Chapter 125: Uncharted Territory
Chapter 125: Uncharted Territory
Lynn
We wrapped up our meeting with Serge, and it turned out to be quite enlightening. T expressed a strong desire for me to keep my ring on at all times, emphasizing its importance. He also wants me to keep my earrings on at all times, too. I agree, albeit reluctantly, primarily because our dealings involve the mafia. Given the precarious nature of our situation, if another crime family catches wind of our activities, it could lead to unforeseen complications and potential conflict. Bob has been meticulous in negotiating the contract with Serge, ensuring every detail is ironed out to avoid any misunderstandings.
Originally, we had plans to head to London this week, but those arrangements have been postponed indefinitely. Instead, I have a doctor’s appointment scheduled for today, which I need to attend, followed by a flight to Las Vegas later this week. There, we aim to finalize the deal hanging in the balance for far too long. As we drive to my appointment, the weight of what lies ahead hangs heavily in the air, but there's a sense of urgency that propels us forward. I know that we will encounter something. I just don't know what.
Ardin says, “Sweetheart, stop stressing. It will be fine.”
“We don't know that.”
Ardin gently squeezes my trembling hand, his warmth a reassuring presence amidst the whirlwind of emotions. “But we will, Lynn. You know Doc Andi will do everything she can for you and this child,” he says with a determined nod, his eyes filled with unwavering support.
Damon leans down, pressing a soft kiss to my forehead, his lips lingering for just a moment. “Lynn, stress is bad for you right now. Just please try to relax,” he urges, his voice low and soothing like a balm against my anxiety.
Easier said than done, I think to myself, yet I resolve to take their advice and find a moment of calm. When we arrive at the clinic, the sterile scent of antiseptic greets me, and I follow the routine of checking in, my heart pounding nervously.
Once taken back to the examination room, the atmosphere shifts into an awkward silence. “Ardin, stop fiddling with that model of the uterus,” I chide, watching as he flips it around with childlike curiosity. “And Damon, that embryo isn’t a ball! Both of you are acting like this is some kind of game.” My frustration bubbles over, and I can’t help but raise my voice. “I swear, I’m bringing Crystal from now on! Stop it, boys!”
I didn't hear the doctor come in. Doc Andi smiles as she shakes her head. “Hello, Lynn. Ardin, I told you before that they are not toys!”
“Some things never change,” I responded with a shrug.
Doc Andi looks at Damon. “Some do. Who's the other gentleman with you? I don't believe we have met.”
Damon extends his hand and they shake. “I'm her husband, Damon Crane. Nice to meet you, doctor.”
Doc Andi looks at her tablet. “So it says on the chart. I didn't even look. Congratulations on your marriage.”
“Umm...about that.”
“What you say stays here. You know that,” she reassures.
“They're both my husbands and either could be the father.”
Doc Andi smiles. “Well, good. It's about fucking time, Ardin!” She is old enough to be my mother, and she acts like it.
Ardin chuckles as he shakes his head. “That obvious?”
Doc Andi replies, “Yes!” Damon just chuckles.
I look at Damon. “Like you weren't? You chased me for years.”
Damon smirks. “When I caught you, I didn't hesitate.”
“I'll give you that.” He didn't hesitate with anything once we met face-to-face.
Doc Andi laughs. “This is going to be an interesting nine months. Well, we will see how far along you are. We can't do a paternity test until you are around ten weeks, but you are indeed pregnant. The test you took when you checked in yielded a fast positive result. Based on your chart, you're around 4-5 weeks along. Any symptoms?”
“Bad nausea. I wrote myself a script for those patches,” I reveal.
Doc Andi nods.”That's fine, but l'd like you on a pill too. Use the patch sparingly but follow the instructions on the pill.”
“Okay.” What she suggested sounded reasonable.
Doc Andi asks, “What flavors are you craving?”
“Tarts like lemon and ummm bacon.”
She just laughs. “Well, they don't have bacon-flavored, but I can get you a few flavored prenatals to try. Now let's do an ultrasound and then bloodwork.”
“Can we do the genetics test that also reveals gender?” I ask.
Doc Andi nods. “Yes, and your insurance should cover it based on your age.”
“If not, then money doesn't matter. I want to know.”
Doc Andi smiles as she squeezes my shoulder. “I know, but might as well make the insurance you pay for work for you.”
“Alright,” I responded, settling into position for the ultrasound. I’m fond of her; there’s something comforting about her presence that puts me at ease. I have always felt at home with her. Now, I see her as another mother, not just my doctor.
Doc Andi looks at us. “It may be too early for a heartbeat, but I'll check anyway.”
I'm not prepared for what I see on the monitor. “There are two of them!” I say as she proceeds to label them for the guys. “How?”
Doc Andi giggles. “I think you know how.”
I shake my head. “I can't do two!”
Doc Andi replies, “Oh, but you will. They're fraternal twins based on the ultrasound. You're closer to 7-8 weeks. Listen.” She hit a button, and soon we heard heartbeats. “Nice and healthy.”
Ardin gasps. “So you were pregnant in Vegas!”
I shrug. “I took my pills, though.”
Doc Andi looks at the guys. “They fail sometimes. The only thing that's 100% is abstinence.”
Damon quips, “Never gonna happen, Doc.”
I facepalm. “He's nuts. Just ignore him, Andi.”
Ardin hugs me before he looks into my eyes. “Sweetheart, you drank in Vegas.”
She knows how he can get. She taps him on the shoulder. “Ardin, look at me. She's fine and so are they. She's not a chronic drinker. A few early on won't hurt anything. Just from now on, she's gonna have to take care of herself and avoid alcohol.”
Ardin asks, “Are you sure?”
“Yes,” she replies as she firmly explains, “All those pictures of babies you saw when you came in, I just delivered them this year. She and the babies are in great hands.”