Housewarming Party?

[MELANIE WHITFIELD]

Melanie was so excited to have her brother and his pregnant girlfriend over for dinner. They hadn’t spent much time together since Melanie had moved into Kevin’s apartment. Since his sister had moved away, Kevin had come to rely on her more and Melanie was glad they lived together. He usually came home tired and sore and she was always there to greet him with a smile. Her hours at the hospital allowed her to get home at least an hour before Kevin so she had time to clean up and relax a little before he got home. She made dinner for two every night—she’d done that with her brother too, but Kevin didn’t take it for granted. It was like every home-cooked meal she put on the table was a little miracle and she loved that he appreciated the little things so much. Not to mention they had christened just about every surface of their home with their lovemaking. There was no reason why they shouldn’t have sex where they wanted to when it was just the two of them in their apartment as long as things were cleaned up after. Kevin had gotten more comfortable with expressing that side of himself and Melanie didn’t push him too far. Overall, life was good in the Whitfield-Garcia household. The couple months they had been living together were the light at the end of a tunnel. They were building a home and even though it was quiet, small and simple, it was theirs. Melanie never thought she could have this kind of happiness.

It was a Friday night and Melanie had made sure to get out of the hospital right on time so she could start cooking. She was making enchiladas, Spanish rice, corn cakes and beans for dinner and the dessert was going to be chocolate chip cookies. Her enchiladas were Bran’s favorite and she’d heard Jo was craving Hispanic food lately—Hispanic food and chocolate to be exact. Being the people pleaser she was, Melanie wanted to give Jo some ooey-gooey cookies that she wouldn’t be able to turn down. Perhaps that would put her in a better mood. Brandon had warned her Jo wasn’t in the best of moods these days and Melanie assured him it was probably just the hormones. Some women got high off of them and some women just got moody. It seemed that Jo was the latter, but hopefully good food and happy people would cheer Jo up. Mel would hate to upset her…Plus, she couldn’t wait to see the baby bump! It was still relatively early in Jo’s pregnancy, but she was almost halfway through and she would definitely be showing now, especially with how little she was. Melanie was as excited to find out the gender as Brandon was and she could hardly wait the next couple weeks until they found out!

When she hopped out of the shower and changed into her jeans and a cami, she moved right into the kitchen to cook. It took her over an hour to complete everything, but by the time everything was done the apartment smelled like a Mexican restaurant. She was just putting the enchiladas in the oven to bake when Kevin walked in the door. Her head popped around the wall separating the kitchen from the living space and she gave a big smile. “Hi baby!” she greeted cheerfully before turning back to carefully slide the pan into the oven and shutting the enchiladas in. As soon as she could she slipped her mitts off and hurried into the living area to greet her boyfriend home with a big hug and a giggle. Even though he was dirty and smelled like sweat, she didn’t care—she loved the way he smelled when he got home. She gave a little squeal of delight when he lifted her off the ground and onto his hips and she instinctively wrapped her legs around him, her arms tight around his shoulders while her wings stretched behind her. With a big smile she brought her lips to his and giggled when he leaned in to kiss her again as she pulled away. For a long minute they just stood there kissing, Melanie wrapped around Kevin like a monkey. Before they could get carried away, though, she pulled back and rested her forehead against his. “Don’t forget Bran and Jo are coming over. You might want to shower before they get here.” Her voice was soft and playful, her fingers playing in his long hair. She hoped this lighthearted playfulness would never change between them.

[BRANDON GARCIA]

What Brandon thought would be a wonderful new chapter to his life was slowly turning into a nightmare. Okay, maybe nightmare was harsh, but it wasn’t nearly the happy picture he thought it would be. Jo was throwing up most mornings, but in the evenings she got cravings like nothing else, which would end up as more throwing up before bed. She was usually irritated and uncomfortable in some way—he couldn’t cuddle with her on the couch without getting snapped at eventually! This normally led to bickering between the two, but when Jo inevitably broke down in tears, Brandon would apologize. He was getting used to taking the blame these days. Even worse, he was getting used to taking the heat for everything that went wrong. He was lucky if he walked into the house at night and Jo didn’t immediately cry out, “Brandon!” Honestly, the man could do very little right. He understood now why other men were so reluctant when their wives got pregnant. And on top of all that, he had no way to release his sexual tension other than with his hand. Every time he even tried to get some she pushed at him and told him to leave her alone. She hadn’t quite said the words, “You did this to me!” But she was getting closer every day. His boat was now his sanctuary where he didn’t have to listen to her bitching at him constantly and he could feel like he was actually doing something right.

All of the bitching aside, though, he was still genuinely excited for his first child to come into the world. He couldn’t lie, he really wanted a son, but he would be happy as long as the baby was healthy. Sometimes on the boat he would slip into thoughts of actually having a family to provide for. No matter how mean she got, Jo was still the mother of his child and he knew he still loved her. Most of the time she may have been a bitch, but there were times when she was sweet or funny and she still smiled every now and then. The best was watching her belly grow, though. It was obvious to see with how tiny she was. In the bathroom some nights he would catch her rubbing her bump and gazing in the mirror and he couldn’t help but watch as she did this. She had a different look on her face when she was admiring her belly; her face would soften and he could see the love in her big brown eyes. The night before last she had even smiled when he came in and wrapped his arms around her, one hand smoothing over her belly. Being the mother of his child made her ten times more beautiful and he knew even with her bitching at him constantly, he wouldn’t stop loving her. That was why he was going to ask Melanie to help him shop for a ring at dinner tonight.

If he could make it there alive. Jo was complaining the whole car ride about not looking right and feeling too fat. “Jo, you’re like a hundred and ten pounds even with a baby. You’re not fat. And even if you were, you’d still be beautiful.” That statement didn’t stop the running commentary, but at least he’d been honest. He sighed heavily and shut his eyes just long enough that he was forced to breeze through a red light because he hadn’t slowed in time to stop while it was still yellow. That got him more flack and he had to keep from rolling his eyes. When they reached his sister’s place, he threw his Mustang in park and slid out of the driver’s seat before moving to Jo’s door. She was already opening it but he moved to hold her door open and lend her a hand anyway. He studied the building as they walked inside, still not a fan of how rough it looked. From the day she announced she was moving in with Kevin Brandon hadn’t been the biggest fan of her plan. Yeah, Kevin was a good guy and he liked him and the work he still did on the boat, and he could tell how much he loved Melanie, but they weren’t engaged. There was no promise of them staying together at all and yet Melanie had invested her money in a place to live with him. What if they didn’t work out and they had to break the lease early or she got sucked into paying rent until Kevin could find a new roommate? There wasn’t really any room for her at the house either, but they could make it work until she and Kevin were engaged or she found her own place. But she was her own person and he couldn’t stop her from playing house with a guy she loved. Brandon gave Jo a smile as they reached the right floor, believing he could smell Hispanic food seeping into the hallway. “I think Mel’s made a surprise for you.” It would be like his sister to remember everything he said about Jo’s tastes for just such an occasion.

[KEVIN WHITFIELD]

Life was, for the first time, good. Really good. Better than really good. It had been difficult letting Kelsey go, but his sister had kept her word to keep in touch so even though they were thousands of miles apart, he still knew what she was up to. They talked at least once a week, but texted almost every day. If anything they were talking more now that they were apart than when they'd been together! Plus they weren't fighting! That in itself was worth celebrating. But best of all was Melanie. Every day Kevin was a little more grateful for the woman who'd entered his life. He still didn't know what she saw in him, but whatever it was he was glad she did. She was amazing; beautiful, sexy, sweet, and man could she cook! Kevin had never ate so well in his entire life. For the first time ever he had warm, home cooked meals waiting for him on the table when he got home and he never took it for granted. Even when Melanie made something he didn't care all that much for he would eat heartily and show his appreciation. Every day made him love her just a little more.

It was nearly six when Kevin walked through the door, dirt smudged on his face and clothes, his hair a tangle. The second he opened the door he was greeted by the divine smell of Spanish rice and enchiladas and his stomach gave an appreciative growl of anticipation. He wanted that.. he wanted that badly, almost as much as the woman who cooked it. “Hi baby!” Melanie greeted, popping her head out from the kitchen and Kevin smile broadly, making his way over. "Hey, babe. Smells gooood." He all but groaned as she made her way over to him, wrapping her arms around tight him. "Mmm.. you smell better.." He said softly, leaning back and pulling her up into his arms, smiling more when she giggled and wrapped her muscular little legs around his waist. He kissed her, feeling her feathers tickling his hands and he had to admit it felt nice. He would never get tired of that sensation. She pulled away a little but he moved in and laughed, catching her lips once more, loving the way she played with him. If she wasn't careful he'd have his way with her right there in the living room..

Again she pulled back and rested her forehead against his, his sea colored eyes opening to meet hers. “Don’t forget Bran and Jo are coming over." He pouted a little, having forgotten her reminder from that morning. The last person he wanted to see was Jo. Brandon was starting to be okay in his books, but his girlfriend.. it was awkward. That was his best friends ex, knocked up by another man! Kevin knew Kit was still a little beat up over it, realizing Jo had actually moved on this time. Of course Kit didn't exactly say it that way, but Kevin knew. They'd been on and off for too long for Kit to not care like he claimed. "You might want to shower before they get here.” He pushed a playful grin on his face. "I thought you liked me dirty." He teased, pushing his face into hers and kissing her again briefly before letting her thighs drop and lowering her to her feet. "Alright, but I'm not dressing fancy or anything." His hands found her cheeks and he pulled her into another kiss before backing away.

Kevin went to the bedroom and picked out a nice pair of jeans, some fresh boxers, socks, a gray t-shirt and a dusty blue button down shirt. He made his way into the bathroom and took a quick shower, scrubbing himself clean. When he was finished he dried off, brushed his teeth, sprayed cologne and spread on some deodorant before getting dressed and exiting the bathroom. He was just about in the living room when there was a knock on the door. His stomach instantly filled with dread. He took a deep breath and called out "I got it." To Melanie before forcing a smile and opening the door. Kevin instinctively looked at Jo's stomach first, noting the small bump protruding before looking at either of their faces. "Uh.. hey guys!" He tried to sound friendly, opening the door wide for them to come in. "Come on in.."

[JORDANNA HAILE GARCIA]

Babies were fabulous, and Jo was stoked to be having one, but pregnancy was seriously for the birds. She felt like sunshine and rainbows up until the eighth week, and then things drastically started to tumble downhill. Morning sickness hit with a vengeance, and Jo began to contemplate why it was called morning sickness and not allfuckingday sickness. She woke up barfing and she continued to do so all damn day. If it hadn't been for the sucking candies a woman recommended she might not have made it through the first trimester at all. If that wasn't enough she found her mood was constantly at a high or low. Some days she needed Brandon to simply hold her, others she wanted to strangle him. Rarely did she feel normal anymore and it was wearing on her. Hell she wasn't even interested in sex, but the worst seemed over and things were getting better. She was vomiting less, but her mood still seemed to go up and down of its own accord.

Brandon had been a champ through it all. Jo was certain she had scared him off from time to time, but he was good about not fighting back anymore, not like he used to anyway. He apologized and made her feel more secure, and he was crazy about the idea of being a father. If she was going to get pregnant by accident by any man she was grateful it had been Brandon and not Kit. Kit would have left her high and dry, but Brandon.. he wanted this, and showed it repeatedly.

"I can't button my favorite jeans anymore." She whined as they drove to dinner with his sister and her ex's best friend. Seriously, of all the guys for Mel to fall for, why Kevin? There were hundreds of single guys in the city, why was she forever stuck with a reminder of Kit! "I hate being this fat." She pouted, her arms folded over her bump. There had been a time when she couldn't gain weight even if she tried, but this baby was doing the opposite and she hated it! “Jo, you’re like a hundred and ten pounds even with a baby. You’re not fat. And even if you were, you’d still be beautiful.” She only pouted more. "You're just saying that to make me feel better." She accused as Brandon drove right through a red light. "Brandon!" She snapped, her hands on her head. "Baby you need to watch what you're doing! You can't drive like that when the baby comes, what if you get in an accident? What if someone doesn't see you or a cop could get you!" She went on her tirade and Brandon took it like a pro, not snapping at her and placating her with appropriate answers now and then.

Finally they arrived and she was glad for it, dying to get out of the car. She opened the door but Brandon was quick to help her out. Why did it need to be so damn cold out? Normally she was a furnace these days, but outside it was just too cold and her cheeks felt chapped almost immediately. Jo tucked her hand in her boyfriends as they moved quickly to get inside. They made their way up to his sister apartment and she could smell the food the second they hit the hallway. “I think Mel’s made a surprise for you.” She looked up at Brandon and smiled, squeezing his hand. "Good, I'm starving!" She was always starving, unless she was sick to her stomach. She prayed tonight wouldn't be one of those sick nights, knowing the spicy food would not taste as good coming up as it did going down.

Brandon knocked on the door and Jo could hear Kevin yelling inside. She took a deep breath and then forced a big smile on her face as the tall, slender man opened the door. Jo noticed his eyes darting right to her stomach first and she felt her cheeks flush. Why did he need to do that? Why couldn't he look at her? Was she some sort of freak show to him now that she was pregnant with not Kit's baby? "Uh.. hey guys! Come on in.." He sounded almost nervous as he opened the door wide. Jo let herself in, her jacket already unbuttoned. She pulled it off though, her shirt showing off the small bump protruding from her abdomen. "Hey.." She said in reply. "It smells really good in here, guys!"

[MELANIE WHITFIELD]

Melanie giggled as Kevin pouted, obviously having other ideas for their evening. She wouldn’t have minded sex then dinner then more sex but she was also really excited to see her brother and his girlfriend…and of course the bump! When she suggested the shower, though, his playful grin spread across his face as he leaned closer to her. “I thought you liked me dirty.” She laughed, her nose nuzzling against his before he kissed her again. “I do, but they might not.” Their lips never really separated as she spoke, but she pressed them together more firmly again before he lowered her back to the ground. “Alright, but I’m not dressing fancy or anything.” Melanie grinned wider as Kevin’s big hands cupped her face and pulled her into another sweet kiss. She loved kissing him whenever she wanted. “Actually Bran requested that you wear a tux,” she teased before giggling. Kevin backed away and she sighed a little as she watched him move into their room. She’d never been so happy before.

As he showered Melanie finished making and plating dinner, getting it ready to put on the table. Once everything was in a serving dish, she set the little table with placemats, dishes and silverware. She knew Brandon and Kevin would probably have beer to drink, but she set out cups for her and Jo. Normally she would have a beer too, but she didn’t want Jo to feel like the odd one out just because she was pregnant. Once that was all set, she popped the cookies in the oven, wanting them to be as warm and fresh as possible when they finished dinner. Just as they were going in she heard the knock at the door but she couldn’t rush to get it. “I got it.” Oh good, she wouldn’t have to rush and risk burning herself. She shut the oven and slipped off her oven mitts, hearing Kevin greeting their guests at the door. Melanie knew he wasn’t the biggest fan of her brother’s girlfriend due to Jo’s ties to his best friend, so she was glad he was making such an effort to be cheerful and let Melanie have them over. Over time, if she and Kevin worked, he might get used to Jo being with Brandon. Melanie just had to hope that seeing how well they worked together would adjust Kevin.

She grabbed the enchiladas off the counter and moved them to the table before rushing out to greet her brother and Jo. A big smile was on her face as she hurried forward, throwing her arms first around her brother’s shoulders. Brandon gave her a big hug in return which made her laugh. They simply didn’t spend enough time together anymore. After fifty plus years of being together almost every day, it was an adjustment. “Are those enchiladas I smell?” he asked as he released her and she gave him a knowing smile. “You know they are.” When she looked at Jo, she smiled wide as their eyes met and she moved forward to give the smaller woman a hug too. “Hey Jo, it’s good to see you!” Her arms tucked beneath Jo’s and gave her a good squeeze not wanting her to feel out of place. Jo was family now whether they shared the same last name or not and Mel would treat her like family. When she pulled away, she just had to look down at Jo’s belly and her hand came to the cute little bump with a big grin. “Oh wow! Look at how cute your bump is! I’ve seen plenty of baby bumps, but I think yours is the cutest I’ve seen.” She giggled a little before taking her hand away and grinning at her brother who had wrapped an arm around Jo’s waist. “I tend to agree with you, Mel.” Again Melanie giggled before moving more out of their way so they could actually come inside. “Well come in! I was just finishing setting the table!” She led the way back toward the kitchen, moving to the counter to get some more food to put on the table. “So, I know what the guys are drinking, but what would you like Jo? We have water, ginger ale, Coke and milk.” Her smile was warm and genuine and she hoped Jo felt would feel comfortable in her and Kevin’s home.

[BRANDON GARCIA]

Brandon grinned as Jo squeezed his hand, noting her good mood. It was so much better when she was in a good mood. “Good, I’m starving!” Melanie would be glad to hear that! She was a Hispanic woman after all—she loved to see people enjoy her food. Hopefully she wouldn’t be offended if Jo brought it all back up though…nah, she was a pediatric nurse, she would understand. When they reached the door Brandon knocked firmly so they would be sure to hear him inside. Kevin’s voice sounded through the door and Brandon prepped himself to greet his sister’s boyfriend. The young man opened the door and gave a nervous sort of smile and Brandon gave a confident one in return. Immediately the guy’s eyes fell to his girlfriend’s stomach and Brandon made a mental note to warn Kevin not to do that—Jo was sensitive about her belly these days. But Kevin’s eyes came back up and between them once more. “Uh…hey guys! Come on in…” He let Jo go in first and he could tell she was a little peeved but smiling. “Hey…It smells really good in here, guys!” Brandon nodded in agreement. “It really does.” He extended his free hand to Kevin with a grin. “What’s up, Sasquatch?” The guy was still working on his boat one day out of the week and because of that, Brandon had come to start calling him a new nickname just to heckle him a little. Kevin was a good sport about it as far as Brandon could tell and they shared a firm handshake.

Hurried footsteps caught his attention though and when he looked ahead his little sister was walking toward them with quick strides and a big smile on her face. Brandon’s own smile grew and he released Jo’s hand to gather Melanie up in a big hug as she reached him. It was different and strange not having her around all the time. He was used to coming home and seeing her there or being able to knock on her door and talk to her. So being able to hug her was a good feeling all around and he squeezed her tight. “Are those enchiladas I smell?” he teased, knowing damn well that’s what she’d made. He could hear her smile even as he released her and when he looked at her he knew she saw right through him. “You know they are.” He grinned and then watched as his sister turned to Jo and gave her a very warm welcome too by gathering her up in a hug. Even if Jo and Kevin didn’t get along, it was good to see her get along with his sister. He supposed it was easier because they all shared their experience with the camps together and the two of them had gotten to know each other through the fence. There had been some tension but you wouldn’t be able to tell with how Melanie hugged Jo now. When she pulled away Melanie went right for the bump, just like Brandon knew she would, and she fawned over it. “Oh wow! Look at how cute your bump is! I’ve seen plenty of baby bumps, but I think yours is the cutest I’ve seen.” Brandon grinned from ear to ear and moved beside Jo to slide his arm around her waist, looking between the women. “I tend to agree with you, Mel.” His smile lingered on his girlfriend until Melanie began to usher them further into the apartment.

As they moved along Brandon let his eyes wander. It wasn’t the classiest joint but it was cozy and Mel had put a few personal touches up around the apartment. There were a few items on the walls that he recognized that fit nicely with the furniture they had. Overall it had a modern but stylish flare to it and he liked the place. “So, I know what the guys are drinking, but what would you like Jo? We have water, ginger ale, Coke and milk.” It was nice of Mel to ask and he smiled appreciatively at her while Jo answered and he let his eyes wander to the table. Yup, there they were—the best enchiladas he’d ever had. His stomach grumbled, urging him to forget everybody else and just dig in. To distract himself, Brandon moved to the counter and grabbed the bowl of rice and the plate of corn cakes to set on the table. “Thanks Bran!” his sister piped and he smiled in return. He set the dishes on the table and then looked up at Kevin. “She’ll beat it into you too. Any time Mel cooks, if you don’t help out with setting up or cleaning up, she’ll get you. I’m sure you know this by now.” When he threw a furtive look over his shoulder at Melanie like he was expecting to be hit Melanie just narrowed her eyes with a smile. “I didn’t beat it into you. I just helped you develop good manners.” He shook his head at Jo, catching her eye. “No, she beat me…” he assured in a hushed voice that made Melanie laugh. Then another smell caught his nose as Melanie fished through the fridge for their drinks. “Hey Jo…smell that?” He looked at his sister again. “What’s that in the oven, Mel?” She popped up from behind the fridge door and grinned between him and Jo. “Guess!” He left that up to Jo.

[KEVIN WHITFIELD]

“Hey…It smells really good in here, guys!” “It really does. What’s up, Sasquatch?” Kevin took Brandon's hand and gave it a firm but short handshake. He wasn't wild about his nickname but he didn't hate it so he simply dealt with it. He got it; he was tall and shaggy which mean he should get teased about it and Kevin was a good sport so he accepted it. At least he didn't get it at this main job.

Melanie was suddenly present and he stepped back and shut the door behind their company, standing silently off to the side to let the siblings hug and for Melanie to fuss over Jo's bump, which she did. Kevin watched in awe as Melanie admired her niece or nephew, wondering briefly what it would be like to have his baby growing in her belly. The thought terrified him and excited him at the same time. He wanted babies with Mel. He'd give anything for her to be his wife, and he hoped that one day he would be so lucky as to have his ring on her finger.

The group was starting to migrate towards the main area of the small apartment and Kevin saw Brandon eyeing the place up. He wondered what was going through the other man's head. Was he judging them? Thinking Kevin wasn't good enough? That this apartment wasn't good enough? Would anything be good enough for Melanie in Brandon's eyes? “So, I know what the guys are drinking, but what would you like Jo? We have water, ginger ale, Coke and milk.” Kevin moved to hang near the kitchen not entirely sure what to do with himself. He wasn't used to company for dinner. "Ginger ale would be great, thanks." Jo piped up. "It'll help if junior decides they don't like Mexican." She joked which seemed off to Kevin. Was that how it worked? Like delivery? If the baby didn't like it, would it send it back via mouth? Brandon was helping by bringing things to the table and he suddenly felt stupid for not thinking to do that, especially after Melanie's enthusiastic “Thanks Bran!” Kevin didn't say anything, watching Brandon and wondering what he should bring to the table. “She’ll beat it into you too. Any time Mel cooks, if you don’t help out with setting up or cleaning up, she’ll get you. I’m sure you know this by now.” He knew he was joking but he looked nervously at Mel. Was he joking? Did Mel expect him to help out more? He always helped clean up after even though he was shit at doing dishes. Still, he put leftovers away and did what she asked. “I didn’t beat it into you. I just helped you develop good manners.” Jo giggled and Bran looked over at her. “No, she beat me…” He said softly. Kevin didn't say anything though. Melanie probably didn't beat him like she said. She was too sweet to be mean.

Kevin moved behind Melanie as Brandon and Jo messed around near the oven, putting his hands on her hips and looking over her shoulder a little. "Can I do anything to help?" He asked softly, not wanting to call attention to himself and have Bran rib him for being 'whipped' or anything, but genuinely not sure if he was lacking at the moment. Whenever he'd had company over in the past they ended up either making frozen pizza or ordering it. Sit down dinners with family wasn't something Kevin was really accustomed to.

[JORDANNA HAILE GARCIA]

Jo moved into the apartment and was about to take her coat off when Melanie came charging from somewhere and tackled her brother. She couldn't help but smile watching the two of them. She knew how hard it had been for Brandon to let his sister leave. They were close and she understood her boyfriends concern about Kevin. Kevin was a good guy, and she still felt bad about outing him, but in the end it all worked out. “Are those enchiladas I smell?” “You know they are.” Melanie's eyes shot to her and she gave a bashful sort of grin before the girl tackled her. Jo threw her arms around Mel. She genuinely liked the girl and she was grateful for letting her move in with her brother in their beautiful home. Naturally the second Melanie pulled away she looked down at her stomach, but this time she didn't mind. That baby was part of Melanie. It was her blood, and she wanted her to admire it and love it and be excited for it. Her future niece or nephew was nestled down there!

“Oh wow! Look at how cute your bump is! I’ve seen plenty of baby bumps, but I think yours is the cutest I’ve seen.” She bit her lip and smiled, uttering a bashful little "Thanks." Brandon put his arm around her middle and she looked up into the beaming face of her boyfriend. How did she get so lucky? “I tend to agree with you, Mel.” He was looking down into her eyes and she wrinkled her nose playfully at him while grinning from ear to ear now. Yep, he was definitely a keeper.

"So, I know what the guys are drinking, but what would you like Jo? We have water, ginger ale, Coke and milk.” "Ginger ale would be great, thanks. It'll help if junior decides they don't like Mexican." She said, excited at the thought of some ginger ale in her system. Jo looked around the apartment a little, admiring their decorating. It wasn't fancy or anything but it suited them. She recognized some things there that had been in the Garcia home before Mel moved out. “Thanks Bran!” Jo looked over to see her boyfriend helping out and she moved towards the kitchen to see what she could do. “She’ll beat it into you too. Any time Mel cooks, if you don’t help out with setting up or cleaning up, she’ll get you. I’m sure you know this by now.” She giggled at his playfulness, rolling her eyes. "I'm sure she didn't beat you." She said softly to her boyfriend as he set the plate down. “I didn’t beat it into you. I just helped you develop good manners.” The smile was still etched on her face as Brandon leaned closer, shaking his head. “No, she beat me…” he assured in a hushed voice that made Melanie laugh as much as she did. “Hey Jo…smell that?” She sniffed the air wondering what in particular he was referring to. There were a lot of good smells right now. “What’s that in the oven, Mel?” “Guess!” She sniffed again. Was that... cookies? The very thought of cookies had her salivating. "Are you baking?" She asked coming around and peaking into the oven. "Mmmm..." She hummed, turning to her boyfriend. "If you boys aren't careful I might decide to be with Mel instead. I think the baby would like that, too." She insisted her stomach giving a little growl of appreciation. Or was that the baby? She wasn't feeling it much yet, only tiny fluttering feelings now and then, like butterflies tickling her belly.

Melanie handed her the ginger ale and she took it graciously with a little "Thanks." before moving out towards the dining area. "So can we eat soon?" She asked, her hand resting on the bump. "We're hungry.. and it all looks soooo good. By the way, the place looks really nice, guys." She offered looking around once more. "It's quaint and charming. I like it!"

[MELANIE WHITFIELD]

Brandon’s insistence on her beating him made Melanie smile and shake her head, though she did appreciate the help. She would have done it all herself and not been upset with anyone—she liked playing Susie Homemaker. As she poured ginger ale into hers and Jo’s glasses, Brandon made his way over to the oven with Jo to sniff at it and she felt Kevin’s hulking presence behind her. “What’s that in the oven, Mel?” She grinned, focusing on not spilling the soda. “Guess!” she piped just as Kevin’s hands came to her hips. She liked when he came behind her and held her. “Can I do anything to help?” With a smile she turned and looked up at him, leaning against the counter once she’d screwed the cap back onto the soda bottle. “You can do the dishes later.” Her suggestion came in a sweet voice with a big hopeful grin. Once he’d agreed, she wrapped her arms around him and leaned her head on his chest with a smile, looking over at Brandon and Jo. “Are you baking? Mmmm…If you boys aren’t careful I might decide to be with Mel instead. I think the baby would like that, too.” Melanie laughed, looking between Kevin and her brother, now with just one arm wrapped around Kevin’s waist. “I’d be a great second mom, I think. It won’t traumatize the kid too much, though the Church might not be the biggest fan of our family.” Her smile at Kevin was mischievous—he knew she wouldn’t leave him for a woman, so she could tease about it.

Melanie turned and grabbed one of the cups for Jo and handed it to her once the shorter woman had closed the oven again. “Thanks.” She started to wander away, Brandon following, and Melanie slipped her hand into Kevin’s so they could follow too. “So can we eat soon? We’re hungry…and it all looks soooo good. By the way, the place looks really nice, guys. It’s quaint and charming. I like it!” Melanie grinned, taking most of the credit for the decorating, though Kevin’s things were definitely still prominent in the decoration. “Thank you! And yes, let’s eat! I’ll just pull the cookies out when they’re ready.” Before she seated herself at the table, though, she grabbed two beers and popped the tops off, one for her brother and one for her boyfriend. She handed them their drinks before grabbing her own and moving to the table. She took a spot next to Kevin and Brandon—her two favorite men. There was food enough for everyone to have seconds if they wanted it and they all passed the dishes around in a circle.

When everyone had food on their plate, she smiled sweetly between her brother and Jo. “So how’s work, guys? I know I haven’t been able to get out to the boat for a while—everybody is sick in the winter.” She gave a shrug, mentally noting the huge influx of patients over the last several weeks. Lots of kids had come in with the flu and pneumonia, some with whooping cough; all treatable and most of them were out in a couple days, though the whooping cough patients had to stay much longer. She couldn’t take a day off and leave the other nurses to deal with it alone, especially since she was one of the senior nurses. On the really long days Kevin would rub her feet to make her feel better.

[BRANDON GARCIA]

Brandon hovered around the oven with Jo, the warm, delicious smell of cookies wafting out and making him breathe in a deep breath. “Are you baking? Mmmm…If you boys aren’t careful I might decide to be with Mel instead. I think the baby would like that, too.” Knowing Jo was bisexual didn’t make Brandon laugh any less—it was awkward enough for her to be around Kevin; imagine if she left Brandon for Melanie and had to deal with seeing him all the time. It was a good joke and he snorted at it, shaking his head. Nope, she’d never leave him for Melanie. His sister laughed at it too, looking between the two guys. “I’d be a great second mom, I think. It won’t traumatize the kid too much, though the Church might not be the biggest fan of our family.” He grinned wider, raising his eyebrows. “No, the Church wouldn’t like that and I’m not letting you traumatize my kid, Mel. I’m sure I can manage that on my own.” His smile turned down to Jo and he ran a hand over her back gently before she moved away to wander around the little apartment some more. He followed her and did the same, doing his best to ignore the way Melanie had her arm around Kevin and then was holding his hand. The big brother protectiveness needed to chill out, especially since the two were living together. They obviously were much more affectionate than he’d ever see and he thanked his lucky stars for that—he cringed at the thought of his sister and Kevin having relations on a nightly basis. Gross… “So can we eat soon? We’re hungry…and it all looks soooo good. By the way, the place looks really nice, guys. It’s quaint and charming. I like it!” Leave it to Jo to cut to the chase. He smiled at her, but had to agree he was hungry too. “Thank you! And yes, let’s eat! I’ll just pull the cookies out when they’re ready.” With that, Brandon made his way to the table excitedly, sitting with Melanie on one side and Jo on the other.

As they passed the food around with big smiles and plenty of comments on how good everything looked and smelled, Brandon hoped it would be like this in future years—even with Kevin. It was warm and cozy and friendly around the table and with so much good food, how could they not enjoy themselves? Brandon heaped his plate full of his sister’s cooking, ready to dig into some good Mexican cooking. His mouth was already watering. As soon as everyone had food Brandon dug in. The enchiladas were as perfect as ever, the rice just the right amount of spicy and salty, the corn cakes sweet and moist…Melanie could have a future in the restaurant business if she ever chose to open one. It was a far cry from her work as a nurse, but she could make some good money.

“So how’s work, guys? I know I haven’t been able to get out to the boat for a while—everybody is sick in the winter.” Brandon knew it was busy for her and he wasn’t upset about it in the slightest. He’d had plenty of help on the boat since he didn’t need as many men. Winters were always tough, but he made enough for him and Jo to get by with dipping into savings too. He had gotten used to saving for winter when the fish weren’t around as much. “It’s quiet—winter and all. Not a lot of fish to be had up this way, though the closer we get to California the more we find. It’s alright, though. I’m sure Kev’s told you all that. Jake got stuck in the hand with a hook the other day, though. It was pretty nasty. He said he wished you were around to give him the shot and not me.” Brandon grinned and Melanie shook her head with a smile. “Jake is a klutz, but you probably could have been gentler with administering it.” Brandon shrugged. “I was quick at least.” He glanced at Jo and smiled. “Sorry, not good dinner conversation.” He nodded his head toward Jo while looking back at Melanie. “It’s probably better if you talk to her while we eat.” With that he went back to eating as if he were ashamed, making Melanie laugh. “So how’s work for you, Jo?”

[KEVIN WHITFIELD]

He felt almost like a child when she turned and smiled, not sure what to do and feeling a little lost. He didn't want to screw this up. “You can do the dishes later.” She told him in a sweet voice, and she knew it was a playful beg by the way she smiled. He rolled his eyes while grinning in return, his white teeth peering out slightly from between his teeth. "I guess I can do that." He teased back as she wrapped her arms around him. How could he ever deny her anything she asked? His hands rested gently on her hips as Jo spoke. “Are you baking? Mmmm…If you boys aren’t careful I might decide to be with Mel instead. I think the baby would like that, too.” He could feel Mel's laugh rumble through him and he smiled though he didn't like her teasing. The thought of Jo and Mel together was a disturbing one. “I’d be a great second mom, I think. It won’t traumatize the kid too much, though the Church might not be the biggest fan of our family.” He looked down and raised a brow at her mischievous grin. He wasn't religious in the least, but he knew Mel was so he kept his mouth shut, not wanting to say anything offensive.

“So can we eat soon? We’re hungry…and it all looks soooo good. By the way, the place looks really nice, guys. It’s quaint and charming. I like it!” Kevin let Melanie go and followed her like a well trained puppy, giving Jo a small smile as if to thank her for the compliment. She wasn't the type to not be sincere. “Thank you! And yes, let’s eat! I’ll just pull the cookies out when they’re ready.” Kevin took his seat at the table and smiled at Mel, offering her a "Thanks." As she gave him a beer. It was nice he didn't need to ask, she just was kind enough to get him one. Food was passed around and Kevin took hefty servings of everything, hungry from his long day of working. He'd practically grew up on Mexican so it worked in his favor he met a woman who could cook real Mexican food. He wasn't the only one to fill his plate, though. Brandon wasn't shy about his love for his sisters cooking, and even Jo took more than he expected her to. Then again she was eating for two.

"So how’s work, guys? I know I haven’t been able to get out to the boat for a while—everybody is sick in the winter.” Kevin ate silently, knowing Mel was really asking her brother, not him. Kevin talked about the boat when he got him, giving her the basics. She knew for the most part what was happening, but Brandon was happy to talk which gave him a chance to shovel in as much rice and enchilada into his mouth as he could! [b]"Jake got stuck in the hand with a hook the other day, though. It was pretty nasty. He said he wished you were around to give him the shot and not me.”[/b][/i] Kevin looked up. He hadn't heard about that, but then again it probably happened while he wasn't there. He didn't like the thought of her looking at anyone on the boats ass. “Jake is a klutz, but you probably could have been gentler with administering it.” “I was quick at least." "Come on, guys.. I'm finally able to keep things down and you're ruining it for me." Jo said and Kevin even smiled. He was used to this sort of talk. Worse even. "Sorry, not good dinner conversation. It’s probably better if you talk to her while we eat” Mel gave a laugh. “So how’s work for you, Jo?” Kevin looked up at the girl who looked back at him. He immediately looked back at his plate, focusing on the meal at hand.

"It's good. I brought back a retired lotion scent a couple weeks ago because I had a feeling it might help with the nausea and it's been selling out like crazy, especially over in the Vegas store where I first had it." She explained. The reminder of Vegas made his gut lurch a little. He'd known Jo back then. He'd seen that store.. It felt strange and he suddenly hoped the subject would change, but she talked more about the store and he felt strangely uncomfortable. "And how about you, Kev?" The sound of his name made him look up, guilty. He'd stopped paying attention to Jo and he suddenly felt eyes on him. He put his fork down and cleared his throat, washing his bite down with the beer. "Uhh.. you know. It's work.." He said softly, throwing glances at Brandon and then Melanie. What else could he say? "Keeping busy.." "How's your sister?" Jo and Kelsey had gotten along for the most part he remembered. He remembered Kelsey even stopping in to see Jo and getting a couple things, which made him mad since they didn't have the money, but Kels swore Jo gave the things to her and he had to believe her. Knowing Jo, she probably had. "She's doing good.. Uhh.. just settled in to her new job assisting a photographer and I guess she's singing in a band or something." He shrugged and then looked at his food, hoping the spotlight would be pulled off of him.

[JORDANNA HAILE GARCIA]

“Thank you! And yes, let’s eat! I’ll just pull the cookies out when they’re ready.” Jo took her seat and eyed the food hungrily. She could hardly wait to dig in! The dishes were passed around and she took a decent sized portion; more than she normally would but much less than the guys who seemed to be competing for who could gorge themselves more. “So how’s work, guys? I know I haven’t been able to get out to the boat for a while—everybody is sick in the winter.” Her mouth was full of hot enchilada when the question was asked so Brandon jumped on in. “It’s quiet—winter and all. Not a lot of fish to be had up this way, though the closer we get to California the more we find. It’s alright, though. I’m sure Kev’s told you all that. Jake got stuck in the hand with a hook the other day, though. It was pretty nasty. He said he wished you were around to give him the shot and not me.” Jo wrinkled her nose, remembering Brandon telling her the story the other night. “Jake is a klutz, but you probably could have been gentler with administering it.” “I was quick at least." Jo wrinkled her nose and looked between her boyfriend and his sister. "Come on, guys.. I'm finally able to keep things down and you're ruining it for me." Brandon smiled her way, looking amused and apologetic. "Sorry, not good dinner conversation. It’s probably better if you talk to her while we eat”Mel gave a laugh. “So how’s work for you, Jo?” She asked and Jo grinned brighter, glad the gross talk was over.

"It's good. I brought back a retired lotion scent a couple weeks ago because I had a feeling it might help with the nausea and it's been selling out like crazy, especially over in the Vegas store where I first had it." She explained. "And I just launched this huge sale on my Sunshine Signature Collection in honor of the sun shining again and it's going great! We've already hit February's quota which is awesome since we're only a week in. Now that people are shopping and out again the store's blown up. People are enjoying the weather even though it's cold which has just been phenomenal for business." Jo looked over at Kevin, realizing she had been rambling and he hadn't gotten to speak much. "And how about you, Kev?" She asked and Kevin looked like a kid with his hand caught in the cookie jar. "Uhh.. you know. It's work.. Keeping busy.." Kevin always had been a man of many words.. "How's your sister?" She asked, genuinely curious. Kelsey never hated her like Kevin. Then again, she wasn't dating Kelsey's best friend. "She's doing good.. Uhh.. just settled in to her new job assisting a photographer and I guess she's singing in a band or something." He shrugged and then looked at his food, hoping the spotlight would be pulled off of him. "Aww that's awesome! I'll have to message her on facebook to get the scoop. I'd love to hear her singing!" She said excitedly but Kevin didn't seem all that interested. "Yea.." He all but mumbled and she got the feeling he wasn't feeling chatty.

"Anyway, Bran and I have been pouring over baby names. I love Sky for a little girl but I don't think he's feeling it. Then again I'll probably hate it by next week anyway. I really hope it's a girl.." She gushed, looking hopefully at Brandon. She knew he was gunning for a boy, but girls were so much more fun to dress! "Ugh, that twenty week ultrasound can't come fast enough! I want to know what we're having!"

[MELANIE WHITFIELD]

Melanie smiled wider as Jo brightened, obviously glad the gross talk was over. “It’s good. I brought back a retired lotion scent a couple weeks ago because I had a feeling it might help with the nausea and it’s been selling out like crazy, especially over in the Vegas store where I first had it. And I just launched this huge sale on my Sunshine Signature Collection in honor of the sun shining again and it’s going great! We’ve already hit February’s quota which is awesome since we’re only a week in. Now that people are shopping and out again the store’s blown up. People are enjoying the weather even though it’s cold which has just been phenomenal for business.” She was glad to hear all of it. Jo deserved some success after the past long months of repeated failures and shortcomings. As long as Jo was successful, maybe she would be easier for Brandon to handle, which was a relief to Melanie. Things were looking up for everybody! “And how about you, Kev?” Melanie looked at her boyfriend and noticed he appeared nervous. Did Jo really have such an effect on him? “Uhh…you know. It’s work…Keeping busy…” She gave him a curious smile silently asking what the problem was. Jo was just asking simple questions, no need for him to get nervous.

“How’s your sister?” Melanie’s eyebrows lifted slightly, looking over at Jo now. She’d never thought about Jo and Kelsey knowing each other. It made sense with Kit and Kevin being friends, though and she supposed she shouldn’t have been surprised. “She’s doing good…Uhh…just settled in to her new job assisting a photographer and I guess she’s singing in a band or something.” Kevin had told her all of that and Melanie was happy for Kelsey. She was making a life on her own like Kevin was doing and she seemed genuinely happy to be doing so. Kelsey wasn’t her biggest fan, but maybe this change of scenery would help the woman warm up to her. Kevin shrugged his big shoulders and looked down at his food and Melanie smiled warmly at how awkward he was. He could be so painfully shy. She reached for his hand under the table and squeezed it gently. “Aww that’s awesome! I’ll have to message her on Facebook to get the scoop. I’d love to hear her singing!” “Yeah…” What was with him? She’d have to ask about it later, not wanting to embarrass Kevin in front of Brandon and Jo. Melanie was so distracted by Kevin that she didn’t think to comment on hearing Kelsey sing. It was something she’d wanted to do too, though, if only to help her get in Kevin’s sister’s good graces.

“Anyway, Bran and I have been pouring over baby names. I love Sky for a little girl but I don’t think he’s feeling it. Then again I’ll probably hate it by next week anyway. I really hope it’s a girl…” Melanie and Jo both looked at Brandon who looked up curiously before conspicuously shoveling more food in his mouth. Just that action made it clear to Melanie that her brother wanted a boy. “Ugh, that twenty week ultrasound can’t come fast enough! I want to know what we’re having!” That made Melanie giggle a little. “Well, I hate to tell you this, but it looks like you’re carrying the baby high. From my experience, that usually means it’s a boy.” Brandon suddenly pumped his fist towards his body triumphantly before looking around as innocently as he could muster before bowing his head and eating again. Melanie gave him a mildly scolding look. “Don’t get too excited, Bran. I’m not an obstetrician and I’ve been wrong before.” “Yeah, yeah, yeah…” He smiled wide at her before looking at Jo. “I’ll love it either way, but we both know I’m hoping it’ll be a boy.” Apparently this was a point of contention in the past and Melanie shifted in her seat slightly, glancing at Kevin. She smiled again and looked at Jo before spooning some enchilada on her fork. “So are you pretty good friends with Kevin’s sister? I didn’t even know you two knew each other, though it makes sense.” Popping the enchilada in her mouth, she hoped to move away from any awkwardness that the gender talk might cause.

[BRANDON GARCIA]

Brandon was quiet through Jo’s rundown of her success with Sunshine’s having heard all about it over the last few weeks. The success of the store had cheered her enough to improve her mood for a few hours and that was always a relief. Melanie watched with attentive interest though Kevin didn’t seem nearly as interested. Though a little irked, Brandon couldn’t really blame the guy—listening to talk about scents and lotions and other good-smelling things wasn’t really in their daily repertoire with the work they did. It had only become part of Brandon’s repertoire since dating Jo. “And how about you, Kev?” The guy looked like he was going to choke. He knew Kevin was Kit’s best friend, but did Jo really make him that uncomfortable? “Uhh...you know. It’s work…Keeping busy…” Well, he was certainly feeling talkative. “How’s your sister?” “She’s doing good…Uhh…just settled in to her new job assisting a photographer and I guess she’s singing in a band or something.” Brandon had been a little curious about Kevin’s sister since he learned about her. She sounded like she was Kevin’s exact opposite from how Melanie described her. He hadn’t thought Jo would be friends with the girl, but it didn’t seem so out of the ordinary for him. They’d probably known each other for a long time. “Aww that’s awesome! I’ll have to message her on Facebook to get the scoop. I’d love to hear her singing!” “Yeah…” Jo’s enthusiastic response made Brandon smile, but Kevin’s awkward shyness was starting to frustrate him. Couldn’t he see Jo was trying to put away their differences and be friendly? The least he could do was reciprocate. Brandon frowned a little at the guy, keeping his lips shut but showing his displeasure on his face before leaning down to eat some more of his sister’s delicious cooking.

“Anyway, Bran and I have been pouring over baby names. I love Sky for a little girl but I don’t think he’s feeling it. Then again I’ll probably hate it by next week anyway. I really hope it’s a girl…” Almost immediately after Brandon could feel both women looking at him and he let his eyes wander up hesitantly. Not only was he opposed to any of his kids being named Sky, but he was really hoping the baby would be a boy. Who could blame him for wanting to pass down the family name? Instead of voicing his opinions though, Brandon just put more food in his mouth. It was easier than causing a scene with his answer. “Ugh, that twenty week ultrasound can’t come fast enough! I want to know what we’re having!” “Well, I hate to tell you this, but it looks like you’re carrying the baby high. From my experience, that usually means it’s a boy.” Brandon felt a surge of excitement, finally feeling like someone was on his side with wanting a boy! This outward sign of his baby’s sex got him all the more excited about having a son running around the house. In a sudden movement he pumped his fist tight into his body before looking around to gauge reactions. Jo didn’t look too happy about it and his sister was looking at him like he’d done something wrong. “Don’t get too excited, Bran. I’m not an obstetrician and I’ve been wrong before.”[/b] “Yeah, yeah, yeah…” He grinned to let her know his dismissal wasn’t serious before he looked over at Jo. Yeah, she wasn’t too happy. I’ll love it either way, but we both know I’m hoping it’ll be a boy.” That wasn’t what she wanted to hear either and he gulped, wondering if this was going to turn into a fight.

Melanie must have read his mind because she jumped right to his rescue. “So are you pretty good friends with Kevin’s sister? I didn’t even know you two knew each other, though it makes sense.”[/b] It was a good question, one that Brandon was curious about too, and he looked back to Jo. He hoped it wouldn’t be an awkward question for her to answer with Kevin there and the obvious inclusion of Kit into the story. If she’d never dated Kit, she wouldn’t know his best friend or his best friend’s sister, but he supposed it didn’t have to be an awkward answer to the question. As much as he hated the thought of Kit, Brandon was very aware of the fact that he’d won—Jo was having his baby and, if all went well, she would be married to him some time in the next year and half or so, completely wiping Kit off the map.

[KEVIN WHITFIELD]

Kevin was glad when the focus came off of him and turned to baby names instead. Jo had a knack for yammering and it was much better when she wasn't yammering at him and getting him to talk. He remembered Kit complaining about the way she talked for hours and he could recall one time that he was visiting and they were playing XBox and Jo was on the phone. Kit put his cell down for nearly 5 minutes, picked it up to check and rolled his eyes before putting it back down and whispering "She's still going!" He never forgot that.

"“Well, I hate to tell you this, but it looks like you’re carrying the baby high. From my experience, that usually means it’s a boy.” Kevin tuned back in and had to figure out where the conversation went. Carrying high? What did that even mean? Her stomach was like a volleyball, how could she tell which way the girl was carrying? He silently ate as the others talked softly, indifferent to their baby conversation. The baby was the least interesting to him since he was the only one not related to it. “I’ll love it either way, but we both know I’m hoping it’ll be a boy.” Kevin could understand Brandon wanting a son. Hell, he wanted a son. A couple of them. Preferably with Melanie. Not that he wouldn't love a daughter, but a boy.. that was different.

“So are you pretty good friends with Kevin’s sister? I didn’t even know you two knew each other, though it makes sense.” Kevin looked at his girlfriend funny. Why was she asking that? The boy looked over at the tiny brunette across from him and back at his food. He didn't keep tabs on Jo's and Kelsey's relationship. She could answer that however she wanted to.