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Young Again

By: KarennaC



If anyone had told Jerome when he was younger that he'd have to start his entire life over when he was fifty, he'd have told them they were crazy. He and Lena had married right out of college, after dating for two years. They had kids, they had fights, they had wild make-up sex. Everything was perfect.

Until two months after Jerome's fiftieth birthday, when Lena came home one night and said, "I've met someone else. I'm sorry, Jerome, I just don't love you anymore."

Jerome felt like he'd been bludgeoned over the head. "You what? Everything's fine! Everything's been fine!"

"I've been seeing someone for six months and you haven't even noticed." Lena matter-of-factly set her keys on the table in front of him. "I'm leaving, Jerome. I'm sorry. You've given me a good life, but now it's time to start a new one. Good luck."

"You can't just walk out!"

"Yes, I can. I'll come back for my things while you're at work tomorrow. Allie has a key; she'll let me in. I'm sorry, Jerome. It's over." She walked out.

Jerome spent the night in a fog. Thirty years together. How could Lena throw it away so easily? How could he not have known she was screwing around on him?

He woke the next morning with a dark cloud over him. It was one of the few times in almost three decades that he hadn't found Lena beside him in the morning. And this time, she wasn't coming back. Even if she changed her mind and wanted to return, he wouldn't let her, not knowing that she'd fucked someone else.

Mechanically, Jerome went through his workday routine. He toyed with the idea of calling in sick; he couldn't imagine getting through a day at the office now that his entire life had changed. But Lena had said she'd be stopping by for her things, and he definitely didn't want to be there when she showed up. There was nowhere to go but work, so he went.

When Jerome returned home at the end of the day, he wandered through the house, taking note of everything Lena had removed. It wasn't really much; her personal belongings and a few CDs and DVDs that she'd particularly liked. Everything else was the same as he'd left it, except for the note and papers on the kitchen table.

Jerome picked up the note and read it. "Dear Jerome, everything I want has been removed from the house. I want our marriage to end as painlessly as possible, so I'm not asking you for anything other than what I've already taken. Please sign the divorce papers I've left so we can get this over with. Sincerely, Lena."

Right. Sign the papers. Jerome's first thought was to burn the goddamn things. Lena didn't even have the balls to give him the papers face to face; she had to leave them on the fucking kitchen table? Well, fuck her! But Jerome resisted the impulse. Clearly Lena had already moved on. Why hold onto someone who didn't want to be held onto? He would sign the papers the next morning and drop them off on his way to work. Like the note said, might as well get it over with.

* * *

The divorce was granted within two months. Jerome didn't contest anything Lena had said, so the court hearing was quick and easy. Irreconcilable marital differences. Judicial way of saying, "My wife fucked me over," as far as Jerome was concerned.

A few more months went by, and Jerome settled into a new routine of cooking, cleaning, working, and trying to sleep. He didn't give himself time for any fun; nothing would have been fun without Lena. For those months, Jerome didn't even leave the house except to work. But one Friday, two of his coworkers stopped at his desk. "There's a get-together at the bar at the corner tonight," Brenna, one of the receptionists said. "We're telling everyone. You should come."

"I don't think so," Jerome replied. "I don't go out much."

"We've noticed," Nora, another receptionist, said. "That's why we wanted to make a point of inviting you."

"A handsome man like you shouldn't spend all his time alone," Brenna said. "If you come, I promise I'll dance with you."

"What a tempting offer." Though Jerome wasn't as much tempted as intrigued. Brenna was quite a bit younger than he was; he guessed her age to be somewhere in the early thirties. And she was very attractive. She must be desperate for someone to join her and Nora that night if she was offering to dance with an old man like him.

"It's a genuine one." Brenna winked. "You should give yourself a chance, Jerome. Have you gone out at all since your divorce?"

Of course the entire office knew about his marriage falling apart. Gossip traveled fast. "No, I haven't, and thanks for reminding me," Jerome snapped.

"I'm sorry. I'm such an idiot."

"No. I'm an old grump, and I overreact sometimes. It hasn't been that long; the wound's still fresh. But that doesn't give me a right to bark at you."

Brenna's smile lit up her face. "You aren't old, and you aren't overreacting. But if you want to make it up to me, you can come to the bar tonight. Right after work; none of us are bothering to change or anything."

"I'll be there."

Chatting between themselves, Brenna and Nora moved on to their next victim. Jerome went back to the stack of papers on his desk. The last thing he wanted to do was go to a bar and hang out with his younger coworkers. He'd never been much for night life; he'd never had an opportunity for it. Lena had been more of a homebody, content to spend nights cuddling in front of the TV. And Jerome had been more than happy to indulge that. A bar would be loud, smoky, and crowded. But maybe that was just what he needed. Maybe a change of scenery would help him get past Lena's betrayal.

By the end of the workday, Jerome had accepted the idea of going to the bar. He didn't anticipate having any fun, but at least it would be a delay in going home and eating his solitary supper. He shut down his computer and stood just as Brenna came around the corner. "Ready to go?" she asked.

"Just about." Jerome neatened the items on top of his desk. "Are you collecting everyone you asked?"

"Nope. Just making sure my dance partner is coming. Or did you forget I made you a promise?"

"I didn't forget. I just didn't believe a beautiful young woman like you would be serious about dancing with me."

"You sell yourself short." Brenna took his arm and led him toward the exit. "And you give me too much credit. You're a good-looking man, Jerome. If you asked me, I'd date you."

That caught Jerome off-guard. "I'm probably old enough to be your father."

"How old are you?"

"Fifty. Remember the black balloon on my desk back awhile?"

"Ah, yes. And I'm thirty-five. So I suppose biologically you're old enough to be my father, but you aren't old as far as I'm concerned."

"So you had an ulterior motive in asking me to go to the bar, huh?"

Brenna blushed. "Truthfully, yes. I've seen you every day for the past few months come in, sit down, and barely speak to anyone. I know you must have been hurt by your divorce. I've been there; it's been a year and a half for me. My ex-husband was fucking the next door neighbor's daughter. She was twenty, he was forty. He told me he was leaving after he found out he'd knocked her up. Ten years I'd been begging him to have children, and he knocked up some preppy college bitch."

Jerome wasn't sure what to say. "I'm sorry."

"No, I'm sorry." Brenna pasted a smile back on her face. "I didn't mean to unload that on you. Heaven knows you have your own problems. But I wanted you to understand you aren't the only one who's been hurt. There comes a time when you have to just say fuck it and move on."

"I'm too old to move on," Jerome said.

"You're never too old to let yourself have a good life. Come on, let's get to the bar; everyone's probably waiting."

"Everyone" turned out to be fewer than a dozen people. Apparently Brenna and Nora's pitch for an office get-together hadn't been very successful. But those who did show up seemed happy to be there. Jerome surprised himself by enjoying the chatter and jokes. And Brenna's company made it even better.

After a few hours, people started to leave. "Are you heading home?" Brenna asked Jerome.

"Might as well. It's a Friday; I'll see what's on TV if anything. Or maybe just go to bed. How about you?"

"I'm looking at about the same thing." Brenna hesitated. "Maybe we could see what's on TV together?"

Jerome didn't want the evening to end. He'd seen Brenna around the office, of course, and had spoken with her on occasion, but tonight for the first time he'd realized what a wonderful woman she really was. But going back to her place, or his... "Might be kind of dangerous," he said.

"TVs are only dangerous when they fall on you." Brenna took his hand. "Please, Jerome? Truth be told, I don't want to let you go just yet. I never realized you were such a nice person. I'd really like to spend more time with you."

Jerome gave in, though whether it was to Brenna or to his own hormones, he wasn't sure. "All right. My place or yours?"

"Mine's small and a mess."

"Mine's big and a mess. So your choice."

"I bet yours is big," Brenna said in a teasing tone. "So let's go."

Hand in hand, they walked back to the office parking lot. "Where's your car?" Jerome asked.

"I don't have one. I take the bus."

"Then I guess you'll be riding with me."

"Ooh, can I trust you alone in a car?"

They reached Jerome's car, and he opened the passenger side door for Brenna. "You'll just have to take that chance, won't you," he said.

"I guess so. Even if you ravish me, it beats the bus."

On the way to Jerome's house, they chatted about Jerome's kids and Brenna's plans for her life. "I was hoping to have children someday, but time's running out," she said.

"Didn't you just tell me tonight that you're never too old?" Jerome said. "You're thirty-five. Women have babies into their forties, don't they?"

"Yes, but to have a baby, one has to find the right man. I don't want to be a single mother. My mother raised me alone. It wasn't easy for her, or for me."

"Ah. Well, I'm sure you'll find the right man someday."

"I certainly hope so."

They arrived at Jerome's and went inside. Jerome hurried around picking up dirty dishes and turning on lights. Brenna laughed at him. "You don't have to worry, Jerome. I'm not here to inspect your house." She sat on the couch and patted the cushion beside her. "Come sit."

Jerome sat beside her and picked up the remote from the coffee table. "What kind of shows do you like to watch?"

"We don't have to watch anything." Brenna moved closer to him. "It's been very nice spending time with you tonight. You're a great person. Your wife was clearly an idiot."

"So was your husband. I'm glad you bribed me into going to that bar tonight."

"Bribed you?"

"Well, you promised me a dance, didn't you?"

"Oh, yeah! And I didn't deliver." Brenna stood and took Jerome's hands to pull him to his feet. "Dance with me, Jerome. I have to keep my promise."

Jerome stood, and Brenna put her arms around his neck. "No music?" Jerome asked.

"We don't need music." She lay her head against his chest. "Just dance with me."

Jerome held her. For the first time in years, he was holding a woman other than Lena. And judging from the movement he felt below his waist, he was enjoying it. They moved slowly together, slow dancing in the total silence. Then Brenna looked up. Without giving himself time to think, Jerome brought his lips to hers.

The kiss, soft and sweet at first, became passionate when Brenna's tongue parted their lips. The dance stopped; only their tongues moved together. Jerome held Brenna tightly, forcing himself to resist the impulse to touch her in places where he'd never touched any woman but Lena. Brenna broke the kiss with a smile. "I wondered if you'd be as good a kisser as I thought."

"And did I meet your expectations?" Jerome asked.

"You exceeded them. But I think I need to kiss you again to make sure."

Their mouths came together again. This time, Brenna's hands moved over Jerome's body, giving him permission to do the same to her. They explored each other's bodies until Jerome had to catch his breath. "That- this is wonderful, Brenna." He said on the couch. "You're wonderful."

"So are you." Brenna sat beside him, close enough that their thighs were pressed together. "Jerome, I... I don't know what you're going to think of me. I don't usually go home with a man I haven't dated before, but we know each other from work, and I think we've gotten to know each other pretty well tonight."

"I agree, and I think I'm glad you're here."

"I'm not finished." Brenna snuggled against him. "Jerome, being here with you feels good. It feels right. Please don't think I'd say this to just anyone, but I- I want you to make love to me."

Jerome was stunned. "You do?"

"Yes." She looked into his eyes. "I haven't made an idiot out of myself, have I?"

"God, no." Jerome kissed her forehead. "It just isn't often that a beautiful young woman sits on my couch and propositions me. I'm trying to figure out how to answer you without making an idiot out of myself. I haven't been with anyone since my wife left, and I've never been with anyone but her. I don't know how good I'd be."

"I'm sure you have nothing to worry about. Will you, Jerome? Will you make love to me?"

"I'd be a fool to turn you down. I'd love to make love to you." He stood. "Let's go to my bed. I think that would be more comfortable."

"All right."

He let Brenna go up the stairs in front of him. Not out of any sense of being a gentleman; he wanted to see her ass. Throughout the night, he'd prevented himself from paying much attention to Brenna's body, but now his eyes took in every inch of her. At the top of the stairs, she turned and smiled. "Do you like what you see?"

"Very much. My room's right there on the right."

As soon as they were in the room, Jerome pulled Brenna against him. "You're a very sexy woman," he said. "Are you sure about this? I don't want you to do anything you aren't completely certain of."

"I know I'm very attracted to you." Brenna started unbuttoning his shirt. "And I know I feel a connection to you. We're a lot alike, I think. It's been a long time since I've felt this close to anyone. I want you, Jerome. I'm sure."

They kissed again. Jerome pulled Brenna's satin top out of her slacks and slid his hands under it. He caressed the bare skin of her back. For the first time, he was able to put any thoughts of Lena out of his head. Brenna was here now. Maybe he really could start over.

Brenna managed to finish unbuttoning Jerome's shirt, and eased it off his shoulders. He broke the kiss and stepped back to remove it completely. "Sexy chest," Brenna said. She kissed the center of it. "You don't look old, Jerome. No more calling yourself an old man."

"Let's see how I do keeping up with you before we decide if I'm old or not." Jerome pulled her shirt up, and Brenna raised her arms so he could pull it off over her head. "Your chest is pretty damn sexy too," Jerome said.

"You can't see it all yet." Brenna reached behind herself and unhooked her bra. She allowed it to fall to the floor, revealing her firm, round breasts. "Now you can tell me I'm sexy."

"You definitely are." Jerome drank in the sight of her, the second naked woman he'd seen in his life. "You're beautiful, Brenna."

"Touch me."

Hesitantly, Jerome touched the sides of her breasts. Brenna sighed. Growing bolder, Jerome ran his thumbs over her nipples. "Oh, god!" Brenna said. "That feels so nice, Jerome!"

"I'm glad." 

He brought his lips back to hers. His tongue explored her mouth as his hands explored her breasts and chest. Brenna's breathing became heavier. After a moment, Jerome broke the kiss and took one small, hard nipple into his mouth. "Jerome!" Brenna exclaimed.

"Problem?" he asked without releasing her nipple.

"Yes. That feels so good my legs are shaking. Let's lie down before I fall."

"Wait." Jerome let go of her and unfastened her slacks. He slid them down until they fell on their own to puddle on the floor at her feet, leaving her in only bikini panties. "Now you can lie down."

"If my pants are off, shouldn't yours be too?" 

"Good point." 

Jerome took off his pants and lay on the bed in his boxers, trying to ignore his fear of what Brenna would think of his body. His skin was beginning to sag or wrinkle in places; he looked like a fifty-year-old. But somehow he didn't think that mattered to Brenna. He held out his arms to her. "Come here."

Brenna lay beside him and nibbled his ear. "You look wonderful," she whispered. "Good enough to eat. Can I?"

"You can do anything you want, honey."

With a smile, Brenna slid down so her mouth was even with his crotch. She slid down the top of his boxers. "Nice cock," she said.

"It likes to be kissed." Though Lena had only rarely given him blowjobs. She hadn't liked the taste.

Brenna didn't even hesitate. She took him in her mouth, all the way to the base. It felt amazing. Jerome closed his eyes and enjoyed the sensation until he felt himself about to explode. "Brenna, better stop unless you want a mouthful," he warned.

She released his cock. "How long does it take you to get hard again when you come?"

"I don't know. I've never come more than once in a session."

"Your wife never sucked you off then got you hard again?"

"She never sucked me off, just sucked long enough to get me hard when she bothered at all."

"Stupid woman." Brenna wrapped her hand around his cock. "I want to taste your cum, but I want to feel you inside me more. I'll have to taste you some other time."

"There'll be plenty of time for it," Jerome agreed. "At least, I hope there'll be other times."

"I hope so too." Brenna shimmied out of her panties. "Can I ride you?"

"Please do."

Brenna straddled him and lowered herself onto his cock. As he entered a woman other than Lena for the first time, Jerome caught his breath. Brenna's pussy was warm and tight, and felt amazing. "I don't know how long I'll last, honey," he said.

"I don't know how long I will either. It's okay." Brenna rode him faster. "This is wonderful, Jerome! Ah, god!"

A moment later, her pussy clenched on his cock. The contractions of Brenna's orgasm pushed Jerome into his own. "Brenna!"

Brenna lay against him, his softening cock still inside her. "Thank you, Jerome," she said softly. 

"Thank you, sweet lady." Jerome kissed the top of her head. "Would you like to stay tonight?"

"I would, but I can't. I'm sorry."

"No problem. Get dressed and I'll take you home."

"Could I shower first?"

"Of course."

Jerome showed Brenna to the bathroom, but left her alone while she showered. He would have liked a second round while she cleaned up; just the thought made his cock twitch. But if she wasn't staying, he didn't want to keep her too much longer. He might get too tired to drive. 

After Brenna was dressed, Jerome drove her to her apartment building. "It was a wonderful night," he said. "Thank you again for talking me into going to the bar. And for everything afterward."

"Likewise," Brenna said.

An awkward silence fell. Jerome gathered his courage and broke it by saying, "I'd love to see you again tomorrow night. Dinner, maybe?"

Brenna's smile lit her face. "I'd love that. Pick me up at seven?"

"Done. And if you'd like, maybe we could spend the night together."

"I would like." She leaned over and kissed his lips. "Good night, Jerome."

"Good night."

* * *

Over the next few weeks, Jerome and Brenna saw each other as much as work and sleep permitted. On weekends, Jerome got used to waking beside her; after their first night, she never went home after lovemaking. They agreed not to let anyone at work know about their new relationship, though of course office gossip being what it was, almost everyone knew anyway. 


Young Again Ch. 02



Jerome couldn't stop smiling. He hadn't been this happy in years; the last time he could remember feeling this way was when his youngest child was born, twenty years earlier.

When his wife had left him several months earlier, Jerome had believed he would never be happy again. How could he be, when the woman he'd loved for three decades suddenly told him she didn't love him anymore? For months after she dropped that bomb on him, along with the news that she'd been cheating on him for six months and was leaving him for the other man, Jerome had just barely existed. He'd left his house only to work and run vital errands, he'd spoken to no one but coworkers and store employees. Then Brenna had entered his life.

Brenna. Just thinking about her made Jerome's smile grow, along with something else. It wouldn't have been possible for a young, beautiful woman like her to be attracted to an old fart like him. At fifty, Jerome was fifteen years older than Brenna. But that didn't seem to bother her. Not only was she attracted to him, so much so that they'd made love on their first date, but she loved him. And now she was carrying his child.

Jerome sat at his desk at work, smiling hugely as he went through his paperwork. Brenna worked for the same company, which was how they'd met; they'd known each other in passing for quite a while before she'd persuaded Jerome to go to a bar with her a few other coworkers. That meant that they were able to see each other sometimes during the day, and occasionally sneak a hug or kiss, despite the company's frowning view of public displays of affection. A few minutes earlier, Brenna had found an excuse to pass by Jerome's desk. She hadn't stopped to talk to him, but just the smile she had sent his way had made his day.

"What's with you lately?" Mike, one of Jerome's coworkers, sat on the corner of Jerome's desk. "You're been smiling way too much."

"When I'm happy, I smile," Jerome said.

"I take it all's well in paradise?" Mike said.

"Everything's fine." Jerome didn't like talking about his personal life at work, especially when someone else was involved. Of course, everyone at work knew he and Brenna were together, just like everyone had known about his separation and divorce as soon as they'd happened. That was the way the office grapevine worked. But that didn't mean Jerome wanted to discuss it.

"Glad to hear it," Mike said. "And it's good to see you and Brenna happy. She's been through a lot, and from what I've heard, so have you."

"Yes, but it's over now," Jerome said. "Thank you for saying that. It's good to be happy. Brenna's a wonderful person, and I'm glad I make her happy."

"Just keep it that way. Treat her right."

"I intend to."

"Good." Mike slid off the desk. "Nice talking to you." He walked away.

What was Mike's issue? Obviously he had more than a passing interest in Brenna. Maybe they were just friends, maybe he had stronger feelings. It didn't matter to Jerome, though, as long as Mike didn't try to come between him and Brenna. Brenna was such a sweet person; it made sense that her friends would watch over her. But Jerome knew some of what had happened in Brenna's past; he would never do anything to hurt her.

At the end of the day, Jerome met Brenna in the office lobby, where she worked as a receptionist. She greeted him with a hug. "How was your day?" she asked.

"Pretty good," Jerome replied. "Especially when a beautiful lady walked past my desk and smiled at me."

"A beautiful lady smiled at you?" Brenna said teasingly. "Uh oh, does that mean I have competition?"

"No one could compete with you, silly girl." Jerome kissed her nose. "So how was your day?"

"I felt kind of queasy this morning, but it let up. A couple of clients gave me a hard time, but otherwise things went well." She yawned. "I'm exhausted, though. I could sleep for a week."

"The queasiness and tiredness are normal," Jerome said. "At least, my ex went through the same thing when she was expecting. As for the clients hassling you, just give me their names and I'll take care of them."

Brenna laughed. "My hero. But I don't think we have to go that far."

"All right, if you're sure." Jerome rubbed her still-flat belly. "Want to make sure Junior here is being taken care of. Along with his mommy."

"Junior?" Brenna repeated. "What if it's a girl?"

"Juniorette."

Brenna shook her head. "Men."

"Yep, well, without a man, you wouldn't have that little one in there. Just remember that. I assume you're happy about the little one?"

"Very happy. I still can't believe you asked me to marry you, though. I was so scared when I found out I was pregnant! I thought you would hate me."

"You had nothing to be scared of. I love you, Brenna. Why wouldn't I want to marry you? Speaking of which, are you feeling up to going to dinner and shopping like we'd planned, or would you rather go home and sleep?"

"I'd rather go back to your house and, well, you know."

Jerome grinned. "You know, huh? I think I remember how to do that. Come on, let's get out of here."

Brenna didn't own a car; since he'd proposed to her, Jerome had given her rides to and from work. Brenna had protested at first, but when Jerome pointed out that having morning sickness on the bus might be a bit awkward, she'd stopped arguing. They walked out to Jerome's car, and he held the passenger door open for Brenna. "You're so nice to me," she said, settling herself into the seat.

"You deserve to be treated nicely," Jerome said. "So learn to live with it, because you're going to get a whole lot more of this kind of treatment with me around."

"I think I can deal with that."

Jerome closed her door and got into the driver's seat. "You never answered me," he said as they drove out of the parking lot. "Are you okay for a short shopping trip?"

Brenna rested her hand on his knee. "What about going to your house?"

"Afterward. There's something very important that we need to pick up."

"What's that?"

Jerome covered her hand with his own. "It's been a week since I asked you to marry me. Something belongs on this hand."

"A ring? You don't have to buy me a ring, Jerome. I thought we were just going to keep things small and simple."

"We're going to have wedding rings, aren't we?"

"Well, of course. But that's different."

"Not to me. We're engaged. I want you to have an engagement ring. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, but it would mean a lot to me to buy you one."

"We'll see. We can at least look at wedding rings." She yawned again. "I'm tired, but yes, I'm okay to go shopping with you. As long as we keep it short."

"A few jewelry stores, dinner, then back to my place for dessert," Jerome promised.

"Ooh, dessert!"

Jerome drove to the nearby mall, which contained three jewelry stores. He led Brenna into the most expensive of the three first. After a few minutes of admiring rings, then cringing at their prices, Brenna said, "Jerome, there's nothing in here you can afford. Everything's way too expensive!"

"Had a feeling you might say that." Jerome grinned. "Honey, nothing's too expensive for you. If you wanted anything here, I'd be happy to buy it. But if you don't like any of these rings, we can check the other stores."

"It isn't that I don't like them." Brenna looked at the collection of diamonds in the closest case. "They're beautiful. I've never seen anything like them. But I don't want you to spend so much. With a baby coming, we should watch our money, shouldn't we?"

"Good point." Jerome put his arms around her and kissed her. "You're so smart. Okay, so we'll go look in the other jewelers here and see if we can find something that fits our budget a little better."

They left the store and headed down the mall corridor. "Why are you so determined to buy me a ring tonight, anyway?" Brenna asked.

"Don't you think it's time you had one?"

"It's only been a week. And I haven't officially accepted your proposal yet."

"Which is one reason you need a ring, so I can get down on one knee and give you an official proposal. As long as you promise to help me up afterward."

Brenna laughed. "You aren't that old. I think you'll be able to get up."

"Never know. These old bones and muscles aren't what they used to be."

"I know one thing that's at least as good as it used to be. If only I'd known you then."

"If you'd known me then, you wouldn't have been legal. But I'm glad you think it's good."

In the second store, Brenna found the same problem with prices as she'd had in the first. Although the prices were much more reasonable, she still claimed to be uncomfortable with them. "Do you want a ring?" Jerome finally asked in exasperation.

"I told you I don't," Brenna reminded him. "You're the one who wants me to have a ring. I don't care if I have one or not. I know we love each other; I know we're getting married and having a baby. I don't need some big, shiny, expensive rock on my hand to prove that to anyone else."

Jerome wasn't trying to prove anything. At least, he didn't think he was. But when a woman got engaged, she was supposed to have a ring. Everyone was supposed to know about it. That was the way it had always been with the women Jerome had known. When he'd proposed to Lena, his ex-wife, she'd run around to every family member's and friend's home in the area to show off the ring he'd saved for six months to buy her. Why didn't Brenna seem that excited?

On the other hand, she was right about the need to save money. Jerome had his house free and clear, but there were still bills to pay, and the new baby would bring new expenses. Jerome made a good living and had plenty in savings; Lena had asked for nothing when she'd left him. But it would still be a good idea to watch spending. It had been a long time since Jerome had supported children; he wasn't even sure how much baby food cost nowadays, let alone things like clothes and pediatrician visits.

"Sweetheart, if you really don't want a ring, I won't buy you one," he said finally. He hadn't changed his mind about buying Brenna a ring, but it wasn't important enough to argue about. "We could just choose wedding rings and be done with it, or we can forget the rings altogether and just go to dinner. But I want to know one thing. Do you not want a ring because you don't want me to spend the money, or do you not want a ring because you don't think you're worth the money?"

"I don't think I need anything that expensive."

"So you don't think you're worth it."

"Don't put words in my mouth, Jerome." Brenna hesitated. "I don't know. I'm not used to people buying me nice things. My ex never did, and got angry when I asked for things."

"I would never get angry," Jerome said. "Anything you ever want or need, you just have to ask. You gave me my life back, Brenna. Compared to that, nothing I could give you measures up."

"You gave me back my life too," she said softly. "You gave me someone I could trust enough to love. That's a lot, and that's all I need."

Jerome's heart warmed. He almost wanted to cry; no one had ever said anything like that to him. But he swallowed hard and said, "Brenna, I love you. I want you to have everything good, everything you never had. Let's stop arguing, honey. You don't have to have a ring. It's silly to argue about that. I'd still like to buy you one, but we'll talk about it. Let's just go get dinner and go home."

"Let's just go back to your place and order dinner," Brenna suggested, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Then I can ravish you while we wait for the delivery person."

"Hmm, ravishing sounds fun." Jerome kissed her, flicking her lips with his tongue, though he wasn't about to kiss her the way he wanted to while they were standing in the middle of the mall. "Let's go."

When they got to Jerome's house, he called and ordered Chinese food while Brenna used the bathroom. She came out of the room completely nude. "Do you like my outfit?" she asked.

"It's beautiful." Jerome stripped off his shirt. "Guess I should dress to match, huh?"

"Only if you want the delivery person to see you naked."

"Might be fun, if it's a hot chick."

Brenna giggled. "Yeah, pretty soon you'll need backup, because my body's going to be the least sexy thing you've ever seen when this baby gets bigger."

"Don't say that. Your body's gorgeous, and it's going to be gorgeous no matter how big your belly gets, because that's my child in there. And because I love you." 

"I love you too," Brenna said softly.

Their mouths came together, lips moving softly, tongues exploring. Jerome massaged one of Brenna's breasts and she moaned. He kissed his way down her neck to take one nipple in his mouth. "Jerome, I love that!" Brenna exclaimed. 

Gently, Jerome sucked her nipple. Curious to see how wet she was, he slipped his fingers into her slit. "Someone's horny," he teased.

"Mmm, yes, someone is." Brenna's hand found the bulge in his pants. "And I'd say I'm not the only one."

"Definitely not. Let me help you with that."

Jerome fingered her clit, loving the sounds of Brenna's arousal. He slipped his other arm around her back to hold her up as he brought her closer to release. After a few moments, she cried out, "Jerome! Oh, my god!" Her body shuddered through the orgasm, then she relaxed so much he almost dropped her.

"Careful there." Jerome helped Brenna to the couch. "You needed that, huh?"

"I've been so horny all day, I couldn't stop thinking about you," Brenna admitted. She kissed his neck. "Now let's take care of you. Fuck me, Jerome. Make love to me."

"Which one?" Jerome teased. 

"Both. Fuck me hard enough to make me cum again, and make love to me to remind me of how much I love you."

"I like the way you think."

He lowered her to the couch and, after opening his pants, lowered himself onto her. It would only be a short time longer until they'd have to give up this position; when the baby grew, it would be too uncomfortable for her. But for now, Jerome loved feeling Brenna's body beneath him, loved looking into her eyes as their bodies connected. He entered her slowly, teasing her, but then pulled out and shoved back in harder. "Yes!" Brenna shouted. "Oh, Jerome, that's so good!"

"You want it harder?" he asked.

"Please. Oh, yes, please!"

Jerome obliged, fucking Brenna's sweet pussy as hard as he could, until she cried out again and he felt her pussy contract along his cock. "I love you, honey," he said.

"I love you too. Now for the making love."

Jerome resumed thrusting, this time slowly and gently. Brenna moaned and whimpered at the feeling. Although it was less stimulation than before, Jerome soon felt his balls tighten as his orgasm approached. "Honey, I'm going to come," he said. 

"Do it," she replied. "Come inside me, Jerome. I love feeling you come."

"Yes! Brenna!" Jerome felt himself topple over the edge; his cum filled Brenna's pussy as the intensity washed over him. He lay still on top of her for a moment, catching his breath, then said, "I think I need to take naps before we make love from now on."

Footsteps sounded on the porch. "I think you'd better zip up your pants and go pay for our food," Brenna said. "Good timing."

* * * 

As usual, that night Brenna asked Jerome to drive her home. She had yet to spend a full night with him; on weeknights she wanted to be sure she got enough sleep to deal with work, and on weekends she said she just wasn't comfortable. "We'll spend plenty of nights together after we're married, but I want to be in my own bed at night for now," she usually said.

The next day after work, Brenna was so tired that Jerome just took her home. It was Friday and they'd had plans, but the plans weren't important. It mattered more that she took care of herself and the baby. "We'll see each other tomorrow," Jerome told her when he kissed her goodbye at her apartment door. "And call me later so I can see how you're doing, all right? I don't want to call you; I don't want to wake you if you're sleeping."

"Are you sure you don't mind?" Brenna asked for the dozenth time.

"Sweetheart, I would mind if you decided to go out with me tonight instead of resting. You need to take good care of yourself. Now, do you need anything before I leave? Or do you want me to stay in case you do need anything?"

"I need to go to the bathroom, but I don't think you can help me with that." Brenna grinned. "I'll be all right. You can stay if you want, but I'm just going to get some sleep. I won't be any company."

"I just want to make sure you have everything you need."

"I just need sleep." She hugged him. "Thank you for being so wonderful, Jerome. I'll be all right. I'm going to take a nap now, and if I wake up, I'll call. But if you don't hear from me, don't worry, okay? As tired as I am, I might sleep through the night."

"I hope you do. I love you."

"I love you too."

She closed the door, and Jerome went back to his car and drove home When he walked through his door, his phone was ringing. He lunged at it and picked it up just before the answering machine. "Hello?"

"Dad, what's going on?" his oldest child, Gillian, asked.

"Not much. Just got home from work. What's going on with you?"

"I'm not small talking, Dad. I heard something about you dating."

"Oh, really? Who'd you hear that from?" Who knew about him and Brenna who might have spread the word to his bossy daughter?

"I have my sources," Gillian said. "Dad, I want to know about this woman, and I want to know why you haven't mentioned her."

"Maybe because I'm an adult and I'm entitled to my privacy on some things. And so is Brenna. That's her name, and that's about all you're getting out of me. Oh, that and the fact that she and I are getting married shortly."

"Married? Dad, are you insane? You haven't been divorced that long!"

"I've been divorced plenty long, Gillian, and your mother, if you recall, left me for another man. Didn't seem to matter to her if there was a time gap or not. So why should I wait?"

"Have you even known this woman long enough to get married? Dad, I'm just trying to look out for you. There are women out there who prey on men with money, and I know you aren't exactly poor."

"Brenna isn't preying on me. I work with her; I've known her quite a while. The woman won't even let me buy her an engagement ring, so I don't think she's after my money."

"Either that or she doesn't really want to marry you."

"That's enough," Jerome snapped. "You might think you're trying to look out for me, Gillian Lynn, but you're still my child, even if you are twenty-eight. I can take care of myself, thank you very much, and I don't need you insulting a woman you haven't even met."

"I'm not insulting her!" Gillian protested. "And if you're marrying her, why haven't I met her yet? All of us should meet her, don't you think? She's going to be our stepmother, after all."

"Good point. Yes, you should meet her." Though Jerome cringed a bit at the thought. Gillian and her brother and sister were good kids, but protective of their mom and dad. How would they react to Brenna?

"Good. So tell me more about her, and then we can figure out a time for all of us to get together for dinner. How old is she?"

"Thirty-five."

"What? Dad, that's only seven years older than me! What are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking that Brenna's a wonderful woman, and it doesn't matter how old she is. After your mother left, I wanted to just curl up and die. Brenna snapped me out of that. And there's one more thing you should know."

"What's that? She pregnant or something?"

"Exactly. In about seven months, give or take a couple weeks, you'll have a little brother or sister. Congratulations." 

"You've got to be joking. Haven't you ever heard of safe sex?"

"I was with your mother for thirty years," Jerome reminded her. "We didn't need safe sex. Didn't think of it with Brenna, though obviously I should have. But I don't regret it, and neither does she. It's no one else's business."




Young Again Ch. 02



"You're having a kid. You're old enough to be its grandfather, for crying out loud!"

"Gillian, I've given you a lot to get used to. Why don't I let you go, and you can think about it. Meanwhile, I just walked in the door from work and I want to change into something more comfortable."

"You're marrying a woman fifteen years younger than you, and having a baby with her, and you think I'm going to get used to it?"

"I think it would be nice if you did, but it doesn't really matter. I don't need your permission, Gillian. I love you; give me a call later when you calm down."

"I'm not going to calm down!"

"That's up to you. I am. Talk to you soon." He hung up before his daughter could argue any more.

* * *

Jerome didn't hear from any of his children until the following week. Then they all called him the same day. "What are you thinking? When's the wedding? Why haven't we met her?" Jerome would have sworn that Gillian had given her siblings a script. 

After a flurry of phone calls, he finally agreed to bring Brenna to Gillian's for dinner Friday night. When he picked her up that night, she was nervous. "I don't know what they're going to think of me," she said. She put her hand on her belly, which now had just the slightest swell. "I've never dated anyone with kids before. Let alone someone with kids almost as old as me. They might hate me."

"It's going to be fine," Jerome promised her. "Don't worry." He put his hand on her thigh. "Just think about what you're going to get from me when it's over."

"Mmm, that does make it better."

When they got to Gillian's, Jerome's other children were already there. His son Emery opened the door. "Dad, good to see you." He smiled at Brenna. "You must be Brenna. Dad seems pretty happy about you, so I'm glad to meet you."

"Thank you." Brenna shook his hand. "Jerome's told me about you and your sisters. It's nice to meet you, too."

Emery led them inside. His sisters were sitting at the kitchen table, deep in conversation. Quinn, the youngest, spotted Jerome and Brenna first. "They're here!" She ran over and threw her arms around Jerome. "Good to see you, Daddy! And Brenna, right? You're so pretty!"

Leave it to Quinn. She could make anyone comfortable. Brenna smiled and said, "Thank you. You're pretty too."

"I'm Quinn, by the way, in case Dad didn't tell you. And that's my big sis Gillian pouting at the table."

"I'm not pouting." Gillian stood up and came over to them. "When are you due, Brenna?"

"Gillian, that's rude," Jerome said. "What happened to hello, how are you?"

"Everyone's said hello, and how she is is pregnant."

"I'm sorry if that offends you," Brenna said.

"It does. My father's too old to cope with another baby. What did you do, decide to trap him?"

"Gillian, stop it," Emery said. "Brenna, don't mind her."

"I don't mind, but I think I'd better leave," Brenna said. Jerome could tell from her voice that she was close to tears. "Thank you for the invitation, Gillian. Sorry I won't be staying." She left.

Jerome faced his daughter, struggling to control his fury. "You had no right to talk to her like that, Gillian Lynn," he said, managing somehow to keep his voice level. "Until you learn some respect, I'd prefer not to be here either. Emery, Quinn, thank you for making Brenna feel welcome. I'm leaving now."

"You're choosing her over your own children?" Gillian demanded.

"I'm choosing her over a disrespectful, spoiled brat," Jerome snapped. He walked out, slamming the door behind him.



Young Again Ch. 03



On the way home from the failed dinner, Brenna cried. "I'm so sorry, Jerome. I didn't mean to ruin the night."

"You didn't ruin anything." Jerome put his hand on hers. "My darling daughter did that all by herself. She had no right to speak to you the way she did."

"You could have stayed. I could have taken a bus home or something."

"Not a chance. That's my little boy or girl in your belly, and I won't take any chances. The bus isn't safe this time of night. And why would I have wanted to stay after what Gillian said? She was way out of line and until she apologizes, I'd rather not deal with her, to be honest."

"She just didn't know what to think of me, I guess." Brenna shifted in her seat. "I need to go to the bathroom again, damn it. No one told me I'd have to pee all the time this early in the pregnancy."

"Can you hold on till we get home?" Jerome asked. "We're almost there."

"Yes, I can wait." Brenna pulled her hand away from his. "Jerome, are you sure you really want this? I mean, after the way your kids acted..."

"Gillian acted like a little shit, and I'll be happy to tell her so," Jerome replied. "She's twenty-eight years old, and acting two. Emery and Quinn were thrilled to meet you, and I'm sure they're just as appalled at their sister as I am. Anyway, even though it would be nice for my kids to be happy for us, it isn't necessary. I love you, we're having a baby, and we're getting married. That's what matters."

"But you can't just turn your back on your kids." She paused. "Twenty-eight? Gillian's only seven years younger than I am. No wonder she's upset. She can't like the idea of you marrying a woman as young as me."

"Doesn't matter what she likes. Don't worry about it, honey. She'll come around, or not. Two out of three isn't bad; like I said, Emery and Quinn seemed happy to meet you."

When they got to Jerome's house, Brenna ran for the bathroom. Jerome checked his answering machine. There were three messages, two of them from Gillian. "Dad, I hope you're happy," the first one said. "I went to a lot of trouble to make dinner, and now it's ruined."

Jerome deleted it and played the second. "Dad, I don't know why you went after her," Gillian said. "You can't be serious about choosing her over your children." Jerome deleted that one too.

The third message was from his son Emery. "Dad, thanks for bringing Brenna to meet us. Quinn and I agree, she's very nice, and we're glad you're happy. Don't let Gillian get to you; she's just being Gillian. Love ya, Dad. Talk soon."

That message, Jerome saved. Emery must have called from Gillian's house; there was no way he could have gotten home this quickly. Jerome wondered what kind of discussion his kids had had after he and Brenna left. 

Brenna came out of the bathroom. "Much better," she said. "Did anyone call?"

"Yeah. Gillian called and ranted, and Emery called and said he and Quinn were glad to meet you. So you see, you've got a majority vote among my kids."

Brenna laughed. "That's good to know, I guess. What are you going to do about Gillian, though?"

"Not a thing. Wait for her to get over it; there's nothing else I can do." He put his arms around her. "Don't worry about it, honey. Everything's going to be fine. Are you staying here tonight, or should I take you home?"

"You know I always go home at night."

"Yes, but I keep hoping you'll stay one of these times." He kissed her lips, tickling them with his tongue. "If you don't want to sleep over, that's fine. It's the weekend, though; at least you wouldn't have to get up and get ready for work."

"I know. I just like to sleep in my own bed." Brenna reached down and found the growing bulge in Jerome's pants. "Though I guess I can stay a little longer and help you take care of this."

"Oh, really? What are you going to do with it?"

"Come into the bedroom and find out."

Jerome took Brenna's hand and allowed her to lead him into his room, to the bed that until several months ago he'd shared with his wife. The woman who'd left him for a man that she'd cheated on Jerome with for six months before she finally admitted it. Jerome made a mental note to buy new bedding for his new bride, as soon as he and Brenna set a date.

Brenna knelt in front of him and grabbed his belt loops to pull him closer. "What are you doing down there?" Jerome teased.

"I didn't get dinner," Brenna reminded him. "So I'm going to have myself a snack."

She unfastened his pants and pulled them down, then stroked his cock. "Mmm, nice and hard," she said. "I bet I can make it harder."

"And how are you going to do that?"

"Like this." 

Brenna's mouth engulfed the head of Jerome's cock. She sucked gently until he moaned, then slid her mouth down his shaft. "Oh, baby, that feels so good!" Jerome said. "Keep doing it, honey. Make me nice and hard so I can make love to you."

Brenna gently handled his balls with one hand while she sucked and licked him. Jerome tried to hold back his orgasm; he wanted to come inside her, not in her mouth. But she was too good at what she was doing. Jerome felt his orgasm building and finally cried out, "Brenna, stop! I'm going to come!"

She looked up at him with a gleam in her eyes and said, "That's the idea."

She returned to what she'd been doing. After another moment, Jerome felt his balls tighten. "Brenna, here it comes!"

The idea of swallowing a mouthful of cum didn't seem to bother Brenna at all. She sucked until Jerome released into her mouth. "God, Brenna, that was amazing!" he exclaimed.

Brenna swallowed, then licked his shaft. "Have to make sure I get it all," she explained with a grin. "So you liked that, did you?"

"I'd be crazy if I didn't. But honey, it's going to be a while before I'm hard again. I'm an old man, remember?"

"You're fifty, not ancient." Brenna shimmied out of her clothes and lay down on the bed. "Like what you see?"

"You're gorgeous."

"Even with this?" She ran her hand over the tiny swelling of her belly.

"Especially with that."

"Then how about you show your appreciation by going down on me while we wait for you to be ready for more?"

"Well, now, I think I can handle that." 

Jerome joined Brenna on the bed and lowered his mouth to her pussy. He loved her taste, the sweet moisture that showed her arousal. As he lapped at her, Brenna moaned. "That feels wonderful, Jerome."

Instead of answering, Jerome sucked her clit into his mouth. Brenna gasped. "Jerome!"

He continued his attention to her clit. Hearing her moans and sighs, tasting her, began to bring his cock back to hardness. When he finally heard her cry out, "Jerome, I'm coming!" his cock was fully hard.

Smiling, he looked at her. "Was that good?" he asked.

"Oh, my god, that was wonderful. Come here."

Jerome pulled her against him and kissed her deeply. Their tongues met and played together, and Jerome rolled onto his back, pulling Brenna on top of him. He liked being on top, but now that the baby was beginning to show, he knew that position would soon be off-limits. It was time to practice some others. 

Brenna broke the kiss and said, "What am I doing up here?"

"Riding my dick, I hope."

"Oh, you mean this?" Brenna reached between them and fondled Jerome's cock. "You want me to ride this?"

"Hell, yes."

"I guess I can do that."

Slowly, Brenna slid her pussy onto his cock. Jerome caught his breath at the feeling. She was so warm and tight; he loved making love to her. He loved everything about Brenna. She'd brought him out of months of depression; she'd given him a chance to love again after what his ex-wife had done to him. He still couldn't believe he'd been lucky enough to find her.

Eyes closed, Brenna moved up and down on his cock. "Mmm, Jerome, I love how this feels," she said.

"Feels good here too, honey," he replied.

She picked up the pace. "Does this feel better?"

"Yes."

Even faster. "This?"

"Oh, baby, yes!"

"Jerome! Oh, god, this is good. I love you!"

"I love you too, Brenna."

It was only a few moments longer before she came. Jerome felt it; the contractions brought him to the edge as well. "Brenna, I'm coming!"

"Do it, honey. Come in me! Oh, god!"

Jerome allowed his orgasm to sweep him over the brink. His cum filled her, and he relaxed. "That was incredible, honey," he said.

Brenna kissed him and lay against his chest, his cock still inside her. "Yes, it was. I'm so glad I found you, Jerome."

"Same here, honey. Are you still sure you want to go back to your place tonight?"

"Do you mind? If you're too tired to drive me..."

"If you want to be in your own bed, that's where you should be. And don't even mention the bus, or I'll have to spank you."

"Is that supposed to be a threat?"

"Nope. A promise."

Brenna giggled. "Okay. I won't mention it. And yes, I would like to go home tonight, if you're sure you don't mind."

"Not a problem. But in that case, you'd better get off me so I can get dressed."

"I suppose." Brenna stood. "Soon you'll have me here every night."

"I know. We just have to decide when."

"Soon. We'll talk about it."

"Yep." But when would they talk? 

* * *

Monday morning, as soon as the work day began, Jerome and Brenna were called into their boss's office. "I feel like a kid getting called to see the principal," Jerome said when he met Brenna at the elevator. 

"I know. Me too." Brenna took his hand. "We weren't passing notes in class, though."

"I bet lots of little boys passed you notes in school."

"Oh, there were a few. But none were as cute as you are."

The office door opened and the supervisor said, "Come on in."

Inside, Jerome and Brenna sat next to each other, still holding hands. "I'm sure you're wondering what this is about," their boss said.

"The question had crossed our minds," Jerome replied.

"It's come to our attention that the two of you are engaged. Is that true?"

"We're planning to get married, yes," Jerome said. In his mind, the engagement wasn't official; his idea of a proposal was getting on one knee with a diamond ring. But Brenna had refused to let him buy her a ring, and Jerome was no longer sure he'd be able to get up off his knee.

"Company policy is that family members can't work together. If you're getting married, you're family. I'm sorry, but either one of you will have to leave, or we'll have to terminate you."

"We aren't married yet," Brenna protested.

"That's why we're having this conversation now. If you were already married, you would automatically have been let go. I'm sorry. Both of you are excellent employees, and if it was my choice, you'd both stay. But it isn't up to me. Please get back to me when you decide what you're going to do." He stood, indicating that the discussion was over. "Have a good day."

Brenna and Jerome left the office. "Have a good day?" Brenna spat. "He just told us that one of us has to find a new job because of some stupid policy, and he wants us to have a good day?" She looked down at her belly. "I'm pregnant. No one's going to hire a pregnant woman."

"No one needs to." Jerome kissed her; no need to worry about someone seeing them, since apparently everyone already knew they were together. "I make enough to support us until the baby comes and you're ready to go back to work. And if you don't ever want to go back to work, that's okay too."

"I can't afford my apartment if I'm not working, Jerome."

"Then give up the apartment, honey. I know you wanted to stay till we got married, but maybe this means we should get married sooner."

"I need to think about it. It's tempting, but I've always worked, and I'd feel weird just being a housewife."

"Take your time to decide. If you want, I'll leave my job here and you can stay."

"No. You've been here a lot longer than I have, and you'd have to start from scratch if you changed jobs. That wouldn't be right. I'll make a few calls today and see if anyone would be interested in hiring me. If not, I probably will take your offer."

"You do still want to marry me, right?"

"Yes, of course!" Brenna hugged him. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to make it sound like I don't. It's just... I'm scared, Jerome. My first marriage didn't go so well, and I'm just kind of scared of trying again."

"I know what you mean. I feel the same way. But I think we're going to be fine, Brenna. I'm not your ex-husband and you aren't my ex-wife. Everything's going to be great."

"Yeah. Everything will."

Everything wasn't. Not long after lunch, Brenna's friend Nora ran to Jerome's desk. "Jerome, hurry. They're taking Brenna to the hospital."

"What?" Jerome was out of his seat before the word was out of his mouth. "What happened?"

"I found her in the bathroom. She was bleeding."

"No!"

Jerome ran. Brenna couldn't lose their baby. She'd told him how much she wanted a child; this meant a lot to her. She had to be all right.

He reached the reception area restroom at the same time as an ambulance crew. "Stay back," one of them told him.

"That's my fiancée," Jerome replied.

"Stay back," the EMT repeated. "We'll take care of her. What's her name?" 

"Brenna Malone." Jerome craned his neck, trying to see past them into the restroom. "Is she okay?"

"We haven't checked her yet." The EMT's voice became more gentle. "Sir, don't worry, okay? We'll take care of her. You can come to the hospital and make sure she's all right."

Nora waited with Jerome until the EMTs wheeled Brenna out on a stretcher. She was pale, but smiled when she saw Jerome. "Nothing like making some excitement around here," she said.

"You're going to be fine, honey," Jerome said. "You and our baby."

He looked at the EMTs for confirmation. The one who'd spoken to him before shrugged. "She hasn't lost the baby. They might be able to stabilize her at the hospital."

"Can I go with her?" Jerome asked.

"No. We don't allow that. You can meet her at the hospital, though."

"Go, Jerome," Nora said. "I'll let everyone know what happened."

"I'll see you at the hospital, sweetheart." Jerome placed a gentle kiss on Brenna's forehead. "I love you."

"I love you too."

The ambulance crew wheeled her out. Jerome hurried to the parking lot and got into his car. He hoped someone would think to shut down his computer and take care of other stuff around his desk; he wasn't about to take time to do it. He didn't expect to go back to work that day; he wasn't going anywhere as long as Brenna was in the hospital.

He arrived just after the ambulance, and parked in the emergency parking lot. When he got inside, Brenna was being wheeled into one of the examining areas. A nurse stopped Jerome from joining her. "You can't go in there, sir."

"My fiancée, Brenna Malone, was just brought in," Jerome said, fighting to keep his patience. "She may be having a miscarriage. I need to be with her."

"What's your name?"

"Jerome McClennon."

"Please wait out here, Mr. McClennon. The doctor has to examine your fiancée, and it would make it harder if you were in there."

"You don't understand. She might lose our baby. Please let me in. You really think the doctor's going to be in there right away?"

The nurse relented. "All right. You can go in until the doctor needs to see her, but I'm sure you won't be allowed to stay."

"Thank you."

Jerome went down to the curtained cubicle where Brenna lay, still on the ambulance stretcher. The EMTs were with her. "You must have broken the speed limit," one of them greeted Jerome.

"Yeah, it was important." He went to the side of the stretcher and took Brenna's hand. "How are you doing, honey?"

"I'd be better if I wasn't here." Tears filled her eyes. "Jerome, what if I lose the baby? I don't even know what happened! I was fine this morning, and then I started feeling sick and crampy, and I went to the bathroom and there was blood. What if I lose him?"

"Or her." Jerome smoothed her hair back from her forehead. "They said you haven't lost the baby yet, and hopefully the doc will be able to make sure it doesn't happen."

"But what if it does?"

"Then we get married and try again."

"You'd still marry me?"

It took Jerome a second to understand. Brenna was afraid that losing the baby would mean losing him. She thought he was only marrying her because he'd gotten her pregnant. No wonder she'd argued with him about buying a ring. "Of course I'd still marry you, Brenna. I love you. Nothing's going to change that. I'm praying that you don't lose this baby, but if you do, when you're ready we'll make another one. And until you're ready, we can keep practicing for making one."

Brenna managed a shaky laugh. "I thought you only wanted me because of the baby."

"Hell no. I want you because you're the best thing that's come into my life in a long time. Is this why you didn't want a ring?"

"Yeah."

"Well, you're getting one now. Best one I can find. I love you, Brenna, no matter what else happens."

The nurse who had stopped Jerome bustled into the area, and the EMTs left. "Just need to get your blood pressure and pulse, honey," the nurse said. "How are you feeling?"

"Like a tetherball hit me in the stomach," Brenna said.

The nurse wheeled a machine closer to the stretcher and wrapped a blood pressure cuff that was attached to it around Brenna's arm. She fastened a small plastic clip onto the middle finger on Brenna's other hand and turned on the machine. While she waited for it to take Brenna's blood pressure and pulse, the nurse lifted the blanket that the EMTs had put over her. "Are you still bleeding?"

"I don't know," Brenna said. "I can't tell."

"Mr. McClennon, I'm going to have to ask you to leave for a minute," the nurse said. "I need to get her into a johnny."

"I want him to stay," Brenna said. "He's my fiancé. He's seen me naked before."

"I'm not worried about that, honey. It might bother him to see-"

"I want him to stay."

"Fine." 

The machine beeped, and the nurse recorded the readings, then took a gown out of a cupboard. She helped Brenna out of her clothes and into the johnny. When he saw the blood in Brenna's pants, Jerome gasped. She'd lost a lot, it looked like; no wonder she was so pale. The nurse laid a pad under Brenna and covered her back up with the blanket. "The doctor will be with you in a minute." She noticed the look on Jerome's face. "Don't worry, it isn't as bad as it looks."

"How bad does it look?" Brenna wanted to know.

"Just like if you forgot to wear a pad or tampon during your period, honey," the nurse said soothingly. "Nothing to worry about. The doctor will be here in a minute." She left.

Jerome stayed beside Brenna, holding her hand, until a female doctor came in. "Hello, I'm Doctor Thurlow," she said. She looked at the chart she carried. "How are you feeling, Miss Malone?"

"I've been better."

"Well, let's check you out, and I'm going to have you get an ultrasound to see if everything's okay with the baby."

The doctor removed the blanket and lifted the hospital gown. Jerome had to turn away. He kept hold of Brenna's hand, but he didn't look at her until the doctor said, "You did lose some blood, but it looks like it might be the placenta, not a miscarriage. We'll see what the ultrasound shows, but I think the baby's okay." She placed her stethoscope against Brenna's belly. "It would be easier to tell with a fetal monitor, but that will have to wait. You sound okay. I'm going to order the ultrasound, and we'll take you up there when it's time."

It felt like forever while they waited to hear. Brenna fell asleep; she was exhausted from everything that had happened and the blood loss. Jerome sat with her patiently until finally they were taken to have the ultrasound done. When the baby's beating heart appeared on the screen, Brenna started to cry. "She's okay!"

"Or he," Jerome said.




Young Again Ch. 03



"Too early to tell," the technician said. "But yes, the baby's okay. Looks like some problems with the placenta; see right here?" He indicated a spot that didn't look like anything to Jerome. "It looks like it's detached. Might not be, though, and if it is, that doesn't necessarily mean serious problems. I'll let the doctor tell you what's going on. Do you have an obstetrician?"

"Not yet," Brenna said. "I should have before now, I guess, but I hadn't had a chance."

"Well, Doctor Thurlow's one of our staff obstetricians, so she might take you on as a patient," the technician said. "Good luck. If you do become Doctor Thurlow's patient, I'll see you again."

They were taken back to the cubicle, where they continued to wait. Finally, the doctor came back. "Your baby seems healthy," she said. "And the problem with the placenta should correct itself in couple weeks, though you'll need to take it easy until then. That includes intercourse; no sex until you're seen and given the okay. I hear that you don't have an obstetrician, Miss Malone?"

"Not yet."

"Call my office tomorrow morning and schedule an appointment. Meanwhile, no work. You need to rest for a few days. I won't prescribe full bedrest; you can get up to use the bathroom or fix yourself something to eat, but otherwise, sitting or lying down." 

"I live alone," Brenna said.

"Not anymore," Jerome said. "You're coming home with me tonight. We'll get you set up in the spare room if you want, and I'll round up a couple people to help get your stuff out of your apartment tomorrow after work."

"I can't move out without notice."

"I'll talk to your landlord." Jerome brushed her cheek with his finger. "Stop arguing. I love you. Let me take care of you, honey. Please."

Brenna nodded, and Jerome saw tears in her eyes again. "All right. Take me home," Brenna said.



Young Again Ch. 04



The next day, when Brenda was released from the hospital, Jerome brought her to his house. "Everything I own is still in my apartment," she protested when they got out of his car in his driveway.

"Not everything," Jerome replied. "I took your keys with me and got Emery to help me move a few things. You're not getting out of it, Brenna. I want you with me so I can take care of you."

"I'm not sure I like the idea of you going through my things without telling me," Brenna said.

"I know, and I wouldn't have done it under normal circumstances. But you were in the hospital, you were sleeping, and I wanted to get things ready for you to come to my place. I took the day off from work to try to make everything good for you."

"You took time off? Jerome, you didn't have to do that."

"I know, but it was worth it." He pulled her into his arms and kissed her. "I love you, and I want you to be comfortable here. I know you weren't planning to stay here quite yet, but it's time. I can't let anything happen to you or our baby."

"I know. That's what I love about you. I know you'll take care of me."

Jerome escorted Brenna into the house and settled her onto the couch. "Do you want anything to eat or drink?" he asked.

"I'd love some apple juice if you have any."

"I don't, but I can make a run to the store. Tell you what." He got a pencil and pad of paper from his desk. "Make a list of anything you want, and I'll go pick it up. And no fair holding back on listing things because you think they might cost too much or anything like that. You write down anything you want."

"Are you sure?"

"This is your home now, Brenna. You should have what you want here."

She smiled. "All right."

Within a few minutes, she'd covered one side of the paper with items she wanted. "I don't expect you to get everything," she said. "It's more of a wish list. I put stars by the things I really need."

"Your wish is my command, and your wish list shall be fulfilled."

Brenna laughed, a sound that warmed Jerome's heart. After the fear the day before that she might have lost their baby, he needed to hear her laughter. Thank goodness the baby was all right, but the pregnancy, only several weeks along, was already developing complications. "All right, but don't spend all your money on me," Brenna said. "Remember, we need to save for the baby."

"That little one is going to be spoiled rotten," Jerome said. "I'm fifty years old. That's old enough to be a grandfather, but I'm thrilled to be a father again, and I'm going to give our son everything he could ever think of."

"Son or daughter," Brenna corrected. She reached out her hand, and Jerome took it. "I couldn't believe how beautiful the baby's heartbeat looked on the ultrasound yesterday," Brenna said. "It makes it seem real. There's a real, living little being inside me, and in a few more months, he or she will be with us."

"It's like a miracle," Jerome agreed. "Just like you."

"I'm not a miracle, Jerome."

"To me, you are. After Lena left me, I was the walking dead. You gave me my life back. You gave me someone to love."

"You did the same for me." Brenna squeezed his hand. "I don't know how I was so lucky to find you, Jerome, but I'm glad I did. And I still can't believe we're getting married."

"I would marry you even if you weren't having my baby. I love you."

"I love you too."

Jerome kissed her on the forehead and stood. "I'm going to the store now. I'll be back soon. Make yourself at home, but don't be on your feet too much."

"I'll be fine."

The store was crowded with end-of-the-workday shoppers, but Jerome had shopped there for over two decades and was able to navigate easily through the other shoppers. That was, until he heard a voice say, "Jerome?"

It was the last voice he'd expected to hear. As far as he'd known, Lena had moved to another town to be with her lover, the man she'd been seeing for six months before she finally told Jerome about it. So what was she doing at this neighborhood grocery store? Jerome took a deep breath and turned to face her. "Hello, Lena."

"I thought that was you." As though she wouldn't recognize the man she'd been with for thirty years. She scanned Jerome's cart. "Interesting assortment of things there."

"Some are for me, and some are for my fiancée." Jerome heard the pride in his voice on the last word.

"Ah, yes. Gillian called and told me about the young woman you're marrying. She's quite a bit younger than you, isn't she?"

"She's thirty-five." It didn't surprise Jerome much that his oldest child had gone running to her mother about his engagement. Gillian had ranted at him about Brenna, and when she'd invited Jerome and Brenna to dinner to supposedly mend fences, she'd insulted Brenna so badly that Brenna had refused to stay. "That's fifteen years younger, so I suppose you could say quite a bit. But we get along well, and that's all that matters."

"Gillian also tells me the woman's expecting."

"Yes. She's a couple months along."

"You certainly haven't wasted any time moving on, have you?"

Jerome couldn't hold back his anger. "That's quite a comment coming from the woman who shattered her marriage vows for six months by screwing around. You don't have any right to judge me or Brenna."

"I'm not judging you." 

"Well, it sounds it to me. I wish I could say it was nice seeing you, Lena, but it wasn't. Good luck with your life and your lover."

"I'm not with him anymore. It didn't last."

Jerome felt a savage rush of satisfaction at that news. It served Lena right; she never should have cheated on him in the first place, let alone left him for the other man. She'd gotten what she deserved. But he managed an almost-gracious, "Sorry to hear that. Good luck with whatever your plans are, then." He pushed his cart past her and didn't look back.

Despite that, Jerome was shaken by the encounter. He'd planned on never seeing Lena again, and even though he was angry, he felt some compassion for her. She'd been convinced when she left that she was going on to something better, and apparently that hadn't been the case. She might have done it to herself, but Jerome was sorry for her.

When he got home, his son Emery's car was parked outside. Jerome went in and found Emery in the kitchen, cooking eggs. "Thought I'd stop by and see how things were going," Emery said. "And Brenna said she was hungry."

"I went to the store to get her some things to eat." Jerome hefted the grocery bags onto the counter. "Thanks for taking over."

"No problem. I'm glad she's doing better and that the baby's all right."

"Not as glad as we are, I guarantee."

Jerome started putting away the groceries while Emery continued to cook. "The store must have been crowded," Emery said. 

"Yeah. There was at least one too many people."

"What do you mean?"

"I ran into your mother."

Emery turned to look at him. "That must have been awkward."

"To say the least, especially since your sister evidently got hold of her."

"Leave it to Gillian," Emery muttered. "I have no idea what her problem is. She's upset about you and Brenna, but she's going too far. It isn't any of Mom's business, that's for sure."

"I agree, but apparently Gillian had her own opinion on the subject."

"Mom didn't give you a hard time, did she?"

"Just asked some questions about Brenna and told me that she and her new man split up."

"Yeah, that happened a couple months ago, I think." Emery removed the pan from the stovetop and dumped the eggs onto a plate. "I didn't think it would last, after the way she left you, but it could have been possible, I guess."

"I guess." Jerome poured some apple juice into a glass. "I'll put the rest of that stuff away later. Brenna asked for this."

"You can take the eggs to her, too." Emery handed him the plate. "Now that you're back, I'll take care of the groceries and then head home."

"There's no need for you to leave."

"I have stuff to do at home. I just came by to check on things, like I said. I'll stop by over the weekend and spend more time."

"All right. Thank you."

"No problem."

Jerome went into the living room. Brenna was sitting up on the couch, an afghan covering her from the waist down. Jerome recognized it; Lena had made it a few years earlier. He set down the plate and handed the glass to Brenna. "Your apple juice, my lady."

Brenna smiled. "Thank you. Is Emery still here?"

"He's in the kitchen, but he said he's leaving in a minute. Do you want to see him before he goes?"

"I just wanted to thank him for the eggs."

"Dad already did," Emery called. "And I do have to go. See you both later." After a few seconds, Jerome heard the back door open and shut.

Jerome sat at the end of the couch by Brenna's feet. "How are you feeling?" he asked.

"I'm fine." Brenna sipped the apple juice. "This tastes wonderful. I didn't realize I was so thirsty."

"Well, I'm sorry I was gone so long. There were a lot of people in the store."

"I figured there would be." She stroked his hand with a finger. "What's wrong, Jerome?"

"What makes you think anything's wrong?"

"You just seem sad."

Jerome hesitated. He wanted to talk to Brenna; he knew he could talk to her about anything. But with the stress she was under, she didn't need to hear about Lena. "I just ran into someone at the store that I'd rather not have seen," he said.

"Your ex-wife?"

Jerome stared at her. "How'd you know?"

"Because I couldn't think of anyone else who would make you feel the way it looks like you feel. How is she?"

There was a faint trace of jealousy in Brenna's voice, along with something that, if he hadn't known better, Jerome would have said was fear. "She is how she is, I guess," he replied. "We didn't talk long. She'd heard about you from Gillian, and asked a few questions. Then I got tired of the conversation and walked away."

"Have you ever thought about what it would be like to have her back?"

"Not since I found out why she was leaving me. She cheated on me for six months. I wouldn't want her back after that, no matter how much she begged. And now that I have you, I wouldn't have her back even if she hadn't done that to me." He took her hand. "I want to be with you, Brenna. Not anyone else, ever."

Brenna leaned toward him, and he put his arms around her. Her lips when he kissed them tasted like apple juice. He brushed his tongue against her lips, and Brenna responded by opening her mouth slightly. Their tongues met, and Jerome covered one of her breasts with his hand. Brenna moaned into his mouth and put her hand on his thigh. Then she broke the kiss. "The doctor said no sex," she reminded him. "I can't even have an orgasm until I get the all-clear."

"Sorry." Jerome let go of her. "I did know that. I'm just so glad to have you here, I couldn't resist. I'll control myself."

"I wish you didn't have to." Brenna rubbed his cock through his pants. Already half-hard, it stiffened completely at her touch. "I want to make love to you, Jerome."

"Likewise," Jerome said. "But we want to take care of the little one. As much as I want to feel your body and be inside you, I think we can hold out for a couple weeks till the doctor sees you again."

"Not if you keep talking like that, we can't." She unbuttoned his pants. 

"What are you doing?" Jerome asked.

"We can't make love, and you can't touch me below the waist or make me come. But that doesn't mean I can't do anything for you." She touched his bare cock, and it jumped, making her giggle. "I want to make you feel good, Jerome."

"I'd feel guilty. You wouldn't get anything out of it."

"I'd get to make you feel good. I like doing that." She bent and licked the tip of his dick. "Tastes good."

"Glad you like it. Are you sure you want to do this?"

"God, yes."

Her mouth engulfed the head of his cock. She sucked lightly at first, just enough to make Jerome moan. "Brenna, that feels wonderful!"

She looked up at him and winked, and slid her mouth further down his shaft. As she sucked and licked, she reached into his boxers and gently handled his balls. Jerome moaned again, wordlessly, and let Brenna's touch bring him closer to orgasm. "Better watch out, or you're going to get a mouthful," he told her.

She let go of him long enough to say, "I want one," then returned her mouth to its work. 

After a few more minutes, Jerome felt his balls tighten, felt the tide pushing him over the edge. "Brenna, I'm coming!"

"Mmm hmm," she murmured around his cock.

With that, Jerome erupted into her mouth. She kept sucking, swallowing his cum, until his cock stopped spurting. Then she released him and smiled. "That was good."

"That was excellent." Jerome pulled her against his chest and leaned back. "Now take it easy. You're supposed to be resting."

"I am resting."

"Honey, that wasn't resting!"

"Well, maybe not, but I feel pretty darn rested. And full."

Jerome had to laugh. "All right. And thank you."

"You're welcome. Just realize, I'm going to keep track of every time I make you cum until the doctor's appointment, and when I get the okay, you're going to make me cum once for each time I did it to you."

"Sounds fair to me."

* * *

The next morning, Jerome didn't want to leave for work. What would Brenna do alone all day? She couldn't go out, and unpacking her things was out of the question; that would put too much strain on her, as far as Jerome was concerned. She was supposed to be resting, not unpacking.

"I'll be fine," she assured him when he went into the guest room to say goodbye to her. They'd decided that until she got the all-clear for sex, it would be better for her to have her own room. "I'll watch TV and maybe do some cooking. I like cooking, and I can sit down except when I'm at the stove."

"Just take it easy," Jerome said. "Follow the doctor's instructions."

"I'll be fine," Brenna repeated. She kissed him. "Thank you for being so concerned about me. I'll see you when you get home."

"Call if you need anything," Jerome told her.

"I will."

When he got to work, he was surrounded by friends of his and Brenna's. "Is she all right?" Brenna's friend Nora asked. Nora was the one who had found Brenna bleeding in the bathroom the day they thought she'd lost the baby. 

"She's fine, and the baby's fine," Jerome said. "It's a problem with the placenta, but they think it's going to be all right. Meanwhile, she just has to take it easy."

"Where is she?" Mike, another coworker, asked.

"My place. My son and I moved her in while she was in the hospital, and she's living with me permanently now. As soon as we can, we're going to have the wedding."

"Are we invited?" Nora asked.

"Depends on how we arrange it." Jerome hadn't really thought about how the wedding would go or where it would take place. All he knew was that he wanted to marry Brenna. He'd figured she would take charge of making arrangements, but they hadn't talked about it yet. "We might just go to a justice of the peace, or we might have a small ceremony. Once we get through this scare with the baby, we'll discuss it."

"Let me know if you need any help planning anything," Nora said. "I do wedding planning on the side."

"And my brother manages a rental hall in town," Mike added. "If you wanted a ceremony, I could arrange for it to happen there."

"Thank you." Jerome was touched by his coworkers' support. At least not everyone thought he and Brenna wouldn't work out. 

Once he got settled into his daily routine, Jerome went to see his supervisor. "Brenna won't be in," he said.

The supervisor nodded. "I figured after what happened here the other day. How is she?"

"Much better, thanks. They sent her home from the hospital yesterday. She's supposed to be taking it easy, though. But since you'd already told us one of us could no longer work here..."

"In other words, she's resigning?"

"She hasn't officially done anything yet, but she won't be able to work for a couple weeks, and we'd pretty much decided that she would be the one to leave. Do you need a letter or phone call from her?"

"That would be helpful. I know you and she are together, but I can't really take a resignation through a third party. Just have her give me a call when she can."

"You could talk to her right now. She's home; I can call her."

"It's best if she calls me."

Jerome didn't see the difference, but one thing he'd learned in his life was that bureaucracy didn't always make sense. "All right. I'll have her call you, then. Thanks for your time."

"Thank you. And I'm glad you're staying on, Jerome. We can use good workers like you."

"Thanks."

During that day, Jerome called Brenna twice to make sure she was following doctor's orders. She was amused the first time, but sounded irritated the second. "Honey, I know you're worried about me, and I appreciate it, but you don't have to check up on me," she said. "I'm doing just fine. I'm watching cooking shows on TV and taking note of recipes I want to make for you when I'm able to be on my feet a little more. Don't worry so much, honey, okay?"

"I'll try. By the way, our wonderful boss wants to hear from you if you've decided to resign."

"I don't have much choice on that one. I can't keep working if I can't even leave the couch for more than a few minutes. I'll call him this afternoon or in the morning."

"Okay. Back to your recipes, then. See you when I get home."

"See you then."

"I love you, Brenna."

"I love you too."

Jerome was tempted later that afternoon to call Brenna again, but he managed to restrain himself. At five o'clock exactly, he was out the door of the office building to head home to her. 

He arrived home to find her in tears. "Honey, what's wrong?" he asked, putting his arms around her.

"Your daughter called."

"What?" Damn Gillian! "What did she say to you?"

"Nothing important."

"If it made you cry, I want to know what it was. What did she say, Brenna?"

"That she hopes I'm happy now that I've trapped you, and that no matter what I do, this house won't ever be mine. She also said that you're only marrying me because I was stupid enough to get knocked up."

Jerome was ready to kill his older daughter. "You know none of that's true," he said, keeping his voice calm so that he wouldn't upset Brenna any more. "I'm marrying you because I love you. We had this conversation already. The baby's a bonus, but not my reason. And this house became yours from the moment you set foot in it. Gillian's a spiteful little brat, and I'll be more than happy to tell her so."

"Jerome, don't," Brenna said. "I don't want to cause any problems between you and her. She's your daughter."

"She's a troublemaker, and she has no right to speak to you that way. Whether or not she ever accepts you as her stepmother, that's what you're going to be, and she will treat you with the appropriate respect or she'll no longer be welcome in my home."

"You can't turn your back on you own child."

"I can if she's going to act this way." Jerome brushed Brenna's hair back from her face. "Honey, Gillian's as stubborn as her old man. It'll take her some time, but she won't be like this forever. I won't cut her out completely, of course, but telling her so might give her a bit of a wake up call. I'm going to phone her now, so if you'd rather not hear it, I'll go into the bedroom."

"I don't like having people fight on my account."

"It isn't on your account. It's on account of her acting like a spoiled child."

Jerome took his cordless phone into his bedroom and shut the door. If Brenna was that upset about the idea, he didn't want her overhearing the earful he was about to give his oldest daughter. Gillian answered the phone on the first ring. "Who the hell do you think you are?" Jerome demanded.

"Hello, Dad, good to hear from you," Gillian responded.




Young Again Ch. 04



"Don't give me that. You have Brenna in tears. What gives you the right to treat her that way?"

"She's a manipulator. She got pregnant to trap you, and you're letting her do it."

"She got pregnant because I wasn't smart enough to use protection, and I'm thrilled that she is. She hasn't trapped me into anything, and you have no right to say she has. I chose to marry her, and it's a choice I would have made whether there was a baby or not. And for your information, there nearly wasn't. She doesn't need anymore stress, especially from you, and if you ever make another call like that to her, you'll no longer be welcome in my home."

"You can't be serious!"

"I'm very serious, Gillian Lynn. I don't know what this vendetta of yours is all about, but it's far less than I'd expect from you. Don't do it again."

"Mom's been talking about you, you know."

"I saw her in the store the other night." Jerome took a deep breath. Now that he'd yelled, he felt calmer. "She said she isn't with her man anymore."

"She could come back to you. You and she could get married again."

"Is that what this is about? You're like a little girl who can't deal with her parents' divorce. Your mother screwed around on me for six months before she finally told me the other man was better than me. Even if I didn't have Brenna, I wouldn't take your mother back on a bet. I don't forgive something like that."

"She'd forgive you."

"Maybe, maybe not. I never cheated on her. Gillian, here's the deal. Obviously Brenna and I are never going to have your blessing. That's fine; we're both adults and we don't need it. You're making things harder for her and me, but you're making them worse for yourself. She and I are getting married, we are having a baby, and your mother and I are not ever reconciling. Until you come to terms with that, don't call."

"You're cutting me out because of her?"

"No. I'm cutting you out temporarily because of your behavior. I love you Gillian."

"Can't prove it by me." She slammed down the phone.

Jerome went back to the living room. Brenna was sitting on the couch, staring toward, but not quite at, the TV. "How did it go?" she asked.

"Gillian won't harass you again."

"What did you say to her?"

Jerome sat beside her and cuddled her in his arms. "I said what needed to be said. Don't worry about it. Let's talk about something happier."

"Like what?"

"Like our wedding."



Young Again Ch. 05



Jerome came home from work to find Brenna cleaning the stove. "Aren't you supposed to be resting?" he asked.

"It's been two weeks since I was in the hospital," Brenna said. "I'm going stir crazy here. My doctor's appointment is tomorrow; I know they'll tell me I don't have to rest as much. I'm feeling fine."

"I'm glad to hear that, but are you sure you should be doing so much?"

"I'm not doing much, Jerome. I'm standing here trying to get this gunk off your burner. It isn't very strenuous." She sounded annoyed. "What am I supposed to do, sit on the couch all day and watch TV and get fat?"

"I didn't mean to tick you off, honey. I'm just concerned about you and the baby."

"I know you are." Brenna sighed. "I'm sorry, honey. I don't mean to snap. I'm just feeling crabby and tired."

"That's understandable. I know you haven't been sleeping well."

"I guess women don't when they're pregnant. But I'm almost four months along now; I hoped I'd be sleeping better by now. I nap all day long, though, and I still feel exhausted."

"Well, ask your doctor about it tomorrow if it worries you, but I'd say that's normal. And you can nap all day if you want to. I don't expect you to do the housework."

"I know. But I feel like I should do something. After all, this is my house now too, right?" She looked around. "Still feels strange to say that. I haven't gotten used to living here yet. The move was too sudden."

"I know. When you're feeling up to it, we can go back to your old apartment and you can make sure Emery and I didn't leave anything behind. The landlord said you were set through the end of the month, so we still have a week or so."

"Good." Brenna set down the piece of steel wool she'd been using and leaned against the stove. "Okay, I'm done. How did this stuff get on your burner anyway?"

"I got into an argument with a pot of spaghetti sauce, and the spaghetti sauce won. Don't worry about it, honey." Jerome put his arms around her waist and kissed her cheek. "Thank you for trying."

"I just wish I could have gotten it done, but I guess I'll just have to deal." She leaned against him. "I'm so tired, Jerome. I think I'm going to go lie down for a while, unless you want me to cook supper."

"No, I don't want you to cook supper. I want you to go rest, and I'll let you know when supper's ready. As long as I manage not to lose a fight with any food, I'll be fine."

Brenna laughed. Jerome was glad to hear the sound; between her tiredness and the concerns about her pregnancy, Brenna hadn't laughed often in the past couple of weeks. "I just wish you could come lie down with me," she said. "I hope the doctor tells me tomorrow that it's safe for us to make love again. I've missed feeling you inside me."

"I've missed it to, but it's worth missing to make sure you and our son are safe."

"Or daughter." Brenna yawned. "Okay, going to the bedroom." Her lips brushed against Jerome's. "I love you."

"I love you too."

Brenna went to the bedroom. Jerome started searching through the fridge for something healthy to make for supper. After months of living alone after his wife had left him for someone else, he was still getting the hang of cooking for two. He'd never had to do it before; except for a few times when Lena had been sick over the three decades of their marriage, she'd done all the cooking. She'd been the typical housewife, though she'd worked outside the home as well. There had been times since she'd left that Jerome had wondered how she'd juggled a job, a house, and their three now-grown children; when he'd first been alone, Jerome had had trouble just remembering to eat after a day at work.

He finally found some chicken breasts at the back of the fridge, and set them in the oven to bake. Just as he closed the oven door, the phone rang. He hurried into the living room to answer it. "Hello?"

"Dad, when's the wedding going to be?"

Jerome smiled at the sound of his younger daughter's voice. "Hello, Quinn. How are you?"

"I'm good. How are you? How are Brenna and the baby?"

"We're all fine, thanks. Brenna's taking a nap." Jerome sat down. "Did you have a reason to call?" Generally his twenty-year-old daughter only called when she needed money.

"To ask when you and Brenna are getting married. I want to help plan the wedding, if you'll let me. Gillian doesn't think you guys should be getting married, but she's just an idiot."

"Don't call your sister an idiot, please," Jerome said automatically.

"Sorry. But she's twenty-eight and she's acting like a little kid. I hung up on her last night because she kept putting Brenna down. I like Brenna; she's nice. And I think you deserve to be happy. I know you were happy with Mom, but then she left, and I think she was wrong to do that. Gillian still thinks you and Mom should get back together."

"I know she does. Gillian's made her opinion abundantly clear. She has to understand that it isn't going to happen." Lena had hurt Jerome far too badly for him to ever take her back, but he stopped himself from saying so to Quinn. His children might be adults now, but he still didn't think it was right to give them too many details about his marriage and divorce. 

"Well, Emery and I understand that, and we agree with you," Quinn said. "Mom shouldn't have done what she did. But I'm sure you don't want to talk about that."

"Not really," Jerome agreed.

"Okay, so back to my question. When's the wedding, and can I help plan it?"

"We haven't decided yet when it will be, and I don't think there will be anything to plan. We'll probably just go to a justice of the peace and have a short ceremony. You and your brother can be there, of course, and your sister if she wants, but I don't think we need anything more than that. After all, it's a second marriage, and I hear weddings are expensive."

"You don't know when you're getting married? I hope you're planning to do it before Brenna has the baby!"

"Yes, child, we'll be married before the baby arrives."

"You know, Dad, after all the conversations you and Mom had with us about safe sex and abstinence and all that, it's rather amusing that you accidentally got Brenna pregnant."

"I'm glad you're entertained by it. Just count on being asked to babysit your new little brother or sister on occasion."

"I'd love to. Babies are so cute!"

"Don't get any ideas."

"Don't worry, Dad. I'm not thinking about having kids till I'm at least thirty. I want a life first. No offense to you and Mom, but you started having kids pretty much as soon as you were married. I don't want to do that."

"No offense taken. I think that's a wise choice for you."

"So are you going to let me help you plan a wedding?"

"Quinn, did I not just answer that?"

"You did, but I didn't like the answer. You and Brenna should have more than just standing up in front of a justice of the peace. You deserve something special."

"Well, thank you. I agree, but I just don't see the point in spending a lot of money on a wedding. The idea is for us to be married, not for us to spend every cent we have. And there aren't many people to invite. You, your brother, your sister, and maybe a few people from work. Brenna doesn't have a family."

"That's too bad. No parents or brothers or sisters?"

"That's generally what no family means. I haven't gotten the whole story about it yet, and she doesn't seem to like to talk about it. But because of it, there wouldn't be anyone for her to invite except some friends from work. I'll talk to Brenna about it, though. If she wants a small ceremony, I'm not against it."

"And will you let me help plan it?" 

Jerome laughed. "Yes, daughter, I'll let you help plan it. I have to let you go; I'm getting supper ready. Talk to you soon."

"Okay. Love you, Dad."

"Love you."

Jerome hung up and went back to the kitchen to prepare potatoes and corn to go with the chicken. When everything was ready, he went to the bedroom. Brenna was sound asleep; he didn't want to wake her, but she needed to eat. He sat on the edge of the bed and softly said, "Brenna?"

Her eyes fluttered open. "Is supper done already?"

"It is, but if you'd rather get more sleep, I can warm yours up for you later."

"No, I'll eat now." Brenna sat up. "If I don't eat now, I might sleep through the night and forget to eat. The sleep would be nice, but not eating wouldn't be good for the baby."

"No, it wouldn't, nor for you."

He stood and helped Brenna up. She wasn't quite halfway through her pregnancy, but she was showing and was already having to get used to moving differently. They went to the dining room, where Jerome had set their plates. "That looks delicious, Jerome," Brenna said. "You're so good to me."

"It's just supper, honey." Jerome pulled out her chair. "Now I'm being good to you."

Brenna sat down. "Yes, you are. You've been wonderful about all of this. Some men, if they found out they knocked up a woman they'd only dated a few times, would have just left her to have the baby alone."

"Those aren't men, they're idiots." Jerome sat in his chair. "And I'm not only marrying you because of the baby. Sooner or later, the way I felt about you, I would have proposed anyway. The baby just made it happen a bit sooner, is all."

"You might not have married me. You might have changed your mind."

"Never."

Brenna smiled. "All right. You wouldn't have. And neither would I." She ate some of her chicken. "This is delicious. Thank you for cooking."

"You don't have to thank me. It's just part of taking care of you, and that's what I want to do."

"Who was on the phone earlier?"

"Did it wake you?" 

"Yes, but I went right back to sleep. Who was it?"

"Quinn. She wanted to talk about the wedding. She seems to think we're having something big and elaborate."

"We aren't, are we? That would cost too much."

"Cost isn't an issue, Brenna. We'll have whatever kind of ceremony you want. If you want big and elaborate, we'll make it happen."

"I had big and elaborate with my ex-husband, and look how that turned out. I don't need that again. And we need money for the baby. Now that I'm not working..."

"Now that you're not working, we'll still be perfectly fine," Jerome assured her. "Speaking of the baby, when the doctor clears you to walk around, we should do some shopping for him."

"Or her," Brenna said. "I'd like to wait on the shopping until we find out whether it's a boy or girl, actually. That will make it easier to pick things out. We should be able to find out in a few more weeks."

"All right. Baby stuff shopping can wait. We still haven't chosen our rings either, though. I'd like to do that soon."

"Maybe tomorrow after my appointment, if the doctor says it's okay."

"It's a date."

* * *

The next day, Jerome left work at lunchtime to take Brenna to her doctor's appointment. When he pulled up in front of the house, she was waiting on the porch. "It's a bit cold out," Jerome said when Brenna got into the car.

"It was too hot inside, and I was too nervous to sit still," Brenna replied. "I wanted to wait out here. I'm a big girl, Jerome. I can take care of myself."

"Of course you can. But I like to take care of you too."

"There's a difference between taking care of me and telling me what to do."

"You're right." Though Jerome didn't think he'd been telling her what to do. Commenting on the weather was just his way of expressing concern; he hadn't said she should or shouldn't do anything. But he'd learned when his ex-wife had their kids that arguing with a pregnant woman never ended well, and he didn't want to cause Brenna any stress by disagreeing with her.

Brenna was silent until they reached the doctor's office. When Jerome parked the car, she said, "I'm sorry."

"No need to be," Jerome said. "I understand. I didn't mean to seem pushy."

"You didn't. I'm just oversensitive."

Jerome kissed her cheek. "It's all right."

"Thank you."

Inside, Jerome stayed in the waiting room while the obstetrician examined Brenna. After a while, a nurse came out and told him, "Mr. McClennon, if you'd like to come with me, you can see your baby. Miss Malone's having an ultrasound."

Jerome followed her back to a dimly lit room where Brenna lay on a table, her belly exposed. The technician ran the wand over Brenna's belly and an image appeared on the screen beside her. "Look, Jerome," Brenna said. "It's our baby!"

Jerome studied the image, but could make no sense out of it. "Yes, it is," he said to Brenna.

The technician used a computer cursor to indicate things on the screen. "This is the head. Here's the heart; looks like it's beating nice and strong. Everything else seems to be developing well, and I'd say you're about fourteen weeks along."

"How long until you can tell whether it's a boy or a girl?" 

"Probably another five or six weeks." The technician moved the wand. "Here's the placenta. It looks like it's in better shape than last time you had it checked. The amniotic fluid looks good too."

"Does that mean I can be off all those restrictions?" Brenna asked.

"That's up to your doctor to decide."

"Brenna, I think the baby has your eyes," Jerome joked. 

Brenna laughed. "Yes, and your nose."

The technician printed a couple still shots of the fetus for them, then took Brenna and Jerome back to the examining room, where they waited a few minutes for the doctor to come in. Finally, she entered and told them, "Everything looks good. There's still a potential for some problems, so you'll need to be easy on yourself, but you can resume most normal activity. Just rest often and don't overdo."

"What about sex?" Brenna asked.

"Everything's okay, including penetration, as long as it's gentle. Avoid any positions that put pressure on your abdomen, and again, nothing strenuous." She typed something on the computer. "I'm going to describe a prenatal vitamin and some iron pills for you; the prescriptions and a few instructions will be waiting for you at the checkout desk. Have them schedule another appointment for you in two weeks; I'll want to see you every other week."

Jerome and Brenna left the examining room hand in hand and went to the checkout window. When the receptionist asked whether Brenna had insurance, Brenna looked like she was going to cry. "I don't think so," she said. "I lost my job."

"How long ago?" the receptionist asked.

"Almost two weeks."

"You might still be covered. If you want to give me your information, I can put it through and see."

"Never mind," Jerome said. "Brenna, as soon as we're married, I can put you on my insurance. Meanwhile, we'll just pay for today's visit."

"All right." The receptionist quoted a price which made Brenna gasp. Jerome cringed, but took out his credit card and handed it over. 

Once they had the receipt and Brenna's prescriptions, and had scheduled Brenna's next appointment, they left. As soon as they were in the car, Brenna burst into tears. "I never even thought about insurance. This is going to be so expensive, Jerome! Even once I'm on your insurance, there'll be deductibles and everything. How are we going to manage this?"

"We'll be fine," Jerome said. "I make enough to cover all of that. Please don't stress about it, honey."

"Maybe it would have been better if I hadn't told you about the baby. Then I could have just gotten rid of it or something." 

"Don't ever say that!" Jerome was furious. "How could you even think such a thing? One of the first things you told me about yourself was how much you've always wanted a baby. Now you're having one with a man who's thrilled to death about becoming a father again, and you're talking about abortion?"

"Don't yell at me!" Brenna sobbed. "Can you blame me for thinking that way? Everything's all screwed up because of this baby! I don't have my apartment anymore, I don't have a job, and you're spending all your money on me. You're marrying me because you think you have to. How is this baby a good thing?"

"I'm marrying you because I love you. I've told you that over and over." Jerome took a deep breath to calm himself. "Brenna, honey, I'm sorry I yelled. And I'm sorry you're so worried about this. I wish you weren't. There's no reason to even think about money. I have plenty. Just let me take care of it, please." He wished he knew something more comforting to say, but nothing came to him.

He pulled into the driveway at home, but neither of them made any move to get out of the car. Jerome took Brenna's hand. "I love you," he said again. "I was brought up to take care of the woman I love. That's why I moved you in here while you were in the hospital. I'm sorry I did that without telling you, though, and I'm sorry about the apartment. Would you like to go over there now and see what else you want to bring here?"

"I want things to stop changing so fast," Brenna replied. "I love you, Jerome. I love that we found each other. But I didn't think so much would happen so soon."

"I know. Everything has been pretty sudden. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Just takes some getting used to is all." He leaned over and kissed her. "Come inside, honey, and let's talk about this."

They went into the house and sat on the couch. Jerome pulled Brenna's feet onto his lap and started massaging them. "That feels nice," she said.

"Good. You need to relax. Honey, I wish you'd told me sooner how much everything was bothering you."

"I've tried. But you're always so calm about it all. It's like nothing ever gets to you. You act like it's no problem."

"Things get to me, but I try not to let them get to me for long. And I try not to let it show when they do, because I want to help you stop worrying. So tell me everything that's bothering you, and I promise I won't act like it's no big deal."

"I've already told you. Everything's happening too fast. I knew you before we started seeing each other, but only from work. I didn't know you well. I had a great time the first time we went out, which is why I went home with you, but maybe I shouldn't have. Maybe we should have taken things slower. Maybe I should have made sure one of us was protected so I didn't get pregnant. I don't know. Four months ago, I was working at the office, living alone, and pretty much not dating at all; now I'm out of work, living with you, and having a baby. It's a lot to get used to, and sometimes I feel overwhelmed."

"I know what you mean," Jerome said. "You aren't the only one who feels like they're going ninety miles a second sometimes."

"But you never act like it."

"What would be the point? I'm overwhelmed sometimes, but I'm not afraid. I know things will work out for us. The way we found each other shows me that we're meant to be together."

"Well, I am afraid." She started crying again. "You've been a father before. I've never been a mother. What if I can't do it? What if I don't know how to take care of this baby? What if..."

"No more what ifs." Jerome caressed her shoulder. "Honey, every parent feels that way, I think. Every time one of my other children was born, my ex-wife and I felt that way. What if this is the one we can't handle? What if there's something wrong with this one? It's normal to be scared. But you told me you've wanted a baby for so long, I don't think there's any way you wouldn't be able to take care of him."

"Or her." Brenna managed a small smile. "I've wanted a baby for so long, but I said what I said in the car. You must hate me for that."

"I could never hate you, Brenna, no matter what you say. I understand you just said it because you're scared. I wish I hadn't yelled like I did."

"It's okay," Brenna said. She sat up, swinging her feet onto the floor, and leaned against Jerome. "I'm sorry I said that. I don't want to get rid of the baby. I'm just so scared." She started to cry again.




Young Again Ch. 05



"It's all right to be scared." 

Jerome held her until she stopped crying. He handed her some tissues from the box on the coffee table. "I must look horrible," she said, wiping her face.

"You look beautiful, just like you always do," Jerome replied.

Brenna smiled and leaned toward him. Their lips met, and the kiss quickly intensified, their tongues exploring each other's mouths. Jerome moved his hand up to cover Brenna's breast; he immediately yanked it away, but Brenna pushed it back. "I want you to touch me," she whispered. "You haven't been able to touch me in two weeks, and the doctor says it's okay now. Make love to me, Jerome. I want you."

"Are you sure?" Jerome asked.

"Very sure. Please."

He couldn't turn down an invitation like that. He stood and pulled Brenna up off the couch. "We'll be more comfortable in bed."

In the bedroom, Brenna slowly removed her T-shirt. She pulled it up to reveal just the bottom of her bra-encased breasts, then pulled it down again. Jerome groaned; the sight made his cock hard as a rock. "I'm an old man," he said. "Don't tease me like that."

"Oh, am I teasing?" Brenna said innocently. She took off the shirt and pulled down the top of her bra cups, flashing him. "Is this still teasing?"

"You know it is." Jerome reached for her, but she stepped away. "Brenna, god, please let me see you."

"Well, since you asked nicely."

She took off her bra, revealing her beautiful, round breasts, nipples hard. This time when Jerome reached for her, Brenna let him pull her to him. He fastened his mouth around one nipple, and she moaned. "Mmm, Jerome, that feels so nice!"

Jerome lightly sucked her nipple. One hand slid down to cup her ass. Brenna made little mewing sounds of pleasure. When Jerome pushed down her pants, Brenna made no move to stop him. "Is this all right?" Jerome asked.

"It's more than all right." Brenna twined her fingers in his hair. "If you stop now, I think I'll scream."

"Well, we wouldn't want that. I'd rather have you scream when you come." 

"Then you'll have to make me come. Let me lie down; you've got me so horny my legs are shaking."

Jerome waited for Brenna to lie down on the bed, then pulled her pants off and dropped them on the floor. "Hey, be careful with those," she said. "I don't have much in the way of maternity clothes, you know."

"We'll get you some later, when we go out to buy you a ring. Are you comfortable?" 

"I don't want to lie on my back for too long, but I'm okay right now. Unless you want me in another position."

"I think this one is perfect." Jerome bent to lap at her pussy. "It's been far too long since I tasted this."

"Mmm, it's been too long since I've felt it! Jerome, that's so good!"

Jerome nibbled her clit, and Brenna moaned. During the two weeks since Brenna had been hospitalized, she'd pleasured Jerome a few times, with either her hand or her mouth, but he'd been unable to return the favor. Now, he was determined to make up for it. For several minutes he licked and sucked her clit and pussy, enjoying Brenna's sounds of pleasure, until she finally cried out, "Jerome! I'm coming!"

He continued for a few seconds, then stopped to allow her to recover. "Are you all right?" he asked.

"God, I'm fantastic!" she said. 

Jerome laughed. "Glad to hear it. Apparently that was gentle, then."

"Yes, it was. Take off your clothes."

Jerome undressed more quickly than Brenna had, and lay down beside her. She stroked his cock. "Is there something you'd like to do with that?" he asked.

"There are several things I'd like to do with it, but mostly, I'd like to fuck it."

"And how would you like to do that?"

Brenna got onto her hands and knees. "Like this. I like being able to see you when we make love, but today, I'm in the mood for doggy."

"Your wish is my command." 

Jerome knelt behind her and slowly pushed his cock inside her. Brenna whimpered and pushed back against him. "You don't have to take it that easy," she said.

"Slow and easy, just like the doctor ordered." 

"Fine, but I won't like it."

"Oh, yes, you will."

Jerome fucked her carefully, concerned about the baby but too excited about being inside her again to hold back without forcing himself to. "Brenna, I'm not going to last long," he said after a few moments.

"It's okay," Brenna said. "Oh, god, Jerome, I don't care. It feels so good. Just fuck me till you come."

"And if you don't come again?"

"Then I will next time." Brenna fingered her clit. "Just don't stop."

Only a few more strokes brought Jerome to the brink. He held still for a second to keep himself from coming, but Brenna said, "I told you, don't stop. Please!"

"You asked for it."

Another few thrusts, and Jerome felt his cum spurt out into Brenna's pussy. "Oh, god, Brenna!"

Brenna looked at him over her shoulder and smiled. "I hope that was worth waiting two weeks."

Jerome pulled out of her and lay beside her. "Very much so. Come here."

Brenna lay with her head on his chest, and he put his arms around her. "I love you, Jerome," she said. 

"I love you too. How do you feel?"

"Fine. I'm fine."

But she said it quickly, and Jerome had a feeling she was still concerned about the baby. "Less stressed?" he asked.

"I guess. I'm more tired, though."

"Get some sleep, then, honey. I'll make supper after you wake up."

"I want to make supper tonight."

"All right. Then get some sleep."

He held Brenna, hoping she could get some rest. And wishing he could do something to take away her fears. 



Young Again Ch. 06



Brenna's belly swelled against her T-shirt, reminding Jerome that he needed to persuade her to let him buy her some new clothes. So far, even though at five months pregnant she had little that fit her anymore, she'd started worrying about money every time he'd mentioned shopping.

"Are you sure you don't want anything else for supper?" Brenna asked, turning from the stove. "Burgers and corn doesn't seem like much."

"It's plenty for me," Jerome replied. "You can make something else of you want, but you really should get off your feet for a while."

"I'm feeling okay." But Brenna moved the food off the burners and sat down. "I'm past the halfway point. The doctor said I should be okay from here on out, as long as I don't overdo. And I haven't overdone. I've barely done anything."

Jerome went to the stove and dished up supper for both of them. "You're doing plenty. You keep the house clean, you cook, and you're having our baby. That's a lot." He put a plate in front of Brenna. "There you go."

"Thanks." Brenna took a bite of her hamburger. "You're trying to make me feel better, and it isn't working. But I appreciate it."

The doorbell rang, and Jerome went to answer it. Why did people always show up during supper? He scowled until he opened the door to his younger daughter, Quinn, who carried an armful of magazines. "Hi, Dad," she said. She pushed past him into the house. "Is Brenna here? I want her to look at some wedding ideas."

"Quinn, I've told you we probably aren't going to have a big wedding." Jerome shut the door. "She's in the kitchen, but we're in the middle of supper."

"That's okay. She can look at pictures while she eats." She went into the kitchen, followed by Jerome. "Hi, Brenna," Quinn said cheerfully. "Want to talk wedding?"

"Not right now, Quinn." Brenna put her burger down. "I'm not really in the mood to look at pictures of skinny women in thousand-dollar wedding gowns."

"You look more beautiful than any of the women in those magazines," Jerome said.

Brenna glared at him. "Thanks for being patronizing."

"I meant it as a compliment."

"There's nothing to compliment. I sit around getting fatter and fatter and taking all your money, and I don't even look decent enough to go out anywhere because nothing fits me!" She burst into tears. "I hate this! I almost wish I'd lost the baby!" She got up and hurried from the room.

"Pregnant woman hormones," Quinn commented.

"It's more than that," Jerome said. "She's been like this for weeks. I'll be right back."

He went to the bedroom, where he found Brenna curled on her side on the bed. "Honey, are you all right?" Jerome asked.

"Leave me alone. How can you even look at me when I look like this?"

"To me, you really are beautiful." Jerome sat on the edge of the bed. "I love you. I'm sorry that this has been so hard for you, but you only have a few more months."

"A few months?" Brenna exploded. "Do you have any idea what this is like? A few months will feel like an eternity!"

Jerome rubbed her back. "I'm sorry. I wish I could make it easier for you somehow."

"So do I. But we decided to have the baby, so I'm the one stuck getting fat and sick."

"I'm sorry," Jerome repeated.

"All the models in those magazines Quinn brought are skinny and gorgeous. Nothing like me. If we get married while I'm still pregnant, I'll have to wear sweat pants and one of your T-shirts. Even if I could afford a dress, who ever heard of a maternity wedding dress?"

"I'm sure they make them. You can't be the first pregnant woman to get married. I'm sure we can at least find a nice dress of some kind, and some other clothes. Brenna, I know you're worried about having enough money for the baby, but we have to take care of you, too. I have plenty of money put away. Let me or Quinn take you out to get some things."

"Do you know how horrible it's going to be to try on clothes when I look like this?" Brenna started to cry again. "I'm a mess, Jerome. I'm just a mess. I cry all the time, I'm pissed off all the time, and I look horrible."

"You look beautiful," Jerome corrected. "And the other stuff is stress and hormones. Honey, it's okay, really."

"It's never going to be okay. I'll have the baby and still be fat, and I won't know what I'm doing. I don't even feel like a mother."

"Well, you aren't one yet. And when you are, trust me, it'll get easier."

Brenna sat up, and Jerome pulled her against him. He stroked her hair, knowing there was nothing he could say that would make her feel better but wishing all the same that he could do something to help.

After a couple minutes, Brenna pulled away and stood. "I'm going to get a tissue. Did Quinn leave?"

"No, not yet, I don't think."

"I'll come talk to her in a minute." Brenna left the room, and after a moment, Jerome heard the bathroom door close.

He went back to Quinn, who was watching TV in the living room. "Is Brenna all right?" she asked.

"She's still a little upset, but she's calming down," Jerome said. "She said she'd be out in a minute."

"That's good. She knows I didn't mean to upset her, right?"

"I'm sure she does, yes."

"Okay. I feel bad."

"Don't. Like you said, it's a pregnancy thing. Your mother was the same when she was pregnant." Though Lena had never been quite so angry and frustrated.

"If you say so."

When Brenna came back to the living room, her hair was pulled back and she wore a loose-fitting dress that Jerome had seen in the back of the closet. "You look nice, honey," he said.

"That's a pretty dress," Quinn added. "The color looks great on you."

"I never liked this dress," Brenna said. "I always thought it made me look pregnant. Kind of ironic, huh?"

Quinn laughed. "Well, at least it doesn't make you look any more pregnant than you are. You should find some other dresses like that to wear. If you feel up to it, let's con Dad out of one of his credit cards and go do some shopping."

Before either woman could ask, Jerome took out his wallet and found one of his debit cards. "Use this," he said. He recited the PIN. "There's enough in the account as long as you don't go overboard."

"We're going to buy out the whole store, Dad," Quinn said.

"That's fine, as long as you chip in for it."

Quinn laughed. "Yeah, right. Come on, Brenna."

While the women were gone, Jerome relaxed in front of the TV. Three hours later, Brenna and Quinn returned laden with bags. "I guess you really did buy out the store," Jerome said.

Brenna's face fell. "I knew we spent too much."

"I was joking, honey," Jerome said. "Whatever you spent is fine with me. I'm glad you got some new things."

"It was fun, Dad," Quinn said. "We even picked out some stuff for the baby. I have to get going; I have an early class tomorrow. Brenna, thanks for going shopping with me."

"Thanks for taking me," Brenna replied.

Quinn left, and Brenna sat on the couch beside Jerome. "Did you have fun?" Jerome asked her.

"Yeah, it was nice. I haven't gone shopping like that in a while. Nora and I went shopping a few times, but the last time was about a month before the time you went out for drinks with us."

"I'm glad you went, then. And you'd better not worry about how much you and Quinn spent. Are you happy with what you bought?"

"Yeah. I didn't realize there were such cute maternity clothes."

"Good. That's all that matters."

Brenna snuggled close to Jerome and kissed his neck. "You're such a wonderful man," she said. "How did I find you?"

"You ignored me at work for years until you decided you wanted to get me drunk," Jerome teased. "And if you kiss me there again, you'd better watch out."

Brenna kissed him again. "Watch out for what?"

"This." 

Jerome put his arms around her and pressed his lips against hers. He probed her lips with his tongue until she opened them and her own tongue met his. Jerome covered one breast with his hand, noticing that her breasts had gotten slightly more full as the pregnancy had progressed. "Mmm, that feels good, Jerome," Brenna said softly. "It's been too long since you touched me like that."

"You seemed not to want to, and I didn't want to push you," Jerome replied.

"You could have. I wouldn't have minded." Brenna rubbed Jerome's cock through his pants. "This feels like it could definitely use some attention."

"Yes. Yes it could." He slid his hand under her dress and touched her wet pussy. "And so does this. No panties?"

She blushed. "I didn't have any panties that fit me anymore," she explained. "That was one of the things Quinn and I bought."

"Well, I'm not complaining," Jerome said.

"Then let's give them the attention they need." 

Brenna stood and pulled off her dress, then unfastened her bra and let it fall to the floor. The rounding of her belly was more pronounced with nothing covering it; Jerome thought it was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen. "Don't ever let me hear you say you're fat," he said. "You're gorgeous." He put his hand on her belly and felt the baby kick. "He's a lively one, isn't he."

"Just the past few days," Brenna replied. "It's so strange to feel something moving inside me and realize it's a living being."

"I can only imagine." Jerome ran his hand down her belly to her clit. "So you want some attention for your pussy, do you?"

"Yes."

"Then sit back down here so I can give it some oral attention."

Smiling, Brenna sat down. Jerome knelt on the floor between her legs and brought her legs up onto his shoulders. "Comfortable?" he asked.

"Yes, I'm okay."

"Good." 

He lowered his head to suck her clit. As soon as his lips touched her, Brenna moaned. How long had it been since they'd made love? Jerome couldn't remember, but let the question go. He had something more important to focus his attention on. He lightly nibbled her clit, then ran his tongue along her slit until she cried out, "Jerome! Oh, god, I'm almost coming already!"

"That's the idea, honey."

Jerome went back to her clit and licked and lightly nibbled it until Brenna let out a wordless moan. "Did you enjoy that?" he asked.

"God, yes," Brenna said. "Now that I've come, it's your turn. Get up here."

Jerome sat on the couch beside her. Brenna unfastened his pants to give his cock its freedom, and stroked it lightly, just enough to tease. "That's nice, sweetheart," Jerome said.

"It wants more, though, doesn't it?" Brenna asked.

"It wants whatever you'll give it."

Brenna slipped off the couch and onto her knees on the floor so she could take Jerome's cock into her mouth. She licked the head, probing the slit with her tongue, then moved her mouth down the shaft until she'd taken half the length. She sucked, and Jerome groaned his pleasure. "You're good at this," he said. "I love feeling your mouth on me."

Brenna's only answer was a smile, which Jerome felt rather than saw. For a few minutes, he enjoyed the sucking, then said, "Stop, honey. I don't want to come yet."

Slowly, Brenna slid her mouth off Jerome's cock. "When do you want to come, then?" she asked with a wink.

"When I'm inside you."

"Then get inside me."

"Stand up."

Brenna stood, and Jerome bent her over the couch. It was one of the few positions that was comfortable for her anymore. He entered her slowly, still cautious even though it had been several weeks since her doctor had cleared her to have sex again after the scare they'd had. "You don't need to be so gentle, Jerome," she said. "I don't want it gentle."

"Whatever you want." Jerome pulled partway out, then pushed back into her harder. "Is that better?"

"Keep doing it!"

Encouraged by Brenna's reaction, Jerome fucked her harder than he had since he'd learned she was pregnant. Her moans and cries of pleasure reassured him; he wasn't hurting her or the baby. After several minutes, she cried, "Oh, god, I'm coming! Don't stop, Jerome, please don't stop!"

"I'm not stopping, sweetheart. I want to feel you come."

Brenna cried out, and Jerome felt her pussy contract on his cock. A second later, he came too. "Mmm, Brenna," he groaned. "That felt so good!"

"It was wonderful. I'm sorry it's been so long."

Jerome pulled out of her and hugged her. "It was worth waiting for. Get your clothes back on before you get cold."

"Does that mean we're done for the night?"

"Nope. Just means we need to take it under the covers on the bed."

Brenna grinned. "Race you."

* * * 

For the next several days, Brenna seemed much happier. She was usually still asleep when Jerome left for work in the mornings, but when he got home, she was dressed in one or another of her new outfits. Having clothes that fit her, being able to look nice, had apparently cheered her up, and having things for the baby seemed to have made it more real to her. "I'm looking forward to this," she told Jerome on Saturday morning. "I really want to see this baby and hold her, and see her with all the things we bought."

"It'll be sooner than you think," Jerome said. "Which means that soon, we should talk about wedding and that kind of thing. How would you feel about going out today and finally getting that ring?"

"Those rings," Brenna corrected. "We need wedding rings too. Promise not to spend too much?"

"I promise."

"Okay. Then let's do it." Her stomach rumbled audibly. "After breakfast."

"I'll take you out to breakfast. You deserve it."

Over breakfast at a nearby pancake house, Brenna talked about the baby. "I've been trying to think of names. What do you think about Desiree?"

"That won't work," Jerome replied.

"Why not?"

"Because it isn't a boy's name."

Brenna laughed. "Ah, so you think it's going to be a boy, do you? What if it's a girl?"

"Then Desiree would be a beautiful name."

"I chose it because I've always wanted a baby; she really would be desired." Brenna sobered. "I know I haven't acted like it lately, but I really do want this baby."

"I know you do. Fear and hormones combined can do strange things."

"Yeah. I don't know how you put up with me."

Jerome reached across the table to take her hand. "I love you. It isn't putting up."

They finished eating and went to the mall to look for rings. Brenna vetoed everything they found in the jewelry stores as either too expensive or too showy, so they decided to look at the department store jewelry counters. As they walked down the corridor to one of the stores, Jerome heard a familiar voice. He put his arm around Brenna and tried to usher her past the speaker before they were seen, but he wasn't fast enough. "Hi, Jerome."

"Hello, Lena." Jerome pasted a smile on his face and turned around. "We seem to run into each other in the strangest places."

"Yes, we do." Jerome's ex-wife came over to him, followed by their oldest daughter, Gillian. "Is this your new, um, person?" Lena asked, looking at Brenna.

"I'm Brenna Malone, and yes, I'm Jerome's fiancée," Brenna replied coldly. "You must be Jerome's ex-wife. It's nice to meet you. Hello again, Gillian."

"I'm Lena," Lena said. "So how far along are you?"

"About twenty-two weeks," Brenna replied.

"You know, I read somewhere that it can be dangerous for women over thirty-five to have babies," Gillian said. "Of course, I know you're just thirty-five, but still I hope you're being careful. After all, if anything happens to the baby, you won't have that leverage over Dad anymore."

"Gillian, stop it right now," Jerome said. "There's no need to be petty."

"Actually, the baby's perfectly fine, but thanks for your concern," Brenna said. "Jerome, I'm going ahead to the store. I'll see you in a few minutes."

"I'll be right there," Jerome said.

Brenna walked away. "She was rude," Lena commented.

"Rude?" Jerome snapped. "What about our daughter? Gillian has been consistently disrespectful to Brenna since she met her!"

"I'm trying to protect you, Dad," Gillian said.

"I'm sure Gillian has your best interests at heart, Jerome," Lena said. "You can be a little gullible sometimes."

"Obviously. I was gullible enough to believe that you were faithful to me."

"I made a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes."

"You cheated on me for six months, then left me for the man you cheated with. That's far more than a mistake, Lena. Good luck with things; I need to catch up with Brenna. Gillian, take care. I love you."

"I love you too, Dad," Gillian said. "That's why I-"

"Goodbye." Jerome walked away.

He found Brenna at the jewelry counter in the department store, in front of a display of rings that she didn't seem to be looking at. "Your ex-wife is interesting," she said.

"I'm sorry about all that," Jerome replied. "If I'd realized they were here, I'd have kept an eye out so we wouldn't have run into them. Neither of them was particularly respectful to you."

"You couldn't help it. It was just awkward. And of course Gillian was being her usual self."

"She's always been close to her mother. It isn't surprising that she's acting this way. She most likely hopes her mother and I'll get back together, but there's absolutely no chance of that."

"I'm glad to hear you say that. She certainly acted like she's still interested in you."

"It really doesn't matter if she is or isn't. She destroyed our marriage." Jerome kissed Brenna on the cheek. "You're the only one I'm interested in, and right now all that matters to me is what you want."

"I want this to be easier. You're losing your older daughter because of me."

"Nope. She's choosing to be a brat about the situation, and that's her choice. She could accept that you and I are getting married and having a baby, but she wants things her way. She'll come around, and if she doesn't, that's something I'll deal with."

"I feel bad that things are like this," Brenna said. "I want you to be able to have a good relationship with your family."

"Don't worry about it. It's between Gillian and me; we'll sort it out. I brought you here to look at rings, honey, not to worry about my daughter."

"I know." Brenna looked at the rings in the case. "That one's pretty."

Jerome had the sense that she was only looking at the rings to make him happy, not because she wanted to. He looked at the one she'd pointed to. It wasn't very expensive, but it was a nice setting. "That is nice," he said. "We can take a closer look at it if you want to."

"Whatever you want."

"No, honey, it's whatever you want. Do you like that ring?"

"Yeah, I do." Brenna turned to him. "I love you, Jerome."

"I love you too."

Jerome signaled the saleswoman and asked her to take out the ring Brenna had chosen. When Brenna tried it on, it fit perfectly. "We'll take it," Jerome said.

Brenna rubbed her belly. "I think the pancakes are disagreeing with me. Let's wait till another time for the wedding rings, okay?"

"Are you all right?" Jerome asked, concerned.

"I'll be fine. I just need to get home and lie down."

The saleswoman rang up the ring and took Jerome's credit card. Brenna leaned against the counter, hands over her belly. "Maybe we shouldn't have come out here today," she said. "Too much time on my feet, I think."

"Then let's get you home."

Jerome got the ring and credit card back from the saleswoman and slid the ring onto Brenna's finger. "Will you marry me?" he asked, wishing he could give her a more romantic proposal.

"Yes, after I get some rest."

They walked slowly back to Jerome's car. Brenna grimaced as they went; she was obviously in pain. "Do you think the baby's all right?" Jerome asked as he settled her into the car.

"Yeah, I'm sure. I think it's just something I ate."

Or the stress of having had to deal with Lena and Gillian, Jerome thought.

By the time they got home, Brenna was dozing in the passenger seat. Jerome helped her into the house, and she lay down on the couch. "I'll be fine," she said. "I just need to rest."




Young Again Ch. 06



"If you aren't better in an hour, I'm calling the doctor," Jerome said.

"I'll be fine," Brenna repeated. She closed her eyes and went to sleep.

When she woke an hour later, Jerome asked, "How's your stomach?"

"Much better." Brenna stood and stretched. "I think it was the pancakes and too much walking. I told you I'd be fine." She hugged Jerome. "Thanks for worrying."

"I'm glad you're better." But even though Brenna looked like she was feeling better, the happiness she'd shown the past few days was gone. Jerome wished he knew what she was thinking, but he was sure if he asked, she would say nothing was wrong. He didn't ask. 

* * *

After a couple of days, Brenna came out of her mood again. Jerome came home from work one night and found Brenna and Quinn sitting at the table with Quinn's stack of wedding magazines. "I think something small and quiet here in the house would be good," Brenna said.

"The house isn't big enough for more than just you, Dad, me, and Emery," Quinn said. "Hi, Dad. How was work?"

"Same old same old," Jerome replied. "And what are you two plotting?"

"Our wedding." Brenna came over to Jerome and kissed him. "I want to marry you soon, Jerome."

Jerome's heart leaped hearing her say this, but he wondered at the change in her thoughts about marriage. "I want that too, honey."

"Then let's plan it. A month should be enough time to pull things together, right, Quinn?"

"Right," Quinn said. "Go get some paper so we can start making lists."

Brenna left the room. "What brought this on?" Jerome asked.

"Brenna really loves you, Dad," Quinn replied. "She and I talked a little this afternoon. She's worried about Gillian and Mom, and about becoming a mother, and she's been letting that get in the way of marrying you. I think she's finally gotten over it." They heard Brenna's footsteps coming back from the bedroom. "Just have a seat and watch the news, Dad," Quinn said. "Brenna and I'll take care of the plans. How much do you love her?"

"More than I could say."

Quinn grinned. "Good. Then it won't matter how much we spend on the wedding."



Young Again Ch. 07



The technician moved the ultrasound wand over Brenna's belly. On the screen above them, the baby appeared. "Looking good," the technician said. 

"Is everything okay?" Brenna asked.

The technician moved the wand around. "Your fluid looks a little low; I'll measure that in a minute. The placenta's still looking a little problematic, but nothing to worry about. You just need to take it easy and you'll be fine."

"That's good to know," Jerome said.

"Do you want to know what it is?"

"A baby, I hope," Jerome said.

Brenna swatted his arm. "Wise guy. Yes, we would like to know."

The wand moved, and after a few moments, the technician said, "Looks like you have a healthy little boy."

"A boy!" Brenna's face lit up, and she squeezed Jerome's hand. "We have a little boy, Jerome. Isn't it wonderful?"

"Absolutely," Jerome agreed. "I told you so."

The technician went on with checking the baby and Brenna's uterus. Finally she wiped the gel from Brenna's belly and said, "The amniotic fluid's a bit low, but not dangerously so. Just take it easy; stay off your feet as much as you can, but you don't have to be on bed rest. Do you have any questions?"

"No," Brenna said.

"Then I'll send you back to Doctor Baris. See you in a couple weeks."

Brenna adjusted her pants and shirt, and Jerome helped her off the table. They went back down the hall to the obstetrician's office, where Brenna was given the same instructions the technician had given her. Then they were dismissed. Brenna took Jerome's hand as they walked to the car. "You're going to have another son," she said.

"Yes, I am," Jerome said. "Emery should be thrilled; he always wanted a little brother. Of course, he's old enough to be the baby's father, but twenty-three isn't too old to play with his brother and teach him baseball."

"Or football, or ballet," Brenna teased.

"Sure, I can see Emery doing ballet." Jerome opened the car door and held it for her. "Well, now we know what flavor we're having, we can get more things for him and think of a name."

"What do you want to name him? I hadn't even thought about a boy's name."

"We'll talk about it. He's our son; we both get a say."

"Okay." Brenna leaned back in the seat and adjusted the seat belt under her belly. "I'm hungry. Could we go get some lunch?"

"Of course. We should celebrate me being right about the baby's gender."

After a meal at a nearby diner, Jerome took Brenna shopping for baby stuff. Although Brenna wasn't willing to buy much because of prices, Jerome kept track of what she looked at, and resolved to come back later to buy it when she wasn't there to argue about the cost. 

"These are so cute!" Brenna held up a one-piece pajama set with trucks printed on it. "So what do you want to name the baby?"

"Jerome, Junior," Jerome joked.

"We could do that if you want."

"I was kidding, honey. I wouldn't name a kid junior. That's why Emery is Emery. His mother wanted him to be a junior and I said no."

"Oh." Brenna looked through the stack of pajamas. "Would you mind naming him after my dad?"

"What's your dad's name?"

"Seamus."

"That's a good Irish name. It works for me."

"That's good. Thank you." She hugged him. "I always wanted to name a child after him. He was the one who did the most for me when I was growing up. That's why I'm afraid I won't be a good mother; my mother wasn't."

"You're going to be a terrific mother," Jerome assured her. "Especially if you let me buy some of this 'cute' stuff you're looking at for our son."

"Maybe a few pairs of these pajamas. You can never have enough clothes for a baby, that's what people tell me."

"They're right. Babies are very messy creatures. Pick out the pajamas you want."

Brenna chose several sets of pajamas, and they paid for them and went home. "So how much do you want to celebrate the news?" Brenna asked.

"Oh, I can think of a few good ways to celebrate," Jerome replied.

Brenna kissed him. "So can I. Let's go to the bedroom."

In the bedroom, Jerome eased Brenna's shirt up, revealing her large belly. "This kid's going to be a football player," he said. "Look how big he's getting."

"How big I'm getting, you mean," Brenna said. "It's a good thing I keep reminding myself there's a baby in there, otherwise I'd think I was just fat."

"You're far from fat," Jerome assured her. "You're gorgeous." He kissed her belly. "You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen."

"You're just saying that."

Jerome blew on her belly, making her laugh. "I'm not just saying anything," he said. "You're beautiful, and I'm thrilled that you're carrying my baby. And I can't wait to marry you."

"Only a few more days," Brenna said. "I can't believe it's so soon. I'm not even sure everything's ready."

"Quinn's taking care of it all. All you have to do is be there and look beautiful in that dress you haven't let me see yet."

"It's bad luck for the groom to see the gown before the wedding."

"I thought it was bad luck for the groom to see the bride in the gown. That isn't the same thing."

Brenna grinned. "Well, maybe I just want to see your eyes pop out of your head the first time you see me in it, and that wouldn't happen if you'd already seen it."

"You mean once I see it, all I'll want to do is get you out of it?" Jerome kissed Brenna. "Right now, I want to get you out of these clothes and make love to you."

"Even with this big belly in the way?"

"That's why they invented other positions." Jerome carefully pulled Brenna's shirt over her head. "That's much better."

He caressed her breasts. Brenna gasped. "That feels nice, but careful. They're getting more sensitive."

"Then it won't take much to make you feel good." Jerome unfastened Brenna's bra and let it fall to the floor. Her breasts were larger than before the pregnancy, and heavier when Jerome cupped them in his hands. "They're beautiful," he said. 

"They like to have you touch them." Brenna stepped away and slowly took off her pants. Completely naked, she held out her arms to Jerome. "All of me likes to feel your touch."

"Lie down," Jerome said.

At seven months pregnant, Brenna couldn't lie on her back anymore, so she lay on her side. Jerome slid her upper leg back so he could access her pussy, and bent his head to taste her. Brenna sucked in her breath and shivered at the touch of his tongue. "Jerome, I love this," she said. "I love you!"

Jerome stopped licking long enough to say, "I love you too." Then he resumed his oral attention to Brenna.

It was just moments before her hips bucked and she cried out. Jerome didn't stop until she said, "Honey, please, that was more than enough!"

"So you liked that, huh?" Jerome stood and stripped off his clothes. "Glad to hear it. Is there anything else you'd like?"

"Lie down."

Jerome shook his head. "I love feeling your mouth on me, but I'm too turned on to hold back if you try to suck me. I just want to be inside you."

"Then lie down."

Jerome lay on his back. Carefully, Brenna straddled him and lowered her pussy onto his cock. "Mmm, I love how that feels," she murmured. 

"So do I," Jerome said. "Ride me, honey."

Brenna raised and lowered herself, slowly at first but then building her pace. With his hands on her waist, Jerome guided her as he moved himself to match her. She felt amazing, her pussy wet and tight. "That's it," Jerome said softly. "Fuck me."

"Oh, god!"

As Brenna came again, Jerome felt her pussy contract. That was all it took to bring him over the edge. He came inside her, moaning her name. 

Brenna lifted herself off him and lay on her side next to him. "That was wonderful," she said. "Too bad we'll only be able to do it for a little while longer."

"As long as the doc gives the okay, we can make love right up until you're ready to deliver," Jerome said.

"I don't think that's going to be much longer. I know I still have a couple months to go, but I don't think it's really going to be that long. I don't want it to be; I want the baby to be healthy, but I want this pregnancy to be over."

"I think that's how most pregnant women feel after the halfway point." Jerome put his arms around her. "You're going to be fine, and so is Seamus."

"I hope so." Brenna snuggled against him. "So are we ready for the wedding? I mean, we've both been married before, but..."

"But it's been a long time for me; Lena and I were married thirty years," Jerome said. "And it sounds like your marriage wasn't all that good, from what you've told me. So this time will be different. But yes, I'm ready. Are you?"

"I think so. I know how much I love you. But your family doesn't seem too happy about it."

"Quinn and Emery are thrilled. Gillian's the only one not happy, and it doesn't matter what she thinks. She's upset because of the age difference between you and me, but she'll get over it."

"I hope so."

"She will."

* * *

Maybe Gillian would get over it, but the call Jerome got from her the next day proved that she hadn't yet. "What is this?" she demanded.

"It seems to be a phone call," Jerome replied. "Hello, Gillian. How are you today?"

"I'm sitting here holding a wedding invitation that my sister just dropped off. You can't be serious. You're marrying that woman?"

"Brenna and I are getting married, yes. You knew that."

"In less than a week. Way to give notice, Dad."

"Your sister was responsible for the invitations. If you didn't get yours early enough, then I apologize on her behalf. Personally, it doesn't matter to me if many people come or not. As long as Brenna's happy, I'm happy."

"She trapped you. How can you be happy?"

"She didn't trap me. I got her pregnant. That was my doing as much as it was hers, and I'm proud to take responsibility."

"You're fifty years old. You're old enough to be a grandfather, and you're starting the whole family thing over again with a woman fifteen years younger than you."

"We've had this conversation, Gillian. I love Brenna, she loves me. The baby's mine and while I understand that the idea of having a brother young enough to be your son might be disturbing to you, you're just going to have to get used to it. The wedding is Saturday. You're welcome to be there if you'd like."

"I'd rather not watch my father make the biggest mistake of his life." She hung up.

Jerome stared at the phone for a moment before setting it down. He'd heard that children had trouble adjusting to new stepparents, but Gillian was twenty-eight years old, for heaven's sake! Then again, ever since she'd first heard about Brenna, Gillian had acted this way. She didn't seem to care that she was being childish, and Jerome was just about done dealing with her.

"Who was on the phone?" Brenna asked. She came into the living room from the kitchen, drying her hands on an old ragged towel. "The dishes are done."

"I was going to do them, until Gillian interrupted," Jerome replied. "She wanted to know why she hadn't heard about the wedding sooner."

"Because Quinn and I didn't think she'd want to go. And I don't mind doing the dishes; you made dinner, so it's only fair that I clean up."

Jerome hugged her. "It's only fair that I do as much for you as I can so you can stay off your feet."

"Thanks, honey." Brenna sat down. "But I like doing things around the house as long as I can. So Gillian found out about the wedding?"

"She said Quinn dropped off an invitation."

"The wedding's going to be perfect, no matter who's there." Brenna leaned back and closed her eyes. "I might go to bed early tonight. I'm so tired, and Seamus has been kicking like crazy today. I think he's in as much of a hurry to get out of here as I am to have him."

"Probably. Must be getting pretty cramped in there for him. If you want to go to bed early, by all means, go ahead. Take care of yourself."

"Yeah." She yawned. "Maybe I should just go rest now."

"Go ahead, honey. Do you want me to come with you?"

"I don't think I'd get much rest if you were with me, but thanks." Brenna kissed Jerome's cheek. "I'll see you in a little while." She went to the bedroom.

A while later, when Jerome went in to go to bed, Brenna was sound asleep. Careful not to disturb her, Jerome got into bed beside her.

* * *

Saturday morning, Jerome was up earlier than usual for a weekend. Earlier than usual for any day, for that matter. He was too nervous to sleep any longer. 

Brenna was still asleep. Jerome eased out of bed and went to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee. He would need the caffeine to stay awake through the wedding and subsequent reception, though Quinn had assured him the reception would be very small. 

Just as the coffee finished brewing, Brenna entered the kitchen. She looked exhausted, though she'd seemed to be sleeping soundly. "I don't feel well," she said.

"Nerves, do you think?" Jerome poured a cup of coffee and placed it in front of her. "I'm a little nervous myself."

"I don't know if it's nerves or something else." Brenna ran her hand over her belly. "It just feels strange, and I feel a little sick to my stomach."

"Do you want to call the doctor?"

"No." Brenna sat down. "I want to just relax until it's time to get dressed. I don't want anything to interfere with the wedding."

For the next few hours, Jerome kept a close eye on Brenna. She continued to look tired, but her color improved and she seemed more relaxed. By the time they had to get ready for their wedding, Jerome had decided that he'd been right; it had only been nerves making Brenna feel sick.

Since Brenna didn't want Jerome seeing her in the wedding dress before the ceremony, they had planned for Jerome to get dressed at the hall. He took his suit out of the closet and said, "Quinn should be here any second to help you get ready. Are you sure you're all right?"

"Yes, I'm feeling much better," Brenna said. "Don't worry about me, just think about finally being married."

"That's exactly what I'm thinking about." Jerome pulled her against him and kissed her deeply. "You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen, and I can't wait to be married to you. And to have our honeymoon."

"I thought we weren't going anywhere."

"Just an overnight trip to a little bed and breakfast I know about. I want to make love to my new wife somewhere interesting; we can make love here any time."

Brenna smiled. "That sounds nice. Okay, you'd better get going, or you won't be ready for the ceremony."

"I'm hoping if I stick around long enough, I'll catch a glimpse of that top-secret dress."

"Not a chance. Get out of here."

Jerome gave her another kiss and left the room. He opened the front door to leave, and his daughter almost fell on him. "Sorry, Dad," Quinn said. "I was just about to knock."

"That's okay," Jerome said. "Glad you're here. Brenna's in the bedroom, and I'm heading over to the hall. See you in a little while."

"We'll be there."

An hour later, Jerome was in his suit at the hall, surrounded by his son and a few friends from work, all of whom were chatting about the wedding and how exciting it would be to see Brenna and Jerome finally marry. Most of the work friends had followed the relationship from the very beginning, the night Brenna and her friend Nora had invited coworkers out for drinks with them, and Jerome had been the only one to go. "It's about time you made an honest woman out of her," Jerome's friend Mike joked.

"I'd have done it sooner if I could have," Jerome replied.

The justice of the peace came to the group. "Fifteen minutes," he announced. "Is the bride here yet?"

"No, but she should be any minute," Jerome replied.

"I hope so. You only have the hall for another hour and a half, and that includes your reception."

"Do you want me to call?" Nora asked Jerome. "Maybe they had car trouble or something."

"Wait a few minutes," Jerome replied.

A few minutes later, as Nora was dialing Jerome's home number, Brenna and Quinn entered the hall. Brenna looked more tired than she had when Jerome had left the house, and her face was pale. Jerome hurried to her. "Are you all right?"

"I'm okay," Brenna said. But she didn't sound sure. 

"You look beautiful." The dress Brenna had chosen was cream-colored, with lace edging the neckline and the calf-length hem. 

"Thank you." She leaned against him. "I'm ready when you are."

The ceremony was quick. Jerome kept an eye on Brenna, watching with concern as she grew more pale and occasionally clutched her belly as though she was in pain. As soon as they exchanged their first married kiss, Brenna made her way to a chair and sat down. Jerome followed her. "Honey, what's wrong?"

"I think..." She looked up at him with tear-filled eyes. "I think the baby's coming. I know I said I wanted the pregnancy to be over, but I didn't mean this soon!"

"You think..." Jerome turned to the guests. "Someone get a car to the door. Now!"

Fortunately, the hospital was only a few blocks away. Brenna reclined in the passenger seat of Nora's car, hands over her belly and breathing deeply, while Jerome sat in the back seat and called the obstetrician. When they arrived at the hospital, a nurse was waiting at the door with a wheelchair, though it had only been a few minutes since Jerome made the call.

The next few hours were a blur for Jerome. He stayed with Brenna as much as he was allowed, though he had to stay out of the way of the hospital staff, including the obstetrician, who were working to try to stop Brenna's labor. She was only thirty-three weeks along; it was too soon for the baby to be born.

But Seamus had other ideas. The best efforts to delay his birth didn't work; Brenna had waited too long before letting anyone know she was in labor. By that evening, Jerome and Brenna were parents of a four-pound son, who was ensconced in an isolette in the neonatal intensive care unit.

After their son was taken to the NICU, Brenna lay in her bed and cried. "If anything happens to him, it's my fault. I should have told you, Jerome."

Jerome gently stroked her hair. "He's going to be just fine. He's a tough one, like his mother. You didn't say anything because you just wanted to be married before he was born, right?"

Brenna glared at him for a moment, then realized he was teasing. "Yeah, that's it. I wanted our son to be legitimate. Do you think they'll let me go see him?"

"Tomorrow morning," said a nurse who was listening. "You need to get some rest first."

"I want to see my baby," Brenna protested. 

"Just take it easy, honey," Jerome said. "They're taking good care of him. You'll see him in the morning, and you'll see that everything's just fine."

* * *

The next morning, Jerome pushed Brenna in a wheelchair to the NICU, followed by a nurse. When Brenna saw the isolettes and the machines that some of the infants were connected to, she started to cry again. "I should have taken things easier," she said. "I should have told you sooner that I was in labor, Jerome. Maybe then he wouldn't have to be here."

"Your son is doing very well," the nurse said. "His lungs are maturing, and he'll soon get the hang of feeding. The pediatrician will be able to tell you more, but I would guess your baby won't have to be in here for very long."

Seamus was in an isolette near the door. He was tiny; it was hard to believe such a small thing could be alive. But as Jerome and Brenna watched, their son moved his arms and legs and let out a faint cry. "He's beautiful," Brenna said.

"Yes, he is." Jerome kissed the top of Brenna's head. "Like his mother."

"I can't believe he's really here."

"He is. And soon he'll be home with us where he belongs." Jerome took her hand and brushed his finger over her wedding ring. "Home with his family."



Young Again



Then one night, Brenna didn't answer Jerome's phone call. At work the next day, she didn't stop by his desk, and wasn't at her station when he went looking for her. That night's calls also went unanswered. What had he done wrong?

Finally, after two days without contact, he caught up to her in the copy room at work. "What's going on, sweetheart?" he asked. "Why haven't you called me back?"

"I- I can't talk to you right now."

She tried to push past him, but he caught her arm. "Brenna, you can talk to me about anything. Don't do this to me, please. Whatever's wrong, we can work it out. Just don't give up on me."

"It isn't you." Brenna burst into tears. "Jerome, you're going to hate me."

"I could never hate you, honey. What's wrong?" 

He half expected her to say she'd cheated on him. He thought he might even be able to forgive her for it. Nothing could have prepared him for what she said next. "I- I'm pregnant."

Jerome stared at her in shock. "You're what?"

"I'm so sorry, Jerome! I never meant for it to happen. I just didn't think- we never used anything. I should have been on birth control, but I was just stupid!"

"Hey now." Jerome gently grasped her shoulders. "You aren't stupid, or if you are, so am I. I didn't even think of protection. I'm old enough to know better. So were you just going to keep this a secret from me?"

"Only until I got the nerve to tell you. I'm so sorry."

"Don't be sorry. There's only one thing we can do about it."

"What?"

Jerome smiled. "Get married."

"Are you serious?"

"Sure am." He kissed her. "You were right, the night we went to the bar. You never are too old to start over. You've helped me start over, Brenna, and I want you to be part of the rest of my life. Maybe I'm too old to be a father, but I'm sure as hell willing to try. Are you willing to marry an old man?"

Brenna smiled. "Of course I'll marry you. And you aren't old."

"You're right, I'm not. You've made me feel young again."