With Michael

Chapter 35 - New Life, New Opportunities

19th of August, 1994
Brooklyn and Janet are 28, Michael is 35

Janet: Staring down at my big stomach, another contraction hit.

I moaned in pain as it got stronger and lasted longer.

I was leaning against the hospital room wall, with Rebbie rocking my hips behind me.

My vision blurred; I felt so lightheaded I could faint. I was expecting my legs to give up on me at any moment.

A nurse came to check on me a few minutes ago, saying I was only at seven centimeters, and the baby was showing no signs of wanting to come out soon.

It was taking so long, it's been eight hours since we got to the hospital.

"Jan," I vaguely heard Brooke speak. "Maybe you should get the epidural. You're in too much pain."

I shook my head, "No, I don't want a drugged bab-"

I was cut off by my own scream when an unbearable pain pierced my body.

"That's it, I'm calling a nurse." La Toya mumbled.

Rebbie helped me get back to bed and mother had so much concern in her eyes.

I looked up at a nurse who came in through the door.

~

I let out a big sigh of relief when the pain started fading away, the epidural kicking in.

Why didn't I do this sooner?

Laying on the abnormal big hospital bed, I put a hand on my bump.

The baby was still moving, making me smile. All I wanted was to hold her in my arms already.

And I was just so tired, I wanted this to end.

"You can try to fall asleep, gain back your powers, honey." mother smiled.

"I think I'll do just that." I smiled back.

~

I closed my eyes for what seemed like seconds before Brooke woke me up.

"Jan, the nurse needs to check you." she said.

Everything seemed calmer around me and I let my nurse do her work.

"Oh, wow," she widened her eyes. "She's crowning, Janet. I'll get the doctor."

I gasped, "Really?"

"Yes, I see her head. She's right there."

The nurse quickly left the room. I heard her call for my doctor loudly.

Mother and Brooke stood at either side of me, while La Toya and Rebbie held my legs up.

I took a deep breath as Dr. Cole entered, a big smile on his face.

The only thing missing was Brandon.

~

Brooklyn: Janet took in deep breaths as she stopped pushing.

"You're doing beautifully well, Janet. She is almost out." Dr. Cole encouraged her.

"Just a few more pushes, honey." Katherine removed curls from her sweaty forehead.

I smiled, "You got this, Jan."

My best friend's grip on my hand tightened as she bore down again.

"Ooh, there she is!" La Toya chirped.

"Don't stop, Janet, come on."

With one more big push, Dr. Cole placed a tiny baby on her chest.