside, in a slightly bigger size, lay an outfit that fit with what they had been teasing Holtzmann about since Abby had gotten pregnant: that their child would be a mad scientist. She had apparently run with it. Abby mentally calculated in her head.
“So this is for Halloween, isn’t it?”
Holtz nodded, leaning against the table. She crossed her arms and looked pleased.
“Only you Holtzy, only you,” said Patty, shaking her head. The outfit consisted of black combat boots with striped socks tucked into them, a pair of purple paint-splattered coveralls (Abby suspected she had done the splattering herself), a green long sleeved Henley (thankfully not in a crop top like Holtz’s own), brown leather fingerless gloves, and a blonde curly wig already pinned up like Holtz’s usual style. A green jacket and yellow goggles completed the outfit.
Holtzmann pointed to the goggles. “Now they can look like their other momma on Halloween. We can be a matching pair. That’s two of the most important days of the year covered. I figure for Christmas, they’ll have some sort of red or green velvet monstrosity supplied by the grandparents.”
“Probably your dad,” giggled Abby. Holtz rolled her eyes but nodded. “It’s all very cute honey.”
“No reactions from the peanut gallery?” asked Holtzmann.
“Sleeping,” said Abby. “Thank goodness. I think they were leaning against my stomach earlier. I had a lot of indigestion right after breakfast.”
“Sorry sweetheart,” said Holtz, planting a kiss on the top of Abby’s head.
“These are way cute,” said Erin, who had grabbed the baby box of Abby’s and was playing with the black baby Converse. Patty was holding up the baby goggles out of Holtzmann’s box.
“I can’t wait for them to get here,” said Erin. “Baby shoes!”
“Oh dear,” said Abby. “Erin’s found a fixation point.”
“Seriously though, no idea on the gender?” asked Patty. “I could buy them some really cute newborn Nike booties at the place down the street from my apartment.”
“No, and I think we should be thankful that someone hiding their genitals from the sonogram is the only thing that’s happened.”
“The baby is mine and you’re fine Abby,” said Holtzmann, rubbing her shoulder.
“Mine?” said Erin, trying not to smirk. “I don’t realize this paternity of the baby was in question.” She glanced at Abby, who had snorted into her hand.
Holtz slapped her forehead when she realized what she said. “Fine!”
“So you really are the father of this baby,” said Patty, snickering. “Do tell us about this, Holtzy.”
“Well, you see, Patty,” said Holtzmann, going over and leaning on her fellow Ghostbuster. “When two humans love each other very much...”
“She’s not really about to explain the birds and the bees to me, is she?” asked Patty, glancing at Erin and Abby. Holtz held up a finger.
“No, but I can tell you a story about prenatal vitamins, doctor’s visits, cervical mucus checks, basal thermometers, frozen sperm...”
Abby pointed at her wife and looking at Patty. “You should have seen Holtz’s face the first time she realized labor was more than 4 hours. She didn’t think she could concentrate for that long.”
“It’s normally between 16-18 hours on average, isn’t it?” asked Erin. Abby nodded, rubbing her abdomen with a small wince. She started to stand up to change positions, taking a deep breath.
“Abby?” asked Patty, leaning her head to the side and looking at her friend.
“Yeah, I’m good,” said Abby, laughing softly. “Speaking of labor... I think the Braxton-Hicks for me is going to be a little on the awkward side. My whole--” she gestured to her baby bump. “Just gets very hard for a minute and feels very tense.”
“Wait, you’re getting Braxton-Hicks already?” asked Erin. “But you’re only in your second trimester.”
“They can happen anytime after 20 weeks,” said Holtz. “Abby’s started last week.”
“It’s all coming down to the wire then,” Patty said.
“The wire had better be three more months,” said Abby sighed, looking up. “Nothing is ready.”
-----
“I’m surprised that Holtzy is letting it fly about the containment unit being moved down to the basement,” said Patty. She and Erin were waiting on Holtzmann to come out of the bathroom. She had noticed her hair was falling down a little in the back and wanted to fix her up-do. Abby was wandering the hallway not that far from them.
“She technically doesn’t know it yet,” stated the brunette.
“What?!?” exclaimed Patty.
Erin nodded. “We’ve got to make room for another workbench area in her lab. And there are sacrifices that are going to have to be made, like the room we needed for the decontamination shower and an actual eyewash station. And a place for fire blankets and more radiation badge storage. More people, more need for safety.”
“Not to mention adding more fire extinguishers & first aid kits to the ones we already go through on a regular basis...” added Abby, coming up beside Erin.
“So does this mean Holtzy is going to be less reckless?”
“When we’re introducing a new engineer to the equation? Probably not,” stated Abby.
“Oh lord,” said Patty. “I’m still not sure I can handle two of them.”
Holtz came running up to the group, wrapping her arms around Patty.
“Wait, you’re too tall,” she said. She moved over to Abby.
“Hmm... you’re too short.”
Abby scoffed. “Thanks a lot.” Holtz grinned and wrapped her arms around Erin, who rolled her eyes at the action.
“Mmm... just right.” She clung to the redhead’s waist, who was trying not to grumble at her friend wrinkling her nice clothes.
“You do realize I’m only about an inch taller than you and your wife, Holtz.”
“Let’s just run away together, Erin. Coconuts, palm trees, the sand in our flip flops burning the hell out of our feet...”
“Just because you want to get out of this meeting doesn’t mean we can run away on a romantic vacation.”
“Abby won’t mind.”
“Clearly,” said Abby, watching Holtz snuggle into Erin’s shoulder, her arms crossed.
“Holtz--” began Erin, but the Mayor’s assistant Jennifer interrupted them as she walked up to them.
“Ladies, the Mayor is ready to see you now. I--um, wow. I didn’t realize we were going to be having extra company.”
“Extra--” began Erin, looking a little confused. Holtz pointed a gloved hand at Abby.
“Oh! Right,” said Erin. “Ghostbuster in the making.”
“Congratulations,” said Jennifer to Abby. “How do you, I mean...”
“How do I what?” Abby asked plainly, already knowing where this was going, but pretending to be perplexed at Ms. Lynch’s words.
“Basically she’s askin’ if you can do your job while pregnant,” asked Patty, trying not to roll her eyes.
“All that equipment and the radiation and--” said Holtz, trying not to smirk, remembering every little argument from when they first figured out Abby was pregnant.
“Erin and I run things just fine, thanks,” said Abby. “And we have taken precautions.”
Jennifer seemed oddly relieved by that. “Come on in,” she said. “He’s waiting to see you.”
Mayor Bradley was standing by a conference table when they entered. None of them were surprised to see Homeland Security there as well. They always seemed to be a constant around their activities. Abby was a little confused when she felt Holtzmann take her arm. Holtz made a show of helping her to sit down before taking the seat next to her. To his credit, the Mayor didn’t even bat an eyelash.
“So ladies...” he began. “Good to see you. So what is this I hear about you starting a new team?”
Abby and Erin looked at each other, surprised.
“The--the state didn’t tell you?” asked Erin, her brow furrowing.
“Tell me what?” asked the Mayor.
“The Governor's office called us,” said Abby. “They are interested in having a Ghostbusters team for the state. So we’ve been interviewing members for a couple of months now. We have a team ready to start at the beginning of the year. Did they not... talk to you?”
“No, Walter hasn’t said a damn word,” sighed Mayor Bradley. “But that explains a lot.”
“If we were going to hire a new team for the city, we would have let you know,” said Erin. “I would have thought that would have been obvious.”
“So this new team will be stationed here?”
“For now,” said Abby. “They will need to be trained on our equipment and classifications and how to continue our research.”
“And the funding?” asked the Mayor.
“Already taken care of,” said Erin.
“Could you give us a rundown of everything?” asked Ms. Lynch. “Because the state has not let us know a thing.”
“Su--sure,” said Erin. “Holtz, did you bring the flash--?” Holtzmann tossed her the flash drive from her pocket.
“Patty, you wanna do the honors and explain our new recruits?”
“Be glad to,” said Patty, taking the flash drive from Erin. She stood up. “Excuse me Mayor, but I'mma gonna need your seat.” She gestured to his laptop.
-----
“Well, that was fun,” said Holtzmann. “So basically we got dressed up to see the Mayor only because he got word we were starting a new team. How much you want to bet he was going to yell at us and cut funding?”
“And watch Patty get to be a badass just for the hell of it,” Abby said. Holtz grinned at that and nodded. They were sitting on a bench while waiting on the train just to have a little privacy away from the crowd. “You’re right though. They were probably going to start jumping to conclusions once we sat down in front of them.” She rubbed her side. “I thought I was going to have to get up and leave. Someone was kicking my bladder and doing one of your dances.”
“Probably because Mommy was too busy being bored so they did it for me,” cooed Holtz to Abby’s baby bump. “God, that was tedious Abs.”
“We can make up for it later,” said Abby. “By the way, you’re just going to have to tell me what you want for Christmas. I have no idea what to even think about getting you this year. My brain has long passed fried.”
“I don’t think I’m allowed to ask,” said Holtz. “You’re going on seven months into my present.” She looked up at Abby with a grin. “I’ll wrap you and put you under the tree.”
“Very funny.”
“Truly. I am the world’s greatest comedian.”
“There’s nothing you would like?”
“I could always use some new equipment with which to help me build and maintain things in the lab, but that doesn’t count as personal gifts. Um... I’ve been thinking about a drawing tablet just so we can do markups of design on the computer instead of having to scan them in. I was going to buy it myself, but...”
“Brand?”
“Wacom Cintiq. I’ll show you the model when we get home.”
“You just want a new toy to play with,” mused Abby.
“A new toy would be a flamethrower.”
“You could build one for cheaper than I could buy one.”
“Fair enough. You got me there.”
“I’ll work on the tablet,” said Abby.
“You have Mommy brain,” teased Holtz. “You have forgotten a lot more things lately.”
“This is what I was hoping to avoid,” sighed Abby. “I don’t want to forget things.” Holtzmann squeezed her hand.
“We’ll probably be having it together when we’re trying to feed the kid at all hours and sleep deprived.”
“Patty and Erin won’t know what to do with us not only being sleep deprived, and with me having to feed every two to three hours for a little while.”
“We can have bottles downstairs, I don’t think they will mind.”
“I think they might mind a boob or two.”
“Wait... you are going to breastfeed? said Holtz, leaning her head sideways and staring at Abby, surprised. “I thought--”
“I’ve been reading while you’ve been asleep the past couple of nights,” Abby said. “It would give our child the best quality of life starting out, and it’s free. You can’t beat that.”
“I have to admit, I’m kind of excited at this prospect,” said Holtz, gesturing. “I’ve always said there needed to be more naked boobs in the workplace.”
“I’m not so sure Erin could deal with that on a regular basis.”
“That’s what she gets for being so plainly heteronormative.”
“We also have to remember, we’re going to have new people in the building. It’d be one thing if it was just Patty or Erin, but for a while, it’s not going to be.”
“I would say I would share the view, but I’m getting more possessive in my old age Abs.”
“Is that why you made that big gesture of helping me to sit down? I can still bend fairly easily.”
“So says the person who can barely get off the couch downstairs.”
“That couch is low. You try getting up with an unyielding round thing around your middle pushing everything around.”
“Hmm... I would need a lot of duct tape to hold it in place. Or just get Kevin help me up and down.”
Abby shut her eyes for a second with a wince. “Kevin. I haven’t even thought about him. That’s another one where it’d be a little awkward if I’m working downstairs with the baby and trying to feed.”
"We can look into options," shrugged Holtz.
The train pulled up at that time, and they both waited for everyone to pile in. Abby had taken Holtzmann’s hand as they boarded. It was a little crowded, so they stood at the end of the car where there were fewer people. Abby fanned herself before unzipping her jacket because of the surprising amount of heat in the subway car. Holtz leaned her head against Abby’s shoulder, who rubbed her back lovingly.
“Shouldn’t that be the opposite?” said a teenage girl, slightly smushed in a seat on the end, holding her backpack in her lap. “She’s the one pregnant.”
Holtz and Abby both laughed.
“She’s just a big baby,” said Abby. “She had to be an adult this afternoon and sit through a meeting with other adults. It takes a lot out of her to pretend.” The girl giggled when Holtz stuck her tongue out at Abby.
“I’ll take care of her later,” said Holtz. “It’s my turn to cook and do laundry.” She rubbed the back of Abby’s head and kissed her cheek.
“You two are cute,” smiled the girl, clutching her bag to her. “Are you married?”
“Nearly six years,” said Holtz. “You?”
“I don’t think I can get married yet,” the girl laughed. “Maybe someday.”
“Maybe someday you can have a beautiful wife like me,” Holtz responded. “They’re nice to have.”
“Maybe,” said the teenager, looking down and smiling. “I’d like that.”
“Don’t give up,” said Holtzmann. The girl nodded and nothing more was said. Holtz leaned into Abby, who moved a curl out of her eyes.
“You’d make a cute mentor,” she said softly. The corners of Holtzmann’s eyes crinkled as she smiled.
“Maybe I should.” Abby nodded.
“Share that big brain of yours.”
“Like you have room to talk Dr. Yates. You should go back to teaching. You were wonderful at it. So much better than I ever was.”
“Hah, when? Between feedings and hunting for ghosts...”
“I’m going to have to find the top half to that lead apron,” commented Holtzmann, pretending to be thinking, tapping a finger against her cheekbone. Abby gave her a glare.
“Not even kidding Abs. Starting tomorrow and for six months at least after the baby is born. More if you feed for a year.”
“I’m going to stock up on mint chocolate chip ice cream.”
“You do that,” smirked Holtz. “You don’t even like mint chocolate chip.” Abby glared at her.
“I could learn.”
“It’s just for Egbert’s safety. No radiation in breast milk.”
“Mmmhmm,” said Abby, humoring her wife. “Rub my right side, would you?” Holtz nodded and put her hand under Abby’s jacket and rubbed the side of her abdomen. It was very stiff and oddly shaped beneath her fingers.
“Braxton-Hicks really like you,” she commented.
“Only if I don’t move around,” Abby responded. “Stand too long, sit too long, move around too much...”
“So basically you’re saying is that it’s just annoying all around,” teased Holtz.
They both watched as the train stopped and let people off, including the teenager who had spoken to them. Abby and Holtzmann saw her wave as she got to the door, a red ponytail bobbing as she stepped onto the platform and headed towards the stairs.
“We’ll have a kid like that someday,” said Abby. “That age, traveling the subway from school to home. How are we going to deal with that Holtz?”
“Besides RFID trackers on their shoes, backpacks, and cell phones? They’ll also have GPS on their phones for guidance, and I will definitely be teaching any child of ours how to read a map...”
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Descendants, Chapter 23
-----
It was a miserable weekend for Abby, who spent most of it in bed under a pile of blankets and the humidifier running pretty much non-stop.
By Sunday, she no longer had a fever, but it felt like an army had set up camp in her head and they were continuously marching. She was glad she was no longer going from hot and cold at least. It would hopefully stop Holtz from blasting that one Katy Perry song just to annoy her.
It was Abby’s loud coughing fit that Erin heard when she came upstairs on Monday. She had texted with Abby the day before. Holtz said on Saturday that all she had done was pull the covers up to only her hairline was visible and slept most of the day. She knocked on the door of the bedroom and peeked her head in.
“Morning,” she said. Erin saw Abby lift her head up and acknowledged her.
“You look like hell,” she said, bouncing down on the end of the bed.
“Thanks,” said Abby, sounding very stuffy as she sat up. “Love you too Erin.”
“How are you feeling?”
“Better than what I was,” sniffed Abby. “Not the worst flu I’ve ever had, but definitely the squirmy-est.”
“Squirm--” began Erin, but when she realized Abby was referring to the baby, she grinned, biting her lip. “Someone keeps moving huh?”
“They do not like for me to cough or sneeze.”
“I’d imagine it’d be like earthquakes in there,” chuckled Erin. “Are they moving now? I heard you coughing when I came in.”
“No, thankfully I think they are asleep and not kicking me during the aftershocks,” said Abby, her voice a little rough.
“It still amazes me that you can tell that,” said Erin.
“It’s the absence of movement,” Abby said. Erin loved how whenever they started talking about the baby, Abby’s hand automatically rubbed her abdomen. She was always instinctively protective. “Now that I can actually feel them, it’s almost non-stop. Do you want to know the weirdest thing? Hiccups.”
“Do they kick you during them or something?” asked Erin.
“No, they’re having them,” said Abby, smiling down. “It’s like a twitching for a few seconds. I read it helps stimulate lung development.”
“Aww, baby hiccups,” said Erin. “Is this a regular thing?”
“Almost daily I can feel them.”
“Bit busy down there,” laughed Erin.
“No kidding,” said Abby with a sigh. “I knew there was movement, but the average is ten times an hour I think when they’re not sleeping and someone sometimes can be quite above average.”
Erin didn’t realize it was that much. She shrugged at her friend.
“Better than forty.”
“Don’t say that, they might hear you,” said Abby as she reached over to get a tissue from the box and held it to her nose to blow it.
“I’m surprised Holtz isn’t hovering,” Erin said.
“I sent her to work,” said Abby. “I needed her out of my hair for a while.” She paused. “Did David make it home?”
“He’s made it back fine,” said Erin. “Still thawing. He said the wind coming across the lake was like knives on his skin even though he was wearing four layers. They took a lot of pictures. I think they had fun fishing.”
“Good,” said Abby. “I’m sure his dad appreciated spending time with his kids.”
There was a knock on the door, and Patty peeked her head in.
“Really? Congregating with the unwell person Erin? You trying to make us all sick?”
“I’m checking in on Abby,” said Erin. “You just get here?”
“Yeah, and Kevin hit me up just as soon as I came in the door,” said Patty. “Apparently there are some extra penguins at the Central Park Zoo and they don’t want the new additions to scare off the guests.”
“Bring me back a cute penguin ghost to study!” yelled Abby as Erin jumped up and started to follow Patty out the door. They both waved goodbye. Abby sighed.
“Not only am I pregnant and not going on all the calls to avoid too much radiation exposure, I am sick and can’t go on any of them.” She got up quietly, carrying one of their thicker blankets into the living room. She started to sit down when Holtz ran up the stairs and through the door. She kissed Abby quickly on the cheek.
“I came to see if you were awake. Gotta go.”
“Be careful,” said Abby.
“Bed or couch,” Holtz said before planting a kiss on Abby’s lips. “Nowhere else. You’re still sick.”
“I’m going to go hunt down that ghost librarian in the New York City Public Library,” yawned Abby. “All by myself.”
“As long as you’re back by lunch,” said Holtz breezily. “I’m bringing back ooey, gooey grease in your veins forever cheeseburgers.”
“Mint Oreos.”
“Okay, seriously. Again?”
“Mmhmm,” nodded Abby.
“Seriously waste of a good cookie,” grumbled Holtz, heading for the stairs. Holtzmann hated anything mint and would make faces when Abby would eat mint anything and try to kiss her.
“Don’t tell your other mother that those are for me, not you,” chuckled Abby. “I need something to annoy her with while I get better.” She put a hand on her abdomen with a sigh.
“At least you’ll come out with some decent antibodies to this strain of flu.” She coughed and grabbed for some tissues off the coffee table. Abby got comfortable on her side, flipping on the TV to see if she could catch any of the morning news. She shivered a little, feeling cold. The next thing she saw made her sigh and go get her phone out of the bedroom, dialing Erin as she watched some of the breaking news piece.
“Abby?” said Erin on the phone. Abby could hear the sound of the siren and realized she had been put on speakerphone. “Something the matter?”
“Not for me, no,” she said, looking at the TV screen. “But uh... as much I know you all would like to go play with the ghost penguins, I think you have bigger fish to fry.”
“Bigger fish?” repeated Erin.
“There is a ghost in Grand Central creating a little havoc there that should look rather familiar.” Abby grimaced as she looked over the prisoner ghost on the screen, scaring people out of the station. “You remember that prisoner ghost we first saw in Seward Station?” Abby could hear Patty groaning in the front seat as she watched two more ghosts go across the TV screen. “And it looks like he’s got some friends to help him out.” Abby could hear the tires squeal as Holtz made some sort of turnabout. She really hoped they were in a parking lot and not out on the street.
“Tell Kevin if the Mayor’s office calls, we’re on our way,” said Erin. She hung up the phone. Abby sighed. One good thing was that Kevin was at least proficient with his cell phone. She texted him the message, preferring not to go downstairs at the moment.
“Hope you gals have a plan,” she said to the air. Although she’d rather be with them, being sick and pregnant was a bonus as to not having to having to leave the firehouse on a cold day like today. But she was never going to tell them that. Erin and Patty would never let her live it down. So instead of being out chasing ghosts, she was going to take a nap. She bundled up on the couch, putting one arm under one of their fluffy couch throw pillows and closed her eyes. Maybe their little one wouldn’t be too fussy while she tried to sleep.
-----
Abby woke up to a kiss being planted on her forehead.
“We came, we saw, we kicked their asses,” teased Holtzmann once she saw Abby open her eyes. “And I brought back that late lunch.”
Abby was wide awake as she sat up. She had slept well, better than she thought she would have for the couch. Erin and Patty were gathered around their kitchen table and munching on a mountain of fries. Holtz was pulling out the ketchup from the fridge and plopping down a bunch on her plate before she had even sat down.
“You’ll have to forgive us, we’re starving,” said Erin.
“Ghost penguins are damn hard to catch,” muttered Patty.
“We needed more traps,” said Erin. “I thought we were going to have to call Kevin to bring a few more, but we managed.”
“So many damn penguins,” Patty said.
“Sounds like you’ve had a busy morning,” said Abby. Holtz groaned at that.
“I didn’t think we were going to get that prisoner ghost,” said Patty. “He might not have been ionized like before, but he was not benign by any means. And neither was his buddies.”
“They slammed Erin into the wall,” grinned Holtz. “It was awesome.”
“Don’t worry, we had her checked out before we went to the zoo,” said Patty. “No concussions or broken bones.”
“Good. We don’t need any of you injured before we start training the others,” Abby said, stealing a fry off Holtzmann’s plate and dipping it in ketchup. “You need anything?”
“Is it too early for alcohol?” asked Patty.
“Think you might want to wait for after hours,” said Abby. “It’s only...” She looked at the clock on the microwave. “Jesus, two already?”
“You slept a little too well, sweetheart,” said Holtz. She handed Abby a burger. “Come sit. We want to tell you about ghost penguins.”
“Did you get all the ghosts at Grand Central?” asked Abby.
“All three yes,” said Erin. Patty and Holtz didn’t say anything.
“So penguins?” asked Abby. Apparently, no one wanted to talk about the scary stuff just yet.
“They were so cute Abby. I hate you missed it,” said Patty. “And all they were doing was playing with the other penguins. They even were trying to eat the fish.”
“Except that the fish went straight through and they were glowing green, you could hardly tell the difference between them and the real penguins,” Erin added. “But Patty was right, there was a lot of them.” She gestured to the amount of fries in Holtz’s hand.
“About that many.”
Abby took a fry out of Holtz’s hand.
“Don’t eat Francisco!” cried Holtz, trying to get back her french fry. “He was so tiny.”
“So there were baby penguins?” asked Abby, nibbling on Francisco the fry.
“We talked to one of the handlers,” said Erin. “They seem to think the ghosts may have been from when a virus strain killed a bunch of the penguins in the 80’s. They recently have been renovating old parts of the exhibit area and we think they may have disturbed something.”
“Probably the penguins’ resting place,” said Abby, opening her cheeseburger. For some reason, the smell of grilled onions made her want to sneeze and she grabbed a takeout napkin off the table.
“We thought so too,” said Erin, nodding. “We took samples of everything we could. You don’t usually see animal apparitions, so this could be worth documentation and further study.”
“Almost thought Holtz was going to jump in one of the tanks,” said Patty.
“I could have waddled them out of there quietly,” Holtz said, holding a hand over her head. “I would have been their Penguin Queen, and I would have led them to the promised land.”
“Wet and probably having hypothermia,” said Abby. “You do not need to get sick Holtz.”
“I know, we’ve got the meeting with the Mayor,” frowned Holtzmann. “Like you need me anyways.”
“And dinner with the new recruits,” said Erin. “We definitely need you for that next week.”
“Like we could have used Abby today,” said Patty.
“If the penguins were so benign, why not leave them?” Abby asked, thinking. Erin grimaced.
“Zoo didn’t want them around.” Holtz shrugged when Abby looked at her.
“It’s what they wanted.” She started working on her second cheeseburger. “Oh, that reminds me,” she said, smirking. She took a card out of her pocket and handed it to Abby.
“We all now have lifetime passes. Their gift for dealing with the problem.”
Abby looked at it before laying it on the table. “Which basically means they’ll want us back at some point and this will be easier than having to give us clearance each time.”
“Yup,” said Holtz, biting into her burger. “Can I let the penguins out and let them waddle around? They won’t cause trouble.”
“Don’t look at me. I’m too sick and pregnant for that question,” said Abby when Erin glanced at her. “Right now those blue eyes could ask anything and I’d probably say yes.”
“Ooh, I need to start asking for things,” said Holtz. She fished a notepad out of her back pocket. “I must make out a list.” Erin groaned and got up to throw away her trash.
“Do we really need to leave her with Abby?” asked Patty, wiping her hands on a napkin. “This could be trouble.”
“Oh, I don’t know. I’d actually like to see what all Holtz comes out with,” grinned Erin. “I’m thinking ball pit.”
“Good one,” answered Holtz, pointing at Erin before writing it down. “A swimming pool. And a library. Oh! A swimming pool in the library.” Holtzmann ducked from the fry that came flying in her direction from Patty.
“There will be no books going anywhere near water, I mean it Holtzy.”
“Patty, when she finishes her lunch, take her and her list downstairs to the lab and away from me?” said Abby. Patty started laughing but nodded.
“Erin would you mind staying?” asked Abby, looking at her best friend. “We need to discuss the new recruits dinner.”
“Sure,” said Erin, sitting back down at the table. “I could use a break.”
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Descendants, Chapter 22
-----
When Abby woke up again, it was dark in the living room.
She blinked, slowly at first. Holtz and Erin were both gone, but she could smell something cooking. She looked over and saw Erin standing in front of the stove, stirring a steaming pot. Abby shivered a little after unwrapping herself from the blankets and sat up.
“What time is it?” she asked groggily.
“You’re awake,” said Erin, turning around. “It’s 6:32.”
“Geez, I slept that long?” groaned Abby. She felt of her forehead, grimacing. “I should have called for an appointment.”
“Well, Holtz did,” said Erin. “Once you kept sleeping. Turns out, both your doctors’ offices were closed for the holidays. So you would have to go to one of the 24 hour care clinics or to the hospital. Bad weekend to be sick on.”
Abby rubbed her temples and nodded. She had a little bit of a headache, more than likely from sleeping so long on the couch and not having eaten. The wiggling going on in her abdomen she figured was from the latter as well.
“Yes, I know. No one has paid attention to you or fed you all day,” she said, softly chuckling. She rubbed a hand across her abdomen. It delighted her when she felt a kick at her hand. She rubbed another spot and felt another kick.
“Hey Erin, come here,” said Abby. She didn’t look up but felt her best friend flop lightly down on the couch. Abby took Erin’s hand and rubbed a spot. Erin gasped softly when she felt what she thought was either a little hand or a foot touch back.
“There they are,” she breathed. “Hi baby.” She rubbed another spot and was absolutely delighted when she felt another kick and moved to another spot.
“Okay little one, I think that was my kidney, not your Aunt Erin’s hand,” said Abby, grimacing. Erin laughed.
“Perhaps perfect coordination is not in their future.”
“With three nerds as its parents, I wouldn’t be surprised,” said Abby.
“What is it like now that they’re moving more?” asked Erin, knowing she was just repeating herself, but she didn’t care. “I know Patty brought a whole stack of pregnancy and fetal development books, but--”
“Reassuring,” said Abby. “That they’re alive and growing in there.” She rubbed a spot, hoping she could get another kick or punch for Erin, but someone had quieted down. “And maybe a little annoying because they’ll move and kick at the oddest times. The other night they were moving from side to side when I was trying to sleep. If Holtz hadn’t been asleep next to me, I would have thought she was trying to get the baby to have a dance party with her.”
“I’d imagine that will happen sometime in the near future,” smiled Erin.
“And I’ll be the one with the bruises,” said Abby. She changed positions on the couch and pulled a blanket up over her lap.
“What are you doing cooking? And where is Holtzmann?”
“Downstairs,” said Erin. “She wanted to be up and moving around for a little bit.”
Abby nodded at that before sneezing into her elbow.
“I hate being sick Erin.”
“I know,” she said, handing Abby a box of tissues. “You’ll just have to power your way through it. Unless that fever stays up, then you’ll have to go to the doctor.”
Abby went on a sneezing fit and Erin got back up off the couch.
“I need to check on dinner.” She headed over to the kitchen area. Abby blew her nose, feeling way too congested for her liking.
“I can’t believe Holtz has got you cooking.”
“She didn’t. I volunteered after we watched a second movie. I’d be sitting at home basically doing nothing, so I thought I’d stay.”
“Thank you,” said Abby. “You didn’t have to.”
“Yes, but then you wouldn’t have any of my special soup.” She brought Abby a bowl.
“I want you to try it before you say a word.”
“Well, it looks delicious,” said Abby. Erin handed her a spoon. Abby tried to get a bite of everything.
“It’s like a really good pasta dish.”
“It is a jar of marinara mixed with vegetable stock, a three cheese tortellini, smoked sausage, and kale. I was trying to follow a recipe once and I didn’t have any crushed tomatoes, so I improvised.”
“Didn’t we used to say that kale belongs in the garbage?” asked Abby, picking up a tortellini with a spoon.
“I don’t know why. They make really good baked chips, and it’s got a lot of nutrition. Which is what your body needs right now.”
“Still green.”
“Yes, it even ended up in our book, if I remember correctly,” said Erin, shaking her head. Abby laughed.
“It’s delicious, really Erin.”
“We all needed something hearty, and this will do it.”
“You two haven’t eaten?” frowned Abby. “After being here all afternoon?”
“Two bad hangovers,” said Erin. “We’re getting old Abby. These things last longer than they used to.”
“I wouldn’t know, it’s been a while,” said Abby. She rubbed her abdomen. “I think it’s a good trade off.”
-----
Holtz came back upstairs and found Abby wrapped up in the blankets on the couch, an empty bowl sitting beside her. Erin was nibbling on a tortellini and the two of them were talking about something and there were books and notebooks spread out across the coffee table, along with a few pens and sticky notes. She could tell her wife was really tired by the look in her eyes. Erin had noticed it too as she glanced at Holtz, nodding.
“I made you a present babe,” said Holtzmann. She patted the object in her hands.
“It’s not going to explode, is it?” asked Erin, looking dubious at it.
Holtz rolled her eyes at Erin. “It’s a humidifier,” said Holtz. “I’m gonna go set it up in the bedroom and get it going. It should help you breathe better.” She headed off in the direction of her and Abby’s bedroom.
“I probably should be getting home,” said Erin. “I could use a shower and some quiet time.” She gestured to the books. “We’ll come back to this later.”
“You’re welcome to stay,” said Abby.
“No, I think I’ll let Holtz have the honor of getting you through this for a day or so,” smirked Erin. “You need to rest Abby.”
“I’d rather discuss theory,” she pouted.
“Soon,” Erin promised. “Tell Holtz I’m gone.” She started downstairs. Abby took a couple of deep breaths, hating how congested she felt. And it had consistently felt worse as the evening wore on. She really could tell she was sick by how her body was not protesting to the amount of time she was spending on the couch. Holtzmann came back out of the bedroom.
“Erin left?” Abby nodded. Holtz went over to the couch and started unwrapping the blankets around her wife.
“Bed,” she said at Abby’s questioning glance. “You are really tired Abs.”
“I feel it,” she said with a sigh. Holtzmann helped her up and Abby leaned into her as they walked. The blonde rubbed her shoulder and nudged Abby forward to the bedroom. Once in, Holtz went back out and came back with the extra blankets and pillows off the couch and piled them on the bed. Abby got comfortable under the covers and pulled the body pillow closer that she had been sleeping with the last couple of weeks. It had been a lifesaver some nights with trying to get comfortable. She spied the thermometer sitting on the side table. She took her temperature, grimacing as it was still elevated more than she would like.
“You want anything?” asked Holtzmann.
“I think you’ve got it about covered,” said Abby, looking at the side table which was now loaded with tissues, her phone, tablet, water bottles, a pack of Dayquil/Nyquil pills, and cough drops. With a box of crackers and a few small bottles of Sprite still sitting there, it was a mess.
“Have you and Erin been busy while I was asleep?”
“Someone’s got to be when you’re running a fever and feeling sick,” humored Holtz.
“And cold and tired,” said Abby. She looked up at Holtzmann. “I’m sorry.”
Holtz looked surprised as she turned around from their closet.
“What for?”
“Being selfish earlier.”
“I think you’re allowed once in awhile Abs,” said Holtz. She threw a set of pajamas at her wife, hitting Abby in the face. A second pair soon followed. Holtz grinned and leaned against the door frame of the closet.
“I thought you might want to get comfortable.” Holtzmann was hit with the second pair, which happened to be her boxer shorts and a tank top.
“The lady doth protest,” said Holtz, coming over to the bed and laying her clothes on it.
“Just yours,” said Abby. Holtz climbed into bed and slid her arms around her wife. She nuzzled her neck and kissed her cheek.
“Now there’s the way of getting ALL the germs, Holtz.”
“If I had to choose between the flu and not kissing you, I’d choose the flu every day.”
“That’s sweet, but please don’t let the both of us be sick at once.”
“Nah, I have to incubate first.”
“Isn’t that what we’re doing already?” smirked Abby.
“Yes, you are incubating Egbert.” Holtzmann paused.
“Has Erin ever wanted kids?”
Abby thought for a moment.
“We didn’t talk about it much in high school. I think we were having too much fun being dorky idiots and having fun. I think in college perhaps she might have mentioned it a time or two when she started having a serious boyfriend. If you can call your philosophy professor a serious boyfriend. I don’t think it’s ever been a real big priority. Why?”
“Just girl talk,” said Holtz. “You know, while we did each other's nails.”
Abby picked up Holtz’s hand and looked at the short nails, eyeing her wife.
“Alright, we just chatted. Revenge gestation and Nobel Prize wins. You have to share yours with Erin, I’m afraid.”
“I’m not surprised if it has anything to do with our research. And what the heck is a revenge ges-- never mind.”
Holtz grinned at that while Abby grabbed a tissue and sneezed into it. A wastebasket had been pulled close to the bed and she threw the tissue into it.
“Do you think Erin wants or doesn’t want kids?” asked Abby, sitting up on the bed.
“You know I’m the last person to really ask on that subject Abs. I think she thinks one thing and wants another.”
“That has always been sort of an Erin problem,” sighed Abby. “She still needs approval. I think being around us has helped her a lot. But...”
“Say no more,” said Holtz. “I know the song and dance.”
“Good, because I’m not up for the choreography.” Abby rubbed Holtzmann’s cheek, making her lover smile. She kissed Abby’s temple.
“I’m going to go grab something to eat and start working on some baby furniture. I need to get my hands on something.”
“Go have fun,” said Abby, standing up and changing into her bed clothes. “I think I’m going to go back to sleep.”
“You should,” said Holtz. “Not much you can do right now really. You don’t need to be up doing too much with that fever.” She got off the bed and headed towards the kitchen as Abby nodded and closed her eyes after settling back down into the bed. She took off her glasses after a moment and laid them on the side table. Holtz turned off the light as she left the room.
-----
Abby woke up again somewhere around two. She got up, really wanting a cup of tea. She made her way to the kitchen and turned on the light. Knowing her English ancestors would probably disown her, she stuck the water in the microwave anyways, not wanting to have to use the kettle for just one cup. She rubbed her arms, still feeling a little cold after getting up. She added honey and some lemon juice for her throat, enjoying the first sip of the tea and the warmth coming from the mug. She wrapped her hands around it, letting the feeling wash over her. She headed towards where the only main light in the living quarters was on -- the baby’s room. She rested a hand on her abdomen as she approached. Holtz was on the floor with one of her toolkits and part of what Abby thought was the changing table, music playing softly. She took a drink of her tea, smiling at the scene. Their little one was up and about too. She had felt them stretching their limbs and rolling a little while she had been sleeping. But then they had settled down a little bit, probably lulled to sleep. And now that she was up, they were moving about. She poked at a foot, which made her laugh when she got a double kick back. Holtz looked up at the noise.
“Abby,” she said, turning off the radio beside her. “Something the matter?”
“No, I’m just awake,” she said, feeling the congestion coming back after the tea had seemingly made her nose feel clear. She cleared her throat.
“And so is someone else.” Holtzmann smiled at Abby’s baby bump.
“Guess they heard Mommy banging around in their room.”
“Must have,” smiled Abby. “With auditory and optical functions now, they could probably see you too if they could.”
“Then they’d just see the mess their bedroom is in,” said Holtz. “Not much of a space to put them.”
“There’s time,” Abby said. “14 more weeks.” She looked around at all the boxes and bags they still had to go through. It seemed like a small task, but very daunting at the same time. They’d be bringing home a kid to use all this with. Having a kid was definitely harder than writing a book, she had to admit. And they didn’t even have the kid home with them yet.
Holtz adjusted her goggles before picking up a hammer. “Three more months of holidays with family, childbirth classes, meeting with the Mayor, finding ghosts, and training newbies.”
“It’s going to be busy,” agreed Abby. She walked over to Holtz, who automatically stood up and felt of Abby’s forehead.
“You should be in bed.” Abby gestured to her warm cup of tea.
“May I enjoy this at least before I and the kid have to return to my cell?”
“You have free roaming privileges at least,” said Holtz, putting a hand on Abby’s abdomen. “This one is stuck in utero.”
“And there he or she should stay. They’re only about as big as a head of broccoli,” said Abby. “We don’t need them coming anytime soon.” Holtz nodded.
“Yes, they don’t get free roaming till they can crawl.”
“I would have thought absolute free roaming privileges didn’t kick in till 18.”
“25 if they want to rent a car.”
“There’s that,” smiled Abby. She sighed. “We’re going to have a 25 year old kid someday, Holtz.”
“That can rent cars,” Holtzmann smirked, pushing up her glasses with a wrench.
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Descendants, Chapter 21
-----
When Holtz woke up the next morning, she groaned.
“I got way too drunk, didn’t I?”
“Yep,” said Abby. Holtz felt a cold bottle of water pressed against her forehead. A bottle of pain reliever she suspected was lovingly being placed next to her chest.
“Bless you,” said Holtzmann, whimpering.
“I had to call Kevin to come get you upstairs after we got Patty and Cheyenne a cab,” said Abby. “You wouldn’t listen to me or Erin, but you couldn’t complain when you were being picked up and carried. Although you did bang on him a few times with your fists. I think it amused him.”
Holtz whimpered again and popped two of the pain reliever into her mouth and took a sip of the water before turning on her back.
“Please tell me I didn’t do anything that warranted my picture being placed on the wall behind the bar or the police being called.”
“Not this time. You were quite happy up until the point that Patty had to pull you away from fussing out a woman when you were way past tipsy.”
“What about?” frowned Holtzmann.
Abby sighed. “You overheard her say something about how disgusting it was that I was there at the bar drinking when clearly all I had was a glass of water.”
“She deserved it then,” shrugged Holtz. “You can’t just sit at home.”
“Not when someone’s got to drag you back home after you started singing Pink’s anthology at the top of your lungs at the table. You were putting on quite a show.”
“AGAIN?”
Abby nodded.
“You even got Cheyenne and Erin to join you this time. They made good backup seat dancers.”
“... At least I wasn’t alone.”
Abby laughed to herself and patted Holtz on the shoulder. Holtzmann took that moment to put down the water and medicine on the bedside table beside her. She went frigid when she heard Abby cough loudly with what sounded like an irritated throat. She reached up and felt of her wife’s forehead, ignoring the flinch Abby made as she did so. She was very warm, and her skin was flushed.
“You’re sick.”
The brunette sighed, which made her cough again. “It’s just a cold Holtz. I probably picked it up last night.”
“Probably from the lady that was fussing about a pregnant woman being in a bar. I’m going to call the doctor and see--”
“It’s just a cold.”
“You have a fever, Abby. You remember the conversation we had with the nurse a couple of months ago about immune systems being suppressed when you’re pregnant?”
“Ugh, I hate when you’re being overprotective,” said Abby, getting back under the covers. Holtz snorted at that, pulling the comforter and sheet over her own head and got forehead to forehead with her wife. It was then she noticed that Abby was completely dressed and had taken the blanket off the bed and wrapped herself in it.
And was still shivering. Holtzmann sighed, shaking her head.
“You’ve got chills, Abs. I’m really calling the doctor.” Holtz got out of bed. “You should have gotten me up sooner, even with the hangover.”
“Then you’d turn into a worrywart, which is what you’re doing now. You need to rest too.”
“Yes, but there’s a reason. You’re actually not well,” Holtzmann said, going into the bathroom. She came back with the digital thermometer from their first aid and sick supplies. Holtz pulled down the covers and handed it to her wife. Abby pulled the covers back up and the blonde heard the beep of it being turned on. She grabbed a quick shower and got dressed, putting her hair up quickly. She came back out and found that Abby had poked her head outside the comforter. Holtzmann looked at her wife, gesturing to the thermometer on the bedside table.
“102.3.” Holtz went to the other side of the bed and started to hand her the Tylenol bottle. Abby shook her head. “I’ve already taken them,” she said. “I’m not a complete idiot. Just one that’s really tired of physicians.”
Holtz nodded, feeling slightly sympathetic. But only a little.
“Can you go wake Erin up?” asked Abby. “She fell asleep on the couch after Kevin got you upstairs. Didn’t want to get near her again since I could possibly still be contagious.”
“It’s a little too late for all of us if it’s the flu,” said Holtzmann. She decided to be a little mean to her wife. “You do realize honey that the flu can cause premature labor, don’t you? Shall I start packing?”
“I’m burning every single one of your mix tapes,” said Abby. “So help me Jills.”
Holtz grinned and skipped once or twice out of the room. Erin was still asleep on the couch, snoring a little. Holtzmann went over and shook her shoulder.
“Go home, Gilbert.”
“Ugh,” said Erin, wincing as she woke up. “Why--” Holtz shook the Tylenol bottle still in her hand.
“Want one?”
“Five,” she mumbled, moving some hair that had gotten stuck to the side of her face. Holtz handed her two and sat down the bottle.
“Might want to get your sick supplies ready,” said Holtz. “Abby’s picked up something. I think it’s probably the flu. She’s got a fever and she’s shivering.”
“Wasn’t that last client of ours sick too?” Erin said. “The one who kept seeing a floating cat.”
“Yeah, she was probably hallucinating the cat part. But that floating vapor she was not,” said Holtzmann. “And that’s probably where the flu was picked up from.” Holtz looked at Erin when she heard her laugh.
Erin pointed down to the coffee table in front of her. “I think someone was already ahead of you.” Holtz looked down and saw two pills on a napkin, a bottle of water, and a small pack of pretzels.
“That’s not fair, I didn’t get any pretzels,” pouted Holtz.
“That’s because I’m her best friend and you’re just her wife,” said Erin with a small smirk. She stuck the two pills back in the Tylenol bottle and opened the water. She took the other two and picked up the snacks. Holtz gestured to the pretzels.
“I could fix breakfast if you’d rather have some eggs and bacon than stale salty bread.”
“I’m good,” said Erin. “I don’t think I can stand bright lights at the moment, but I’m good. You two going to need anything?”
“The ability to kick whoever gave Abby the flu despite the fact that she got a flu shot?”
“Not all flu strains are covered, you know that.”
“I do remember college biology, thanks.”
“Go make some tea, make sure she’s comfortable,” said Erin.
“I’ve got to call and get an appointment,” Holtz said automatically. She noticed her cell sitting on the coffee table. She went to grab it when Erin put a hand over hers.
“Let Abby make it. She already feels helpless as it is these days.”
Holtz hesitated, knowing the logistics of such. That would mean Abby wouldn’t call and--
“Stop thinking,” said Erin.
“That’s like telling me to turn off my life.”
“She’ll do it if she feels it's necessary,” Erin said. “And don’t turn off your life. You two are cute together.”
“Not planning on it honey bear,” winked Holtz. “I have a family to take care of. Someone got to look after you and Patty.”
Erin scoffed at that. “You mean someone’s got to look after you and Abby and Patty. Which is what I do.”
“I think out of all of that, Patty’s the one looking out for all of us,” said Abby, walking into the room. She had wrapped the blanket around her shoulders. She coughed a little to clear her throat of congestion.
“Morning Erin.”
“You are sick,” said the redhead. “Come sit Abby.”
“I thought I’d come relax on the couch a while,” sighed the brunette. “Anyone want to watch a movie?”
“That’d be better than going out in all the people shopping like crazy,” said Erin. “Thanks for the pretzels.”
“I’ll make some popcorn,” said Holtz.
“Not in the lab please,” said Erin.
“We do have this little thing in the kitchen called a microwave Erin,” said Holtz. “I’m not sure if you’re familiar with it, but...”
Erin stuck her tongue out at Holtzmann, who grinned and went off to the kitchen.
“You want some tea?” Erin asked Abby gently. “I could make us some.”
“I’ll do it,” said Holtz. She started filling up the kettle and putting it on the stove.
“I was going to say that’d be nice, but my wife beat me to the punch,” said Abby. The popcorn was already popping and it was starting to smell good, what little she could actually smell through the stuffiness in her nose.
“You need to be resting,” said Erin. “You’re just starting the onset of symptoms.”
“I am sitting down, so I am resting,” said Abby. “I just want to think about sickness and babies as little as possible over the next couple of hours.” Erin nodded and picked up the remote for the TV off the coffee table.
“Pick us a good one at least,” Abby said, getting comfortable.
-----
They ended up watching Gravity, which had turned into a discussion after the movie about the science and whether it was plausible with all the new advancements in the field of aeronautics. It ended up starting a debate between Erin and Holtz which left Abby smiling at her wife and best friend’s banter. Her head was on a pillow in Holtz’s lap, and it didn’t take long for her to drift off, all wrapped up in a couple of blankets. It was only when they heard a slight wheezing sound did they realize that Abby had fallen asleep.
“Took her long enough,” said Holtz softly, looking fondly at her wife. She tucked a loose strand of her behind her ear.
“I think she was enjoying the movie and the discussion,” said Erin. “She likes Sandra Bullock.”
“Pffffsh,” said Holtz. “You didn’t see us watching The Heat. She liked Melissa McCarthy more.”
“I’m sure,” said Erin, amused. She looked at Holtz. “At least with the new laws about maternity leave fully in place now, you two are going to get 12 weeks of paid time off from the city for the baby after it's born. It’ll help get some more movies in.”
“You going to tell Abby to take maternity leave?” said Holtz. “Because I’m not. It was bad enough getting her to limit her time around our equipment and the lab.”
“You both need to,” said Erin. “To spend time bonding with your child.”
“Is it bad of me to want to run when I think about us and childcare? I mean, a kid, Erin. Changing really stinky diapers. Learning to make really crappy mac and cheese. Wait, I like really crappy mac and cheese. Uhh... Feedings every two to three hours. Never sleeping again. Actually trick-or-treating on Halloween instead of buying candy at half-off the next day.”
“Mmhmm,” said Erin. “A beautiful child with really cute dimples and curly brown hair all dressed up in a lab coat telling everyone they’re a scientist.”
“Of course. Each year, a new female scientist,” said Holtz. “That’s obvious Erin.”
They both sat still when Abby went into a coughing fit in her sleep. But once it was over, she settled back down. Holtz rubbed her shoulder.
“I’m going to have to start investing in mini lab coats.”
“Honestly Holtz... are you really going to try to have a kid yourself after this? Like, really soon after?”
“Well, that wasn’t personal at all, Gilbert.”
“Sorry. Abby told me that since you two really didn’t think you had time with fertility and such. But don’t you think you need to devote a little time to raise this one for a little while?”
“The thought has occurred to me, yes.”
“And?”
“Everything’s still up in the air,” shrugged Holtz. “This one’s still cooking. Anything could happen in the future. I could get pregnant. I could not get pregnant. There could be a miscarriage. Maybe Abby has the second one. Or Patty could win the Nobel Peace Prize. Or you two do for the Yates-Gilbert Equation. Maybe I lose a leg in the lab. Maybe Patty loses a leg in the lab. Poor Patty. Or--”
“I get the point, Holtz.”
“Good,” yawned Holtzmann. “Ms. Nosey.”
Erin gestured in the air. “I’m not trying to. I honestly just need to know these things for the business. Personally, you and Abby could have 15 more kids and I wouldn’t care.”
Holtz flailed and pretended to put a hand over Abby’s ear that was facing up.
“Not in front of the pregnant woman.”
Erin leaned her head to the side, realizing something. “You really... you don’t want to get pregnant, do you? You like Abby being pregnant.”
Holtz looked sheepish. ‘I did... in the beginning. But I have discovered I have enjoyed watching the experiment grow from the outside. I’m not violently opposed to the idea by any means, and I’m pretty sure Abby is intent on me getting pregnant just to get back at me for the fact that she did get pregnant. So yes to your observation. Both of them.”
“Revenge... children.”
“No, revenge gestation. There’s a difference.”
“I swear you two are like children yourselves,” said Erin, shaking her head. Holtz pushed a piece of hair back behind Abby's ear.
“Which is why we’ll be the best or the worst parents ever.”
“I’m seeing family Halloween costumes,” smirked the redhead. Holtzmann shrugged.
“You know, you should really talk to David about you two having a kid. Then everyone could grow up together. Abby really likes the idea of our kids growing up together.”
Erin shifted in her seat uncomfortably.
“You-- you don’t want kids?” asked Holtz. Erin leaned forward and looked to see if Abby was still asleep. She leaned back, relieved.
“David and I talked about it. Honest talk, I didn’t just agree with him. And neither one of us are really kid people. We like the idea of taking a vacation when we want. No school plays, no constant sickness, no babysitters. Lots of wine bottles in the fridge. We like the quiet.”
Holtz looked skeptical over her glasses.
“But no drawings on the fridge, juice boxes, and homework. No gold stars for achievement and you teaching them physics at a young age. Science fairs that you know they’d win just out of the sheer awesomeness of their mom.”
Erin looked wistful for a moment at Holtz’s words.
“I know when you’re lying Erin.”
She sighed. “You sound like Abby.”
“It's because we’re thinking the same thing.” Holtz paused. “I’m probably the worst person for this, but talk to him. Really, really honestly Erin. You want to do this.”
Erin looked down at her best friend, who was still in deep sleep. Even all covered up, she could tell Abby’s left arm was wrapped around her abdomen, holding her child like she should be. She sighed.
“I’ll try.”
“Good,” said Holtz. “You said they were going to be gone all weekend?”
“David won’t be home till Sunday night.”
“Want to watch another movie? I’m kind of stuck here for a little while.”
“Sure,” said Erin, smiling. “You are comfortable.”
“Napping on Abby is way better,” said Holtz. “But it’s my turn to be the pillow.”
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