(no subject)

[sam_gamgee]

Continued from here


Header in Part 1


The following Tuesday, when they arrived home after a quick dinner at the Stonewall, Wesley and Lindsey entered the apartment to find a dozen people, decorations, refreshments, and wrapped presents of various sizes and shapes.

“What’s going on?” Wesley asked in amazement.

“Baby shower,” Lindsey replied nonchalantly. “You do have those in England, don’t you?”

“Yes, but I just never exp-“

“Lin,” Jonathan cut in as he came over, “do something to shut him up or we’ll never get this shindig going." He smiled and clapped Wesley on the back before pulling him into a hug. “Congratulations again. Now get in here so you can open these presents before I do it for you.”

Wesley glanced around at the people gathered - himself, Lindsey, Jonathan, David, Marty, Kitty and Donnie - a human couple that lived in the same apartment complex, the Feltzers – a nice w’amparii couple that Lindsey had kept from being evicted and who they also knew from playing, the Simons – another demon couple whom they had helped keep their apartment, and the O’Malleys – who Wesley and Lindsey knew from Lindsey’s playing. There was a good deal of hugging, handshaking, congratulations, along with inquiries about health and sympathy from the women who had kids.

“Did you know about this?” Wesley whispered to Lindsey as they went into the kitchen to get drinks.

“Yes. Well, some of it,” Lindsey replied as he opened a can of soda. “I wasn’t expecting this many presents. Besides, what fun would it have been if you had known?” He put the soda down and embraced Wesley from behind, resting the side of his face against Wesley’s arm.

“I know. It’s just that I never...” He trailed off, a hint of emotion in his voice.

“You're going to have get used to it. You’ve got a family now, whether you like it or not and you’re stuck with us for life. Well, unless you move and never call or write.”

“I don’t think you’ll need to worry about that. I’m definitely planning on staying, at least until Zane gets older at any rate. Then I might try to convince you to move somewhere else with me.” He turned in Lindsey’s arms and smiled down at him.

“Oh, yeah? What if I decide to move and ask you to come along with me? Would you?”

“You know I would,” he replied huskily, before bending down to kiss Lindsey.

“Will you two stop with the nookie and get out here?” Jonathan asked exasperatedly as he appeared in the doorway. “Or at least do it out here so the rest of us can enjoy it too.”

“Okay, okay,” Lindsey replied, breaking off the kiss.

"Oh. But first, there's someone I want you to meet, Wes." Jonathan motioned another man over. "This is David, the love of my life."

"It's great to finally meet you," Wesley said. "I've heard so many good things about you."

"And the same with you," David replied, smiling. He pulled Wesley into a hug. "Welcome to our little family."

Wesley blushed as he and Lindsey grabbed their drinks, joined hands, and followed Jonathan and David back out into the living room.

"You’re opening presents first," Jonathan directed as he sat them both down on the couch, Wesley closest to the gifts.

“But what if I wanted to get something to eat? I’m still eating for two, you know, and I don’t want him to starve.”

“Tough. I’ll get you something to eat while you open.”

“Fine, fine.” Wesley grinned. “I was just kidding. I’m not hungry.”

“So when did you find out it's a boy?” David asked.

“About a month and a half ago.”

“And if anyone bought any girl appropriate things – that’s okay,” Lindsey interjected. “We can always burn the pictures.”

“So what am I opening first?” Wesley asked Jonathan, who handed him a rectangular package.

Wesley opened it to find small yellow footie pajamas, a tiny pair of overalls, a little blue t-shirt, a tiny pair of socks, a tiny pair of sneakers, and a pacifier. "Oh, wow. Thank you." He looked a little bewildered, since it hadn’t had a tag.

"You’re welcome," Marty replied with a smile. "I know the clothes are too big for him to wear right away, but you’ll have something for when he gets bigger."

"They’re great," Lindsey replied as he took the box to inspect the clothes further.

"Next." Jonathan handed Wesley another package.

About half an hour later, Wesley had finished opening all the presents. A number of people had also contributed presents, along with their regrets at not being able to attend. They had more clothing in various sizes than Zane would probably need for the first six months of his life - there were no dresses - as well as bottles for various stages, formula, a stroller, a diaper bag, some stuffed animals, toys and books. There was even a hand-made cradle filed with hand-made quilts and blankets – courtesy of the Smiths and Joneses, respectively.

"Looks like all we need to buy is diapers and Gerber," Lindsey commented.

“Don’t speak too soon,” Jonathan replied. “There are still two left.”

“What else could this child possibly need?” Wesley asked as Jonathan pulled out a small package and handed it to him. “Oh,” he said softly. “It’s a baby book,” he said, showing it off. “My mum must’ve sent it over.”

"Actually, that was sitting outside when we got here to set up," David said.

“Besides, *this* is from your mother,” Jonathan said, handing him another package, still in its airmail trappings.

As Wesley went to pass Lindsey the book and take the package, a small slip of paper slid out. All it said was, “Take care of our child.” Wesley and Lindsey exchanged small smiles as Wesley balled up the note, passed the book, and took the package. He opened it to find a small box which contained a gold cross affixed to a gold chain. A note read, “For when he gets a bit older.”

“That’s beautiful,” Lindsey said, leaning over to get a closer look.

Wesley just smiled and gave him a light peck on the lips. “Thank you so much –“ he looked at the others, “- all of you. I never expected this.”

“You’re family now, Wes,” Jonathan said as he took David's hand. “This is the kind of stuff family does. Now, let’s get to the eating and socializing part of the evening.”

A few hours later, Jonathan and David, the last of the guests, left. Closing the door on them, Wesley said, “That was a lot of fun. Thank you for whatever you did to set it up.” He crossed to Lindsey and gently kissed him on the lips. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” Lindsey replied. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. Jon’s been planning it since he found out. Well, it didn’t really take him that long to plan, but he was bandying the idea about for a while.”

“And how long did you know?”

“Since he actually started planning.”

“Well, thank you for not telling me – the surprise was very nice. Coming to bed?”

“I don’t know. Would that be yours or mine?”

"Very funny." Lindsey smiled. "Whichever gets your fancy."

“In a bit.”

“Okay. Good night.”

“Good night.” Lindsey gave him another kiss before releasing him.


The next day Jonathan and David came over to help set up for Thanksgiving dinner, since Lindsey was having Wesley do as little as possible - to Wesley’s exasperation.

“Why don’t you do some of this tomorrow?” Wesley asked that evening as Lindsey pulled the second pie out of the oven and then put the stuffing in.

“Because tomorrow should be for eating, watching the games and doing all the last minute things that you can’t do until right before or that you forgot.”

"And if last year’s meal is any indication, the meal should be kick ass," Jonathan said. "I wouldn’t mess with his method too much, or he won’t give you any of the good stuff."

“Define ‘good stuff’,” Lindsey shot back. “Last year’s Thanksgiving dinner wasn’t exactly a crown jewel.”

"It was better than I ever got.”

“Yeah, well, it was better than most of us ever got – with the exception of your boyfriend,” he raised the volume of his voice, “who seems to be more pregnant than *Wesley*.”

“Hey!” David replied from where he was sitting on the couch. “I’m performing a very important function.”

“Oh, yeah? And what would that be?”

“Making sure the cable works so we can watch football tomorrow.”

“Really? Well, then let Wes do that. I need someone tall, fair, and pretty handsome to get some plate settings down for me.”

David complied as he commented, “’Pretty handsome’? Honey, I know vanity’s a sin, but I’m prettier than all of y’all.”

“Prettier? Sure, I’ll give you that, but no one’s more handsome than my guy.” He gave Wesley a quick squeeze and a peck on the cheek as he exited the kitchen.

“Did you hear what he just said to me, Jonathan?” David asked, pretending to be insulted. “I don’t want to be pretty.” His voice took on a whiny tone. “I want to be handsome.” He pouted as he marched over to where Jonathan was sitting at the dining room table making origami animals out of paper napkins for the place settings. He flounced into a seat next to him and fell forward until his forehead hit Jonathan’s shoulder.

“There, there,” Jonathan replied detachedly as he patted the back of David’s head with his free hand. “You do have to admit he is rather dashing, even at seven months.”

“I know. But I want to be the top in something.”

“You are.” He smiled and gave David a quick kiss. “You’ll always be my top. Now go get those dishes before Lindsey has a fit.”

Wesley and Lindsey just raised their eyebrows as David complied, but didn’t comment. “Come on, come on,” Lindsey finally said. “Let’s get these last few things done so we can all go make sure the cable’s working for tomorrow.”


The next day, the dinner went off without a hitch. It was only Wesley, Lindsey, David, Jonathan, and Marty and, as predicted, everyone ate way too much before settling in to watch the Dallas-Miami football game on TV. Wesley helped Lindsey with the task of cleaning the table and packing up the food their guests wanted to take with them.

“Is it normal to have *this* much food left over?” Wesley asked as he put the last container of leftovers in the fridge.

“I don’t know about *this* much, but a lot? Yeah.” He kissed Wesley. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Everything.”

Wesley smiled. “I don’t think I could take responsibility for *everything*. But thank you for that vote of divinity. I’m thankful for you and for everything you’ve done for Zane and I.”

“You’re very welcome.” He leaned in for a more passionate kiss. There was a nervous cough and they broke apart quickly.

“I’m sorry.” Marty said apologetically. He quickly opened the fridge and pulled out a few beers before making a hasty exit.

Wesley and Lindsey gave each other an amused smile and followed the chaos demon into the living room. Lindsey sat against an unoccupied corner of the sofa and helped Wesley sit in between his legs. He wrapped his arms around Wesley as he leaned against Lindsey, Lindsey’s hands resting on Wesley’s stomach. Lindsey placed a light kiss on the nape of Wesley’s neck and Wesley affectionately patted his knee in return. At the beginning of half-time, Lindsey disappeared into the kitchen with David and Jonathan to set out more drinks as well as coffee, pie and ice cream. Wesley sat on the couch and watched the commercials half-heartedly.

“What’s it like?” Marty asked as he as next to Wesley.

“What’s what like?” he replied, giving the demon his attention. “Being pregnant? Being with a man?”

“Both.”

“Oh. You sure you want to know?”

“I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t."

“Well, aside from the social stigma, being with a man’s not much different than being with a woman. Obviously, the sex is a little different, but it’s not as unnatural as some would have you think.”

“Is Lindsey your first boyfriend?”

“Serious one, yes. But I did have a fling or two while I was at the Watchers’ Academy.”

“Wow. You’re a Watcher? I’ve never met a real Watcher before. Where’s your Slayer?”

“I was fired. I had two Slayers under my care. One went rogue and the other quit the Council - both due, in one way or another, to my actions.”

“Ouch. Why didn’t you go home when that happened?”

“I don’t know, really. I guess I felt I could do more good here than in England. After traversing the country as a rogue demon hunter, I ended up in L.A. after tracking a Kungai. While there, I ran into some old friends from Sunnydale – Angel and Cordelia. I’ve been working with them for the past four years.”

“Wait! You mean to tell me that you worked with *the* Slayers on *the* Hellmouth and then worked with one of the Powers’ champions, who is also the souled vampire and the Seer? You’re, like, famous! What are you doing here?”

“I got pregnant. Which isn’t much different from a woman being pregnant, from what I’m told, though I suspect that’s because of my heritage.”

“Things didn't go very well with the father when you told him?”

“I didn’t tell him before I left, because I thought it would be best for everyone involved. But Angel found out and came by last week.”

“Angel’s the father?! Are you sure he’s not Angelus?”

“Oh, I’m sure.”

“That’s just so – wow. I’m meeting a legend. Why did I never hear about this before?”

Wesley shrugged and smiled. "It just never came up. It’s not something that you talk about in general conversation."

“True. And how is Lindsey involved in all of this? Or isn’t he?”

“He worked for Wolfram & Hart in their Special Projects division. Angel was one of those projects. Lindsey helped bring Darla back.”

“Which was all fun and games until I lost a hand,” Lindsey said as he handed Wesley and Marty each a drink before sitting down next to Wesley. He held up his right hand. “This was a transplant. At least the firm was good for something.”


The next morning, Wesley was aroused early by Lindsey. “Come on, we’ve gotta get moving,” Lindsey said.

“Go where?” Wesley asked with a yawn as he stretched, his eyes still closed.

“Shopping.”

“Why?”

“Because it’s Black Friday, silly. We’ve got to hit all the sales before everyone else does.”

Wesley popped an eye open and looked at Lindsey suspiciously. “Are you sure you’re not more than circumstantially gay?”

“Yes, now come on. I don’t want to drive two hours one way to Oklahoma City because we couldn’t find something here and I’m sure you don’t want to make the drive, either.”

Wesley flopped an arm over his eyes. “Silly Americans," he muttered under his breath, but made no other effort to move.

“I heard that.” Lindsey leaned over and blew a raspberry on Wesley’s shoulder before moving in for an intimate kiss on the lips. “Come on.”

That evening, Wesley and Lindsey arrived home loaded down with bags. As they opened the door, the phone started to ring.

“I'll get it,” Wesley said, setting his bags down next to the door and heading for the phone in the kitchen. “Hello?” he said after picking up the receiver.

“Wesley, dear, I’m so glad I caught you at home,” a familiar voice said in Gaelic.

“Hi, Mum,” Wesley replied in the same language as a smile spread across his face. “Yes, we just walked in from doing a bit of Christmas shopping. How are you?”

“I’m terrific. My bridge club and I have been quite busy planning some social gatherings and such for the holidays. But what about you? How are you doing? How’s Zane doing? How’s Lindsey getting on?”

“I’m doing great for being seven months pregnant, considering I’m rather large, my ankles and back hurt almost constantly, I have to go to the bathroom at least once an hour, and all the other normal pregnancy signs. But I guess that’s too be expected. Zane’s doing very well, although the doctor thinks he’s a little on the small side for now. I’ll let you talk to Lindsey when we’re done.”

“Good. Does the offer still stand for me to come over for Christmas?”

“Yes, Mum, it does.”

“Good. I’ve started looking into flights and such. How about I come in two weeks?”

“Great.”

“I really can’t wait to meet this Lindsey of yours. Between what you’ve said and from talking to him myself, he seems like a perfect gentleman. I’m glad you’ve found someone. Now, put him on the phone.”

“Okay, Mum. I love you and I’ll talk to you soon.”

“Love you, too, baby.”

“Lindsey,” Wesley said in English as he held out the receiver. “My mum wants to talk to you.”

Lindsey came over and took the phone. “Hello, Elisa.”

“Hello, Lindsey,” she replied. “How are you?”

“I’m doing very well, thank you. How are you?”

“Wonderful. Keeping busy and the like. So Wesley and I are conspiring behind your back for me to come spend a holiday with you two. How does two weeks from now through the day after Boxing Day sound?”

Wesley made a move to leave the kitchen, but Lindsey put a hand on the Englishman’s arm and stopped him. He began playing with the sleeve of Wesley’s shirt. “That’s fine with me. You could even stay longer, if you’d like. Maybe through the New Year?”

“That sounds wonderful. How about I leave the return open? That way...you know what they say about fish and guests.”

“Yeah, I do. But we’ll both be happy to have you here.”

“Good. Well, I best be off. Lots to do and no time to do it.”

“I know how that is. Good night, Elisa.”

“Good night, Lindsey. Give my love to my son.”

“I will.” Lindsey hung up the phone and pulled Wesley into an embrace. “Your mom sends her love.”

Wesley smiled. “Are you sure it’s okay?”

"Didn’t you just hear me ask her to stay longer than what you two decided? It’ll be fine. I’m really looking forward to it." He moved a hand up behind Wesley’s neck and pulled him down for a kiss. Wesley tangled one hand in Lindsey’s hair and cupped his ass with the other. Their lips met gently at first, then with increasing passion. Lindsey quickly pulled away. "We better go put our gifts away." As they were doing so, Lindsey called into Wesley's room, "If you want, you can sleep in my room and I'll take the couch so your mom can have your room."

"I don't want to put you out," Wesley replied, appearing in the doorway. "I can sleep on the couch."

"Like hell you are. I'm not letting my pregnant boyfriend sleep on the couch." There was a moment of silence before the two men started giggling. "That's one statement I *never* thought I'd say," Lindsey finally managed.

"I'll say," Wesley replied. "Well, since we *are* together, we could always try sleeping in the same bed. It's not that big of a deal, is it?"

"Not for me it isn't." Lindsey came over and gave Wesley a quick kiss. "It's fine with me if it's fine with you."

Wesley smiled. "Okay. Then it's settled."

"And, you know," Lindsey said as he pulled Wesley into a loose embrace. "If this goes well, we could turn your room into a nursery and you can continue to stay in my room."

"Let's not be too hasty," Wesley said with a smile. "I don't want to doom anything by agreeing too prematurely."

"Good idea."


Two weeks later, Wesley and Lindsey drove down to Oklahoma City to pick up Elisa. They had told her they would meet her at the baggage claim, since security would make it impossible for them to meet her at the gate. While they were waiting, both men pointedly ignored the stares that they were getting from the other people around them. A few minutes after the plane was due to arrive, people began to filter in and baggage started to appear on the carousel.

“There she is,” Wesley said, spotting an older woman. “Mum!” he called in Gaelic as he waved a hand to get her attention.

She spotted him and smiled as she made her way over. Lindsey was surprised. He wasn’t sure what he expected Elisa to look like, but this wasn’t it. She was an inch or two shorter than Wesley and just as lanky as he had been prior to the pregnancy. Her curly hair was cut just above her shoulders and while it was mostly a grayish-white, locks of it were still a pale ash blonde. She was wearing a pair of jeans, a knit turtleneck sweater, glasses, a pair of Timberland boots, and was carrying a jacket and a purse.

She embraced Wesley tightly before holding him at arm’s length and studying him for a moment. “You look wonderful,” she said in Gaelic as she beamed. “My baby’s having a child of his own. I’m so happy for you.” She hugged him again before withdrawing and turned to Lindsey. “And this must be the infamous Lindsey McDonald,” she said in English. “It’s great to finally meet you.” She pulled him into a tight hug.

“You too, Elisa,” he replied, reciprocating the hug.

“Be careful, Wesley, I might try to steal this one from you,” she said as she released him.

Wesley smiled and put an around Lindsey’s shoulders. "If you can sway him. But I’ll have you know he’s rather tenacious."

"Oh, well." She gave them a mock frown. "Besides, why would he want an old crone like me when he’s got you?" She linked her arms through theirs and headed to the carousel. "Let’s get my bag." As they arrived, she spotted it and said, "There it is. Lindsey, would you be a dear and go fetch that black suitcase?" She pointed it out.

“Have you discussed things with Angel?” she asked after Lindsey waded into the crowd to get her suitcase.

“Somewhat,” Wesley replied. “He showed up here a few weeks ago, wanting me to go back to L.A. with him, but I refused.”

“Why? I thought you were the old-fashioned type.”

“I am, but I’m also a realist. The risk is just too high in our line of work to involve an infant. And after what happened with Connor, I’m sure that there would be a number of groups or individuals who would like to get their hands on Zane and I won’t let that happen.”

“Did you make this decision with your head or your heart?”

“Both.”

"Good. At least your father was good for helping to develop your rational train of thought. My side of the family's never been good at that." She gave him a small smile. "I'm sure you're happy the Council isn't much to speak of any longer or they'd be beating down your door."

"I am thankful for that, but there *were* a number of good people that worked there."

"I know, honey. I was just trying to look at the bright side."

Lindsey came back with Elisa’s suitcase and quickly glanced between the two of them. "We better get going," he said without missing a beat. "It’s about a two hour drive home and I don’t think either of you would like it to be longer than necessary. And besides, a woman just told me of a good gym you could join, Wes."

Wesley laughed. "At least that was the only thing she said."


Upon stepping inside the apartment, Elisa exclaimed, “What a lovely home.”

"Thank you," Lindsey replied. "Would you like a tour?"

"I'd be happy if you just pointed me in the direction of the powder room, for now. You can give me the grand tour later."

“It’s right around that corner to the right.” As she disappeared into the bathroom, Lindsey deposited her suitcase into Wesley’s room. Coming back out, he said, “Your mom’s a real great lady.”

“Thank you,” Wesley replied from the couch.

Lindsey sank down next to him and took his hand. “Are you sure about this?” he asked. “I know we haven't tried to 'sleep over' before. If you’re uncomfortable with it, you can sleep in my room and I’ll take the couch.”

“I really don’t mind,” Wesley said as he began gently rubbing the back of Lindsey’s hand. “It just makes it more real.” He smiled shyly. “But I like it.”

Emerging from the bathroom, Elisa said, “So how about showing me around this town of yours?”

“Are you sure you’re not tired or hungry, Mum?” Wesley asked.

“We’ve been over this in the truck, and no, I’m not. Now, come on.”

“Do you feel up to this?” Lindsey asked Wesley.

"Yeah. Just give me a minute," he replied as he got up and headed into the bathroom.

“So how are you holding up?” Elisa asked.

“Okay, I guess,” Lindsey replied. He shifted so she sat down next to him. “I had a bunch of siblings, so I still kind of remember my mom being pregnant. But it’s different now that I’m older and more involved.”

“Do you regret it?”

“Not for a moment. I love your son a lot and I really hope I get to spend the rest of my life with him.”

“Does he know this?”

“I’ve told him I love him.”

“You need to make sure he knows how you feel. You have to tell him.”

“Tell me what?” Wesley asked as he rejoined them.

“About the price of tea in China,” Lindsey replied with a smile. “Are you okay?” he asked, concern lacing his voice.

“Yes, I’m fine. Pea-shaped bladder and all that. Are we finally ready?”


“This is quite a charming town,” Elisa said as they settled into a booth at the Stonewall. “I can see one of the reasons why it’s appealed to Wesley. We lived in a small town just north of London while he was growing up,” she explained to Lindsey.

“Well, who's the beautiful young lady?” Jonathan asked as he came up. “Please tell me you’re not actually considering adoption.”

"You know you have top priority," Wesley replied. "Jonathan, this is my mum, Elisa Gordon. Mum, this is Jonathan Marks."

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Jonathan said, blushing.

“Not a problem,” Elisa replied with a smile. “The compliment was greatly appreciated. Would you like to join us?”

“I wouldn’t want t-“

“Jon, sit,” Lindsey commanded. “If it wasn’t meant, it wouldn’t have been asked.”

Jonathan slid next to Lindsey in the booth. “I just didn’t want to take any time away since you came such a long way,” he said apologetically to Elisa.

“Don’t worry about it,” she responded with a smile. “I’ll be here at least through the New Year. Besides, I would have made Wesley introduce me to all his friends eventually.”

As the waitress came to take Jonathan’s order, Wesley idly wondered how his life had gotten so good. He smiled at his mom when she squeezed his hand and then, placing his other hand on his stomach, smiled across the table at Lindsey and Jonathan. He wouldn’t change any of this for anything in the world.

When the three of them arrived home a few hours later, Elisa said, “So how’s the nursery coming along?”

“Well, uh...” Wesley replied, blushing.

“It hasn’t been started yet,” Lindsey supplied.

“What do you mean it hasn’t been stared yet?” Elisa asked. “These things don’t just do themselves, Wesley.”

“I’m sorry, Mum,” Wesley said a bit dejectedly.

“Oh, you know I didn’t mean it that way. I’ll help and it’ll be lots of fun. Let’s go check things out.” She went into Wesley’s room with the two men following behind. She kicked off her shoes and settled herself cross-legged in the middle of the bed. “Come and sit down you two,” she said as she patted the bed on either side of her. She surveyed the room and studied the orderly stack of gifts that took up nearly half the room. “Thank you cards?” she finally asked.

“Yes,” Wesley replied.

“Cribs?”

“Cradle.”

“Keeping this bed?”

“Yes,” Lindsey replied, hoping he was following correctly.

“Storage?”

“Part of the dresser and we’ll get bins,” Wesley replied.

“Feasible. Colors?”

“Blue and green.”

“Lindsey?”

“That’s fine.”

“You sure?” Elisa asked.

“Yeah. Hmm. Pastels maybe.”

“Good choice. Stencils or other décor?”

“No,” Wesley replied.

“Maybe,” Lindsey replied.

“Okay. That can be saved for later. We’ll start tomorrow.”

The next day they went to the hardware store for paint, brushes, rollers, and other painting accessories. When they got home, they opened all the windows and propped the door a bit before starting. They moved all of Zane’s stuff into the living room, pushed the rest of the furniture into the middle of the room and covered it with a couple of old sheets. They decided to make the majority of the walls blue with a green bordering at the top and bottom of the walls. Wesley and Elisa taped off the sections as Lindsey poured paint into some pans and set up some rollers. As they got about halfway through the blue, there was a knock on the door.

“Come in!” Lindsey called.

“Hello?” Marty called into the apartment.

“Hey, Marty! Come on back.”

Marty appeared in the doorway. “Wow. This looks nice.”

“Thanks,” Wesley replied from where he was painting.

“And who’s this handsome young man?” Elisa asked.

“Marty Mesanek,” Marty said, blushing and extending a hand.

“Elisa Gordon,” she replied, wiping her hand before shaking his. “I’m Wesley’s mum – if you couldn’t tell.”

“Oh, hi!” He pulled her into a quick hug.

She smiled as he released her. “Chaos demon, correct?”

“Yes. It’s a glandular problem,” he said, pointing to his antlers.

“Ah.”

“So, what brings you here?” Lindsey asked as he paused to get more paint on his roller.

“Just wanted to see how you two fine fellows were doing this Saturday afternoon. And if you possibly wanted to double tonight.”

“Don’t worry about me,” Elisa quickly cut in. “I had planned to curl up with a book and a cup of tea this evening.”

“Who’s the lucky lady?” Lindsey asked.

“Her name’s Dory and she’s another chaos demon. I met her a few months ago through one of those Internet dating services. She lives down in Oklahoma City, but she’s coming up here.”

“What did you have in mind?” Wesley asked.

“I was thinking maybe Italian and then a movie?”

“Sounds good,” Wesley replied. “Lin?”

“Yeah, that’ll be good,” Lindsey replied. “What time?”

“Six-thirty at Joseppi's?” Marty asked.

Wesley glanced around the room. “I think we’ll be done by then,” he replied with a smile. “If not, you two will have to help us since we can’t leave until it’s done.”

Elisa swatted Wesley on the arm with her paintbrush. “I never said such a thing, young man,” she said indignantly.

“Good. We’ll see you then. And thank you so much.”

“No problem,” Lindsey replied. “Have you met this girl before?”

“Nope,” Marty replied with an excited little smile. “But we’ve been emailing and talking on the phone for a while now and she’s really great. Well, I best be off. See y’all tonight. It was nice meeting you, Ms. Gordon.”

“You too, Marty,” she replied with a smile. Once they heard him leave, she remarked, “Well, he seems quite nice.”

“He is,” Lindsey replied. “Just not very good on dates – he’s a little too shy.”

“Well, chaos demons tend to be that way. It’s a wonder they reproduce at all. I’m surprised that this place even has a demon population. It doesn’t seem very conducive for one.”

“Well, it’s a pretty peaceful town, so that’s probably why,” Lindsey replied as he went back to painting. “They definitely embody the ‘live and let live’ idea.”

They were able to get the painting done by mid-afternoon and set up a couple of fans to help dry the paint and circulate the air. While Wesley was in the shower, Lindsey made up the sofa bed so it would be ready for Elisa.

“I’m sorry you won’t be able to use the bedroom tonight,” Lindsey commented.

“Oh, don’t worry about it,” she replied. “I had fun painting. I’m just glad to be here and to play even a tiny role in helping my son get ready for his baby.”

Lindsey sat down on the edge of the bed. “Did you ever expect him to have a child?”

“Of course.” She smiled and sat down next to him. “Every parent expects their children to give them grandchildren to spoil rotten.” Her smile turned wistful. “But to actually carry a child... no, I didn’t think so. At least not consciously. I would imagine the experience would have such a toll that only the strongest would be able to survive intact.”

Lindsey felt his breath catch. “Do you think Wesley will?”

“Yes, I do. Because of his father, he’s had to become very strong, emotionally and psychically. And,” she smiled again and Lindsey could see where Wesley got it from, “he has you and the others to support him. The majority of the cases I’ve heard of either isolated themselves willingly or were shunned by those around them. I think that’s the main reason why the pregnancies didn’t go very well.”

Wesley emerged from the bathroom clean and dressed. “Your turn,” he said to Lindsey.

“Okay,” Lindsey stood and gave Wesley a peck on the cheek before disappearing into the bathroom.

Wesley colored slightly and took Lindsey’s spot. “So, what do you think?” he asked.

“It doesn’t matter what I think,” Elisa replied. “What do you think?”

“I love him.”

She smiled and nodded as she patted his thigh. “That’s all that matters. He’s a great bloke. I’m sure you’re going to be very happy with him.”

“I’m sure I will.” He smiled. “For once, I have a feeling that things will work.”


“You know what I just realized?” Lindsey commented as he pulled into the restaurant’s parking lot that evening.

“What’s that?” Wesley asked as he looked for Marty’s convertible.

“This is our first real date.” He grinned at Wesley.

“That’s interesting. I was sure –“

“Nope.” Lindsey turned off the truck after parking.

“Well, happy first date.” Wesley smiled at Lindsey before leaning over to give him a quick kiss.

“Let’s go have fun on our first date,” Lindsey replied as he pulled away.

They entered the restaurant and met Marty and Dory right at the hostess stand. “Hey, right on time,” Marty said with a smile.

“Always,” Lindsey replied. “And you must be the beautiful Dory,” he said with a smile. “I’m Lindsey and this is Wesley.”

Blushing, she smiled. “Thank you very much.” She shook both of their hands. “How far along are you?” she asked Wesley.

“Seven and a half months,” he replied with a smile.

“Marty, party of four?” the host asked before she could reply. “Follow me.”

After ordering, Dory asked, “So, how did you two meet?”

“Well, it wasn’t very romantic, if that’s what you’re wondering,” Lindsey said with a smile.

“We met through work about four years ago,” Wesley said. “But we saw each other only a handful of times before he left two years ago.”

“We were in competing departments,” Lindsey added. “Then we didn’t have any contact after I left.”

“Although it wasn’t as if we were anything more than acquaintances anyway,” Wesley contributed.

“No, no we weren’t. And then when Wesley decided to leave LA seven and a half months ago, he happened to land here and that’s when things slowly started happening.”

“Slow’s right,” Marty cut in. “A glacier probably moves faster.”

“Probably, but it was worth it.”

“Sometimes it’s better that way,” Dory replied with a smile.

“This is true,” Wesley said as their food was put down in front of them.

The four of them had a good meal before going to the movies to see Love Actually. Wesley and Lindsey sat apart from Marty and Dory to give them some time alone.

“She seems really nice,” Wesley said once they were on their way home.

“Yeah, she does,” Lindsey replied. “Maybe Marty will actually settle down this time. He’s always complaining about one thing or another when it comes to his girlfriends. I hope she’s perfect, for his sake.”

“We’ll just have to wait and see. But I have a really good feeling about her - unlike what I’ve heard about some of the other girls.” Wesley chuckled. “Some of them were somewhat neurotic, you have to admit.”

"Well, true."

Elisa looked up from her book when they got in. “Did you have a good time?” she asked with a smile.

“Great time,” Wesley replied. “Good book?”

“Great. What’s Dory like?”

“Very nice,” Lindsey replied. “I think she’ll be good for Marty.”

She looked at Wesley. “Is that your verdict?”

“Yes, it is,” Wesley replied. “She actually seems normal. Well, normal for a chaos demon.”


The next two weeks went by quickly with shopping trips, Christmas parties, getting a tree - at Lindsey’s insistence, doctor appointments, and final touches to getting the nursery ready - at Elisa’s insistence.

On Christmas Eve, everyone was gathered at Lindsey and Wesley’s apartment for dinner and a gift exchange. Wesley was amazed at how much his life had changed in the past seven, almost eight, months. He had been graced with a family, biologically and through friendship, a good home, and an interesting job. There were times when he missed his old life in L.A., but in the end, he wouldn’t give his new life up for anything.

“Jonathan,” Lindsey said as he and Wesley started to clean up after dinner, “do me a favor?”

“What’s that?” Jonathan asked from where he was picking at some cookies that were left out.

“I need you to go get some more wine since you drank it all at dinner.”

“I did *not* drink it all,” he said indignantly.

“I don’t care. Will you go get it anyway?”

“Sure.” He stood and kissed David on the forehead. “Love you,” he said softly.

“Love you, too,” David replied with a smile.

“What do you want?” Jonathan asked as he grabbed his coat.

"I don’t care – something red." Lindsey handed Jonathan a $20 bill. "If it costs more, just let me know and I'll pay you back."

“Okay.” He pocked the money and pulled on his jacket. “I’ll be back in a bit.” He gave David another quick kiss before he left.

About forty-five minutes later, David commented, “I wonder what’s taking Jon so long. He usually isn’t so –” His cellphone rang, cutting him off. “Hello? Yes, this is him. Thank you, I’ll be right down.” He shut off his cellphone and looked blankly at Lindsey. “I have to get to the hospital,” he sat flatly.

“Why? What’s wrong?” Worry laced Lindsey’s voice.

“I just – I *have* to get to the hospital.”

“We’ll stay here and finish cleaning up,” Marty said as Lindsey, Wesley, and David moved to get their coats. “And for when Jonathan gets back.”

David looked like he was going to say something, but stopped himself and just nodded.

“What’s going on?” Lindsey asked as he started the truck.

“Jonathan...” David paused to take a shaky breath. “There was an – an-” His voice hitched as he dropped his gaze and stopped talking. Wesley took David’s right hand as a small sob escaped David’s lips.

On the way to the hospital, David sat between Wesley and Lindsey. Each held a hand, with Lindsey untangling just long enough to shift gears. After getting there in record time, David wandered into the main lobby.

“Can I help you?” the nurse at the desk asked.

“Jonathan Marks – where is he?” David asked numbly.

“And you are?”

“David Marks, his step-brother,” he added slowly. He looked like he was about to faint and Lindsey put a hand on his lower back to steady him.

“Are you all right, sir?”

“I'm fine. Where’s Jonathan?”

“He’s upstairs on the third floor – you can ask at the nurses’ station up there.”

“Thank you.”

In the elevator, Wesley asked, “Step-brother?”

“Only way we’d have visitation rights and some other things is if we’re listed as next-of-kin,” he replied, staring straight ahead. A slight smile touched his lips. “And who hasn’t heard of step-siblings falling in love? We may get raised eyebrows, but it’s the best we could do.”

The elevator dinged and they exited onto the third floor. Out of the corner of his eye, Wesley saw Lindsey trip. Wesley quickly reached out to steady him.

“Are you all right?” Wesley asked softly.

“I’ll be...fine,” Lindsey replied. “I’m okay.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.” But Wesley could tell that something was bothering Lindsey.

They found the nurses’ station and David repeated who he was looking for. The nurse’s expression softened and drew the three of them aside to the waiting area.

“Jonathan’s in critical condition. He was broadsided by a driver running a red light. He’s in surgery now and the doctor’s doing what he can to save him. But he’s in very good hands. I can take you to wait in the room he’ll be assigned to, if you would like.”

David nodded. “Please.”

She nodded and stood. “Please, follow me. Are you relatives as well?” she asked Lindsey and Wesley.

“No, we’re not,” Lindsey struggled to get out. “We’ll wait here.”

As David followed the nurse, Wesley could tell that Lindsey wasn’t okay. Even though Lindsey was good at masking his emotions, someone who knew him well enough could easily see them. And Wesley could tell Lindsey’s heart was breaking. Wesley put his arm around him before kissing his temple.

After a few moments, Wesley felt something wet between his legs. He looked down and said, “Lindsey? My water broke.”

“What?” Lindsey jumped up. He looked at Wesley, whose pants were starting to get wet. “Well, at least we’re at the hospital. Come on.”

They went back up to the nurses’ station. “Um, hi,” Wesley said to the nurse at the desk as Lindsey acquired a piece of paper from another nurse and wrote David a note before asking her to give it to him. “Can you please direct me to the maternity ward?”

"Visiting hours are over, sir. You'll have to come back tomorrow."

"Well, I would, but my water just broke."

“Sir,” she said flatly without looking up as she shuffled through some paperwork. “Your ‘water’ did *not* just break. I suggest you –“ She looked up at Wesley and her jaw dropped.


"Well, I didn't expect to see you here," Dr. Gonzales commented as she met them in the maternity ward, ready to go. "Merry Christmas."

"I guess we just got lucky," Wesley replied, trying to keep a lightness in his voice that he wasn't exactly feeling. "At least everything else with Zane has been normal."

"I'm sure he'll be just fine." She ushered them into the delivery area and Lindsey hung back as she had Wesley put on a surgical gown and get onto the delivery table. As the nurses started to help prep Wesley, she said, "Since we've already decided on doing a C-section, I don't see a reason why we should even try to wait until after the active labor stage. The anesthesiologist is going to give you an epidural, Wesley, which will numb you from just below the chest down, but you'll still be awake and aware."

"The fetal heart monitor is set up and the baby's heart is beating regularly," one of the nurses said.

"Good. Let me know if you feel anything that doesn't feel related to the delivery, even if you're not sure. Okay?"

"Okay," Wesley replied. "Let's do this."

"Lindsey?" Dr. Gonzales asked as the epidural was being set up. "Do you want to be a part of this?"

"I don't -" Lindsey started, suddenly shy.

"Come on. You're about to witness a miracle. Get him prepped." A nurse helped him into some scrubs and handed him a mask, cap, and some gloves.

Wesley smiled up at Lindsey as he came over and stood by Wesley's head, the only space at the table that didn't seem to be occupied. Lindsey gently stroked Wesley's hair as Dr. Gonzales started once the epidural had kicked in.

She made two horizontal incisions in Wesley's lower abdomen - the first through the skin and the second through the uterine muscle. She gently reached into Wesley's uterus and eased Zane out. There was a hushed moment before there was a tiny, yet deep, breath and then a small cry of alarm that quickly faded. There was a collective sigh of relief.

"Lindsey?" Dr Gonzales asked. "Would you do the honor?" One of the nurses held out a pair of scissors. Lindsey nodded as he took them and cut the umbilical cord. Then a waiting nurse wrapped Zane in a blanket and took him to be cleaned and examined.

"How's Wesley doing?" Dr. Gonzales asked as she prepared to close up Wesley.

"Very well," the nurse monitoring him said. "His vitals are still very strong."

"Good, good," she replied as she started to stitch him up.

After both father and baby had been cleaned up and stabilized, Dr. Gonzales said with a smile, “Congratulations,” as a nurse brought Zane over and placed the tiny bundle in Wesley’s waiting arms. “You have a beautiful boy.” Wesley and Lindsey smiled down at the tiny baby in his arms. “He's very lucky - he's five pounds exactly. If he was any lighter, he'd have to go into the preemie section of the nursery." She grabbed a form and started filling it out. After having Wesley spell his last name, she asked, “And what’s the baby’s name to be?”

“Zane W-“ Lindsey started.

“Zane Jonathan Wyndam-Pryce,” Wesley cut him off, his look keeping Lindsey from fighting it.

“And the father?” she asked, clearly directing the question to Wesley.

“Lindsey McDonald,” he replied.

“*What*?” Lindsey questioned. “What about Angel?”

“Once he does more than donate sperm, we can talk about changing it. But you’ve been the one that’s acted more like a father these past few months,” Wesley replied. “So unless you plan on kicking us out now –“

“No way in Hell.”

“That’s what I thought. So therefore, you’re the father. Please stop arguing.”

Dr. Gonzales finished up the birth certificate with a laugh and an ID bracelet for Zane. “Okay, we have to take him down to the nursery.” A nurse scooped Zane out of Wesley’s arms after he gave him a kiss on the forehead. ”If you would like to go down to the nursery with them, Lindsey, you’re more than welcome while I go up with Wesley to recovery.”

“Okay.” Lindsey kissed Wesley. “See you in a bit, beautiful.”


Getting Wesley situated, Dr. Gonzales said, "We're going to leave the epidural in for at least a few more hours as a painkiller, and then we'll transfer you to something else if you're still in pain." She made some notes in his chart from the different monitors. "You'll have to stay in the hospital at least three to five days, depending on how quickly you heal. This time tomorrow, I want you to start taking short walks, okay? It'll help you heal."

Wesley nodded, suddenly wiped out. "Thank you," he said.

"You're very welcome." She smiled. "It's not every day I have such a great patient like you. Get some rest and I'll see you tomorrow."


Wesley dozed lightly and awoke when Lindsey appeared in his room a little while later. “How is he?” Wesley asked.

“He’s all settled in,” Lindsey replied before he kissed Wesley. “He’s so tiny. It’s amazing.” He sat down on the edge of the bed. "How are you doing?"

“Yes, it is. I'm doing okay. Rather knackered, to tell the truth. How’s David?” Wesley asked as he took Lindsey’s hand.

“Hard to tell. I went down to see him and it’s like he just completely shut down. Which is understandable. He’s still waiting for Jonathan to come out of surgery.” A tear trickled down his cheek and Wesley tugged him down into his embrace. Once he was encircled in Wesley’s arms, Lindsey buried his head into Wesley’s shoulder and sobbed. Wesley gently stroked his hair as Lindsey cried and wished his own tears would come, but it felt like all his grief had solidified into a heavy lump in the center of his heart.

Once Lindsey’s sobs had subsided, Wesley said quietly, “We should call and let the others know where we are.”

Lindsey rubbed his face in Wesley’s shoulder. “Do we have to?”

“They’ll be worried, especially since I'm sure they already know something’s wrong.”

“Okay,” he sat up, hair slightly mussed and eyes red. “I’ll go do it and collect David, since it’ll probably be a while before the doctor’s finished. We’ll probably stop for coffee and swing by the nursery so he can see Zane on the way back up.”

“All right.” Wesley kissed him. “I love you.”

“I love you, too,” Lindsey said with a small smile. “And I love our son even though I don’t understand the fool thing you did.”

“Because he’s *our* son, no matter who his biological father is. Now hurry up and get back here.” He squeezed Lindsey’s hand before letting it go. Lindsey brushed a strand of hair off of Wesley’s forehead, kissed it, and then left.


Wesley studied David as he and Lindsey entered the room a little while later. He looked drawn and numb, and his usually energetic and peppy attitude was gone. David gave him a wan smile and Wesley took one of David’s hands in his own, pulling him down onto the edge of the bed. Lindsey went to the other side of the bed and, after kicking off his shoes, gingerly climbed onto the bed. He laid on his side, curled against Wesley, and took Wesley’s free hand.

“How are you?” Wesley asked, finally breaking the silence.

David just shook his head and wiped an eye with the hand that still held a cup of coffee. “How are you?”

“I’m doing okay.” He gave David a small smile. “I have a new appreciation for women now. Giving birth was hard and I had a Cesarean section. I can’t imagine what a natural birth would be like.”

“That’s what the drugs are for,” Lindsey replied, a hint of laughter in his voice.

“You two have a beautiful baby,” David said quietly. He looked down at his hand joined with Wesley’s. “We were thinking of adopting,” he admitted. “I know Jon always took the topic very lightly, but we were. He would have made a great father. And now -” His breath hitched and he buried his face in Wesley’s shoulder.

“I’m sure he still will,” Wesley assured him, giving David’s hand a light squeeze.

The three sat in silence until the others breezed in chatting happily and carrying flowers and balloons for Wesley. There was congratulations and hugs for both Wesley and Lindsey.

“How are you doing?” Elisa asked David, who had moved when they came in and was standing near the window.

“Okay,” he replied weakly.

Elisa pulled him into a hug. “Things will work out for the best, I’m sure of it.”

“How do you know?” he sniffed.

“I’m a mother. I just know these sorts of things.”

“He can’t be gone yet,” David sniffled. “He was so excited about Zane coming. He wanted to be one of the first ones to see him.”

“And I’m sure he’ll see him yet,” Elisa said comfortingly as she stroked his hair.

He smiled sadly and nodded as he hugged himself. She put her hands just above his elbows and kissed his forehead before pulling him against her side and putting her arm around his shoulders.


Wesley was taken off the epidural the next day and given a light painkiller for that night. He was also started on some medicine to prevent his body from lactating, since he wouldn't have been able to provide enough for Zane anyway. His first few walks down the hall were, as Dr. Gonzales had predicted, painful, but that soon subsided and he was able to visit Zane in the nursery without having to use a wheelchair. Lindsey was in the hospital as much as he could be, dividing his time between Wesley and Zane.

"Don't you have to be at work?" Wesley asked on their way back from the nursery on the third day.

"Took some time off," Lindsey replied. "I've got some time saved up since I haven't taken any sick or vacation days since I started."

"What about me?"

"Maternity leave. The senior partner was a little skeptical about allowing it, but it wasn't like anybody could deny you were pregnant. He's impressed with your work and told me to tell you he hopes you'll get certified to be a paralegal when you get back, so that we can pay you that salary."

"Wow."

"I know - apparently not everyone there hates you." Lindsey smiled and gave him a quick kiss.

"How's David coping?"

"Okay, I guess. He's been staying at our apartment during the night. Elisa's been helping him plan how to take care of Jonathan, since he’s going to need a lot of it for a while, as well as keeping him company. From what it sounds like, both of Jonathan's motorcycle clubs are raising money to help out."

Wesley gingerly sat down on his bed.

"How are you feeling?"

"Better and ready to go home."


On the fifth day, Dr. Gonzales thoroughly checked Wesley and Zane before allowing them to be released. She gave Wesley and Lindsey careful instructions for Wesley's care while he continued to heal and they set up an appointment for Zane's next check-up.

"It's been a pleasure being your doctor thus far," she said when they had finished. "Now, I know you can walk out, Wesley, but we need to have you use a wheelchair. It's one of those weird hospital policies."

Wesley smiled. "That's fine." He sat in the wheelchair and Lindsey handed Zane to him so he could gather up the rest of the things they'd collected over the past few days.


As they approached their apartment, David opened the door and met them in the hallway. "I thought I heard your truck," he said, as he took some of the stuff from Lindsey.

When they went inside, Wesley and Lindsey noticed the balloons, a 'Welcome Home' banner, cake, and some of their friends.

"What's all this?" Wesley asked, surprised.

"Just a little thing we decided to throw together," David replied. "‘Rejoice with those who rejoice –’"

"‘- and weep with those who weep’ - Romans 12:15," Lindsey finished as he gave him a hug. "I'm not as Biblically illiterate as Jonathan always seems to believe." He smiled. "This is great."

Wesley nodded in agreement. "Thank you very much."

As their little party started and Wesley and Lindsey proudly showed Zane off, Wesley was sure they were all starting a new chapter in their lives. And it would be even better than the last one.


End