AKA: The super special that never ended, even though it took me over a month and a half to update....

I realize that me apologizing for this chapter being so very late is fairly ridiculous, but I really am sorry. The very day I did the last update my old laptop died, taking with it EVERYTHING I've ever written. My entire prequel to this novel is gone, as are five other completed books that I'd previously written, a few short stories, six other started books, and all my rough notes. While this book is actually saved in multiple places, anything unpublished is not. As a result, I kind of fell into a deep funk, and as I have depressive tendencies it wasn't good (or conducive to writing). Mostly I sulked and thought some black thoughts. I hope this chapter is up to snuff, but here's the next installment...

MPREG 5

Phillip was lagging. He was bloated and fat and tired and....very fucking pregnant. He was trying to extricate himself from the sofa, and it just wasn't working. Gabe and Daisy laughed at him and grabbed his arms, hoisting him up. It was a big day, for sure, he and Gareth's wedding day, but really, Phillip didn't feel at all like celebrating. Sure it was his idea to get married sooner rather than later, and he really did want to legally be Gareth's husband, but otherwise he just wanted to have his body back. And apparently he would only get bigger from here, seeing as he was only six and a half months along, so the doctors were telling him.

He just wanted to feel useful again. Mel had all but taken over the business right now because Phillip really couldn't handle a lot of the physical requirements of the job. In fact, due to the fact that his body, as much as it had some female bits, was predominantly masculine, he was having some issues. While it was common for pregnant women to make frequent trips to the bathroom, Phillip found that if he didn't go every hour or so, he faced problems with...leakage. And he really didn't want to buy bladder control products or feminine pads. In addition, if he ate anywhere near a normal portion of food, he regretted it for the next few hours. It wasn't pleasant, and if it wasn't for the baby growing inside him, Phillip would have done whatever he could have to be rid of all this...Pain? Annoyance? Oh, whatever it was.

At least, no matter what, the baby was viable now. Their son, if he had to come out now, would most likely survive. It would be emergency surgery, for sure, and a stay in the neonatal intensive care unit, but their son would live pending any disaster. Now he just needed to get through the wedding today so that for sure Gareth would have full legal rights to the child and his estate. Bill said it didn't matter, and that a will would do the same thing, but Phillip wanted everything totally by the books, seeing as his pregnancy wasn't.

"Come on, Phillip, you need to get changed! Daddy's going to be waiting with everyone," Daisy prompted. While Gareth had gone on ahead to the wedding venue with Franny, Phillip was coming over after a bit of a rest (plus the best way to be near a bathroom) with Daisy, Gabe, and Mel.

"Yeah, Phillip, you don't want to leave your man waaaiting," Mel singsonged as she bounded into the room, fluffing her hair that was encircled by a emerald green satin hairband. She was somewhat subdued today given the seriousness of the ceremony, as she was acting as Phillip's groomsperson, wearing all one pattern and colour. Her green dress was lovely and Phillip's eyes misted over taking her in. Something that didn't pass Mel's notice. "Yes, yes, I clean up well, but you need to get into your suit!" Freaking hormones.

Mel took Phillip's arm and dragged him back to the master bedroom, where his specially tailored suit that would probably only ever fit him once, was waiting. It was a light charcoal gray and had an oversize jacket in an attempt to cover some of his baby bump. The lavender checked shirt and solid tie went underneath and matched Abby's dress, as she was Gareth's groomsperson, while Mel's dress matched Gareth's shirt. The clothes choices and colour palate was more of Mel's doing, seeing as their winter clients didn't keep she and Phillip busy full time with the business.

Vernon was supplying the wedding cake and Bill was acting as one of the witnesses. Along with the children and Gareth's parents, the Bentmans rounded out the guest list. They had been very supportive of Phillip and Gareth's relationship, and Phillip had even broken the news of the pregnancy to the couple a month ago. There was certainly no way he could hide it. While surprised, they were quick to offer their blessings and congratulations.

Mel stood in the hall while Phillip struggled into his suit pants and belt, the first non-elasticated waist band he'd worn in a few months. Following that he called her back into the room to make sure that he was dressed appropriately. She smiled warmly as she fixed his tie and straightened his collar.

"What?" Phillip asked, feeling a little self-conscious.

"I just never thought I'd see the day, Phillip. I'm so happy for you. You've got a life, a family, a business--with an awesome partner, I might add--and everything that you deserve." Her eyes darted down to Phillip's tummy, and he could see the longing on her face flash for just a moment before she pulled him in for a hug.

"It will happen for you, Mel. I know it will and you'll be the best parents," Phillip spoke softly. He could feel himself begin to tear up, and he stepped back to carefully wipe his eyes as to not drip on his silk tie.

"Thanks Phillip. We'll see. If the business keeps up, we might be able to afford some treatments in a few years." Mel gave him a nudge with her elbow. "That is, of course, if my business partner starts to pull his weight again."

"Mel, the kids had to pull me off the couch. I definitely can't pull my weight right now."

"Just a few more months," she patted his arm and took a look at her watch. "But if we don't leave for the wedding soon, I can't guarantee either of us will live that long."

Phillip nodded and checked his suit pocket for his notes. The two grooms had written their own vows and he wanted to make sure he had his. They weren't particularly eloquent, as words were totally Gareth's forte, but he hoped they expressed everything he wanted to say in front of their family and friends. He'd save the other stuff for the privacy of their own room.

A final trip to the bathroom, then Phillip put on his coat and met Daisy, Gabe, and Mel out at the car. Mel was driving, so Phillip sat back and tried to relax for the short trip. Gabe and Daisy were arguing over something in the backseat, though, so his revere was interrupted.

"It's not fair, I don't want Markham!" Daisy exclaimed.

"Nah, nah, nah, nah, nah." Gabe stuck his tongue out at his sister.

"What on earth are you arguing about?" Mel asked, glancing in the rearview mirror. Gabe was looking smug, and Daisy appeared to be really ticked off.

"About names, right?" Phillip said, hazarding a guess. He and Gareth had decided to hyphenate their names and both become Cameron-Lewises, but the kids names were not so easily changed. The new baby would have both fathers' names, but as for the others, it required some paperwork.

"Yes," Daisy replied sullenly. "Gabe says he's getting your name and I'm still stuck with Mommy's."

"I will gladly let all of you share my name, but your mother does need to sign some things first," Phillip explained, for not the first time. "You already know this." He tried to keep the exasperation out of his voice.

"Come on, guys, now isn't the time to be talking about Leeann," Mel intervened.

She knew that there were more issues preventing the children's name change, but it certainly wasn't the most pleasant talk while on the way to their father's wedding. It wasn't like Gareth and Phillip hadn't tried, but with Leeann's stay in rehab at Her Majesty's bequest and her troubled pregnancy, signing adoption papers for her three children wasn't something that could be done right now. Mel and Phillip had even met with Kyle at a coffee shop about it a few weeks ago, and the poor man was at his wit's end. While he was committed to staying with Leeann for the sake of the baby, her pregnancy had been problematic due to medical issues from withdrawal. Just trying to keep his job while caring for her and keeping up her parole conditions was running the man ragged. Apparently she had counselling, AA, NA, and parenting classes she had to attend as well as medical appointments and required drug testing. Kyle was adamant about not parenting alone, though, so he was doing what he could to help Leeann stay clean and sober.

"Look, we're here," Phillip stated, effectively ending the conversation for now. There were more pressing issues at the current moment, and Phillip was trying to keep it together.

The men were having their wedding in the conservatory room of a local restaurant, Normandie. The owners were friends of the Bentman's and clients of Phillip and Mel's; as the pair had installed a living wall with water feature on the side opposite a full glass wall overlooking the river valley. That way the restaurant patrons all had a view in the sought after room, no matter on which side they were seated. Gareth thought it would be an ideal location for the wedding, and the Guillemet family was happy to offer them the room at a huge discount.

Mel found a parking spot not too far from the door, and the group made their way inside to meet up with everyone else. It seemed that Phillip and his group were the last to arrive, and after saying quick hellos, the grooms made their way to a small lectern set in front of the plant wall and small waterfall. Mel was standing next to Phillip and Abby was by Gareth's side.

The two men eyed each other taking in the view, and liking what they saw. Phillip gave Gareth a small smile, and Gareth reached out to take his hand, squeezing reassuringly.

The Justice of the Peace made his way to the podium and started the ceremony, clearing his throat. "Welcome to all gathered here to witness the union of Gareth Lewis to Phillip Cameron." He went on to discuss the sanctity of the union of marriage and how love was important but so was respect, compromise, forgiveness, and communication. Then he included a little bit about building a stable household with patience and wisdom for all those involved in the union, looking at the children who were standing behind their father and Phillip. "Now Gareth and Phillip have prepared their own vows."

Gareth turned to Phillip and took the man's hand after pulling a piece of paper from his lapel pocket. Phillip couldn't help but notice how the green silk tie brought out the colour in his eyes as they looked at each other.

"Phillip, ever since meeting you, I have been overwhelmed by your care and compassion. You opened your home and heart to me and our children, and you've proven time and time again that they really are our children. You are the sweetest and most kind person who I have ever met and I fell in love with you bit by bit and day by day. You may be a man of few words, but your actions speak of just how wonderful a man you are. My handsome, intelligent and amazing man whom I will love until the end of time." Gareth's eyes were teary, as he gave Phillip a loving smile.

Phillip's nerves were kicking in almost as much as their son was, and his heart was pounding in his throat. He really wanted to be able to do this, but it was almost too much. Looking in Gareth's expectant eyes, he knew he had to. Never one for public speaking, he decided to pretend they were the only ones in the room. Well, and the children, since he wanted to make sure they were included.

"Gareth, you, Daisy, Franny, and Gabe came into my house and changed my life forever. I never expected to find love, acceptance, understanding, and a family, but you have given it all to me and I will forever be grateful. I know I'm not the easiest person to get along with, time and time again I've been too quiet or odd, but you saw something in me and bring out the best in me. Falling in love with you, Gareth, and you all, was the most terrifying and most rewarding experience of my life. Our house is now our home, and my life is ours, together. I love every first with you and vow to have a lifetime of firsts by your side. I love you."

Although his voice didn't waiver, Phillip was more than a little embarrassed by the tears streaming down his face. He had really been hoping to get through his speech without getting too emotional. But the look on Gareth's face was worth it. It all was worth it. Stepping out of his comfort zone for the man and family he loved had proven, time and time again, to be the way to happiness, and he was sure that this union was what he wanted. What they all wanted. Startled, Phillip felt Bill press a handkerchief into his hand.

"I got you covered, big guy," Bill whispered and gave him a cheeky wink. Then he stepped back to his seat by the table with the paperwork. The guests all tittered in amusement.

"Do you, Gareth Lewis, take this man, Phillip Cameron, to be your lawfully wedded husband for as long as you both shall live?"

"I do."

"And do you, Phillip Cameron, take this man, Gareth Lewis, to be your lawfully wedded husband for as long as you both shall live?"

"I do."

"Now for the rings," declared the officiant, bringing attention back to the task at hand. Franny stepped forward in her light purple chiffon dress with a green satin bow around her waist and her ringlets held back with a matching green hairband. In her hand, she held a net cloth bag with a drawstring containing the two rings. Everyone thought the bag was the best way to keep the rings safe, and until the start of the ceremony, they'd actually resided in Abby's purse. She opened the bag and fished out her father's ring and handed it to Phillip.

"Phillip, repeat after me. With this ring, a symbol of my love, I thee wed."

"With this ring, a symbol of my love, I thee wed." Phillip slipped the ring on Gareth's finger.

Franny gave them both a huge smile as she passed over Phillip's ring to her father.

"Gareth, repeat after me. With this ring, a symbol of my love, I thee wed."

"With this ring, a symbol of my love, I thee wed." Gareth took Phillip's ring and placed in on Phillip's finger, although it was getting a little tight due to water retention.

"By the power vested in me through the Province of Ontario, I now pronounce you husband and husband. Men you may kiss your partner."

Gareth and Phillip embraced for the first time since the morning, and gave each other a tender, loving kiss. The kids averted their eyes, they'd seen enough kissing at home.

"May you all welcome Mr. and Mr. Cameron-Lewis."

There was applause from the guests in attendance and hugs for the children. Then the officiant stepped over to the paperwork and had the men sign their marriage licence with Bill and Vernon signing as witnesses.

Beverly and Jack came and greeted Phillip warmly, Beverly gave him a big hug and a kiss on the cheek, while Jack gave Phillip a heavy pat on the back.

"Welcome to the family, son. I can't imagine a better addition to our family, aside from the little one you're carrying." Jack nodded towards Phillip's belly. It had been a long time since Phillip had been anyone's son, and it was a touching gesture.

"And such a lovely speech," Beverly stated, causing Phillip's face to colour.

Gareth saw Phillip's distress and soon came to his rescue. "Mom, Dad, leave him alone. Besides we have to take some pictures!" Gareth grabbed his husband's arm and pulled him towards the wall of glass where the children were being lined up by Abby.

"The kids can stand in front of you both, if you'd like to hide the bump, Phillip," she told him. Phillip nodded dumbly, as he was getting more than a bit overwhelmed.

"We'll just do a few, because I sense you're getting hungry, right?" Abby prompted.

"And he needs a bathroom," Daisy teased, although she was totally correct.

Fortunately, Abby took pity on the lagging Phillip, and the photos were done quickly. He excused himself to the bathroom, and took his time, just to get his bearings and take a breath. While he washed his hands, he watched the light reflect off his ring and felt the weight of it around his finger. Even though he'd been the one pushing to get married, the enormity of everything was rushing over him all over again. And it wasn't that he was panicking, he wasn't, it was just totally different than he'd ever expected. He inhaled and exhaled as best he could, given the pressing on his diaphragm, and closed his eyes while he gripped the counter.

The bathroom door swung open gently.

"Phillip? Are you okay?" Gareth asked. He stepped close behind and put his arms on Phillip's hips.

Phillip nodded and leaned back into his husband. What an idea, his husband.

"I love you, Phil. Take all the time you need, but they're getting ready to serve the food. Did you want us to start without you?" There was no negative insinuation with his question, Phillip knew. Gareth would be fine with him taking all the time he needed. But he also knew he was hungry.

"No, I'm coming, Mr. Cameron-Lewis. After you," Phillip said with a grin, hoping the double entendre wasn't lost on his husband.

Phillip didn't need to worry, he could see his husband's smirk reflected in the mirror. "Not right now, but if you're lucky, you'll come before me too," Gareth said with a chuckle. "But definitely after dinner. Just a few more hours," he coaxed. Then he made a motion for Phillip to zip his fly. Another hazard for the pregnant man used to elasticated waistbands.

They made their way back out to the dining room just as the appetizers were being placed on the tables. The couple had opted for the seating to up to the guests, so Phillip and Gareth shared a long table with the kids, while Gareth's parents sat with the Bentmans. Bill, Abby, Vern and Mel shared the final table, and the cake and a small pile of gifts were nearby. The Guillemet's son, Simone, and their daughter, Marie, were serving the room, and had just placed a tureen of a hearty fish soup at each table. They then dished out small bowls to guests along with slices of thick, crusty bread and freshly creamed butter. Most guests were also served a Norman-style Cider, imported straight from the town that the Guillemet's had immigrated from, but Phillip had ginger ale and the kids had apple juice.

The meal continued with the kids gamely trying everything that was put on their plates, including the lamb served as a main course. The other tables had the option of seafood, something else Normandie was known for, but Phillip had been cautioned about eating shellfish during the course of his pregnancy.

There were, of course, a few of the interruptions from people tapping on their glasses so the couple would kiss, especially from Franny, once she figured out what the clinking meant. A limit was quickly introduced, much to everyone's relief. When the mains were done, a pear liqueur was served in narrow sherry-style glasses, and Phillip even had a small sip of the "Eau de Vie" for a toast before they cut the wedding cake.

Photos were taken when Phillip and Gareth cut the vanilla creme cake Vernon had baked and decorated, and everyone had a laugh as Gareth and Phillip fed the first slices to each other, the lavender buttercream smearing on their faces. Everyone agreed the cake was fantastic, and it was quickly devoured, with only a small bit to take home.

"You need to freeze the last bit and eat it on your first anniversary," Mrs. Bentman told the men. "It's tradition!" Behind her, Mr. Bentman was shaking his head no, making a face.

"Of course, if you'd prefer not getting food poisoning, you could just eat it in the next few days," he suggested.

"I'll keep it in mind," Gareth said, not really revealing which suggestion he was going with, although he was sure the kids would make short work of the cake before either he or Phillip had a chance to have any more of it.

...........................................................

The wedding really was everything the couple hoped for and more. Intimate and loving, and with everyone present they could have wanted, with the exception of Phillip's parents, of course. But Phillip knew that they would be happy if they could see just how good his life was right at this moment.

By the time it was getting dark outside, the wedding reception was reaching its close, too. The kids were getting antsy in their finery and Phillip was exhausted. The newlyweds were going to spend their honeymoon (or at least the next two days of March Break) at a local luxury inn further down the river. Gareth's parents were going to stay with the children, but the dreaded 70s sofa bed was replaced with something far more comfortable, so everyone was pleased. Gareth didn't have to worry about his parents' comfort, and Phillip didn't have to worry about them choosing to sleep in the master bedroom.

"We'll load up the van with the presents and kids if you'd like to get going," Mel offered hospitably.

"Thanks so much, Mel, that would be great," Gareth said, relieved. He was more than a little tired, too.

"We love you, Daddies!" the kids called, after a quick hug for each, Mel herded them out of the restaurant and towards the van. "See you in a few days!" Franny's sash was dragging limply behind her, and Gabe's tie was long gone.

"Oh, honey, can you do us a favour?" Beverly asked before the men could get into their jackets.

"Sure, Mom, what would you like?" Gareth responded.

"Here, son, we need you to get used to driving this before the baby comes," Jack said with a wink, passing over some keys. "I can't have my grandkids driving around in that death trap you call a van anymore. Babies need vehicles with working shocks if you expect them to sleep. Besides, this one seats seven, just in case Phillip is up for another."

Gareth gave a snort at that idea while Phillip's eyes widened in shock--he wasn't sure if it was the gift of a new vehicle or the idea of another baby. "Let him at least get this one out before we go planning for a fifth kid," Gareth joked. "But seriously, Dad, you guys didn't have to do this."

"Yes, we did. We want the best for all of you, and that geriatric van isn't cutting it. The SUV even has airbags, unlike that heap you're driving now. Besides, we didn't get to pay for a wedding or anything."

"Yeah, because that's something all parents really look forward to, the price of their children's weddings," Gareth said sarcastically. 

"Oh hush now, we've already started setting aside some money for their schooling, but the weddings are on you two," Beverly smiled widely. "Please let us do this for you both, you know it makes sense, plus it's a wedding present and the dealerships don't take returns. Talk some sense into your husband, Phillip!"

"We do need a better family vehicle, thank you both so much," Phillip offered graciously. He was overcome with their generosity, but also just really wanted to leave. He was exhausted and couldn't stifle his yawn.

"See, Gareth? You need to take care of your man! The baby's wearing him out. Now take the gift and get to your inn! He needs a rest, and quite frankly, so do I." Jack wouldn't face anymore opposition, and to seal the deal he grabbed his own jacket and walked away mumbling about ingrates and taking care of grandkids.

"Thanks so much, Mom." Gareth gave Beverly a big hug and a kiss before he put his hand on Phillip's lower back to lead him out to the parking lot.

Gareth blindly pressed on the keyfob to unlock their new vehicle, and was met with a chirp and blinking of lights almost right in front of them. A deep reddish purple highlander hybrid was unlocked and waiting, complete with brand new infant car seat installed in the centre row. There mens' overnight bags were safely seated right next to it.

"Wow," Phillip stated quietly, while Gareth let loose a low whistle. While this wasn't like Bill's beemer, it was certainly a very nice family vehicle, and far nicer than anything either man had owned before.

They climbed in and adjusted the seats and mirrors while the engine idled quietly.

Gareth leaned over and gave Phillip a light kiss on the cheek.

"Remind me to thank my parents on Tuesday when we get back home."

"Of course." Phillip thought for a second and rubbed his aching stomach. "As long as they weren't serious about us having another. I'd like this one to be well on his way to potty training, first."

"They were just joking, Phil, I promise." Gareth put the vehicle in gear and carefully pulled out of the parking lot, heading down the road to their next stop, and their first as a married couple. 

A/N: Next up....the arrival of the little Cameron-Lewis! And hopefully sooner than last time (I promise--I'm on a new computer and I've got three different places to save things).