Race for the Throne

Serena handles the crowd in a calm manner and answers the people as they talk to them. “We are all in wonderful health, thank you for asking. The boys are doing well at this time and the doctor says that they are doing well. As for me I am certain all ladies who have been pregnant know how I feel right now.” She said joking with the people. “I promise you though that I am well. Both Vincent and I just want to have a nice evening out together.” She explained.

On that note a few of the people begin to disperse and give them space. Serena takes Vincent’s hand and smiles. “That is a little better.” She said.

~~

Brandon takes Annaleigh and smiles at her. “She is such a beautiful little girl. I am so happy for you both, Audra and Malachi.” He was holding her and looking into her eyes. “Hello there little one, your eyes are so beautiful.” He said as he gently went from side to side to sway her.

Audra smiled as Malachi put his arm around her. “She is so good. She keeps us on our toes but I cannot complain. I could not love her more than I do.” She said.

“Grayson, apologize to Jasmine! You know you are not supposed to be rough with people.” Scott said shaking his head. “You will have to excuse him, he is so happy to see you Jasmine.”

Vincent greets the people as well, one person claps his upper back. He is thankful it was not lower. He takes her into Antonio's, and are taken to a table. There was a private party going on. He notices the family of the soldier at a nearby table. He takes Serena's hand and looks into her eyes. "You handled the people so well. I am glad you came out with me."

~~~~~~

Jasmine laughs. "Actually I should have been prepared, Daniel does the same thing. Why don't you have the guard drop it off and I will paint it later. Why don't we go and say hi to Annaleigh."

"Awww everyone wants to say hi to her." Grayson pouts.

Jasmine sighs. "Well I can't throw very well, but I can do other things." She taps his shoulder. "Tag, you're it." She calls and runs away.

Micia shakes her head. "She is so good with kids. So how is everything going with you Brandon?"

“I didn’t want to make you come out if you didn’t feel like it, but I know both of us haven’t been out able to have much time together. We deserve this time together.” Serena said. She gently squeezed Vincent’s hand. She was about to say more when someone came to the table.

Serena looked up at the man who was standing by the table with his head down. “May I help you sir?” She asked.

“I wanted to thank his majesty for saving my son’s life. He told us about it when he returned home.” The man said.
~~

Brandon watched Jasmine and Grayson run around. He chuckled and shook his head before looking at Micia. “I cannot complain, I have been learning so much about the laws in Moldova. It is so interesting and intense at the same time. Jasmine has been such a help with me when it comes to that. I came with her to see my family and to see the treaty process. I feel like I should know how it goes.” He explained.

“You are a smart man, Brandon.” Scott said. “It’s always easier with a wonderful woman by your side.”

Audra smiled and chuckled. “How are both of you doing? Are you enjoying the marriage life?” She asked.

Brandon switched Annaleigh to his other arm and smiled. “We are very happy together. We haven’t fought yet, but I think we have both been too busy to fight. She is learning a lot and so am I. We just have to remember to take time for us and that’s why we are going to the fall festival in Rosario when we leave here.” He explained.

Vincent shakes the man's hand. "It was my honor, I am sure he would have done the same if the roles were reversed." He is hugged by a woman who is holding a young child. He cringes a little bit because she got the upper part of the bruise.

"This is the man who saved your father's life. I am Alyssia and cannot thank you enough." She holds the young child. Vincent smiles and kisses the little girl's forehead. "If we ever have a son, we will name him Vincent after you."

Vincent shakes his head. "I appreciate your thanks, but I really didn't do anything special. I hope you have a wonderful dinner."

~~~~~~~

Jasmine returns panting. "Wow he can run fast. Now give me that little girl. Audra, she is adorable. She has the Miranda eyes!"

Micia shakes her head. "I have your guys room set up. It is nice to see you. I know you want to freshen up before dinner."

Grayson pulls on Brandon's leg. "I love Jassy, she plays with me."

Serena smiles as she looks up at the family. The man smiles at her before bowing. “My name is Zack and I just wanted to thank you for saving him. My son was unable to attend dinner with us this evening but I know he too is thankful. We will leave you be this evening. I pray the goddess blesses you both in your future.”

“Thank you Zach, we are proud to know you. We pray your evening goes well.” She said. She looked at Vincent and smiled at him as both Alyssa and Zach walk back to their table. “They are kind people and caring. They are truly thankful for what you did Vincent.”

~~

Brandon had given Annaleigh to Jasmine. He looks down when he feels something on his pants. He kneels down and looks at Grayson. “She is a wonderful woman. She makes me happy too.” He said. “Would you like a piggy back ride?”

“I would LOVE a piggy back ride!” Grayson said. Brandon pops him up on his shoulders and Grayson is happy. He leans down to his ears. “Does Jassy play with you too?” he asked.

Brandon’s cheeks flashed red as he nodded. “We play tag too…” he said.

Vincent shrugs. "I didn't do anything that special. I mean we are a family, and it is nothing that any of them would have done for me."

The waiter comes by to take their order. Vincent takes her hand. "The rest of the night is about you."

~~~~~~~~~

Jasmine and Audra burst out laughing at Brandon's explanation. "I bet Jasmine love to be it while Brandon tags her."

Jasmine shakes her head. "Like you are so innocent."

They walk to the royal wing. "Now give me my baby and get ready for dinner." Audra takes Annaleigh in on arm and opens the door with the other. "It is really nice to see you."

Jasmine walks in. "Oh she is so adorable. Those are definitely Miranda eyes. The mouth is all Malachai though. I believe Grayson is feeling a bit jealous too." She says while getting changed.

Serena smiles as she squeezes Vincent’s hand. “This isn’t just about me tonight, but about us. You deserve this just as much as I do.” She said. She kisses his hand as the waiter comes back with their entrees. Serena took a bite of her dinner and rolls her eyes. “This is so good, I am glad we came here.”

~~

Brandon had put Grayson down and he went with his parents so that Jasmine and Brandon could change. He goes to the bathroom to change sense the ladies are in the room together. He puts on a nice button down shirt with slacks and a tie. He walks out and sees Jasmine and Audra talking about Grayson.

“That’s why I offered him the piggy back ride. Poor boy probably feels like no one cares about him now. He was the baby before and now he isn’t.” He said walking over to the bed to put his shoes on.

"I heard their business picked up since our wedding. I love the food here too." They begin to eat their meals. The waitress comes back to refill their drinks. "I am glad you were able to come out. I am getting to excited and nervous about the babies every day. We are so close. I hope they wait until my back is healed a little more so I can help you out."

~~~~~

Jasmine takes Annaleigh after getting changed. She looks at her as if memorizing her. "I only wish we can stay a little longer. She is going to break some hearts. So are you going to visit Serena after she has her babies?"

She looks over at Brandon. "That is why I played tag with him. I will do his cast too. Oh you should find an addition to her room as well."

“I have to admit, I am scared but I am excited too.” Serena said as they ate. She took a sip of her drink and looked up at him. “We have been married almost nine months and our little ones are going to be here soon.” She bit her lip a little before looking into his eyes. “Vincent, I started leaking milk this morning. I wasn’t going to say anything but I thought maybe I should now that we are sitting here talking.”

~~

“After Annaleigh is able to travel, the doctors want us to wait at least till she is a month old before she begins to travel.” Audra explained. She looked up as Brandon stepped into the room.

“I hope Annaleigh grows up to love it.” Brandon said. He walked over to Brandon. “Will you do that tonight, or will we visit the temple tomorrow? I am so hungry, lets go down stairs for dinner.” he asked.

"I know we are spending two nights here. The presentation of the treaty hopefully won't take too long. We can visit your mom afterward. I can do the cast tonight after dinner." Jasmine snuggles Annaleigh as they walk to the dining hall.

Audra whispers to Brandon. "Which means she will be up all night to do it along with some other artwork she has planned."

~~~~~~~~

Vincent's eyes widen. "Wow, I am glad we are staying at the castle. You may want to be careful about going to the fall festival." Inside he is thinking *not so soon, please not so soon*.

Brandon chuckled as they made it to the dining room. “Don’t worry, I will make sure she gets some rest sometime during the night.” He said winking at Audra. He watched her with Annaleigh and smiled. She would make a wonderful mother someday.

Malachi made it to the dining room with Micia and Scott. Grayson was sneaking around the hallway playing. Malachi opened the door as Audra, Brandon and Jasmine walked up. “There you are, we wondered if the baby snatcher had taken the baby yet.” He said winking at Jasmine.

Brandon chuckled. “She loves her and all babies.”

~~

“Well I will be seeing Cadence the day after tomorrow so I will know more after talking to her. If she doesn’t feel comfortable with me going out I won’t.” Serena said. She looks at him nervously as her mind races with all the questions that could go wrong. “I am going to take it easy the next few days. I think we both should.”

"Hey I only get to see her for two days, so I am going to take advantage of it." Jasmine sticks out her tongue at Malachai. "So how is it being new parents?"

"Exhausting. At least we have help here." Malachai pulls out the chair for Audra. "Audra's been great too." He kisses her head and goes to Jasmine. "Here let us set her on the bouncer while we are eating."

Jasmine hands Annaleigh over. Brandon pulls out the chair for her and Grayson sits on her other side. "Jassy, you are the most awesome girl."

~~~~~~

"You don't have to tell me twice. I know I am going to need some more meds when we get back. I only wish I could take you dancing." Vincent tells her as he finishes up the meal. There is a band playing music, but he cannot dance. He doesn't really trust her to as well.

Audra chuckled and looked at Jasmine. “I think he is inclined to say that.” She said winking at her. “Malachi is right though, it is tiresome but we are doing the tag teaming that mom told us about. It really helps at night.”

“That is a good strategy. That way at least you get a half way decent rest at night.” Brandon said as he pushed Jasmine’s chair under. He took the seat on the other side of Jasmine sense Grayson was sitting beside of her. He leaned over to her. “I think someone still has a crush on you.” He whispered.

~~

“I don’t think I could dance right now to be honest.” Serena said. She had already asked for a to go box for the rest of her food. She looked at him and sighed as some of the other patrons began to dance. “I think dancing would put me in labor right now. I am ready for them to be born, but not now.” She said.

"See if you hadn't come along I would have had a back up plan." Jasmine whispers back. "It was my parents who told them about that. Can you imagine twins?"

"I have a new respect for your parents or any parent for that matter. Mom is right though it is something that one has to experience." Malachai tells them.

~~~~~~

"I would appreciate it if you would get back to the castle first." Vincent winks. He pays for the meal. "Are you tired, my Love? Would you like to go back to the castle?"

"I will have a new respect for Serena and Vincent." Audra said. "I did get a letter from.her yesterday. She said she feels like she's going to pop anytime. I believe her too."

"I can agree to that. Babysitting is nothing compared to parent hood and I give nothing but props for any parent." Brandon said as the dinner is served.

~~

"I am tired but after that map earlier I don't think I could sleep right now. I am to restless to be honest." Serena said. "However I would like to go back to the castle. I feel if we go back to the house I might get stuck in those rooms cleaning again." She said chuckling.

"I have copies of the treaty. Grandpa already signed them. All they need are your signatures. Just let me know when you want to meet with me." Jasmine says. "We will babysit this little girl for a while and take her to town, if that is alright."

"But what about my cast...." Grayson whines.

"I will have plenty of time to do that. This time I will do a camping scene since I did a dragon on your other one." Jasmine laughs. "Just don't break any more bones, I am going to run out of paint."

"What can I say Grayson here is an active boy." Scott says proudly.

~~~~~~

Vincent slowly stands and helps Serena up. "I don't know if there is anything else you need to clean. Just take it easy Serena." He takes her out to the carriage and helps her in. It is a short trip to the castle. "It is a little early to retire. I think I will head up to the study. Would you want to come with me?"

Brandon laughed at Scott's comment. "That he is. You should be proud of your son, he is a good boy." He said.

Audra looked at Malachi nervously. "It will be hard but I think I can let you do that, Jasmine. I trust you."

~~

Serena nodded her head. "That sounds like a good idea." She said.

They walked upstairs to the royal wing and went to the study. Vincent opened the door and Serena waddled in. She paces around the room some. "I really did enjoy this evening even if it was just to eat."

"You don't have to worry about me. Remember I have a baby sister and grew up with younger brothers and the Watson boys too." Jasmine assures her. "And you know the guards will be with us."

Malachai rubs her back. "I think Audra needs some time for herself as well. Go have fun tomorrow. Just don't be too long."

"We will meet in the morning after breakfast, that way you will have the rest of the day for yourselves." Micia tells Jasmine.

~~~

"I did too. I don't know why everyone thinks I am a hero though." Vincent goes to the fireplace to start a fire. "I didn't know he had a little one."

The door opens and Reginald crawls in. He goes over to Serena and pulls himself using her knees. "Oh sorry about that. How was dinner guys?" Kalista walks over.

"It's not you I'm worried about, its me missing my little girl." Audra said. She looked up at Malachi. "He is right though, I could use some time to rest or even do something for myself."

Brandon smiled as he looked at Micia. "That sounds wonderful. We wanted to go to the temple and steal Annaleigh for a while so doing business first is good."

~~

Serena smiled as she looked down at Reginald. "It won't be long till he is walking. He is getting to be such a big boy."

Reginald was giggling and clapping his hands. "Is he trying to walk?" Serena asked she looked at Vincent. "All the more reason to say you are a hero."

"He is walking while holding on to things, but not alone. It will come shortly." Kalista tells them. She hears the comment from Serena. "So how did dinner go?"

"It went good, we met up with the family of the man I took the hit for. They were saying that I was a hero. I just don't see it. Anyone would have done the same." Vincent shrugs.

~~~~~~~

Dinner ends and Jasmine takes Annaleigh as they walk to the royal suite. "The guards delivered your present to your room. I hope you like it."

"I know you guys must be tired, go rest and we will see you later." Audra takes Annaleigh. "She is not spending the night with you."

Jasmine snaps her fingers. "I suppose, I need my beauty sleep anyway."

"But the thing is not everyone would have done that Vincent, but you did. You saved a young mans life and for that you should know that doesn't happen every day." Serena said with a smile. She looked at her mom. "That is really good for Reginald. It won't be long before he is a year old."

~~

Brandon laughed as Audra took her daughter. "She's not ready for overnight yet. That may take some time." He said. "We do hope you like the gift. I hope you have a wonderful evening." He said as he and Jasmine went into their room.

"So how was it holding Annaleigh in your arms?" He asked.

"I don't know, I love children. I look at you and cannot wait to give you that wonderful gift. I know it is a LOT of work though. So how many children did you want?" Jasmine gets changed into her pajamas. She had set out the envelope carrying the treaties on the desk. Grayson's arm cast was lying on it too. "It appears I have some work to do."

~~~

Vincent shrugs. "I just don't want to make a big deal out of it. I am already under the microscope because I am a Prince. He will be walking soon. Just try tempting him away with a toy."

Kalista looks over to Iverson. She raises her eyebrow at him. Maybe he needs to talk with Vincent about this whole thing.

Brandon had taken off his clothes except his boxers. He Watches Jasmine as she gets her paints out and begins to to get ready to paint the cast. Personally he is a little jealous of her painting. He felt like cuddling with her but would not go against her wishes.

"It doesn't matter how many children we have, what matters is that the goddess blesses us with what she wants us to have. I want children with you and I can't wait to see you as a mother." Brandon said.

~~

Iverson had walked in just a few minutes prior and knew what they were talking about. He looked at Kalista and nodded his head. He knew that look in her eye.

Serena looked up at her mom. "Mom, I was wondering if you could help me with a shower. I can't get my lower body and I don't want Vincent bending over like that."

"If you want to help her I will stay here with Vincent and we will keep Reginald as well." Iverson said. "It would give me a chance to talk to Vincent" he whispered to Kalista.

Jasmine looks over at Brandon. "You are going to bed already. I am not tired. I will just work on the line art tonight." She gets a bold pencil out and begins to work in the cast.

~~~~~~

Kalista nods at Serena. "I would not mind helping in the least. I know Madeline had help too." She offers her hand to Serena. Reginal protests a little but goes over to Vincent.

Vincent sighs. "Thank you Kalista. Under any normal circumstance, I would love to help. She is right though, I cannot with my back like this."

He watches the girls leave and looks over at Iverson. "I wanted to thank you for letting us stay here. I hope she keeps those babies in for a little longer though."

"I'm not really tired..." Brandon said. He watched as Jasmine began the line art on the cast. He knew when she got into it she would tune him out. He walked over to her and kissed her shoulder. "I'll just watch for a while."

~~

Serena took her mother's hand and she helped her up. She puts her hands on her back as she waddles out of the room. They walk down to Serenas room and head inside. "Mom, I'm scared and excited." She said biting her lip.

~~

Iverson walked over and poured himself a drink. He then poured one for Vincent. He hands it to Vincent and then hands a cup to Reginald that had milk in it.

"Don't worry about it Vincent, we would rather both of you be safe right now. Besides we love having you here." Iverson said. He took a seat across from Vincent.

"I also want you to hear me out on this. I know you think it's not a big deal to save that man's life yesterday, but you did something that not everyone would do. It's even bigger because you are royalty. You could have let that man die and kept going but you stopped to help. It shows you have the heart of a true leader and the people respect you for that."