The Hearts that Bind

Part 9

November 2015:

"No, Mrs. Baker, I have not thought about kids. Not seriously anyway." Simone answers, turning around to wash the bowl they just used.

They're having some bonding time because she hasn't been able to attend the last two family dinners she was invited to.

She was caught up with work, so it left her little wiggle room to squeeze it in.

Laura begged her to come over at some point because she missed her, so they penciled it in for today.

Laura's very nurturing, and it's not what she expected. But, over the time she's dated Jordan, she's gotten to know her. She's even come to love her.

They just got through making chocolate chip cookie dough from scratch.

It was slightly therapeutic, and Simone quite enjoyed herself and getting some quality time with Mama Baker.

"You two would make me some beautiful grand babies. Olivia's six months pregnant, so...." Her voice fading at the implication that's heavy in her words.

"Laura Baker, interesting of you to be the one pushing me and your son towards procreation."

"I don't know, I love you for him. You two fit so well. I haven't seen him light up like this. He's had flings and a couple of girlfriends, but you're different. Reminds me of me and Billy." She compliments, and Simone smiles softly at her statement.

"Thank you."

"No, thank you. For loving my son the way he deserves and entrusting him to give you that same love back. The both of you are glowing." She says, grabbing Simone's hands in both of her own, giving them a tender squeeze.

Her confession makes Simone's eyes burn with tears. She squeezes her hand back, nodding her head slightly.

"He's amazing, Laura. I couldn't imagine life without him." Simone admits.

"Good, so that does mean grandbabies to come at some point." Laura jokes, blue eyes twinkling in amusement.

"I think we'll cross that bridge when we get there." Simone counters playfully.

"Mom, are you harassing my girlfriend again?" Jordan enters the kitchen, setting the bags on the counter, interrupting their conversation.

"No, Simone and I were just doing some...." She pauses, searching for the word. ".....bonding." She finishes with a wink to Simone.

"Mhhhmmm." Jordan says suspiciously, looking between the two of them.

"Don't get all suspicious inspector gadget, we're all good here." Simone jokes as he walks over to her, grabbing her face to place a peck on her lips.

"Okay, I believe you." He concedes, squinting his eyes at her before pulling her into his arms, her back against his chest.

"Besides, your mom never harasses me." She shares, kissing his hand that's in front of her.

"Nice of you to ditch me dimwit. A little help would've been nice." Liv states as she walks into the kitchen.

"You left prego to fend for herself?" Simone asks, pulling away from him to grab the bags from Liv and place them on the island.

With Liv's hands free, she immediately turns her attention to the protruding belly that Liv has on full display because she's wearing a crop top.

"Hi, niece!" Simone says to her belly, placing a kiss as she massages. She's acknowledged by the feeling of little flutters of movement beneath her hands.