Chapter Text
And Baby makes four
The place where Laverne was going for her appointments she met her midwife. Ella was from Italy. Her parents brought her and her siblings over when she was five. Her mother had been a midwife in Florence. Ella was the youngest of seven. She would often go with her mom to help her. Ella had brown hair, dark brown eyes and was about 5’2. Her hair was pinned on the top of her head in a neat bun and she had on a modest simple nurse uniform. She is very levelheaded and wise. When it came to Childbirth she was openminded and knew what worked. She had remembered her mother had taught her. At 35 years old she had 4 children herself. The eldest is Donna is 14. Mark,Tina and Jane was the youngest at 10. Once she started school she decided to take classes to become a midwife. She has been doing this for six years.
There was a sense of comfort Laverne felt with her. She told Ella about what happened with Nicky. Ella was very understanding and reassured her that she would be at home when she gave birth this time. They had the last appointment yesterday. Lenny took the day off to go with her. He had been to every appointment but this one was really important. Ella gave them ideas for different techniques for when Laverne was in labor. She answered any questions they had. Now was just a waiting game.
Nicky was taking his afternoon nap. Laverne was in the baby’s nursery organizing and cleaning. Nicky’s room was now the one next to the nursery. Nicky was a toddler now. It seemed like just yesterday he was born. Nine months ago, she found out she was pregnant; she looked into other options. She found a place that allows home birth. She did not want to return to the hospital after what happened. She sat in the rocking chair and took a break from cleaning. She put her hand on her belly and sighed. The baby moved gently within.
“It’s ok, jellybean. I gotta get your room ready for ya. It’s hard to get comfortable; I bet you feel the same way. ” Laverne emphasized with the baby, shifting to try to find a good position. Her due date was three days away, but it was not precise. Everyone was on high alert.
Lenny came home. As soon as he walked through the front door, he noticed It was quiet. He took off his shoes and went to find Laverne. He figured she was probably upstairs. He went up the stairs and into the nursery. She was in the chair resting. He went over to her.
He knelt and whispered I love you to the baby. He then gently kissed Laverne.“ I love you, babe. How are you? Do you need anything? You could go take a nap if you want to.” Lenny asked as he knelt down beside her. He could see that she was tired. She sighed a little
“ I’m not great. I’m tired, and my feet and back hurt. I have been caring for Nicky, cleaning and organizing the house. So we are prepared. There is no sign of labor. Though I am kinda nervous about it.”She said, rubbing her bump. He understood why she felt nervous.
“Don’t worry about dinner. I will go pick something up a little later so you don’t have to cook. What sounds good?” He asked. “ A Pizza sounds good with pepperoni and Italian sausage. Half cheese so Nicky can have some pizza.” She said as she went to get up.
Lenny stopped her from getting up. They spent a little more time together. He sat at her feet and massaged them. Laverne closed her eyes and was enjoying this moment. and she told him that it felt amazing. Lenny was glad that he could make her feel better somehow. Five minutes later, Nicky woke up. They could hear him talking through his closed door, yelling tata, mamma! They looked at each other. Len told Laverne that he would get him. It was hard for her to lift Nicky anyway. Lenny got up and went to his room, and opened the door.
Nick saw his dad and got super excited. He stood in his crib and said, “Yea, tata!” Excitedly. This made Lenny smile and his heart happy. Lenny changed his diaper. Then he put Nicky on the ground. Nicky grabbed Iggy and toddled out towards the hallway.
She saw Nicky in the hall; Lenny was right behind him. Nicky saw his mom, which made him smile. He dropped Iggy and clapped his hands in excitement. “Mamma, Mamma!” Nicky squealed in delight and walked toward her as quickly as his feet could go.
“ There you are, my handsome boy!” Laverne said joyfully, leaning over as best as she could with open arms to hug him. They hugged as best as possible. He pointed to her belly, poked it gently, and said, “Bean, belly, my bean.” The baby kicked in response.
Lenny was sitting by Laverne, holding Iggy.“ Careful bambino, That’s right, Baby in my belly. That’s your brother or sister in there.” Laverne told him, pointing to her bump. He thought about this for a second. Nicky went over to Lenny and grabbed Iggy from him.
“Iggy baby! Nicky exclaimed as he put Iggy on her belly. They both awed. Thank you, Nicky, for sharing, Iggy,” Laverne told him. Iggy was Nicky’s favorite thing. He took it everywhere. A while later, Lenny went and got a pizza, and they ate Supper.
After they got Nicky settled into bed. Then they cuddled on the couch and watched some TV. Laverne fell asleep against him not long after they sat down. His arm was wrapped around her. He watched TV for a while longer. He could hear her softly snoring as she slept. This made him smile. After a while, he wanted to get up but did want to wake her. She looked so peaceful sleeping there. He tried to remove his arm from behind her, but she moved slightly in response. He panicked and tried again. This time, she woke up, lifted her head, and looked around.
She realized she was still downstairs with Lenny.“How long was I asleep for? What time is it? “ she asked. She lifted her head and looked at Lenny sleepily. “ Never mind, help me up. I have to pee.” She said, holding her hands out so he could help her up.
He grabbed her hands and lifted her off the couch. She hurried as fast as she could to the nearest bathroom. He made sure the doors were locked and turned out the lights. He went upstairs to their bedroom. They both got ready for bed and kissed each other before closing their eyes to sleep.
Laverne’s contractions started at about midnight. She rested as long as she could. Eventually, she went downstairs, made herself some food, and washed the dishes when she was done. She winced and swayed as a slight pain hit her. She then returned upstairs to rest some more. Eventually, She became more restless, and contractions were becoming more regular. By the time five o’clock came around, she decided it was time to get up again. She sat up and looked at Lenny, who was sleeping. She shook him gently to wake him up.
He rolled over and looked at his wife. He asked her if she was okay as he sat up and stretched. “ I am in labor, Len. Call the midwife. The contractions are about five minutes apart.” Laverne told him. It took him a minute, but then what she said sunk in.
“ What you are in labor? You should have woken me up earlier, babe. Of course, I can. Will you be okay if I go make some phone calls? Hold on, baby, don’t come yet. ” Lenny said to the baby. He got out of bed. She said she was okay for now. He kissed her on the lips.
He went to call Ella. He told her that Laverne was in labor and to hurry. He felt relieved that she was on her way. He thanked her and hung up the phone. He unlocked the front door and went back upstairs to their bedroom. Laverne was trying to get up off the bed.
She suddenly felt nauseous and leaned over the bed, and got sick in the small garbage can.“I’m so sorry, Len, I didn’t mean ta get sick. These contractions are getting worse. I am nervous about having the baby.” Laverne apologized, trying to get out of bed and go to the bathroom.
She started to tear up. He gently removed the hair from her face.“Oh babe, It s’ok. Don’t be nervous. I am here for you. Are you still feeling nauseous?” Lenny asked, helping her up and avoiding knocking the trashcan over. She shook her head, yes, and he grabbed the trashcan.
She threw up again. They walked to the bathroom and over to the sink to wash up. She felt a gush as soon as they went to the sink. They looked at each other and knew her water had broken. He cleaned it up as she brushed her teeth. Lenny grabbed a washcloth and wet it. He started to wash her face gently. She grabbed his hand, stopping him. She looked into his big blue eyes, lovingly smiling. His face was so serious. She loved that he was loving and took care of her. A contraction came, and she held onto him as she focused on breathing as they slowly swayed together.
“Len, I Want to get on in the bathtub. Ella said that might help me relax.” She said. He turned the faucet on and grabbed her a clean towel. Once it was filled, he turned off the water. She got undressed and put her hair up in a clip. He helped her get in. She sighed in relief.
This water felt amazing, she thought to herself. She closed her eyes and laid back. She was rubbing her belly in soothing circles. “ Can you please go see if Nicky is awake for me?” Laverne asked. He wanted to comfort her but was unsure he should leave her.
Lenny looked at her with concern as she moaned while breathing through a contraction. Laverne opened her eyes and could see his concern. “ I’ll be okay, Len. Go, and don’t forget the bag, and call Shirley please,” Laverne asked him. He nodded and then left.
He went to Nicky’s room; he could hear him babbling. Lenny opened the door. As soon as he saw his father, Nicky giggled happily, saying tata, tata. Lenny smiled and said back to him. “ Good morning, my boy! Lenny said, picking up his son and hugging him.
He changed his diaper, got him dressed, and made sure Nicky had Iggy. Lenny put Nicky down and turned to grab the bag Laverne packed for Nicky. When he turned back around, Nicky was gone. This made him panic. Luckily, Nicky went to their bedroom. Lenny however went towards the stairs thinking Nicky might try to go down them.
Nicky was looking for his mother. When he did not see her in bed, he went to the bathroom to see if she was there. When he saw her, he smiled and said, “ Hi, Mamma! Mamma bath?” Nicky said, dropping Iggy. Laverne realized what Nicky was trying to do.
“Oh no, no, Nicky! Len, please come get Nicky.” Laverne whined. He was naked before Lenny could stop him. Lenny frowned and sighed as he picked up Nicky’s clothes and diaper. Nicky knew and toddled away from Lenny as fast as he could, giggling.
Laverne giggled but covered her mouth to hide it. “ Come on, Nicky, you gotta get dressed. You’re gonna go see Aunt Shirley, Uncle Carmine, and cousin Penny.” Lenny said, catching up to Nicky. He finally got him dressed again and then took him back to Laverne.
Lenny was on his knees at Nicky’s eye level. “ Say bye-bye to Mamma Nicky and grab Iggy. We are gonna go downstairs and have some breakfast.” Lenny told him. Nicky did not want to leave her. He started to cry. He was super attached to his momma.
“ No go, no go!” Nicky pouted with tears in his eyes. Laverne sat up and moved towards him. “ Awe, it will be ok, bambino; I’ll be here when you return. I love you so much. When you come back, you’re gonna see the baby!” Laverne said, gently caressing his cheek. She tearing up herself.
Nicky was growing up fast. She remembers when he was just a newborn. Nicky said, “Baby? My bean!” Nicky said, then grabbed Iggy. Laverne nodded. Lenny lifted Nicky to Laverne’s level. She gave him a quick kiss. She held back a moan as a contraction came.
Lenny looked at her knowingly. Come on, Nicky, Lenny took him downstairs to the kitchen. He put him in the highchair and gave him some Cheerios. “Che O’s, Che O’s,” Nicky said happily, shoving his cheeks full of cereal. Lenny just grinned, watching him for a second.
He made himself a bowl of Cheerios and ate them quickly; when he finished, he washed the bowl. Laverne had told him that she had eaten earlier. He walked over to the phone and dialed Shirley’s phone number. He was glad when she answered. She said that she’d send Carmine right over to pick up Nicky. A few minutes later, there was a knock at the door. He gave Iggy to Nicky, picked him up, and grabbed the bag. He opened the door and saw Carmine.
“Hi, Carmine; I wanna thank you and Shirley for watching Nicky for us. The baby decided to come today, I guess. I got a bag for him and Iggy, his favorite toy.” Lenny told him. Carmine put the bag on his shoulder. Nicky was looking around, unsure.
“ Sure, Lenny, Shirley, and I will take good care of Nicky. Shirley loves it when our daughter Penny has someone to play with. Good luck; I hope it goes well.” Carmine told him. He then grabbed the bag, put it on his shoulder, and held out his hands to receive Nicky.
Nicky hesitated, putting his head on Lenny’s shoulder. “It’s s’ok Nicky, you remember Carmine. He is gonna take you to play with Penny at their house.” Lenny assured him Nicky was looking up at Lenny and then to Carmine. He allowed Carmine to take him.
Nicky Looked at Lenny and said, “Tata, bye-bye!” Lenny gave him a kiss on the cheek and said goodbye. They headed towards the door. Carmine and Shirley were expecting their second baby in about a week so they would watch Penny for them.
He then went to the kitchen and got some ice and smashed them into chips. He put them in a glass before going upstairs to check on Laverne. Ella knew the door was unlocked and could come in when she arrived. She was almost at their place. He entered the bathroom. He went over to her to comfort her. He walked over to her. She was leaning on the side of the tub. She focused on him. She held on to his shoulders as she breathed and worked through the contraction. She let out a long moan.
“Just focus on me if it helps. I love you so much. You’re doing so great, babe! ” He assured her, wiping her brow with a cool washcloth. Then he gave her some ice chips. She was glad he remembered this from before. The contraction subsided, and finally, she spoke.
“Did Shirley or Carmine come to get Nicky? Did you give them the bag and Iggy? I wanna get out of the tub.” Laverne said. Lenny carefully helped Laverne out and handed her a towel. He let her know that Carmine had picked up Nicky and he had everything.
After she had dried off, then Lenny helped her put on loose, silky pear-green robe. It was very short barely going past her bump. It was a little longer when she wasn’t pregnant. She felt a little better. Ella knocked on the bedroom door, and she came in.
“ Hello, it is good to see you again. How are you doing, Laverne? Lenny, you’ll be present for the birth, which helps. Which reminds me, can you please get me a stack of fresh towels?” Ella asked him. Lenny nodded before he quickly fetched some clean towels.
Laverne caught Ella up She told her that her contractions were about three minutes apart. She put a waterproof sheet on the bed to protect the sheets. She told Laverne to lie down and that she would check her cervix. Laverne did just that.
“Ok, it looks like you are seven centimeters and fully effaced. You are doing good, Laverne. I believe being on your back the whole time is more painful.” Ella told them as she helped Laverne sit up . Ella explained that when it was time to push Lenny to sit behind his wife. Laverne would be on the birthing stool. Which was at the end of the bed on the floor, so when Laverne rested against Lenny, he had support, too. She looked at Laverne and Lenny to make sure they understood. They nodded. Ella helped her get up because she wanted to do the swaying technique with Lenny. Lenny helped her up. A contraction came.
“ Oh, Len, please hold me! It hurts!” Laverne told him, leaning into him. She held on to Lenny, and they swayed slowly as she moaned. Her arms were around his neck, and her head was on his chest. They learned some of these before she went into labor.
“You’re doing great, babe. I love you so much and am so proud of you!” Lenny said lovingly. He gave her some more ice chips. It was nice not having to stay in bed all the time. She could walk a little or get in a more comfortable position. She did not have to be on her back.
A couple more contractions came. They repeated the same thing. It comforted Laverne to be held. It was like they were dancing. This made Laverne flashback to her wedding. Lenny had been nervous that night. He must have stepped on her feet several times; she didn’t care.
Ella had her lay on the bed to recheck her. “ It looks like you are ready to start pushing Laverne. I bet you are ready to have this over with. It is hard work. Are you ready to meet your baby? I’m sure this little one can’t wait to meet you!” Ella asked Her as she helped her up.
Laverne just looked at her with uncertainty. Ella had her make sure Laverne’s robe was not in her way. She reassured her there was nothing she had not seen. Ella went to help Laverne get into place, but she clung to Lenny, her head on his shoulder. Ella encouraged her to sit down at least. Lenny sat behind her on a chair and Ella helped her on the stool.
“ I’m not so sure I am ready to do this. Maybe we could wait a little longer. I am so scared,” Laverne said nervously, shaking her head. She figured if she did not push, the baby would not come out. The baby could stay safe. No one could take them away from her. They both looked at Laverne. “Aaaah!” She moaned out in pain. He comforted her as best as he could and gave her some ice chips. Ella handed him a cool compress. He wiped her brow, and Laverne sighed. She had a basin of cool water. Lenny put it back in the water to support her.
“Laverne, you gotta push, honey. It’s not good for the baby to stay in there anymore. I know you’re scared after what happened to Nicky. That is not going to happen, I promise you. Besides, don’t you wanna figure out if it’s a boy or girl so they could have a name!” Ella said.
“ Don’tcha think I freaking know that! I want to protect my baby from bad things!“ She told Ella. Lenny went to say something, but before he could, she said, “And don’t you even start! You, you did this to me, Leonard!” Laverne yelled. They both were taken aback.
Lenny was feeling guilty about the situation. Ella knew she was just agitated and in pain. Now Laverne felt bad about it. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean ta say that!” Laverne said sadly. Tears welling Up. A contraction came, and Ella encouraged Lenny to give her some ice chips. “OOOOH, I wanna go I gotta go! I don’t wanna be here let me go!” Laverne said trying to get up.
“ You are safe here Laverne. No one is gonna take your baby. The front door is locked. It’s ok. This is not easy, If you don’t push soon, you will end up at a hospital. You don’t want that. You want a healthy baby don’t you? Ella asked her.
“I will not leave your side this time. I will protect you and the baby no matter what, babe, I promise. Besides, you got people who wanna meet this little one,” Lenny told her lovingly; He again wiped her brow with the cool cloth gently. Laverne was crying and moaning,
Lenny wiped her tears away. She looked at Lenny tiredly and said through tears. “It hurts so much, and I’m so tired. I can’t I’m scared.” Laverne cried out. He felt worried about both her and the baby. He wishes he could do more. He caressed her cheek and Lifted her chin gently so their eyes met.
“I know, babe. I love you. You’ve got this. I am so proud of you. You are so brave. Please, babe, for me.” Lenny encouraged tears welling in his eyes. She could see the concern in his eyes. He held her as another contraction came and went. As soon as it was over, she spoke. “ OK, Len.” She said weakly in a whisper as he gave her an ice chip. Lenny smiled at her; she weakly smiled back. She looked at Ella and nodded to tell her she was ready. Ella smiled and nodded back. Another contraction came.
“OK, Laverne Push! You got this!” Ella encouraged her. She bore down “Gaaaah!”. She felt like doing it this way was better than on her back. “Good job Laverne! That was a good one!” Ella encouraged She relaxed. Ella grabbed the washcloth and wiped her brow.
Laverne rested on Lenny in between contractions. He was glad he could help her, and she was grateful for the rest. A few minutes later, another one came; she sat up a little and pushed. “Aaaah!” Laverne moaned. The baby’s head was out. She relaxed for a moment.
“ Look at your baby. You’re doing it, mama. I know you are tired, but you’re almost done!” Ella said, she took Laverne’s hand and guided it to touch the top of the baby’s head. “There’s your baby Laverne!” Ella said. She also showed her with the mirror.
“Oh my goodness, I’m doing it!” Laverne said in amaze and in awe. She leaned back against him. Lenny gave her a smile of encouragement. She sat up a little as another contraction came and pushed again. “Gaaaaah!” She moaned intensely pushing with all her might.
Lenny was grateful to his wife for working hard to give birth to their child. He loved her so much more than words could explain. She took Quick break from pushing catching her breath. Lenny gave her a Ice chip. Laverne was grateful for his thoughtfulness as the ice melted in her mouth.
She was hoping the baby was out. “Is that it am I done?” Laverne asked trying to catch her breath. She was looking at Ella who shook her head “no not quite. Two more good pushes and you should be done.” Ella said.
Lenny looked down and saw the baby. It was so weird and that Laverne’s body could stretch like that. “No, well can’t you just pull the baby out? I’m so tired I don’t know how long I can keep doing this!” She told Ella tiredly.
Lenny leaned forward her and gave her a kiss of encouragement. “You got this babe. You are so brave and strong; You are almost there! You got this.” Lenny told her she smiled lovingly at him. She was tired but determined. To get through it. She gave another push, a very intense moan.
“Good job, baby, you’re doing great! ” Lenny encouraged as she took a second to rest. She gave a really good push as Ella and Lenny encouraged her. She gave one last push.Lenny and Laverne watched the baby come out.
Ella caught the baby in her hands. “It’s a girl born at 1:10 in the afternoon. “Ella announced. There was silence. Laverne panicked “ Is She alright? Why isn’t she crying! Oh God please save her Ella! ” Laverne sobbed uncontrollably.
Lenny was trying hold back the tears himself as held Laverne.The baby was not moving and was blue. Ella quickly sprung into action clearing the baby girl’s airway and patted her back firmly. the baby gasped and let out a loud, confused cry.
Laverne let out an overwhelmed cry of relief. “Oh Is she alright? Lemme see her!” Laverne demanded resting against lenny for support. Ella held the baby up for them to see. Laverne and Lenny were in awe of this little girl.
“You did it, baby, you did it! I can’t believe it! Will you look at that? I am so proud of you!” Lenny said to Laverne. She looked at Lenny, and they shared a quick kiss. Ella told them she was going to delay cord clamping.
Ella gave the baby to Laverne, putting the baby on her chest. Lenny and Laverne were looking at her. She had auburn-blond hair and grayish eyes. (That would be green) All ten fingers and toes. She looked like a mini Laverne.
“Hi jellybean, you gave us quite a scare Little Girl! Shh. There, there, it will be ok. Mamma’s gotcha.” Laverne soothed, trying to calm the baby down as she kissed her and gently patted her back. Ella told her that it might take her a while and to keep trying to comfort her. She nodded at Ella in response.
Laverne looked at her, unsure. “Don’t worry, this little girl is ok now. She has quite a set of lungs, too, and she is letting you know. I can always take height and weight later. I like to allow parents to bond with their babies.” Ella told them
About four minutes later, Ella asked Lenny if he wanted to cut the cord, and he did. Ella clamped it. Laverne started having contractions again and delivered the placenta. Ella checked it. Laverne’s labor was a total of 12 hours. Ella told Laverne to hand the baby to Lenny so she could clean her up. Laverne carefully gave the baby to Lenny.
Ella helped Laverne get cleaned up. She gave Laverne some bottoms with a pad and adjusted her robe but did not shut it. Once she was done and situated on the bed propped up with pillows behind her Lenny gave the baby back. Laverne put her on her chest. Ella covered them with a warm blanket. Lenny sat beside her. The baby girl stopped crying.
“So, does this baby girl have a name, or do you still need to come up with one?” Ella asked, looking at them. They did have a list made out and narrowed it down. They looked at the baby and then at each other. They knew what her name was.
Laverne was holding back tears. Lenny put his hand in hers to comfort her. “Babe, do you want me to tell her? Lenny asked. Laverne shook her head yes. Lenny comforted her while Ella brought her some Kleenex. Lenny waited a moment so his wife could blow her nose.
“It’s ok, babe, I understand. We are naming her Josephine. Josie for short. Named after Laverne’s mother, Josie. Josephine Louise Kosnowski!” Lenny said proudly with a smile. He squeezed Laverne’s hand and kissed her. She laid her head on his shoulder.
“ Awe, that’s so sweet. Hello, Miss Josie. I will take Josie’s weight and measurements quickly if that’s ok. My stuff is right here, so I won’t take her far. ” Ella said. Laverne hesitated to hand her over. She looked at Lenny, who assured her it would be okay to let her take Josie.
She finally handed Josie to Ella. “She weighs in at seven pounds even and measures about 19 inches long. Ella washed her gently with a warm wet washcloth and then on a put a diaper on her. She was crying because she was cold and confused. She handed Josie to Lenny. He was trying to soothe her in the meantime.
Ella grabbed the laundry and took it with her to wash. She also encouraged Laverne to try breastfeeding her in the meantime. “ Do you want me to help you with that?” Ella asked. She reminded her of a few things and that she’d come back in fifteen to check on them.
Lenny gave her back to Laverne and covered them with a blanket. They were both looking down at the Josie. She had calmed down but was letting out little whimpers. Laverne was still trying to calm her. Laverne even tried breastfeeding her, but she did not seem interested. Laverne started to get overwhelmed and began to cry again.
“Maybe if I sing her a song, it will make her feel better. I sing to Nicky, and he loves It.” Lenny said. She nodded in agreement. Lenny started to sing Love Me Do by the Beatles to her, and she stopped crying. She looked up at him and listened, recognizing his voice.
“Someone to love, somebody new Someone to love, someone like you Love, love me do You know I love you I'll always be true So please Love me do” He continued to sing to her, which Josie was enjoying. Laverne looked at Lenny lovingly.
She was alert looking up at her parents with wide eyes and taking everything in. Trying to adjust to this strange new world around her. She was letting out sounds as her parents awed over her little features and loving on her.
Laverne kept giving Lenny glances like she wanted to say something but hesitated. She was hungry but did not want him to leave. He finally noticed and looked over at her. “Is something wrong Vernie?” Lenny asked concerned.
“ I don’t want you to leave but I am hungry and was wondering if you’d go get some food.” She asked him. Lenny was happy to do so but understood the hesitation“ Of course babe what sounds good?” Lenny asked
She thought about it.“ How’s about a cheeseburger, fries and a chocolate malt sounds really good. I am so hungry I could eat a horse.” Laverne told him . He looked at her funny. He imaged what that would be like. he made a face.
“Len It is a saying I don’t wanna eat a horse literally!” Laverne assured him. He let out a sigh of relief. “ Oh what a relief! I don’t know if any restaurants would do that! At least I hope not.” He said thinking about it for a moment more.
She let out a chuckle.Shirley would have a fit if that was possible. “Do you want to put Josie in the bassinet so you can rest? I will lock the front door I promise.” Lenny said reassuringly. He was sure she’d be fine but also cautious.
“No I’ll be ok I wanna hold her a little longer. We can’t wait for you get back huh jellybean!” She said looking down at Josie caressing her cheek with her finger. “I can manage if I change my mind Len but thanks” Laverne said lovingly.
He leaned over and gave her a kiss and kissed Josie on the forehead. “I’ll be back soon babe. I promise not to be gone long!” He said getting up. He smiled happy they were ok . Ella came back into the room to once last check.
“ I am going to go get food. Do you want anything Ella?” Lenny offered. “ I am ok Lenny, thank you though. I am going to do one last check on Laverne and Josie. After, I will leave but I will stay till you get back if you want.” Ella offered
“You would do that? I won’t be gone long I just getting food.You will take good care of her I hope? “He asked looking at her hopefully. Ella smiled “I will we will just be going over things with her and will tell you anything you need to know when you get back.” She told him. This made him feel better and he left.
Ella went to Laverne.She was trying to feed Josie who was crying. Laverne was trying her best.“ Come on jellybean ain’tcha hungry yet? Ella Josie is not interested in feeding? Am I doing something wrong?” She asked frustrated herself on the verge of tears.
Ella assessed the situation and was able to help. Laverne was doing it right. Ella knew some little tips and tricks she learned from a lactation expert. She taught some of them to Laverne. Josie finally latched sucking away contently.
Laverne sighed in relief lying back and resting. “There it was not you. Some Babies just need some extra help.” Ella reassured Laverne with a smile.”Thank you Ella for everything you have done for Josie and me and even Lenny.” She said letting herself cry. It had been a long day and it was catching up to her. It had been an hour since Josie was Born and the Ephoria wore off and she felt exhausted. Like she could sleep for a whole week.She let out a yawn.
They went over some more questions and reminders to taking care of a newborn. Most Laverne knew some were a good reminder. Josie Finished eating and Laverne burped her. Josie gave in to sleep and closed her eyes.
She asked if Laverne had any questions and signs to look out for. She was gonna go home for a while. She would come back by 10 to help with the first night. Laverne thanked her before she left. Ella gave her a paper of tips so she could show Lenny if he needed them while she was gone.
“ Well I am going to wait downstairs if that’s ok so you can sleep. I will wait until Lenny gets back before I leave. Do you want to keep holding Josie? ” Ella asked her. Laverne nodded and said yeah I do” as she closed her eyes.
He went to get the food quickly and was only got for ten minutes. When he got home Ella told him that she left some information with Laverne. They exchanged goodbyes. Lenny Gave her a hug thanking her for helping them.
He took the food upstairs. He had already ate his food on the way home. He sat the stuff down on the nightstand. He looked down at Josie and Laverne who were still sleeping. Josie was making little sounds and moving her lips pursing them. She’s so perfect she looks just like her mama he thought as he admired her.
He knew Laverne was hungry but he didn’t want to wake her she looked so peaceful. He put his hand on her arm and gently shook her. He gave her a moment to wake up. She sat up carefully putting Josie in between her legs.
“Hey babe I have your food.” Lenny said handing her the bag. “ Thanks, Len. Did you get something to eat too? ” Laverne asked grabbing some fries and eating them. Lenny told her he did. “Mmm this food is so good! Thank you for going to get it!” Laverne said gratefully.
She grabbed the cheeseburger taking a bite. Lenny sat down by her. He carefully picked up Josie. He put her in the crook of his arm. He was overcome with joy. He could not believe she was real it seemed like a dream. He had a son and now a daughter to love.
He looked over to Laverne lovingly. Laverne noticed and stopped eating for a second. “What, do I have something on my face or something?” Laverne asked she went to grab a napkin. He stopped her and grabbed her hand . She looked at him.
“No you are just so beautiful and I love you so much! I am so grateful for the the children you have given me and for you!” Lenny said tearing up. Laverne grabbed his free hand. “Awe I love you too! We have a daughter.” Laverne said in awe and amazement.
Lenny gave her back to Laverne after she finished eating. “When do you think we should tell everyone. I miss Nicky. But this feels like our little alone time and our little secret. ” Laverne said with a yawn but tried to hide it. Lenny agreed it was nice they decided to wait a little longer.
This would give Laverne time to rest some more and them both time to acclimate and spend more time with their daughter. Laverne held onto Josie but kept trying hard not to nod off. She did not want to give in. Lenny could see her struggling to stay awake.
“ Laverne, please let me take Josie so you can sleep again. I’ll take really good care of her. I promise I won’t even go far away, I swear. She will be safe with me. I will understand if you say no.” Lenny said nervously. He waited for her response. She looked at him sleepily.
“OK, Len, be careful with her. Make sure you keep her wrapped up so she doesn’t get cold. I’m sorry. I know you’ll take good care of her. I am just nervous, ya know.” Laverne said. He was so patient, she was grateful. He understood where she was coming from.
She caressed her hand on his cheek gently, and he leaned into her touch. They kissed, and Laverne gave Josie to him so she could rest. Lenny smiled happily. He carefully took Josie in his arms. Laverne closed her eyes. Lenny sat in a chair nearby to not wake Laverne.
Lenny looked down at Josie,“ Hiya Josie, I’m your tata. That means dad in polish. Did you know we named Josie for a reason? Your grandmother’s name was Josephine. When your mom was little, she got sick. That made your mama so sad. So we named you in her. “ Lenny told her.
He kept softly talking to her. She looked stared at him intently as He told her about Nicky and her family. Stories about when they lived in Milwaukee. She eventually drifted back off to sleep, too, cuddling up to Lenny. Lenny gave her a kiss on the forehead.
He put her on his chest and closed his eyes. When he woke up he looked down at Josie. She stirred and open her eyes. She started to whimper. He got up and gently swayed with her and she instantly calmed down. Lenny kissed her.
Laverne stirred and woke up and smiled at Lenny swaying gently with Josie. “ I love you so much Len! How long was I asleep for?” She asked, stretching and sitting up. Lenny put a now calm Josie in the bassinet and hurried to help Laverne by propping pillows up behind her.
“You were not asleep for too long, about thirty minutes. ” He told her. She thanked him and leaned over to see Josie. “ I miss her could you hand me Josie please?” Laverne asked. Lenny picked up Josie carefully not to wake her. He gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead.
He handed her to Laverne. “She’s so pretty. I can’t believe she is finally here. It seems like a dream.I love her so much Len!” Laverne said sobbing looking down at Josie. Lenny pulled out his clean hankie and gave it to her. She dried her eyes as Lenny held her .
“ I know you do babe! I love her too! She looks just like her mama! I am excited to show her to our family and Friends. If it is okay with you I can go call everyone and let them know. I wonder how Nicky will react. ” Lenny wondered
“Thats fine but can you go get an outfit for Josie first, please?” Laverne asked. Lenny told her he did. Lenny carefully put Josie on the bed by Laverne so he could go to the nursery. Lenny returned quickly, outfit in hand.
It was a cute little dress with lace and ruffles. Josie protested by crying and wiggling the whole time. Laverne was shushing her as she tried putting the dress over her head. Once settled, Lenny helped Laverne get into loose, comfortable clothes. She then got back in bed and cuddled with Josie. Lenny went downstairs, called Shirley and Carmine , Frank and Edna, Squiggy and Rhonda and told them the baby had been born.
Lenny went downstairs and waited for Carmine,Shirley and Nicky. there was a knock and Lenny answered. Shirley was gonna say Hi But she was interrupted by Nicky’s squeals of “tata, tata! as he ran to Lenny who hugged him.
Shirley could barely contain herself she was excited to see the baby. “ So how is the baby? Is it a boy or a girl? How is Laverne doing? “ Shirley asked. Carmine was right behind her with Penny in his arms. Before he could answer Frank,Edna, Squiggy and Rhonda piled through the door. Everyone made their way upstairs.
Lenny carried Nicky up the stairs. He was excited to be home and rushed over to his mom in the the bed. Joyfully saying,” Mamma, mamma!!.” Everyone else came in behind them. Lenny gently sat down next to Laverne. Nicky noticed she was holding a small bundle. He was curious. Lenny put him on the bed and he crawled over to Laverne.
“Nicky do you want to see the baby?” Laverne asked him, making sure he was gentle. Everyone had their eyes on them. “Nicky, this is your sister, Josephine,” Laverne announced. Everyone was crying at the sentiment except for Nicky, who was too little to understand.
Nicky looked down at her.“ Se? My bean, my bean!” Nicky announced as he gently as he put a hand on her. Josie and Nicky looked at each other curiously. He leaned over and then gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead.
Everybody awed. Nicky cuddled up between Laverne and Lenny. Laverne was happy to have Nicky home. She was worried about having him spend the night away but she could trust Shirley. It helped that she lived close by.
“ I am so happy you named her after your momma! I am so proud of you, muffin and your mom would be too.” Frank said happily, trying to hide the tears. Edna was consoling him as they both looked Josie. Laverne loved it when her father called her muffin; She smiled thinking of her mom.
“ Congratulations on your baby, honey. She is absolutely adorable. We left you some food in the fridge for supper. If you need anything just let us know. We don’t live too far away. Just try not to wake us up in the middle of the night unless its and emergency your father gets cranky.” Edna told her looking at Frank.
“Awe, she is adorable Laverne., Hi Miss Josie, I am your aunt Shirley, I love you so much! Pretty soon, you will have a little friend.” Shirley cooed to Josie as she rubbed her bump with a sigh. Penny came over and tugged on her dress.
“Look Penny baby, isn’t she pretty!” Shirley said pointing to the baby as she tried to lift her a little, Penny looked at Josie who yawned and closed her eyes. “ ity baby? Mama up!” She said turning to Shirley and putting her arms up.
Carmine grabbed instead and held her. She whined but stopped after Shirley consoled her. “She’s a pretty cute for a racketmuffin I guess." Squiggy stated looking at Josie. Laverne gave him a look of annoyance
“Rhonda thinks it is sweet naming her after your mother. It is like an inspiring story a saga of Josie who never met the woman she was named after. Yet she heard stories about the legacy she left behind ” Rhonda stated dramatically
Everyone could see that Laverne was getting exhausted. They all said their goodbyes. Carmine and Shirley left last They wanted to make sure that Nicky was able to spend time with Laverne and Lenny as much as possible.
“ Ok Nicky It is time to go. Say goodbye!” Shirley sweetly told Nicky. Nicky was confused and got upset. He was used to being with Laverne. “No go! Mamma mamma!” Nicky stated grabbing on to Laverne and not letting go of her.
Laverne felt guilty about not letting him stay. She gave him a hug with her free arm. Nicky looked at her with tear filled eyes.“ Awe I know bambino I will miss you too. You will be ok, I will see you tomorrow.” Laverne said lovingly
Laverne ran her fingers though his hair and kissed him on he forehead. She was holding back tears herself realizing that he was not the little bambino she once held in her arms. He was growing up faster than she liked. She let go of him and nodded to Lenny that it was ok to give Nicky to Carmine. Though she was unsure about having him away from her.
Lenny picked him up. “Mamma mamma!” Nicky cried out holding his arms out to her. He tried to wriggle free. “ Hey, Come on Nicky stop that!” Lenny in a serious tone. Nicky stopped and got real still. He looked at Lenny sticking out his lip in a pout.
Lenny realized that his tone startled Nicky a little bit. Lenny put his forehead against Nicky’s.“ Sorry Nicky, You’ll be ok. Kocham Cię!” Lenny whispered lovingly. Nicky’s grabbed Lenny’s face in his hands and they rubbed noses. Everyone awed at this.
Lenny was able to hand him over to Carmine with ease. As soon as they left he locked the door and went to go back upstairs. As he entered the room he could hear Laverne crying. He went over to her and sat down on the bed.
“Hey babe Nicky will be ok. Carmine and Shirley won’t let anything happen.” Lenny assured her. “Besides you need yer rest. It has been a long day.” Lenny said tiredly as he sat down on the bed beside her on the bed.
Josie was asleep in her bassinet.. He made sure Laverne was comfortable before going downstairs. He heated up the food for them and made two plates, a Pepsi, and a milk and Pepsi for her. He put it on a tray and carefully brought it upstairs. She felt guilty he was weighting on her hand and foot. On the other hand she loved it and felt like a princess.They were both able to finish eating before Josie woke up to be fed herself. awhile later they settled in for the Night.
Ella Came back and helped them from 10pm until 6 am. It was weird and amazing they were now a family of four.