CSWE--Where CSIs Procreate

4 Adam/Vivi fics

2008-07-07T05:24:46Z

Title: Trouble
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Adam/Vivi
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Written for 14_valentines. Part of my cswe universe. Prompt was attraction.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Trouble

Title: Afterglow
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Adam/Vivi
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Written for 14_valentines. Part of my cswe universe. Prompt was cuddling. After their first time, Adam reassures Vivi.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Afterglow

Title: Inappropriately Timed Sex
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Adam/Vivi
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Written for 14_valentines. Part of my cswe universe. Prompt was passion; you set my blood on fire.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. Vivi is mine.

Inappropriately Timed Sex

Title: Unsubtle
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Adam/Vivi
Rating: R
Summary: Written for 14_valentines. Part of my cswe universe. Prompt was silk sheets. Vivi has some questions.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. Vivi is mine.

Unsubtle

4 fics in the OT3 verse

2008-05-11T05:20:22Z

Title: First Steps
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Danny/Lindsay/Don
Rating: R
Summary: Written for 30_children. Prompt was truth. Lindsay can’t face the fact that her baby wants to walk. Danny and Don help her get there.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

First Steps

Title: The Best Medicine
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Danny/Lindsay/Don
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Written for 30_children. Prompt was pinned down. When Lindsay gets sick during her pregnancy, she finds the best medicine is at home.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

The Best Medicine

Title: Mother’s Day
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Danny/Lindsay/Don
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Written for 30_children. Prompt was first time. Lindsay’s second Mother’s Day brings new decisions.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Mother’s Day

Title: Big Mistake
Fandom/Pairing: CSI:NY/Danny/Lindsay/Don
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Written for 30_children. Prompt was sugar high. Never take two children to a Yankee game.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Big Mistake

Title: Speaking My Language

2008-04-21T05:42:13Z

Title: Speaking My Language
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Science Fiction, 28
Summary: Written for 30_children. Danny wants to teach the baby a part of her heritage.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Speaking My Language

Title: The Thing about having a sister

2008-04-21T05:40:32Z

Title: The Thing about having a sister
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Small Talk, 22
Summary: Written for 30_children. Sisterly fun.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

The Thing about having a sister

Title: Car Ride from Hell

2008-04-21T05:38:57Z

Title: Car Ride from Hell
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Sugar High, 4
Summary: Written for 30_children. Car rides with 4 children are never easy.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Car Ride from Hell

Title: Awesomest

2008-04-21T05:37:16Z

Title: Awesomest
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Television, 3
Summary: Written for 30_children. Vivi feels neglected.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Awesomest

Title: Oops!

2008-04-21T05:26:34Z

Title: Oops!
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Broken Bones, 19
Summary: Written for 30_children. Eli and Rowan get caught...by Danny.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Oops

Title: Mess

2008-04-21T05:24:48Z

Title: Mess
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: How I Met..., 16
Summary: Written for 30_children. The one thing that makes Danny a total mess...his kids...and grandkids.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Mess

Title: Vivi and the Box

2008-04-21T05:20:48Z

Title: Vivi and the Box
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Lie, 6
Summary: Written for 30_children. Vivi wants what is hers.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Vivi and the Box

Perfect Moment

2008-04-21T05:19:35Z

Title: Perfect Moment
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Restless, 29
Summary: Written for 30_children. Adam and Vivi welcome their first child to the world.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

Perfect Moment

The CSWE Family Tree

2008-04-12T22:13:58Z

For anyone who has been wondering what all the CSWE children look like or who's going to be dating who here is the official CSWE Family Tree. It has all four of the CSWE families and how they are connected.

3 Fics

2008-04-10T03:11:26Z

Title: Caught
Author: Scoob2222
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Rainstorm, 27
Rating: R
Summary: Eli gets an eyeful.
A/N: Back story for this fic at cswe
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Caught

Title: Grandmother's like to mettle
Author: scoob2222
Rating: PG-13
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme: Mother's Day, 12
Summary: Rowan's love of dancing as it effects her through the years.
A/N: Back story for this fic at cswe
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Grandmother's like to mettle

Title: Naked
Author:scoob2222
Rating: R
Claim: Danny Messer/Lindsay Monroe
Fandom: CSI:NY
Theme:Porn on the Computer, 24
Summary: Rowan's love of dancing as it effects her through the years.
A/N: Back story for this fic at cswe
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Naked

Monster Hunters, CSI: NY, children of Don Flack Jr. and Stella Bonasera, #7 Monsters under the bed

2008-04-04T14:12:02Z

Title: Monster Hunters
Author:Rory
Claim: the children of Don Flack Jr. and Stella Bonasera
Fandom: CSI New York
Theme: #7 Monsters Under the bed
Disclaimer:I only own Eli, Rowan, Vivi, and the twins

“Mommy!” Eli cried, tiny feet running down the hallway from his room to Don and Stella’s. “Mommy, mommy, mommy!”

“What’s wrong?” Stella asked groggily, rubbing her eyes and reached down to lift him into bed.

“There’s a monster in my room,” Eli said, snuggling between his parents.

“Aw, baby,” Stella said, smoothing down his dark curls. “There are no monsters in your room.”

”Yes there are. I heard one.”

“You’re sure it wasn’t one of the babies?” Stella asked.

“It was a monster,” Eli said emphatically. “Don’t you believe me?”

“Of course I do,” Stella said, hugging her little boy.

Don reached out and ruffled his son’s hair. “Tell you what,” he said, stifling a yawn, “why don’t you stay in here tonight, and tomorrow your mom and I will get rid of all the monsters.”

“You can do that?” Eli asked, his eyes wide.

“Of course. It’s what we do all the time. Your mom’ll use some of her fancy science stuff and find all the monsters and then I’ll catch them and put them in monster jail.”

“You’ll find all of them?” Eli asked his mother.

“Every last one,” Stella assured him.

“And you’ll catch them?” he continued, turning to his father.

“Yep,” Flack answered. “So you don’t have to worry about monsters any more.”

8888888888888

“Where’s your red car?” Eli asked, digging through Rowan’s toy box.

She shrugged. “My mom probably stole it for Vivi.”

“Vivi’s too little for cars.”

“Well, she gets all the cool toys.”

“So? I have two babies at my house.”

Rowan stuck her tongue out.

“You check every night and make sure there aren’t any monsters in your room, right?” Eli asked, taking the blue car from Rowan and running it across the floor.

Rowan eyed him skeptically. “There’s no such thing as monsters. My mom says.”

“Moms have to say that,” Eli retorted, “but it’s true. There’s monsters in my room.”

“How do you know?”

“I heard them. And right now my mom and dad are getting rid of all of them, so it’ll be safe when I get home.”

“Then if there were ever any monsters in my house my mom and dad would get them all too.”

“I bet my mom and dad can catch way more monsters than your mom and dad.”

“No way.”

“Uh huh.”

Rowan shook her head adamantly.

“My dad’s a cop,” Eli said.

“So?”

“So cop’s are way better at catching monsters than anybody else.”

Rowan’s bottom lip stuck out. “You’re mean.”

Eli frowned. “Well, if you ever find any monsters, then my dad can come over and catch them.”

“Okay.”

888888888

“Hi baby,” Stella murmured, scooping Eli up and giving him a hug. “Did you have fun with Rowan?”

He nodded. “If there’s ever monsters in her room, daddy will go help catch them, right?”

“Of course,” Stella murmured.

“And you’re sure you and daddy found all the monsters?”

“Yes baby.”

“Every one?”

“Mmmhmm.”

“Come with me,” Flack said, extending his hand and taking the little boy’s. “I’ll show you.”

Eli walked hesitantly into his room. “What if there’s still monsters?”

“There aren’t,” Don said. “I promise.” He knelt on the floor in front of the bed and turned on the flashlight. “See, no monsters.”

“Thank you daddy,” Eli said, throwing his arms around his father’s neck.

“Anything for you my boy. Anything for you.”

My prompt table

2008-04-04T11:00:06Z

CSI:NY, The children of Donald Flack and Stella Bonasera for 30_children

3/15 Completed

01.	All Grown Up	02.	Hug	03.	Drinks	04.	Stuffed Animal	05.	Blowing Bubbles
06.	Fathe/Mother Daughter/Son Time	07.	Monster Under the Bed	08.	Prom Night	09.	Drivers License	10.	Bad News
11.	Name	12.	Lullaby	13.	Slamming Doors	14.	Run Away	15.	Family Business

Dance

2008-04-03T23:21:19Z

Title: Dance
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: Life and Death, 8
Summary: Rowan's love of dancing as it effects her through the years.
A/N: Back story for this fic at cswe
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Dance

Title: In Love

2008-03-30T05:59:04Z

Title: In Love
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: Love, 26
Summary: Vivi is Danny and Lindsay’s second child and this is the story of her first time with Adam…yes Adam from the show.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

In Love

6 Eli/Rowan Fics

2008-03-30T05:58:25Z

Title: Property of Rowan Messer
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: Truth, 7
Summary: Rowan hates cheerleaders
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Property of Rowan Messer

Title: Backseat Surprise
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: Park, 5
Summary: Rowan is always getting Eli in trouble.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Backseat Surprise

Title: Home Economics
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: First Time Alone, 23
Summary: Rowan and Eli spend some time alone.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Home Economics

Title: Miserable
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: ”Oh…”, 17
Summary: Rowan is miserably sick and her father is not helping.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Miserable

Title: Perfect
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: First Time, 18
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Rowan and Eli’s First Time
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Perfect

Title: Beautiful
Author: Scoob2222
Fandom: CSI:NY
Claim: Danny/Lindsay
Theme: Children, 30
Summary: Eli thinks Rowan is the most gorgeous woman alive, especially when she’s pregnant.
Disclaimer: CSI:NY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me. However, Danny and Lindsay's kids are mine and Rorylie's. So are Stella and Flack's.

Beautiful

Title: The CSWE Universe Part 4/4

2008-03-23T00:22:24Z

Title: The CSWE Universe Part 4/4
hors: Rorylie and Scoob2222
Pairing: Stella/Flack, Danny/Lindsay
Rating: R
Summary: The story of how Danny/Lindsay and Stella/Flack got to got together and started families.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me

“Hey,” Danny said softly when Lindsay started to stir.

“Hi,” she said groggily. “What time is it?”

“Six.”

“Morning or night?”

He chuckled. “Night.”

“How long did I sleep?”

“You fell asleep around eleven. Stella stayed until noon. She’s coming back tomorrow. I think she’s already awfully fond of our girl.”

Lindsay smiled. “Can I see her?”

He nodded, carrying Rowan over to the bed.

“Have you slept?” she asked as Danny lowered the baby into her arms.

“A little. Mostly I just stared at her.”

“She’s amazing,” Lindsay murmured, nuzzling the baby’s face.

“You’re amazing.”

“She’s ours.”

He nodded. “I’ve just been sitting here, looking at her, thinking about the fact that we made her.”

“We did.”

“We did good.”

Lindsay nodded. “Really good.”

8888888

“Are there any baby clothes left in Manhattan?” Lindsay giggled when Stella started pulling clothes out of the bag she brought.

“Rowan needs the perfect coming home outfit. It’s my job as godmother.”

“You’re like a fairy godmother here.”

“I like this one,” Stella murmured, holding up a tiny flowered dress.

Lindsay nodded. “I really can’t thank you enough.”

“It’s just some clothes Lindsay.”

“It’s not just the clothes. It’s everything. Yesterday. Thanks for being here.”

Stella smiled. “I didn’t do anything, but you’re welcome.”

“I couldn’t have done it without you.”

“You would have. You had Danny. And even if you’d been all alone, you would have been alright for the baby.”

Lindsay wrinkled her nose. “Will you just let me thank you?”

“I’m glad I could help, even if it was a little terrifying.”

“Do you want me to lie and tell you it was all rainbows and kittens?”

“Yes please.”

Lindsay nodded. “It looked much worse than it was.”

Stella sighed. “Tell me the truth. Maybe it will help me be prepared. Because I have to say, it looked like the most horrible thing ever.”

“It sort of was,” Lindsay murmured. “It was worth it though.”

“Yeah,” Stella agreed. “She’s beautiful.”

Lindsay smiled. “She’s a genius too. She’s already figured out breastfeeding and it takes some babies weeks.”

“She must have gotten your brains then. Though Danny’s always been great with breasts, so maybe she’s a little of both.”

8888888

“Hey,” Danny murmured when Flack pushed open the door.

“Hey. I can come back later or something.”

“It’s fine,” Danny said, shaking his head.

“I don’t want to wake her up.”

“You’re fine. Lindsay’ll sleep through it.”

“What about the baby?”

“This is pretty much what she does ninety percent of the time right now.”

“I got her a present,” Flack murmured, holding up a tiny pink Yankees cap.

Danny laughed. “It’s perfect,” he said, taking it and placing it on Rowan’s head. “See?”

“Looks good on her.”

“Stella was here earlier.”

“Yeah. She thought maybe we should stagger our visits, didn’t want to overwhelm you.”

“Are you just gonna hover there in the doorway?”

Flack shrugged. “You look like you have things covered.”

“Come in. Sit down. Meet your goddaughter.”

“She’s cute. She looks like Lindsay.”

“She’s blond and she has blue eyes.”

“But she’s cute, so she must look like Lindsay.”

Danny rolled his eyes. “Come on, at least hold her or something.”

“She looks comfortable.”

“You’re scared of holding a baby?”

“She’s really tiny.”

“She’s a day old. How big did you expect her to be?”

“I’ll hold her when she’s bigger. Like three or something.”

Danny sighed. “Stella is having your baby. Are you not gonna hold your own kid?”

“I’ll let Stella do that.”

“You’re hopeless.”

“She’s all tiny and perfect and her head’s all wobbly. It just doesn’t seem like a good idea. If Monroe were awake she’d agree.”

“If Montana were awake she’d be threatening to kick your ass again. Sit. Hold the baby.”

Flack lowered himself reluctantly into the chair, frowning at Danny.

“She’s just gonna sleep. All you have to do is sit there and hold her. Keep your arm under her neck.”

“Sounds complicated.”

“It’s not. Eight year olds can do it.”

“That makes me feel better.”

Danny slowly lowered Rowan into his arms. “See, it’s nothing.”

“She’s really tiny.”

“Did you ever take biology? They have to start out pretty small.”

“Can you take her back now?”

Danny lifted his daughter up. “You’re gonna have to get over this.”

“I’m trying.”

888888888

“I really just want to go to bed,” Stella muttered.

“Come on, Stella, let me help,” Flack murmured.

“You can’t help. I just want to try and sleep.”

“Please.”

“Fine,” she sighed, closing her eyes.

“Good,” he said, smiling, moving into the bathroom and filling the bathtub with water, monitoring the temperature careful, lighting candles around the room.

“Ready?” he asked softly.

She nodded.

He helped her to her feet, leading her into the bathroom.

“I’m a million years pregnant,” she said. “You can’t possibly be working this hard to see me naked.”

“You’re beautiful.”

“I’m not. You don’t even really believe that.”

“Of course I do,” he said, removing her clothing and then his own.

“Promise me something Don.”

“Anything.”

“Don’t stay here just because of the baby.”

“Stel, we talked about this.”

“I want to hear you say it. I want to hear you promise that you’re not going to stay because of the baby. I need you to stay for me.”

He leaned down, cupping her face and kissing her tenderly. “I love you, Stella. I am here for you.”

She nodded. “Okay then.”

“Okay,” he said, taking her hand, stepping into the bathtub and helping her in after him. “Better?” he asked, after he brought her body to rest over his.

“I guess.”

“How can I help?”

She shrugged. “I’m just sore. Everything aches.”

“You want me to rub your back?”

“You don’t have to.”

“Will it help?”

“I don’t know. I’m just uncomfortable.”

“We will take a nice bath, and then we’ll go to bed.”

“You don’t have to do all of this.”

“I’m taking care of you.”

“I know this isn’t what you signed up for.”

“We’re having a baby, so I guess it sort of is.”

She sighed. “I know this isn’t what you wanted.”

“It’s what you want.”

“That’s not the same.”

“You’re what I want.” He swallowed. “It’s not that I don’t want it, Stella. It’s just…I can look at you and see you’re going to be this amazing mother, the same way you can look at Lindsay, hell, even Danny, and know they’re gonna be great at it. But not me.”

“I think you’re gonna be pretty damn good.”

“I’m trying.”

“I know,” she said softly, shifting, trying to get comfortable.

He helped her move until she settled in a semi comfortable position and then started rubbing her back.

“Thanks,” she murmured, leaning against him.

“Just trying to help.”

She nodded. His fingers moved over her shoulders and neck before settling on her lower back. She felt a sharp wave of pain that moved across her stomach, causing her to moan softly.

Flack stopped moving. “What’s wrong?”

She shook her head. “It’s nothing.”

“Are you sure?”

“Mmhmm.”

“You ready for bed?” he asked. “I’ll get you all comfortable, rub your back and your feet until you fall asleep.”

“And you’ll stay with me?”

“Of course. Where am I going to go?”

“I don’t know,” she said, watching as he climbed out of the bath and gathered up her robe for her. “Home with some twenty year old stripper named Brandi?”

“Now you’re just being ridiculous.” He moved to the edge of the bathtub to help her up.

“Ohhhhhhhhh,” she moaned as the pain returned much more intensely. She reached out to grip his arm. “I think my water just broke,” she gasped.

“Okay,” he said calmly, pulling her feet and lifting her out of the bath. “Let’s get you dressed.”

“How can you be so calm?”

“It’s my job to be calm.”

She nodded.

“How are you doing?” he asked, moving into the bedroom and gathering her clothes.

“I really want that epidural now.”

He smiled. “We’ll get you to the hospital and get that started then.”

888888888

Flack was holding Stella’s hand. He was good at it, better then he imagined, holding her hand, pushing her hair off her face, feeding her ice chips. She made it to five centimeters before the epidural stopped her from progressing. That had been fifteen hours ago. He’d done what he could to keep her calm, help her, comfort her, even climbing into bed with her when she was writhing in pain and holding her. His hands were covered in blood from where her fingernails dug into his skin.

She’d been pushing for over an hour, each time falling back on the bed, her eyes on his, a mixture of agony and pain there. He murmured words of comfort to her, running his fingers through her hair.

“The baby,” she breathed. “Don how’s the baby?”

He turned, everything slowing in the room until the only thing he could feel was her hand in his, his heart pounding in his chest as he stared at the tiny baby.

“Is the baby okay?” Stella gasped.

He nodded, turning back to her slowly, his eyes blurred with tears. “He’s perfect,” he whispered, wiping at her tears with the pads of his thumbs.

“He?” she asked, her voice shaky.

“He’s amazing, he’s so beautiful. He’s so perfect.” Flack leaned down, pressing kisses around her face. “You’re amazing. Thank you. I love you so much. I love him.”

“I love you,” she cried, reaching out to stroke his face with a shaking hand. “I want to hold him.”

“Sure,” he murmured, standing up, taking the baby carefully from the nurse. He placed the boy on Stella’s chest, fingers lingering on his back.

“You were worth it,” Stella cried, kissing her son. “You were so worth all of that.”

“You can barely keep your eyes open,” Flack said softly, his fingers pulling tenderly through her curls.

She smiled sleepily. “Will you take him?”

“Mmmhmm,” Flack murmured, lifting the boy to his chest and settling in the chair as Stella quickly drifted off.

“Would you like me to take him to the nursery?” one of the nurses asked softly.

“No. I’ve got him.”

888888888888

“Hi,” Lindsay said softly, pushing open the door to the hospital room. “Ohhh,” she cooed, looking at the baby. “And you look at you,” she nodded to Flack. “You look comfortable.”

He smiled, rocking slowly back and forth. “Yeah.” He paused. “Thanks.”

“I’m just glad I didn’t have to kick your ass.”

“Yeah it’d be a real shame if she messed up your pretty face,” Danny laughed.

“How are you?” Lindsay asked, perching carefully on the edge of Stella’s bed.

“Very glad it’s all over. Very glad.”

Lindsay smiled. “He’s beautiful.”

“Yeah,” Stella said, reaching for her son. Flack reluctantly placed him in her arms.

“What do you think Rowan?” Lindsay asked, shifting her little girl until the baby was looking at the little boy. “Pretty cute, huh?”

The baby blinked her bright blue eyes, watching the boy curiously before leaning slightly towards him and licking at his fingers.

“Hey, missy,” Lindsay laughed, pulling the baby back, “we do not eat our friends. It’s not very ladylike.”

&&&&&&

Lindsay rested back in her chair as she watched Danny and Flack carry their children around the park. They held the babies against their chest as they flew kits. Even though Rowan and Eli were too young to understand what they were doing, or even stay awake for all of it, it was still a beautiful sight.

She smiled to herself, stretching out, and the grass warm against her bare toes.

"Do you feel as ridiculously happy as I do right now?” Stella asked as she stretched out her own chair.

"I do," Lindsay said with a grin.

"Can I be extremely cheesy right now and say I wish I could freeze this moment forever?"

"You can. As long as you agree with me, we have some cute kids. Definitely the cutest ones here."

"Absolutely, without a doubt."

"Cute boyfriends too," Lindsay added.

"The cutest," Stella agreed, "Everyone is jealous of us."

Lindsay giggled. "Real life fairy tale, huh? Happily ever after."

"And ever and ever," Stella said happily as she sipped on her juice. Then her eyes narrowed as two blondes sauntered up to Danny and Don, "Oh, yeah that's not going to happen."

Title: The CSWE Universe Part 3/4

2008-03-23T00:19:21Z

Title: The CSWE Universe Part 3/4
hors: Rorylie and Scoob2222
Pairing: Stella/Flack, Danny/Lindsay
Rating: R
Summary: The story of how Danny/Lindsay and Stella/Flack got to got together and started families.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

“How is she?” Danny asked after Lindsay let herself into the apartment.

“Sick. Miserable.”

He sighed. “What can I do?”

“Have you talked to him?”

“No.”

“He’s your best friend. How can you not know what’s going with him?”

“We’re boys Montana.”

“What the hell is wrong with him?” Lindsay asked, walking to the bedroom, kicking off her shoes and crawling into bed.

“I think he’s probably scared.”

“Were you scared when we found out?” she asked softly.

“No,” he murmured, climbing into bed next to her. “I was so excited. The first two weeks, I was telling random people on the street.”

Lindsay smiled, stroking his face tenderly. “I’m glad I’m doing this with you.”

He reached out to rest his hand on her belly. “I’m glad I’m doing this with you,” he murmured, kissing her.

“You have to talk to Flack.”

“I will.”

“Tell him I’m going to kick his ass.”

He nodded. “I will pass that along.”

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The bar was empty, which wasn’t terribly surprising, it was eleven o’clock in the morning, and even the most dedicated alcoholics had to sleep sometime. Danny slid onto the barstool next to Flack, nodding at the bartender.

“I’ll take a beer,” he murmured, sipping slowly once the bottle was placed in front of him. “Good morning Donnie.”

Flack laughed mirthlessly. “No clever line like fancy meeting you here?”

Danny shrugged. “Lindsay says she’s gonna kick your ass. I thought about opening with that one.”

“She sent you?”

“I would have come on my own.”

“How is she?”

“You asking about Lindsay or Stella?”

“How is she?” Flack repeated.

“If you mean my Montana, she’s pissed as hell and worried about Stella.”

“Is she okay?”

“You should go find out for yourself.”

“I doubt she wants to talk to me right now.”

“No, I think she wants to talk to you right now more than almost anything.”

“I fucked up Danny.”

“Big time,” Danny agreed. “What the hell are you doing, Flack?”

“I don’t know.”

“Well you better figure it out, because Stella’s having your kid.”

“I know.”

“Seriously, what the hell is wrong with you?”

"I have no idea what's wrong with me. Except I'm scared to death. I mean, realizing I was in love with Stella, that was scary enough. It was....paralyzing. You might have been happy to take the plunge, but I didn't see it coming. One minute we're hanging out once and a while the next thing I know I can't go to sleep unless I hear her voice."

“See,” Danny said, shaking his head, “that’s what I don’t get about any of this. Stella’s not some girl you just knocked up. You’re in love with her, you’re crazy about her.”

“I know. I know that. When she told me I just froze. I didn’t know what to say, and then I just couldn’t say anything. Me and Stella, we’re not you and Lindsay. I love her, but we’re not in the place you guys are at. We don’t even live in the same neighborhood, we haven’t come close to talking about moving in together. She’s never even spent the night at my place, I’m always at hers. I’ve been alone for a long time Danny. I’m pretty good at it. I don’t think I’m the fatherhood type. We didn’t plan for any of this.”

“I wasn’t always this guy either,” Danny pointed out.

“I know. And it took you years, Danny, I watched. I think you forget sometimes, but you didn’t just meet Monroe and suddenly turn into a different guy. I didn’t get that time.”

“Well, you don’t get years,” Danny muttered. “Sorry.”

“I barely had a dad. How am I supposed to do this?”

“The same way all the rest of us do. Be the kind of dad to your kid that you wish your old man would have been.”

“Does she hate me?”

“No. Lindsay does though.”

“I can buy her love back with a few chocolate cupcakes.”

“Go to Stella’s. She needs to see you. She needs to hear from you. She just needs you. She’s had a rough time.”

“Is she okay?”

“Mostly. Lindsay’s been helping her out. But she needs you.”

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“You have a key,” Stella said when she opened the door for Flack.

“I wanted to give you a chance to keep me outside.”

“Is that what you want?”

“Just what I deserve.”

She shook her head. “I don’t want to play games.”

“I’m sorry. Danny said you’ve been sick.”

“Yeah. If that’s why you’re here…”

“I’m here to keep Lindsay from kicking my ass.”

“If you’re here because you’re a good guy, I absolve you of all responsibility. You can be free.”

“I know I screwed up. I’m sorry.”

She sighed. “Don, just tell me why you’re here.”

“I got scared.”

“And you think I didn’t?”

“No. You were happy. It was all over your face, in your eyes. You just looked so damn peaceful and happy and bright.”

She moved to the couch, spreading out.

“Are you okay?” he asked softly.

“I’m fine. I just need to lie down.”

“Can I help?”

“Just keep talking.”

“I didn’t want to fuck up. I didn’t want to fuck the kid up. I thought…you’ll be good at this, Stel. You’re gonna be this great, amazing mom, and I guess I thought you and the kid would be better off on your own, without me around to screw things up.”

“There’s crackers in the kitchen. And tea. You know how to make tea, right?”

He nodded.

“You can’t run away. You can freak out as much as you need to Don, but you have to let me in. You have to talk to me. You have to stay here. I need you to promise me that.”

“I’m here,” he said softly, moving into the kitchen. “I’m here.”

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“You made her cry,” Lindsay muttered.

“I know. I feel really bad about that,” Flack said, hanging his head.

“She’s pregnant and you made her cry.”

“I know.”

“She’s my best friend. I would want to kick your ass for making any pregnant girl cry right now, but my best friend.” Lindsay shook her head.

“Do you want to hit me? Would that help?”

“Yes. It might be bad for the baby though. If nothing else it would be setting a really bad example.”

“What if I promise to never, ever make her cry again?”

“She’s pregnant. Trust me, you’re gonna make her cry again.”

“Not intentionally.”

“I swear, Flack, if you screw up again,” she threatened.

“I know.”

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Lindsay rested against Danny, trying to get comfortable for the Lamaze class. The woman next to her smiled.

“First baby?” the woman asked.

Lindsay nodded. “How could you tell?”

“You’re wide eyed about the whole thing.”

“It’s cause she’s from Montana,” Danny laughed. “They grow them wide eyed there.”

Lindsay hit him lightly.

“I was in labor for three days with the first one,” the woman informed them.

“Three days,” Lindsay repeated, paling softly. “That’s a long time.”

Danny couldn't help but find the woman slightly humorous. Especially with the way Montana was desperately trying to get away from her.

Then she turned to him and he wasn't finding it so funny anymore.

"Now about sex, sex is good for the pregnant mommy, just nothing too rough. It can be great exercise, and so so relaxing, especially in those last months where you feel as big as a blimp. Now the most comfortable way to do it is if you prop her, well, here, let me just show you."

"Yeah Danny," Lindsay said, an innocent smile across her lips, the look in her eyes anything but. "Let her show you. It could be educational. Helpful. Don't you want me to be relaxed?"

"I think we're doing just fine on own," Danny muttered. "Thanks."

"But she wants to help us," Lindsay protested, batting her eyelashes. "You might accidentally hurt me. You don't want to hurt me or the baby, do you? Don't you love us?"

Danny leaned closer. "You're enjoying this." He turned back to the woman. "So, three days. Wow. That must have been awful."

"The pain was excruciating." She turned to Lindsay. "Nothing can really prepare you for it. I wanted to die. Worst pain I've ever experienced in my life. I actually broke Howie's hand, I squeezed it so tightly."

Lindsay nodded, struggling to keep a polite smile on her face.

“Now Megahn,” the woman continued, “she’s our youngest. She kind of just popped right out.”

“Laura actually had her in the car,” her husband said proudly. “Didn’t even make it to the hospital.”

Danny grinned at Lindsay. “Just imagine, Montana, I could deliver the baby. Kind of romantic, don’t you think?”

“So,” Lindsay asked, smiling back, “anything else you’d recommend, for the bedroom? Danny acts shy, but I know he’d really like your input.”

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“She didn’t seriously try to demonstrate a sex position on Danny?” Stella laughed.

“She did, I swear, Stella, she did.”

Stella shook her head. “I can’t believe he didn’t let her. He could have taught a class or something.”

“Seriously,” Lindsay said, “come to my Lamaze class. Keep the crazy people from sitting next to me.”

Stella shook her head. “I know myself, Lindsay. I’m just going to get a nice epidural. In the parking lot. After I have one contraction.”

“Wow, you’re barely into the second trimester and you already have your birth plan all worked out.”

“I’m an overachiever at this whole pregnancy thing.”

“You do know that epidurals don’t always work, right?”

“That’s a very mean way to try to get me to come to your Lamaze class.”

“Did it work?”

“I just don’t think that a bunch of breathing and panting is going to help. I took biology, I’ve got a pretty good grasp on what has to happen. I’m gonna go with the drugs.”

“You can take Lamaze and still get an epidural. And it’s more than just breathing, it’s relaxation techniques.”

“I think you’re supposed to be a little further along than I am.”

“Are you getting tired of making up excuses?”

“You really want me to go?”

She nodded. “Please. I cannot hear any more about the three day long labor.”

“Three days?”

“She broke her husband’s hand.”

“Jesus.”

“So you’ll come?”

“I’ll think about it.”

“What are you scared of?”

“It’s just…Flack.”

“I will kick his ass.”

“All nine months pregnant of you?”

“Yes.”

“He’s doing great, Lindsay. Honestly. He’s there, all the time, he does everything for me, I’m just afraid to push it.”

“You’re having a baby, Stella. The two of you are having a baby. If things are really good between you, then he has learned how to deal with that. And if he hasn’t, I will kick his ass.”

“I got that.”

“Good.”

“I also got you a present.”

“What? Really?”

“Well, I know you don’t want a baby shower, which I completely understand, because I hate them too, so I made sure no one threw you one.”

“Something that you would like me to take note of and do for you?”

“Yes sweetie. Anyway. I wanted to get you something special for you.” Stella got off the couch and brought back a wrapped box. “Congratulations. I’m so happy for you.”

Lindsay beamed, pulling the paper away slowly. “It’s beautiful,” she breathed.

“It’s a keepsake box. You put some the baby’s stuff in it.”

Lindsay nodded. “I love it. Thank you,” she said, hugging Stella.

Stella laughed. “It’s a good thing you’re having this baby soon, because we can barely hug.”

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"No," Lindsay said.

"But...."

"No, we are not naming our child after a Yankee player who might be traded tomorrow. Do you really want the baby to be named after a Dodger or god forbid a Red Sox?"

He grimaced, but stormed ahead, "That is why this is the perfect name. The player is young, fabulous, amazing arm, he's going to become their new closer and he'll probably be there for years, if not decades."

"And if he isn't there?" Lindsay argued, "Do you really want to name our child after a slimy, puss filled creature from Star Wars?"

"Oh come on," Danny said, "Jaba isn't even spelled the same way. It’s a nickname.”

“My baby girl is not being named after some baseball player.”

“If it was a boy it would be okay?”

“Let’s have this baby, and see how that goes, and then maybe I’ll consider letting you get close enough to me to impregnate me again.”

He sighed. “Fine, you pick a name.”

“Dani.”

“No, because then if we have a boy it ends up being like…Lindan or something.”

“That’s not even a real name.”

“Whatever.”

“Fine,” she muttered. “I thought it would be cute.”

“Is it my turn?”

“Sure.”

“Lola.”

“Lola is a stripper name.”

He grinned. “Where do you think I got it?”

“You are so close to never getting to touch me again.”

“Yeah, talk to me in a hour when the hormones are surging again. Your turn.”

“Rose.”

“Rose is someone’s grandmother.”

“Rose is pretty. It’s classic.”

“Lacey.”

“I hated a girl in grade school named Lacey. She was mean.”

He sighed. “Our Lacey would be lovely.”

Lindsay shook her head. “Alicia.”

“I slept with a girl named Alicia.”

“Well, honestly, if we eliminate the name of every girl you’ve ever slept with, we’ll be screwed.”

“Tiffany.”

“Tiffany sounds like a cheerleader. A dumb cheerleader.”

“Amber.”

“You don’t even like that name Montana.”

“I just want a name. The baby has to have a name so it can come. And it really, really needs to come soon.”

“Alison.”

She wrinkled her nose. “Alexis?”

He picked up one of the many baby name books that were spread across the apartment and started flipping through it. “There’s got to be a perfect name in here somewhere. Our baby deserves the perfect name.”

“I would settle for something I don’t hate at this point.”

He grinned. “I never thought about what a big deal this is. Whatever name we pick, this little person, that’s its name. Forever.”

“Or until it gets old enough to have it changed. Which I think little Jaba Messer would probably be doing in preschool.”

“I think you might be coming around to Jaba.”

“Keep looking Messer.”

He frowned. “What about Rowan?”

“Danny,” she screeched.

“I’m serious. I like it. I think it’s pretty.”

“Danny,” she gasped, causing him to look up and find her clutching her stomach.

“What’s wrong Montana?” he asked, dropping the book and getting to his feet.

She gasped again as the pain gripped her midsection.

“Talk to me,” he murmured, wrapping arm around her back. “Breathe.”

“I don’t want to breathe,” she muttered. “I’m having a baby here. Don’t tell me what to do.”

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“What the hell is taking so long?” Lindsay demanded.

Danny glanced into the backseat. “There’s a little traffic.”

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” she muttered.

“It’s New York, Montana.”

“That’s the stupidest damn thing you’ve ever said,” she snapped. “I’m having a baby, and I am not having this baby in a car.”

“We’ve got time. First babies take a long time.”

“Shut up,” she screamed as a fresh wave of pain washed over her.

“Look, we knew this would probably happen. It’s all figured into the plan.”

“I don’t want to hear about the damn plan,” she groaned.

“Are you breathing?”

“Are you?” she snapped.

“How far apart are your contractions?” he asked quietly.

“I don’t know. I can’t count right now. I’m kind of busy.”

Danny frowned, glancing at his watch. “You’re gonna be fine, Montana. I’m going to get you to the hospital and you’re going to have this baby in a nice fluffy hospital room.”

“Shut up,” she moaned. “Please just stop talking.”

Danny nodded, grabbing his cell phone and punching in the number.

“How’s she doing?” Flack asked. “Stella wants to know if she’s okay.”

“She’s having the baby. Soon, maybe. I need your help.”

“Sure, what do you need?”

“We have a little traffic situation. It’s probably nothing, but Lindsay’s freaked out and her contractions are pretty close together, so I was so of hoping you could do a little magic, get us out of here.” He rattled off the address, glancing back at Lindsay again.

“I’m gonna get you out of here,” he murmured.

“I’m sorry,” she said, crying softly. “I’m being mean to you. I was so mean.”

“Shh,” he soothed, reaching back to pat her leg. “It’s okay.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.”

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Danny gave Stella a strained smile when she pushed open the door to Lindsay’s hospital room. She moved to Lindsay’s side, reaching out and taking the woman’s hand.

“Hi sweetie,” she murmured.

“It hurts,” Lindsay cried.

Stella glanced at Danny before looking back to Lindsay. “I’m sorry.”

“I want my mom. Does that sound stupid?”

“No,” Stella murmured. “I talked to her. Her plane leaves soon. But for now you have to settle for your fake big sister.”

“It really hurts.”

“Can’t they do something for her?”

Danny shook his head, feeding Lindsay more ice chips. “She’s nine centimeters. It’s too close to the end, they can’t give her anything.” He pressed a tender kiss to Lindsay’s temple.

“You know how you’re always talking about how you’re from Montana, the city hasn’t made you soft like it did me and Danny, right?” Stella asked. “You’re tough, you’re strong.”

Lindsay squeezed Stella’s hand more tightly. “I’m scared.”

“You’ve got Danny, and you’ve got me, okay?”

Lindsay nodded.

The doctor knocked once before pushing open the door. “I think you’re about ready to push, Lindsay,” she informed her.

“I can’t,” Lindsay panted, “I’m too tired.”

“You can,” Danny assured her.

Lindsay shook her head. “I’m too tired,” she sobbed.

“You can do this,” he repeated, helping her lift her legs into the stir ups.

She nodded, still crying as she began to push.

“I can’t,” she said, falling back on the bed. “Danny, I can’t, it hurts, it’s too much.”

“You’re almost there Montana,” he murmured. “I know you can do this.”

She nodded, moaning and gripping his hand tightly.

“I can see the head,” the doctor said.

“You’re doing great Lindsay,” Stella said softly.

“I’m so tired,” Lindsay cried.

“Just a couple more,” Danny soothed, “and it’ll be over. We’ll have our girl.”

“Am I still your girl?” she asked, her lip trembling.

He smiled, dropping a kiss to her shoulder. “You will always be my girl.”

Moments later the baby’s strong cries filled the room.

“I want to see her,” Lindsay said, tears rolling down her cheeks. One of the nurses held up the small, pink girl.

“Oh my god,” Lindsay breathed as the baby was placed on her chest. “Hi,” she whispered. “Hi.”

Danny wrapped an arm around her shoulder, reaching with shaking fingers to tough the baby’s soft skin.

“She’s beautiful,” Stella said quietly.

“We need to get her weight,” the nurse said. “Clean her all up.”

“You’re not taking her,” Lindsay whispered.

“No,” the woman explained. “It’s all the in the room, just right over here,” she pointed.

Lindsay nodded, turning to Stella. “Watch her?”

“Of course,” Stella murmured, standing up.

Lindsay turned to Danny, reaching out to stroke his cheek, staring at him with slightly unfocused eyes.

“You’re amazing,” he said, kissing her fingers. “I love you so much Montana.”

“I love you,” she said softly.

“Does she have a name?” one of the nurses asked.

“Rowan,” Lindsay answered.

Danny chuckled.

“That’s pretty,” Stella murmured.

“She picked it herself,” Danny explained.

“Rowan Louise Monroe Messer,” Lindsay said.

Stella lifted up the little girl and carried her to Lindsay. “Well welcome to the world Miss Messer.”

“Let Danny hold her,” Lindsay said, struggling to keep her eyes open.

“Hi there,” Danny said, pressing his lips to his daughter’s cheek. “This is your Aunt Stella. She’s gonna have your little cousin, and she and your mom, they’ll take you shopping and dress you up like a princess and take you out for cupcakes. And me and your Uncle Flack are gonna take you to baseball games, teach you how to catch. And we are going to love you so much,” he said, his voice catching slightly. “We already love you so much.”

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Title: The CSWE Universe Part 2/4

2008-03-23T00:17:46Z

Title: The CSWE Universe Part 2/4
hors: Rorylie and Scoob2222
Pairing: Stella/Flack, Danny/Lindsay
Rating: R
Summary: The story of how Danny/Lindsay and Stella/Flack got to got together and started families.
Disclaimer: CSINY, its characters, actors, etc do not belong to me.

“Hi,” Lindsay said warmly, hugging Stella when she stepped into the restaurant.

“Hi,” Stella murmured. “You look amazing.”

Lindsay smiled brightly. “Really?”

Stella nodded. “I love your dress.”

Lindsay blushed. “I had to try on a couple. The boobs make things different.”

“Well they’re fantastic,” Stella laughed. “Flack can’t stop staring at them.”

“I’m not staring,” he muttered, hugging Lindsay and pecking her on the cheek. “Where’s Messer?”

“He went to the bar to get drinks.”

“I’ll help him,” Flack offered, making his way through the crowd.

Lindsay led Stella over to her parents.

“So pleased to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Monroe,” Stella murmured.

“You work with Lindsay?” her father asked.

Stella nodded. “I’ve sort of adopted her and made her my little sister.”

Danny joined them, handing off drinks and placing a hand on the small of Lindsay’s back. “Our table’s ready.”

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“So then Danny gets Lindsay over this his place and starts giving her this wine, failing to mention that it’s homemade Italian wine,” Flack laughed.

“I really don’t think Lindsay’s parents want to hear that story now,” Stella murmured. “Entertaining as it is.”

“Right,” Flack said. “Sorry.”

“You need some coffee. We all need coffee,” Danny said, signaling the waiter.

“Stella offered to take us shopping for baby stuff,” Lindsay said, finishing her dessert.

“Do you have children?” Melinda asked.

“No,” Stella said softly. “Maybe someday. I’d like to.”

“Stel knows shopping though,” Danny said. “Anything you want, she knows where to find it.”

“Years of study,” Stella laughed.

“More wine Mrs. Monroe?” Flack asked, holding up the bottle.

“I really shouldn’t.” She turned to Stella. “You’re a lucky girl, catching this one.”

“I’m not sure I really caught him,” Stella murmured, “but thanks.”

“He’s the kind of man I always thought my Lindsay would end up with.”

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“Danny’s mom still lives in the same building he grew up in,” Lindsay informed her parents as Danny let them into his mother’s building.

“Some people consider that not moving up in the world,” Danny laughed.

“I think it’s sweet,” Lindsay said.

Danny opened the door to the apartment. “We’re here ma.”

“Lindsay, Lindsay, come here let me see you.”

Lindsay laughed, spinning in a circle.

“How are you?” the woman asked, hugging Lindsay tightly. “How’s the bambino?” she added, patting Lindsay’s stomach.

“Good. We’re both good.”

“Is my son feeding you?”

“Constantly.”

“Good. You’re too thin.”

“Well that will all be changing,” Lindsay said. “Maria, I want you to meet my parents, Melinda and John Monroe.”

“I’m so pleased to meet you. You’re the ones that gave us our Lindsay.”

Lindsay blushed, her nose crinkling.

Maria turned back to Lindsay. "Did you eat all of the zepploes I made you?"

“It was just as good as you promised,” Lindsay nodded.

“Daniel Anthony Messer,” Maria snapped. “Get your hands off my food.”

Danny stepped out of the kitchen sheepishly. “Sorry ma.”

“My incredibly rude son is right though. We should eat.” She led them all over to the table. “Which is it today Lindsay, ranch or Tabasco?”

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Danny frowned, watching Lindsay with concern as she threw up again. He rubbed her back, holding her hair carefully until it was over and she was crawling back into his lap.

“Do you want me to call the doctor?” he murmured.

“It’s just morning sickness,” she said weakly.

“Still.”

“I think it’s getting better,” she said quietly.

He found a rubber band on the sink and combed her hair back carefully with his fingers before fastening it.

”Tell me when you’re ready to go to bed,” he whispered.

“Just give me a couple of minutes.”

“You’ve got as much time as you need Montana.”

“Just stay with me.”

“I’m right here.”

Lindsay’s mother paused in the living room, staring through the open doorway at her daughter.

“I think I can sleep now,” Lindsay said after a moment.

Danny nodded, standing slowly and carrying her into the bedroom. He covered her with the blankets, wrapping each one around her body and kissing her forehead.

“I’m gonna get you some crackers,” he said softly. “And make you some tea. No caffeine, I know. Hawkes gave it to me, he said it would help.”

She nodded, her eyes closed. “And then you’ll come back?”

“I’ll come right back. If you need me just yell.” He left the door halfway opened and padded into the kitchen.

“What can I do?” Melinda asked, following him.

“I got it.”

“Please, Danny. Let me help.”

He finished gathering the supplies for the tea. “You can make these. Maybe make her some toast.”

She nodded. “I can take care of this. Go back to her.”

Danny shook his head. “I can take care of her. I’m used to taking care of her.”

“I can see that.”

He spun around. “You cannot possibly hate me for making her some goddamn tea.”

“I don’t hate you,” Lindsay’s mother said quietly.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine. I deserved that.”

Danny sighed. “I’m trying, I swear.”

“I know. I haven’t made things easy.”

Danny was silent.

“You’re worried about her,” she murmured.

“She’s been up all night.”

“If she starts to get dehydrated you should take her to the hospital. Otherwise she’s right, she’ll be fine.”

“I’m just trying to take care of her.”

“She talks about you all the time. Even before you were together, it was always Danny this, Danny that, every time I talk to her. I knew the first time I heard the way she said your name she was never coming home.” She shook her head. “I blame you for that. I feel like you took my baby from me. And then your mother. She gets to mother my baby, she’ll get to see my baby’s baby all the time and I’ll be lucky to see Lindsay a couple of times a year. I’m sorry.”

Danny swallowed. “Lindsay loves you.”

“My daughter loves you Danny. So much. You’re lucky that you found each other. Take care of her. Take care of my grandchild. You’re going to be a wonderful father.”

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“Hi,” Lindsay said, leaning on Stella’s desk.

“Hey. What’s up?”

“When’s your shift over?”

Stella glanced at her watch. “Five minutes. Why?”

“You wanna go shopping?”

“What are we shopping for?”

“Maternity clothes. I’m holding my pants together with a safety pin and a rubber band.”

“Impressive.”

“Thank you.”

An hour later Stella was searching through a rack of clothing. “What about this one?”

“No.”

Stella laughed. “Danny would like it.”

“Danny would like it too much. Danny would tear it up.”

“Well we can’t have that.”

Lindsay laughed. “So. Flack.”

“Subtle.”

“I don’t have to be subtle. I can just be pregnant and pushy and say it’s a hormonal thing.”

“Nice plan.”

“So tell me.”

“There’s nothing to tell. We’re seeing where it goes.”

“Where’s it going?”

“Straight to the bedroom so far.”

“Nice,” Lindsay nodded.

“You really are a crazy hormonal pregnant woman, aren’t you?”

“Sort of.” Lindsay paused. “Did you mean what you told my mom, that you want to have kids?”

Stella nodded. “I always thought I’d have a couple.” She paused. “I was pregnant once. A long time ago. I was barely twenty. His name was Robbie Green.” She smiled wistfully. “I thought he was the most beautiful, brilliant man in the world.”

“What happened?” Lindsay asked softly.

“I’m not supposed to tell you. You never tell a pregnant woman about bad pregnancies. You’re supposed to pretend they don’t know that sometimes it doesn’t work out.”

“You had a miscarriage.”

She nodded. “I was only about eight weeks. Maybe nine.”

“I had one too. About two months before I moved to New York.”

“And look at you now.”

“Yeah,” Lindsay said, staring at her reflection in the mirror. “Look at me now.”

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“Come on in,” Danny muttered after Flack pushed his way into the apartment. “Make yourself at home Donnie.”

“When you were falling for Monroe, going crazy, couldn’t get her out of your head, what did you do?”

“Uh, I stayed up for days, hallucinated her, and ended up flying to Montana. I don’t think that’s gonna work for you.”

“Dammit.”

“Stella got to you, huh?”

“I’m going crazy.”

Danny shrugged. “You want my advice?”

“That’s why I came here.”

“Just give up man. It’s over. You’re hooked, she has all the power, the sun rises and sets on her. Tell her. Pray she feels even close to the same about you.”

Flack sighed. “I can’t just get drunk and find some strippers.”

Danny shook his head. “Sorry man.”

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“It was a disaster,” Flack muttered.

“Stella said it wasn’t that bad,” Lindsay laughed.

“I’m never taking your advice again,” Flack continued, pointing at Danny.

“I did not tell you to burn the woman’s food and spill wine all over her. I told you to tell her how you felt. Not blurt it out after you’d already done all of that.”

“You do all of that stuff.”

“Yes, but I do it well,” Danny said smugly.

“Whatever. From now on Lindsay’s in charge of all my romantic advice.”

“I’m trying to grow a human being here,” Lindsay pointed out. “And move apartments. How much more am I supposed to take on?”

“Think of it as charity,” Danny laughed. “The boy needs it.”

“It’s not even like it turned out badly,” Lindsay said, taping up another box. “She told you she loves you too.”

“And she banned you from ever cooking again,” Danny pointed out. “Stella always was a smart girl. I really have no idea what she sees in you.”

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Lindsay was on the couch when he got home, her small tank top stretched tight over her breasts and small belly, the only other article of clothing on her body a teeny tiny pair of shorts.

“New outfit?” he asked.

She nodded, smiling at him. “I saw it when I went shopping with Stella. Went back to buy it just for you.”

He grinned, sitting on the floor in front of her. “I like it.”

“I thought you might.”

“Am I that predictable?”

“Hmm,” she murmured, “let me think. Yes. Yes you are Mr. Messer.”

He reached up with one finger, tracing the edge of the material that barely covered her breasts, smiling when she shuddered slightly.

“Sensitive, huh?” he asked.

She nodded wordlessly, shifting and pressing her body closer to his. His fingers brushed over her nipples, making her moan.

“Don’t tease Messer. It’s not nice.”

“You know me. Don’t I always play nice?”

“How do you want to do this?” she asked.

His fingers drifted down her body, over the curve and dip of her stomach. He stopped and pressed a kiss there before letting his fingers move down her legs. He loved it, her body changing, making her all curves, the way the body that knew so well, that he learned until he knew every inch of it was new now, something else for him to learn. He moved slowly, lifting her off the couch and carrying her into the bedroom. He pulled back, staring at her before ducking down to kiss her deeply.

“I’ll be right back,” he said, moving into the kitchen in search of strawberries.

“Danny,” she yelled, causing him to drop what he was doing and rush back in.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, moving to her side, nervously watching the way both of her hands were on her stomach.

“I felt the baby,” she said breathlessly, the brightest, most brilliant smile spreading across her face.

He put his hands next to hers, smiling at her.

“The books say it might be a couple more weeks before you can feel it,” she explained.

“That’s okay.”

She wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him softly. “I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you Montana. I love this kid.”

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Lindsay watched Danny out of the corner of her eye, constantly shifting in his chair.

“Danny, stop.”

“Right,” he said, stilling, staring at her, the paper gown draped over her body.

“Thank you.”

“It’s just this is a big deal. Ultrasound, big deal.”

“I know that,” she said through clenched teeth. You’re making me nervous. You’re supposed to keep me calm, that’s the deal. I have the baby, you keep me calm.”

He nodded. “Calm. Very calm. Everything’s going to be fine Montana.”

“You promise?”

“I do,” he said, taking her hand, kissing the tips of her fingers.

Lindsay took a deep breath, taking Danny’s hand and placing it over her swollen belly. “Are you scared?” she asked softly.

He shook his head. “I don’t want you to be scared.” He paused. “Was that a kick?”

She nodded.

He smiled. “See, the baby doesn’t want you to be scared.”

Lindsay’s grip on his hand eased and she closed her eyes. “After today it won’t be the baby. It will be he or she.”

“Yeah,” Danny grinned. “Last chance to make a bet.”

“Don’t you think that’s bad taste?” she laughed.

“Trying to win money from the mother of my child?”

“While profiting over your child,” she added.

“Well when you put it like that…”

They were interrupted by a soft knock on the door and the doctor pushing it open.

“How are you feeling?” the woman murmured as she prepared the ultrasound machine.

“Fine,” Lindsay said. “Good. We’ve been feeling the baby.”

The doctor smiled. “Good. Right on time.”

Danny squeezed her hand. “She’s been tired.”

The woman nodded. “Make sure you’re resting. A lot of women have a surge of energy during their second trimester. Maybe you’ll be feeling better soon.”

“We’re ready,” Lindsay said softly.

The doctor squeezed the cool gel over Lindsay’s stomach, taking the wand from the ultrasound machine and moving it slowly.

“There’s the heartbeat,” she said softly. Lindsay wiped at her tears, concentrating on the screen.

“And there’s your baby,” she continued. “There’s the head, the nose and eyes, the lips.”

Lindsay’s tears rolled freely down her cheeks. Danny wiped at them with the pads of his thumbs.

“Do you want to know the gender?”

Danny nodded.

“Let’s see what we can find out then.” She moved the wand around. “There’s the hands, the legs. And it looks like you’re having a little girl.”

“A girl,” Danny repeated breathlessly. “We’re having a baby girl.”

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“I don’t think that part goes there,” Lindsay murmured.

“Where else is it going to go?” Danny asked, surveying the pieces of the crib that were spread across the floor.

She shrugged. “Somewhere where it doesn’t make the whole thing fall apart?” she suggested when the pieces in his hands folding in on themselves.

“Don’t worry,” he sighed. “I’m going to get it figured out.”

“Why don’t you let me help you?”

“You’re pregnant, you shouldn’t be fighting with furniture.”

“I can read directions Danny, and give you instructions.”

“I can do this.”

“Sure you can cowboy,” Lindsay said, watching at the pieces fell again.

He sighed, handing her the sheet of instructions.

“I think that piece is backwards,” she said, pointing.

“Are you sure?”

“I can’t really be worse at this than you are,” she pointed out.

“At least sit down.”

She nodded, easing herself onto the couch. “The piece is still backwards. Now try it.”

“I guess that might work.”

She laughed. “Maybe.”

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“How are you?” Stella murmured as Lindsay lowered herself onto the couch.

“Good. I finally got to the part where you have a lot of energy. The baby’s moving all the time. My sex drive is crazy, so Danny’s happy. And I can’t eat enough marshmallow fluff.”

“So it’s finally getting easy?”

Lindsay nodded. “It’s nice right now. I feel kind of huge but I’m used to it.”

“You look good.”

“It’s all the sex. I think that’s where the glow comes from.”

“Nice theory.”

“Do you want to feel her move?”

“Sure.”

Lindsay took Stella’s hand and placed it at the top of her belly.

“She’s strong,” Stella murmured.

“Danny insists that she will not be playing soccer though. Only baseball.”

“He does know she’s a girl, right?”

“Doesn’t seem to matter.”

Stella smiled. “That’s Danny.”

“So,” Lindsay said. “Why’d you want me to come over?”

“I can’t just invite you to check on my almost goddaughter?”

“It seemed like it was a little more than that.”

Stella sighed. “This might be stupid.”

Lindsay shrugged. “You really have to tell me. I dragged my huge pregnant self all the way over here.”

“I bought a pregnancy test.”

“When?”

“Two days ago.”

“And you haven’t taken it yet?”

Stella shook her head.

“Go,” Lindsay ordered. “Do it now.”

“Yes ma’am. You’re very bossy.”

“It’s the hormones.”

Stella returned a moment later, putting the test on the coffee table. “I’m going to feel really stupid if it’s negative.”

“What’s Flack say?”

“I haven’t told him yet. I was waiting.”

Lindsay frowned. “What do you want it to say?”

“Let’s just wait and see what it does say.”

“I don’t think you have to worry about feeling stupid,” Lindsay murmured, lifting up the stick. “Congratulations.”

“Wow,” Stella said, smiling softly. “No more cigars. No wine.”

“No sushi,” Lindsay added. “No coffee. Get one of those pregnancy pillows, I have to have Danny on one side of me and it on the other.”

Stella nodded. “I’m having a baby,” she said softly.

“Yeah,” Lindsay smiled.

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“Hi,” Lindsay said softly, lowering herself to the floor next to Stella’s bed.

“Hi,” the woman responded weakly.

“I brought you some tea. Hawkes gave it to me, it’s sort of magic, it really helps with the morning sickness.”

“You didn’t tell me it was this bad.”

“I was hoping you’d have an easier time. Plus I had Danny.” Lindsay shook her head. “I’m sorry, that was like, the worst most horribly insensitive thing to say.” She paused. “Did you try to eat? I brought crackers.”

“You have better things to do than take care of me.”

“Sure. I could be at work, doing some more paperwork while Mac hovers around to make sure I don’t touch anything, or anyone in case my pregnancy is actually contagious and capable of shutting down the whole lab. I could be at home watching Danny baby proof our already baby proofed apartment. I could be in some bar kicking Flack’s ass.”

“You can’t kick his ass.”

“I totally could. I’m scrappy.”

Stella smiled, taking the cracker Lindsay handed her.

“What did he say?” Lindsay asked softly.

“He needs time.”

“Scoot over,” Lindsay murmured, climbing into bed.

“What are you doing?”

“Having a sleep over.”

“You are a really good friend.”

Lindsay shrugged. “I have a lot of practice being a little sister. And I always wanted a big sister.”

“Danny probably wants you to come home.”

“Danny wants a lot of things. Lifetime season tickets right behind home plate at Yankee Stadium, a Batmobile, failing that a Maserati, to give the baby some kind of Yankees themed name. It’s good for him, not always getting these things.”

"He's a great guy."

"So's Flack. He's just a little dumb at the moment. Give him time and he'll do the right thing."

"What's that?" Stella asked, turning her head to meet Lindsay's eyes, "I don't want a relationship because its the "right thing" like he has to man up and take it. I want him to want to be here. Or I don't want him here at all...." she sighed, "I really want him here."

"I know," Lindsay said, reaching out and touching her arm, "I know."

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