Chapter 13: Baby Bundle

Lilly’s due date was a little over a week away. She already started nesting; straightening up everything she possibly could. Cameron was learning to stay out of her way. She was moody, grumpy, irritable…all of it. They decided they didn’t want to know the gender of the baby, though they argued about it. In the end, Lilly decided they did not want to know. She was going stir crazy. She had been on maternity leave for about a month. She cleaned every nook and cranny in the house. Cameron and Erik had been busy preparing the nursery for the baby’s arrival. Lilly was in love with it she spent a lot of time in there, folding and refolding Baby Palmer’s new clothes. She’d spend what seemed like hours, rocking back and forth in the rocking chair. She was content but frustrated at times and Cameron could see that.   

Lilly was relaxing on the couch trying to read. “OH MY GOSH!” she yelled. “You okay honey?” her husband asked, though he was honestly afraid to. “NO!” she snapped, “I want this baby out now!” she got up to walk around.  Cameron just looked at her, “Honey, I don’t think it works like. The baby’s not going to just slide out when you command it to do so.” She gave him The Evil Eye. He tried to smooth over the situation, “Why don’t you just relax. The baby will come when he or she is ready.” The conversation started to become tenser. He tried yet again to smooth things over, “How about a day at the spa? A foot massage, a facial, a day of relaxation.” He was trying the best he could to make her feel better. She was uncomfortable and even he was hoping the baby would hurry up and come.   

Lilly apologized, “I’m sorry Cameron, it’s just exhausting. I can’t sleep, I’m anxious.” He smiled at her and leaned down to rub her protruding belly, “I know honey.” She went to sit down back on the couch. Cameron knelt down to kiss her stomach, “Everything is going to be fine. It’s common to feel this way.” “What if something goes wrong?” she whispered. “I promise. It will be alright.” They smiled at each other and enjoyed the quiet in the house. It would not be long before the peace and quiet would be interrupted.

***  

The girls came over to have lunch with the expecting mother. “Are you excited?” Summer asked. “I’m more anxious than anything and a bit worried.” Lilly replied, “it really only hit me a few weeks ago that I was going to be a mom. Just the feeling of the baby moving around is such a wonderful yet weird feeling. There’s life growing me, you know.”
“Aw…” the girls said in unison. “But I want this baby out now…” Lilly interjected. “Oh...” they said again in unison. It became awkwardly quiet. “So, any names yet?” Summer asked. “We have a few but we’ll decide once we see the baby.” “I can’t believe you don’t want to know the gender.” Emma added, “I’d be too excited not to know.”  “Does Cameron want to know?” Zoe asked. “Yea but I said no.”
“Ah Lilly, you really are acting like a wife: Total control of everything.” Emma remarked. They all laughed. Summer and Lilly decided to play so video games while Zoe read and Emma swam. Though she was enjoying her friends’ company Lilly still could not shake the feeling that something was off.  

***   

Lilly called her mother-in-law Constance to discuss the way she was feeling. “I just don’t feel right Constance.” Lilly explained. “You don’t feel right how?” there was a bit of panic in her voice. “I mean I feel like there’s something off with the baby. I don’t know how to explain it.”

Constance giggled, “That’s completely normal. You are just experiencing the jitters. What has you doctor said?” Lilly sighed, “I saw him yesterday. He said everything was fine. Development was going well. Heart rate was great.” There was silence. “Lilly sweetie, you’re going to be fine. I felt the same way with Cameron. It’s normal for a new mom, any mom really.” “She truly was Cameron’s mother.” Lilly thought. “Okay Constance. I had better make dinner for Cameron and me. I’ll keep you updated.”

Lilly and Cameron spent the evening after dinner catching up on their hobbies. Cameron played a new song that Eric had written and Lilly caught up reading some baby books. She still could not shake this unnerving feeling that she had. She figured she would call the doctor again in the morning, just to be sure. 

***

Cameron had gone to Eric’s place to practice his guitar. He reminded Lilly over a dozen times to call him if she needed anything. She was sitting comfortably on the couch after she had finished her breakfast and figured she would watch some TV. Suddenly the phone rang so Lilly got up to answer it. Lilly’s vision became blurry and a sudden pain hit her side, before she knew it, she was on the floor. The phone continued to ring and Lilly lay lifeless on the floor…

Lilly woke up in an ambulance apparently on her way to the hospital. Cameron came back to get some sheet music he had left and found her on floor. He held her hand as they rode to the hospital all while trying to fight back the tears in his eyes. “Hey honey. Everything is going to be okay. Your bloody pressure was a little high and you blacked out.” Lilly was still a little foggy so she didn’t respond. They made into the hospital and then were rushed to see the doctor. There was so much commotion going on as nurses and doctors rushed to find out what was wrong with the mother and the unborn child.

After everything calmed down, Dr. Blanchard made his way to see her. “Well it does look like you blood pressure was a little high and that did cause the black out.” Before he could continue, Cameron interrupted, “So when everything clears up she can go home right?” Dr. Blanchard took a deep breathe, “Actually Cameron, Lilly there’s an issue with the babies. They’re under stress so looks like Lilly's having them today.”

They did not respond right away then it hit Cameron “I’m sorry? Did you say babies, as in more than one?” The doctor looked puzzled, “Yeah. It’s twins. I thought I told Lilly that.” They both looked at her. “You…may…have.” She answered uncertain. “Well everything will be fine. We’ll get you both prepped for the C-Section.” He said and then left the room. Cameron sat there completely stunned, “TWO?” Lilly laughed, “Honey relax, everything will be fine.”  “I knew something like this would happen.” She thought as she let out a heavy sigh. Lilly was wheeled away with Cameron by her side after about 45 minutes. It was just a matter of time before their babies took their first breath.

*** 

After what seemed like forever at the hospital, the doctors released Lilly and the babies. “Thank God. I can’t stay here any longer.” Cameron complained. Lilly just looked at him, “Just grab the bags let’s go home.”

They made it home and quietly tiptoed to put the babies in their swings. Erik and the girls helped prepare the house for the “extra” guest. Therefore, the house was fit for Cameron and Lilly’s bundle…or now bundles of joy.

The new parents just stared. “I can’t believe they’re ours. I mean, I know this was coming but they’re finally here.” Lilly said. Cameron was quiet and shocked at the same time, “Two. There’s two of them.” He mumbled. “Yea that’s usually what twins means.” She responded sarcastically. One of the babies began to fuss, “Oh it’s okay baby girl. It’s okay Willow.” Cameron said as he picked her up. “Wait I thought, I thought that was Amelia.” Lilly said perplexed. “I think it is.” Cameron replied. “Well check her bracelet!” Lilly panicked. “What bracelets?” the new father asked. Lilly’s jaw dropped, “You took off the bracelets!!!!” She quickly picked up Willow...or Amelia, "What do we do?" Cameron chuckled, "Don't worry. I'll change their blankets in a minute. Make it easier." He laughed while holding one of the babies, "This is Amelia, I’m sure of it.” “Are you positive?”

 Lilly asked. He didn’t reply. “Well please figure it out, I’m going to take a shower.” She remarked. As he played with one of his daughters he whispered, “Don’t worry Amelia, we’ll get the hang of this. I promise you both.” He held Amelia and watched as Willow slept in her swing.

“I’m a daddy.” He said.

Introducing Willow and Amelia Palmer (Generation 2):  

Can the new parents hold it together or will the pressure of parenthood pull them apart?”

*End of Chapter 13*

 Coming up: Chapter 14: Busy, Beautiful, Babies. 

Chapter 12: "I do, I will"

With work, wedding planning and a new baby on the way: Cameron and Lilly 

were exhausted. There had been so much to do, with what seemed like so little time to do it. Bryce and Stella came to visit along with Eva, they were such a big help with everything that was going on. Stella helped plan the dresses for the girls and Bryce helped with the men’s tuxedos. Everything was being planned down to the flowers. Lilly was also excited to wear the dress that Constance had made for her; she was just hoping she could fit into it. “I need to call the chapel to make sure we’re reserved?” Lilly was trying hard not to panic. “For the fourth time honey, yes, everything is set up.” Constance replied trying not to upset the pregnant Bridezilla. It had three months since Lilly found out she was going to be having a baby. Everyone was excited for them but Lilly found herself at times wishing her Grandfather could have been there. “Okay I’m just checking Cameron.” She replied trying to not to sound so irritated. Her morning sickness had started to subside, much to her relief, there were enough things going on that made her want to throw up. 

“Lilly you shouldn’t worry so much it’s not good for you.” Constance reminded her. The wedding was only in a few days. It seemed rushed at first but Lilly didn’t want to waste any time, they still had to plan a nursery. “A nursery, wow a nursery.” She could not believe it still. “Lilly, we have to do one last fitting of your dress.” Stella called out to her. “Okay I’m coming.” She answered back.  

***
Cameron was working out when Bryce came to him to talk, “How are things going kiddo?” “There are pretty good actually. We had, well I had, a rough start when we got here.,” he told him. “What do you mean? Is everything okay?” Bryce became concerned. “What do you know about Jason Porter?” he figured he just come out and ask. “Jason Porter? He is a handful if I say so myself. Well more of a spoiled brat but the last time I checked his dad had disowned him.” Bryce told him, “He’s had some trouble with the law over the past few years. He was dragging the family name through the mud so to speak.” “Well he’s had eyes for Lilly ever since we got here. I don’t like him, period.” Cameron tried to maintain his composure. “Yea I’m not surprised actually. I am sorry he was the first person you had to meet. He was the only one around. His father and I work a lot together.” Bryce frowned, “Just do yourself a favor and stay away from him. He’ll just bring trouble and you can’t have that with Lilly and a new baby on the way.” Cameron sighed, “Yea I know. Erik apparently had a talk with him and I haven’t seen him since before the funeral.” “That may be a good sign then.”  Constance called them to dinner, “Guess we better eat.” Lilly and Cameron would soon be husband and wife with a new baby in a few months. It was all exciting and scary at the same time but they were both ready for it.  Bryce was right though, he had to let it go, for now.

***

It was the morning of the wedding and the house was full of wedding party members and loved ones. They all had to be at the chapel by 12 p.m. and the wedding started at 1 p.m. “I feel sick and bloated.” Lilly said. “That’s not bloat honey, that’s probably just baby. You’re glowing though.” Emma told her, "Though I think that might be sweat." Everyone just looked at her. “What did I say?”  “Just get your butt dressed already.” Summer insisted. Summer originally intended to walk down the aisle with Bryce but that morning he pulled Lilly aside, “I know it’s been really hard since Ben passed. I know he’d love to be here with you on your special day. If you wouldn’t mind, I would love to walk my daughter-in-law down that aisle.”  Lilly was surprised by his request, “I’d be honored if you would. Thank so much.” Bryce took a deep breathe Lilly you have no idea how much you mean to Cameron. I may have missed a lot of his life, but I am happy to be here and share this moment with you two.” They hugged each other and in that moment she realized just how much Cameron was like his dad. She knew he would make a great father to their unborn child.  

Everyone tried to hold their composure as everyone headed to the chapel. Constance was nervous as fixed up Lilly’s hair. “You looks so beautiful honey.” She tired fighting back the tears, “I’m so happy you’re a part of this family and I’m going to be a grandmother.” “Constance stop you’re going to make my makeup run.” They hugged each other close as they waited for the ceremony to begin. This was it: in about 15 minutes, she would be in front of her future husband and taking their vows.   

The wedding chapel was set and everything was ready to begin. Cameron stood at the alter waiting and took a deep breathe. “This is it.” he thought, “We’re getting married.”  The music became and as Eric and Emma walked down the aisle, Cameron’s heart jumped and he started to sweat a bit. Summer was next down the aisle and again Cameron’s heart jumped. Finally lead by Little Eva, Lilly and Bryce made their way down the aisle. “She’s so beautiful.” Cameron whispered. She truly was. Lilly looked at Bryce and smiled and said “Here we go.” Bryce was more than happy to give Lilly away to his son, he congratulated Cameron one last time and sat down.

 Lilly and Cameron stood face to face as their family and friends looked on to watch them exchange vows. Cameron cleared his throat, “I’ve never met someone so beautiful in my life. Since the first time I saw you I knew we were meant to be. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, have babies with you, making sure that you and our family are cared for. I love you and I will prove that to you every day as long as I shall live.” Lilly smiled, “I remember the first time I saw you: You were walking in the cafeteria and slipped on a puddle only to land right at my feet. You are clumsy, funny, sweet, sensitive and caring. You make me the happiest woman in the world and I love every minute that I am with you. I want to live my life with you. Through the good, the bad and yes even the ugly. I promise to stand by your side as your wife, your lover and your friend.”  

They began to exchange rings, “I, Cameron Joseph Palmer, take you Lillibeth Paige Weber to be my lawfully wedded wife. To love and cherish you for as long as I shall live.” recited Cameron. Lilly took another deep breathe, “I, Lillibeth Paige Weber take you Cameron Anthony Palmer to be my lawfully wedded husband. To love and cherish you for as long as I shall live.” They smiled at each other and shared their first kiss as husband and wife. Their family and friends applauded at the joyous moment.

*Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Cameron Palmer *

*** 

The reception went on for hours. The newlyweds took some time to enjoy their first dance as husband and wife. They all danced, ate and had a blast. Cameron and Lilly were busting moves all over the place. When it was all said and done, the couple went home to enjoy each other’s company. They had not planned a honeymoon, Lilly wasn’t up for traveling and everything. But they cuddled together on the bed and talked into the night. “I can’t believe we’re married. I mean, I know we had planned it for years, but we’re finally married with a baby on the way.” Cameron whispered to her. “I know I can’t wait to see our little bundle of joy. We haven’t even thought of names yet.” Lilly responded. “I thought of so many that I’ve lost count.” He laughed. “Cameron Jr. if it’s a boy!” she squealed. Her husband frowned, “No. No and hell no!” “Why not? I think it’s cute.” She was surprised by his reaction. “As much as I like my name, No!” Cameron insisted. “Okay fine, fine. We’ll come up with some other ones. Not to mention we need to start on the nursery.” “Yea Eric said he’d help with that. We’ll figure all of that out, in the meantime…” before he could finish Lilly was out like a light.

Cameron kissed her forehead and sighed, “I love you both so much.” He said as he rubbed her belly. They were now husband and wife, soon they would be a mother and a father. Cameron could not wait.   

* End of Chapter 12* 

Coming up: Baby Bundle