David's Journey Pt. 06

DAVID'S JOURNEY PT. 06

Author's note: Sorry for the delay. A move across the country can delay even the best of plans... Hope you enjoy it!

Comments are welcome as are Ratings. Comments help me grow so thank you in advance for commenting!

Jessica

After the wonderful morning sex with David and Caroline, I ushered the girls out to the car I had borrowed from Alma to take them to school. With Jasmine and Serenity sitting in the back seat, I can't help but wonder what our life will be like now that we are finally away from my husband.

Looking in the center mirror, I can see Jasmine and Serenity whispering together and laughing. I smile at seeing my babies so active and energetic. "So, Jasmine, how was your night last night?" I asked beaming, knowing where she had slept.

"Umm, it was okay. I had a nightmare and ran to go to your room until I saw David. He was sitting downstairs, and I jumped in his lap. I don't remember much after I got my blanket, though." Seeing her get red in the face from embarrassment, I had to laugh.

"You must have been comfortable lying in his arms because he said you didn't move at all. I'm glad you did. It makes me happy to see you so comfortable with him, both of you!" Looking at Serenity, I ask, "And you, little lady, I believe I heard you call him Papa? Did I hear you right?"

Serenity replied by nodding her head, and I could see a bit of fear mixed with a lot of love. Her eyes were shining with a brightness I'd never seen before.

Pulling up to their school and parking, I turn around in the seat and look at them both. "I want you both to do well in classes today, ok? I'll pick you up when school is over. I do have to go into the office and let them know to never allow your father into the school, and he is no longer allowed to pick you two up. I need you both to make sure you never go with him, ok?" Seeing their nods of ascent, we all walk up to the school office.

As the girls see their teacher in the parking lot, they run up to her and walk to class after waving goodbye to me.

Heading into the office, I ask to talk to the principal and the guidance counselor. I wait for a bit since it's early morning, and when they both approach me, we head into the principal's office. Showing her the photos of the abuse and the police report, I get written assurance that my husband is no longer allowed to take my girls out of school. Thanking them both and smiling, I head towards Alma's house.

Pulling up slowly to her house and looking over at my husband's home, I notice his truck is gone. I let out a sigh of relief. Parking in Alma's spot, I lock up the car as I get out and walk up to her home.

Knocking, I waited for her, knowing she would be home without a car and at this time in the morning. After a few minutes, I hear her open up the door.

Alma opened her door in her pajamas. She welcomes me in, and we sit and talk for a while, updating her on the hospital and what I just did at the school. I worry about her being so close to my abusive husband, but she reassures me that she will be fine.

A few hours later, she drove me back home. Going inside, Alma sits in the living room as I head upstairs to check on David. Not seeing him in bed, hearing the shower going, I sneak into the bathroom, grinning. I can see David's profile in the shower, with his rock-hard cock sticking out. Remembering Alma downstairs, I moan with disappointment at not being able to play with my man and his cock.

David must have heard my moan, as he pulls the frosted glass door aside, smiling at me. Reaching for me, I start backing up and shaking my head. "David, we have a guest downstairs. Alma brought me home when I took her car back to her. As much as I would love to enjoy that wonderful cock and have your swimmers inside me searching for an egg, we can't." Sighing at the last part, I reach in and start stroking his manhood. Moaning with regret, I turn around and walk out.

A few minutes later, David comes down the stairs, topless with only a pair of shorts on. I moan with lust at him. Hearing a giggle beside me, I turn to the sound and see Alma sitting there, staring at me with her hand over her mouth, stifling a laugh.

"David, have a seat. I'll get us all a drink, and we can talk for a bit." Seeing his nod, I look towards Alma. "What would you like to drink?"

After Alma tells me her drink, I head into the kitchen to let David and her talk. Thinking about the trip to the hospital and seeing my girls scared, I can feel myself breaking down. What did I do wrong? Did I wait too long to leave my husband? Did I put my girls in more danger by not acting sooner? Reliving everything I have been put through, all the beatings and degrading acts, and the abuse George heaped upon me throughout our married life--my whole body starts shaking and makes me drop a glass.

Watching the glass shatter at my feet, feeling the tears fall, my whole life shatters in an instant, everything crashing down on me. Next thing I know, I can feel two strong arms wrapped around me, and the sweet words from David help. I can't think properly, and I can barely even move. Feeling myself being carried, looking up into David's face and seeing his concern written there, seeing the love in his eyes as he looks down into mine, forces me to bury my head into his chest more and cry. Feeling like I failed myself and worse, my two precious girls, I wrap my arms around David and hold him closer, with tears streaming down my face until I am completely passed out.

David's perspective

I sat and watched Jess walk into the kitchen. I could see rings under her eyes. I know she isn't getting enough sleep.

Looking over at Alma, I can see the same concern for her as I have. "I'm worried, Alma. She is putting up a strong front, but I don't think she is doing so well with everything that is going on between her and her husband. I just hope I can help her." Shaking my head, knowing I'm going to be in this till the end, and not giving up on her.

"David, listen to me carefully. What she is going through is post-traumatic stress disorder. Her fucking husband has really messed her up, and she wants to be strong for the twins and now you. I can see she is drawing strength from you. You have been a good influence on the kids, and I hope Jessica will ease off and allow herself to heal. Watch her closely; the kids are tougher than she thinks. It will be Jess who will need the love and healing touch of a real man like you, David." Alma studies my face as she talks.

As we talk for a few minutes, we both hear glass shattering in the kitchen. I'm immediately up and moving with Alma coming in behind me.

Looking around, glass everywhere and Jessica in the middle of it all with no shoes on, I hurry to her and grab her just as she is ready to fall. Leaning down, I whisper, "I'm here, sweetheart. It's okay. I'm not going anywhere. You're safe, and I love you, baby. Please, baby, I'm here for you. Relax into me, my love." Carefully putting my arms around her, I pick her up and hold her tight to me.

As I start to walk out, Alma asks me where the broom and pan are. I tell her where to find them, and I walk out of the kitchen with Jessica.

I feel her moving and look down as I walk towards our bedroom. My chest is wet from her tears, and her arms are wrapped around my neck as she continues to cry.

Seeing her passed out, I gently lay her on the bed. "Oh my love, please, honey, come to me. Let me be the strength you need. Talk to me when you need to, beautiful. I will always be here for you. You are my family now, my life, my love, my heart, and my soul. Rest, baby. I will be back soon and rest with you," I whisper in her ear, leaning down slowly so I can place a light kiss on her lips.

Standing back up, slowly exiting the bedroom, and shutting the door, I head back to the kitchen just in time to help Alma finish up. "Thank you, Alma, I mean it. If you hadn't been there for her and the kids, I hate to think what would have happened to them. You are an angel!" Giving her a hug as I talk to her, she leans into it and pats my back.

"They have become my family as well, David. Those girls have made my life bearable since my husband died several years ago. I thought my life was over, but Serenity and Jasmine always found time to make me laugh and see that life still goes on. They are precious. Jessica has raised those girls right and judging by what I see, you are going to be a great father and role model for them. Just go slow and never forget to look around and enjoy what you have. Life is precious and short. Enjoy every moment, young man."

Seeing her walking towards the living room, I follow her. "David, I must head home. I have some things I must do, and time's a-wastin'. Thank you for having me over." Coming up to me, Alma gently puts her hand on my cheek while looking up at me. "If only I were 30 years younger, you would have a third woman on your hands, young man." Sighing, she turns around, and we both walk out to her car.

"Alma, can you please do me a favor?"--I see her nod and a curious look in her eyes--"Please be on watch for her husband. I don't trust him, and he knows you have a close relationship with his kids and wife, and I have a bad feeling about him and you being so close--" She doesn't let me finish.

"Young man, I have lived in that house for over 40 years. My parents owned that place. I will be careful, but I will not abandon it. I have a gun; it's small, but it will still hurt. Take care of your family--it's growing. I hope to see you all again soon." Alma starts opening her door as I tell her she is always welcome here, day or night.

Giving me a smile, she gets in her car and drives off. Standing there watching her pull out of my driveway, my gut gives me a bad feeling. Shaking my head while I head back inside, looking around the house and making sure the kitchen is clean with no stray glass, I head back upstairs.

Checking on Jessica, seeing her breathing regularly and sleeping soundly, I quietly grab my cell, close the door, and head downstairs. Thinking for a moment, I make a call.

Ringing.........

Caroline answers, "Hi handsome, how's your day so far?"

I fill her in, "Not so good. Jessica came home with Alma, and as she was getting drinks for us, Jes had a breakdown. I think everything is just now hitting her hard. Any way you can come home? I think she needs us both right now. I'm going to crawl back in bed and lie with her, cuddle up, and hope she knows it's me."

"Oh God, I was wondering when this would happen. I could tell she was getting to the breaking point yesterday. I'm sorry, honey, I can't make it. I have several important meetings today. I won't be able to get out of them until three. Will you be okay till then?" Caroline commiserates over the phone.

"Yeah, we should be. I may go with her to pick the kids up. I think she needs me more now than at any time in the past. I'm worried about her sweetheart. Would a therapist help her, I wonder?"

"It might, but I doubt she would go to one easily. Maybe if one or all of us go with her? We could talk to her about it at least. She needs it. I think the girls may need a bit too, not just our love, but a little professional help."

"I agree, we can only do so much for them, and I think it's helping, but we aren't professionals, and maybe a bit of family would be good for them? I also wanted to talk to you about something tonight, all of us as a family."

"What do you need to talk about, honey? Sounds important. You know I'll support you in what you want to do. I love you so much. I never thought I would find a guy like you, and now we have a baby coming. I'm in heaven!"

"I want to talk it over with everyone. I'll say this, though: I've been wanting to reconnect with someone and thought it would be a good idea to invite them to visit us. If they are able to."

Caroline lets out a soft chuckle. "I hope you're talking about Anitra. I know we would love to have her visit us, and maybe we girls could connect with her too. Pry a few embarrassing stories about you in the process? Damn, sorry honey, I have to go. My next appointment is here. See you at home, and I'm sorry I can't come back sooner."

I sign off, "Don't worry, sweetheart, I know you're busy. I'll lie with her and comfort her. Love you, baby. See you when you get home."

Hanging up, I went back upstairs and stripped my clothes off. Lying beside Jessica, I set the alarm for two and curled up with her. I can hear her whimper as I wrap my arm around her. I whisper in her ear. "It's okay, baby. It's just me, David. I'm here for you; you're safe here. No one will hurt you here, I promise, My Love."

Hearing her calm down, she snuggles up closer to me. I let go of all the stress too and fell asleep.

After a few hours, I woke up hearing a panicked voice. Opening my eyes, I can see Jessica having a nightmare. Holding her tighter and whispering to her, hoping to calm her down. She screams and wakes up, bolting upright in bed.

Looking around, she finally spots me. Seeing the panicked look in her eyes, I watch her while talking in a calm and loving voice. Gradually she begins to calm down, and I can see her start to recognize me.

"DAVID!" She is screaming my name in pain, and she jumps towards me, forcing us both back onto the bed with her on top of me. Wrapping my arms around her tight, my own anger at what her husband has done to her now is climbing higher. Forcing it down, I know it will do nothing if she sees that anger in my eyes.

Holding her for a while, she finally calms down enough to talk to me about her nightmare. Reliving her abuses and terror living with HIM.

"How can you possibly love someone like me, David?" Her voice trembles, filled with sorrow. "I'm so damaged, a broken woman. I'll never be the person you deserve. I'm truly sorry!" Overwhelmed by emotion, tears stream down her face as despair consumes her.

Gently, taking her hands and cradling her head in my palms, my thumbs brushing away the flowing tears. I hold her gaze, wanting her to see my unwavering support.

As Jessica looked up at me, the depth of her pain reflected in her eyes was striking. Yet, alongside that sorrow, I discerned something else emerging--an unsettling emotion that I couldn't quite place and found myself dreading.

Jessica's lips form words, but I have to lean in closer to catch her frantic voice. "Where were you, David? Where was the hero who swooped in to save me from the villain?" Her gaze lifts to meet mine, and I'm struck by an intensity of emotion I've never witnessed before. A storm of rage, hatred, and deep sorrow swirls in her eyes, merging into a profound pain. Suddenly, with a grip that feels like it could shatter me, she seizes my arms and screams, "WHERE WAS MY HERO!?"

Tears cascade down her face, marred by fury and despair. I stand helplessly, paralyzed by the weight of her words, unsure of how to comfort her in this moment. My heart aches for the woman I love, and tears threaten to spill from my own eyes, reflecting the turmoil that surrounds us both.

Her beautiful face twists into a mask of fury, a major shift that seizes my attention completely. With fierce determination, she lifts her chin and releases a primal shriek, a gut-wrenching expression of the rage and pain that surrounds her. Instinctively, I wrap my arms around her as if trying to harness the pain within her. Despite the powerful blows she lands on my shoulders, an unusual numbness surrounds me, making me resilient to her strikes. Each hit starkly highlights her torment, prompting me to realize that my own struggles are insignificant besides her anguish. I hold her tightly, seeking to bring a sense of calm to the chaos that envelops us, needing to create a brief moment of peace amid her turmoil.

"Jess, please, just look at me," I urged gently, finally catching her gaze. A smile spread across my face as I pressed on. "I need you to know that I love you deeply. Do you have any idea what I see when I look at you?" She shook her head, uncertainty lingering in her eyes. "What I see is a vibrant, incredibly strong woman. You've faced the worst of what life has thrown at you and stood tall through it all for years. Right here in front of me is someone with a resilience that I can't even fathom. Never for a moment should you believe you're broken or damaged. You are a warrior who has fought battles that most shouldn't have to face."

Drawing her closer, I maintained our connection, ensuring that she felt my unwavering support. "But you must understand something, sweetheart. You don't have to battle this alone anymore. Both Caroline and I love you immensely. We're right here, standing by your side. You can trust that we will never abandon you or cause you pain."

Taking a deep breath, I continue, "Sweetheart, I want you to really hear this. You have a family now, a family committed to making the rest of your life a beautiful journey. I never thought I would say this, but I feel the need to share what's in my heart. Do you understand?" I paused, waiting for her nod of acknowledgment. "Jasmine and Serenity are OUR children who adore you. You have brought so much joy into their lives, and when the time comes for your divorce, I hope to step into the role of their father--not just in title, but in my heart. I dream of marrying you and adopting those two precious girls along with Caroline, and I'm certain she shares the same feelings."

After what seemed like an eternity, Jessica finally stopped hitting me and screaming, only to fall against me, out cold.

Laying her down gently on the bed, leaning down, I whisper in her ear, "I'm here, my love. I'm with you always and forever. Lean on me, give me everything you have, baby. I can take it. Give me your pain and anger, your hate, and let it all out. I will always be your rock. I love you, Jessica."

Lying down beside her, I pull her close to me and watch her sleep as my heart breaks for her and what she is going through, reinforcing my conviction to want to kill her husband for what he has done!

Feeling her warm body close to me, I think back to the months we have known each other, seeing her laugh and how bright her eyes were when we were together, how she was so active.

Flashback

I'm sitting at one of our favorite little cafes, waiting for her. Noting the time and that it's past what we had set, hoping beyond hope that she is okay and not hurt again where I can't help her. I know this time, though, that I will wait for her no matter how long.

I look up as I hear a familiar voice, feeling my face brighten and my smile grow with each step this goddess takes toward me. Seeing her wearing her usual dark purple gown with her black slippers and hair done up in a ponytail this time, I couldn't do anything but whistle at this absolute goddess.

Jessica sat down and looked at me. "Sorry for being late, David. I had to stay up all night and most of the day yesterday to clean the house, take care of the kids, plus cook. George does absolutely nothing around the house to help." I can hear the tiredness in her voice and see it in her eyes.

Smiling at her, gently grabbing her hand, and giving her a small squeeze. "It's okay, Jess. I understand. You could have called and canceled so you could rest. I would have wanted you to."--gently chuckling at my own words--"Jess, would you like to come to my place? You can rest, relax, and take a nap. You'll be safe there."

Jess shakes her head. "No, let's not talk about this. I want to enjoy what time we have left. Thank you, David, my hero."

We continued on our day, laughing and having fun just being us. It felt like I was dating the most wonderful woman in the world. We talked about our dreams, what we wanted from our future, and a little about our past.

End Flashback

A couple of hours later, I woke up with Jessica nowhere around. Fearing the worst, I scramble around, first in the bathroom, then in each of the bedrooms upstairs. Finally hearing a noise downstairs in the kitchen, I run down, almost running into the arch frame.

Hearing my hasty entrance into the kitchen, I see Jessica jump and look at me fearfully. Rushing up to her, embracing her tightly to me, and breathing a sigh of relief, I say, "OH THANK GOD!! I couldn't find you and got scared after this morning! Baby, talk to me. What can I do to help you through this?"

"Help me through what, David? David, you're scaring me! What's wrong?" The terror in her voice grabbed me hard, making me pull up and look at her fully.

"Jessica, do you not remember the breakdown you had? The screaming and questions? I'm worried about you, honey! Please talk to me." I can hear the pain and feel my heart breaking, wondering what was going on with her. Why couldn't she remember what she did? Why couldn't she remember what she asked me? The one question that nearly broke me.

"David, I don't know what you're talking about. I felt tired when I got back with Alma and then went to the kitchen. After that, I guess I fell asleep or something because I woke up in bed with you beside me." I hear her sigh. "David, I appreciate that you're worried, but I'm fine. I guess I just needed a bit more sleep than I thought, okay? I love you, and I know you will be here with me." Placing her hands on each side of my head, she looks into my eyes with a smile that could brighten the world. How do I know? It blinded me with its brilliance, and I couldn't help but smile back.

Inside I was still worried about her. "Jess, you didn't fall asleep. You dropped a glass, and it shattered around you. When Alma and I came in, you were just about to fall when I caught you. I took you to bed, and Alma swept up the glass and then went home. When I came upstairs, you were having a nightmare, and with the questions you kept asking, you were getting angry at me. It scared me, honey!"

Jessica eyed me for a bit. "What questions did I ask, David? I don't remember them at all."

Guiding her to a chair at the kitchen table, I took one close to her and sat down as well. "Jess, you kept asking where I was, where your hero was, and why I didn't save you sooner. You kept hitting my chest. I could see you were in pain, almost like you were reliving something. I don't know how to answer your questions. All I can say is, I came as soon as I knew I was needed. Honey, I can't go back in time and find you sooner; I wish I could. I was there when you needed me the most. I also remember you calling me your hero. I do wish I had found you sooner."--gently grabbing her hand-- "All I can give you is this promise, Jess. I will try to always be there when you need me when the kids need me, and when Carolyn needs me. All I can be is the man you love and the man you need in your life moving forward. Can you accept that, hun?"

Jessica gives me a pained look. Her eyes watering up, breaking my heart. "Honey, I'm so sorry. I should never have said that. Never asked that of you. You did save me, and I love you for that. I guess I took so much abuse from my husband just to keep the kids safe that I never thought of how it affected me."

"Jessica, you have been strong for so long, yet when it's time for you to be weak and show your emotions, you fight it. It's almost like you're afraid of them. Please, baby, let them out, and don't hold them back. I want you to open up to me and let me be there for you more. You don't have to be strong anymore. Let me take some of it off of you so you can relax and be a mother and a wife to a man who will cherish you and kids who love you with all their hearts." My feelings are raw knowing she is in pain, but there is little I can do to help, and that hurts me as well.

Lying my head on her lap, with my body between her legs, wrapping my arms around her waist, I reach up and give her a light kiss on the lips, looking directly into her eyes. "You are an amazing woman, you know that?"

Smiling at me, resting her head on mine, she replies, "No, I don't, my love. I'm a broken and damaged woman. How can you love me? Maybe I deserved my husband? The pain. For the life of me, though, I don't know what I did or didn't do to deserve that. Honey, I love you, but I'm scared."

Wrapping my arms tighter, bringing her closer to me, I ask, "Of what, my love? What are you scared of? Please tell me. We can work together as a team to fight anything that comes at you. Be it demons in your head, heart, or soul, or anyone outside OUR family. You are my wife, just as much as Caroline is; this is how I see you both. I would never intentionally hurt you, and if I do hurt you in any way, I want you to slap me upside my head and tell me what I did, even if you have to yell it at me, sweetheart. I will listen." Hearing her question herself and asking if she had deserved that cruel fate that landed her with her current husband tears at my soul. With anger in my voice, I demand, "Jessica, I want you to listen to me. You did nothing to deserve the cruelty you had to put up with from that piece of shit abuser. Do you hear me? Nothing! No one deserves that! What he deserves is to be punished for the rest of his life as a prison bitch for what he did to you and the girls! Do you hear me, baby?"

I guess hearing the anger in my voice and what I had said broke through, as she screamed while wrapping her arms around my neck, and with tears in her eyes, she gave me the tightest hug I have ever felt. I thought my neck was going to snap from the force of her hug.

Holding her, letting her cry herself out. I could feel her pain. Hearing her whispering, I listen closely. "I'm scared, David. I'm scared you're going to turn into the same man as George did. I'm scared I'll do something to make you hate me and lose you. I'm scared of losing you to George. I'm scared of falling in love again, even though I'm already in love with you! Oh God, I'm so scared and unsure of everything anymore! Help me, please?!"

Looking around, I try to think of what to say. "Jess, I love you. I know you're scared. Maybe seeking professional help would allow you to heal, along with Caroline and me. We are both here for you. I will make you this promise, though." At this, I stand up and reach down for her hand, pulling her up as she grabs it.

Looking directly into her eyes, I solemnly say, "Jessica, If you would have me, I want to give you my last name. I want your kids to have my last name. I want so much to have you in my family. The ache in my heart, seeing what you're going through, is nothing compared to the pain you went through all those years. I want you, the kids, our kids. I want all of us to be a family. A real family. BUT, I will only go as fast as you want to go, or as slow as you want me to go. I will not do anything to harm you intentionally." I pull her closer to me, her hair in my face, her scent pushing my heart into overdrive.

Wrapping my arms around her tight, I hope beyond hope that she understands that I will never give her up, never abandon her, and never allow anyone to hurt her again. Leaning down a bit so my mouth is close to her ear, I whisper, "I love you, the woman you are, the woman you became, the strength it took to withstand everything you have been through, the woman your kids admire and love. I will always be here for you as much as I can be; anything and everything I can do, I will do. All I ask is that you give me a chance, my love."

Her arms wrapped around my waist tighten up as her body heaves. Tears welling up in my eyes at her pain, I know all I can do is be here for her and be her rock. Tightening my arms around her, I stand there and let her cry herself out, knowing anything I say now would just be unneeded.

After a few minutes, her breathing settles into a more even pace. Pulling away from me as she looks up into my eyes, she says, "I don't deserve you, David, but I'm thankful I got you in my life. I'm so sorry for yelling and saying those hurtful words. Forgive me, please?" Her voice was so low, I had to strain to hear her.

Hearing the pain in her voice, I have to react. "I cannot forgive you for those words, Jess," I reply, hardening my voice so she understands I mean what I say. Hearing her intake of breath and the catch in her voice, I continue, "I cannot forgive them, for there is nothing TO forgive. You should never apologize for what you have endured, the pain you are feeling, and sharing that pain. I want you to let it out. I want you to show me what you have been through so I understand better the misery you have been through, the pain. Honey, I don't ever want you to be sorry for something you cannot control. I want you to come to me and vent, talk, and share. Okay?"

I felt her nod her head against my chest, and we stayed embracing each other until we both heard the alarm go off.

"Time to get the kids. Would you like me to accompany you, lovely lady?" I asked, knowing she was going to be a distracted driver. "I would also like to know how to get the girls myself if you can't."

Looking up at me, thinking for a moment, she replied, "David, I just told the school that their father is no longer allowed to pick them up. I think it would be too soon for that. I'll be okay. I've got too much to lose to be a distracted driver." Smiling at me as though she read my mind, she continues, "I know you, I know you're going to worry about me. I'll be fine, baby. I promise." As she takes a step back from me, I can see the smile on her full, beautiful lips has reached her eyes.

"I'm not just worried about you, sweetheart. I'm worried about the kids too. I trust you. I trust you with my heart and everything I have, honey. My love." And stepping to her, I whisper in her ear, "My heart and soul." As I speak the last word, I take her ear into my mouth and gently nibble, knowing how she loves that.

As I thought, I heard her moan in lust, and I smiled.

Jessica walks slowly away from me, and I miss the mischievous glint in her smile and eyes. As she passes me, I turn my head towards the kitchen to get ready for dinner and get a drink for myself. Just as I'm about to start walking,

*SLAP*

Grabbing my ass in pain, I turn quickly, hearing Jessica laughing at me. "That is for Carolyn and me, mister. We can slap your ass too, remember that." The playful look in her eyes brightens my own mood, and I can't help but chuckle as well.

Jessica - The Drive

As David and I got into the car, yes, his car, I had to readjust the seat to suit my small frame. Looking over at him, I can see a smirk on his face. "Yes, I've got a tall, handsome man who forces me to readjust the seat. Sue me!" Both of us laugh while he puts his arm around me.

Backing out, I feel his arm around me, giving me a comforting feeling. How I missed being held in a car, feeling love like this. I couldn't remember when I felt like this before.

Heading down the road, we got into a nice conversation about our future and what we wanted.

About twenty minutes later, we arrived at the school. I let David walk with me to the office, just as the school bell rang. Waiting for the kids in the parking lot, watching the kids trying to find their parents, David was the first to spot my twins. Our twins. GOD, just the thought of calling them our twins brings my heart joy.

Looking over at David, standing there tall and proud, I couldn't help but smile at his profile, strong, rugged, and yet you can see the care and softness in him that he has shown us. I couldn't help but compare him to my husband. All I could see was how much better of a man David was than George.

A few minutes later, a pair of voices screaming "DADDY!" broke my thoughts, and looking around, I saw the girls screaming and running towards us. The smiles on their faces, already healing from their abuse at the hands of their father. Their sperm donor.

David bends down, resting his back against the wall just as the girls jump into his arms. Squealing and laughing. Hugging him as though they missed him, taking in the sight, it finally dawns on me. They both are smarter than I have been. They see David more as a father, and I was blind to it all. Or was I so far into my head that I failed to see how much of an influence he has been on all of us?

Looking around us, I see several other parents watching with bright smiles, and a few who knew who I was gave me slight nods of approval. A blush was rushing up into my face, but a smile was on my lips.

The next thing I heard was "MAMA!" as my two girls ran to me. Giving each a hug and kiss on the cheek. They both head towards the car just as their teacher comes up to us.

"Jess, David," she greets us both warmly. "I have to say, both girls have been more active and more social than at any time I have ever seen them. Whatever you two have been doing, keep doing it. I have never seen them so active and happy. It's like they have been born anew." She turned to the girls, "Ok girls, you both have homework. I want to see them in the morning. OK?"

Both girls nod their heads as the teacher starts turning towards David. My eyes watering at the sight of their healing and how much they have come out of their shell with David, I know now that I made the right choice being with him. Watching as the teacher hugs David, I see her lips move but can't hear what she says.

Walking back to the car, I can see everyone else is busy trying to get out and get on with their lives. Getting to the car, the girls are asking David so many questions that he can't keep up. I can see his eyes dancing in delight even though his face is a mix of love and confusion, trying to keep up.

Walking up behind David, wrapping my arms around his waist, and kissing his neck as he leans back into me, I ask, "Honey, do you want me to drive home, or would you like to drive back?"

Looking into my eyes, he has the biggest smile I have ever seen on him as he indicates for me to drive. Softly laughing, I watch as Serenity gets in first, and to my surprise, David gets in next, then Jasmine last. Watching as David wraps his arms around the girls, leaning into him, they are already busy showing him their schoolwork and talking up a storm.

My eyes mist over this--my girls have changed so quickly in such a short amount of time. It boggles my mind at how attached they have become to David.

After starting the car and pulling out of the school parking lot, we head home as I listen to the barrage of questions asked by the girls about the man who has grabbed all our hearts. I smile each time he patiently answers their questions and shows them so much love.

Arriving home, the girls get out quickly, running to the house. Just as they get to the door, David yells for them to go to the kitchen and start on their homework. I don't think they heard him from the squeals we hear a few seconds later.

Walking into the house ourselves, we fail to notice the car turning around just outside the gate.

Caroline

I arrive home a few minutes after Jessica leaves to pick up the kids. Expecting David to be home, I frown slightly that he isn't home. I figured he went with her to pick up the girls. Which leaves me an hour to relax and take a shower. This day was too long and too horrible without my fiancé there to help with stress relief.

After showering and changing my clothes, I sit in the living room with a good book and a glass of wine. I was so surprised at how extensive David's wine collection was, and his taste in wine was superb!

With half of my second glass still in my hand, I hear a car pulling into the driveway. Standing up, I watch as the door is opened and hear David's voice outside. Expecting him to enter, I am caught off guard as two girls rush into the house with so much energy. As they see me, I hear them squeal and rush to me. Not expecting such a display from two normally very shy and introverted girls, I'm caught unaware and nearly knocked down as they both grab me into a hug. What they said next nearly broke me.

"Mama! We love you. Can you help us with our math homework, Mama!?" Jasmine and Serenity both ask together.

I wonder. Mama? Since when have I become their mom? And how is Jess going to handle this with what David told me this morning?

Looking up, I see Jessica and David standing there, with his arm around her shoulder as Jessica is softly crying but with a giant smile on her lips.

Squatting down, eye level with the girls, I tell them I would love to. They both give me a giant hug, fearing for my neck breaking. I rush them off to the kitchen and tell them to be ready.

I look at Jessica, concern and surprise in my eyes, as she rushes to me. Bracing myself, she wraps her arms around me and locks her lips to mine. To say earth-shattering would be an insult to this kiss. Wrapping my arms around her tightly, I kiss her back just as passionately.

Breaking off the kiss, Jessica looks deep into my eyes. "Caroline, I'm so sorry. I love you. Would it be okay if I called you my wife? Even if it's just in the house, I would love to be yours. I realize how scared and how much of an idiot I have been. Please forgive me. I want you and David so much. Can you see it in your heart to welcome me as your wife and sister?" I can hear her voice trembling. Why is she scared!?

"As for you being my wife, I'm already thinking of you that way, baby. The moment we both agreed to be David's, you became my wife. I love you!" I watch her eyes as they grow in size. "Forgive you, baby? Why would I need to forgive you? You have done nothing to be forgiven for. David and I will be here for and with you every step of the way to help you heal and to show you how much we love you. I have missed you so much since you married that asshole!" Pressing my lips against her soft, velvety lips, as my left-hand wraps around her waist and squishes her into my body, my right-hand reaches down and grabs her ass as I pull her further into my kiss.

The rest of the day goes by fast. David and I work with the girls on their homework, while Jess starts making supper for us all. I notice a skip in her walk and how her demeanor has changed and has become more outgoing and expressive. Underneath, though, I know she is still going through a lot of pain, steeling myself to be there for her. I start thinking about how I can take more time to be home for her and the family we are building.

"Home." Not realizing I stated this out loud.

Looking around I realize everything has gone quiet.

"Home? Are you okay, sweetheart?" David asks me.

"Carol, you okay, honey?" That was Jessica.

"Mama, this is our home now. We are all home," Serenity declares.

"That's right, Mama. This is our home. David is our dad now. We both now have two mamas, and we are happy. Right?" Jasmine looks around at all three adults. "Sis and I talked today at recess about what we want." Jasmine takes a huge breath while she and her sister stare at each other. Finally, Jasmine turns to us. "We want David as our dad. Our forever Dad. We want Mom Caroline to be our mama just as Mama is our mama. This is our family, and this is our home. Right?" She looks up at Jessica. "Mama, is that okay? Can this be home?" Then, Jasmine whispers, hardly audible, "... And we love you, all of you."

OH. MY. GOD. My hands fly to my mouth in shock. Looking at David, I can see he is in shock as well. Turning around to look at Jessica, she is on her knees in tears as the girls run to her. I hear Jasmine and Serenity crying in their mother's arms.

Jessica calms down enough and pushes the girls to arm's length just long enough to talk to them. "Are you sure, girls? Is that what you want? I only want you girls happy, safe, and full of love. If you two want this to be our home, then that's what I want too! I want David as my husband, and I want Caroline as my wife as well. What do you say to that, sweetie?"

Both girls look at us as they nod their heads in assent. I can't help but burst into tears of happiness. Here I am, carrying David's first child, and now I have two more children who want to see me as their mother as well. I never thought I would be this way. A mother, a wife in a throuple/poly relationship with two people I love with all my heart.

The girls are happy, and after we calm them down, we finish their homework and set up for supper at the table.

Later that night

The girls were swimming after supper, while we adults talked on the patio. It felt great to relax and decompress.

As night rolls around, I call for the girls to come out and get ready for bed. Hearing grumbling from both of them, I can't help but laugh. "Come on, girls, the pool will be there tomorrow after school too, okay? Right now you need to get a shower, brush your teeth, and get ready for bed."

"OK, Dad!" Serenity yells out.

I'm proud of how Serenity is coming out of her shell after what Jessica told us about her. Seems she was more affected by what was happening to her mother than Jasmine but not by much. I think Jasmine was protecting her sister as much as she could.

As we watch the girls go inside to get cleaned up and to bed, we all get very wet surprise hugs from both girls. Jessica and Caroline scream, and I jump in surprise as we all watch those two run away laughing at us. Looking at my two wives, all we can do is smile and shake our heads.

Jessica and Caroline go up to the master bedroom to change out of their wet outfits as I take a walk around the house. Looking back on my life, I would never have thought I would have two wives, and two kids with another one on the way, and yet be so happy. Walking into the living room, my eyes fall upon the mantle with my parents' ashes.

Closing my eyes, I picture my parents as they were when I last saw them. Remembering the times we argued, and laughed, and all the times as a child I pushed them to the breaking point, yet they still loved me and laughed as I made a fool of myself while helping me learn to do better.

Thinking about my questions to them, I start talking to them mentally. Mom, Dad, what I feel right now, thinking of these kids and the one growing inside Caroline, the fear and anxiety, the love and hope all mixed together, did you ever feel this way? Did you think you could be good enough for them? For me? All I can do is thank you for the memories and use them to help me be the father I need to be for my kids. All of them. Thank you for being the best parents a boy, no, a man, can have.

Opening my eyes, feeling a sense of pride and peace envelop me, I take one last look around and make sure the doors are locked and security is on.

Heading up the stairs, my first stop is each of the girls' rooms, quietly opening the door to make sure they are okay. Smiling at their peaceful faces, closing the door quietly so as not to wake them up.

Heading to the master bedroom next. I walk in to see Caroline and Jessica lying together, already asleep.

Undressing down to my briefs, I crawl in beside Caroline, cuddling up to her back while my arm snuggles against Jessica's side.

Jasmine

I wake up from a dream, my first good dream in months, and I lie in bed thinking about it. How David played with my sis and me in the pool. Smiling, I look over at Serenity, sleeping peacefully for the first time since our bio dad started hitting us. I don't think Mom even knows how long he has been hitting us, mostly just slapping us on the back of the head or grabbing the back of our necks and shoving us around. I know Serenity took the brunt of it, trying to protect me, just as I tried to protect her.

Thinking back to that last night at our last home, we were so scared, hearing our dad scream at Mom, calling her all sorts of names. Not a day went by when we didn't cry ourselves to sleep, holding each other and hoping we woke up in the morning. Every day was filled with fear and chaos.

Now? Now we are happy. We have someone who makes us laugh, plays with us, lets us be in his life, and even helps tease Mom. Mom? We now have two moms, and I'm not sure about how I feel. I love Caroline--she has been just like our new dad, and we can see she absolutely loves Mom too. But is it right for Mom and Mama to be that way?

I talked to a classmate today who has two moms but no dad. His dad left his mom when he was young; he barely remembers his dad anymore. I talked to him about how he feels having two moms, and he said it was fine. He still gets disciplined, can't get away with anything, and his second mom is more like a dad to him. Strict but loving. When I told him about my two moms and dad (David), his mouth dropped, and he said he was jealous. We talked for almost an hour about how we felt about our families, and it was he who convinced me that it was okay. As long as everyone loves each other, it would be okay. I remember when his mom got remarried to her wife a couple of years ago. And he seems fine to me. Maybe we will be too?

Getting out of bed, needing to use the bathroom, and drink some water.

Heading out of the bedroom, I quickly use the restroom and head downstairs. Just as I'm halfway down the stairs, I hear the garage door open into the hallway. I'm scared now. I don't know what to do!

I quietly walk down to the corner and peek around. OH NO!! Gasping, he sees me and yells, "GIRL! GET OVER HERE NOW!" It can't be! How did he find us? I scream! I see a gun in his hand and scream again.

"DADDY!!!" I see his face grin. I don't like that grin. It scares me!

Running back upstairs, I head straight for David's bedroom, still screaming for Daddy.

Before I can get there, I see the door open, and there stands David, panic in his eyes as he adjusts to the darkness. Running straight into him, crying and in fear for my life, all I hear is his apology before he shoves me into his bedroom. I see Mom and Mama lying in bed with the covers over their bodies and run straight to them. Jumping on the bed, I curl up in a ball between them.

I hear Mama scream out David's name and look up as he runs out the door. I can't stop the words from coming out of my mouth, "DADDY NOOO!!!"

The next thing we hear is two gunshots going off, making us all scream in terror.

I can hear Serenity screaming my name as well. Then we hear her screaming, "Daddy is hurt" and for "help." Mama gets up quickly and runs out the door, then we hear her scream his name, and the pain in her voice makes me cry more. I grab hold of Mom as I continuously scream "DAD" over and over again.

TO BE CONTINUED...