Chapter One
A few days later
“I called your mom and told her we’d be joining your family for dinner tomorrow.” I told Joe as we sat on the couch eating Chinese food and watching baseball. Joe was so into the game that I don’t think he was paying attention to a word I was saying. I waved my hand in front of his face in an attempt to get his attention but it failed. I knew it was no use getting his attention so I put my hand down. I looked down at my case of food then back over to Joe who was now even more focused on the game. I sighed and got up off the couch and went into the kitchen. I put what remained of my food into the fridge, put the dishes that were in the sink into the dishwasher, started the dishwasher, then went upstairs. I brushed my teeth and then went into our bedroom. Nick was spending the night at Taylor’s again. He loved it there and I would do whatever it takes to make him happy. I walked over to the mirror, lifted up my shirt and looked in it. Each day, my small figure got larger and larger. I was happy I was carrying Joe’s babies and I couldn’t wait to be a mom to two more lovely babies but I wasn’t crazy about the whole getting fat thing. When I had Nick, I was a lot younger so I didn’t put on as much weight and I was able to hide it from people longer than I was with this pregnancy. I was preoccupied looking at myself that I didn’t hear Joe enter the room. “You left me downstairs.” Joe stated the obvious. “I’m surprised you noticed.” I mumbled back. “What was that?” Joe asked. I wasn’t sure if he heard what I said and was just trying to play it off like he hadn’t but I didn’t want to say it again and risk another fight so I just shook my head and gave him a simple “Oh, nothing. I’m just thinking aloud.” Joe knew that was a lie and just nodded his head. I wasn’t sure what it was but I felt like lately, Joe had been getting a lot more distant. When he found out about the babies, I thought he was excited but now I wasn’t so sure. Joe sighed on sat down on the bed. “Baby, I’m sorry I’ve been kind of out of it these past few days. There’s just a lot of pressure now that summer’s over and I have to start preparing my classroom again. And as if that’s not bad enough, I need to find a new teacher’s aid because the one I originally hired decided to leave so that’s even more pressure on me.” I felt really bad. I walked over to him and gently sat on top of him with one leg on each side of him. I wrapped my arms around his neck and played with the hairs back there. I looked deep into his eyes. “Babe, it’s gonna be fine, I promise. I love you.” I leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. I went to pull away but Joe wouldn’t let me. He placed his forehead against mine and gently whispered against my lips. “Nuh uh, more.” I gladly gave him what he asked for. Joe gently picked me up and laid me down on the bed before getting on top of me. “I love you Miley.” That began our night of fun.
“I called your mom and told her we’d be joining your family for dinner tomorrow.” I told Joe as we sat on the couch eating Chinese food and watching baseball. Joe was so into the game that I don’t think he was paying attention to a word I was saying. I waved my hand in front of his face in an attempt to get his attention but it failed. I knew it was no use getting his attention so I put my hand down. I looked down at my case of food then back over to Joe who was now even more focused on the game. I sighed and got up off the couch and went into the kitchen. I put what remained of my food into the fridge, put the dishes that were in the sink into the dishwasher, started the dishwasher, then went upstairs. I brushed my teeth and then went into our bedroom. Nick was spending the night at Taylor’s again. He loved it there and I would do whatever it takes to make him happy. I walked over to the mirror, lifted up my shirt and looked in it. Each day, my small figure got larger and larger. I was happy I was carrying Joe’s babies and I couldn’t wait to be a mom to two more lovely babies but I wasn’t crazy about the whole getting fat thing. When I had Nick, I was a lot younger so I didn’t put on as much weight and I was able to hide it from people longer than I was with this pregnancy. I was preoccupied looking at myself that I didn’t hear Joe enter the room. “You left me downstairs.” Joe stated the obvious. “I’m surprised you noticed.” I mumbled back. “What was that?” Joe asked. I wasn’t sure if he heard what I said and was just trying to play it off like he hadn’t but I didn’t want to say it again and risk another fight so I just shook my head and gave him a simple “Oh, nothing. I’m just thinking aloud.” Joe knew that was a lie and just nodded his head. I wasn’t sure what it was but I felt like lately, Joe had been getting a lot more distant. When he found out about the babies, I thought he was excited but now I wasn’t so sure. Joe sighed on sat down on the bed. “Baby, I’m sorry I’ve been kind of out of it these past few days. There’s just a lot of pressure now that summer’s over and I have to start preparing my classroom again. And as if that’s not bad enough, I need to find a new teacher’s aid because the one I originally hired decided to leave so that’s even more pressure on me.” I felt really bad. I walked over to him and gently sat on top of him with one leg on each side of him. I wrapped my arms around his neck and played with the hairs back there. I looked deep into his eyes. “Babe, it’s gonna be fine, I promise. I love you.” I leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. I went to pull away but Joe wouldn’t let me. He placed his forehead against mine and gently whispered against my lips. “Nuh uh, more.” I gladly gave him what he asked for. Joe gently picked me up and laid me down on the bed before getting on top of me. “I love you Miley.” That began our night of fun.
Chapter Two
I woke up the next morning with Joe’s arm wrapped around me. I turned over so I was looking at him and smiled. He looked so adorable when he was asleep. I softly kissed his cheek before gently getting out of his grip so I could get dressed and ready before Nick came back home. I slowly got up from the bed and was almost at the bathroom when I heard a groggy voice. “Baby, where are you going?” I turned around, the bed sheet covering me. “Nick’s gonna be home soon and I’d rather not play the ‘let’s get dressed before we’re busted’ game again. Joe now had a cocky grin on his face. “Stop giving me that look. It’s because of that look that I’m like this.” I pointed to my stomach. Joe got up from the bed and started walking towards me. “Don’t try to be tough, Miss Miley. You know you love this cocky grin and the fact that you’re carrying my children.” It was hard to focus on his words though because he wasn’t wearing anything. I had to stand my ground. “Goodbye Joe.” I blew him a kiss and walked into the bathroom, closing the door behind me. I slid the shower door opened and turned the knob to the side that said “H” on it. I patiently waited for the water to turn warm. I slipped inside, feeling refreshed as the water hit against my skin. I picked up the bottle of shampoo and squirted some of it in the left palm of my hand and went to put it back on the shelf when it slipped out of my hand and hit the ground. Normally I would just bend down and pick it up but that got harder to do when my belly was getting huger by the day. There was only one thing to do.
“JOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOE!” I yelled. In an instant, the bathroom door flung open and Joe walked through the doorway. “Yes darling?” He asked, trying to sound sweet. “I dropped the shampoo bottle on the ground and can’t pick it up. Would you be the amazing fiancée I know you are and pick it up for me?” I tried my best to sound sweet. I even gave him the puppy dog face. “Come on Miley, you know I can’t resist that face.” Joe tried to sound angry. “I know. That’s why I do it.” “Say, Nick’s not due home for another half hour and we have to go over to my mom’s tonight. That means our ‘mommy/daddy time’ will be cut short. If you know what I mean.” “Joseph, give me the bottle of shampoo and then get out.” Joe muttered something about how pregnant women are supposed to be even more willing to do this kind of stuff, handed me the bottle, and then headed towards the door. “You sure you don’t wanna..” He started asking but I cut him off. “Out Joseph!” I pointed towards the door. When he finally left, I resumed my shower and then got ready. I went downstairs into the room Joe had converted into his office and saw he was busy typing away at his laptop. I walked over to him and stood behind him as he typed. “Do you mind?” He asked. His tone was colder than usual. I didn’t know how to react. “Did I do something wrong?” “Of course not Miley. You did nothing wrong. You never do. You better wait by the door, your son is due home any minute now.” What the hell was wrong with Joe? I didn’t want to make him even angrier than he already was so I just nodded my head and walked to the door and waited for Nick. I could hear Joe let out a loud groan. I was beginning to get concerned. I heard a car pull up into the driveway and looked out the window to see Taylor’s car. Taylor got out of the car and opened the back seat and Nick jumped out. Then Taylor opened the trunk and got Nick’s bag out and handed it to him. I noticed something odd, there was a blonde sitting in the passenger seat. She didn’t look familiar. As Nick headed up the steps to the front door, Taylor walked over to the passenger’s side and opened the door for the blonde. I didn’t know why she was getting out. Was she supposed
to be coming in my house? Taylor and the blonde were now walking up the steps so I assumed my guess was right. Thanks for the heads up, I thought to myself. I opened the door and Nick came running in followed by Taylor and the mystery girl. “Hi Taylor and….” I trailed off. “AJ.” The blonde said, flashing her pearly whites and extending her had in my direction. “Hi AJ. I’m Miley, it’s nice to meet you.” I faked a smile. We both just looked at each other before Taylor finally cut in. “Where are my manners? Please come in.” I said before stepping aside, leaving them room to enter. We walked into the living room and
sat down on the black leather couches. “Can I get you guys anything to drink?” I tried to sound polite. I really didn’t like the fact that some strange, beautiful women was hanging around with my kid and now inside my house. “I’m all set Miles. What about you AJ, do you want anything?” Taylor asked looking over at her. AJ shook her head. “I’m okay, thank you Miley. Would you mind showing me to Joe’s office?” My eyes widened. How did this chick know who Joe was and why
did she want to see him? “Um, can I ask why?” “He didn’t tell you?” AJ let out a fake laugh before continuing. “I’m one of the candidates for his teacher’s aide position. My interview is today.” Joe was possibly going to be hiring Miss Beautiful and he didn’t tell me anything about it? As if that wasn’t bad enough, she was now chilling with my child! Oh boy, Joe was gonna get it when they left.
“JOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOE!” I yelled. In an instant, the bathroom door flung open and Joe walked through the doorway. “Yes darling?” He asked, trying to sound sweet. “I dropped the shampoo bottle on the ground and can’t pick it up. Would you be the amazing fiancée I know you are and pick it up for me?” I tried my best to sound sweet. I even gave him the puppy dog face. “Come on Miley, you know I can’t resist that face.” Joe tried to sound angry. “I know. That’s why I do it.” “Say, Nick’s not due home for another half hour and we have to go over to my mom’s tonight. That means our ‘mommy/daddy time’ will be cut short. If you know what I mean.” “Joseph, give me the bottle of shampoo and then get out.” Joe muttered something about how pregnant women are supposed to be even more willing to do this kind of stuff, handed me the bottle, and then headed towards the door. “You sure you don’t wanna..” He started asking but I cut him off. “Out Joseph!” I pointed towards the door. When he finally left, I resumed my shower and then got ready. I went downstairs into the room Joe had converted into his office and saw he was busy typing away at his laptop. I walked over to him and stood behind him as he typed. “Do you mind?” He asked. His tone was colder than usual. I didn’t know how to react. “Did I do something wrong?” “Of course not Miley. You did nothing wrong. You never do. You better wait by the door, your son is due home any minute now.” What the hell was wrong with Joe? I didn’t want to make him even angrier than he already was so I just nodded my head and walked to the door and waited for Nick. I could hear Joe let out a loud groan. I was beginning to get concerned. I heard a car pull up into the driveway and looked out the window to see Taylor’s car. Taylor got out of the car and opened the back seat and Nick jumped out. Then Taylor opened the trunk and got Nick’s bag out and handed it to him. I noticed something odd, there was a blonde sitting in the passenger seat. She didn’t look familiar. As Nick headed up the steps to the front door, Taylor walked over to the passenger’s side and opened the door for the blonde. I didn’t know why she was getting out. Was she supposed
to be coming in my house? Taylor and the blonde were now walking up the steps so I assumed my guess was right. Thanks for the heads up, I thought to myself. I opened the door and Nick came running in followed by Taylor and the mystery girl. “Hi Taylor and….” I trailed off. “AJ.” The blonde said, flashing her pearly whites and extending her had in my direction. “Hi AJ. I’m Miley, it’s nice to meet you.” I faked a smile. We both just looked at each other before Taylor finally cut in. “Where are my manners? Please come in.” I said before stepping aside, leaving them room to enter. We walked into the living room and
sat down on the black leather couches. “Can I get you guys anything to drink?” I tried to sound polite. I really didn’t like the fact that some strange, beautiful women was hanging around with my kid and now inside my house. “I’m all set Miles. What about you AJ, do you want anything?” Taylor asked looking over at her. AJ shook her head. “I’m okay, thank you Miley. Would you mind showing me to Joe’s office?” My eyes widened. How did this chick know who Joe was and why
did she want to see him? “Um, can I ask why?” “He didn’t tell you?” AJ let out a fake laugh before continuing. “I’m one of the candidates for his teacher’s aide position. My interview is today.” Joe was possibly going to be hiring Miss Beautiful and he didn’t tell me anything about it? As if that wasn’t bad enough, she was now chilling with my child! Oh boy, Joe was gonna get it when they left.
Chapter Three
“It must have slipped his mind.” I replied, not giving AJ the satisfaction she wanted. “You’re probably right. So can you please show me his office?” She answered back, in a smug tone. “Right this way.” I muttered, through gritted teeth. I walked her to the office and knocked on the door. “Who is it?” Joe called. Before I had a chance to answer, AJ cut in. “It’s AJ. I’m here for my interview.” She was looking directly at me as she spoke. There was a momentary silence, I didn’t know what was going on. The door then opened, revealing Joe. He looked from AJ to me then back to AJ. He stuck his hand out “Hello AJ, I’m Joe. Please, step inside.” he gestured to the room behind him. I was in shock. What the hell was going on in front of me. Joe looked over at me and gave me that winning smile. He told AJ he would be right back before pulling me aside. He wrapped his arms around my waist and looked directly into my eyes. “Baby, what’s wrong?” “I-I. Why didn’t you tell me you were interviewing people today? Let alone the fact that you're interviewing someone that happens to be absolutely GORGEOUS!” I was getting more and more upset by the second. Joe never broke the eye contact we had. “Miley, don’t you think you’re overreacting. AJ might be good looking but that’s not what I’m looking at. I’m looking at who can be the best assistant.” “For now.” I muttered under my breath and looking down at the floor. Joe brought his finger under my chin, making me look at him. “I think you’re forgetting the most important thing.” He paused before continuing on. “You’re my one and only true love. We’re getting married someday soon and we already have one handsome son and two more beautiful children are on the way. Nothing can come in the way of our love. I promise.” Joe put a hand on my stomach and gently rubbed it before he leaned in to kiss me. I wasn't quite sold yet so I took a tiny step back. “Pink promise?” I asked,
pouting. Joe took his hands off my waist and stuck out his pinky. “Pinky promise.” I did the same and we locked pinkies. It was now official, nothing would break us apart. I slowly leaned in and Joe did too. Our lips were about to touch when an annoying voice interrupted. “Joe! Are we gonna start this int- Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” AJ was now standing before us. I didn’t care what Joe said, this girl could not be trusted and I was gonna keep my eye on her.
pouting. Joe took his hands off my waist and stuck out his pinky. “Pinky promise.” I did the same and we locked pinkies. It was now official, nothing would break us apart. I slowly leaned in and Joe did too. Our lips were about to touch when an annoying voice interrupted. “Joe! Are we gonna start this int- Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” AJ was now standing before us. I didn’t care what Joe said, this girl could not be trusted and I was gonna keep my eye on her.
Chapter Four
Joe had left me to go into his office and meet with AJ and I went to the living room and returned to my spot on the couch where I was before that whore went off to go hit on my fiancée. I heard footsteps running down the stairs and saw Nick run into the living room. He plopped down on the floor in front of the TV and turned on COD. He looked over at Taylor “You playing?” Taylor sprung up off the couch and sat down next to Nick. Nick handed him a controller and they began playing. I felt awkward, I was alone. I didn’t know what to do. Joe was busy interviewing a slut and Nick and Taylor were being children. I wasn’t needed right now. I quietly slipped out of the room and out the door. I got into my car and drove to the all too familiar location, the beach. Or as Joe liked to call it, “our beach.” I paced up and down the beach right on the spot where the sand was wet and squishy because it was where the waves gently touched. I felt so at peace. I put my hands on my stomach and gently rubbed it. “You guys are gonna need me, right?” I asked my stomach. I smiled at the thought of adding two more lovely children to our family. I knew they were gonna be beautiful babies, after all, they were me and Joe’s. I stopped walking and sat down on a giant rock thinking of all that I’ve gone through in my 23 years of existence. I thought I fell in love when I really didn’t which resulted in me getting pregnant at 15, gave birth to the most handsome boy in the whole wide world, fell in love again, got engaged, and am now carrying two more children. I couldn’t believe I’d gone through all that but I can’t say I’m not grateful I did. I felt someone sit down next to me and wrap their arms around me. “Baby, what are you doing here?” I rested my head in his neck. “I just needed to get away for a little bit while you’re doing your interview and Nick and Taylor are playing video games. No one needed me and I just thought it might be good to go get some air.” Joe gently rubbed my back. Neither of us said a word, we just sat in silence. Twenty minutes later I checked Joe’s watch and saw the time. It was 4:30 and we were supposed to be at Joe’s mothers at 6. “Crap, we gotta go home and get ready.” Joe gave me a confused look and then realized what I was talking about. He jumped off the rock and extended his arms for me. He helped me get down and walked with me to my car. The whole way there, he kept his hand on my stomach and gently rubbed it. He was the perfect father.
I got out of the passenger seat and helped Nick get out of the car as well. He looked so cute in his white button up shirt and maroon sweater vest. He was growing up so fast, I couldn’t stand it. Nick flew to the door and ran inside. Denise greeted him by picking him up and spinning him around. “Gam, gam!” Nick yelled in excitement. “Nicholas!” She yelled back, before kissing his cheek. “Where’s gampaw?” I laughed at the names Nick had for them. He met them when he was young and he started calling them that ever since. I was next to greet Denise and Paul. I also greeted Joe’s older sister, Tiffany, and her husband, Sterling. Once we got settled in, we all sat at the table and dinner began. Everything was going smoothly and I looked over at Joe and nodded my head. “Mom, dad, Tiffany, Sterling..Miley and I have an announcement to make.” All eyes were now on us. Joe started the conversation so it was now my turn. I took a deep breath before speaking.
I got out of the passenger seat and helped Nick get out of the car as well. He looked so cute in his white button up shirt and maroon sweater vest. He was growing up so fast, I couldn’t stand it. Nick flew to the door and ran inside. Denise greeted him by picking him up and spinning him around. “Gam, gam!” Nick yelled in excitement. “Nicholas!” She yelled back, before kissing his cheek. “Where’s gampaw?” I laughed at the names Nick had for them. He met them when he was young and he started calling them that ever since. I was next to greet Denise and Paul. I also greeted Joe’s older sister, Tiffany, and her husband, Sterling. Once we got settled in, we all sat at the table and dinner began. Everything was going smoothly and I looked over at Joe and nodded my head. “Mom, dad, Tiffany, Sterling..Miley and I have an announcement to make.” All eyes were now on us. Joe started the conversation so it was now my turn. I took a deep breath before speaking.
Chapter Five
All eyes were now on me, something I always hated. I couldn’t stand being the center of attention, especially not now. “Joe and I are engaged.” Once the words were out, I nervously looked around at everyone. Denise was the first to do anything. She jumped up from her seat and ran over to me and Joe and pulled us into a warm and loving hug. “Congratulations!” Paul was next, he gave me a giant hug and shook Joe’s hand. “Congratulations son, you picked a good one.” “Thanks dad, I know.” Joe answered back before wrapping his arms around my waist. Tiffany and Sterling wished us luck. I was about to sit back down when Joe stopped me by stroking my stomach. I knew I had said only half of what I needed to. “There’s one more thing.” I said. Once again, all eyes were on me. I wanted to get the words out but I just couldn’t. I looked to Joe and could tell he didn’t want to say it either. The awkward long silence was broken by a yelling voice. “MOMMY AND DADDY ARE HAVING TWINS!” Nick yelled. I breathed a sigh of relief that I wouldn’t have to speak the news. Everyone’s faces were now covered in grins from ear-to-ear. I loved it. I could tell how happy they were and that made me happy. God, I loved Joe’s family. They were so loving and accepting. They were nothing like my so called family. I didn’t mind not having them in my life anymore, I had something much better, Joe’s family. They loved me for who I am and didn’t judge me and Nick. The rest of the evening ran smoothly, we talked about the babies and wedding plans. We decided we wanted to get married in exactly a year, a summer wedding. That way I would have lost all my baby weight and we would have plenty of time to plan. I was getting butterflies in my tummy just thinking about being married to Joe. After dinner and dessert were over, we said our goodbyes and went out to Joe’s car. Nick was beat from the long day so Joe carried him and laid him in the backseat. The ride home was relaxing. Joe was focusing on the road and I was just resting. Joe’s right hand and my left hand were intertwined as he drove. There was something eating at me though that I needed to know. “Joe?” I asked, lowly. “Yes beautiful?” Joe momentarily looked over at me. “How did things go with AJ?” I didn’t want to sound jealous but I
truly was. “Things were okay. She’s one of the best people I’ve interviewed so far and I offered her the job.” Anger was raging inside of me. How could he hire that slut?!!? I didn’t know what to do. If I said something, he might accuse me of being jealous, which I am but I don’t need him to think that. But if I don’t, I risk her throwing herself at him behind my back. My best bet was to just not my head and smile, which I did. As soon as we got home, I ran out of the car and up to our room. Joe put Nick to bed and then joined me. I was laying on my side facing the wall so I wouldn’t have to look at Joe. It was a failed attempt when Joe crawled into the bed and turned me over so I was facing him. Once I looked into this light brown eyes, I was sold. It was impossible for me to stay mad at him for something so dumb. I leaned in and kissed him. Everything felt so right.
truly was. “Things were okay. She’s one of the best people I’ve interviewed so far and I offered her the job.” Anger was raging inside of me. How could he hire that slut?!!? I didn’t know what to do. If I said something, he might accuse me of being jealous, which I am but I don’t need him to think that. But if I don’t, I risk her throwing herself at him behind my back. My best bet was to just not my head and smile, which I did. As soon as we got home, I ran out of the car and up to our room. Joe put Nick to bed and then joined me. I was laying on my side facing the wall so I wouldn’t have to look at Joe. It was a failed attempt when Joe crawled into the bed and turned me over so I was facing him. Once I looked into this light brown eyes, I was sold. It was impossible for me to stay mad at him for something so dumb. I leaned in and kissed him. Everything felt so right.
Chapter Six
I woke up that next morning in an amazing mood. I looked over at Joe who was peacefully sleeping with a huge grin on his face. I kissed his forehead quickly before getting out of our bed. I made my way over to our dresser. Normally, I would hop in the shower and get dressed. Today was different though, after last night, I didn’t want to wash myself of the memories. Even though Joe hired AJ, I decided not to think of her as a threat because Joe loved me. He even proved it to me last night. I looked through the drawer and pulled out a Joe’s white Corona t-shirt. I slipped it on and walked down the hallway to Nick’s room. Nick was already awake and sitting on his bed looking at me when I came in. He told me he was hungry so I decided it would be a good idea to go downstairs and do something we hadn’t done in a while, make pancakes. Nick happily agreed and we went down to the kitchen. I got the batter out and mixed in the needed ingredients. Once that was done, I poured the liquid onto a pan and cooked them. While they cooked, Nick set the table. I guess the smell of pancakes quickly ascended up the stairs because a minute after they were cooked and placed on the table, Joe was running down the stairs. “Woah! Breakfast was made and I was not informed?” Joe questioned. “Good morning to you too, Joe.” I answered back sarcastically. “I’m sorry. Good morning baby.” Joe added onto his greeting with a kiss. I smiled and pulled away. Nick made gagging sounds before scarfing down his two pancakes. Joe and I looked at each other and smiled, amazed at how fast our son was growing up before joining him at the table. This “family bonding” was short lived once Nick got full and left us to play more video games. I continued talking to Joe about our babies, the wedding, and plans for it. I was about to bring up the fact that we had a doctor appointment next week to make sure the babies were doing okay when Joe’s phone began ringing. I hoped he would just let it go and continue talking to me but of course, that didn’t happen. He picked it up and had no more than a 30 second conversation. He hung up the phone and I was relieved. “Who was that?” I asked before taking a bite of my pancake. “It was AJ, she wants to meet up to discuss lesson plans for when we start school in two weeks. I should be home before lunch. Thanks for breakfast, it was great.” Joe was now rushing. He picked up his plate and put it in the sink before rushing out the door. No kiss goodbye, no I love you, no nothing. I just
sat at the table and ate my pancake by myself. Alone, again.
sat at the table and ate my pancake by myself. Alone, again.
Chapter Seven
A few months later
Summer quickly came to an end and Nick was officially fourth grade. Since Nick started school, that obviously meant Joe did too. He continued to teach kindergarten with AJ by his side as his aide. I stayed home and did stupid things around the house. Everyday was normally the same, get up, wake up Joe and Nick, make them breakfast, make them lunch, send them out the door on their way, sit at home and do whatever chores came to mind. Today was different though, I didn’t mind being stuck at home all day because I knew once Joe and Nick got home, we were going somewhere special. I was now 20 weeks pregnant and the doctor said it was a perfect time to come in for an ultrasound to hear what we were having. I was so eager to find out! I looked down at my growing belly and smiled. I was really carrying Joe’s babies in there, I couldn’t believe it. While the boys were out, I decided to catch up on my sleep. I hadn’t slept well since I found out Joe hired AJ and it didn’t help that something always seemed to be going wrong and she needed “assistance” so Joe had to go help her with whatever the hell she claimed to be wrong. I dozed off for a few hours and woke
up with a growling stomach. God, eating for three wasn’t fun sometimes. I slowly got up from my bed and sat there, thinking about what we wanted to eat. Grilled cheese and pepperoni sounded good right about now. I made my way down the stairs and to the kitchen. I made three sandwiches. My reasoning for so many? One for me and one for each baby. After lunch, I decided to go straighten up things in mine and Joe’s room. I changed the sheets and made the bed as well as did a load of laundry. The day was now flying by and I heard a school bus outside the house. Nick was home! I carefully ran down the stairs and opened the door, revealing Nick. Nick pulled me in for a giant hug and told me he missed me and
that he was so excited to find out who he was gonna be a big brother of. I told him I missed him too and that I knew he was going to be the best big brother ever. Nick invited me to watch TV with him while we waited for daddy to come home. Surprisingly, I agreed. An hour later, we were watching our third episode of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. We were laughing hysterically at something that just happened when we heard someone clearing their throat behind me. I stopped laughing and turned around to see Joe standing in entrance to the living room. I felt myself blush and could only manage to give him a small wave. Joe slowly approached me with a giant grin on his face and returned the wave. “What are you doing?” He asked when he got closer. “W-watching TV with Nick.” I mumbled. Joe chuckled and nodded. There was a moment of silence as we continued watching the show. During a commercial, Joe clapped his hands together and Nick and I looked over at him. “Well, I think it’s time to get going if we don’t wanna be late.” Joe said, before looking down at his black Rolex watch, my gift to him for our two year anniversary. That year, he got me a silver Tiffany necklace with a heart in the center. Inside was engraved, Joseph Adam Jonas and Miley Ray Cyrus. September 28, 2010. I loved that necklace. I wore it
everyday and each day, it seemed to get more beautiful and shiny. I was pulled out of my thoughts and memories by Joe picking me up and carrying me to the car. “What are you doing?” I giggled. “You weren’t listening to me so I figured I’d
take matters into my own hands. Literally.” I threw my head back and laughed at his joke. “You’re so stupid.” I joked before playfully hitting his chest. Joe opened my door and gently placed me in the front seat of his car. We drove to the doctors and waited. The wait seemed endless. I was about to go crazy when a woman in her mid-thirties with short brown hair and dark framed glasses appeared in the waiting room. “Miley Cyrus?” She called out. I slowly stood and Joe and Nick followed me. “Wow, you brought the whole crew.” She joked. I let out a small chuckle and nodded my head. “Come on back.” She pointed us in the direction of the room we would be in and we all filed in. I laid down on the bed and she put the gel on my stomach. “As I understand we’re doing a regular checkup to make sure the babies are okay and you’re interested in finding out their sexes as well, yes?” I nodded my head and she proceeded. She moved the device up and down slowly and Joe, Nick, and I all stared intently at the screen. She paused for about 10 seconds over each baby and then paused. “Congratulations Ms. Cyrus, you’re carrying two very healthy….”
Summer quickly came to an end and Nick was officially fourth grade. Since Nick started school, that obviously meant Joe did too. He continued to teach kindergarten with AJ by his side as his aide. I stayed home and did stupid things around the house. Everyday was normally the same, get up, wake up Joe and Nick, make them breakfast, make them lunch, send them out the door on their way, sit at home and do whatever chores came to mind. Today was different though, I didn’t mind being stuck at home all day because I knew once Joe and Nick got home, we were going somewhere special. I was now 20 weeks pregnant and the doctor said it was a perfect time to come in for an ultrasound to hear what we were having. I was so eager to find out! I looked down at my growing belly and smiled. I was really carrying Joe’s babies in there, I couldn’t believe it. While the boys were out, I decided to catch up on my sleep. I hadn’t slept well since I found out Joe hired AJ and it didn’t help that something always seemed to be going wrong and she needed “assistance” so Joe had to go help her with whatever the hell she claimed to be wrong. I dozed off for a few hours and woke
up with a growling stomach. God, eating for three wasn’t fun sometimes. I slowly got up from my bed and sat there, thinking about what we wanted to eat. Grilled cheese and pepperoni sounded good right about now. I made my way down the stairs and to the kitchen. I made three sandwiches. My reasoning for so many? One for me and one for each baby. After lunch, I decided to go straighten up things in mine and Joe’s room. I changed the sheets and made the bed as well as did a load of laundry. The day was now flying by and I heard a school bus outside the house. Nick was home! I carefully ran down the stairs and opened the door, revealing Nick. Nick pulled me in for a giant hug and told me he missed me and
that he was so excited to find out who he was gonna be a big brother of. I told him I missed him too and that I knew he was going to be the best big brother ever. Nick invited me to watch TV with him while we waited for daddy to come home. Surprisingly, I agreed. An hour later, we were watching our third episode of The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. We were laughing hysterically at something that just happened when we heard someone clearing their throat behind me. I stopped laughing and turned around to see Joe standing in entrance to the living room. I felt myself blush and could only manage to give him a small wave. Joe slowly approached me with a giant grin on his face and returned the wave. “What are you doing?” He asked when he got closer. “W-watching TV with Nick.” I mumbled. Joe chuckled and nodded. There was a moment of silence as we continued watching the show. During a commercial, Joe clapped his hands together and Nick and I looked over at him. “Well, I think it’s time to get going if we don’t wanna be late.” Joe said, before looking down at his black Rolex watch, my gift to him for our two year anniversary. That year, he got me a silver Tiffany necklace with a heart in the center. Inside was engraved, Joseph Adam Jonas and Miley Ray Cyrus. September 28, 2010. I loved that necklace. I wore it
everyday and each day, it seemed to get more beautiful and shiny. I was pulled out of my thoughts and memories by Joe picking me up and carrying me to the car. “What are you doing?” I giggled. “You weren’t listening to me so I figured I’d
take matters into my own hands. Literally.” I threw my head back and laughed at his joke. “You’re so stupid.” I joked before playfully hitting his chest. Joe opened my door and gently placed me in the front seat of his car. We drove to the doctors and waited. The wait seemed endless. I was about to go crazy when a woman in her mid-thirties with short brown hair and dark framed glasses appeared in the waiting room. “Miley Cyrus?” She called out. I slowly stood and Joe and Nick followed me. “Wow, you brought the whole crew.” She joked. I let out a small chuckle and nodded my head. “Come on back.” She pointed us in the direction of the room we would be in and we all filed in. I laid down on the bed and she put the gel on my stomach. “As I understand we’re doing a regular checkup to make sure the babies are okay and you’re interested in finding out their sexes as well, yes?” I nodded my head and she proceeded. She moved the device up and down slowly and Joe, Nick, and I all stared intently at the screen. She paused for about 10 seconds over each baby and then paused. “Congratulations Ms. Cyrus, you’re carrying two very healthy….”
Chapter Eight
I tightened my grip on Joe’s point. It got so bad that Joe was scrunching his face up and seconds away from screaming at how tight my grip had become. I couldn’t wait much longer to hear what she had to say. “Boys.” I looked up at Joe and he looked down at me, we smiled at each other. Nick started jumping up and down. “Woohoo! I’m gonna have a baby brother. And not just one but TWO!! This is the best day ever.” I was happy to see Nick so enthusiastic. Joe and I once again looked at each other and laughed. The rest of my appointment consisted of some other odd things, nothing extremely important. I was happy when we were allowed to be out of there. Once we got in the car, I was starving. So hungry that my stomach began growling. Joe looked over at me briefly and smiled “Hungry, babe?” I nodded my head. “Starving.” “Did you eat anything today?” I placed my finger on my chin as I traced my thoughts. “Yes, for breakfast I had three pancakes and scrambled eggs. Then for lunch, I had three grilled cheese and pepperoni sandwiches.” “Woah! How many babies are in there?!” Nick yelled from the back seat. I turned around and smiled at him. “Very funny Nicholas.” Nick stuck his tongue out at me and I turned back around. Joe pulled into the local diner and we all got out of the car. “Hi, welcome to Three Brothers Diner. How many?” The preppy hostess asked us. “Technically three but the way my girlfriend eats, that would be five.” Joe joked. The hostess let out a loud, stupid laugh and grabbed three menus, two adult and one kid. “Right this way.” She nodded her head and we followed her. We got to the table, a nice quiet one in the back. The girl placed our menus on the table. She told us to enjoy our meal and then walked back to her podium at the front of the restaurant. Joe and Nick began looking over their menus. After Joe’s comment, I found I wasn’t hungry anymore. Joe looked over at me and gave me a confused look. “What?” I asked, coldly. Joe’s eyes widened and he backed up a little farther on his side of the bench. “I was just wondering why you weren’t looking at the menu. I mean you are the reason we came here.” “Oh I’m sorry. You’re absolutely right. Because I’m fucking pregnant and have to feed not only myself but two other lives no as well. Well, I apologize for being such a fucking inconvenience on your day. Maybe me and my pregnant self should just leave you and Nick alone so I don’t eat so much that the bill’s $100.” I yelled before getting to my feet. Joe hurried out of his side of the bench after me. “Miley, stop it right now. You’re being ridiculous.” “I’m being ridiculous?! I’m being ridiculous?!” That
was all I could get out. How could he have the nerve to tell me I’m being ridiculous. I’m fucking pregnant, I can’t control the way I act. “Yes, you are. You’re acting worse than Nick.” “HEY!” Nick yelled from the bench he was still seated at. “Now, stop acting out and come back and sit with us.” I didn’t want to fight but more importantly, I didn’t want to just abandon Nick so I reluctantly agreed. I was still upset about that comment Joe made earlier. One, he made fun of the fact that I’m pregnant and I need to eat in order for our children to survive and two, he called me his girlfriend. The last time I checked, this ring signified the fact that we were engaged, not dating. Something didn’t seem right with Joe lately. I didn’t know what it was but I was determined to get to the bottom of it.
was all I could get out. How could he have the nerve to tell me I’m being ridiculous. I’m fucking pregnant, I can’t control the way I act. “Yes, you are. You’re acting worse than Nick.” “HEY!” Nick yelled from the bench he was still seated at. “Now, stop acting out and come back and sit with us.” I didn’t want to fight but more importantly, I didn’t want to just abandon Nick so I reluctantly agreed. I was still upset about that comment Joe made earlier. One, he made fun of the fact that I’m pregnant and I need to eat in order for our children to survive and two, he called me his girlfriend. The last time I checked, this ring signified the fact that we were engaged, not dating. Something didn’t seem right with Joe lately. I didn’t know what it was but I was determined to get to the bottom of it.
Chapter Nine
About ten minutes later, after we finished reviewing the menu, our waitress came over to take our order. “Hi, my name is Sierra and I’ll be taking care of you today. Can I start you off with something to drink?” “I’ll have a pink lemonade please.” Nick said, using his best manners. “Hi Sierra.” Joe greeted the waitress with a sly wink. “I’ll have a Budweiser, please.” She nodded her head and wrote it down in her little notepad. “I’ll just have a water with lemon.” I mumbled not bothering to look at her. I didn’t pay attention to where she went after that but I could care less. When she returned, she carefully placed our drinks in front of us and went to take our order. Nick ordered a chicken nugget kids meal, Joe ordered a chicken sandwich. After numerous attempts from both Joe and the waitress, I still declined any food. “Okay then. I’ll go give this order to the cook and your food should be right out.” Joe thanked her before she walked away. “I have to use the bathroom. I’ll be right
back.” Nick announced before slowly getting up. “Don’t forget to wash your hands!” I yelled. Nick nodded his head and walked off. I looked down at my hands that were placed in my lap and started playing with my fingers. This was short
lived though because I felt my hand slowly get lifted off my lap and be intertwined with Joe’s. I looked over at him and he gave me a dorky grin. I couldn’t help but smile back at him. “I’m sorry for that comment I made before. And for not calling you my fiancée. I didn’t want the girl to be extremely jealous that you get all this and she doesn’t.” He gestured to his body. “And…?” I asked, prompting him to continue. “I’m sorry I winked at the waitress.” Joe said. “And….?” I asked one more time. “I love you.” That was all it took for me to fall for him all over again. That little dispute from earlier meant nothing now.
back.” Nick announced before slowly getting up. “Don’t forget to wash your hands!” I yelled. Nick nodded his head and walked off. I looked down at my hands that were placed in my lap and started playing with my fingers. This was short
lived though because I felt my hand slowly get lifted off my lap and be intertwined with Joe’s. I looked over at him and he gave me a dorky grin. I couldn’t help but smile back at him. “I’m sorry for that comment I made before. And for not calling you my fiancée. I didn’t want the girl to be extremely jealous that you get all this and she doesn’t.” He gestured to his body. “And…?” I asked, prompting him to continue. “I’m sorry I winked at the waitress.” Joe said. “And….?” I asked one more time. “I love you.” That was all it took for me to fall for him all over again. That little dispute from earlier meant nothing now.
Chapter Ten
I leaned over the table and placed my lips against his. The sparks started flying, I loved it. We were interrupted by a random coughing noise. We pulled apart and looked over to see Nick standing there. “Oh, sorry buddy, didn’t see you there.” Joe said, his face was now bright red. “Mhhhm, sure. Just go sit next to mom already.” Nick demanded. Joe did as he was told and moved on to the other side of the table, next to me. He wrapped his arm around me and I leaned into his neck. Sierra returned with Nick and Joes’ orders and placed them on the table before going back to the kitchen. I could tell Nick was starving because his plate barely touched the table and he was diving in to eat. Joe slowly started eating his food too. I was beginning to regret not ordering anything, especially when my stomach started growling again. Joe looked down at me and handed my his plate of French fries. “Thanks.” I gave him a cute smile before scarfing down the plate of fries. Joe chuckled and fed me some of his chicken sandwich. Mmm, it tasted so good. I ended up ordering a sandwich as well because I was starving. Once I devoured mine, we were all set to go. When we got home, Nick went up to his room to do his homework and Joe and I went up to our room and cuddled together. We both laid on our sides so we faced each other. Joe rubbed my stomach and repeatedly hummed little songs to me and our babies. Joe slowly sunk down further into the bed until he was at my stomach. He placed his hands on my belly and kissed it. “Hi boys.” He whispered. I smiled and bent down then placed a kiss on his head. Joe slowly came back up and got closer to my face. I closed my eyes and puckered my lips, waiting for his lips to meet mine. When that didn’t happen, I opened my eyes and gave him a confused look. Joe was now wearing a sexy smirk on his face. I knew that look. “What are you thinking?” Joe slowly dragged me further into the bed and pulled the sheets over us.
Chapter Eleven
Two hours later, Joe and I came back up from the sheets. I was sweating and panting, as was Joe. I quickly got up from the bed when I realized something extremely important, Nick was in the house! I ran to our dresser and grabbed one of Joe’s t-shirts, something I found myself doing quite often now that I was getting bigger. I carefully walked down the hallway and saw Nick had changed himself into his pajamas and was asleep in front of the TV. I turned off the TV and gently scooped Nick up into my arms before placing him in his bed. I kissed him on the forehead and wished him a goodnight. I closed the door and went back to Joe who was now propped up in bed channel surfing. I tiptoed into our room and over to the bed then I laid next to Joe and wrapped my arms around his stomach. He looked down at me and smiled. “Ready for round two?” I gently slapped his chest. “No! We almost got caught by Nick. Can you imagine how bad it would be if he saw that?! The poor boy would be scarred for life.” “So what you’re saying is, we have to be more careful next time?” Joe asked, his grin
getting bigger and bigger. “That’s exactly what I’m saying.” I looked over at the TV. Joe carefully got out of the bed and picked me up. “Woah, woah, woah. What are you doing?” I asked, getting nervous. I couldn’t help but giggle though. “Being more sneaky, per your request.” Joe carried me into the bathroom and started the shower. Oh crap, here we go. An hour later, Joe and I came out of the bathroom. At this point, I was so sore that it was killing me to walk. Joe carried me to our bed and gently laid me down. He retrieved two t-shirts from his dresser, one for him, and one for myself. He put it on me because I felt incapable of moving. “Thanks, you’re the best.” Joe leaned in and kissed me. When he was pressed up against my lips, he gently whispered “I love you.” I pulled away a little “I love you.” Those were my last words before I drifted back to sleep. I woke up the next morning and smelled bacon. Mmm, bacon seemed so good right about now. I didn’t know where that smell was coming from though. Joe was at work and Nick was at school. Was I hallucinating? I let my curiosity get the best of me and walked downstairs. I carefully peeked into the kitchen and almost passed out. “Josh.” I blurted out. That was the last thing I remember before everything went black.
getting bigger and bigger. “That’s exactly what I’m saying.” I looked over at the TV. Joe carefully got out of the bed and picked me up. “Woah, woah, woah. What are you doing?” I asked, getting nervous. I couldn’t help but giggle though. “Being more sneaky, per your request.” Joe carried me into the bathroom and started the shower. Oh crap, here we go. An hour later, Joe and I came out of the bathroom. At this point, I was so sore that it was killing me to walk. Joe carried me to our bed and gently laid me down. He retrieved two t-shirts from his dresser, one for him, and one for myself. He put it on me because I felt incapable of moving. “Thanks, you’re the best.” Joe leaned in and kissed me. When he was pressed up against my lips, he gently whispered “I love you.” I pulled away a little “I love you.” Those were my last words before I drifted back to sleep. I woke up the next morning and smelled bacon. Mmm, bacon seemed so good right about now. I didn’t know where that smell was coming from though. Joe was at work and Nick was at school. Was I hallucinating? I let my curiosity get the best of me and walked downstairs. I carefully peeked into the kitchen and almost passed out. “Josh.” I blurted out. That was the last thing I remember before everything went black.
Chapter Twelve
I woke up on my kitchen floor with an intense throbbing pain in my head. I couldn’t remember much of what had just happened. The last thing I could recall was the smell of bacon and seeing Josh. I must have been seeing things. There was no way Josh could have been in my house. I slowly got up from the floor and saw Josh sitting at my kitchen table with a plate of bacon in front of him. I cleared my throat in an attempt to get his attention. He looked over at me. “Hi Miley.” I wasn’t gonna dignify his greeting with a sweet reply. “What do you want, Josh?” I snapped. He slowly got up and tried to give me a hug. I took giant steps back. “And I repeat, what do you want, Josh?” “I want to talk to you. I want to work
things out. I want to see my son.” Did he just say what I think he said?! Who does he think he is at this point. “Josh, it’s been 9 years. If you really wanted all that, you would have stuck around when I told you I was pregnant or you would have tried to make an effort sooner. I’m not buying your shit. You can take your bacon and there’s the door.” I pointed behind me. He led out a loud sigh and once again walked towards me. “Miley, I swear, I’ve changed. After I left you, I did some serious priority resizing and realized I needed to get my act together. So I did. I’m not asking for a second chance to be with you. I’m
asking to work things out so we can be in a good and safe place together. I wanna get to know my son. I don’t want him to start calling someone else daddy.” “It’s too late for that.” I mumbled, looking down. “What do you mean Miley?” I didn’t answer him, I couldn’t. “Please answer me, Miley.” “I started seeing someone else three years ago and we’re not only engaged but expecting two sons. During the time I’ve been with this guy, Nick’s grown attached to him and started calling him daddy.” Josh now had a look of anger on his face. I didn’t know what to do. “I should’ve seen this coming. I have no one to blame but myself. Can I at least meet him? We don’t have to tell him I’m his daddy right away, I just wanna know what my son’s like. Please Miley, I’m begging you.” His voice slowly got calmer and he was now looking into my eyes. As I looked at him, I saw a sign of hope in his eyes. I knew he hurt me but obviously something clicked and made him change his life
around. I had to give him a chance. “Okay, I’ll let you two meet. And when the time is right, if things work out, we’ll tell him.” “Thank you so much Miley. You won’t regret it. I promise.” Josh pulled me in for a hug. It felt weird being in his arms again. The last time he held me like that was after we made love for the first time. I could honestly say I didn’t hate how I was feeling right now. I slowly backed away from the hug and escorted Josh to the door. “I’ll text you and we can work something out.” I told him. “You saved my number after all these years?” Josh asked with a smile on his face. I nodded my head
and his smile grew bigger. “Don’t get any ideas mister. I’m happily engaged.” Josh nodded his head and stepped out of the door. “Goodbye Miley.” “Bye.” I watched him walk off and closed the door. I was happy he wanted to meet his son.
I just hoped things would go well. I was even more concerned about what Joe would do when he found out.
Hours had passed since my little encounter with Josh and I was nervously pacing in my living room waiting for Joe. I didn’t know how to tell him the news and how he would take it. I did know this was too serious to keep from him so no matter what the end result may be, he needed to know. The front door opened and I heard Joe’s voice. “Baby?” “In the living room.” I
called back, getting more nervous with each second that passed. Joe walked in and over to me. “How was your day?” I asked, in an attempt to break the ice. “It was good. I couldn’t stop thinking about coming home and seeing you though.” Joe
leaned in and kissed me gently. “How was your day, angel?” This was my chance to tell him. There was no holding back. “It was interesting. I have something kinda important to tell you though.” Joe gave me a nervous look. “Well at least it’s not that you’re pregnant.” Joe joked, trying to lighten the mood. I let out a small giggle. “No, it’s not that I’m pregnant. It’s a little more serious than that.” “Go on.” Joe told me. “I woke up this morning and smelled bacon. I was curious to know where it was coming from so I went downstairs and saw my ex-boyfriend and Nick’s biological father standing in our kitchen making bacon. I fainted at the sight of him and when I woke up, he told me he straightened out his life and that he wanted to meet Nick and be involved in his life.” I could tell Joe was getting more and more concerned. “And what did you say?” “I told him I’d give him a chance. Please don’t be mad at me.” Joe pulled me in for a hug. “Oh, baby, I could never be mad at you. You know that. That is Nick’s father, he has a right to know his son. I just wanna make sure he knows you’re taken.” I leaned up and kissed Joe. “He knows, I made sure of it. No matter how hard he tried, I would never give into him. You‘re my one and only.” “I’m glad.” “I love you, Joe.” “I love you, Miley.” Joe and I walked over to the couch and cuddled on it. When I was in his arms, I knew everything would be okay no matter what.
things out. I want to see my son.” Did he just say what I think he said?! Who does he think he is at this point. “Josh, it’s been 9 years. If you really wanted all that, you would have stuck around when I told you I was pregnant or you would have tried to make an effort sooner. I’m not buying your shit. You can take your bacon and there’s the door.” I pointed behind me. He led out a loud sigh and once again walked towards me. “Miley, I swear, I’ve changed. After I left you, I did some serious priority resizing and realized I needed to get my act together. So I did. I’m not asking for a second chance to be with you. I’m
asking to work things out so we can be in a good and safe place together. I wanna get to know my son. I don’t want him to start calling someone else daddy.” “It’s too late for that.” I mumbled, looking down. “What do you mean Miley?” I didn’t answer him, I couldn’t. “Please answer me, Miley.” “I started seeing someone else three years ago and we’re not only engaged but expecting two sons. During the time I’ve been with this guy, Nick’s grown attached to him and started calling him daddy.” Josh now had a look of anger on his face. I didn’t know what to do. “I should’ve seen this coming. I have no one to blame but myself. Can I at least meet him? We don’t have to tell him I’m his daddy right away, I just wanna know what my son’s like. Please Miley, I’m begging you.” His voice slowly got calmer and he was now looking into my eyes. As I looked at him, I saw a sign of hope in his eyes. I knew he hurt me but obviously something clicked and made him change his life
around. I had to give him a chance. “Okay, I’ll let you two meet. And when the time is right, if things work out, we’ll tell him.” “Thank you so much Miley. You won’t regret it. I promise.” Josh pulled me in for a hug. It felt weird being in his arms again. The last time he held me like that was after we made love for the first time. I could honestly say I didn’t hate how I was feeling right now. I slowly backed away from the hug and escorted Josh to the door. “I’ll text you and we can work something out.” I told him. “You saved my number after all these years?” Josh asked with a smile on his face. I nodded my head
and his smile grew bigger. “Don’t get any ideas mister. I’m happily engaged.” Josh nodded his head and stepped out of the door. “Goodbye Miley.” “Bye.” I watched him walk off and closed the door. I was happy he wanted to meet his son.
I just hoped things would go well. I was even more concerned about what Joe would do when he found out.
Hours had passed since my little encounter with Josh and I was nervously pacing in my living room waiting for Joe. I didn’t know how to tell him the news and how he would take it. I did know this was too serious to keep from him so no matter what the end result may be, he needed to know. The front door opened and I heard Joe’s voice. “Baby?” “In the living room.” I
called back, getting more nervous with each second that passed. Joe walked in and over to me. “How was your day?” I asked, in an attempt to break the ice. “It was good. I couldn’t stop thinking about coming home and seeing you though.” Joe
leaned in and kissed me gently. “How was your day, angel?” This was my chance to tell him. There was no holding back. “It was interesting. I have something kinda important to tell you though.” Joe gave me a nervous look. “Well at least it’s not that you’re pregnant.” Joe joked, trying to lighten the mood. I let out a small giggle. “No, it’s not that I’m pregnant. It’s a little more serious than that.” “Go on.” Joe told me. “I woke up this morning and smelled bacon. I was curious to know where it was coming from so I went downstairs and saw my ex-boyfriend and Nick’s biological father standing in our kitchen making bacon. I fainted at the sight of him and when I woke up, he told me he straightened out his life and that he wanted to meet Nick and be involved in his life.” I could tell Joe was getting more and more concerned. “And what did you say?” “I told him I’d give him a chance. Please don’t be mad at me.” Joe pulled me in for a hug. “Oh, baby, I could never be mad at you. You know that. That is Nick’s father, he has a right to know his son. I just wanna make sure he knows you’re taken.” I leaned up and kissed Joe. “He knows, I made sure of it. No matter how hard he tried, I would never give into him. You‘re my one and only.” “I’m glad.” “I love you, Joe.” “I love you, Miley.” Joe and I walked over to the couch and cuddled on it. When I was in his arms, I knew everything would be okay no matter what.
Chapter Thirteen
I must have fallen asleep while I was cuddling with Joe by accident. When I woke up, I began looking around out of confusion as to where Joe could have gone. I hear singing coming from the kitchen and recognized it was Joe. I quietly got up from the couch and snuck into the kitchen. “I want you tonight. I want you to stay. I want you tonight.” I snuck up behind him as he continued. “Grab somebody sexy tell ’em..” I wrapped my arms around his waist and whispered in his ear. “Hey!” Joe stopped singing and turned around so he was now facing me. My arms still remained around his waist. “Don’t stop, you sounded great.” I assured him. Joe stuck his tongue out at me. “Very funny, Miles.” “I promise, you sounded amazing. Even if you were just goofing off, I liked it.” “I’m glad to hear that because I have something super important to tell you and I’m not
sure how you’re gonna take it.” I gave him a confused look. I didn’t know what to expect. “Do you remember that really bad fire on Oakley Drive?” Joe asked. I thought for a moment or two when it hit me. “Yeah..” “Well that was where AJ was
living and so now she has no where to go. I know it may seem awkward and stuff but I kinda told her she could stay here for a while. At least until she can find another place to go. What do you say?” I felt anger boiling inside me. How could he be so stupid?! Didn’t he realize she was a selfish bitch who only wanted two things. One, Joe. And two, to see me miserable. If we let her stay here, surely she wouldn’t rest until she achieved that goal. I refused to let her move in. I was putting my foot down.
sure how you’re gonna take it.” I gave him a confused look. I didn’t know what to expect. “Do you remember that really bad fire on Oakley Drive?” Joe asked. I thought for a moment or two when it hit me. “Yeah..” “Well that was where AJ was
living and so now she has no where to go. I know it may seem awkward and stuff but I kinda told her she could stay here for a while. At least until she can find another place to go. What do you say?” I felt anger boiling inside me. How could he be so stupid?! Didn’t he realize she was a selfish bitch who only wanted two things. One, Joe. And two, to see me miserable. If we let her stay here, surely she wouldn’t rest until she achieved that goal. I refused to let her move in. I was putting my foot down.
Chapter Fourteen
The following week
I stood at the top of my stairs, furious as I watched that blonde bitch waltz into my house. I absolutely hated her. Of course, she looked absolutely gorgeous in a light blue tank top, a jean skirt, white heels and she completed the outfit with giant white circle sunglasses. I could not believe I gave in and was letting her live in my house. I couldn’t watch this for much longer. She barely did anything, Joe carried her insane amounts of luggage to the guest room, where
she would be staying while she “supervised.” Supervise, my ass. Unless supervise now meant stare at MY fiancée’s ass, then she wasn’t supervising shit. I forced myself away from the stairs and over to my room. I laid down on my bed in an attempt to relax but that failed when I heard an annoying laugh coming from downstairs. However angry I was before was nothing compared to how angry I was now. I stormed into my bathroom and started running the water in the tub. Before I knew it, I had a nice warm bath ready to go. There was only one thing missing. I looked under my cabinet and found the bottle and squirted some of its contents into the tub. I let the bubbles set for a few minutes until the tub was covered in them. Once I was content, I slowly took of my clothes and got in. I felt my muscles loosen as time went on. There was somewhat peace in my life. I looked over at the clock which hung on one of the light blue bathroom walls and saw it was almost 1:00. I knew Nick would be getting hungry and the babies were too so that meant it was time to make some food. I slowly got out of the tub and got dressed in a pair of short shorts and one of Joe’s giant t-shirts. If AJ was gonna be living here, I was gonna have to work extra hard to make sure Joe’s eyes were still focused on me and only me. I walked over to my vanity and applied makeup and slightly curled my hair. Overall, I would give myself a solid 10. I checked my appearance once again in the mirror and when I was satisfied, I walked into Nick’s room. He was sitting at his desk on his computer playing some game. I gently knocked on his door, hoping I wouldn’t scare him. Nick paused what he was doing and looked over at me. “Hi mom.” “Hi baby. Are you hungry for some lunch?” Nick nodded his head. “Alright well I’m going to the kitchen to make some lunch for you, me, and the babies. It’ll be ready in a few so you might want to think about coming downstairs.” Nick sprung
up from his chair, ran out his door, and down the stairs. I chuckled. I followed him and walked into the kitchen. “What are you hungry for?” I asked, while I opened the fridge to see what we even had to eat. “Chicken and bacon sandwich please.” Nick gave me a cute look and I couldn’t resist. “Of course, three chicken and bacon sandwiches coming right up.” Without being asked, Nick went to the cabinet with the plates and began setting the table. It was so crazy how fast he was growing up. With each day that passed, it was one less day that he would need me. When I looked at him, I saw how much he resembled his father and then I remembered I still had to arrange a meeting for Josh and Nick. I knew it had to happen soon. Josh waited 9 years and it wasn’t fair to make him wait much longer. Today was Saturday and I decided they would meet on Wednesday after school. Ready or not Nick, you’re meeting your father.
I stood at the top of my stairs, furious as I watched that blonde bitch waltz into my house. I absolutely hated her. Of course, she looked absolutely gorgeous in a light blue tank top, a jean skirt, white heels and she completed the outfit with giant white circle sunglasses. I could not believe I gave in and was letting her live in my house. I couldn’t watch this for much longer. She barely did anything, Joe carried her insane amounts of luggage to the guest room, where
she would be staying while she “supervised.” Supervise, my ass. Unless supervise now meant stare at MY fiancée’s ass, then she wasn’t supervising shit. I forced myself away from the stairs and over to my room. I laid down on my bed in an attempt to relax but that failed when I heard an annoying laugh coming from downstairs. However angry I was before was nothing compared to how angry I was now. I stormed into my bathroom and started running the water in the tub. Before I knew it, I had a nice warm bath ready to go. There was only one thing missing. I looked under my cabinet and found the bottle and squirted some of its contents into the tub. I let the bubbles set for a few minutes until the tub was covered in them. Once I was content, I slowly took of my clothes and got in. I felt my muscles loosen as time went on. There was somewhat peace in my life. I looked over at the clock which hung on one of the light blue bathroom walls and saw it was almost 1:00. I knew Nick would be getting hungry and the babies were too so that meant it was time to make some food. I slowly got out of the tub and got dressed in a pair of short shorts and one of Joe’s giant t-shirts. If AJ was gonna be living here, I was gonna have to work extra hard to make sure Joe’s eyes were still focused on me and only me. I walked over to my vanity and applied makeup and slightly curled my hair. Overall, I would give myself a solid 10. I checked my appearance once again in the mirror and when I was satisfied, I walked into Nick’s room. He was sitting at his desk on his computer playing some game. I gently knocked on his door, hoping I wouldn’t scare him. Nick paused what he was doing and looked over at me. “Hi mom.” “Hi baby. Are you hungry for some lunch?” Nick nodded his head. “Alright well I’m going to the kitchen to make some lunch for you, me, and the babies. It’ll be ready in a few so you might want to think about coming downstairs.” Nick sprung
up from his chair, ran out his door, and down the stairs. I chuckled. I followed him and walked into the kitchen. “What are you hungry for?” I asked, while I opened the fridge to see what we even had to eat. “Chicken and bacon sandwich please.” Nick gave me a cute look and I couldn’t resist. “Of course, three chicken and bacon sandwiches coming right up.” Without being asked, Nick went to the cabinet with the plates and began setting the table. It was so crazy how fast he was growing up. With each day that passed, it was one less day that he would need me. When I looked at him, I saw how much he resembled his father and then I remembered I still had to arrange a meeting for Josh and Nick. I knew it had to happen soon. Josh waited 9 years and it wasn’t fair to make him wait much longer. Today was Saturday and I decided they would meet on Wednesday after school. Ready or not Nick, you’re meeting your father.
Chapter Fifteen
I carefully removed the three sandwiches from the hot stove and divided them onto plates. One on Nick’s blue, 101 Dalmatians plate, and two on my, ordinary, white plate. I joined Nick at the table and had him lead us in grace. Once we finished that, we dug into our meals and there was a silence in the house. Normally it wouldn’t bother me but I didn’t know how it was possible for it to be so quiet. Where the hell was Joe and that slut? He was probably at work and my guess was she was off blowing someone. I honestly didn’t care who it was. Just as long as it wasn’t my Joey. I scarfed down my lunch and Nick just stared at me. “What’s the matter babe?” I asked him. “What sort of monster is growing inside of you?!” I laughed. Nick was so cute. “Well, these monsters’ happen to be your siblings.” Nick put his sandwich down. “Mom, for babies, they sure do eat a lot.” I smiled at him and just shook my head. When Nick finished eating, I decided I was gonna have a special day with him. His dad and that slut were off who knows where and in a couple months, I was gonna have to focus on the babies so I knew I had to enjoy all the time I could with Nick. “Nick, go get your bathing suit, we’re gonna go to the YMCA and go swimming.” The words barely left my mouth and Nick was flying out of his chair and up to his room. While Nick was getting ready, I decided to call Taylor and ask him if he was interested in joining us. I hit 2 on my phone followed by the green button. A picture of me
and Taylor came up on the screen and the call was being processed. I loved the picture of me and Taylor. It was us at our school’s carnival in 8th grade when we were thirteen. To this day we still joke around that the only reason he appeared to be taller than me was because he spiked his hair so high. “Hello?” A deep voice spoke into the phone. I snapped out of my thoughts, realizing Taylor had answered. “Hey T.” “Oh, hey, Miles, what’s up?” He asked, sounding more energetic than when he answered the phone. “Currently? Nothing. But Nick and I are going to the YMCA to go swimming for a couple hours and after, we’re gonna hit the park and do a picnic. We would love it if you joined us.” I heard a deep sigh come from the other end followed by the shower starting up. “I’ll be over in a half hour.” I smiled and quietly clapped my hands in excitement. “Yay! I can‘t wait to see you.” I barely had a chance to end the call. “You can’t wait to see who?” I jammed down the red button, ending the call as fast as possible. I turned around to see that blonde bimbo standing there with her arms crossed and her left foot obnoxiously tapping. She wore a very smug smirk on her face.
and Taylor came up on the screen and the call was being processed. I loved the picture of me and Taylor. It was us at our school’s carnival in 8th grade when we were thirteen. To this day we still joke around that the only reason he appeared to be taller than me was because he spiked his hair so high. “Hello?” A deep voice spoke into the phone. I snapped out of my thoughts, realizing Taylor had answered. “Hey T.” “Oh, hey, Miles, what’s up?” He asked, sounding more energetic than when he answered the phone. “Currently? Nothing. But Nick and I are going to the YMCA to go swimming for a couple hours and after, we’re gonna hit the park and do a picnic. We would love it if you joined us.” I heard a deep sigh come from the other end followed by the shower starting up. “I’ll be over in a half hour.” I smiled and quietly clapped my hands in excitement. “Yay! I can‘t wait to see you.” I barely had a chance to end the call. “You can’t wait to see who?” I jammed down the red button, ending the call as fast as possible. I turned around to see that blonde bimbo standing there with her arms crossed and her left foot obnoxiously tapping. She wore a very smug smirk on her face.
Chapter Sixteen
“No one that you should be concerned about.” I snapped at her. “Well, Miss Miley, someone’s a little snotty today. Is your affair partner giving you a hard time?” She asked me in a tone that you would use if you were talking to a baby. I had enough with this girl. Who did she think she was? I gave her a place to live and she has the nerve to accuse me of cheating? Oh hell no. Normally I would have confronted her right then and there and set her straight but this was
different. I wasn’t gonna become a monster, I was gonna let her think what she wanted and enjoy a day with my son and best friend. “Yup, you’re right AJ, that’s exactly what it is.” I don’t think she detected the obvious sarcasm in my voice because her smile grew ten times bigger when she was told she was “right.” What an idiot. I left her standing there, in my kitchen, smiling like an idiot while I went up to my room to get ready. My stomach had gotten bigger so I definitely wouldn’t be wearing a bikini. Instead, I settled for a baby blue one-piece. I covered myself with some shorts and Joe’s, blue #2, Yankees t-shirt. It was becoming a habit of me to wear his shirts. I couldn’t help it though. They were big, comfy, and smelled like Joe. I brought the shirt to my nose and inhaled Joe’s wonderful scent. I felt at home. “Whatcha doin’?” Joe
appeared out of nowhere causing me to jump. “I was just getting ready to go to the beach and I had to make sure your shirt didn’t smell bad.” Phew, thank you brain for the good excuse. Joe gave me a ‘mhm, sure’ look. “So you’re going to the beach?” I nodded my head. “And when exactly was I gonna get my invite?” Joe joked. “You’re not getting one. Only cool people are invited today.” I joked back. Joe gave me a puppy dog face. “I’m not cool?” He put his head in his hands and sat on the edge of our bed. Now sobbing sounds filled the room. I walked over to him and plopped down next to him. I gently rubbed his back. “You’re beyond cool, Joey, you know that.” He immediately picked his head up and smiled. “I know.” “Jerk. You made me feel bad for you.” I lightly slapped his chest and pretended to be angry. “Miles, you know you’re not angry, you love me too much to be angry at me over something so dumb.” I looked over at him and smiled. “You’re right. So will you join me, Taylor, and Nick at the beach?” Joe pretended to think. “I think I can clear some room in my schedule for you.” I walked over to the door. “Very funny, Jonas. Be ready in twenty or we’re leaving without you.” I went downstairs and
waited on the couch with Nick for both Joe to finish and Taylor to arrive. There was a knock on the door followed by it opening. That meant Taylor was here. Now we just needed Joe to hurry up and we’d be all set. Ten minutes later, his
highness came down the stairs. “Took ya long enough, dad.” Nick joked. Joe ruffled Nick's curly head of hair and chuckled. “It takes time to look this good son. One day, you’ll understand.” I giggled. “God, I’m engaged to a diva. Lord help me.” “Quiet, you know you love me.” Joe came over to me and wrapped his arms around my waist, gently rubbing our babies on the process. “Well I think we should get going before either of you gets horny and tries to get the other in bed, right here, right now.” Taylor said, ushering us out of the house. We were all just about out the door and I was seconds away from closing it when I heard an annoying voice. Oh no, it can’t be. I thought to myself. “Wait up, don’t go without me, I’m ready!”
different. I wasn’t gonna become a monster, I was gonna let her think what she wanted and enjoy a day with my son and best friend. “Yup, you’re right AJ, that’s exactly what it is.” I don’t think she detected the obvious sarcasm in my voice because her smile grew ten times bigger when she was told she was “right.” What an idiot. I left her standing there, in my kitchen, smiling like an idiot while I went up to my room to get ready. My stomach had gotten bigger so I definitely wouldn’t be wearing a bikini. Instead, I settled for a baby blue one-piece. I covered myself with some shorts and Joe’s, blue #2, Yankees t-shirt. It was becoming a habit of me to wear his shirts. I couldn’t help it though. They were big, comfy, and smelled like Joe. I brought the shirt to my nose and inhaled Joe’s wonderful scent. I felt at home. “Whatcha doin’?” Joe
appeared out of nowhere causing me to jump. “I was just getting ready to go to the beach and I had to make sure your shirt didn’t smell bad.” Phew, thank you brain for the good excuse. Joe gave me a ‘mhm, sure’ look. “So you’re going to the beach?” I nodded my head. “And when exactly was I gonna get my invite?” Joe joked. “You’re not getting one. Only cool people are invited today.” I joked back. Joe gave me a puppy dog face. “I’m not cool?” He put his head in his hands and sat on the edge of our bed. Now sobbing sounds filled the room. I walked over to him and plopped down next to him. I gently rubbed his back. “You’re beyond cool, Joey, you know that.” He immediately picked his head up and smiled. “I know.” “Jerk. You made me feel bad for you.” I lightly slapped his chest and pretended to be angry. “Miles, you know you’re not angry, you love me too much to be angry at me over something so dumb.” I looked over at him and smiled. “You’re right. So will you join me, Taylor, and Nick at the beach?” Joe pretended to think. “I think I can clear some room in my schedule for you.” I walked over to the door. “Very funny, Jonas. Be ready in twenty or we’re leaving without you.” I went downstairs and
waited on the couch with Nick for both Joe to finish and Taylor to arrive. There was a knock on the door followed by it opening. That meant Taylor was here. Now we just needed Joe to hurry up and we’d be all set. Ten minutes later, his
highness came down the stairs. “Took ya long enough, dad.” Nick joked. Joe ruffled Nick's curly head of hair and chuckled. “It takes time to look this good son. One day, you’ll understand.” I giggled. “God, I’m engaged to a diva. Lord help me.” “Quiet, you know you love me.” Joe came over to me and wrapped his arms around my waist, gently rubbing our babies on the process. “Well I think we should get going before either of you gets horny and tries to get the other in bed, right here, right now.” Taylor said, ushering us out of the house. We were all just about out the door and I was seconds away from closing it when I heard an annoying voice. Oh no, it can’t be. I thought to myself. “Wait up, don’t go without me, I’m ready!”
Chapter Seventeen
“Don’t worry, Adge, we weren’t gonna leave without you.” Woah, woah, woah. Did Joe really go behind my back and invite this slut? Na, she must have just invited herself and Joe didn’t wanna make her feel bad. Yeah, that was it. “I would certainly hope not. I think I did well getting ready on such short notice. If you had invited me earlier, I coulda been ready on time. Silly Joe.” AJ said, followed by lightly hitting his chest. I felt the sudden urge to puke. “You know what, I’m actually not feeling so well. You all go ahead and I’ll just stay here.” I tried not to sound upset. I noticed AJ’s face brighten up right away. Taylor and Nick looked at each other, then to me, then back to each other. And Joe just looked confused and a little hurt. “Are you sure, Miles?” Taylor asked. Thankfully someone cared about me. “Yeah I’m just not feeling well. It’s part of being pregnant. That’s all. I’m gonna go lie down and get some rest. Hopefully it’ll feel better when I wake up.” I slowly turned around and was about to go back inside when a voice called me. “Mommy, please come. We were gonna make
sandcastles and have fun. You promised. You can sleep when you get back.” Oh, Nick. There was no way I could avoid his request. “Alright baby, I’ll go.” “YAY!” Nick and Taylor yelled simultaneously. Nick started jumping up and down in excitement. I stepped down the two steps that led from the pathway to our home and walked over to Joe. I cuddled into him and got comfortable. AJ was pissed, it was obvious. I was loving it.
sandcastles and have fun. You promised. You can sleep when you get back.” Oh, Nick. There was no way I could avoid his request. “Alright baby, I’ll go.” “YAY!” Nick and Taylor yelled simultaneously. Nick started jumping up and down in excitement. I stepped down the two steps that led from the pathway to our home and walked over to Joe. I cuddled into him and got comfortable. AJ was pissed, it was obvious. I was loving it.
Chapter Eighteen
We piled into the car and headed to the beach. Taylor was driving so he sat up front and there was only room for three of us in the back which meant one of us *cough AJ cough* would have to sit in the front with Taylor. It was clear we all wanted her up front. Well to everyone except AJ. First she tried to convince me that sitting in the front was better for pregnant women. And when that failed, she tried to get Nick to go up front by saying she’d give him candy if she did. Yeah, I know, it makes her sound like a creepy child molester. But she finally sat up front when who but Joe told her to do it. Of course she would listen to him. I didn’t care though. I just wanted to get to the beach, lay out on the sand, and tan.
When we finally arrived, Nick flew out of the car and found us a nice spot to relax. The spot was mostly for me since everyone else had plans to go in the water and I didn’t. I was fine with that though. I never was a water person, I preferred watching people have fun and tan at the same time. I set my towel down and pulled a book from my tote bag. I was reading the latest Cosmo when I noticed a shadow standing over me. “7 weird things that turn guys on, huh? We’ll have to try them out and make sure they work.” Joe whispered in my ear. I turned around and gave him a look. “Shouldn’t you be playing in the water?” “I was but then I looked over at AJ and it looked like she wasn’t having a good time so I was hoping you would be the lovely lady I know you are and go over there and hang out with her. You know, make her feel welcome.”
When we finally arrived, Nick flew out of the car and found us a nice spot to relax. The spot was mostly for me since everyone else had plans to go in the water and I didn’t. I was fine with that though. I never was a water person, I preferred watching people have fun and tan at the same time. I set my towel down and pulled a book from my tote bag. I was reading the latest Cosmo when I noticed a shadow standing over me. “7 weird things that turn guys on, huh? We’ll have to try them out and make sure they work.” Joe whispered in my ear. I turned around and gave him a look. “Shouldn’t you be playing in the water?” “I was but then I looked over at AJ and it looked like she wasn’t having a good time so I was hoping you would be the lovely lady I know you are and go over there and hang out with her. You know, make her feel welcome.”
Chapter Nineteen
I was tempted to yell at Joe and say something like “Well maybe if she didn’t throw herself at other people’s boyfriends, she would have friends!” But then I looked over and she did look bored and lonely. Part of me felt bad. No matter how slutty she may act, she deserved to have a good time. I told Joe that I would take care of her and not to worry. I made my way over to here, unsure of what to expect.
An hour later, AJ and I were sitting in the little food stand on the beach, sharing French fries and laughing hysterically. As time went on and I actually got to know her, it turned out she was a really cool girl. Maybe I was freaking out too much. I was in the middle of laughing at some story AJ just told about a drunk guy in New York who was hitting on her when I felt a kick in my stomach. “Oh my.” I randomly blurted out. AJ stopped laughing and looked at me with concern. “What’s wrong Miles?” “One of the boys just kicked.” My smile grew and so did AJ’s. “Really?! Do you mind if I touch your belly? I’ve never had a chance to see what that feels like before.” I nodded my head and slowly got up from the bench, AJ did the same and she gently put her hands there and smiled. Soon, another little kick came and her smile got bigger. “It’s amazing, you have not one, but two babies in there.” “Yeah, it takes some getting used to but it’s worth it. What makes it even more worth it is that I now have a family to help take care of them. I have an amazing fiancée and son who are willing to anything for these boys.” I felt my legs getting weak so I sat back down and munched on a couple more fries. I looked over at AJ who looked deep in thought. “You alright?” I questioned, I was worried something was wrong. “Yeah, I’m fine, just thinking.” AJ came back to her seat and also grabbed some more fries. We went back to talking and I felt happy. I never had a girl friend before and it felt nice to have someone to talk to. I decided to see if maybe she’d be interested in hanging out some other time. “Hey Adge..” I trailed off. She looked up at me and smiled. “Sup Miles?” “Well, I was wondering if maybe you’d like to go get mani/pedis with me sometime this week?"
An hour later, AJ and I were sitting in the little food stand on the beach, sharing French fries and laughing hysterically. As time went on and I actually got to know her, it turned out she was a really cool girl. Maybe I was freaking out too much. I was in the middle of laughing at some story AJ just told about a drunk guy in New York who was hitting on her when I felt a kick in my stomach. “Oh my.” I randomly blurted out. AJ stopped laughing and looked at me with concern. “What’s wrong Miles?” “One of the boys just kicked.” My smile grew and so did AJ’s. “Really?! Do you mind if I touch your belly? I’ve never had a chance to see what that feels like before.” I nodded my head and slowly got up from the bench, AJ did the same and she gently put her hands there and smiled. Soon, another little kick came and her smile got bigger. “It’s amazing, you have not one, but two babies in there.” “Yeah, it takes some getting used to but it’s worth it. What makes it even more worth it is that I now have a family to help take care of them. I have an amazing fiancée and son who are willing to anything for these boys.” I felt my legs getting weak so I sat back down and munched on a couple more fries. I looked over at AJ who looked deep in thought. “You alright?” I questioned, I was worried something was wrong. “Yeah, I’m fine, just thinking.” AJ came back to her seat and also grabbed some more fries. We went back to talking and I felt happy. I never had a girl friend before and it felt nice to have someone to talk to. I decided to see if maybe she’d be interested in hanging out some other time. “Hey Adge..” I trailed off. She looked up at me and smiled. “Sup Miles?” “Well, I was wondering if maybe you’d like to go get mani/pedis with me sometime this week?"
Chapter Twenty
On Tuesday at around 12, I pulled up to the address AJ had given me and waited for her to come outside. Surprisingly, she had agreed to hang out with me, I had to admit I was nervous about actually having “girl time.” What does one do? Oh well, I guess I’d have to wait and see. I beeped the horn and the door soon opened and out walked Taylor and AJ. I swear my mouth almost hit the floor. Did they just.. No, there was no way they were a thing or even if they weren’t a thing, there was no way they were sleeping together. I shook the thoughts from my head and smiled when AJ came over to the car. She got in and smiled at me. Taylor tried to be discreet and sneak over to his car but he was already busted. “Hi Taylor.” I called. Taylor slowly rose up from hiding behind the side of his car and gave me a nervous smile. “H-hi Miley.” He was stuttering which meant he was nervous which meant he was hiding something. “Did you guys have fun?” I joked and put emphasis on the word fun. “Oh shut up Miley. Don’t act like you were so pure.” Taylor joked. I gave him the finger and backed my car out of the driveway. “Real classy Miles.” Taylor yelled as I drove away. AJ gave me directions to the nail salon she always goes to and we got there in no
time. It turned out it was only like 5 minutes away from her house. I parked my car and walked in with AJ. The nail ladies all knew her as soon as she walked in the door. It was like she was a celebrity or something. We were told to pick what color we wanted from the colorful wall at the very back of the store. AJ went with a violet color for both her toes and finger nails while I opted for a very silver color for both as well. It felt nice to treat myself to something for once. All the women made a fuss over my stomach and told me I was one of those people who looked cute even when I was carrying children inside of me. I had to admit, I was enjoying the attention. When we finished, they told us to come back soon and we promised we would. Maybe it would be fun coming here every two weeks and treating myself. Since I paid for both of our mani/pedis’, I insisted, AJ insisted she take me out to lunch. We decided to go to the cute little diner in the center of town. I ordered a turkey sandwich and AJ got a salad. We sat and talked and something hit me all of a sudden. “So Joe gave you the day off, huh?” AJ looked at me confused. “What are you talking about? I don’t work for Joe.” Now I was the one who was confused. “Sure you do, he told me you were the best candidate for the job.” Was Joe lying to me? How could he do such a thing to me! “Mi, calm down, I was kidding. Yeah, Joe gave me the day off. Don’t get all worked up over nothing.” I
felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I could now continue eating my sandwich in peace.
I dropped AJ off at her house after promising we would hang out again soon and then drove back to my house. I walked in the door and felt my phone vibrate. I had a new text. From Josh. I clicked “View” and read the words in front of me. “Hey, just wanted to make sure we’re still on for tomorrow. Let me know.” Shit! I totally forgot about that. I nervously typed back.
“Of course we are. Me and Nick will meet you tomorrow afternoon at the park. Say 4:30ish?” In no time, he had typed back. “Great. See you then. ;)” I ran into the bathroom and made a hot bubble bath for myself. I climbed in and felt the stress slowly disappear.
time. It turned out it was only like 5 minutes away from her house. I parked my car and walked in with AJ. The nail ladies all knew her as soon as she walked in the door. It was like she was a celebrity or something. We were told to pick what color we wanted from the colorful wall at the very back of the store. AJ went with a violet color for both her toes and finger nails while I opted for a very silver color for both as well. It felt nice to treat myself to something for once. All the women made a fuss over my stomach and told me I was one of those people who looked cute even when I was carrying children inside of me. I had to admit, I was enjoying the attention. When we finished, they told us to come back soon and we promised we would. Maybe it would be fun coming here every two weeks and treating myself. Since I paid for both of our mani/pedis’, I insisted, AJ insisted she take me out to lunch. We decided to go to the cute little diner in the center of town. I ordered a turkey sandwich and AJ got a salad. We sat and talked and something hit me all of a sudden. “So Joe gave you the day off, huh?” AJ looked at me confused. “What are you talking about? I don’t work for Joe.” Now I was the one who was confused. “Sure you do, he told me you were the best candidate for the job.” Was Joe lying to me? How could he do such a thing to me! “Mi, calm down, I was kidding. Yeah, Joe gave me the day off. Don’t get all worked up over nothing.” I
felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I could now continue eating my sandwich in peace.
I dropped AJ off at her house after promising we would hang out again soon and then drove back to my house. I walked in the door and felt my phone vibrate. I had a new text. From Josh. I clicked “View” and read the words in front of me. “Hey, just wanted to make sure we’re still on for tomorrow. Let me know.” Shit! I totally forgot about that. I nervously typed back.
“Of course we are. Me and Nick will meet you tomorrow afternoon at the park. Say 4:30ish?” In no time, he had typed back. “Great. See you then. ;)” I ran into the bathroom and made a hot bubble bath for myself. I climbed in and felt the stress slowly disappear.
Chapter Twenty-One
I took an unintentional nap during my bath and woke up in what was now cold water. I got out of the water and covered myself in Joe’s blue bathrobe. I heard clanking noises downstairs and got curious as to what it could be. I quietly walked down the stairs and heard the TV going. Nick was playing video games, what else was new? And Joe was in the kitchen…making dinner. How long could I possibly have fallen asleep for and why didn’t anyone wake me. I let Joe do his thing and walked to the living room, where Nick was. “Hi Nick.” Nick paused his game and looked up at me. “Oh hey mom. What’s up?” I allowed myself to gently sink into the couch which was not too far away from Nick. “Nothing really, just waiting to see what Daddy’s cooking for us.” Nick nodded his head and I knew I had to tell him about what tomorrow held for him. I took in a deep breath and spoke. “Nick, I’m gonna pick you up after school tomorrow and then I’m gonna take you somewhere. It’s a surprise where though but just be ready, okay?” Nick gave me a ‘what are you up too’ look. “I know It sounds weird, trust me though.” “Ok mom, I trust you.” Nick said and then turned back to face the TV.
I walked into the kitchen and saw Joe was busy at work creating what looked like a feast. He was throwing random ingredients into pots and pans and I didn’t wanna get in the way. I quietly escaped from the room and walked to the guest room. I knocked on the door and waited for a response. When there was nothing I let myself in and saw AJ and Taylor both shirtless making out on her bed. “MY EYES!” I jokingly yelled. Those two sprung apart faster than I’ve ever seen in my life and AJ turned bright red. “Oh hey, Miles.” She said, clearly embarrassed. “You two are so lucky I’m not Nick. If he had seen that, he’d be scared for life. In fact, I think I am.” I joked. AJ reached on the floor and put her light purple blouse back on. There was an awkward silence which Joe soon filled. From the guest room, you could hear Joe downstairs yelling, “BAM! Kick it up a notch!” I smiled at his stupidity. “What’s Emeril up too?” Taylor jokingly asked. “Cooking something. I saw how focused he was and decided to get out of the way.” Taylor nodded his head and looked over at AJ. There was something about those two that was awkwardly cute. They both leaned in and were at it again. “Ew! Couldn’t you at least have given me a warning?!” I yelled before running out the room and down the stairs back to the kitchen. Nick’s game had been shut off and he was now setting the table. I walked over to him and hugged him. “My baby’s such a good boy.” I kissed the top of his head and then sat down. My legs were exhausted. “Hey, what about me?!” Joe called, appearing out of no where. I
gently got up and walked over to him. “You’re a good boy too, babe.” I said and then smiled. Joe leaned down and kissed me gently. I felt happy to be back in his arms. I helped Joe put the food on the table and then the three of us sat down. “Where’s AJ?” Joe asked. I held up my pointer finger, indicating for him to give me a second. “SEX ADDICTS, IF YOU WANNA EAT I SUGGEST YOU GET YOUR BUTTS DOWN HERE NOW!” I screamed from the table. Joe looked at me like I was crazy and in no time, AJ and Taylor had joined us at the table. When Joe saw what they looked like, he understood my comment. AJ’s hair was a mess and her blouse buttons were not buttoned correctly. And Taylor’s belt was not going through all the belt loops as well as his fly was down. “Hey Adge.” I said from across the table. “Yeah, Miles?” “You uh, missed a couple buttons.” Joe busted out laughing and so did Taylor. She turned a bright shade of red and looked down. “It’s all out of love.” I joked. I tried to enjoy the rest of the family dinner but I still couldn’t help but be nervous about what was gonna happen tomorrow with Josh.
I walked into the kitchen and saw Joe was busy at work creating what looked like a feast. He was throwing random ingredients into pots and pans and I didn’t wanna get in the way. I quietly escaped from the room and walked to the guest room. I knocked on the door and waited for a response. When there was nothing I let myself in and saw AJ and Taylor both shirtless making out on her bed. “MY EYES!” I jokingly yelled. Those two sprung apart faster than I’ve ever seen in my life and AJ turned bright red. “Oh hey, Miles.” She said, clearly embarrassed. “You two are so lucky I’m not Nick. If he had seen that, he’d be scared for life. In fact, I think I am.” I joked. AJ reached on the floor and put her light purple blouse back on. There was an awkward silence which Joe soon filled. From the guest room, you could hear Joe downstairs yelling, “BAM! Kick it up a notch!” I smiled at his stupidity. “What’s Emeril up too?” Taylor jokingly asked. “Cooking something. I saw how focused he was and decided to get out of the way.” Taylor nodded his head and looked over at AJ. There was something about those two that was awkwardly cute. They both leaned in and were at it again. “Ew! Couldn’t you at least have given me a warning?!” I yelled before running out the room and down the stairs back to the kitchen. Nick’s game had been shut off and he was now setting the table. I walked over to him and hugged him. “My baby’s such a good boy.” I kissed the top of his head and then sat down. My legs were exhausted. “Hey, what about me?!” Joe called, appearing out of no where. I
gently got up and walked over to him. “You’re a good boy too, babe.” I said and then smiled. Joe leaned down and kissed me gently. I felt happy to be back in his arms. I helped Joe put the food on the table and then the three of us sat down. “Where’s AJ?” Joe asked. I held up my pointer finger, indicating for him to give me a second. “SEX ADDICTS, IF YOU WANNA EAT I SUGGEST YOU GET YOUR BUTTS DOWN HERE NOW!” I screamed from the table. Joe looked at me like I was crazy and in no time, AJ and Taylor had joined us at the table. When Joe saw what they looked like, he understood my comment. AJ’s hair was a mess and her blouse buttons were not buttoned correctly. And Taylor’s belt was not going through all the belt loops as well as his fly was down. “Hey Adge.” I said from across the table. “Yeah, Miles?” “You uh, missed a couple buttons.” Joe busted out laughing and so did Taylor. She turned a bright shade of red and looked down. “It’s all out of love.” I joked. I tried to enjoy the rest of the family dinner but I still couldn’t help but be nervous about what was gonna happen tomorrow with Josh.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Dinner quickly came and went as did nighttime. AJ decided to go spend the night at Taylor’s and Nick was wiped out so he was easy to put to bed. That meant it was just me and Joe. I was brushing my teeth and couldn’t hear Joe so I just assumed he had ended up crashing downstairs. I walked out of our bathroom, shutting my light on the way and walked over to Joe’s dresser. I was in the process of deciding which shirt I wanted to wear when I felt arms wrap around my, increasing in size, belly. Joe pressed his lips to my cheek and slightly pulled away. “You know, they make these things called maternity clothes and that includes pajamas, my dear.” I turned around in his arms so our faces were touching. “But what’s the fun in that?” I ducked out of his grip and back into the bathroom, his t-shirt and boxers in hand. When I returned a few minutes later, I saw him laying in bed watching the Yankees game. I quietly made my way over to our bed and gently got under the covers. I cuddled up to Joe and we sat together watching the game. I decided to push Joe’s buttons a little. “Phew, Derek Jeter just got up to bat, no wonder it’s hot in here.” I fanned myself with my hand. Joe shot me an evil glare and I gave him a sweet smile. “I love you baby.” I kissed his lips and closed my eyes, drifting off to sleep.
Chapter Twenty-Three
I woke up the following morning feeling more nervous than ever. Today was the day. Nick and his father would finally meet after nine years. I had no idea what to expect but I hoped the day would go well. Only time would tell. That day, I busied myself with random tasks to make time fly. It worked. I was able to go through papers, pay some bills, do some cleaning, and wash some clothes. I was in the process of transferring a wet load of clothes to the dryer when I checked the time, it was 3:30. In an hour, Nick and I were due at the park to go meet Josh. By the time I left my house and got to the school, it would be closer to 4 which is when Nick’s extra math help got out. After that, the plan was to head to the park and go meet Josh. I took the wet clothes and moved them from the washer into the dryer. I pressed start and went to my
bathroom. I wasn’t sure what to wear. My belly was growing so as usual, I opted for one of Joe’s shirts. Today, it was a green Yoshi t-shirt. I slipped on a pair of dark blue jeans with some rips in them and a pair of green converse. It was a simple outfit but I wasn’t trying to impress anyone.
I slid into my black convertible and took off towards Nick’s school. I got there earlier than expected so I decided I was gonna pay Joe a little visit. I debated calling him or not but I figured surprising him would be a sweeter gesture. I pulled my car into a space and got out. I walked through the now familiar hallways to room 818. I heard giggling coming from the room and decided to pause right in front of the door. The laughter stopped and turned into something worse, slight moans. I peeked my head into the door and saw something I never thought I could see, AJ laid on Joe’s desk and Joe on top of her sucking on her neck. It took extreme strength not to either a, gasp and scream in shock or b, storm in there and slap both of them across the face. I couldn’t do that, not today. Today was Nick’s day and I wouldn’t let his douche bag of a “father”
and this slut who was supposed to be my best friend ruin that for me. I took off down the hall to the room where Nick was waiting to be picked up.
bathroom. I wasn’t sure what to wear. My belly was growing so as usual, I opted for one of Joe’s shirts. Today, it was a green Yoshi t-shirt. I slipped on a pair of dark blue jeans with some rips in them and a pair of green converse. It was a simple outfit but I wasn’t trying to impress anyone.
I slid into my black convertible and took off towards Nick’s school. I got there earlier than expected so I decided I was gonna pay Joe a little visit. I debated calling him or not but I figured surprising him would be a sweeter gesture. I pulled my car into a space and got out. I walked through the now familiar hallways to room 818. I heard giggling coming from the room and decided to pause right in front of the door. The laughter stopped and turned into something worse, slight moans. I peeked my head into the door and saw something I never thought I could see, AJ laid on Joe’s desk and Joe on top of her sucking on her neck. It took extreme strength not to either a, gasp and scream in shock or b, storm in there and slap both of them across the face. I couldn’t do that, not today. Today was Nick’s day and I wouldn’t let his douche bag of a “father”
and this slut who was supposed to be my best friend ruin that for me. I took off down the hall to the room where Nick was waiting to be picked up.
Chapter Twenty-Four
I tried to shake the thoughts of what I had just seen from my head and focus on what was moments away from happening, my son meeting his father. I’m sorry, not father, dad. The way I look at it is any man can be a dad but it takes a
real man to be a father. As of right now, Nick didn’t have a father. I don’t know what he had. Now was not the time to be thinking of this. I focused on getting to Nick’s room so we could get to the park. After what seemed like an eternity, I got to room 612. I peeked my head in and saw Nick packing up his things. He must have known I was there because he looked up and smiled. He zipped his backpack and came running over to me. He flung his arms in the air and I carefully picked him up, which was getting harder to do because he wasn’t as light as before and I was also carrying two boys inside me. “Ready to go baby?” I asked, smiling. Nick nodded his head and I took his backpack from him and carried it. We walked back down the hallway and past Joe’s classroom. This time, AJ wasn’t in there and Joe was “busy” at his computer. Without warning, Nick stopped and walked inside. “Hi daddy.” Joe looked up from whatever he was doing and smiled. “Hey bud.” He looked over at me and smiled even bigger. “Hi baby.” I didn’t acknowledge his comment. “Come on Nick, we have to get going.” I tried. I knew it wouldn’t be that easy though. If my life was easy, Josh would never have left me and I wouldn’t have met Joe only to get cheated on by him. Nick looked from me to Joe then back to me. “Is dad coming with us?” He asked, a hint of hope in his voice. Before I had a chance to tell him no, Joe cut in. “No Nick, not today. I have a meeting with the principal in a little bit.” “Are you gonna hook up with her too?” I muttered under my breath. Joe gave me a confused look. “What was that?” I shook my head. “Not-nothing.” Joe nodded his head. I could tell he didn’t believe me but he wasn’t in the mood to fight in front of my son so he just let it go. Nick said goodbye to Joe but I couldn't bring myself to look at him. Joe tried to hug me and give me a kiss goodbye but I couldn't allow it. Not knowing what I knew. I told him I was in a hurry and would see him at home. Joe tried not to seem hurt but did a bad job at it. I knew I might be acting like a bitch but the bastard's cheating on me. I didn't know what else to do.
As the park got closer in sight, my nerves increased more and more. Today was the day. I pulled into a space and got out of the car with Nick. I led the way to the brown bench in the dead center of the park. I sat down and Nick followed. I looked at my watch, 4:30 on the dot. I wasn’t gonna push Josh, he was never on time. In fact, I wouldn’t even be surprised if he didn’t show up at all. When we were together, if he was somewhere on time, it was a mirac-. My thoughts were cut short by someone breathing heavily. I looked up and saw Josh, who was clearly out of breath. I scooched down on the bench so Josh was in the middle. I whispered in his ear. “Why are you so exhausted?” He whispered back. “My car was having trouble and I couldn’t miss out on this day so I ran here.” Wow, those words shocked me. Maybe he was changing his life around and doing some reprioritizing. Maybe he wasn’t the same 17 year old that got me pregnant. Once again, I was snapped out of my thoughts but this time by Nick. Josh and I both looked over at him. “Mom, who’s this?” Nick asked. He sounded very curious. I didn’t know what to say. I knew he would ask this but I had hoped when the time came that the answer would just hit me. It didn’t. “Nick, this is…” I was cut off by Josh. “I’m…”
real man to be a father. As of right now, Nick didn’t have a father. I don’t know what he had. Now was not the time to be thinking of this. I focused on getting to Nick’s room so we could get to the park. After what seemed like an eternity, I got to room 612. I peeked my head in and saw Nick packing up his things. He must have known I was there because he looked up and smiled. He zipped his backpack and came running over to me. He flung his arms in the air and I carefully picked him up, which was getting harder to do because he wasn’t as light as before and I was also carrying two boys inside me. “Ready to go baby?” I asked, smiling. Nick nodded his head and I took his backpack from him and carried it. We walked back down the hallway and past Joe’s classroom. This time, AJ wasn’t in there and Joe was “busy” at his computer. Without warning, Nick stopped and walked inside. “Hi daddy.” Joe looked up from whatever he was doing and smiled. “Hey bud.” He looked over at me and smiled even bigger. “Hi baby.” I didn’t acknowledge his comment. “Come on Nick, we have to get going.” I tried. I knew it wouldn’t be that easy though. If my life was easy, Josh would never have left me and I wouldn’t have met Joe only to get cheated on by him. Nick looked from me to Joe then back to me. “Is dad coming with us?” He asked, a hint of hope in his voice. Before I had a chance to tell him no, Joe cut in. “No Nick, not today. I have a meeting with the principal in a little bit.” “Are you gonna hook up with her too?” I muttered under my breath. Joe gave me a confused look. “What was that?” I shook my head. “Not-nothing.” Joe nodded his head. I could tell he didn’t believe me but he wasn’t in the mood to fight in front of my son so he just let it go. Nick said goodbye to Joe but I couldn't bring myself to look at him. Joe tried to hug me and give me a kiss goodbye but I couldn't allow it. Not knowing what I knew. I told him I was in a hurry and would see him at home. Joe tried not to seem hurt but did a bad job at it. I knew I might be acting like a bitch but the bastard's cheating on me. I didn't know what else to do.
As the park got closer in sight, my nerves increased more and more. Today was the day. I pulled into a space and got out of the car with Nick. I led the way to the brown bench in the dead center of the park. I sat down and Nick followed. I looked at my watch, 4:30 on the dot. I wasn’t gonna push Josh, he was never on time. In fact, I wouldn’t even be surprised if he didn’t show up at all. When we were together, if he was somewhere on time, it was a mirac-. My thoughts were cut short by someone breathing heavily. I looked up and saw Josh, who was clearly out of breath. I scooched down on the bench so Josh was in the middle. I whispered in his ear. “Why are you so exhausted?” He whispered back. “My car was having trouble and I couldn’t miss out on this day so I ran here.” Wow, those words shocked me. Maybe he was changing his life around and doing some reprioritizing. Maybe he wasn’t the same 17 year old that got me pregnant. Once again, I was snapped out of my thoughts but this time by Nick. Josh and I both looked over at him. “Mom, who’s this?” Nick asked. He sounded very curious. I didn’t know what to say. I knew he would ask this but I had hoped when the time came that the answer would just hit me. It didn’t. “Nick, this is…” I was cut off by Josh. “I’m…”
Chapter Twenty-Five
“I’m a friend of your mom’s from way back. Like when we were in high school.” Thankfully Nick didn’t question it and just smiled and nodded at the answer he was given. Josh had saved the day and I was truly grateful. Josh and Nick got to talking about random stuff, sports, athletes, and, of course, Call of Duty. Was that the only thing guys had on their minds now?! I quietly slipped away just to get some air and give Nick and Josh a chance to talk and get to know each other. I was deep in thought about Joe and AJ when I heard Hello Beautiful start playing from my phone. That meant only one thing, Joe was calling. I put my hand into my pocket and pulled out my phone. A picture of Joe whispering something sexual into my ear and me laughing was displayed. I debated if I should accept the call or not, I decided I would. “Hello?” I heard a deep sigh on the other line followed by a momentary pause. I was about to ask Joe if he was there or not but was beat to it by Joe himself. “Hi love.” I hated when he did that. He knew I was upset so he used terms of endearment to try and get back on my good side. When I didn’t respond, Joe continued on. “I don’t know what I did but I know you’re mad at me and don’t even say you’re not.” “I’m fine.” I mumbled into the phone. Joe let out another sigh. “Miley, you’re not fine, that’s the number one lie a girl can tell you. Look, I don’t want to fight with you over the phone. After you and Nick are done meeting up with Josh, drop him off at Taylor’s and I’m taking you on a date.” I processed what he said. Part of me wanted to go with him but another part of me didn’t think it was a smart move. I decided to give him a chance. I mean what could go wrong, right? I hung up my phone and stuck it back in my pocket before returning back to the bench. I almost gasped when I saw neither Josh nor Nick on it. Where the hell could they possibly be!? I heard an all too familiar laugh and turned in the direction it was coming from. I was facing a swing set where Nick was high in the air laughing hysterically and Josh was pushing. Both of them looked so happy. It was definitely a Kodak moment. I reached into my white Louis Vuitton bag and pulled out my light blue Kodak camera, a Christmas gift from Joe. Stupid me forgot to turn the sound off so that when I take a picture, it doesn’t make an annoying noise. Nope, the sound was very much on and Nick and Josh noticed. They both stopped what they were doing and looked at me with the exact same face. As if that wasn’t freaky enough, they both yelled “Hey!” at the same time. When I looked at Josh, it was Nick in 20 years. I had never noticed that until this very moment. I dropped the camera back into my face and shrugged my shoulders. “Whoopsies.” I said in a cute voice. Nick was definitely his father’s son when it came to looks. They stopped paying attention to me and went back to what they were doing. Maybe things weren’t going to go so badly after all, I thought to myself.
Chapter Twenty-Six
I walked back over to the bench and sat down, keeping a careful eye on what was going on with Josh and Nick. I was happy to see both of them having a good time. I was honestly expecting things to go horribly wrong and that would be the
end of any possible relationship with those two but I was clearly mistaken. I busied myself with a game of Angry Birds, on my iPhone when Nick came running over to me. The smile on his face was hard to miss. I closed my game and looked at Nick, who was running towards me. I was afraid he would run into my stomach and hurt either himself or the babies. Thankfully, when he got to a safe distance, his speed slowed down and he stopped just in time. I looked around curious about where Josh had gone. Nick must have caught on because he told me that Josh got paged and had to leave. I nodded my head and told Nick that we’d be going and he would be going to Taylor’s house for a while. Nick jumped up and down and smiled. I loved seeing him so happy. One of the best things about being a parent is seeing your child be happy. It’s a feeling that’s hard to explain. I pulled up to Taylor’s dark blue house and stopped my car. I hadn’t seen Taylor in a while so I figured I’d get out and talk to him for a little bit. Nick got out of his seat and ran to the door, I quickly followed. We waited patiently for Taylor to open the door and were in for a giant shock when AJ opened the door. When I saw that two faced bitch standing in front of me, I wanted to slap her in the face. It took everything in me not to. I still couldn’t believe my “best friend” would hook up with my fiancée. It was just a huge low that I never expected. I should have never trusted her. I knew from day one there was only one thing she wanted, Joe. I didn’t care if they had already hooked up, I was gonna use whatever I had inside me to fight for him.
end of any possible relationship with those two but I was clearly mistaken. I busied myself with a game of Angry Birds, on my iPhone when Nick came running over to me. The smile on his face was hard to miss. I closed my game and looked at Nick, who was running towards me. I was afraid he would run into my stomach and hurt either himself or the babies. Thankfully, when he got to a safe distance, his speed slowed down and he stopped just in time. I looked around curious about where Josh had gone. Nick must have caught on because he told me that Josh got paged and had to leave. I nodded my head and told Nick that we’d be going and he would be going to Taylor’s house for a while. Nick jumped up and down and smiled. I loved seeing him so happy. One of the best things about being a parent is seeing your child be happy. It’s a feeling that’s hard to explain. I pulled up to Taylor’s dark blue house and stopped my car. I hadn’t seen Taylor in a while so I figured I’d get out and talk to him for a little bit. Nick got out of his seat and ran to the door, I quickly followed. We waited patiently for Taylor to open the door and were in for a giant shock when AJ opened the door. When I saw that two faced bitch standing in front of me, I wanted to slap her in the face. It took everything in me not to. I still couldn’t believe my “best friend” would hook up with my fiancée. It was just a huge low that I never expected. I should have never trusted her. I knew from day one there was only one thing she wanted, Joe. I didn’t care if they had already hooked up, I was gonna use whatever I had inside me to fight for him.
Chapter Twenty-Seven
“Hi Miley!” AJ said in her usual and annoying chipper tone. Normally it never bothered me but knowing what I did now, I found everything about her irritating. When she went to give me a hug, I backed away. I didn’t care that I was standing
on a step and there was a chance of me falling to my death. I just didn’t want to be near her. AJ gave me a weird look and then, out of no where, she had an “Ahaaa” moment. “Ohh, you don’t wanna hug me because you’re afraid I’ll squish the boys. I got it!” I was tempted to tell her that wasn’t the reason. The reason was she was a selfish backstabbing slutface whorebag. But I didn’t want to act out in front of Nick so I just smiled at her and turned to Nick. “Be good. Listen to Taylor and when daddy or I come to get you, don’t fight us. It’s a school night so you have to be in bed at a reasonable hour remember?” Nick nodded his head. “Yeah, yeah, yeah. I got it mom. Just go have fun with dad.” I kissed Nick’s head and walked down the steps without saying another word to AJ. I knew I was supposed to go talk to Taylor but I figured I would do it some other time when whore face wasn’t there. Before I left Taylor’s, I figured it would only be polite to send him a text and thank him. Hey Tay, thanks so much for watching Nick for me and Joe. We have some serious issues to work out
right now and if it wasn’t for you, we’d have to do it right in front of Nick and that just wouldn’t be fair to him. Anyways, to make a long story short, there’s a 99.9% chance I will be calling you tonight to fill you in on what’s about to go down. Keep your fingers crossed that it’s nothing bad, I know I am. I’ll talk to you later. Xoxo, love you, Mi<3
I hit the send button and once my phone confirmed it was sent, I backed out of the space and headed off to meet Joe. I didn’t know what he had planned for us so I just headed to the location I was told and hoped for the best. I parked my car in front of a building that did not look familiar to me at all. I began to get nervous cause not only was I alone in an unfamiliar location but it was getting dark out and that made it even scarier. I reached for my phone and was about to call Joe when I heard a tap on the window. I looked at it and almost froze when I saw a pair of eyes staring at me.
on a step and there was a chance of me falling to my death. I just didn’t want to be near her. AJ gave me a weird look and then, out of no where, she had an “Ahaaa” moment. “Ohh, you don’t wanna hug me because you’re afraid I’ll squish the boys. I got it!” I was tempted to tell her that wasn’t the reason. The reason was she was a selfish backstabbing slutface whorebag. But I didn’t want to act out in front of Nick so I just smiled at her and turned to Nick. “Be good. Listen to Taylor and when daddy or I come to get you, don’t fight us. It’s a school night so you have to be in bed at a reasonable hour remember?” Nick nodded his head. “Yeah, yeah, yeah. I got it mom. Just go have fun with dad.” I kissed Nick’s head and walked down the steps without saying another word to AJ. I knew I was supposed to go talk to Taylor but I figured I would do it some other time when whore face wasn’t there. Before I left Taylor’s, I figured it would only be polite to send him a text and thank him. Hey Tay, thanks so much for watching Nick for me and Joe. We have some serious issues to work out
right now and if it wasn’t for you, we’d have to do it right in front of Nick and that just wouldn’t be fair to him. Anyways, to make a long story short, there’s a 99.9% chance I will be calling you tonight to fill you in on what’s about to go down. Keep your fingers crossed that it’s nothing bad, I know I am. I’ll talk to you later. Xoxo, love you, Mi<3
I hit the send button and once my phone confirmed it was sent, I backed out of the space and headed off to meet Joe. I didn’t know what he had planned for us so I just headed to the location I was told and hoped for the best. I parked my car in front of a building that did not look familiar to me at all. I began to get nervous cause not only was I alone in an unfamiliar location but it was getting dark out and that made it even scarier. I reached for my phone and was about to call Joe when I heard a tap on the window. I looked at it and almost froze when I saw a pair of eyes staring at me.
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Whatever a normal heartbeat rate is, mine was going a thousand times more than that. To say I was freaked out is an understatement. I had no idea what to do. I just sat still and hoped for the best. That was going okay until the passenger door opened. I tightened my grip on my phone and was about to dial 911 when the stranger got into my vehicle. Who lets themselves into a strangers car!? “Hi gorgeous.” The person said. I used some courage and looked over almost fainting when I did. “How the fuck could you scare me like that?!” I angrily yelled. Joe started laughing. “I’m sorry baby, I just wanted to surprise you.” I flicked him off . Joe took my raised hand and intertwined my fingers with his. “Come on, you can’t be mad at me over something so stupid. I was just having a little fun. It won’t happen again, I promise.” When he said those words and
looked deep into my eyes, I knew he was really trying and it wouldn’t kill me to give him a second chance. “I forgive you.” Joe smiled and leaned in. I didn’t want to be a bitch and push him away but I wasn’t going to pretend like everything was okay and kiss him back. I just sat there and let him do what he pleased for about 20 seconds. When he pulled away, he looked back into my eyes. “Are you ready for our date?” I could tell he was excited by the way he asked me. And even though I was mad at him, I didn’t want to ruin this night and whatever he had planned for us so I pretended to be almost as excited as him. “Of course I am, Joey bear!” Joe leaned over towards me and whispered in my ear. "You’re so cute.” I felt myself blush but thankfully, we were in a dark car so it wasn’t noticeable. I turned the car on and then realized I didn’t know where
we were going. Joe and I switched spots in the vehicle so he would now drive to the mystery location and would wait patiently in the passenger seat. The whole ride there I was nervous about how to approach the situation with AJ. I didn’t
want to make him angry but I couldn’t let him think I was easy. I decided not to stress over the situation and just let the words come naturally to me when it was the right time. I closed me eyes for the remainder of the trip, falling into a light sleeping stage. I was woken up when I felt the car come to a stop. I opened my eyes and looked around. “We’re here.” Joe said before turning to look at me. When I saw where we were, I smiled a very large smile. "You remembered!" I exclaimed. I was very excited. "How could I forget? This was basically all you talked about ever since it opened." Joe said in a very sarcastic tone. Normally, I would hit him because I hate when he got sarcastic with me but I couldn't tonight. Not after such a sweet gesture on his part. Once again, I looked at the building in front of me and smiled. Tonight was going to be a good night.
looked deep into my eyes, I knew he was really trying and it wouldn’t kill me to give him a second chance. “I forgive you.” Joe smiled and leaned in. I didn’t want to be a bitch and push him away but I wasn’t going to pretend like everything was okay and kiss him back. I just sat there and let him do what he pleased for about 20 seconds. When he pulled away, he looked back into my eyes. “Are you ready for our date?” I could tell he was excited by the way he asked me. And even though I was mad at him, I didn’t want to ruin this night and whatever he had planned for us so I pretended to be almost as excited as him. “Of course I am, Joey bear!” Joe leaned over towards me and whispered in my ear. "You’re so cute.” I felt myself blush but thankfully, we were in a dark car so it wasn’t noticeable. I turned the car on and then realized I didn’t know where
we were going. Joe and I switched spots in the vehicle so he would now drive to the mystery location and would wait patiently in the passenger seat. The whole ride there I was nervous about how to approach the situation with AJ. I didn’t
want to make him angry but I couldn’t let him think I was easy. I decided not to stress over the situation and just let the words come naturally to me when it was the right time. I closed me eyes for the remainder of the trip, falling into a light sleeping stage. I was woken up when I felt the car come to a stop. I opened my eyes and looked around. “We’re here.” Joe said before turning to look at me. When I saw where we were, I smiled a very large smile. "You remembered!" I exclaimed. I was very excited. "How could I forget? This was basically all you talked about ever since it opened." Joe said in a very sarcastic tone. Normally, I would hit him because I hate when he got sarcastic with me but I couldn't tonight. Not after such a sweet gesture on his part. Once again, I looked at the building in front of me and smiled. Tonight was going to be a good night.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Except for the one that I’m the only girl for you, I muttered under my breath. “What was that, baby?” Joe asked me. “I was just thinking out loud.” I lied. Joe nodded his head and got out of the car. He walked over to my side and opened the door for me. He lead me inside the 60’s inspired diner I’ve been dying to go to for the longest time. As soon as I walked in, I couldn’t help but smile. It was everything I had imagined it would be and more. I couldn’t even begin to describe how amazing it was in here. Joe lead me over to a cute little booth in the back corner. I appreciated his effort but I knew I wasn’t going to feel right until I got what was bothering me off my chest. Joe must have noticed I wasn’t myself cause he reached over the booth and grabbed my hands. “Miley, I know something’s bothering you and I really want you to talk with me. Please let me know what’s going on and making you upset.” I took in a deep breath and let it all come out. “When I went to go pick up Nick from school, I got there early and thought I would surprise you. The surprise was on me though when I walked to your classroom door and saw you, hovering over that slut who was laying on your desk, sucking on her neck.” I noticed Joe’s eyes go wide. He was scared, I could tell. “W-was that all you saw?” Joe asked me. “That was all I could bring myself to see Joe.” I pulled my hands away from his. “Miley, please look at me.” Joe tried to get my attention but I wouldn’t give it to him. I refused to look in to those light brown eyes. Instead, I fixed my eyes on the giant juke box, the focal point of this diner. “Just answer one question for me, why did you do it?” The tears were pouring down my face and I still refused to look at him. He cleared his throat and let out a deep sigh. “I don’t know Miles. I honestly don’t.” “Fine. Then at least answer this, was that the only time you guys did
something like that? And how far have you gone with her?” “No, it wasn’t the only time. It happened before…” Joe trailed off. I pulled my gaze away from the juke box and angrily looked at him. “How far have you gone with her?” He didn’t answer my question so I tried again. “How.far.have.you.gone.with.her?” When I didn’t get an answer I knew they had gone farther than I wanted to think about. I got up from the table and stood in front of him, looking down. “Your stuff will be out on the front porch. Once you pick up your last bag, I don’t want to see you near my house again.” I yelled. “Miles, please don‘t leave. I promise you, AJ is history.” Joe called after me as I began walking away. I stopped and turned around quickly. I shook my head. “As much as I’d like to believe that, I just can’t. I’m damaged beyond repair right now, Joe.” I looked down at my left hand, the shiny piece of jewelry flashed up at me. I used my right hand to remove the ring and placed it down in front of Joe. You could tell from the look on his face that he too was heartbroken. “Goodbye, Joe.” I said quietly. I ran to the bathroom and did something I never thought I would do in a million years. The phone rang and rang and rang until finally, the voice I needed to hear picked up. “Miley?” There was a hint of question in his voice. “Josh, I know this is random but I really need you right now. I’m at the 60’s diner on Vincent Street, can you please come get me?”
something like that? And how far have you gone with her?” “No, it wasn’t the only time. It happened before…” Joe trailed off. I pulled my gaze away from the juke box and angrily looked at him. “How far have you gone with her?” He didn’t answer my question so I tried again. “How.far.have.you.gone.with.her?” When I didn’t get an answer I knew they had gone farther than I wanted to think about. I got up from the table and stood in front of him, looking down. “Your stuff will be out on the front porch. Once you pick up your last bag, I don’t want to see you near my house again.” I yelled. “Miles, please don‘t leave. I promise you, AJ is history.” Joe called after me as I began walking away. I stopped and turned around quickly. I shook my head. “As much as I’d like to believe that, I just can’t. I’m damaged beyond repair right now, Joe.” I looked down at my left hand, the shiny piece of jewelry flashed up at me. I used my right hand to remove the ring and placed it down in front of Joe. You could tell from the look on his face that he too was heartbroken. “Goodbye, Joe.” I said quietly. I ran to the bathroom and did something I never thought I would do in a million years. The phone rang and rang and rang until finally, the voice I needed to hear picked up. “Miley?” There was a hint of question in his voice. “Josh, I know this is random but I really need you right now. I’m at the 60’s diner on Vincent Street, can you please come get me?”
Chapter Thirty
*Joe’s POV*
As I watched Miley run into the bathroom crying and I played with the ring that had been placed in my hands moments ago, I couldn’t believe it actually happened. I should have known from the second I started fooling around with AJ that Miley would find out. She always did. When Miley asked me why I did it, I honestly couldn’t come up with an answer. I was stupid to do such a thing and now I’ve messed up the best things in my life, my beautiful fiancée and my kids, either born or on their way in a matter of weeks. I wasn’t looking forward to picking up my stuff up from the house because that meant things were really over. I didn’t want things to be over with us. I wanted to get there and see Miley waiting for me on the porch. Then when I would go to get my stuff, I would see it isn’t there. I’d ask her what the deal is and she’d tell me she changed her mind. I’d carry her inside the house and we would cuddle up in our room by the fireplace and just enjoy the night. Unfortunately, like Miley said, she was too damaged beyond repair and it was all my fault. All this could have been avoided if I just continued to push AJ away and didn't give in to her trap. As much as I hated to say it, I screwed up and needed to give her her space.
I decided to stick around the diner for a little longer since I was already here and I was in no rush to go nowhere. I ordered a cup of coffee. As the hot beverage trickled down my throat, the heartbreak went away, but only for a second or two. I saw Miley sneak out of the bathroom, obviously trying to go unnoticed. I didn’t want it to look like I was stalking her so I gently shifted my position in the booth, giving me a better view of what she was doing. That was a horrible idea on my part because once I saw where she was going, whatever was left of my heart shattered once again. There she was, my ex-fiancée of only a couple minutes, getting back into her ex-boyfriend‘s, the one who left her when she needed him most, car.
As I watched Miley run into the bathroom crying and I played with the ring that had been placed in my hands moments ago, I couldn’t believe it actually happened. I should have known from the second I started fooling around with AJ that Miley would find out. She always did. When Miley asked me why I did it, I honestly couldn’t come up with an answer. I was stupid to do such a thing and now I’ve messed up the best things in my life, my beautiful fiancée and my kids, either born or on their way in a matter of weeks. I wasn’t looking forward to picking up my stuff up from the house because that meant things were really over. I didn’t want things to be over with us. I wanted to get there and see Miley waiting for me on the porch. Then when I would go to get my stuff, I would see it isn’t there. I’d ask her what the deal is and she’d tell me she changed her mind. I’d carry her inside the house and we would cuddle up in our room by the fireplace and just enjoy the night. Unfortunately, like Miley said, she was too damaged beyond repair and it was all my fault. All this could have been avoided if I just continued to push AJ away and didn't give in to her trap. As much as I hated to say it, I screwed up and needed to give her her space.
I decided to stick around the diner for a little longer since I was already here and I was in no rush to go nowhere. I ordered a cup of coffee. As the hot beverage trickled down my throat, the heartbreak went away, but only for a second or two. I saw Miley sneak out of the bathroom, obviously trying to go unnoticed. I didn’t want it to look like I was stalking her so I gently shifted my position in the booth, giving me a better view of what she was doing. That was a horrible idea on my part because once I saw where she was going, whatever was left of my heart shattered once again. There she was, my ex-fiancée of only a couple minutes, getting back into her ex-boyfriend‘s, the one who left her when she needed him most, car.
Chapter Thirty-One
When I was in the bathroom on the phone with Josh, I promised myself that once I left the diner, I wouldn’t look at Joe. I lied to myself. On my way out, I was nearly at the door and doing so well until I turned around and saw him looking right at me. I pretended that I was looking at something else and didn’t notice him. I also picked up my speed so I wouldn’t have to be in this awkward position for much longer. I jumped into Josh’s red truck and once he saw I had been crying, his face changed. “What happened to you?!” I didn’t want to answer his question. I knew if I tried to put into words what had happened, it would only make me feel worse and cause the tears to fall twice as fast. I just shook my head and Josh understood that meant I didn’t want to talk about anything. I leaned my seat back and closed my eyes. I heard the car start up and Josh started driving. “Where are we going?” I managed to ask. There was a pause. "Where would you like to go, love?” Did he just call me love? I tried not to think much of it because I figured it was probably an accident. “I wanna go home so I can pack up his things and not have to think any more of him.” I was so angry now that my response probably came out harsher than intended but I didn’t care. I had a shitty day and if acting like this made me feel better, than I’d do it. Josh listened to me and brought me to the house. When we pulled up to my house, I looked over at him. “I’m sorry for being such a bitch, Josh. I’ve had a really rough day and I took it out on you which wasn’t fair.” Josh looked away from the steering wheel and over to me. “Miles, I understand. You’ve clearly gone through more than one bad thing today so I understand why you’d act that way. Give me a call over the weekend, maybe we can hang out or do something?” I nodded my head. “I’d love to. Thanks again Josh.” I went to get out of the car but before I did, I did something I wasn’t expecting, I hugged
him and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek. After doing that, I felt my face turn red so I looked away and practically flew out of the car.
him and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek. After doing that, I felt my face turn red so I looked away and practically flew out of the car.
Chapter Thirty-Two
As soon as I got into the house, I didn’t waste any time and got right to work. I found a bunch of garbage bags, I wasn’t going to give away my good suitcases, and began packing up Joe’s things. About two hours later, all of his stuff was packed and ready to be placed on the front porch. Everything except his Yankees jersey, of course. I just couldn’t bring myself to give it up. I looked at the clock and noticed I was way past due to pick Nick up. I grabbed the four trash bags and carried them down the stairs. I opened the front door and one by one placed them outside. I ran back upstairs, put on Joe’s jersey, brushed my hair, and ran out the door to my car. I sent Taylor a quick text before putting the car in drive and heading out to go get him.
I pulled up to the gray house and turned my car off. With every step I took, I was closer to the house and the closer I got to the house, the more nervous I got. I didn’t know what to expect when I knocked on that door. I prayed that nothing bad would happen and I could just get Nick and go. When I finally got to the door, the butterflies were whirling around in my stomach. I lifted my right, pointer finger to the doorbell and pressed. A ding dong noise occurred and was followed by footsteps. The door slowly opened until finally, a figure was revealed.
I pulled up to the gray house and turned my car off. With every step I took, I was closer to the house and the closer I got to the house, the more nervous I got. I didn’t know what to expect when I knocked on that door. I prayed that nothing bad would happen and I could just get Nick and go. When I finally got to the door, the butterflies were whirling around in my stomach. I lifted my right, pointer finger to the doorbell and pressed. A ding dong noise occurred and was followed by footsteps. The door slowly opened until finally, a figure was revealed.
Chapter Thirty-Three
“Mileyy!!” The annoying, high pitched, slut yelled. She opened her arms wide in expectance of a hug. Little did she know that hugging was the last thing I wanted to do to her. I felt my jaw clench and my right hand bawl up into a fist. “What’s the matter?” AJ asked me. “You. You’re my problem.” I said coldly. She shot me a confused look. “What did I do?” Boy was she stupid. She must have really thought I didn’t know that she was a backstabber. “You’re a backstabbing slut that went behind my back and slept with MY fiancée.” I screamed. “H-how d-did you find out?” She stuttered. “That’s not important. What’s important is I trusted you. You were supposed to be my best friend.” “I am your best friend!” “No, you’re not. Best friends don’t stab each other in the back.” “Mi-” I cut her off. “Save it, I’m done with you and all the drama that you bring with you. Because of you I no longer have a fiancée. I’m gonna be a single mother of three kids. Thanks a whole fucking lot.” After getting that off my chest, I pushed her to the side and went in the house. I saw Nick happily reading one of his comic
books and smiled. At least Nick had some happiness in his life.
I quietly walked over to him and wrapped my arms around him. He looked over his shoulder and when he saw it was me, he smiled. He must have looked closer though and saw my tear stained cheeks and red eyes because his smile instantly
changed into a frown. “What’s wrong, mommy?” There was genuine concern in his voice. “Mommy’s just had a rough day that’s all.” “Whose ass do I have to kick!?” Nick sprung up from his chair and bawled both of his hands into fists. “One, that’s a naughty word and two, I appreciate the gesture but no ass kicking will be needed.” Nick looked up at me. I could tell he didn’t know what to say. To be honest, if I was him, I wouldn’t know what to say to me either. Instead he did something even better than words, he walked over to me and hugged me. “I love you, mamma.” I leaned down and kissed his head. “I love you too, Nick.”
books and smiled. At least Nick had some happiness in his life.
I quietly walked over to him and wrapped my arms around him. He looked over his shoulder and when he saw it was me, he smiled. He must have looked closer though and saw my tear stained cheeks and red eyes because his smile instantly
changed into a frown. “What’s wrong, mommy?” There was genuine concern in his voice. “Mommy’s just had a rough day that’s all.” “Whose ass do I have to kick!?” Nick sprung up from his chair and bawled both of his hands into fists. “One, that’s a naughty word and two, I appreciate the gesture but no ass kicking will be needed.” Nick looked up at me. I could tell he didn’t know what to say. To be honest, if I was him, I wouldn’t know what to say to me either. Instead he did something even better than words, he walked over to me and hugged me. “I love you, mamma.” I leaned down and kissed his head. “I love you too, Nick.”
Chapter Thirty-Four
Our hug was interrupted by someone clearing their throat. I looked over and saw Taylor standing there. I smiled at him and waved. Nick let go of me and began packing up his things. While he was in the process of doing that, I made my way over to Tay. He opened his arms wide and I gladly accepted. I felt safe being in his arms, I always had. The hug was short but it helped me to feel a little better.
Time was flying by and it was nearly 9:30. “Oh crap!” I exclaimed before jumping up from the couch I was sitting on with Taylor. He gave me a weird look, checked the wall clock and did the same thing I had just seconds ago. Nick appeared in the doorway of the living room and pointed to a pretend watch. That was his way of telling me it was late and he was tired. I nodded my head, my way of telling him we were going now. I turned to Taylor. “We better get going, it’s getting late. Thanks for all your help, I don’t know where I would be without you.” Taylor smiled at me. “That’s what friends are for. Come on, it‘s getting dark, I‘ll walk you guys to your car.” Taylor did as promised and took us to my car. He helped Nick
get into his seat and helped my into mine as well. Before we drove off, he made me promise that we could meet up on Saturday to discuss what happened today. I knew I already was supposed to do something with Josh but I figured I’d do that on Friday.
The ride home was a quiet one, mostly because Nick was so tired. I felt bad not telling him about what happened with Joe but I didn’t want to upset him. I figured I’d just tell him tomorrow, when he was fully conscious. I spent the ride thinking to myself about Joe’s words and actions at the diner. How could he sit there and look heartbroken that I returned the ring when he was the one who cheated on me? If anyone should be heartbroken, it should be me. I’m not saying I deserved to be because frankly, I think I did nothing wrong. I’m just saying I feel like I have a reason to be and he doesn’t. As if being cheated on wasn’t bad enough, I was due with two boys in a matter of weeks. I didn’t know how I would handle it but I figured I’d worry about that when a matter of weeks turned to days. I finally pulled up to the house. It felt nice to be in the driveway. I got out and woke Nick up. He was still half asleep but managed to get himself out of the car and inside. I was following closely behind and stopped dead in my tracks when I got to the porch. The garbage bags filled with Joe's stuff were gone.
Time was flying by and it was nearly 9:30. “Oh crap!” I exclaimed before jumping up from the couch I was sitting on with Taylor. He gave me a weird look, checked the wall clock and did the same thing I had just seconds ago. Nick appeared in the doorway of the living room and pointed to a pretend watch. That was his way of telling me it was late and he was tired. I nodded my head, my way of telling him we were going now. I turned to Taylor. “We better get going, it’s getting late. Thanks for all your help, I don’t know where I would be without you.” Taylor smiled at me. “That’s what friends are for. Come on, it‘s getting dark, I‘ll walk you guys to your car.” Taylor did as promised and took us to my car. He helped Nick
get into his seat and helped my into mine as well. Before we drove off, he made me promise that we could meet up on Saturday to discuss what happened today. I knew I already was supposed to do something with Josh but I figured I’d do that on Friday.
The ride home was a quiet one, mostly because Nick was so tired. I felt bad not telling him about what happened with Joe but I didn’t want to upset him. I figured I’d just tell him tomorrow, when he was fully conscious. I spent the ride thinking to myself about Joe’s words and actions at the diner. How could he sit there and look heartbroken that I returned the ring when he was the one who cheated on me? If anyone should be heartbroken, it should be me. I’m not saying I deserved to be because frankly, I think I did nothing wrong. I’m just saying I feel like I have a reason to be and he doesn’t. As if being cheated on wasn’t bad enough, I was due with two boys in a matter of weeks. I didn’t know how I would handle it but I figured I’d worry about that when a matter of weeks turned to days. I finally pulled up to the house. It felt nice to be in the driveway. I got out and woke Nick up. He was still half asleep but managed to get himself out of the car and inside. I was following closely behind and stopped dead in my tracks when I got to the porch. The garbage bags filled with Joe's stuff were gone.
Chapter Thirty-Eight
*Joe’s POV*
Millions of thoughts were running through my head as I drove around. One of the major ones being where would I stay for tonight? I couldn’t blame Miley for kicking me out but I won’t lie, I never thought she would go through with it. When I arrived at our, excuse me, her house and saw the bags sitting there on the porch, it became official. I wasn’t gonna give up on her though. If my dad taught me anything it was that when you find the right woman, hold on to her and never let her go no matter how hard she fights you. That was exactly what I planned to do.
I made a left turn on to the street I hadn’t visited in years. I feared what their reaction would be when they saw me. I didn’t want to guess what they would be thinking, it was too upsetting. I slowly drove down the street until I got to 10064, the red ranch style home at the very end of the road.
I turned the car off, grabbed a bag, and headed to the front door. The porch light was on so I took that to mean they were home. I approached the door and grabbed the silver knocker in my hand. I swung it up and down creating a knocking noise. After about three knocks, I stepped back and waited. When I heard footsteps, I got even more nervous than I already was. The door slowly opened and I was greeted by a face that looked very confused. “Joe?”
Millions of thoughts were running through my head as I drove around. One of the major ones being where would I stay for tonight? I couldn’t blame Miley for kicking me out but I won’t lie, I never thought she would go through with it. When I arrived at our, excuse me, her house and saw the bags sitting there on the porch, it became official. I wasn’t gonna give up on her though. If my dad taught me anything it was that when you find the right woman, hold on to her and never let her go no matter how hard she fights you. That was exactly what I planned to do.
I made a left turn on to the street I hadn’t visited in years. I feared what their reaction would be when they saw me. I didn’t want to guess what they would be thinking, it was too upsetting. I slowly drove down the street until I got to 10064, the red ranch style home at the very end of the road.
I turned the car off, grabbed a bag, and headed to the front door. The porch light was on so I took that to mean they were home. I approached the door and grabbed the silver knocker in my hand. I swung it up and down creating a knocking noise. After about three knocks, I stepped back and waited. When I heard footsteps, I got even more nervous than I already was. The door slowly opened and I was greeted by a face that looked very confused. “Joe?”
Chapter Thirty-Nine
Joe’s POV:
It had been forever since I saw that face. I couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her. “Dani!” I screamed in excitement. Her confused look changed to a smile. “Hi Joe.” She paused and pulled me into a hug. “What are you doing here?” She whispered in my ear. I opened my mouth to begin telling her about Miley but the words just wouldn’t come out. I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that because I was a prick, she was gone. So instead of words, Dani got tears from me. She hugged me even tighter and told me everything would be okay. She was really good at this comforting thing. When she and Kevin first started dating, I was still in high school and she helped me through all sorts of drama. She really was the sister I never had.
She took me inside the house and lead me to the living room. “I’ll be right back, just make yourself at home.” She told me while on her way out of the room. I nodded my head and plopped down on their couch. I reached towards the coffee table in front of me for the remote and turned on the 42” flat screen TV. Did I forget to mention my brother, Kevin, was a major music producer? He’s the one who signed that 14 year old Canadian kid…. Dustin Bieber? No…Justin Bieber! Yeah, that kid. So it’s needless to say he’s living a good life. Speaking of Kevin…. “What the hell are you doing here?!” The familiar voice echoed through the halls of this giant home. I turned around and was now face to face with my brother. I looked into his green eyes and could swear I saw the hate that was inside of them. Kevin also looked deep into my eyes and he must have seen the pain and heartbreak inside mine. His face went from anger and rage to compassion. “What’s wrong?” I motioned towards the couch and Kevin sat. I followed suit. There was a moment of silence but it came to an end once Dani entered the room with a tray of tea. She handed both Kevin and myself a cup and was about to leave the room but I stopped her before she had the chance. “Dani, wait, don’t go. You’re my sister and if I’m gonna share this with Kevin, odds are he’s gonna end up telling you later so I’ll save you both the time and just tell you now.” I joked. She smiled and walked over to the couch Kevin and I were on. Kevin moved a pillow off his lap and Dani took the pillow’s place. Their attention was focused on me and I had no choice but to tell them or else I wouldn’t feel any better. So that’s exactly what I did. I let out a deep breath and shared every minor detail with them.
It had been forever since I saw that face. I couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her. “Dani!” I screamed in excitement. Her confused look changed to a smile. “Hi Joe.” She paused and pulled me into a hug. “What are you doing here?” She whispered in my ear. I opened my mouth to begin telling her about Miley but the words just wouldn’t come out. I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that because I was a prick, she was gone. So instead of words, Dani got tears from me. She hugged me even tighter and told me everything would be okay. She was really good at this comforting thing. When she and Kevin first started dating, I was still in high school and she helped me through all sorts of drama. She really was the sister I never had.
She took me inside the house and lead me to the living room. “I’ll be right back, just make yourself at home.” She told me while on her way out of the room. I nodded my head and plopped down on their couch. I reached towards the coffee table in front of me for the remote and turned on the 42” flat screen TV. Did I forget to mention my brother, Kevin, was a major music producer? He’s the one who signed that 14 year old Canadian kid…. Dustin Bieber? No…Justin Bieber! Yeah, that kid. So it’s needless to say he’s living a good life. Speaking of Kevin…. “What the hell are you doing here?!” The familiar voice echoed through the halls of this giant home. I turned around and was now face to face with my brother. I looked into his green eyes and could swear I saw the hate that was inside of them. Kevin also looked deep into my eyes and he must have seen the pain and heartbreak inside mine. His face went from anger and rage to compassion. “What’s wrong?” I motioned towards the couch and Kevin sat. I followed suit. There was a moment of silence but it came to an end once Dani entered the room with a tray of tea. She handed both Kevin and myself a cup and was about to leave the room but I stopped her before she had the chance. “Dani, wait, don’t go. You’re my sister and if I’m gonna share this with Kevin, odds are he’s gonna end up telling you later so I’ll save you both the time and just tell you now.” I joked. She smiled and walked over to the couch Kevin and I were on. Kevin moved a pillow off his lap and Dani took the pillow’s place. Their attention was focused on me and I had no choice but to tell them or else I wouldn’t feel any better. So that’s exactly what I did. I let out a deep breath and shared every minor detail with them.
Chapter Fourty
It had been a month since mine and Joe’s breakup. Not once did he try to call me. I’ve gotta admit, it made me a little upset. Not only was he not apologizing for hurting me, but he wasn’t making an effort to at least see how our boys were doing. Even if he was over me and had moved on, he should still try to be there for his sons. And it wasn’t like I could be the one to call him. Oh no, that’s not how it works. If this “relationship” was gonna be fixed, JOE would have to take the lead. Not me. I heard my phone ringing. I removed my hand from the sink, I was in the process of washing dishes, and without looking it the screen to see who it was, picked it up immediately. “Hello?” There was a pause and I got a little nervous. “Uh, hey, Miles.” My heart skipped a beat when I heard who the voice on the other line belonged to. “Hey, what’s up?” I asked, trying my best to sound calm and cool. I don’t think it was going well. “Nothing really. Listen, I was calling to see if you wanted to grab dinner with me tomorrow night?” Was this reality? This couldn’t be happening. I debated what I should say and I must have taken longer than I thought cause I heard him clear his throat. “You know what? It was stupid of me to ask, let’s
just pretend this never happened.” “NOOOO!” I yelled. “You can’t. Of course I would love to grab dinner with you. Pick me up tomorrow around 7:30ish.” We both hung up and I got nervous. I was going on a date… An actual date for the first
time in over 3 years………
just pretend this never happened.” “NOOOO!” I yelled. “You can’t. Of course I would love to grab dinner with you. Pick me up tomorrow around 7:30ish.” We both hung up and I got nervous. I was going on a date… An actual date for the first
time in over 3 years………
Chapter Fourty-One
I didn’t know what to wear or how to get ready. Three years was a long time and the even the dates I had with Joe during our relationship were very calm and relaxed, it was all around comfortable. But with him, things were totally different. I didn’t know if I should go relaxed or dressy. I didn’t want to call back and sound desperate so I figured I’d just go with it and pick something when the time got closer.
That afternoon, I picked Nick up from school and told him we were going to the mall. He got excited cause this was a treat for him, we rarely went to the mall unless we needed clothes for a special occasion. We were on our way to the car when Nick stopped walking. I turned around and looked at him. “Everything okay?” He shook his head. “No, I left my lunchbox in the classroom. We have to go back and get it!” He looked like he was going to suffer a major panic attack if we didn’t. Of course I wasn’t going to make him go the whole weekend worrying about if when he came back on Monday, his lunchbox would still be there. We turned around and headed back into the school. It probably would have been better if I waited outside because once we got inside the school, I heard the laugh that I fell in love with a few years ago. As if hearing his laugh wasn’t bad enough, I was then greeted with his face. I couldn’t turn around and walk away cause it was clear he saw me as well. I was stick in a bad position and I was gonna have to make the best of it. Although maybe if I sprinted, I could get away, I thought. “Well, hello, Destiny..” Damn, he saw me. I guess I wasn’t getting out of this one. I turned around so I was now facing him again, and put on my best smile. “Hello, Joseph.”
That afternoon, I picked Nick up from school and told him we were going to the mall. He got excited cause this was a treat for him, we rarely went to the mall unless we needed clothes for a special occasion. We were on our way to the car when Nick stopped walking. I turned around and looked at him. “Everything okay?” He shook his head. “No, I left my lunchbox in the classroom. We have to go back and get it!” He looked like he was going to suffer a major panic attack if we didn’t. Of course I wasn’t going to make him go the whole weekend worrying about if when he came back on Monday, his lunchbox would still be there. We turned around and headed back into the school. It probably would have been better if I waited outside because once we got inside the school, I heard the laugh that I fell in love with a few years ago. As if hearing his laugh wasn’t bad enough, I was then greeted with his face. I couldn’t turn around and walk away cause it was clear he saw me as well. I was stick in a bad position and I was gonna have to make the best of it. Although maybe if I sprinted, I could get away, I thought. “Well, hello, Destiny..” Damn, he saw me. I guess I wasn’t getting out of this one. I turned around so I was now facing him again, and put on my best smile. “Hello, Joseph.”
Chapter Fourty-Two
We had both used each other’s birth name because we knew it would drive the other one insane. That took the tension in the room to a whole other level. “How have you been?” I asked, trying to be polite. Not only that though, I was also very curious to see how he‘d been over the last month. “Fine.” I’d heard that one word thousands of times but I’d never heard it from him. And in such a cold tone, at that. I nodded my head, trying to hide the hurt I was experiencing. Joe cleared his throat. “What about you, Miles; how have you been?” When he called me Miles, my stomach started doing summersaults. “I’ve been alright. The boys are getting bigger, I’m going to the doctor on Monday to see how they’re doing. Both the doctor and I think they‘ll be here in about two weeks, on the 22nd. We‘ll just have to wait and see though.” Joe nodded his head. I have to say, I was a little shocked. I was expecting him to be shocked or at least try to convince me to allow him to come with though. I couldn’t understand… was he really over me that quickly?
Chapter Fourty-Three
Thank God Nick came running down the hallway, lunchbox in hand, to break the tension. “Mommy, I found it! We can go-” Nick cut himself off at the sight of Joe. “Hi daddy!” Nick ran over to the man he had come to know as his father and flung his arms around him. Joe returned the gesture and both looked so happy to see the other. “I miss you.” “I miss you too, bud.” Joe replied, ruffling Nick’s hair. “The house has been quiet lately. But not at night.” Joe looked puzzled at what Nick just said. Both he and I were curious about what Nick was gonna say next but Joe was the one who got him to continue on. “What do you mean?” “Well..” Nick took in a deep breath before continuing, “Every night, after mommy tucks me in and thinks I’m asleep, she goes to her room and cries. Sometimes for a few minutes but normally for a couple hours. I always want to go in and tell her everything will be okay but I don’t want her to be mad at me for eavesdropping so I just sit and listen and pray that mommy will find happiness.” When Nick finished talking, I ran over to Nick and picked him up in my arms. I held him and stroked his back while we both cried. I felt a third body join us and I was now wrapped in someone’s arms. I looked over and saw it was Joe who had joined us. I was too emotionally drained from all the crying I’d done this past month that I didn’t push him away any more than I already had. Nope, I just let him hold me and his son. He deserved that much. I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket and discreetly checked it without disturbing this moment. Do you think we can switch our dinner date to tonight? I‘ve got something to do tomorrow and I really don’t want to have to wait even longer to be with you. My heart almost dropped. I got so caught up in what was happening that I forgot about the date! Tonight sounds like a plan. I’ve just gotta find someone to watch Nick. I put the phone back in my pocket and tried to back away from Joe. He looked at me, very confused. “What’s wrong, Miles?” “It’s just, I’ve got a date tonight and I wasn’t expecting it so I need to find someone to take care of Nick.” I noticed there was a hurt look in Joe’s eyes when I said the word ‘date.’ And trust me, the last thing I wanted to do was hurt him so this look killed me even more than it would before. “I’ll watch him.” Joe mumbled. I gently placed Nick down, my back was getting sore and I wrapped my arms tightly around Joe. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Joe gently pushed me off him and looked me in the eyes. “No problem. He is my son after all, it’s not an inconvenience on me. Please just answer one question, who are you going with?” I wish he didn’t ask me that question cause I had a feeling the answer was gonna kill him on the inside.
Chapter Fourty-Four
I tried to pretend that I didn’t hear him in hopes that it would work. “Well, I gotta get ready. I’ll see you boys later tonight.” I turned on the heels of my feet and prepared to make a run for it but was stopped by a hand on my shoulder and the calling of my name. “Miley Ray…” I turned around and now had a sweet look on my face. “Yes?” “I asked you a question. Please tell me who you’re going with.” Joe sounded desperate as he repeated himself. The look in his eyes seemed hurt. I could understand that he’d be upset about me seeing other guys but he couldn’t guilt me into growing feelings for him again. Even though I will admit, the feelings were no were no where near gone, but I couldn’t let him know that. I looked into his eyes. He wanted an answer, I owed him that much. “Taylor…”
Once those words left my mouth and Joe processed them, I’m pretty sure his eyes almost fell out of his head and his jaw almost hit the floor. “T-t-taylor? As in Launter?” He stuttered to get the words out. I couldn’t bring myself to look at Joe now. Not after the way his words just came out. So instead I focused on one of the most important things to me, Nicholas.
He stood there, not sure of what to do. He was looking down, playing with his fingers. When I went to walk over to him and give him a hug, he backed away. “What’s wrong Nick?” I tried to get closer to him again but he kept backing up. "How can you do that to dad?!” Nick screamed. I went to say something but Nick cut me off, I let him continue. “You cry every night for hours about how much you love and miss him and yet you don’t make an effort to get back with him. Instead, you go off on a date with the guy who is supposed to be your “best friend.”. And not to mention you’re doing it when your children on their way soon. That’s real great, mom. Look how hurt dad looks. Now you’ll never get back together.” After getting that off his chest, Nick ran out of the building.
Once those words left my mouth and Joe processed them, I’m pretty sure his eyes almost fell out of his head and his jaw almost hit the floor. “T-t-taylor? As in Launter?” He stuttered to get the words out. I couldn’t bring myself to look at Joe now. Not after the way his words just came out. So instead I focused on one of the most important things to me, Nicholas.
He stood there, not sure of what to do. He was looking down, playing with his fingers. When I went to walk over to him and give him a hug, he backed away. “What’s wrong Nick?” I tried to get closer to him again but he kept backing up. "How can you do that to dad?!” Nick screamed. I went to say something but Nick cut me off, I let him continue. “You cry every night for hours about how much you love and miss him and yet you don’t make an effort to get back with him. Instead, you go off on a date with the guy who is supposed to be your “best friend.”. And not to mention you’re doing it when your children on their way soon. That’s real great, mom. Look how hurt dad looks. Now you’ll never get back together.” After getting that off his chest, Nick ran out of the building.
Chapter Fourty-Five
I looked from the spot where Nick had been standing just seconds ago, to the door Nick had just ran out of, over to Joe, who was in shock, back to where Nick was standing. Without a word, Joe and I both made a run for the door. It was a tough squeeze but we were able to fit through it at the same time. I frantically looked around the empty parking lot, worried about all the possible places he could be. He was only 9 so I knew he couldn’t have gotten all that far. But even so, I still wanted to find him as quickly as possible. “Nick! Nick! NICHOLAS JONAS!!!!!!” I continued yelling. I hoped that Nick would appear and come running into my arms. I just wanted to know that he was safe. When he didn’t come running into my arms though, I knew something he wasn't anywhere near here. I nervously started searching through my purse for my blackberry. Once I had retrieved it, I punched in 9-1-1 and hit the green button. Each ring felt like an eternity. An eternity was over after I heard a young woman’s voice take the ringing sounds place. “911, what’s your emergency?”
After 15 minutes of arguing with the receptionist, it was made clear that the police would not get involved until Nick had been missing for AT LEAST 24 hours. I fell down onto my knees and started cried in the parking lot. My son was missing and the police couldn’t do anything about it until it had been 24 hours. How was that helpful to me? Answer, it wasn’t! I
continued crying, even though it wasn’t doing me any good. I felt a pair of strong, muscular arms wrap around me and lift me off the ground. Once I was up, I felt my body pressed against another persons. The smell of Axe hit me and I knew it could only be one person, Joe. I continued crying and as I did, Joe’s grip around me got tighter. He held me as cried and until
there were no more tears left for me to cry.
After 15 minutes of arguing with the receptionist, it was made clear that the police would not get involved until Nick had been missing for AT LEAST 24 hours. I fell down onto my knees and started cried in the parking lot. My son was missing and the police couldn’t do anything about it until it had been 24 hours. How was that helpful to me? Answer, it wasn’t! I
continued crying, even though it wasn’t doing me any good. I felt a pair of strong, muscular arms wrap around me and lift me off the ground. Once I was up, I felt my body pressed against another persons. The smell of Axe hit me and I knew it could only be one person, Joe. I continued crying and as I did, Joe’s grip around me got tighter. He held me as cried and until
there were no more tears left for me to cry.
Chapter Fourty-Six
When my face was dry and there were no tears left, Joe still didn’t let me go. He held me tighter and rubbed my back. I gently pulled back from him and looked into those deep, hazel eyes. The ones I first fell for. I found myself beginning to lean in, closer to him. I could feel his lips, they were so close. Well, they were, for a few seconds, anyway. When I opened my eyes, I saw Joe had inched back and was now standing up. I shot him a puzzled look. “What was that about?” Joe looked from me, to the ground, to his hands, to his feet, back to me, before speaking. “I can’t let you do this, Miley..” Can’t let me do what? I was so confused. “You can’t let me do what?” “I can’t let you kiss me and fall for me all over again. I hurt you before and seeing you go through that pain was horrible. I’m afraid if you let me back into your life, I would do it all over again.” I nodded my head, pretending I understood and was okay with what he’d just told me. In reality, hearing him say that basically he couldn’t be with me because he knew he’d hurt me again, was an even bigger stab in the heart than anything he’d previously done to me. I slowly lifted myself off of the ground and started walking.
Chapter Fourty-Seven
“Miley! Miley! Where are you going?!” Joe yelled after me as I walked away from him. I didn’t turn around. I couldn’t look him in the eyes, not after what he’d just said to me. When I heard his voice getting closer, I knew he wasn’t going to give up. I started walking faster, as fast as my legs would take me. It wasn’t easy though, especially not with two, almost full term, boys inside you. I managed to keep going though, until I got to my car. I flung open my car door and sat inside while I reached inside my purse to retrieve my keys.
Apparently I wasn’t as fast as I thought because I heard a gentle tapping on the passenger side window. I didn’t even have to look over to see the noise was coming from because it was very obvious…Joe. I rolled down the window on his side, just a crack, enough to allow me to speak and for him to hear me. “What do you want, Joseph?” I asked, I could tell the annoyance was clear in my voice. “I need to go look for my son.” I let out a laugh which earned me a confused look from Joe. “No, you don’t have to. You see, Nick’s been put through a lot of pain and I think if I let you back into the picture, he’ll only end up in more.” I answered back, in a snotty tone, using similar words as to the ones he’d used with me just moments
ago. “Please, Miley. I promise you, once Nick is found, I’ll be out of the picture and you won’t ever have to see me again. I’ll leave you, Nick, and our sons alone.” I could hear the desperation in his voice. I hadn’t looked over at him since he crushed me earlier because I knew once I did, all the hate and anger I had built up towards him would no longer exist. It would be replaced by the love that I know I still feel for him. I went against my head and followed my heart. I looked over at him, the worry in his eyes, extremely apparent and then over to the unlock button in my car. Without hesitating, I unlocked the
car, letting Joe inside.
Apparently I wasn’t as fast as I thought because I heard a gentle tapping on the passenger side window. I didn’t even have to look over to see the noise was coming from because it was very obvious…Joe. I rolled down the window on his side, just a crack, enough to allow me to speak and for him to hear me. “What do you want, Joseph?” I asked, I could tell the annoyance was clear in my voice. “I need to go look for my son.” I let out a laugh which earned me a confused look from Joe. “No, you don’t have to. You see, Nick’s been put through a lot of pain and I think if I let you back into the picture, he’ll only end up in more.” I answered back, in a snotty tone, using similar words as to the ones he’d used with me just moments
ago. “Please, Miley. I promise you, once Nick is found, I’ll be out of the picture and you won’t ever have to see me again. I’ll leave you, Nick, and our sons alone.” I could hear the desperation in his voice. I hadn’t looked over at him since he crushed me earlier because I knew once I did, all the hate and anger I had built up towards him would no longer exist. It would be replaced by the love that I know I still feel for him. I went against my head and followed my heart. I looked over at him, the worry in his eyes, extremely apparent and then over to the unlock button in my car. Without hesitating, I unlocked the
car, letting Joe inside.
Chapter Fourty-Eight
Just because I let him inside my car didn’t mean I had forgiven him for earlier. I planned on ignoring him the entire ride. Joe clearly didn’t get the message though because he just kept talking to me about random stuff. I refused to answer though. I guess Joe finally got the hint though cause when we were at a red light, he reached over and took my hand in his, then he gently moved my face so I was now looking at him. And there they were again, those hazel eyes, as perfect as they were earlier. I felt myself inching closer to him, almost as if there was a magnet in front of each of our faces and they were now coming in contact with each other. I didn’t know what to do so I did what I thought was best, winged it. I snapped my head away from Joe and pressed my foot down on the gas pedal. It was probably too much pressure but I needed to get out of this awkward moment. When I arrived at where I hoped Nick would be, my car came screeching to a halt and I ran to the door.
Chapter Fourty-Nine
Frantically, I began pounding on the door. “Come on, I know you’re home, just answer the door already.” I was freaking out. When the door opened and I saw Josh standing there, I felt a bit of relief. “Miles, what are you doing here?” “N-n-nick’s missing!” I yelled out. I don’t think those words shocked Josh nearly half as much as they shocked me. Even though I’d been searching for Nick for a while now and had notified the police earlier, but until I spoke those very words myself, it didn’t seem real. But what didn’t seem even more real was Josh’s response. He took in a deep breath, “I know.” I was so upset and distraught that I didn’t even realize what he said. “I’m going crazy looking for him and I called the police but they can’t help me out until it’s been 24 hours. On top of that, I don’t even have my fiancée anymore, well he claims he’s here for me and wants to help me look but I’m afraid to spend time with him cause the more time I spend with him, the sooner I’ll fall for him all over again. And asking Taylor for help is totally out of the question because he’s the reason all this drama is going on. But that doesn’t even matter. I’ve looked everywhere I can think Nick would be and he’s just no where to be found. He’s gone, Josh, he’s really, really gone!”
Chapter Fifty
“Miley, you need to calm down.” Josh said, in an attempt to comfort me. That just sent me over the edge. “Calm down?! What do you mean CALM DOWN? How am I
supposed to calm down when my son is missing??!” I heard a slamming sound come
from behind me and knew it was Joe. I was too caught up in the moment to pay attention though. “Nick’s not missing. He came running here, in tears, and was so upset that his mom was about to go on a date with some other guy that wasn’t Joe. He’s inside right now. I had every intention of calling you and letting you know what was going on but this all just happened so fast that I couldn’t keep up.” Those words hit me like a ton of bricks. Nick was okay. He wasn’t missing after all. Joe joined me at my side and was huffing and puffing. “Is everything alright?” Totally ignoring Joe’s question, I flew inside the house and into a room where I heard the TV going. There, sitting on the cream colored sofa, was Nicholas.
supposed to calm down when my son is missing??!” I heard a slamming sound come
from behind me and knew it was Joe. I was too caught up in the moment to pay attention though. “Nick’s not missing. He came running here, in tears, and was so upset that his mom was about to go on a date with some other guy that wasn’t Joe. He’s inside right now. I had every intention of calling you and letting you know what was going on but this all just happened so fast that I couldn’t keep up.” Those words hit me like a ton of bricks. Nick was okay. He wasn’t missing after all. Joe joined me at my side and was huffing and puffing. “Is everything alright?” Totally ignoring Joe’s question, I flew inside the house and into a room where I heard the TV going. There, sitting on the cream colored sofa, was Nicholas.
Chapter Fifty-One
*Two weeks later*
Things were seeming to get better. After I found Nick, I sat him down and we had a serious talk about how running away is never the answer and everything was going uphill from there. Joe and I also began talking again. We were slowly, but
surely working things out. I was in no rush to fix things but from the way he had been trying so hard with me, I had a feeling we’d be good to go in no time. In fact, Joe had planed a very special evening for us that night. He had arranged for Nick to spend time with Josh and wouldn’t tell me where we were going but assured me it would be a good time. I knew all too well by now not to ask questions so I just went along with it.
As the evening got closer, I got more nervous. I’d been on so many dates with Joe before so I should be used to it by now but I still always had those butterflies in my stomach. Josh had came by earlier to pick Nick up so it was just me. That is, until Joe showed up. The one thing I hated about our dates was that I never knew what to wear. I was in my closet, frantically searching for an outfit when I felt this pushing pain in my lower stomach that was followed by a more intense pain a little lower down. It was a familiar feeling… Kind of what it felt like right before I went into labor with Nick. Oh no. I couldn’t be going into labor, it just wasn’t possible. But then, the unexpected happened… My water broke.
Things were seeming to get better. After I found Nick, I sat him down and we had a serious talk about how running away is never the answer and everything was going uphill from there. Joe and I also began talking again. We were slowly, but
surely working things out. I was in no rush to fix things but from the way he had been trying so hard with me, I had a feeling we’d be good to go in no time. In fact, Joe had planed a very special evening for us that night. He had arranged for Nick to spend time with Josh and wouldn’t tell me where we were going but assured me it would be a good time. I knew all too well by now not to ask questions so I just went along with it.
As the evening got closer, I got more nervous. I’d been on so many dates with Joe before so I should be used to it by now but I still always had those butterflies in my stomach. Josh had came by earlier to pick Nick up so it was just me. That is, until Joe showed up. The one thing I hated about our dates was that I never knew what to wear. I was in my closet, frantically searching for an outfit when I felt this pushing pain in my lower stomach that was followed by a more intense pain a little lower down. It was a familiar feeling… Kind of what it felt like right before I went into labor with Nick. Oh no. I couldn’t be going into labor, it just wasn’t possible. But then, the unexpected happened… My water broke.
Chapter Fifty-Two
*Joe’s POV:*
I did a double take at the man in the mirror staring back at me. He was looking good. I grabbed a grey hoodie from my closet, I figured it would be a good idea considering the brisk fall evenings we were having lately. I grabbed my car keys out of the drawer I usually kept them in and was getting ready to head outside when I felt my pocket vibrating. I grabbed my phone and saw the picture of Miley and I kissing on our one year anniversary, it was clear we were both smiling through the kiss. “Hi, beautiful. I’m on my way out the door as we speak.” I tried my best to sound cool. It was harder than it seemed though, especially when I was BEYOND nervous about taking the love of my life that I screwed up with out on a date. When there was no sort of communication coming from the other end of the phone, I began to get nervous. Thankfully, Miley began talking though. “Listen Joe, I’m sure whatever you have planned for us is amazing but you need to cancel your plans, whatever they may be.” My heart started racing and endless possibilities of worst case scenarios were running through my head. “W-what d-do y-you m-mean?” I stuttered, a sign of my now even more extreme nervousness. “I don’t have time to explain over the phone. Just hurry up and get here now. It’s important!” And with that, the line went dead. I did as I was asked though and flew to my car. I had no idea what was wrong with Miley but I hoped that both her, and our boys were alright.
I did a double take at the man in the mirror staring back at me. He was looking good. I grabbed a grey hoodie from my closet, I figured it would be a good idea considering the brisk fall evenings we were having lately. I grabbed my car keys out of the drawer I usually kept them in and was getting ready to head outside when I felt my pocket vibrating. I grabbed my phone and saw the picture of Miley and I kissing on our one year anniversary, it was clear we were both smiling through the kiss. “Hi, beautiful. I’m on my way out the door as we speak.” I tried my best to sound cool. It was harder than it seemed though, especially when I was BEYOND nervous about taking the love of my life that I screwed up with out on a date. When there was no sort of communication coming from the other end of the phone, I began to get nervous. Thankfully, Miley began talking though. “Listen Joe, I’m sure whatever you have planned for us is amazing but you need to cancel your plans, whatever they may be.” My heart started racing and endless possibilities of worst case scenarios were running through my head. “W-what d-do y-you m-mean?” I stuttered, a sign of my now even more extreme nervousness. “I don’t have time to explain over the phone. Just hurry up and get here now. It’s important!” And with that, the line went dead. I did as I was asked though and flew to my car. I had no idea what was wrong with Miley but I hoped that both her, and our boys were alright.
Chapter Fifty-Three
Literally five minutes after I hung up with Joe, he was at my house. I’m sure he was probably doing way beyond what the speed limit was but I didn’t care. When I heard the door open, I grabbed the suitcase that I prepared a week prior to today, just in case, thank God, and ran towards the entryway, where he was standing. He looked very confused. “Baby, is everything okay?!” I shrugged my shoulders. “If you consider me being in labor okay, then yeah, everything’s okay.” Joe wiped his forehead and sighed in relief. “I’m so happy to hear tha- Wait, did you just say you’re in labor?!” I smiled at him and nodded my head. He ran over to me and swooped me up in his arms, spinning me around. “Joe, I’m pregnant and in labor, now is not the time to be spinning me!” I said, while laughing. “Oh, right!” The spinning stopped and Joe carried me and my suitcase out to the car. It was even cuter that he did this when I was 9 months pregnant with twins. When we got to the car, he opened the door for me and gently placed me in the passenger seat. Then he went around to his side and got in the car. Before starting it up, he looked over at me and slowly leaned in. “I love you, Miley.” Before I had a chance to answer back, I felt his lips on mine. I felt those same sparks I felt when we kissed for the first time three years ago, and I loved it.
Chapter Fifty-Four
I suddenly realized what I was doing and where I needed to be going. As much as I wanted to continue living in the moment, I could, I had two children to deliver. I pulled away, something Joe obviously did not like. He gave me puppy dog eyes. All I did, in response, was point to my stomach and he got the picture. I leaned back in my seat and waited patiently for our arrival at the hospital. I figured I should make good use of the 10 minute car ride so I made a call to Josh’s house to inform both him and Nick of the major even that was occurring right now. So that’s exactly what I did. Well, at least I was going to, until I realized I left my purse, which had my phone in it, at home… That meant I had to do the next best thing. I put my hand on Joe’s lap, which was easier said than done, and stuck my hand in his pocket as I gently grabbed it in my hand and then pulled away. Joe took his eyes off the road for a few seconds and looked at me. “You tease.” He said before sticking his tongue out at me. I smiled up at him and kissed his cheek. “You know you love me, babe.” Joe shook his head as a response to my comment. “I really don’t though.” He joked back. I playfully slapped his arm. “Joseph, is that any way to talk to the woman carrying your children!?” Clearly, I had won because he made no comment back. I took this as the end of my conversation and also my opportunity to call Josh, so I did. After the first ring, Josh picked up the phone. “Hi, Miley, is everything okay?” I smiled and looked over at Joe, and then down at my stomach, where one of Joe’s hands was now resting. “Everything’s great, in fact, things couldn’t be better.” I smiled. I heard a chuckle from the other end of the phone. I was guessing Nick and Josh were having a good time which made me very happy. “I’m sorry if I’m interrupting your fun but I have something kind of important that I need to tell you…” I took a breath and waited for Josh to respond. “Go ahead.”
He sounded very curious, I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing. “My water broke about 5 minutes ago so we’re on our way to the hospital now. I know it’s your time with our son but I really want him to be there when his brothers are born. In fact, I want both of you there. So whenever you get a chance, if you could please meet us at the hospital, it would mean the world to me!” By the time I finished talking, I was almost out of breath. Josh agreed to meet us and we then hung up. I couldn’t believe this moment was finally here.
He sounded very curious, I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing. “My water broke about 5 minutes ago so we’re on our way to the hospital now. I know it’s your time with our son but I really want him to be there when his brothers are born. In fact, I want both of you there. So whenever you get a chance, if you could please meet us at the hospital, it would mean the world to me!” By the time I finished talking, I was almost out of breath. Josh agreed to meet us and we then hung up. I couldn’t believe this moment was finally here.
Chapter Fifty-Five
As we were walking to the entrance of the hospital, I reached for Joe’s hand. He quickly pulled away though. “What’s the deal?” I asked, joking around. “I’m sorry, the father of your child is on his way with your’s and his son soon. I wouldn’t want him to get the wrong idea if he was to see you holding hands with someone that’s not him..” He said very coldly before he started walking ahead of me. “What are you-” Then, I remembered what had set him off. “I know it’s your time with our son but I really want him to be there when his brothers are born. In fact, I want both of you there.” I had basically called Josh Nick’s ‘father.’ I guess, in a sense, he was. Wait, what
am I saying? No, Josh isn’t Nick’s father. Joe’s his father. Well, it’s complicated I guess.. But as if that wasn’t bad enough, I had made it very clear that I wanted Josh to be there when someone who was no longer his girlfriend, or fiancée was giving birth to the children of her now current fiancée…That shouldn’t have bothered Joe though. I love him so much, more than I ever loved Josh, or thought I loved Josh and nothing would change that.
I ran as fast as I could to try and catch up with Joe. When I got inside, I saw him standing at the desk speaking with the receptionist. “May I help you, sir?” The nasally voiced woman from behind the desk asked. He cleared his throat and stepped closer to the window that separated the two of them. “Yes, my, uhh, friend‘s water just broke about 30 minutes ago.” I felt my heart literally snap in half. Joe just called me his friend… The last time I checked, this ring on my left finger and the two kicking children in my stomach weren’t results of something friends do to each other. The receptionist told Joe to take a seat and that she would be with us in a moment. I took a seat at the far end of the waiting room, all the way near the automatic sliding door, hoping to be as far away from Joe as
possible. I had no such luck though. Because he walked right over to where I was and sat next to me.
am I saying? No, Josh isn’t Nick’s father. Joe’s his father. Well, it’s complicated I guess.. But as if that wasn’t bad enough, I had made it very clear that I wanted Josh to be there when someone who was no longer his girlfriend, or fiancée was giving birth to the children of her now current fiancée…That shouldn’t have bothered Joe though. I love him so much, more than I ever loved Josh, or thought I loved Josh and nothing would change that.
I ran as fast as I could to try and catch up with Joe. When I got inside, I saw him standing at the desk speaking with the receptionist. “May I help you, sir?” The nasally voiced woman from behind the desk asked. He cleared his throat and stepped closer to the window that separated the two of them. “Yes, my, uhh, friend‘s water just broke about 30 minutes ago.” I felt my heart literally snap in half. Joe just called me his friend… The last time I checked, this ring on my left finger and the two kicking children in my stomach weren’t results of something friends do to each other. The receptionist told Joe to take a seat and that she would be with us in a moment. I took a seat at the far end of the waiting room, all the way near the automatic sliding door, hoping to be as far away from Joe as
possible. I had no such luck though. Because he walked right over to where I was and sat next to me.
Chapter Fifty-Six
I slid to the farthest end of my chair, possible, trying to avoid having anything to do with Joe. But he wouldn’t let up. Because when I moved, he ended up just picking up his chair, and moving it so he was now sitting in front of me. ‘Damn it, why don’t they nail these freakin’ things to the ground!?” I thought, to myself. I was too nervous to look up because I knew if I did, those hazel eyes would be looking right at me… Just as I was about to crack and look up at him, my name was called. “Miley Cyrus?” A small, middle aged, blonde, going grey, haired woman asked. Carefully, I stood up and began walking towards her. While I was standing at the automatic door, I looked back and noticed Joe was sitting in his chair, staring at his hands. I looked down at my stomach and then over to Joe. No matter what kind of difficulties we were having and how stupid they were, these babies did not get in here by themselves. And they were only gonna be born once. As confidently as I could possibly be, I turned around and walked over to Joe. When I stood in front of him, I reached my hand out and waited. He looked up at me and then looked right back down. It was clear he had been crying. I bent over, which was not easy, but I somehow managed and took his
hands away from his face and held them in mine. “What do you want Miley?” He asked. His voice was no longer filled with anger, but genuine care. “Our baby boys are about to be born and I can’t do it alone. Please don’t make me. I need you there to hold me and get me through it. And once they’re born, I promise, I won’t make you stick around me any longer.” I meant what I said. As much as it hurt me, if Joe didn’t want to be around me, I couldn’t make him. There was a momentary silence and Joe continued sitting. I nodded my head, upset at his decision but I wouldn‘t hold a grudge. I turned around and was about to walk back to the room I would be in while I was in labor. I got stopped though, by someone grabbing my hand. I recognized that grip anywhere.. I turned around
and saw those beautiful hazel eyes looking at me. “You can’t do this alone, Miles. You need me and I need you. Nick, and our babies need us.” Joe squeezed my hand a little before continuing. “I grew up in a family that wasn’t the best and I promised myself that when I started a family, I would make sure my children grew up in the best environment possible and I’m gonna keep that promise. So let’s go back there and I promise, I’ll be holding you every step of the way.”
hands away from his face and held them in mine. “What do you want Miley?” He asked. His voice was no longer filled with anger, but genuine care. “Our baby boys are about to be born and I can’t do it alone. Please don’t make me. I need you there to hold me and get me through it. And once they’re born, I promise, I won’t make you stick around me any longer.” I meant what I said. As much as it hurt me, if Joe didn’t want to be around me, I couldn’t make him. There was a momentary silence and Joe continued sitting. I nodded my head, upset at his decision but I wouldn‘t hold a grudge. I turned around and was about to walk back to the room I would be in while I was in labor. I got stopped though, by someone grabbing my hand. I recognized that grip anywhere.. I turned around
and saw those beautiful hazel eyes looking at me. “You can’t do this alone, Miles. You need me and I need you. Nick, and our babies need us.” Joe squeezed my hand a little before continuing. “I grew up in a family that wasn’t the best and I promised myself that when I started a family, I would make sure my children grew up in the best environment possible and I’m gonna keep that promise. So let’s go back there and I promise, I’ll be holding you every step of the way.”
Chapter Fifty-Seven
As Joe promised, he was right beside me during the 13 hours that I lied in that hospital bed waiting for these babies to be born. It was obvious from the long and painful delivery process that they were going to be feisty. The nurse even told us so. I was getting so fed up with how long this was taking. And even though it sounded awful, I couldn’t wait for these boys to be out of me! 13 hours was a long time and when you’re in a room where everything’s the same
color, your whole existence just feels miserable.
I glanced over to the side of the bed I was lying on and saw
Joe was falling asleep in the, what looked to be, uncomfortable chair the nurse had put in the room so Joe could sit down. My poor baby, he must have been exhausted. It had been a long day for all of us and the babies weren’t even here yet. We got to the hospital at 7:30 pm on August 22nd and it was now 8:30 am on August 23rd. Needless to say, we’d been here for a while and Joe refused to leave me alone. He did not want to miss the birth of his baby boys. I loved how much of an effort he was putting into being involved in the boys’ lives. It showed he really did care.
I was starting to doze off a little because it was clear these boys were happy where they were and did not want to leave, when I heard footsteps running down the hall. “She’s in this room, Josh!” A small voice screamed from outside my room. Joe’s and my eyes flew wide open from the shock of our expected, yet at the same time, unexpected visitors. We exchanged looks between the two of us and smiled. “Nicholas.” We said at the exact same time and as soon as his name left our mouth, Nick came running in the room. “Where’s my brothers?!?” He yelled. Joe got up from the uncomfortable chair and walked over to Nick. “They’re still in mommy’s belly.” He said in a gentle voice. Nick nodded his head. “Oh, alright.” He responded, nonchalantly, before walking over to my bed and plopping himself down on it. “Come on brothers, it’s time to be born now.” Then he started gently poking my stomach. I guess it was his attempt at hurrying up the process. It was a little odd but if it worked, I was all for it.
Josh eventually joined us in the room and things were going surprisingly well. There was no drama or tension between him and Joe. Or, if there was, they covered it up well. I was just happy to see them getting along.
It was not 10:30, and I had been in labor for 15 hours. I was so sick of waiting that I had decided I was gonna page the nurse and ask her if we could just get me in for a C-Section. But in the time it took for me to page her and her to actually get here, my contractions were now coming regularly and lasting way longer than before. “Well, Ms Cyrus, this is it. Get ready to welcome two new children into the world cause these boys are ready to be born.”
There was a lot of yelling for me to push going on in that room but I did whatever the doctor told me. It seemed like such a long time ago that I was a 16 year old having a baby and now I was an adult welcoming two more
babies into the world. It was totally unreal. But at least I wasn’t alone this time. I had all the people I loved and needed around me and that was more than enough. “Alright Miley, I see a head. So I want you to take all the energy you have and focus it into giving me some of the biggest and best pushes you’ve got so we can get these boys outta you. On three, ready?” I nodded my head, the nurse gave me a count and I started pushing. I probably did about 20 pushes until he was fully out and when he was, I felt so relieved. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see him though because as soon as he was out, the doctor handed him off to one of the nurses who whisked him away to be cleaned up and checked on. I was hoping I’d have a minute to rest and recover after baby number one
was out. but that was not happening. I guess the boys had gotten so close while they were inside me that they didn’t want to be separated. “Here we go!” I screamed, before repeating the process I had just done all over again.
It felt like forever before two nurses were on their way over with my babies. After 15 hours of labor, the only thing I wanted was to be able to hold them and tell them how much their mommy loved them. One of the nurses
placed baby “A” in my arms and the other placed baby “B” in Joe’s arms. Joe came over close to my bed and sat on the edge. I looked at him and then down at our babies. He wrapped an arm around me and rubbed my shoulder. “We did good baby, we did good.” He whispered, before kissing the top of my head. I nodded in agreement. “That we did, Joe. That we did.”
color, your whole existence just feels miserable.
I glanced over to the side of the bed I was lying on and saw
Joe was falling asleep in the, what looked to be, uncomfortable chair the nurse had put in the room so Joe could sit down. My poor baby, he must have been exhausted. It had been a long day for all of us and the babies weren’t even here yet. We got to the hospital at 7:30 pm on August 22nd and it was now 8:30 am on August 23rd. Needless to say, we’d been here for a while and Joe refused to leave me alone. He did not want to miss the birth of his baby boys. I loved how much of an effort he was putting into being involved in the boys’ lives. It showed he really did care.
I was starting to doze off a little because it was clear these boys were happy where they were and did not want to leave, when I heard footsteps running down the hall. “She’s in this room, Josh!” A small voice screamed from outside my room. Joe’s and my eyes flew wide open from the shock of our expected, yet at the same time, unexpected visitors. We exchanged looks between the two of us and smiled. “Nicholas.” We said at the exact same time and as soon as his name left our mouth, Nick came running in the room. “Where’s my brothers?!?” He yelled. Joe got up from the uncomfortable chair and walked over to Nick. “They’re still in mommy’s belly.” He said in a gentle voice. Nick nodded his head. “Oh, alright.” He responded, nonchalantly, before walking over to my bed and plopping himself down on it. “Come on brothers, it’s time to be born now.” Then he started gently poking my stomach. I guess it was his attempt at hurrying up the process. It was a little odd but if it worked, I was all for it.
Josh eventually joined us in the room and things were going surprisingly well. There was no drama or tension between him and Joe. Or, if there was, they covered it up well. I was just happy to see them getting along.
It was not 10:30, and I had been in labor for 15 hours. I was so sick of waiting that I had decided I was gonna page the nurse and ask her if we could just get me in for a C-Section. But in the time it took for me to page her and her to actually get here, my contractions were now coming regularly and lasting way longer than before. “Well, Ms Cyrus, this is it. Get ready to welcome two new children into the world cause these boys are ready to be born.”
There was a lot of yelling for me to push going on in that room but I did whatever the doctor told me. It seemed like such a long time ago that I was a 16 year old having a baby and now I was an adult welcoming two more
babies into the world. It was totally unreal. But at least I wasn’t alone this time. I had all the people I loved and needed around me and that was more than enough. “Alright Miley, I see a head. So I want you to take all the energy you have and focus it into giving me some of the biggest and best pushes you’ve got so we can get these boys outta you. On three, ready?” I nodded my head, the nurse gave me a count and I started pushing. I probably did about 20 pushes until he was fully out and when he was, I felt so relieved. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see him though because as soon as he was out, the doctor handed him off to one of the nurses who whisked him away to be cleaned up and checked on. I was hoping I’d have a minute to rest and recover after baby number one
was out. but that was not happening. I guess the boys had gotten so close while they were inside me that they didn’t want to be separated. “Here we go!” I screamed, before repeating the process I had just done all over again.
It felt like forever before two nurses were on their way over with my babies. After 15 hours of labor, the only thing I wanted was to be able to hold them and tell them how much their mommy loved them. One of the nurses
placed baby “A” in my arms and the other placed baby “B” in Joe’s arms. Joe came over close to my bed and sat on the edge. I looked at him and then down at our babies. He wrapped an arm around me and rubbed my shoulder. “We did good baby, we did good.” He whispered, before kissing the top of my head. I nodded in agreement. “That we did, Joe. That we did.”
Chapter Fifty-Eight
I looked down at one of my three precious baby boy’s and couldn’t help but smile. He and his two brother’s were proof that, even in this crazy, fucked up world, perfection still existed. Joe had gotten up and moved himself and our other baby over to the chair, which was on the other side of my room, to ensure that both of us would have enough room to hold our boys and be comfortable. Nick was also standing by Joe, admiring his sibling, when a look of concern and confusion made its way onto his face. “Everything alright, Nick?” I asked, concerned about what happened to change his mood so quickly. He looked up and then over to me. “Mom, I think something’s wrong with him…” Nick trailed off, pointing to the baby Joe was holding. “What do you mean?” I asked. Now I was the one who was confused. Hopping down from the arm rest on the chair, Nick made his
way over to me. Then he leaned in and whispered. “The baby daddy’s holding is missing his penis.” I looked up at Nick and saw how puzzled and, clearly, outraged he was at this observation of his. My mouth opened so wide, I swear it almost hit the floor.
I patted an empty spot on the bed, next to me, signaling Nick to sit there. Then, I very carefully passed the baby to him and motioned for Joe to get over here. Quickly, but at the same time, as carefully as possible, Joe hustled over
to where I was sitting up. “You rang, my dear?” I looked at him and tried to keep my cool. “Joseph… Does that baby have a V where we thought there would be a P?” I asked, barely able to contain myself. You could tell Joe was confused by my question. Then, it hit him. “Ohhh! Yes, yes, she does.” Was all he said, in response. I tried my hardest to avoid shrieking and scaring the babies, but I was so happy. Not that I wouldn’t have been happy with two more boys but now, I had a girl in the house. I leaned forward and gently took Baby B, my daughter, from Joe and held her. She was so beautiful. “When were you planning on telling me she was a girl?” I asked, not able to take my gaze off of her. From the way Joe answered, I could tell he was smiling. “You would’ve figured it
out eventually.”
way over to me. Then he leaned in and whispered. “The baby daddy’s holding is missing his penis.” I looked up at Nick and saw how puzzled and, clearly, outraged he was at this observation of his. My mouth opened so wide, I swear it almost hit the floor.
I patted an empty spot on the bed, next to me, signaling Nick to sit there. Then, I very carefully passed the baby to him and motioned for Joe to get over here. Quickly, but at the same time, as carefully as possible, Joe hustled over
to where I was sitting up. “You rang, my dear?” I looked at him and tried to keep my cool. “Joseph… Does that baby have a V where we thought there would be a P?” I asked, barely able to contain myself. You could tell Joe was confused by my question. Then, it hit him. “Ohhh! Yes, yes, she does.” Was all he said, in response. I tried my hardest to avoid shrieking and scaring the babies, but I was so happy. Not that I wouldn’t have been happy with two more boys but now, I had a girl in the house. I leaned forward and gently took Baby B, my daughter, from Joe and held her. She was so beautiful. “When were you planning on telling me she was a girl?” I asked, not able to take my gaze off of her. From the way Joe answered, I could tell he was smiling. “You would’ve figured it
out eventually.”
Chapter Fifty-Nine
The nurse came back into the room with an enormous smile on her face. “Do we have names for these lovely babies yet?” She asked, in a very excited tone. I looked over at Joe and he looked back at me. “Is everything alright?” She asked, the excitement in her voice was less apparent and instead, filled with concern. I was still too in shock to speak up, so Joe did it for me. “Everything is perfect, things couldn’t be better. We just weren’t expecting to have a little girl, the doctor told us we were having two boys so this is a bit of a shock to us.” The nurse nodded her head, pretending like this was something that happened every day and told us she’d come back in a little while so we could have some time to choose names.
As promised, the nurse left us alone in the room and Joe, Josh, Nick, and I started tossing some names around. We had two boys names picked out I left it up to Joe and Josh to pick which name they liked the best for our son. Then Nick and I would pick the name of his little sister.
From the time we split off into our “decision groups” to the point where we knew exactly what names we wanted, for sure, a half an hour had probably gone by. I didn’t mind though. I’d rather spend a while making sure the names of our children were perfect and something I would want them to grow up with and have forever, as opposed to something I would end up regretting when they got to middle school. We were all sitting around, talking and admiring the babies when there was a knock on the door. “Come in!” I yelled, with the most excitement in my voice. I couldn’t help it though, I was so excited for this moment. After the nurse filled out their birth certificates, and Joe and I signed them, it was official, these two angels were ours and no one could take them from us.
The nurse slowly turned the handle on the door and, very quietly, entered the room. “So do we have names for this handsome young man and this beautiful little lady?” Joe and I looked at each other and smiled. “We do.”
We said, in unison. The nurse smiled at us and clicked the pen she was holding in her hand. “And what might those names be.” I looked at Nick, it was his job to let the nurse know. “Their names are…”
As promised, the nurse left us alone in the room and Joe, Josh, Nick, and I started tossing some names around. We had two boys names picked out I left it up to Joe and Josh to pick which name they liked the best for our son. Then Nick and I would pick the name of his little sister.
From the time we split off into our “decision groups” to the point where we knew exactly what names we wanted, for sure, a half an hour had probably gone by. I didn’t mind though. I’d rather spend a while making sure the names of our children were perfect and something I would want them to grow up with and have forever, as opposed to something I would end up regretting when they got to middle school. We were all sitting around, talking and admiring the babies when there was a knock on the door. “Come in!” I yelled, with the most excitement in my voice. I couldn’t help it though, I was so excited for this moment. After the nurse filled out their birth certificates, and Joe and I signed them, it was official, these two angels were ours and no one could take them from us.
The nurse slowly turned the handle on the door and, very quietly, entered the room. “So do we have names for this handsome young man and this beautiful little lady?” Joe and I looked at each other and smiled. “We do.”
We said, in unison. The nurse smiled at us and clicked the pen she was holding in her hand. “And what might those names be.” I looked at Nick, it was his job to let the nurse know. “Their names are…”
Chapter Sixty
“Noah Alexander Jonas for my baby brother. And Gabriella Nicole for my beautiful princess little sister.” Hearing Nicholas say their names out loud brought the biggest smile to my face. I knew they were here and that they were
mine but now that they had names, it seemed so much more real. They were my babies and no one could take them from me.
I was discharged from the hospital the following morning. Since I had given birth to twins, they wanted to make sure that everything was alright with them and me before sending us off on our own. To my surprise, when
I got home, I saw that the nursery had been finished. Walls painted, cribs set up, Nick’s old changing table was brought back out, and all the toys I was given at my baby shower were neatly placed on shelves and in each of the twin’s beds. As I was admiring the beautiful room in front of me, I felt a pair of arms wrap around my waist. Right away, from the grip, I could tell it was Joe. “It’s so beautiful.” I whispered. Joe leaned in and kissed my cheek. “Yes, you are.” I felt myself blushing and looked down. It felt good to be back in our house with our children, and doing the couple-y and love dove things we used to do. For the first time in a while, things felt right again.
mine but now that they had names, it seemed so much more real. They were my babies and no one could take them from me.
I was discharged from the hospital the following morning. Since I had given birth to twins, they wanted to make sure that everything was alright with them and me before sending us off on our own. To my surprise, when
I got home, I saw that the nursery had been finished. Walls painted, cribs set up, Nick’s old changing table was brought back out, and all the toys I was given at my baby shower were neatly placed on shelves and in each of the twin’s beds. As I was admiring the beautiful room in front of me, I felt a pair of arms wrap around my waist. Right away, from the grip, I could tell it was Joe. “It’s so beautiful.” I whispered. Joe leaned in and kissed my cheek. “Yes, you are.” I felt myself blushing and looked down. It felt good to be back in our house with our children, and doing the couple-y and love dove things we used to do. For the first time in a while, things felt right again.
Chapter Sixty-One
4 months later
“Are you sure we have everything? The twins car seats, the suitcases, formula? Oh and what about-” Joe cut me off by putting his finger to my lips. "Baby, calm down. I checked three times to make sure we had everything. It’s all in the trunk, don’t worry.” Then he wrapped his arms around my waist and squeezed me tightly. It was a lot easier for him to do that now, because I’d lost all the extra weight I put on from when I was pregnant. I smiled up at him. “You checked three times to make sure we had everything?” He nodded his head. I stood up on my toes and pecked his lips quickly. “You’re the best.” “You don’t have to tell me twice.” I shook my head at him, he could be so cocky sometimes, but I thought that was a major turn on. Joe was leaning in to give me a kiss again when we had a slight interruption - one of the two baby monitors I had clipped to my jeans, was flipped with crying sounds. Joe and I sprung apart and started running. “I got Noah.” Joe yelled. “And I’ll get Gabriella!” I yelled back.
The crying ended up being Noah because he was hungry. He was becoming a little chubber because he ate so much, but he was still adorable. And a spitting image of Joe, when he was a baby.
Now, Joe, Nick, Gabby, Noah, and I were all in the car, as Joe drove us to the airport. His mom decided that we needed a vacation. So her Christmas gift to us was sending us down to Disney World, where we would stay for a week and a half. That included Christmas. I guess Joe had told her that since I was a little girl, it was a dream of mine to spend a Christmas in Disney World and this year, that was gonna happen! I think I was more excited than Nick. This was a huge dream of mine. I mean a week and a half in Disney at Christmas time, how great was that? We were gonna be in Disney until the 28th. Then, as soon as we got home, we would pack our bags again and head to New York City. Joe and I decided it would be fun to take the kids to the city to look around and see the
Christmas tree and possibly even line up to watch the ball drop. It all depended on how cold it was and how the twins were feeling.
“Are you sure we have everything? The twins car seats, the suitcases, formula? Oh and what about-” Joe cut me off by putting his finger to my lips. "Baby, calm down. I checked three times to make sure we had everything. It’s all in the trunk, don’t worry.” Then he wrapped his arms around my waist and squeezed me tightly. It was a lot easier for him to do that now, because I’d lost all the extra weight I put on from when I was pregnant. I smiled up at him. “You checked three times to make sure we had everything?” He nodded his head. I stood up on my toes and pecked his lips quickly. “You’re the best.” “You don’t have to tell me twice.” I shook my head at him, he could be so cocky sometimes, but I thought that was a major turn on. Joe was leaning in to give me a kiss again when we had a slight interruption - one of the two baby monitors I had clipped to my jeans, was flipped with crying sounds. Joe and I sprung apart and started running. “I got Noah.” Joe yelled. “And I’ll get Gabriella!” I yelled back.
The crying ended up being Noah because he was hungry. He was becoming a little chubber because he ate so much, but he was still adorable. And a spitting image of Joe, when he was a baby.
Now, Joe, Nick, Gabby, Noah, and I were all in the car, as Joe drove us to the airport. His mom decided that we needed a vacation. So her Christmas gift to us was sending us down to Disney World, where we would stay for a week and a half. That included Christmas. I guess Joe had told her that since I was a little girl, it was a dream of mine to spend a Christmas in Disney World and this year, that was gonna happen! I think I was more excited than Nick. This was a huge dream of mine. I mean a week and a half in Disney at Christmas time, how great was that? We were gonna be in Disney until the 28th. Then, as soon as we got home, we would pack our bags again and head to New York City. Joe and I decided it would be fun to take the kids to the city to look around and see the
Christmas tree and possibly even line up to watch the ball drop. It all depended on how cold it was and how the twins were feeling.
Chapter Sixty-Two
Getting through the airport was surprisingly easy. I thought it was going to be the most difficult thing in the world, but I was wrong. The twins were good, Nick was a great helper, and Joe… Well, he was just being Joe. After putting the twins and Nick in their seats, I took my spot next to Joe and let myself relax into the cushioned seat. “I can’t believe we’re flying first class, to Disney World, with our family.” I looked over at Joe and smiled. He leaned towards me and kissed the top of my head. “Well believe it baby, because it’s happening. And it’s gonna be amazing once we get there.” He assured me. I closed my eyes and rested my head on his shoulders, allowing myself to fall asleep for a little while.
We had barely settled into the hotel and unpacked before Nick was ushering us back out so we could go explore. “Nick, buddy, you’ve gotta calm down. I know you’re excited but mommy and the babies are tired so why don’t we just stay in the hotel tonight? Then first thing tomorrow morning, we’ll get up, have breakfast as a family, and head over to the parks for the entire day.” Joe tried to reason with Nick. “Ugh, fine!” Nick yelled before storming off into his room, slamming the door shut behind him. “Nick, don’t slam the doo-” Before I had a chance to finish my sentence, the twins started crying, which is what I didn’t want. I rushed over to the cribs that the hotel had set up for us and picked up Gabby and Noah in my arms and rocked them gently. Finally, they went back to
sleep. I hoped Nick’s little “tantrum” wasn’t a preview of what was to come while we were on vacation.
I set the twins back in their cribs and then walked into mine and Joe’s room. “Ugh!” I groaned, before plopping down onto the bed, next to Joe. “What’s wrong, beautiful?” Joe asked, turning so he was lying on his side, I did the same. “I feel really bad for Nick. Ever since the twins were born, we haven’t been able to spend as much time with him and I think it’s really starting to bother him now. I don’t know what to do.” I felt tears start to run
down my cheeks. Joe wiped them away and held me against his chest. “Baby, you’re being a great mom to both Nicholas, Gabby, and Noah. It’s hard to have to take care of two four month olds as well as a 9 year old, all at once, but you’re managing to make it work. And it’s gonna be hard to spend equal amounts of time with all the kids while they’re this young but as they get older, it’s gonna even out more. I promise. Listen, why don’t you go take Nick out for ice cream or something. Spend some time with him tonight. I’ll stay here and watch the
twins. What do you say?”
We had barely settled into the hotel and unpacked before Nick was ushering us back out so we could go explore. “Nick, buddy, you’ve gotta calm down. I know you’re excited but mommy and the babies are tired so why don’t we just stay in the hotel tonight? Then first thing tomorrow morning, we’ll get up, have breakfast as a family, and head over to the parks for the entire day.” Joe tried to reason with Nick. “Ugh, fine!” Nick yelled before storming off into his room, slamming the door shut behind him. “Nick, don’t slam the doo-” Before I had a chance to finish my sentence, the twins started crying, which is what I didn’t want. I rushed over to the cribs that the hotel had set up for us and picked up Gabby and Noah in my arms and rocked them gently. Finally, they went back to
sleep. I hoped Nick’s little “tantrum” wasn’t a preview of what was to come while we were on vacation.
I set the twins back in their cribs and then walked into mine and Joe’s room. “Ugh!” I groaned, before plopping down onto the bed, next to Joe. “What’s wrong, beautiful?” Joe asked, turning so he was lying on his side, I did the same. “I feel really bad for Nick. Ever since the twins were born, we haven’t been able to spend as much time with him and I think it’s really starting to bother him now. I don’t know what to do.” I felt tears start to run
down my cheeks. Joe wiped them away and held me against his chest. “Baby, you’re being a great mom to both Nicholas, Gabby, and Noah. It’s hard to have to take care of two four month olds as well as a 9 year old, all at once, but you’re managing to make it work. And it’s gonna be hard to spend equal amounts of time with all the kids while they’re this young but as they get older, it’s gonna even out more. I promise. Listen, why don’t you go take Nick out for ice cream or something. Spend some time with him tonight. I’ll stay here and watch the
twins. What do you say?”
Chapter Sixty-Three
“Nicholas Jerry, slow down!!” I yelled, trying to keep up with Nick, who was darting in between random people. I did the same thing, trying to keep up with him, but was sure to apologize to everyone who I got in the way of for both my son and I being so rude and inconsiderate. I was beginning to get worried when Nick was getting further and further away from me so I picked up my speed. From a distance, I saw Nick had come to a stop and turned around. Then he gave me a cute smile and wave, like it would fix everything. “NICHOLAS!” I spoke through
gritted teeth. He put his arms behind his back and swayed from side to side. “Yes mama?” He tried to be innocent. “What was that all about?” I tried to keep calm and not yell. “I’m sorry for running mommy. But I did some research and every night, there’s a parade with different characters and it starts in 30 minutes so I wanted to run ahead so we could get a good spot. I understand if you’re mad but please don’t make us go back. I really really really wanna see the parade.” He looked like he was going to break down and cry. I placed the bag of toys Nick had bought for his brother and sister down and stepped closer to him. “Aw Nick, you should have just told me that’s what you wanted to do so I wouldn’t get worried and freak out. Tonight’s your special night and if you
would like to watch the parade, we can do that.”
After enjoying the hour long parade and then a cup of hot chocolate with Nick, we walked back to the hotel where the twins were sleeping and Joe was watching TV. “Alright Nick, get ready for bed and I’ll tuck you in.”
Nick nodded his head and I gently closed the door behind me. “Hello beautiful.” Joe greeted me and I couldn’t help but smile. “Hi, handsome.” I giggled before walking over to the bed where he was lying down and sat next to him. He shut off the TV and then looked at me. “How was exploring?” I sighed and rested my head on his shoulder. “Nick had fun which is good, but I’m worn out.” Joe looked down at his watch then over at me. “It’s only 8:30, baby.” I nodded my head. “I know, it’s just been a long day. I’m sure I’ll be reenergized by tomorrow.” I assured him. There was a brief silence, until Nick walked into the room. “I’m ready for bed, mama.” He sounded happy. I was about to get up from the bed and tuck him in, as promised, but Joe beat me to it. “I got it, Miles.” I was about to tell Joe that I could handle it but Joe silenced me before I have the chance. “Don’t worry, I want to do it. And when I come back, you better be in your bed, or there will be consequences.” He winked, before walking off with Nick.
gritted teeth. He put his arms behind his back and swayed from side to side. “Yes mama?” He tried to be innocent. “What was that all about?” I tried to keep calm and not yell. “I’m sorry for running mommy. But I did some research and every night, there’s a parade with different characters and it starts in 30 minutes so I wanted to run ahead so we could get a good spot. I understand if you’re mad but please don’t make us go back. I really really really wanna see the parade.” He looked like he was going to break down and cry. I placed the bag of toys Nick had bought for his brother and sister down and stepped closer to him. “Aw Nick, you should have just told me that’s what you wanted to do so I wouldn’t get worried and freak out. Tonight’s your special night and if you
would like to watch the parade, we can do that.”
After enjoying the hour long parade and then a cup of hot chocolate with Nick, we walked back to the hotel where the twins were sleeping and Joe was watching TV. “Alright Nick, get ready for bed and I’ll tuck you in.”
Nick nodded his head and I gently closed the door behind me. “Hello beautiful.” Joe greeted me and I couldn’t help but smile. “Hi, handsome.” I giggled before walking over to the bed where he was lying down and sat next to him. He shut off the TV and then looked at me. “How was exploring?” I sighed and rested my head on his shoulder. “Nick had fun which is good, but I’m worn out.” Joe looked down at his watch then over at me. “It’s only 8:30, baby.” I nodded my head. “I know, it’s just been a long day. I’m sure I’ll be reenergized by tomorrow.” I assured him. There was a brief silence, until Nick walked into the room. “I’m ready for bed, mama.” He sounded happy. I was about to get up from the bed and tuck him in, as promised, but Joe beat me to it. “I got it, Miles.” I was about to tell Joe that I could handle it but Joe silenced me before I have the chance. “Don’t worry, I want to do it. And when I come back, you better be in your bed, or there will be consequences.” He winked, before walking off with Nick.
Chapter Sixty-Four
As promised, Joe returned, when he finished tucking Nick in for bed, and walked over to the dresser, pulling out a fresh pair of boxers. He walked into the bathroom, which wasn’t too far from our bed and changed into his fresh pair of boxers and brushed his teeth. . “I’m in bed, just like I promised you.” I spoke up, making sure he could hear me, and then smiled, proud of myself for following his orders. “I’m very happy to hear that. Because I wasn’t kidding when I said if you didn’t obey me, there would be consequences.” I could tell he was smirking because whatever the “consequences” were, I knew they would be sexual in some way. I heard running water and could tell Joe was about to take a shower. While he did that, I made myself busy with a book I had bought myself at the airport that I had been dying to read.
Moments later, Joe emerged from the bathroom, wearing nothing but a towel around his waist. It took every ounce of control I could possibly have to not jump up, wrap my legs around him, and make love to him,
endlessly, right then and there. So I pretended to be more interested in my book than his super amazing body. He wasn’t making it easy though. I mean, with a body like that, how could you NOT look?
I was almost done with my book, when it was yanked from my hand and replaced with Joe’s face. “You’re such a nerd, you know that? You just bought that book today and you’re already almost done with it!” He joked. “And you’re a bully.” I giggled. Pretending to be shocked and offended, Joe pulled away from me and sat so his back, which was still exposed because he was refusing to wear a shirt, was facing me and he was staring at the wall. I crept up behind him and ran my hands all over his body, starting at his back, then slipping my hands through his arms and running them around his finely toned chest. Then, I started leaving a bunch of sweet kisses around his body, up to his neck, and stopping at his ear. I kissed it and then whispered. “I love you, Joseph.” Giving me no response, I removed my arms and crawled back to the center of the bed and leaned over to the nightstand, where Joe had placed my book. As I was reaching to get it, I felt about 180 lbs on top of me and looked over to see Joe, with a devious grin on his face. I knew what that grin meant and I gave him one back. I was now sitting on top of Joe, preparing to undress him as he had done to me, so very quickly. “I forgot how amazing you are at removing clothes.” I winked, and then began rubbing my fingers up and down his shirt. He sat up and kissed me. With each kiss, I undid a button. There was only one button left and I was about to undo it, until the baby monitor went off.
Moments later, Joe emerged from the bathroom, wearing nothing but a towel around his waist. It took every ounce of control I could possibly have to not jump up, wrap my legs around him, and make love to him,
endlessly, right then and there. So I pretended to be more interested in my book than his super amazing body. He wasn’t making it easy though. I mean, with a body like that, how could you NOT look?
I was almost done with my book, when it was yanked from my hand and replaced with Joe’s face. “You’re such a nerd, you know that? You just bought that book today and you’re already almost done with it!” He joked. “And you’re a bully.” I giggled. Pretending to be shocked and offended, Joe pulled away from me and sat so his back, which was still exposed because he was refusing to wear a shirt, was facing me and he was staring at the wall. I crept up behind him and ran my hands all over his body, starting at his back, then slipping my hands through his arms and running them around his finely toned chest. Then, I started leaving a bunch of sweet kisses around his body, up to his neck, and stopping at his ear. I kissed it and then whispered. “I love you, Joseph.” Giving me no response, I removed my arms and crawled back to the center of the bed and leaned over to the nightstand, where Joe had placed my book. As I was reaching to get it, I felt about 180 lbs on top of me and looked over to see Joe, with a devious grin on his face. I knew what that grin meant and I gave him one back. I was now sitting on top of Joe, preparing to undress him as he had done to me, so very quickly. “I forgot how amazing you are at removing clothes.” I winked, and then began rubbing my fingers up and down his shirt. He sat up and kissed me. With each kiss, I undid a button. There was only one button left and I was about to undo it, until the baby monitor went off.
Chapter Sixty-Five
Joe and I walked hand in hand beside Nick, who was pushing the double stroller we had brought with us to transport the twins in. “So what are you most excited to see today, Nicky?” I asked. Nick thought about it for a few seconds before answering me. “The characters and riding the rides!” He sounded so excited. I was happy to see him having a good time.
After a full blown day of riding the rides and meeting some characters here and there, it was clear that Gabby, Noah, and Nick were all very tired. “I guess we better get back to the hotel.” Joe said, while looking over at the stroller where Gabby and Noah were sleeping in. I nodded my head and started pushing the stroller. “Daddy?” Nick called, while tugging at Joe’s leg. “Yeah, bud?” “Will you carry me back to the hotel? I’m so tired.” Nick was rubbing his eyes, he looked exhausted. I’d noticed that over the past few days, Nick had been getting more and more tired throughout the day, just like me. I knew my reasoning was because of Gabby and Noah’s awkward sleeping patterns but I wasn’t so sure what was up with Nick. “Sure thing. Hop on.” Joe lowered himself towards the ground and Nick jumped onto his back, being sure to hold on tight so he wouldn’t fall down. Once Nick was on Joe’s back, the goofing off started happening. Joe was running around really fast and then stopping short and pretending to fall over, all for the amusement of Nick. From a mother’s perspective, it wasn’t very funny. “Joseph, cut it out before someone gets hurt.” I hissed, trying my best to avoid yelling and waking up the twins. The laughing between Joe and Nick stopped and both of them looked at me. “Someone’s a party pooper.” Nick whispered, before jumping down from Joe’s back and running ahead of both of us. “Can you believe him?” I asked, offended, while resuming pushing the stroller. “Well you were being a bit of a party pooper, Miles.” Joe mumbled, not looking at me. I stopped walking and faced him. “What the hell is that supposed to mean, Joseph?” I was even more offended now than I had been before. “Nothing. It’s just, we were having fun and you went psycho mom on us.” I felt my mouth widen and I started pushing the stroller as fast as I could, trying to get away from Joe. “Miley, wait up!” Joe called after me but I refused to wait. The only problem is, I forgot how fast of a runner Joe is and he soon caught up with me. “You’re seriously not getting mad about what a nine year old boy said about you…” Joe started laughing but I didn’t find it funny. “No. It’s not only what he said, Joseph. It’s the fact that you agreed with him.” I started walking again, but Joe refused to give up. “So I agreed with him, what’s the big deal? You were being a bit of a party pooper but it’s over with now. So let’s just move on. Why don’t we go back to the hotel, put the kids to bed, and have some nice mommy/daddy time?” Joe winked at me. Normally, that would have been an instant turn on, but not tonight. Tonight, I was gonna stand my ground. “Well, that does sound nice…” I noticed a big grin forming on Joe’s face. “But since I’m such a party pooper, I’d probably ruin all the fun you’re supposed to have during mommy/daddy time. So I’m gonna have to take a rain check on that. Oh, and you can sleep on the couch tonight.” I said as confidently as possible before picking up my pace and walking inside the hotel room leaving a very confused Joe behind me.
After a full blown day of riding the rides and meeting some characters here and there, it was clear that Gabby, Noah, and Nick were all very tired. “I guess we better get back to the hotel.” Joe said, while looking over at the stroller where Gabby and Noah were sleeping in. I nodded my head and started pushing the stroller. “Daddy?” Nick called, while tugging at Joe’s leg. “Yeah, bud?” “Will you carry me back to the hotel? I’m so tired.” Nick was rubbing his eyes, he looked exhausted. I’d noticed that over the past few days, Nick had been getting more and more tired throughout the day, just like me. I knew my reasoning was because of Gabby and Noah’s awkward sleeping patterns but I wasn’t so sure what was up with Nick. “Sure thing. Hop on.” Joe lowered himself towards the ground and Nick jumped onto his back, being sure to hold on tight so he wouldn’t fall down. Once Nick was on Joe’s back, the goofing off started happening. Joe was running around really fast and then stopping short and pretending to fall over, all for the amusement of Nick. From a mother’s perspective, it wasn’t very funny. “Joseph, cut it out before someone gets hurt.” I hissed, trying my best to avoid yelling and waking up the twins. The laughing between Joe and Nick stopped and both of them looked at me. “Someone’s a party pooper.” Nick whispered, before jumping down from Joe’s back and running ahead of both of us. “Can you believe him?” I asked, offended, while resuming pushing the stroller. “Well you were being a bit of a party pooper, Miles.” Joe mumbled, not looking at me. I stopped walking and faced him. “What the hell is that supposed to mean, Joseph?” I was even more offended now than I had been before. “Nothing. It’s just, we were having fun and you went psycho mom on us.” I felt my mouth widen and I started pushing the stroller as fast as I could, trying to get away from Joe. “Miley, wait up!” Joe called after me but I refused to wait. The only problem is, I forgot how fast of a runner Joe is and he soon caught up with me. “You’re seriously not getting mad about what a nine year old boy said about you…” Joe started laughing but I didn’t find it funny. “No. It’s not only what he said, Joseph. It’s the fact that you agreed with him.” I started walking again, but Joe refused to give up. “So I agreed with him, what’s the big deal? You were being a bit of a party pooper but it’s over with now. So let’s just move on. Why don’t we go back to the hotel, put the kids to bed, and have some nice mommy/daddy time?” Joe winked at me. Normally, that would have been an instant turn on, but not tonight. Tonight, I was gonna stand my ground. “Well, that does sound nice…” I noticed a big grin forming on Joe’s face. “But since I’m such a party pooper, I’d probably ruin all the fun you’re supposed to have during mommy/daddy time. So I’m gonna have to take a rain check on that. Oh, and you can sleep on the couch tonight.” I said as confidently as possible before picking up my pace and walking inside the hotel room leaving a very confused Joe behind me.
Chapter Sixty-Six
When we got back to the hotel, I treated myself to a nice hot bubble bath. I needed some time for myself to unwind. I’ll admit, I got angry over a stupid reason but I still needed time to cool off. In the middle of my bath, I could hear Joe knocking on the door. “Go away!” I yelled. The knocking stopped for a moment and then started back up again. “I mean it, go away, Joseph!” I yelled again. “Please just let me in Miley. What happened back there was stupid and I want to work things out with you. Please talk to me.” I could hear the desperation in his voice but I didn’t want to give in. I was enjoying myself and I knew that if I talked to Joe, it would get me angry again. “We can talk later. But right now, I just need some time to myself. Okay?” No noises came from the other end of the door and I took that to mean Joe had given up and would wait, patiently until I was ready to talk to him again.
I sunk myself even lower into the tub and closed my eyes, trying to relax. But I was interrupted by a crying noise. My first thought was that something was wrong with one of the twins. I stood up as quickly as I could, wrapped a towel around myself, and ran out towards the twins. When I got there, though, both of them were sound asleep and looked like they had been since I put them to sleep an hour ago. “What the…” I was so confused. Where did that crying sound come from? I turned around and saw Joe, with his iPhone in hand, smirking at me. “What’s with the smirk, jerk?” I asked. “Oh nothing. I was just testing out this new ‘Baby Crying’ app and it really works.” He pressed a button and the exact same sound I had heard before filled my ears. I raised my right hand and swung it in Joe’s direction, making perfect contact with his arm, causing his phone to fly out of his hand. “What the hell was that for?!” He whined. “For almost giving me a heart attack!” I spoke through gritted teeth, trying to avoid yelling and waking the twins. Wrapping his arms around my waist and looking me directly in the eyes, Joe spoke softly. “I’m sorry, baby. I just needed a way to get your attention and this was the easiest way for me to do it. I know it was wrong to use our children as bait and I’m sorry but I was desperate to get you to talk to me. Can you please forgive me?” How could I stay mad at him? He was so cute. I nodded my head and stood up on my tiptoes, kissing him gently. “I’ll take that as a yes.” Joe whispered. I smiled and pulled him towards the bedroom.
I sunk myself even lower into the tub and closed my eyes, trying to relax. But I was interrupted by a crying noise. My first thought was that something was wrong with one of the twins. I stood up as quickly as I could, wrapped a towel around myself, and ran out towards the twins. When I got there, though, both of them were sound asleep and looked like they had been since I put them to sleep an hour ago. “What the…” I was so confused. Where did that crying sound come from? I turned around and saw Joe, with his iPhone in hand, smirking at me. “What’s with the smirk, jerk?” I asked. “Oh nothing. I was just testing out this new ‘Baby Crying’ app and it really works.” He pressed a button and the exact same sound I had heard before filled my ears. I raised my right hand and swung it in Joe’s direction, making perfect contact with his arm, causing his phone to fly out of his hand. “What the hell was that for?!” He whined. “For almost giving me a heart attack!” I spoke through gritted teeth, trying to avoid yelling and waking the twins. Wrapping his arms around my waist and looking me directly in the eyes, Joe spoke softly. “I’m sorry, baby. I just needed a way to get your attention and this was the easiest way for me to do it. I know it was wrong to use our children as bait and I’m sorry but I was desperate to get you to talk to me. Can you please forgive me?” How could I stay mad at him? He was so cute. I nodded my head and stood up on my tiptoes, kissing him gently. “I’ll take that as a yes.” Joe whispered. I smiled and pulled him towards the bedroom.
Chapter Sixty-Seven
“Mommy! Daddy! Wake up or we’re going to miss the constantintal breakfast!!” Nick shouted, banging on the door to the room Joe and I were in. We both sprung up and looked at the time - 7:55. “We’ll be right there Nick.” I yelled, frantically running around looking for my underwear. “Looking for these?” I heard Joe ask and looked up to see him twirling my lacy red thong around his index finger. Pulling a blanket off the bed, I wrapped it around myself and ran towards Joe. “Joseph, give them to me right now.” I tried to sound firm and stand my ground but it came out as more of a beg than a demand. “I’ll make a deal with you, cupcake.” Oh God, he used a nickname for me, that couldn’t be good. “Fine, what is it?” “I’ll give you back your underwear… IF you promise to shower with me for the rest of the time we’re here, including today.” “Alright, that’s fa-” He cut me off. “AND, I get to pick out your outfits for the rest of this vacation.” I was about to object but Joe spoke again before I had the chance. “It’s that, or you don’t get these back.” I knew those were the conditions and I had to abide by them. “You know what? You can keep those, I’ve got plenty more that you won’t be seeing.” I winked and then skipped off to the bathroom, locking the door behind me and turning the water on for my shower.
After getting our continental breakfast or, “constantintal,” as Nick called it, we headed off to the parks for another fun filled day. “Where do you want to go first, Nicky?” I asked, while pushing the stroller. He thought about it for a moment and then shouted “THE ANIMAL KINGDOM! That’s where all the animals are.” I chuckled and nodded my head. “Alright, Animal Kingdom it is.”
Nick was so fascinated at all the animals that we saw. He really loved that kind of stuff and it put a smile on my face to see him having such a good time. Gabby and Noah, were so tired that they basically slept through the whole park, not that they would have enjoyed it anyway. And then there was Joe. He couldn’t possibly have looked more bored even if he tried. If that wasn’t bad enough, when we were eating lunch at the park, he got a phone call that seemed to bother him even more. So when we finished eating, I told Nick to take the twins and walk a little bit in front of us so I could hopefully talk to Joe and find out what was going on with him and try to make it better.
After getting our continental breakfast or, “constantintal,” as Nick called it, we headed off to the parks for another fun filled day. “Where do you want to go first, Nicky?” I asked, while pushing the stroller. He thought about it for a moment and then shouted “THE ANIMAL KINGDOM! That’s where all the animals are.” I chuckled and nodded my head. “Alright, Animal Kingdom it is.”
Nick was so fascinated at all the animals that we saw. He really loved that kind of stuff and it put a smile on my face to see him having such a good time. Gabby and Noah, were so tired that they basically slept through the whole park, not that they would have enjoyed it anyway. And then there was Joe. He couldn’t possibly have looked more bored even if he tried. If that wasn’t bad enough, when we were eating lunch at the park, he got a phone call that seemed to bother him even more. So when we finished eating, I told Nick to take the twins and walk a little bit in front of us so I could hopefully talk to Joe and find out what was going on with him and try to make it better.
Chapter Sixty-Eight
*Christmas Day in Disneyworld*
“MOMMY, DADDY, it’s time to wake up. SANTA came!!!” Nick was running around the house and screaming his head off. I flew out of bed, put on my bathrobe, and went into the kitchen, that was in our suite, so I could start making the breakfast. Joe and Nick got Gabby and Noah up, changed them, and then set the table so we could have our Christmas breakfast as a family. “Mommy, it looks perfect. Just like every year.” Nick smiled. “Thank you, baby.” “I’m gonna have to agree, Miles. This looks amazing! I can’t wait to taste it.” I smiled at Joe. I was happy to see him happy. It was hard for him to be happy and have a good time, knowing that he no longer had a job, but he was making the best of it. At least for right now. I took my place at the table and Nick, Joe, and I held hands and said grace before eating our food. After we were finished eating, I fed the twins and then cleaned up the dishes. Nick was getting so impatient that it was taking so long because all he wanted to do was open presents. I finally
finished though, no thanks to him or Joe, and joined them in the “living room.”
An hour later, Nick was going crazy and playing with some of his many toys from Santa. I swear, he was such a spoiled child sometimes but I loved him more than anything in the world and that smile on his face was worth it. Gabby and Noah each got some new clothes and a new rattle. And Joe got a watch, two pairs of Ray-Bans, a case for his iPhone, and a new tie that was supposed to be for when he started teaching again after the holidays. “Thank you so much for all the gifts, sweetie. You’re the best fiancée I could ever ask for.” Joe whispered into my ear, as he held me on his lap, while we watched Nick play a new video game for his new Wii. “Anything to see you happy, babe. I’m sorry about the tie. I didn’t know that was gonna happen. We can return it if you’d like and get you something else instead.” I whispered back. “No, we’re not returning anything. My girl picked that out just for me and I’m going to find the right time and the perfect place to wear it. Don’t worry. And I promise, as
soon as we get back, I’ll start job hunting. Everything’s going to be fine.” I nodded my head and kissed him gently. Joe, Nick, Gabby, and Noah were all happy right now and that was the all that mattered to me.
“MOMMY, DADDY, it’s time to wake up. SANTA came!!!” Nick was running around the house and screaming his head off. I flew out of bed, put on my bathrobe, and went into the kitchen, that was in our suite, so I could start making the breakfast. Joe and Nick got Gabby and Noah up, changed them, and then set the table so we could have our Christmas breakfast as a family. “Mommy, it looks perfect. Just like every year.” Nick smiled. “Thank you, baby.” “I’m gonna have to agree, Miles. This looks amazing! I can’t wait to taste it.” I smiled at Joe. I was happy to see him happy. It was hard for him to be happy and have a good time, knowing that he no longer had a job, but he was making the best of it. At least for right now. I took my place at the table and Nick, Joe, and I held hands and said grace before eating our food. After we were finished eating, I fed the twins and then cleaned up the dishes. Nick was getting so impatient that it was taking so long because all he wanted to do was open presents. I finally
finished though, no thanks to him or Joe, and joined them in the “living room.”
An hour later, Nick was going crazy and playing with some of his many toys from Santa. I swear, he was such a spoiled child sometimes but I loved him more than anything in the world and that smile on his face was worth it. Gabby and Noah each got some new clothes and a new rattle. And Joe got a watch, two pairs of Ray-Bans, a case for his iPhone, and a new tie that was supposed to be for when he started teaching again after the holidays. “Thank you so much for all the gifts, sweetie. You’re the best fiancée I could ever ask for.” Joe whispered into my ear, as he held me on his lap, while we watched Nick play a new video game for his new Wii. “Anything to see you happy, babe. I’m sorry about the tie. I didn’t know that was gonna happen. We can return it if you’d like and get you something else instead.” I whispered back. “No, we’re not returning anything. My girl picked that out just for me and I’m going to find the right time and the perfect place to wear it. Don’t worry. And I promise, as
soon as we get back, I’ll start job hunting. Everything’s going to be fine.” I nodded my head and kissed him gently. Joe, Nick, Gabby, and Noah were all happy right now and that was the all that mattered to me.
Chapter Sixty-Nine
*When they get home*
“Joe, it’s going to be fine and we’ll find a way to get through it.” I whispered, trying not to wake any of the kids. “No, it won’t be fine, Miley. I just lost my job. How are we going to manage to pay for the house, our kids, and
for our wedding?” It was hard to believe that only a few days ago, he wasn’t too badly effected by not having a job. But as soon as we got home, he went nuts and his whole attitude just changed. I took a step towards him and held him in my arms. “Babe, it’s all going to be fine. The twins will be starting day care in a couple weeks so I can find a job during the day when they’re at daycare. It’s going to be hard at first but we’ll get by, I promise.” “But Miley, we’ve been engaged for almost four years and we haven’t made any plans on our wedding. You deserve the most beautiful and special wedding possible and if I don’t have a job, how am I supposed to give you that?” I rubbed his back and whispered. “I don’t need a huge ceremony with 300 guests. All I need is something small and
romantic with you, Nick, Noah, and Gabby. As long as I have that, I’ll have the best wedding ever.” Joe seemed to warm up to that idea and I could tell his stress level was decreasing. I bit my lip and looked him in the eyes. “You know, the kids are all tired out from the flight and car ride home so I’m pretty sure they’re gonna sleep through the night. Maybe you and I could..” I trailed off and winked at him. Joe smiled and was about to say something when his phone went off. “Let it go. Whoever it is, can wait.” I knew I sounded desperate but I wanted Joe, really badly. “I’m sorry babe, this is really important. I’ve got to go do something but as soon as I get home, we’ll pick up from where we left off, I promise.” He gently kissed my cheek and then ran out of the room.
“Joe, it’s going to be fine and we’ll find a way to get through it.” I whispered, trying not to wake any of the kids. “No, it won’t be fine, Miley. I just lost my job. How are we going to manage to pay for the house, our kids, and
for our wedding?” It was hard to believe that only a few days ago, he wasn’t too badly effected by not having a job. But as soon as we got home, he went nuts and his whole attitude just changed. I took a step towards him and held him in my arms. “Babe, it’s all going to be fine. The twins will be starting day care in a couple weeks so I can find a job during the day when they’re at daycare. It’s going to be hard at first but we’ll get by, I promise.” “But Miley, we’ve been engaged for almost four years and we haven’t made any plans on our wedding. You deserve the most beautiful and special wedding possible and if I don’t have a job, how am I supposed to give you that?” I rubbed his back and whispered. “I don’t need a huge ceremony with 300 guests. All I need is something small and
romantic with you, Nick, Noah, and Gabby. As long as I have that, I’ll have the best wedding ever.” Joe seemed to warm up to that idea and I could tell his stress level was decreasing. I bit my lip and looked him in the eyes. “You know, the kids are all tired out from the flight and car ride home so I’m pretty sure they’re gonna sleep through the night. Maybe you and I could..” I trailed off and winked at him. Joe smiled and was about to say something when his phone went off. “Let it go. Whoever it is, can wait.” I knew I sounded desperate but I wanted Joe, really badly. “I’m sorry babe, this is really important. I’ve got to go do something but as soon as I get home, we’ll pick up from where we left off, I promise.” He gently kissed my cheek and then ran out of the room.
Chapter Seventy
*Joe’s POV*
I shouldn’t be here, what I was doing was wrong but I couldn’t stop myself.
It had been a while since I’d last seen AJ, to be honest, I couldn’t even
remember the exact date but I knew it was a long time. And as much as me fooling around with her before messed up my relationship, that wasn’t enough to make me stop. I had to be very sneaky about it because I couldn’t risk losing my amazing wife. I know it doesn’t make much sense and that if I really loved Miley, I would be faithful to her, and only her, but there was something about AJ that made sneaking around so thrilling. But as I got closer to the home that AJ and Taylor now owned, I got a little nervous. Maybe I shouldn’t do this because there was a very strong chance Miley would find out and then I would lose the four people that meant the world to me. Needing a minute to think, I pulled to the side of the road and sat in my car, thinking. The first thing that popped into my mind was the look on Miley's face the first time she found out what I had done with AJ and it almost brought tears to my eyes thinking about how hurt she was and the effect it had on her. The second thought was how it felt being with AJ though. How different it was being with her than it was with Miley. With Miley, it was pure, passionate, and real love, but with AJ, it was hot, crazy, lust... I had to make a decision quickly because in a matter of minutes, I would be at their house and then there would be no turning back. I sighed and made my decision.
*Back to Miley’s POV*
Since the minute Joe walked out of the house, I had an awful feeling that he was off doing things he shouldn’t. I tried to shake these negative thoughts away but it was hard. Especially when he had gone out and cheated before. But that was then and he’d promised me that he changed. And I felt obligated to believe him. Still, I needed someone to talk to so I could get a second opinion on the current situation. I put a movie on for Nick, Gabby, and Noah, before going up to Joe and my room so I could make a phone call. To my surprise, I still remembered the phone number even though it had been a long time since I’d last spoken to the person who would, hopefully, be on the other line. I punched in the numbers and pressed send, butterflies in my stomach getting faster and
faster with each ring that went by. I was giving up hope and was about to hang up when I heard a voice on the other end. “Miley?” “…”
I shouldn’t be here, what I was doing was wrong but I couldn’t stop myself.
It had been a while since I’d last seen AJ, to be honest, I couldn’t even
remember the exact date but I knew it was a long time. And as much as me fooling around with her before messed up my relationship, that wasn’t enough to make me stop. I had to be very sneaky about it because I couldn’t risk losing my amazing wife. I know it doesn’t make much sense and that if I really loved Miley, I would be faithful to her, and only her, but there was something about AJ that made sneaking around so thrilling. But as I got closer to the home that AJ and Taylor now owned, I got a little nervous. Maybe I shouldn’t do this because there was a very strong chance Miley would find out and then I would lose the four people that meant the world to me. Needing a minute to think, I pulled to the side of the road and sat in my car, thinking. The first thing that popped into my mind was the look on Miley's face the first time she found out what I had done with AJ and it almost brought tears to my eyes thinking about how hurt she was and the effect it had on her. The second thought was how it felt being with AJ though. How different it was being with her than it was with Miley. With Miley, it was pure, passionate, and real love, but with AJ, it was hot, crazy, lust... I had to make a decision quickly because in a matter of minutes, I would be at their house and then there would be no turning back. I sighed and made my decision.
*Back to Miley’s POV*
Since the minute Joe walked out of the house, I had an awful feeling that he was off doing things he shouldn’t. I tried to shake these negative thoughts away but it was hard. Especially when he had gone out and cheated before. But that was then and he’d promised me that he changed. And I felt obligated to believe him. Still, I needed someone to talk to so I could get a second opinion on the current situation. I put a movie on for Nick, Gabby, and Noah, before going up to Joe and my room so I could make a phone call. To my surprise, I still remembered the phone number even though it had been a long time since I’d last spoken to the person who would, hopefully, be on the other line. I punched in the numbers and pressed send, butterflies in my stomach getting faster and
faster with each ring that went by. I was giving up hope and was about to hang up when I heard a voice on the other end. “Miley?” “…”
Chapter Seventy-One
I felt a big lump in the back of my throat when I heard her voice. “Y-yeah, it’s m-me…” I trailed off. This was obviously a huge mistake, she wanted nothing to do with me so why was I wasting my time? “It’s good to hear from you, Miles. It’s been almost 10 years since your father and I have seen you.” To my surprise, her voice didn’t sound cold, or harsh, or bitter, like when she found out I was pregnant and wanted to get rid of the baby, almost 10 years ago. No, she sounded calm and relaxed, like she used to when I was a child. “I-I know.” I whispered, into the phone. There was a silence on both ends of the phone. Obviously neither one of us knew what to say. “I-I miss you, mommy. And I want to bring the kids to come see you and daddy.” I almost slapped myself in the face. I just said kids. She didn’t know about Gabby and Noah yet. “Kids?” Now she sounded shocked and I couldn’t tell if it was good shock, or bad shock. “Yeah. I gave birth to twins a little over four months ago. They’ll be five months, on the 23rd of next month.” (January) “And when were you planning on telling me this?” I let out a deep breath. “I don’t know mom. I’ve been so busy with the twins, and you haven’t exactly tried to reach out to me either since I left.” I was beginning to lose my patience. How could she make this seem like it’s all my fault? The phone works both ways and not once, in almost ten years, has she picked up a phone and tried to call me. “Miles, please calm down. I don’t want to argue with you about this over the phone. Why don’t you bring Nicholas and the twins over tonight? I’ll make a big dinner and you guys can spend the night. What do you say?” Before I could answer, the door opened and I got sidetracked. “Baby, I’m home!” As he stood in front of me, I noticed something was different. I couldn’t tell what, but something definitely changed. What could it be? “Hello, Miley?” My mom asked through the phone. “Yeah mom, that sounds great. I’ll call you tomorrow and we’ll discuss when we should come
over and everything. Love you.” I hung the phone up and waited for Joe to sit down. We needed to have a serious discussion about what had gone on in the last five hours because something didn’t seem right with him.
over and everything. Love you.” I hung the phone up and waited for Joe to sit down. We needed to have a serious discussion about what had gone on in the last five hours because something didn’t seem right with him.
Chapter Seventy-Two
*On the way to Miley’s parent’s home*
It was no use talking to Joe. He gave me one word responses and not once did he look me in the eyes. I was really doubting if I should even bring him along to this dinner with my tonight but I felt obligated to. After all, he is the
father of my children and my fiancée, even if it doesn’t seem like it lately. I let Joe drive, Nick sat up front with him, and I sat in the back with Gabby and Noah. “Now, Nicholas, you’re going to be on your best behavior tonight, right?” I asked, in a stern voice. He turned around and nodded his head at me. “Good.” I smiled at him and leaned forward, ruffling his hair. The rest of the ride was pretty much quiet, which I didn’t mind. I was too nervous thinking about what my parents would think of Joe and what had caused him to act so distant lately to try and have a conversation with someone.
When we got to the house where I grew up, I could feel the butterflies in my stomach. Joe came over to me and hugged me tight. I felt so safe in his arms, and the butterflies slowly went away. “It’s going to be okay baby, I promise.” He whispered in my ear, before walking with me to the car to get the twins out. Nervously, I walked up to the front of the door, with the plate of cookies Nick and I baked together in my hand. I knocked, and waited for
it to open. Here we go.
It was no use talking to Joe. He gave me one word responses and not once did he look me in the eyes. I was really doubting if I should even bring him along to this dinner with my tonight but I felt obligated to. After all, he is the
father of my children and my fiancée, even if it doesn’t seem like it lately. I let Joe drive, Nick sat up front with him, and I sat in the back with Gabby and Noah. “Now, Nicholas, you’re going to be on your best behavior tonight, right?” I asked, in a stern voice. He turned around and nodded his head at me. “Good.” I smiled at him and leaned forward, ruffling his hair. The rest of the ride was pretty much quiet, which I didn’t mind. I was too nervous thinking about what my parents would think of Joe and what had caused him to act so distant lately to try and have a conversation with someone.
When we got to the house where I grew up, I could feel the butterflies in my stomach. Joe came over to me and hugged me tight. I felt so safe in his arms, and the butterflies slowly went away. “It’s going to be okay baby, I promise.” He whispered in my ear, before walking with me to the car to get the twins out. Nervously, I walked up to the front of the door, with the plate of cookies Nick and I baked together in my hand. I knocked, and waited for
it to open. Here we go.
Chapter Seventy-Three
The door opened and my mom was standing in front of us. She looked the same, except her hair was now gray, and she had more wrinkles than I remembered. She opened the door wider, allowing us to get in. The four of us stood there awkwardly, just looking at each other, while Gabby and Noah just happily rocked back and forth in their baskets. “Where’s dad?” I asked my mom. “He went out to get some drinks. He should be back in about half an hour. In the mean time, why don’t you introduce me to these little cuties?” She smiled when she looked at
Gabby and Noah. I was happy to see her in a good mood. “Well, the two little ones are Gabrielle Nicole, or Gabby, for short. And Noah Alexander. Then, this big boy is Nicholas Jerry, or Nick, for short. And finally, this is my fiancé, Joseph Jonas.” Joe walked towards my mom and extended his hand to her. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Cyrus.” She accepted his hand and shook it. “Please, call me Tish. And it’s nice to meet you as well. Would you excuse me for a moment? I’m going to go see what your father is up to.” Joe and I nodded our heads and she walked away. “Okay, half the awkwardness is over. Now you just have to meet my father.” Joe put his hands around my waist and looked down at me. “Please tell me he isn’t one of those uptight dads that’s gonna ask me 500 questions and make this thing totally awkward and uncomfortable…” “Uh…” I stuttered, “Do you smell that? I think one of the twins had an accident. I’m gonna go bring them upstairs and change them!” With that, I picked up the baby baskets and brought the twins upstairs.
*Joe’s POV*
As soon as Miley walked away, I looked over to the front door and debated running away or not. How could she just leave me alone like this?! What if her dad hates me? I don’t really know what father would be pleased about meeting the guy who got their little girl pregnant. But I couldn’t just run away. That would make me look weak. Alright, Mr. Jonas, I’m ready to meet you. I felt a hand touch my shoulder. “You must be Joe.” I turned around and saw, who I assumed, judging by pictures, to be Miley’s dad. “Yes sir, that would be me.” He reached his hand out, and I shook it, making direct eye contact with him. “Firm handshake, I like it.” I nodded my head. “Thank you sir.” “Why don’t you follow me, and we’ll have a little chat in my den?” I looked over to Tish and she smiled. “You’ll be fine.” She mouthed. I trusted her. After all, she is his wife. So off we went, to his den. Dear God, please help me so I don’t screw this up. I really love Miley and the last thing I want is to make myself look dumb in front of her parents.
Gabby and Noah. I was happy to see her in a good mood. “Well, the two little ones are Gabrielle Nicole, or Gabby, for short. And Noah Alexander. Then, this big boy is Nicholas Jerry, or Nick, for short. And finally, this is my fiancé, Joseph Jonas.” Joe walked towards my mom and extended his hand to her. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Cyrus.” She accepted his hand and shook it. “Please, call me Tish. And it’s nice to meet you as well. Would you excuse me for a moment? I’m going to go see what your father is up to.” Joe and I nodded our heads and she walked away. “Okay, half the awkwardness is over. Now you just have to meet my father.” Joe put his hands around my waist and looked down at me. “Please tell me he isn’t one of those uptight dads that’s gonna ask me 500 questions and make this thing totally awkward and uncomfortable…” “Uh…” I stuttered, “Do you smell that? I think one of the twins had an accident. I’m gonna go bring them upstairs and change them!” With that, I picked up the baby baskets and brought the twins upstairs.
*Joe’s POV*
As soon as Miley walked away, I looked over to the front door and debated running away or not. How could she just leave me alone like this?! What if her dad hates me? I don’t really know what father would be pleased about meeting the guy who got their little girl pregnant. But I couldn’t just run away. That would make me look weak. Alright, Mr. Jonas, I’m ready to meet you. I felt a hand touch my shoulder. “You must be Joe.” I turned around and saw, who I assumed, judging by pictures, to be Miley’s dad. “Yes sir, that would be me.” He reached his hand out, and I shook it, making direct eye contact with him. “Firm handshake, I like it.” I nodded my head. “Thank you sir.” “Why don’t you follow me, and we’ll have a little chat in my den?” I looked over to Tish and she smiled. “You’ll be fine.” She mouthed. I trusted her. After all, she is his wife. So off we went, to his den. Dear God, please help me so I don’t screw this up. I really love Miley and the last thing I want is to make myself look dumb in front of her parents.
Chapter Seventy-Four
*Joe’s POV*
“Joseph, please, sit down.” Billy said to me, while motioning to the couch, on the far end of the den. I gulped, but did as he said. “Would you like a beer?” He asked, looking over at me. My mouth was dry and I couldn’t choke up any words so I just nodded my head. Billy got up, walked over to a mini fridge that was located in the back corner of his office, and pulled out two Corona’s. He then proceeded to open both with a bottle opener, come back over to the
couch, hand me mine, and sit down. “So, Joseph. Tell me a little bit about yourself.” I took a swig of the beer, which helped to get rid of the dryness and allowed me to talk. “Well, sir. I’m 28 years old, I’m a Kindergarten teacher where Nicholas goes to school and I love to watch baseball and golf in my free time.” “You’re a fan of golf?” I wasn’t sure if he was making fun of my interest in golf, or genuinely interested, so I just nodded my head. “I am. And I know you’re probably thinking, ‘Who the hell likes golf? It’s not even a real sport.’ But to me it is. I’ve been golfing since I was a little boy and my dad would take me to the course every Saturday afternoon for a couple hours. I can still
remember perfectly the smell of the fresh cut turf, the hot sun beating down on my neck. I was never very good back then, but I just loved being with my dad. And I hope that when Nick‘s a little bit older, that I‘ll be able to bring him to the golf course with me.” I waited for Billy to burst out laughing and tell me how stupid that was, but he didn’t. Instead, he put his arm around me and said, “Well you better include me when that day comes. I love golfing!” “Really? That’s great!” I was so excited to know that someone else in this family had a common interest with me. That had to be a good sign. “So when are you planning on taking Nicholas golfing?” He asked me.
*Two months later, at the mini golf course with Joe, Nick, and Billy*
“Wow Nick, that’s your third hole-in-one! You’re just like your granddaddy.” Billy smiled and then patted Nick’s back. We were almost done with our game of mini golf and it was going surprisingly well. We were all having a good time, and bonding. It turns out Billy is a really cool guy who just wants what’s best for his daughter. I can tell I’m going to be just like that with Gabby when she starts getting old enough to hang around with boys. “Daddy! It’s your turn.” Nick yelled. “I’m coming.” I called back and made my way over to the final hole of the night. Just as I was about to swing my putter, my phone vibrated in my pocket and I missed the ball. Nick and Billy started laughing at me. Determined to redeem myself I whacked the ball as hard as I could and it went flying. By this point, Nick and Billy were laughing at me. I have to admit, I was laughing along with them because it was pretty funny. Nick looked next to him and found an extra ball. “Here, try this.” “Thanks Nicky.” I accepted the ball from him and took my place again. This time, the ball went right in and I bowed. Since I was the last one in our group to go, we headed out of the course and to an ice cream shop. Billy drove, Nick sat in the front, and I sat in the back. Nick and Billy were deep in conversation and I took this as the perfect opportunity to check my phone. I unlocked the screen and saw 5 missed calls and a new text. Nervously, I clicked read and saw four words that worried me - We need to talk.
“Joseph, please, sit down.” Billy said to me, while motioning to the couch, on the far end of the den. I gulped, but did as he said. “Would you like a beer?” He asked, looking over at me. My mouth was dry and I couldn’t choke up any words so I just nodded my head. Billy got up, walked over to a mini fridge that was located in the back corner of his office, and pulled out two Corona’s. He then proceeded to open both with a bottle opener, come back over to the
couch, hand me mine, and sit down. “So, Joseph. Tell me a little bit about yourself.” I took a swig of the beer, which helped to get rid of the dryness and allowed me to talk. “Well, sir. I’m 28 years old, I’m a Kindergarten teacher where Nicholas goes to school and I love to watch baseball and golf in my free time.” “You’re a fan of golf?” I wasn’t sure if he was making fun of my interest in golf, or genuinely interested, so I just nodded my head. “I am. And I know you’re probably thinking, ‘Who the hell likes golf? It’s not even a real sport.’ But to me it is. I’ve been golfing since I was a little boy and my dad would take me to the course every Saturday afternoon for a couple hours. I can still
remember perfectly the smell of the fresh cut turf, the hot sun beating down on my neck. I was never very good back then, but I just loved being with my dad. And I hope that when Nick‘s a little bit older, that I‘ll be able to bring him to the golf course with me.” I waited for Billy to burst out laughing and tell me how stupid that was, but he didn’t. Instead, he put his arm around me and said, “Well you better include me when that day comes. I love golfing!” “Really? That’s great!” I was so excited to know that someone else in this family had a common interest with me. That had to be a good sign. “So when are you planning on taking Nicholas golfing?” He asked me.
*Two months later, at the mini golf course with Joe, Nick, and Billy*
“Wow Nick, that’s your third hole-in-one! You’re just like your granddaddy.” Billy smiled and then patted Nick’s back. We were almost done with our game of mini golf and it was going surprisingly well. We were all having a good time, and bonding. It turns out Billy is a really cool guy who just wants what’s best for his daughter. I can tell I’m going to be just like that with Gabby when she starts getting old enough to hang around with boys. “Daddy! It’s your turn.” Nick yelled. “I’m coming.” I called back and made my way over to the final hole of the night. Just as I was about to swing my putter, my phone vibrated in my pocket and I missed the ball. Nick and Billy started laughing at me. Determined to redeem myself I whacked the ball as hard as I could and it went flying. By this point, Nick and Billy were laughing at me. I have to admit, I was laughing along with them because it was pretty funny. Nick looked next to him and found an extra ball. “Here, try this.” “Thanks Nicky.” I accepted the ball from him and took my place again. This time, the ball went right in and I bowed. Since I was the last one in our group to go, we headed out of the course and to an ice cream shop. Billy drove, Nick sat in the front, and I sat in the back. Nick and Billy were deep in conversation and I took this as the perfect opportunity to check my phone. I unlocked the screen and saw 5 missed calls and a new text. Nervously, I clicked read and saw four words that worried me - We need to talk.
Chapter Seventy-Five
*Joe’s POV*
“You have to be kidding me. There’s no way that child is mine!” I insisted for what had to be the fifth time. “Yes, it is, Joseph. I’m two months along and who did I sleep with two months ago? Let me think about it.. Oh, that’s right… YOU!” Nervously, I paced back and forth in AJ’s living room, trying to process what I just found out. “So you’re telling me that I’m the father to your child?” She nodded her head and I fell to my knees. How could I have been so stupid? So what if things got a little rough? That was absolutely no reason at all for me to cheat. And now, because I’m such a stupid asshole, I now helped bring another child into the world. It was already bad enough I’m having difficulty supporting Miley, Nick, Noah, and Gabby. How the fuck am I supposed to support two more people?! “Look, I know this is a shock to you but I didn’t get pregnant on my own. And I know you already take care of three children, and Miley, but this baby is also yours. I’m not saying you have to spend every minute of my pregnancy with me, but it would be nice if you could come to the appointments so I don’t have to look like a single mother.” As much as I wanted to deny it, AJ did have a point. Because I went out and did something stupid that I can’t take back, I am now responsible for another life and that was just something I would
have to deal with. Now, I just had to figure out how to tell Miley. “Of course I’ll go to the appointments. Please, just do me a favor and don’t tell Miley? I’m going to tell her, I just need to figure out the right way to do it.” She
nodded her head. “I won’t, but you better tell her. I might not be friends with her anymore, but she has a right to know so in case she decides to throw you out of the house, you can have time to find other living arrangements.” She chuckled. I know she was kidding, but that really got me thinking. How would Miley react to news like this?
I said goodbye to AJ and walked out to my car. Before starting it up, I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone. I debated if I should text Miley or call her, and opted to call her. “Hi babe! Is everything alright?” I wanted to just break down crying and tell her, no, everything is not alright. It’s far from it, actually. I made the worst mistake of my life and got another woman pregnant because I was stressed out about losing my job and not
being able to support four people. Well look how great that turned out, now I’m gonna have to support six. But I couldn’t say that. So instead, I went with a simple answer. “Yeah, I’m fine. I was actually calling because I want to take you out to dinner tonight. I was thinking maybe we could even talk wedding plans?” There was a short pause, followed by screaming. “I would love to! I’ll bring the kids over to my parents and then meet you at Bluestone around 7.” “Sounds great.” We exchanged I love yous and then hung up. I was glad to hear Miley excited but I knew it would be short lived because tonight, I had to give her horrible news.
“You have to be kidding me. There’s no way that child is mine!” I insisted for what had to be the fifth time. “Yes, it is, Joseph. I’m two months along and who did I sleep with two months ago? Let me think about it.. Oh, that’s right… YOU!” Nervously, I paced back and forth in AJ’s living room, trying to process what I just found out. “So you’re telling me that I’m the father to your child?” She nodded her head and I fell to my knees. How could I have been so stupid? So what if things got a little rough? That was absolutely no reason at all for me to cheat. And now, because I’m such a stupid asshole, I now helped bring another child into the world. It was already bad enough I’m having difficulty supporting Miley, Nick, Noah, and Gabby. How the fuck am I supposed to support two more people?! “Look, I know this is a shock to you but I didn’t get pregnant on my own. And I know you already take care of three children, and Miley, but this baby is also yours. I’m not saying you have to spend every minute of my pregnancy with me, but it would be nice if you could come to the appointments so I don’t have to look like a single mother.” As much as I wanted to deny it, AJ did have a point. Because I went out and did something stupid that I can’t take back, I am now responsible for another life and that was just something I would
have to deal with. Now, I just had to figure out how to tell Miley. “Of course I’ll go to the appointments. Please, just do me a favor and don’t tell Miley? I’m going to tell her, I just need to figure out the right way to do it.” She
nodded her head. “I won’t, but you better tell her. I might not be friends with her anymore, but she has a right to know so in case she decides to throw you out of the house, you can have time to find other living arrangements.” She chuckled. I know she was kidding, but that really got me thinking. How would Miley react to news like this?
I said goodbye to AJ and walked out to my car. Before starting it up, I reached into my pocket and pulled out my phone. I debated if I should text Miley or call her, and opted to call her. “Hi babe! Is everything alright?” I wanted to just break down crying and tell her, no, everything is not alright. It’s far from it, actually. I made the worst mistake of my life and got another woman pregnant because I was stressed out about losing my job and not
being able to support four people. Well look how great that turned out, now I’m gonna have to support six. But I couldn’t say that. So instead, I went with a simple answer. “Yeah, I’m fine. I was actually calling because I want to take you out to dinner tonight. I was thinking maybe we could even talk wedding plans?” There was a short pause, followed by screaming. “I would love to! I’ll bring the kids over to my parents and then meet you at Bluestone around 7.” “Sounds great.” We exchanged I love yous and then hung up. I was glad to hear Miley excited but I knew it would be short lived because tonight, I had to give her horrible news.
Chapter Seventy-Six
“You have 3 hours to get all of your shit out of my house or I will call the cops!” I yelled, furious at what Joe had just told me. How could he have gone
out and slept with someone else?! Let alone get that other girl pregnant. Did he not think before his dumb self put it in some other girl. Clearly not because that would have to mean he had a brain, which he clearly does not. “Please Miley, don’t kick me out.” Joe begged. I looked at him and couldn’t help but laugh a dry, un-amused, and disgusted laugh. “Are you fucking serious?! You go out and cheat on me, with some girl you’ve cheated on me with before in the past might I add, which results in her getting pregnant and I’m supposed to just sit there and act like I’m not bothered or torn up or heartbroken about this.” “I didn’t say that.” He tried to come close to me but I pushed him away. “Please, Miley. I know you’re upset right now but we have a strong love and we can get through any and all rough patches that get in our way. Please, please, please Miley. Don’t throw this all away because of one stupid mistake I made.” “I just can’t Joe. This is your second time cheating on me and now, you’re going to be a father to some other woman’s child and I just don’t think I can handle that.” I turned around to walk away, but quickly turned back and looked at Joe. “3 hours.” I turned around and heard Joe start sobbing. I didn’t turn back around though because I knew I wouldn’t be able to see him like that. “I’m sorry Miles. I’m sorry Miles. I’m sorry Miles. I’ll always love you, don’t forget that!” Joe called after me and I couldn’t help but get butterflies in my stomach. “I’ll always love you too, I just can’t be with you.” I whispered and then walked to my car. Once I was inside the car, I broke down and started sobbing. Part of me wanted to call Joe and tell him to forget everything I had just said, but a bigger part of me was refusing because I knew I couldn’t give in that easily.
I picked up my phone and dialed, while I started up the car. “Miley? Is Nick okay?” It felt good to hear Josh’s voice again. “Hey Josh. Yeah, Nick’s great. He’s not the reason I’m calling. I’m actually calling because I just ended things with Joe and I don’t know what to do with myself. Would it be okay if I came over to your place for tonight? I just need someone to talk to and you’re one of the only friends I have.” Josh didn’t speak. Instead, the only
sound I heard was dishes going into the sink. “Of course Miley. I’ll start making some popcorn and I’ll get two beers out of the fridge for us. It’ll be
just like high school…without the sex of course.” I smiled. It was great knowing I could rely on Josh. He really was a good guy. “Thank you so much Joshy! And who knows, if you’re a good boy, you might get lucky tonight.” By the time I caught myself, it was too late. “I, uh.. I gotta go. I’ll see you in 10
minutes.” I hung up the phone and threw it in my purse. Oh shit, what had I just done?!
out and slept with someone else?! Let alone get that other girl pregnant. Did he not think before his dumb self put it in some other girl. Clearly not because that would have to mean he had a brain, which he clearly does not. “Please Miley, don’t kick me out.” Joe begged. I looked at him and couldn’t help but laugh a dry, un-amused, and disgusted laugh. “Are you fucking serious?! You go out and cheat on me, with some girl you’ve cheated on me with before in the past might I add, which results in her getting pregnant and I’m supposed to just sit there and act like I’m not bothered or torn up or heartbroken about this.” “I didn’t say that.” He tried to come close to me but I pushed him away. “Please, Miley. I know you’re upset right now but we have a strong love and we can get through any and all rough patches that get in our way. Please, please, please Miley. Don’t throw this all away because of one stupid mistake I made.” “I just can’t Joe. This is your second time cheating on me and now, you’re going to be a father to some other woman’s child and I just don’t think I can handle that.” I turned around to walk away, but quickly turned back and looked at Joe. “3 hours.” I turned around and heard Joe start sobbing. I didn’t turn back around though because I knew I wouldn’t be able to see him like that. “I’m sorry Miles. I’m sorry Miles. I’m sorry Miles. I’ll always love you, don’t forget that!” Joe called after me and I couldn’t help but get butterflies in my stomach. “I’ll always love you too, I just can’t be with you.” I whispered and then walked to my car. Once I was inside the car, I broke down and started sobbing. Part of me wanted to call Joe and tell him to forget everything I had just said, but a bigger part of me was refusing because I knew I couldn’t give in that easily.
I picked up my phone and dialed, while I started up the car. “Miley? Is Nick okay?” It felt good to hear Josh’s voice again. “Hey Josh. Yeah, Nick’s great. He’s not the reason I’m calling. I’m actually calling because I just ended things with Joe and I don’t know what to do with myself. Would it be okay if I came over to your place for tonight? I just need someone to talk to and you’re one of the only friends I have.” Josh didn’t speak. Instead, the only
sound I heard was dishes going into the sink. “Of course Miley. I’ll start making some popcorn and I’ll get two beers out of the fridge for us. It’ll be
just like high school…without the sex of course.” I smiled. It was great knowing I could rely on Josh. He really was a good guy. “Thank you so much Joshy! And who knows, if you’re a good boy, you might get lucky tonight.” By the time I caught myself, it was too late. “I, uh.. I gotta go. I’ll see you in 10
minutes.” I hung up the phone and threw it in my purse. Oh shit, what had I just done?!
Chapter Seventy-Seven
I shouldn’t be here. This is all wrong. Maybe I should tell Josh that this is all a mistake and then get out of here. Then I can find Joe and we can straighten things out. Wait.. What am I saying? Joe’s messed up far too many times and Josh has always been a good guy to me. He’s always been there for me. Well, except for when he left me that one time. But every other time I’ve needed him, he’s been there right away and that’s got to count for something. Maybe I’m not so stupid in giving things with Josh a second try. After all, he does have a pretty special bond with Nick and when we used to go out, he was a great boyfriend. Yeah, everything will be great.
I got out of the car and walked to the front door. Before I had a chance to knock, it opened, and I was given a tight hug by Josh. It felt good to be in his arms again, don’t get me wrong, but I couldn’t help but compare this hug to Joe’s. And no one could ever beat Joe when it came to hugs. He used to hold me tight, and rub my back gently, and sometimes whisper sweet, or inappropriate things into my ear. Wow, I missed Joe. Stop it Miley, he fucked you over. Now you’re giving things with Josh a try. I pulled away and looked at Josh. “It’s great to see you Miles. You look amazing.” He had a big smile on his face and I could feel one forming on mine as well. There was a few moments of us just staring at each other. Josh cleared his throat and then spoke up. “Well… Do you, uh, want to go inside?” He reached his hand out, and I took it. “I would love to.” Before walking inside, I turned around and there was Joe, sitting across the street in his car. What the fuck was he doing here?
I got out of the car and walked to the front door. Before I had a chance to knock, it opened, and I was given a tight hug by Josh. It felt good to be in his arms again, don’t get me wrong, but I couldn’t help but compare this hug to Joe’s. And no one could ever beat Joe when it came to hugs. He used to hold me tight, and rub my back gently, and sometimes whisper sweet, or inappropriate things into my ear. Wow, I missed Joe. Stop it Miley, he fucked you over. Now you’re giving things with Josh a try. I pulled away and looked at Josh. “It’s great to see you Miles. You look amazing.” He had a big smile on his face and I could feel one forming on mine as well. There was a few moments of us just staring at each other. Josh cleared his throat and then spoke up. “Well… Do you, uh, want to go inside?” He reached his hand out, and I took it. “I would love to.” Before walking inside, I turned around and there was Joe, sitting across the street in his car. What the fuck was he doing here?
Chapter Seventy-Eight
I stormed across the street and over to Joe’s car. “Oh, so it wasn’t bad enough that you slept with another woman behind my back and then got her pregnant, but now you’re stalking me too?! Wow Joseph, you sure know the way to a ladies heart.” There was so much sarcasm in my voice, it wasn’t even funny. “I know this looks bad, but..” “It doesn’t look bad. It looks creepy as fuck and if you’re not out of my sight in 30 seconds, I will call the police. I’m serious this time.” I could feel my face getting more and more red by the second. This guy really knew how to take me from a great mood to a shitty mood in the blink of an eye. I can’t believe I was once engaged to him. Oh yeah, that reminds me. “Oh, and here.. Take your stupid ring back. Maybe you can pass this off to that slut too.” I turned around and walked back to Josh’s house. Though I was tempted to look back, I didn’t. I had to be strong. No more miss nice girl.
*Joe’s POV*
The ring bounced off my cheek and landed in my lap and that was all it took for the tears to come streaming down my face. I had really lost the best woman to ever come through my life. Not only did I lose Miley, but I lost my children too. It was no one’s fault but my own. You know how when you do something wrong, and you know you were wrong and have possibly messed up big time, but part of you still has this hope that the people you love will put it past them and act like it’s okay to screw up? Yeah, that’s how I feel right about now. Part of me is hoping Miley will take me back. But then again, I understand the pain she’s going through. Even though I have no plan of being with AJ, she will still always be in my life because of that baby. Unless…
*Joe’s POV*
The ring bounced off my cheek and landed in my lap and that was all it took for the tears to come streaming down my face. I had really lost the best woman to ever come through my life. Not only did I lose Miley, but I lost my children too. It was no one’s fault but my own. You know how when you do something wrong, and you know you were wrong and have possibly messed up big time, but part of you still has this hope that the people you love will put it past them and act like it’s okay to screw up? Yeah, that’s how I feel right about now. Part of me is hoping Miley will take me back. But then again, I understand the pain she’s going through. Even though I have no plan of being with AJ, she will still always be in my life because of that baby. Unless…
Chapter Seventy-Nine
*Joe’s POV*
“WHAT DO YOU MEAN, YOU WANT A PATERNITY TEST DONE?!” AJ screamed at the top of her lungs. Wow, I was getting yelled at by everyone today! “I mean… I want a paternity test done.” I repeated, not sure how much clearer I could get. “And why is that?” Her steps towards me were getting closer and closer. “Because.. I’m not 100% convinced that this baby is mine.” She didn’t respond, so I spoke again. “Aren’t you technically dating Taylor?” AJ nodded her head. “And are the two of you having sexual relations?” Once again, she nodded. “And were these sexual relations occurring around the same time of yours and my most recent sexual encounter with each other?” She nodded. “So then how can you be 100% sure that this is my baby? That is why I would like a paternity test.” AJ’s hand directly connected with my cheek. “HOW DARE YOU ASSUME THAT I WOULD LIE ABOUT THIS BEING YOUR BABY! I DON’T EVEN LIKE YOU. LOVE TAYLOR WITH EVERYTHING IN ME AND IF I COULD, I WOULD MAKE DAMN SURE THAT THIS BABY WAS HIS.” I stepped back from her and headed towards the door. “You and I both know that’s a lie, Amanda. You can say that you love Taylor and want this baby to be his, but the whole hating me and loving Taylor with everything in you is a lie. If you really loved Taylor as much as you say and really hate me, you wouldn’t have been all over me since the day we met and so willing to help me cheat on Miley whenever I wanted to. I understand you’re upset because this baby might not belong to the guy that you claim you love, but that’s NOT my fault. I still want a paternity test and if you’re not willing to do that, then I’ll handle this MY way.” I walked out of the house and pulled out my phone. I wasn’t going to give up on Miley just yet. I had one last plan to try and convince her to take me back, and I was going to need a lot of support.
“WHAT DO YOU MEAN, YOU WANT A PATERNITY TEST DONE?!” AJ screamed at the top of her lungs. Wow, I was getting yelled at by everyone today! “I mean… I want a paternity test done.” I repeated, not sure how much clearer I could get. “And why is that?” Her steps towards me were getting closer and closer. “Because.. I’m not 100% convinced that this baby is mine.” She didn’t respond, so I spoke again. “Aren’t you technically dating Taylor?” AJ nodded her head. “And are the two of you having sexual relations?” Once again, she nodded. “And were these sexual relations occurring around the same time of yours and my most recent sexual encounter with each other?” She nodded. “So then how can you be 100% sure that this is my baby? That is why I would like a paternity test.” AJ’s hand directly connected with my cheek. “HOW DARE YOU ASSUME THAT I WOULD LIE ABOUT THIS BEING YOUR BABY! I DON’T EVEN LIKE YOU. LOVE TAYLOR WITH EVERYTHING IN ME AND IF I COULD, I WOULD MAKE DAMN SURE THAT THIS BABY WAS HIS.” I stepped back from her and headed towards the door. “You and I both know that’s a lie, Amanda. You can say that you love Taylor and want this baby to be his, but the whole hating me and loving Taylor with everything in you is a lie. If you really loved Taylor as much as you say and really hate me, you wouldn’t have been all over me since the day we met and so willing to help me cheat on Miley whenever I wanted to. I understand you’re upset because this baby might not belong to the guy that you claim you love, but that’s NOT my fault. I still want a paternity test and if you’re not willing to do that, then I’ll handle this MY way.” I walked out of the house and pulled out my phone. I wasn’t going to give up on Miley just yet. I had one last plan to try and convince her to take me back, and I was going to need a lot of support.
Chapter Eighty
I felt Josh began to open the buttons of my shirt. Button by button, I was becoming more and more exposed to him. The last time we did this was back in high school so it had been a while. “Are you sure you want to do this?” Josh asked as his hands hovered over my final button. Was I sure about this? Did I want to do this? I know Joe and I were over but was I really ready to sleep with my ex? Thankfully, my phone rang and I was able to make a quick escape from Josh’s bedroom. “Dad, is everything okay?” I whispered, trying to keep my voice down. “Everything’s fine.. Why are you whispering?” “No special reason. As thrilled as I am to hear from you, can I ask why you’re calling?” My voice was now normal and I paced around the hallway. “Are you doing anything right now?” My dad asked. “No, nothing important, why?” “Good. Why don’t you come on down to the house? I want to spend some time with my little girl.” I smiled when my dad said that. It was nice he still thought of me as his little girl, and even nicer that he wanted to spend time with me. “Sure, I’ll be there in 15 minutes.” I hung up the phone and went to Josh’s room. “Hey Josh, my dad just called..” Josh cut me off before I could finish my sentence. “You gotta go, I know. Listen, about before.. I’m really sorry. You just got out of a bad relationship and I almost took advantage of you, that wasn’t right. I know your feelings for Joe are still really strong and so I won’t get in the way. But I do want you to remember, I am here for you whenever you need me. And that even means if you need someone to watch the kids. I know Nick’s my only kid but I still love Gabby and Noah with everything in me so if you ever want a night out… You know who to call.” I thanked Josh and gave him a big hug before driving off to my dad’s house. I wonder what he had planned.
When I got to my parent’s house, I noticed an unfamiliar car in the street. I wonder who it belongs to? Shaking off the thought, I walked inside and found my mom, busy at work, preparing dinner. “Hi mommy.” I called, hoping I didn’t catch her off guard. “Hey sweetie. Your dad’s in the backyard.
But before you go back there, he told me to tell you to get your riding stuff on.” We were going riding. Man, my dad knew me so well. Riding was the perfect opportunity to clear my head. “That’s perfect! I’ll go throw my stuff on right now. How are the kids doing mom? They behaving?” She turned around and nodded her head. “They’re angels. Noah and Gabby are in their buckets and Nick‘s playing video games.” I nodded and walked upstairs. Thankfully my mom kept my old room just the way I left it four years ago so I was able to get my riding stuff and throw it on easily. Then I ran all the way to the living room and saw Nick and Noah engulfed in their games. “Nicholas! Don’t sit too close to the screen. You know better.” Immediately, Nick threw down his controller, and came running towards me. Gabby and Noah started kicking their feet in their buckets and I walked towards them. I opened my arms for Nick and hugged him tight. When Nick let go, I bent down in front of Gabby and Noah’s buckets and smiled. They looked so precious. Boy, I missed my kids! “I’m glad you’re here mommy. I missed you so much!“ Nick whispered. He might be 9, going on 10, but he was obviously
still a momma’s boy, which I loved. “I missed you too, Nicky.” “So what brings you home?” Nick asked. “Well, Granddad and I are going to go riding. Would my lovely son like to join us?” I barely got a chance to finish my question before Nick was running up the stairs and to the guest room, where all of his stuff that he kept and grandma and grandpa’s was kept to get his riding stuff. I shook my head and chuckled. It was nice to see him so happy. I walked over to Noah and Gabby’s buckets and picked both of them up and placed them in their playarea.
When I got to my parent’s house, I noticed an unfamiliar car in the street. I wonder who it belongs to? Shaking off the thought, I walked inside and found my mom, busy at work, preparing dinner. “Hi mommy.” I called, hoping I didn’t catch her off guard. “Hey sweetie. Your dad’s in the backyard.
But before you go back there, he told me to tell you to get your riding stuff on.” We were going riding. Man, my dad knew me so well. Riding was the perfect opportunity to clear my head. “That’s perfect! I’ll go throw my stuff on right now. How are the kids doing mom? They behaving?” She turned around and nodded her head. “They’re angels. Noah and Gabby are in their buckets and Nick‘s playing video games.” I nodded and walked upstairs. Thankfully my mom kept my old room just the way I left it four years ago so I was able to get my riding stuff and throw it on easily. Then I ran all the way to the living room and saw Nick and Noah engulfed in their games. “Nicholas! Don’t sit too close to the screen. You know better.” Immediately, Nick threw down his controller, and came running towards me. Gabby and Noah started kicking their feet in their buckets and I walked towards them. I opened my arms for Nick and hugged him tight. When Nick let go, I bent down in front of Gabby and Noah’s buckets and smiled. They looked so precious. Boy, I missed my kids! “I’m glad you’re here mommy. I missed you so much!“ Nick whispered. He might be 9, going on 10, but he was obviously
still a momma’s boy, which I loved. “I missed you too, Nicky.” “So what brings you home?” Nick asked. “Well, Granddad and I are going to go riding. Would my lovely son like to join us?” I barely got a chance to finish my question before Nick was running up the stairs and to the guest room, where all of his stuff that he kept and grandma and grandpa’s was kept to get his riding stuff. I shook my head and chuckled. It was nice to see him so happy. I walked over to Noah and Gabby’s buckets and picked both of them up and placed them in their playarea.
Chapter Eighty-One
After Nick was ready, we headed to the back yard and out to the stable. Daddy was already in the stable and was brushing Chestnut, his horse. I said hello to him and gave him a hug before going over to my horse, Blue Jeans. “Hey buddy, how ya doing?” I gave him a kiss, grabbed my helmet from the wall right next to his stall, put a blanket on him, and then hopped on. I was ready to ride. The three of us headed out of the stable and onto the trail. “It feels amazing being back here daddy. And especially when I have two of my favorite guys with me.” Blue Jeans let out a loud and long neigh, so I stroked his face. “I’m sorry Blue Jeans, you know I meant three.” Daddy let out a chuckle. “It’s so crazy how quickly Nicholas is growing up! The twins too. I mean it seems like just yesterday you were standing at my front door with your three babies, and I do mean babies, and J…” he trailed off. I knew what the next words out of his mouth were going to be, but thankfully he stopped himself. “It’s okay daddy, you can say his name.” “I’m sorry, baby girl. But you’re going to find the right guy who makes you happier than you’ve ever been in your entire life.” He whispered. I nodded and we continued off down the train.
A good two miles into our ride, we came to the spot where daddy and I used to have picnics every time we would go riding. I noticed that there was a blanket and a basket already set up along with some candles. “Wow, this is really beautiful. When did you set all this up?” I turned around but neither my dad nor Nick were there… What the hell???! When I turned back around, I saw Joe standing next to the picnic blanket. He didn’t make eye contact with me though. His eyes were focused on his hands. Curious as to why he was here, I hopped down from Blue Jeans and walked over to him. “What are you doing here?”
A good two miles into our ride, we came to the spot where daddy and I used to have picnics every time we would go riding. I noticed that there was a blanket and a basket already set up along with some candles. “Wow, this is really beautiful. When did you set all this up?” I turned around but neither my dad nor Nick were there… What the hell???! When I turned back around, I saw Joe standing next to the picnic blanket. He didn’t make eye contact with me though. His eyes were focused on his hands. Curious as to why he was here, I hopped down from Blue Jeans and walked over to him. “What are you doing here?”
Chapter Eighty-Two
My voice wasn’t angry or annoyed, but more of a calm, curious tone. Joe took my hands and held them, but still didn’t look up at me. I was able to get one of my hands free and with it, I gently put my middle and index fingers underneath his chin and got him to look up at me. After I got him to look at me, he began to speak. “I know you’re probably still very mad at me and I don’t blame you but even though it hasn’t even been a week without you and the kids yet, I’m miserable. When I saw you at Josh’s house, my heart almost broke because I know you were considering sleeping with him. Don’t ask me how I know, but I do. And I shouldn’t let it bother me because I did something way worse but the fact of you sleeping with some other guy makes me heart hurt. You were the first girl I ever slept with and I wish you could be the only one I will ever sleep with, but that’s unfortunately not true. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be the last woman I’ll ever sleep with. And I hope that if you’re able to forgive me for being such a moron and let me back into your’s, Nick’s, Gabby’s, and Noah’s lives, that we can put this little incident behind us and go back to being a family. I’m not at all asking you to forget what happened but if you could forgive me, and even if you don’t take me back but if you’ll forgive me and let me see the kids at least once a month, that’s all I ask, I can go back to being somewhat happy. But right now, Miley, I’m just awful. I don’t know what to do with my life and I feel like I have nothing to live for anymore.” I took in a deep breath before speaking. “Joe… I appreciate your apology, it was really beautiful but I just.. I don‘t know if I can be with you again after what I‘ve gone through.” “Even if you can‘t accept me as your boyfriend/fiancée again, please, accept me as a friend. That‘s all I‘m asking is to be your friend.” I remained quiet. I was at a loss for words. Joe nodded his head and released my hands. “Goodbye, Miley.” He whispered, before turning around and walking away.
Chapter Eighty-Three
*3 days later*
For the last two nights, I haven't been able to sleep at all. Every time I close my eyes and start to fall asleep, I see images of Joe standing in front of me, a beautiful picnic set up for the two of us. Or I think back to when we first met and how he made me feel. No matter how hard I tried to, I couldn't help but think of him and all of the things we used to do together. I can't deny that he was an amazing boyfriend and an even more amazing father. I really did want to be with him again, but I was afraid to let him back into my life. Not only mine, but also Nick's, Gabby's and Noah's. They were even
more vulnerable than I am and what if he came back, got close to them, and did something stupid? I couldn't risk seeing me babies get hurt. I couldn't think of only myself anymore. I had to put three other people's needs before my own. At the same time, was it good for my kids to grow up without a father. I mean, I know Nick is blessed because he has Josh and Joe. But I couldn't say the same about Gabby and Noah. They technically only have one father, and that's Joe. I can't just deprive them of not having a man in their life. Maybe I should rethink some things...
*30 minutes later*
I wasn't sure if I should be doing this but you know what they say "You never know unless you try." And that's what I had to do, I had to try. If not for me, for the sake of my kids. So I got out of my car and walked right up to Joe's front door. I gave the door a gentle knock and waited. "Please be home, please be home, please be home." I whispered to myself. Just when I felt like I wasted a trip here and considered going back to my house, the door opened. "Miley?"
For the last two nights, I haven't been able to sleep at all. Every time I close my eyes and start to fall asleep, I see images of Joe standing in front of me, a beautiful picnic set up for the two of us. Or I think back to when we first met and how he made me feel. No matter how hard I tried to, I couldn't help but think of him and all of the things we used to do together. I can't deny that he was an amazing boyfriend and an even more amazing father. I really did want to be with him again, but I was afraid to let him back into my life. Not only mine, but also Nick's, Gabby's and Noah's. They were even
more vulnerable than I am and what if he came back, got close to them, and did something stupid? I couldn't risk seeing me babies get hurt. I couldn't think of only myself anymore. I had to put three other people's needs before my own. At the same time, was it good for my kids to grow up without a father. I mean, I know Nick is blessed because he has Josh and Joe. But I couldn't say the same about Gabby and Noah. They technically only have one father, and that's Joe. I can't just deprive them of not having a man in their life. Maybe I should rethink some things...
*30 minutes later*
I wasn't sure if I should be doing this but you know what they say "You never know unless you try." And that's what I had to do, I had to try. If not for me, for the sake of my kids. So I got out of my car and walked right up to Joe's front door. I gave the door a gentle knock and waited. "Please be home, please be home, please be home." I whispered to myself. Just when I felt like I wasted a trip here and considered going back to my house, the door opened. "Miley?"
Chapter Eighty-Four
I could literally feel my heart sink down into my stomach. Of course, AJ was here. I shouldn’t have been surprised. She was carrying Joe’s baby and they would probably start dating now that Joe was a single man.
“Please, come inside.” My brain registered what she said, but my feet wouldn’t move. It was like I had stepped in a block of cement and was just stuck there. I heard footsteps coming closer to where I was standing and when I looked up, I saw Joe standing in front of me. “Miley..” He whispered. I nodded my head. Without another word, he hopped down on to the front porch and shut the door behind him. Immediately, and without thinking, I flung my arms around him. God, I felt so safe and at home. Like nothing in the world could hurt me.
We both pulled away and just looked at each other. Right away, I got that feeling I used to get around Joe, before all the drama. Nothing else in the world mattered, just living in the moment, enjoying my time with Joe. The peaceful moment was interrupted by screaming coming from what I assumed was the upstairs. “JOE, IF YOU WANNA GET THIS TEST DONE WE NEED TO LEAVE NOW!” Test? Confused, I looked at Joe and titled my head to the side. “What test is she talking about?” Joe didn’t answer my question. Instead, he took my hand in his and lead me outside and to the car. I got in the passenger seat and Joe sat in the driver’s seat and when AJ walked out of the house, she sat in the back seat. “Let’s get this show on the road. The sooner we get these test results, the better.” You could tell there was some bitterness in her voice. I glanced at her through the visor mirror and saw she was crossing her arms over her chest and
staring angrily out the window. Looks like somebody needs an attitude adjustment…
“Please, come inside.” My brain registered what she said, but my feet wouldn’t move. It was like I had stepped in a block of cement and was just stuck there. I heard footsteps coming closer to where I was standing and when I looked up, I saw Joe standing in front of me. “Miley..” He whispered. I nodded my head. Without another word, he hopped down on to the front porch and shut the door behind him. Immediately, and without thinking, I flung my arms around him. God, I felt so safe and at home. Like nothing in the world could hurt me.
We both pulled away and just looked at each other. Right away, I got that feeling I used to get around Joe, before all the drama. Nothing else in the world mattered, just living in the moment, enjoying my time with Joe. The peaceful moment was interrupted by screaming coming from what I assumed was the upstairs. “JOE, IF YOU WANNA GET THIS TEST DONE WE NEED TO LEAVE NOW!” Test? Confused, I looked at Joe and titled my head to the side. “What test is she talking about?” Joe didn’t answer my question. Instead, he took my hand in his and lead me outside and to the car. I got in the passenger seat and Joe sat in the driver’s seat and when AJ walked out of the house, she sat in the back seat. “Let’s get this show on the road. The sooner we get these test results, the better.” You could tell there was some bitterness in her voice. I glanced at her through the visor mirror and saw she was crossing her arms over her chest and
staring angrily out the window. Looks like somebody needs an attitude adjustment…
Chapter Eighty-Five
*Inside the testing center*
I still wasn’t exactly sure why we were here but it was begging to become more and more clear as I sat in the lobby. Joe, AJ, and Taylor were all in a back room somewhere, with a doctor. I was told to wait in the
lobby because I was neither a blood relative, nor involved in the situation. So I had the honor of waiting in the waiting room with a bunch of random people, including some 30 year old biker guy named Ryan who kept trying to hit on me. I declined his numerous attempts; however, because he was here with a 17 year old
girl who claims she is carrying his baby and I really did not want to get involved in that type of situation. The one I’m currently in is bad enough. To kill time, I flipped through Cosmopolitan magazine and read some interesting articles. It was normally not my first choice for reading materials, but it sure as Hell beat being hit on by Ryan.
I heard an unfamiliar voice call my name and looked up to see a small, mid forties, brunette, with a white coat and white Keds on. I took it to mean she was either a doctor or nurse. “That’s me.” I said. “We’re about to check the results and both Joe and Amanda have requested that you be there when
the results are revealed.” I nodded my head and got up from my seat, being sure to put the magazine back on the black coffee table. As I walked past Ryan, I felt him tug at my arm. “Don’t forget.. If things don’t work out with you and Mr. Cheaterpants, you know where to find me.” Then he freakishly winked at me and I felt the sudden urge to vomit. I picked up my speed as fast as my legs would take me.
Very, very nervously, I followed behind the nurse while she led me down a long, what seemed to be endless hallway. Finally, the nurse stopped walking and pointed to a door on my right. “They’re all inside waiting. Doctor Randall should be in in about five minutes.” I nodded my head and thanked her before walking into the test room. I stood next to Joe, who wrapped his arms around me and comfortingly rubbed my arms. Taylor and AJ were on the other side of the room and appeared to be totally clueless as to what was going on. We were all knocked out of our obliviousness when Dr. Randall appeared. Here we go, the moment of truth…
I still wasn’t exactly sure why we were here but it was begging to become more and more clear as I sat in the lobby. Joe, AJ, and Taylor were all in a back room somewhere, with a doctor. I was told to wait in the
lobby because I was neither a blood relative, nor involved in the situation. So I had the honor of waiting in the waiting room with a bunch of random people, including some 30 year old biker guy named Ryan who kept trying to hit on me. I declined his numerous attempts; however, because he was here with a 17 year old
girl who claims she is carrying his baby and I really did not want to get involved in that type of situation. The one I’m currently in is bad enough. To kill time, I flipped through Cosmopolitan magazine and read some interesting articles. It was normally not my first choice for reading materials, but it sure as Hell beat being hit on by Ryan.
I heard an unfamiliar voice call my name and looked up to see a small, mid forties, brunette, with a white coat and white Keds on. I took it to mean she was either a doctor or nurse. “That’s me.” I said. “We’re about to check the results and both Joe and Amanda have requested that you be there when
the results are revealed.” I nodded my head and got up from my seat, being sure to put the magazine back on the black coffee table. As I walked past Ryan, I felt him tug at my arm. “Don’t forget.. If things don’t work out with you and Mr. Cheaterpants, you know where to find me.” Then he freakishly winked at me and I felt the sudden urge to vomit. I picked up my speed as fast as my legs would take me.
Very, very nervously, I followed behind the nurse while she led me down a long, what seemed to be endless hallway. Finally, the nurse stopped walking and pointed to a door on my right. “They’re all inside waiting. Doctor Randall should be in in about five minutes.” I nodded my head and thanked her before walking into the test room. I stood next to Joe, who wrapped his arms around me and comfortingly rubbed my arms. Taylor and AJ were on the other side of the room and appeared to be totally clueless as to what was going on. We were all knocked out of our obliviousness when Dr. Randall appeared. Here we go, the moment of truth…
Chapter Eighty-Six
“I know this is a very uncomfortable time for the four of you and you probably just want to hear the test results so I’ll just get right to it. Joseph Jonas, you are not the father of this baby.” As much as I wanted to jump up and down right then and there, I held in the urge to do so. It would have been wrong and very embarrassing for me to do that, so I refrained and let the doctor continue. “Taylor Lautner, you are the father of this baby.” Just by looking at Taylor, I could tell how relieved he was to know this was his baby. “Now, I know this is still awkward and uncomfortable, so I’m going to head out and give you all some time to process and talk about what just happened. I don’t want you to think I’m abandoning you though. If there’s any questions you have, or anything else you need, please, do not hesitate to ask me and I’ll help you out to the best of my abilities.” Doctor Randall walked out of the room and the four of us just stood there, staring at each other. I decided to be the one to break the silence. “Taylor, Joe, would you two mind stepping out for a couple of minutes. I want to talk to AJ alone.” They nodded their heads and walked out, closing the door behind them. “Listen AJ, I…” I couldn’t finish my sentence, because AJ started bawling her eyes out and then began talking. “Oh, M-m-m-iley! I’m soooo sorry. I-I-I was such a whore for sleeping with Joe, while you were with him, and even after you broke up. You were never anything but nice to me and I ruined that by being a slut. I know you probably hate me and I don’t blame you, but I’m scared. I don’t know what to expect or what to do. I‘m going to be all alone because I have no one.” She continued to sob, and I felt really bad. I pulled her in close to me and rubbed her back. “AJ, it’s going to be okay, I promise. Right now, it might seem like you’re alone, but you’re not, I promise. You have me, you have Joe, and more importantly, you have Taylor, who is crazy about you. If you just believe in yourself and love yourself, the people around you, and your baby, you will realize how much of a miracle this is going to be a couple months down the road when you hold your baby for the first time. It‘s a life changing experience, but I promise it‘s worth it.”