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2025-02-20
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2025-03-24
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Nine Months & Six Courses

Summary:

When The Hawthorne went up in a Hellish inferno. The prestigious private island restaurant's lone survivor, Margot Mills, naturally assumed its dark & slightly formidable celebrity Chef had locked in his own cremation. As she sat on the commandeered dinky Coast Guard boat, savoring that damn cheeseburger, little did she know, even after her own life's traumatic experience. What lie ahead can be full of surprises. Warning mpreg in later chapters and some language. 𝐅𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝑯𝑨𝑷𝑻𝑬𝑹 𝟳 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒖𝒑!!! 𝑵𝒐𝒘 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 7 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔!
Author's note: This fic takes in the spring of 2023. With occasional flip-flopping between it and the year previous, 2022 (aligning with the actual year of the film's release.)

Chapter 1: The Discovery

Chapter Text

 

 

It had been over a half year since Margot's harrowing escape from the prestigious and deadly Hawthorne. Never in her life had she seen such insanity, it etched into her brain for all eternity. Three suicides, the Chef included. And a countless number murdered, Margrot still couldn't shake the image of blood spurting from the over-jealous maître d's jugular. "It was self defense"  She kept repeating to herself in a shaky whisper. Yes, her profession may not have been "proper". But, no one could ever accuse her of murder...until that heart-stopping evening back in mid September of last year.

She had long since left the scummy world of escorting. Preferring a road with perhaps a bit more repute, a medical secretary. And even after all this time, she still hadn't gotten that damn cheeseburger off her mind. That crazy bastard was right, it was the best she had ever tasted.

Oftentimes she wondered if the world renowned Chef survived? No, no one could possibly survive something of that magnitude. Suddenly, an even more unsettling image flashed through her brain, stabbing it like an ice pick. Causing her to slam her eyes shut. What a stupid, stupid, foolish thing to do. She fucked the creep in his office that evening. Agh she could feel herself briefly physically shudder. Margot supposed, she felt valued..in the strangest of sensations. As absolutely creepy as the older man was. He appreciated she stood up to him, she appreciated finally being noticed. Something forever absent in her departed prick of a pseudo date, Tyler Ledford.

October 27, 2022

The  battered, 50-something year old, Julian Slowik, had found himself, yet again, clutching at the coldness of the porcelain throne. It was probably the second or third time in just that day alone, he had lost the already sparse contents in his stomach. The first and partial second degree burn scars, spotting his legs, and a portion of his left elbow. Were harsh reminders of what he had done that fateful evening. Perhaps this illness was the Universe's retribution for the lives he had taken. Even his own mother's.

He too, to seal his own cremation when he could see and feel the flames start to rather rapidly, climb up the legs of his pants. Within a few brief seconds, he had regretted his decision immediately. Managing to not only survive being burnt alive. But put the flames out before they could reek further irreparable damage. He didn't know why the sudden change of heart. Was he a coward? A failure? Like that bitch, Lilian Bloom's rather scathing review? 

No. Deep down, he knew why. Just as he was playing stupid with this illness. Before he could give himself time to think, another merciless wave of nausea struck. Grimacing at his own unpleasant sounds of coughing and retching. Feeling a cold sweat cling to his face like the pretentious seaweed, sea salt ornate garbage his 12 person group had somehow powered through. His breath shaky, hoping like mad, his fickle stomach would quell. 

The sound of his cell's alarm chimed. Breaking him out of a fog. The former celebrity Chef, clad in a black T-shirt and thin gray sweatpants (a definite departure from his crisp, White Chef's coat and tailored black trousers). He pushed himself off the cold, bathroom tile. A polished stone look. Still clinging onto that ostentatious sliver of his former life. He made the very short trek, over towards the marbled counter top. Where atop it, lie a single pregnancy test. A thin sheet of toilet paper beneath it. This was madness. Surely, he was much too old for first time father territory.

But, the timeline didn't lie. It was exactly a month and a half since he and the lone girl to defy him had that unforgettable moment. Both in a state of histrionic and vulnerability. Finally, the calloused, weathered fingers plucked the test from it's place. His steel blue eyes then narrow, a dead focus on the tiny window, a window that would ultimately determine the outcome for the rest of his life. He felt his breath hitch, immediately feeling a sharp gasp escape him. In the window, for all the world to see. A bold. blue ➕.

Chapter 2: You Are Your Mother's Child

Summary:

I apologize this chapter is shorter, with barely any dialogue. But, I promise, this is a launching chapter for more build-up later on. This is a Julian-centric chapter. Delving into a little more background on his life following the events of The Hawthorne. Taking place in (pre-spring) late February.

Chapter Text

Thank you, readers. For not only kindly taking the time to read this fic. But especially to leave kudos and  great feedback. It really means a lot to me and actually makes me want to continue and see this story to the end. I had major doubts initially. Even contemplating deleting this altogether. So glad I didn't.

February 23, 2023

Julian weathered an internal battle. Should he attempt to get in touch with Margot and inform her of this development? After all, she had just as much a part in creating this child, as he did. Slowik now devoted his time, doing what he loved most. Cooking simple food for people that actually appreciated it. A small, rather obscure hole-in-the-wall joint where he could just be another face in the crowd. His travels led him to living out of a quaint houseboat (evoking much of the Sleepless in Seattle vibe) somewhere along the upper East Coast.

Of course, his days weren't solely consumed by the culinary black-hole. He left that with the aristocratic crowd and their inane need for over-the-top presentation. The latter part of his time, dedicated to the one being he felt that actually kept him company. His little hitchhiker, the cute hypocorism he had taken to calling the baby, seldomly. Only thing that could possibly rival the insanity that was him making it out of the Hawthorne relatively unscathed. Was the fact he was now officially, 6 months pregnant. Occasionally, feeling the little flutters, even what felt like rolling movements, brought the former cult leader Chef a sense of worth and, what he could best describe as pride. 

He was responsible for this little life. Despite reliving his glory days, hovering over deep fryers and flattop grills. He would never think to consume any of it whilst pregnant, even if he had made the meal himself. Oh, the irony. Julian was more than happy to escape the lavish perfectionist Hell he had cultivated over the years, but when it came to the health and well-being of his child, he wasn't afraid to refer back to the high class course schedule, barring the cannibalism, of course.

It was a night like any other, fixing his cravings with gourmet kale chips. His apron haphazardly hanging off a wall hook somewhere in the foyer. The saltiness of the air, wafting in intermediately. Julian settled in his usual spot on the couch. Finding drawstring pants to be a godsend as his baby bump continued to grow. Flipping through channels, when he happened upon some old history channel chronicling the early days of spice trade. 

"My God, what a bore"

He muttered aloud, finding a small smile slowly appear, once feeling the baby move ever so slightly. Just as he was meticulous of what he ate, so was his semi-frequent visits for prenatal checkups. Since he was fairly older than the majority of their patients. His file and medical history was to be sent over to be handled by a specialized facility- specifically catered towards older impending fathers, once he reached his third trimester.

Feeling slight, little movements beneath the palm of his hand. He found himself chuckling softly. He loved speaking to his unborn child, the privacy within his home, away from the hustle of work life. Perhaps the baby had grown tired of kale chips.

"You are your mother's child, little one. Still hungry...Maybe daddy can fix you a cheeseburger. Just this one time.."

 

Chapter 3: Foreshadowing?

Chapter Text

Yay! For chapter 3! I hope everyone likes it 😊. Since this is a continuation of Chapter 2. This still takes place on February the 23rd. The baby's gender is revealed here briefly, blink and you'll miss it. Enjoy, and thank you for reading! Reviews and kudos very much appreciated😊

Only the most organic, grass-fed ground beef would do. He feels that vaguely familiar small smile, creep back again. Laying out all the fresh ingredients before him. Lightly dusting the handcrafted burger patties with a few grinds of black pepper. The sizzle in the cast-iron skillet, as the meat's outer edges formed a beautiful crust, cooked on a safe, medium setting.

Carefully layering on two slices of mild cheddar each, none of that American cheese processed garbage. Shit was one molecule away from being plastic. Once the cheese was just at the right melting stage, he scooped on a couple large spoonfuls of caramelized onions. Setting it delicately atop the second beef patty. Finally, rounding out the meal with the top bun.

He contemplated on omitting the crinkle cut fries, completely. The double cheeseburger itself, was more than enough calories. His brain began playing a game of Pong.

Bouncing between his most recent prenatal checkup (gender revealed to be a baby girl) and the current setting with greasy, fattening food. He could hear his overseeing physician's voice, ringing sharply in his ears "that garbage will jeopardize her health".

But, his baby was hungry, and it was his sole purpose and responsibility to keep her well nourished and happy. The small smile reappears on his face. Gently plating the hot, crispy fries next to the burger. Adding a final garnish of truffle salt to taste. He chuckles softly, feeling the baby stir slightly.

"Just as this food was made with love, so were you were you- on that spectacular September evening, little one"

His unborn daughter stirred once again, it was then the Chef finally took his first bite of that beautiful cheeseburger. Feeling the grease run down his chin, the flavor-packed hit of the caramelized onions. It was absolutely incredible. Damn near orgasmic. However, also unfortunate. As he would more than likely, not going to be making the glorified fast food again for the unforeseeable future.

He closes his eyes, taking a bite of a crinkle fry. That satisfying crunch of the outer layer, whilst inside remained soft and warm. A meal, truly worth savoring.

It was one of those days where Margot wanted nothing more than to relax with a cigarette or two. Enjoy the calm, and sounds of nothing but bird chatter. But, this was Meer Valley General, you were lucky to even have time to think for more than a minute.

The Hospital was probably most famous for treating a considerable number of expectant, older fathers. A strand of bright red hair, falls in Margot's face, as she looks over a particular file. This was the patient's second pregnancy. Marred by a freak miscarriage a year or two previous.

What was particularly interesting, the section containing the patient's preexisting injuries/scars, and context. One burn on his forearm and right side. Suddenly, the burn injuries caused her to snap back into reality. Was this patient familiar with the cultist Chef?

Was this some type of sick cosmic/foreshadowing joke that he was to pop back into her life again? Just the mere thought had her in a full bodied shudder. But, that was life sometimes, unpredictable and certainly not dull

Chapter 4: A Reunion For The Ages

Chapter Text

Julian reverts back to his creepy roots here. Finally, he and Margot are reunited. This fic has since been reduced from 10 chapters, to 7. Enjoy Chapter 4!! And thank you for reading 😊

The closer Julian got towards his third trimester. He tried remaining busy at his restaurant. Doing so would also aid in a fairly easy labor and delivery, he was reminded constantly, being forewarned not to just remain stagnant. Keeping active was also beneficial towards his daughter's development and health. But, there was a fine balance. He also had to be mindful not to overexert himself. Already being guilty of this at least two separate occasions when he overheated.

It was now becoming a bit difficult to even get close enough to the flattop to cook. Chuckling absentmindedly amongst himself as he noticed the White fabric of his shirt stretch in certain areas where the baby had shifted. Julian could hardly believe he was basically in the homestretch now. With only two weeks until his 8th month. It was his advanced paternal age that concerned the small prenatal clinic initially, bumping his transfer to the specialized facility a week early. 

Even after so much time had passed since the Hawthorne was reduced to nothing but ashes. The smell of smoke lingered, and the haunting resonating unison of his staff shouting in response "We Love You Too, Chef!" Yes, he was considered an absolute murderous psychopath. Yet, Slowik considered his own awful alcoholic, abusive father during his tumultuous childhood, even worse. Somehow, he managed to put the bottle down long enough whilst carrying him. However, almost immediately after he was born, was when the drinking resumed, but worse.

The moment he discovered he was pregnant, Slowik vowed he would protect her at all costs. That included refraining from alcohol, unhealthy food stuffs, and heavy lifting. He did, however, occasionally dabble in very light marijuana consumption to calm his nerves and deal with the chronic pain from the burn scars. At least one dogwalker a month, as long as the scans and measurements were where they needed to be, he was satisfied.

April 20, 2023 (Facility transfer-31 Weeks)

Julian gazed up at the magnificent letters sprawled proudly across the building's entrance. MEER VALLEY GENERAL HOSPITAL, the architecture in it of itself was quite impressive.The levels seeming to stretch upwards for miles, all lined with crystal clear windows. He takes a moment to inhale a lungful of air, instantaneously triggering his daughter to gently start stirring about. He was just thankful, for the time being anyway. That she wasn't yet at the point where her kicks and pokes became painful. But, give it about 5 weeks or so.

He enters the building. A light White long sleeve shirt with navy blue hoodie and close-fit dark wash paternity jeans. He thanked the heavens for built-in elastic waists. As he neared the reception front. He could've sworn he saw the familiar sight of red hair, done in a messy bun, facing him somewhere far in the back. But as soon as he got closer, she disappeared. Hmm he droned, now his mind wasn't simply on his doldrum appointments. He had to know, if, in fact, that alluring messy bun belonged to the same girl that escaped into the night, back in September. 

His scans and everything were right on track. Expecting him back in early May. He delicately folds the ultrasound photo and places it in his billfold. Before leaving, he held back a bit, out of sight. To see if he could catch a glimpse of the girl once more. As luck would have it (for him at least) Margot was clocked out, ready to go home. He remains out of sight, waiting. Suddenly, she appears, as if her mind were elsewhere as she sped walked out the doors. Ah, his breath hitched. 

Trailing a distance out to the massive car lot. She muttered an expletive as she bent down to pick up her fallen car keys, and try the door again. This time, succeeding in sliding into her crappy 2015 Nisan Versa. Meanwhile, Julian, not taking his eyes off her as he managed to hunt down his own vehicle, an eye catching Caddy CT5. He tailed closely, bit not too close, managing to keep at least one car's length between the two.

Finally, his unsettling cat and mouse chase, led him to a multilevel apartment building. A brick outer-face, slightly run down. He continues observing from the driver's side. Watching as she slipped in the front. The layout, much like the Hospital. In that, picture-perfect windows, dotted along the levels. He could see as she ascended the main stairwell. Second floor out of at least five. Leaving his vehicle parked across the way, he partially jogged across the street. Not an easy feat when around 8 months pregnant.

He slipped in the same front doors. Repeating the route, until happening across a particular number that inexplicably caught his attention. 204. He lightly rapped on the dark mahogany finished door, not expecting a response right away. His heart practically in his throat, and daughter, sensing her father's unease, began to shift. Comically causing the left side of his gravid middle to swell. He chuckles softly before patting the area, in a lousy attempt to calm her down. Suddenly, his ears pick up the sound of movement from inside. A soft voice yelling " Just-a minute !" The slide of the chain lock, a click, followed by the old creak as it slowly opened. Simultaneously, he hears a sharp gasp. 

Before him stood Margot, well, partially at least. Swiftly morphed into a stunned expression, slightly slack-jawed. With one hand still on the door-handle, it now cracked more than a few inches .The scent of fresh tobacco and sandalwood radiating off her. A light blue blouse, with the top 2 buttons undone, and slate dress pants. Looking just as radiant as the very first time he met her at The Hawthorne. Suddenly, his brain snapped back to reality- with a very sudden and vehement. 

"What the fuck are you doing here?!..How the fuck did you find me?!"

Her voice a mix of fear, perplexity, nervousness, and anger. Just then, her brilliant espresso colored eyes travel downwards just a bit, to meet his very obvious baby bump, straining heavily against the fabric. Julian didn't think it was possible, but he could have sworn, her eyes then grew even larger in astonishment. Julian cleared his throat as indiscreetly as possible. Trying his damnedest to calm her nerves.

"I'll..I'll explain everything. May I come in, please?"

 

 

 

Chapter 5: In The Midst Of Chaos...We Created Something Beautiful

Chapter Text

A Saint Paddy's Day 🍀treat. Finally, here's Chapter 5. Warning, this chapter is incredibly long. But, thus far, my favorite. It really delves into the important things :) Thank you very much to the Readers for your kind comments and kudos. Much Appreciated!! Happy Reading!

 

Margot was understandably apprehensive, initially. However, she barely had room to make judgment calls when she herself, broke regulation, and entered his home on the island without his knowledge or permission. Never mind the fact this maniac somehow survived the blaze. She exhaled loudly, letting it be known she wasn't thrilled with the idea of letting him in, but if she didn't, she'd be nothing but a damn hypocrite. Julian flashed a brief, tepid smile, nodded his head lightly before thanking her for allowing him entrance.

They venture near her dated gray couch. The space was modest. Open living room, leading to the dining area. The small kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, hidden from view behind a White wall. He couldn't help but notice her line of sight periodically reverting back to land upon his burgeoning midsection. Like, she wanted to address that first. but didn't know how. Finally, he heard her speak.

"A bit surprised you found time to stalk me..obviously you've been busy "(simultaneous head tilt towards his stomach) Julian couldn't help but give another rough, nervous ahem.

"Actually...That's precisely the reason why I'm here.." (notices her brow shoot up in both slight intrigue and confusion)

"Really?..Pray tell.."

There was that unmistakable bite of sarcasm. He could tell she was interested, even if she pretended not to be. At that moment, it felt like he had superhuman hearing, his heartbeat in his ears, the creaking of the wooden floor beneath the area rug. The baby broke her lull since entering the apartment, and decided to stir awake once more. With what felt like a tiny elbow to his ribs, he winces slightly. Gathers his bravado, and sharply exhales.

"Remember that evening...In my office?"

'Really? You donkey-brained invalid'. Julian mentally lambasted himself. He led with that? Of course she fucking remembers what happened that night. He snapped and turned his guests into flambéed human S'mores. Suddenly, he caught a glimpse of Margot involuntarily shudder, ever so slightly.

"You mean your psycho Jonestown shit, where you and everyone else went up like a Roman candle? Yeah, kinda hard to forget"

Her sarcasm now more biting. He couldn't help but internally chuckle at the similarity drawn.

"Yes, the 'Jonestown' shit (his voice keeping a calm, lowered tone)..However, that's not to what I'm referring, and I think you know that.."

Slowik notices as her gaze, once again, lands upon his prominent pregnant belly. Now, it was as if the gears in her head were turning. The Chef now thinking she's finally made the connection. A sharp gasp escapes her. Of course she remembered that night in his office, despite her willpower to forget. She simply couldn't, there was no use playing dumb. The consequences of her actions had finally caught up with her. Then, before Margot's brain even sends a signal to her mouth to speak, Slowik broke the ice.

"I gather from your silence, you know precisely what I'm referring...Margot..that evening, we created something very special..I'm nearly eight months pregnant with a baby girl. Your...daughter"

You could probably recreate the S'mores murders and she'd still stand there in stunned silence. Hearing the words that were said, however, her brain was not fully comprehending. No, this can't be. Not even when she was in the escort biz. Where one would think she had experience with men revealing this type of news to her, when in-fact, she hadn't. Not even a pregnancy scare. Now, now life had just bitch-slapped the rose-colored glasses off her face, forcing her to face reality. But something, inexplicable happened. Like her whole demeanor and expression softened.

"My..daughter?"

She repeated, the familiar sarcasm finally gone. Julian wasn't entirely sure if this signaled she was none too pleased with this revelation, or perhaps, had opened up to the idea of having a child. Even if it was with a deranged, God-complex former celebrity Chef. Suddenly, she gradually closed the gap between them. Julian simply stood there, not saying another word. His stoic presence, icy blue stare, and overall aura, sometimes conveyed more than words could.

Again, Margot's breath hitch. She gradually brought her arm up and out. Hand spread, her delicate fingers pressing firmly into the taut warm mound underneath his shirt. Without warning, their daughter moved. Either a very brief jab or poke. But Margot knew what she felt. She retracted her hand as swiftly as lightning.

"Oh, my God! You..you were right"

Slowik expected instant contempt. He expected her to throw him out of her apartment instantly. It was his problem now, she was never mother material. However, again, there was life, throwing a curve-ball no one expected. In an unforeseen turn of events, the former prostitute's eyes softened. She made something, it wasn't some pretentious dish that these rich pricks couldn't pronounce the name of, it wasn't a pseudo connection with her past clients. No, she made a tiny human. In an instant, these indescribable feelings took over. Her predisposed sex hormones took a backseat, at least for the moment.

She felt something she never had before. An almost, maternal, nurturing wave washed over her. Suddenly, she could feel Julian's rough hand, delicately grab hers, redirecting it back on his stomach. Slightly calloused fingers and palm overlap hers. Holding it there firmly, until eliciting yet another jab from their daughter. Margot smiles. Uttering slightly above a whisper.

"This..this is really happening.."

Julian nodded and gave a half smile.

"This' new territory for me as well.."

Suddenly, the young woman was fraught with confusion. That black and white photo in his island home. It looked like possibly a wife and daughter, but, if he had a child before. Why would he say it was new territory to him? She wanted to broach this, but then, it would be admitting she entered without authorization. On the other hand, one could argue, him nearly killing her, then stalking her, trumped an unauthorized entrance. Then again, he knew she had the instant that bogus Coast Guard showed up.

"There..there was a black and White picture I saw. You were with a woman and baby. Was that your wife and daughter? If so, this isn't new territory"

The Chef shifted his feet in unease. Obviously this struck a cord.

"Casting aside the fact you entered my home without permission (an ice cold pang hit Margot's chest)..the photo in question is, in fact, my late ex-wife..but..did you ever wonder why I wasn't smiling?"

Again, Margot felt a pang of empathy, this guy just couldn't catch a break. Her brain flashed back to that old photo again. She hadn't even realized his expression seemed oddly sullen, whilst his wife smiled. She lightly shook her head to signal she had no answer. Slowik gave a sharp, heavy sigh.

"I wasn't smiling...because that baby in the photo was not mine.. (Margot could feel her eyes grow in shock. All she could do was stand there and listen)..not to bore you with all the details. Long story short, I was led to believe I was pregnant, aptly named a hysterical pregnancy. Shortly after this, I was involved in a car accident, resulting in an 8 month coma. Meanwhile, that fucking whore was cheating behind my back the entire time. Knocked up some loser with food critic connections. Woke up, no idea what had happened. And she comes in..holding this 2 week old baby, saying its mine.."

The hurt was evident behind his eyes. He was burned (figuratively) so many times, one could almost even understand why he reacted the way he did. Margot's heart sank. A hand reaching up to cup the side of his face, the stubble scratched beneath her palm. But she didn't care. She wasn't going to broach the subject further and question how this horrible woman died, presumably both mother and child were departed.

"I...I am so sorry"

He could almost make out the glint of a forming tear in her eye, that comforting, calloused hand returned to overlap her own. Suddenly, Margot found herself getting closer, and before she knew it. Her soft lips were delicately pressed against his. An inviting smell, almost akin to a fireplace lingered on his lips. Perhaps this was a weird, but pleasant side effect of nearly being burnt alive. The passion steadily growing. Margot was just about to reach to be able to remove his hoodie, when he just did it himself. This accentuating his belly even more. It drove her wild. 

The two begin their awkward, clumsy and slightly blind dance into her bedroom. Suddenly, Julian broke their lip lock with what sounded like a gasp for air.

"Are...are you sure about this?"

The young woman gave that alluring, sensual smirk, hot breath suddenly on the nape of his neck, whilst her other hand gravitated again over his stomach. Try as he might, he was powerless against the tent he was currently in the process of pitching. This only fueling her hormones further. She led him towards the bedroom, hand in hand. Just then, she looks back sultry-like. Dropping yet another bomb.

"Yes, 'an relax, Chef. I cant get you pregnant twice (soft chuckling) by the way, my real name is Erin"

Chapter 6: Baby Talk

Summary:

Focusing on Julian and Margot's relationship. Their daughter is the glue that holds them together, here, they both speak to her. Getting her used to their voices.

Chapter Text

Thank you, my lovely readers for the kind comments and kudos. Very much appreciated. This is the second to last Chapter. I hope to have the last Chapter posted by the 25th. Thank you.

 

"Erin, huh?.." Came a sensual-like hum from Slowik. The young woman broke into a small smile, chuckling slightly as she nodded, whilst brushing a strand of brilliant red hair behind her ear. She could feel his hands slowly make their way towards her hips, cradling them like a delicate soufflé. In all honesty, he wasn't entirely fond of her real name. But he would never unveil this to her. Margot peered deeply into his eyes, hers, that vibrant, rich espresso he could lose himself in.

"You don't have to say anything. I've never actually liked my real name"

She stated suddenly. Julian simply mumbled a Mm Hmm, blindly striping of each-other's clothes. Now, all that remained on the Chef were his slightly lose fitting Hugo Boss boxer-briefs. Oh, God, it was like something out of a fantasy. Perfection, despite the obvious spots of  burn scars littering his legs. And a nasty sunken reddish pink scar. Compliments of his equally psychotic sous-chef cunt, Katherine. Plunging vintage embroidery scissors deep into his right thigh. And, whom, Margot would not soon forget, originally orchestrated the whole S'Mores mass murder plot. 

Yes, despite these little flaws, he was still something to behold. He must have been been borderline OCD with the shea butters and creams. For, she could barely spot even one stretch mark. Or, if he did have them, they were very faint. His beautiful belly with a slight droop over the briefs, and, of course. Rounding out this sight, was the magnificent package. That same magnificence is what got her in this predicament in the first place.

Although in hindsight, as much as she now loved her soon-to-be daughter. A part of her wished they used contraceptives, or at the very least. He took a morning after pill with his afternoon glass of Château Latour. But, no use trying to undo the past. She found it comical how they could barely get close, his stomach definitely creating a wedge between them, in a lot of ways. Margot found this hilariously ironic.

Lastly, Slowik's boxer-briefs were finally removed. Margot smiling as she fell back into the King-sized bed. Julian, however, treading a bit more cautiously for the baby's sake. He couldn't risk possibly injuring her. As delicate and careful as he could possibly be, he positioned himself over her. "Mind the baby" He jests adorably.  It was such an odd sensation, again, no gap. As his baby belly closed the bridge between them. Margot could even feel the baby stir through his skin.  Just then, all her worries and concerns fly out the window. His body gently thrusting into hers, Margot riding on an endorphin high.

They then remained in the massive bed, snuggled near each other. For at least 2 hours.

𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟴𝘁𝗵, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯

Julian was now 38 weeks along. To say he was absolutely miserable was more than an understatement. He found himself spending a lot of time at Margot's, and their favorite pastime, when work wasn't consuming their lives. Was simply enjoying time relaxing with one another in the bedroom. The invigorating smell of fresh linen, but mainly. Speaking to their unborn daughter, watching her show off her martial arts skills. Julian, clad in only his old trusty gray sweatpants, which now had seemingly broken their trust.

Margot laid next to him. Head on her pillow. Pajama shorts and a tank top. Smiling as she watches their daughter's little feet and hands poke out. It was absolutely adorable, however, Slowik definitely saw it differently. A pained Hmm escapes him. Margot's brows furrow in concern, as she draws in closer. Reaching out and pressing her hand gingerly onto his massive stomach. Gently massaging small circles to try and calm her. Slowik attempting to hide his looks of pain, by burying his face into his own pillow.

"Baby girl, you're hurting your daddy"

No sooner had she given this silly, frivolous little warning. Did their daughter really try and test her boundaries. Julian's stomach contorting and stretching. The 22nd couldn't get there soon enough.

"Goddammit, that hurts"

He hisses, which, must have been bad. Considering he snuffed out a candle flame with only his bare fingers. Margot nestled her head by his chest. She gave a heavy sigh, attempting to resume calming her down. She could feel the movement beneath her palms. Frivolously, she forewarns in an almost whispered tone.

"If you don't calm down, young lady. Your father is going to eat seaweed"

Julian chuckled at this. Bringing his own hand to rest over his belly. Her rolls and kicks finally settling, perhaps she really did understand the consequence. It was almost unfathomable that the Hawthorne Hellfire was 3 months shy of being a year ago. Somehow, the cultist Chef was seemingly able to avoid imprisonment. Although, money and powerful connections were always a huge advantage. He was very good at hiding his tracks. Even disposing of Elsa and wiping any trace of blood from his mock kitchen. It was like nothing had ever happened. Julian smiles, joining in on the joking.

"Did you hear that, sweetheart? Gotta give daddy a break"

A heavy exhale escapes him, as he rubs the section she was most active. He chuckles softly, redirecting his gaze to Margot. He chuckles softly. 

"She certainly takes after you"

Margot herself chuckles, a smirk appearing gradually over her face. Recalling her own boldness to not fall in line with what everyone else was doing.

"Knew she was a mommy's girl" 

 

Chapter 7: Rise From Hawthorne's Ashes

Summary:

The Story's final conclusion: The baby's birth, and how Margot and Julian handle becoming new parents💖👶🏻

⚠️ Just as a warning to readers. The birthing scene will be quite graphic (as it involves a penile birth)⚠️ Also, this chapter is incredibly long.

Chapter Text

Thank you to all my readers! We finally made it. Final Chapter 7! (more like a mini novel). Chef Slowik and Margot as new parents 🥰

June 15, 2023

"What do you think?" 

Slowik asked, when Margot discovered he converted the small spare room of his home (formally for guests). To be the baby's room. Only the best, of course. Soft pink walls, a beautiful mobile of the moon and the stars above her breath-taking, ornate lace white Tiffany crib. In the far right corner was a vintage rocking chair, and the opposite side, a changing table station. He was more than prepared. Her highchair hidden away in the closet until absolutely necessary.

"It..it's incredible"

She finally replied, still in absolute awe. It was almost unreal that this was happening. Apparently he was not only a master of his craft in the kitchen, but in interior design, as well. Despite her financial straights, she'd do her best to make it work. It was nothing short of a miracle that Slowik himself was very well off. She'd contribute what she could, but he made a point to not stress herself out over it.

It was the first time since their reunion, she was in his home for a change. The couple then made their way towards the dinning area/kitchen, where Julian was preparing dinner for the both of them. Well, more-so her, he wasn't particularly famished. Margot looked incredible in tight black jeans, a cranberry-colored top, and faux leather motorcycle jacket. Still sticking with that alluring fire-engine red lipstick.

"Wouldn't it be somethin' if she came on Father's Day?"

Margot lightheartedly joked. Julian, now 39 weeks, more than welcomed the idea of their daughter arriving a few days earlier than planned. She was already fully developed and estimated to weigh an impressive 7.5 lbs. For the past 2 weeks, or so. He was experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions. Whilst not real labor. He knew the time was very close. Slowik smiled and chuckled under his breath at this.

"I encouraged my guests to arrive a bit early to sample the pairings, get familiar with the array of different tastes...I think a certain someone is encouraged to follow suit"

He peered down with a half smile at the large orb of what used to be his stomach. A tiny errant foot lashed out, even visible beneath the apron. It was nearing 6:30 PM, and Julian wanted to make her a proper dinner. As much as he wished he could still fit into that smoke-damaged Chef's coat, he'd have to at least settle for the equally, smoke-damaged forest green apron.

Margot, sitting reversed in one of the dinning room chairs, watching everything. Failed to suppress her laughter as she sees Julian get visibly irked by constant disruptions from the baby.

"You think this' funny, but it's really not. You try doing this shit for nine months! Then, get back to me.."

Margot's eyes nearly popped from her skull for a second or two. In the 8 weeks since they reunited. She hadn't recalled, even once, of him snapping, and actually being candid surrounding the pregnancy. But, who could blame him? Surely his hormones were all in disarray. Sleep deprived, the constant movements, swelling. It made Margot flinch just thinking about it. Once again, growing concerned, she gets up from her seat and makes her way towards him, at the counter, retrieving the container of garlic granules from the first shelf.

He hears her footsteps on the White oak flooring before seeing, as she came up from behind and slowly wrapped her arms around his waist, well, best she could manage anyway. Not saying a word. This brought a smile to his face, as he draped his hand momentarily over hers. Julian chuckled softly.

"Thank you.."

He muttered, with a distinct appreciation. It filled her heart with a sense of pride, that she actually accomplished this small thing. Helping the man, she dare even say she loved. Find that little bit of joy still clinging on, somewhere. She smiled and pecked his cheek, having to practically stand on tiptoes whilst doing so.

"You're welcome"

Her voice trailed as she took a seat back on the vintage mahogany chair. Slowik, with a smile still on his face, gathered the rest of the ingredients from their hiding places.

"You wanted a cheeseburger for dinner, right?"

Those beautiful deep brown eyes, light up all over again. She gives a simper.

"Yes, please"

"And the cheese?...American again, I'm guessing, right?"

It was almost humorous how much it visibly pained him to even utter "American Cheese". As, she had heard one too many times before, it was "one molecule away from being plastic". If her brain could eye-roll, it was most certainly doing it now. She chuckles.

"You know it, 'an don't forget the crinkle-cuts"

Slowik found this side of Mills particularly endearing. The demand came off as officious, but he knew it was all in good fun. Hell, sometimes he actually got a rise out of the officiousness, real or otherwise. He was in his element, cooking for the most special person in his life. Well, technically cooking for two in this instance. He set aside a small smash patty in the pan to assemble a slider later for the baby.

"That smells incredible"

An effervescent voice carries over from the dinning area. It was simple gestures, such as this, that made him actually love his craft again. It was this very gesture that spared Margot a fiery damnation in the first place. And, my, how grateful he was to have made that call. Otherwise, his daughter would not exist. Down to every last detail, even cutting the fries by hand with a special serrated blade. Whilst the fries cooked to a crispy, golden perfection.  He finished layering the double cheeseburger, making sure to get a spoonful of caramelized onions between the layers. Finally plating, and layering the fries next to it.

"It was cooked in all natural beef tallow, of course it's incredible"

He chuckled under his breath, before placing the plate in front of a practically starving Margot.

"And unlike last time. I encourage you to eat"

She gives a breathy laugh.

"No problems there. And thank you (he gives a partial smile and nods)..did you make yourself anything?"

She inquired. Before noticing as he brought an insignificant slider to the table. That was probably 2 bites max. However, she figured this was probably only logical seeing as he had a salad earlier. And quite frankly, was a little less hungry the further along he got. He sometimes substituted here and there with essential vitamins. 

"I know I told myself I wouldn't make her another burger...but"

The two share in a good bit of laughter, before Margot finally took that glorious, endorphin-producing first bite. The crispness, the beef tallow drippings sliding down her chin.

"Pretty good, hmm?"

Noticing her expression was nothing but pure bliss. She nodded with a cute chuckle, as she vainly attempted to blot ever last bit of the rich, delicious tallow. Julian was just about ready to finally take a bit of the insignificant slider, when suddenly, he let out a hiss of pain. Margot almost immediately stops eating and looks across at him, slightly panicked.

"Is it time, already!?"

As if some type of otherworldly response to this, Slowik's water suddenly broke. Now, both were in a mental chaos. At least their baby girl was more than punctual, an entire week before her scheduled delivery. Hell, he even welcomed being stabbed in the thigh with embroidery scissors a second time, compared to the insurmountable pain of the labor. He hears Margot's panic return in an almost ear-piercing shriek.

Despite this, she flew into baby-mode. She contacted her place of work, Meer Valley General, to inform them they were on their way. Gathering the overnight bag and all the essentials. Bearing no labor complications, they could probably take her home by the next day. Margot slung the bag over her shoulder, trying her best to help him to his car, into the passenger's side. She noticed the car seat already fully equipped in the backseat, as she slung the bag also in back to join it. Margot failed miserably at trying to remain calm as she slid swiftly into the driver's side.

"Okay, we're going now..just keep breathing, okay?"

As she patted his hand in reassurance. The poor older man let out a cry of pain as a particularly nasty contraction griped his entire body.

It was about 10 to 15 minutes before they arrived at the hospital. The staff wasted no time getting him into a wheelchair and up towards labor & delivery. Margot quickly following suit, strap over shoulder. Thankfully, since it was just her accompanying him. This did not break any protocol of too many family members in the room. Poor Julian looked so exhausted, the cold sweat dampened his hair and the stress etched onto his face. 

Thankfully, a nurse had administered the epidural as planned, moments earlier. Margot stood at the front of his bedside. Her hair in medical-grade net, and surgical mask. Lovingly overlapping her hand over his. Underneath his hospital gown, she could physically see his belly quiver as another contraction took hold. Julian grits his teeth, just praying the drug worked through his bloodstream quickly enough to dull the pain. 

"Th..thank you for being here"

He managed to utter, his tone sounding completely drained. Margot quickly pulled her mask down to give him a peck on the cheek. A muffled laugh shortly followed when pulling it back into place. Julian gave a small, warm smile. Truly appreciating the gesture.

"Of course, she's my baby too, y'know"

Just then, the couple's moment was momentarily disrupted by the obstetrician entering the room and greeting the eager parents. Gloved hands, completely suited up.

"Hello, I'm Doctor Frederick Hagen, are we ready to have a baby?"

The couple exchange weary, but amused looks. Both uttering a "yes" in fatigued unison. Margot pats Julian's hand again in reassurance as the nursing staff, and Doctor ready everything.

"He's the best Meer Valley has to offer, you're in good hands"

Julian peered up at her with an indescribable love in his eyes, and the epidural finally doing it's job. "I know" he responds softly, patting her hand in return.

Like in the blink of an eye, everything was soon underway, in a flurry of White and blue. Hagen checked the progress every so often, by lifting his gown and sheet. The baby's progress was quicker than others had expected, as already, his penis had engorged twice its size since he was first admitted. The head was generously lathered in Povidone-iodine. Poor Julian was the one having a baby, and yet Margot was the one practically squeezing his hand until it was blue. 

One the baby was in the position she needed to be, was when the Doctor gave the orders.

"Push!"

Julian bears down, so eternally grateful for that shot of epidural. Still astonished how it wasn't yet too late to administer it. The cold sweat stinging his eyes. Meanwhile, Margot was his cheering squad. "You can do this" She coaxed gently in his ear. He gave a wearied smile, but thoughts obviously elsewhere.

Nearly 2 hours had lapsed, Hagen making a small incision in the head to accommodate the baby. Suddenly, he announces. 

"She's crowning!"

Julian, again for what seemed like the millionth time, is instructed to push. This finally succeeded in passing her head, the immense amount of pressure was insurmountable. Tears started breaking the surface of Margot's eyes. Planting another kiss on her thoroughly exhausted lover's cheek.

"She's almost here! You're doing great!"

With what remained of his severely dwindled vigor. He gave it one, final effort, boring down, once more. This! Finally succeeded in passing her completely. Julian threw back his head, practically gasping for air, and absolutely drained beyond words. At that very moment, they both hear the shrill cry, as their baby girl takes her first breath.

"She's Here!"

Hagen announces proudly. Holding the little girl up in blood soaked gloved hands. Slowik's phallus had thankfully suffered very little injury during the birth, so recovery was expected to be in less than two weeks. A simple couple stitches, some antibiotics, and he was good to go. Margot, now completely unable to suppress her emotions, cried a stream of happy tears. Cupping his face gingerly and placing another loving kiss, this time on his mouth. Mindful to keep her mask out of the way.

"You did it! Oh, my God, Julian. You fuckin' did it! And she's absolutely beautiful!"

Margot was shown how to cut the umbilical cord, before clamping. Even covered in blood and afterbirth, she was the most beautiful thing there could ever be. Her eyes were still closed, but a standout feature was her mother's fiery red hair. The exhausted, yet beaming, first time parents spent a precious few moments together. Reveling in this amazing moment in their lives, whilst their baby girl was momentarily taken to be cleaned and cleared of any complications.

"Congrats, you two"

Hagen kindly states, before departing where he was needed elsewhere. But, just as he had made it out the doorway. A nurse entered, carrying with her a small white bundle with the ever familiar pink and blue stripes.

"Baby girl got a clean bill of health. 7.4 pounds, and 19 inches long...she'll be ready to go home as soon as tomorrow afternoon"

The kindly nurse beamed as she gingerly lowered her into her awaiting mother's arms. Both Julian and Margot thank the nurse immensely for all she had done. Now, it was just the three of them. Slowik, a bit more lively, now able to lay upright in bed. Is at a loss for words as he finally lays eyes on the breath-taking little human he spent a rather arduous nine months creating. Margot, with a smile as big as you please, rejoined him at his bed.

She sat down carefully beside him, their precious newborn daughter in her arms. Rocking her ever so gently.

"May I see her now?"

He spoke. His tone still sounding fatigued. Margot softly chuckled.

"Silly, you don't need to ask. Of course, she's yours too"

Margot beamed, and with the gentleness of disarming a bomb. Placed her into her father's loving arms. Her cute little noises of discontent. It was when Julian gingerly placed a kiss on her forehead, that she finally opened her eyes. A magnificent steel blue, just like her daddy's. Julian could feel his breath get caught in his throat. He was simply awestruck to how they created something as beautiful as she was.

"We never picked out a name for her"

Pipped Margot, her emotions and tears finally settling. Meanwhile, Julian ever so softly shushed her, simultaneously cradling her to calm her down. It was such an amazing, surreal feeling. It was more rewarding than anything in his entire culinary career.

Margot's *actual* middle name, was Rose. Julian was always partial to that. It was so beautiful. They had already, thankfully, settled on a middle name. As an ode to her father's proud Slavic heritage, it was a name that signified a new light, a new dawn. Truly something special. He delicately traced the outline of her cherubic face with his index finger. A tear that had previously welled beneath the surface, finally breaking free.

"Wha..what about...Rose?"

He finally spoke. His vocal cords obviously worn. Margot's momentary look of surprise overtakes her, before she had a chance to respond. Knowing all and well, what the name signified. It was such an incredible gesture, she couldn't help but get misty-eyed again.

"You, you're sure about that?"

"Of course, it only seems right seeing as you were the one to reignite my love of cooking in the first place.."

Margot simply sat there, not knowing what to even say next. Just taking in this incredible moment. She and Julian share another passionate kiss, whilst reveling in every moment they had with their beautiful newborn daughter. Slowik, ever so gently lifts a corner of the blanket that was beginning to obstruct the baby's face. 

"I know daddy might have been a bit short-tempered at times. But know, mommy and I both wanted you. Just like my fancy dishes, so delicately crafted, as were you..nine months ago" (Margot chuckled softly under her breath).

"From the ashes of the Hawthorne. You're the tiny, beautiful phoenix that sprang from it. Welcome to the world, Rose Zora Slowik"

~ END~