Ch. 161..165: The Luna and her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 161-165
The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 161
Ethan
This is crazy, you know that?” Linda asks, watching as the doctors fit the braces onto my lower body.
“Linda, if you’re not going to be supportive, you might as well as go back to your palace.” I tell her coolly. Eric was released a few days ago and the couple is slowly settling into their life as the new King and Queen. They’re planning a mating ceremony and a coronation, as well as trying to launch an emergency PR campaign to get the Kingdom up to speed on the changes in governance and conduct outreach to those citizens in need. Still, Linda visits me every day and though she’s not always the most supportive of guests, it does feel nice to have at least one person who knows what I’m going through.
I’m sorry, I’m not trying to be unsupportive.”
She replies contritely. “I just think this plan of yours is a recipe for disaster, I mean what’s going to happen when people find out.”
“If you have a better solution I’d love to hear it.”
I gripe, “And they’re not going to find out.”
They will eventually.” She reasons, “when it’s all over the truth is going to come out.”
“Im going to do my best to ensure that doesn’t happen.” I sigh. “We’ll come up with another story, a sudden illness or something. No one ever has to know about the deceit.”
“Ethan, I wish you would reconsider telling Jane and the pups.” Linda says, for the thousandth time.
Linda, we’ve been over this, and I know it’s difficult for you to keep this from her, but you know it’s for the best.” I argue. I just hope you’ll encourage her to find a new mate after I’m gone.” My wolf howls at the very idea, and I admit that the idea of another man going near my beloved mate makes me apoplectic, but I want her life to be happy. I want her to be loved, and I want my pups to have a father figure if I can’t be there for them.
I know this isn’t what you want to hear,” Linda begins carefully, “but I think you pretty much ruined the chances of that happening. You know how hard it was for her to trust you, to let herself be vulnerable with you again, and then you rejected her. She was traumatized enough after your marriage ended, I don’t think there’s any coming back from this.”
All of a sudden I’m reminded of Jane asking me when the hardship would end, if we’d be struggling forever- and what we had done to deserve so many trials and tribulations. At the time I promised her for a bright future once the pups were safe, but now I wonder if she was right. Am I being punished for wrongs I committed in the past? Is this my repayment for stealing her agency when we were married? It doesn’t seem fair. After all, I’m not the only one ‘suffering here – Jane and the pups are paying the price too. I can’t stand the thought of it – they’re innocents. Even if I don’t have a future ahead of me, I have to think that they will – I have to find a way to make that happen for them.
That’s why she needs you.” I explain. “Tell her I was evil, tell her other men aren’t like me. She has a fated mate out there somewhere – encourage her to find him.”
She doesn’t want anyone else, Ethan. She’s only ever wanted you, and you destroyed her.” Linda proclaims sadly. “And I understand you’re trying to protect her. I even respect what you’re doing…
I just wish it didn’t have to be this way.”
“And you think I don’t?” I snap, so harshly that the scientists around me flinch. Linda looks mildly shell-shocked, and I try to calm down, I’m sorry, that was too harsh.”
No, I’m sorry. I know this isn’t what you want either.” Linda apologizes, shaking her head and looking as though she might cry.
“Okay Alpha,” one of the researchers interjects, you’re all strapped in. The system works through these transmitters we’re pưtting on your wrists.
You’re going to have to practice, but any time you want the braces to move your legs, you have to move your hands and then the system will mimic the motion. To stand, close your hands into fists and straighten your arms to your sides, almost like you’re pointing your hands at the floor.”
I do as she instructs, and suddenly my body is surging upwards. It’s the strangest sensation, I feel completely disconnected from my lower half. I sway in place for a moment, and the people around me reach out to brace my impending fall. “Slowly now, you have to go very slowly.”
” The scientist informs me. “Obviously you can’t feel the floor, so it’s going to take some practice learning to balance.”
“And how do I walk?” I ask, wanting to reach my arms out to my sides to try and regain my equilibrium, but recalling the moving my hands controls the braces.
“Just swing one hand forward – slowly – like you might if you were walking naturally.” She explains.
I do as she says, amazed when the brace silently bends and straightens my leg, extending it out in front of me to take a step forward. It’s really quite amazing. I move my other hand now, and before long I’m walking around the room in my hospital gown. Granted I’m walking with the ungainly grace of a newborn foal about to topple over at any moment, but I can already tell that once I have some time to get used to the system, it will be the perfect fake.
This is incredible.'” I express, looking to the scientists in awe. “I can’t believe you did this so fast.”
I mean in terms of robotics it’s actually incredibly simple.” The researcher from the think tank smiles. You should see the things AI is capable of these days – this is just a couple of basic functions.”
“Well it’s life changing.” I state honestly. This is exactly what I needed.”
You definitely have to fit in some practice before heading home.” Linda observes, ‘but once you’ve got normal clothes on and everything, no one would know the difference.
It’s even silent.
Thank you so much.” I profess, smiling for the first time since this all began. I haven’t had any good news in a while now, and I wasn’t sure that there would be any way to actually pull this off.
With the way things have been going it actually seemed more likely that it would fail spectacularly. I can’t express how relieved I am that we truly have a solution.
“Now, you can sleep in this if you want to be able to jump up in the middle of the night, but you have to remove them to bathe. Do you have someone at home who can help you do that?” My surgeon asks, smiling despite her earlier warnings.
Well that’s not ideal. I suppose I could ask Matthew, but I don’t particularly want to put my Beta in that position. “Can’t I put the braces on and take them off myself?” I inquire.
Yes.” The researchers answer, it’s more about mobility once they’re off.”
I’ll figure it out.”I decide, knowing that I have a nice big bathtub at home that I can probably climb in and out of using my upper body. I suppose this will be an opportunity for my arms to get even more muscular. “I’m going to have to figure out how to do a lot of things differently from now on. What happens if they brake? Can the wrist transmitters get wet?
Yes, they’ll still function – the bathing issue is more about rust.” The researchers explain.
Neither they nor the braces should brake, but if they do we have an office in the NightFang capital that can troubleshoot, do repairs, or give substitutes. Everything we do is covered by strict confidentiality, so if you need them they’ll be very discreet.”
“Good.” I nod, feeling as though the pieces to my plan are finally coming together. When will I be safe to fly?”
You can fly today if you like, but you can’t do any heavy lifting or any rigorous physical activity, you’re still healing from surgery after all.
“Good -I’ve been away for far too long, it’s past time I went home.” I announce. Lord knows what state the pack is in.
“Ethan, I wish you would stay a few more days, if you’re going to be discharged you can come stay at the palace for a bit. I hate to think of you just rushing off with everything that’s happening.”
Linda frowns.
I appreciate that Linda, but putting off my return is only going to make things worse.” I reason. I don’t have any time to waste.
“At least stay one more night. Come have dinner with us so we can thank you for everything you’ve done.” She requests.
“Alright.” I agree, it’s late in the day to book a flight anýway. “But first thing in the morning –
I’m going home.”
The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 162
Jane
My first Christmas with all four pups should be a joyous oćcasion. After all, every Christmas I’ve known since becoming a mother has been tainted by Paisley’s absence. I’ve wanted nothing -but the ability to bring her home where she belongs for as long as I can remember… and yet it takes all my strength just to get myself out of bed in the morning.
Three weeks have passed since we returned from the Southern Isles. We had all our things shipped from the penthouse in the first couple of days we were home, and though having all their favorite toys and possessions back helped the pups adjust, they’ re still furious with me for taking them from Ethan.
It’s amazing how such young pups can hold a grudge for so long, but they don’t forget easily, and they wouldn’t even talk to me the first week we were here. They’ve gradually warmed up a bit – though not without a good bit of bribery on my part, offering sweets or fun activities like ice skating and sledding. It was something of shock to leave the tropics for the icy cold of the mountains, and Paisley seems especially unprepared – having never lived in such a cold climate before, but the winter activities have undoubtedly been a help in thawing their feelings towards me.
Nothing is better than hot cocoa and warm hugs from Mommy when a little one feels frozen through, and I’d be lying if I said I haven’t been using this to my advantage. It isn’t easy to play cheerleader when I feel so completely hollow inside, but I also know that earning my babies’ forgiveness will help fill the gaping hole in my heart, so I’m doing my best.
Today is no different. When the pups emerge from their room and blearily wander into the kitchen for breakfast, I greet them with a wide smile, hoping today will be the day they finally want to start their morning with hugs and k!sses once more. I used to wake every morning with three cuddle bugs sneaking into my bed, now I can barely get a hello from them, even though I stay up half the night trying to soothe their nightmares.
Things haven’t been easy for the pups after their traumatic adventure, and though they cry out for me when the bad dreams and frightening memories wake them in the middle of the night, by morning those feelings are long gone. Hello angels.” I say brightly. “Are you ready for pancakes?”
They exchange a few glances, then shake their heads. We don’ want that.” Parker announces.
“We don’ like pancakes.” Riley adds, offering me a haughty little sniff.
I raise my brow, I’ve never known my pups to refuse a pancake a single day in their lives. I know that sometimes children arbitrarily decide they don’t like things from one minute to the next, but I doubt that’s the case now. This is certainly a protest against me. “Alright.” I sigh, praying for patience. “What would you like instead?”
I’m not hungry.” Paisley pouts.
“Me neither.” Ryder adds.
I have to fight the urge to roll my eyes. This is not the first time they’ ve attempted to use a hunger strike to make their ire known. Luckily for me, they’re still too little for this ever to last for very long. Tummies start rumbling sooner or later, and then their willpower goes out the window.
“Fine.” I shrug. “I already made pancakes for myself, so I guess I’ll just eat them all alone.” I extract a couple of golden brown discs from the stack I made, and slide them onto a plate, carrying it to the table and sitting down to have breakfast. I can see the pups staring at me out of the corner of my eye, their little mouths hanging open in surprise. I pour syrup over the stack and cut off a small triangle, moaning theatrically when I pop it into my mouth.
I can hear the pups scenting the air, and I even catch one low gurgle from Parker’s belly. I try not to smile, reading the paper and sipping my coffee as they look on. As the minutes pass, they sidle closer and closer to the table, as if the pancakes are luring them in like fish on a reel.
Everytime I cut a new bite, they seem to be standing closer than before, until eventually they’re gathered on either side of my chair, staring longingly at the pancakes on my plate.
“Well hello there.” I say, feigning surprise.
What kind are those?” Riley asks softly, her eyes wide as she gazes at the golden cakes.
“Blueberry.” I answer nonchalantly, knowing these are their favorites. I almost ask if they’ re sure they don’t want any, but in the end I decide to wait for them to ask.
They look really fluffy.” Paisley observes, l!cking her l!ps.
They are,” I confirm, taking a bite of bacon. “I made my special recipe. It’s too bad you don’t want any – the leftover batter won’t be the same if it’s not used fresh.”
The pups exchange another look, “Maybe we could just have a nibble.” Ryder suggests.
You know, to make sure we still don’ like themes.” Parker adds.
That can be arranged.” I agree, spearing a child -sized bit on my fork and offering it to Paisley.
She chomps it down with great gusto, then sighs with pleasure.
Yummy?” I ask, fighting the urge to smile.
“They’re not bad.” She allows, unconsciously leaning her warm little body into my side.
“Can I try some?” Riley requests.
I’ll tell you what,” I proclaim, standing and moving back towards the kitchen, “I make you a few plates, and whatever you don’t eat, I’ll put in the compost. Sound good?” When I turn back, it’s to find all four pups scarfing down the pancakes on my plate with their hands. They freeze when they catch me watching them, their eyes going wide as if they hope I might not see them if they don’t move.
I can’t help but laugh now. “I guess I’ll get myself some more too.”
A few minutes later I’m placing small’ plates in front of each of them, smiling as they dig in.
Angels, I know you’re upset with me.” I say for what is probably the thousandth time. “But refusing to eat or talk about it will only make you feel worse. I wish you would just tell me what you’re thinking so we can deal with it together.”
I’ve given this same lecture so many times I’ve lost count. It always comes back to the same thing: I love you no matter what, and I just want what’s best for you.
But talking isn’ gonna change your mind.”
Paisley counters. “You said so.”
“I did.” I confirm. ‘But that’s the point sweetheart. Talking isn’t always about changing things or changing people’s minds. It helps just to express yourself, to tell someone you’re cross with how you’re feeling and know that they understand. It can help just to be heard and listened to.”
But you ‘ready know how we feel.” Parker pouts, shoveling pancakes into his mouth.
‘Slow down,” I advise, “And I know some of how you feel, but again it’s not about that, it’s about you getting the emotions off your ch3st.”
But they’re not on our chest.” Riley argues.
“It’s just an expression.” I explain. “It means that when you hold things inside they guild up and get worse and worse, and letting them out can really help.” I continue, reaching for Ryder- who’s nearest to me- and breathing a sigh of relief when he doesn’t automatically pull away.
I wish you all would talk to me. I love you so much, and I know you’re having a hard time with more than just me and Daddy. You went through a lot in the Southern Isles, and I know you must have felt a lot of scary things at the time and it’s important to talk about what you went through.”
I look around at their beloved little faces, hating how guarded they all are. Frowning, I put an offer on the table I’ve been trying to avoid, even though I know it’s probably the right thing to do.
‘But if you don’t want to talk to me, I can find someone different, someone who will listen and work through all your feelings with you.’)
“Who?” Parker questions suspiciously.
“It’s what we call a therapist. They’re a special kind of doctor who is an expert in emotions and sometimes it’s nice to have someone to speak with who isn’t a part of your life already. They don’t have any stake in the conversation except to help you, so you know it’s safe to share with them, and they wouldn’t be allowed to tell me about what you discúss. It would be totally private.” I share.
The pups shift uncomfortably. Do we have to?”
If you don’t want to talk to me, then you need to talk to someone.” I decide.
We would talk to Daddy.” Paisley remarks shrewdly, making my heart sink like a rock into my stomach.
I’m sorry, but that isn’t an option.”I announce, hating this.
They glare and cross their àrms over their ch3sts.
Then we choose the therapist.”
The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 163
Jane
“Then he rejected me.” I explain, sharing our story with the child psychologist I hired to speak with the pups. They’re out in the play area of her office’s waiting room while I brief the doctor on our situation. “He told me to take the pups and go, but I didn’t want them to think he didn’t want them..”
My voice is shaking now, thick with emotion as tears well on my lashes. “So I said it was me. And now they hate me.” I sob, trying to pull myself together enough to finish. “They hate me, they won’t talk to me, and I know they’re traumatized. They have nightmares every night and they jump at every loud noise. They’re not the same pups they were before they were taken.”
I’m very sorry, Jane.” The doctor consoles me, offering me a box of tissues. “I have little ones too, and I completely understand the desire to protect them from the truth.”
Do you thínk I was wrong? Would it have been better to tell them the truth? I squeak, blowing my nose.
“Look, I’m a big believer of being honest with your kids, even when they’re quite small, but abandonment by a parent is one of the most traumatic things a child can experience. After everything they’ve been through, I don’t think you were wrong to try and shield them from this – but you need to be prepared for the fact that they might figure it out on their own much sooner than you’re prepared for.” The doctor warns. “If he’s cut off contact completely, it won’t be long before they start to ask why he isn’t trying to see them, why he doesn’t call… and you can take the blame for that too, but it will only work for so long. Pups are very intuitive that way.
I know, and mine are smarter than most.” I sigh. I just wish I could protect them without making them despise me.
“Of course you do.” She soothes, “Listen Jane, are you in therapy yourself?”
I’m sure I should be.” I confess, but I don’t know where I’d find the time.”
I have a colleague down the hall who works with adults, we could schedule your sessions at the same time as the pups so you don’t have to carve out more time, and we’re in the same practice, so we could consult on your cases and ensure we’re all on the same page with the family. Of course there are times that I’ll likely request you to join the pups for a family session, but I think it’s a good idea for you to seek counseling as well. This wasn’t just traumatic for the pups.”
Okay.” I agree, “that sounds like a good idea.”
“Great, shall we bring in the pups now?” She inquires.
Sure.” I stand wiping my eyes and moving for the door, ‘should I step out?”
For now.” The doctor nods, I want to take a moment to meet them and assess where we are, then I’ll bring you back at the end so we can talk about the plan moving forward.”
I stride out into the waiting area, herding the pups into the doctor’s office before taking a seat on the plush couches. There’s a television playing some sort of soap opera, and I retrieve the remote, switching through the channels to see if I can find a movie or something more entertaining.
I wasn’t expecting to find a NightFang news station completely by among the offerings, and it takes me surprise to see the local channel Ethan and I used to watch on the big screen. However if I was taken aback to see the familiar news anchors and cityscapes, it’s nothing compared to when Ethan appears on the monitor a moment later.
He’s giving some sort of press conference, and the reel at the bottom of the screen reads: Alpha returns without his mate and pups, announces split. If I thought I felt so émpty that I’d lost the ability to care or be hurt by Ethan, I’m quickly proved wrong seeing this announcement. I turn up the volume, my heart hammering in my ch3st as I stare at his handsome features. He looks very dour, and his pallor seems almost gray. For one ridiculous moment I worry that he’s not fully recovered from surgery, but then I remember how cruel he was, and mentally kick myself for being so weak.
Jane and I successfully rescued the pups in the Southern Isles, and I’m pleased to report that the tyrant King Aimon has been defeated. His son Eric will be taking over the throne with his new mate, and we fully expect the empire to thrive and grow prosperous under their leadership. As for Jane and I, we decided it would be best for her to raise the pups in the safety of the Dark Moon pack. Now that Paisley is well enough to join her mother and siblings, they will continue to be raised as they were before these terrible events occurred. Though it is not ideal, it is what we decided was best for our family, especially considering the threats that have become apparent here in Cité De La Nuit.”
Alpha! A reporter waves his hand in the air, and Ethan nod to the man, giving his permission to speak. “Do you believe the threats here in the NightFang territory are a reflection of your leadership? Do you believe the Dark Moon pack is more secure than our city?”
“I believe the threats here in the NightFang territory are a reflection of jealous and power hungry factions seeking to steal the power I have accumulated leading this pack. The fact that I am a target shows just how valuable our pack’s resources and influence have become, but I have protected our people for many years, and I neutralized these most recent threats as well. Our city is perfectly safe to most NightFang wolves, my family is a special case and Jane was already raising three of our pups abroad for that reason.’
“Alpha!” Another reporter called, “have you and Jane split up? There was no mention of her returning to the Dark Moon territory before you went to the Southern Isles!?
That is between my mate and I.’ Ethan rumbles forcefully. “We came to an arrangement which suited our family best, and ask for members of the media to respect our privacy at this time. Obviously we and our pups have been through a great deal, we need peace, quiet and time to recover. I may be a public figure, but my pups are not -I urge all of you to keep this in mind.”
Alpha, are we to assume that Jane and the pups might return to the NightFang territory one day when things are calmer, then?” Another reporter asks.
“I will share any updates relevant to the pack if and when they arise. For now, once again, I urge you all to respect our privacy.” Ethan grits out. I won’t be taking any more questions, but I appreciate your time today. I’m eager to get back to work after so much time away. I’ve got a lot of business to catch up on, and want to assure all pack members that you are in good hands. Thank you.”
He steps away from the podium, and the broadcast returns to a pair of reporters sitting behind a tall desk. I shut off the television, sinking back into the cushions and resting my hands on my belly. I can’t believe him. I can’t believe he stood up there and told such blatant lies. “We decided” he said, “Jane and I agreed.” When in reality we decided nothing, we agreed on nothing. He made an authoritarian ruling and kicked me to the curb.
Not to mention his nerve, pretending like he did this to protect our children, when everyone knows they’d be safest with him. He didn’t want to protect them, he wrote them off because he was so disgusted with me that he didn’t even want to make an effort to see them anymore. Yet he stands there pretending to be the perfect Alpha and father. It’s enough to make me want to write a letter to the editor of the paper or give my own interview exposing the truth. Of course I won’t -I couldn’t without harming the pups, but I’ll be damned if it isn’t tempting.
With everything else going on, I’ve barely even processed the fact that there will be a new baby joining our family in a few months. And what then?
If Ethan finds out, will he want nothing to do with it as well? will it be just another child tainted by my failure? Are none of my children ever to have a father?
Suddenly I feel so angry for my pups’ sake that I want to scream. I never had any hope when I was pregnant with the quadruplets that we would be a complete family – I knew from the beginning I’d be doing it all alone. But this baby… for a heartbeat there I thought we were going to do it right this time, that I’d be able to give my baby all the love and care it deserved from day one. So much for that. I should have known better. Dreams and wishes are simply recipes for disappointment. I have to stop thinking about Ethan – I have to simply focus on being the best mother I can be for my pups. It’s almost Christmas, and we’re all together for the first time. I won’t let my traitorous ex ruin the thing I’ve been dreaming about for years.
I’m going to do it right this time.
The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 164
Jane
Come on munchkins, we’re going on an adventure!” I announce, get your coats.
The pups look at me suspiciously. What kinda venture?” Riley asks.
Their first therapy session had helped more than I expected. I don’t know everything they talked about with the doctor, but I expect having another adult reassuring them that they were loved and safe helped set them at ease. They still aren’t really talking to me, but they’re not fighting me as hard as they were before either.
The hardest part is still when they wake in the middle of the night crying out in fear, then asking for Ethan when I go to comfort them. It’s the worst with Paisley. She’s never lived without her father before, and I’m trying to keep a special eye on her. She asks for him more than any of the others, and it seems most difficult for her to believe we can’t simply call him and ask for a visit. The more time that passes the angrier I become with Ethan for leaving our babies. It’s one thing to hurt me, but another entirely to hurt them. I’ve decided to distract them anyway
I can, to try and make them feel like our family is whole without Ethan – not that this is an easy feat.
“A Christmas adventure.” I answer, coming back to the present. We were away for so long we’re very behind on decorating and baking, and doing all the fun holiday things!”
What fun holiday things?” Paisley asks, looking curious now.
Well, for one thing – every year we go to this beautiful christmas tree farm, then we go on sleigh rides and pick out a tree and cut it down ourselves. And every night there’s a bonfire with hot cocoa and smores…” I lower my voice to a whisper. “Sometimes Santa even turns up.”
Santa?! ” She exclaims, looking to her siblings for confirmation. Unfortunately they’re not beside her anymore, because the moment I mentioned the tree farm they went racing for their coats.
That’s right.” I confirm, offering her a big smile. “It’s going to be so much fun, you’ll see.”
The pups quickly pile into the car, and as we drive up into the mountains I gradually nudge them into the holiday spirit, playing Christmas carols and singing badly until they join in. Before long the car is a cacophony of wrong lyrics and tone deaf voices, and I feel better than I have since returning home. This Christmas will certainly be bittersweet, but the more we get out and do things like this, the more confident I feel that we can find some joy in the season.
When we arrive at the farm I double check the kids’ winter clothes before releasing them into the deep snow, and they bound away through the white powder like the excitable puppies they are.
I have to speed walk to keep up with them: Riley, Ryder and Parker leading the way to the horse drawn sleighs, with Paisley racing along excitedly behind them. Maybe it’s the pregnancy, or maybe it’s as simple as finally seeing my children all together at this special time of year, but I feel myself near tears as I watch my littlest chasing after her brothers and sisters. She’s not as fast given her heart and lack of practice trudging through snow, but she’s every bit as excited, and her giggling laughter fills my heart with warmth.
This is exactly what I needed. I realize. I needed to see that everything we went through was worth it, that there’s hope we can be happy again sometime in the future. I still feel raw and fragile to my core, and I know that the months ahead are going to be incredibly difficult, but as long as I remember to cherish these little moments, I think I can get through the worst of it. After all, I survived Ethan once before right?
The pups nearly collide head-on with the sleighs, thankfully wrangled by the drivers before they can try and clamber onto the horses. They spend a while greeting and cuddling the huge Clydesdales pulling the sleighs, asking the drivers what the horses’ names are and feeding them carrots before bundling into the old-fashioned vehicles. There are bells on the horse’s tack, so as we set out through the snow jingling chimes fill the air, and the pups’ faces light up with glee.
“Mommy, it’s cold!” Paisley tells me, shivering in her little boots in the seat across from me.
“Come here lovey.” I encourage, pulling her into my la*p, “you’re not used to all the ice and snow are you?
“No – I like it though.” She says thoughtfully, Snuggling closer. “Is fun to play in, it just gets cold after a whiles.”
“It certainly does.” I agree. “What did you and your Daddy used to do at Christmas, hmm?” It’s dangerous to bring up Ethan, especially with Paisley, but I want to try and make her feel as at home as possible with us, and that means finding out what traditions they had.
Well Gamma and I used to bake, and Daddy always took me to meet Santa at the mall.” She answers thoughtfully. We’d decorate the tree together on Christmas eve, then go to the festival in town. It was really nice.”
That sounds lovely.” I tell her, leaning my cheek against the top of her head. Is there anything you want to do this year to celebrate? I don’t know if I can make cookies as good as your Gamma did, but I can try.”
Yeah, I love baking.” She exclaims, looking up at me curiously.Will Daddy come for Christmas?”
All of a sudden all four pups are looking at me hopefully, and now I feel like crying for a completely different reason. “I don’t think so, sweetheart.”
“Why hasn’ he called?” Riley asks, “doesn’ he wanna talk to us?”
I’m sure he does.” I proclaim, not sure if I’m telling the truth or a lie. “But he must be very very busy with the pack. He was gone a long time .
“But he always makes time for me.” Paisley insists, And he would never miss Christmas!”
I’m sure he doesn’t want to miss being with you for the holidays.” I assure them, “He loves you so much, you know that.”
The pups exchange a few glances, and I wonder if the therapist was right – are they going to figure out I’m lying soon? As much as I hate keeping up the facade, I can’t bear for them to know the truth. I can’t let them find out they’ve been abandoned. “The truth is I asked him to stay away this year so that we could settle in as a family. It’s our first Christmas all together and we’re still trying to get life back to normal. I thought it would be too confusing if he came.”
The pups are looking at me with wide eyes and deep frowns. Paisley has gone stiff in my arms.
You shouldn’ have done that Mommy.” Parker scolds, crossing his arms over his chest. You should a asked us.”
Like it or not, I am your mother, and I make the rules.” I remind them softly. “I have to do what I think is best for you, and you’re not always going to like it.”
You sound like Dr. Nora.” Riley grumbles, mimicking her brother’s pose and crossing her arms over her ch3st.
“Do 1?” I ask, not surprised to learn their therapist might have told them something along these lines. “Well she would know, she’s a Mommy too.”
The pups are quiet after that, not saying another word until the sleigh stops at the edge of the tree fields. Together we clamber out of the sleigh and begin perusing the rows of stunning evergreens, trying to decide which tree to bring home with us. We continue searching for the better part of an hour before deciding on a huge fir tree, and the sleigh driver helps me chop it down then carts it back to the horses.
After the tree is safely tied to the roof of the car we return to the main thoroughfare, gathering around the bonfire, drinking hot cocoa and making snores. The pups have all but forgotten our earlier argument by this time, and when we meander our way through a forest of twinkle lights towards Santa’s grotto. They’re practically bouncing up and down as we wait in the line to sit on his la*p, and I eagerly pull out my phone to take photos when it’s finally the quadruplets turn.
They bound up to him at once, and the actor lets out a surprised, “Ho, ho, ho! Four pups at once, my goodness.” Riley and Paisley climb into his la*p while the boys stand beside him like perfect little gentlemen as I take photos. After I’m done, Santa turns to them and asks, “And what do you want for Christmas, little ones?”
The pups exchange eager looks, nodding at one another before Parker looks up at the costumed man and says, “we want our Mommy and Daddy to get back together.”
The bottom falls out of my stomach when I hear these words, and my wolf begins swearing up a storm in my head. Well f**k.
The Luna And Her Quadruplet Pups Chapter 165
3rd Person
Jane was kicking herself. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t foreseen this possibility. Of course the pups would ask Santa to reunite them with Ethan – Santa was supposed to be able to provide any gift you wanted, even ones parents didn’t approve.
She watched with bated breath as the tree farm Santa processed the children’s gift request, praying he wouldn’t make a promise she couldn’t keep. The last thing she needed was for this to be the year the pups found out the truth about Santa Claus. That would only add fuel to the fire. She could already see it playing out in her mind’s eye, tearful accusations of lies and tricks on top of everything else.
The Santa glanced at her for guidance, and she shook her head firmly. The pups were still gazing up at him in awe, waiting to see if he would make their dreams come true. “Ho now, that’s an awfully difficult thing for my elves to make in the workshop.” The man bluffed, Isn’t there something else you’ d like?
Some nice toys?”
“No.” Riley declared firmly. “We just want Mommy and Daddy to be together again”
I understand.” Santa Claus answers gently, “but there are some things even Santa can’t do.”
“Nuh-uh. ” Ryder insisted. “You can get around the whole world in one night, you have flying reindeer you’re magic! You can do anything!”
“Love is a different kind of magic, dear ones. ” He replies. I’m very sorry. But there must be something else you want for Christmas?”
The pups shook their heads, and the girls slipped off his la*p. Riley, Parker and Ryder returned to Jane’s side looking completely dejected, but Paisley stayed behind for a moment, whispering something into the old man’s ear too low for the others to overhear.
Santa nodded in reply and Paisley gradually rejoined her siblings.
What did you ask him, angel?” Jane asked, taking the pup’s hands and leading them away through the Snow.
“Nothing’portant.” Paisley replied cagily, exchanging meaningful glances with her siblings.
Later, after they’ d returned home and Jane was busy trying to situate the Christmas tree in its stand, the pups retreated to their room. “Okay, Paisley, what’s up?!” Riley asked excitedly, “what did you say to Santa?”
Well,” Paisley began, raising her little hands to get her siblings’ attention, “have you ever noticed that Santa smells different every year?”
Riley, Ryder and Parker stared at each other in surprise, realizing for the first time that she was right. “You’re right!” Parker exclaimed.
“But how is that possible?” Ryder demanded, “he can’t be a different person every year, can he?
“Actually he can.” Paisley corrected, “Daddy explained it to me once. He said that Santa is so busy in the North Pole getting ready for Christmas, that he just doesn’ have the time to visit every city in the world aforehand to find out what everyone wants, or even to read all the letters on his own. So he has thousands of helpers who go out and collect the letters and dress up like him to find out what pups want for Christmas!”
No way!” The others gaped, I don’t b’lieve it!'”
It’s true. I asked Santa today if I was right and he said tha’s exactly how it works! The real Santa is up at the North POle this very minute.” Paisley shared.
That means that the Santa we met today might’ ve been wrong!” Riley whispered eagerly. “He doesn’ have all Santa’s magic, so he doesn’ know everything he can do.”
‘Exactly!” Paisley confirmed.
Then we have to get to the real Santa.” Parker decided. “If anyone can get Mommy and Daddy back t’gether is him!”
Ryder frowned, “Are you saying we should go to the North Pole?” Ryder asked, not quite believing his ears.
A course that’s what we have to do!” Riley cried, clapping her small hands over her mouth when she realized how loud she’s been.
“But we just got home!” Ryder whined. “And we don ‘ know the first thing about getting to the North Pole.
“So?” Paisley countered, we didn’t know how to read once either, then we learned. All things start out new – till they’re not anymore. We can figure out how to get there.”
But it’s dangerous out there !” Parker interjected, having second thoughts of his own now. “I don’ wanna get pup-napped again, or get lost like we did in the islands.
Tha’s why we have to plan really good.” Riley nodded. “We have to be safes.”
Maybe we could just write a letter.” Ryder suggested. “Letters are always safe.. cept for paper cuts.”
Paisley and Riley exchanged thoughtful looks, before nodding in agreement. “Come with us.” They led the way down the hall, tiptoeing over the cool wooden floor until they were at the edge of the living room.
They peeked around the corner, watching Jane struggle with the tree. Usually Eric always went on these outing with them, then helped her put the tree up after coming home. This was the first year she was trying to do it all alone.
She was trying to hold the trunk straight while also turning the screws on the base. She shuffled around the tree, tightening the metal rods until they were digging into the trunk strongly enough to hold it uptight. However every time she stepped back to look at her handiwork, the tree was listing over to one side or another, completely crooked. Jane would gr0an and try again, but after a dozen attempts she was getting incredibly frustrated. Still she kept trying, straightening and adjusting the trunk over and over again. Unfortunately on her fifteenth try, she loosened the screws too much, and the tree toppled back against the wall. Jane slumped onto the ground with a heavy sigh, burying her face in her hands. “D*mnit!” She murmured, her voice thick.
D*mnit, d*mnit, d*mnit!”
“Look at Mommy.” Riley urged her siblings.
She looks so sad.” Parker murmured, frowning deeply.
Right on cue Jane started to cry, and the pups suddenly felt very guilt for giving her such a hard time lately. “Oh no!” Ryder fretted.
Before the other three realized what was happening, Paisley ran out of their hiding spot and into the living room.
Paisley wait!” Riley called after her, but it was too late.
“Don’t cry Mommy!” Paisley cried, throwing her arms around Jane’s neck. Jane pulled the sweet bundle into her la*p, and the others slowly emerged.
I’m sorry pups.” She professed, trying to wipe away her tears before they could realize just how upset she was. “I’m okay.”
Riley, Parker and Ryder were gathered around her too now, competing for spots in her la*p until they were a veritable puppy pile. Why’re you sad, Mommy?” Ryder asked, squeezing her middle tightly.
This just isn’t what I imagined, that’s all.” Jane replied vaguely, making the understatement of the year. Every time she’d pictured having Paisley home with them in the past she’d imagined nothing but joy. She never expected having her pups together to be accompanied by so much pain, or that her friends would also be thousands of miles away too. She certainly never thought her babies would be so angry with her – still it helped to finally be snuggling them. But it helps to have you in my arms. I love you all so much.”
The pups responded with out a second thought. “We love you too, Mommy.”
Jane hiccuped, the tears she’d wiped away suddenly surging back to life. ‘Really?”
“Of course!” Suddenly all four felt terribly guilty for the way they’ d been punishing her lately. In the past they’d had lots of talks about not saying unkind things you didn’t mean, but this was the first time they understood just how badly their words would hurt someone. If their Mommy could doubt how desperately they cared for her, words must be even more powerful than they knew. They were still angry of course, but they would always love her. “You’re our Mommy.”
A little while later they returned to their room while Jane started dinner, their spirits seriously dampened. “I think she’s hiding something from us.” Riley surmised. “She seems really upset, and I don’t think it’s just that we’re mad at her.”
“I think she needs Daddy too.” Paisley guessed. Is obvious she misses him.”
“We have to get to Santa,” Ryder was fully on board with his siblings’ plans after the scene in the living room. “And not just for our Christmas, for Mommy’s too.”
“Then is decided.” Riley grinned. “We’re gonna go to the North Pole and have Santa bring Daddy home to us.”
We still have to figure out how to get there though.” Parker reminded them. ‘And we can’t let Mommy know what we’re up to – you know how she worries. She’ll try to stop us.”
“I am kinda scared.” Paisley confessed, quickly adding, “I think is the right thing to do, but there’s a lot to think about – how will we get through all the ice – it’s so cold, and there’s polar bears and things!”
“Don’t worry, we’ll figure everything out.” Riley assured her. “But we have to move fast, there’s only two weeks to Christmas,.
“When are we gonna go? Ryder inquired.
They all exchanged glances, then decided. “As soon as possible.