Can't Fight This Feeling (Katie)

[jonathan]

7th November 2009

Jonathan had been friends with Katie Moore since June, when he had found her collapsed in a heap out in the street. He had taken an interest in her, mainly because he wanted to make sure she was okay. Jonathan hadn't minded hearing her story, but it had made him want to protect her more, even if they had only just met. Just hearing what she had through, and at such a young age, made him want to hurt that Jake guy. Lucky for the both of them, Jonathan hadn't run into him, or he would have had some words to say to him about the whole thing.

It was a Saturday, and Jonathan didn't have anything to do, so he had suggested that he and Kate maybe hang out. He hadn't spoken to her for a week, as he had a few movie premieres and screenings to do in Los Angeles, and then he didn't get back till yesterday, so spent the rest of the day typing up his reviews, then had an early night, as he was mentally drained from the whole thing. So he slept in till about nine o'clock, then decided to get up. After some discussion this morning, Jonathan suggested they go for a walk around town, and maybe go and see a movie that he had reviewed which he thought she might like.

Jonathan got on his motorcycle, and headed in the direction of the park, that was not far away from the movie theatre. He didn't think that Katie would appreciate sitting on the back of a bike when she was seven months pregnant. Jonathan was always considerate of her, and her unborn child, even if it wasn't his. He always looked out for his friends, and he classed her as a good friend. Soon enough Jonathan reached the park, and stopped the bike in a nearby carpark. He parked the bike, and got off, heading towards the set of benches, where he said he would meet Katie. Jonathan took off his helmet, ruffled his hair a little, and the sat on the bench.

[katie]

Katie had been good friends with Jonathan Baker ever since he had come to her rescue that day she had collapsed on the street after reading the report about Jake. It had taken Katie ages to get over what had happened to her, and it took her a few weeks to actually like the fact she was carrying a rapists baby, because, that’s what he was in a way. She may have consented to it the first time, but when it happened again, she had said no. Thankfully she had William to look out for her and he did a very good job of it. She loved him deeply, without she would surely be lost. She was now seven months pregnant, and everything had been going very well. She hadn’t had any of that morning sickness, nor had she had any mood swings either, in fact, the only thing she had were cravings and taste changes. So she had nothing to complain about really.

Up until Katie was over five months pregnant, you would never have thought she was, because of her small frame, most of it just made her look like she was putting on a little more weight, but when she got over the five month mark and headed in to her sixth, she just ballooned, and now she was carrying quite a heavy load for seven months. She was beginning to wonder if she was pregnant with twins, but no, none of the scans had ever shown she was carrying twins, it was just one child, and at one point she was even asked if she wanted to know the sex of the child, but she had declined, preferring to find out at the birth.

This was another thing which worried Katie, who was going to be with her through it all when she went into labour. Being single, she didn’t really have anyone who would be that kind of support she needed. Sure she had William, and he was the one who had went to all her scans with her, but this was different, she was pretty sure that William wouldn’t want to be in the delivery room with his sister watching her give birth with her legs wide open in stirrups. She had gotten used to the idea that she wouldn’t have a man in her life now, nobody would take on a single mother, and of any other guy who saw her, probably thought she was in a loving relationship already and that’s why she was pregnant.

There was only one other person she had been able to count on for support and that was Jonathan, she really valued his friendship, but secretly she was in love with him. She had been for the past few weeks. When she had first met him, she had felt something, but Jonathan had never pursued it, and she figured it was because she wasn’t his type, or maybe he was gay, but as a friend he rocked, and she didn’t want to lose that. So her love for him in the respect of wanting him as her partner would be kept a deep secret and one she would probably never tell him. Just as she had been thinking about him, she heard from him. He had been busy the past week, but now he was suggesting they meet up, which she had jumped at the chance.

So now Katie was on her way to meet Jonathan at the park he had mentioned. She saw him sitting on the bench almost right away, that figure was so unmistakable. Even for being seven months pregnant, she was still quite agile, so she walked up to him as fast as she could, and wrapped her arms around his neck giving him a hug, which was her typical greeting for him now. “Hey Jonathan, how are you doing?” She asked giving him a bright smile, then she sat down next to him, just so she could rest her back for a moment after her rather brisk walk toward him. Once she sat down she turned to face him, “So, what did you have planned for us then today? What movie do you suggest going to see?” She knew that movie reviews were his thing for The Chronicle, so she always went with his suggestions, and any they had seen had never been a bad choice yet.

[jonathan]

Jonathan pulled out his phone, after sitting on the bench, and began to look to see what movies were showing. He wanted to make sure that it was one he had reviewed and like, so that it wasn't going to be a waste of time on Katie's part. But he had to admit, every one that they had seen, or he had suggested she see, had always ended up being a good, or excellent movie to see. So really, they couldn't go wrong with any movie that he suggested this time.

Jonathan then noticed someone coming towards him. He turn, and felt himself give her the biggest grin. She still looked beautiful, even in her condition. Katie then wrapped her arms around him, giving him the warmest hug, and greeted him. Jonathan returned her smile with one of his own, then she sat down next to him. "I am going good. How are you doing? How is the baby? You had an appointment last week? Or was it a couple of weeks ago, when I was busy too." Jonathan liked to find out how it was all going, just to know that she was okay.

He had to smile more, when she asked him what he had planned for them today, and what movie did he suggest they go and see. Jonathan shook his head. She knew him too well. "Well, actually there are a couple of choices. There are a couple showing in like half an hour. One could be Fame if you want to see a dance/feel good movie. Or if you are up for a kids movie, we could go and see Up. Very cute that movie." Jonathan gave her a smile, and a bit of a smirk. "As far as kids movies go anyway. Have seen a few in my day, what with being a big kid myself, even now."

"Then thought after the movie, to just go for a walk, if you are not too tired after the excitement of the movie. Or we could just come back to the park and talk." Jonathan wasn't too worried about what she might decide. Either way he got to relax with a fantastic friend, and not have to worry about work for a change.

[katie]

As soon as Katie approached Jonathan she asked him how he was doing after she greeted him by giving him a hug. He replied saying he was going good but typically quickly changed it about to ask how she was and the baby and mentioned her most recent appointment. “I’m glad you’re well Jonathan. I’m good too and everything is fine with the little one.” Katie gently rubbed at her stomach then. She only had two months to go now, she actually couldn’t wait even though at the same time she was dreading it, as the time got nearer to giving birth she was pretty certain that she might not be ready to be a mother. She had toyed with her decision at the time, but knowing she had her brother William’s support, Katie had decided to go through with it, but now she was worrying a little.

However, she didn’t want to worry Jonathan, so she put that behind her smile, “Everything went well, apparently everything is perfect for this stage of the pregnancy so I’m really happy.” I’m just worried sick about the pending labour and birth she thought to herself. She hoped she was hiding her concerns well, because Jonathan was always looking out for her and always seemed somewhat in tune with her emotions. Katie had then asked Jonathan what he had planned and were there any good movies he could suggest. She smiled as she watched him shake his head slightly, maybe she did know him and their dates pretty well, but she loved going to the cinema, and if there was something good on, then why not go there?

Jonathan then said there were a couple of choices and told her, one was a dance/feel good type of movie and the other was a kid’s animated movie. She had a feeling she would be sitting through plenty of kid’s movies soon enough, so she thought the dance/feel good movie was more her option for right now. “I think Fame might be best, have a feeling I’ll be watching plenty of kid’s movies soon enough to last me a life time.” She began to laugh then after all it wasn’t as if her child would be ready to watch and enjoy a movie until they were at least four or five years old, but anyway. She felt like she needed something uplifting and Fame sounded like the perfect choice in her eyes. She laughed some more as she realised what Jonathan had said about being a big kid himself. “I reckon my baby is going to love their Uncle Jonathan.” She would much prefer Jonathan to be her baby’s daddy, but she would never ask it of him, and she would never expect it, he was like her best friend now, and really Uncle Jonathan was probably the best he was ever going to be despite her own growing feelings for her best friend.

Jonathan then continued saying after the movie about maybe going for a walk if she wasn’t too tired with the excitement of the movie or they could just come back to the park and talk. Either suggestion sounded good to Katie. “I think I might be able to do the walk after the movie, so long as we take our time.” She didn’t really have to say that, because Jonathan was always very considerate of her anyway. Just then she got a slight twinge, but decided not to say anything, because she didn’t want to worry Jonathan, besides it was probably just one of those Braxton Hicks Contractions she had been told about, as it really wasn’t that painful. She smiled at him brightly, “Alright, so we have half an hour before the movie, do you want to go now, and we can maybe have a drink at the bar before we go into the movie hall?” Of course when Katie said a drink at the bar, she meant nothing more than ice cold lemonade. She had been craving lemonade since being pregnant. So far Katie had pretty much a trouble free pregnancy, no morning sickness or anything, just the odd twinge and backache and cravings.

[jonathan]

Jonathan looked at Katie, as she answered his questions about how she and the baby were doing. He gave her a smile, seeing her rub her stomach. Jonathan couldn't believe that she would be having the baby soon, and wondered if she would want her brother, William with her, or if she wanted him in the delivery room. He kind of knew the answer already, even though he was still thinking about it. Jonathan saw that smile of hers, but wondered if she was just putting it on or not.

Katie then continued to speak about the appointment going well, and the baby was perfect. Jonathan smiled then, really glad that everything was going well. "That's great to hear, Katie. I know that you have been worried a little about it, but now you don't have to. You have your brother there, and you have me." Jonathan smiled even more then at her, after he said that. He didn't know if she had other friends who looked out for her, like he did. Jonathan just didn't want anything to happen to her, it was almost like he was very overprotective sometimes. Sometimes he wondered if Katie even liked that side of him, occassionally backing off slightly when they are out, but it hardly happened. Jonathan was soon wondering if he was having true feelings for Katie.

Katie soon chose which movie out of the two Jonathan picked, and he nodded. "Good choice." In a way, he had hoped that she would pick that movie. There were a few good parts to the movie, like when certain characters fell in love. He was a bit of a sucker for romance, and he wondered if he should make a comment or a move in the direction of being romantically linked any time soon. Now wasn't the time really, what with Katie pregnant. But it was definately on his mind. After he made the 'big kid' comment about himself, Katie commented more. Jonathan gave her the biggest grin them, puffing out his chest. "I think so too. No matter what the sex, I am sure I will be able to teach them a few things. And I wonder what their ability will be? That will be an interesting part of your life when you find out what they can do. But whatever it is, I have thick skin, so nothing will be able to hurt me." Jonathan hardly used his ability, or had to be there to protect anyone from harm with it, but he knew that kids liked to throw things at you, so he might only get bruises, nothing more.

Jonathan nodded, when Katie said that she might like to go for walk after the movie, as long as they took their time. He put his hand on her arm. "Okay, and no worries. We have all the time in the world today, okay?" Jonathan gave her a warm smile, but she didn't do or say anything for a second, which go him worried, but then it soon subsided, leaving his mind. He soon got the look of a bright smile from Katie, which made him smile all the more. "A drink sounds good. And I can only guess what you will want." Jonathan smirked then, shaking his head, as he got up from the bench. He held his hand out for Katie to take, then lead them towards the small bar near the cinema.

As they walked hand in hand, Jonathan thought more about what he had been thinking, and had to ask her something. He looked at Katie for a second, "Have you had any thoughts to who you might want with you in the delivery room, or when you are going through all the labour stuff beforehand?" Jonathan still reckoned that it would be William, it made sense, but he had to stop his curiosity.

[katie]

Katie had to smile at Jonathan when he said it was great that everything was going well with the baby, he then went on to say that he knew she had been worried about it, and now she didn’t have to be, and she had her brother and him there for her. Well she already knew she had William, but she wasn’t so sure she had Jonathan, not in the way she really wanted him, but she knew she had him as a friend at any rate. “I know, and I’m not as worried anymore, and William’s been great, even if finding out I was pregnant was a shock to him, I know he’s going to make a fantastic uncle. “It’s a daddy for my baby I’m really looking for, she thought to herself, but she gave him another bright smile, “I know I have you, you’ve been a great friend to me Jonathan, one I always hope to have in my life.” She rubbed at her stomach again then, well if her baby wasn’t going to have a daddy, at least not right away, then he or she would definitely have the best uncles around, between William and Jason and then Jonathan as a surrogate uncle.

Katie had then chosen the movie Fame, and she smiled brightly when he said it was a good choice, she certainly couldn’t be bothered sitting through a kids film right at that moment, for some reason she wanted a feel good movie and she knew it had romance in it as well, from reviews she had read, and not just Jonathan’s personal review either. When Katie said that she reckoned her child would love their Uncle Jonathan, the smile he gave her lit up his whole face and it made her grin back just as brightly at him. When he puffed out his chest, she giggled slightly, it was like he was her very own superman. He then went on to say he was sure he could teach them a few things whether the baby was a girl or a boy and spoke of the baby’s ability wondering what it would be. “I am only too sure you will be able to teach them a few things, and as for ability, never really thought about it, as I am almost certain that...” She swallowed hard, she might have gotten used to the idea the baby was hers and not his, but she still found it hard to talk about him, “...that he was a normal human, so I guess it depends on whether the baby gets more of my genes or his.”

She let out a deep breath then, she had been able to talk about him without getting too upset, and usually when she had to swallow a golf ball sized lump threatened to cause tears to fall, but not this time, she felt almost proud of herself in a way. Jonathan then went on to say whatever the ability was if they indeed had one, they wouldn’t be able to hurt him what with his ability. That was when Katie remembered the gift she had bought for him, wondering whether he would like it or not and then thinking that even if he didn’t want to wear it, he might use the pendant as a keychain or something instead. “I got you a little something, I’m not sure if it’s something you would wear, but I don’t mind if you just keep it as a keychain or something, but since I’ve looked at you as my own person superman since you helped me that day, when I saw this, I instantly thought of you.” She then handed him over the box with a warm smile, wondering what he would think of it.

When Katie said to Jonathan she might like to go for a walk after the movie so long as they took their time, he put his hand on her arm and said okay, she smiled at him, and put her own hand up to go on top of his. “Thanks Jonathan.” He was always looking out for her, almost as if he was protective of her, and she liked it, he was her protector, her superman, the pendant she had bought definitely suited how she saw him. When he said they had all the time in the world, she grinned, “Thanks, because I’m getting slower as I’m getting bigger.” She felt like she was carrying two of herself around, and her back often gave out when she was walking now, and yet she still enjoyed walking, wanting to keep herself as active as she could without hurting herself.

Katie then suggested going for a drink first, and she had to laugh when Jonathan said a drink sounded good and could only guess what she would want. “Is is that obvious?” She asked, and then smiled, as she rubbed at her stomach once more. She wouldn’t be in the least bit surprised if her baby was born with a glass of lemonade in their tiny little hand. When Jonathan got up from the bench, he soon held his hand out for Katie to take. She then took his hand, and with her other on her back she eased herself up out of the bench. “Thanks Jonathan.” Not that she needed to thank him, but she always did, she liked being polite, it didn’t cost anything to be polite. They then made their way to the small bar beside the cinema.

Jonathan soon spoke asking her if she had thought anymore about whom she wanted in the delivery room with her or when she was going through the labour stuff beforehand. Katie bit on her bottom lip slightly, because she knew who she would want in the delivery room with her, but she wasn’t sure how Jonathan would take to it. She wasn’t thinking of it because of her feelings for him, which she’d had for quite some time now, no, she was thinking of it because she didn’t feel comfortable with the idea of her brother being in there with her, or more to the point, she didn’t think William would be comfortable with the idea. She looked up at him then, “Well, to be honest with you, I know William has been there for me through it all from the very beginning and you have been with me for most of the pregnancy as well now, and as much as I love my brother, I just don’t think it’s something he would feel comfortable with. I...” She trailed off then, as she felt another twinge come over her. This one was slightly deeper than the other, and she took in a long deep breath.

No, she couldn’t be, it was impossible, she still had two months to go yet, it was those damned Braxton Hicks Contractions, it must be. She swallowed hard, because she knew that trailing off like that would have him worried, especially when she took the deep breath in, making sure she had her breath back and the pain had ceased again, she continued, “...I was wondering how you...” Another massive pain came over her then and she dropped his hand as she slumped forward holding onto her stomach and screamed out in fear, “Jonathan!” Then the pain sort of left again and Katie slowly stood back up again, “I... Jonathan, I’m not sure, but I...” She trailed off, she couldn’t be in labour yet, her waters hadn’t even broken yet, however, no sooner had she said those very words in her thoughts, she felt something wet. She looked up at him, with tears in her eyes, “I’m sorry, but I think we’re going to have to call the date off, because I think someone is about to make their way into the world.” Katie looked down at the pool of water at her feet and then back up at him, “I was about to ask if you’d do the honours of coming into the delivery room with me.” She then grabbed his hand as another pain came over her.

[jonathan]

Jonathan listened and nodded, as Katie spoke about William being great and all, even after the shock of her being pregnant. "Well I am sure that was only to be expected, since you are his little sister. I think I would be the same, but I doubt that I would ever really kick you out. Glad he didn't do that to you." Jonathan hadn't really met William yet, but by everything that Katie had said about him, he seemed like the perfect older brother. Jonathan just hoped that he was doing everything right in the line of best friend to her. When Katie said that she knew she had him, and that he had been a great friend to her, he could only smile. "Good. I aim to please. And I hope that I am with you for a while yet." He watched her rub at her stomach, making him wonder what she was thinking about.

He had to smile more, when Katie said that she was sure that he would be able to teach the baby a few things. She then began to speak about the Jake person, and Jonathan could sense that it was still a little hard for her to talk about him. He nodded, "Okay. Well we will just deal with that when it happens. I am sure that if the baby has the ability like yours, or your brother's, then they will be fine. But if they end up being human, with no ability, then that will be okay too. Something to worry about later on." Jonathan soon realised that he had put 'we' in there when he said that 'we will just deal with that', referring to the ability. He wondered how much he would get to do in the way of helping, once the baby was born. Really, he wasn't part of the actual family, so he might just have to see about all that later.

Jonathan continued to think more, when Katie said that she had gotten him a little something, and continued to listen to what she had to say. He grinned a bit then, looking down at the ground, when Katie made the comment that she looked at him as her own personal superman. As she handed him the box, Jonathan looked at her, "You didn't have to do this Katie." He slowly opened the box, and pulled out the chain, that had the 'Superman' pendant on it. Jonathan looked up at Katie then, with a big smile on his face. "Thanks Katie. And I will be wearing this one, don't you worry. Just knowing it is from you will mean a lot." Jonathan undid the clasp, and put it around his neck. Once it was done up, he pulled it out to look at it again. "How does it look?" He laughed a little then, and gave Katie a hug. "I love it, thanks."

When Jonathan had made the comment that they had all the time in the world, Katie had said that she was getting slower the bigger she got. "I don't look at it that way. I look at you getting more beautiful. I can just tell also that you are going to make a great mum to the baby." He gave her a warm smile, and allowed himself to place his hand on her stomach.

After thinking it, Jonathan had asked Katie who she was thinking of having in the delivery room, when she was going through the labour. He listened to what Katie said, and he had a feeling she might say that she wanted William in there with her, which was to be expected. Jonathan nodded, and knew what was coming next, when Katie trailed off from talking. Something was definately not right, when he looked at her as she took in a deep breath. Jonathan put his hand on her back. "Hey, you okay?" The worry, he could tell, was on his face, frowning, wondering what was wrong. But then Katie continued to talk, adding to what she had said, but then again she stopped. Though as she let go of his hand, and instantly put her hand to her stomach, screaming out.

When she called his name, Jonathan knew that something was definately wrong. He didn't bother to remove his hand from her back, absentmindedly rubbing her back slowly in a circular motion. Jonathan didn't get to say anything more, when Katie slowly stood up straight again, and went to talk again, but this time something happened. His eyes grew wide then, as he soon noticed, along with Katie, that her waters had broken. Oh my God, thought Jonathan, looking from the puddle on the ground, to Katie, then back down at the puddle again. "I, uh, didn't think..." Jonathan shook his head, feeling a mixture of emotions. Katie then spoke about having to call their date off, and then did what he did, looking at the puddle on the ground, then looked up at him. His face changed to one of seriousness, when she asked if he would do her the honours of coming into the delivery room with her. Jonathan nodded slowly, as she then grabbed his hand rather tightly.

Jonathan felt frozen on the spot, not knowing what to do with Katie. But then all of a sudden, he felt that he had to be the person to help her again. He soon remembered the chain and pendant that she had given him, reminding him that he was her personal 'Superman'. So now that part of him had to kick in. Jonathan scooped her up into his arms, and looked at her. "I would love to be there for you in the delivery room Katie. And it looks like I will be doing that sooner, rather than later." With that, Jonathan practically ran towards the nearest hospital.

**** 15 minutes later ****

They finally reached the hospital, where Jonathan rushed Katie to the emergency room. They soon reached the reception area. "Hey, can someone help me please? She's gone into labour!" Soon enough a couple of people made their way out to them, one grabbing a wheelchair from the waiting room. Without hesitation, Jonathan quickly, but gently, placed Katie into the wheelchair, and grabbing a hold of her hand. Jonathan turned to someone who he guessed was the doctor. "She is seven months pregnant. Please take care of her."

[katie]

Katie gave Jonathan a warm smile, “Well, I’m glad he didn’t kick me out either, but really I wouldn’t have expected that from him, if he had I would have been really shocked.” She meant that, because she and William had always been the closest siblings out of all of them, other than with her twin of course who died and she missed him terribly still; which was why if she had a little boy she was going to name him after her twin brother, not the first name, but definitely a middle name. She didn’t think she would be able to call him Joshua all the time without being reminded of the twin she had lost, although in a way, she hoped that if she did have a boy, he’d look a bit like Joshua, which would be nice. “You do please Jonathan, you have done more for me than anyone other than my own brother, and I hope you’re in my life for quite some time, not sure I could cope if I lost you as well.” True she did lose Joshua before she even met Jonathan, but that was beside the point, other than William and Josh himself, Jonathan was the first person she had really connected with in a very long time.

When Katie had spoke about the baby having an ability or not as she was sure Jake was a normal human, even though she was still finding it difficult to talk about him, she was still quick to pick up on Jonathan using the term ‘we’ when it came to dealing with the baby having an ability or not. She looked at him then, really looked at him, “You really are going to be there for me through everything, aren’t you? You just said we, I really am glad to have you as a friend in my life Jonathan.” Of course Katie wanted to have him as much more than a friend, she was in love with him for heaven’s sake, she had been for weeks now, maybe even the past couple of months, but she would never have done anything to jeopardise her friendship with Jonathan, she found that too important to lose.

When Katie had begun to talk to Jonathan about buying him a little something and mentioned him being her personal superman, she saw that grin of his but looking down at the ground. Well it was true, he was her own personal superman, and he always seemed to be there when she needed him. So really, buying him the chain was the least she could do, her way of thanking him really. When he said she didn’t have to do it, she shrugged slightly, “I know that, but I wanted to.” She then gave him a bright smile and then watched as he opened the box to get his reaction over it. The smile on his face was all the answer she needed to know he liked it, but still she listened to him as he thanked her. “You really like it?” She asked even though he was already putting it around his neck, “I wasn’t sure if you would have thought it too cheesy or something.” She laughed a little then, but felt really glad that he seemed to like it and was now wearing it. “It looks great, it suits you.” She giggled slightly and then Jonathan gave her a hug, that hug was like one of the best ones he had ever given her, that hug signified love to Katie, but from Jonathan, only that as a friend she had to assume. “You’re welcome, I’m just glad you do love it.” I wish you loved me too, like the way I love you she thought to herself, as she held onto the hug probably longer than she needed to.

When Katie said to Jonathan she was getting slower the bigger she got she began to wonder if Jonathan maybe had hidden feelings for her after all but was too polite to say or do anything about being unaware of her own hidden feelings, when he replied to her saying he didn’t think of it like that, he sees it as her getting more beautiful. Well really, a friend could say those things as well, but somehow, hearing that from Jonathan, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was more to it than just something a friend would say. “You’re just saying that because you’re my friend and you feel obliged to.” She was sort of teasing him, but in a way she felt as if she was almost challenging him by saying that, digging you could say to see if there was something hidden in there more with his feelings for her. He then continued to say she would make a great mom to the baby giving her a warm smile and placing his hand on her stomach. The touch of his hand felt so good, and Katie immediately, without even thinking put her own hand over his, as if she was keeping it there. “Thanks Jonathan, I do hope so, but not sure how I will be as a single mother to be honest.” This time she wasn’t trying to test him, she was being blatantly honest, she was only twenty-one after all. It was alright for him to say she had William and she had him, but at the end of the day, William was just the uncle and Jonathan would just be the surrogate one, without a man in her life to help support her and the baby, she was a single mother.

When Katie got the third sharp pain and drew in her breath she felt Jonathan’s hand on her back and asking her if she was okay. “I’m not sure.” Was pretty much all she could get out before another massive pain took hold and she screamed out his name. She felt his hand rubbing her back in circular motions which was helping to a degree, but she was still so worried, because if she was about to go into labour it was too soon, the baby wasn’t due for another two months. When Jonathan began to talk saying he didn’t think and trailed off, Katie nodded, “You’re right, not due for another two months, he or she is making their entry into the world a lot sooner than planned.” Katie had read about premature births, and she knew that babies born at seven months had a greater chance of survival than those born at eight months which she had thought was weird, but right now, the only thing she was thinking was she didn’t want to lose her baby, not after all this time, not after finally getting used to the idea that the baby would be hers, and nothing to do with that jerk.

Katie had then managed to say that she was going to ask him to do the honours and come into the delivery room with her, she looked through a pained expression and saw he was nodding his head slowly, she gave him a weak smile, right now it would seem he didn’t really have any other choice in the matter anyway. “Thanks Jonathan, it would mean a lot to...” She trailed off as another pain took hold of her, and that was when Jonathan scooped her up into his arms and told her he would love to be there in the delivery room for her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, “I’m scared Jonathan, I’m scared I’ll lose the baby.” Even though what she had read about chances of survival being high at seven months, she couldn’t help but worry.

****15 minutes later****

A short while later, with the speed of Jonathan practically running, he had her in at the emergency of the local hospital shouting for someone to help. Soon enough someone came over to them with a wheelchair and Jonathan placed her into it quickly and gently. He then took her hand, and she heard him tell the doctor she was seven months pregnant and to take care of her. Katie looked up at Jonathan with tears in her eyes. The doctor looked at Jonathan, “We’ll take care of her, don’t you worry about that. I’ll get a midwife as well, are you the father?” He asked Jonathan and Katie didn’t know where to look or what to say at first, but not wanting them to ask any questions about whom the father really was and before Jonathan could get a word in, she looked up at the doctor, “Yes he is.” She then quickly glanced at Jonathan and mouthed ‘sorry’ to him, she just didn’t want to answer any awkward questions.

The doctor soon began to push Katie through to the maternity wing and got her settled onto the bed. “The midwife will be here soon to take over, if there are any problems, they will contact me, but I’ll just take a quick check now until she comes.” The doctor then pulled the curtains around the bed, so that only he, Katie and Jonathan were in the area of the bed and then took a quick examination of Katie, checking her blood pressure and vital statistics. “Well, everything looks fine with your blood pressure, nothing wrong going on, I think junior just couldn’t wait to make their self known to the world. The midwife will be here shortly. In the meantime I suggest you change into this.” He handed Katie over a gown to wear and then left her and Jonathan alone.

“I’m sorry about saying you were the father, I just... I didn’t want to...“ Katie trailed off as the tears took over, “Sorry, getting emotional. I guess I should get changed into this then.” Getting up slowly from the bed, wondering if Jonathan would offer to help or step out, not wanting to push the boundary of their friendship, she looked at him, “Uhm, maybe you might want to step behind the curtain for a few seconds.”

[jonathan]

Jonathan listened to what Katie said about his comment about William, and nodded. He had to admit, William didn't seem the type, but still all the same he was glad that everything was handled okay. Katie then said that he had done more for her than anyone else. He gave her a smile then, when she said that she hoped that he would be in her life for some time yet. "I hope so too. Your really my only friend outside of work. I get on great with the ones from work, but not sure if I would want to hang out with them, you know? Besides, you are a lot more fun than some of them." He gave her a bright smile. "And don't worry, you won't lose me. How could you lose me? I am always around." He chuckled a bit, thinking that he was definately always hanging around like a bad smell.

Jonathan knew what he said, and in a way he probably meant it. He looked at her all serious. "I know what I said, and I do mean every word. I want to help you as much as I can with the baby comes. I know that you will have William, but I want to help as well. I am glad that I was able to help that day, or we might not be here right now, together." That word, 'together' had a million different meanings, and a couple of main ones came to mind, which he wasn't sure of what they meant just yet. Some thinking time later might solve any issues in his head.

Jonathan gave her a small smile, when she said she wanted to buy the gift for him. Once he had opened it, and had commented, thanking her, he heard he ask if he really liked it, then adding that she didn't know if he would think it was cheesy or something. "No, no. As I said, knowing that you have given this to me, I will always wear it." He then asked her, once it was on, how did it looked. Jonathan gave her another big smile when she said that it looked great, and that it suited him. He had then hugged her, making it known that he truly loved the gift. It felt right, that hug, but it was his way of thanking her. Or maybe not, he still didn't know if what he had been thinking about was what he should be feeling towards her. He didn't want to be taking advantage of her current situation, saying that he was having feelings for her. Jonathan didn't want to lose her when she obviously needed him the most right now.

When Katie made the comment about him just saying all those things, because it was just something that a friend would say, he looked down, kind of smiling at her. "Maybe, but I don't feel obligated. But you know me, I only speak the truth. And what I just said is the truth. After his comment about her being a great mum, and put his hand on her stomach, he looked down as she put a hand over his own. "Don't say that, you will be. And me and William will be there to help, you know that. So you won't be alone that much." He snickered a bit then, knowing that either him or William will be smuthering her with help.

Jonathan knew how much longer she had till it was to be born, but now it did in fact seem that she was going to have the baby right then and there. He nodded when she confirmed what he was thinking, or was about to say. When Katie had finally said that she was going to ask him to come into the delivery room with her, he had nodded, but had also noticed her expression, but then saw her small smile. Jonathan just wanted it to be all over for Katie, but knew that sometimes these things kind of dragged on a bit. She had tried to thank him for doing that for her, when she seemed to get another pain, which led to Jonathan to put her into his arms. As they were about to head towards the local hospital, Katie spoke. "Don't worry, Katie. Everything will be okay." He then went as fast as he could to the hospital.

**** 15 minutes later ****

After Jonathan had spoke to the doctor, he looked at Katie, and how she looked made him want to make sure she was okay. She had told him that she was scared, but hopefully him being there, she will be okay. Jonathan put his attention back to the doctor, who answered him, and then he asked him something, which made Jonathan raise his eyebrows slowly. He was just about to answer, when he heard Katie instead answer. Jonathan just looked at the doctor, then back at Katie, who mouthed 'sorry' to him. He slowly shook his head, then followed the doctor, who was moving Katie to the maternity ward.

Once in there, Katie was settle onto the bed, and the doctor then spoke. Jonathan stood close to Katie, or as much as he could, as the doctor soon began to take a look at Katie. He knew that he said that he would be there for her, but didn't know where to look as the doctor did his thing. But then the doctor was soon finished, and Jonathan then smiled, when he said that everything looked fine. "That's great to hear." He then gently squeezed Katie's arm, smiling at her. She was then given a gown to change into.

As soon as Katie began to talk to him, once they were alone, he shook his head. She didn't get to finish the sentence, as the tears began to come. "Hey, it's okay. I am fine with it. Really if I had said no, you might have been in here alone, and I would not have had that. You asked me to be here, and I will be, all the way." He let her get up then, and she then said that maybe he might want to step behind the curtain for a few seconds. "Oh, yeah, sure." He then pulled the curtain a bit, to let himself out, then he closed it behind him. He then called out a little. "Just let me know when are right for me to come back."

Jonathan stood there, next to the curtain, waiting for Katie to tell him it was okay to come back there. He sighed a little, crossing his arms. Jonathan was glad that he was there for Katie when she had gone into labour. He wondered what might have happened if she had been on her own, and that thought made him feel sick. Just knowing that she would have to try and call someone or the ambulance on her own. Then the thoughts he had been thinking about earlier came back into his mind, and then what Katie had told the doctor earlier, about him being the father, made him think more. Maybe, he thought, I should tell her what I am feeling right now.

[katie]

Katie had to smile brightly when Jonathan replied after she said she hoped he would be in her life for some time yet. When he went on to say that she was his only friend outside of work she couldn’t help but tease him slightly. “I feel sorry for you that I’m your only friend outside of work, but I’m not sorry that you’re my only friend.” That was true, Katie didn’t really have any friends, oh there had been girls from school but everybody had gone on to do their own thing so they all drifted apart. Really other than William and Jason whom she hardly saw, Jonathan was the only other constant in her life just now and she liked it. When he continued saying she wouldn’t lose him and he was always around she smiled nodding her head. “Well that’s true, but I’m glad you’re always around.” Katie knew that she had to try and get over these deep feelings she had for Jonathan before she let them ruin their friendship. They had a solid friendship, that much was true, but as for anything else, she wasn’t sure and she couldn’t take the risk of losing what they had together.

When Jonathan replied saying he knew what he had said and he meant every word, Katie’s heart began to beat furiously. The idea of having Jonathan there through it all and helping her was a fantastic feeling she couldn’t deny it. When he continued to say he wanted to help her as much as he could when the baby arrived she felt herself melting. “Well I am glad you stopped to help me that day also, otherwise I wouldn’t have such a great friend whose willing to be there to help me when the baby does come along.” Katie did notice he had used the word together, but she wasn’t putting any context into it after all, they were together right at that moment and to Katie that was all Jonathan meant by that.

After Katie had given Jonathan the pendant she had then gone on to say she wasn’t sure if he would have found it too cheesy or something, so she was really glad when he replied and said no, and once again adding that the fact she had given him the pendant meant he would wear it all the time. “That’s good then, I’m glad.” He really was her own personal superman, the pendant was so right for him. Katie had then commented on his compliment to her, his reply was half expected really. He did speak the truth, she had never known him to lie yet, she just didn’t think too much of herself right now, after all if she’d been the model sister, the model young woman, she wouldn’t be pregnant to a guy she wasn’t even in a relationship with, but that was just how she saw herself. “I know you are always honest Jonathan, so I guess I should just believe what you are saying.” She gave him a cheeky smile then. After his comment about her being a great mom, Katie said she wasn’t sure how she would be as a single mom, of course Jonathan spoke up which she knew he would. These were the things she loved him about him the most.

Katie rolled her eyes and playfully poked her tongue out, “Alright I know I won’t exactly be on my own, what with you and William around, but you know what I’m really referring to.” Or at least she hoped he knew what she was referring to, unless he did see himself as a stand in father figure for her child, but it still meant she was technically alone, something she figured she would just have to get used to. However she wondered if she had just said sounded a bit ungrateful and she hated that sort of attitude to come across, “That said however, I know I couldn’t have two better men in my life for support.” She grinned at him then as if she was confirming what she just said to him.

****15 minutes later

After Jonathan had ran with Katie in his arms, he soon had her at the hospital and she was soon in a wheelchair, the pains were quite frequent, more frequent than they should have been for labour just starting and this was worrying her slightly. She had read it could take hours for a woman to give birth, but she had also read about these women who managed to give birth within a couple of hours. Katie had often thought to herself how wonderful that would be, and now here she was with frequent pains which were very severe two months earlier than it should have been. It did make her wonder if she was going to be one of these few women who had an easy birth after all.

Katie was soon in one of the delivery rooms in the maternity ward where a doctor checked her over and said everything was fine. She smiled at Jonathan when he said that it was great to hear. She nodded her head, “Yeah, at least the baby isn’t in distress or anything, which is good. Guess they just can’t wait to make themselves known.” She had to laugh a bit then, but as she did so another pain came over her, and this one was even more intense than the others. She began to take deep breaths, using the panting method she had told about at those classes. “Wow that was a big one.” She managed to say after it eased off a little. Katie had then been given a gown to change into, not that she wanted to, she hated those hospital things, but she knew she had to, as with the baby coming early, she had nothing prepared for a hospital stay.

Katie then apologised for saying he was the father and tried to explain her reasons why but found that she couldn’t get the words out properly before the tears came. Jonathan answered saying that it was alright, that he would be there for her all the way. She swallowed hard to stop the tears as best she could, wiping them away with her hand, “Thanks Jonathan, you have no idea how much that means to me.” Katie had then suggested that he might want to step behind the curtain while she changed into the gown she had been given. Part of her had hoped he would stay to help, but part of her was kind of glad he didn’t because she wasn’t sure how she would have reacted if he’d offered to help. He told her to say when she was ready and after a few moments, she opened the curtain and made her way back onto the bed to try and rest up a little.

After a few seconds however another pain came over her. This one was even more intense than the other and it lasted longer as well. When it ceased, she looked at Jonathan, “This is crazy, but I feel like I want to push already, but it can’t be that close, although I have read about a few women who gave birth after only being in labour for a couple of hours, wonder if that’s what I’ll be like?” She barely got those words out when another massive pain came over her, this one lasting even longer and more intense, so intense, she had a feeling she wouldn’t be saying very much from now on.

[jonathan]

Jonathan raised his eyebrows slightly at Katie saying that she felt sorry for him for her being his only friend. But then he gave her a warm smile when she said that she wasn't sorry that he was her only friend. Jonathan didn't know what he would do if he hadn't accidently met her that day all those months ago. Right now he might have been sitting at his computer working on movie reviews. Now that was a boring sight. Not that he found his job boring, just that he would rather go out with a very good friend, rather than be stuck inside all day working.

"I am glad that you are glad." He laughed a little then, but he was happy right then. "And I can't wait to help you with all of it. It will be new to both of us. We can learn from each other's mistakes when we make them." Jonathan could really see himself being so flustered, he grinnned to himself. He wondered if he would be cut out to be a dad to any kid, let alone being an uncle figure to this child that Katie was carrying right now. Jonathan knew he shouldn't doubt himself, but it was a big step when ever it happened to him.

Jonathan gave Katie a warm smile when she commented about him alwasy being honest, and guessed that she should just believe what he was saying. "Why yes you should, Miss Moore." With that, Jonathan touched her nose gently with his finger. "Who else is going to tell you what you want to hear, when honesty is the only thing to speak." He fowned a little, not really liking how that sounded, it sounded stupid, but with slight heartfelt feelings.

Jonathan snickered a little, shaking his head slightly when Katie poked her tongue out. But she then began to speak, and Jonathan obviously listened. He was definately hearing what she was saying, as he could read between the lines. Katie had always commented about how no one would really want her in the state she was in right now. Jonathan knew that if he could he would be that special person that she was craving for. He wanted to reply, but then Katie added more to what she said. Jonathan didn't know wether to comment on the first part or the second part. So he decided to comment in general. "Yes, you do have that fantastic support from your brother and myself." He took her hands then, and looked her right in the eyes. "You definately have it from me."

**** 15 minutes later ****

Jonathan listened to what Katie said, in regards to the baby. It was a good sign. He went to join her in the laughter, when she began to have another contraction. Without hesitation, Jonathan grabbed a hold of her hand, and he could soon feel how intense it was. Jonathan didn't know what else to do but to just hold her hand with as much reassurance as he could give. "You're doing great Katie." Once she said that it was a big one, Jonathan gave her a weak smile. Katie then changed into her gown, which Jonathan allowed for her to do in private. Once she was done, the curtain opened, which was Jonathan's cue to come back.

Jonathan reached over for a cup, and poured some of the ice chips into it. He went to hand it to her, but he saw that she was having yet another contraction. Jonathan was getting worried, not knowing if it was normal to have contractions continually this early on. Katie began to talk to him, once it was over. He handed her the cup, as she commented on it. Just hearing what she was saying, brought a frown on his face. "Maybe I should get..." And that was all Jonathan got out, as he took the cup off of Katie, as another contraction came about.

He didn't want to leave her alone, but yet he thought it was best for the doctor or a nurse to come and check on Katie. "Maybe I should go and get the doctor, Katie. But I don't want to leave you alone." Jonathan soon saw the call button, and he pressed it a few times. Soon enough the doctor came back. Without hesitation, Jonathan turned to him. "Things seem to be getting a bit intense for Katie. Can you check on her again please." He watched the doctor as he checked on Katie again.

[katie]

When Jonathan said he was glad she was glad and laughed a little, Katie smiled brightly up at him, feeling so lucky to have such a wonderful friend in her life. Katie had thought Jonathan was handsome from the first day she had met him, but looking up at him then and almost losing herself in his eyes she knew she wanted him to be so much more than a friend and still unsure to push it for fear of losing the close friendship they had built up over the past few months. Katie was sure Jonathan only saw and thought of her as a friend, but should he make any sort of move for something more she knew she would jump at the opportunity. She spent virtually every free moment with him, he probably knew her as much as her own brother did. She didn’t realise how deep into her thoughts she had gone until she heard Jonathan’s voice crack through to them when he had continued to speak saying they would learn from each other’s mistakes when they made them.

“It sounds to me as if you are willing to be more than just an uncle figure Jonathan Baker.” She grinned up at him, because she definitely wouldn’t say no to Jonathan being her child’s daddy, but she really wouldn’t expect it of him, why would he want to play daddy to a rapist’s child, when he could find the woman of his dreams and have his own? She mentally slapped herself, she had to stop thinking like that, if Jonathan didn’t like her, he wouldn’t spend time with her, there was something there between them, she could feel it, they were both just too scared to admit their true feelings for fear of ruining what they already had together. Realising she had done it again, got lost in her thoughts she soon added, “Although, I wouldn’t be against that idea you know.”

After Katie said she should just believe Jonathan because he always told the truth, he said that she should and then touched her nose with his finger. That single touch sent shivers down her spine, then he spoke and she couldn’t help but smile, but emotion took over and a tear fell, which she quickly wiped away. “Nobody I guess, other than maybe William, which is why I’m even more glad I have you in my life.” Why couldn’t she just tell him how she felt? She knew if Jonathan didn’t said anything about having more feelings for her by the end of their date, she would have to say something, she couldn’t go on feeling the way she did, if they were never going to be anything more than just good friends.

When Katie replied saying she knew she wasn’t exactly on her own but he knew what she was referring to, a loving man by her side, she noticed Jonathan didn’t exactly answer her question in particular, but instead said that she was right when she said she had great support from both him and William, then took both her hands and looked into her eyes saying she definitely had it from him. Emotion washed over Katie again and she soon began to feel the tears falling again, “I know I do Jonathan, I’d be lost without you, I am pretty sure of it.” She desperately wanted to add that she loved him and had for months, but refrained, instead, wiping at her eyes and smiling up at him.

****15 minutes later****

When Katie had joked about the baby not wanting to wait to make themselves known and laughed after it, she saw Jonathan laugh along with her. That was until a contraction came over her and she felt Jonathan grab her hand, which made her feel better. She soon heard that reassuring voice of his telling her she was doing great. She took in a deep breath and then gave him a weak smile, “Thanks.” She didn’t feel as if she was doing too great, she felt as if it was all going so fast. An hour ago she was just a seven month pregnant female going out to the movies with her close friend and now here she was in the delivery suite with her close friend about to become a mother. It was scary.

When Jonathan tried to give Katie a cup with ice chips in it, every time she went to take it from him another contraction would come over her which was worrying Katie, and she could tell it was worrying Jonathan as well. When Jonathan went to speak, it sounded to Katie like he was going to suggest getting a doctor when another contraction came over her and he trailed off. Katie then told Jonathan she wanted to push and she knew that it was too soon, or it had to be. She could tell he wanted to get someone and yet didn’t want to leave her, sometimes she could read Jonathan like a book. No sooner had she thought that, he said the very thing she knew he was thinking, she was going to tell him to just get someone, when another pain came over her, and then Jonathan pressed a button which she assumed was to get help.

Soon enough the doctor came back into the room and Katie heard Jonathan tell him things were getting a bit intense and could he check her over again. The doctor put a hand on Jonathan’s shoulder, “Of course I will, I’m sure everything is fine.” The doctor then spoke to Katie. “How often are you getting these contractions Katie?” Katie looked at him and shook her head, not exactly sure of a time, “I don’t know, but too often too soon I would have thought.” The doctor nodded his head, “Alright, well I’ll just take another look.” He then went to Katie’s lower half and was surprised to see that she already fully dilated meaning she was ready to push. Even he was rather flummoxed by it, because she was only brought in just over a half hour ago.

“Katie, would you say you feel like you want to push?” The doctor asked her, she nodded her head, and just about managed to speak between heavy breaths, “Yes, I just said that before to Jonathan.” The doctor nodded his head, “Katie were you having any sort of small pains of discomfort or twinges before you left the house today?” Katie thought back and realised that she had been feeling the odd twinge since the night before. “I’ve been having the odd twinge and dull ache since last night but I was putting it down to just being uncomfortable with being heavy when I’m not used to it why?” Katie felt lucky she was even able to say all of that, but that’s when another pain came over her, and she began to pant in and out deeply.

“Well Katie, it looks as if you’ve actually been in a slow labour since last night and it has only made itself known in the past hour, you’re fully dilated Katie, I’m just going to get the midwife in for you and we can start getting this baby born into the world.” The doctor left to get the midwife, leaving Katie and Jonathan alone again. She looked at him with slight fear and tears in her eyes, “I don’t know if I’m ready for...” She trailed off as another massive contraction came over her and couldn’t do anything but scream out loud.

[jonathan]

Jonathan shrugged a little, when Katie spoke. "Maybe. It will definately give me practice when I eventually have kids of my own, whenever that will be." Jonathan knew that he would love them someday, but just to find the right person. It seemed that both him and Katie were on the lookout for somebody, but Jonathan knew that he would be there for Katie no matter what right now, and help out as much as he could. Katie then added about not being against the idea of him being more of an uncle figure. Jonathan looked at her, with a warm smile on his face. "Well as I keep basically saying, I will do what I can to help out. If you need someone there that is more than that, I will be there to step in. Though once you find that special someone, I will be more than happy to let the role go, okay? Whatever you need right now." Jonathan then gave her a hug, and wondering if what he said was being way too forward, but he felt that she needed that support.

Jonathan smiled when Katie spoke more, but the single tear hadn't gone unnoticed. "Well I am glad that I am in your life now, and that is all that should matter." He gave her another quick hug, trying to reassure her more, knowing deep down that is what she was is need of.

Jonathan hadn't meant to make Katie get upset with what he said, but he had meant every word. All he could do was give him a warm smile, when he saw those tears appear. Jonathan had no words as he brought her into a warm hug.

**** 15 minutes later ****

Just seeing Katie in so much pain with the contractions, made him wish he was going through it instead of her. She was younger than him, but not by much, but really, it was a lot for her at her age to take on. It really wasn't meant to happen for maybe another two months, and now it was all happening now for her. Though Jonathan was glad that he was there when she did have contractions. It made him wonder what she might have been doing, or where she would have been if it happened when she was alone.

Jonathan didn't want to leave her so he had pressed the buzzer to get someone in quick. The doctor soon came in, and said that he would check on Katie. Jonathan was quite concerned, and waited to hear what the doctor was to say after he examined Katie. He was not expert on the whole thing, but if Katie said that she felt like pushing, then the baby must be ready to come. His thoughts were soon confirmed, when the doctor asked her if she was feeling like pushing. Jonathan looked at Katie, and she nodded, and then acknowledged verbally.

Jonathan then frowned at the doctor as he asked the next question. He then looked at Katie. She soon confirmed what he said. Jonathan didn't want to get angry at Katie, but she should have called him if she wasn't doing great. Jonathan didn't get to say anything, when another contraction came over Katie. He continued to hold her hand with one hand, and with the other, massage her back, wondering if this movement was working any.

The doctor then said that the labour would have started last night and now was making it known in the past hour. Jonathan couldn't believe that now she was ready to give birth, and he would be the one who would be there when the baby was born. Katie had asked him if he would be there, but Jonathan thought that it would be ages till it happened, but now it was upon them, and Jonathan was getting a bit nervous. He didn't know if he was prepared for it all, what with having no experience with any of it, and it was making him panic slightly, but he didn't want Katie to sense that.

"Thanks," Jonathan said, as the doctor left. He knew he had to remain calm for Katie, so when the doctor left, Jonathan turned back to Katie, giving her a half smile. "Well it looks like it is time." He saw the tears in her eyes, and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "I am sure that everything is going to be okay." Katie then spoke about not being ready, but then another contraction, a rather big one by the looks of it, came over her, and she screamed. Without thinking, Jonathan pushed Katie forward into a sitting position on the bed, and just continued to rub her back in a circular motion. He looked around, wondering where the midwife was. Katie was seriously needing the baby to come out now, or who knew what would happen.

[katie]

After Katie told Jonathan it sounded to her like he wanted to be more than just an uncle figure she had to smile some more at his response. It was a nice feeling to think that Jonathan might play the father role to her child, but Katie knew it would mean so much more if she and Jonathan was an actual couple, and she wasn’t sure that was ever going to happen. Maybe their friendship was too important or something. “Well I have no doubt you will make a great father when the time comes Jonathan.” She gave him a warm smile then. Katie had then added that she wouldn’t be against the idea of him playing more of an uncle role, and when Jonathan smiled at her, she gave him a bright one back but the last part of what he said made her feel a little down, but she tried desperately not to show it. “Thanks Jonathan, I know I can depend on you and it’s a good feeling.” Then in her own thoughts she added, ‘but I don’t want anybody else but you’. Sometimes Katie wished she could just be honest with Jonathan but she was always too scared she’d ruin the friendship they already had.

When Jonathan said he was glad he was in her life and that was all that should matter, Katie was getting very emotional and was having to bite back the tears, something which wasn’t happening very easy. He gave her another quick hug and all she could do was hug him back, “Thanks.” The tears she had been trying to bite back suddenly started to fall, but they were emotional tears of happiness nothing else. Jonathan brought her into a warm hug after she had said she would be lost without him, and she managed to give him a smile through her tears. That warm hug he had given her made her feel so loved and yet neither of them had admitted those kinds of feelings, but could it be possible Jonathan felt the same way as she did and he just wasn’t sure about telling her?

**** 15 minutes later ****

After the doctor came in and checked Katie over, he kept asking a few questions which she knew would probably get Jonathan annoyed because she’d been having the odd twinge and discomfort since the night before, but really she didn’t think for one minute she was in labour so didn’t see the point in letting Jonathan know. She was aware of his hand in her own and his other rubbing at her back, which she was very grateful for. She turned to Jonathan and gave him a weak smile as if to let him know that he was doing the right thing.

After the doctor confirmed that she was indeed ready to give birth and went off to get the midwife, she heard Jonathan thank the doctor. Jonathan then turned to her with a half smile saying it looked like it was time. Katie could only nod her head as the fear of giving birth two months early took over, and tears began to form in her eyes again. Jonathan spoke saying he was sure everything would be alright. Katie had tried to tell him she didn’t think she was ready for the baby yet, but another huge contraction had taken over and all she could do was scream out in pain.

The midwife then came into the room. “Alright Katie, let’s get this baby into the world, shall we?” Katie just gave her a half smile, and then turned to Jonathan, “I’m scared.” She really was, if the baby was to be born when they were supposed to be she would have been more ready for it, but two months early, Katie didn’t really have much in for the baby, everything would have to be bought at the last minute. The midwife got Katie into the correct position and checked herself and seeing that the baby’s head was indeed crowning, she looked back at Katie, “Alright Katie, if you want to give me a big push please.” Katie closed her eyes and holding onto Jonathan’s hand as tightly as she could she took in a deep breath and squeezed as hard as she could, and letting out a loud scream in the process. The perspiration was already beginning to form on her forehead.

“That’s great Katie.” The midwife then looked at Jonathan, “It might be better if you were to stand behind her, hold onto both her hands from behind, it might help to give Katie more leverage as she goes for the next push.” She then turned her focus back to Katie, “Alright, give me another big push Katie.” Once again Katie closed her eyes and pushed as hard as she could and once again a scream came out with it in the process. “Well done Katie, we’re almost there, one more push and you should be welcoming your baby into the world.” Katie was completely exhausted already, but she nodded her head, and thought what the hell, the sooner the baby was born the sooner the pains would be over with. She closed her eyes one more time, and took in another deep breath before giving one more final push and another involuntary scream, and the soon as she was finished she heard the cries of a baby enter the room and Katie began to cry all over again.

“Congratulations, mommy and daddy, you have a perfect baby boy. I just have to get him cleaned up and weighed and I’ll bring him straight back to you.” The midwife then took her baby away to do what she said she had to do and Katie turned to look at Jonathan, with tears rolling down her face, “She called you daddy, I’m sorry, but, but I have a baby boy.” She knew right away what she was going to call her little boy.

[jonathan]

Jonathan felt his face go a little hot, thinking about someone telling him that he would indeed make a great father. But hearing it from Katie made it all the more special in some way. Maybe it was because she was the close friend he had ever had or something. Who knew, but it was a nice feeling. "Thanks Katie." After Jonathan basically told her that he would be there for her, and be the father figure that she needed until she found someone, he could tell that she felt good about his answer somewhat. Jonathan gave her a smile, but wondered if he answer had been good enough.

**** 15 minutes later ****

Jonathan couldn't belive that it was time for Katie to actually give birth already. But hearing that she must have been starting it last night, kind of scared him a bit. Maybe he should have admitted his feelings earlier, but really he was still only having feelings like a friend would for another friend. If he had been with her last night he might have told her to go and get it checked out, rather than now having the baby without much warning. So now he was the one with her while she gave birth. It was what she wanted, and now it was time for him to help in whatever way he could.

The midwife soon entered the room, and Jonathan felt a relief come over him. He gave her a small smile, just wanting her to help Katie with the birth. Katie turned to Jonathan, after the midwife spoke to her, and said she was scared. He squeezed her hand, and went back to rubbing her back, speaking in a calming voice, as calm as he could get, "Hey, it's okay. I am here with you every step of the way, remember." Jonathan then watched as the midwife prepared Katie for the birth, and waited for any instructions that he might have from her.

The midwife told Katie to give her a big push, which led to Katie squeezing Jonathan's hand rather hard. He had impenetrable skin, but Jonathan still felt pain. Jonathan looked at Katie kind of wide eyed as she pushed, then screamed out loud. He hoped that he wouldn't faint at anything that he saw or heard, he had to be strong for Katie right now. Jonathan looked at Katie more, then reached over for a cloth that was there, wiping at her forehead. What else could he do, but to have the baby for her?

The midwife then spoke to Jonathan, who nodded, and tried to do what she said, sort of hearing what she had asked him. He moved behind Katie, and reached for both of her hands, bringing his body close to her own as well. Katie then gave another big push as instructed, with another scream leaving her lips. Jonathan continued to hold her hands, and when that second push was over with, he turned to her. "You're doing great Katie." He then turned to the midwife who spoke again.

Jonathan could tell that all this was really taking it's toll on Katie, and without thinking he turned to her, and quietly spoke in her ear, "I am here. Let's do this." He kissed her on the cheek, then waited for Katie to do her thing. Jonathan watched as she closed her eyes, and then screamed out as she pushed for the final time. Again he whispered, "I believe in you Katie. Come on." Just as those words left his lips, the room echoed with the sound of a baby crying. Jonathan let out a breath, and then looked at the midwife, who spoke to both of them.

Jonathan looked at her with tears is his own eyes, and heard what she said, but it didn't register at first. He then turned to Katie, and just smiled at her. She spoke to him, seeing the tears. He shook his head at her apology "It is fantastic news, Katie. I knew you could do it." He then kissed her.