23

“Maybe Selma could tell I was pregnant yesterday because I’m already getting a pudgy stomach,” Emily said laying on the couch with her head on Kian’s lap. Her shirt was pulled up to her bra line and her hands rested on her stomach. “This is like a warp speed pregnancy.” Kian moved her hands and replaced them with one of his hands.

“Hey,” Emily shouted playfully then whacked his upper arm. 

“You’ve been hogging him all morning,” he reminded her. She couldn’t argue with him. Since they woke up, one or both of her hands had been on her stomach. 

“Fine,” she sighed. “But only for five minutes.” She scolded pointing a finger up at him. 

“Five minutes,” he groaned. “You get him twenty-four hours a day. I think I deserve more than five minutes.” 

“Fine,” she rolled her eyes. “Six minutes but not a minute more.” Kian’s eyes widened. 

“Six min...” Emily couldn’t contain herself anymore. She burst into laughter. “You aren’t nice.”

“I know.” She rolled on her side to snuggle closer to him. “But you still love me though.” 

Panic hit her like a hammer hitting a nail. She was only saying still love me though to be funny. She didn’t want him to think she was forcing him to love her or that she thought he loved her. Nausea was washing over her and this time she couldn’t blame the baby. 

“That’s true. I do still love you,” he replied without missing a beat. 

“What!” Emily gasped looking up. He was smiling. 

“You heard me correctly, sweetheart.” With the tips of his fingers, he ran them down the side of her face. “I love you, Emily Freeman.”  

“Kian...” Emily sobbed. “You... lo...” Forming a complete sentence was being distorted by her happiness. 

“More than words can ever express.” Giving up on forming words, she sat up and faced him. Within a breath, she had her lips pressed against his. She let her passionate kisses show him what her words couldn’t say.

Kian kissed her with the same passion. He lifted her from the couch and onto his lap while their kiss continued. Emily could feel his love with every circle of his tongue, every stroke of his hand in her hair, and every breath he took.

“I... I... love...” Emily said between kisses.

Knock! Knock!

Emily and Kian both groaned. Their kiss broke off slowly. 

“Never a dull moment,” she growled. “If it’s one of your exes. I’m killing you and her.”

“Emily,” he pleaded. 

“I’m teasing,” she chuckled and stood up. While she was adjusting her shirt, she looked at him and smiled. “I’m only killing you.”

“Hey!” Emily sat on the couch and gestured at the door.

“Better answer the door, lover boy.” 

If it was one of his exes, Emily wasn’t going to be mad. She just liked seeing his terrified facial expression. His past was exactly that... his past. He was with her now. Had confessed his love for her and they were expecting a baby. There wasn’t a reason to be jealous anymore. 

Kian hesitantly made his way over to the door. Before opening the door, he looked through the peephole and groaned.

“What’s wrong? It’s one of them. Isn’t it,” Emily giggled. Her giggles ceased when he looked at her and mouthed ‘worse.’ Who could be worse than an ex?

Kian opened the door and gave Emily her answer... Nikki. She walked into the apartment like she owned the place. She wore a blue ‘50s dress, her hair done up in a bouffant, white heels on her feet and a white purse with her arm slipped through the handle. She was smiling ear to ear. 

“There is my beautiful goddaughter,” she chirped making her way over to Emily. Goddaughter?

“Malakai,” Kian said acknowledging a tall pale man with short white hair, who was no taller than Emily. He wore a v-neck sweater with a white button-up shirt beneath it. His black slacks were pressed and his black shoes were well polished. The man commanded attention. Even without his impressive clothes, his violet eyes would captivate an audience. 

“Kian,” the man nodded and made his way over to Nikki’s side. Emily watched Nikki take a step away from the man. Annoyance radiated from Nikki. Finally, someone who annoys Nikki, Emily mused.  

“Vivek, please, come in,” Kian gestured for Vivek to come inside. Vivek ducked his head to avoid hitting his head on the door jamb. When he stood tall, Emily took in his appearance. He was wearing a maroon suit with a white button-up shirt. His brown shoes were well polished like the white-haired man. In Vivek’s hand was a round top hat.  

Kian shut the door then he and Vivek made their way over to the rest. All eyes were on Emily. They were making her feel uneasy. Her vision was shifting to blue. 

“Um... someone want to speak before my body loses its shit,” Emily breathed while trying to steady her emotions. She rubbed her stomach hoping it would help calm her. 

“So it is true,” Nikki said cheerfully clapping her hands together. Emily didn’t have time to speak. Nikki was already sitting beside her. Nikki smiled at her. “I am so happy for you.”

“Um.. thanks.” 

“He’s going to be beautiful,” Nikki whispered looking down at Emily’s stomach. Nikki had her hand up ready to touch Emily’s stomach, but she was refraining. 

“Go ahead,” Emily sighed and took her hand off of her stomach.

“Really,” Nikki asked smiling. Emily nodded her head. “Ooo! How exciting!” Even though Nikki annoyed Emily, the woman’s excitement about the baby made it hard for Emily to be upset with the woman. Nikki placed her hand on Emily’s stomach gently.

“Beautiful child. You are already loved so very much. So very, very much,” Nikki cooed at the baby. Then something surprising happened. Emily’s emotions settled. The baby seemed to like Nikki. 

“It seems he likes you,” Emily giggled. 

“Aww. I like you too, sweet baby.” Nikki slowly caressed Emily’s stomach.

“What brings you here, Nikki,” Kian asked. She didn’t take her eyes off of Emily’s stomach nor did she stop caressing it. 

“Can’t I stop by to see my goddaughter,” she huffed. 

“Goddaughter,” Emily and Kian shouted in unison. Nikki nodded. Why does she keep saying goddaughter?

“Mmhmm.” Nikki’s focus was on the baby. 

“Nikki, I think they are looking for a more thorough explanation,” Malakai whispered. Nikki snapped her attention to the man. His shoulders sunk. 

“Malakai,” she growled between clenched teeth. Her words were more venomous than a cobra’s. “The only reason you are here is because Vivek drove and he wouldn’t leave your butt behind.” 

The tension in the room between Nikki and Malakai was thick. Emily remembered what Kian had said about how Malakai had ruined Nikki’s spell. The town may have let him off the hook but Nikki was obviously still holding a grudge. A nasty grudge. 

“Hi, Malakai. I’m Emily,” Emily said trying to play peacekeeper. She began to stand but Nikki shook her head so she stopped moving. 

“Malakai is a gentleman. He wouldn’t make a pregnant woman stand on his behalf,” Nikki stated then went back to belly rubs. Emily was starting to feel like a labrador. 

“That I am,” Malakai said crisply then walked over to Emily. He extended his hand. “Malakai Niall Merlin Alvarion.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” she took hold of his hand. He kissed the top of her hand then patted the top of it.

“It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Freeman.” Slowly, he let go of Emily’s hand. Nikki growled at him when he didn’t move away, immediately. He held up his hand in surrender and stepped back to Kian and Vivek’s side. 

“Alvarion? That’s similar to Selma’s last name,” she chuckled. Malakai gave her a kind smile. 

“She is my granddaughter,” he said proudly. 

“What,” she shrieked. “What are the odds of that?” 

A paranormal town in the middle of nowhere and Selma finds her grandfather. It pinged Emily with a bit of jealousy. She wanted to find her relatives. Maybe her grandfather would speak as proud of her as Malakai spoke of Selma. 

“Rare. I know.” 

“No need to fret, Emily,” Nikki whispered taking hold of both sides of Emily’s face. Nikki looked at Emily. “You have a godmother who is very proud of you.” Her words were warm. Emily could feel the sincerity in Nikki’s touch and see the sincerity in both her eyes and her smile.

“Thank you,” Emily replied trying to keep from crying. Knowing Nikki was proud of her made her happy. It was nice to have an older woman’s affection. A motherly affection. Nikki had known just what to say to make Emily feel more at peace. That was until a realization struck. “Hey! You can read minds!” 

“Relax, chickadee,” Nikki whispered. “I can’t read minds. It was like you were talking in my head.” Nikki shrugged slightly. “Never had that happen before.”  

“Oh. Then... I did it? I talked to you... in your mind?” 

“It would seem so.” Nikki patted Emily’s hand. “Your powers are coming in fast, chickadee.”

“Everything seems to be going warp speed,” Emily replied looking down at her stomach.

“That’s why Vivek is here,” Kian gestured to Vivek, who had been standing quietly off to the side. 

“Oh,” she asked tilting her head to the side to look at Vivek. 

“Medicine doctor,” he smiled. 

“The dream?” 

“Sorry about that.” He looked at Kian and frowned. “Someone wanted to keep what happened under wraps for a bit until he could figure out a way of telling you.” 

“Don’t be mad at Vivek. It’s my fault,” Kian admitted. 

“I know,” she sighed. “Secrets. Secrets. Secrets. So I’m not losing my mind. It really happened?” Everyone in the room nodded.

“You can’t be too mad at Kian. I asked him to give me time to figure everything out.” Nikki’s words were soft. She was looking at Emily with sad eyes. “Our world is a bit... complicated.” 

“I understand.”

It couldn’t be easy for the townspeople. They had two humans enter a barrier that none of them could get out of. The town had been trapped in time for decades. Well, not exactly trapped in time. More like hidden from the world. On top of that, the town was filled with paranormals, which were beings humans only read about. Seeing a paranormal being was unheard of. 

“You do?” Everyone asked except Vivek. Emily nodded. 

“Can’t share secrets with strangers.”

“Oh, chickadee. You aren’t a stranger. I knew who you and Selma were the minute I laid eyes on you both.” Nikki placed a hand on Emily’s arm. “That’s what made things even more complicated. But we’re glad you’re here in Camden.”

“Forever,” Emily muttered and slouched. She was happy to have found Kian; however, being stuck in the ‘50s wasn’t her ideal happily ever after place. 

“That’s one of the reasons we’re here,” Malakai announced. 

“Okay,” Emily asked hesitantly. 

“Well,” he sighed and looked at Nikki for guidance. She didn’t give it to him. Instead, she crossed her arms in front of her chest.

“Well, what?” Kian growled. “Spit it out, Malakai.” 

“Okay. Okay. Relax, Kian.” Malakai took a step away from Kian, who was glaring down at the man. “Nikki and I spoke how Emily and Selma are the only chance of getting to Vikki.”

“Who is Nikki,” Emily interrupted. She had her assumption but wanted them to make it clear. 

“She’s my twin sister, your other godmother,” Nikki stated then rubbed Emily’s stomach. Two godmothers?

“Ah. I see. So... how exactly can Selma and I help?” 

“We need the two of you to cross the barrier,” Malakai’s voice was faint. 

“No,” Kian and Vivek shouted. 

“She is with child,” Vivek warned. “Only the selfish would ask her to try it.” 

“You don’t know if it is dangerous to the baby,” Malakai’s voice was still faint, his eyes on Nikki. The look on his face screamed ‘help me’. 

“Fine,” Nikki sighed and turned on the couch to face Emily. “Chickadee, you and Selma have been the only ones to cross the barrier which means the chance of you being able to cross it the other way is high. We need to get my sister, Vikki, here to reverse the spell. She is the only one who can.”

“Nikki, it’s time for you and Malakai to go,” Kian snarled. “I won’t be able to contain myself for much longer.” Vivek placed his hand on Kian’s shoulder. 

“Relax, my friend,” Vivek said in his Morgan Freeman voice. “Try to remain calm for your mate and your child.” Kian looked at Emily. His body relaxed. His balled fists opened and rested at the side of him.

“I know. You’re right,” Kian let out a deep breath. “I just don’t like the idea of my mate and my child trying to cross the barrier.”

“The girls made it in the first time, Kian,” Malakai whispered. Vivek had to take hold of Kian’s shoulder when Kian advanced towards Malakai. 

“Kian, remember,” Vivek pointed at Emily, who was still having her belly rubbed by Nikki. If it wasn’t for the calming effect and the baby liking it, Emily would have told Nikki to go pet Casper and leave her alone. 

“Nikki,” Kian growled between clenched teeth, “will you explain how you came up with the idea to send them across the barrier without asking Emily or me?” 

“Did Selma agree to this?” Emily asked in a huff. 

“We haven’t spoken to her yet. I heard about you being with child and rushed over here,” Nikki said calmly and placed her hands on her lap. “I understand your concern Kian. I really do. However, the girls are our only hope. You don’t want to stay here forever. Do you?”

“Things are different now. I’m not just thinking about myself. Unlike you. I’m thinking about the well-being of Emily, Selma and all the children,” Kian pointed a finger at Nikki. Her eyes were wide.

“Children?” She looked down at Emily’s stomach. Emily held up one finger.

“I’m only having one. It’s Selma who’s having triplets.” 

“Oh. My. My. My.” Emily couldn’t figure out if Nikki was excited, disappointed or overwhelmed by the news of Selma being pregnant. “Lots of pitter-pattering of feet in the near future.” She smiled.

“Pitter patters that need to stay on this side of the barrier. Where they are safe,” Kian declared. Nikki didn’t argue. She simply nodded her head. 

“I’m not heartless, Mr. Nordin. I understand what you’re saying. I won’t pressure Emily into crossing.” 

“Maybe, after I have the baby,” Emily suggested in hopes of a compromise. The vibe between Nikki and Kian was causing her vision to flicker between blue and normal. She wasn’t crazy about being a guinea pig in crossing the barrier; however, she’d figure out the details later down the road. 

“No,” Kian growled. 

“Kian,” Emily breathed. “Let’s worry about all of this down the road. Right now, let’s not stress over it, please?” He gave her a smile. 

“I’m sorry, sweetheart, for losing my cool.” 

“It’s okay. I just don’t want to stress. I have enough on my mind.” Nikki patted her hand.

“Forgive me, chickadee. Kian is right. Malakai and I were both selfish. We didn’t think about you,” Nikki said standing. “We will get out of your hair for a bit and let Vivek check on the baby.”

“Yes. We are truly sorry, Miss Freeman,” Malakai said softly. Emily had forgotten he was in the room. With Nikki ready to strangle him, the man had remained quietly off to the side. 

“It’s okay. I understand. You’ve been trapped here a long time,” Emily gave him a sympathetic smile. She didn’t know what else to say besides ‘Get out!’. They had ruined the moment for her and Kian. 

“Well, we will talk soon. Okay,” Nikki said giving Emily a smile then proceeding over to the door. “Come on, Malakai,” she grumbled. 

“Nikki,” he sighed and walked over to her. “Can’t you not hate me for two seconds?” She opened the door then turned to face him. Satan would have trembled from the look she was giving Malakai.

“Before I use up the last of my powers and turn you into a toad, let's go.” She turned towards the hallway. “We’ll go visit Selma and then we’ll wait by the car, Vivek.”

“Okay. I’ll be down shortly,” Vivek replied before Nikki closed the door behind her and Malakai. Vivek faced Emily. “May I?” He gestured at the open spot next to her.

“Of course,” Emily patted the cushion beside her and smiled. He sat down slowly. 

“How have you been feeling lately?”

“Cranky. Emotional. Nauseous. I guess the usual pregnancy stuff,” she shrugged. She didn’t really have a clue about pregnancy other than what she had heard from others. 

“What about Drenanian?”

“Um...what’s that? I don’t think I have that symptom. At least I don’t think so.” Vivek and Kian chuckled. 

“It isn’t a what, sweetheart. It’s a who,” Kian replied coming up to sit on the arm of the couch closest to her. 

“Oh.”

“Drenanian is the woman, who intrudes your mind,” Vivek responded. 

“So I’m not losing my mind?” 

“Far from it,” Vivek reassured. “All succubi hear her in the beginning. She tests the new succubus’ strength and willpower. Those succubi who ignore her words, she eventually leaves their mind for good. I believe she won’t be around your mind much longer.”

“That’s a relief, but are you sure? I feel drawn to her,” she admitted in a whisper.  

“You’ve ignored her this far, sweetheart. She will grow annoyed and leave. You’re feisty,” Kian chuckled and rubbed her shoulder. 

“You have a strong soul. I felt it the other day in my shop,” Vivek acknowledged.

“So you don’t run the rec center?” Vivek and Kian both grinned then shook their heads. 

“No. I don’t,” he admitted. “I am Vivek Kingston. I am the town’s shaman and soul healer when needed.”

“So you’re like a doctor?” He smiled brightly and nodded. 

“And, when the time comes, I’d like him to deliver the baby, Emily.” Kian’s words were firm. Emily could sense his seriousness on the matter and hear the worry in his tone. Usually, when he spoke tenderly he referred to her as sweetheart. 

“Worried about something?” Emily asked turning in her seat to look up at him. He was looking down smiling softly. 

“I trust Vivek with my life; therefore, I trust him with you and the baby. He won’t let anything happen to either of you.” 

Emily felt her chest tighten as fear ran up her spine. She feared Kian was worried about Drenanian showing up during the birth. The world shifted to hues of blue. Emily felt protective. Willing to fight to the end of time to protect her child from Drenanian or anyone or anything else.

“Sweetheart,” Kian smiled before stroking a finger down her cheek. “You’re safe. The baby is safe.” Emily shook her head. Her breaths were choppy. The beat of her heart was like a drum. Fear. She was filled with fear. 

“Release all fear. You and your child are safe,” Vivek picked up one of Emily’s hands. He placed his hand and her hand palm to palm. A bright light shined between them. A sense of calm flowed through her. It was a breath of fresh air. She felt like she could breathe again. A warming sensation came from her stomach. When she looked down, there was a bright blue light in the center of her stomach. 

“I’m just overprotective of you and the baby, sweetheart,” Kian admitted running his hand through his hair. “I’m not trying to upset you. I’m just... scared.”

His admittance of weakness made Emily care for him even more. He was showing her a vulnerable side to him. A side that probably didn’t come easily to him. She knew how that felt. Opening herself up to others wasn’t something she was good at. She admired him for being brave and admitting his fear. 

“I know,” she said smiling. He gave her a reluctant smile in exchange. 

“May I check on you and the baby?” Vivek’s words had Emily’s cheeks warming. She knew there wasn’t any modern technology in Camden so that meant he would have to do it the old fashioned way. Emily wasn’t too fond of laying spread open for Vivek to do his exam. 

“Um...” she said bashfully. Vivek chuckled and looked down at their hands that were still touching. “Oh. You can check on the baby with our hands connected?” 

“Of course. I am a shaman after all.” His words were comforting. The warmth in her cheeks died down. She forgot Vivek wasn’t an ordinary doctor. He was a doctor of magic. 

“Emily, can he check on the baby?” Kian asked rubbing her back. Emily gave a nod then looked down at her and Vivek’s touching hands. Vivek gave a nod, closed his eyes and chanted something softly.

Emily couldn’t make out any of the words. They were words in a foreign language. Despite not knowing what the words were or what they meant, Emily could feel the strength in them. She could feel energy entering at her palm where Vivek and her hands met. The energy made its way up her arm and traveled down to her stomach. Her stomach was a blend of blue and white bright lights entangled with one another. The energies were painless. In fact, they gave her a calming sensation. Emily wanted to ask Vivek how the baby was, but he had his eyes closed and the chants continued. His other hand was palm up. Kian moved from sitting beside her to sitting on the coffee table watching closely.

She brought her eyes back down to her stomach. The white and blue lights of energy were still wrapping around one another. When a goldish colored light entered the twist of colors. When Vivek’s chanting finally stopped, the white light left Emily the same way it came and the other colors vanished. She brought her gaze up to Vivek, who was grinning from ear to ear. His eyes opened slowly. They had flecks of gold in them but the flecks soon returned to his natural brown eye color. 

“Is the baby okay?” Kian asked anxiously leaning in towards Vivek.

“Well,” Vivek cleared his throat.

“Vivek,” Kian groaned making Vivek laugh.

“Relax, Kian.” Vivek looked at Emily and squeezed her hand gently before resting it on her lap. “They are both strong.”

“Good. I knew Emily was strong. It makes me feel so much better knowing the baby is strong,” Kian sighed. Vivek shook his head. “No? But you said.”

“I know what I said. You assumed who I was speaking of.”

“Then who are you talking about,” Kian asked in a nervous voice. 

“I am talking about your children.” 

“Children,” Emily and Kian shouted. Emily was filled with joy. Kian looked like he was going to pass out. 

“Tw... twins,” Kian asked. 

“Yes. Twins,” Vivek confirmed. 

Emily thought she would never be a mother in this lifetime. Now, she learned she was going to be a mother to twins. Two strong babies. Her fear of childbirth was replaced with excitement. Vivek had given her the news she needed to submerge her worry. 

“I thought... didn’t you and Selma say there was one,” Kian asked Emily, who shrugged.

“I only sensed one. I wasn’t lying to you, Kian,” Emily snapped. 

“Sorry, sweetheart. I wasn’t accusing you of lying.” He took her hand and kissed it. “I’m just surprised.”

“Me too,” she reminded him. 

“I know. I’m just a wreck,” he chuckled. 

“Vivek, do you have any herbs or magic to knock him out until after the babies are born?” She teased and looked at Vivek. Vivek laughed. 

“I am sure I could come up with something.”

“Hey,” Kian called out. “We are supposed to be friends.” 

“We are. However, you need a sedative, my friend. Otherwise, your mate may kill you before the birth of your children,” Vivek joked then stood up. 

“I’m not that bad,” he huffed. Vivek and Emily looked at Kian with their eyebrows raised. “What? I’m not,” Kian laughed. 

“Emily, you are welcome to my shop anytime. I live above it. If you need anything day or night, don’t hesitate to find me.” 

“Thank you, Vivek,” Emily replied. She stood up next to Vivek and Kian did the same. 

“Yes. Thank you, Vivek. I feel a million times better knowing Emily and the baby... babies are in your care.” Kian laughed to himself and shook his head. Then his free hand raked through his hair. “Babies,” he whispered. 

“Get used to the word, my friend.” Vivek clamped a hand on Kian’s shoulder. “They will be here in a few weeks.”

“Oh. That soon,” Emily asked placing a hand on her stomach. “Not months?”

“No. I’d say six weeks at the most.” 

“Wow. That’s really soon,” she giggled. Everything was happening so fast for Emily. Yet, she was ready for the journey. She was ready to pick out names and decorate the nursery. Kian had already offered to give up the room he had as his office. That way the baby would have a room of its own. 

“I guess I better start making cribs.” Kian sighed and looked around the apartment. “Maybe we should move to a bigger place.”

“I will leave so the two of you can discuss things,” Vivek mused and walked over to the door with Emily and Kian close behind him. Kian dropped Emily’s hand to open the door for Vivek. 

“Thank you for coming, Vivek,” Kian stated. 

“My pleasure. I look forward to meeting the little ones,” he smiled, looked at Emily and bowed his head slightly. “Don’t forget. I’m here day or night.” 

Emily smiled at his kindness. “Thank you. I will remember that. Don’t forget to work on the sedative for Kian.” 

“Hey,” Kian laughed. 

“I will work on it as soon as I get back to the shop,” Vivek chuckled. “Miss Freeman,” he bowed his head at Emily. “Kian.” They shook hands.

“Vivek,” Kian replied. “Safe travels.” 

“Thank you. See you soon.” Vivek took his leave down the hallway. Kian closed the door softly and faced Emily. He let out a large breath. 

“Twins,” he shouted before he picked up Emily and swung her around. “We’re having twins!” 

“Kian,” she laughed as he continued holding her and spinning in circles. “I’m going to throw up.” He stopped instantly and set her down carefully. 

“Sorry. I’m just... excited.” Emily giggled then wrapped her arms around Kian’s waist. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head. “You are going to be a wonderful mother, sweetheart.”

His words brought tears to her eyes. They were words that meant the world to her. She didn’t want to be like her mother. She wanted to give the babies everything she never got from her parents emotionally. Knowing Kian believed in her filled her with warmth and joy. 

“Thank you,” she said holding back tears. Kian looked down at her. 

“Don’t cry, sweetheart.” She shook her head and laughed.

“They’re happy tears.”

“Good. Then I’ll allow them,” he teased and captured her lips with his. “My beautiful mate.” 

“My incredibly handsome, father of my children,” she grinned. Seeing Kian’s prideful smile told her he loved hearing her call him that. 

“I am pretty handsome,” he agreed earning him a swat at his chest from Emily. “What? You just said it.” 

Emily shook her head then rested it on his chest. “Let’s hope the babies take after me,” she sighed.

“Hey! What’s wrong with taking after me?” Emily looked up to find him looking down at her and grinning. “You seem to like me just fine.”

“I’m still asking myself why,” she stated rolling her eyes. When he frowned, she finally gave him a smile. “You are a pretty good catch, Mr. Nordin.” 

“Why thank you, Mrs. Nordin.” 

“What,” Emily shrieked. Kian dug in his pocket. When he pulled his hand out, it was holding a jewelry box. “Kian,” she breathed. 

“We’re already mated. Don’t you think we should make it official,” He asked nervously as he opened the box revealing a beautiful princess cut diamond rested on top of a silver band. “Do you like it?” He asked bashfully. 

“It’s beautiful, Kian.” She felt his body relax. 

“I’m glad you like it. I was worried,” he admitted nervously. 

“Is this how your... our kind show we are mated?” She asked gesturing to the ring. Kian laughed and shook his head.

“No. Our kind usually doesn’t mate. At least not that I know of.”

“So why the ring? To mark your territory?” She gave him a side eye and smirked. He shook his head. 

“No. I just know that in the human world, a ring signifies the person who wears the ring is very loved.” Emily melted. Every time she thought Kian had said the sweetest thing in the world, he’d surprise her with something even sweeter the next sweet moment they had. 

Slowly, he slipped the ring onto her left ring finger. He stared at the ring with satisfaction. 

“I guess if that’s the reason people wear a ring then I’ll need to get you a ring then huh?” Kian laughed but stopped once he processed her words. He looked down at her with hopeful eyes.

“Yes, Mr. Nordin,” she giggled. “I love you.” 

“What?” He gasped. 

“You heard me.” Standing on her tippy toes she kissed him. “I love you, Kian Lucas Nordin.” 

“And I love you.” 

“But for how long?” She smiled. He kissed her with a passion of a thousand kisses. 

“Until the end of time, my love.” 

Emily looked out Vivek’s window and looked at the world outside it. No one was walking the streets. It wasn’t even seven o’clock yet. The sun had just peeked over the horizon.

Emily normally slept until about eight if the twins allowed her to. However, last night had been rough. Emily tossed and turned trying to get comfortable. She had contractions every so often. Kian had panicked then rushed Emily over to Vivek. 

It was a false alarm. She wasn’t in labor just like she had told Kian a million times from the time he said they were going to Vivek’s to the time they arrived at Vivek’s. However, Kian wasn’t listening to her. He just knew this was the real-deal. 

Emily desperately needed a break from her husband, mate, father of her children, pain in the ass of her life — Kian. The man was a nervous-wreck. He was definitely a first time dad. The type of first time dads you see on comedy sitcoms. That was Kian. If she even made a sound while stretching, he was ready to rush her to Vivek. Kian had become such a nervous-wreck. Emily couldn’t take it anymore. While the three of them were talking, after the false alarm, she had told him, ‘Why don’t we just live with Vivek until the babies are born?’ He had taken her seriously and told her it was a great idea. 

“That’s it! I’m going for a damn walk,” Emily yelled as she pushed herself up off the couch. Kian stood to help her. “If you touch me, I’m going to choke the life out of you!”

“Emily. Sweetheart,” Kian said softly. “I’m just worried about you and the twins.”

“You’re driving me fucking nuts, Kian Lucas Nordin! Fucking nuts!” Vivek sat in his chair with his lips sealed. Emily could tell by the look in his eyes he agreed with her. Kian was driving her and Vivek both nuts with his constant Chicken Little behavior. 

“Sweetheart,” Kian whispered running his hand through his hair. “I’m not trying to make you mad.”

“Kian,” she sighed. “I just need a few minutes to myself. Please?” He opened his mouth.

“I think that is a wonderful idea,” Vivek intervened. “How about you and I have a drink, while she goes and gets some fresh air.” Kian frowned and looked at Vivek.

“It’s like six in the morning for one. And two, you don’t drink,” Kian replied frowning. Vivek smiled.

“And you don’t relax so this shall be fun.” Emily chuckled at Vivek’s words. “Kian. She will be okay, my friend. Let her go get some air.” 

“Fine,” Kian grumbled. “But I’m not happy.” He walked over to Emily and held her. She wanted to pull away because he was already smothering her mentally. She didn’t want to be smothered physically by him. 

“Kian, I need to go get some fresh air,” she said squirming out of his arms. 

“Okay. But come back within the hour or I’m going searching for you. Okay?” She tightened her lips to refrain from chewing his ass out up one side and down the other. Her hands were beginning to warm. It was time for her to go before she threw him through a wall or out a window. Her powers had come in full force. Vivek was working with her to control them; however, Kian was pushing her limits.

“Okay,” she said sweetly. “I’ll be back within the hour.” She gave him a swift kiss then headed toward the door. “Bye, Vivek.”

“Goodbye, Emily,” Vivek replied right as the door was closing behind Emily. 

“Can’t even go for a walk by my damn self,” Emily huffed and kicked a patch of grass that lined the sidewalk. “Crazy, hovering, clingy incubus!”

“I’m guessing you are referring the Kian, chickadee?” Nikki’s sudden appearance out of nowhere damn near sent Emily into labor. Emily placed her hand on her chest and took slow breaths. 

“Damn it, Nikki,” Emily snapped. “All of you damn light-toed mystics!” The world around her began to turn shades of blue. Calm down, Emily. When you’re upset, the twins are upset. She repeated to herself over and over. Nikki just stood there waiting for Emily to gather her wits. 

“Okay. I’m fine now,” Emily sighed when the shades of different blues vanished and the colors of the real world appeared. “What are you doing here? I thought you were talking to Malakai about...” She let her words die out. There were so many in the town who had great hearing. As much as Nikki had also hovered over her and driven her crazy, Emily wasn’t going to let Nikki’s secret slip. 

“That’s neither here nor there, chickadee,” Nikki chuckled and waved off Emily’s words as though they were nothing. “I am here to check on my god grandbabies.” 

“Nikki. Really? I saw you just last night though. Besides it’s not even seven o’clock yet.” 

“Hmmph. I’m here to see them,” Nikki pointed at Emily’s full belly. “Not you, Emily Sofia Nordin!” Emily frowned before she moved her hands away from her stomach. Nikki practically jumped for joy then rushed over to rub Emily’s belly. 

Emily still hadn’t gotten used to having the last name Nordin. Her and Kian had a ceremony at Lake Myrtle. They were married as the sun was setting. It was a day she would always remember. Not because it was her wedding day, but because Myrtle — who might as well be called Loch Lake Myrtle — decided to send Emily and Kian their wedding gift. 

Myrtle — had jumped up out of the water and dove right back in it with a splash. A big splash. The water came pounding down on everyone who was there for the ceremony. Kian had teleported him and Emily to safety with his incubus trick. Casper picked up Selma, cradled her in his arms and took off in a dead sprint. Even when he wasn’t in his dog form he was still pretty fast, which Emily found impressive.

“Emily,” Nikki whined. Emily had forgotten the woman was still there. 

“You have five minutes. Yesterday, you rubbed me like I was a damn dog. Almost an hour!” 

“You here that? Your mommy is cranky. I think she is just ready to see you two,” Nikki said in a baby voice. She squatted down and continued rubbing Emily’s stomach.

“Bless your heart,” Nikki chuckled. Emily tried to look down at Nikki but her round belly was blocking most of Nikki. “Your shoes don’t match.” 

“What,” Emily shrieked then tried lifting her right foot to see her shoes. She was unsuccessful. “What color are they?” 

“One is a blue tennis shoe. The other one is a black tennis shoe,” Nikki giggled.

“Kian Lucas Nordin,” Emily growled loudly in the direction of Vivek’s shop. He had been the one to put her shoes on since she couldn’t see her feet anymore due to her large stomach and him rushing her out the door. Honestly, she was lucky she even had shoes on. She had to demand that Kian put shoes on her because she refused to walk around barefooted. 

“Don’t be upset with him, Emily.” 

“Why the hell not?”

“The poor man is terrified of you. You haven’t been the most... um... how do I say this?” 

“You don’t,” Emily snapped then began walking away from Nikki in a hurry. Poor man? Poor man, my ass!

“Emily,” Nikki whined then stood and chased after Emily. “I take it back. I take it back.” Emily held back her giggle. It always amused her when Nikki would retract on a statement just so she could rub Emily’s stomach.

“If you want to rub someone’s belly go find Selma,” Emily growled as best as she could without giving away the fact she really wasn’t mad at Nikki. Nikki was still shaking her head at Emily’s comment about Nikki rubbing Selma’s belly. 

“No. I will see Selma later today. Much later.”

Nikki had been trying to keep her distance since her incident with Selma. Malakai was trying to help Selma get control over her powers; however, the triplets were giving Casper, Malakai, and Selma’s emotions a run for their money. Selma’s powers were a force to be reckoned with whenever Selma or the triplets were in a bad mood. Emily was in the safe zone when it came to Selma because Emily had her own magical power mood swings. Half the town had kept clear away from both her and Selma for the townspeople’s own safety. Except Nikki, who thought she could just walk up to Selma and touch Selma’s stomach. Nikki got a shock of a lifetime. Literally. Selma had sent a surge of energy out her hands and into Nikki. Nikki flew at least ten feet before she landed on her ass. 

“Why are you chuckling? It wasn’t funny. Do you know how many times you and her have ruined my outfits from your little power fits,” Nikki sassed and placed one of her hands on her hips. Emily raised her eyebrow and stared her fairy godmother down. 

“I sure would hate for me to have one of my little power fits right now, fairy godmother,” Emily said theatrically with a smirk.  

“I hope the twins act more like Kian because may the universe help us all, if they act like...” Nikki’s words faded off the higher Emily’s eyebrow rose. 

“If they act like who?”

“Nikki,” Malakai called out from across the street. Nikki’s eyes widened and then she groaned. 

“That blasted man. He is everywhere I go.”

“Can’t imagine why, Nitalyia Irina Mika Lovecroft,” Emily said sarcastically with a huge grin. “Hello, Mala—” Nikki clapped a hand over Emily’s mouth. 

“Hush and I’ll babysit the twins whenever you want me too. And... And...” Nikki began frantically pondering what else to offer. “And, I’ll only pet... I mean, rub your belly once a day from now on.” 

“Deal,” Emily stated with a firm nod. She stuck out her hand. Nikki quickly shook it then looked at Malakai who was walking up to them. “Hello, Malakai.”

“Mrs. Nordin,” he bowed his head slightly. “How are you?”

“I’m well. Nikki and I were just about to have girl time.” Malakai smiled then turned to Nikki. 

“Nikki, it is good to see you. I haven’t seen you since—” he began but Nikki stomped on his foot. Malakai let out a howl. 

“Hush!” Nikki hissed at him then turned to Emily. “Shall we get going, chickadee?” The tone in Nikki’s voice toward Emily was complete opposite from the venomous tone she used toward Malakai. 

“Sorry to cut this short, Malakai,” Emily stated rubbing her stomach. “But we have appointments at the Clip & Curl and I desperately need this girls time... Hey! Aren’t you supposed to be teaching Selma?”

“I’m on my way there now. I just saw Nik— .” Nikki growled. “I just saw you over here, Mrs. Nordin, and thought I’d come say hello.”

“Ah, I see,” she mused. “Well, ‘hello’ to you as well. Tell Selma she still owes me a girls’ day too. Since someone has an overbearing, always making her practice magic, won’t let her hangout with her pregnant friend, pain in the ass grandfather.” Emily’s eyes narrowed in on Malakai, who was trying to not make any sudden movements.

“I’m sure he will let you and Selma hangout all day, tomorrow. Right, Malakai,” Nikki insisted smiling sweetly at Emily. Malakai stood there and said nothing. Nikki turned her head toward him and glared. “Right, Malakai?” 

“Yes...” he said snapping out of whatever thought he had running through his head. “Sorry, Emily. Tomorrow, you and Selma can spend time together,” he smiled.

“I’m holding you to it, Malakai,” Emily stated sternly as she waved a finger in his face. “You either give me Selma tomorrow or I’ll.... Or I’ll...” 

Emily’s blood pressure was through the roof, sort of speak. Her head was throbbing at both of her temples. Her vision, which was blue, was beginning to blur. A feeling of nausea came over her. Within a few seconds, her legs gave out from under her.

“Emily,” Nikki screamed as Emily fell toward the ground. 

“I got ya’, Lass,” Gabby’s voice said behind Emily. His arms wrapped around her waist as much as he could and he lowered her slowly to the ground. Nikki formed a pillow from thin air then handed it to Gabby, who quickly placed it under Emily’s head. 

“I was going to stop her from falling, Gabby,” Malakai said. Nikki waved off Malakai’s words and dropped to her knees beside Emily. 

“Emily. Honey,” Nikki questioned placing her hand on Emily’s forehead. “You’re burning up. Someone go get Kian.”

“No,” Emily barked. The others looked at her confused. 

“Emily, he—” Nikki began.

“No. Don’t tell him. He’ll only be up my ass more. I just need time to lay down. Please? Just an hour or so to lay down,” Emily begged then closed her eyes to begin concentrating on settling her body.

“Your mate really should be —” Malakai started to say.

“My mate needs a fucking sedative. And, I need a break from my mate. Please? Just let me go somewhere and lay down.” Tears began to form in the corner of Emily’s eyes. 

Everything from the time her and Selma arrived to Camden until now was hitting Emily with great force. Her life in Camden had happened so fast. She went from being a single, nobody author to a still nobody author, who was married to an incubus and carrying paranormal twins. And, all of it had happened in less than a few months. 

“Don’t cry, Emily,” Nikki cooed then held Emily’s hand. “We’ll help you. But we need to get you off the sidewalk before Kian sees you or someone tells Kian. Okay?”

“I don’t think this is a good...” Angry glares from Emily and Nikki had Malakai’s words coming to a screeching halt. “Perhaps, your place, Nikki.” 

“I will be out most of the day tending to the town. We can’t leave her alone,” Nikki explained with a disappointed sigh. 

“And, I will be training with Selma all day,” Malakai sighed. 

“Just get me somewhere. Anywhere. Please,” Emily asked wiping the tears from her eyes. 

“We can’t just leave her...” Nikki began; however, her words died off when she looked at Gabby and grinned. “Gabby. Finally, you have a purpose.” 

“Hey! What do ye’ mean I finally have a purpose,” Gabby retorted. Nikki looked at Malakai, who grinned. 

“Perfect,” Nikki chirped. “Off we go!” 

There was a bright white light which caused Emily to close her eyes. The brightness didn’t last long. The hard sidewalk was no longer under her back. Instead it was something soft. She opened her eyes slowly and looked around. 

She wasn’t even outside anymore instead she was inside a house. A one room house. The interior decorations had ‘Gabby’ written all over it. The ceilings were low which made Nikki have to duck down while she stood. The smell of tobacco was strong. A smell that Emily assumed came from Gabby’s tobacco pipe. The aroma of leather mixed with the smell of tobacco. There was a horseshoe hanging above the closed door. There was a tall coat rack by the door. It only had top hats hanging from it. In the corner there was a shoe cobbler machine. There were scraps of what appeared to be leather lying on the floor beneath it. So, he really does make shoes. Emily thought before even confirming that it was Gabby’s house. 

Emily was caught off guard by not only being inside a house — Gabby’s house — but she was also able to see again. No blurry vision and no shades of blue. Her heart wasn’t racing and she didn’t feel like she was going to be sick. She felt just fine again. 

“Why in thee’ world are we in me’ house, Nikki Lovecroft,” Gabby demanded then stomped his foot. Nailed it.

“Hush, Gabby McGabbahn. Emily is our priority,” Nikki waved a finger in Gabby’s face then sat next to Emily on the bed. Emily hadn’t realized it was a bed at first. She had been too busy looking around. 

“How are you feeling, chickadee?” Nikki asked feeling Emily’s forehead. “You’ve cooled off.” 

“And, my vision is clear again,” Emily said softly. “I just needed time for my body to calm down. Gabby doesn’t want me here. Can you help me —”

“None of that now, Lass,” Gabby chimed in with a hand on Emily’s shoulder keeping her from sitting up. “I was just a bit takin’ back by where we ended up. That’s all.” 

“I’m not going to inconvenience you, Gabby. I can go hide in our apartment. It will take him a while to think to check there.” Gabby shook his head. 

“None of that. You will stay here with me until you have gotten’ your break then we’ll get you back to pretty boy.” Emily giggled. Gabby seemed to only like calling Kian ‘pretty boy’ or ‘Nordin’.

“Okay,” Emily smiled. “Thank you, Gabby.”

“Yes, thank you, Gabby,” Nikki agreed then turned to Emily. “If you need anything, you be sure to let me know. Okay?”

“Okay. Thank you,” Emily replied. It was the first time Emily truly appreciated Nikki’s help. Usually, Nikki was putting her nose in places it shouldn’t be. However, this time Nikki had taken initiative and Emily was glad.

“No reason to thank me. You’re family, Emily Nordin.” Nikki’s words hit Emily like a freight train. “Don’t cry.”

“I’m not crying,” Emily sobbed before she even realized she was in fact crying. “Damnit. Why am I crying?” She wiped the tears from her cheeks. 

“It will all be okay. If you need me send Gabby,” Nikki stated gesturing at Gabby, who had walked off over to his shoe cobbler bench and begun working. “Gabby? You are going to pay attention to her. Right?” 

“I already said I would. No use naggin me. You said ye’ had things to do. Why are ye’ sitting here with us?” Gabby grumbled. Nikki rolled her eyes.

“If I didn’t need you keeping an eye on my goddaughter, I’d turn your little behind into a frog!” Emily giggled at the image of Gabby being turned into a frog. “Now, Emily, you stay here and rest.”

“Okay,” Emily nodded. Emily would make sure she didn’t overstay her welcome at Gabby’s house. She had a feeling once Nikki left, the leprechaun’s feistiness would settle. 

“Good. Then I am off to take care of some things but I will come by to check on you later this evening.”

“How can she relax with all of ye’ naggin’?” Gabby grumbled. Nikki once again rolled her eyes and bit back whatever comment she was going to say with a smile. 

“I’ll see you soon.” Nikki patted Emily’s hand then stood and faced Gabby. “Just remember, Gabby, Emily won’t be able to protect your little behind forever. A frog you will be!” 

Poof.

Nikki vanished. No matter how many times Emily had seen her fairy godmother do it, it was still mesmerizing. All of the magic and paranormal Emily had poured into her books was nothing compared to the real deal.

“I thought that old hag was never going to leave,” Gabby huffed. Emily couldn’t help but laugh. Nikki had a way of getting under people’s skin without her even trying. “Want something to drink?”

“I’m okay. Thank you,” Emily replied lifting her head a little and adjusting it. “I’m just going to take a little nap. If that’s okay?” 

“Of course. I think I’m going to do the same.” Emily’s eyes widened and Gabby chuckled. “On the floor, lass.” She let out the breath she didn’t realize she was holding. 

“I can sleep on the floor.”

“I’ll have none of that. Ye’ stay in the bed and get your rest.” He shook his head in disgust. “What man lets a woman sleep on the floor?” 

“This is your home. You should have the bed.”

“Me home or not. There will be none of this havin’ you sleep on the floor,” he declared and pulled a blanket off a chair then laid down on the floor. “Lay on the floor? Hmph. Who makes a woman sleep on the floor?” Gabby continued to grumble as he adjusted the blanket over him. 

“Sweet dreams, Gabby,” Emily whispered.

“Sweet dreams, lass.” 

The past few weeks had been hell to Emily. She felt alone having only spent a few hours with Selma here and there. Kian was around constantly; however, he had out worn his welcome after a week of hovering. It was taking everything within her to not eat his soul — so to speak. It was to the point everything he did annoyed her. She wasn’t sure if it was because of his constant worrying and hovering over her or the fact the pregnancy wasn’t quite a picnic.

Her body’s rapid growth with skin stretching and organs shifting to make room for two babies had her restless, irritable, and achy all over.  She had never ached so much in all of her life. Emily had hoped that would be the worst part of being pregnant. However, life wanted to truly try her patience and decided to give her hormones that were like a toddler on the loose in a department store. Running amuck, crying, laughing, destroying things and demanding food. 

With her being able to let go of all of that and just take a nap her mind and body finally relaxed. It was as though she could breathe again. In no time at all, she drifted to sleep. 

***

“Emily! Emily,” Gabby’s shouts yanked her from her slumber. She opened her eyes to find a panicked Gabby looking down at her.

“What’s wrong,” she asked starting to sit up. A pain rippled through her stomach. She grabbed hold of Gabby’s arm and they both let out a terrifying scream.

“Let go of me, Lass! Let go!” Gabby begged as he attempted to loosen Emily’s grip on his arm. When the pain subsided, she let go of his arm. He immediately took several steps back.

“What in the world,” she panted placing her hands on her stomach.

“You were making crying sounds in ye’ sleep. If I had known ye’ were going to do that, I would have just let ya,” he grumbled and rubbed his arm where Emily had grabbed. 

“Sorry, Gabby,” Emily whispered. “I really don’t know—” Another pain rippled through her stomach. This time the pain was much stronger and lasted longer. Emily’s screams echoed throughout the small house. Gabby covered his ears.

“What’s thee matter with ya?” He shouted loudly trying to carry his voice over hers. She was too busy gripping at the blanket, bed posts, and anything else within reach. Gabby took another step back. 

The urge to push came with the current wave of pain along with warm liquid between her legs. Her water had just broken. 

“Gabby,” Emily screamed. “Now!”

“Now what?” He shouted back with ears still covered.

“They’re...” she took a deep breath and bit back a scream. When she was sure she could talk, she continued. “They’re coming.” Gabby put his arms down to his sides.

“Who’s coming?” He asked looking at the front door. “Part of your powers is sensing people?” 

“No. The—,” Her stomach felt like it was being torn from the inside. “The babies,” she managed to scream.  

“B... bbb... babies?” He shook his head while Emily continued trying to get through the contraction. She was really thankful for the women throughout the town had told her what it was like to be in labor. They also told her techniques to get through the pain of contractions. 

Okay. Focus on something, Emily.

While she was fighting the current contraction, she kept her eyes on Gabby, who looked like he was going to faint. His eyes were wide. His hand was braced on a nearby table. 

“Let me go get... go get... somebody! Anybody!” Gabby clamored. 

“No. Please. Don’t go,” Emily panted as the contraction finally died down. She knew Gabby lived out in the woods away from everyone. She also knew he didn’t have any magical powers to teleport him to town to get Kian or Vivek. 

“But... But you need a... doctor. Not a leprechaun,” he stammered. Emily couldn’t blame the man. This was not something she wanted to be part of either. 

“Gabby,” she begged as another contraction began to rear its ugly head. As she screamed bloody murder, clawed bed posts and swore every curse words, Gabby was taking small steps towards the door, whenever he thought Emily wasn’t looking. She knew he was going to run off. 

“Let me go get Kian and Vivek. I’ll be quick. I promise, lass,” he blurted than bolted out the door.

“You son of a bitch!” Emily roared as the contraction finally died down. She wanted to chase after him and choke the life out of him for leaving her. But she knew it wouldn’t be realistic nor smart. She barely had energy to scream. 

The door opened back up and Emily became hopeful. Gabby poked his head inside, “Please, don’t have the babies on me bed.”

“I’m going to kill you, Gabby McGabbhan!” With that, he shut the door once more leaving Emily all alone. “Of all days to not have Kian hovering over me,” she sobbed and closed her eyes. 

It was in that moment she realized Kian was only being protective and looking out for her and the twins. Sure. He had been a bit extreme when he made her shower with the door and curtain open. However, she wished he was there now to protect her. 

She was in the middle of the woods, terrified and no one around to get her through labor. The women around town had done their best to prepare Emily for labor. But there was only so much they could tell her about the experience. The emotions. The physical pain. None of it had been how she thought it would be. Hearing an experience and going through the experience were two completely different things. 

“Kian, where are you,” Emily whimpered wanting nothing more than to feel his arms around her, his hands running through her hair, and him kissing the top of her head telling her everything was going to be okay. 

Emily’s pity party was cut short when another contraction hit her like a wrecking ball demolishing a building. Her scream would put a banshee’s scream to shame. Emily cried, screamed, tossed and turned fighting the contraction that was thrashing through her. 

“Kian Lucas Nordin, you get your fucking ass here! Right now!” 

The universe seemed to answer Emily’s demand for Kian because out of nowhere he appeared next to the bed. He looked horrified. 

“Emily,” he gasped then knelt down beside the bed and closer to her face. “Emily, are you okay?”

“Does it look like I’m fucking okay?” She snapped at him. He flinched at her words but didn’t argue. 

“Tell me what I can do,” he said softly reaching up to run his hands through her hair. 

“Don’t touch me!” He brought his hand back down to his side. 

“Yes, don’t touch her,” a sultry woman’s voice said. Black smoke began to fill the corner of the room where Gabby’s shoe cobbler was. The black smoke formed a silhouette and Drenanian appeared. Kian tensed up beside Emily. 

“Drenanian, you keep away from her and the babies,” he growled and began to stand. Emily caught his arm as the next contraction hit. Emily and Kian both screamed in pain. Drenanian flinched at the volume of their screams briefly. Then she made her way to the other side of the bed. 

“Yes, sister. Cause him pain,” Drenanian said in a raspy voice with a smug grin on her face. She took a step closer to Emily just as another contraction tore through Emily. Emily reached up and grabbed Drenanian by the hair. Now, Emily, Kian, and Drenanian’s screams were all filling the air.

“Leave. Me. The. Fuck. Alone!” Emily snarled at Drenanian then Kian. Kian and Drenanian nodded their heads in agreement. Emily released them both with force. Drenanian took several steps away from the bed. Kian looked as though he was debating on moving away or staying by Emily’s side. 

“Sweetheart,” Kian began. “You know I love you right?” The contraction died down and Emily let out a sigh. 

“This shit is for the birds,” she groaned then turned to Kian. “I know you love me, Kian.” He smiled then kissed the top of her head. 

“Be gone, pathetic male. Leave me to tend to her,” Drenanian hissed. Emily rolled her eyes.

“Kian, go get Vivek,” Emily whispered..

“I am not leaving you alone with her,” he growled in the direction of Drenanian. Emily’s stomach was beginning to tighten again.

“Please, Kian? I can feel another contraction coming. I need Vivek.” 

“Emily,” Kian said softly. “You know who she is. I can’t.” Emily’s stomach began to tighten as though a boa constrictor was wrapped around her. Her hand reached out for the collar of Kian’s shirt and yanked him inches from her face. 

“Kian Lucas Nordin! You get Vivek here! Right! Now!”  

“Please, Em—” The contraction hit its peak. Emily screamed bloody murder. Tears flowed down her cheeks. She just wanted it to all be over. Each contraction was getting more intense. The women of the town had told her it would happen. Emily just didn’t expect it to be an almost unbearable pain. She wasn’t able to handle it. It was all too much. 

“Kian,” Emily sobbed, when the contraction died down. She was having the urge to push. “Please? Please? Go get, Vivek.” 

“Typical man. Can’t follow orders. This is why they are unworthy of —” Drenanian chimed in.

“Shut up!” Emily and Kian shouted at her. Drenanian frowned then grinned. 

“Emily, why don’t you come home with me? Give birth around those of your kind. Not around a man who can’t follow simple orders. Let us sooth your pain so you can birth your children pain free.” Drenanian’s sultry words were drawing Emily in. “Wouldn’t you like that?”

“Yes,” Emily replied without hesitation. 

“No, sweetheart. Ignore her,” Kian urged. He held her face with both hands then turned her so they were looking at each other. “You don’t want to go with her.” Emily pushed him away from her.

“Yes. I do!” She snarled then turned her attention to Drenanian, who was smiling and making her way over to the bed. 

“He wants to control you,” Drenanian whispers softly leaning down towards Emily, who was staring up into her eyes. Her pitch black eyes. “You deserve better. Come home with me.” 

“Yes,” Emily nodded and began to sit up. 

“No. Emily.” Kian growled at Emily then placed his hand on her shoulder keeping her from sitting up any further.

The timing was wrong for him and Drenanian. A contraction that was all of the previous ones added together ruptured through her. She took hold of Drenanian’s hair and Kian’s collar. Emily’s vision was shades of blue. Her stomach was a bright fluorescent blue. Drenanian was a dark blue representing darkness. And Kian was a light blue representing love. Emily didn’t care what they represented as long as they got the babies out of her. Now.

“If one of you...” Emily gritted between clenched teeth and fighting through the contraction. “If one of you does not take your ASS and go get Vivek, I will eat your fucking souls! Do you understand me!”

“Yes,” Kian and Drenanian shouted together. 

“I’ll go,” Kian blurted trying to loosen Emily’s grip from his shirt.

“I should be leaving. This is a family affair,” Drenanian said with her head tilted down to Emily, who had Drenanian’s hair wrapped around her hand. 

“No! You wanted me to be with you so bad! Then you are keeping your ass here with me,” Emily snarled then released Kian’s shirt. He stumbled back a few steps.

“I’ll be back, Sweetheart.” Kian began to step back towards the bed. Most likely to give her a kiss. However, he stopped himself, smiled at her, then vanished into thin air. 

“I don’t mind leaving you alone. For now. Or forever,” Drenanian pleaded. Her hands still trying to pry Emily’s hands from her hair. “Emily. Release me!” 

Pain. Pure pain shot through Emily. She yanked Drenanian’s hair with all of her might. Drenanian screamed from pain. Emily screamed from the contraction she thought was surely going to kill her. With or without Vivek, she needed to push. Her body was demanding her to push. 

“Babies. Are. Coming. Now.” She panted looking Drenanian in the eyes.

“Oh. No. I’m not suitable to deliver anything.” Drenenian announced frantically. Emily yanked Drenanian’s hair, pulling Drenanian inches from Emily’s face.

“Deliver these babies, if you want to keep the hair on your head attached to it!” 

The front door opened and light filled the room. Gabby walked in first then Vivek. Both men looked horrified. 

“Ye’ havin’ your babies on me bed,” Gabby gasped. Emily glared at him.

“Little man, unless you want me to pick you up and kick you across Camden, I suggest you shut the hell up!” Gabby pretended to zip his mouth closed after Emily’s threatening words. Vivek walked over to the bed.

“Emily,” Vivek said in his soothing Morgan Freeman voice. Emily felt her body relax but not enough to let go of Drenanian’s hair. The contraction still hadn’t stopped. “Drenanian, it is good to see you for once,” he chuckled.

“This isn’t funny male!” Drenanian hissed. “Get her to release me before she rips all of my hair off my head!” 

“Ah. What a shame that would be,” Vivek stated. “Such a shame for a wench like you to go around bald sucking the life out of others and recruiting more of your kind to do your bidding. Such a shame.” He rolled his eyes.

“Please,” she begged. He turned and looked down at Emily.

“Have the urge to push,” he asked Emily, who nodded. Vivek smiled then went to the foot of the bed. “I have to undress you. Okay?”

“Anything! Just get them the hell out of me,” Emily shouted. Vivek chuckled then lifted up the blanket. 

“I’ll do it,” Kian said reappearing in the room. Vivek shook his head and pointed at Emily.

“Your mate needs you there to offer support. Let her feel your love.” Kian’s eyes widened. He looked at Vivek, then Emily then back at Vivek.

“I will be safer next to you,” he whispered to Vivek thinking Emily couldn’t hear.

“You don’t love me,” she burst into tears. Kian took a deep breath before rushing over to Emily. He kissed the top of her head. Vivek began stripping off Emily’s shoes.

“I’m right here, sweetheart. I’ll help you get through this. Okay? I love you more than anything in this world. I’ll be right here. I’m not going anywhere.” Emily rested her head against his chest. Vivek was now working Emily’s pants and panties off her hips. Then he positioned her legs to where she would be able to bear down and push. Vivek was careful to keep the lower half of her body covered. She wouldn’t have cared if she was stark naked, in front of all of Camden. She just wanted the babies out of her. 

“Can you please let me go now? Your mate is here. I really shouldn’t be here. And I apologize for the intrusion,” Drenanian stated looking at Emily.

“Why should I let you go,” Emily sobbed. “You’ll just come back and try to take my daughter and me!” Drenanian shook her head several times.

“No! You don’t have to worry about that ever! I assure you and your...mate.” 

“Swear on the demon Seth that you won’t ever come near them,” Kian demanded.  

“The babies are coming,” Vivek said looking under the blanket and up at the three who were looking down at him with terror written all over their faces.

“I swear on the Demon Seth! I swear on the Demon Seth!” Drenanian chanted at the top of her lungs. Kian shook his head. 

“I changed my mind. You can stay here,” he blurted. 

“Vivek,” Emily said softly. He looked up over the blanket at her. “I feel another one and really want to push.” 

“Good. Good, my child. Push on this next one,” he consoled. “Push as hard as you  can. Okay?” Emily nodded. 

“You can do it, sweetheart,” Kian kissed the side of Emily’s head.

“I agree! You can do it!” Drenanian encouraged. “But you will need both hands to push so you should let go of me.” 

“Okay,” Emily finally agreed. As much as Drenanian scared her, she didn’t want the woman around when she gave birth to the twins. 

“Really?” Drenanian’s eyes widened and her voice sounded joyful. Emily nodded. 

“Really,” Emily breathed then released her grasp on Drenanian’s hair. Drenanian stood up tall. Her hand was rubbing her scalp and she grimaced in certain places. 

“I will be leaving now,” Drenanian announced. “Congratulations on the babies.” 

Just how she came was how she left. Black smoke surrounded her. Emily could still see Drenanian rubbing her scalp as Drenanian and the smoke vanished from the room.

“Thank thee’ gods. I thought that witch was never going to leave,” Gabby grumbled then made his way over to Vivek. Gabby’s eyes fell to under the blanket. His eyes widened and began to stutter gibberish. He was pointing under the blanket.

“Spit it out, Gabby,” Kian growled.

“Is that a... a baby’s head?” Gabby finally managed to ask. Vivek looked up at Gabby and nodded. That was the last of Gabby’s face Emily saw for Gabby hit the ground with a thud. 

“Did he just pass out?” Emily asked trying to look down at the floor, but all she could see was Gabby’s black loafers. 

“Don’t worry about him, child. He’ll be okay,” Vivek assured looking down at Gabby then back at Emily and Kian. He smiled gently. 

The urge to push and the pressure of another contraction began to build. Emily’s legs shook from nerves. Her mind and body were exhausted. 

“I don’t think I can do this,” she whimpered. Kian looked down at her. 

“I know you can do this, sweetheart,” Kian stated taking hold of one of her hands.

“You’re just saying that because —”

“I’m saying this because you are my strong, sweet, beautiful mother of my children and my wife.” 

“Oh. Kian.” Emily laid her head against his chest again. “I’m so sorry for thinking you were an annoying, hovering pain in the ass, who I wanted to murder in his sleep.” She wrapped her arm around him and cried.

“Um...” Kian began. “You thought I was annoying? Why? I was only...” Emily looked up at him and glared. Vivek chuckled. 

“Kian, pick your battles, my friend” Kian smiled then nodded. 

“You’re right. None of that matters. All that matters is we welcome our beautiful children into this world so we can give them all our love,” Kian smiled. 

“Speaking of children,” Vivek interrupted. “It seems as though this next push will bring one of them into this world.” 

“Really!” Emily squealed and he nodded. Just hearing those words made the pain all worth it. 

“Really. Are you ready on the next contraction to push?” Emily looked up at Kian.

“You won’t leave me. Right?” Kian looked down and smiled. 

“I’m not going anywhere, sweetheart,” Kian replied softly. Emily sat back against the headboard. 

“Okay. I’m ready,” she declared. Ready as I’ll ever be. 

When the next contraction tore through her, Emily sat up and pushed with all of her might. Kian whispered encouraging words into her ear. Vivek gave her words of encouragement as well in his Morgan Freeman voice. The contraction was fierce and seemed to last forever, but when she heard the sound of a baby crying it all became worth it. 

Emily couldn’t see anything. All she knew was one of her children had arrived into the world. Vivek was chanting in a foreign language while tending to the baby. 

“He is blessing our child,” Kian reassured Emily, who had her eyes glued to Vivek. 

“The child itself is the blessing. I am simply welcoming the child into this world,” Vivek smiled then handed the baby to Emily. Emily couldn’t contain her emotions. Tears flooded down her face when she looked down to see vibrant green eyes looking up. 

“Welcome to the world, Sofia Nicole Nordin,” she cooed to her daughter. “She’s beautiful.” 

“Just like her mother,” Kian replied kissing baby Sofia on the top of her head. 

Emily had been so caught up in meeting her daughter she had forgotten that the adventure wasn’t over yet. 

“Oh. No,” she breathed and handed Sofia to Kian.

“What’s wrong?” he asked holding Sofia in his arms.

“It’s time to meet your son, my friend,” Vivek mused. Emily bared down and pushed. She prayed it was her final contraction. “One more push, Emily! One more!” 

“You can do this, sweetheart.” Kian cheered but his eyes were on Sofia and a bright smile covered his face.

With a nod of her head, Emily took a deep breath and pushed with all of her might. She screamed her way through the pushing and through the pain. Finally, a heavenly sound filled her ears. It was the sound of a baby. Her baby. Her son. 

Emily dropped back against the mattress and panted. She could hear Vivek chanting to the baby. Even his foreign chants were peaceful to Emily. She found herself wanting to drift to sleep. 

“Here is your son, Emily.” Vivek introduced. Emily sat up and took the baby into her arms. Again, rapid tears flowed down her face when she saw vibrant blue eyes looking up at her. 

“You’re so beautiful,” she sobbed. “Welcome to the world Azeil Edric Nordin. My sweet baby boy.” 

“Such a beautiful family.” Vivek smiled then stood. He took a giant step over what Emily imagined to be Gabby. 

“Is he okay?” Emily asked holding Azeil close to her and trying to look at Gabby. She still couldn’t see him. 

“He’s fine,” Kian replied with his eyes locked on Sofia.

“Kian,” Emily groaned making Vivek laugh.

“I will wake him now.” Vivek stated then he squatted down and did something that was out of view of Emily. Vivek stood back up. 

“What in thee world happened?” Gabby grumbled. Emily could now see his curly reddish brown haired head sitting up. His hand was raking through his hair. He used the bed and pulled himself up.

“You okay, Gabby?” Emily asked softly. He looked up at her and nodded.

“I’m fine, lass. Just feeling a bit weird. I don’t know what happened to me. One moment I was walking over to the bed and then...” His words trailed off as his eyes went from Emily’s eyes down the blanket to where her legs were exposed. 

“Gabby, don’t you dare pass out again,” Kian growled quietly. Gabby’s eyes widened then a tear ran down his cheek. 

“Me beautiful bed! You ruined me beautiful bed!”

“You should consider yourself lucky,” Kian snorted. 

“Lucky? Lucky!” Gabby shouted. The babies both startled. Gabby made an apologetic face. “Sorry, little ones. Didn’t mean to raise me voice around ya.’”

“Let’s go home, Emily.”

“What about me beautiful bed?” Gabby asked in a whisper.

“Consider it a gift from Cas,” Kian chuckled. Gabby’s face paled. 

“Oh. He isn’t looking for me? Is he?” Kian shrugged then looked at Vivek. 

“Do you want me to take you to your shop?” Vivek smiled and shook his head. 

“You need to take your family home. Don’t worry about me. I’ll find my way home.” Vivek walked over to Emily. “You did a great job, Emily. You’re going to be a wonderful mother.”

Vivek’s words were something she had always hoped her father would say. Vivek wasn’t her father but he gave her a warm parental feeling she had dreamed of. Since the first day of meeting him, he had made her feel welcomed.

“Thank you for everything, Vivek,” Emily sobbed. 

“None of that.” He said wiping a tear from her cheek. “Today is a day for celebration. You have brought two beautiful, healthy children into the world and you have sent a nearly bald Drenanian back to her world.”

“You were quite fierce, sweetheart,” Kian chuckled. Vivek nodded in agreeance.

“That she was,” Vivek looked at Azeil then Sofia and smiled. “I will be by later to check on the children.”

“Thanks again, Vivek,” Kian began to stand. Vivek shook his head and waved a finger in Kian’s face. 

“I do not think so. I will see myself out. Emily,” he bowed at her. “Kian.” Vivek bowed his head to Kian then made his way out of the house. 

“Hey,” Gabby shouted earning a growl from Emily and Kian. “Sorry,” he whispered. 

“We’ll be leaving now, Gabby,” Kian stated holding onto Emily’s hand.

“But... but...”

“I really am sorry about your —” Emily’s words were cut off by Kian teleporting him, her and the babies to their bedroom in their apartment. Emily sighed and leaned her back against the headboard of their bed. 

“What?” Kian mused and scooted closer to her with Sofia in his arms.

“You could have let me apologize for his bed, Kian Lucas Nordin,” Emily scolded playfully. 

“Trust me. He got off lucky, sweetheart.” 

“Lucky?” Emily raised an eyebrow. Kian grinned. 

“We’ll save that story for another day. Right now, let’s celebrate the birth of our beautiful children, our love for them, and our love for one another.” 

Kian’s words were just what Emily needed to hear. If there was any worry in her heart, body or soul it was no longer there. She knew he would always love her. Always protect her. And always be there for her. Emily would always love him; more than words could ever describe. He was the love of her life. Her husband. The father to her beautiful children. And her mate. 

“I love you, Kian Lucas Nordin.”

“And, I love you Emily Sofia Nordin.”  Kian leaned down and pressed his lips to Emily’s. What should have been a simple kiss turned into a passionate one. One filled with love and desire. Emily had thought being an author was her destiny. Little did she know her destiny was to be trapped in Camden.

Dear Reader,

Thank you so much for taking the time to read “Captured by Time”. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Wishing you nothing but the best now and forever. 

XoXo,

S.E. Isaac