Realistic or Modern Anchored by Love: Draft Three

[Lexus]

Amelia ​

You want to marry me? Yikes. talk of vacation was appealing though, I was ready to get the hell out of Texas. I wasn't sure if I could ever show my face to Dawson's family again. They were authentic southerners who stuck to their unchanged morals and there was no doubt I broke at least a dozen. Damn it. I'm sorry, Isabel. "We'll see, I have to go back to work soon," I reminded him. I didn't want to push the suggestion aside, I wanted to make it work.

Dawson​

Following Isabel to her room I wiped the earthy rain smell from my face, careful to be quiet not wanting to wake Lincoln. Jayden was still away and I didn't want Lincoln to become frightened by being left alone with Isabel and I. Reaching into my drawer on her dresser, I smiled at her question.

"Of course a boy."

Two Months Later:
New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia ​

After returning home from Texas, I went back to work immediately, finding a new motivation to throw myself back into my career. It was clear Jayden wanted to continue to build a life together and it was time for me to continue contributing again. Lincoln was still with us for the summer but Jayden and I were able to make our schedules work so Lincoln was never alone. I didn't want him to be in this big city. Spending the summer with him was something I didn;t regret and new the moment he had to go back home to his aunt's in Chicago, I was going to hate it.

With summer coming to end, it was time for Jayden and I to have our time alone. We adventured to New Orleans and quite honestly, I was enjoying having Jayden to myself. It was a rare occasion between work and Lincoln but I tried not to mind it. Walking hand in hand with him down the French Quater I smilled at him admiring the sites despite the almost unbearable heat.

"What are you in the mood for for dinner ?" I asked Jayden, feeling my own hunger pang me. Spending the majority of the day in the sun was draining me and I was ready to go back to the room and go to sleep, but we needed to eat first, even though nothing sounded appealing. I was hoping Jayden had a preference in mind.

Dallas, Texas
Dawson​

"Are y'all ready for dinner?" I called through Isabel's apartment as I walked in. Smiling when Lincoln came to greet me excitedly.

"What's up, Linc? Are you ready to go eat some barbeque? You've never had real barbeque huh?" I asked him before watching Isabel make her way into the room. When she took me into a hug, I kissed her cheek, rubbing her back while we stayed in an embrace.

"How are you, love? Are you feeling okay today?"

I hadn't seen Isabel and Lincoln all day because I agreed to help my dad put up a new fence around the ranch house. I agreed with Isabel to meet her back here at dinner time to take the two back to the ranch for a dinner with my parents. With the new baby on the way, there was anew excited swarm in my mother's kitchen and I couldn't help but laugh. In another sense though, I was relieved that she wanted to take care of Isabel rather than push her away. It brightened my expectations for the future.

 

[isax]

New Orleans, Louisiana
Jayden​

Convincing Amelia to take this vacation for the both of us was something I was enjoying. After everything we had been through, time alone was essential as we continued to work on building or relationship. The plan to marry her hadn't changed, and I was going to start working on a proposal soon. Of course, I was going to ask the only other Amelia expert for help: Isabel.

Now that Amelia and I were in NOLA, I was enjoying the change in scenery. I was enjoying having Amelia all to myself and I knew Isabel and Dawson were taking great care of Lincoln while Amelia and I were away. The last call I received from him, he mentioned that he was really enjoying his time with Bel and Dawson. That I was grateful for because they were better at showing him what the Lone Start state was about better than Amelia and I.

As Amelia and I walked through the French Quarter, I smiled down at her when I heard her ask what I was in the mood for for dinner. I hadn't given dinner much thought, but I hummed as I thought about it before shrugging. "I'm not entirely sure, my love. What about seafood?" I asked her curiously, watching her contemplate it. "Or we can do something else. It doesn't matter to me. You know this place better than I do. What do you recommend?" I held her hand as we continued to walk, watching as she began to think about where to go for dinner. I took in every feature of her face. How her nose scrunched when she began thinking. How beautiful her eyes were and how well her short hair complemented every feature of her face. I really love this woman.

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

If we're being honest, I was absolutely nervous for this family dinner at the ranch. I knew facing his parents once again was inevitable, but no one else knew about my thoughts on Josie and how she caused all the drama that occurred at the rodeo. Brett and Dawson were the only ones, and I wanted to keep it that way, but something kept tugging at my heart, telling me that bitch was going to show her face tonight.

I was now three months pregnant, and soon enough Dawson and I were going to be able to know the gender. I wasn't entirely sure if I wanted a gender reveal party yet, but if we did, Amelia would be the one to plan it. That's if Dawson's parents don't mind. I didn't know what I was going to do in order to get them to forgive Amelia. I didn't want them to dislike her for the rest of my life. She was just as important as they were.

When I heard Dawson call for Linc and I, I smiled gently to myself in the mirror before I walked out of my room and into the living room. I giggled softly when I saw Lincoln run to Dawson before I could make my way over. "Yeah yeah! I'm excited for this! Will Cindy be there?" I heard Lincoln ask. Cindy was one of Dawsons's younger cousin, one of the only ones around Linc's age. Hearing him ask about her made me giggle.

My back wasn't hurting much today, which was a good thing, and I got past all my morning sickness. I didn't want to be grouchy when we arrived at the ranch. Smiling, I took Dawson into an embrace, smiling when he asked how I was feeling. "Today's a good day. A much better day than yesterday, which is good." I told him softly, planting a gentle kiss on his lips before I grabbed my purse and took Lincoln's hand in my own. "Alright, let's head out boys." I said softly, walking out of my apartment and down to Dawson's truck where I helped Linc get in before I got in myself. I tugged my red dress down a bit once I was seated in the passenger seat, but I smiled when I felt Dawson take my hand. I know he knew I was nervous, but everything was going to be okay.

When we arrived at the ranch forty-five minutes later, I released a deep breath before I walked into the beautiful ranch house with Dawson and Lincoln at my side. Smiling, I happily took the hug I received from Shelly, laughing with her as she touched my belly while saying I wasn't that big yet. She was right, my belly hadn't become a pumpkin just yet, but it would eventually. I hugged everyone that greeted me, but when I felt Brett grip my arm tighter than usual, I saw her. Why the fuck does she have to be here? I asked myself, smiling in Josie's direction to be polite when our gazes met. I knew she had to be talking shit about what I was wearing with Dawson's cousin Shelby. It was irritating but I let it go, walking to the kitchen where they were so that I could get a water.

"Just look at her. Of course she's wearing heels." I heard Shelby say softly while Josie agreed. "I wish Dawson would just realize she isn't compatible for this family." I was about to say something before I felt Dawson's hand on my shoulder to calm me down. With how horrible these hormones were, Shelby and Josie needed to watch what they say or I was going to snap. Leaning back against Dawson, I let him hold me so that I wouldn't snap, smiling when Shelly joined us in the kitchen and she finished prepping everything for dinner. "Do you need any help, Shelly?" I asked her softly.

"Wow, the preppy girl isn't afraid to get dirty and work." I overheard Josie say. I was getting irritated quickly but I took a deep breath so that I could let the anger and annoyance go.

 

[Lexus]

New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia​

"We can get seafood but I don't know if my northern boy can handle it, the Cajun cooking here isn't for sissies, babe. We can get a crawfish boil and tease Isabel," I said in a carefree giggle. "I could go for some crab cakes too.." The truth was, I missed this place more than I ever thought possible. Growing up, I spent time in Lousiana during the summers. My grandma took a teaching job here for a few years and before she moved here, we had never spent more than a week apart. It was difficult to adjust at first, but the two summers I spent here with her were some of my best memories of us. Back then, I didn't appreciate the city for what it was though, just complained about the heat and how I wished she would just move back to Florida. Despite this, she was adamant in showing me the new culture of this wonderful city. It wasn't until this trip I realized how beautiful it was.

Keeping a grip on Jayden's hand, I pulled up directions to where I wanted to take him, it was a courageous move, but I wanted him to have the authentic New Orleans experience and I knew a chef who was passionate enough to give him one. He didn't have to see me or know I was there, my only hope was that he was working today because I wasn't going to ask.

"Okay let's go, I know just where to take you if you want seafood. I know the head chef." The man raised me. I was taking Jayden to my uncle's restaurant. I hadn't seen him in close to a decade after our famous family fallout, but that's a story for another time. All I knew was after we separated as a family, he eventually moved back to New Orleans and bought the restaurant he spent years dreaming about and made himself head chef. I was happy for him, that he was able to get out of his slump and ended up following his dream, but I didn't have a desire to know anything else about his life because it would just make me feel guilty, and if Isabel found out where I was going, she'd get angry with me. Oh well.

Arriving, I walked in anxious but was careful to hide it from Jayden. He won't see you, he's working and there's a chance he won't recognize you either, you haven't seen any of them since high school. You look a lot different now.

"Hi, can we have table for two please?"

The place was bustling but I expected that given that it was nearly August and this was a vacation hotspot. I only hoped I could get through this dinner without being recognized and my entire vacation going to shit. The last thing Jayden and I needed was more drama. Why do you always put yourself in these situations, Amelia?

Somewhere in Texas
Dawson​

Walking into my childhood home with Isabel and Lincoln at my side, I grinned when Mom came to greet us. I wasn't surprised when she moved right past me to say hello to Isabel.

"What, do I mean nothing to you now?" I teased before letting an excited Lincoln run off with Cindy to go play.

"Don't go too crazy, we have to call your dad later," I reminded Lincoln before he vanished out of the house and down to the yard to play with whatever Cindy had in mind. The two of them were cute together and it only reminded me that soon I would bringing my own kids here to cause havoc in the same place where I was blessed enough to grow up. It was the perfect childhood and I wanted the same for the next line of Covington children and I hoped Isabel agreed.

While Isabel greeted the rest of the family, I made the rounds with her, holding her hand, feeling how bare it was, a painful reminder there was still no ring on her left hand. With the news of a baby, I didn't want her to think I was giving her a ring for the wrong reasons. I decided I would wait it out.

All was well in the Covington home until I saw Josie. Why the hell is she here? After the hell storm she caused two months ago I told my mom I never wanted Josie to step foot around here again, Glaring at my mom from the side, I signaled my displeasure that only worsened when I heard her whisper her nasty discrete comments,, I wasn't having it. As Isabel and my mom chatted in the kitchen, I quietly made my way over to Josie, taking her by the arm and walked her outside.

"Leave," I said in one angered breath. I didn't want to give her any more of a reaction than I had to because I knew she fed off of it. "I don't know who in the hell told you could be here but they had no business bringing you here, so please leave before I find someone to escort you home for the evening." I wanted to get angry, but knowing how Josie was, if I got too angry she would find some way to use it against me.

 

[isax]

New Orleans. Louisiana
Jayden​

I rolled my eyes at Amelia when she teased me about the Cajun food being different here. I knew that. If someone came to New Orleans for Cajun food you can get anywhere else, then they shouldn't be here. Luckily, this Northerner loved Cajun food, and any form of spicy food, so I wasn't too worried but I found Amelia's teasing to be cute. "Oh please, I am far from a sissy, but I'm looking forward to this crawfish boil. If we both send Isabel pictures, she'll be so upset." I told her with a chuckle, keeping her hand in mine as she pulled up the directions to this restaurant she knew about.

"You know a chef from here? I'm impressed. Who don't you know?" I asked her with a teasing smile, following her to the restaurant that she picked out for us. I was excited to try this food if she knew the head chef. Amelia wasn't one to play around with food, but I loved that about her because I was the same way.

When we arrived to the restaurant, I took in the décor of it. It was something I hadn't seen before but I was pulled away from my admiration when I Amelia took my hand again, leading me to our table when the hostess sat us. I smiled at Amelia as I moved her chair back for her, pushing her in once she sat down, going to sit across from her. "I like this restaurant. It's nice but I'm even more excited for this boil. It's probably going to be the best one I've ever had, which I don't doubt." Taking Amelia's hand in mine, I took a picture of our hands holding one another's with her in the background. This vacation was one I never wanted to forget. Grinning at the picture, I showed it to Amelia. "Such a beautiful picture all the way around, especially because you're in it."

Fort Worth, Texas
Isabel​

As I made conversation with Shelly in the kitchen, I glanced back to the island and noticed Dawson and Josie were no longer in the room. I didn't think much of it. He knew how much I despised that woman, and I knew he deep down no longer wanted her anywhere near this family. I can't say that I didn't like the idea. I loved it, in fact, now especially with our little critter coming into the world very soon.

I excused myself from the kitchen, going over to Brett who was outside watching the kids. I sighed softly as I stood next to him and watched Lincoln from the patio, placing my hands on my stomach as I envisioned my child playing out in the dirt here on this ranch with some of the most amazing people I have ever met. I took it all in while I stood there, but I kept thinking about how much I didn't really fit in here. "Brett, can I ask you a question? Be honest with me. Am I overdressed? Do I act preppy?" I needed someone other than Josie to tell me how they felt. I needed another point-of-view.

I listened to what Brett had to say, and I knew what he said was true. I wasn't overdressed and I didn't act preppy. To some, I just may come off like that because I live in Dallas and grew up in the south of Texas. Releasing a sigh, I nodded, thanking him for being honest before I felt arms wrap around my waist. I knew who it was just from the touch. I instantly relaxed as he held me and laid my head back against his chest, the both of us watching the kids. "I assume you asked her to leave. Did she make a big deal out of it?" I asked him curiously, smiling as he rubbed my stomach. I placed my hands over his with a smile. "Soon, Six. Soon we'll have one of our very own."

 

[Lexus]

New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia​

The decor reminded me of home. To be honest when I saw it, I had the widest grin because it was everything my sixteen-year-old self thought up when Jason asked me what he pictured the restaurant to be. He still thinks about you. No, stop. Don't do this. He's the one who walked away. Don't give him your attention. Aha. Too late for that, you showed up here. That's enough. Damn it. Taking my seat, I thanked Jayden for his sweet gesture and laughed at his excitement to eat here. I was too, but I wasn't going to admit it. Glancing over the menu, I smiled again at the dessert options. they were all my favorites growing up.

"I would be lying to you if I told you you were wrong on your assumption, the boil is pretty amazing, but I don't eat crawfish so it's all yours. I go for the shrimp, honestly. But I'll for sure need a dessert before we leave, or maybe all of them," I declared while Jayden took his picture. When he showed it to me, I shook my head.

"You're hopeless, but I love you. What I don't love is your rolled up shorts. Why would you do that?" I teased. It would look prettier if a ring was there.

When the waitress came to take our drink order I happily went with a sweet tea. I dared not go near anything alcoholic after that nightmare in Texas two months ago. When she walked away again I continued to admire the place. Noticing pictures on the wall in the corner, my curiosity took over.

"Come with me," I said to Jayden squeezing out of the chair and holding my hand out for him to take. When he did I walked over to the pictures to look at them. They were all pictures of Jason. Some of them were of him here, interacting with people and cooking, others were personal photos of his family. Seeing a wedding picture I smiled and seeing pictures of both of his kids I now knew he had nearly made me giggle. He had everything I told him he would, but he never believed me.

I told Jayden about my Uncle Jason but I didn't tell him his name or what he was like as a person. Just that we used to be bonded at the hip and that all ended after that horrid fight I wish I could take back. Admiring these pictures made me feel like I never left though.

"These are cute," I said to Jayden to pull myself out of my own thoughts.

Forth Worth, Texas (My fave)
Dawson​

There was no fight to get Josie to leave because she knew better. Breathing a sigh of relief as I watched her car pull out of the circular driveway and to the main road, I made my way back to the house where I found Isabel and Brett on the porch. It was a comforting sight. This felt like home. Taking Isabel in my arms I kissed her cheek. "No, she didn't," I reassured her moving to her neck, squeezing her slightly. I was glad she was here. It didn't feel the same without her anymore.

"I forgot to tell you, I like this dress. You look cute."

Looking over to the kids I watched Lincoln run for the tire swing tied to the tree in the front yard, feeling Isabel's hand meet my own over her stomach, smiling at her comment.

"Hopefully not too soon, we still have a lot to do for the kiddo." I whispered watching Brett eye us the whole time before he made jokes to Isabel about how much of a baby I was growing up and that our child better get their mom's attitude.

"Oh shut up, Brett. I was not. That was you for sure."

Just then Dad made his way onto the porch, resting a hand on Isabel's shoulder with a grin. "We'll all pray for you. Dawson was a big, baby, literally. He was the biggest baby born that day and had the biggest head I've ever seen."

"Dad!"

"He's not lying, you were horrible." My mother soon added as she peaked her way into the conversation. "You were worse than your sister so we'll pray it's a girl."

 

[isax]

New Orleans, Louisiana
Jayden​

"What's wrong with my shorts being rolled up? Do you want me to unroll them just for you?" I asked her with a playful grin, rolling them down like I knew she secretly wanted before out waitress came to ask what we wanted to drink. I happily asked for a sweet tea, wanting to get it in before I was back up north where this tea didn't even exist. I had grown to appreciate Southern culture when I moved to Dallas and I loved the food so much more than anything I would have had if I stayed in Chicago.

When Amelia told me to go with her, I was curious as to where she meant, but as we made way to the pictures on the wall, I knew that's what she wanted to see. Watching her admire the pictures and smile, I could have sworn I heard a giggle escape her mouth. I decided to look at the pictures with her, realizing they were photos of the owner of this place. I never met him before but when Amelia began talking to me about her uncle, I listened closely, biting my lip when I saw a certain picture. I swear that looks like Amelia. The more I looked at it, the more I was convinced it was, despite it being a younger Amelia. "I'm glad you think they're cute because that's you." I said, pointing to the very far left picture. I know she probably chose to ignore it but now I was curious.

Fort Worth, Texas
Isabel​

"Oh really? You like this dress? I'm glad you do but my wedges may just be a bit too preppy." I said with a teasing laugh, looking back to look at Dawson with a gentle expression as he continued to watch Lincoln from the porch. I knew this is what he envisioned for our future child, and I was more than excited and welcoming for it to happen.

I knew the remainding six months of this pregnancy were going to be a trying time. Not only was my stomach going to continue growing, and the back pains were going to get so much worse, but Dawson and I had a lot of planning to do. First things first, we both lived in separate apartments, even if he came over to mine all the time. We needed to decide what we wanted to do as far as moving in together and when. Once that gets situated, we have to get the nursery ready. I didn't want to start on that project until we knew the gender. There was so much we had to do and I know that's what Dawson was thinking about.

"You're right. We have a lot to do." I said in agreement, nodding my head but focused on what Brett was telling me about the man I loved. Laughing when Dawson tried to defend himself, I was going to say something until Charles gave his input along with Shelly. The more I was around the Covingtons without the southern drama, I knew my child was going to grow up in a great environment.

I couldn't hold back the giggle that came out of me with everything everyone had to say about Dawson. "Well, a daughter would be nice but I think Dawson and I both agree that we want a boy." I told them, "But I'm hoping he gets my personality because I'm not raising a cry baby." I added teasingly, laughing when everyone else did before I looked at Dawson who was now rolling his eyes.

"Have y'all given any thought on moving in together?" I heard Shelly ask and I couldn't stop myself from biting my lip nervously as everyone turned their attention to Dawson and I. I gave his hands a tight squeeze, shaking my head in honesty before I responded.

"We haven't, Shelly, but I'm sure that conversation is coming soon. Like Dawson said earlier, there is a lot we need to discuss and do before our little critter arrives."

 

[Lexus]

New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia ​

"It's not me," I said without looking at it. I didn't want to see which picture it was. I didn't want to think about it. Taking his hand again, I walked back to the table for the waitress to take our dinner order when she brought back our drinks. Deciding on the crab cakes and the boil. when the waitress disappeared again, I looked over to Jayden who was just staring at me. "What?" I asked innocently playing with the wrapper to my straw, twirling it in my fingers. I still had no intention of no one knowing I was here and the only way to assure that was to not draw attention to it, even to Jayden. "How's your sweet tea? Is it sweet enough?'

Fort Worth, Texas
Dawson​

"I was not a crybaby and neither will my children be," I replied before the conversation about the baby progressed. It was true I was hoping for my firstborn to be a son, but I would be overjoyed with either. Eventually, I wanted both. I loved my sister and I couldn't imagine life as an only child on a ranch as huge as this one. When my mother brought up the subject of moving in together, I felt my masculinity go into overdrive. As the father of this child, I wanted everything to be right for him or her before they arrived. I wanted Isabel and the baby to have everything they needed and I didn't want Isabel stressing over everything that needed to get done in the next six months when she needed to take care of herself before anything else. Six months isn't a lot of time, Dawson. You need to get it together.

"We'll talk about it on our own. But we do need to start talking about it. Time goes faster than any of us want it to," I admitted before calling the kids inside to wash their hands as we all made our way onto the back porch for our summer barbeque.

 

[isax]

New Orleans, Louisiana
Jayden​

Amelia was so quick to say the girl I saw in the picture wasn't her. It threw me off, especially because she didn't even look at the picture. Something doesn't seem right but just let it go, Acciolli. Don't ruin the mood. When we walked backed to the table, I let Amelia order what we had originally planned to order. As we sat there, I kept staring at Amelia, not looking away from her until she caught me. All I could do was smile and shake my head as if it was nothing. "Nothing at all. Just admiring how beautiful you look today. I also have to say I love the dress you chose." I said with a playful grin, taking a sip of my sweet tea before I heard her comment about it. I released a chuckle before I answered. "It's more than sweet enough. I need all the sweet tea I can get before we head back up North. This is what I miss about being in the south. Oh and that wonderful southern hospitality."

Fort Worth, Texas
Isabel​

While Dawson's masculinity went into overdrive with the realization that all we had was six months before out critter arrived, my mind went into overdrive which would eventually lead to stress like it always did. We haven't even discussed moving in with each other. Why didn't I think about that sooner? Now it'll be rushed. Do we invest in a house or are we just staying in an apartment? That's not what I really want my child to grow up in though. I wasn't brought out of my overthinking until I heard Dawson call the kids, telling them to go inside and wash their hands. I gripped Dawson's hand tightly as I tried to push my thoughts and worries aside. When everyone headed to the back porch, I pulled Dawson back, looking at him with concern in my eyes.

"We only have six months until our baby arrives. That's not enough time to get everything ready, Amor." I said softly, biting my lip but released a sigh when he gave my hand a squeeze of reassurance. "Sorry. Stress is a natural thing for me. C'mon, let's go enjoy dinner." I whispered softly, leading him back inside, heading straight to the back porch where everyone was getting ready to sit. I took the usual seat next to Dawson, smiling when Lincoln ran over to us asking if he could have some lemonade. "Drink a glass of water first, then you can." I told him, not wanting him to become dehydrated. He ran off to the kids table and my attention was brought back when Brett asked if I had any upcoming assignments. I bit my lip when he asked.

"Um, I actually haven't taken any but I am getting assigned to cover the major music festival coming up." I said with a shrug of my shoulders, showing the frustration I currently had with the DMN.

 

[Lexus]

New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia​

"Sounds to me like you've been fully converted to a southern gentleman. I like it." contuing to sip my sweet tea, I smiled in satisfaction. My hunger was beginning to set in now and I was relieved Jayden let the thing about the picture go. I could tell by his gaze he tried to cover up that he was curious about it. Looking over to the door I watched a woman and two kids walk in and just as they did, I watched someone I knew walk out to greet them. His face all smiles as he took his wife in for a sweet kiss and greeted their daughters, giving them both a big hug. He always was a sucker for girls. Watching the two girls run to a table and giggle with each other while a waitress brought them drinks, I didn't notice I was transfixed on the scene until I heard Jayden call out to me. Turning away from the girls, I noticed how much we looked alike and turned back to Jayden clearing my throat. "Sorry," I said clearing my throat looking at him, careful not to look over again, not wanting to get noticed still. I'm happy you're happy. The girls are precious.

"Do you miss Lincoln?" I asked, not thinking how hard it might be for Jayden to be away from his son after having him all to himself for a few months until now. Really the question stemmed from me wondering if the man I was looking at ever missed me. Even as an adult, I wanted to be missed, as crazy as that was, it was the truth.

Fort Worth, Texas
Dawson​

"No stressing allowed," I whispered affectionately to the woman I loved before I kissed her forehead, "I told you to let me handle it. Everything will be alright. Now let's eat." Leading her to the patio, I made a plate for her while she talked to Lincoln and then to Brett. She was a remarkable woman. I knew she was upset she wasn't going as far with the DMN as she hoped, but i had a hunch something big would come along for her if she kept working at it. Sometimes, we all just need a little calm in our lives before things got crazy, and things were about to get crazy fro both of us.

Setting the plate in front of her I went back to make my own before I took my seat beside her, holding her free hand while we ate and talked with my interesting family. I was glad Lincoln felt at home too. I knew he was ready for Jayden and Amelia to come home, but to know he was comfortable around me and Isabel put my heart at ease.

​

​

 

[isax]

New Orleans, Louisiana
Jayden​

I found it adorable when Amelia said she liked that I was now converted into a Southern. I never gave it much thought but living in Dallas for as long as I did, converting into a southern was inevitable. As I sat across from Amelia, I watched her as she turned around, watching a woman and her two girls walk inside. I also noticed a chef, probably the head chef, walk over and greet them happily. I knew in my heart this man, this place, had some connection to Amelia, but she wouldn't tell me. She didn't want to draw attention to it for some reason and I wasn't entirely sure why. What if this is man is her uncle? It would make sense if that were the case but I caught the chef glance at Amelia, so I was quick to call out to her. Smiling, I just shook my head. "Don't apologize. It's okay." I reassured her.

I was perplexed by her question, but I did what any proud father would. I smiled as brightly as I possibly could before I nodded. "I always miss him when he's not with me. He's a ball of spunk I contributed in creating. When we're apart, it's like a part of me is missing. I think I'll always miss him if he isn't by my side." I explained to her gently, smiling at her before I took her hands in mine. "I love you, Amelia."

Fort Worth, Texas
Isabel​

When Dawson placed my plate of food in front of me, I didn't know how to take it. I was in shock and didn't know what to think about it. Usually, I made his plates, no man had ever served me before. It made me feel a different form of special. It made me feel cared for and I couldn't help but smile. "Thank you." I said gently, giving his hand a squeeze when he took it in his own. I continued to converse with the Covington family, enjoying the barbeque that was made. It tasted amazing but it also made me miss my dad. I hadn't gone home to visit them in about half a year and I felt horrible about it.

"How's your family doing, Isabel?" I heard Charles ask and I smiled in response.

"They're doing really good last I heard. I haven't gone to Corpus to visit them in awhile but the last time I FaceTimed, they were doing good. My mom is finally finishing up the final details of the house and my sister moved into an apartment recently with Mia." I told them softly.

"Not visiting them isn't like ya." Shelly said and I sighed but agreed. "It isn't but work got busy at one point so I wasn't able to make the time."

"Maybe you should now that everything is winding down." Brett suggested, "Take your cowboy with ya. I'm sure he isn't ready for South Texas culture."

Laughing, I looked at Dawson with a gentle expression. "I think he could handle it but maybe we can go together."

 

[Lexus]

New Orleans, Lousiana
Amelia​

"I love you," I said in return my attention now back on the man I came here with. When our food came out I thanked her kindly.

"Everything looks amazing."

Excited for Jayden's reaction on the food I waited to dig in, anticipating his reaction. Pulling out my phone i playfully took pictures of him, laughing at him joking around before we both began to eat our dinner as a relaxing way to end our day.

"What do you think, was it worth the walk in the summer heat?" I asked curiously, cutting the gigantic crab cake with a fork before taking a satisfying bite. Rolling my eyes when I watched Jayden take pictures of me. "Is that payback?"

Fort Worth, Texas
Dawson​

"Y'all quit talking about South Texas like that. They're better behaved than you, Brett But we'll go soon, love. I want to visit. I don't want your family thinkin' I stole ya with no intention of bringin' ya back." I wanted to have a good relationship with Isabel's family. It was always important to me that we have a mutual respect, but it was even more so now that we would be having a child together. I wanted my son or daughter to grow up knowing both sides of their family and loving them equally. This was another conversation Isabel and I needed to have together before our baby was born.

 

[isax]

Two Months Later

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

Planning everything for the baby has been stressful, to say the least. Dawson and I agreed the right option for us would be to move in. I've been looking at houses, trying to find one in the city, but I knew Dawson was very much against this. He didn't want to have our children grow up in the heart of the city but I wasn't entirely ready to get rid of the beautiful atmosphere and view. The house was something we were still back and forth on, but today was a special day. Today, Dawson and I were going to my usual check up. This check up was special though because today was the day we learned the gender of our child.

Dawson and I agreed we didn't really want a gender reveal party. I didn't have the time with work picking up again and I know for a fact Dawson didn't either. The infamous United States Air Force Thunderbirds were here. I don't know who was in charge of planning the DFW Airshow but having both the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels perform was not a bright idea. Poor Six. That's why today was important to me and exciting. Since there wasn't a party, I planned on crafting cute gifts for Amelia and my family to reveal the gender. Corpus.. I miss you.

Sighing softly, I sipped on my Earl Grey tea, walking from the kitchen of my apartment to my room. Dawson had to run to work earlier this morning and I didn't mind. The appointment wasn't for another hour but I had to start getting ready. I set my mug on my vanity, walking to my closet so that I could pick out an outfit for today. What caught my attention when I turned on the light were the sunflowers sitting on the ottoman with a note. Smiling, I knew my dashing pilot left them for me. I didn't know what he was up to but I also saw a bag with what I could only assume was a dress. Date night? I'm intrigued. I thought to myself, deciding not to look inside the bag just yet.

I picked casual clothes for the appointment, changing into them before I walked to the vanity and fixed my hair, deciding to wear a red lipstick for once. I couldn't remember the last time I wore a lipstick but today was going to be a good day, I could feel it.

After getting ready, I walked out of my room, setting the sunflowers on the coffee table in my living room, grabbing my purse and keys before I fed Apollo, smiling when he yelped excitedly. "Hi boy, today's a very special day. Are you just as excited as Dawson and I are?" I asked the Maltipoo with a giggle, messing up his fur as I pet him before I walked out of the apartment and to my car.

When I arrived to my doctors office, I filled out the paperwork I needed to since my medical insurance was recently updated through the DMN. Dawson hadn't shown yet but I tried not to think too much of it. I learned my natural knack of overthinking mixed with pregnancy hormones was not good. Not at all. Just breathe. He's probably going to run late. It'll be okay.

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

Amelia and I were still going strong, despite what happened in Texas four months ago. The vacation in NOLA was amazing and something I was always going to cherish. I think Amelia and I can both agree we needed the time alone. Now I was focusing more on our relationship and what I wanted with the most amazing woman I ever met. I was planning on proposing to her today and I could only hope everything went smoothly.

Looking at the clock, I realized it was seven in the morning. Yawning, I slowly climbed out of bed, careful not to wake the sleeping Amelia who was unphased by the movement. I smiled at her, watching her sleep for a moment before I made way to the living room, grabbing the flowers I bought after my night shift for her. I could only hope she was in a pleasant mood today after work because today meant more than anything to me.

I set the bouquet of pink roses on my pillow so it was the first thing Amelia saw when she woke up. Smiling, I also left a note for her to read which said: "Come meet me in the kitchen? Breakfast will be ready." After that was set, I went to throw some clothes on. While Amelia was at work, I had the entire day to ensure everything was set in place for the big question. I could only hope our date tonight was something Amelia would enjoy. Stop doubting yourself. Have confidence man.

Once in the kitchen, I began making Amelia's favorite breakfast, humming along softly to Bon Jovi that was playing quietly. When I heard movement, I turned around and smiled at the most beautiful woman I ever laid my eyes one. Smiling I walked over to her, wrapping my arms around her waist so that I could give her a gentle kiss. "Good morning, beautiful. Breakfast is almost done." I said softly, kissing the top of her head before I pulled away. When she asked the occasion, I shrugged my shoulders. "No occasion, we just haven't gone on a date since NOLA because of my shifts getting out of hand, so I want to make it up to you. Does that sound okay?"

 

[Lexus]

Dallas, Texas
Dawson​

The last two months were pretty hectic. Being the man my mama raised me to be, I was in a rush to get everything situated for both Isabel and the baby, who's gender would be out in the open today. It was an exciting milestone indeed, but with my first child's birthday fast approaching, Isabel was becoming restless that things for us were going slower than she anticipated. I understood her frustration and I felt guilty for it. She just wanted a welcoming home to bring our baby home to and so far, we had close to nothing.

Mom wanted to throw her a baby shower at the ranch and while i thought it was a sweet offer, I knew that was something Isabel wanted to do between herself and her family, and I understood that too. Not to mention, if I let my mom plan something, Amelia would fly to Texas just to kick my ass. Isabel had her heart set on planning a gender reveal party, but after deciding against it due to heavy work schedules, Amelia was left slightly disappointed to share the moment. I had to admit, her relationship with Isabel was adorable and I was excited for my son or daughter to have such a compassionate and generous human being in their lives. Whatever the baby was, it already had so much love backing them and that warmed my heart.

I didn't want to but in the morning i had to go to work. With all the things I had planned to surprise Isabel within the next few months, I needed the to devote the hours now, so when the baby came, I didn't leave her alone to care for him or her longer than I had to. This was a team effort and I was going to prove it to her.

Looking at the radio clock in truck when I started the engine, I cursed under my breath at the time. "Shit." If you're late to this appointment she's going to get pissed. You better pray she's in a good mood this morning or it's already over for you today, buddy. Way to go.

Making my way to the office as fast as I could, I walked through the front doors right when she returned her forms to the desk. Sharing a look with her, I kissed her cheek in greeting, taking her hand in mine where it belonged.

"Good morning, sorry I'm late. I got lost in flight tests but I'm here now, are you excited?" I asked in a whisper my own cheeks hurt from how hard I was smiling. This is it.

Washington D.C.
Amelia ​

I woke up confused. Not because I didn't find Jayden holding me to his chest as I did on any other normal day, but because I smelled food. It was a familiar aroma but I couldn't recall it right away. What's going on? I question suspiciously even in my groggy state. Groaning I flip my hair back out of my face and moved the covers down to my chest, uncurling myself from my natural ball-like sleeping position. Smiling at the smell. I looked over to Jayden's pillows and saw the roses, gasping. They're so pretty. Picking them up I giggled at Jayden's note before I even read it, my heart skipping a few beats at his handwriting alone. Breakfast huh, what are you up to?

Smirking, I got up from the bed and covered my bare body in the robe I left on the chair. Tying it around my waist I picked up the roses from the bed and smelled them. Taking in their sweet scent in one deep breath I happily trotted out to the kitchen. Banana-nut muffins. I remembered as I inched closer to the kitchen.

"What is all this for? What did you do?" I asked between our morning kisses still skeptical about the whole thing. I knew Jayden had to be up to something. He was great in bed last night too.

Sighing dramatically, I kissed him again to get my morning fill of his affection.

"It sounds more than okay, but you were gone when I woke up," I pouted puffing out my cheeks before I laughed at my own ridiculousness.

"I really don't deserve you, but I have to go to work today, unfortunately. I hope that doesn't ruin any of your plans."

 

[isax]

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

As I filled out the paperwork, I heard my phone ring and I instantly knew who it was. It was my mom, probably sending me the usual good morning text. I felt really bad that I hadn't gone to visit. I also felt really bad that I hadn't even given my mom the option of throwing a baby shower for me. When Dawson's mom offered, I was more than touched. Knowing Shelly wanted to step in where my own mother couldn't really made me feel loved but if I was having a baby shower, I wanted to have it in Corpus with the entire family that helped raise me. Of course I would invite the Covington's as well and hopefully they would tag along. I knew, however, with all my frustrations I needed to talk to Amelia but today was a special day for her too! I knew Jayden was planning on proposing to her today and I was excited to get the pictures of the ring later on.

Handing the receptionist my forms, I heard the door to the doctors office open. I looked over and smiled when I spotted Dawson. I'm really glad you made it. Accepting the kiss on my cheek, I smiled as he took my hand in his. "Good morning, Amor. Don't worry about it. I knew you would still make it. I'm more than excited." I said with a giggle, smiling brightly before I walked back to where I was sitting with him. "How was flight testing? Are the USAF's all over y'all's ass or are they giving y'all some space?" I asked him curiously, leaning my head against his shoulder.

We were called to the back moments after I began to relax, but I stood up, not letting go of Dawson's hand as we walked to the back, talking with the nurse that led the way. "Today is the big day for y'all, Ms. Anes, are y'all excited?" She asked and all I could do was nod. "I think my boyfriend is a little more excited than I am, though." I teased, sitting down when we were in the room, releasing a deep breath as I looked over at Dawson. "Are you ready?"

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

I happily took all the morning kisses I could get from Amelia. I knew she had to go to work today and while I knew her ideal day of proposal meant her being off, I couldn't let her do that. I had a surprise flying in at this moment because he played such an important role with this and I could not wait until Amelia finished work and everything took place. Laughing softly when I heard her dramatic sigh, I shook my head before I took her in my arms, kissing her for the countless time.

"Oh? You were sad because I wasn't next to you?" I asked her with a playful grin, kissing her softly before I moved down to her neck then collarbone. I gave the string holding her robe together a tug but laughed when she squealed. "I love the way you look in this, but I think I like you without it more.” With that, I pulled away, giving her a wink before I walked to pour her a cup of coffee.

"Hm, you going to work doesn't ruin my plans, so long as you get out on time." I said, handing her the cup of coffee fixed the way I knew she liked it. "I'm the one who doesn't deserve you, Amelia. I love you with all my heart."

 

[Lexus]

Dallas, Texas
Dawson ​

Laughing at Isabel's question about the Thunder Birds I shook my head. "Lord help us all. They know better than to get too close, but they can't help it because they're jaded with themselves," I replied rather cockily. I was only doing it to amuse her, but when her name was called I felt the same giddy sensation I experienced the first time we kissed. What is this? Excitement? I don't know, not that good with feelings. I just know this woman makes me feel some type of way that I don't feel with anyone else.

Taking my usual chair at her side, I laughed again when she asked me if I was ready. "Of course." Kissing her nose playfully I kept a grip on her hand. I was happy to hear the baby was right on track and both baby and mom were healthy. At times I worried Isabel wasn't taking care of herself the way I wanted her to with her hectic work schedule.

Looking for the heartbeat always gave me a bout of nerves, but whenever the nurse found it I was always speechless at the sound. It was difficult to fathom I had a part in making a life that was about to come into the world. I knew it was going to be one of the biggest moments in my life, perhaps the biggest.

"Are you sure you want to find out?" I teased. I knew it was driving Isabel crazy not knowing the gender. That was another reason she was stressing. She wanted everything to be perfect for the little one's arrival, but it couldn't be perfect until she knew how to decorate for him or her. Hopefully, after today some of that stress would fade away. I expected when we left here to be dragged to multiple stores to start collecting the things we would need, but I didn't mind, I was ready for it.

Washington D.C.
Amelia ​

"Jayden!" I exclaimed in flush embarrassment. I was never as confident after the fact.Tying the robe tighter, I approached him again, sipping my morning coffee contently. "I'm a journalist, there is no set time for me to come home. If you wanted a nine to five woman, I'm not it," I teased putting the roses he gave me in a vase before setting them on the dining room table.

I was in a good mood today, both remembering last night and remembering what today would entail for Isabel and Dawson. I was awaiting the picture of the sonogram anxiously. I wanted to know the gender. Truth be told. Isabel's mom and I already bought A LOT of stuff. Jayden hated me because the closet was beginning to be taken over by my collection of party supplies and gifts, Isabel didn't know it, but the baby shower she was stressing over, was already mostly planned. I just had to ship all this stuff to her mom and then fly down to Corpus for the occasion. We decided it was best to surprise her with it.

Jayden may have thought I went overboard, but I wanted to make sure she had everything she needed and I didn't want her to settle for anything. I already bought the car seat and stroller she told me she wanted, that was with her mom already. When she found out the gender, I would buy the matching covers to go with them.

"Are you excited matchmaker? Today our Texas lovebirds find out what they're having! Then I have an excuse to go buy more stuff!" I teased just to see his reaction.

 

[isax]

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

After I was situated, I smiled as Dawson told me he was excited. I knew this moment was a big one in our relationship and I was more than ready for it. Biting my lip when the doctor came in, I let her do the usual. I was always nervous when she looked for a heartbeat, worrying we wouldn't hear it one day, but it was always relieving when we did. I never got tired of hearing it. It was a magical sounds that was like music to my ears.

"Of course I do. You now not knowing is driving me insane." I told Dawson with a giggle, smiling as we were told everything was looking good and that the baby was healthy. That was always good to hear but now came the time for us to see our child growing in my stomach.

As the picture cleared and we could see the little one on the screen, I bit my lip as I anxiously awaited for the doctor to ell us the gender. Giving Dawson's hand a squeeze, I watched the doctor moved around my entire belly, seeing every part of the bundle of joy. I looked at the doctor, asking with just my eyes if we could know the gender. When the doctor took the pictures, I bit my lip, looking at the screen. Finally, she broke the silence.

"You two are having a baby boy."

It's a boy. Oh my gosh it's a boy. "A boy?" I whispered, watching my doctor nod her head. I couldn't contain my excitement and I swear I was going to explode, which I did. I started crying, acting quickly to wipe away the tears before I looked at Dawson. "We're having a boy." I whispered, kissing him with nothing but love. "Now I can finish planning the nursery." I said with a laugh, wiping away the gel on my stomach once the doctor went to get the pictures. "Looks like I'll have a mini Dawson running around. Hopefully he isn't a cry baby." Laughing at his expression, I smiled. "I'm kidding I'm kidding."

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

Laughing, I looked at Amelia while handing her one of the muffins. I kissed her cheek gently before releasing a content sigh. "I never did want a 9-5 woman. They were never my type." I said with a grin, taking the woman I loved into my arms again before I kissed her neck. "I'm in love with a journalist and she's all I'll ever need." I added, pulling away when I heard her call me a matchmaker. I laughed again, shaking my head as I grabbed a muffin myself.

"I am excited to find out the gender, although I didn't make their relationship happen. Just introduced them is all." I explained with a shrug of my shoulders, rolling my eyes when she talked about buying even more stuff for the Texans. "How about you give other people a chance to buy them somethings? They both have big families, plus you've taken an entire closet for this. I think they're okay if you don't buy them anything else." I told her, knowing that wasn't she wanted to hear, and she wasn't actually going to listen. She was going to have a blast buying more things now that the gender would be known. "Has she sent a sonogram yet?"

 

[Lexus]

Dallas, Texas
Dawson ​

When the time came, I didn't look over to the monitor. I kept my adored gaze on Isabel. I wanted to see her reaction first thing. As we both waited anxiously for the news we waited five months to hear, I started video recording on my phone without her knowing. I wanted to look back on this memory.

It's a boy. Hearing it still made the whole thing feel like a dream. Seeing Isabel's reaction is what made it set in for me. Despite her attempting to wipe away her tears, I saw them. This is it. This is your life now. You have to take care of these two. Before she kissed me I ended the video, returning the kiss, we were both now proud parents of a son. Wow.

Helping her up, I kissed her forehead, still in disbelief any of this was real. "I love you," I whispered taking her hand again. Rolling my eyes at her teasing me. "Yeah, sure you are. Are you ready to go get breakfast?" I asked when the doctor came back with the pictures, handing them to Isabel who was still in awe over our son. Our son. It felt good to know. Looking over her shoulder, I admired the pictures too.

"I think he definitely looks like a Covington, what do ya think?" I asked teasingly. He was for sure a growing boy. Today gave me me a new drive to get our life as a family figured out for his sake. My son.

Washington D.C.
Amelia ​

I knew Jayden was half-kidding but I still couldn't help but take what he said personally. I wanted to get upset, but I knew it would be irrational to do so, it was just my over-sensitivity peaking through. She would do the same if it was for us.

"Jayden be nice, the baby needs stuff for when they come visit. I just want to help," I said, shaking my head at his question.

"No, she hasn't because she hates me. But I have to get ready for work." Leaning into him I kissed his cheek, resting a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you for everything," I whispered before i ran off to go put clothes on. I decided today, was a black kind of day so I wore black pants and a black and white polka dotted dress shirt with dramatic sleeves. The belt was my favorite part though. It brought the whole outfit together. Changing out my purse, I checked the time and slid into my flats, careful to remember my metro card this time. Whenever I forgot it, it was a nightmare.

Taking my breakfast to go, I kissed Jayden again, this time to say bye until later tonight. "I'll try to get back at a decent time but you know I can't make any promises. I love you," i said before I rushed out the door texting Isabel as I jogged for the metro.

"Good morning, hun! How's mommy and baby? (Heart eye emoji x4) I hope you're feeling better today. (Heart emoji)."

 

[isax]

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

I smiled when I felt Dawson kiss my forehead. It brought me a lot of comfort but it also made everything feel so real. A son. Dawson and I are having a son. He's going to be so loved. "I love you more." I whispered, the smile never fading as he took my hand, waiting for the doctor to bring us the pictures. When Dawson mentioned breakfast, I blinked but nodded. "I always am. You don't have to go back to work?" I asked him gently, remembering the sunflowers and hanging bag I found with a note for me. Do I ask him about it?

Thanking the doctor when she walked back in and handed me the pictures, I got up, holding Dawson's hand before I released a content sigh. "A son." I said with nothing but admiration. "I hope he has your eyes. We both know I'm more fond of yours than I am mine." I could think about what our son would look like all day. I couldn't wait to hold him in my arms, kissing his face all over. I wanted to spend every moment with him but even I knew that wasn't possible. I had work.

When Dawson and I made it to my Fiat, I smiled at the pilot as I pulled him close and wrapped my arms around his neck, releasing a playful smile. "Where do you want to go for breakfast?" I asked him curiously, still thinking about the sunflowers and potential dress. Just ask him. "Hey Six? Thank you for the sunflowers. They're beautiful and I enjoyed finding them. What's in the bag though? What're you planning?" I was always a curious person and that would never change. It's one of the reason I always asked too many questions.

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

Once Amelia left for work, I released a breath I didn't know I was even holding. Looking at my phone, I took note that Lincoln would be here in four hours, way before Amelia would be getting out of work. Hopefully everything goes to plan.

Grabbing a muffin to go, I walked out of the apartment and to my car. The first place I needed to stop at was the airport. I needed to pick up the third person of this family for such a special day. Lincoln and I came up with an idea that would make this proposal even more special for Amelia. Plus, with Lincoln in town, I knew Amelia would be distracted with his presence to realize what was really going to occur.

Arriving at the airport, I jogged inside, going to the gates since I had permission to. I waited at the gate I knew Lincoln was arriving in and I smiled brightly when I saw him walk in, talking with the flight attendant that was watching him for this flight. "Dad!" I heard him say before he waved to the flight attendant and ran in my direction. I was quick to take him into a hug, chuckling at him softly. "Hey there Bud, are you ready for tonight? Do you think Amelia is going to catch on?" I asked him with a wide grin, walking with him to baggage claim so that we could grab his suitcase. My sister and I had agreed Linc could spend the weekend here with Amelia and I since he had the coming Monday off at school.

After grabbing his luggage, I took Lincoln to grab some breakfast. I knew he had to be hungry so I took him to the restaurant where he adored their pancakes. Today was going to be a good day. Sitting down in the booth the hostess took us to, I smiled when Lincoln was quick to color on the sheet of paper they gave him. "So Linc, after this we'll go to the jewelry store so you can pick out your gift for Amelia, okay?" When our waitress came, I ordered a cup of coffee, needing the caffeine to keep me awake for the rest of the hectic day ahead.

 

[Lexus]

Dallas, Texas
Dawson ​

Walking out with Isabel, I walked her to her car, opening the door for her before she took me into a hug. I did have to go back to work, but it could wait. I didn't tell anyone how long the appointment would be and I wanted to make sure she ate before I left her until tonight. "We can go wherever you want, love. I don't know what you're in the mood for," I replied gently, returning her hug, our son was becoming a barrier between us. When she mentioned what I left her this morning, I smirked, shrugging my shoulders casually.

"I can't do things for you just because? Why does there have to be a reason?" I teased. "I guess you'll find out when you open it, but we're going to eat first and then I have to go back to work. I imagine you have a busy day of shopping ahead of you now."

Washington D.C.
Lincoln ​

Me and my dad were keeping one big secret from Amelia. She was going to be my mom. I was excited because I loved Amelia and she made my dad really happy. She always did everything she could for both of us, even when she wasn't home and I loved that she always took me to do cool stuff. My favorite is when she took me to see the Cubs play and got me an autographed ball that my favorite pitcher signed! I liked her cooking too, it's way better than dad's. She's really pretty too, dad and I tell her all the time but she never believes us.

When my mom died, I spent a long time missing her. I missed her hugs and kisses and all the fun places we used to go. When she went to heaven I thought I wouldn't get to have any of that again, it made me really sad whenever I thought about it, but Amelia does all the same things! Aunt Tory told me she's the Mom my mom sent to me when she got to heaven and I believed her.

Aunt Tory and I talked about Amelia being my mom a lot, but Aunt Tory said it was up to Dad, he had to ask her to marry him. I wanted him to ask her so bad, for a long, long time, but Aunt Tory also said I had to have patience and that Dad wouldn't ask her without talking to me about it. She said maybe if I prayed about it, it would happen faster, so every night before bed, I prayed to my mom to make Amelia my mom on Earth. When Dad finally asked me what I thought about him marrying Amelia and making her my mom, I cried, we both cried.

Today was the day our plan went into action and I was super excited! When the nice flight attendant asked me why I was flying by myself I told her my Dad was asking my Mom to marry him and her smile turned as big as mine. When I let go of her hand, seeing my dad, she whispered to me to make sure my dad didn't get too nervous. Nodding in understanding, I ran for him.

Once we were at breakfast I laughed at him trying to talk to me about tonight, his hands were shaking. "Dad calm down. Don't be nervous. Amelia loves you," I said, drinking my orange juice while he sipped his coffee. I liked being alone with my dad, but I did miss Amelia, whenever we went to a restaurant, she always let me draw her a picture in her work notebook and she kept all of them.

"I don't know what to get her though, she doesn't wear jewelry," I said in a sigh. "What if she doesn't like what I pick out? I want to be as pretty as her!"

 

[isax]

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

"Hm, does Overeasy off the side of the Statler work?" I asked him curiously, knowing he would catch on with how upscale this café was. Truth be told, I loved the Statler and every restaurant in it. It always gave me a magical feeling. Maybe it was because of it being right next to the DMN or that I got to go inside my Freshman year of college but either way, I loved it.

Letting go of Dawson, I kissed him lovingly once more before I threw my purse in my car, remembering that Amelia had texted me. "You're going to make me wait through breakfast until I get to know what's in the bag? Why can't you just tell me?" I whined, sighing when I knew he wasn't going to budge anytime soon. "Okay okay. I'll just wait until I get home. I don't really want to do much today so maybe I'll just shop from online, plus I'll be all alone since someone has to go to work." I wish he didn't have to go. "Oh wait! What if I go shop on base? You can get me in since I don't have access but I can do all the shopping there." I said with a wide grin. I missed being on base anyways. It made me feel like I was back in Corpus again, like if I was with my grandpa. Hopefully, Dawson would agree because he was my only way in. We weren't married which meant I didn't have a spouse card.

“I’ll meet you at Overeasy.” I said with a smile, kissing him one last time before I got into my car and let him close the door. When he walked away, I reached for my phone that was tucked away in my purse, giggling as I read Amelia’s text. I wanted to tell her the gender so bad but I knew I couldn’t. I had her reveal gift planned and I wanted her to find out that way.

“Good morning! (sun emoji) I’m doing much better today and according to the doc, the baby is healthy and on the right track! I would reveal the gender but I’m not basic enough to let that happen through a text. It’ll be revealed soon, though so keep an eye out. (winky face emoji) I love you! Hope work isn’t too bad! (black heart emoji)

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

I knew Lincoln was just as excited, if not maybe even more excited for what was to happen tonight. I remembered when I asked him if making Amelia his mom was something he wanted. When he said yes as excited as he did and told me why, I started crying. I never realized how heavy Eve's death weighed on my son. Maybe that was because I never knew he was alive until after but none of that needed to stay in mind. Today he and I were starting a new chapter in our lives. A chapter that involved the most beautiful woman I ever laid eyes on. She took my breath away without having to do anything and I wanted her in my life forever. It meant the world to me that Lincoln wanted nothing more than this.

Looking at Lincoln, I took into consideration what he said. Amelia didn't wear much jewelry. She wore none, actually and now I was starting to second guess the idea of Lincoln giving Amelia a necklace or bracelet. Biting my lip, I looked at Lincoln as he told me to calm down and not be nervous. I knew he was right. I knew Amelia loved me and I loved her but that didn't mean proposing wasn't nerve wracking.

"I think no matter what you pick she will love, Linc. She loves you so much. How about we shop around today? We have time and when you find the perfect gift, you'll know." I said with a bright smile, ordering an omelet when our waitress came back to take our food order. I also ordered Lincoln's pancakes, looking over at what he was drawing. I knew it was a drawing for Amelia. "Whatcha writing there? Let me see."

 

[Lexus]

Washington D.C.
Lincoln​

"Can we just get her a dog? She likes those!" Continuing to draw the flowers I decided on for Amelia. Even if she wasn't here I still wanted her to have a drawing I could give to her later. When my dad asked to see, I showed him with a grin before I set it aside. Not too long later, my pancakes arrived and I ate them excitedly. Chocolate chip pancakes were my favorite, I didn't really like the syrup because it was too sticky, so I didn't use a lot. "Jade needs a friend. I think we should get her one."

As we ate breakfast, I listened to Dad talk about Isabel and Dawson. I missed them. I hadn't seen them since Dad and Amelia went on vacation by themselves. They were fun to be with. I loved the ranch! Dad was talking about Isabel and Dawson's baby we were all waiting to meet. I like babies, I think they're cute! I knew Amelia was excited for Isabel and Dawson's baby because we picked out a lot of stuff for him or her for their party. But I wondered why Dad and Amelia still hadn't had their own baby.

Amelia​

When Isabel texted me back I was already in the chaotic buzz of the newsroom, collecting all my interviews for my latest story and pulling out all the resignating quotes. Picking up the phone from my desk, I huffed in irritation at her not telling me what she knew. I wanted to know and the wait was killing me.

"Not fair! I want to know!!!!!!! It's a slow news day. (Shrugging emoji) I guess it's good because Jayden's up to something."

 

[isax]

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

"You want to get her a dog? I'm not sure if she would want another one, Linc." I told my son with a laugh, enjoying his presence as we continued to eat together. I happily enjoyed my omelet and I knew Lincoln was enjoying his chocolate chip pancakes. I thought it was interesting that he didn't like syrup because it was too sticky. I loved being able to spend time with him before the most nerve wracking event of my life was going to take place. I told him all about Isabel and Dawson, along with the baby they were having. I was happy when Lincoln expressed his excitement as well. "Isabel will tell Amelia and I the gender of their baby soon." I told him, finishing up my food, I let Lincoln finish his, and while he did so, I let him tell me all about how school was going. "So you like your teacher this year?" I asked him with a smile, sipping my coffee when our waitress refilled it.

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

When Amelia texted me back, I was stuck in traffic down Commerce Street, waiting for it to clear so that I could park and meet Dawson who was already inside. Reaching over to the phone, I looked at Amelia's response before I let out a laugh. I knew not telling her the gender now was bothering her but I really wanted this to be a surprise for everyone.

"It is fair! I want it to be a surprise! Is he? Date night I'm assuming? (winky face emoji)."

After sending the text, the traffic cleared and I was able to get a parking. Walking inside, I smiled at Dawson who was sitting at a booth near the window. I loved that he was in uniform right now. He always looked so handsome in it. "Did you order your drink yet?" I asked him softly, sitting down before I looked over the menu, trying to decide what I wanted to eat.

 

[Lexus]

Washington D.C.
Lincoln ​

"Who would say no to a dog?" I was confused on why my dad thought Amelia wouldn't want another when she loved Jade so much. Shrugging my shoulders I continued to eat breakfast, still wondering what I could get Amelia to make her happy. I never got her anything before and I wanted this to be special since she was going to be my mom.

When Dad asked me about school, I was already on my last pancake. Shrugging my shoulders, I looked up at him. "She's nice. I don't really like school that much." I thought fourth grade was completely boring. I would much rather play baseball, but Aunt Tory said I had to keep my grades up this year or she wouldn't let me play anymore. I thought it was mean but I didn't want to talk to my dad about it because Aunt Tory said he would agree with her and I didn't want to make him angry today.

When we finished breakfast I ran out the door with Dad excited to get the day started. "Come on, we have to find something for Amelia!"

Amelia​

Seeing Isabel's reply didn't help my impatience on her secret any.

"It is a surprise! It's been five months of waiting! Isn't that enough for you? I need some excitement in my life, pleassssseee. I won't tell anyone. But why are you winking at me? What do you know? Yikes."

Something was different about today and it was making me slightly uneasy. It was just a different vibe all around and I felt oblivious to whatever I wasn't putting together it was irking me.

Dallas, Texas
Dawson ​

I wasn't the man for upscale settings but after joining the Navy I was thrown way outside my country comfort zone. It wasn't until I joined that I learned there was much more to the world than the one I knew. It took awhile to adjust to the city atmosphere and the frequent traveling yo places I knew nothing about. If anything, it taught me to love my home more than I knew I did, and even though I knew how to present myself in the classy places I came to learn Isabel adored, there was still nothing like home.

While I waited for Isabel I gazed at the menu even though I wasn't that hungry. I already ate my breakfast at work, but coffee sounded nice. Looking up, I watched the woman I loved enter the room and couldn't help but grin. Wow, she's mine. Standing to greet her, I kissed her cheek and shook my head at her question.

"Not yet, I was waiting for you. After this though you can follow me back to the base," I said forgetting earlier to reply to her suggestion about coming with me. I never minded when she did but I knew she was waiting for the day she could get in on her own. One day. I promise. I'm just waiting for the right moment. I want it to be about you. You deserve that much.

"Have you heard anything from Jayden or did he end up chickening out today?" I asked with a teasing smirk. My dear friend who had been lovesick for Amelia for as long as I knew about her, had been talking to me about asking the big question for months, but until today, maybe, he never planned to take action. I knew like me, he wanted it to be just right, he was just fun to tease. I was happy for him, he and Amelia deserved their happiness and a part of me felt bad that Josie almost obliterated it.

 

[isax]

Washington D.C.
Jayden​

Once Lincoln and I finished eating, I laughed when he was quick to run out to the car after I finished paying. I knew he was excited to find Amelia the perfect gift. I knew he wanted tonight to be perfect and go as well as it could. "Okay okay, where do you want to go first?" I asked him, taking his hand in mine before I unlocked the car so he could get inside. Smiling at him, I started the car and drove us to the mall. After the mall, I would take Lincoln to go pick out a friend for Jade because he was right. There was no way Amelia wouldn't be okay with another dog.

When we arrived to the mall, I walked in with Lincoln holding my hand, smiling softly at as I saw his face beam with excitement as ideas began to race through his mind. "Did you think of anything yet? We can look around. We have the whole day until she gets out anyways. Help me pick out a dress for her?" I asked him. I needed the dress to be perfect, just like this entire evening. "What are you leaning towards, Linc?"

Dallas, Texas
Isabel​

When Dawson said I could follow him to the base, I was more than thrilled. Everything on the base was always cheaper than what the civilians paid and they had a lot of items to chose from. Smiling, I nodded happily when he told me. "Thank you." I said excitedly, looking over the menu as I decided on what I wanted to drink. When the waiter came to take our drinks order, I listened to Dawson say he wanted coffee. Coffee sounded unappetizing to me right now, so after searching through their tea options, I decided on Earl Grey. I laughed when Dawson wrinkled his nose. "Oh stop it! Tea is really good for you."

When he asked about Jayden, I realized I hadn't heard from him at all. Blinking, I looked at my phone, reading Amelia's text before quickly responding.

"Okay okay, you sucked me in. It's a boy!!!" I completely disregarded that she caught on to me knowing something.

"I haven't heard from Jayden yet, but I'll text him in a bit and ask him. I know he was picking up Lincoln from the airport. They probably got some breakfast. I also know they're finding Lincolns gift for Amelia." I said with pure happiness, "I think the whole proposal is a cute idea and I can't wait to hear all about it!"

 

[Lexus]

Washington D.C.
Lincoln ​

I was getting frustrated with not knowing what to get Amelia. I couldn't think of anything she would like enough and it made me sad because I really wanted her to like it. I didn't want her to say no to my dad. Huffing at my dad asking me again what to get for Amelia, I felt bad, but then, I got an idea! While we walked to the store my dad wanted to go in to buy Amelia a pretty dress, I stopped.

"Dad, can we call Isabel to help? She would know what Mom would wear! She's her best friend. Please? I really want her to like it."

Amelia​

Between pauses in my conversation with Isabel, I started to write the script for my latest project but stopped as soon as I saw her message appear on my Macbook. I actually squealed. A nephew!!! Ahhhhhh he's going to be SO precious!!!! Slapping the keys furiously in my reply, I smiled at my partner before sending the message.

"AHHHHH HE'S GOING TO BE SUCH A STUD! (Heart eye emoji) (Blue heart). I can't wait to meet him! Send me the pictures!!"

Dallas, Texas
Dawson​

"If tea is made the right way It's not that good for you, hun," I said in a chuckle before reverting back to our previous conversation. "The proposal is very Jayden, but I still say he chickened out." When Isabel glared at me I grinned. "What? He can't even think straight when you bring her name into a conversation, you expect me to believe he won't think she's too perfect to spend the rest of her life wth him?" Winking, I thanked the server who returned quickly with my coffee that was much needed. Stirring in the creamer, I tested my luck some more. "And there's no guarantee she'll say yes, you know how stubborn she is. I wouldn't be so sure," I said in fake hesitancy right before she ordered her breakfast.