Control

Chapter 58

Mikaela just began her 35th week and was unusually happy despite her obvious discomfort. The connection her child established with her was unlike any joy she had ever experienced and it balanced her out to a level where Dom felt she could continue to see the others.

The men busied themselves by preparing the library for the delivery. After consulting with Patricia, Dom had all the equipment and supplies brought in that would be needed in the eventuality of any complications. The room had been fitted with a bed complete with stirrups, medications, and stores of Mikaela’s rare AB negative blood.

Dom, Leon, Vince, and Brian made a hand carved wooden crib that the mechanics labored for weeks to complete to perfection. When they presented it to her, Mikaela burst into tears and kissed each one in turn for the precious gift. They placed it by her side of the bed and swelled with pride as she fawned over it.

“Dominic.”

“Yeah, baby?”

“We need to move.” She was serious.

“What are you talking about?”

“This house is not conducive to raising a child, especially more than one. The baby won’t even have a room. I am not willing to part with the library or the dojo. If we move to one of the other houses, I can leave this one the way it is.”

“Baby, we can move later if you want to. Our son will be in our room for a while.”

She continued on as if she did not hear him. “None of these houses are appropriate for infants. The master bedrooms are all upstairs.” She began to pace and bite her thumbnail in contemplation.

“Mick…”

“I need to build a house.”

“Precious…”

“A big one-story with the master bedroom separated from the others for privacy but still accessible.”

“Honey…”

“I can incorporate the dojo and the library into the design but make sure they are only accessible by coded locks. I have too many weapons and some of the witchcraft books are antiques.”

“Baby!” He stepped in front of her and stopped her pacing by grabbing her shoulders. “We have time. Will you please calm down?”

“I can’t. My back is killing me and pain gives me nervous energy. Is Anton here? I have a floor plan in my head and I want some builders to get on it.”

“He is here but, Mick; we have plenty of time…”

“No, we don’t! I won’t have our son in our room while you make me scream during sex and beg you to let me cum!”

They guys all started to laugh but brought it under control after a stern look from Dom. “Okay. I see your point. I’ll call him over and you can tell him what to do.” He turned to head downstairs and scowled at the smirks his 3 friends were trying to hide. “Laugh it up while you can. The lot of you will be in this position someday and I’ll be the one laughing.”

Vince, being the group smartass, was the one to respond. “Doubt it, brother. None of our old ladies can just snap their fingers and have a house built but you hold on to that dream.”

“Fuck you, Vince.” Dom mumbled and left to get Anton.

“Mikaela?”

“Brian.”

He watched her pace the room holding her lower back. “Are you okay?”

“No. This is the only house I have that doesn’t work with kids. It’s bothering me.”

“I meant how are you feeling?”

She flinched for a moment and then opened her eyes. “I feel like hell. My back hurts and I don’t believe it is from carrying the extra weight.” Her eyes screwed shut and she gasped in pain. “Brian…”

He went to her side and supported her. “Go get Dom!” He yelled to the others.

“Micki?”

“Leon, call Dr. Snoga! Vince, go get Dom! She’s going into labor!” They both took off running and he turned his attention back to her. “We need to get you downstairs.”

“I can make it.”

“No way. I’ll carry you down the stairs and then you can walk. Come on, princess.” He gently lifted her up and slowly carried her to the first floor.

“I need to walk, Brian. Put me down.” He placed her on her feet and held her arm as she walked in quiet agony to the kitchen.

“Mikaela, where are we going?”

“For a walk, oh handsome medic. I can’t pace in the fucking library. Take me outside.”

“Brian, the doc is on her way.” Leon was ending the call when they entered the kitchen. “Baby, what can I do?”

“Keep everyone away from me for a bit. I don’t react well to pain. Nobody does but I don’t trust myself not to strike out at the others.”

“Okay.”

As they walked out the door, she paused and looked back at him. “Baby…”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t go far. I’m gonna need you when this begins.” She turned and left the patio with Brian leaving a grinning Leon behind.

“Mick!” Dom ran towards his wife with the whole of their family trailing behind him. “Is it time? Is he coming? Are you okay?”

“Dominic, breathe. If you panic, I panic and that does not bode well for anyone. It’s almost time. He is coming. I feel like shit and I’m going for a walk with Brian.” She saw Leon head off the others and herd them into the house.

“Baby, what do you want me to do?”

“Make sure everything is ready in the library and wait for me.” She kissed him and nuzzled his nose. “I love you. I want you to hear that now before I curse you for doing this to me later.”

“I love you.” He glanced up at Brian and an understanding passed between the 2 men with Dom’s words. “I’ll be waiting.”

“I’ll take care of her, bro. Come on, princess.” They walked about 50 feet and turned to pace back. “Am I safe?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“I trust you to take care of me when I’m hurt or in pain.” She took a couple of steps and clenched his upper arm hard. “Brian, I’m in a lot of pain.”

“It’s back labor and you’re handling it great.”

“I have a high threshold…for now.” She sighed heavily and he knew she was troubled. “I’m scared to death. I know this baby has developed my gift. He is the one who initiated this connection with me.”

“Mikaela, I think everything will be okay if he does have it. You and Dom will be a great influence on him. He’ll be loved and he won’t be alone like you were. Your mother wigged out on you because she saw what this did to her sister.” He stopped and looked in her eyes. “You won’t do that. It’s funny that I just thought of this but I think the reason none of your family or employees ever looked you in the eyes isn’t because of your position.”

“What do you mean?”

“You have the ability to drill right through a person’s eyes and peer into their soul. I can feel it right now. If I didn’t know and love you, it would scare me too.”

“I never thought of that. They were trying to shield themselves. Thank you. I can be so blind sometimes.”

“I’m not and I know you’re scared about something else too. Spit it out.”

“I’ve, um, never been around a baby. Not once. I’ve never held one and now I’m responsible for one.”

He laughed softly and shook his head. “Princess, you have a maternal instinct greater than anyone I’ve ever met. You are loving, protective, and nurturing. You’ll raise a wonderful child. Look what you did with Vince.”

She giggled for a moment until a flash of pain hit her. “Goddess. Brian, I think my water broke and may I just say that is fucking nasty.”

“Shit! We need to get to the house now!” He swept her up in his arms and headed for the patio. “Damn. You are progressing fast.”

“What do you mean? If you’re talking about this back labor thing, I’ve had it for about 7 hours now.”

“Seven hours! Why didn’t you say anything?”

“I didn’t know.”

“Jesus, Mikaela. It is a miracle you’ve survived all the injuries you sustained over the years.”

“Don’t bitch at me! I know injuries! I do not know shit about giving birth. Dominic has been speaking to Patricia about…” She stopped in mid-sentence and drew in a sharp breath.

“Princess?”

‘Dominic!’

‘Mick?’

‘I need you!’

“Hold on, Mikaela! I’m almost there!” He carried her up to the patio and was met by her mate as he ran out the door. “Dom, she’s been in labor for over 7 hours!”

“Come here, baby.” He took his wife in his arms and went into the house. He kissed her forehead when he felt her shudder with pain. “You are shielding your pain, aren’t you?” He carried her into the library and placed her on the bed.

“Of course I am. How will you be able to help me if you’re debilitated by my agony? Come to think of it, if I don’t shield you, you will be the only man on the planet who can say he really shared the child birth experience.”

“I guess we’re past the ‘I love you’ part and moved on to the curses, huh? Lay down, baby.”

“Mikaela! Dominic! I got here as fast as I could. How are you doing?”

“Just peachy.”

“Forgive her, Patricia. My darling wife has been in labor for over 7 hours and failed to let us know until 30 minutes ago.”

“Dramatic much?”

“Mikaela, let’s see how close you are. Put your feet up. Your water broke already. That is perfect and you’re about 3 cm. It won’t be long but do not push until I tell you.”

“For your sake that better be soon.” She snapped angrily.

“Brian, clear out and send in Leon.” He sat behind her and pulled her back against his chest. “Its okay, Mick. Try to stay calm.”

“You called for me?” Leon said as he walked into the room.

“Yeah, man. You’re up.” Dom rocked Mikaela and spoke softly in her ear. “He is going to secure your legs so you don’t hurt Patricia. I’ve got you, love. Is he still projecting?” Her eyes were clenched, tears flowing, and taking sharp drags of air through her nose but she nodded her head. “What do you feel?”

“His love…and strength.”

“Focus on that and keep yourself calm. Don’t get hot now. Okay?” He felt her forehead and cast a nervous glance at Patricia. She nodded again. “Leon, why don’t you yell at Brian to smash some ice and bring it to you but don’t leave the room?”

“Sure, Dom.” He went to the door, gave Brian instructions, and waited for his return.

“Mikaela, we are at the deadline for an epidural. If you want it for the pain, it has to be now.”

“No! Drugs will dull my control! I could hurt Dominic and Leon!”

“Shh. Baby, we can handle it if it will help ease your pain.”

“Really?” She said sarcastically. When her next contraction hit, she projected for about 10 seconds before she placed her shields back in place. Both men cried out and doubled over before it passed. “Do you think you can handle that?”

“No epidural!” They said in unison.

“Patricia, when can…I push?”

“Soon. You’re dilating quickly.” She smiled at her quiet patient. “Most women are screaming their heads off at this point. I know I did. You can vocalize your pain, you know?”

“I can’t.” She whispered. “I will not display that weakness. I won’t.”

The 3 of them exchanged sad glances as she continued to suffer quietly. “Dom, I need you to exchange places with Leon.” Dom kissed her softly, slipped out from behind her and leaned her back into Leon’s arms when he was in place. “She is coming along quickly. There is a good chance she will not need an episiotomy but you could help those chances by giving her a perineal massage.” She grabbed his hand and placed it on the skin between the vagina and anus. “Rub here and help loosen her up.”

While Dom massaged her, Mikaela grasped Leon’s forearm that was wrapped around her chest. Her eyes were closed and she rested her chin on her hands while he fed her ice chips. His head rested against hers and his chin was on her shoulder.

‘Mick.’

‘Rob?’

‘Yeah, baby. I’m here.’ Leon kissed her cheek. ‘We both are.’

‘You planning on staying with him or are you going to leave him in peace? Between the 2 of us, I think we’ve done him enough harm.’

‘Micki, you haven’t. It was supposed to be this way. Yeah, Mick. I know you have Dom but I needed to know you would have everything you always deserved. Love, friendship, family and peace.’

‘What about Leon? You know being bonded with me is no picnic.’

‘We both know you love him just like you loved me. It is enough.’

‘I…I’m so scared.’

‘Mick, you are mother incarnate. You always take care of people and it wasn’t you being selfish to save yourself from their emotions.’

‘I’m a programmed weapon and a fucking killer.’

‘Micki, you killed defending others. Baby, don’t be scared.’

“Mikaela, it’s time to push now!”

‘Rob…’

‘I gotta go, baby. You’re in good hands. I love you.’

Her eyes fixed on her mate’s. He took her hands in his and laced their fingers. “Watch me. Stay in my eyes.” She clenched her teeth and bore down. Each time she pushed, her hands gripped his until her nails scored his flesh and her knuckles turned white. “That’s my girl. Keep going, baby. You’re almost there.”

“I’m…tired. I can’t…do…this.”

“Mick! You can do anything! Now focus on me and push! Now!” Her eyes flashed with determination and she did as he instructed.

“He’s almost clear, Mikaela. Give me one more big push!” Patricia pulled the tiny newcomer free. “Dom, come here.” He released his wife’s hands and went to Patricia. “Hold your son for a second.” She handed the proud father his son and cut and tied off the cord. “Take him to the table while I clean her up.”

Dom cradled the tiny bundle in his hands. A set of black eyes stared up at him in wonder. “God, you’re beautiful.” He whispered with tears in his eyes and a smile on his face.

“Mikaela, I need you to give me one last push. There you go.” She lowered the platforms that her legs were bound to. “You can rest now.”

“Micki?” Leon whispered in her ear. She held his forearms and was shaking from her exertion. “You did it.”

“Is…is he…okay? I can’t hear him. Aren’t they supposed to cry? They always cry in the movies.”

“Mick, he’s fine.” Dom called out to her. “Patricia is cleaning him up right now.”

“Leon…untie my legs.” He slipped out from behind her and eased her back. He brushed her hair off of her sweaty forehead, smiled, and moved to release her restraints. “Patricia, can I take a shower?”

“Yes but don’t you want to see your son first?”

“I, um, want to get clean first.”

“Very well. Leon, will you help her?”

“No!” They all snapped their heads up at her outburst. “I can do it myself.” She rose unsteadily to her feet and slowly left the room. “Brian.”

He was pacing the hall when she emerged from the library. “Mikaela, what are you doing up?”

“I want a shower. Will you turn on the water for me?”

“Yeah. Do you need help?”

“No. I’ll make my way.” He nodded and turned to enter the bathroom. She placed her hand on the wall to brace herself as she padded down the hall. When she finally made it into the bathroom, her legs were shaking and she seemed somewhat dazed.

“It’s on the cool side.” Brian tested the water and turned to her. He could see she was fixing to drop but knew her pride would not allow her to accept his help. “Just how you like it.”

“Thanks.”

“I’ll leave you to it.” He kissed her forehead. “Congratulations, mama. I’ll be outside if you need anything.” He closed the door behind him and waited.

She peeled off her sweat drenched dress and moved under the spray. ‘I did it.’ Her tears mixed with the water as she gingerly washed her hair and body.

Twenty minutes later, the door opened and a robed Mikaela smiled with some effort at Brian. “You look better. I can barely tell that you just gave birth by looking at you.”

“Hmm. I can seriously say that was the worst fight I ever had. I can barely stand.”

“You shouldn’t be.” He picked her up, carried her down the hall, and headed for the stairs. “Everyone is upstairs fawning all over junior.” He carefully carried his precious package up the stairs and felt her slump slightly against him. When he reached the top, everyone cleared a path and he placed her in the center of the bed.

“Hey, baby.” Dom sat next to her and kissed her softly. “I want to introduce you to someone.” He reached into the crib by the bed, picked up his son, and turned to his wife. “Dominic Robert Toretto, Jr. meet your mother.” She smiled at the curious look her son gave her. “Do you want to hold him?”

Her smile faltered and tears rolled down her face. “I don’t know how.”

“It’s okay, baby. It’s easy. Hold your arms like this.” He watched her follow his example and set their child in her arms. “Just support his head. There you go. Perfect.” He laid on his side and watched her stare in wonder at the tiny being in her arms.

A tiny hand reached out to grab her finger that she was touching his cheek with. “He is so beautiful. He looks like his daddy.”

“He is the best of both of us.”

Patricia came forward not wanting to interrupt the moment but needing to. “Mikaela, you need to feed him.” She registered the look of concern on the new mother’s face. “Don’t worry. I’ll coach you through it and Dom can help you with the rest.”

Dom had reached his end. He knew his wife was self-conscious about her inexperience in this matter and did not want her to feel anymore discomfort. “Patricia, I can handle it. If you all don’t mind, I would appreciate it if you would clear out and let Mick rest.”

“Okay, Dom. I believe I instructed you well enough that you should be fine. I’ll check in with you in a few hours and if you need anything just call.”

“Thank you.” He nodded at them as they all took their leave quietly. He reached over and pulled back her robe exposing her breast. “You ready?”

She nodded her head. “Thank you for that.”

“Don’t mention it. I want us to be alone anyways. Okay. Move him a little closer. Lift up a little. Rub your nipple across his lips until he latches on. There. Oh yeah, I am definitely jealous.” She gasped at the strange sensation and stared at him nursing. “You did a fantastic job, Mick.”

She looked into his eyes and saw how proud he was of her. “You really think so?”

“Oh yeah, baby. Look at what you did. He is beautiful just like you.” His eyes welled with tears and he gently traced her cheek with his fingertips. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too. I still think he is handsome like his father.” She glanced down at him. “He is a breast man like you that is for sure.”

“Speaking of that, you need to feed him evenly from each one or you’ll get sore. Move the critter over here to this one.” He opened the side of her robe closest to him, watched her gently pull his son off her right breast with a pop and repeat his earlier instructions until he sucked on her left nipple. “That’s my boy.”

She leaned her head against his shoulder and they both watched their son nurse until he was full and tired. “Look at that yawn. I think he’s done for the time being. Now that I think of it, so am I.”

“Come here, critter.” Dom took their boy and cradled him in his left arm. He put his right around his wife and drew her against his chest. “I love you.”

“I love you too but I changed my mind.” She mumbled sleepily.

“About what?”

“I don’t care how good you eat my pussy. There is no way I am having a litter.”

He chuckled and kissed her head. “Rest, baby.” She laid her head on his shoulder and drifted off with a smile on her face. He held his mate and son in his arms and watched them sleep peacefully. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of them. ‘My family.’