Archive of Our Own

Four days after the delivery, Ruby was finally able to go home with her baby. Her three-day hospital stay was anything but comfortable, with nurses continuously coming in and out to check on both her and the baby. Her body was sore beyond belief. Aching in parts, she didn't know existed until now. Her breasts were even more swollen. Everything about pregnancy, labor, and post-labor was uncomfortable, but she would be remiss to say it was not all worth it.  

God had given her exactly what she had prayed for since the moment she found out she was pregnant. A healthy baby girl who had her heart the moment she knew she was inside of her. She was convinced that this was the greatest love in the world. She wanted both she and her daughter to be at total peace. Not apart of the world but only being a part of each other's world. 

She held her close and where she was going to stay for the rest of their lives. 

Leti forced herself into the roles of chef, nanny, and casual annoyance. Of course, her sister was trying to be helpful, but she caused more tension than necessary. The truth was it didn't bother Ruby as much as it bothered Christina. 

Not even twenty-four hours of being back home, Christina was bringing her a cup of tea and a headache. When she wasn't complaining about Leti, she was referencing Spock. The shit finally hit the fan at dinner. Ruby came in on the tail end of Leti barking orders that Christina didn't take too kindly to. 

"She's just being helpful Christina." Ruby sighed after her sister left for home that night. 

"We should be bonding with our baby... I mean... doesn't she have her own somewhere or another?" Now, Christina knew damn well that wasn't a question but a statement wrapped in sarcasm, brattiness, and disdain. So much for a truce.

"Leti doesn't mean any harm..." Ruby exhaled, not wanting to fight with Christina over this. "She's here to help me."

"I'm here to help you." silence fell over the room. The statement had been spoken too many times before. They were all each other needed. That was not going to change. Christina was going to stand like a tree. So leveled and grounded to her family. End of discussion. 

They both stared at one another. Knowing which one was going to fold. 

Ruby didn't waste another second. She learned early in life that it was best to pick your battles, and fortunately for them, Leti was an easy battle to conquer. "Fine. I will tell her... soon." 

Soon, did not come quick enough for Christina.

On her baby's fifth day in the world, Ruby told her sister she didn't need any additional help. 

"We can manage." 

"Are you sure?" Leti asked. She wasn't convinced. With her own pregnancy and birth, Ruby was there from the beginning. She knew what that pain felt like and trying to care for the child too… she wanted to stay. This was her time to return the favor. She wanted and needed to return the favor. 

Christina walked into the room but didn't make it further than the arch of the door. Instead, she leaned on it casually.

"Leti, it's -" Ruby began but stopped. She could see the Blonde lurking and watching both sisters. Making sure Ruby was executing what they talked about. 

Christina knew Ruby had a soft spot for Leti. A different soft spot was extended to her even at her worst behavior. She felt herself competing with Leti for Ruby's everything even when Leti didn't know there was a challenge. She waited for the victory that came with Ruby telling Leti to go. This was her family, and she would take care of them now and always. 

"I'm sure... Maybe you can come and visit one day out of the week, just not… everyday… alright."

"Oh, alright." Leti said. She looked hurt, Christina looked smug, and a day later, Christina burned dinner, which had Ruby questioning if she was sure at all.

As they fanned the smoke from the kitchen, Ruby decided not to unleash her frustrations. Again, she would choose her battles, but she did need to know. "What the hell were you doing that you couldn't watch the food?" she asked, not able to hide her annoyance while throwing the burnt chicken in the sink as Christina continued to fan the area. 

"Watching you both sleep." The blonde responded as if it justified almost burning down the kitchen. Ruby sighed and rubbed her temples. Cute answer - real cute. She thought as she walked away, leaving Christina to continue to clear the smoke she had caused.  

The baby's cries weren't loud but strained. Her face would even turn red which scared Christina shitless. Ruby, too but she could manage the fear a little better, especially since she didn't think it was a problem until Christina kept pointing it out... 'First parent jitters' the doctor laughed when they, well Ruby, called with Christina's ear to the phone as well. It was expected, he said. "She's… probably just pooping," he continued. The two of them looked at one another. "Probably," Christina mouthed, only for his words to be verified by a mess Ruby instructed her to take care of not even an hour later.

On day seven, the doctor also mentioned that both Ruby and Clarissa could take a bath, not a sponge bath, but she could soak in the tub again. Of course, she went in cautiously with the baby. Her skin was new, pale, and sensitive. Lukewarm water was best. She whimpered at first but settled as Ruby sat in the tub with her legs propped up. Clarissa was resting comfortably between her mother's stomach and her thighs, fully content. 

Skin to skin contact. 

A sweet song accompanies her daughter's first bath as she combes a full head of hair, just like the heartburn during her pregnancy predicted. 

 You are the love that

I have waited for

The mate that fate had me created for

She runs a small handful of water over Clarissa's little head and shoulders, making sure to protect her slightly open eyes as the baby whimpers. 

And everytime my lips meet yours

Down and down I go,

Round and Round I go

In a spin, I'm loving the spin that I'm in

I'm Under that old black magic 

Called love

She thought the sound of her voice would be calming, Clarissa would settle down after she sang when they were joined in the womb. However, the soft whimpers continued. It had to be the water, but maybe...

"Hungry? Is my beautiful baby hungry?" It had been four hours since she had last latched; of course, her little angel was hungry, and she was sure Clarissa would be fussy if she waited any longer. Ruby slightly adjusted the infant even closer to her so that she could feed. Maybe the meal was Gourmet quality. Ruby smirked at the thought. Clarissa certainly savored the milk. She would take her time to eat and even dozed off between feedings. Ruby wouldn't dare to rush her; in fact, it was the best quality time a mother and daughter could get and she loved every minute of it.

She didn't want to at first. It took a lot of convincing on Christina's part that it was the right thing to do. Ruby saw it as being a human cow, much like the rest of the world. She was raised on Pet Milk, and so was everyone else she knew, but no, her "person" overly consumed herself with books telling them differently than what Ruby had always known. She promised she would give it a try. They settled on a month. Just a month. They were giving it a try. If Ruby doesn't like it and Clarissa doesn't take to it, she would stop. They weren’t going to force it. 

Clarissa eats for a good ten minutes before the water around them begins to cool. She was taking to it well. Ruby smiled getting her cleaned up with a soft cloth. Arms, tummy, legs, and feet… 

Christina stands at the door watching as Ruby washes those tiny toes. She rests her head on the door frame admiring the scene before her. It was absolutely amazing . She never wanted to be a parent. Yet preparing for the baby softened her but actually laying eyes on the infant made her heart melt. 

Not once looking up, she can feel Christina's presence. "How long are you going to just stand there and stare?" Ruby asks in her Chicago drawl reminding Christina of the first time they met.

Nope. She wasn't modest at all. 

Christina smirks. "All night if you would allow me." 

"The water is getting cold... I need to get her out of here." Ruby said, shifting a little. 

Christina nods as she walks a short distance across the room and grabs a plush towel. Soft and expensive. She then makes her way back to Ruby and the baby. Their eyes lock as Christina bends down, and Ruby hands her the infant slowly and carefully. She was protecting her head and her tiny wet body. 

Once entirely in Christina's arms, Ruby leans back in the tub as Christina wraps the baby in the towel. She drys the infant. Admiring everything about her. "She is so beautiful and soft and... perfect." The blonde says in absolute awe of her little person. Blue eyes mesmerized. She leans her head in closer to kiss the baby and inhales her scent. "She smells perfect too."

"Did you bring her bassinet into our room?"

"Yes." Christina responded as she nuzzled her daughter in her arms."

"She just ate. You're going to have to burp her." Ruby replied, watching how Christina cradled their baby, knowing she may spit up or get an upset stomach in that position. 

Christina nodded understanding completely and propped the baby upright onto her shoulder. Securing her as Clarissa stirred a little before she settled into the crook of Christina’s neck as the woman patted her back. 

“Harder.”

“I know,” Christina responded and began to pat a little harder through the towel that was still soft on the baby’s skin. 

“You won’t break her you know?”

“...I know,” Christina responded. Of course, she knew, but she still wanted to be as gentle as possible. 

Ruby sighed and dipped her entire body in the water, scooting her lower half to submerge in the large tub. She moved back upward, knowing that the water needed to be much hotter for her to enjoy it. “I’m going to let this water drain. I need it hotter. I’m feeling blocked.” Ruby admitted, gesturing that last part to her breast. 

Christina nodded. She had read about that and wanted to make sure she allowed Ruby to be as relaxed as she could. “I will lay her down then.” 

“Thank you.” Ruby said appreciatively as Christina left the bathroom with the baby in tow. 

About 45 minutes later, Ruby left the adjacent bathroom and walked into their Bedroom... She had pampered herself, letting the steam from the tub caress her body. From head to toe. Lotioned and feeling softer than usual, her silk gown clings onto her body, accenting every curve.

 She crawled into bed next to Christina, who didn’t ignore how tasty she looked. Christina was utterly naked, and though Ruby wasn’t opposed to it, her lover’s eyes spelled trouble. 

“Okay,” she said to no one but herself. 

The bassinet was placed on her side of the bed. It was easier.  She leaned over and noticed that the baby was peaceful and her eyes were closed. Ruby knew better. It was apparent that Clarissa didn’t sleep. She took cat naps, as Eloise would call it. Though her eyes were closed now, Ruby was sure that her sweet baby would at least give her 30 minutes at best. 4 hours of sleep would be a gift, but that was still depending on how generous her daughter would feel tonight.

“How was your bath?” Christina asked. Her eyes followed Ruby. 

"Very relaxing. The hot water helped a lot." 

"Good… I've been reading -" 

Ruby cut her off before she could finish. "I've been switching sides but I think I produce more milk than she actually eats… but I said I would give it a try… for you."

She was going to beat Christina to the punch before she had to hear more bullshit about how a woman's body feels after birth and what should be done as a remedy for any minor or significant feeling she had. But, emotional or physical, that damn book had the answer… at least Christina felt. 

Christina smiled. She read that it was the best way that a child could develop. Natural. "I'm grateful to you for agreeing to it. I know it's uncomfortable..."

She didn't know. She hadn't endured that type of pain. But, even if the roles were reversed, the mark of Cain would cradle her from pain. 

"... I'm so incredibly proud of you…" The glow of her blue eye could not hide the admiration she felt. "Thank you." Christina finished. Those two words could never be enough for what Ruby had given her. 

Ruby returned Christina's gaze giving her a slight smirk while untucking her towel, allowing it to fall to her feet before looking away. She then reached into the dresser drawer and pulled out her nightgown. 

Compromise. That's what Ruby did in their relationship. She compromised however she could to keep the peace in so many instances. She often gave in because this woman could be a spoiled brat when it came to her. But, she figured it was long overdue. Her father never spoiled her, and her mother died too young to do it. So she let Christina have her way in an attempt to heal wounds that were still open, turning them into scabs that the blonde picked ever so often. 

"Ruby, I'm not thanking you just for that. I'm thanking you for… all of it…" Her icey fingers reached out to make swirls on Ruby's shoulder, inching towards her neck. "I'm thanking you for giving me a family."

Ruby looked back at her.  

"How can I help?" Christina asked, licking her lips as if she already had an answer. 

Ruby, however, didn't reply but instead shifted herself away from Christina, closer towards their daughter as she possibly could. She wanted to sleep over whatever Christina was trying to initiate. The compromise worked in her favor that night. Clarissa didn't wake her up. Christina stopped touching her, and she slept well. Not as long as she would like, but it was still the best sleep she could ask for for a woman who just welcomed home an infant. 

The following day Christina woke Ruby up as William. She had important business in the adjoining town, and she would be gone most of the day. She was reluctant to go so soon, but the end would justify the means she hoped. A kiss goodbye was too quick for them both, especially for Christina.

She could be needy when it came to Ruby, but in Ruby's honest opinion, she needed Christina too. 

"I guess we are on our own sweetie." Ruby cooed at the baby, but they weren't for long. Leti came over with little George. 

"I was afraid to stop by… I know I'm not welcomed here." Leti replied as Ruby fixed them lunch. A sandwich for both she and George while Leti opted for a cup of tea. God forbid she ate anything Christina Braithwhite bought.  

"You're my sister. You are welcomed anywhere I am… even if I can't say the same." Ruby hummed as she sipped her brew of tea.

Leti rolled her eyes. "The worst part of you doesn't seem to think so... She practically had you kick me out."

Ruby shook her head. "It wasn't like that at all. She's just a little -"

"Psychotic. Evil, Possessive…"

"Protective." She would hate to throw her sister out again, but she wasn't going to allow her to bash the owner of the home she currently sat in. 

"She's practically trying to keep us apart." Leti said as if she didn't do most of the damage in their relationship alone. "She doesn't even want me in her house even though my sister and niece are here."

Ruby remained quiet. It wasn't like Christina was welcomed in Leti's house either. She had to ignore it, so instead, she looked over to George and Clarissa. Cousins. Ruby wanted to make sure they were close. George was like her baby. His mother was technically her first. Christina knows how she feels about family. Even at their worst, family was still family. "I want them to be close."

"They will be… I mean God forbid they are like us." Leti responded, speaking of their own faults as sisters. "Bright side is they don't have momma around causing a rift."

"Momma didn't do that Leti we did." Ruby admitted, "She just didn't stop it."

Leti looked at Ruby and smiled. "Well it's stopped now." 

For the time being, Ruby thought, but instead of saying it, she returned that smile as the two finished their lunch in an enjoyable silence. 

Leti didn't stay for long. Before she left, she asked if Ruby could watch George next weekend while she traveled with Tic. They didn't have much time together since George, and even with it being a guide trip, it would still be nice. Hippolyta planned on traveling in other ways, so that just left Ruby. She had nothing to do but stay at home with her own child.  

Even with her own child, her nephew was still loved and always welcomed. 

"Bring 'em early that morning… that way I can make sure he's eaten a decent breakfast. Cause Sugar Smacks aren't cutting it, Leti."

While Clarissa slept, because that's all babies do for fun, Ruby decided to get her clothes organized. Too many clothes. It was ridiculous and overwhelming. Both her lover and her sister went a bit overboard in wanting to dress the little girl. Clarissa was like a doll to them both, but Ruby knew better because she got the fussy shit storm throughout the day.

Christina walked into the nursery in her own skin, which didn't go unnoticed. 

"You've been home?"

"Yeah just for an hour or… two." She responded, looking around the room at Ruby's new project. 

Ruby was organized to a fault which Christina always appreciated. She was undoubtedly an asset beyond their physical relationship. She taught her how to invest wisely instead of throwing money at people to get what she wanted in the now. It was about the long term. Savings. Making that Braithwhite money work for them or find a job to compensate for the losses. 

Christina damn sure wasn’t going to do that. 

“Are you and Leti competing in clothes?”

“What do you mean?”

“Clarissa has too many outfits that she will never wear. She will grow out of them and what are we going to do with all of it?” 

A smile spread across the face of the blonde as she walked over the crib. Without hesitation, she picked up the sleeping infant and snuggled with her. “We can always keep them for her little sister.” she mumbled. 

Ruby snapped her head towards Christina as she stared daggers into the woman. Then, with a violent shake of her head, she questioned, “You must plan to get pregnant next?”

Christina’s smirk soon faded. She didn’t find that funny at all. Pregnancy seemed inconvenient. “Okay, I get it…” she sighed. “No more babies.” she responded back, soothing the little one in her arms. “Just wishful thinking, I guess.” She says low enough for Ruby to miss it, but Ruby’s too sharp, and Christina knows that. 

The baby whimpers a little. “Let her sleep Christina.”

“If she sleeps now she will be up all night… trust me.”

“She sleeps through the night.’

“No you sleep through the night.” Christina said, bouncing Clarissa lightly, “She whimpers at night and I get her before she wakes you… so you can sleep.” Christina finishes before solely focusing on the baby in her arms. 

At only a week old, she was in love with her little girl who depended on her. Her actions determined what kind of person her daughter would be, and she would be damned if she didn’t give this little girl the world. 

Ruby watches Christina with their baby. She was much better than expected with her. “When she outgrows the baby clothes we can take it to Stone’s Temple... I’m sure someone in the congregation will need them someday soon.”

Christina doesn’t bother to respond but nods. Clarissa would be like herself… an only child. She would have three, four, or five babies with Ruby if she could, but one was perfect for now.  

That night they both got ready for bed separately. They kept Clarissa up as long as they could while still considering themselves good parents. Christina had taken her shower first and waited on Ruby, who still complained about the tenderness she was feeling. 

When she watched her emerge from the bathroom in a towel, she couldn’t help the smile that spread across her face. “How are you feeling?” 

Ruby walked over to the drawer, ignoring that question. Christina nodded at the lack of response. She had been patient all day. If Ruby wasn’t willing to open up, she would set the tone. She always did. This was becoming a pattern. She was used to the Ruby that confronted her head-on, not the one that remained silent and passive unless arguably provoked.

Once she felt the other woman settle, she leaned over and kissed her tenderly, smiling against her lips and slightly bumping her nose. 

“What was that for?” Ruby asked lowly yet innocently. 

“I haven’t kissed you all day and figured we were long overdue.” 

Ruby smiled back at her and leaned forward, initiating her own kiss, this one passionate, causing Christina to moan, placing both hands on both sides of ‘s face. She didn’t want her to move. Even though their days were filled with excitement, cuddling, holding, and talking to one another was the highlight of Christina’s day. 

Ruby could tell that Christina was getting into the kiss as the hands that once cupped her cheeks were now making their way down her body.

“Hmm....mmmm, we have to stop.” Ruby said after breaking away from the kiss, not her. 

Christina looked down at her. Studying her face a little before accepting Ruby’s reluctance. “Alright.” Christina responded, not moving away. Instead, she moved closer.

“We can’t have sex... yet.”

Christina nods. “I’m aware… and that’s not what I was wanting.”

Ruby’s eyebrow raised. Now she’s the one questioning Christina’s face. 

“I’ve been researching. Reading. Asking around.”

“Asking around!?” Now she felt violated. “Who, what… Why are you telling people about my body?”

“Earlier you said you felt blocked.”

“Yeah, so.”

“If the hot water didn’t help then I can help.” Ruby looked at Christina as if she had three heads. Watching Ruby’s face frown, Christina sighed, “You need to relieve the milk.”

“You have lost your damn mind!” Ruby said lowly, throwing the sheets off of her body. The nerve of that boney little bitch. 

“I’m helping you!” Christina said, matching her tone but more defensively watching Ruby storm out of their bedroom.

Now she knew what Christina wanted. It all made sense. From the moment in the hospital, when trying to get Clarrisa to latch on, she noticed Christina starting to blush. Even when their daughter finally got the hang of it, and Ruby questioned if she should switch sides more often, Christina jokingly stated that she would take one side if needed 

“You know, to even them out… or they will probably be lopsided and I don’t know if you would want that.”

Ruby bolted down the stairs and didn’t stop until she made it to the kitchen with Christina hot on her heels. She needed something to distract her, and food was always her best friend and worst enemy. 

“I asked around…”

“That’s what you were doing today… asking around about my body?”

Christina stopped in front of her. “I asked expert doctors.”

“I don’t give a fuck if you asked the Pope... I don’t want people in my business.”

Christina rolled her eyes. “They don’t know it’s you.”

“You are missing the point Christina... I… I want to just be... normal. Why can’t you understand that.”

“Exactly what part of any of this is normal Ruby. Give me a minute and I’m sure I can fix it with a spell. Give me an hour and I can fix it with other methods. Just give me something and I can help. Just let me help you… why is that so hard.”

“I don’t want your help with this.” 

“But you want Leti’s help or Hippolyta’s help… or the fucking mailman’s help... why can’t I help… you don’t think I’m capable. I’m just as much a part of our daughter’s life as you are.”

Ruby looked away from her. Then, all of a sudden, they weren’t talking about her blockage anymore. “We view things differently.”

“Do we now.”

Ruby looked at Christina once again; after that sarcastic ass comment with that sarcastic ass tone of voice, she could tell her to go to hell, but that would help neither of them. She was tired of fighting this woman. She was so sick of constantly explaining her feelings to someone she didn’t believe could actively feel pain. Pleasure, yes, but the hurt she was exempt from both physically and emotionally would never surface.  “You don’t care about shit Christina.”

“Despite what you think, I care about you. I care about your heart and the way you feel.” She said honestly.” Christina moved closer to Ruby before grabbing her hand and placing it into her own. She bit her lip, looking at their fingers intertwined before looking into those pretty brown eyes. Christina had to admit -  this was all too new. Even after the Equinox, Ruby was still vocal about her likes and dislikes. What upset her was always known. She never shied away from confrontation. Christina welcomed their banter, their differences, and their harmony. 

Ruby knew it was true. She just knew it. “Shit.” She said out loud. How did Christina manage to do this to her? “I don’t want to fight with you. I also don’t want -”

“What’s changed?” she said in a whisper, cutting her better half off. “Between us?”

“... Clarissa...” Ruby said after a short pause. Allowing their daughter’s name to linger in the air. The name Christina asked for after her own late mother. Ruby gave Eloise as a middle name.  She didn’t need to think about it, but she did have the need, to be honest. “My interests have changed.”

Christina shifted slightly, pulling back her hand. A quick sigh to hide the hurt but to reveal a question she needed answering “You’re no longer interested?” Her voice was low. The damage couldn’t be masked.

Ruby sighed, noticing it before she could finish. “Of course I’m still interested. I just want to experience every moment with her. Naturally as her mother. If it comes with aches and pains. Headaches and tears… it would be worth it.”

Ruby took the opportunity to now cradle Christina’s hand. If anyone could understand wanting to experience new firsts , it was her. 

And Christina could; she understood it completely. She was relieved that Ruby wasn’t distancing herself from their relationship but instead focusing on their daughter, who needed it so much more. Their daughter was placed in their lives because God saw Ruby fit, and she was.

She was a natural nurturer. A skill Eloise Baptiste never possessed, so Ruby had to step up and do it. Christina didn’t mind her doing it for their own bundle of joy. It made sense. It was natural. She did hate that Ruby never extended the care she gave to others to herself. 

So, if Ruby needed her back washed, her feet rubbed, or even a nightcap, Christina was glad to do it. She wasn’t, however, keen on watching their daughter through the eyes of someone else. She knew it would take time, but for now, she appreciated pressing her little girl against her own chest every moment she got. Thinking of chests brought her back to Ruby. “You know, there is no magic involved. Just us, taking care of you… I will be as gentle or as rough as you want me to be. I can -” The sound of the baby cut her off. Clarissa was breaking those new lungs in, and Ruby was relieved... Christina, however, was not. “I will get her.” She said, standing.

“No, I will…” Ruby replied. She then stood on her own “I’m sure she’s hungry. That would help.”

Christina watched Ruby descend from the den. She was trying to make light of her intentions but had an overwhelming feeling that she had stuck her foot in her mouth.   

“Come on baby.” Ruby cooed her infant as Christina finally found the courage to come into the bedroom with them.

“I won’t do it again.”

She better not, Ruby thought to herself. "Alright, babe." was her simple reply as she patted their daughter on the back. "Come here."

Christina wasn't sure how to take the invitation, but she would certainly do as she was asked. She reached the bed and sat near Ruby's legs as she continued to pat Clarissa's back. Hard. Much harder than Christina would do.

"Are you doing this for me… or is this some sick fetish for you."

"You say sick fetish but I call it caring." Christina smirked, which caused Ruby to roll her eyes. Christina loved the reaction of annoyance. It showed that she still cared enough to look past childish behavior. Fun. They had fun together. Christina took her hand and guided it over Ruby's leg through the green silk sheets. "I'm joking…You know that... This is for you... I promise." She then leaned forward to capture Ruby's lips scooting and inching as close as she could. 

She didn't have to come too far as Ruby met her halfway. Their lips were interlocking as their daughter continued to nestle in the crook of Ruby's neck as the woman continued to pat her.

Christina pulled back, not once breaking their eye contact. The two stared at one another for a long moment. Both were reading each other like only they could do. "I will think about it." Ruby said.

Christina nodded. Maybe she needed something more. She cleared her throat to release the elephant in the room. "I can get the potion... if it would... make you feel better."

Clarissa produced exactly what Ruby wanted to hear. A soft but audible baby burp signally that she and her daughter needed to release that added pressure.

Ruby was silent... She was silent, not because that's what she wanted, but mute because she didn't want to turn Christina away wholly. Not now and not ever. The truth was she didn't need William; sex wasn't her primary concern; her body was. She felt different since she had the baby. She was stitched up, aching, and she didn't find that sexy at all, so... why would Christina. She did need more, but it wasn't a penis or time… it was confidence. "No, I'm fine." she managed to get out before passing the infant to Christina, who gladly took her. 

-----------------------------

Time was of the essence but not to Christina Braithwhite. Giving Ruby time was like watching paint dry for her. Eventually, she would come around, but Christina would just have to push the matter further than watch her be uncomfortable. 

On the sixth day, their routine seemed to be set. With a new occupant who barely slept through the night, Ruby and Christina swabbed schedules with their own basic needs. Ruby now took her bath first while Christina put the baby to sleep. Then they swapped again in case she decided to awake. It was working. It was confusing, but they were riding the tide with their new little person. 

A little person whose legs were long. So long that she came two weeks earlier than the doctor thought. Christina hated cramped places too. Height might be the only thing they had in common, physically. Her eyes were dark like Ruby's. Her face was round. Her skin was light, but she would get a few shades darker with time, which was fine. She was without flaws. 

Christina couldn't help but look at Clarissa in amazement, at least in principle. Ruby took care of the natural feedings that she pressed. She operated as a one-woman show throughout the day, allowing bedtime to be the one exception; besides that, Ruby was in charge of most tasks...

"I don't do enough." Christina said, rubbing Ruby's legs as the woman laid them across her lap for that exact reason. Ruby was alert to a whimper that Christina hadn't mastered. She was right down the hall, yet Ruby heard it from downstairs in the foyer. 

"Honestly Christina, at this age, there isn't much to do." The older woman yawned. 

That didn't make Christina feel any better, and Ruby noticed it in her face. She had this way about her. Christina would go quiet as if she was in deep thought. Focusing on what was bothering her—obsessing over a solution.

Ruby sighed, and like always, she wouldn't just let sleeping dogs lie.

"You do a lot, baby. You cuddle her, soothe her when she cries at night... I've heard you sing to her. You talk love into her and honestly now is the time to bore her with all of that knowledge you have." Ruby chuckled at her own joke as Christina smirked in return. "She's your own little captive audience."

"I guess you're right." Christina said, liking the sound of that. When she was younger, she held on to her father's every word until she was old enough to realize the words he embedded into her mind were used as a way to control and oppress her as a woman. To keep her in her place. She never liked staying still so knowing her place seemed difficult as she grew older. They were close. She was a daddy’s girl. A young lady. He trained her up well. 

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. 

A scripture so true but so tainted in reflection of her own parental relationships. Her father would preach spills of hate intertwined with God’s words. The only thing he spoke of without viciousness was magic. Not even her late mother could compare to the love of the craft. A love he put above everything from the beginning and even more once his wife had succumbed to it. 

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and mother, which is the first commandment with promise. That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

And Christina intended to live longer than the earth would even allow. She stopped following her father's words when she first started finishing school. He felt it was a good look for him and what goals he wanted to achieve. He couldn’t have phantom what Christina had gotten up to while there. When she had her first encounter… until Ruby. She knew he would be pissed. Not because of her nature but because of the embarrassment it may cause him. So she didn’t worry much until… he found out. 

His wrath and lashes were unimaginable and, at the time, unbearable. It hurt him more than it hurt her. So he said. He mentioned that it wasn’t what she did… it was the reflection it left on his name. His image. How would people see him if it got out?

It never did. He made sure of it. 

His lack of interest in her caused the biggest riff. She was no longer useful to him. She wasn’t the son he wanted and now she was a liability. She spent years trying to earn pack an ounce of his favor. She starved for his forgiveness. Sobbing for years before reality hit that her father didn’t hate her. It was worse… he was indifferent towards her.

They never spoke of the incident again. What was understood didn't need to be explained. Embarrassment was a no for Samual, and as long as Christina moved with caution, she could do whatever the fuck she wanted. So she did. 

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

She had lost all respect for her father and, in some way… and the Lord he preached about. She did, however, gain curiosity in her father's mistress. Magic. Magic brought her to this moment with her own child, and Ruby's point made so much sense. Now was the time to give her daughter the pureness of her heart. Mold her. Teach her who she truly is before she becomes physically unrecognizable. So for the past few days. The bedtime became talks until - 

The little person was down for the count, sleeping peacefully, in her bassinet next to their bed. It was easier than going to the nice nursery down the hall. The same nursery Christina spent time picking out drapes for and Ruby spent time building a crib because both women would be damned if they had to rely on 'Mr. Fix It' for their daughter's safety. 

Tic wasn't too bad, but Clarissa was too precious for them to allow any mishap to happen. 

Ruby watched on as Christina stared at their daughter. 

"You know she isn't going anywhere." 

Christina smiled. Not on her watch. She scooted over some. Getting on what was unofficially her side of the bed. Further away from the baby but closer to the bedroom door. "Couldn't you just watch her forever?"

She could. Clarissa had a distinctive face Ruby felt. Her baby was without a shadow of a doubt the most beautiful baby Ruby had ever laid eyes on. She was biased, of course, but those rosy cheeks and plump lips were to die for. Despite Christina's thoughts, Clarissa was a mixture of... them. Sandy dark curls, big jaws, and full lips. She was gorgeous, and the dimple at the corner of her mouth sold it for everyone who laid eyes on her. 

Christina's gaze had shifted from their masterpiece to the artist herself. She could tell by how Ruby cradled herself the water didn't help. Just like yesterday. She hesitated but decided to take the leap of faith needed for the both of them. She leaned forward and latched her lips to Ruby's neck. Her teeth racked mercilessly along Ruby's flesh. Despite the hast, it wasn't forced but instead soft. "I love you." she added before tenderly biting the woman's earlobe. 

"I know," she moaned, enjoying the feeling and the sensation Christina's lips were giving her. Then, heightened by her hormones, she scooted lower onto the bed. The She Devil's touch never once leaving her. "Chri-" she was able to get out before Christina attacked her sweet spot.

 "I want you." Christina whispered, relieving any amount of doubt Ruby could have ever had. She wasn't lying the night they met in the bar. She was going to deliver on giving this woman the world. Kissing anywhere she wanted. Coming for her anytime she needed. They belonged to each other, and at this moment, their love was stronger than it had ever been before. 

"I want you too but…" she attempted to lift her body. 

"Shhh, I can do all the work… just trust me... baby." Christina assured, wasting no time pushing Ruby back, lifting the woman's gown, and positioning herself in between her legs.

Christina had never been so forward before. Ruby didn't like being rushed, but she would be lying to them both if she didn't admit she liked the forcefulness. She got it often when the woman would masquerade herself as 'William' but never as -

"Christina." Ruby hissed at the first touch of her lover's lips on her throbbing tit. She was still so sensitive, and it had been so long since Christina worshipped her like this. Of course, they had sex while she was pregnant, but it was more of a hormonal "thanks for a good fuck” thing. It kept them both satisfied until the baby came. This time, however, her touch was as soft as her initial kiss. Christina's thumb lightly flicked over Ruby's nipple before the blonde leaned forward to kiss both mammillae. "I won't be able to sto-"

Christina didn't reply, but instead, she managed to pay even closer attention to Ruby's discomfort. Her hot mouth and tongue anchored over a nipple as her other hand massaged Ruby's other breast. Hearing Ruby moans were making Christina hornier than expected. She switched breasts wanting to give them equal attention, lightly squeezing and pinching the one unattached from her mouth.  

"Oh God Christina," Ruby moaned, squirming underneath her. Nipping and gentle bites were sending her over the edge as Christina's tongue circled her nipple. 

Pushing them inward and then burying her head in between both breasts, snuggling almost like a child instead of the domineering woman she had come to know and love. Her poor baby certainly had mommy issues. Issues she didn't and wouldn't ever admit to. 

Christina continued kissing between them, causing Ruby to lose her train of thought. 

Christina was definitely making it a lot more erotic than it needed to be. Ruby shifted a little underneath her. "Wait Christina." she said, stopping the Blonde.

Christina's head lifted slightly as her eyes looked at Ruby lazily. Pulling her lips away, the protector in her had to ask, "Are you okay? Is this okay?" She hoped that she wasn't hurting her. She also hoped Ruby didn't want to stop like earlier. Her mind was always on pleasing the woman rather it be emotionally or within their moments of intimacy.

Ruby took her hand to caress Christina's cheek before smiling at her. "It's the other breast that needs the most attention." Ruby confirmed, encouraging Christina to continue. 

The Blonde smirked in response before nodding and switching breasts. Just like the doubt that preceded this moment, Christina planned on soothing an ache that had been present before their daughter was born. It was for… Ruby. 

Ruby watched the woman attached to her chest before closing her eyes tightly to focus on the feeling she was getting. Relief. Comfort. Relaxation… Love.

Ruby let out a moan. Fuck She thought. It slipped. 

"Is this turning you on?"

Ruby wasn’t going to give her lover the satisfaction of saying it verbally. No, her body was already betraying her, giving Christina that answer she craved to hear.

Ruby knew this was an unnatural desire of the flesh. What was preserved for their newborn she gave to Christina at will. What Christina wanted, she got. Ruby was patient with Christina to a fault, but no matter what anyone else said, Christina was hers, and she was Christina’s. They were building something, and only time would tell if the dream she was living was indeed a nightmare, but if it was, she wasn’t willing to wake up anytime soon. 

A breeze chilled her nipple as Christina unattached herself. Only some of the milk was secreted. Ruby’s eyes opened again, looking down and seeing a little dribble on Christina’s lip. The two stared at one another. One wondered why the other stopped, and the other wondered why the One didn’t answer her question. It was simple.

“I asked… is this turning you on?”

Ruby rolled her eyes. “I thought this was your way of… helping me.”

“I am, but…”

“You’re greedy.” Ruby said out loud. That was a safe word for a narcissist. 

Christina smirked. She did know her well. Then, with her lips parched, she replied, “Not greedy… just hungry.” she replied before biting down hard onto Ruby’s nipple. “Starving.” she moaned against dark skin before sucking even harder than before. 

Unlike the first release of milk, which felt like Clarissa’s regular feeding, when the milk would subtly trickle out. But now; This moment felt different as the milk poured into the waiting mouth of the intemperate devil below her. 

Six weeks Ruby thought. Physical healing took time. Mental healing takes even longer. “Fuck.” they had magic. They couldn’t. They needed to wait, but… with those hands moving up her thighs holding her close, it was all so unbearable in the best way.  

Her other half must have felt the same way as she let out her moan while reaching for Ruby’s most delicate area. Her talented fingers had no reason to be there yet Ruby didn’t nor would she stop her lover. Not now, this moment was too good. Better than it should have been “Oooh Baby.” Ruby exclaimed, holding Christina’s face closer to her breast. 

Christina’s digits went to work. Faster but being careful not to hurt Ruby. An eight pound baby had just left the woman’s core and she didn’t want to do anymore damage. 

“So good baby.” Ruby encouraged indicating that she was ‘okay’ what they were doing was ‘okay’.

Ruby’s soaked pussy acted as a lubricant as Christina’s own twitched in response. The smoothness of Ruby’s dark folds did her no favors. Her mind was spinning at how much she wanted her. “You’re so wet.” Christina muttered. She wanted to taste it but she had to keep her mind focused on the swelling of Ruby’s breast. 

Palming her breast more caused another moan from Ruby. The warm, moist rhythm of Christina’s mouth sucking her taut nipple was calming. She could feel the milk liberating itself from her tit. The pressure triggered a visceral feeling of relief causing a slight tingle to consume her. The hardness, once full with milk, finally receded.

Just like the cum that regularly escaped her core, her engorged breasts were satisfied. Grabbing Christina's hand from her most sensitive spot seemed like a violation. Those boney fingers were long, two sometimes three did the job perfectly. Yet her fingers were being pulled away.

With Christina's hand in hers, Ruby looked into those blue eyes and took two of those wet digits into her mouth, sucking them clean. Never once breaking her stare with the woman, she quickly had given her heart to. 

It was sexy. So very sexy, and with a release of both fingers with a pop, Ruby’s mouth finally produced more than a moan. "Uhhh, my… um breasts feel a lot better now…. Thank you."

That thank you was soft and delicate. Christina pulled back from Ruby’s brown skin.

She licked her lips once more before giving both breasts one more gentle kiss each. "I'm glad I could help." Her voice was still lustful and husky. She then moved off of Ruby. Settling back into her own spot on the bed. She wasn't embarrassed about how much she enjoyed that, but she did feel coltish.

 Ruby, sensing it pulled Christina's face towards her own and kissed her tenderly before replying, "Baby… Thank you so much for helping." 

Christina smiled against her lips. "I love helping you but…" She then pulled away from her little more, giving them both some distance. "I will need you to return the favor soon."

Ruby's eyes narrowed. Did she hear her correctly? "Wait, excuse me... You practically begged me to..."

"Please keep your voice down, my daughter is asleep. I wouldn't want you waking her." Christina said, with a straight face Ruby could slap at the moment. Violence with one another was never okay but Ruby felt that she could get away with it after Christina had practically coerced her into… whatever the hell that was. 

The smirk on those thin lips couldn’t be masked as Christina settled herself down into the bed once again.  Her hands were placed behind her head. A smug expression rested on her face. 

This little bitch Ruby thought to herself, "Christina… really?" She questioned the blonde, who was adamant about torturing her with suspense. "And what exactly is this favor?"

"You'll find out soon… when the time is right. Until then, get some sleep my darling." she said emotionless but oddly taunting. 

 "Christina fucking Braithwhite?"

"Shhhh." the sound echoed through the room. "Just know I'm going to collect on that favor… when the time is righ... now... get some rest," she said again proving she wan’t going to engage in any more questioning tonight. 

Ruby sighed before laying down, facing away from Christina and towards Clarissa. Christina looked over and decided to snuggle closer to Ruby wrapping her arms around her protectively in a tight embrace while her face buried in the woman’s back. 

. 

“The devil always has tricks.” Ruby mumbled to herself but loud enough for Christina to hear. She then settled herself, closing her eyes, feeling Christina’s stillness next to her as the blonde’s body molded into her own. Soft and calm breathing followed by deadweight allowed them both to relax in each other’s arms. Sleep came so much easier when they were together. 

However, it didn't last long.

Their little angel wailed soon enough. Ruby stirred first. She was just fed, so that wasn’t it. She had to be wet or maybe hot because she tended to sweat. Christina all but admitted that this was her job. Ruby slept peacefully through the night. She had no idea what Christina’s methods were seven days into Clarissa’s life. 

“Christina…” Now was her time to come in as the superhero she thinks that she is. Since she felt like she didn’t do enough . Since this was her normal routine with their daughter. Since she was a little asshole before bed “Christina… Christina... the baby… Chris”

“...I need that favor.” she said, rolling over away from both Ruby and their crying infant. 

Disbelief was all Ruby could muster. She was set up and she had to admit it was clever. She couldn’t say she wasn’t used to this but Clarissa being in their lives sealed the deal on their relationship. They were bound by the love they made in creating her, and Ruby would have it no other way. She loves both of her babies and as she prepared for a long night with Clarissa, who relaxed pretty quickly once changed, she knew her mind was set on paying the payback she had for Christina Braithwhite.