The Recovery

by

Delph
(dolfins@worldnet.fr)

Already 8 hours that she was lying on this damn delivery table suffering like Hell… And it was without counting the hours before she came to the hospital during which she had had dreadfully painful contractions… She couldn't concentrate on anything else than her pain. Her whole body seemed to be a huge single source of pain… She couldn't stand it anymore, she wanted to sleep, to stop, and to wake up only to discover that the whole thing had simply been a terrible nightmare… She could feel her husband's hand on her forearm… Her husband… Max… It was he who had put her into such a situation!…

In the maelstrom that had become her whole senses array, she heard the same voice once more, and came back to Earth…

Obstetrician: Yes Mrs. Sheffield!… Come on! One more time!… Push!

Fran: Awwww! … Oh Max you'll never touch me again in your life I promise! Awwww!

Max: It's all right sweetheart, now push my Darling, push…

Fran: Awwww!

Obstetrician: Yes! There it comes!…I can see the head!…Yes Mrs. Sheffield!… Yes!

Baby: Woaaaa! Woaaaaa!

Obstetrician: Mrs. Sheffield, it's a boy!… It's a boy!

Maxwell couldn't contain his emotions anymore when the doctor held him his son, and he let the tears run down his cheeks.

Max: Oh Fran!… We have a boy! We have a boy!…

Fran took her child in her arms with a most tired smile.

Fran: So…?…How do we call him?

Max: Well…What do you think of 'David Anthony Sheffield'?…

Fran: That's not what we had decided Max… But I like it…

She smiled but exhaustion took its toll of her and she fell asleep almost instantly. The nurse took the baby and prepared him for the nursery. Maxwell smiled, overwhelmed by a wave of cheer happiness and pride. He kissed his wife's forehead, before she was wheeled away to her own room. He had an announcement to make. He went to the waiting room where his whole family was gathered: Sylvia and Morty, Niles, Grace, Brighton, Maggie and Michael, and C.C. Sylvia stood up when he entered the room.

Max: I'm proud to announce the arrival of a new member in the Sheffield Family: David Anthony Sheffield…

Sylvia: A son! My daughter has a son!… Oh my life is complete!

And suddenly, everybody was there around him, trying to hug him, touch him, or congratulate him… Everybody except… C.C…

She honestly didn't understand the least bit why they were so happy about this baby… This small crying and demanding almost caricature of a man… No definitely, she had not the maternal fiber in herself… Another useless thing that had been erased from her genetic code when she was born… And yet… She couldn't explain it but she felt… Something… A pang in her chest… Probably because… Oh no this is silly!… She was taken off her thoughts by Maxwell's kiss on her cheek, and back to the living…

C.C.: Oh?… What was that for Maxwell?

Max: Do you need a special reason to give one of your friends a kiss?… I'm the happiest man in the world at the moment, and I want to share it with everybody…

C.C.: I'm happy for you and Fran Maxwell. She managed to smile warmly.

Maxwell winked

Max: I guess it's the first time I ever hear you call her 'Fran' C.C… Thank you…

She smiled. He excused himself then, and went to see his wife to spend the rest of the evening by her side.

***

The Limo stopped before the front door, Max helped Fran out, then he took the basket where his son was sleeping. Then he took Fran's hand and walked to the front door. They entered the house. Suddenly, the lights all went out and a phosphorescent sign descended from the ceiling with a rain of tinsel, saying:

The lights went on again, and they found themselves surrounded by three pairs of arms belonging to three happy kids, while Niles started playing 'Isn't HE lovely' (a revised version of Stewie Wonder's song) on the piano.

Maxwell was again the happiest man in the world, he felt complete and his heart was threatening to burst with love for these 3 wonderful kids, his trusted butler and friend, his wonderful wife, and the small life in his basket.

But suddenly, Fran burst out sobbing and ran upstairs.

The kids were agape, Niles had stopped playing the piano, and Max was trying to understand. Eventually, he went up the stairs to find his wife in their bedroom.

She was lying on the bed, still sobbing deeply. He went to sit next to her and gently, took her in his arms in a comforting gesture.

Max: There, there my Darling… What's happening?… Tell me…

Fran: Oh Max… I don't know… I wanted this baby so badly you know, but now that he's here… I don't know… I don't feel like I'm gonna be a good mother…

Max smiled.

Max: Now come on sweetheart… You're tired… You've already been a good mother… You've already raised 3 kids wonderfully, you don't need to worry my Darling… Besides, you will not be the only one raising him… I missed this part of my three first kids' life, and I don't want to miss it this time… I'll be there with you… David is our son, the proof of our love, and you must never forget that I love you everyday more deeply Fran…

She was still crying on his shoulder, but she seemed to relax a bit.

Fran: Yes… You're probably right Max… I must be tired… I'm sorry… Tell the kids that I was truly overwhelmed by their lovely welcome, and that I love them… I'm gonna rest a little now… Would you take care of David?

Max: Of course my Darling… Don't worry… Now that you are back home, there's Niles, and I'm sure Maggie, Brighton, and Gracie, are going to be very happy to help us raising their baby brother… Don't worry… Now rest…

He kissed her forehead and laid her back on the bed. He smiled to her, then closed the door and went downstairs.

Gracie, Brighton, and Maggie had gathered around David, and were marveling at the small sleeping being in his basket.

Max came down the stairs. Niles arrived from the kitchen at that time.

Niles: Is she all right Sir?

Max: Yes old man, thank you… Just a little exhausted… You know it was quite an ordeal for her… She didn't have any drugs and it was quite long as you may have noticed…

Niles nodded.

Niles: Shall I bring her some tea or…

Max: No thank you Niles… She needs some sleep and some rest… Children, Fran asked me to tell you that she was really touched by your welcome, and that she is sorry she reacted this way…

Maggie: Oh it's all right Dad… We're so happy that you're both home with David at last…

Brighton: Yeah, it was time there was a new male in this house frankly Dad…

Gracie: Do you think we can see Mom, Dad?

Max: Oh course sweetheart, but not right now… Your Mom really needs some rest… I'm sure all this will be over in a couple of days…Let's focus on David shall we?…

The baby was beginning to stir in his basket. his father bent and took him within his arms. Then he went to sit on the couch with his three other children following him like bees around a pot of sugar.

***

Max was in his office, standing before the French doors, thinking.

He turned around.

Max: Come in…!

Sylvia entered the office almost shyly: she had seldom come into that place.

Max: Oh hello Mom…!

He went to kiss her welcome, and beckoned her to the love seat.

Max: Please…

Sylvia sat down and looked at Maxwell who had gone to lean on his desk.

Max: What's the matter Sylvia?… You never came here before on your daily visits…Is there a problem?

Sylvia: Fran is the problem…

Max: Oh?

Sylvia: Don't do that trick on me Max …Fran has always been a lively person, and it seems something's broken inside her.

She had used his first name on purpose: she new what effect it would have upon him… And indeed, his facial expression changed from faked 'everything's fine' to complete loss.

Max: Oh Sylvia!… I don't know what's wrong with her… I can't seem to manage cheering her up… I tell her I love her almost every hour of the day, I've never seen the kids so sweet…Even David is the sweetest baby I've ever known He smiled at this thought He never cries but when he's hungry or his diapers need to be changed, he's always smiling,… But…It seems she doesn't care… She does not want to take care of him and leaves Niles, the kids, or myself do it… She won't even let me… Well… Her obstetrician told us it would be back to normal three weeks after the delivery, but…It's been a month and a half now and…

Sylvia: I understand Max…Max… maybe you should consider taking her away for a while… One of my cousins once had a post-birth depression, and she could overcome it with rest…

Max: She's already resting all day long Sylvia…

Sylvia: Listen to me… Take her away, in some quiet place, were she can rest… with you… alone…

Max: And who's going to keep David?

Sylvia: What do you have a butler for?!… And what about your other kids?!…They're old enough to look after a baby…!

Max: Well they have school…

Sylvia: Well Niles is here isn't he?… And they can take rounds keeping David!

Max: You know what Sylvia?… Maybe you're right. I'm going to make immediate arrangements, and I'll take Fran on a vacation with me…

He kissed lightly her cheek.

Max: Thank you Mom…

Sylvia: You know, I'm worrying as much as you do…

At dinner the same evening, Niles was just bringing in the roasted beef loaf. Fran was not with them as usual since she had gotten back from the hospital.

Max: Niles, take a seat please… And by the way, I'd like you to eat with the family from now on…

Niles: Why thank you Sir…

Max: This is something I should have done a long time ago Niles …Well… Children, Niles… as you have noticed, Fran has not been very well since David was born… Well Sylvia suggested me to take her on a vacation, and that's what I wanted to tell you about… Tomorrow I'll take her to a nice resort in the woods next to a lake in Canada… I hope the proximity of nature, will help her recovering from David's birth… I know David is still a very young baby, but I need you to take care of him…Niles, I know I had promised not to charge you with all the duties that require a baby's care again, but you understand we have an exceptional situation here…

Niles: Of course Sir, don't worry, I don't mind… I will be happy to be of any help…

Max: Thank you old man… Children… I know you have the school, but you might check your schedules and still find some time to take care of David and releasing Niles a bit when you get home?

Maggie: Of course Dad, we all want Mom to be better, and I don't think any of us is upset with taking care of our little brother…

Brighton: Definitely Dad!… As long as Niles shows me how to change diapers…

Gracie: … and I've already given him his bottle once or twice!

Max: Thank you… He was much touched by the enthusiasm of his family. I don't really know how long it'll take us… it might be a fortnight, it might be a month… Is that still okay with you?

Niles: Concentrate on taking care of Mrs. Sheffield Sir… We'll handle the rest for you… I'm sure Miss Babcock will be delighted to be of some help too…

Max: Oh… And… Niles… I'd like you to call a truce between you two while we are away…

Niles: Needless to say Sir… of course…

***

Max parked the car he had rented before the chalet. The gravel crunched under the tires when it stopped. He went out and around the car to open to Fran. She stepped out and looked around her. The chalet was built in a meadow and they were surrounded by fir trees. Not far from the house, through the woods, they could see a lake. The place was incredibly quiet, and they could only hear the birds, some cracking noises from the trees in the forest, and once in a while, they could hear the scream of a chasing hawk above their heads.

She breathed in deeply. Max put an arm around her shoulders.

Fran: What an intoxicating scent!… It almost makes me feel dizzy…

Max: That's probably because the air here is purer than in New York and you're not used to breathing such an amount of oxygen Darling.

Fran: Max… Thank you… But you know, I'm sure I'd overcome this little crisis without all this trouble…

Max: It's no trouble honey, I assure you… I wanted this too… Anyway… From now on, I don't want to hear anything about New York or the people living in … From now on, it's only you and me… For the first time since our honeymoon…Now… Shall we camp in the woods or shall we go into the house? He teased her.

Fran: Well now that you ask me… I'd rather the second alternative…!

He chuckled, took their suitcases from the trunk, and went to open the door.

They were welcomed by the particular scent of a wooden house, and of the wax on several pieces of the furniture. A bunch of fresh wild flowers was standing in the middle of the only table in the main room. There were merely two real rooms in the house: an average sized bedroom and a large common room with a big fireplace. The large room was artificially divided in three parts: one, one could call the 'living room', with a small couch facing two armchairs and a small table in the middle; the 'dining room' with the wooden table and 4 wooden chairs; and the kitchen separated though from the rest of the room by a counter and two small banging doors. In the kitchen, there was all the modern convenience they could expect: a refrigerator that had been partially filled with a few necessary items before their arrival, and a stove. The bathroom was quite sober, but all they needed was there.

Max carried the two suitcases to the bedroom. There was a huge wardrobe and a small table in a corner with two chairs. The bed was also quite large with a colorful hand made quilt.

The chalet also had a small terrace and they found a small shed with two deck chairs for when they would want to rest on the terrace.

After they completed the exploration of the house, and emptied the suitcases in the wardrobe, Max settled the deck chairs, and they spent the rest of the sunny afternoon reading and resting from the trip.

***

C.C. had been working all day long. She actually blessed the absence of Maxwell and his wife because Niles was too busy with the baby to taunt her. She knew he had promised Maxwell to call a truce between them, but with Niles… One never knew… Talking about Niles… She left the contracts she'd been working on, stood up, and went to the kitchen to ask for a tea.

Niles was busy preparing the evening meal. He had a portable intercom on the worktop beside him, with which he could know what David was doing.

C.C.: Niles, is there some tea made?…

Niles: No, I'm sorry Miss Babcock, you'll have to prepare it yourself…I've been quite busy with the house and David today… Would you share dinner with us?

C.C.: Are you inviting me to?

He sighed tiredly.

Niles: Miss Babcock, you know, I'm too tired today to be taunting you. It was just mere politeness…

He heard the baby cry through the intercom.

Niles: Oh blast!…I don't know what's wrong with him, but since his parents left, he's been almost impossible!… How am I supposed to prepare a decent meal if I get interrupted every five minutes!…

C.C.: Leave it to me Niles… I'll take care of him… And I'll stay for dinner too…

Niles: Well that's nice of you Miss Babcock, but I don't think you know how to change diapers!

C.C.: Mmm I could surprise you Niles… When Sara was alive, I once helped her change Greta?… Gabrielle?… Huh… Well… The last one…Anyway… I guess I can handle this… Besides, I need a break, so…Where is he?

Niles: In the living room…All right then… But if you need some help… Just cry in there… He said showing the portable intercom.

C.C. looked skyward and headed for the living room.

She found the baby in his basket on the sofa. She looked at him with a strange expression, then pushed by some instinct that seemed foreign to her, she took the child in her arms, rubbed his nose with a finger, and ascended the staircase.

She entered Fran's old room (which was now David's) and laid the child on the small mattress on the table. Then cautiously, she started to take the baby's pajamas off. David had stopped crying, he seemed possessed with some kind of frenzy to C.C. though, for as any baby, he was kicking the air over and over with his tiny feet. C.C. took off the soaked diaper, rolled it, and tossed it in the bin. Then, she took a piece of cotton wool she moistened with some cleaning lotion, and started rubbing the baby's buttock with it. David was apparently quite satisfied with this, for he giggled, and then, threw a magnificently curved stream of liquid at C.C.'s dress…

C.C. yelped.

C.C.: What the…!!!! Oh no! This is not happening!!!! NIIIIIIIILES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

After a few seconds, Niles came rushing in the room.

Niles: What?!! What's happening?!… Is the baby…

He stopped speaking. C.C. had turned with a horrified look, her dress dripping a little while David was still wriggling on his table. Slowly a stupid smiled he tried to conceal (but couldn't) drew itself on his face. He tried to remain dignified.

Niles: Is there… Hum… Is there any problem Miss Babcock? He felt he was looking like a real idiot with this stupid smile on his face, but couldn't prevent it.

C.C.: Niles if I see again this stupid smile on your face, I swear I'll kill you!!!!!! What am I supposed to do now?!!! What am I going to wear?!!!! How am I going to get back home?!!!! I hate you! I hate this baby! Oh I wish I had never left Maxwell's office!…

Niles: tss tss Miss Babcock… Take it easy… Go to the bathroom and leave your clothes in the basket, I'll send one of the kids bring them to the dry cleaner as soon as possible so that you can have them tomorrow morning …

C.C.: And what am I going to wear?! I have no intention of remaining stuck in the bathroom, or wandering almost naked in this house for the rest of the day!

Niles: Well you can take a bathrobe while I'll finish what you started here…And don't worry… It happens sometimes with the boys…Nature built them that way…

C.C.: huggghhhh I hate you, I hate babies!

Niles: No you don't…He smiled, with an amused look. Now come on… Go clean yourself, while I finish here…

Some time later, David was wearing his pajamas again, and sleeping comfortably on Niles' shoulder. C.C. emerged from the bathroom. She had taken a shower and her hair was damp. Niles was waiting for her in the hallway. She gave his her clothes.

Niles: I managed to find a few things that could suit you in Mrs. Sheffield's dressing, I left them in the guest's room… Nothing fuzzy don't worry, but as you and Mrs. Sheffield are not exactly the same size, I'm afraid I had to take a few items she wore while she was pregnant…There's a pair of jeans and a baggy sweat shirt that could fit you…I'll leave you now… Duty calls…I have to give his bottle to this young fellow and then the kids should be back and I'll be able to finish preparing dinner… Oh and… If you want to stay with us overnight, well…you're very welcome…

He smiled to her and went downstairs.

C.C. thought that Niles was way too much sweet to her… This was probably hiding something else. She promised herself to determine what as soon as possible, but right now, she had to dress up. She went to the guest's room and tried the outfits Niles had chosen for her. Apparently, he knew her better than she had guessed, she thought, for indeed, Fran's 5months pregnant jeans suited her almost perfectly, except for the legs which were a tiny bit short I'd never noticed she had such long legs! C.C. thought. She glanced at herself in the mirror. She looked terrible, but that was the best she could do until her dress was back from the dry cleaner's.

She went down to the kitchen and found Niles bottle-feeding David. He looked at her when she entered the room.

C.C.: So?… Come on, give me your two cent…

Niles: Well… You're not Eva Herzigova… Definitely…

C.C.: Thanks!

She sat in front of him.

Niles: What did you expect me to say?… That you look stunning?

C.C.: No…

Niles: Well then you look like a woman who's just had to change into casual clothes because hers were dampened by a little boy a few minutes ago… Nobody's going to sue you for that… Even myself! I already have far too much work here!

C.C.: What's happening to you Niles?… I mean… I know that Maxwell asked you to soften your usual taunt on me, but… you've not only softened it, you've stopped it, and you're being sweet!

He chuckled.

Niles: I must be tired…!… Well… I have a lot of work to do, even though the Sheffield's are not home, and it distracts me from taunting you… Then… The arrival of David a few weeks ago changed my life more than when Miss Maggie, Master Brighton, or Miss Grace were born… I guess I'm older… And… Well… there's no use in taunting you about Mr. Sheffield when you've given up on him at last…

C.C.: Niles… are you sick?

Niles: No… I told you… I'm older…

And then, without exactly knowing why, or how, she smiled warmly and kissed him gently on the cheek.

C.C.: I'll be in Maxwell's office…

Niles: Miss Babcock?

C.C.: Yes?

Niles: What was that for?

She smiled again.

C.C.: I'm older too…

She exited the room and Niles went on feeding David.

***

Fran awoke slowly. She stretched her arms sleepily and opened her eyelids.

Fran: Maxwell?

After a few seconds, he opened the door of the room with a big grin over his face. He was wearing sweaters, stone washed jeans, and tennis shoes.

Max: Has the ever sleeping lady finally woken up? He winked and came to sit on the edge of the bed next to her. He pulled up a curl of her hair.

Fran: I feel I slept like a baby… I had not slept like that for ages!

Max: Yeah, I see that…

Fran: What time is it?

Max: 11.30 am…

Fran: What?!… You're kidding?!

Max: No…

Fran: I haven't slept that long in my entire life!… What did you do to me you little rascal! She tickled him.

Max: Nothing! Honest! He said, raising his hands with an amused smile. When I woke up you were sleeping… I watched you do that for half an hour, and then… Well I realized you were not likely to emerge from what seemed a very nice dream-according to the smile on your face, and I hope it included me!- so, I got up went for a jog and bought a few things in the nearby city market… When I returned an hour later, I checked on you, but you were still sleeping so… I took a book and went to read on the terrace…We have a wonderful weather today… What do you say you wash and get dressed, while I'll prepare lunch for us. Then we can go on a walk in the woods and take a swim in the lake?

Fran: Mmmm… Sounds a nice program…!

He stood up.

Fran: Max!

Max: Yes Darling?

Fran: I can't get up…

He frowned, suddenly concerned, and came back to sit by her side

Max: Why is that?!

He was reassured at once by her mischievous smile.

Fran: I didn't have my morning kiss…

He smiled lovingly and bent to give her a long and tender kiss. She wrapped her arms around his neck and held him against her, not wanting to let him go.

Fran: I love you Max…She said when he broke the kiss, her voice trembling with emotion.

Max: I love you too Fran Sheffield…He kissed the tip of her nose. Now come on lazy girl…!… Take a shower and get dressed!… Oh, and please… High heels are not the best to walk in the woods my Darling… Tennis shoes will do!

He barely managed to avoid the pillow she threw at him and shut the door giggling.

He prepared a huge mixed salad for their lunch and was quite happy with the result. Then he cut some fruits and arranged them on a plate, spreading them with lemon juice. He laid the table. Just when he was about to finish, Fran came out of the bathroom, wiping her hair with a terry cloth.

Max: Are you hungry?

Fran: I'm starving! She came to pick a piece of red pepper, but Max gently slapped her hand.

Max: Tss tss… Not till you're properly dressed! He said, pointing at her bathrobe which was a little loose…

She giggled and retreated to the bedroom. He was tempted to follow her, but he didn't: better wait till she's ready he thought.

They ate silently, yet joyfully, then they took a light bag where they tossed their towels, their swimsuits, and some lotion for the sun, and they went to walk in the woods.

Max was relieved: he'd feared Fran would not be happy with the kind of vacation he had planned for her: after all they had never done that kind of things before. Yet she seemed to enjoy it, he even dared think that she had made some progress…

They walked hand in hand for a while, then he encircled her shoulders with his arm and drew her closer. Finally, they reached the shores of the lake. They took their clothes off, and entered the water. It was not as cool as they'd have expected, but they were in august, and the weather was really hot. Yet it was really freshening and revitalizing. Max drew Fran close and kissed her thoroughly for a very long time, showing her once more how much he loved her with his kiss. She withdrew a little from his embrace and shot him one of her best smiles, then she looked at him with a mischievous eye and stepped back a little. He understood too late… Fran started splashing him madly. He responded almost at once. They were both giggling like teenagers. Then Max called the game off by diving and grabbing Fran before spinning with her in his arms, and collapsing into the water, still giggling madly.

They came back to the shore and dried themselves, kissing slightly from time to time, and looking at one another lovingly. They remained a little on the grass by the lake, and then went back to the house. Max started preparing dinner: grilled trout with some rice and vegetables. Fran laid the table, and decorated it with some wild flowers she had picked on their way back from the lake, then she went to watch her husband preparing dinner.

Fran: I never knew you had such cooking talents Max!

Max: Ahhh you don't know everything about me Darling!… You've still got a lot to discover! He teased her.

Fran: When did you learn to cook?

Max: When I was in England…!… Well… You know Niles has a French mother… When the holidays came and we were away from school and I had nothing to do except watching Niles learning to be a butler with his father and mother, I watched her cook. She taught me a few things, how some flavors mix to compose others, how to associate things that were apparently not meant to be, … Simple things actually, but the basics of cooking… Now I have Niles cooking for us, but once in a while, I like to cook myself… It's totally different from what I'm used to do, and it's really relaxing…

Fran: Like what you're wearing today honey…! How is it that I can't see you in casual clothes more often?!… I know that you're busy at home all day, but well on week ends or at the end of the working day, you should wear these more often… Did I ever tell you that you look incredibly sexy in these jeans?…She winked mischievously.

He chuckled, blushing a little.

Max: Well I've got to be careful then!… I don't want you to turn your back on me and go chasing a cook wearing jeans!

She came closer.

Fran: Why should I go chasing a sexy cook when I have one all for myself? She murmured in his ear.

He stopped cutting the vegetables, wiped his hands on a towel, encircled her waist, and kissed her. She threw her arms around his neck and held him tight. He started nibbling her neck. She threw her head backwards, allowing him to kiss her throat… She was caught in a turmoil… A long extinct fire suddenly lit up inside her.

He lifted her in his arms and carried her to the bedroom. He pushed the door with his foot and laid her on the bed. Still staring at her, he took off his sweaters. When she caught sight of his bare chest, she sat up straight and took off her own top. He unbuckled his belt and undid the buttons of his jeans, letting them fall on the ground. Then he went to lie beside her and kissed her, while finishing to disrobe her. They entered the sheets… Fortunately, Max had turned the stove off…

Their lovemaking was gentle and soft, as if Max didn't want to hurt her… As if they were making love for the very first time. And it was, in some way, a first… A new discovery of each other's bodies after a long painful silence. A door had unlocked in Fran's head. She felt a fire she'd not felt for what seemed ages. He was acting as if he had a porcelain doll underneath him, touching her only with his fingertips, tracing invisible love lines on her stomach, her sides…

They lost all notion of time, so caught up in their passion that the world around them did not exist anymore…

***

It had been a week since that incident with the baby, and yet, she thought she still could not 'forgive him'… She came to the living room with her cup of tea. She had been working all day long on lists of actors she had to cast for the play, and she badly needed that break. She saw the basket on the couch and peeked inside. David was sleeping soundly. She couldn't help but smile, and instinctively, she caressed his cheek with the back of her finger.

Niles came in to check on David and he was startled when he saw C.C. cooing the baby. The monster is human after all! he thought with a smile.

He stepped behind her silently.

Niles: Youngsters now?!… You know, feeding with them won't give you back your youth Miss babcock!

She jumped.

C.C.: Niles!… You scared me to death!

Niles: Why do you care?!… Aren't the likes of you relive as soon as they drink fresh blood?

She slapped him on the arm.

C.C.: Oh you're impossible Niles!

David began to stir and cry in his basket.

C.C.: Now you've woken the baby! She bent, took David in her arms and started cooing him.

Niles was most surprised, he would never have dared having the opportunity to see Miss Babcock like this!

She had sat down on the couch. He sat next to her.

Niles: What's happening to you Miss Babcock? He asked most gently I've never seen you that concerned about children…

C.C.: Well Niles, you know…when David was born…

Niles: Woa! You even remembered his name!… That must be serious!

She slapped him on the arm playfully.

C.C.: So… When David was born and everybody seemed to rejoice at the event, I was not… I thought it was because the arrival of a baby had never moved me in any way before, but actually it was not… I felt sad because… She sighed Because I guess I realized I could never have a baby on my own…

Pushed by some instinct, he wrapped her shoulders with one arm. She welcomed the gesture and leant upon him comfortably.

Niles: I am most touched that you trust me enough to tell me this Miss Babcock…

She chuckled.

C.C.: Well Niles… I guess you and I only know how really good friends we have become… Even if we can only show our friendship by taunting each other over and over…

David had fallen asleep again in C.C.'s arms. Niles tickled him gently with one finger smiling. The baby smiled in his sleep. C.C. smiled too.

C.C.: You know you do have a thing with children Niles…

Niles: Miss Babcock… You know, you can have children… I mean nowadays, artificial insemination is quite common for single women…

C.C.: And raise my kid without his or her father?… What am I going to do when he/she asks me about him?…No Niles… even I won't inflict that on a child…

He kept silent, but he smiled and hugged her tighter. Then he pulled a streak of her hair. She stared at him. She had never realized how the fine lines around his eyes were softening his look… He had wonderful eyes…

Gently, he stroked her cheek with one finger, then he lifted her chin and drew her head closer. Gently, almost shyly, he kissed her lips. It was not deep and passionate, but it told everything that had existed between them for years now… David stirred again. He withdrew from her smiling gently.

Niles: Well I guess that if you want to give this little fellow his bottle, I'd better go and prepare it Miss Babcock…

C.C.: Niles?…

Niles: Yes Miss Babcock?

C.C.: When we are together, I'd like you to call me C.C…

Niles: As you wish C.C…

With that, he went to the kitchen. C.C. remained alone with David and started cooing and tickling him. The baby seemed to be enjoying this immensely, for he smiled and babble joyfully.

***

Fran was reading a novel on a deck chair ion the terrace. Max came behind her and tenderly circled her shoulders.

Max: How is Mrs. Sheffield ?

Fran: … Mmmm as long as Mr. Sheffield takes such a good care of her, I guess she'll be perfectly all right… !

He pulled a chair and sat in front of her. He was wearing jeans and a tee shirt.

Max: Tell me… Unless we spend the next 24 hours hunting in the woods, or we only feed with love and fresh water, we'll have to go to the town to fill the meat safe… I'm ready to cook in jeans for you for the rest of my life if it is necessary, but I can't do that without food …!

Fran: Let me finish my chapter and we can go…

Max: All right sweetie…

A little bit later, they took the car and headed for the town.

Fran: Max, by the way, do you have any news from the kids?

Max: Yes, I talked to Niles on the phone yesterday morning, everything seened to work out fine … Brighton, Maggie, and Gracie, would even fight to take care of David when they're back from school or college !

Fran: It's nice to know you can count on them when you need it …

They had reached the small town. Max parked the car and they went to the covered market. While Max, apparently well informed, choose the vegetables, or the meat, Fran was watching the people around her. She admired the complicated and colourful fresh fruits or vegetables pyramids, and appreciated much the simplicity of the people. As she was not paying attention, she ran into a child's pushchair inadvertently.

Femme: Hey ! Look where you're going!

Fran: Oh I'm sorry ! I'm deeply sorry !… Oh look at this cute little boy! … It's a boy isn't he ?

Femme: Yes! She answered proudly… His name is Daniel…

Fran: How old is he ?

Femme: He will be 9 months next week…

Fran: [tickling the kid who was obviously appreciating this a lot] Oh here's a big boy then!… You know, I've just had a boy too… His name is David… and he's two months old…

Femme: Ah ?… And where is he ?

Fran: Oh, we left him in New York with our other kids…I needed a vacation so my husband took me here …

Femme: [with a sympathetic look] I see… You must miss him…

Fran hesitated half a second …

Fran: Yes… Oh… here's my husband…

Max: As soon as I leave you alone you meet somebody! Nice to meet you Madam …He said smiling.

Fran: Well, you have a really cute little boy… have a nice day …!

Femme: Good bye… And I hope you can see yours pretty soon!

Fran: Yes, thank you…! She said as she left with Max.

The way back was silent. Max was a little worried when they arrived at the chalet.

Max: Fran darling, are you okay?

She was suddenly taken off her thoughts.

Fran: What?… Yes of course honey… Why shouldn't I be okay ?…

Max: I find you thoughtful…

Fran: Yes I was thinking…It's so quiet here… I really feel I am reliving Max… Your idea was excellent…

He smiled and let her pass before him while entering the chalet.

Max: Would you like to help a sexy cook preparing dinner?

She laughed.

Fran: If the sexy cook isn't afraid that I ruin his recipes!

Max: Okay, then I will simply ask you to peel the vegetables…! … For tonight, I bought some chicken I'd like to prepare according to a French recipe Niles gave me yesterday on the phone… I also took a good bottle of Chardonnay…

Fran: Mmmm ! … A French meal! … In what honour?

Max: Well… I thought that… You know the French have the reputation to woo the ladies curtly and wonderfully … This might… Inspire us for tonight …? He murmured in her ear before kissing her lightly on the cheek.

She laughed.

Fran: Max, do you plan on surprising me like that for long?!

Max: … All your life!… Why did you think you married me?!

They spent a most romantic evening, with a good load of laughter and tenderness …

Fran stirred. Maxwell was still sleeping, one of his arms thrown over her body. She stared at him and smiled: he looked relaxed and his face, though darkened in the lower part by the shade of his growing beard, looked like that of a baby… A baby… her baby… their baby… She missed him… The kid she had seen the day before had reminded her how much she missed that dark haired face … She had spent a wonderful time here, but now she wanted to go home. She wanted to see her kids, Niles, her mother, and even Miss Babcock… But above all, she wanted to see her son. She realized she had hardly seen him since his birth…

Max groaned and stirred. She stroked his beautiful hair. She loved touching his hair. He opened his eyes.

Fran: Hello honey…

Max: Sweetheart…! He rolled on his back and took her in his arms. Did you sleep well? He kissed the top of her hair through her silky hair.

Fran: Well considering all the physical exercise we've had during the night, yes, I slept well! She teased him. You know, it seems it's even better now that I have given birth…

Max: Really?… Then I guess I'd better start taking vitamins regularly if I want to keep pace with you!

She chuckled.

Fran: Don't worry sweetie, you're already very good in that field, and I won't ask you any more…Speaking about giving birth… It's been really nice to being with you for these two weeks, resting, and enjoying you being all dedicated to me, but… Well I miss home… I miss the kids… I miss OUR kid… I miss David… I want to go home Maxwell…

He smiled.

Max: Then I guess I'll give the owner our notice that we're leaving… You know, I love your mother…

Fran: Oh?…

Max: It is her who suggested that I take you someplace quiet so that you could recover from the baby's birth… Frankly, I was afraid it would not be enough but she was right… As always it seems…

Fran: Well I'm happy you told me, but please, don't you ever tell her or we're gonna hear that forever!!!

They both chuckled and hugged. Then they kissed lovingly as only those who know very well each other can kiss, those who are two complementary parts of a single entity…

***

The cab left Fran and Maxwell Sheffield before the front door. Max took the suitcases and went to open the door. He stepped in and was greeted by Grace.

Gracie: Daddy, Fran!… You're home!…

C.C. was on the sofa. Brighton was sitting in front of her on the coffee table. She seemed quite busy for she didn't even lift her head when Gracie welcomed her parents.

Fran: Gracie honey!… She hugged her.

Brighton stood up and came to hug his father and to kiss Fran. Niles came in too and greeted his employer. Then C.C. stood up. She was carrying something. She turned around slowly and put David on her shoulder patting his back gently.

C.C.: Hello Maxwell…Fran… I'm sorry I didn't come to greet you at once but I had some work to do…

At that moment, David uttered a loud burp…

C.C.: Ah!… Now that's better! She took the child in her arms and stepped towards Fran and Max who were a little surprised to see C.C. like that. She gave her baby to Fran.

C.C.: You may go with your mother now…

Maxwell looked on his business associate.

Max: C.C., I never knew you…

C.C.: Well, neither did I Maxwell… but now that I've tried… I guess I'm quite good at it…!

Fran: That was very nice of you taking care of Dave with Niles and the kids Miss Babcock, thank you…

Niles smiled and threw a gentle look at C.C. He was tempted to put an arm on her waist, but he did not… They shouldn't go too fast…

Niles: Well Mrs. Sheffield… You know, the arrival of a baby can change many many things…

Fran: Yeah, I can see that but… from now on, I will be the one who will take care of this young man… Not that you won't be able to take care of him too of course, but I've neglected him far too much since he was born, and that has to change…

Max was happy: Fran was back to her normal caring being, nothing had gone wrong when they were gone, and it felt good to be home again… Yes indeed… If there was a luckiest man in the world, that had to be him…

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