The Fallen Short Stories

Getting the Band Back Together (Ezra's POV)

"Can you help me?" Avalon asks from inside the bedroom. I set my book down and head towards her. When I come into our room, I can see the issue. I kneel on the floor and start tying her shoes, trying not to laugh. Avalon was so fiercely independent that I was scared of embarrassing her now that she did indeed need my help. It was hard though, my tiny little wife with her wide belly struggling to get to her shoes. It was quite the spectacle.
I finish up with her without any more fanfare, standing up and sneaking a peck on the lips when her attention was elsewhere. I hook my arm around her shoulder, deepening the kiss. I hear the knock at the door, even though we'd been expecting them, I was content in making them wait on us all afternoon if she'd let me. "Ezra," she says smiling against my lips, "the door?" "I'll get it," I say reluctantly pulling away. "Thank you, I'll go get Carri."

I pull open the door, unable to stop myself from scanning the both of them. Cal was married now, but still serving the Temple had left a mark on his body. He was toned as always. Riker had a new extension to a tattoo on his neck, and it peeked out from under his shirt collar. They both looked healthy, and brandished smiles. It had been too long since I'd seen my friends, only spoken to them via the phone or through Avalon, the sight of them made me feel a lightness that I hadn't known I was missing. I hug both of them before showing them to the couch. I take the loveseat spaced in an L shape beside the couch so that I can see their faces as we talk. "Where's Kohen?" Riker asks. "She went to wake up the baby." I look in the direction of the nursery and spy her dark hair. Both of the men before me practically melt when they see Carrington in Avalon's arms, her smile is infectious.

Avalon sits beside me, and I pull her against my chest, Carri is already making grabby hands to Cal, and she passes her off. I look at them and can't help but laugh at the stunned expressions they both wear. "What is it?" I ask. They look at each other, to the baby then at Avalon. "Damn, you two work fast." I suppose we had missed more than a few conversations.