So, I just finished creating a blog for my newest story: The Jameson Legacy! It is going to be a non-traditional legacy that is filled with drama, adventure and so much more! So here’s the link: The Jameson Legacy
There’s not much in the way of content there, but I do have chapter or two posted…just sayin’………
Starlet
**** I want to say, this chapter includes a graphic birth scene and a death. I wanted to warn you before you read****
~ Karly’s P.O.V~
After my stay in Fortress Rock, was amazing, but I missed my Leo terribly. I hurried through the door to get to hug my baby. Leo squealed in delight when he saw me. We spent the rest of the weekend preparing for his upcoming birthday. On monday, it was back to the grind.
I had a routine check-up with June Shallow and baby Shayla. I knocked on the front door, and June promptly answered, “Hey, Karly! How was your trip?” I began telling her about my adventures in Bridgeport while she handed me Shayla and I began I began the examination.
Shayla began to fuss once I undressed her to check her weight and heartbeat. I rocked her gently, realizing how much I missed this. I felt an ache in my heart that had been long ignored. After making sure that she was healthy, I placed her gently in her mother’s arms, “How are you feeling, June?” She nodded tiredly, “I forgot how much they cry when they are first born, but this one’s a sweetheart.” She continued talking until her oldest daughter walked into the room, “Oh, Karly, this is my oldest daughter, Mary Kay.”
I shook her hand and tried not to notice how much it was shaking, “Hello, Mary Kay. I’m Karly Starch. I am the midwife who delivered your baby sister.” Speaking of Shayla, she began to fuss and scream. June looked at me desperately, “Karly, I wish I could walk you out, but looks like I am otherwise occupied. You’ll be alright?” I gave her a reassuring nod. After she walked out of the room, I put my hand on Mary Kay’s shoulder, “Are you okay? You don’t look like you’re feeling so well.” 
She looked down at her feet, “Yeah, I’m ok. So………………..you’re a nurse?” I smiled slightly, “Not really, I’m a midwife, so I am a nurse technically for delivering babies and making sure they’re nice and healthy. I also make sure the moms who deliver them are not having any contractions. 
She nodded and opened her mouth to say something, but she clutched her stomach and ran outside. I quickly followed her to make sure that she was okay. When I got outside, she was bent over the porch railing, emptying the contents of her stomach. I held her hair back and rubbed the small of her back. When she was finished, she sank to the floor and curled up into a ball on the porch swing. I sat down gently next to her, “Mary Kay, do you think that you might be pregnant?” She nodded her head once as a single tear poured down her cheek. “Do you want to tell me about it?” She shook her head firmly and squeezed her eyes shut. I handed her a tissue from my purse and my business card, “If you ever need to talk, and I mean ever. You come see me, okay? And don’t go too long without making a doctor’s appointment. You want to make sure you’re healthy.” She smiled weakly before waving me off. I walked down the path unsure of what to do. I decided that if she needed me, she’d call. 
I made way home, trying not to be too concerned about it. Leo clapped his hands happily and began to babble away while I paid the sitter. He held his arms up towards me and I threw him into the air before settling him on my hip, “Mama….play?” I nuzzled his cheek, “Sure, Leo.” He clapped his hands and wiggled down my legs. I watched him play and sighed contentedly. He was starting to talk again. I sat beside him on the ground but he shook his head, “No..Mama, play panyo.” I smiled at his cuteness and moved to the piano bench, ” Alright, Leo. What shall I play?”
He clapped his hands excitedly, “Star song! Star song!” I proceeded to play and play…and play……and play. He never grew tired of this song, but my hands did. So I scooted off the bench and scooped him into my arms, “Give Mama one more snuggle before you grow up into a big boy.” He gave me a big, sloppy kiss on the cheek. I laughed a gave him a big bear hug before setting him back on the ground. 
He stood up on his feet as the birthday sparkles surrounded him. He giggled nervously, I could tell that he didn’t know whether to be happy or scared. 
It was so weird to watch him age before me. His little body grew and grew. 
It stopped and I looked at this beautiful little boy who stood before me. I couldn’t stop the tears from sliding down my cheeks. He rolled his eyes at me, “Momma, are you going to do this every time I grow up?” I gave him a big hug, “I’m your mom, it’s my job.” I ruffle his hair, “Okay, kiddo, go check out your big boy bedroom and let me know what you think.” He raced ahead of me and I followed slower behind him. The doorbell ringing and it stopped me in my tracks. (Sorry about the buy mode lines in the next pic. I didn’t notice until too late)
I opened the door to find a young man holding his wife in his arms, “You gotta help us! My wife’s water broke and she says she has to push.” I showed them around the corner to where the clinic sat, before saying, “I’ll be with you in a moment.” I ran back into the house to where Leo was. I poked my head into his room, “Hey buddy, I have an emergency to take care of in the clinic. I want you to go to bed and if you need anything, I’m going to leave my cell here. Okay?” I gave him a quick kiss on the forehead and ran into the clinic. I scrubbed my hands as the woman moaned in pain on the bed, “You guys came to the right house. I’m a registered Midwife here in Riverview.” 
I tried to release the tension in my shoulders. I asked questions in between the woman(who I learned was named Quinn)’s contractions, “So how far along are you, Quinn?”
“Only 32 weeks.”
I tried not to cringe at how early that is, “Ok, who is your primary Obstetrician?”
“Dr.Houssen in Moonlight Falls. We’re from there, we just came into town for his brother’s wedding.”
I had her sit on the table as I checked her to see how far along she was. 
Quinn’s husband, Rory, stayed by her side faithfully, as her contractions gripped her. I was distressed to see that she was 10 centimeters dilated and 100% effaced. I did my best to keep my cool, and tried to keep my voice level. 
“Okay, Quinn, I want you to push on the next contraction. Rory, I need you to call an ambulance so that we can get the two of them transported to the hospital the moment the baby arrives.” Rory gave Quinn’s arm a squeeze before stepping past the curtains. OI could hear him on the phone and I gave an inward sigh of relief. I noticed that Quinn seemed to be managing the pain really well. As the next contraction came around, I noticed something very startling. I had no time to prepare, I just started giving orders and managing to keep myself calm enough, “Rory, I need you to go outside and flag down the ambulance. The second you see them, you bring them in here. 
Ok, Quinn, I need you to get up on your knees. I know it’s not easy, but you need to do it as soon as possible.” She started shaking, and I knew she was scared. “Shhh…..shhhh. Quinn, I can see the baby’s head, okay? The thing is, the cord is stuck in between the baby’s shoulders and your cervix.” I helped her get on her hands and knees. She gripped the sheets as her muscles tightened with another contraction. 
I massaged her low back as I told her to avoid pushing. She screamed in agony and I can’t say that I blamed her. As soon as the contraction passed, I had to maneuver the baby away so that I could loosen the cord. Another contraction stopped me from getting very far. After five minutes or so of this, I delivered the baby. She was so tiny, I could fit her in the palm of my hand. I swaddled her in a thick blanket so that she would stay warm. I watched as she struggled to breathe. I rushed around the room and set her in the crib, praying the ambulance would arrive any second now.
I turned back to Quinn and found her face white as a sheet. I examined her cervix and saw that she was majorly hemmoraghing. I ran out to the driveway, hoping to see red and blue lights, only to see an anxious Rory. “Where are they?” I asked hurriedly, “I dunno, they said something about an accident on the bridge and it took nearly all of their team.” I ran back inside and began redialing 911 as I tried to stop the bleeding.
“911, what’s your emergency?”
“Yes. This is Karly Starch, I am a local midwife. I have a woman who birthed a baby at 32 weeks, the baby is barely breathing, and the mother is beginning to bleed profusely. I am trying to stop the bleeding, but so far nothing is working.”
“OKay, Ma’am. I see that responders are about 5 minutes away.”
“5 minutes! I don’t have 5 minutes!”
I hung up the phone in frustration and tried to keep the tears from flooding my vision. 
Three minutes later, Quinn Torres, was pronounced dead upon the arrival of the paramedics. I tried not to cry as I watched them cover her body with a sheet. I watched as they worked to clear the baby’s lungs of fluid. I collapsed into sobs as I saw the paramedic give a slight shake of his head, and they wrapped up the baby and set her gently on the bed.
Rory burst into the room and I straightened myself up and forced myself to pull it together to go explain what happened. 
He was sobbing deep harsh sobs and tears ran down his face, freely.
I went up to him and put my hand against his shoulder gently, “Mr. Torres, I am so sorry for your loss. I just want you to know, that this was not your fault. This would’ve happened even if you both had gone to the hospital.” He sniffled and touched my hand, “Thank you.” I motioned toward the curtained off bed, “Your baby had a great an unknown amount of time without oxygen and I was unfortunately not able to give her the proper care.” He uttered softly, “It was a girl?” I gulped before nodding slightly. He cried harder and I could feel my heart breaking along with his. I hesitated slightly before asking, “Would you like to see her?”
He hesitated before whispering, “I can do that?” I nodded and smiled sadly. He went over to the bed and gently picked up the baby. I couldn’t help but cringe at how cold and gray she was. I slipped behind the curtains and left a note by his jacket saying he was welocome to stay here as long as he needed.
I crossed the yard and entered the house. I visited Leo’s room and watched his sweet little face. I lay down next to him and sobbed into his pillow, trying not to wake him. He rolled over in his sleep and nestled into my arms.
The next few months were a little touch and go, I began to cry at the drop of a hat and going to Quinn Torres’ funeral did not bring closure, but only more guilt. Even my midwife job had taken a hit as word spread around that someone had died during a delivery that I oversaw. I understood though, and was glad that Leo and I had our savings. 
It was a rainy evening in March, and I was helping Leo figure out his homework when a soft knock on the door interrupted us. I gave him a reassuring smile as I made my way to the door. I opened the door, only to have my arms fill with Mary Kay Shallow as she cries onto my shoulder, “He’s gone! He’s gone! I can’t do this anymore! He’s gone!”
***Karly’s new House!*****
Kitchen
Sitting Area
Karly’s New Piano! 
Living room
Master Bedroom 1
Master Bedroom 2
Bathroom
Leo’s room (once he ages up)
Leo’s room 2
~Karly’s P.O.V~
Leo and I were snuggling in our cozy new home on a Sunday evening. It had been ten months since we left Bridgeport. Since then, my experience with delivering Leo’s half-sister, Audriana, I had been inspired to become a certified midwife. So a few classes and a TON of hours of practice and labs and such, I was now running my own clinic from my home. It was really exciting! I had my first client appointment tomorrow. I was so stoked! 
“Leo, Grandpa Kevin is coming to watch you tomorrow while mommy goes to work okay?” Leo smiled shyly and rubbed his face into my neck. He hadn’t said much of anything since we had been reunited. The doctor assured me that it was completely normal for Leo to react this way. I was just happy to have him with me. I had barely let my dad watch him a few times until they got used to each other.
My dad. Those words were so foreign to me. I was still getting to know Kevin, but he and his wife moved here about 3 months after we did. Leo love his grandpa and I was slowly getting to know him. It was still an awkward relationship since we had first met via my ex-boyfriend, aka my brother. Speaking of my brother, he had come out to visit Leo and I about a month ago. Things were becoming more normal for us, in the sense that I didn’t turn bright red every time I looked at him. He was still really sweet with Leo. I was blessed.
Leo put his hands on my face and I kissed his hands and then his forehead, which then led to a tickle fight. His face bright pink as he giggled, I couldn’t help but hug him tighter to my chest. We both fell asleep on the sofa. The light streaming in the window woke me up in the morning. I sat up straight and checked the time. Phew! Only 7 a.m. I woke up Leo gently, “Hey Bubba, Grandpa is going to be here soon.
Once he woke up, I fed him a quick breakfast while trying to get myself ready. I kissed Leo goodbye as my dad out him in the car.
“I’ll come pick him up at 3 if that’s okay.”
My dad put his hand on my shoulder, “Why don’t you let Leo stay the night? You need a night off.
I shrugged reluctantly, “Let me see how today goes.”
My dad nodded understandingly, “Alright. Love ya.” He climbed in the car and I watched them drive away.
I went to the building at the edge of our property, and opened the door. I turned on the lights and beamed at my little clinic
I had just finished putting away the last few things when i heard the door open. I made my way out to the front and was greeted by a very pregnant woman. I held out my hand, “Hi, I’m Karly Starch. Are you June?” She nodded slightly, “Hello.”
There was an awkward pause as I tried to think of the best way to make her comfortable,”So, how far along are you?” I looked to her for permission to hold my hands against her belly. She nodded while saying, “I’m 39 weeks.” I blew out my breath, “Wow. That’s pretty far along. Have you been checked out by anyone yet.” She nodded slowly, “I want to have this baby naturally, but because of my ‘advanced age’ I will most likely have a C-section or an epidural.” I tried not to seem nervous, “How old are you?” I asked as I whipped out a new chart for her. “39.” I breathed a sigh of relief. Anyone over 40, I had to strongly recommend that they go to the hospital to deliver.” I smiled warmly and helped her up onto the examination table.
“Do you know what you’re having?” She smiles,”A little girl.” I give her a smile as I measure her belly and take some other notes, “Is this your first?” She stares wistfully at the ceiling, “Nope I have two 16-year-old twins.” I try not to show my surprise as I finish up her exam, “Okay, Mrs. Shallow. You’ll come back next Monday and see if we need to induce you. If you feel like you’re going into labor, call me, no matter the time. Oh and I think that since you’re considered an advanced age in the medical field, I want you to give birth here in the clinic. I have a comfortable bed and as soon as we make sure that you’ll be okay, you’ll be free to go home.” She nods and thanks me and then she walks out the front door.
The minute she’s gone, I do a happy dance in my office. I check my watch and call my father, “Hi, Kev…er-Dad.”
He chuckles softly, “You realize you do that every time you call me?”
I grin sheepishly, “Haha okay. Maybe I do. Anyways, I was seeing if your offer to take Leo for the night was still open?” He answered with a surprised yes, and we hung up shortly thereafter.
I made my way into the house, trying not to think or worry about Leo. I tried to get some work done on his room for his upcoming birthday. I ended up giving up and going to bed early.
It was a good thing too, because the phone rang around midnight, jarring me awake. I groaned softly and pulled my body out of bed. 
I sat up slowly and grabbed the phone, “H-hello?”
I heard June’s pained voice on the other end, “I’m…..ouhhhuh……having contractions.” I tried not to jump around excitedly, “Okay, head on over to my house and we’ll get you on the table to make sure.”
I sent a quick text to my dad, explaining why I may or may not be there to pick up Leo in the morning. I tugged on my clothes and went to make a huge pot of coffee. 
The doorbell rang shortly and I let June in. I looked behind her but no one was there, “Is anyone with you, June?” She shook her head as her body tensed with a contraction, “My…….husband has a business……… convention in Moonlight…………… Falls.” She panted once the contraction ended. 
“How long have these been happening?” I asked as she laid on the exam table. She winced as I checked her cervix , “Since about o’clock in the evening. I thought it might just be……owwwwwowwowowow…..Braxten-Hicks but then they started getting more intense.” I nodded, and then met her eyes, “Well, this is the real deal, you’re 3 centimeters and about 70% effaced. If you want to have this baby at the hospital, now’s the time to go.” She shook her head fervently, so I helped her off of the table and said, “I’ll go grab you a gown, and then we’ll move you onto the labor bed.” She looked down at her feet, or rather her belly which was hiding her feet, “I was kinda hoping I could uhh just..be…..well, naked.” I nodded understandingly, many women like to hold their babies, skin to skin, when they were born. I led her past the curtains and to the bed, where she undressed while I prepped the fetal monitor.
An hour later, she had made a lot of progress and was about 5 centimeters and 100% effaced. In another hour or two, she’d be ready to push. I helped her in any way that I could. I’d rub her lower back during contractions and I made sure she was drinking enough water. 
When she reached 10 centimeters about three hours later, I had her scoot to the edge of the bed and begin to push. I held her knees for her while she grunted and moaned. Her contractions began happening every 20 seconds, and I started to see the baby’s head. 
I bent over, ready to help the baby, “She’s almost here, June. You’re doing amazing. On your next contraction, push really hard and we might just get to meet her.” At the next contraction, June bore down and pushed and pushed and pushed. She panted heavily when the contraction ended, her eyes closed, “Is she out yet?” I smiled and said, “Her head is fully crowned, so this next contraction you’ll pant like heavy short breaths and push in sync with your breath. Make sense?” She nodded her head as the next contraction hit her like a wave. Pretty soon I was laying a pink globby baby girl on her chest, “Oh! Oh! I did it! I did it!” June began to cry and I rubbed her back, trying to contain my excitement. I had just officially delivered my first baby! “What are you going to name her?” June gazed lovingly at her baby girl, who was squalling and whimpering, “I think I’ll call her Shayla.” I smiled as I began to take Shayla to make sure she was healthy, “That’s a really pretty name,” I cooed to the baby as I weighed her and checked her heart and eyes and gave her a good once-over, “All right, June, you have a healthy, beautiful baby girl.”
I spent a few more hours there, cleaning up June and the bay, making sure the placenta delivered easily.
I took June home, at the end of the day, where I found that she was sooooo rich, her garage probably cost more than my house. I felt like I was walking into a castle. Once she was all settled, the maid took over for me so that I could go pick up Leo.
I swung by Kevin, my dad, whoever he is’ house and grabbed some dinner.
When we got home, I swung Leo in the air, “Hey lil’ guy! Mama missed you. Did you have fun at Grandpa’s?” He nodded his head and stuck his thumb into his mouth,. I set him down before tickling him and saying, “Mama’s going to go check the mail, do you want to come?” He shook his head no and wandered off to his toy box. 
I was startled to find a package shoved into the mailbox, I don’t remember buying anything off of Simazon lately. I quickly opened the package and pulled out a fragile card with baby boots on it. It read,
Dear Karly,
We have yet to meet in person but I contacted your school that you trained through and I hear you’re one of the top midwives they’ve trained. My husband and I would love for you to fly out to Fortress Rock and deliver our first child for us. Of course, all travel expenses and ample compensation will be made. We will need you to come and join us this Friday because I am due the following Friday. In total, it should be about a two-week trip at the max.
Thank you in advance,
Cambria and Carter Logan
(Karly is being featured in AtlasSims’ story, The Logan Legacy. Go check it out!)
I quickly mailed my response to the Logans. I would leave here Thursday night and arrive there Friday morning. I debated about bringing Leo with me, but I decided that I would have to take a huge step(for me) and have him stay with my dad one week and then my mom would come and stay with him at our house the second week. I smiled excitedly and rushed inside to get out of the rain!
Karly couldn’t stop the tears as she held Isabella’s daughter. All of these memories from when Leo was her age flooded Karly’s brain. When Isabella was dressed and ready to go home, they talked about the game plan, or as Karly like called it “Operation Kidnap the Kidnapee”. Isabelle agreed to have Officer Crewe on standby with Karly to act as backup. Isabella was going to carefully walk home and pretend she didn’t just give birth in the forest. When she got the chance to warn Nico, she would. Once Miguel had left the house with Carlos again, which would hopefully be sooner than later, Karly and Officer Crewe would come and rescue everybody. 
A few hours later, Karly struggled to keep the baby girl happy. She only wanted her mother’s milk, but it was something Karly could not give her. Officer Crewe took the baby girl and bounced her on his shoulder until she fell asleep. “Thank you, Officer.” Karly sighed. The officer blushed and said, “You can call me Matthew. I think that standing as backup in the forest with someone counts as being friends, or at least on a first-name basis.” Karly smirked, “Ok, Matthew.” They sat down on a log and tried to keep the baby from stirring as the sun went down in front of them. “I don’t know how we’ll keep her warm if it gets any colder,” said Karly. Matthew pulled out a woolen scarf from his back pocket, “I keep in case of emergencies.” They shared a secret smile as they wrapped up the baby.” Matthew froze when they heard a shot ring out through the night, “I have to go make sure everyone is okay, Karly stay here with the baby and stay low.”
~Meanwhile~
Isabella had walked in the front door, only to meet Miguel’s disgusted gaze,”Where have you been?” Isabella calmly replied, “I had a headache and I took a walk to get some fresh air. I got a little lost but I found my way back.” Miguel curled his hand into a fist and punched the nearby wall, “I was afraid that I would have to kill off your son, since you had taken the baby and gone.” Isabella’s eyes widened in fear, “No! I am still due any day now. I promise! There is no need to hurt the boy!” Miguel chuckled darkly, “Very well, for now.” Isabella scurried around the kitchen, trying to hurry up so that she could go to bed and rest. She put her feet up on the eventually, but she was too afraid to fall asleep. She must have dozed off because the sound of a gunshot very near her startled her awake. Only to find a new hole in their ceiling and a gun pointed at her oldest son.
“I know that she had the baby! Now where is she hiding it?” Miguel was standing angrily in front of Nico. He leveled the gun to his forehead, “Don’t think I won’t shoot, boy. This baby is going to cost me a lot more than you ever will.” Nico stood unwavering, “I do not know, Papa. She went out for a walk and I was here the whole time with the boy.” Another gunshot hit the ceiling. Miguel put his gun down and went over to his son. He boxed his ear on one side and the other. Not stopping until there was blood all over his fists. Miguel leveled the gun at Nico and huffed out, “One more chance, boy. Where is that baby?” Nico’s chin quivered, “I don’t-” The sound of the door being broken down, interrupted Nico. Officer Crewe came in with his gun raised, “Miguel Drake! Put the gun down!” 
Miguel glanced between his sons and the officer, “And if I don’t?” Officer Crewe fired his gun into the ground. The bullet landed right between Miguel’s legs, “Consider that your warning shot. Now put the gun down!”(a.n. I don’t know why he randomly has glasses but oh well. too late) Miguel looked as if he were going to comply but sudden;y his gun was refocused onto Nico. Officer Crewe wasted no time. 
With one shot to the chest, Miguel fell backwards and began to bleed heavily. He tried to grasp his gun but Officer Crewe kicked it away from him. Nico looked as if he were about to faint. 
Officer Crewe radioed the ambulance while Nico tried to comfort the screaming toddler. Officer Crewe looked up at Nico, “I’m sorry, but I don’t think he’s going to make it. Is there anything you want to say to him?” Nico shook his head vigorously, “That man is not my father.” 
Suddenly Carlos burst through the door, “Bro! Look who I found outside! Some pretty flaca we can play with.”
Karly tried not to gulp with fear when she was nudged by his gun on the bottom of her spine. She stepped forward, noticing Leo for the first time. Her heart leapt to her throat and she began to cry softly. Lucky for them all, Leo had his head nuzzled into Nico’s shoulder, so he didn’t notice his mother.
Carlos stopped short at the sight of his father on the floor,”Papa! Are you alright? What happened? Papa! Papa!” He turned accusingly towards his brother but movement from his father kept him from speaking. Miguel weakly waved his hand, motioning Carlos closer. Carlos kissed his father on the cheek, “Yes, Papa?” Miguel whispered ever so faintly, “The policia. Kill him.” Miguel gave a weak groan and breathed his last. Carlos’ tears grew hot with vengeance and fury. He stood up quickly and without thinking, pulled out his gun. 
Before anyone could blink, Carlos sent 3 shots into his chest. The officer stumbled backwards and tipped over. He clutched his chest and uttered a last cry, “Karly.” 
(a.n. I couldn’t get this pose to work so I’m sorry about the random hand from nowhere.) Karly ran to Matthew, “No! nononononononononononooooooooooooo! She scooped his head in her lap and cried over him. She held his hand as his eyes fluttered for a brief second and then closed forever. “I’m sorry, Matthew. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. It’s my fault. I should never have dragged you into this.” Karly cried out. Carlos was about to shut her up with the butt of his gun when the police stormed through the door, “Everyone on your knees! Hands in the air! Someone get CSU down here. We got tow GSW victims.”
After everyone’s statements were taken, Isabella had silent tears streaming down her face while she watched them put her boy in handcuffs. She called after the police, “Wait! I have one thing to say to my boy.” They brought Carlos to a stop in front of her. She touched his cheek lightly, “You don’t have to be your father or any other sort of man. You just be you, my son.Killing people? This is not you. That’s your father. I love you, son.” Carlos bowed his head in shame, while they hauled him into the squad car.
After Matthew’s body had been covered, CPS released Leo to Karly. She ran over to him and collapsed into tears as she scooped him into her arms, “My baby! Oh, Honey!” 
(The feels man, the feels. I literally burst into tears whenever I look at this picture.) 
She held him for a long time until Isabella approached her, with the baby girl in her arms, “Karly I just wanted to say thank you for saving me and my little Adrienne. Also, I’m sorry to have taken your boy away, I now know how awful that feels.” By the time she finished talking, both women had tears streaming down their faces. When the tears let up, Isabella asked, “So what’s next for you and Leo?” Karly thought for a second, “I think we’re getting out of the city. I have been looking at houses in Appaloosa Plains, but nothing’s decided yet.” Isabella gave her an awkward hug, “Even though you were the other woman, I still feel like you’re my best friend.” They shared a laugh at this and then began to part ways.
~Karly’s P.O.V.~
It’s funny how much can change in three months. After that awful, yes so wonderful night, I began going to counseling while trying not to smother and spoil Leo. Now if this were any normal story, I think it would usually end right here, but since when have I been normal, huh? With a little help from my parents…parents!…….I was able to buy a house in Appaloosa Plains. Leo and I arrived yesterday and everything is so beautiful out here!
About a month or so after I got Leo back, I decided to change everything about me, since I am a new person….better….stronger….wiser. I can’t wait to see what adventures Appaloosa Plains has for us, but I’m also afraid I’ll never be able to let Leo out of my sight ever again. I guess you’ll just have to keep reading and find out! 🙂
Karly
Just a warning, this chapter is going to be the worst one in terms of gore and blood and some nudity.
Miguel was sitting down deep in thought when he received a call on his cell. He snapped open his phone and practically growled, “What?” A muffled voice through on the other line, “Sir, the package is ready for delivery.” Miguel smirked darkly, “Alright well my end is almost complete. Isabella is due any day. Soon you’ll have what you want.” After they ended the call Miguel’s wife approached him meekly. 
“If you wouldn’t mind, Mig-…I mean….Sir, can I skip dinner tonight and take an extra hour to sleep? The baby is kicking up a storm these days and I have not been sleeping well.” Miguel put his hand on the back of her head, “Of course, mi amor, just remember something…” Isabella dared a glance at his face, “What?” Miguel chuckled darkly, “Do not get attached to this baby. If it is a girl, you know what we must do.” Isabella had tears running down her cheeks, “But Miguel, I do not want our daughter to become someone’s child bride.” Miguel swung the back of his hand across her cheeks, “You think I’m stupid? I know you don’t want to, but if we are going to be in business with this man, it’s important that he gets what he wants.” Isabella held her face in her hands, “What is so important about this man?” Miguel grabbed a fistful of her hair and put his face right in front of hers, “You wouldn’t understand.” 
Miguel backed up and helped Isabella to her feet, his eyes resting on her belly. Any day now she was going to give birth. He helped her lie down and treated her like a queen until she fell asleep. Miguel entertained his newly acquired son, pushing away the thoughts that haunted him. His near death experience. A few days after his son was born, Miguel had gotten in too deep with his gambling debt. The main man of the underground ring had paid him a visit, only to later have his scarier friend join them. Together they beat and tortured Miguel until he agreed to relinquish whatever money he had. When they were done with him, they threw him in a pre-dug grave and tried to bury him alive. What they didn’t account for is Miguel still having cell service while he was six feet under. So with the help of a few buddies and one heck of a tracking app, Miguel was alive and hiding in the middle of the Bridgeport Briar Forest. 
The light knock on the door, hurried Miguel out his thoughts. He opened the door and smiled wide at his two teenage sons. Carlos strode in, demanding answers, while Nico stood coolly in the distance. ( Carlos has the mustache.) “Dad, where have you been for the last year and a half, huh? You and mom just took off and left. We came here the minute we got your message. How are you going to explain this, eh?” Miguel put his hand on Carlos’ shoulders,”Listen, mijo, there are many men out there who want me dead. Your mom and I are hiding out here until it is safe for us to depart from this wretched city. We were so sorry to leave you, but Bianca knew what was going on and she vowed to take care of you.” At the mention of Bianca, Carlos snorted huffily,” Yeah, a fine job she did.” Miguel arched an eyebrow and waited for Carlos to elaborate, “Oh, you didn’t know? Oh, well, she has made a killing as a stripper in that new club, Planet something or other. She makes great tips.” Miguel had to keep himself from wrapping his hands around his son’s neck. He realized how his leaving had forced Bianca to grow up in more ways than one. He motioned to the corner of the room, where Isabella slept, “Go on boys. Say hi to your mother.”
The boys stood at the foot of the bed, waiting, for what though, they weren’t sure. Miguel nudged them closer and finally, it was Nico who made the first move. He went to the side of Isabella’s bed and put his hand gently on her shoulder, “Mami, it’s me Nico.” He nearly gasped out loud at the bruise on the side of her cheek when she rolled over,” Mmmph, my stomach hurts,” she said sleepily before opening her eyes all of the way. She blinked owlishly at Nico until she realized who he was. She nearly jumped out of bed and wrapped her arms around him, “Nico, my baby, you have grown up so much.” Nico let his mom hug him, trying not to cry.
Isabelle waddled over to Carlos and gave him a big bear hug. He laughed awkwardly but didn’t stop her. Miguel pulled the two of them apart, “Okay break it up. I have some business to discuss with Carlos.” Isabella went back towards Nico and tried to reconcile the image of the little boy he used to be, with the near-adult he was now.” 
“I’m going to need you to come with me tonight when I drop off a package. I need an extra pair of eyes on me and my surroundings.” Carlos nodded respectfully, his heart just as dark as his father’s. Miguel motioned towards Nico who had yet to speak a word to him,
“Son, you stay here and protect your mom and brother.” Nico scoffed, “Pah! That guero is no brother of mine.” Miguel sent an angry hand flying across Nico’s jaw, “You’ll obey and respect me, boy!” Nico looked up at Miguel spitefully, “Is this what you do to Mami when she doesn’t respect and obey you?” Miguel held himself in check while he replied coolly, “It is what I do to anybody who disrespects and disobeys me. You will keep an eye on your mother and the boy.”
Miguel turned an angry eye toward Carlos who looked caught in the middle of them, “Come, son, let’s go get this deal over with.” Carlos sent an apologetic glance towards his twin and followed his father out of the door. 
Nico looked at the kid and didn’t know what to do with him, “I guess you’re my brother, but we sure as heck don’t share a mother.” The curly-haired tot giggled shyly and poked Nico’s cheek. Nico moved to put him on the ground, only to have the toddler cry and fuss.
He scooped him back up and began to tickle him and make funny faces at him. The kid smiled shyly. The only time he got a giggle out of the toddler was when he made silly faces and voices, “Well, hello thar’ ya lil’ young’n. ” Nico continued to do this until his mother groaned, “Is everything okay, Mami?”
Isabella grimaced and rubbed her head, “Oh nothing honey, just a little headache, I think I’m going to walk around and get some fresh air.” Nico glanced nervously around, “Are you sure it’s safe?” Isabella laughed nervously, “It’s only your father who’s in great danger. I’ll be fine.” Nico stopped his mom by putting his hand on her shoulder, “Mami, why does he treat you so awful? Why do you stick around?” Isabella’s eyes filled with tears before whispering, “He’ll kill you if I don’t.”
~Meanwhile~
Karly heard a knock on the door and mentally groaned. Who knows the last time she showered, let alone put on new clothes. She pulled her oily hair back and called out, “Just a sec!” She threw on one of Seth’s old shirts that he had left here before they broke up.
She was now somewhat presentable. She opened the door, only to come face to face with the officer that was there when she came to the morning that Leo had gone missing. She stood back to let him in, all the while, hoping against hope that he had come with some good news. “Hello,Officer. How can I help you?”
Officer Crewe took in the sight of this frail disheveled woman who had opened the door. She looked like a complete wreck since the last time he had seen her, and she wasn’t in too good of a shape then either. He glanced at her wrists and guessed that she had lost 10-15 pounds and by the way her makeup was smudged, she had been crying recently. Not that she didn’t have a reason to. She smiled thinly and he watched as was almost bursting at the seams with unanswered questions. 
“I’m sorry for the interruption, Miss Starch. I don’t have any news on your son-“
Before he could finish his sentence, Karly burst into tears in front of him. He looked down at his feet, unsure of what to do.
Before thinking about what he was doing, he pulled her into a friendly hug and let her cry against his shoulder. She cried for a few more seconds and then wiped her cheeks and apologized profusely. “Oh my. I’m so sorry. I just had hoped- I mean, I haven’t heard- I’m so sorry.” He shook his hand and waved off her attempts to wipe his shoulder clean. He took a deep breath, “As I was saying, there has been some underground chatter about a man named, Miguel Drake. Does that mean anything to you?” Karly jumped up excitedly, “Yes! That man is Leo’s father, er sperm donor more like it. He hasn’t seen him since the day he was born.” The officer shrugged his shoulders, “Well we got a tip that he was staying somewhere in the Bridgeport Briar Forest. I’m not technically on duty and I could always use a fresh pair of eyes. Would you be up-” Karly smiled the ghost of a smile and almost screamed “Yes! Anything is better than being in an empty home and wrestling with your heart over whether you think there’s any hope of seeing Leo again.”
Before Karly knew it, they were riding out of Bridgeport city and heading into the more rural parts of the town. She tried to keep up the light conversation but ended up staring wistfully out the window. Hoping beyond hope that today would be the day she saw her little boy. 
They made it to the forest in no time. At first, Karly was unsure of what they were looking for, but Officer Crewe assured her that they weren’t looking for anything specific but just anything out of the ordinary. 
What Karly wasn’t prepared for was the two bodies they found ripped open in a field. She shuddered and gasped, and then promptly lost her lunch. Officer Crewe radioed his squad members, “Calling squad B, Bridgeport Briar Forest, 2 dead vics. Seems to be mutilation and maybe a GSW to the head.” Karly sat down against a tree in the distance. Drawing deep breaths, she tried to get the picture out of her head. She nearly jumped out of her skin when Officer Crewe sat down next to her, “I’m sorry you had to see that.” She nodded politely, “Do you think it was Miguel?” The officer shrugged, “It’s hard to know at this point. Once CSU has combed through the field, we’ll know for sure.” He looked around nervously, “My gut feeling is that he is the one behind this.”
Before either of them could speak, a piercing scream filled the air. Karly shivered nervously. Officer Crewe went to check it out, but came back only moments later. “There is a woman in labor. she is refusing my help. I think it might be because of my uniform. Do you think you can go help her?” Karly looked past the officer uncertainly before nodding her head.
The last person she expected to see was Isabella Drake, in a crouched position, moaning and crying.
Isabella looked up to the approaching footsteps, praying it wasn’t Miguel. To her surprise it was the little boy’s mother. The other woman, she thought. Sweat dripped down her forehead as she worked through the contraction. 
When Karly knelt down in front of her, Isabella pretended to ignore her and sent her hateful glances. Karly looked at her cautiously, “I know that I am probably the last person you want to see right now. I know that you probably hate me right now, but whether you like it or not, your baby is coming. I can help if you’d like.” Isabella relented and straightened up on her bottom, “You can’t help me.” she whispered nervously. Karly cocked her head to the side, questioningly. Isabella elaborated, “Miguel. He’ll kill my boy, Nico, and your boy too.” Karly didn’t know whether to cry or to scream, “M-my boy? Leo? He’s alive?” Isabella nodded but a contraction put a stop to this conversation.
“Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaugh!” Isabella cried out, “Screw Miguel, I need your help!” 
Karly helped Isabella get her pants and underwear off without a hassle. It was so warm out that Karly convinced Isabella she’d feel better without her thick top on. She called out to Officer Crewe and told him to get ahold of an ambulance but Isabella refused and refused until Karly gave in. Officer Crewe went back to the field with the bodies, while the women prepared to have a baby. 
Isabella cried out and arched her back as a contraction tore through her, “Ohhhhhhhh nooo, I can’t do this.” She began sobbing hysterically and clutching her stomach. Karly looked around and racked her brain for words of comfort. She tried her hardest to focus on Isabella but her mind kept straying back to Leo. A sharp cry from Isabella brought her back to the present. 
She was about to check on the baby’s progress when she began to doubt her abilities. Who am I to deliver this baby? How am I going to deliver this baby? She shook her head and pushed through her fears while checking the baby’s position. “Okay, Isabella, I see the baby’s head. It’s a beautiful curly head. On this next contraction let’s give it a go and push, ok?” Isabella shook her head slowly, with tears streaming down her face, “I can’t…..I can’t bring this baby into the world. I just can’t do it.” Karly put her hand on Isabella’s shoulders, “As unlikely as it seems, I am here to help you. Whatever you’re afraid of, we’ll fight it. We’re in this together. You and I.” Isabella nodded her head determinedly. When the next wave of contractions came, Isabella bore down and pushed. Within the hour, Karly was holding a wrinkly, brown beautiful baby girl. She wrapped up the baby with her jacket and handed her to Isabella, who refused to even look at the baby. Karly took a deep breath, “Isabella? What’s wrong? Your baby girl is beautiful and healthy as can be.” Isabella broke down into tears, “He’s going to take my baby. She’s going to be some pervert’s personal child slave. I can’t let that happen to my baby. Karly can you help me? I promise, I’ll show you where your son is if you help me flee the city.” Karly bit her lip before making a decision, “Okay. Let’s do it.”
The brightness of the morning opened Karly’s heavy lids. She put a hand to her head, trying to calm the pounding in her temple. She sat up straight, “Leo!” The sudden movement caused her to lurch forward, so she got onto her hands and knees, trying to remember what happened. She had been hit with something and as she faded to blackness, she had heard Leo’s faint cries.
“Ma’am, are you okay?” a quiet voice interrupted her musings. She turned her eyes toward the stranger’s voice,. only to have her eyes rest upon a police officer. Ignoring her aching head, she sprung to her feet.
She put a frantic grip on the man’s shoulder, “You’ve got to help me! They’ve taken him! He’s gone!.” At the mention of Leo, Karly dissolved into a sobbing heap, praying that her little boy was out there somewhere, safe and sound. The police officer blinked owlishly, “Ma’am, how old is your little boy?”
“15 months old.”
“How long has he been missing?”
“Wha-what time is it now? I had him with me here at 7 p.m. last night. I was trying to catch up to him when something or someone hit me in the back of my head and knocked me out cold. I remember hearing him cry out for me but then it all went black.”
“Okay, Miss..?”
“Karly, Karly Starch”
“Okay, I’m going to radio this and we’ll have all available squad members begin a search for him. Can you give me a description of him?”
“Yes. He is about 3 ft tall white male with dark curls and the bluest eyes you’ve ever seen. Just…..bring him back. Is there anything I can do?”
“I’m sorry Ma’am, I would go to the hospital and get your lump on your hed checked out, and then come into the station so we can keep you up to date. Alright?”
“Okay. Here is my number in case anything comes up.” Karly handed him her number on the back of a crumpled receipt and headed towards the hospital.
~Meanwhile~
In a small cabin at the heart of the Bridgeport Briar Forest, Leo began to cry for his Mama again, when he heard a loud smack, “Come on! I told you to keep the brat quiet.” Another loud smack followed by hushed cries. His new mom came over and gave him a cookie with a pat on his back, she was crying softly, just like mama did. Leo reached up and put his hands on cheeks, “No cry, I quiet.”
He toddled off to play with his toys quietly. He heard the stranger lady move around the small cabin, cleaning and putting things away. Leo moved into the toy bin and pretended he was in his crib at home, and Mama was singing him a lullaby. He stopped when he felt someone’s eyes on him. 
The mean man who hit his new mom was watching him and holding something really shiny in his hands. Leo knew well enough to keep his distance from the man. Something seemed to be making him mad, and then Leo heard the smoke alarm go off. The man stood up and grabbed his new mom’s wrist and hit her across the face with his shiny thing, “How hard is it to make pasta, woman?!?!” She whimpered a reply as he raised his hand to strike her again, when a sound from outside made him freeze. 
Leo watched the man walk around with his shiny thing raised as he paced around carefully, and then he disappeared around the corner. Leo went back to playing until two loud booms rang out. They sounded like thunder and lightning. Leo moved to hide under the bed. He fell asleep there, crying softly and wishing his Mama were here to hold him. 
The sound of the t.v. being turned on caused Leo to wake up. He crawled out from under the bed tentatively. New mom was cooking again and the mean man was sitting on the couch, wiping his shiny thing down with a cloth. Leo meandered around the room when his tummy rumbled. He tugged on new mom’s pants, “Leo eat now?” She smiled absent-mindedly and handed him a bottle. One taste and the milk was sour. Leo began to cry, wanting something different. The mean man stood up and came toward him, making Leo cry even harder. After picking him up, the mean man grinned furiously, “Be quiet, or I’ll make you be quiet.” Leo stopped the tars but he couldn’t stop his lip from trembling. The man set him down near the toy box with a new bottle, and smacked new mom on the back of the head, “Next time, make sure the milk is fresh, idiot. I can’t have my prince getting sick here.” Leo crawled behind his crib and finished his bottle, unsure of what to think of the mean man.
~Meanwhile~
Karly had gone top the hospital to get her head checked out, and ran into Seth. She clung to him and he helped her get a speedy checkup. They left early with Karly feeling much better on the pain meds. Seth drove Karly to the police station and they sat together in the waiting room, unsure of how to act. They waited in nerve-wracking silence for an hour until Karly nearly screamed at the office manager, demanding to see the officer she had talked to earlier. Unable to reach him, the office manager was able to get a hold of the police chief , who assured Karly that they had almost all of their guys out looking for the Leo.
Later that evening, the young officer came into the station looking weary and beaten. Karly perked up at the sight of him until he shook his head sadly, “There have been no signs of the boy. No clues, nothing.” The officer took off his hat and wiped his forehead, “Technically, I’m off duty but some of the squad and I are going to hike through Bridgeport Briar Forest with the hounds tonight, to see if we can get any leads.” Karly tried her hardest not to panic, and thanked the officer for all of the effort he was putting in.” Karly and Seth fell asleep on the couch in the waiting area of the police station, and slept fitfully there, the rest of the night.
The next morning, the news was the same, and the morning after that, and the morning after that. It went on like this for two weeks, until the police chief had to make the hardest decision of his life. They were going to call off the investigation. Chances were slim to none that the boy was even alive by now. 
Seth comforted Karly ion the big brother manner that he was getting used to. She sobbed and sobbed until she became sick to her stomach. She was dark under the eyes and completely run ragged. Seth held her and comforted her, while trying to hold it together himself.
~Karly’s P.O.V.~
“Karls, did you hear me?” I shook my head and snapped out of my trance, “I’m sorry. What?” He chuckled, “I just asked you to marry me…..”
I put my hand over his and gently shut the engagement box, “I’m sorry, Seth, it’s all too fast. I’ve had a hell of an evening, you wouldn’t believe.” I blew out a big breath, “My mother just informed me that your father is also….my…..father.”
“What? How-?” I smiled sadly, “Yeah, my thoughts exactly. I’m sorry.” He shrugged his shoulders uncomfortably, “So what happens to us?” Tear filled my eyes, “I don’t think it can work, Seth.” he started to turn like he was about to leave, “Wait! Listen to me, Seth. I can’t thank you enough for this last year. I wouldn’t change a thing. You gave me Leo when I needed him most, and that’s the best gift of all.” We were both crying now, until he broke the silence, “So I guess I’ll see you at Christmas?” I meant to laugh, but it came out as a harsh sob and it wouldn’t stop. He pulled me into his arms for one final embrace. Without meaning to, I turned my head to say something, but his lips found mine and we shared one last passionate kiss. “Just so you know, I would have said yes, if you weren’t my brother.” I whispered as he untangled himself from me.
******************************************************************
3 Months later
“Mama play?” Leo asked me eagerly. I shook my head despondently, “Mama’s gonna watch, ‘kay?” He giggled happily and clapped his hands. I was trying, really really trying to get out this funk I had been in. It had been three months since Seth proposed to me. I felt like I was just going through the motions each day. 
Try as I might, I couldn’t help but dissolving into tears at random moments. I wasn’t eating well so it made me lethargic, and when I did eat, I would just throw it back up half the time. I had gone to see a doctor about it, but he attributed it to stress and grief. 
“Mama, look!” Leo’s little voice brought me to the present and I shook my head, “What is it, baby?” He held up his rocket proudly, “two…….free……..blast off!” He continued making the sound effects as I drifted back into my own thoughts. I didn’t notice him again until he planted himself on my lap and put his hands on my cheeks, “Mama, cry?” I nodded my head slightly, and tried to smile at him. He wiped my cheeks and gave me a big sloppy kiss, “I make Mama no cry.” I laughed and tickled his little belly. We played until he fell asleep on my lap. 
I scooped him up and went to lay him in his crib, but at the last second, I put him on my shoulder and sat in the rocking chair. I began crying harder, but for a different reason. I’m letting precious time slip through my fingers. If I’m not careful, he’ll be off to high school before you’re ‘feeling better’. I let myself cry a little while longer before resolving to be less trance-like, and more like a mom. 
When he woke up, I threw him in the tub, because who knows how long it had been since we’ve both gotten clean. Leo clapped his hands and attempted to sing “Little Little Star” for me. 
It was the first time I had really smiled in a long time. I kissed each of his little fingers and toes as I scrubbed them off.
“Leo, do you want to go to the park today?” this was met with an excited shriek and hand claps, “Park! I wanna park!” 
We set off for the new Bridgeport Butterfly park, with Leo giving the running babble commentary, “Mama, twees! Mama, A wock! Mama, a bunnerfy! Mama…..” and it went on and on for the whole 20 minutes until we reached the park. I didn’t mind though, I liked trying to figure out what he was saying. I set him down out of the stroller and watched as he tumbled off. I smiled at how brave he was and I gasped when he went straight for the fireman’s pole. This kid’s keeping me on my toes! 
We stayed for the whole afternoon, when the sun went down, I held out my arms, “C’mon, Leo, it’s time to go home, bud.” He stopped in his tracks and ran in the opposite direction, ” I no go home! I wanna stay.” I began to run after him when my phone rang, I reached into purse as I caught up to Leo. Before I could answer, I heard a loud *Thwunk!* sound and everything grew dark.
******************************************************************
* Meanwhile……………..
Leo shivered as the strange lady undressed him. Whenever he’d cry she would yell at him so he kept quiet. She put on some new clothes that smelled funny. He wrinkled his nose at the smell. The lady looked at him funny before saying, “Well, if I wasn’t sure before, then I am now. You’re most definitely his son.” Before Leo could cry for his mama, she shoved his old clothes under a nearby bush and shoved them both into a waiting taxi,
“Leo, I’m your new mom, okay?”
(Like the new cover photo?)
~Karly’s P.O.V.~
The big day was finally here! My baby boy’s first birthday. As sad as it was to think he’ll never be this little again, I was looking forward to being able to sleep through most nights. I held him close all morning while Seth and I prepped the apartment. It was only going to be his parents and mine, but it was still the first time everyone was going to meet. Needless to say, I was an (inner) nervous wreck. I literally froze when the doorbell rang promptly at 6. 
The first to arrive, Kevin and Theresa Littleton. I stood to the side awkwardly as Seth hugged his mom and clasped his dad’s hands. He beamed at them and introduced Leo and I,” Mom, Dad, this Karly and the little man of the hour, Leo.” I smiled shyly and shook their hands, “Thank you for taking the time to come. I know it’s weird since you’ve never met me and this is Leo’s birthday and all….” I trailed off nervously, “Sorry, I tend to ramble when I’m nervous.” His mom pulled me into a firm hug, “It’s great to meet you. Seth won’t stop talking about you and this little guy, “she took Leo from my arms and began cooing at him.
My moms flew through the door, “The party has arrived!” I rushed over and hugged them both. (The biggest question I get when people find out that I have two moms is, “Do you call them both ‘mom’?” So the way I grew up, curly haired mom was mama and long haired mom was mom or mommy. Don’t ask me why but it’s stuck throughout the years.)
My mom went to put the cake on the counter as I caught up with Mama, who I hadn’t seen since before I moved back to Bridgeport nearly 8 months ago. We chatted and laughed as she made goo eyes over the baby,”It’s been quiet around the house without you and Lil’ Leo.” I blushed and shrugged, “You’re just that because y’all are empty-nesters now.” She giggled before playfully nodding. Seth made his way out from the bathroom and I pulled him aside, “Mama, this is Seth, he’s not only my boyfriend, he’s also the one who delivered Leo.”
Seth blushed as my mom went on to compliment him on what a fine job he had done. I left them talking as I went to go find the candles for the cake. A short while later, after everyone had been enjoying some nice conversation, I announced, “Okay, everybody! It’s time for the birthday boy to blow out the candles!”
Everyone gave a big cheer as I lit the candle and we sang to him. I finally began feeling melancholy at the thought of my little boy growing up so fast. I don’t know how time flew by me. 
I shook myself out of my sad musings and helped Leo blow out his candle. I laughed at the sight of Seth and my mom blowing their birthday horns simultaneously. 
(Lol)
I cheered loudly as Leo smiled and grabbed a fistful of cake. I set him down as he sparkled in my arms. Before my very own eyes, my baby grew into a little boy!
~Insert Leo SPAM~
I admit, I was slightly disappointed that he got Miguel’s hair, but I noticed his facial features were all me, so it wasn’t too hard to deal with. 
I went to put Leo in his high chair, but Seth took him from arms, “Go visit with your mom. Leo and I will be just fine.” 
I kissed him on the cheek and went to join my mom at the table. We made light conversation until my mother mumbled through a mouthful of cake, “Mmm..it would have been nice to have some warning that you found your father and invited him here for Leo’s birthday. My question for you is…why are you dating your half-brother?” I dropped my fork on my plate, completely in shock. 
I pulled my mother’s arm into the bedroom where I turned and began to speak, “Tell me I heard you right. Did you say that was my father in there?” 
My mom took a deep breath, “Yes. I wasn’t sure until now. But I am 99.9% sure that man in there is, in fact, your father.” I coughed nervously, “well, I didn’t know! He’s Seth’s dad, that’s why he’s here. Oh my gosh! Seth? I’m dating my brother?” Mom cleared her throat uncomfortably, “Half-brother, but yes.” I groaned and shook my head. I turned to my mom, “Sorry, I know it’s not your fault, Mom.” We hugged and I went off to find Leo, trying to decide what to do about my new-found father.
~Lauren(Karly’s Mom)’s P.O.V.~
You can imagine the shock I received walking in the door of my daughter’s apartment, only to see her father there. her father! I was at a complete loss for words. I snuck glances at him all evening, trying to be subtle and see if he seemed to know or remember me. I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t. I got pregnant with Karly right after my 17th birthday. It had been one of the first months I had moved to Bridgeport, and I was surprised to be invited to this girl’s party. Although I never told anyone, this was a party to “turn me” being as I was the only open lesbian in my grade. So many different guys took a pass at me that night, when Kevin approached me, I was drunk, he was drunk, and I just wanted the night to be over with. So I let him take me to bed because he had been the nicest one to me so far. When I found out that i was pregnant, I made it clear that he was more than welcome to be involved in our lives but I never heard from him again. Anyways, he’s here now, so after Karly and I finished our discussion, I motioned for Kevin to come over.
I looked him dead in the eye, “Do you remember me?” His eyes got really wide before looking me up and down, a clear nope. He shook his head uncertainly, ” One of the city hall meeting maybe?” I shook my head, “It was a long time ago. I don’t really expect you to remember, except that we went to school together, and y’know, I had your baby, but, I mean, it’s all good.” His eyes grew even bigger, though I didn’t think it possible. He exclaimed, “Lauren something,right?” I smirked slightly, “Now you’re catching on!” 
His eyes darkened when he realized I was making fun of him, and he nearly yelled at me, “Hey! It’s been 23 years okay? I can barely remember what I had for breakfast these days.” I put my hand up to try to calm him down, “I didn’t mean anything by it, Kevin.” He seemed to calm down slightly at that but then it was my turn to get all fired up. I might have gray hair now but I’m still a redhead on the inside!, “You realize you missed out on having a beautiful, funny, wonderful daughter in your life? She had no one but me and my wife to come to father’s day at school./ No one to take her to the father-daughter dance. She needed you and you weren’t there!” 
It was his turn to get defensive now, “Listen, I didn’t mean to get you pregnant. It was a mistake-” I cut him off, “She was never a mistake. Don’t you ever talk about my daughter like that.” He shrugged and apologized, “I’m sorry, Lauren. I wanted to be there for both of you but I was a 16 year-old kid. I couldn’t find a job and the only thing my parents offered to pay for was an abortion, and I figured you wouldn’t let me near her if I ever brought that up. I tried to find you a few years later, but you had already left for somewhere else. I’ve wondered about my kid for the last 23 years.” We both looked at each other, not sure what to say next, but then I put my hand out, “Truce?” He took my hand and then hugged me before whispering in my ear, “I’m sorry you had to go through all of that alone.” I nodded quickly before I lost it and started bawling, “Would you like to meet your daughter?” He nearly jumped up and down but instead just nodded his head. I felt my eyes twinkle when I said, “You already have. Karly is your daughter……….”
~Karly’s P.O.V.~
I went out to the living room to find Leo fast asleep in Seth’s arm, burnt out from his sugar rush. I rubbed his sweet little forehead before thanking Seth. He kissed my cheek and I tried not to grimace. He laid Leo on the couch and came and put his arms around me. I began to cry softly, the reality of being in love with my own brother, hitting me hard. He rubbed my neck, “What’s wrong, Karls?” I shook my head ever so slightly and just let out a big sigh, “Sorry, just been a long day.” He ran to the kitchen to grab a tissue for me, which didn’t help stop the tears by the way. 
When I turned to look at him, I found him on his knees with a shiny black box in his hands,” Karly Starch, I’ve known you for a year now. Leo’s birthday marks the first day we met, so it might as well mark the day I proposed as well. I never thought I could someone so much it hurts. I love you, Karls, and I want you to be my wife.” 
I started crying, and I didn’t know what to tell him. Half of me knows a person can’t marry or have a family with their brother, but the other half of me says, “it’s love! who cares if he your brother?” What was I going to say????
A couple of months later, after that embarrassing debacle at the park, I was still licking my wounds and trying to rationalize why it freaked me out so much. I was just out of the shower and getting Leo ready for daycare, when I heard a soft knock on the door.
I opened the door, and Seth’s features filled up my view, “Seth? Uh-er- what are you doing here? I mean…uh how can I help you?” I mentally kicked myself for sounding like such an idiot. He cleared his throat obviously uncomfortable, and said, “I just want to apologize for my actions that day in the park. I shouldn’t have tried to kiss you. I’m sorry.” I nodded uncertainly before he continued, “I would really like a second chance with you, if you’d let me.” I fluttered my hands nervously, “I too, wanted to apologize, Seth. I don’t know why I freaked out like that, but I did. I think a second date would be really nice. UNfortunately, today I have a shift at the cafe and Leo has daycare.” He smiled widely, “No, that’s okay, I understand. I am going beach camping at the Cove this weekend, wanna come?” I shyly agreed. 
As the days flew by, my anticipation grew. There was something about the man, that turned me into a shy little girl. I tried to calm the butterflies in my belly as I finished packing for the weekend. At 7 months old, Leo was becoming quite the handful. I packed some extra toys to be certain that he wouldn’t get bored either. A few hours later, we were finally at the beach. I rolled out our blanket and flopped down on top of it. I snuggled Leo against my chest with a big sigh. He wiggled and wiggled but finally settled down. 
I heard him before I saw him. I started to get up but he waved his hands, “I’ll stretch out next to ya.” I nodded and felt him lay next to me. His nearness made me blush. Leo started crying to get down, and so I gently set him down next to me. He was still practicing crawling, so I knew he wouldn’t get far. I turned back over and almost rolled on top of Seth. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! I was cursing myself mentally when I realized I was just staring at him. His lips were so full, I wondered if they were as supple as they looked. 
Before I realized it, I had rolled on him and my lips were firmly planted against his. He broke away before we deepened the kiss, “Are you sure, Karly? You don’t have to kiss me.” I only answered by kissing him again, letting myself drink in his sweetness. We began to kiss deeper and longer until I pulled away, “Call me a tease or whatever, I don’t mean to be. But I just wanted to give you fair warning, I’m not going to have sex for a while. I just don’t want to bring up any bad memories, or end up with a new Leo. One Leo is all I can manage!-” He cut me off by pulling my hand to his heart, “I can wait, until you’re ready. As long as it takes, I’ll be here for you.”
We sat up, and I leaned my head on his shoulder, trying to make sense of how quickly this relationship began. We sat comfortably for a few minutes or even an hour. Time seemed to stand still when we were together. I fed Leo some crackers and a bottle while Seth readied the fire pit. 
He had caught some fish further down the beach and we decided to try to grill them for dinner. He went first while I tended the fire, although fire just seemed to help make the evening more romantic. After dinner(which was really good) we lay back on the blanket with Leo in between us, looking up at the stars. 
I drifted off eventually because my mind was soon filled with the awful nightmares that had haunted me ever since I left Bridgeport. Miguel was standing in front of me, with a gun on my head, while Leo was in his arms. I always woke up before I found out what he wanted me to do, but every time, I woke up in a cold sweat. This time though, Seth was shaking me, “Karly! Karly! Wake up. It’s just a dream……” I flung myself into his arms sobbing. He smoothed my hair back from my forehead, “Do you want to talk about it?” I shook my head and sniffled, “No, I’m okay really.” I sat upright and gave him a small smile before I thanked and kissed him. 
He wiggled his eyebrows playfully at me, “Maybe I can massage those fears away huh?” I stood up to stretch, noticing for the first time how light out it was for 6:00 a.m. He karate chopped up and down my back, and ran his hands over my shoulder. I swatted his hands playfully when he tried to cop a feel. 
I shrugged my shoulder and sighed, “Wow. You’re good. I feel much better now, Dr. Littleton.” He smirked at his professional name, “Well, Ms. Starch, did you know it’s customary to tip your doctor with a smooch?” I giggled before happily obliging. 
I snuggled up in his arms, “While I have you here doctor, I have a question to ask you….” He raised eyebrows, “Yes! Absolutely yes! I will marry you!” I burst out laughing, “No! No, I mean, someday, maybe, I don’t know. Leo turns one in just a few short months, and I wanted to throw him a birthday party, my moms will be there and I wanted to invite you….. and your parents.” 
His eyes grew big as moons, “Really? Yes! I would love to celebrate Leo’s life with you, he’s a special kid. And his mom is smokin’ hot!” I threw my arms around him and just let him hold me, his voice gently met my ear, “Only if you’ll allow me a question” 
I pulled away slightly so that I could see his face before he continued, “Will you be my one and only……………….girlfriend?”
Now it was my turn to bug my eyes out and grin from ear to ear.
I jumped into his arms and planted a long kiss over his mouth, “Absolutely, Doctor, I would love to be your one and only.”
He set me back on my feet as we kissed and watched the sunrise, dreaming of the exciting days to come.
~Karly’s P.O.V~
“Waaaaaaaaah waaa waaaaaaaaaaaahaaaaaaaaaaaa” Ah, the sweet sound of my baby screaming at one in the morning. I picked him up and cooed at him, “Oh my Leo. Is someone hungry?” I nursed him while sitting in bed until both of us dozed off. His cries awoke me again not a half an hour later. I helped him unlatch from my breast before getting up and moving towards his crib. 
I bheld him againstmy chest and rubbed his back until he gave a hearty burp, “Wow! Someone’s tummy must feel better!” I gave a big yawn and kissed his forehead. 
“Okay, Leo, mommy wants to sleep a little longer, so it’s time to close your eyes, okay?” I kissed his cute little nose before singing him a lullabye. 
We rubbed noses and he gave a cute little coo. At five months old, he was just about the cutest baby I had ever seen. 
“Alright sweet boy, get some good sleeps, okay?” I kissed him one more time before laying him down. 
He gbegan to whimper so softly that it broke my heart into pieces. I patted his back until he closed his eyes softly. I stretched my arms and went towards the bed. 
It didn’t take long to fall back asleep. After a week back in Bridgeport, I was having to get used to being a single mother to Leo. I didn’t think I would be so tired all of the time. But I was lucky to find this apartment when I did. It’s just the perfect size for me and Leo. A sharp rinng of the telephone woke me from my deep sleep. I blinked against the brightness of the sun streaming in through the windows, I was really gonna have to look for curtains. I reached for my cell phone and managed to answer it before it went to voice mail,
“Hello?”
“Hi, Karly, this is Dr. Littleton, from the hospital?”
“Hi, Doctor. Is everything alright?”
“Oh yes, sorry, I just wanted to make sure everybody was healthy on the home front. We have yet to have seen the baby for a check-up.”
“Oh right! I’m sorry the doctor’s office didn’t tell you but we just got back from a four and a half month trip to Moonlight Falls. All of Leo’s checkups were handled by Dr. Marsha Bradshaw.”
“Ah, well I’m sorry to have bothered you.”
“No! PLease, don’t fret it, I’m glad to see that the hospital is so personally involved.”
“Okay, well if you ever have any questions about caring for babies or if Leo gets sick, feel free to call, okay?”
“Okay, well I hate to mention it, but is it normal for babies to get acne? Leo gets it right around his nose and ears, and sometime on his chin.”
“Oh yes. Baby acne is perfectly common. You might want to bathe him more often, or, use a less oily baby shampoo.”
“Wow! Okay great. Thanks.” 
Leo began to cry from his crib so I began to say good bye, but his one question stopped me in my tracks
“Hey, Karly, would you like to go out sometime? I could meet you and Leo in the park, or go out to dinner?”
I bit my lip and tried to hide my blush. My first instinct was to say no, but this guy seemed to genuinely care about Leo and me. So before I knew it, I heard myself agreeing, “Well, Leo and I are going to take a walk to the park this afternoon around two if you want to join us.”
“Perfect. I’ll be there. See you later!”
We hung up and I shook my head, What did I get myself into? 
A few hours later, Leo and I were happily strolling down the street. He was beginning to smile and babble more, so I just enjoyed listening to him talk. By the time we reached the park, Leo had fallen asleep in the stroller. I left him in there as I kept an eye out for the doctor. 
I laid out the picnic blanket in the park while we waited. Leo chose that moment to wake up, but at least he wasn’t screaming. I took him out of the stroller and set him on the picnic blanket. I saw him before he saw me, when we made eye contact, my whole face felt like it was on fire. I patted the ground next to me on the blanket and we both sat in uncomfrtable silence. I turned to him shyly, “I never did catch your name. I’ve only ever called you doctor.” He chuckled, and said, “My name’s Seth. Seth Littleton.” I smniled and we both went back to our awkward silence. 
I reached into the picnic basket and pulled out the food, offering him some. I couldn’t seem to meet his gaze. He finally asked me, “Karly, have I done something to embarass you?`” I shrugged awkwardly, “I don’t really know how to say this……” my face went bright red before I continued, “I….uhmm….I’ve only ever slept with Miguel, er……Leo’s father. He’s the only one who has ever seen …well all of me…….except you and the nurses when Leo wzs born.” he seemed to catch my meaning, and his cheeks turned bright red too. He cleared his throat, “I do remember the day you had Leo, not because of, y’know, down there, but because I was horrified at the sight of those bruises on your face. I think if Leo’s dad had been in the room, I would have had a hard time not throttling him.” 
He stood up before handing me these gorgeous, yellow daisies. I drew in my breath and said, “Oh wow! Seth, these are gorgeous.” I felt bad for what I was about to say next, “Well, you know, I just came out of a seriously abusive relationship. While I appreciate the flowers, it’s going to be a long time before I even consider dating again.” 
His smile faltered for a half a second, “It’s okay. I would be worried if you weren’t more cautious and careful.” I smiled appreciatively and we chatted non-stop while we worked together to clear off the picnic blanket. I put Leo in the stroller and tuyrned to face Seth, “Thank you for inviting me-“
I was interrupted mid-sentence by his lips upon mine. But what confused me is that, I began to kiss him back! The thought of that scared me more than anything else. 
I quickly pulled away and pushed the stroller away from the park. Not stopping until we got home
The Other Woman 
