Epilogue: Timeline Full of Highlights.

2 years later.

Jake is due back home from tour rehearsals any minute. We've been considering and planning this since our engagement five months ago, but now with his world tour due up and him leaving in a month, I don't know just how well this was planned and how well it will turn out. He'll be gone for about five months with only one to two weeks free between them.

It's a scary thought to think that I might have to go through half of this alone. Maybe I won't have to. Maybe I'm just overthinking this.

I'm still thinking of how to break the news to him; bluntly, drag it out a bit. I don't know. Right now, I don't know a lot of things related to the present and our future and it makes me anxious. I can't talk it out with someone because, right now, I'm the only who knows and I want Jake to be the first -- or technically the second -- one to find out. After him, it'll probably be Mom and Dad along with Carter, Ethan and everyone else.

Once, he's here I will have to will myself against my nerves to tell him. I won't make myself wait one or a few more days, partially because I am more than excited about this -- I'm thrilled -- and because it wouldn't be fair of me to delay the news. I'm just a little scared of what's ahead because of our poor planning. The sound of the elevator making its ascend fills the quiet penthouse as I sit on one of the love seats in the living room, waiting for him.

Ding.

He's here.

Keys are tossed in the foyer table and his shoes create scuffle sounds as he drags himself in.

"Hey," he grins as catches sight of me on the couch. Jake walks to me, first discarding his wallet, sunglasses and phone on the kitchen island.

Every time I see him, I can't help but think just how good he looks. He added new tattoos to his collection less than a month ago and I never thought I would appreciate and love them as much as I do. Sure, I liked his tats before. I've never been against them. I even got one myself, but instead of keeping the promise of going with him for my tat, I went alone. The day of our wedding he'll see it for the first time. I don't know what he'll think of it, but I love his tattoos no matter what.

The way he looks -- so masculine -- as he gets closer to me. Every time I catch myself staring at him. When he reaches me, he leans down to properly greet me with a kiss.

My hand goes to his jaw. My fingers slightly grazing the five o'clock shadow he's sporting. I feel one of his hands creep to my upper thigh, his thumb rubbing its inner skin as the rest of his hand lays near the outer side.

"Mmm," he hums against my lips as he slightly breaks the kiss. "I have to take a shower. I'm all sweaty and dirty from rehearsals."

"Can we talk once you're done?"

My words cause a frown on his face. "Is everything okay?"

"Yeah. It's nothing bad...in my opinion." I tell him. "Go. I'll be waiting for you here."

I peck his lips in reassurance. "I'll be right back."

His thoughts will probably be kicking him, even though, I tried to reassure him. I don't want Jake to think I'm second-guessing the wedding. There is no doubt that I want to marry him, call him my husband. Why wouldn't I? I'm lucky I was blessed with a man like him; with so much family principles and who's a gentleman to every woman. I couldn't have asked for more. We've known each other for nearly four years and every day I fall more in love with him.

Soon, I hear Jake coming downstairs. He usually takes longer when in the shower, but my words must have made him cut it short. He's only wearing some white basketball shorts I bought him and convinced him to wear at least around the penthouse other than his too old sweatpants. His hair is still wet, drops of water falling to his shoulders.

Jake comes and sits across from me in the couch. His right arm resting on the headrest of the couch. I reach for his other hand and intwined our fingers, giving him a reassuring squeeze and small smile. His thumb rubs my hand in response, acknowledging my efforts. The closer I come to speak, the more my heartbeats accelerate. He won't be a jerk about this, but I know him and I know he'll want to choose this and cancel his tour, which will be outrageous considering it starts in thirty days. This is something I've always feared when it comes to being with him. I never want to make him choose between me and his career.

I take a deep breath and slowly let it go. "I'm pregnant."

His grip on my hand loosens. He stays frozen for a couple of long seconds before he moves. He rubs his forehead with his right hand. "When..." He pauses and lets out a silent, almost nonexistent humorless laugh. He drops his hand back to the headrest of the couch, looking me again. "When did you find out?"

"This morning." I pull my hand out of his and rest it on my lap. "I've been feeling different. Sick almost. This morning I... just decided to take a test."

"What do you want me to do?"

"What do you mean what do I want you to do?"

"I leave for tour next month, Sky, and I won't be back until the end of January. The wedding is supposed to happen at the end of April as well as the honeymoon." He says. "They won't be able to happen now that we're expecting, at least not the honeymoon."

"We could... I could go on tour with you, visit a good doctor every time I need a check up." I try to convince him, "I know it's unreasonable, but we can still get married once the tour comes to an end. Sure, I'll be big by that time, but who cares?" I say. "I know all of this is poorly planned and... I'm sorry. I was just as surprised as you were when I found out."

"I always thought we would have kids a year or two after getting married." He says, but more to himself than to me. "It was our plan."

"Are you upset?" I question tentatively. "About the pregnancy."

I look at him, searching his face for anything that could give away what he thinks. I feel like I'm walking on eggshells. I don't blame him for being so quiet. It's an unexpected news and one that is hard to take in. This will change our lives forever. We will have a little human being who will be dependent on us.

He reaches for my hand and pulls me closer to him. His hand moves from mine to my cheek. He looks me in the eyes and says, "No." A small grin starts to appear on his lips. "To be honest, I'm excited to see a little you running around."

I laugh, shaking my head. "What makes you think it'll be a little me and not a little you?"

"I don't know." He shrugs.

"I think it'll be a little you. My reason: maternal instinct." I contradict him with a smirk.

He nods. "Fair enough." Jake's hand moves to my still flat stomach. "But I'm happy with either one. Just so you know."

I move from the couch and sit on his lap. My arms go around his neck, my fingers playing with the ends of his hair. "I love you."

"I love you."

Despite time being against our odds, I'm ecstatic about this new ride and side of life. Motherhood is one of the best gifts of life to women and I'm glad I get the opportunity to be a mom as well as Jake getting the chance to be a father. Being somewhat young, we might have a few more things to learn in life but I still believe we'll be the best parents we can be to our child and in the future, children. Mom and Dad and Ethan and Jen are both great examples of the parents we will strive to be and although they are not here anymore, Jake's parents will also be parenting role models to us.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Elizabeth A. Lampson-Caplin
Loving friend, mother and wife.
November 21, 1956 - August 16, 2009.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harrison E. Caplin
Loving friend, father and husband.
June 13, 1956 - August 16, 2009.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Not even death could due us apart..."

"I'll leave you alone," I tell him, kissing his hand before walking away and letting him have his time with his parents before Ethan gets his turn.

He nods, but doesn't fully acknowledge me.

It's a painfully numb day for him and Ethan today. It's their parents' death anniversary and it's just as hard as it was that first year for him.

Every year is hard.

Jake always makes it his mission to come to visit them on this day no matter what's on his schedule. It's a way to reassure himself and them that he hasn't forgotten about them. We arrived to Maine last night. He's been more quiet than usual, relying more on body contact to communicate than words.

Eight years later, it's still hard for him and Ethan to come to terms with the fact that they were taken away from him by an ordinary person. A drunk, ordinary person.

Jake places the bouquet of flowers on their gravestones, crouching down. His head hangs down as he takes deep breaths to control his emotions. I'm tempted to stand next to him as soon as I see him struggle, but I hold back, giving him the time he needs. Seeing him so devastated brings tears to my own eyes, more so than usual becomes of my raging pregnancy-stimulated hormones. I love him and seeing someone you love completely distraught over a situation you can't change makes you feel nothing but useless. My greatest wish is that I could help him with more than my support and my love but reality stops me from doing so.

When I notice his shoulders begin to shake with shuddering breaths and his hands on his eyes, I approach him. As soon as he feels me, Jake stands up. His eyes are sad and red as tears roll down his cheeks.

"It's okay," I tell him as he rests his forehead on my shoulder like a broken child. "I'm so sorry, Bunny."

My hands go around his neck and shoulder blades. My fingers slightly going under the collar of his shirt to soothe him, skin to skin. I can feel his tears soaking through my blouse. My frown deepening with trouble.

We move back and give Ethan space. He nods thankfully as he tries his best to not let his emotions get the best of him too. Jake pulls back to clean his cheeks but they still remain tear-stained as I rest his forehead against mine.

"I love you and I'm sure that they are still loving both of you from wherever they are."

"It's not fair." He hardly murmurs through gritted teeth.

"I know, but he's paying for his mistake." I remind him. "That won't bring them back but it's something. It's at least something and not nothing."

I chastely peck his lips. "We love you." I take his hand in mine, placing it on my stomach. "And we're here for you no matter what."

Jake isn't an alcoholic, but he has a tendency of drinking when upset and I don't want him to result to alcohol on any occasion especially today when he's not the only one upset. I understand the urge of wanting to numb his pain. However, I don't agree with him numbing it with a potential addiction.

When we return to Ethan's house, he half-heartedly acknowledges the girls and Jen before going upstairs. Jen gives me a small smile in sympathy, understanding what I'm going through. She knows Ethan is suffering this day just as much as Jake, but pretends to be strong due to his title of older brother. As soon as he comes in, he greets the girls with a kiss on their forehead before hugging Jen and burying his face in her hair. I instantly know his strength has caved and his emotions have taken over. I leave them alone and follow Jake upstairs.

We end up spending the rest of the day in our room, holding him as he seeks sleep for distraction and a way to quickly put this day to an end.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

5 weeks later.

"Congratulations." The doctor says as she looks at the screen. "You made it through the first trimester. The chances of miscarriage are lower now like I informed you in your last visit a month ago."

Jake and I haven't told anyone about the pregnancy yet. My pregnancy is classified as high risk due to my mental illness. Plus, this is the first time my body experiences pregnancy, making the chances of miscarriage higher at my early weeks of pregnancy. We don't want to get other people's hopes up just to crush them while our wishes also crash. Them knowing would make it harder for us to deal with if something happens.

Jake and I have experienced pregnancy scares before, but they never went through.

Jake's team are the only ones who know outside of us and strictly because of obligation and help. They've done a good job with hiding the pregnancy from the media. I also make sure I wear baggy shirts when in public to make my stomach less prominent through fabric. My belly is not too big, but it's already slightly rounded, giving anyone who could catch it the hint.

Dr. Fallon was hired by Jake's team to avoid numerous hospital visits and suspicion from the media. They fly her and her equipment to whatever state we're in when I'm due for an appointment.

She moves the prod around my stomach, finding the baby. Her fingers quickly motion to an area on the screen. "You can see the baby's head here." She pauses and analyzes. Then, slowly speaks, "Everything seems to be okay so far."

I focus on the screen as Jake holds my hand. He or she looks so small. It's hard to believe he/she is inside me. Jake's already on tour and even though, he's sometimes busy even on his free days, he has accompanied me to every doctor's appointment. It's cute to see him ecstatic over the arrival of our child. His actions now let me just how much of a good father he's going to be once the baby arrives.
His eyes gleam and completely entranced with every word and action of the doctor.

Once I'm into my last months, Jake and I want to do a 3D ultrasound just to see the baby's face before we meet him/her. I can't wait for the day I can get to hold our baby, look at their eyes and experience falling in love again. See the result of true love in my arms.

Dr. Fallon taps some buttons on her computer and frowns. "However, I am a little worried about the baby's size and weight. At thirteen weeks, it should be at least 2.9 inches long and .81 ounces. Yours is at 2.4 inches and .74 ounces. It's not drastically behind, but if we do take it lightly, it can turn into something else in the future."

She stops looking at the computer screen and turns to us. "I know you're taking Lithium for your bipolar disorder, which makes me suspect it's the cause for the baby's low weight and size. I will contact your psychiatrist and discuss if we can slowly take you off of it and get you into psychotherapy to help the baby's growth and also make sure you don't relapse into an episode during your pregnancy. Your health and the baby's are my primary concern.

"According to your mental health record that I was granted by Liza, your bipolar disorder isn't as aggressive as others which is good and the reason why I believe we can get you into psychotherapy for the remainder of the pregnancy. Albeit, I'm no psychiatrist which is why I'll consult this matter with Dr. Reynolds."

* * * *

Three days later, I recognize Dr. Fallon's office number on my phone screen. Jake is already at the arena rehearsing for tonight and getting ready for meet and greet. I'm still at the hotel. I always leave just as his meet and greet starts so when I get there he's already halfway through them and I don't stay alone in the lounge for long. Plus, it's a way to prevent fans from seeing me.

We're telling everyone next week. They're flying to Seattle for Jake's concert. They'll be here two days before it so we'll have a dinner the day before the concert and drop the news. It'll definitely be nerve wracking. Dad is all about a father always being there for their child and I don't want him to think Jake won't be here for us because of his career. Although he does love Jake and has always agreed of our relationship, I'm his little girl like he always says. His best interests for me always come first.

"Hello?" I answer my phone.

"Sky? Hi, it's Jane. I'm just calling you to inform you I spoke with Liza and she agrees with psychotherapy." She starts. "She's actually in the line. Liza." Dr. Fallon says.

"Sky, hi. Um, like Jane said we'll change you to therapy instead of keeping you on medication. We'll slowly start lowering your dose from the two times a day that you're doing at the moment to one and then none. By not doing it abruptly, we're avoiding any possible problem that could surface and affect you and/or the baby's development.

"If I would've known it would affect the baby's growth, I would have put you in therapy from the start." Dr. Reynolds informs me. "But after I get you into psychotherapy, Jane is expecting the baby to catch up. I know it's another overwhelming change since I changed your medication when you first found out you were pregnant and now I'm taking you out of it--"

"No, no. I... I understand." I tell her. "It is a bit overwhelming. It also worries me. As a first time soon-to-be mom, every change makes me nervous. And with a mental illness, I'm not the average mom."

"I understand and your actions are completely justifiable. But trust us. I am aware it's easier said than done because I was also in your position with the nervousness with my first pregnancy and even as an OB/GYN I doubted myself and my doctor." Dr. Fallon comments.

I rub my belly, feeling the familiar fluttering or feeling of butterflies caused by the baby's movements as they continue to explain to me their plan. I feel more at ease as everything in their plan becomes more detailed.

My only wish throughout this pregnancy is for our child to be born healthy.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Jake pulls me closer. Our family and closest friends are at the table waiting for us. We're just a few moments from finally sharing the news. Once we tell them, we'll just announce it to Jake's fans too just to avoid the media from talking first and having Mark bare the burden of making a statement in our name. We've also decided to do a small wedding ceremony at the end of April before the baby's due date, just to fulfill our desire of being married. There's a lot going on for us, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. At twenty-four years old, I'm in process of creating my own family by marrying Jake and hopefully welcoming a little Bunny soon.

"I feel like I'm going to puke." I tell him, leaning my forehead against his chest. It's definitely not the morning sickness making an appearance, but more the nerves.

He chuckles and pulls my face back. "You won't. I should be the one near puking with the fact that your dad might cut my dick off after we tell him."

My eyebrows pull together and I hit his chest. He laughs, taking joke in his words. Although, it could be slightly true, I don't appreciate Jake being so crude especially in a public setting.

"He won't and stop talking like that."

He pulls me to him. Our contact has been decreasing these last few weeks. As my belly grows and Jake continues his habit of pulling me to him, we've concluded that as time goes by my belly create distance between our bodies. It's hard getting use to it and the fact that I'm pregnant. There's so much responsibility even before the baby is born and it's one I'm willing to have.

We walk to our side of the restaurant, ready to face what's ahead. I'm wearing a flowy, semi formal maxi dress that somewhat hides my belly, making me look like I only gained a few pounds.

Once we're almost in front of them, Jake kisses my back of my hand, where my engagement ring rests.

As we greet everyone, I hug Sarah. She manages to hug me closer than everybody else and notices the hardness of my stomach. I instantly cringe as she pulls back, her eyes budging. I shrug with a shy smile and plead her with my eyes to stay quiet.

"Oh my god," she grins and whispers.

I shake my head and sit on my seat next to Jake. We order a couple of drinks and chat. I keep my hand beneath Jake's on his thigh. Every time he feels me start to tense, he begins to soothe me with his touch. I kiss his jaw and give him a smile once I feel like it's appropriate to tell everyone.

We've already order our meals, I think it's of good timing to tell them before it arrives.

We stand up and everyone goes silent.

"Um.. the reason why Jake flew you all here is not only to celebrate this huge career accomplishment of his." I pause, smiling at him and noticing a faint blush on his cheeks. "But because we also have important news to share with you."

"The first one and part of the second is," Jake starts. "We're having a somewhat uninvited guest per say at our wedding."

Every female's eyes widen while the males present just frown.

"Now, the reason to this drastic announcement..." Jake speaks, but stops to allow me continue.

"Jake and I found out..." I bit my lip, looking at my family. Carter raises an eyebrow probably assuming where this is going. "We're expecting."

Mom's eyes water and I can see her holding back her tears. Sarah is smiling like the Cheshire cat just like the boys, but probably for a different reason. It feels good to have finally shared this news. Every day that goes by just gets me more excited. My hands go under my belly, making the fabric hug and make it more prominent.

"I'm just through my first trimester." I add.

That sentence provokes a strangled sob from Mom, "Sky."

I give her a small smile. "My pregnancy is of high risk and we wanted to be on the safer side before getting all of your hopes up about a mini Jake."

Jake rolls his eyes and the boys from the band laugh and holler while Ethan laughs.

"Another good, single man gone too soon." Dash is the first one to stand and hug him, beer in hand, followed by the rest.

"Clearly, you're already buzzed because I haven't been single for the last three years, mate." Jake tells him, chuckling.

Mom and Dad walk up to me. I know this is hard for them, especially Dad. They are aware about the chances of the baby inheriting my bipolar disorder. It's something Jake and I discussed. He accepts the probability. As a soon-to-be father, he worries just like I do. I don't want any of my children to experience the lack of control I have over my illness sometimes. Albeit, if they do, I'll be here to support them and guide them through it the way I didn't have anyone to mentor me.

"I'm so happy for the both of you." Mom says through tears as she pulls back from our hug.

"Mom." I warn as my eyes start to water.

Once I start crying, it'll be hard to stop due to my hormones.

"I know, I know." She says through a laugh and cleans her cheeks as Dad gives her a side hug.

Mom moves back and gives Dad a chance. "Congratulations, princess." His hug tightens as the course of emotions flow through us and his voice cracks. "You'll be a great mother. I'm so proud of you."

"Thank you." I manage to whisper through the tears I could no longer hold back.

He continues to hold me for a few longer seconds before breaking our hug and cleaning my wet cheeks with his thumbs. Carter hugs me next and calmly offers to kill Jake. I laugh and kindly decline as Sarah comes next.

"You, little bitch."

Everyone continues to congratulate us until our foods arrive. We settle back into the table, but maintain the same subject conversation to the point that Ace and Amelia also confess she's in the early stages of pregnancy after approximately three years of marriage and six months of trying. Tonight turns out to be better than I or even we expected. It's always nice to spend time with everyone, fill each other in on our lives. Time has become a privilege when it comes to any of us.

Ethan and Jen are full with the girls as both of them are in school, even more so now that they welcomed a baby boy; Chase Harrison Caplin. He's middle name being Jake and Ethan's father's name. Sara has gone her own way after things did not work out with her and Josh. They tried, but their compromises were never enough. Mom and Dad are in Boston, yet with Jake being busy with tour and me touring with him is hard to see them. I closed the store a few weeks after our engagement per request of Jake. My only job at the moment is technically the pregnancy and helping Mark with tour organization if it gets hectic in bigger venues. It was hard letting go of the store and not having really a job anymore. In the future, maybe I can convince Jake let me do something busier. However, at the moment I know he won't let me just so I'm always relaxed and the baby's okay until our due date.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

BREAKING NEWS: Jake Caplin and fiancée Sky Atkin expecting their first child!

Who would've thought we would see this day coming so soon?

The 28 year old singer and his 24 year old fiancée announced the news to his fans and the world through an Instagram post. Caplin posted a cute picture of a sonogram -- as he and Atkin held it -- with the caption:

"Sky and I are excited to say we are having a mini Caplin!!!! So far, at fifteen weeks, the baby's healthy and growing. We're thrilled to be welcoming a little one to our gang in a few months. Sky thinks the baby will be cuter than me.

I disagree. (Please feel free to back me up. Thanks)

Much love from the three of us. Xx"

Although this adorable, heart-melting picture was shared to his 8 million Instagram followers, Ms. Soon-to-be Caplin still has not been photographed with her bump. She has remained MIA for the past months since her fiancé started his Lighting Stars tour back in late August, early September.

However, reports have been made by fans of her being backstage with him throughout the tour since his concert at Staples Centre, one month ago.

Jake's team released an exclusive statement to our E! News team, sharing the excitement of the couple about their family addition.

"Jake was ecstatic when Sky shared the news with him one night after he returned from tour rehearsals." His manager commented. "Even though, he has his hands full with tour, the pregnancy, and their upcoming wedding, he wouldn't change the way things have turned out."

Even though the couple is young, they have been deemed mature enough to take these two big steps of marriage and family in their lives regardless of their age.

We're just as excited to find out what the little Atkin-Caplin baby will turn out to be. Girl? Or boy? Regardless of the gender, what we are all sure of is that the couple will definitely be having one beautiful baby.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

"Do you feel yourself falling? Losing control of your emotions?" Dr. Reynolds says.

"No." I say, upset. "No. It's more like the hormones."

I'm at eighteen weeks, having my scheduled psychotherapy session with Liza. We're two weeks away from finding out the baby's gender. However, a foreign insecurity has crept into my mind the last few weeks and I haven't been able to shake it out. It's scary. It threatens the current control I have over my mind and makes me doubt my nurturing side, the side I'll be using with my child and any other future children. It makes me question whether I was really made to be a mother or just a lover, a partner. It makes me doubt my worth, whether I'm overestimating my capabilities as a person with a mental illness.

"It's more of an insecurity than a coming depression." I tell her. "Jake says he's fine with the chances, but is he really? Or is he trying to minimize my guilt? What about the baby? Will he or she be okay with it if they inherited it?" I take a deep breath. A try to regain my composure. "I know what it's like to be in your teenage years, wanting to be with your friends, having fun, but having this... this indescribable emotion holding you back. Feeling helpless and foreign. I didn't have anyone. They'll have me, but what if they resent me? I'd do anything to bare my future children from having this flaw. The only way would be not reproducing, but I'm too selfish to not do that. My need... My dream of being a mother, having a family with a loving husband, is too big to let my bipolar disorder win."

She takes notes as I speak before speaking. "It's okay to have these insecurities. Every first time mom has them. They're completely justifiable. But remember yourself just as there are chances of them inheriting it, they are also higher chances of them not inheriting your bipolar disorder, Sky."

Liza closes her notebook and sits closer, taking my hand. "Like I said, every first time mother experiences insecurities. Yours are different insecurities, but they still are that: insecurities. You've learned to control your disorder better than any of my patients your age and even older. Your control is something you can teach them if they do inherit it. That should be enough of a reason for your insecurities to disappear, but if they still linger, remind yourself how good of a support system you have surrounding you and your child." She says. Her eyes holding nothing but sincerity. "As your psychiatrist, I'm not supposed to give life advices, but as your friend, I can. I've been treating you for nearly six years, Sky. I know you as a patient and as a person. You're capable of being a mother and anything else you want to be. Don't underestimate your capabilities."

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

"Have you had any cravings? I miss those. I had Tom wrapped around my finger with them." Ellen, Jake's hair stylist, said.

We were sitting in the backstage lounge, waiting for Jake to finish meet and greet so she could get on to work again. He normally skips her for meet and greet and does his own hair when he shouldn't. Mark gets irritated when he does because his 'hair looks like a mess and fans won't like that in their meet and greet picture'.

I met Ellen when Jake started tour. She was hired along with the rest of the prep crew for the tour.

"Surprisingly, I've only had one." I start. "I started craving churros about two weeks ago. Thankfully, Jake found amazing ones from Cinnabon. But it's so weird that that was my first -- and only craving so far -- because the last time I ate them I was like seventeen."

We continued talking pregnancy, kids and marriage until Jake finished meet and greet. I'm at fifth months, a little over halfway through the pregnancy. My legs and ankles have started to swell a little so I spend more time in the backstage lounge. By the time I'm at the end of my six months mark, Jake will be done with his tour so we'll be back home and it'll be easier for me to rest through the swelling. It's going to be weird going home for Christmas and then going back on the road, but I'm excited for the somewhat weird way we're going to spend our holidays.

Now as we go shopping for Christmas presents, we'll be able to buy stuff for the baby since Jake and I found out the gender of the baby on our last doctor appointment.

"Okay, let's do this." Jane starts spreading the gel in my belly as the monitor completely turns on.

"Are you nervous?" Jake questions as he sits next to me and holds my hand like every other visit.

"Should I be?"

"No. I think you should be excited but I know you. You get nervous every visit."

Jane interrupts our conversation to give us her summary of the ultrasound. "Everything seems great just like your last visit. The baby has kept up with the expected measurements and weigh ever since we took you off the Lithium." She turns on the sound to listen to the heartbeat. "The heartbeat is strong and healthy."

She takes some pictures before turning her chair to face up and ask, "So what did you guys decide? Yes or no?"

Jake squeezes my hand, giving me the go. "We'll go with the yes."

She grins, clearly happy with our decision. I would consider the 'finding the gender' part the most exciting part for her when it comes to her patients' pregnancy. It's what I looked forward the most about the pregnancy other than the kicks. Although they can hurt at times, I like them especially when Jake tries to soothe the baby by talking and rubbing my belly. He does it at night since the little bunny kicks the most before we go to bed. Jane said it's normal since the baby is growing, getting bigger and feeling a little bit more crammed. Kicking is the baby's ways of shifting position and getting more comfortable.

"You're in luck." She starts. "You have a frisky one who's not afraid to show what they have and seems to have been growing a habit already." Dr. Fallon points to the baby's face where she/he is sucking their thumb.

"Anyways, you guys are having a..."

The appointment is definitely the best one so far. We've started thinking names already. Jake has a few favorites of his own and I have mine. We're still eliminating some of our lists. Once we reach our top five, we'll either decide on a common favorite or compromise.

As Ellen and I continue to chat, Jake enters the lounge as he unbuttons his plaid shirt.

"This arena is so fucking hot."

"Or maybe your meet and greet caused you to be hot." I say, "You were basically sharing body heat for forty-five minutes."

"Maybe." He kisses me before plunging next to me in the couch.

"Don't get comfortable, mister. I need to do your hair in ten minutes." Ellen tells him.

Jake rolls his eyes and we both know what he's about to say before he speaks. He's so stubborn I sometimes wonder how Mark puts with him when they constantly bunt heads with their stubbornness. "No. You don't."

"I don't even know why they bothered hiring me." Ellen comments more to herself than to us.

However, that doesn't stop Jake from making a comment himself. "To keep Sky some girl company amongst this sea of men." He pecks my temple before giving Ellen a smirk.

"Such a thoughtful bunny."

Jake narrows his eyes and Ellen and I laugh.

Three years later and you would think he still wouldn't be embarrassed about me calling him Bunny in public. I'm sure he'll come around it, eventually.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

"And here we have the most talked couple by teen girls and every single woman..." The interviewer says as we approach her.

We're at the Staples Centre for the Grammy's. It's my first award show appearance as Jake's pregnant fiancée and it's kind of nerve wracking. I'm not a big fan of doing the whole award show carpet routine and everything, but it's Jake and the band's special night and I wouldn't not walk with Jake in such a special occasion.

"Jake Caplin and fiancée Sky Atkin. Welcome to the Grammy's."

Jake lets go of my hand to put his arm around my waist and bring me closer to him. He looks so handsome in his Gucci black suit. Ellen managed to finally be able to style his hair and do her job. Mark made him cut his sides a little just so he would look more polished for the award ceremony. My long red burgundy dress matches his tie. Jake's stylist found it for me for the ceremony; it has small diamonds around the deep cut v-neck and a swarovski diamond belt. The belt enhances my bump and since we'll probably be the talk of the night, Mark approved of the attention it brought. Ellen also did my hair, curling it into mermaid waves and pinning my left side back. I would be lying if I said I didn't feel beautiful with my outfit, hair and make-up plus I feel completely lucky to be in Jake's arm tonight.

Cameras have been flashing around us ever since we stepped out of the black Cadillac and started to walk the carpet. Jake's name has been called in every direction. Albeit, Mark gave him a list of the interviewers and networks he'll be prioritizing and giving interviews to tonight.

Our first stop was E! News since they were the first ones Jake's team revealed the pregnancy to.

Jake gives my waist a squeeze, giving me an unspoken 'Here we go'. "Good evening, thank you."

"I have to say you both look great." The interviewer grins. Jake mutters a thank you and allows her to continue, "Tonight's a big night for you: four nominations, two of them the most important categories of the award show and it's your first time at the Grammy's. How do you feel?"

"I feel incredibly blessed. To be already nominated is enough to be thankful for. If it wasn't for my team, the band and fans, I wouldn't be here. So, everything about tonight is already a dream come true."

"Sky, what about you? How does it feel being with him here at the Grammy's tonight?" The interviewer puts the microphone my way, surprising me.

"Um..." I steal a glance towards Jake as he gives me a nod, encouraging me to answer. "It feels amazing to be here with him and support him. I'm very proud of him and seeing him succeed makes me incredibly happy. He can't do any better than he has so far." I peer up at Jake and smile. He smiles back before driving his attention back to the interviewer.

"Now, you're still on tour and will continue to be until the end of next month. Once you're done, can fans expect new music?"

Jake looks at me before kissing my temple. "Unfortunately no. After the tour ends, I want to focus on my family for at least four or five months before I go back to making new music."

I'm glad Jake came to decision of taking a four months break. It ensures me he'll be with me for the baby's first months home. If he went back to making music as soon as he finished tour that will mean late night at the studios, promo tours, etc and I wouldn't want him to miss the first milestones of the baby's life and I'm sure he doesn't want to either. Jake's a family man. If he had to give up his career in order to be there for his family, he would.

"Congratulations on the pregnancy, by the way. Could we get the scoop of the baby's gender by any chance?" She grins, hoping to charm the answer out of us.

Jake chuckles and gives her his boyish grin he uses for the media. "Unfortunately, no. We're keeping it a secret until the baby is born."

"Have you guys at least discussed names?"

Jake stays silent and gives me a squeeze, signaling me to answer. "We've thrown some ideas here and there and have a list, but we haven't made a decision yet."

"I don't think we will until the baby is born either." Jake adds.

"Well, congratulations again and good luck tonight. Wishing the best to both of you. We can't wait for the wedding shots and the arrival of baby Caplin." She says.

"Thank you." Jake smiles. "Good night."

************

"It's almost time." I remind him.

Two of the categories Jake was nominated for, he has lost. The last two categories and most important categories of the night he is nominated for are coming up and will be closing tonight's award ceremony. I'm praying that he gets at least one of them. I know he believes he'll be beaten by another artist in the category, but I have faith in him and somewhat the academy to grant him these awards.

"Don't remind me. I'm already sweating." He tells me, nuzzling my hair as he holds my hand in his lap.

I laugh and then unexpectedly wince.

Jake quickly pulls away. A frown on his face. "Are you okay?"

"Fine, just a strong kick." I rub my bump and give a reassuring smile.

Jake rubs my belly trying to dissipate the kicks. Since the baby's first kick, I've concluded that they are stronger when I'm sitting than when I'm laying down. Right now, I can't lay down so the baby can get comfortable so I'm praying Jake's rubs do the trick. They do most of the time so I'm hopeful. The baby is very responsive to Jake's touch and voice which has already let me know how attached they'll be.

The presenters interrupt everyone's chats as we go back live. They come out with new outfits and begin their dialogues before beginning to introduce the most expected categories of the night.

"We've reached our last nominations of the night."

"Record and Album of the Year. Here are the nominees."

People stare at screen as the nominees are shown for Record of the Year. Each artist receiving a cheer of preference by the crowd. Jake's hand tightens on mine as they show him on the big screen. I tighten my hand back and smile reassuringly before kissing his cheek. My heart beats against my rib cage with adrenaline and nerves as the screen goes black and the lights return to the presenters.

"And the winner for Record of the Year is...."

The entire arena is silent as they watch them open the envelope tentatively. The sound of the paper being broken echoes. I can feel my hands starting to sweat due to the anticipation. Jake is as rigid as a statue next to me and time's seconds seem to have become longer. I want to tell him everything will be okay, but I don't know if that will help him. I know the award means something to him even though he says he's just happy with the nomination which I'm sure he is, too. Albeit, winning the awards or at least one of the nominations is what he came here for.

"Do you want to say it together?"

The other presenter nods.

"Lighting Stars - Jake Caplin."

The claps erupt around the room and Jake turns to look at me with a deer in the headlights expression. I laugh as he leans his forehead against mine.

"Congratulations, Bunny." I give him a chaste kiss and prompt him to stand up as the rest of boys start to walk. As they approach the stage, the operated presenter announces, "Jake Caplin is also being awarded for Album of the Year."

They hug the presenters and hand Jake both gramophones.

"Shit, these are heavier than I thought." Everyone hears him mutter and laughs.

I shake my head with a small smirk. You would think he would know better than cursing in national TV.

He walks to the microphone after handing one of the gramophones to the band. "You would think being four feet away from the microphone constitutes to not being heard."

The crowd chuckles again and I couldn't keep myself from joining them.

"Wow... I," he pauses to take a deep breath and gaze at the crowd. "I don't know where to start but I guess I should begin by thanking the Academy for these awards. Secondly, my band." Jake moves to the side, giving the spotlight to the boys. "For making this record and album instrumentally possible. My record label and team, for believing in me as an artist and giving me the chance to do music as my job. Also, thank you to all of the song-writers, producers, directors that worked with me throughout the making of both of these pieces. My fans, these are also yours. Thank you for supporting me and making my dream come true. You guys are part of the reason why I'm here.

"And lastly but definitely not least, thank you to my family for always being with me through the good and the bad. Also I want to thank Sky." My eyes water as he points to me in the crowd, finding me right away. "For being the inspiration of the record and half of the album. I love you, Petal."

By the time Jake raises the gramophone and says a final thank you, tears are uncontrollably going down my cheeks. From happiness. Proudness. And a mixed of other emotions. To say the night ended the way it should have was an understatement. Once Jake and I reunite backstage, tears started streaming down my face again as Amelia and the girlfriends congratulate their partner. Jake cleans my cheeks with his thumb and I see an indescribable emotion on his eyes.

The words leave my mouth in a whisper. "They're so proud of you."

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

3 1/2 months later.

"Jake," I whisper, shaking his shoulder to wake him up.

It's 3:38am and I've been having contractions for about an hour and a half, each of them starting sooner than the other. At the moment, they're about twenty to seventeen minutes apart. The intensity of each one has become unbearable, leading me to wake up Jake for a ride to the hospital. The baby isn't supposed to arrive until two weeks from now. However, Dr. Fallon warned us that I might not make it full term but that that was okay.

"Jake." I repeat.

He turns on his back and covers his eyes with his arms. "What?" His sleep state in hearable in his groggy and deep voice.

"We need to go to the hospital. I'm getting contractions."

****

"Mrs. Caplin. I need you to place your legs here and push at the count of three."

Everyone in our hospital room is frantic and in a hurry. Jake called my parents and Ethan while we were on our way to the hospital. Since they're in Boston and Maine, it's likely they won't be able to make it for the delivery but they'll be here soon. Jake arranged flights for them so they don't have to drive all the way to New York.

I've never been nervous. I was slightly nervous for our wedding ceremony, but not as much as I am for this.

"Sky, can you stop fidgeting? I'm trying to zip your dress and your moving and baby bump aren't on my side." Sarah says, frustrated while Mom fix my hair and Jen tries to retouch my makeup.

Sarah has never worked well under pressure. The moment she offered herself to help my getting ready the day of the wedding I knew she would become some kind of Godzilla. My nerves have made the baby go into a kicking spree. I've been trying to cease them by taking deep breaths. The kicks have lessened, but they surprise when I feel one.

"Aaaandd..." Sara whispers before loudly saying, "We're done." She comes around to face and her eyes water at the sight of me as a bride while Jen quickly leaves the room after she's called. "You look beautiful."

"Stop." I laugh to distract the tears that want to brim my eyes. "You're going to make me cry. Go join Jen and Amelia."

She hugs me, whispering an I love you before leaving. Mom also gives me a teary smile before hugging me and walking me and Dad to the entrance for our walk down the aisle.

"Ready?" Dad asks as Mom goes to her seat and signals for the music to start.

I nod, squeezing his hand in my arm. I push my hair back, making sure the tattoo I got on my collarbone almost nine months ago is visible for the first time after being hidden with makeup since I got it. It's "I love you" in Jake's handwriting with a small bunny at the end. Quite a cheesy tattoo, but it holds a big amount of significance for me and hopefully for him to.

The music begins and we both take our first steps down the aisle. The small amount of guests; our closest families and friends are standing and looking our way as they take pictures and videos. My eyes go to the end of the aisle where Jake is standing in his suit, a smile and a glint in his green eyes. He looks good with his stubble and messy hair. Many women would have been against my decision of letting him go keep the stubble and messy hair, but in my eyes that's what makes him him.

Once we reach the end, Dad tells Jake as he places my hand in Jake's, "I won't tell you to take good care of you because I know you will. My best wishes to the both of you."

Jake thanks Dad, before facing me. His eyes roam my body from top to bottom. I'm wearing a flowy lace dress that doesn't fully hug my protruding belly. My blonde hair curled into beach waves and my make-up done in soft spring colors that fit the beautiful gardens of the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.

Jake and I fell in love with the gardens when we visited them while looking for a nice place to have a small wedding ceremony. Central Park would've been our first choice, but our wishes of privacy would have been thrown out the window right away.

The instant his eyes notice the tattoo, he looks at me, ashened. His eyes brimming with emotion as he leans his forehead against mine.

"I love you." Those are his words just as the wedding officially begins.

Surprisingly, I want to fast forward to the part the baby is in my arms and I know everything went okay mainly because I'm impatient but also because I'm in an excruciating amount of pain. Jake cleans the sweat from my forehead with a small towel before kissing my temple as he holds my right hand. A nurse stands by my left side. Mom, Dad, Carter, Ethan, Jen and the girls are on their way to the hospital from the airport. Sara and the band are already in the waiting room.

"You're doing well, Sky." Dr. Fallon says, "Just a few more."

She starts counting again and begin with the work, but instead of telling me to stop at the count of ten she tells me to continue.

A few milliseconds in, relief from the pain I've been feeling for eight hours consumes my body. Several new voices can be heard around me as Dr. Fallon announces, "It's a boy! Time of birth: 10:02am."

Once my ears register his cries, tears start streaming down my face. The nurses take him and begin taking his vitals and weight as they clean him.

"He's here," I manage to tell Jake.

"I'm so proud of you. I love you." His eyes brim with tears. "You did so well, baby." One tear escapes and I clean it as he gives me a chaste kiss, his thumb rubbing my cheek as a nurse returns our camera from taking pictures of the delivery of mini Caplin to show the others outside.

Dr. Fallon finishes and congratulates us on the new arrival before leaving the room with most of the small team.

Not long afterwards, one of the nurses returns with a calmer Bunny in her arms. She turns to give him to me, but I nod my head towards Jake wanting him to hold him first.

As soon as he's in Jake's arms, he cuddles further into Jake's body warmth and his blanket, making small, cute sounds. His fingers brush the edge of the blanket, big chunks of brown hair peaking from under his beanie. As he holds him, the resemblance between them becomes uncanny. He's all Jake with his hair, his little button nose and rosy pouted lips.

Jake pulls a chair with his free arm and sits next to the edge of my bed. "Hi, buddy boy." He whispers, touching our son's small hand. He yawns in response and Jake chuckles. "You're tired? You should leave that to Mommy. You've been chilling long enough."

Jake holds him a while longer before giving him to me. I push my and his blanket aside to have his skin touch mine while he sleeps until he decides to wake up for his first feed.

As I watch him take small deep breaths, it's unbelievable to think of how much I love him already and how much I'm willing to give up just for him. I caress his soft baby cheeks with my fingers and my thoughts run to the possibility that he might be different. "If he turns out like me..." I begin in a mumble.
Jake grabs my hand and shakes his head, telling me to stop. "If he's like you, we'll continue to love him." I take my sight from our son to him as he continues, "You'll be there for him to teach him whatever he needs to know."

My eyes water still emotional and overwhelmed by the events of today. Jake kisses my hand. "Everything will be okay, Petal. I promise."

I nod, giving him a small smile before the little Bunny starts moving, giving me a kick as he stretches upward and slightly whimpers. I chuckle, accommodating him until he sighs and becomes calm again.

"He's so me." Jake snickers, a proud grin on his face.

"What are we naming him?"

"You know which one is my favorite. It has always been at the top of my list. And now that we've met him, I still think it fits him." He comments.

"I'll let you name him if Dad's name is his middle name." I negotiate.

He stays silent, repeating the name in his head. I knew Jake wouldn't budge over the name so I tested it out before, to make sure the combination didn't sound weird and I would get my share of the deal.

"Ryder Emerson Caplin." He mumbles looking at the little Bunny. He turns to look at me, a smile playing on his face. "Deal."

I laugh in contentment and amusement, pulling him closer to me by his hand. I bit my lip, "Come here."

He kisses Ryder's forehead first before he kisses me. His lips linger over mine by a few centimeters when a knock is heard at our door. Jake rolls his eyes when he hears Sarah's voice behind the door as the knob turns.

"Can we come in?" She says, peeking in as the others stand behind her.

In this moment for the thousandth time, I realize just how lucky I am to have these people love me unconditionally. Offering me their non-judgmental and supportive love. Seeing my exposed side and still being willing to catch me whenever they need to as I fall in any situation and circumstance.

This, is what life and true love is about.