It was late evening before drake returned, he'd missed dinner and was home just in time to say goodnight to Sandi who was more than unimpressed with his disappearance. Down in the basement Nicki was laying on his bed, trying not to listen to their arguing but it was pretty hard not too. As soon as their yelling stopped she could hear the faint sound of Drake jogging down the basement stairs before letting himself in and shutting the door behind him.
"Oh, hey. I didn't know you were still awake." He walked over to her after kicking his shoes off. "How're you feelin'?" The bed sank a little as he rested on the edge whilst she just stared at him.
"Where were you?" By the way he sighed and rolled his eyes briefly she could tell he didn't want her too start asking questions.
"Nicki, please. I told you I had some work to take care of, that's all." He stroked the hair from her forehead gently as her eyes followed his movement.
"Promise?" There was a long silence before he leaned down and kissed her.
"Promise. Now go to sleep, I'mma go take a quick shower." He smiled and kissed her forehead before walking towards his bathroom, stripping off along the way and turning in the doorway to give her a wink as he threw his boxers at her. That was what she hated about him, no matter how much she was trying to be mad at him he would always do something like that which would send her into a fit of giggles. Which is exactly what she was doing now.
"Oh my God. Go away!"She laughed obnoxiously and swiped his underwear away from her face whilst watching him disappear into the bathroom smirking.
That was the last thing she remembered before waking up the next morning, still wrapped in his arms. Just where she wanted to be. She didn't want to move, the idea of staying this way forever was more than tempting but her growling stomach had other plans. Only managing to ignore her body's wants for a couple of minutes she lay still for a while before cautiously sliding out of his arms. He didn't stir luckily. She could tell he was tired and there was one thing she was even more certain of, he was lying about where he was yesterday, she just knew it. With it being only 6am she made sure to be quiet when she headed upstairs after performing her morning rituals. She smiled when she reached the kitchen remembering being congratulated by Drake's father about being pregnant. She and Sandi laughed more at the fact that he didn't really know how to react and shaking her hand seemed to fit the news well. He was so awkward in a sweet kind of way. He and her own Father shared similar addictive traits but he'd been scared to the point where he sought help and wanted to turn his life around, which he had done oh so well. He'd been sober for almost a year now and like any recovering addict he'd focused his attention on other things the main one being puzzles. He was the only one other than herself who was awake at this time, sitting at the table with one of his jigsaws.
"Another one?" She asked cheerfully as she made her way over to him.
"Yeah, they keep me busy." He chuckled. "You wanna help?"
"Sure." She smiled whilst pouring her cereal and taking a seat opposite him. He'd already done quite a lot of the puzzle, she figured he must have been up for a while.
"Drake still snorin'?"
"Mhm, completely dead to the world." Her small giggle made him smile as he held a puzzle piece in his hand and scanned the table for its spot. "How long you been awake? You're almost done." Her talking was muffled by her polite crunching.
"I couldn't sleep, I been sat here since three."
"Wow, you're not sleepy?"
"Not a bit." He looked up at her curious face and smiled before following her hand to where she was pointing in front of him.
"There." She motioned to a gap in the puzzle to where his piece went and continued eating her breakfast.
"Thanks, that one's been nigglin' at my mind all damn mornin'." He fitted the piece in and let the silence fill the room again before catching a glimpse of her face, she looked troubled to say the least. "Somthin' wrong?"
"Hm?" Her brow crinkled when he interrupted her thoughts. "Oh, no I was just thinking." She smiled unconvincingly before finding the courage to speak up again. "Can I ask you a question?"
"You just did." She smirked at his little joke. "I'm just playin', go ahead I'm all ears."
"It's personal, so don't feel like you have to answer."
"Okay, I'm listenin'." He dropped whatever was in his hands and leant forward as he rested on the table ledge, she looked a little nervous as she began talking.
"Why did you leave them all those years ago?" She'd finished her cereal and was now playing nervously with nails, her panic levels began to rise when he wasn't replying. "I don't mean it in a-"
"No, no it's fine." He folded his lips in an attempt to smile about something so solemn. "Honestly Nicki, I was afraid."
"Afraid of what?" She moved forward some more, intrigued to find out his answer.
"Well, of failing I guess. Failing as a father and as a husband, so I did what I knew best. I ran."
"But you regret it."
"I always said if I could go back in time and fix what I did, I would. But what's done is done." He felt a little uncomfortable and continued doing his puzzle as he talked. "I don't think some women understand what exactly is goin' through a man's head when he finds out he's gonna be a Father."
"What d'you mean?" Her little face wrinkled up as she spoke, waiting for an answer.
"A lotta people say a woman becomes a Mother when she gets pregnant but a man only becomes a Father when he holds his child for the first time." Taking a sip of his coffee he proceeded with his little story which Nicki was becoming more engrossed in. He knew she was trying work out how Drake was feeling. "I was terrified about not bein' able to provide for them and not havin' that same connection a Mother has, y'know?"
"Yeah, I guess." She trailed off and looked down as there was along pause.
"Aubrey's never gonna leave you, you know that right?" He tried to peer at her face but her head was low.
"I don't know that for sure though, I mean Sandi didn't have a clue you was gon' leave, did she?"
"That's true but Drake knows the pain of being abandoned. I didn't, but I had I been able to see into the future and witness the heartache I caused I would never have left them." He could see her eyes were filling up but he was always awkward in these kind of situations. "He'll be there for you, he won't do to you what I did to him. It's not in his heart."
"I feel bad for doubtin' him but I don't even know what to expect, it's scary." She sniffled and looked back up at him once she knew she had her tears under control.
"Just know that you have all of us here, you're not alone." He reached across the table and held her hand sweetly, something her own Father hadn't done in years.
"Thank you." There was a moment of quiet before they heard movement.
"Hey, why y'all up so early?" They both jumped hearing his voice as he approached them, Nicki wondered how long he'd been listening for.
"Not long." She stood up to greet him as he kissed her forehead. When he felt her just staring up at him he caught on and said good morning to his Father too before getting himself some poptarts.
"You're not busy today are you?"
"Yeah, we have an appointment at eleven. Your Mom sorted it yesterday."
"Aight, well after that I'm takin' you out shoppin'." He pushed the toaster down and turned to look at her.
"Oh? Where to?" She asked as she moved over to the dishwasher.
"Just somewhere, that's all you need to know."
"Okay then, well I'mma go take a shower." She smiled up at him after squinting at his suspicious behaviour and headed back towards the bedroom, making sure to give Dennis an appreciative smile before she disappeared. Drake noticed they were talking about something deep but didn't know what.
"So, what were y'all talkin' about?" He tried to ask casually as he sat at the table with his plate.
"Oh, just puzzles. She's was helpin' me out." He half lied and carried on with his jigsaw with Drake looking on in thought.
***
"Nicki, come on we're gonna be late. You've changed three times now." He let his arm drop to his side, jingling his keys.
"It's fine. We'd only be sat waitin' in the damn waitin' area anyway." She huffed and grabbed her purse. "Why've you got your keys babe? Your Mom's drivin' us."
"What? Why?" He followed behind her with a confused expression.
"Because they're comin' with us." She said it as if it was already fact.
"Since when?"
"Since I asked them too, now come Aubrey on we're gonna be late." She mimicked him and walked out to the car leaving him to lock up the house slightly angry that his parents were intruding.
The drive was short and before they knew it they were sat in the waiting room with a load of other people. Sandi and Dennis were involved in their own little conversation as Drake stared them down. He didn't know it but Nicki was doing the same to him.
"Bein' angry at him forever isn't gonna solve anythin' y'know?" She touched his arm gently, making him look at her.
"You don't know what it feels like though. I'm so angry and I wanna forgive him but I can't."
"He's really tryin' though, and look how far he's come. He's been sober for like, a year and is back in your life. Y'know how lucky you are? I would give anythin' for my Dad to turn his life around like that." He didn't respond, knowing she was right. "So promise me you'll try?"
"For you? I promise." He kissed her sweetly but his face remained troubled.
"Onika Maraj?" They all turned their heads when they heard her name and left their seats to follow the woman through to the room. After helping her up on to the bed Drake took a seat at her side while Sandi and Dennis sat across the room. "Dr. Taylor should be though to see you in a minute or two." The young woman smiled again and left.
"You still think she's a girl?" She asked quietly as she grabbed his hand.
"I know she is."
"Do you want her to be a girl?"
"I'm happy with whatever she turns out to be." He placed his hand on her stomach and smiled again. There was something about his smile that made her feel so relaxed. She loved that about him.
"Morning all." Dr. Taylor entered just as cheerfully as always, Nicki loved him because he was from the UK. His accent was everything to her so she couldn't help but smile as they all greeted him back. "Let me just grab some ultrasound gel and we'll get started." He smiled, emphasising his bristly stubble on his face as he grabbed the blue dispenser. "We've finally got a get warmer for this room now, so the gel won't be cold." He pulled the wheelie chair to himself before noticing Sandi and Dennis properly. "So, you must be the parents?"
"Yes, I'm Sandi and this is Dennis. We're Drake's parents." She smiled as though she was smitten and shook his hand with Dennis doing the same.
"Well it's lovely to meet you both and with greetings aside let's get this scan underway." He rubbed his hands together and wheeled over to the side of Nicki and pulled her top up a little. "You might need to tug your trousers down a bit too." She giggled at the way he said "tug" and "trousers" before doing as he asked. He was right, the gel was warm. It felt kind of nice as he spread it over her small bump. All five of them had their eyes fixed on the monitor, waiting for the image to appear.
"We can find out the sex today, right?" Her hopeful voice made Dr. Taylor turn to look at her.
"You want to find out today?" He locked eyes with them both as they nodded. "Well, I already know." He smiled again as he moved the head over her abdomen, his gaze was fixed on the screen again. "Looks to me like a very healthy baby girl."
"A girl? Really?" Nicki's hand went straight to her mouth as she looked to her other side at Drake. "You were right."
"Told you I knew she was a girl." His smile was from ear to ear across his face before he looked at his Mom. She was in tears. "You good Mom?" He chuckled as Nicki and Dennis laughed at her waving her hand at him, telling him to shut-up.
"Well, everything looks extremely fine to me. Good heartbeat, good size, no problems." He pulled the paper towel from her leggings waistband and used it to wipe off the gel. "I'll just fix you up with some more pre-natal vitamins and you're free to go."
"Thank you." She showed her dimples and pulled the hoodie back over herself before sliding off of the bed.
Drake couldn't believe it. They were having a baby girl. They all seemed to be super elated after the appointment and driving home on a high. Sandi and Dennis had plans for the afternoon so Drake intended to keep his arrangements for taking Nicki shopping. Since she was almost five months pregnant now he wanted to start buying baby stuff to be ready for when she was born. It took him a while to convince her seeing as she was tired but buying things for her baby sounded fun in the end. She was enjoying walking around the store, holding his hand as they looked at cribs.
"What about this one?" She ran her free hand along the edge of the furniture piece as Drake grabbed the tag. Everything was so much more expensive than he'd originally thought.
"Uhm, yeah this one's good."
"You okay babe?" He nodded and smiled before walking past her to a crib on the opposite side, seeing the price tag swinging she pulled it up to see how much it was going to cost. A bomb, that's what. She sighed and walked back over to him.
"You picked one?"
"First of all we are picking one and second of all I'm hungry. We can do this another day Drake, and besides I'm pretty sure we could get a cheaper one from somewhere else. Actually I could even take Caiah's old crib." She shrugged, wide-eyed as she stared at his face.
"Nic, that's just it though. I'on want second-best for you guys, for us. I want the best of the best."
"I know you do and so do I but we gotta be realistic, all this is stuff we can't afford." She took his hand in hers as he sighed angrily. This is exactly what Dennis had been talking about. "Let's just go home, we could look online?" She let him lead the way back to the store exit and thanked the sales assistant before heading home. Neither of them spoke a word the whole journey.
***
Over the next three months things only seemed to get worse. Her parents had completely shunned her and refused to have anything to do with her or the baby which was a major setback. She'd hoped that the situation would have had the reverse effect and brought her Mother to her but she was wrong. Along with that problem Drake had been acting more than a little odd as of late. He was distant, quiet and even more irritable than usual. Tonight was no exception, he'd been at work all day and was just about to shower when he got a phone call. She didn't know if he was upset that he'd been called out by his friends or the fact that she'd answered his phone.
"I'm gonna be an hour at the most." He kissed her forehead and then her lips. "Don't answer the door and call SB now, tell'm to come over."
"Drake, I'm fine by myself I'm not-"
"Nicki, just do it please. For me?" He was resting in the doorways as she watched from the couch. She and SB had built bridges when he came over to see her, grovelling for her forgiveness. Truthfully she missed him a hell of a lot and he missed her too.
"Fine but bring me back a box of-"
"Chicken wings, I got it." He winked and waited for her to start calling SB before leaving. She stayed on the phone with him for a mere few seconds before hanging up, he'd be over any minute.
Having pulled up to where he was supposed to be meeting Deshaun he tapped his fingers anxiously on the steering wheel before a bang at his window made him jump. It was Deshaun's little buddies, laughing their heads off before making their way inside. He gave it another minute or so before following them in. He hated it in there, the smell, the atmosphere, the people. Everything.
"Aye Drizzy, you made it!" Deshaun lit up another smoke and walked slowly over to him before dropping on to the ragged couch.
"I'on want any shit, not tonight. Just tell me what I gotta do so I can do it." He growled frustratedly and waited for the instructions.
"Actually, I thought tonight could be your lil' reward night y'know? Call a couple girls over, have some fun." The others laughed as Drake's patience ran out.
"Just tell me where I gotta go." Deshaun paid his attitude no mind as he continued on about the night he had planned.
"Actually, you could call over your girl, y'know? The one I spoke to on the phone." He smirked at Drake's flared nostrils. The rage within him was rising.
"Leave her the fuck outta this, y'hear me?!"
"Chill Drizzy! I'll get her when I want her." He laughed and stood up again but Drake's heart dropped. "Oh so now you catchin' on?" He scanned Drake's torn face and grinned. "I know what I want if I don't get my money, Drizzy. So for her sake you best cough up and quick." He gritted his teeth and took a step closer to Drake's tensed up frame as he spoke.
"You so much as look at her I-"
"You'll what? Kill me?" They all sneered again, watching him live out his own nightmare.
***
"Here." Safaree sat at her side slowly after handing her a tissue.
"Thanks." Wiping her tears with it she sat back and looked at her best friend. "You said when everythin' crumbled around me you wasn't gonna be here. But here you are as always, sittin' by me with tissues."
"Nic, nothin's crumblin' around you. You're pregnant, hormonal and emotional. Everythin's gettin' the best of you right now." He lay back too and pulled her too him.
"Yeah, includin' Drake."
"Well, you need to fix that. I know I don't care for him too much but even I can see he's tryin'." He squeezed her gently to try and get a response as her hands were resting protectively over her bump. She was eight months now and was counting down the days.
"Yeah I know, you're right." She sniffled and started massaging her abdomen.
"I'm always right. Now, let's do what I had planned." He pulled away and grabbed the dvd from the coffee table and went to put it in before getting her snack bowl. Neither had a clue what was about to happen.
*Thanks for all the comments on the previous chapter ^_^ I shld be posting on Sweet Dreams tomorrow along with Here I am for Onikafaree readers :)) Hope this was okay for everyone!*
Thursday 20 December 2012
Monday 10 December 2012
10. In Too Deep? - Flashback
*Okay I know I deleted this fic but someone asked me to undelete it cuz they hadn't finished reading lol my bad! This chapter was typed up AGESSSS ago but since I had deleted the fic there was no point posting lol anyway I've decided to post it :// Hopefully it's okay, please excuse any mistakes! Thanku to those people who commented on the previous chapter :)*
Dr. Truman sat his his stuff down on the chair in the corner before moving over to Nicki's side of the bed.
"You said she was pregnant?" His gaze turned to Sandi as she stood watching.
"Yes." The look on his face matched hers. "I know, it came as a shock to me too. Trust me." Flicking her eyes back to Drake he just sat sour-faced as the doctor grabbed his stethoscope and some other equipment from his bag.
"Has she been like this all day?" He nodded his head in her general direction, she was still asleep. Completely oblivious to what was going on around her as she slept.
"Yeah, well for the most part. This mornin' she was okay but she's just got worse as the day's gone on." The amount of worry in his voice made Sandi feel guilty for being so hard on him.
"Okay, what about eating and drinking?" Honestly Drake was getting frustrated with the amount of questions and lack of examining as the doctor continued to question her illness and sort out his things.
"Well she couldn't keep anythin' down this mornin' and she's been throwin' up all day. I'ont know if she's even had a drink." He let his eyes follow the man's every move whilst he got closer to Nicki and pulled the covers back, at first he wanted to stop him when he remembered she was only in her underwear but she needed to be checked over. He was fighting the urge to crack a smile when Nicki grumpily pushed the doctor's hand away from herself.
"We might have to wake her up, sorry."
"It's fine." Drake smiled and gently touched her arm, giving her a shake to try and wake her. "Nic? Nicki?" Increasing the intensity of his grasp on her they soon saw her eyes flutter open lazily. "Babe, the doctor's here." He folded his lips and watched her as she looked around before snatching the duvet back up over her exposed body. "It's okay, he just needs to check you over."
"But what about-"
"It's fine, she knows." They both looked slowly back towards Sandi as she continued to stare at them. She could tell Nicki was both embarrassed and upset but they'd deal with that once Dr. Truman was gone.
"Hello Nicki, I'm Dr Truman but you can just call me Sean." Rubbing his hands together he stepped forward with the stethoscope in hand, he tried to keep things slow and calm seeing how uncomfortable she looked. "Alright, I'm just going to do a quick check to see if everythin's runnin' smoothly okay? Could you pull the covers back?" He saw her look up at Drake unsurely but he gave her a reassuring smile before she did as the doctor asked. As she did so all three of them heard Sandi exhale shakily seeing Nicki's small rounded belly. Honestly she was fuming that Drake had told his mother but at least it was out in the open now. "This might be a little cold, I tried to warm it up though." She nodded in response before gasping quietly as he pressed the cool metal of the stethoscope head onto her chest. The room fell silent as if everyone inhabiting it were trying to listen. "Take a deep breath in for me Nicki." She did what he asked before being instructed what to do next. "And out again." He had her do that another two times before pulling the instrument away from her chest. "Mkay,your heart rate's a lil' fast and so is your breathing." He coiled the stethoscope up and placed it back in his bag. "Have you had anything to drink at all today?" He intertwined his own fingers together in front of his pudgy stomach as he stared down at her.
"Uhm, no. No I haven't." She shook her head delicately and moved closer to Drake who had taken a seat on the edge of the bed next to her.
"Okay, and how long have you been feeling like this?"
"Well the past few morning's I've been really sick and I just can't eat anythin'. It got worse today though." She looked back at Drake when she felt him pull her hand into his.
"When was the last time you used the bathroom?"
"Excuse me?"
Urination, when was the last time?"
"Oh, I don't know." She wrinkled her face trying to remember all whilst being slightly embarrassed by his outright questions.
"Look, Dr. Truman do you know what's wrong with her or not?"
"Aubrey." He whipped his head around to look at his angry Mother as she scolded him for being rude.
"Looking at the signs and symptoms Nicki, I'd say you're dehydrated." He spoke casually as he piled his stuff back into the bag. The next five minutes or so consisted of him explaining what they had to do to help her replenish her fluids before Sandi left to show him to the door. Drake got to it and did everything Sean had just explained and was now laying next to Nicki on the bed.
"I look so stupid." She moved her head on the pillow and feebly pushed her hair away from her face. She was referring to all the cool, damp towels she had on her neck, collarbone, wrists and inner thighs. She felt like she couldn't move, which was partly the idea as she was supposed to be keeping her movement to a minimum.
"No you don't. You look better than earlier. I was really worried 'bout you." He smiled and pulled the towel off of her neck before turning it over and putting back down again. "That cool enough?"
"Mm, it feels good." Shutting her eyes slowly she let a small smile appear on her face before she opened them again to stare at him. "Is your Mom really mad?"
"Well yeah, she just found out I got a sixteen year old pregnant."
"Why do you do that?" The way her brows were pushed together angrily he knew he'd upset her.
"What?"
"Bring my age into it?"
"Because you're only sixteen."
"So? It's never bothered you before has it?"
"It's a lil' different now Nic-"
"The fuck is so different now?!" She snatched the cloth from her neck and collarbone as she sat herself up.
"Nicki could you please lay back down? You're supposed to be restin'." He tried to pull her back down but she ripped her arm away from him.
"Don't." Holding her hand up she gathered the covers around her self and turned to lie on her side. "Could you shut the door behind you?" She exhaled regretfully when she heard him sigh and get off the bed.
"I'll come check on you later."
"Don't bother." The hallway light remained shining into the room for a few more seconds as he lingered in the doorway watching her. After shutting the door he headed downstairs, knowing that his Mother would be there waiting.
"She feeling any better?" her voice was low and she didn't even shift her position on the couch as she spoke whilst staring at the TV screen.
"Yeah, I think so. And thanks by the way, y'know for callin' the doctor over." He smoothed his hand over his head and took a seat on the separate couch.
"As long as she's okay, that's the main thing right?" her dry tone was making him uncomfortable.
"Look, Mom I get that you're angry but don't blame her. Please?"
"Aubrey, I'm not angry. Just really, really disappointed. I thought you'd have known better, that I'd raised you better." Turning to face him she let him see just how upset she was.
"You raised me fine Mom. If you hadn't I woulda gone and left Nic but 'causa you I know better. I wouldn't put her through the shit you had to deal with. Never."
"Watch your mouth." She took a sip from her glass and spoke up again. "Is that the only reason you're sticking by her side?"
"No, of course not!" She didn't need for him to say anymore, just the look on his face was proof enough that he was telling the truth.
"I can't believe all of this Aubrey." She shook her head sadly and looked down at her lap.
"Well, I put a deposit down on an apartment last week so we'll be outta here by the end of next month." He went to stand up but she got to her feet before him and blocked his way.
"No, no I'm not sayin' I want you to move out I'm just a little taken by surprise that's all. It's a lot to take in, but..." She hesitated before continuing. "I want to be here, for you and for Nicki and honestly it's your decision but I'm not sure you moving out is such a good idea. Caring for a baby is a huge thing Aubrey. Nicki's going to need all the support she can get." Her words filled his mind as they stood in silence. She was right, with him working to pay bills that would mean Nicki being at home with the baby all the time.
"I'll have to talk to Nic tomorrow, but I'mma go to bed I have an early start." He half smiled and she returned the gesture before letting him past.
"I am proud of you y'know? For not leaving her. I wouldn't wish that on anybody, especially Nicki." She smiled kind of emotionally as he stood in the basement stairway causing her smile to turn into a frown. "You're not stayin' upstairs with her?"
"Not tonight, she's not a huge fan of mine right now."
"Oh, well she's goin' to be actin' moody a lot from now on so be prepared boy." She raised her eyebrows and wrapped her small cardigan around herself some more as he chuckled lightly. She could be extremely moody not pregnant so god only knew what was in store for him over the next few months. "I'll check on her before I head up for the night if you want?"
"Thanks, but it's fine. She was goin' to sleep when I left." He smiled and drummed his fingers on the doorway. "Well, goodnight I guess."
"Night Aubrey."
***
She couldn't get back to sleep for how bad she felt after acting the way she did with Drake. Thinking of it from his point of view it was a whole different story. Once he'd left the room she couldn't stop the tears, it was almost 1am and he still hadn't come to bed so she figured he'd gone to sleep in his own room. Laying with her thoughts she couldn't take it anymore and threw the light sheet off of her body and slid out of the bed before throwing Drake's overly huge hoody on to her tiny frame. It was super quiet and dark as she made her way down the stairs being careful not to make any noise. Finally reaching the kitchen she got herself a drink first and then headed towards the basement stairway, she could feel the heat already and silently cursed the un-repaired heating system whilst turning the door handle. There he was, sleeping wild in the middle of his bed in just his boxers. Shutting the door quietly she sat her drink on his dresser and gently climbed on to the bed with him, trying to find a spot near his body. Settling in a comfy position she just stared at him as she felt her eyes getting heavier and before she knew it she was asleep. That didn't last too long though, less than fifteen minutes later he awoke in light sweat feeling her body heat pressed into him. Blinking confusedly he looked over her sleeping next to him and sat up.
"Nic? Babe you're supposed to be keepin' cool." Her eyes fluttered open hearing his gravelly, sleep-filled voice.
"Hm?"
"Come on." He nudged her gently.
"No, I wanna stay with you."
"You can, we just gotta go back upstairs. It's too hot down here for you." He caught her eyes looking at him as he scanned her flushed face, some of her hair was sticking to her clammy skin. "Look, you're way too hot already." Cautiously climbing over her he stood firmly on the ground and tugged at her hand. "Nicki?" He didn't have to say it twice before she joined him in standing up, still holding on to his hand. Kissing her forehead affectionately he led her back upstairs and shut the bedroom door behind them, letting her climb in first before sliding in next to her.
"I'm sorry."
"It's okay."
"No it's not. I was actin' childish, I'm sorry."
"I'm sorry too." He let a little smile creep across his face before kissing her again. "Where's all your towels gone? You're s'posed to keep 'em on all night."
"They're too cold."
"Nic, they're s'posed to be cold." He straightened his face and climbed out of the bed to get them. After running them under the tap he squeezed them out before putting them back on her after removing the jumper. "You good?" He smiled at her laying stiffly as he climbed back into the bed.
"No. I'm cold and wet Aubrey."
"It's gon' make you better, now c'mere." He gently pulled her to him and enveloped her in his arms. She was right, the towels were freezing. Feeling him try to pull away from the coolness she kept shuffling back into him.
"I'm cooooold. Stay near me, please?" She pouted and even though she wasn't facing him he could just tell. Not saying a word he braced himself and brought his chest close to her back, moving the towels away from his own skin in the process.
The Next Morning
The incessant whizzing sound of the blender was what woke her up as she reached over to touch Drake. Feeling nothing in her presence she turned slowly and squinted at the light, realising that she was alone. Her mind was groggy and she felt like her energy level was at zero but at least she didn't feel nauseous this morning. Suddenly feeling the urge to pee she smiled remembering that Dr Truman said that was a good sign. Slowly letting her legs out from under the bed sheet she stood and took herself to the en-suite bathroom to relieve herself and shower before she got dressed. The whirring of the blender diminished as she made her way down the stairs. Truthfully she was extremely nervous to see Sandi and was terrified of what she would say to her but she was too hungry to care at that point. Treading quietly she stopped timidly on the stairway but it was too late to run back upstairs to safety, she'd already been seen.
"Oh I was wonderin' when you'd be up." She licked something off of her fingers and smiled at her. That was a good thing though right? That she was smiling? "How are you feeling today?"
"Uhm, yeah I feel better. Thank you." She smiled shyly and walked into the kitchen.
"I made you this." Her smile soon faded as the familiar feeling of nausea rippled through her. It was some weird brown looking, lumpy liquid in a glass. "It'll help. And it's good for pregnant women."
"Just a minute." She ran as best she could to the nearest bathroom, brushing her teeth again once she was done. Upon returning she lay her eyes on a regretful looking Sandi.
"I'm sorry, I forgot you're probably not feelin' up to anything so disgusting right now. You okay?" She rested her small hand on Nicki's upper arm as she looked at her sympathetically.
"Yeah I'm fine, just a lil' queasy."
"Well you need to eat somethin', how 'bout I make you somethin' a bit more mild?" Rubbing her arm she smiled when Nicki nodded sweetly. "Go sit down, I'll bring it over to you."
"Thanks." She did as Sandi said and got herself comfortable on the couch, making sure to take a glass of water with her. She still didn't know where Drake was but hoped he would be home soon, she didn't want to sound pathetic or needy but she was sick and wanted him to sit with her and make her feel better. Hearing Sandi's little feet shuffling over to her she made space for her on the couch before taking the bowl from her hands.
"There you go, just somethin' to fill your stomach." She took a seat by her side whilst Nicki tucked in to the more favourable snack of cereal. "I can't believe I didn't even notice the signs, I'm a midwife for goodness sake!" She started laughing but Nicki could still hear the nerves taking over the giggle.
"I didn't even know to be really honest." She kept feeding herself as Sandi stayed silent. "I am sorry y'know? It wasn't planned or anythin'." Her voice was quiet and shaky as she spoke.
"Oh, no don't be silly Nicki! I already told Aubrey I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed and honestly really worried." She increased the pitch of her voice towards the end of her sentence. "You're so young and about endure something extremely life-changing." She swept a strand of Nicki's hair away from her face as she looked down sadly. "Hey, it's okay though. You've got me, Aubrey and Dennis here. We're gonna look after you." She hadn't intended to make her cry but comforted her nonetheless, pulling her tiny body to her as she hugged the inconsolable teen.
"I'm so scared." She managed to speak between sobs and sniffs.
"I know you are, but you're a strong little thing. You'll get through all of this, you and my little grandbaby." She smiled and pulled away from the embrace whilst placing a hand on Nicki's bump. "Do your parents know?" She answered by merely shaking her head no, keeping her gaze fixed on her small belly. "I don't mind you not talking to them or living with them but this is something you need to tell them. Not today though, once you're well enough it has to happen, okay?"
"Yes ma'am." She let out a small chuckle as Sandi wiped away the tear from her cheek.
"Now, since I know about your lil' secret how about you tell me everything." She shuffled on the couch to get more comfortable. "Boy? Girl?"
"We don't know yet, they told us that we'd find out at the next appointment." She smiled and sniffled again seeing Sandi's face.
"Wow, I can't believe this is gonna be my first grandchild. How many weeks exactly are you?'
"Eighteen, I think." She sat forward a little and placed her now empty bowl on the coffee table as Sandi stood up.
"Wait here, I'll be back." Although she was a bit puzzled she did as she was told and waited patiently for Sandi to return, when she did she had a long black box with her and resumed her seat. "Did they let you listen to the baby's heartbeat yet?" She was unravelling whatever was in the box as she spoke.
"No, the midwife just told us that the baby looked healthy, why?" She sniffled once again, still recovering from crying only minutes ago.
"Would you like to listen?" Just as she asked the question Nicki saw a stethoscope being pulled out of the packaging.
"You can really hear it through one of those?" The quizzical look on her little face made Sandi laugh.
"Well, we should be able to! You're not in the super, super early stages of pregnancy and you have a slim waist. You wanna give it a try?"
"Yes please!" The level of excitement in her voice made Sandi smile, maybe this wasn't such a horrible situation after all? Drake was happy and behaving, or so she thought. Nicki seemed more than content and she herself actually felt cheerful. Not to mention Dennis was moving back into the picture, and now her son was in a happy and loving relationship about to give them their first grandbaby. She felt her face twisting into a smile as she lifted Nicki's shirt a little, pressing the head of the stethoscope on to her skin. There it was, a little heartbeat as clear as a bell. She felt silly getting all emotional, this was something she performed all the time on pregnant women, it was her profession. But this was different, it was her grandchild she was hearing. Slowly removing the ear pieces she handed them to Nicki, letting her listen to her baby for the first time.
"Can you hear?"
"Oh my God, I can hear her." It came out as a whisper as she felt herself filling up again.
"You think she's a girl?" Nicki shook her head no before answering properly.
"Drake thinks she's a girl, so we're callin' her a 'she' until we find out forreal." Her dimpled smile warmed Sandi's heart as she continued to watch her listening intently in between talking.
"Well then, she sounds very healthy to me." At that moment Nicki felt more secure than she had in ages. Ever since her fallout with SB she'd felt as though Drake was the only person she could rely on with this situation they were in but now she had Sandi there for her too and things were finally looking up. For now.
Across Town
Drake was sat in his car contemplating deeply. He could drive away and have nothing to do with what he was being asked right now if he wanted, but he needed that money. He was earning plenty with his current job but now he owed Deshaun quite a large sum of cash. Borrowing the deposit money from him was starting to seem like a really, really stupid idea.
....
Dr. Truman sat his his stuff down on the chair in the corner before moving over to Nicki's side of the bed.
"You said she was pregnant?" His gaze turned to Sandi as she stood watching.
"Yes." The look on his face matched hers. "I know, it came as a shock to me too. Trust me." Flicking her eyes back to Drake he just sat sour-faced as the doctor grabbed his stethoscope and some other equipment from his bag.
"Has she been like this all day?" He nodded his head in her general direction, she was still asleep. Completely oblivious to what was going on around her as she slept.
"Yeah, well for the most part. This mornin' she was okay but she's just got worse as the day's gone on." The amount of worry in his voice made Sandi feel guilty for being so hard on him.
"Okay, what about eating and drinking?" Honestly Drake was getting frustrated with the amount of questions and lack of examining as the doctor continued to question her illness and sort out his things.
"Well she couldn't keep anythin' down this mornin' and she's been throwin' up all day. I'ont know if she's even had a drink." He let his eyes follow the man's every move whilst he got closer to Nicki and pulled the covers back, at first he wanted to stop him when he remembered she was only in her underwear but she needed to be checked over. He was fighting the urge to crack a smile when Nicki grumpily pushed the doctor's hand away from herself.
"We might have to wake her up, sorry."
"It's fine." Drake smiled and gently touched her arm, giving her a shake to try and wake her. "Nic? Nicki?" Increasing the intensity of his grasp on her they soon saw her eyes flutter open lazily. "Babe, the doctor's here." He folded his lips and watched her as she looked around before snatching the duvet back up over her exposed body. "It's okay, he just needs to check you over."
"But what about-"
"It's fine, she knows." They both looked slowly back towards Sandi as she continued to stare at them. She could tell Nicki was both embarrassed and upset but they'd deal with that once Dr. Truman was gone.
"Hello Nicki, I'm Dr Truman but you can just call me Sean." Rubbing his hands together he stepped forward with the stethoscope in hand, he tried to keep things slow and calm seeing how uncomfortable she looked. "Alright, I'm just going to do a quick check to see if everythin's runnin' smoothly okay? Could you pull the covers back?" He saw her look up at Drake unsurely but he gave her a reassuring smile before she did as the doctor asked. As she did so all three of them heard Sandi exhale shakily seeing Nicki's small rounded belly. Honestly she was fuming that Drake had told his mother but at least it was out in the open now. "This might be a little cold, I tried to warm it up though." She nodded in response before gasping quietly as he pressed the cool metal of the stethoscope head onto her chest. The room fell silent as if everyone inhabiting it were trying to listen. "Take a deep breath in for me Nicki." She did what he asked before being instructed what to do next. "And out again." He had her do that another two times before pulling the instrument away from her chest. "Mkay,your heart rate's a lil' fast and so is your breathing." He coiled the stethoscope up and placed it back in his bag. "Have you had anything to drink at all today?" He intertwined his own fingers together in front of his pudgy stomach as he stared down at her.
"Uhm, no. No I haven't." She shook her head delicately and moved closer to Drake who had taken a seat on the edge of the bed next to her.
"Okay, and how long have you been feeling like this?"
"Well the past few morning's I've been really sick and I just can't eat anythin'. It got worse today though." She looked back at Drake when she felt him pull her hand into his.
"When was the last time you used the bathroom?"
"Excuse me?"
Urination, when was the last time?"
"Oh, I don't know." She wrinkled her face trying to remember all whilst being slightly embarrassed by his outright questions.
"Look, Dr. Truman do you know what's wrong with her or not?"
"Aubrey." He whipped his head around to look at his angry Mother as she scolded him for being rude.
"Looking at the signs and symptoms Nicki, I'd say you're dehydrated." He spoke casually as he piled his stuff back into the bag. The next five minutes or so consisted of him explaining what they had to do to help her replenish her fluids before Sandi left to show him to the door. Drake got to it and did everything Sean had just explained and was now laying next to Nicki on the bed.
"I look so stupid." She moved her head on the pillow and feebly pushed her hair away from her face. She was referring to all the cool, damp towels she had on her neck, collarbone, wrists and inner thighs. She felt like she couldn't move, which was partly the idea as she was supposed to be keeping her movement to a minimum.
"No you don't. You look better than earlier. I was really worried 'bout you." He smiled and pulled the towel off of her neck before turning it over and putting back down again. "That cool enough?"
"Mm, it feels good." Shutting her eyes slowly she let a small smile appear on her face before she opened them again to stare at him. "Is your Mom really mad?"
"Well yeah, she just found out I got a sixteen year old pregnant."
"Why do you do that?" The way her brows were pushed together angrily he knew he'd upset her.
"What?"
"Bring my age into it?"
"Because you're only sixteen."
"So? It's never bothered you before has it?"
"It's a lil' different now Nic-"
"The fuck is so different now?!" She snatched the cloth from her neck and collarbone as she sat herself up.
"Nicki could you please lay back down? You're supposed to be restin'." He tried to pull her back down but she ripped her arm away from him.
"Don't." Holding her hand up she gathered the covers around her self and turned to lie on her side. "Could you shut the door behind you?" She exhaled regretfully when she heard him sigh and get off the bed.
"I'll come check on you later."
"Don't bother." The hallway light remained shining into the room for a few more seconds as he lingered in the doorway watching her. After shutting the door he headed downstairs, knowing that his Mother would be there waiting.
"She feeling any better?" her voice was low and she didn't even shift her position on the couch as she spoke whilst staring at the TV screen.
"Yeah, I think so. And thanks by the way, y'know for callin' the doctor over." He smoothed his hand over his head and took a seat on the separate couch.
"As long as she's okay, that's the main thing right?" her dry tone was making him uncomfortable.
"Look, Mom I get that you're angry but don't blame her. Please?"
"Aubrey, I'm not angry. Just really, really disappointed. I thought you'd have known better, that I'd raised you better." Turning to face him she let him see just how upset she was.
"You raised me fine Mom. If you hadn't I woulda gone and left Nic but 'causa you I know better. I wouldn't put her through the shit you had to deal with. Never."
"Watch your mouth." She took a sip from her glass and spoke up again. "Is that the only reason you're sticking by her side?"
"No, of course not!" She didn't need for him to say anymore, just the look on his face was proof enough that he was telling the truth.
"I can't believe all of this Aubrey." She shook her head sadly and looked down at her lap.
"Well, I put a deposit down on an apartment last week so we'll be outta here by the end of next month." He went to stand up but she got to her feet before him and blocked his way.
"No, no I'm not sayin' I want you to move out I'm just a little taken by surprise that's all. It's a lot to take in, but..." She hesitated before continuing. "I want to be here, for you and for Nicki and honestly it's your decision but I'm not sure you moving out is such a good idea. Caring for a baby is a huge thing Aubrey. Nicki's going to need all the support she can get." Her words filled his mind as they stood in silence. She was right, with him working to pay bills that would mean Nicki being at home with the baby all the time.
"I'll have to talk to Nic tomorrow, but I'mma go to bed I have an early start." He half smiled and she returned the gesture before letting him past.
"I am proud of you y'know? For not leaving her. I wouldn't wish that on anybody, especially Nicki." She smiled kind of emotionally as he stood in the basement stairway causing her smile to turn into a frown. "You're not stayin' upstairs with her?"
"Not tonight, she's not a huge fan of mine right now."
"Oh, well she's goin' to be actin' moody a lot from now on so be prepared boy." She raised her eyebrows and wrapped her small cardigan around herself some more as he chuckled lightly. She could be extremely moody not pregnant so god only knew what was in store for him over the next few months. "I'll check on her before I head up for the night if you want?"
"Thanks, but it's fine. She was goin' to sleep when I left." He smiled and drummed his fingers on the doorway. "Well, goodnight I guess."
"Night Aubrey."
***
She couldn't get back to sleep for how bad she felt after acting the way she did with Drake. Thinking of it from his point of view it was a whole different story. Once he'd left the room she couldn't stop the tears, it was almost 1am and he still hadn't come to bed so she figured he'd gone to sleep in his own room. Laying with her thoughts she couldn't take it anymore and threw the light sheet off of her body and slid out of the bed before throwing Drake's overly huge hoody on to her tiny frame. It was super quiet and dark as she made her way down the stairs being careful not to make any noise. Finally reaching the kitchen she got herself a drink first and then headed towards the basement stairway, she could feel the heat already and silently cursed the un-repaired heating system whilst turning the door handle. There he was, sleeping wild in the middle of his bed in just his boxers. Shutting the door quietly she sat her drink on his dresser and gently climbed on to the bed with him, trying to find a spot near his body. Settling in a comfy position she just stared at him as she felt her eyes getting heavier and before she knew it she was asleep. That didn't last too long though, less than fifteen minutes later he awoke in light sweat feeling her body heat pressed into him. Blinking confusedly he looked over her sleeping next to him and sat up.
"Nic? Babe you're supposed to be keepin' cool." Her eyes fluttered open hearing his gravelly, sleep-filled voice.
"Hm?"
"Come on." He nudged her gently.
"No, I wanna stay with you."
"You can, we just gotta go back upstairs. It's too hot down here for you." He caught her eyes looking at him as he scanned her flushed face, some of her hair was sticking to her clammy skin. "Look, you're way too hot already." Cautiously climbing over her he stood firmly on the ground and tugged at her hand. "Nicki?" He didn't have to say it twice before she joined him in standing up, still holding on to his hand. Kissing her forehead affectionately he led her back upstairs and shut the bedroom door behind them, letting her climb in first before sliding in next to her.
"I'm sorry."
"It's okay."
"No it's not. I was actin' childish, I'm sorry."
"I'm sorry too." He let a little smile creep across his face before kissing her again. "Where's all your towels gone? You're s'posed to keep 'em on all night."
"They're too cold."
"Nic, they're s'posed to be cold." He straightened his face and climbed out of the bed to get them. After running them under the tap he squeezed them out before putting them back on her after removing the jumper. "You good?" He smiled at her laying stiffly as he climbed back into the bed.
"No. I'm cold and wet Aubrey."
"It's gon' make you better, now c'mere." He gently pulled her to him and enveloped her in his arms. She was right, the towels were freezing. Feeling him try to pull away from the coolness she kept shuffling back into him.
"I'm cooooold. Stay near me, please?" She pouted and even though she wasn't facing him he could just tell. Not saying a word he braced himself and brought his chest close to her back, moving the towels away from his own skin in the process.
The Next Morning
The incessant whizzing sound of the blender was what woke her up as she reached over to touch Drake. Feeling nothing in her presence she turned slowly and squinted at the light, realising that she was alone. Her mind was groggy and she felt like her energy level was at zero but at least she didn't feel nauseous this morning. Suddenly feeling the urge to pee she smiled remembering that Dr Truman said that was a good sign. Slowly letting her legs out from under the bed sheet she stood and took herself to the en-suite bathroom to relieve herself and shower before she got dressed. The whirring of the blender diminished as she made her way down the stairs. Truthfully she was extremely nervous to see Sandi and was terrified of what she would say to her but she was too hungry to care at that point. Treading quietly she stopped timidly on the stairway but it was too late to run back upstairs to safety, she'd already been seen.
"Oh I was wonderin' when you'd be up." She licked something off of her fingers and smiled at her. That was a good thing though right? That she was smiling? "How are you feeling today?"
"Uhm, yeah I feel better. Thank you." She smiled shyly and walked into the kitchen.
"I made you this." Her smile soon faded as the familiar feeling of nausea rippled through her. It was some weird brown looking, lumpy liquid in a glass. "It'll help. And it's good for pregnant women."
"Just a minute." She ran as best she could to the nearest bathroom, brushing her teeth again once she was done. Upon returning she lay her eyes on a regretful looking Sandi.
"I'm sorry, I forgot you're probably not feelin' up to anything so disgusting right now. You okay?" She rested her small hand on Nicki's upper arm as she looked at her sympathetically.
"Yeah I'm fine, just a lil' queasy."
"Well you need to eat somethin', how 'bout I make you somethin' a bit more mild?" Rubbing her arm she smiled when Nicki nodded sweetly. "Go sit down, I'll bring it over to you."
"Thanks." She did as Sandi said and got herself comfortable on the couch, making sure to take a glass of water with her. She still didn't know where Drake was but hoped he would be home soon, she didn't want to sound pathetic or needy but she was sick and wanted him to sit with her and make her feel better. Hearing Sandi's little feet shuffling over to her she made space for her on the couch before taking the bowl from her hands.
"There you go, just somethin' to fill your stomach." She took a seat by her side whilst Nicki tucked in to the more favourable snack of cereal. "I can't believe I didn't even notice the signs, I'm a midwife for goodness sake!" She started laughing but Nicki could still hear the nerves taking over the giggle.
"I didn't even know to be really honest." She kept feeding herself as Sandi stayed silent. "I am sorry y'know? It wasn't planned or anythin'." Her voice was quiet and shaky as she spoke.
"Oh, no don't be silly Nicki! I already told Aubrey I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed and honestly really worried." She increased the pitch of her voice towards the end of her sentence. "You're so young and about endure something extremely life-changing." She swept a strand of Nicki's hair away from her face as she looked down sadly. "Hey, it's okay though. You've got me, Aubrey and Dennis here. We're gonna look after you." She hadn't intended to make her cry but comforted her nonetheless, pulling her tiny body to her as she hugged the inconsolable teen.
"I'm so scared." She managed to speak between sobs and sniffs.
"I know you are, but you're a strong little thing. You'll get through all of this, you and my little grandbaby." She smiled and pulled away from the embrace whilst placing a hand on Nicki's bump. "Do your parents know?" She answered by merely shaking her head no, keeping her gaze fixed on her small belly. "I don't mind you not talking to them or living with them but this is something you need to tell them. Not today though, once you're well enough it has to happen, okay?"
"Yes ma'am." She let out a small chuckle as Sandi wiped away the tear from her cheek.
"Now, since I know about your lil' secret how about you tell me everything." She shuffled on the couch to get more comfortable. "Boy? Girl?"
"We don't know yet, they told us that we'd find out at the next appointment." She smiled and sniffled again seeing Sandi's face.
"Wow, I can't believe this is gonna be my first grandchild. How many weeks exactly are you?'
"Eighteen, I think." She sat forward a little and placed her now empty bowl on the coffee table as Sandi stood up.
"Wait here, I'll be back." Although she was a bit puzzled she did as she was told and waited patiently for Sandi to return, when she did she had a long black box with her and resumed her seat. "Did they let you listen to the baby's heartbeat yet?" She was unravelling whatever was in the box as she spoke.
"No, the midwife just told us that the baby looked healthy, why?" She sniffled once again, still recovering from crying only minutes ago.
"Would you like to listen?" Just as she asked the question Nicki saw a stethoscope being pulled out of the packaging.
"You can really hear it through one of those?" The quizzical look on her little face made Sandi laugh.
"Well, we should be able to! You're not in the super, super early stages of pregnancy and you have a slim waist. You wanna give it a try?"
"Yes please!" The level of excitement in her voice made Sandi smile, maybe this wasn't such a horrible situation after all? Drake was happy and behaving, or so she thought. Nicki seemed more than content and she herself actually felt cheerful. Not to mention Dennis was moving back into the picture, and now her son was in a happy and loving relationship about to give them their first grandbaby. She felt her face twisting into a smile as she lifted Nicki's shirt a little, pressing the head of the stethoscope on to her skin. There it was, a little heartbeat as clear as a bell. She felt silly getting all emotional, this was something she performed all the time on pregnant women, it was her profession. But this was different, it was her grandchild she was hearing. Slowly removing the ear pieces she handed them to Nicki, letting her listen to her baby for the first time.
"Can you hear?"
"Oh my God, I can hear her." It came out as a whisper as she felt herself filling up again.
"You think she's a girl?" Nicki shook her head no before answering properly.
"Drake thinks she's a girl, so we're callin' her a 'she' until we find out forreal." Her dimpled smile warmed Sandi's heart as she continued to watch her listening intently in between talking.
"Well then, she sounds very healthy to me." At that moment Nicki felt more secure than she had in ages. Ever since her fallout with SB she'd felt as though Drake was the only person she could rely on with this situation they were in but now she had Sandi there for her too and things were finally looking up. For now.
Across Town
Drake was sat in his car contemplating deeply. He could drive away and have nothing to do with what he was being asked right now if he wanted, but he needed that money. He was earning plenty with his current job but now he owed Deshaun quite a large sum of cash. Borrowing the deposit money from him was starting to seem like a really, really stupid idea.
....
Thursday 29 November 2012
9. Leaving The Nest
*Thanks for the comments people left :) hope this is okaay ^_^*
She kept hold of his hand as they walked in to meet the person who was going to show them the apartment. He looked a little dodgy but she was with Drake so at least she had some security. He didn't talk for long before leading them up the stairs, Nicki already had a kind of weird feeling about the place but she didn't want to seem like she was turning her nose up so she kept quiet.
"See, it ain't too shabby." He opened the door after the man just left them to look for themselves.
"It smells funny."
"Nicki, we can get rid of the smell." She could tell he was getting annoyed with her whiney behaviour but she had a good reason. He continued to look over the place as she just stood in the middle of what she assumed was supposed to be a lounge room area. "Aren't you at least gonna look around?"
"I'm doin' it in my own time." She stood still for another few seconds just to prove her point as he stared at her before she walked towards a bedroom. It wasn't as small as she was expecting which was a plus. Letting her eyes scan across the room she flinched when she felt his arms wrap around her from behind.
"This should be the baby's room, 'cause it's smaller." He was resting his head on her shoulder even though he had to crouch considerably to stand like that.
"So you're dead serious about this? You wanna move outta your Mom's place?"
"Positive. Besides, how we gonna carry on livin' in the basement once you've had the baby?" He pulled away and turned her to face him.
"Yeah, I suppose it ain't fair." She looked up at him and frowned seeing his face. "What?"
"You okay? 'Cause you're really, really pale." He emphasised his words as he looked over her. Truthfully she felt incredibly sick but figured it was just morning sickness. "Have you eaten today?"
"No, I couldn't keep anythin' down this morning."
"Aight well, let's finish up here real quick and we'll stop somewhere to eat on the way back." He smiled before grabbing her hand as they looked at the last room and the bathroom before leaving. He still hadn't told her that he'd actually put a deposit down but the way things went it seemed pretty positive. The car ride was quiet since she'd fallen asleep against the window almost as soon as he'd set off. He was keeping a close eye on her, especially since he noticed how hot she felt. KFC wasn't his first choice but they were passing by and she hadn't eaten since the day before so it would have to do.
"Nicki?" He shook her gently to let her know they were there, he thought she'd have perked up a little after being asleep but if anything she seemed worse. They made their way inside nonetheless and queued for their food before finding a table. Like an animal he quickly tucked into his food only just realising that she'd pushed hers away. "Nic, you gotta eat somethin'."
"I know but just the smell is makin' me feel like I'm gonna throw up." She ran her hands through her hair before shutting her eyes and exhaling slowly. He stopped chewing and looked over her face to try and see what she was thinking but he knew that look all too well.
"The restroom is right behind you, do you want me to come?"
"No, I'm good." Without saying another word she got up from her chair and walked swiftly to the bathroom. He felt really bad that she was having a hard time as he delightfully scoffed his face. He was finished in no time and was just waiting for her to return. After almost five minutes had passed he was beginning to worry but seeing the door open he relaxed.
"You just wanna leave?" His question was answered when she nodded her head weakly. For the rest of the trip home he tried to drive smoothly but had to stop twice for her to throw up again.
***
"Has she had anything to drink?" Sandi had her hand held to Nicki's forehead as she slept on the couch. She was burning up.
"I'm not sure, I know she hasn't eaten anythin' and she can't keep any food down."
"Could you go get me a cool towel?"
"Sure." He did as he was asked and brought the towel through to her and just watched as she folded it neatly and pressed it to Nicki's head.
"Maybe if she wasn't wearing such a ridiculously large jumper she'd wouldn't be running a high temperature!" She shook her head and attempted to lift it but Drake stopped her.
"No, leave it. She hasn't got anythin' on underneath." He felt his breath being held in his throat before a wave of relief washed over him when she pulled away.
"Oh. Well, just keep this held to her head and see if she cools down a little. If not then she's goin' to see a doctor." She raised her brows at him as she stood up and walked away letting him squeeze on to the couch with Nicki. She looked completely drained. His Mom was right though, keeping the hoodie on was probably making her ten times worse. Carefully balancing the small, neatly folded towel on her brow he slid his hands underneath her and pulled her up off of the couch.
"I'm gonna take her up to the spare room, it's hot as hell in the basement."
"Okay, well lunch is almost done when you're ready to eat." She smiled at him carrying her cautiously up the steps until he disappeared. He shut the door behind him and lay her on the bed before opening the window wide and drawing the curtains a little to block out the light. Now came the tricky part of trying to undress her without waking her up. Slowly and steadily starting with her sleeves he pulled her arms out one at a time before trying to shimmy the fabric up over her head, which was an epic fail when it got stuck and he accidentally woke her.
"Sorry babe, we gotta take this off. You're on fire." She merely mumbled in response and let him take it off for her as she fought to keep herself awake. He was starting to get even more worried when he looked down only to see her asleep again. Sighing aloud to himself he moved down to her leggings and pink socks, removing all clothing except her underwear before getting her under the fitted sheet. It was really cool in the room at that moment os he just prayed her temperature would come down. He lay with her for a while and was still holding the towel to her face when he saw her whole body heaving. Without thinking he jumped up to grab the trashcan and held it to the edge of the bed as she leant over but nothing was happening. Rubbing her back soothingly he held the trashcan up and looked down at her worriedly. "You good?"
"Mm."
"You really need to eat somethin' Nic. You've got nothin' in you, you can't even throw up any more." Hearing a small knock at the door he turned to look just as his Mother was entering.
"How is she?"
"Not too good." They both stared at her weak and fragile state as she lay still on her side with her eyes shut again.
"Aubrey she looks like she's getting worse." She stared at her son's face for a second and bit her own lip as he watched his girlfriend, suddenly darting forward again she saw him hold the trashcan in place as her body started to heave, but still nothing was coming up. "Oh this is ridiculous I'm going to call Dr. Truman and ask him to come over." Disappearing nearly as quickly as she'd shown up she shut the door behind her, leaving Drake to start freaking out. What if she stayed in with them? Then she'd definitely know she was pregnant. But not telling her was just denying the inevitable, she was going to find out sooner or later anyway. Maybe this was the time to spill. He listened to her on the phone, he voice drawing nearer as she climbed the stairs and came back into the room.
"He gonna come check on her?"
"Yeah, he said he'll be over within half an hour." She crossed her arms over herself and took a seat on the chair by the window as she spoke.
"Look, Mom there's somethin' I really think you should know." He ran his hand nervously up the back of his neck and over the top of his head whilst taking a seat next to a lethargic Nicki. He had no idea how she was going to react and quite seriously he was scared. Not just about her being disappointed with him but for Nicki to lose more people out of her life would just be catastrophic, she'd literally have nobody but him and her friends.
"What is it?" The furrow in her brow deepened with worry.
"I'on even know how to tell you." His stalling was another sign of how nervous he was, something which Sandi instantly picked up on. Her mind was reeling with the idea that he'd gotten involved with some people from his past again.
"Aubrey, just tell me?" There was an extremely long pause whilst he collected himself to just blurt it out quickly.
"Nicki's pregnant." She had to strain her ears to catch what he'd said but she definitely heard it. His head was low and he was picking at an embroidered pattern on the bed sheet as he tried to avoid her eyes.
"Aubrey, if this is some sort of stupid joke I-"
"It's not a joke Mom! You think I'd actually joke about somethin' like this?!"
"Oh my God." Standing up slowly she folded her lips and shook her head. "Aubrey you told me-"
"I know what I told you and I'm sorry but it's happened and there's nothin' we can do about it except keep movin' forward."
"Oh God." She continued to switch between which foot she was resting on as she thought. "How far along is she?" Her eyes were focused on Nicki as she talked lowly.
"Just over four months."
"And she's keepin' it?"
"We decided that's what we wanna to do."
"You do understand that a baby is a lifetime responsibility? Not just somethin' you have a crack at for a while and then stop when you realise it's not all fun and games?"
"Of course we do! Why you gotta be treatin' us like kids all the time?"
"Because Nicki is a child Aubrey! She's sixteen for God's sake!" No longer able to hold herself together she breathed a sigh of relief when the doorbell sounded. "I'll get that, I need to go clear my head." She walked out briskly leaving Drake to bask in the silence of the cold room. He couldn't believe this was how it was going down, and Nicki didn't even wake up through the whole thing. He readied himself when he heard their voices approaching the doorway.
...
*Hope this was alright and thanku to those who left comments on the previous chapter :)*
She kept hold of his hand as they walked in to meet the person who was going to show them the apartment. He looked a little dodgy but she was with Drake so at least she had some security. He didn't talk for long before leading them up the stairs, Nicki already had a kind of weird feeling about the place but she didn't want to seem like she was turning her nose up so she kept quiet.
"See, it ain't too shabby." He opened the door after the man just left them to look for themselves.
"It smells funny."
"Nicki, we can get rid of the smell." She could tell he was getting annoyed with her whiney behaviour but she had a good reason. He continued to look over the place as she just stood in the middle of what she assumed was supposed to be a lounge room area. "Aren't you at least gonna look around?"
"I'm doin' it in my own time." She stood still for another few seconds just to prove her point as he stared at her before she walked towards a bedroom. It wasn't as small as she was expecting which was a plus. Letting her eyes scan across the room she flinched when she felt his arms wrap around her from behind.
"This should be the baby's room, 'cause it's smaller." He was resting his head on her shoulder even though he had to crouch considerably to stand like that.
"So you're dead serious about this? You wanna move outta your Mom's place?"
"Positive. Besides, how we gonna carry on livin' in the basement once you've had the baby?" He pulled away and turned her to face him.
"Yeah, I suppose it ain't fair." She looked up at him and frowned seeing his face. "What?"
"You okay? 'Cause you're really, really pale." He emphasised his words as he looked over her. Truthfully she felt incredibly sick but figured it was just morning sickness. "Have you eaten today?"
"No, I couldn't keep anythin' down this morning."
"Aight well, let's finish up here real quick and we'll stop somewhere to eat on the way back." He smiled before grabbing her hand as they looked at the last room and the bathroom before leaving. He still hadn't told her that he'd actually put a deposit down but the way things went it seemed pretty positive. The car ride was quiet since she'd fallen asleep against the window almost as soon as he'd set off. He was keeping a close eye on her, especially since he noticed how hot she felt. KFC wasn't his first choice but they were passing by and she hadn't eaten since the day before so it would have to do.
"Nicki?" He shook her gently to let her know they were there, he thought she'd have perked up a little after being asleep but if anything she seemed worse. They made their way inside nonetheless and queued for their food before finding a table. Like an animal he quickly tucked into his food only just realising that she'd pushed hers away. "Nic, you gotta eat somethin'."
"I know but just the smell is makin' me feel like I'm gonna throw up." She ran her hands through her hair before shutting her eyes and exhaling slowly. He stopped chewing and looked over her face to try and see what she was thinking but he knew that look all too well.
"The restroom is right behind you, do you want me to come?"
"No, I'm good." Without saying another word she got up from her chair and walked swiftly to the bathroom. He felt really bad that she was having a hard time as he delightfully scoffed his face. He was finished in no time and was just waiting for her to return. After almost five minutes had passed he was beginning to worry but seeing the door open he relaxed.
"You just wanna leave?" His question was answered when she nodded her head weakly. For the rest of the trip home he tried to drive smoothly but had to stop twice for her to throw up again.
***
"Has she had anything to drink?" Sandi had her hand held to Nicki's forehead as she slept on the couch. She was burning up.
"I'm not sure, I know she hasn't eaten anythin' and she can't keep any food down."
"Could you go get me a cool towel?"
"Sure." He did as he was asked and brought the towel through to her and just watched as she folded it neatly and pressed it to Nicki's head.
"Maybe if she wasn't wearing such a ridiculously large jumper she'd wouldn't be running a high temperature!" She shook her head and attempted to lift it but Drake stopped her.
"No, leave it. She hasn't got anythin' on underneath." He felt his breath being held in his throat before a wave of relief washed over him when she pulled away.
"Oh. Well, just keep this held to her head and see if she cools down a little. If not then she's goin' to see a doctor." She raised her brows at him as she stood up and walked away letting him squeeze on to the couch with Nicki. She looked completely drained. His Mom was right though, keeping the hoodie on was probably making her ten times worse. Carefully balancing the small, neatly folded towel on her brow he slid his hands underneath her and pulled her up off of the couch.
"I'm gonna take her up to the spare room, it's hot as hell in the basement."
"Okay, well lunch is almost done when you're ready to eat." She smiled at him carrying her cautiously up the steps until he disappeared. He shut the door behind him and lay her on the bed before opening the window wide and drawing the curtains a little to block out the light. Now came the tricky part of trying to undress her without waking her up. Slowly and steadily starting with her sleeves he pulled her arms out one at a time before trying to shimmy the fabric up over her head, which was an epic fail when it got stuck and he accidentally woke her.
"Sorry babe, we gotta take this off. You're on fire." She merely mumbled in response and let him take it off for her as she fought to keep herself awake. He was starting to get even more worried when he looked down only to see her asleep again. Sighing aloud to himself he moved down to her leggings and pink socks, removing all clothing except her underwear before getting her under the fitted sheet. It was really cool in the room at that moment os he just prayed her temperature would come down. He lay with her for a while and was still holding the towel to her face when he saw her whole body heaving. Without thinking he jumped up to grab the trashcan and held it to the edge of the bed as she leant over but nothing was happening. Rubbing her back soothingly he held the trashcan up and looked down at her worriedly. "You good?"
"Mm."
"You really need to eat somethin' Nic. You've got nothin' in you, you can't even throw up any more." Hearing a small knock at the door he turned to look just as his Mother was entering.
"How is she?"
"Not too good." They both stared at her weak and fragile state as she lay still on her side with her eyes shut again.
"Aubrey she looks like she's getting worse." She stared at her son's face for a second and bit her own lip as he watched his girlfriend, suddenly darting forward again she saw him hold the trashcan in place as her body started to heave, but still nothing was coming up. "Oh this is ridiculous I'm going to call Dr. Truman and ask him to come over." Disappearing nearly as quickly as she'd shown up she shut the door behind her, leaving Drake to start freaking out. What if she stayed in with them? Then she'd definitely know she was pregnant. But not telling her was just denying the inevitable, she was going to find out sooner or later anyway. Maybe this was the time to spill. He listened to her on the phone, he voice drawing nearer as she climbed the stairs and came back into the room.
"He gonna come check on her?"
"Yeah, he said he'll be over within half an hour." She crossed her arms over herself and took a seat on the chair by the window as she spoke.
"Look, Mom there's somethin' I really think you should know." He ran his hand nervously up the back of his neck and over the top of his head whilst taking a seat next to a lethargic Nicki. He had no idea how she was going to react and quite seriously he was scared. Not just about her being disappointed with him but for Nicki to lose more people out of her life would just be catastrophic, she'd literally have nobody but him and her friends.
"What is it?" The furrow in her brow deepened with worry.
"I'on even know how to tell you." His stalling was another sign of how nervous he was, something which Sandi instantly picked up on. Her mind was reeling with the idea that he'd gotten involved with some people from his past again.
"Aubrey, just tell me?" There was an extremely long pause whilst he collected himself to just blurt it out quickly.
"Nicki's pregnant." She had to strain her ears to catch what he'd said but she definitely heard it. His head was low and he was picking at an embroidered pattern on the bed sheet as he tried to avoid her eyes.
"Aubrey, if this is some sort of stupid joke I-"
"It's not a joke Mom! You think I'd actually joke about somethin' like this?!"
"Oh my God." Standing up slowly she folded her lips and shook her head. "Aubrey you told me-"
"I know what I told you and I'm sorry but it's happened and there's nothin' we can do about it except keep movin' forward."
"Oh God." She continued to switch between which foot she was resting on as she thought. "How far along is she?" Her eyes were focused on Nicki as she talked lowly.
"Just over four months."
"And she's keepin' it?"
"We decided that's what we wanna to do."
"You do understand that a baby is a lifetime responsibility? Not just somethin' you have a crack at for a while and then stop when you realise it's not all fun and games?"
"Of course we do! Why you gotta be treatin' us like kids all the time?"
"Because Nicki is a child Aubrey! She's sixteen for God's sake!" No longer able to hold herself together she breathed a sigh of relief when the doorbell sounded. "I'll get that, I need to go clear my head." She walked out briskly leaving Drake to bask in the silence of the cold room. He couldn't believe this was how it was going down, and Nicki didn't even wake up through the whole thing. He readied himself when he heard their voices approaching the doorway.
...
*Hope this was alright and thanku to those who left comments on the previous chapter :)*
Sunday 25 November 2012
8. Losing You (Full Chapter) - Flashback
*hope this is okay guys, thanku for the comments people left on the sneak peek :) OH and this is uber important! I forgot to label the last chapter a "Flashback" one so of course this chapter is a flashback still! :o*
"Would you stop?"
"No."
"Drake I'm tryna get this done before your parents get back. Go do somethin' useful." She swatted him away causing him to remove his arms from around her and stand tall again.
"Like what? Tell me what to do."
"Well, I'on know. You could go clean that disgusting pit up downstairs. I ain't sleepin' in there if you don't." She shrugged and continued wiping down the kitchen counters. Her four month bump touching against the surface as she cleaned. It had been two months since she found out she was pregnant and they were taking things slowly. Nobody else apart from Lauren and Drake knew.
"Oh? And if I don't then where you gon' sleep?" He smirked and leant back against the kitchen table cockily.
"I'll find somewhere. Watch." Finishing up what she was doing she threw the cleaning cloth back under the sink and walked over to him. "I'm gonna go see Safaree later." She looked down at his shirt and pulled at the button as she thought.
"He still mad?"
"Yeah, well he ain't talkin' to me still. I hate that he's actin' so stupid."
"Just give him time, he'll come 'round. I hope." He whispered the last part into her hair as he kissed the top of her head. He could feel her bump touching him and stared down. "We won't be able to hide it much longer y'know?"
"I know, it's already kinda hard to be honest." She poked gently at the fabric stretched across her abdomen. Drake's parents had gone on holiday for a few days and they were supposed to return that afternoon, which meant Nicki would no longer be able to walk around in her tiny tees any more.
"I have to go out in a minute, you want me to grab us somethin' to eat?"
"Yes! Could you get-"
"No, I'm choosin'. You chose last time." He laughed when she straightened her face and went to hit him, luckily he dodged her tiny fist and scooped his phone and keys off of the table. "I'mma clean up as soon as I get back, promise." He kissed her sweetly before heading out. He never said where he was going though.
He sat in the car silently for a few minutes, he knew this was wrong but he desperately wanted to do it for Nicki and their baby. Getting a little extra cash here and there was really needed right now and with what he had in mind he figured doing a few favours for Deshaun would be okay. He hated that he was going behind her back but in the long-run it was for the best. He'd put down a deposit on an apartment but wanted to make sure he had enough money before he told her, it was a little dingy but it was somewhere they could call their own and not be disturbed every five minutes. Pulling out of the driveway he was sure at that moment in time it was the right decision to make.
***
Gracefully plopping down on to the couch Nicki exhaled loudly having finished cleaning up the mess from the last few days. Drake was supposed to be helping but he'd disappeared hours ago and still wasn't home. She hoped he was back before his parents though. Looking down at her now concealed bump she pondered silently to herself. She was absolutely terrified about this whole baby situation but as long as Drake was there she knew she'd be ok. They'd all be ok. Pulling her phone out she texted him and let him know she was going to see SB. He didn't reply. Getting together everything she needed she left, locking up behind her.
The subway was quite packed and she was more than relieved when she was off of it. Walking the last few blocks to his house she stood patiently at his door. There was no way in hell she'd come all this way for him to be out. Knocking again she huffed impatiently and buried her gloved fingers into her pockets.
"The fuck is he?" She stomped her foot a little and was about to turn around when she heard someone fiddling with the lock. It was Safaree.
"Oh it's you."
"Yeah, it is. Now could you let me in? It's fucking freezing out here." She was in no mood for his childish way of going about this situation. Storming past him she made it in to his warm house.
"Could you make it quick, I got things to do."
"No, I'm stayin' for however long we need to get this sorted."
"What sorted?"
"You! Actin' like a fucking spoilt kid Safaree!"
"Me? Nic, I ain't the one comin' stormin' into your house shoutin' and cussin'." She shut her eyes slowly and sat down on the couch.
"Look, I just want things back to normal. Me and you like we was before-"
"He showed up?" He spoke as he sat, catching her facial expression he waited for a response which he knew would be an angry one.
"Y'know what? I can't see what your issue with him is. Tell me, why don't you like him? He's only ever acted nice towards you so why can't you just do the same? Is it really that hard?" Her voice had started out harsh and full of anger but near the end of her sentence she'd gotten more quiet and she almost sounded hurt by his behaviour towards Drake.
"You really don't get it do you? He's no good Nic. The people he's around, the things he does. He's bad news." She noticed the softness of his voice and moved over to sit next to him.
"He was bad news. He's changed Safaree, he don't do any of that stuff anymore." Grabbing his hand she braced herself waiting for him to snatch away but he didn't.
"You really believe that?" He locked eyes with her as she nodded slowly.
"Yes and I wish you would too because If I had to choose between one of you I'on think I could." He quickly wrapped an arm around her hearing the tremor in her little voice.
"Nic, I ain't askin' you to choose. I just..." He trailed off hearing her soft sniffles. "I just don't want you to get hurt."
"I know. But you not talkin' to me and ignorin' me like you have been, that hurt me. You're my best friend and I need you." She mimicked his action and secured her arm over his abdomen, hugging him back.
"I'm not leavin' you but undrestand that I'on like him and I'm not gon' act nice towards him and be all fake with it. I'll tolerate him, only because I don't want you to feel like this." He squeezed her shoulder as she let the last tear roll down her face.
"Thank you. That's all I want." They sat talking for ages like they used to until Safaree spoke up again.
"You want somethin' to eat?"
"Ugh I better not, Drake said he was gonna get us food but I'on know what time he was plannin' on actually gettin' back." They were now in SB's room laying on the bed as he played a video game.
"Aight."
"Can I play?"
"No."
"Why not? I'm good at this one!"
"No you're not and this is only one player, so keep your ass sat where you are Nicki."
"Whatever." She rolled her eyes and sighed after yawning as she moved on to her side. He was still sat up against the headboard whereas she was laying as if about to go to sleep. Shuffling closer to him she used the top of his leg as a makeshift pillow and just lay still, watching him play. Within minutes she was breathing softly as she slept, he knew he shouldn't have let her lay down. Letting her sleep for a little longer he completed another level before shutting it off and watching her for a minute. He'd missed her so much and honestly he was glad she'd come around to talk to him. The air was finally cleared and he had his best friend back. He smiled as she furrowed her brow unconsciously before resting her hand over her stomach. Then he saw it.
When she woke she couldn't believe how long she'd snoozed for. She had read that for the first few months of pregnancy she would be tired but this was ridiculous. Quickly sitting up she checked her phone, there were five missed calls from Drake.
"Shit." Noticing the time she looked up to find Safaree nowhere in sight. "Safaree?" She climbed off the bed and fixed her jumper before heading down the stairs. "SB?" Stopping dead in her tracks at the bottom of the stairs she looked at him sat on the couch. "Uhm, hello? I been shoutin' you. You gon' answer?" She laughed a little and moved over to him, he stayed silent. "Aight, the fuck is with you?"
"Me?"
"Yeah, you the only person in the freakin' room! Who else would I be speakin' to?" He tried to sit on the anger which was rising within him as he spoke again.
"Look, it's late I'on think you should be takin' the subway. Lemme drive you." He stood up and grabbed his keys catching a glimpse of her tiny well-hidden bump as he did so. Was she really around at his house making amends and still not spilling the truth? They were supposed to be best friends. He could but only wonder when she was even going to tell him. IF she was going to tell him.
The car was silent as Nicki was in deep thought about what could be wrong with Safaree now. She thought they'd fixed things but he was acting all moody and sulky again. In the driver's seat he was doing some thinking of his own. She was really about to start off with a lie, well not so much a lie but she certainly wasn't being completely honest with him.
"Could you please tell me what I'm supposed to have done this time?" Her gravelly voice snatched his attention as she continued to stare out of the window, her chin pressed firmly into her hand as she rested on herself.
"Nothin'. Whatever gave you that idea?" Suddenly snapping at his sarcastic answer she slammed her hand against the car door.
"Stop the car."
"Nicki-"
"No Safaree. Stop the car, now!" He shook his head and angrily and roughly pulled the wheel bringing them to the curb. "I'on have the time for this! I can walk from here." She scoffed before aggressively opening the door but before she could fully climb out she felt his hand around her wrist, yanking her back into the car. "The fuck Safaree?! You're hurting me!" Hearing that he let go quickly as she pulled her arm closer to herself.
"Shut your door."
"I told you I'm walking."
"Nicki, for once in your goddamn life would you just stop being so freaking stubborn?! Shut the door, I'm not about to let you walk back to his place. 'Specially in your condition."
"My condition?" He could feel her eyes burning into the side of his face.
"Oh come on Nicki! Don't act stupid! You know what I'm talkin' about! So when were you actually plannin' on tellin' me, huh? Before or after it was born?" There was silence as the cold air drifted through her open door. She was staring down at herself.
"You wanna know what's so crazy?" She was talking quietly, as if she was trying stop herself from crying. "I was gon' tell you earlier today but I knew you'd act like this and I was enjoyin' us bein' like we always used to be." Now twiddling with the toggles on her jumper it was his turn to talk. This time he sounded regretful as he spoke softly.
"I missed that too y'know?"
"Well then why do you keep on actin' like this Safaree?" She turned her gaze to him as he cut the engine.
"How am I s'posed to react? Nic, I just found out you're pregnant and I didn't even hear it from your mouth. What the hell are you even thinkin'? You're sixteen and you're actually keepin' it?" He figured that was the wrong thing to say as she jolted her head back. The look of hurt on her face was one he'd never seen before.
"Wow. That's really how you feel? That I should get rid of it?"
"Nic, I didn't mean it like that."
"Yes you did. How else would you have meant it?" She was right but he couldn't tell her that.
"Don't you understand that you're gonna throw away your whole life if you go through with this? If you have that baby, you'll be stuck doin' fuck all. Is that really what you want?"
"See this is where you and him are different. Drake understands, he doesn't tell me what to do."
"So this is what you want? He had no say in this?"
"We both want this. Now, if you don't mind could you finish drivin' me home or should I just get out and walk?"
"You are so fucking naive Nic." He licked his lips and laughed coldly whilst shaking his head. He'd just started the car again and was about to tell her to shut her door when he heard it slam as she started walking away. "Shit." It didn't matter how many times he called out her name or held his hand on the horn she wouldn't stop walking and when she took a turn down an alleyway he couldn't follow anymore. She was gone.
Sat on the couch uncomfortably he caught the attention of both Sandi and Dennis who were watching TV after they'd finished unpacking.
"Look son, I'm sure she's fine-"
"The hell would you know?" He stood up as Sandi was about to call him out for his attitude but Dennis stopped her.
"Leave him, he's obviously just worried." Before anyone could say another word they heard the front door open and a teary eyed Nicki entered slowly. She was oddly quiet and tipped her head at everyone as they greeted her.
"Nicki dear, would you like something to eat?"
"No thanks, I'm tired. I think I'm just gon' go lay down for a bit." She gave them all an unconvincing smile and headed down to Drake's room with him hot on her heels. As he entered the room he saw her already curled up on top of the covers, her body shuddering as she cried.
"Nic, what's wrong? What happened?" She felt his weight ease down on the the bed behind her, his hand running along the length of her arm soothingly as he awaited a response.
"Please, I just wanna sleep Drake." Her voice was verging between a whisper and an actual sound as her throat cracked with fatigue. He never said anything, only got closer on to the bed and held her until she fell asleep.
***
To say she was having an off day was an understatement. She felt as sick as a dog and on top of that woke up at 3am and couldn't go back to sleep and now Drake was driving her miles around the city to show her a "surprise".
"Seriously? How much longer 'till we get there?" She snarled and continued to study her phone as he drove.
"Not long, promise." He paused for a second and looked over at her between keeping his eyes on the road. "Y'know if you put your phone down for a few minutes and kept your head up you might not feel so sick?"
"Please. Don't start tellin' me what to do." She did what he said anyway and frowned at the area around them. "Yo, why are here? This place is like, the slums."
"It is not, you're just bein' dramatic. I already told you this is where the surprise is." He turned the indicator on and pulled over right outside an apartment block. Covered in graffiti and almost every window was boarded up. She was right, it was a dump but it was all he could afford.
"Wait, why we stoppin'?" Her face was written with knowledge as she stared at him. "Don't tell me you've actually-"
"Look, don't judge it by the area. Let's at least take a look inside?" She knew he'd been planning something like this but honestly she thought it would be somewhere a little, safer. The look on his face tore at her heart-strings and she reluctantly unfastened her seatbelt and stepped out of the car. He met her on the sidewalk, clutching at her small hand as they walked in.
...
*I know it isn't long but I'm trying to update all three Dricki fics tonight as well as posting on at least three of my Onikafaree ones too :) Hope this was alrightish! Thanku for the comments on the sneak peek! ^__^*
Wednesday 21 November 2012
7. Losing You *Sneak Peek*
*Okaaay I know it's been a while but I'm posting ^_^ Hope this is okay!*
"Would you stop?"
"No."
"Drake I'm tryna get this done before your parents get back. Go do somethin' useful." She swatted him away causing him to remove his arms from around her and stand tall again.
"Like what? Tell me what to do."
"Well, I'on know. You could go clean that disgusting pit up downstairs. I ain't sleepin' in there if you don't." She shrugged and continued wiping down the kitchen counters. Her four month bump touching against the surface as she cleaned. It had been two months since she found out she was pregnant and they were taking things slowly. Nobody else apart from Lauren and Drake knew.
"Oh? And if I don't then where you gon' sleep?" He smirked and leant back against the kitchen table cockily.
"I'll find somewhere. Watch." Finishing up what she was doing she threw the cleaning cloth back under the sink and walked over to him. "I'm gonna go see Safaree later." She looked down at his shirt and pulled at the button as she thought.
"He still mad?"
"Yeah, well he ain't talkin' to me still. I hate that he's actin' so stupid."
"Just give him time, he'll come 'round. I hope." He whispered the last part into her hair as he kissed the top of her head. He could feel her bump touching him and stared down. "We won't be able to hide it much longer y'know?"
"I know, it's already kinda hard to be honest." She poked gently at the fabric stretched across her abdomen. Drake's parents had gone on holiday for a few days and they were supposed to return that afternoon, which meant Nicki would no longer be able to walk around in her tiny tees any more.
"I have to go out in a minute, you want me to grab us somethin' to eat?"
"Yes! Could you get-"
"No, I'm choosin'. You chose last time." He laughed when she straightened her face and went to hit him, luckily he dodged her tiny fist and scooped his phone and keys off of the table. "I'mma clean up as soon as I get back, promise." He kissed her sweetly before heading out. He never said where he was going though.
He sat in the car silently for a few minutes, he knew this was wrong but he desperately wanted to do it for Nicki and their baby. Getting a little extra cash here and there was really needed right now and with what he had in mind he figured doing a few favours for Deshaun would be okay. He hated that he was going behind her back but in the long-run it was for the best. He'd put down a deposit on an apartment but wanted to make sure he had enough money before he told her, it was a little dingy but it was somewhere they could call their own and not be disturbed every five minutes. Pulling out of the driveway he was sure at that moment in time it was the right decision to make.
***
Gracefully plopping down on to the couch Nicki exhaled loudly having finished cleaning up the mess from the last few days. Drake was supposed to be helping but he'd disappeared hours ago and still wasn't home. She hoped he was back before his parents though. Looking down at her now concealed bump she pondered silently to herself. She was absolutely terrified about this whole baby situation but as long as Drake was there she knew she'd be ok. They'd all be ok. Pulling her phone out she texted him and let him know she was going to see SB. He didn't reply. Getting together everything she needed she left, locking up behind her.
The subway was quite packed and she was more than relieved when she was off of it. Walking the last few blocks to his house she stood patiently at his door. There was no way in hell she'd come all this way for him to be out. Knocking again she huffed impatiently and buried her gloved fingers into her pockets.
"The fuck is he?" She stomped her foot a little and was about to turn around when she heard someone fiddling with the lock. It was Safaree.
"Oh it's you."
"Yeah, it is. Now could you let me in? It's fucking freezing out here." She was in no mood for his childish way of going about this situation. Storming past him she made it in to his warm house.
"Could you make it quick, I got things to do."
"No, I'm stayin' for however long we need to get this sorted."
"What sorted?"
"You! Actin' like a fucking spoilt kid Safaree!"
"Me? Nic, I ain't the one comin' stormin' into your house shoutin' and cussin'." She shut her eyes slowly and sat down on the couch.
"Look, I just want things back to normal. Me and you like we was before-"
"He showed up?" He spoke as he sat, catching her facial expression he waited for a response which he knew would be an angry one.
"Y'know what? I can't see what your issue with him is. Tell me, why don't you like him? He's only ever acted nice towards you so why can't you just do the same? Is it really that hard?" Her voice had started out harsh and full of anger but near the end of her sentence she'd gotten more quiet and she almost sounded hurt by his behaviour towards Drake.
"You really don't get it do you? He's no good Nic. The people he's around, the things he does. He's bad news." She noticed the softness of his voice and moved over to sit next to him.
"He was bad news. He's changed Safaree, he don't do any of that stuff anymore." Grabbing his hand she braced herself waiting for him to snatch away but he didn't.
"You really believe that?" He locked eyes with her as she nodded slowly.
"Yes and I wish you would too because If I had to choose between one of you I'on think I could." He quickly wrapped an arm around her hearing the tremor in her little voice.
"Nic, I ain't askin' you to choose. I just..." He trailed off hearing her soft sniffles. "I just don't want you to get hurt."
"I know. But you not talkin' to me and ignorin' me like you have been, that hurt me. You're my best friend and I need you." She mimicked his action and secured her arm over his abdomen, hugging him back.
"I'm not leavin' you but undrestand that I'on like him and I'm not gon' act nice towards him and be all fake with it. I'll tolerate him, only because I don't want you to feel like this." He squeezed her shoulder as she let the last tear roll down her face.
"Thank you. That's all I want." They sat talking for ages like they used to until Safaree spoke up again.
"You want somethin' to eat?"
"Ugh I better not, Drake said he was gonna get us food but I'on know what time he was plannin' on actually gettin' back." They were now in SB's room laying on the bed as he played a video game.
"Aight."
"Can I play?"
"No."
"Why not? I'm good at this one!"
"No you're not and this is only one player, so keep your ass sat where you are Nicki."
"Whatever." She rolled her eyes and sighed after yawning as she moved on to her side. He was still sat up against the headboard whereas she was laying as if about to go to sleep. Shuffling closer to him she used the top of his leg as a makeshift pillow and just lay still, watching him play. Within minutes she was breathing softly as she slept, he knew he shouldn't have let her lay down. Letting her sleep for a little longer he completed another level before shutting it off and watching her for a minute. He'd missed her so much and honestly he was glad she'd come around to talk to him. The air was finally cleared and he had his best friend back. He smiled as she furrowed her brow unconsciously before resting her hand over her stomach. Then he saw it.
...
*Sorry it's just a sneak peek! Once my exams are over on the 24th I'll be posting more regularly and hopefully my ideas and writing will be a lot better!! Hope this was alright :/ Thanks for all the comments on the last chapter :))*
"Would you stop?"
"No."
"Drake I'm tryna get this done before your parents get back. Go do somethin' useful." She swatted him away causing him to remove his arms from around her and stand tall again.
"Like what? Tell me what to do."
"Well, I'on know. You could go clean that disgusting pit up downstairs. I ain't sleepin' in there if you don't." She shrugged and continued wiping down the kitchen counters. Her four month bump touching against the surface as she cleaned. It had been two months since she found out she was pregnant and they were taking things slowly. Nobody else apart from Lauren and Drake knew.
"Oh? And if I don't then where you gon' sleep?" He smirked and leant back against the kitchen table cockily.
"I'll find somewhere. Watch." Finishing up what she was doing she threw the cleaning cloth back under the sink and walked over to him. "I'm gonna go see Safaree later." She looked down at his shirt and pulled at the button as she thought.
"He still mad?"
"Yeah, well he ain't talkin' to me still. I hate that he's actin' so stupid."
"Just give him time, he'll come 'round. I hope." He whispered the last part into her hair as he kissed the top of her head. He could feel her bump touching him and stared down. "We won't be able to hide it much longer y'know?"
"I know, it's already kinda hard to be honest." She poked gently at the fabric stretched across her abdomen. Drake's parents had gone on holiday for a few days and they were supposed to return that afternoon, which meant Nicki would no longer be able to walk around in her tiny tees any more.
"I have to go out in a minute, you want me to grab us somethin' to eat?"
"Yes! Could you get-"
"No, I'm choosin'. You chose last time." He laughed when she straightened her face and went to hit him, luckily he dodged her tiny fist and scooped his phone and keys off of the table. "I'mma clean up as soon as I get back, promise." He kissed her sweetly before heading out. He never said where he was going though.
He sat in the car silently for a few minutes, he knew this was wrong but he desperately wanted to do it for Nicki and their baby. Getting a little extra cash here and there was really needed right now and with what he had in mind he figured doing a few favours for Deshaun would be okay. He hated that he was going behind her back but in the long-run it was for the best. He'd put down a deposit on an apartment but wanted to make sure he had enough money before he told her, it was a little dingy but it was somewhere they could call their own and not be disturbed every five minutes. Pulling out of the driveway he was sure at that moment in time it was the right decision to make.
***
Gracefully plopping down on to the couch Nicki exhaled loudly having finished cleaning up the mess from the last few days. Drake was supposed to be helping but he'd disappeared hours ago and still wasn't home. She hoped he was back before his parents though. Looking down at her now concealed bump she pondered silently to herself. She was absolutely terrified about this whole baby situation but as long as Drake was there she knew she'd be ok. They'd all be ok. Pulling her phone out she texted him and let him know she was going to see SB. He didn't reply. Getting together everything she needed she left, locking up behind her.
The subway was quite packed and she was more than relieved when she was off of it. Walking the last few blocks to his house she stood patiently at his door. There was no way in hell she'd come all this way for him to be out. Knocking again she huffed impatiently and buried her gloved fingers into her pockets.
"The fuck is he?" She stomped her foot a little and was about to turn around when she heard someone fiddling with the lock. It was Safaree.
"Oh it's you."
"Yeah, it is. Now could you let me in? It's fucking freezing out here." She was in no mood for his childish way of going about this situation. Storming past him she made it in to his warm house.
"Could you make it quick, I got things to do."
"No, I'm stayin' for however long we need to get this sorted."
"What sorted?"
"You! Actin' like a fucking spoilt kid Safaree!"
"Me? Nic, I ain't the one comin' stormin' into your house shoutin' and cussin'." She shut her eyes slowly and sat down on the couch.
"Look, I just want things back to normal. Me and you like we was before-"
"He showed up?" He spoke as he sat, catching her facial expression he waited for a response which he knew would be an angry one.
"Y'know what? I can't see what your issue with him is. Tell me, why don't you like him? He's only ever acted nice towards you so why can't you just do the same? Is it really that hard?" Her voice had started out harsh and full of anger but near the end of her sentence she'd gotten more quiet and she almost sounded hurt by his behaviour towards Drake.
"You really don't get it do you? He's no good Nic. The people he's around, the things he does. He's bad news." She noticed the softness of his voice and moved over to sit next to him.
"He was bad news. He's changed Safaree, he don't do any of that stuff anymore." Grabbing his hand she braced herself waiting for him to snatch away but he didn't.
"You really believe that?" He locked eyes with her as she nodded slowly.
"Yes and I wish you would too because If I had to choose between one of you I'on think I could." He quickly wrapped an arm around her hearing the tremor in her little voice.
"Nic, I ain't askin' you to choose. I just..." He trailed off hearing her soft sniffles. "I just don't want you to get hurt."
"I know. But you not talkin' to me and ignorin' me like you have been, that hurt me. You're my best friend and I need you." She mimicked his action and secured her arm over his abdomen, hugging him back.
"I'm not leavin' you but undrestand that I'on like him and I'm not gon' act nice towards him and be all fake with it. I'll tolerate him, only because I don't want you to feel like this." He squeezed her shoulder as she let the last tear roll down her face.
"Thank you. That's all I want." They sat talking for ages like they used to until Safaree spoke up again.
"You want somethin' to eat?"
"Ugh I better not, Drake said he was gonna get us food but I'on know what time he was plannin' on actually gettin' back." They were now in SB's room laying on the bed as he played a video game.
"Aight."
"Can I play?"
"No."
"Why not? I'm good at this one!"
"No you're not and this is only one player, so keep your ass sat where you are Nicki."
"Whatever." She rolled her eyes and sighed after yawning as she moved on to her side. He was still sat up against the headboard whereas she was laying as if about to go to sleep. Shuffling closer to him she used the top of his leg as a makeshift pillow and just lay still, watching him play. Within minutes she was breathing softly as she slept, he knew he shouldn't have let her lay down. Letting her sleep for a little longer he completed another level before shutting it off and watching her for a minute. He'd missed her so much and honestly he was glad she'd come around to talk to him. The air was finally cleared and he had his best friend back. He smiled as she furrowed her brow unconsciously before resting her hand over her stomach. Then he saw it.
...
*Sorry it's just a sneak peek! Once my exams are over on the 24th I'll be posting more regularly and hopefully my ideas and writing will be a lot better!! Hope this was alright :/ Thanks for all the comments on the last chapter :))*
Tuesday 6 November 2012
6. Big Decision - Flashback
*Thanks for the comments left on chapter 5 :D Also I just wanna make sure y'all don't think I'm some sort of sex maniac lol and with this fic I would have preferred for Drake and Nicki to be like the same age and stuff but Kellie already wrote the first 3 chapters and their ages and all that so, yeah I had to keep it the same.*
Waking up alone she remembered since it was summer break Drake had work. She just lay for a few minutes before deciding to get herself up, catching sight of the morning after pills there was a little note left from him too. Smiling to herself she picked it up and read it, he was worried that she'd get pregnant and left them out for her. She took it with a gulp of water before heading to bathroom to shower. It was only after she'd got out a dressed did she realise that she actually couldn't remember the last time she had her period. Frowing deeply she threw her jammies in the wash basket and grabbed Drake's calendar from his dresser, ignoring the images of naked women all over it.
"Oh my God." Double and triple checking that she hadn't mistaken herself she put the calendar back and sat down on the bed. A million and one thoughts ran through her head as she chewed anxiously on her finger nails. It was just over eight weeks, she'd skipped two periods and not even noticed, How is that possible? Continuing to freak out she felt as though she was on the verge of tears but Sandi's voice brought her back to the moment.
"Nicki?" Her soft voice became more audible as she opened the door. "Sorry, I knew you were up, I heard the shower goin'." She smiled sweetly and tilted her head. "How you feelin' this morning?" Nicki froze, how did she know? Was she showing already? She looked down timidly and gathered herself.
"What do you mean? I'm fine." She stood up and made her way to the door.
"Oh good, so the chicken didn't bother your stomach again?" They continued talking as they made their way to kitchen whilst Nicki's whole body sighed with relief realising she was talking about the chicken. Of course now Nicki knew it wasn't even the chicken in the first place.
"No, I feel fine thanks." Sitting herself down she poured some cereal and proceeded to eat as Sandi cleaned what must have been their dishes from this morning. Nicki was the last one up.
"Well, I'm glad to hear it. Y'know? Dennis wanted to take us all out tonight and I know he and Drake don't exactly see eye to eye but I was hoping you could try and get him to act a little civil?"
"Of course, I mean they were ok last night right? No arguing at the table or nothin'." She crunched on another spoonful as Sandi turned around to face her.
"Oh my God, you're right! I hadn't even noticed." She dried the last plate and checked her pocket watch that was part of her work uniform. "Well, I better head off if I wanna keep my job huh?" Nicki just smiled as carried on eating, silently worrying about her dilemma.
After breakfast she did some housework to try and distract herself but it was still there at the back of her mind. Finishing the vacuuming she pulled her phone out and texted the girls to meet her at the mall. It was within walking distance and honestly she felt as though some fresh air would do her good. She knew she'd have to do a test anyway but she didn't quite feel like telling her friends about this just yet, and as for telling Drake she was absolutely petrified. Lightly putting on a little make-up she kept it minimal before pulling her hair up into a messy bun and grabbing her purse. She locked the door behind her and hid the spare key before beginning her walk.
~
"So you an SB still ain't talkin'?" Lauren's brow furrowed intensely as she put more ketchup on her burger.
"No, I've called him over and over but he won't answer." She kept on picking at what was left of her fried chicken before grabbing her coke and taking a sip. "He said anythin' to any of y'all?" Candi, TT, Cassie, Shanell and Lauren all shook their heads simultaneously making Nicki sigh. Noticing how down she seemed Cassie spoke up cheerfully.
"How 'bout y'all come stop at mine tonight? My parents are out and I need help tryna decide what to wear on Saturday." She looked between them all as they nodded happily.
"I can't."
"Ohh come on Nicki! Please? It's been forever since we hung out, all of us together." They all pouted but Nicki kept her answer the same.
"No you guys I really can't, Drake's Dad wants to take us all out for dinner tonight. But how 'bout tomorrow?" She sipped some more coke as they waited for Cassie to answer.
"Actually, yeah that could work better actually. So tomorrow?" They all agreed before throwing away their trash and continuing to walk around. They'd all noticed how quiet Nicki was being but just assumed it was this whole mess with Safaree. Suddenly seeing a pharmacy nearby she quickly made up a lie about needing to get some painkillers for Sandi and told them all she catch them up. She had no idea which pregnancy test to get as she roamed the aisle cluelessly. Grabbing the cheapest one she took it to the checkout and hurriedly put it in her purse as she swiftly moved through the crowds to catch up with the girls. She was kind of looking forward to spending the night with them tomorrow. Sometimes it felt like the only female company she got was Sandi and her own Mother when she visited home once a week. Finding a quiet moment Lauren and Nicki were alone whilst thumbing through the clothes rack.
"You 'kay Nic?"
Yeah, yeah I'm good. Just tired I guess and I'm sick of this issue Safaree has with Drake. He's my best friend, he should be happy for me."
"Mm, I get what you're sayin' but think about it Nic. It's always been just you and SB and then all of a sudden there's this new guy on the scene and he's lost his best friend. Just give him time, he'll come 'round when he realises that Drake ain't gon' hurt you." She smiled comfortingly and right then Nicki knew she could talk to her about anything.
"Laur?"
"Yeah?" She stopped searching the rack to move on to the next one as Nicki choked on her words.
"There is somethin' else that's botherin' me." she trailed off and fixed her eyes on the ground as Lauren grew more concerned.
"Nic? What is it? Y'know you can tell me?"
"Yeah I know, thanks. I just...I think..." She stumbled some more before growing impatient with herself and quickly opened her purse, letting Lauren see the pregnancy tests. It took her a moment to actually notice them but when she did there was silence. Looking around to make sure the other girls weren't listening she hushly whispered.
"Do you know for sure?'
"No, I'm like, eight weeks late but I haven't done a test yet." She chewed on her lip and threw her purse back over her shoulder.
"You wanna go do it now? I'll go with you."
"Really?"
"Yeah, come on." Putting the dress back on the rack Lauren shouted to the others that they were going to grab a water and they'd come back to find them. Walking to the restroom was like walking the green mile. She felt so nervous, like finding out could result in the end of her life. As Lauren roughly pushed open a cubicle they both shuffled in to the restroom that nobody used. Locking the door Lauren turned to look at a terrified Nicki.
"Don't watch me."
"Nika, I'm not eyein' yo' goods now hurry up and pee on the stick." She joked a little, trying to ease her nerves which kind of worked as she laughed and shoved her away. Lauren did as she was asked and turned around whilst Nicki did her business, after hearing her jean zipper and the toilet flush she figured she was done.
"Now we wait." Doing her little half smile with a dimple shrug she pulled the toilet seat down and sat on it as Lauren leant against the cubicle door.
"You want me to look at it when it's done?" Nicki nodded solemnly and handed the stick to her, it had a sanitary cap on it so there was no way Lauren would get any urine on herself.
About six minuted passed before Nicki found the courage to look up at her friend.
"Have you looked at it?" Lauren immediately felt bad for her friend after hearing the tremor in her voice.
"Not yet, you want me to?"
"Yeah, just get it over with." Holding her breath she tried to watch Lauren's face as she turned the test around to look at it. "What does it say?"
"You're pregnant." There was no easy way of saying it as she enveloped her friend in a hug. "It's gon' be okay Nic. You got all of us, and Drake."
"I know but I have no idea what the fuck I'm gonna do Lauren! I can't have a baby!" She waved her hands on either side of her face in an attempt to stop herself from crying.
"So you really don't have any clue what you're gonna do?"
"Definitely nothing until I've spoken to Drake, I'on wanna do anythin' behind his back." Lauren nodded in agreement still holding the test.
"You wanna keep this or chuck it?"
"Ew Lauren, I'on wanna keep it!" She giggled a little at the suggestion.
"Well I just figured if you decided to keep the baby then you might want it or something, y'know all that sentimental shit?" She grinned and threw it in the bin before letting them both out. "We better go find the others before they realise we've been gone forever."
The rest of the shopping trip was a blur to be honest, she felt like she had this huge weight on her shoulders and the sooner she spoke to Drake the sooner she'd relax a little. Walking along the side walk she tried to think up a way to tell him but even when she reached the house she still had nothing. Opening the door she was surprised to see him home already. He was asleep on the couch watching TV. Setting her purse on the counter she removed her shoes and tiptoed over to him. He looked so peaceful as she carefully climbed on to the couch with him, she knew she wanted to tell him straight away. Knowing him so well he would be more upset if she kept it from him.
"You're bad at sneakin' Nic, anyone ever tell you that?" He opened his eyes slowly as she snuggled into him some more.
"Sorry I didn't mean to wake you."
"It's aight." He yawned loudly and looked down at her. "You had a good day?"
"Mm, tell me 'bout your day first. How was work?"
"Ugh, I just about had it with the new guy. He's not gon' last." He frowned and looked down at her again. "You kay? You're mad quiet." She could feel the lump in her throat as she readied herself to tell him.
"No, I need to tell you somethin'." She sat up and moved so that she could hold his hand and look him dead in the face.
"What is it Nicki? Is it your Mom? Did your Dad do somethin' to her or-" His voice was full of concern.
"Drake I'm pregnant." Her small voice managed to silence his pointless rambling as he sat staring at her in disbelief. There was pure silence for a few minutes as his mind processed what she'd just said. "Please, say somethin'? Are you mad?"
"What? No Nicki of course I'm not mad." He quickly closed the gap between them and held her hand tighter. "You're sure you're pregnant?"
"Yeah, I did a test before I came home." She sniffed and carried on playing with a button on his shirt.
"How far are you?"
"I'on know, I think I'm like, eight weeks or somethin' close to that."
"I understand that we have to make a decision together but I want to know what you wanna do first?"
"Honestly Aubrey, I'on even know."
"Well do you think you'd want to have it?"
"Aubrey please? I really don't know. My head is all over the place right now." She moved away from him and wiped her tears away as he stayed watching her.
"How 'bout we sleep on it and book an appointment at the doctor's tomorrow?" She merely nodded and looked back at him tiredly.
"I don't think I could get rid of it though...I mean, it's our baby." She fiddled with her sleeves as he gave her leg a reassuring rub.
"It's kinda amazin' though right? That our baby's in there right now, don't you think?" He looked at her flat stomach but tore his eyes away as her hands rested there gently.
"Yeah, I suppose it is." She smiled back at him before talking again. "But what I'm sayin' is I don't think I'd be able to go through with an abortion. I couldn't."
"Well I just want you to know that I'm gon' be there for you all the way with whatever decision is made, kay?" She felt the tears spilling from her eyes as she nodded and moved back into his embrace.
~
Sitting at the table in the restaurant Nicki felt a lot less knotted than earlier, feeling Drake's hand still resting reassuringly on her thigh as they looked over their dessert menus. There had been no drama much to Sandi's surprise and she could honestly say she was thrilled about it.
"I couldn't eat another bite if I tried!" Sitting back in her chair Sandi exhaled and put her menu back down as Nicki did the same.
"Mmm, me either."
"Word? Y'all are weak!" Licking his lips Drake carried on scanning over the menu. They stayed a while longer as Dennis and Drake finished their food before heading home again. Nicki felt exhausted and now felt the nerves building up inside knowing that she had an appointment the next day. Drake had called and made one before his Dad had got home. She carried on thinking about it whilst she pulled her earrings out and wiped her makeup off with a wipe.
"You're panickin' 'bout tomorrow aren't you?" His voice travelled across the room causing her to turn and look at him laying in bed.
"Yeah, why? Aren't you even a lil' bit nervous?"
"Of course I am. It's a huge thing Nic." He paused as she turned around again and proceeded with removing her makeup. "Y'know you said abortion was outta the question?"
"Yeah?"
"So does that mean you're thinkin' of adoption?"
"Like I said Drake, I have no idea right now but yes. Adoption is definitely an option."
"See, I'on think I could handle that." His voice was small and caught her attention as she discarded the used wipe and hit the light before climbing into bed with him.
"You're really against that?"
"No, I'm not against it. I just don't think I'd be able to watch you grow with our baby and then have him or her handed over to another family." He rested his hand on her stomach as they lay face to face. Their talking lasted way into the early hours of the morning and honestly Nicki had no idea how they finally came to their decision but she was just happy that they actually had decided and that Drake was being so supportive about everything. So after hours of discussing quietly, they came to the decision that they were going to keep their baby.
~
After her appointment they were both in high spirits, although she was still terrified about the whole idea just seeing her baby on the monitor made her heart melt. Not to mention having Drake there holding her hand the whole time. They were now on their way to Nicki's favorite food place since Drake wanted to take her out to lunch on his day off.
"I can't believe we're really doin' this." Her voice made him look at her in between trying to keep an eye on the road.
"You are happy about it though, aren't you?"
"Yeah, I just mean I can't believe it!" She smiled as they continued on down the road. This was it for Drake, all the secrets he'd been harbouring had to stop now, that and he had to finally stand up to Deshaun and tell him he was done with everything. All that mattered now was Nicki and their baby.
*Ok, I know this one isn't as popular as Sweet Dreams but I still posted anyway lol There will only be about 2 more flashback chapters and then it will be back to present day where Nicki and Aubree are moving in with Safaree. =] Thanks to everyone who left a comment on the last chapter!*
Waking up alone she remembered since it was summer break Drake had work. She just lay for a few minutes before deciding to get herself up, catching sight of the morning after pills there was a little note left from him too. Smiling to herself she picked it up and read it, he was worried that she'd get pregnant and left them out for her. She took it with a gulp of water before heading to bathroom to shower. It was only after she'd got out a dressed did she realise that she actually couldn't remember the last time she had her period. Frowing deeply she threw her jammies in the wash basket and grabbed Drake's calendar from his dresser, ignoring the images of naked women all over it.
"Oh my God." Double and triple checking that she hadn't mistaken herself she put the calendar back and sat down on the bed. A million and one thoughts ran through her head as she chewed anxiously on her finger nails. It was just over eight weeks, she'd skipped two periods and not even noticed, How is that possible? Continuing to freak out she felt as though she was on the verge of tears but Sandi's voice brought her back to the moment.
"Nicki?" Her soft voice became more audible as she opened the door. "Sorry, I knew you were up, I heard the shower goin'." She smiled sweetly and tilted her head. "How you feelin' this morning?" Nicki froze, how did she know? Was she showing already? She looked down timidly and gathered herself.
"What do you mean? I'm fine." She stood up and made her way to the door.
"Oh good, so the chicken didn't bother your stomach again?" They continued talking as they made their way to kitchen whilst Nicki's whole body sighed with relief realising she was talking about the chicken. Of course now Nicki knew it wasn't even the chicken in the first place.
"No, I feel fine thanks." Sitting herself down she poured some cereal and proceeded to eat as Sandi cleaned what must have been their dishes from this morning. Nicki was the last one up.
"Well, I'm glad to hear it. Y'know? Dennis wanted to take us all out tonight and I know he and Drake don't exactly see eye to eye but I was hoping you could try and get him to act a little civil?"
"Of course, I mean they were ok last night right? No arguing at the table or nothin'." She crunched on another spoonful as Sandi turned around to face her.
"Oh my God, you're right! I hadn't even noticed." She dried the last plate and checked her pocket watch that was part of her work uniform. "Well, I better head off if I wanna keep my job huh?" Nicki just smiled as carried on eating, silently worrying about her dilemma.
After breakfast she did some housework to try and distract herself but it was still there at the back of her mind. Finishing the vacuuming she pulled her phone out and texted the girls to meet her at the mall. It was within walking distance and honestly she felt as though some fresh air would do her good. She knew she'd have to do a test anyway but she didn't quite feel like telling her friends about this just yet, and as for telling Drake she was absolutely petrified. Lightly putting on a little make-up she kept it minimal before pulling her hair up into a messy bun and grabbing her purse. She locked the door behind her and hid the spare key before beginning her walk.
~
"So you an SB still ain't talkin'?" Lauren's brow furrowed intensely as she put more ketchup on her burger.
"No, I've called him over and over but he won't answer." She kept on picking at what was left of her fried chicken before grabbing her coke and taking a sip. "He said anythin' to any of y'all?" Candi, TT, Cassie, Shanell and Lauren all shook their heads simultaneously making Nicki sigh. Noticing how down she seemed Cassie spoke up cheerfully.
"How 'bout y'all come stop at mine tonight? My parents are out and I need help tryna decide what to wear on Saturday." She looked between them all as they nodded happily.
"I can't."
"Ohh come on Nicki! Please? It's been forever since we hung out, all of us together." They all pouted but Nicki kept her answer the same.
"No you guys I really can't, Drake's Dad wants to take us all out for dinner tonight. But how 'bout tomorrow?" She sipped some more coke as they waited for Cassie to answer.
"Actually, yeah that could work better actually. So tomorrow?" They all agreed before throwing away their trash and continuing to walk around. They'd all noticed how quiet Nicki was being but just assumed it was this whole mess with Safaree. Suddenly seeing a pharmacy nearby she quickly made up a lie about needing to get some painkillers for Sandi and told them all she catch them up. She had no idea which pregnancy test to get as she roamed the aisle cluelessly. Grabbing the cheapest one she took it to the checkout and hurriedly put it in her purse as she swiftly moved through the crowds to catch up with the girls. She was kind of looking forward to spending the night with them tomorrow. Sometimes it felt like the only female company she got was Sandi and her own Mother when she visited home once a week. Finding a quiet moment Lauren and Nicki were alone whilst thumbing through the clothes rack.
"You 'kay Nic?"
Yeah, yeah I'm good. Just tired I guess and I'm sick of this issue Safaree has with Drake. He's my best friend, he should be happy for me."
"Mm, I get what you're sayin' but think about it Nic. It's always been just you and SB and then all of a sudden there's this new guy on the scene and he's lost his best friend. Just give him time, he'll come 'round when he realises that Drake ain't gon' hurt you." She smiled comfortingly and right then Nicki knew she could talk to her about anything.
"Laur?"
"Yeah?" She stopped searching the rack to move on to the next one as Nicki choked on her words.
"There is somethin' else that's botherin' me." she trailed off and fixed her eyes on the ground as Lauren grew more concerned.
"Nic? What is it? Y'know you can tell me?"
"Yeah I know, thanks. I just...I think..." She stumbled some more before growing impatient with herself and quickly opened her purse, letting Lauren see the pregnancy tests. It took her a moment to actually notice them but when she did there was silence. Looking around to make sure the other girls weren't listening she hushly whispered.
"Do you know for sure?'
"No, I'm like, eight weeks late but I haven't done a test yet." She chewed on her lip and threw her purse back over her shoulder.
"You wanna go do it now? I'll go with you."
"Really?"
"Yeah, come on." Putting the dress back on the rack Lauren shouted to the others that they were going to grab a water and they'd come back to find them. Walking to the restroom was like walking the green mile. She felt so nervous, like finding out could result in the end of her life. As Lauren roughly pushed open a cubicle they both shuffled in to the restroom that nobody used. Locking the door Lauren turned to look at a terrified Nicki.
"Don't watch me."
"Nika, I'm not eyein' yo' goods now hurry up and pee on the stick." She joked a little, trying to ease her nerves which kind of worked as she laughed and shoved her away. Lauren did as she was asked and turned around whilst Nicki did her business, after hearing her jean zipper and the toilet flush she figured she was done.
"Now we wait." Doing her little half smile with a dimple shrug she pulled the toilet seat down and sat on it as Lauren leant against the cubicle door.
"You want me to look at it when it's done?" Nicki nodded solemnly and handed the stick to her, it had a sanitary cap on it so there was no way Lauren would get any urine on herself.
About six minuted passed before Nicki found the courage to look up at her friend.
"Have you looked at it?" Lauren immediately felt bad for her friend after hearing the tremor in her voice.
"Not yet, you want me to?"
"Yeah, just get it over with." Holding her breath she tried to watch Lauren's face as she turned the test around to look at it. "What does it say?"
"You're pregnant." There was no easy way of saying it as she enveloped her friend in a hug. "It's gon' be okay Nic. You got all of us, and Drake."
"I know but I have no idea what the fuck I'm gonna do Lauren! I can't have a baby!" She waved her hands on either side of her face in an attempt to stop herself from crying.
"So you really don't have any clue what you're gonna do?"
"Definitely nothing until I've spoken to Drake, I'on wanna do anythin' behind his back." Lauren nodded in agreement still holding the test.
"You wanna keep this or chuck it?"
"Ew Lauren, I'on wanna keep it!" She giggled a little at the suggestion.
"Well I just figured if you decided to keep the baby then you might want it or something, y'know all that sentimental shit?" She grinned and threw it in the bin before letting them both out. "We better go find the others before they realise we've been gone forever."
The rest of the shopping trip was a blur to be honest, she felt like she had this huge weight on her shoulders and the sooner she spoke to Drake the sooner she'd relax a little. Walking along the side walk she tried to think up a way to tell him but even when she reached the house she still had nothing. Opening the door she was surprised to see him home already. He was asleep on the couch watching TV. Setting her purse on the counter she removed her shoes and tiptoed over to him. He looked so peaceful as she carefully climbed on to the couch with him, she knew she wanted to tell him straight away. Knowing him so well he would be more upset if she kept it from him.
"You're bad at sneakin' Nic, anyone ever tell you that?" He opened his eyes slowly as she snuggled into him some more.
"Sorry I didn't mean to wake you."
"It's aight." He yawned loudly and looked down at her. "You had a good day?"
"Mm, tell me 'bout your day first. How was work?"
"Ugh, I just about had it with the new guy. He's not gon' last." He frowned and looked down at her again. "You kay? You're mad quiet." She could feel the lump in her throat as she readied herself to tell him.
"No, I need to tell you somethin'." She sat up and moved so that she could hold his hand and look him dead in the face.
"What is it Nicki? Is it your Mom? Did your Dad do somethin' to her or-" His voice was full of concern.
"Drake I'm pregnant." Her small voice managed to silence his pointless rambling as he sat staring at her in disbelief. There was pure silence for a few minutes as his mind processed what she'd just said. "Please, say somethin'? Are you mad?"
"What? No Nicki of course I'm not mad." He quickly closed the gap between them and held her hand tighter. "You're sure you're pregnant?"
"Yeah, I did a test before I came home." She sniffed and carried on playing with a button on his shirt.
"How far are you?"
"I'on know, I think I'm like, eight weeks or somethin' close to that."
"I understand that we have to make a decision together but I want to know what you wanna do first?"
"Honestly Aubrey, I'on even know."
"Well do you think you'd want to have it?"
"Aubrey please? I really don't know. My head is all over the place right now." She moved away from him and wiped her tears away as he stayed watching her.
"How 'bout we sleep on it and book an appointment at the doctor's tomorrow?" She merely nodded and looked back at him tiredly.
"I don't think I could get rid of it though...I mean, it's our baby." She fiddled with her sleeves as he gave her leg a reassuring rub.
"It's kinda amazin' though right? That our baby's in there right now, don't you think?" He looked at her flat stomach but tore his eyes away as her hands rested there gently.
"Yeah, I suppose it is." She smiled back at him before talking again. "But what I'm sayin' is I don't think I'd be able to go through with an abortion. I couldn't."
"Well I just want you to know that I'm gon' be there for you all the way with whatever decision is made, kay?" She felt the tears spilling from her eyes as she nodded and moved back into his embrace.
~
Sitting at the table in the restaurant Nicki felt a lot less knotted than earlier, feeling Drake's hand still resting reassuringly on her thigh as they looked over their dessert menus. There had been no drama much to Sandi's surprise and she could honestly say she was thrilled about it.
"I couldn't eat another bite if I tried!" Sitting back in her chair Sandi exhaled and put her menu back down as Nicki did the same.
"Mmm, me either."
"Word? Y'all are weak!" Licking his lips Drake carried on scanning over the menu. They stayed a while longer as Dennis and Drake finished their food before heading home again. Nicki felt exhausted and now felt the nerves building up inside knowing that she had an appointment the next day. Drake had called and made one before his Dad had got home. She carried on thinking about it whilst she pulled her earrings out and wiped her makeup off with a wipe.
"You're panickin' 'bout tomorrow aren't you?" His voice travelled across the room causing her to turn and look at him laying in bed.
"Yeah, why? Aren't you even a lil' bit nervous?"
"Of course I am. It's a huge thing Nic." He paused as she turned around again and proceeded with removing her makeup. "Y'know you said abortion was outta the question?"
"Yeah?"
"So does that mean you're thinkin' of adoption?"
"Like I said Drake, I have no idea right now but yes. Adoption is definitely an option."
"See, I'on think I could handle that." His voice was small and caught her attention as she discarded the used wipe and hit the light before climbing into bed with him.
"You're really against that?"
"No, I'm not against it. I just don't think I'd be able to watch you grow with our baby and then have him or her handed over to another family." He rested his hand on her stomach as they lay face to face. Their talking lasted way into the early hours of the morning and honestly Nicki had no idea how they finally came to their decision but she was just happy that they actually had decided and that Drake was being so supportive about everything. So after hours of discussing quietly, they came to the decision that they were going to keep their baby.
~
After her appointment they were both in high spirits, although she was still terrified about the whole idea just seeing her baby on the monitor made her heart melt. Not to mention having Drake there holding her hand the whole time. They were now on their way to Nicki's favorite food place since Drake wanted to take her out to lunch on his day off.
"I can't believe we're really doin' this." Her voice made him look at her in between trying to keep an eye on the road.
"You are happy about it though, aren't you?"
"Yeah, I just mean I can't believe it!" She smiled as they continued on down the road. This was it for Drake, all the secrets he'd been harbouring had to stop now, that and he had to finally stand up to Deshaun and tell him he was done with everything. All that mattered now was Nicki and their baby.
*Ok, I know this one isn't as popular as Sweet Dreams but I still posted anyway lol There will only be about 2 more flashback chapters and then it will be back to present day where Nicki and Aubree are moving in with Safaree. =] Thanks to everyone who left a comment on the last chapter!*
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