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Disclaimer: KISS and Gene Simmons are actual persons, and this story is a work of fiction, not intending to demean but is written out of tribute for a great rock legend. Terri Mason is my character. Veronica Lee is property of Paul'swomyn, while Calen McGregor is property of Jade. Both are used with permission from their authors. Some of the ideas developed in this story I give my thanks to Jade for!
by Trynia Merin
Chapter 4
Castle Donnington was a distant memory by the time her novel was submitted for publication. She could hardly believe it when they gave her the green light to finish the rest. Especially when she was busy typing chapter 24 on her computer when Gene knocked on her door and interrupted her with a mail call
"Can I pry you away from cyberspace for a minute?" he asked, leaning in the door.
"Oh, sure," Terri said when he strode in, carrying what looked to be a stack of letters. He playfully pretended to rifle through them, and toss the junk to one side.
"Well, this one says you're a millionaire," he teased.
"Duh," Terri laughed, as he continued through the stack, and tossed her the Science magazine, and then came upon a manila envelope.
"Oh, and what's this… I don't know if you'd possibly be interested in this…" he said, putting the envelope to the bottom of the pile.
"What is it?" she asked, getting out of her chair.
"Oh nothing," Gene joked, holding the envelope behind his back.
"Oh give it here!" she demanded, reaching around him, but he switched it to the other hand, and held it above his head.
"Aren't we anxious all of a sudden?" Gene smirked cutely.
'You stinker, give it here!" she cried, leaning up. "That's not fair! I hate the height discrepancy!"
"What will you do for it?" he teased.
"Oh shut up," she laughed, and leaned up on her toes to give him a kiss. Gene pulled her close, stealing a soft press of her lips to his.
"Mmm," Gene muttered but Terri suddenly leaned heavily on him. She parted from the kiss, gasping as she felt the floor rocking.
"Uh… I don't feel so well," she groaned.
"Sweetheart, what's wrong… I didn't meant to…" Gene apologized, helping her to her chair and guiding her to sit down again. "You're turning green…"
"Oh God! I feel like I'm going to throw up," she moaned.
"Wait, here I'll get you some water. Relax, take it easy… breathe in and out! I'll be right back," Gene panicked, and rushed out the door. She felt him shove the envelope into her hand and gasped as she looked at it. Tor books was what it said, and she gasped when she ripped it open and saw a check enclosed with a letter. The amount blew her mind, and she gasped again, leaning back in her chair.
"Advance… oh my god… I can't believe it!"
Gene darted back in, carrying a glass of water and rushed to her side. "Here… take a sip of this… relax now…"
He rested on one knee, his other arm behind her neck as he tipped the water to her lips and helped her sip a little at a time. She glanced up at him, color returning to her ashen face. "Oh thanks. Gene, that was a letter from Tor Fantasy press!"
"Your publisher?"
"Yes! They gave me a royalty check for my latest novel sales, and it included an advance for my latest book in production!"
"Holy shit, you're kidding," Gene muttered, and she showed him the letter and the check. His eyebrows raised at the amount posted.
"You see, it's more money then I've seen in one paycheck, that's for sure!"
"That's wonderful, Terri!" Gene smiled proudly. "You see, you showed them you could do it!"
"And I have you to thank for it," she smiled, and brushed her lips to his. Wrapping his arm around the chair Gene leaned in between her knees and stroked his hand up and down her back. They enjoyed their closeness for a few minutes before the telephone rang.
"Don't bother I'll get it," Gene offered, and rose to leave the room. Terri sighed, and sipped the rest of the water. Another wave of nausea overcame her as soon as she rose from the chair, and she stumbled down the hall to the bathroom just in time.
As she leaned over the porcelain bowl, she heard Gene calling her name, and she quickly struggled to keep down whatever was making her sick. That odd smell permeated her nostrils, and she released what her body struggled to expel.
Soon she felt a hand on her shoulder, and a shape crouching next to her, stroking her back as he moved her hair out of her face. A wet washcloth sponged away the smell and stink of sickness, as he shushed her.
"I feel… so embarrassed… I don't know why I should feel sick…"
"I hope you're okay, why didn't you tell me?" Gene scolded her softly. "I hope it's not food poisoning. Maybe I should take you to the doctor, or have one of the boys run you over for a checkup…"
"Gene, don't fuss, I feel better. Maybe it was just something that didn't agree with me…"
"Terri, if you're sick you need to see a doctor. You've been overdoing it maybe with this novel. I'm sure that publisher can damn the hell wait!"
"I know. But I'll make an appointment tomorrow, ok? Get a checkup, and see if I'm okay."
"I'll make you an appointment today, so you can see the doctor tomorrow," Gene said firmly. "I'm not having you let something like this go!"
"You're worse then my mother sometimes," she laughed, as he continued to wipe the rest of the sweat and stink from her face.
"Hey, I take care of what's mine," he said, helping her to stand up. She steadied herself against him and they walked her out of the bathroom down the hall.
"But remember Gene, if you're going to schedule an appointment, make it afternoon. I promised Allison I'd meet her for lunch tomorrow."
"You can have her come here for lunch," Gene reminded her.
"I just need to get out and get some fresh air," Terri said with a smile. "It's so sweet of you to fuss and bother but I'm not invalid. I just probably need to get out and move around."
"Yeah you have put a lot of time in front of that computer lately. It will be good to get out and move. You sure you don't want company?"
"I'll be fine, Gene. It's a girls thing. And didn't you have to meet with Paul for some wrap-up stuff on the Eric Carr tribute album?"
"Yeah, I'd forgotten," Gene half laughed.
"Imagine you, forgetting something!" Terri laughed, more healthily this time. Gene was glad to see the color return to her face. It had been a full three months since the Eric Carr tribute concerts and already their lives were full with various projects again. Including a tribute album of previously unreleased material and live concert footage.
"Speaking of forgetting," Terri mentioned. "I just remembered I was going to buzz over and drop off a script at Veronica's and Paul's. She wanted to edit my latest script for the Practice. "
"Terri, can't Veronica wait? I mean you threw up just five minutes ago… and I don't think you need to be driving so soon! Why don’t' you just lie down for an hour, and take it easy?"
"Gene, please… I just…"
"Okay, you win, I'll lighten up," Gene held up his hands. "But you will see the doctor tomorrow, right?"
"Absolutely," she nodded. Terri walked downstairs, searching for her purse and keys with Gene close behind her.
She happened to pass by a mirror and stopped, groaning as she turned her hips to the side. "What?" he asked.
"I feel so bloated lately."
"Female problems?" he asked. "Your time of the month, sweetheart?"
"Could be," Terri muttered. "I always get bloated around that time… but since I went off the pill I've been damned irregular… but still…"
"Could be stress," Gene muttered. She felt completely at ease discussing personal things like that with him, one of the few men she'd ever dared mention the word period to. There was very little that they couldn’t' discuss. Considering other subjects, this was a tame one. Why wouldn't Gene know about that, considering he had a daughter who was a teenager herself, and going through her own changes.
Before she could run out the door, Gene caught her by the wrist. "You sure you don't want company?" he asked her again.
"Gene, it's fine," she rolled her eyes. "I'm fine! Look, I'll call you when I get there ok?"
He let out a breath, and glanced past her. How could he admit to her about that strange feeling he had? That if she went out that door today something might happen? It was stupid, complete and utter nonsense, Gene scolded himself. He didn't believe in karma and fate. You made your own destiny. Probably he was just being over protective of her.
Bending over her seized her hips and pulled them into his, wrapping her in his arms for a goodbye kiss. Terri's arms wrapped around his neck as many times before, and he leaned over to press a deep and passionate kiss on that soft mouth of hers that he never tired of exploring. He looked so good today in that simple black outfit of jeans and black shirt, and a casual blazer. That morning Gene had a few fellow producers over for a powwow regarding some upcoming scripts. Often times he would hold business meetings in his living room.
While he didn’t care for some butt kissing, he did like to look the part when it came to business. Even if it was in his own style, on his home turf. She had rarely ever seen him wear sneakers or even a tuxedo when the occasion called for it. Reluctantly he let her out of the protection of his embrace, and walked her out to the driveway. As many times before she climbed into that black convertible he'd given her, and pulled out with a wave. She blew a quick kiss to him, backing out of the driveway onto the main stretch of road that led down to the front gate, and out to the street.
He looked so handsome standing there, watching her drive away. Why did she get the sense he was somehow trying to stop her from suddenly running out of the door? Finally he turned and walked into the house, hearing the distant ringing of the telephone.
**************************************
She was cruising the strip of road along the coast, enjoying the feel of the wind in her hair. Terri pulled the clip out and let her hair flow free. Life seemed good right now, her relationship with Gene was moving along nicely, and she had a novel published, and one in the works.
"I never thought I'd come to say this, but I feel GREAT!" she screamed into the oncoming wind. Punching buttons on the CD player, she cranked up King of the Nighttime World to full volume. It was a terrific travel song to blare at the top of the speakers in full sunlight along the coast.
Clear blue water seemed to laugh under the sun's influence. She pushed her sunglasses further up her face and let the wind take command. Veronica and Paul had a small apartment, not far from the beach, a ways up from Beverly Hills where she and Gene lived. The drive alone was worth the trip, for the sights of the scenery was what she loved. Houses and scenery streaked by on one side, the lower parts of the city stretching in a vista beneath her over the side of the precipitous slope.
She reached Paul and Veronica's and dropped off the script as she had told Gene. They had iced tea on the patio, and ohh'd and ahh'd over the new windowbox and patio area Veronica had put together. The condominium she shared with her boyfriend was a modest two bedroom that overlooked the city, from the hillside. IT was a neat little place, very well to do, and nicely furnished with expensive taste.
"I love what you and Gene did with your place," she commented. "All those renovations, and the place is exquisite," Veronica told her.
"Yeah, I can't believe he consulted me on the décor!"
'I should hope so! Why do you seem so surprised? I mean you live there too!" Veronica laughed as she took a sip of tea.
"Yes. But I just never though I'd feel so… at home there as I do. It's like it's become my home too, and I finally can say 'our house' instead of Gene's house."
"That's great," Veronica smiled.
"How are you holding up, since Paul's in New York playing Phantom."
"Just fine," Veronica assured her. "It's nice being able to work on my school stuff without distractions… although sometimes I could use a little sexual recreation…"
"Uh huh," Terri laughed along with her friend.
"I'm really glad that you and Gene are doing so well," Veronica told her. "You seem so happy together."
"Yes, but sometimes I wonder about what it would be like, on down the line?"
"Like what?" Veronica continued. "I know you're thinking about something, but you're not going to keep me in suspense are you?"
"Well I know that you said you'd never want children. But I've been thinking lately, I'm thirty years old, and not getting any younger."
"Is that biological clock ticking?" Veronica rolled her eyes. "Don't tell me you're feeling guilty because you might…"
"No," Terri said. "I always did want children at some point."
"Are you sure it isn't a biological urge, or is it something else?" Veronica asked. "I know you and I have talked about this before. I know you've had thoughts, and that's normal."
"I wonder sometimes if I should wait, but then I realize what am I waiting for?"
"Your career? I mean it's just starting. Then again, things are really good for you and Gene… maybe you're ready?"
"I'm just concerned, because Gene's already got two children. What if he doesn't want anymore?"
"Have you talked to Gene about this?" Veronica asked. "Maybe he'll surprise you."
"I don't know."
"Do you want kids with Gene?"
"He's the best candidate now," Terri joked. "And besides, I haven't met anyone else who I'd even consider wanting children with."
"Even Bruce?"
"Oh c'mon," Terri joked, and flicked condensation at her friend. "Can you imagine me trying to fly that past Gene?"
"I'm only joking. Look, have you and Gene talked about this openly?"
"No. I've always been afraid to bring it up?"
"Why?" Veronica asked, sipping more iced tea. "You talk about everything else, even your sexual preference for other partners!"
"I don't know if this lifestyle is any place to raise a child, and what if I screw up?" Terri asked. "A million things could go wrong, you know."
"Well, if you don't feel ready, then that's your answer."
"But what if I wait too long, and by the time I am ready, I go through menopause?"
"Well you're thirty for Christ's sake!" Veronica reminded her. "You've got years till then, right? It's up to you, but if you feel like you want to wait, wait. But if you feel like you want kids, then go for it. Just talk to Gene, and make sure you're ready. He isn't hinting at kids is he?"
"Well, not really. I mean I get along with Sophie and Nicholas well, but as for wanting more, he doesn't say much."
"You're lucky you and Shannon can stand to be in the same room," Veronica reminded her. "I wish I had that kind of luck with ex's."
"Yeah, I know you pull a vanishing act when it comes to Paul's ex. It's too bad."
"Hey, it works. I'd probably draw blood if she got on my wrong side!" Veronica teased. "So far we haven't killed each other, but who knows?"
"Shit, I have to go," Terri groaned when she looked at her watch.
"Gene's not pulling the leash on you is he?" Veronica asked with a teasing look.
"No, but I forgot to call, and I wanted to be home in time for us to have dinner at five thirty, and it's already five now!"
"Call him," Veronica offered.
"I'll give him a call on the way home," Terri said. "I got a hands free phone in the car…"
"Okay," Veronica said. "I'm honored you want me to edit your script…"
"It's good practice. And besides, you're doing great with my novel, so why not? I feel honored having you do that!"
"Later, womyn," Veronica said, hugging her for a moment. She led her to the door, and watched Terri walk down to her car. Climbing in, Terri pulled into reverse and backed out. She waved to Veronica as she headed out onto the main road.
It was already six o'clock, and Gene was worried. Terri had not called, and he was having many problems simply waiting. Already he had made an appointment with her doctor, for tomorrow. Something familiar haunted him about her sickness, as if he had somehow gone through this with Shannon before. However, he pushed that aside when he picked up one of the prospective scripts, and flipped through it.
He sat now in his living room, tossing aside yet another script with a mutter of disbelief. He couldn't' believe some of the crap he was reading now for submissions. After the success of Forever Sterling, other producers seemed to load Gene with scripts for his perusal, and his "production input" into. Post KISS life had not slowed him down at all, in fact not having the band allowed him to pursue the acting and directing, and sometimes he longed for just trotting out onstage and doing his Demon routine. It was safe, and comfortable.
Picking up the telephone, he dialed Paul's number automatically. They still talked at least a few times a week, sometimes meeting for lunch or dinner just to monitor each other. Paul was heavily into Phantom of the Opera on Broadway, with Veronica heavily into an internship in LA University. They now had an apartment in Beverly Hills. Right now, he heard the click as the telephone picked up, and he heard Paul's familiar greeting. In the background, there came the sound of stage and cue shouting.
"Hey, what's up?" Paul asked.
"Nothing, just rattling you cage, man," Gene said. "You keeping those starlets in line in the old hometown?"
"Yeah, if you're keeping the home fires burning man," Paul laughed back. "I'm right in the middle of rehearsal here!"
"I can hear that. So, keeping out of mischief?"
"I'm not doing anything you wouldn't do, Gene," Paul kidded back. "So how are you and Teri these days?"
"She's fine Paul."
"How's Veronica?" Paul asked. "She missing me?"
"She's keeping busy, but I don't know if she's keeping out of trouble," Gene teased.
"Well, you guys better watch it," Paul joked back. "This is weird, having all these people who have no damn clue who the hell I am! It's like hello anonymity!"
"Enjoy it while it lasts, Romeo," Gene cracked. "You're selling to a whole new crowd now…"
"No shit Gene!" Paul laughed. "Say, something on your mind?"
"Why are you asking me that?"
"You sound kinda tensed about something…"
"Damn, never could put one over on you," Gene griped. "Shit, you know me too fucking well…"
"Are you sure things are like… kosher between you and the lady?" Paul asked again.
"Of course… I just… shit, it's nothing…" Gene muttered.
"C'mon Gene, don't bullshit me… this is Paul you're talking to…"
"Well Terri's been pushing too hard. And I just am trying to get her to slow down…"
"You're setting a great example, man," Paul's groan came. Just then, Gene heard a click that signaled an incoming call.
"Hold on, I got another call."
"Sure, Gene."
"Hello?" Gene asked, hoping it would be Terri.
"Is this Mr. Simmons?" asked the voice on the other end.
"Of course it is, what can I do you for?" he said, with a hint of a smirk. However, the next few phrases soon wiped the smugness off his face.
"This is the trauma unit at LA general, Mr. Simmons," came the voice, eerily calm. "We got your number from Ms. Mason's driver's license."
"What is this about?" Gene asked, his heart beginning to pound faster. "What the hell is going on with Terri? Is she hurt?"
"Terri was involved in an automobile accident. She just was brought in a few minutes ago to the ER… and we're contacting all her relatives and next of kin to alert them of her condition…"
"What happened, how is she!" Gene demanded.
"You'd better come down here right away. She's in serious condition."
"Damn it I'm on my way!" Gene shouted into the telephone, clicking it down with a definitive slam. He was halfway out the door with his coat in hand, and the telephone still in his grasp.
"Gene?" came Paul's voice. "You there man? What's all that bellowing about?"
"I can't talk! Teri's been in an accident!" Gene yelled at Paul.
"What the hell did you say?" Paul asked. "Are you shitting me?"
"Later Paul!" Gene gritted, clicking off the telephone and bolting out the door.
Chapter 5
Sickness flushed over Gene as he stormed into the hospital ER, black leather coat swirling around his ankles. He almost ran into Calen who was already there in the waiting room.
"Gene, thank goodness you got here!" Calen cried. "I got here as soon as Paul called me…"
"Paul called you?" Gene asked, almost as an afterthought.
"Yes. He called me at my home a few minutes after you hung up, and he also called Veronica. I didn't know how long it would take you to get here, and figured you could use some moral support…"
"I'm glad you're here," Gene told her, as she grabbed his hand and gave it a squeeze. "You heard anything? Where the hell is the doctor?"
"Easy, Gene, she's been taken for examination into one of the rooms," Calen said. "It was a pretty bad scene. From what I hear from the paramedics, the car was badly twisted up. She was unconscious when they brought her in… but so far she only has some broken bones."
"What? Oh God if anything happens to her I don't know what… I…." Gene groaned. He suddenly sank to the chair, feeling his strength desert him. Calen steadied him, her arm around his shoulders. Hazel eyes fixed into his, stroking his back.
"Easy Gene, I know this is hard. I'm here and I'm not going anywhere. She's alive, and as long as that's the case, there's hope."
Just then, Bruce strode in, with Veronica at his heels. The two rushed to where Gene was sitting, noticing Calen had already arrived. Gene put his head in his hands, slowly trying to grip control of the fear and his racing heart.
"Paul called us," Bruce said. "I was in town, and I thought…"
"I was really worried something awful happened, and then Paul called me!" Veronica also said, sitting on Gene's other side. "Oh my god, what happened."
"Terri was in an accident. Stay with Gene while I find the doctor…" Calen instructed, trying to remain level headed and calm. She rushed off to the main reception desk.
"Gene, how is she?" Veronica got out, stroking his back. "Paul's flying out too… on the next plane…"
"I don't want to interrupt his show," Gene sighed, glancing at her. "But…"
"He wants to be here with you both," Bruce said. "In case things get worse."
Soon a white-coated doctor with scrubs on under his labcoat, in his late fifties returned at Calen's side. He sat down near Gene, and cleared his throat.
"What happened," Gene asked, trying to grip his self-control.
Dr. Zimmerman said, "She's got a few broken ribs, and a minor concussion, and a fractured ankle. It's a good thing the airbag deployed when it did."
"Well, is there anything else wrong?" Gene asked.
"There was a lot of bruising, but no other major injuries. She's one lucky woman. However, I'm keeping her in for observation in case of any internal injuries or conditions that could happen as a result of a concussion. She's unconscious. But I wanted to ask you a few other questions… for the record."
"What? Oh yes, go ahead," Gene nodded, noting the look in the Doctor's face with concern.
"Calen McGregor explained that you and Terri are currently involved in a relationship. Which leads me to my next question. We're running some tests on her."
"Can I see her?" Gene asked. "I want to be with her when she wakes up."
"Well, I don't see why not. She's in good physical condition, which considering her age and weight, is probably what saved her from worse injury. She seemed very relaxed when the car was impacted, but we will have to fill out a police report considering it was a hit and run drunk driving accident."
"Head-on collision with an SUV," Calen supplied. "Driver survived and drove off. Then he collided with another oncoming vehicle, and Terri was rear ended too. Knocked the convertible clean off the expressway."
"Shit… mother fucker," Gene hissed. "Where is that asshole…"
"They have him in custody," Calen said calmly. "Tim's on the case in fact."
"Where is Terri?" Gene asked next.
"Come right with me. But I insist that only Mr. Simmons visit her right now. And any other immediate family…" Dr. Zimmerman instructed.
"We're the closest thing she has to family on this coast," Calen said firmly.
"Very well, Ms. McGregor. She's undergone a lot of shock, and there might be other complications we don't know about. So just one at a time."
"We'll be okay," Veronica said.
Calen nodded, and walked with Gene, until the doctor insisted she wait right outside the small room. Curtains partitioned Terri's area from the patient next to her, and the doctor led Gene into where Terri lay. Small red flecks covered her face, indicating where the small particles of glass had grazed her. IV's snaked into her wrist, and he heard the beeping of a monitor. Over her a young intern and another doctor fussed, one of them holding a stethoscope to her chest, then her abdomen. At sight of Gene and Dr. Zimmerman, they both looked up.
"Is there anything else wrong?" Gene asked, frantic.
Dr. Zimmerman said, "We're having bloodwork and routine pregnancy testing done…"
"Why?" Gene asked.
"Standard procedure for female patients, just in case," he said. Suddenly an orderly knocked on the door, and passed a folder to Dr. Zimmerman.
"Her bloodwork," the woman said. For a moment he poured over the contents of the manila folder, and shook his head. He tugged the intern by the sleeve.
"What?" Gene asked, and saw the look pass from the intern to the general practitioner. Terri lay on her back, the lower half of one leg enclosed in a plaster cast. She breathed normally, her wrist also in a restraint. Gene brushed her hair from her face, leaning over the bed anxiously.
"Get the doppler, stat," Dr. Zimmerman whispered to him.
"May I ask what the hell is going on?" Gene demanded.
"Just a moment, Mr. Simmons," the doctor held up a hand. The intern returned, with the equipment, and they began to examine Terri again with a small handheld device they passed over her belly. Both men nodded at each other, and turned to Gene.
"By the way, did you know Ms. Mason was pregnant?" the Doctor asked matter of fact. Gene suddenly felt the blood rushing away yet again. The words didn't quite register, but he shook his head in sheer disbelief. Slowly he sank into the chair, and blinked at the two doctors in shock.
"Congratulations, Mr. Simmons, you're a father," the intern blurted out, recognizing Gene immediately. "Again…"
"How…" Gene stammered.
"The blood test came out positive for pregnancy," the Doctor showed him the lab report. He indicated the intern who again passed the monitor over Terri. Both listened to the indication, which was loud and clear.
"Holy shit," Gene muttered disbelief in his eyes. "I had no damned idea…"
"I admit it's a shock to find out this way," the doctor said, with a look of sympathy.
"Is it all right?" was Gene's next question. "I mean is it healthy?"
"Well we're trying to ascertain that. So far, she didn’t loose it, but it's even more imperative that she remains here for observation. That's why we run such tests…"
"Of course," Gene said with a nod. "I just… damn…."
Leaning over Terri he took her hand in his, gently stroking her hair aside as he pressed a kiss to her cheek. He shook his head, laughing half to himself as he sat there. Shock had moved to disbelief, and a whole range of other emotions he never was sure of what to make.
"No wonder she was nauseous, and missed a period," he laughed ironically. "Shit, you'd think I'd know, having had kids before, knowing when my woman was pregnant…"
"Well the heartbeat is very strong," said the intern. Sure enough, there was a noise indicated on the monitor, very fast, but strong and steady. A lump rose in his throat, and he struggled to keep the burn from his eyes that rose at that second.
"I've sent for the high risk obstetrician. She'll be here soon. But if she wakes up while you're still here, let one of us know, all right?"
"I'll just finish up in here, and get a full size monitor," the intern nodded.
"High risk obstetrician?" Gene asked slowly. "What dangers are there?"
"We'll have to wait and see. She's carried it through an accident, so that alone says a lot," Dr. Zimmerman said with a smile. "Both she and that baby are fighters."
Calen peered in as Dr. Zimmerman rushed out. Gene glanced up at the intern, and said, "She's a close personal friend."
"I see no reason why she can't come in," the intern nodded. Calen strode in, and ran a hand over Terri's shoulder, her eyes full of questions. She leaned near Gene, who was holding Terri's hand tightly. Close behind her a nurse and other technicians started to attach a few more test leads to Terri's abdomen and chest.
"I… she's… pregnant," Gene got out, still shaking his head. "I… she had no idea…"
"Oh dear, that's a surprise," Calen commented, in shock herself.
"I'll be just outside," the intern nodded, leaving them alone with Terri. Pulling up a stool, Calen sat next to Gene, and clasped his other hand in hers.
For a long time they both sat in silence, Gene not quite able to think of any words to put to the mess of feelings he had now. By and by the obstetrician came in, and held the reports in their hand. Two heartbeats could be heard on the monitor she was attached to, and both Calen and Gene took in the view of their slumbering friend.
"It wasn't so long ago I was here," Calen told him.
"Yeah, damn I never wanted to be back here…"
"Mr. Simmons? I'm Dr. Trandi," the middle aged obstetrician said, with a bit of an Indian accent. "I was referred to Terri's case."
"So, you think she's all right?" Gene asked, shaking her hand. "The baby too?"
"Well I'm going to run an ultrasound, and an amniocentesis, which are both routine tests, but my major concern will be for the mother when she wakes up. Has she been pregnant before?"
"Not that I know of," Gene said slowly. "I've been through this routine before, with my former life partner Shannon. But Terri and I had absolutely no idea she was pregnant except this morning she threw up…"
"Morning sickness. Since this is Terri's first pregnancy, there will be certain precautions we'll have to take. And also the psychological well being of the mother… since you were both unaware of her pregnancy till now."
"I know what you're saying, Doc. She might be freaked out to wake up and find out she's pregnant," Gene sighed. "How far along is it?"
"Hmm, once we get the ultrasound, then we'll see the size of the baby, and judge from there."
"Did you get the records from Terri's usual doctor?" Calen asked.
"I have them here. I see that she was on birth control pills till about six months ago, and then alternate means were used, due to adverse reactions from the hormones?"
"Yeah, she said that they made her feel ill, and other things. Also she was frightened of the risks associated with the pill," Gene said slowly.
An odd look came over Gene's face, and Calen peered at him oddly. Dr. Trandi also shared the puzzlement over his preoccupation. "Is there something you specifically remember?"
"I think I know when," Gene muttered. "There were a few times I had forgotten. But I assumed that when a woman is on birth control pills it takes a long time for her to lose the hormones that build up in her body,"
"Well it all depends on the patient's metabolism. She's been off them for six months. I'll get back to you when we've gotten the results of the test," Dr. Trandi said quietly. Nodding, Gene watched as she left.
He still felt that strange haze surrounding him and Calen seemed to help bring him back to reality with her presence.
"Damn… we had no idea," Gene repeated.
"Life sort of rushed along, and now it's all coming to a stopping place," Calen said, fingering his hand in hers. "I had thought you two had talked about having children."
"Actually, I was waiting to see what she had to say," Gene said sheepishly. "I knew it was something that was on her mind, but she didn’t' seem like she was in a place in her life where she was ready yet…"
"Did you expect to have a child with her?" Calen asked him directly.
"It was something I thought would be a distinct possibility, yes," Gene muttered. "But not all of a sudden out of the blue… damn this is just like when my first kid came along, with Shannon!"
"I remember," Calen laughed. "You were in total shock!"
"But Terri, that's what I'm concerned about Calen. What if she's not ready to be a mother?" Gene whispered to his friend. "What if…"
"Give her a chance to wake up," Calen reminded him. "I mean they haven't run all the tests yet…"
"I think I'm going to wait here till she wakes up," Gene said. "I want to let the others know what's going on though. They deserve to know."
"I'll do that. But what do you want me to say?"
"That's a hard one," Gene muttered. "Tell them we aren't sure yet… but we think she's going to have a baby."
Chapter 6
Terri felt as if she were climbing out of a dark pit. She could swear she heard voices, and the echoes of screeching tires and breaking glass in her mind. Blinking, she opened her eyes that seemed weighed down like leaden weights. It was blurry, and she panicked momentarily that she had lost sight. Yet, it was perhaps the loss of her glasses. Terror seized her at that moment when she heard a beeping sound, and felt herself lying down, a dull pain in her body.
"Terri baby," a familiar voice whispered, brushing across her temples delicately. She placed the voice instantly.
"Gene is that you?" she whispered, managing to peer up into his blurred features. "I can't see… very well. Where are my glasses?"
"They were broken when they brought you in, but don't worry…" he reassured her by squeezing her hand tightly in his. He brought his face inches from her, to the point at which she could see him clearly without the need of glasses, leaning over the bed to do so. She felt her hand clasped in his, and the look of relief in the eyes the same shade as her own. Soft lips kissed the back of her hand, while the other smoothed the hair from her face. Whispering, he asked, "Do you know who I am… and do you know who you are…"
"How could I not know who you are, my love," she whispered back, feeling a little silly at the words that came from her lips and tongue. "I'm hurting all over… and oh God Gene… I saw the lights head on, and I tried to steer aside… and then there was broken glass and…."
"You're safe now," Gene whispered, kissing her hand again. "And you're in the hospital. There was an automobile accident, and you were out for a while… but you'll be all right…"
"How badly am I hurt?" she began to choke. "Is it like… Calen…"
"Just a few broken bones, sweetheart. Nothing you can't get through. But I'm here with you now, and I'm not going anywhere baby…" he whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead softly.
"I'm so sorry I didn't call… and then something came head on… and I couldn't stop in time… and then…" she stammered, and felt the hot tears welling up in her eyes.
"Shh, easy, don't try to think so hard so fast. There's plenty of time to tell me later. Just rest… I'm here, sweetheart. And your friends are here too, waiting."
"My parents, Gene. Do they know yet…"
"I called them myself, as soon as I knew what was going on. I've got your mom booked on the next available flight out here. She should be here to visit you for a few days; to make sure her little girl's okay. But don't worry… just relax…" he urged. Knowing he was there, Terri let herself lay back and wait for sleep to come once more.
Gene breathed a silent prayer of relief, and rested his head on her chest. Terri managed to raise the hand that wasn't wrapped in gauze to stroke through his hair as he heaved sighs of gratefulness. For a long time, they simply stayed together in silence. He was there, and she felt safe and assured things would only improve.
*****************************************************************
Later, when she felt a little stronger, she managed to sit up in bed, and look up at her friends, who came in one by one to see how she was doing.
"Hey womyn," Veronica said with a smile as she came to Terri's bedside. Gene sat by Terri, his hand clasped around the right hand, and Veronica squeezed Terri's hand also.
"Veronica, so nice to see you," Terri smiled.
"Oh I'm so sorry," Veronica shook her head. "I feel really awful, because if you hadn't left my apartment when you did…"
"Veronica don't blame yourself. Shit happens," Terri sighed.
"I'm glad you're alive Terri. You scared the shit out of us for a while there," Veronica joked, squeezing Terri's hand.
"I'm hurting all over, but it's good that I'm alive to hurt. If a broken foot, sprained wrist and a few cracked ribs is all I came through with in this accident, I'm not doing too badly."
She narrowed her eyes as Veronica and Gene exchanged a weird look. Almost as if there were something else they knew that she didn’t. Right now, she didn’t' feel as if she wanted to know anything else.
"Shouldn't you tell her?" Veronica asked Gene. Calen strode in and Terri looked to her other friend.
"How are you holding up? Gene said you were awake…" Calen smiled. "I'm only sorry our roles are reversed this time."
"Calen, this really sucks," Terri sighed. "But I'm just glad I'm alive…"
"You are damn lucky," Veronica told her. "Scaring us like that!"
"Someone else here to see you too," Calen said. Bruce slipped in, and Terri stared in disbelief as he smiled warmly at her.
"I had to come. Paul knew I was in town, and I was going to stop by and visit. So sleeping beauty is awake," Bruce asked, leaning over Terri and pressing a kiss to her cheek. She flushed and glanced up at him with a smile.
He placed the teddy bear and the white roses he carried at her bedside table. Veronica put a live African violet by the vase of roses. Both her friends sat down, and Calen looked at Gene meaningfully.
"What's everyone looking at each other like that? You'd think you were busting with some secret…"
"Terri, something's come to our attention. They were running some routine tests," Gene said slowly, choosing each word carefully. He sat down next to her bed, taking her good hand in his. Softly he stroked the back of it, hoping to calm her before he plucked up the nerve to tell her the news.
"And they found something unusual, but not so unexpected," Calen said.
"What the hell are you going on about?" Terri asked. "I don't have cancer or some awful condition do I?"
"No way," Gene said, clearing his throat. "Sweetheart, you know you sometimes asked me about kids… I mean… well what it was like to be a parent…"
"What has this got to do with me being in here now?" Terri asked with a look of amusement. "This is a fine time to bring that up."
"Well I think it's a perfect time, doll," Gene coughed. "Because… well… the blood test came back… and we're not sure… and they're going to do an ultrasound…"
"Gene, you have to tell her sometime," Calen sighed when Gene froze up, and blinked. "The sooner the better."
"Tell me what?" Terri asked.
"Well… it's going to be a shock…" Gene cleared his throat. "But… aw damn it…"
"Oh shit, Gene! How the hell hard is it to tell your lover she's expecting?" Veronica rolled her eyes. Gene glared at her with an 'I'm gonna kill you later' look. Terri glanced from Gene to Veronica, then to Calen, dumbstruck. Calen rolled her eyes at Veronica, and turned her gaze back to Terri.
"Say what?" Terri asked, eyes wide with shock.
"Sweetheart, you're pregnant," Gene said slowly. "I didn't believe it at first… but the doctor told me you tested positive…"
"What the… no way," Terri gasped. "It can't be…"
"They're bringing the sonar in soon to run more tests," Calen said. "I know this is a surprise…"
"Duh," Veronica muttered. "We are just as surprised as you are…"
"Gene… I'm… really… pregnant?" Terri asked. "I can't believe it! It's impossible…"
"That's a chemist for you," Veronica commented.
"Terri, don't panic now," Calen said. "We're waiting for the sonar now, and once they run a test they'll be able to make sure if you really are pregnant or not…"
"I still can't believe it," Terri shook her head. "Even if I was… the accident… I would have lost the baby… and I could swear I was using that damned diaphragm, and you were using condoms!"
"Sweetheart, please it's going to be all right," Gene soothed her. "Let's just wait and see…"
"I just can't… this is crazy…" Terri shook her head. "Not in a million years…"
"Well it is something that happens between sexually active people," Veronica said. "And anyway, it's nothing to be ashamed of. I can get you being scared, but you do have choices, remember…"
"Veronica, maybe we should leave them alone?" Calen nudged her.
"Hey, remember I’m here for you okay, if you want to talk," Veronica told her, and squeezed Terri's hand before Bruce urged her out. Calen remained behind for a moment, and glanced into the hall.
"Do you two want to be alone… for the sonar?" she asked. Already the technicians arrived at the door shortly after Veronica and Bruce left the room.
"Please. Stay… you didn't have to send Veronica away," Terri groaned.
"Well, we thought you might want to be alone together," Calen said. "I'll just be out in the hall unless you want me to stay."
"Thanks," Gene said softly, and the technicians arrived, wheeling the apparatus with its small screen and various electronic attachments. Both of them watched while they plugged in the unit and set up in a flurry of activity. Gene helped them to pull back the sheets and stood to the side finally when the technicians urged him they had done this many times before.
"That’s cold!" Terri laughed when they smeared her belly with the gel.
"Shannon had this done," Gene told her. "It's fascinating."
"I never had this done," Terri looked up at him. "I know it doesn't hurt."
"Just relax, and breathe easily," the sonar tech told her as she began to stroke the probe into the jelly, and pass it over Terri's abdomen. She saw the strange cryptic pattern of lines forming into view on the monitor, and felt Gene's hand close over hers, his arm around her shoulder while he leaned next to her.
"Okay… that's your intestines, and now we're going over your belly, and your uterus now… very good… just relax now…"
"It tickles like hell," Terri groaned. "I've always been sensitive there!"
"Okay… that the uterus… and now we're going to be looking inside…"
In his grasp Terri's hand squeezed tighter as they both watched the screen. The sonar technician continued the strange dance over her abdomen, and they saw the strange black shape that indicated her uterus. Strange shapes swirled into view, and they squinted to see what they were looking at.
"Definitely someone in there…" the technician muttered. "I think… yes…"
"You mean…"
"Let me finish the test. There you see is your uterus there… and you see that area here… it's pretty definitive."
A strange sensation came over Terri, and she felt as if the room was spinning. It seemed unreal to believe these images were showing parts of her body she had never before seen. Quietly the technician called for Dr. Trandi, who came in shortly.
"Look at this," she told her. Trandi saw where she pointed on the screen, and nodded.
"You definitely are pregnant," Trandi confirmed. "You can see the embryo developing right here."
"So small," Terri whispered. "I can't… oh my god…"
"It is," Gene whispered back. "Shannon had this done before with Nicholas and Sophie…"
"Excuse me a minute," Dr. Trandi said, and turned to the technician. It didn't take long to clean up the equipment and cart it out. Terri and Gene exchanged glances, and moved closer together while the conferring began.
"I am pregnant," Terri muttered again.
"Yes doll, I know it's a shock… hell I found it hard to believe…"
"But when," Terri asked. "I mean… it's so unreal…"
"Mr. Simmons, Ms. Mason, I have the results," Dr. Trandi interrupted Terri's meditative shock.
'Diagnosis… is it healthy?" Terri asked.
"Well it's perfectly normal for a 12 week old embryo," Dr. Trandi announced with a smile. "A little small perhaps, but definitely within the realm of 12 weeks."
"Oh god… Donnington," Terri muttered.
"First concert encore," Gene muttered back, their gaze fixing into each others.
"You remember when the child was conceived then?" Dr. Trandi asked with a hint of amusement in her Indian featured face.
"Pretty much," Gene nodded.
"Here it comes the whole spiel about his memory," Terri joked, hitting Gene in the arm.
Chapter 7
"Now what is the big idea just pushing me out like that?" Veronica fumed at Bruce Kulick.
"Well you were not making things easier…" Bruce began.
"She's my friend damn it," Veronica snapped. "What did I say?"
"She and Gene just found out. They need some time to get used to it…"
"But what if Terri's not ready to be a mom?" Veronica asked. "And Gene…"
"Veronica, what are you talking about? Why is this an issue? I mean it's pretty much a done deal."
"It's still early yet. Terri's under a lot of stress, and Gene… well is he ready to be a dad again, considering his age and all?" Veronica asked. "I mean they aren't married, and I know it sounds old fashioned, but what if Terri decides she doesn't want to keep it?"
"Why wouldn't she?" Bruce asked. "And anyway, it's Gene's child too…"
"You sure?"
"Yes. Terri and I used protection," Bruce said candidly, with a flush in his face. "But that's not the issue here…"
"It's Terri's body," Veronica said firmly. "A woman has the right to decide…"
"What about Gene… since it's his baby… I can't believe you'd just think of…"
"His baby? Excuse me? A woman has the right to chose," Veronica said simply. "I can't keep my mouth shut about it."
"It takes two to tango, they say," Bruce shook his head. "Terri and Gene made this baby together… it's not an it… it's a person…"
"Bruce, you can be so… pigheaded sometimes. Who's the one who has to carry it for nine months huh? Why does that make it 'Gene's baby' as if it were his property?"
"Because, half of it's his, anyway…" Bruce held up a hand.
"I hate to stop this debate," Gene interrupted, rushing down the hall and motioning for quiet. "But we can hear you halfway down the hall!"
"Sorry, Gene," Veronica flushed. "I was just explaining the facts of life to Mr. Kulick here…"
"Well keep it down a bit, won't you?" Gene shushed them. "This isn't a NOW rally okay?"
"I don't like not letting a woman have a chance to decide…" Veronica snapped. "And I resent being told to be quiet..."
"Well why don't you just wait and see what Terri has to say?" Gene asked her. "This is her baby, and mine. And knowing her, I don't even think that's an issue… so we don't need to bicker all right? Knock it off!"
"Look!" Veronica shouted. "Who the hell are you to tell me to do anything! You may be Terri's lover, but I am her friend, and I damn resent being spoken to like some fucking child!"
"Stop acting like one then!"
"You arrogant son of a bitch!" Veronica yelled at him, her eyes flickering with blue fire. Bruce jumped back, afraid she was going to punch Gene for that.
"There's no need to be that way," Gene started, but Veronica was not finished.
"Why don't you ask Terri what the hell she wants to do?" Veronica demanded. "Instead of presuming we know what she's thinking?"
"I'm not, God damn it!" Gene got out, but Veronica stormed off with a furious look.
"I'm going to do it now, as a matter of fact! I fucking dare you!" Veronica yelled down the hall, despite Bruce's attempts to shush her, and the other hospital orderlies who whispered for silence.
"What the hell's going on here? World War III?" Terri demanded, rolling out into the hall in a wheelchair. Behind her was Calen, helping to push her into the visitor's area.
"We're having a difference of opinion," Bruce said. "Or Veronica and Gene are now..."
Calen opened her mouth to say something, but then Terri whispered, "Let me handle this..."
"All right, if you want," Calen nodded, and fell silent.
"Let me get one thing clear," Terri said, glaring at everyone. "I don't like my friends, and my lover, fighting like this. You will treat each other with respect, or I'll ask you to leave, now!"
"Terri…" Gene said.
"Oh shut up!" Veronica shouted.
"You both shut up! I've heard enough!" Terri shouted, holding up her hands. "It's my choice, damn it! Back off all of you!"
"All right," Veronica nodded, and pointed at Bruce. "But he started it."
"But Gene had to play mouthpiece," Bruce tried to explain.
"Stop it, all of you!" Terri yelled at them. "Apologize and make up, or leave now. That goes for you, Mr. Simmons, most of all!"
"I'm sorry Veronica, everyone. I'm just trying to help," Gene apologized, looking like a guilty schoolboy caught teasing someone on the playground.
"So was I…" Bruce said. "But these two just got into it on the heels of me and Veronica…"
"Well, I don't damn the hell care who started it, Bruce, so stop pointing fingers," Terri said again. "I don't need my friends fighting, especially when they want to put words in my mouth. So can we all just cool off?"
"Yes," Gene nodded. "I'm sorry…"
"Maybe we should all just leave now and cool off," Bruce suggested. "If that's okay with you… Veronica?"
She and Veronica still looked uneasily at each other. Terri put her head in her hand.
"Bruce, I'm sorry," Veronica said to him. "But you know how I am."
"Yes I do…" Bruce nodded, with a sigh. "I'm sorry too, Veronica, Terri..."
"It's all right... just stop putting words in my mouth okay. I am glad you all care so much, but I'm the one who's pregnant, remember?" Terri reminded them.
"Later guys…" Bruce said, and leaned over to press a goodbye kiss to Terri. He strode out with an apologetic look to Veronica.
Veronica too turned to go, casting a glance at Gene. "Two strong women plus two strong opinions equals one hell of a blow up," Gene said.
"I hate being told to do anything," Veronica said.
"I know, and I apologize. I had no right to jump at you like that…" Gene sighed.
"I hope so," Veronica said. "But I'm not going to stand by and let someone lecture me…"
"I think he'll remember that, and so will Bruce," Terri said. "You do leave a lasting impression."
"Thank you, I think," Veronica said, as she turned to leave for the day. "Bye..."
Calen heaved out the breath she had been holding, and looked from Gene to Terri. "Nicely done," she said to Terri. "It is your decision... as Veronica pointed out..."
"Yes," Terri nodded, and glanced up at a very sheepish Gene.
"I'm sorry but I have to go too..." she apologized. "I wish you two luck... you still have a lot to talk about... Goodbye, Terri, Gene..."
Gene murmured a goodbye as he watched Calen wave to them both. Sighing, he accepted Terri's hand and she gave it a gentle squeeze.
"Let's talk," Terri said, glancing up at him. He nodded, and pushed her back towards her hospital room.
****************************************
"You see sweetheart, everything's going to be all right," Gene smiled warmly at her, arm tight around her in the bed as he sat on the edge of it. "Dr. Trandi says it's normal…"
"Oh God Gene… I'm scared to death," Terri whispered. Gene pulled his leg up on the bed, until he was sitting right next to her. She moved over automatically, and leaned against him. The cracked ribs were on her left, so he sat on her right, and it wasn't too painful to be close. Somehow, she needed his physical presence to reassure her that it was all right.
"Why?" Gene asked, cupping her chin in his hand to tilt her face up into his.
"I don't know if I'm ready to be a mom, and boom suddenly I am going to be one… there's no going back…" Terri said softly, eyes wide behind her spare pare of glasses.
"I know it's a shock, but believe me, I couldn't be happier," Gene told her with a genuine smile.
"You are?"
"Why shouldn't I be?" Gene asked. "Do I look upset about this to you?"
Terri flushed crimson as she admitted, "This is going to sound very lame Gene, but I was afraid you didn't want children…"
"What the hell gave you that idea?" Gene asked her. "I'll admit it surprised the shit out of me, but do I look like I don't want this baby?"
"No," Terri said. "That's a relief. But I'm scared…"
"Tell me why…" Gene said, stroking her hand.
"What if I screw up? What if I do something that hurts the baby… or I loose it? Mom and Dad are going to give me an earful about this as it is…"
"Well they are going to have another grandkid, and I'm sure once they see it they can't complain." Gene grinned. "Besides you're already living in sin with me, so what is one more development?"
"I do want children," Terri said to him. "Just… well… I wasn't sure it would be now…"
"There's no going back," he laughed. "It's not like you can send it back…"
"Not really," Terri laughed back, breathing in and out.
"If you're worried about the future, don't be. I'm damned thrilled about this. Wait until I tell Paul and the guys…"
"How will Shannon and your other kids react?" Terri asked, resting her cheek against his black denim shirt. He hadn't even bothered to take his leather coat off, still wearing it as he sat on the bedsheets fully clothed.
"Well Sophie won't mind having a little sister, or Nicholas," Gene said, and then smirked. "I'm sure they'll want to baby-sit…"
Terri reached over and began to play with the necklace he wore so often. "I'm going to need lots of help… I mean I babysat, but you can't send your child home if they get on your nerves…"
"No it isn't. Kids can be a pain in the ass, but they are a worthwhile investment," Gene said, kissing her cheek softly.
"You and that money thing again," she giggled.
"Wait till you see them asleep at night," Gene smiled. "It's a whole other experience. Even if you're not crazy about what they did during the day, there's no feeling like it in the world."
"That sounds nice. But Gene, I've never done this before. I'll need a lot of pointers."
"You'll be fine. Besides you're not alone…"
"Thank God for that," she leaned her head on his chest again, listening to the sound of his heart beating there. She couldn't feel anything within her, except a new awareness that she was carrying something that both of them had contributed to. A piece of him and her merged together was growing inside, and it both terrified and touched her at the same time.