Life Without You

San Sequoia
Seaglass Haven
April 2nd (Cont.)

Jasper carefully parked Iris’ sleek, silver Porsche Taycan in the driveway of the guest house on her parents’ San Sequoia estate. The journey from Del Sol Valley had been a quiet one, filled with unspoken thoughts and anticipation. As he turned off the engine, they sat in contemplative silence for a moment. Jasper, with a burst of determination, clapped his hands on his thighs and turned to Iris.

“You ready for this?” Jasper asked, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

“No…” Iris grimaced and sighed but opened the door anyway. She paused, turned back to him, and said, “Jas?”

“Hm?” Jasper replied, raising an eyebrow.

“Thank you,” Iris said sincerely, her eyes softening for a moment.

He nodded, and they both exited the car. Jasper took a deep breath, taking in the entire scene before him. The estate was an impressive sight with its whitewashed exterior and elegant design. On the right stood Iris’ guest house, a cozy yet stylish two-bedroom space with a separate entrance that led to a beautifully landscaped backyard. It even boasted a home office that Iris frequently used for her creative endeavors.

In the center of the estate stood the main house, a grand six-bedroom residence where Chase and Hailey, Iris’ parents, lived. This house also featured a state-of-the-art recording studio, a testament to the family’s musical inclinations. To the left were the garages, housing an array of luxury cars that spoke volumes of the family’s affluence. The expansive backyard featured a large pool, a playground for the children, and a separate two-bedroom pool house where Bri and her daughter Bonnie resided.

As Iris made her way around the car, Jasper took in the grandeur of the estate, feeling a mix of awe and intimidation. Instead of heading to the nearby separate entrance to the guest house, they walked side by side to the main entrance of the main house.

Upon entering the living room, they were greeted by a scene of domestic coziness. Chase and Hailey were snuggled up together on one couch, Hailey wearing glasses, her hair in a messy bun, and Bri lounging comfortably on the other. The ladies were in their casual house clothing, clearly not expecting company. A popular TV show blared in the background, filling the room with familiar noise.

“Evening all. Guess who?” Jasper announced, masking his inner tension and discomfort with humor, as usual.

Chase raised an eyebrow, leaning forward to grab the remote and lower the volume. “You both showing up together, neither of you scarred, tattered, bruised, or bleeding? Do I need glasses or is it gonna rain locusts next and the water will run red as blood?” he remarked, exchanging a knowing look with his wife, Hailey.

Hailey nodded, a slight smile playing on her lips. “This really is a surprise, little disconcerting. What’s going on?” she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

“Well, what can I say? The longing to see my two wonderful and amazing bonus parents became overwhelming, especially since both my own makers abandoned me for a banal cruise. So, here I am. Mommy, daddy, Bri-ey,” Jasper declared theatrically.

The Cameron’s mutt Snuffins let out a snort, causing some chuckles.

“I agree with Snuffy. Sweet pile of BS, Jas. We’re always glad to have you, but maybe next time text ahead so I don’t look like this,” Hailey said, pointing at her makeup-free look, glasses, and extremely casual clothing. She pressed down on her hair, but her husband undid her efforts by ruffling through it until she nudged his hands away, giggling.

“You look fine, Patches. They are lucky I have pants on at all…” Chase grumbled, met by Bri’s “Eeew, dad!”

“You’re always stunning, Hailz. So are you, Bri,” Jasper bowed, wiggling his brows. Then he turned to Chase, “And many thanks for the pants. I appreciate that effort more than I can express. I love me some old man balls dangling in the wind as much as the next dude, but maybe not tonight.”

“I’ll give you old man balls, shithead!” Chase flipped him off playfully.

Iris, feeling a mix of determination and nervousness, cleared her throat. “Well, now that we got the pointless banter out of the way, we need to have a family meeting, guys. Connor and Keira are on their way over with Chris. I called them on the way out here.”

Bri sat up straighter, her eyes narrowing in curiosity. “A family meeting? What’s this about? Iris? Jas?”

Iris, avoiding her sister’s gaze, dragged Jasper further into the room pointing at a free spot near Bri. “Sit down. I’ll grab my dad’s laptop,” she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside as she rushed out.

“Yeah, just grab your dad’s laptop. Don’t accidentally use your own shit for a change! Not like your dad is sitting RIGHT HERE! Kids these days, seriously!” Chase, Iris’ dad, grumbled after her.

Jasper shrugged, sitting down on the couch and taking a deep breath, avoiding looking at anyone present, even though he could feel their glares. Then he jumped up and ran out, exclaiming he would make coffee for all, leaving Chase, Hailey, and Bri to exchange confused glances. The soft hum of the TV and the crackling of the fireplace added to the house’s warm ambiance.

Jasper took a deep breath. “Hey, Mom, Dad. We have something to tell you.”

Maddie exclaimed wide-eyed, “Oh boy, not sure I wanna hear it. You being at Chase and Hailey’s home, and Iris next to you makes me wanna come straight back home! Did someone die? Is the world ending?” Next to her, Colton’s eyes threatened to fall from their sockets. At the Seaglass Estate, everyone huddled around the laptop now stared at Iris and Jasper.

Iris nudged him, “You go!”

Jasper swallowed hard. “Well, um… How’s that cruise going? Oh, yes and … well, … Iris and I are having a baby.”

There was a moment of stunned silence, followed by a chorus of reactions.

Maddie gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. “Oh my God!”

Colton shook his head in disbelief. “Are you serious, son?”

Keira looked between Jasper and Iris, her mouth agape. “You two… really?”

Chris’ eyes widened, his voice filled with shock. “Wait, what?! Is this a delayed April Fool’s joke? Aunt Iris and a baby? For real?! She beats Usein Bolt to the door if she sees anyone under the age of 6. A baby? You are delulu!”

Connor, who had been leaning against the fireplace behind the couch, crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. “Nope. Not delusional, not a joke, very much real. I confirmed the pregnancy myself and yes, I ran each test several times cos I couldn’t’ believe it either, and neither could the mommy-to-be. We had a moment there at the hospital. Anyway, yup, there is a baby incoming, we’re heading to the 13-week mark with the new addition to the Cameron/Hargrave families.”

Before anyone could say more, Bri, who had been quietly listening, was counting out on her fingers, then suddenly blurted out, “New Year’s Eve, The Grand Metropolitan in San Myshuno, and I was right next door when you made that baby! OMG! I was like almost there when my niece or nephew was created!”

The room fell silent again as everyone processed what Bri had just said. Chase, standing next to Hailey, looked bewildered. “What is she talking about? Got that in English, Bri?”

Iris sighed, rubbing her temples. “Yes, I know what she is talking about, Dad. Long story short, Jas and I both got drunk on New Year’s Eve and ended up in his hotel room. And well… here we are. Now you all know the how, who, when, and where. And she was in the room next door ‘cos she was nailing HER ex, just saying.”

Keira couldn’t help but laugh. “Only you two terror twins could turn a New Year’s Eve walk of shame into a baby announcement. My lil brother for ya. You’re such a nutjob, Jas. Priceless! If you had to do your ex, could you really not at least use protection?” she sighed in an exasperated way, when her husband, Connor, nudged her, grinning.

“Oh, come on Keke, not like they thought that one through to the end. I can see them now, babe, boozed up, both panting and drooling over each other after giving all of us months of grief with their break-up war, barely making it past the door of the room. Neither of them thought anything but …” he made unmistakable suggestive gestures with his hands.

As the voices rose with Iris and Jasper’s protests mixed with laughter and more crudish teasing by the others, Snuffins, the large family mutt, jolted awake from his deep slumber. He jumped up and ran towards the commotion, nearly ripping out the laptop cable and dumping the laptop on the floor. Iris quickly caught it just in time, as her dad caught the large, confused dog and scooped him up in his arms like an overgrown furry baby. “Snuffins! Easy, boy! Even the poor dog is trying to get away from this dumbassery. Jeezes Christ kids, I am getting too old for this crap,” he said, as Hailey leaned in, snuggling the dog, who now started wagging.

Hailey managed a small smile, shaking her head in disbelief. “Iris, Jasper, sweethearts, this is a lot all at once. Are you guys okay again now? I mean, Iris’ feelings about babies are legend. Surprised you are so composed. And how are you holding up, daddy-to-be? Can we all assume that both of you showing up here together without trying to kill one another means that nasty phase is over for good? Are we all good with the baby news? I mean, you are old enough to have kids.”

Jasper shrugged. “Ask me again when my brain quits spinning. I just found out myself, and from what I understand, Iris has known for less than 24 hours. You all are getting this hot off the presses.”

Hailey nodded, her eyes filled with concern. “Got it. For what it’s worth, Jas, I’m glad if our Iris had to go and do such nonsense, it was with you and not some stranger on the street.”

Jasper smirked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Wow, awww thanks, Hailz. I feel REALLY special now. Yikes, Jasper as the baby daddy to our grandbaby, not great, but still better than some nameless rando off the street. Got it. That’s the spirit. Can I get that in writing, to frame for my bathroom wall?”

Hailey laughed. “Oh, I meant it in a nice way, and you know it! Come here, you sweet snugglebug! You know I love you, sweet boy. I helped raise you; you’ll be an amazing daddy!” Hailey grabbed Jasper and started smooching on him, which he reluctantly endured until Chase piped up. “Hey, now don’t you go knocking up my wife with all that too lovey-dovey crap, Casanova!”

“Me?! I am being victimized here, some maternal #MeToo moment and you all are just watching it!” Jasper complained, so Hailey pinched both his cheeks and shook them. “I’ll give you maternal #MeToo you adorable brat! Oh that baby is going to be so pretty!”

“Patches quit kissing around on that kid, he’s a grown man now and too old for snuggles. Gives creepy vibes!” Chase bemoaned it, making her laugh harder.

Connor, trying to keep his composure, took a deep breath. “Right, back to topic on hand. Iris, Jas, so what is this now? You two finally managed to bury the hatchet? Would be high time, ‘cos speaking for everyone here, we’re all over that BS you two have been delivering.”

Keira placed a reassuring hand on Connor’s arm, smiling warmly. “Looks like it, Con-Bear. Give them a sec to breathe, baby. My little brother just found out he’s gonna be a dad. Oh my God, just saying that already feels wrong. And then with Iris, the human equivalent to a black widow spider. Run Jas, or she’ll eat you alive.” Keira barely managed to duck the barrage of pillows Iris sent her way, some of which Connor and Chris bounced off with targeted punches, one hitting Bri, so she grabbed it and started pounding them with it until Connor threw her over his shoulder with ease.

Chris, still processing the news, managed to stammer, “So… I’m going to have another cousin? That’s… wow, cool, I guess. Do we know the gender?”

“I do, but they don’t. And I am not telling until they say it’s okay,” Connor told his son while carefully ‘bodyslamming’ Bri onto the free one of the couches.

Bri, her usual exuberant self, grinned over at her sister and Jas, getting back up. “Iris, this is amazing! I can’t believe it! I’m so excited for you! You and Jassy! I love it. YES!” She ran over behind the couch where they were sitting, facing the laptop, and started smooching and hugging both from behind.

Maddie, tears brimming in her eyes, said, “Oh, Iris, Jasper, this is unexpected but wonderful news. I am FINALLY gonna be a grandma again! I can’t believe it! Another four-leaf-clover baby! Colton and I wish we were there for that circus! Baby, we’re missing out!”

Four-leaf-clover was an old nickname for Chase, Colton, Hailey, and Maddie since college days as they were always seen together. Somehow, it had remained as the children came, grew up, and had their own kids.

Colton, with a hearty laugh, added, “Mads, it’s always a circus when we all get together; we’re not missing anything. Well, I’ll be damned! Jasper, you’re full of surprises, son. Congrats, kids. I gotta say, I hated you two being broken up. And yeah, I get it, you still are, but now you’ll be parents together. I am not hating that one bit! Work on the rest. Quit playing hard to get, both of you. You can’t do better than each other. Cameron curse strikes again!”

Laughing, Chase stuck his face into view and added, “Yeah, kids, listen to the man; he consulted the contents of an entire whiskey bottle or two for that wisdom.” Both Colton and Maddie flipped him off, laughing.

Parenting Prep

Jasper and Iris knew they were far from ready for the adventure of parenthood. Between them, they knew very little of the basics and even less of the complexities. Since their relationship was still a big question mark, they decided to do all the recommended things leading up to the birth and after. Iris took all the recommended supplements, adjusted her diet, and Jasper came to see her as often as he could. When he had to be away, he made sure to call, text, and Skype. But nothing could have prepared them for the series of hilarious and touching moments that ensued.

Baby Boutique Bloopers

One sunny Saturday, the gang decided to explore baby boutiques and make a day of it. Iris was now at almost 20 weeks, still not showing, and Jasper was back from one of several trips for his ongoing movie shoot. Iris’ fraternal twin sister Bri joined the adventure along with her energetic 6-year-old twins, Bonnie and Beau. The adults were ‘high’ on boutique store coffee, the kids on unusual amounts of candy, everyone was extremely silly and roweled up, so the minute they stepped inside, it was clear this would be an unproductive effort.

Bri looked around with the trained eye of a mother, while Jasper and Iris had not been interested nor involved in the pregnancies or early development of the kids already in the family, so to them it felt like entering a strange and scary world filled with tiny clothes and cute accessories. The kids dashed to the nearest plushie pile, pretending the fluffy toys were superheroes, while Jasper and Iris burst into fits of giggles at the sight of the tiniest socks they had ever seen.

“How is ANY human supposed to fit into these? They’d be tight on a Barbie doll!” Iris exclaimed.

“Guys, newborns are scary tiny, especially twins like mine. Jackson and I were so freaked out in the beginning. These socks are definitely the right size.”

Jas and Iris stared at each other, paling, then back at the socks one of which Bri had slipped on her index finger, wiggling them around in front of their faces, amused by her sister and best friend being so speechless.

Bonnie and Beau found teddy bears in tiny tutus and princess headbands and decided that the aisle was the perfect place for an impromptu dance-off, complete with twirls and jumps. Jasper joined in, making a spectacle of himself with exaggerated ballet dance moves that had everyone in stitches. They attempted a “stroller race,” weaving and dodging like seasoned drivers, all while Bri tried to play referee amidst her own uncontrollable laughter.

When the shopkeeper attempted to bridle the circus by turning to Jasper and inquiring, “What lovely children, are they yours? And which lucky lady here is with you and expecting?”

Without missing a beat, Mr. Loudmouth grabbed both Iris and Bri into a tight embrace, one on each side, and declared, “BOTH! Mah bitchez right here! Knocked them both up. Can’t ever have enough of my DNA running around! On that note, you free after work?” The audacious comment sent the sisters into fits of laughter so intense that tears streamed down their faces, both gasping for air, not seizing as they all were kicked out of the shop.

La Maz Mayhem

Determined to take things more seriously, they signed up for a Lamaze class earlier than most, given Jasper’s hectic travel schedule and Iris’ demanding career as a lawyer. However, as soon as they walked into the room, the matchy-matchy outfits of some participants and overbearing questions of others were just not the same as Jasper and Iris’ ways. While watching a particularly embarrassing couple, Iris whispered to Jasper, “Please, promise me, whatever we do, let’s never become them.”

“Aww, and I was already making mental notes of full-body Teddy Bear print onesies for both of us.”

“Tempting, but I have to pee a lot now, so no.” Both laughed.

As they settled into their seats and the class began, they couldn’t help but notice the odd behaviors of the other expecting couples. One couple, dressed in identical tracksuits with the ultrasound of their baby printed on the back, was obsessively timing their breathing exercises with synchronized stopwatches. Another pair, who seemed to have read every parenting book ever published, bombarded the instructor with an endless stream of questions, ranging from the best brand of organic baby food to the optimal temperature for a nursery to the point that the class became a Q&A, rather than instructions.

Iris and Jasper, in their designer outfits—she in a fancy, elegant, extravagant white blazer with a tie belt, wide-leg dress pants, and burgundy stilettos, and he in designer jeans, a sportscoat with a designer print, and a fancy shirt—stood out like sore thumbs amidst the sea of casual, mommy-and-daddy-to-be wear. Both exuded an air of sophistication, their expensive scents subtly wafting through the room. Her makeup was flawless, and both their hairstyles were perfect, showcasing their fashion-forward style.

During a particularly intense breathing exercise, one couple began chanting affirmations loudly, their voices echoing through the room. Jasper, unable to resist, joined in with exaggerated enthusiasm, “We are strong! As are my swimmers! We are capable! So are they! IUDs don’t stand a chance!” Iris elbowed him, trying to keep a straight face, but Jasper’s antics made it impossible.

The instructor, noticing the disruption, shot them a stern look. Jasper, ever the actor, put on his most serious expression and mimed zipping his lips shut. Iris, biting her lip to keep from laughing, whispered, “Yeah, like that’s gonna last, motormouth. You’re impossible.”

When the class turned to the actual mechanics during pregnancy and later birth, the instructor went into particularly vivid detail on the anatomy models, leaving both Jasper and Iris staring from eyes that threatened to fall from their sockets. Jasper grabbed Iris’ hand, and they bolted out of the room.

They ran until they were out of breath, laughing hysterically at their escape. “Oh my God, I swear I don’t even have all those parts they were showing in that 3D model!” Iris panted.

“And I think I will never EVER have sex again! What the hell was all that?! I need therapy now! And what’s with all that panting? I mean, seriously, what the heck is that supposed to help with?”

“Oh, that’s rich! YOU need therapy?! I’m the one going through all that! And don’t even get me started on the panting. When you’re lying there, pushing a human out of a way-too-small hole, defying all logic and science, the last thing I need is to look even more ridiculous by panting like a dog after a run in the park. So not happening! Pretty sure I’ll remember to breathe—I’ve been doing it successfully for 28 years now.”

Jasper pretended to bow in worship, making Iris laugh, until he grabbed her and pulled her close, kissing her.

When the kiss ceased, she moaned contently. “Hmm, tell me that again ….”

Instead, he let go, smirking. “I better not. This is what got us into this mess. Come on, I’ll take you to lunch. All that panting made me hungry. In case I lift my leg on a couple trees along the way and sniff some asses, don’t mind me.”

Ultrasound Overflow

During their ultrasound appointment, they expected to be composed.

Connor, Iris’ brother and the CMO at the hospital, was performing the ultrasound at their request. As he smeared the jelly on Iris’ belly, Jasper couldn’t resist playing with it. Connor, like a big brother to Jasper too, slapped his hand away, giving him a stern look. Jasper, ever the prankster, flicked some of the jelly back at Connor, hitting him on the cheek. Connor, a former footballer, had enough. Rising up while wiping the gel off, he grabbed Jasper into a headlock, telling him, “We’re at a hospital, not to mention my place of business. Behave like adults!” He ruffled through Jasper’s meticulous hairdo, leaving Jasper to bemoan it once Connor released him. Connor warningly pointed a finger at him, making Jasper wince, which amused Connor.

Jasper tried to fix his hair using the reflective surface of a nearby monitor. Connor came up behind him and asked, “Need a round brush, hairspray and a hairdryer too? Maybe a mani-pedi while we’re at it?!” Before Jasper could respond, Connor dragged him back to the visitor chair and shoved him into it. Jasper, still trying to fix his hair, muttered, “Ouch! So rough, Dr. Cameron! I might just have to launch a complaint with your boss.”

Connor leaned in close, smirking. “Good luck, bozo. I AM the boss here! Above me, there’s only God, and he cares even less about your damn hair than I do, so sit that ass down and shut up already!” Turning to Iris, he said, “And you behave as well!”

“I wasn’t doing anything! Just laying here being pregnant against my will, succumbing to my fate,” Iris grumbled back, in typical sibling style.

“Against your will, my ass! Wasn’t against your will when we …”

“Jasper! I do NOT want to hear ANYTHING about this!” Connor warned.

With a warning glare at both of them, Connor started the procedure. As the ultrasound image appeared on the screen, Jasper and Iris squinted at the monitor, trying to make sense of it.

“What are we even looking at?” Jasper asked, bewildered.

Iris nodded in agreement. “Yeah, all I see are a bunch of pulsating blobs.”

Connor rolled his eyes and sighed. “Those ‘blobs’ are your baby. Here, let me explain.” He pointed out the baby’s features to them, switching on the audio for the heartbeat, leaving both Jasper and Iris with mouths agape, staring in awe. The sound of their baby’s heartbeat filled the room, and they both began to sob uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the reality of the moment.

Connor, trying to maintain his professional demeanor, eyerolled and cursed under his breath. “Oh, Jeeze, you two are impossible,” he muttered, but there was a hint of a smile on his face as he watched his sister and kinda sorta bonus brother share this profound experience.

Book Breakdown

Back at Iris’ home, they attempted to educate themselves with baby books since all other ideas had failed. They nestled on the couch, surrounded by a mountain of literature on parenthood. But as they read page after page, the sheer volume of information became overwhelming. Jasper, sensing Iris’ growing panic, stood up, took the books from her hands, and tossed them into the trashcan with along with the rest.

He pulled her into a tight embrace, saying nothing, but her emotions bubbled over. “I am really scared. During and after the pregnancy, Jas. How does anyone EVER have a surviving child with all those things that can go wrong? It sounds like everything is deadly! What have we done, dude? I don’t know how to get through this,” Iris whispered softly, her vulnerability laid bare.

“Yeah, ditto,” Jasper admitted, holding her even tighter. “And to think your sister shat her twins out somewhere in the prairie without any help other than Jackson, … and then dude packs that entire mess into his rust bucket of a truck and drives it to your brother’s hospital in the dead of the night. I mean, how in the world are Bonnie and Beau even alive and made it all the way to age 6, it’s beyond me. Same with Bri, I get Jackson is a whole different breed of people, but Bri is one of us, grew up with us, she’s like us. How did she survive all that and Jackson cutting the umbilical cord with some nasty old pocketknife? Are you kidding me?! I swear it, if I were Jackson and that happened to me, nobody would be alive, including myself, I would have jumped into some canyon or shot myself with one of the shotguns that seem to grow on trees there seeing how everyone has the whole collection, even though that entire town collectively can barely come up with two coins to rub together. Then again, I am shocked nobody was eaten by one of their spiders that are the size of Great Danes or bitten by an entire herd of rattlesnakes the minute we stepped foot outside that cockeyed half-defunct chapel where they got married. Walking outside Jackson’s cabin turns any normal human being into a prima ballerina, afraid to step on something that can kill you, spiders, giant bugs, scorpions, and what not, and if you made it past all that one of his damn nags may get a wild hair up their ass and take you out by kicking you in face or something.” he ranted, making Iris first giggle until it turned into full-fledged laughter.

“God, I missed those belly laughs only you can give me, even in the worst times imaginable. But firstly, Jas, snakes don’t run in herds on account of no legs, it’s called a “den” or a “pit” and they usually stay put, and travel alone, Jasper,” Iris corrected him with a giggle. “And second, I’m pretty sure you could handle a few spiders and snakes if my life and that of our baby were at stake. You’re tougher than you think. Not to mention you and I would NEVER spend our wedding night alone out in the wilderness like my sister and Jackson felt behooved to for reasons I will never understand. I asked her and she’s always like ‘oh, so romantic’, blah blah. Normal people fly to exotic locations and my sister spends her wedding night roughing it in the same place her cowboy husband had already dragged her off to. Devoid of ANY logic. Romantic. What’s romantic about all that?! UGH!”

“Asking the wrong dude. All I know is that our wedding, the wedding night and honeymoon will be so luxurious and upscale we will think we died and went to heaven.”

“Speaking of heaven: can you be here tonight? I don’t wanna sleep alone.”

“Yeah, that’ll go over well with your parents, not to mention Connor if he gets wind. We’re trying to inch towards each other; if I sleep in your bed now, they’ll all think we’re just raving idiots who can’t follow through with anything.”

They later had dinner with her parents, Bri, and Bonnie. The meal was filled with light-hearted chatter, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions they had been experiencing. Eventually, they all watched a new movie together, after which everyone went to their respective rooms.

Iris had just settled into her bed, alone, staring at the ceiling, watching the reflections from the swimming pool dance across it, when there was a knock on the glass of the patio door. She sat up and saw Jasper’s silhouette. Quickly, she slipped out of bed to unlock the door.

“Got room for one more?” he whispered.

Iris couldn’t resist playing. “Oh? What about my parents and Connor and all that?”

“Iris, if your parents and big brother, who doesn’t even live here, end up in your room, in the guest house where only you live, and at THIS hour, I have more questions than any of you can answer. So, you want me in or am I going back to …” he retorted, but didn’t get to finish as she pulled him inside by the collar of his short robe, undoing the belt as soon as she closed the door. She then grabbed him by the hand and pulled him to her bed, where she turned him to face her before giving him a rough shove till he fell backwards.

“Whoa, I think this is how we ended up with a baby incoming.” he quipped.

Iris straddled him playfully, her index finger on his lips. “One more word like that and I will hurt you SO badly!”

Grinning, he grabbed her and flipped them around, now he was on top pinning her down. He whispered near her ear, “I think THAT kinda attitude is what got us un-engaged…” but kissed her gently when he felt her deflate beneath him, whispering in her other ear, “Relax, just playing.”

He climbed off her and under the sheets, holding them up for her to crawl in next to him, settling on his arm against his shoulder. “I missed this, Jas.”

“Yeah, me too. I miss you, girl, you’ll just never know how badly. Maybe tapping the accelerator a little bit wouldn’t hurt.”

“Hmmm…” she made, and he realized she was already drifting off to sleep. With a smile, he got comfy and both didn’t wake up until the sun rose.

The Great Gender UnReveal

Jasper and Iris decided to throw a gender reveal party slash baby shower to finally find out if they were having a boy or a girl while celebrating with friends and loved ones. The backyard was decorated with pink and blue balloons, streamers, and a giant question mark piñata. The plan was simple: hit the piñata, and the color of the confetti inside would reveal the baby’s gender.

As the guests gathered around, Jasper handed the bat to Iris. “Ladies first. Let’s find out if we’re having a mini-me or a mini-you,” he said with a grin.

Iris took a deep breath and nodded. “Let’s do this.”

She swung the bat with all her might, but instead of hitting the piñata, she missed entirely and stumbled forward, nearly falling into the pool. The crowd erupted in laughter, and Jasper quickly stepped in to help her regain her balance.

“Okay, my turn, before you end up drowning yourself,” Jasper said, taking the bat from Iris. He aimed carefully and swung, but the piñata was tougher than it looked. It took several more attempts, with both Jasper and Iris taking turns, to no avail.

“Is this a gag gift? Which of you numbnuts bought us a piñata made of cement?!” Jasper finally breathlessly huffed.

The piñata refused to give up its secrets easily. Connor, being the athletic and strong person he was, grabbed the bat and took a few swings. When that still didn’t work, his equally athletic son Chris joined in with one of Chase’s golf clubs, followed by Bri and Jackson wielding mop handles. The whole scene turned into a comical free-for-all with family members whacking the stubborn piñata with anything they could swing.

Jasper grabbed an umbrella, Keira went after it with a broom, and Iris tried her luck with a frying pan. Even Bonnie and Beau joined in, brandishing rolling pins they found in the kitchen, while Chase whacked it with a tennis racket. Noah and Holly each had one of her heels in their hands, banging against it, while two of their triplet girls went in with little spades from the sandbox. Snuffins, the dog, jumped up and tried to bite the piñata, dangling from it by his teeth until a laughing Colton plucked him off.

At the end, the entire party guests were clubbing around the piñata with everything imaginable—garden hoses, a toaster, a vacuum cleaner extension part, and even a decorative gnome. Some had determined faces, swinging with all their might, while most could barely see what they were doing for laughing so hard. The air was filled with joyous chaos and giggles as everyone took turns attacking the resilient piñata.

Finally, with one last coordinated effort, the piñata burst open. But instead of the expected pink or blue confetti, a cloud of purple glitter exploded into the air with an odd puff, covering everyone and everything in a sparkling mess. The guests gasped and then burst into laughter as they realized the reveal had gone hilariously wrong. The hosts’ dog Snuffins dropped down and rolled around in a pile of purple glitter with gusto. Hailey chased him around, trying to hose him off, but everyone screamed when Autumn, one of Connor, Iris, and Bri’s cousin Noah Grainger’s children, came out of the house and wasn’t quick enough to shut the door before Snuffins burst into the house past her, leaving trails of purple glitter throughout the entire home.

“OMG, the maid is so gonna rage-quit when she gets here tomorrow. Luckily, I will be at class. Wait, so what does purple mean now? I don’t get it,” Bri laughed, wiping glitter from her face. Next to her, Jackson was coughing and spitting, trying to wipe purple glitter from his tongue, then trying to help his son who complained, “Dad, I got some in my eye; I keep seeing purple flecks now and Bonnie has purple hair!”

Jasper and Iris looked at each other, equally confused. “Means whoever ordered this shit off Etsy needs to be lined up next to the seller and shot by a military detail,” Jasper grumbled.

“Thanks dude. Since I am the only one here who knows the gender, obviously that would have been me,” Connor grumbled. “Look, I ordered the design we all picked out and I very clearly stated the gender. They had thousands of great reviews, so I am sure they didn’t sit there with an evil grin plotting to mess this up just for you guys.”

Chase, never missing a beat, joked, “Maybe you’re having twins! One boy and one girl!”

“Dad, when Jackson and I did the reveal, it had pink AND blue confetti shaped like little babies… clearly NOT purple glitter. You could tell if it were a set of twins.” Bri laughed.

“And we didn’t have no damn glitter! I’ll never get all that out, dunno how, but it’s in every dang nook and cranny already. Now I am gonna be the joke of the entire town when I get back home to the ranch. Darn it, I have to get feed too. Dagnammit!” Jackson ranted in his thick cowboy drawl, still trying to brush purple glitter from himself, assisted by a giggling Bri. “Well, at least it will keep Taylor off you, thinking you frequent at nudie bars now. I’ll be sure to spray your luggage with vanilla scent before you head back tomorrow.”

Chris, trying to clean up with a hose, ended up spraying glitter everywhere until Chase yelled, “Not into the pool, you knucklehead! And watch what you are doing, now the damn lawn is purple!”

Hailey chimed in, “Well, maybe it’s a hermaphrodite! We don’t judge.”

Everyone turned to Connor, who was chuckling. “Guys, OMG. Not twins nor a hermaphrodite, Mom, A for effort though, good one, very clever. The seller of the pinata clearly screwed something up here, we’ll send him pictures and I am sure we’ll get a refund or at least a condolence message. I have to go into work like this too, I mean, come on, who wants a sparkling doctor?”

The crowd stared at him expectantly. “OK, come on Con-Bear, you’re the only one who knows, so just tell us already. We give up,” Bri demanded.

“Yeah, don’t send me and Beau home glittery AND ignorant now; that’s just wrong, bud,” Jackson chuckled.

“You all have problems. I have to sit in a deposition tomorrow, trying to hide a baby bump and purple glitter while looking professional.” Iris sighed, shaking some out of her dark hair, which still sparkled suspiciously in the sunlight.

“They’ll just think you have a side hustle at a strip club, Iris,” laughed Noah.

“Bite me, Noah. And yeah, just tell us already, Con-Bear. I give up on trying to be a normal parent here. This was just the last hurrah in a long list of fails. I am telling you, I should never be pregnant. This is just a disaster all the way around. From now on, I’ll just be pregnant until this kid comes out and then try to figure everything out as we go,” Iris sighed resigned.

“All right, on that upbeat note, drumroll please,” Connor gestured with his arms, and everyone made noises they thought sounded like a drumroll. The cacophony of oddish sounds created a crescendo of laughter.

“Congratulations, Iris, Jasper, you are having a little…” Connor announced, but just then, a passing cargo ship’s horn drowned out his final word. The laughter erupted even louder, some people literally falling to the ground, others folding over and snorting, gasping from laughing so hard, while a very sparkly Snuffins bounced around barking up a storm, then stopped and shook, releasing a cloud of glitter into the air.

Wheezing for laughter, Chase nudged Hailey, “I am not taking that thing to a dog park until all that glitter is gone, Patches!”

San Sequoia
Seaglass Haven

Jasper looked up when Iris joined them on the patio, returning home from work, looking exhausted and weary. He got up, pulled out a chair, made her sit, and started massaging her neck, while Hailey poured some lemonade for her.

“What’s with the doom and gloom? Normally when someone gets home from work they look thrilled,” Chase asked.

“One of our big accounts flaked and Harrington tasked me to find a replacement, something of substance. Everyone I could think of isn’t interested in switching firms,” she sighed deeply as Jasper halted his efforts, bending down to look at her face.

“Ummm, hello?” he said, gesturing at himself.

“Hello what?”

With an exasperated groan, he stepped aside, whirling through a stack of Hailey’s women’s magazines to return with a few, leafing through some, opening them to articles and full-page spreads of himself, ending it with a cover shot on one of the leading women’s magazines in the world.

“Oh. Right. But you have someone, don’t you? Jenson and Cai, right?”

“Well, I COULD maybe be persuaded, if someone gave me the right pitch…” he wiggled his eyebrows at her, when Chase dampened the joke by dryly grumbling, “Last time she gave you a pitch it was in your pants and now she’s pregnant.”

“CHASE!” Hailey reprimanded, but couldn’t NOT laugh.

“Wow, Dad.” Iris gave him an unimpressed look.

“Yeah, I have nothing to add, Chase. We know where your mind is.” Jasper added.

“Oh my God, it took you this long to realize that?” Hailey laughed, Chase chimed in, shrugging.

“Jas, would you really do that for me? Just asking ‘cos I was gonna ask you for a different favor. A big one.”

Hailey and Chase laughed again, causing eye rolls from Iris and Jas.

“Wanna go talk over there? Clearly your parents have been lacing their own lemonade all day,” Jasper offered. Iris nodded, and they stepped out of earshot.

“Look, Jas, we have the firm’s 25th anniversary celebration this weekend. I know you’re still in town, but I also know you are still trying to keep us low key. Going by myself is cringe, but if I were to ask you to go, people would ask uncomfortable questions. Oh, and nobody knows about… you know…” she pointed to her midsection, where still no bump was visible.

“I’ll go with you. Can’t have you alone with that knuckle-dragging predator dude you work for, or he might try to hump you again.”

“Jas! I wish I had never told you.”

“Well, but you have, and now I am mad jealous. And yes, I’ll be your big account,” he winked.

“Thanks, Jas, you’re the best… but I mean it, we have to come up with matching lines for when someone asks who we are to each other. Childhood friends, light dating, something, anything, but it has to match.”

“I have an idea. Wait right here. Don’t move. I mean it, you, stand, right here,” he told her, then hurried off. Iris turned to her parents, watching from a nearby patio table and chairs, near the playground where Bri was swinging with Bonnie. They gestured with a puzzled look and a shrug, as if to say, “What’s going on?” so she shrugged.

Jasper returned, no longer in his swim trunks, now wearing a crisp white shirt and tailored pants, smiling cryptically as he reached her. In her peripheral vision, she saw her parents trade confused glances and Bri’s head pop up like a meerkat. Jasper had the kind of determined expression that made her heart race, smiling at her, his eyes sparkling, as he took her hands in his, their eyes locking, Iris’ heart rate accelerating.

“Iris, we’ve been through so much together, literally known each other all our lives, and if that were not the case, this most definitely would not be happening right now. But honestly, I know what I said and I meant it, but I think we’ve proven to each other that despite our flaws and rough edges, we are definitely better together than apart. In other words, you can be a punishment on two legs, but my life just sucks so bad without you in it. So… I am sure you already know what I am gonna say next, and here goes,” he went down on one knee, ignoring the squeals by Bri and Hailey, plus the telltale flash of a camera, while Jasper continued, “Iris Marie Cameron, will you be my wife?”

Iris, always composed, usually snarky or sarcastic, started squealing, laughing, and crying, as she dropped down on her knees too, pulling her hands from Jasper to hug him so vigorously that they both almost tumbled over, Jasper barely able to catch them with one arm, while she sobbed into his shoulder, repeating “I love you” in between sobs until he plucked her off himself.

“Hey, you still need to answer me, girl.”

“Yes, YES, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, YES!” she said, kissing his face, while he tried to pry her left hand free to put the engagement ring on.

“Don’t be disappointed, it’s the same one as before….” he said.

“I loved that one. Thank you, Jas! I love you! I won’t blow it again!” she replied.

“Every wife’s words the moment the vows are spoken!” Chase called over, causing teary laughs, as even Bri and Hailey were emotional, all of them coming over now, Bri filming the entire thing, probably to show Connor, Keira, Colton, Maddie, and Jackson later.

Once the congratulations subsided, Jasper turned to Iris, winking. “At least now we know our story will match.”

Smiling, she leaned against his chest. Then she suddenly stiffened.

“Oh shit!” Iris exclaimed.

“What now?” Jasper asked.

“Conflict of interest. I can’t take my own fiancé on as a client at the law firm,” she said.

Chase chuckled, shaking his head but said nothing, while Jasper grinned.

“Oh boy, sounds like you gotta pick what you want more, the client or the man,” he teased.

“The man! Of course! You artists are nothing but trouble anyway from a legal perspective,” she replied.

Jasper laughed, pulling her closer. “Yeah, trouble is my middle name. Think we already have our family motto: Hargraves, nothing but trouble.”

“You got THAT right…” Chase mumbled, reminiscing about his long-standing friendship with Jasper’s father, Colton Hargrave, from their early days to the present.

The Gala Arrival

The night of the law firm’s 25th anniversary gala had finally arrived, and it was nothing short of a spectacle. The venue was a grand ballroom adorned with crystal chandeliers, elegant drapery, and tables set with fine china and sparkling glassware. The excitement in the air was palpable as guests arrived in their finest attire, each hoping to make an impression.

Outside, a sleek, midnight blue Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut glided to a stop, the car’s low-slung profile and aggressive lines catching the attention of everyone nearby. Its carbon-fiber body glistened under the streetlights, and the distinctive whirr of its twin-turbocharged V8 engine purred before it fell silent. As the gullwing door lifted gracefully, Jasper stepped out first, exuding confidence in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie. The fabric hugged his athletic frame, and his polished black oxfords completed the look.

He moved to the other side of the car and extended a hand to Iris, helping her out. She emerged in a breathtaking deep burgundy gown that clung to her figure and flowed elegantly to the ground. The deep V-neckline and intricate beadwork caught the light, making her shimmer with every step. Her dark hair was styled in loose waves, cascading over her shoulders, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, enhancing her natural beauty. Many women in the crowd couldn’t help but notice the sparkling engagement ring on her left hand.

As they made their way up the steps to the entrance, whispers and gasps followed them. The combination of Jasper’s fame and Iris’ radiant presence created a magnetic aura that couldn’t be ignored. They paused for a moment as photographers snapped their pictures, the flashbulbs creating a strobe effect that only added to the glamour of the evening.

Inside the ballroom, Garrick Harrington, the firm’s managing partner, stood near the entrance, greeting guests as they arrived. His eyes widened in surprise and curiosity as he spotted Jasper and Iris making their way toward him. Jasper’s strut was confident and self-assured, knowing full well that his presence was causing a stir. He reveled in the open stares and whispers, especially those from Garrick, whose expression was a mix of shock and intrigue.

“Iris, you look absolutely stunning tonight,” Garrick said, trying to maintain his composure as he greeted her.

“Thank you, Garrick,” Iris replied, beaming. She turned to Jasper, linking her arm with his. “Garrick, I’d like you to meet my fiancé, Jasper Hargrave. He’s the best thing to ever happen to me.”

Jasper extended a hand, his smile charming and genuine. “Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Harrington.”

Garrick shook his hand, still trying to process the sight before him. “The pleasure is mine, Jasper. I must say, this is quite a surprise.”

“Well, I believe in keeping things interesting,” Jasper replied with a wink, causing Iris to giggle softly.

As they moved further into the ballroom, the couple was met with more stares and whispers. Several guests recognized Jasper from his previous roles as an actor. Some women even tried to flirt with him, but it was not lost on Iris that he politely but assertively kept his distance, reassuring her with every interaction.

When the music began, Jasper led Iris to the dance floor. They moved gracefully together, their chemistry undeniable. The band started playing a lively salsa, and their faces lit up. They glided across the floor with near ballroom quality, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. Their love for Latin rhythms was evident, and their skill captivated the audience. As they danced, they shared a tender moment, speaking softly to each other.

“If they knew I’ve never known a life without you, Jas…” Iris whispered, her eyes shining.

“Let’s make sure we both don’t have to know a life without each other ever again. That short kinda-sorta break we took was plenty for me,” Jasper replied, his voice filled with sincerity.

They shared a kiss, which generated open-mouth stares from those watching. The elegance of their dance and the genuine love they displayed was captivating.

Throughout the evening, Jasper and Iris mingled with guests, their presence adding an extra layer of excitement to the gala. Iris introduced Jasper to her colleagues, each introduction met with a mixture of admiration and curiosity. Jasper, ever the charmer, engaged in easy conversation, making everyone feel at ease while keeping a watchful eye on Garrick, who seemed to be watching their every move.

As the night progressed, the couple continued to dance, laugh, and enjoy the celebration, their connection evident to all who watched. Jasper couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and joy, knowing that Iris was by his side, and she felt equally grateful for his unwavering support.

When the evening finally came to an end, they left the gala as they had arrived, arm in arm, heads held high, and hearts full of love and anticipation for the future. It was a night to remember, and as they drove away in the Koenigsegg, the whispers and stares lingered in their wake, a testament to the magic they had created together.