#I can't believe I'm here 😭 (as a bridesmaid for my friend's wedding 😭😭)

[yunmew]

OH

MY GOD.

I can't believe I'm in Hawaii 😭

[kat-thepoet]

Veins of Violet

Logan Howlett X Female Reader

Part 23: A new beginning

A/N: last one 😭😭 Hope you guys enjoy 🩷

Previous chapters ☞ HERE ☜

8.0k words

One year later. 

I stood behind Vanessa, carefully pulling up the zipper of her wedding dress. The delicate fabric gleamed in the soft light of the room, accentuating every elegant curve. Vanessa glanced at herself in the mirror, her breath catching as she took in her reflection.

"Oh my God," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "I can't believe this is real."

"Hey, no tears," I warned, a laugh escaping my lips as I quickly grabbed a tissue from the vanity. 

"Your makeup will smudge, and then we'll have to start all over."

Vanessa let out a shaky laugh, blinking rapidly to hold back the tears. "You're right. I can't ruin all your hard work."

As I dabbed at the corners of her eyes, her mom walked into the room. She paused, her gaze softening as she took in the sight of her daughter in her wedding dress.

"Are we almost ready?" her mom asked, her voice filled with awe.

Vanessa turned to face her mom, a radiant smile lighting up her face. "Yes, Mom. I'm ready."

Her mom's eyes welled up with tears as she approached Vanessa. "You look beautiful, honey," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.

Vanessa's mom moved in for a hug, but I quickly stepped in, holding up my hands with a grin. "Whoa, hold on! No smudging my masterpiece."

The three of us burst into laughter, the tension of the moment easing as Vanessa's mom stepped back, her eyes still filled with love and pride.

Her mom smiled and kissed Vanessa on the cheek before leaving the room. "I'll go check on the guests," she said, her voice warm. "They're all eagerly waiting for the bride."

As soon as the door closed behind her, Laura and Raven walked in, their eyes widening as they took in Vanessa's appearance.

"What do you guys think?" I asked, turning to them with a grin.

Laura's eyes sparkled as she looked Vanessa up and down. "You look so beautiful, Vanessa," she said, her voice filled with admiration.

Raven, holding a glass of champagne, shook her head in mock disbelief. "I'm so jealous of you right now," she said with a playful smirk before taking a long sip of her drink.

Vanessa blushed at their compliments, her hands nervously smoothing the fabric of her dress. "Thank you, guys. It means so much to have you all here with me."

We all stood together for a moment, just taking in the significance of the day. Vanessa had chosen us to be her bridesmaids, and I was honored to be her maid of honor. Our sage green dresses complemented the rustic elegance of the venue perfectly, and everything felt like it was falling into place.

The excitement in the room was palpable as we gathered around Vanessa, making sure everything was perfect before the ceremony. This moment was the culmination of a year filled with growth, healing, and love, not just for Vanessa and Wade but for all of us. 

Finally, the time had come. Vanessa took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as she steadied herself. "Okay," she said, her voice filled with resolve. "Let's do this."

We all exchanged looks, smiles breaking out on our faces. we all grabbed our small flower bouquets and Laura opened the door, and we began to make our way down to where everyone was waiting for the bride. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride for my friend, knowing she was about to start a new chapter in her life.

The barn had been transformed into a dreamlike venue, with twinkling lights hanging from the beams and flowers adorning every surface. As we walked toward the front, where Wade stood waiting with a mixture of nerves and excitement in his eyes, I caught Logan's gaze from the side.

As I looked at him, a thought crept into my mind, one that I hadn't fully allowed myself to entertain until now. I imagined myself in Vanessa's shoes, walking down the aisle toward the man of my dreams. The image was vivid, almost tangible-the soft rustle of a wedding gown, the sound of my footsteps echoing in the quiet anticipation of the room, and Logan standing at the end of the aisle, waiting for me with that same steady, loving gaze.

For a moment, I was lost in that vision, my heart swelling with the possibility of a future I hadn't dared to dream about. The idea of being the one to take that walk, to make that lifelong commitment, sent a thrill through me that I couldn't ignore.

When I snapped back to the present, Logan was still looking at me, his eyes filled with a warmth that made my heart skip a beat. There was a promise in his gaze, one that spoke of a future that wasn't just a dream but a very real possibility.

I smiled softly to myself, feeling a sense of peace and excitement wash over me. Today was Vanessa and Wade's day, but I couldn't help but feel that it was also a day of new beginnings for me, too. as I reached at the end of the isle, I moved to the side to let raven and Laura walked next to me. from where I was standing, I could hear wades heartbeat. I looked at him and calmed his nerves, trying to not let it distract him from the best day of his life. he senses what I was doing and he mouths, thank you and I give him a small smile. i looked next to wade and looked at Logan once more giving him a small smile.

Wade had chosen Logan to be his best man, a decision that had initially annoyed Logan, though I knew deep down he didn't mind. In fact, over the past year, Logan had become one of Wade's closest friends. Their banter, though often sarcastic and sharp, had turned into a deep, unspoken bond. Logan might grumble about Wade's antics, but I could see the fondness in his eyes, the way he always had Wade's back when it truly mattered.

Beside Logan stood Hank, who, despite their vastly different personalities, had also grown close to Wade. It was surprising to see how well they complemented each other-Hank's intellectual curiosity and Wade's chaotic energy somehow balancing out in a way that just worked. Their friendship was unexpected but genuine, a testament to the way our little family had evolved over time.

And at the end of the line, Peter stood as the ring bearer, his usual mischievous grin replaced by a look of serious concentration as he held the rings. Peter and Laura had been dating for a few months now, and seeing Laura happy again, a lightness in her eyes that had been missing for so long, filled me with a sense of peace. Having her back in my life, and seeing her thrive, was priceless.

The music changed, and I turned my attention to where Vanessa was standing at the end of the aisle. The soft notes of the piano captured the moment perfectly as she took a deep breath, her eyes locking onto Wade's. Her gaze was filled with love and kindness, a look that spoke volumes. Wade, in turn, was trying hard not to cry, but I saw the tears slowly escaping down his cheeks.

I glanced around the audience, taking in the faces of everyone we knew. Our friends were all here-Scott, Storm, and Charles, who was seated next to Erik, now his partner. Ellie was there too, along with their girlfriend Yukio, and Colossus, Althea, Dopinder, and other friends and mutants who had become a part of our extended family. The room was filled with warmth and affection, the love that had brought us all together evident in every smile and tear.

As watch Vanessa slowly walk, my head reminded me of how we got to this point. A few months ago, my memories started to come back little by little. One day, while I was asleep, I found myself in a dream, standing in a vast, ethereal field bathed in a soft, purple glow. The air was thick with an otherworldly energy, and I felt a familiar presence nearby.

The other me, the powerful and darker version of myself I had encountered before, appeared before me. Her eyes, usually filled with intensity and a sense of foreboding, were now calm, almost serene.

"You've changed the path of your life," she said, her voice echoing softly in the dreamscape. "That day on the battlefield, when you chose to stand with the X-Men, you altered more than just your own fate."

I stared at her, trying to understand the full weight of her words. "What do you mean?" I asked, my voice wavering slightly.

"Giving peace to Erik, freeing him from the burden of his pain, set off a chain reaction," she explained. "The darkness that once threatened to consume you, to consume all of us, has been diminished. You've proven that the future isn't set in stone, that it can be changed with the right choices."

I felt a wave of relief and hope wash over me, but there was still a lingering doubt in my mind. "But what about you?" I asked. "Are you still a part of me?"

She smiled, a gentle and knowing expression. "I will always be a part of you, but I am no longer the force that drives you. You've taken control of your own destiny, and in doing so, you've given both of us a chance to live in peace."

The dream began to fade, and I felt myself being pulled back to the waking world. As I slowly opened my eyes, I realized that the weight that had been pressing on me for so long was finally lifting. The memories, the pain, the fear-they were all still there, but they no longer had the same hold over me.

I had chosen a different path, one filled with love, family, and hope. And in doing so, I had changed not just my own future, but the future of those around me.

The ceremony went by quickly, a beautiful blur of vows, exchanged rings, and tearful smiles. Before we knew it, it was time for the party to begin. The barn had been transformed into a lively party venue, with tables set up for dining and a spacious dance floor waiting to be filled. Twinkling lights continued to cast a warm glow, and the energy in the room was infectious as everyone prepared to let loose and enjoy the evening.

As the guests moved from the ceremony to the reception area, I could hear the buzz of excited conversations and the clinking of glasses. The air was filled with the scent of delicious food, and a live band had started playing soft, upbeat tunes to set the mood.

Vanessa and Wade entered the reception to a round of applause and cheers, their smiles brighter than ever. They shared a quick, joyful kiss before heading straight to the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife. The room fell into a hush as they swayed together, completely lost in each other. It was a moment of pure love and happiness, and I couldn't help but feel a little emotional watching them.

Logan was by my side, his arm wrapped around my waist as we watched the newlyweds. "They look so happy," I whispered, leaning into him.

He nodded, his eyes soft as he watched the couple on the dance floor. "They deserve it," he said quietly. "After everything they've been through, it's good to see them like this."

As Vanessa and Wade's dance came to an end, the guests erupted in applause, and the atmosphere shifted from tender to lively. The band picked up the pace, playing a more upbeat tune that beckoned everyone to join in on the dance floor.

"Come on," Logan said, pulling me toward the dance floor with a rare, playful grin. "Let's show them how it's done."

I laughed, letting him lead me into the crowd. The music was infectious, and soon we were surrounded by friends, all of us dancing and laughing as the night truly began. Laura and Peter were dancing nearby, their moves more playful and energetic than romantic, but it was clear they were having a blast. Wade was in his element, pulling off ridiculous dance moves that had Vanessa laughing so hard she had to hold onto him for support.

We danced until my feet started to hurt. I yelled through the loud music. "I need a break!" 

Logan nodded, a playful smirk on his face as he leaned in close to my ear. "I was wondering how long you'd last."

I playfully swatted at his arm, laughing as I caught my breath. "Hey, I lasted longer than you thought!"

He chuckled, wrapping an arm around my waist as we made our way off the dance floor. "You did, Bub. You definitely did."

We found a small table off to the side, away from the main crowd but still close enough to feel the energy of the party. I slipped off my heels, sighing in relief as I wiggled my toes. "Ah, much better."

Logan leaned back in his chair, his gaze soft as he watched me. "You look like you're having the time of your life."

"I am," I admitted, looking around at our friends, all of whom were immersed in the celebration. "It's been such a long time since we've all been able to just... enjoy ourselves, you know? No missions, no threats hanging over our heads. Just us, living in the moment."

Logan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Yeah, it feels good. Really good."

I reached across the table, taking his hand in mine. "I'm glad we're here together. After everything we've been through... it's nice to just be us."

Logan squeezed my hand, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

I looked at him, my heart pounding as I contemplated the secret I had been holding on to for a week. The weight of it felt even heavier now, knowing that I couldn't keep it from him much longer.

One week ago...

Laura and I had gone to the mall to buy Vanessa a wedding present. We were laughing, talking about what kind of gift would make Wade burst into tears, when suddenly, a wave of nausea hit me out of nowhere. I clutched my stomach as we passed by a pizza place, the smell of the food turning my stomach. Without a word, I bolted to the nearest bathroom, barely making it in time before I puked.

Laura was right behind me, her face pale with worry. "Oh my god, are you alright?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

I rinsed my mouth out and splashed some water on my face, trying to steady my breathing. "Yeah... I think so," I said, though I didn't sound convincing, even to myself. "I probably ate something bad."

Laura looked at me skeptically, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied my face. "Maybe we should go home. You don't look so great."

I nodded, grateful for her suggestion. "Yeah, that's probably a good idea."

But as the day went on, the nausea didn't go away. In fact, it seemed to get worse. Everything smelled terrible, even things that I usually loved. My powers felt erratic, like they were being affected by whatever was going on with my body. I was exhausted, and nothing seemed to help.

Then, something clicked in my mind, a realization that hit me like a ton of bricks.

Could it be...?

I quickly walked into my bathroom, my mind racing as I searched through the drawers for the pregnancy test Vanessa had left behind a few months ago. My hands trembled as I found it, quickly opening the box and following the instructions. The minutes felt like hours as I waited for the result, the tiny window on the test holding the answer to a question I hadn't even known I was asking.

As the minutes dragged on, I couldn't sit still. I paced back and forth in the living room, my thoughts a chaotic whirlwind of possibilities and fears. Every few seconds, I glanced at the test sitting on the counter, willing time to move faster.

Just then, Laura walked out of her room, looking at me with a mix of confusion and concern. "Violet, what's going on? You're making me dizzy just watching you."

I stopped in my tracks, my heart pounding as I tried to find the right words. "I... I think I might be pregnant," I finally admitted, the words feeling surreal as they left my mouth.

Laura's eyes widened, her expression shifting from confusion to shock. "Wait, what? Are you serious?"

I nodded, my gaze flicking back to the test on the counter. "I just took a test. I'm waiting for the result."

Laura walked over, her footsteps hesitant as she joined me in front of the bathroom counter. We both stared at the little window on the test, the silence between us thick with anticipation.

"How long does it take?" Laura asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Just a few more seconds," I replied, my voice trembling with nerves.

Finally, the result began to appear. I held my breath, my heart pounding in my chest as the faint lines slowly came into view. Two lines. Positive.

"Oh my god," Laura whispered, her hand flying to her mouth as she stared at the test. "Violet, you're..."

"Pregnant," I finished, my voice shaking with a mix of shock, fear, and a strange sense of excitement. "I'm pregnant."

The reality of it hit me like a tidal wave, and for a moment, I couldn't breathe. I was going to have a baby. Logan's baby.

Laura wrapped her arms around me, pulling me into a tight hug. "Violet, this is amazing! Are you okay? How do you feel?"

I hugged her back, trying to process the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside me. "I don't know," I admitted, my voice muffled against her shoulder. "I'm scared, but... I'm also kind of happy? I didn't expect this, but now that it's real... I think I'm happy."

Laura pulled back, a huge smile on her face. "Logan's going to be over the moon when you tell him."

I nodded, my thoughts drifting to Logan and how he would react to the news. I knew I needed to tell him, but didn't know when or how. But first, I had to come to terms with it myself.

"Yeah," I said softly, a small smile tugging at my lips. "I think he will be."

Present

I found myself lost in thought as Logan's thumb gently traced circles over my knuckles. The music, the laughter, the lights-they all seemed to blur into the background as I considered the secret I'd been holding onto for a week now.

Could this be the right moment to tell him?

I glanced at Logan, his eyes filled with a warmth that made my heart swell. He looked so content, so at peace. Part of me wanted to wait, to hold onto this moment just a little longer before changing everything. But another part of me knew that Logan deserved to know-deserved to share in the joy and the uncertainty that had been swirling inside me ever since I took that test.

I took a deep breath, the sound of the party fading even further as I gathered the courage to speak. "Logan," I began, my voice soft but steady, "there's something I need to tell you."

His eyes locked onto mine, the seriousness in my tone catching his attention immediately. "What is it, Bub?"

I hesitated for only a moment longer, then decided to just say it. "I'm pregnant."

For a heartbeat, everything seemed to stop. The world around us, the music, the laughter-it all disappeared as Logan's eyes widened in surprise. His grip on my hand tightened just slightly, his expression shifting from shock to something I couldn't quite place.

"Pregnant?" he repeated, almost as if he needed to hear the word again to believe it.

I nodded, a small, nervous smile tugging at my lips. "Yes, Logan. We're going to have a baby."

For a moment, his face went blank, and my heart dropped. Panic surged through me. Maybe telling him wasn't the right choice. Maybe I should've waited longer, given him more time. Did he even want to be a father?

I began to backpedal, the words tumbling out of me in a rush. "We don't have to keep it, Logan. I mean, there are a lot of options, and if you're not ready, we can-"

But before I could finish, Logan moved. In an instant, he wrapped me in his arms, pulling me close in a hug so tight it almost took my breath away. The panic that had been rising in me dissipated as I felt the strength of his embrace, the steady beat of his heart against mine.

"Violet," he murmured into my hair, his voice thick with emotion, "I want this. I want us. I want our family."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I clung to him, relief flooding through me. The fear, the uncertainty-it all melted away in the warmth of his words, leaving only love and the promise of what was to come.

"I'm so glad," I whispered, my voice choked with emotion. "I was so scared, Logan. I didn't know how you'd feel."

He pulled back just enough to look into my eyes, his hands still holding me close. "I'm not going anywhere, Violet. We're in this together, every step of the way."

I nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude and love wash over me. "Together," I echoed, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, we would face them side by side.

Logan leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead, then to my lips, his touch tender and reassuring. "We're going to be okay, V," he whispered against my lips. "All four of us."

I smiled through my tears, the weight of the world lifting from my shoulders. "All four of us," I repeated, the words filling me with a sense of peace I hadn't felt in a long time.

7 months later

As I struggled to slip into my yellow dress, the fabric stretching over my swollen belly, I couldn't help but feel a rush of joy. Today was my baby shower, a day I had been looking forward to for months. Vanessa had taken the reins on planning everything, and though Logan and I had decided to keep the baby's gender a surprise, Vanessa knew and was bursting with excitement. The anticipation made me both nervous and eager to finally learn the secret she had been holding onto.

We had decided to host the baby shower at the mansion. It was the perfect place-spacious, familiar, and home to so many of the people we loved. Plus, it was a lot more practical than trying to cram everyone into our apartment, especially with my ever-growing belly making it harder to move around.

My pregnancy had been mostly smooth. The baby felt like it weighed a ton, making my back ache constantly, but other than that, everything had been fine. After the first month, the nausea had faded, giving way to the strangest cravings. I couldn't get enough of anything covered in chocolate or spicy chips, which I had to sneak because Logan was adamant about me eating healthier. I couldn't help but smile, thinking about the stash of spicy chips and Nutella I had hidden away for moments just like this.

After finally managing to get dressed, I grabbed my trusty jar of Nutella and a spoon, ready for a little pre-party snack. Waddling down the stairs, I was savoring a mouthful of chocolatey goodness when I ran into Hank and Peter, who were on their way up.

"Wow there," Hank said with a concerned look, immediately reaching out to steady me. "Let us help you down the stairs."

I tried to protest, rolling my eyes. "Guys, I'm not a baby. I can walk perfectly fine."

Peter, always quick with a joke, grinned. "Yeah, but with that belly, you walk like one. Better safe than sorry!"

I huffed, half-amused and half-annoyed, but I let them guide me down the rest of the stairs. It was hard to stay irritated when they were just trying to help. Besides, I knew how much they all cared, and that made it easier to accept their overprotectiveness.

When we reached the bottom of the stairs, I took a deep breath, feeling a flutter of nerves mixed with excitement. Today was going to be a big day, filled with surprises, laughter, and probably a few tears. And despite the discomfort of carrying what felt like a small planet in my belly, I couldn't wait to share this moment with everyone.

As I walked into the living room, I was greeted by a sea of blue and pink. The entire room was filled with decorations-balloons in every shade of blue and pink hung from the ceiling, streamers draped across the walls, and tables were covered with treats and food that matched the theme. The atmosphere was festive, buzzing with excitement, and it was clear that Vanessa had gone all out.

Everyone was dressed in either blue or pink, their outfits proudly displaying their guesses for the baby's gender. It was heartwarming to see so many people gathered here, all of them eager to celebrate this special moment with us. Familiar faces beamed at me from across the room-Scott, Storm, Charles, Laura, Wade, and even Erik, who gave me a warm smile from where he stood near the snack table, a plate of food already in hand.

Vanessa spotted me and hurried over, her face lighting up as she took in my expression. "What do you think?" she asked, a hint of pride in her voice.

"It's amazing," was all I could say, my voice filled with gratitude and emotion.

As everyone noticed me standing there, the excitement in the room seemed to double. Friends and family started to gather around, each person wanting to share in the joy of the moment. They greeted me with warm smiles, kind words, and, of course, gentle rubs on my belly.

"You're glowing, Violet," Storm said, her eyes filled with warmth as she placed a hand on my stomach.

Raven, standing beside her, grinned and added, "I can't wait to meet this little one! You're going to be such an amazing mom."

As I looked around, taking in the love and support from everyone, I suddenly realized someone was missing. I glanced over at Vanessa. "Where's Logan?" I asked.

"Oh, he's with Wade, getting the cake," she replied with a reassuring smile. "They should be here any minute."

" You better have picked chocolate cake" I told Vanessa as I was getting annoyed by the handsy mutants in front of me. 

Vanessa chuckled, a playful glint in her eye. "Of course, I made sure it was chocolate. I know better than to mess with your cravings!" She winked, and I couldn't help but laugh.

As I gently nudged away hands that were overly eager to rub my belly, I added, "they better not mess the cake up."

Vanessa grinned. "Yeah, thats why I sent Logan with him just in case."

I laughed, walking over the dessert table, my mouth watering at the options.

Just then, the front door opened, and Logan walked in, carrying a large, beautifully decorated cake with Wade trailing behind him, holding another box, likely filled with additional treats. Logan's eyes immediately found mine, and a smile spread across his face.

"Did someone say chocolate cake?" Wade announced as he set the box down on the table, dramatically lifting the lid to reveal an assortment of desserts. "Because I brought enough to feed an army."

I shook my head, amused. "You didn't have to bring the whole bakery, Wade."

Wade shrugged, a mischievous grin on his face. "Hey, I'm just making sure you and the little one are well-fed. Plus, who can say no to cake?"

Logan came over to me, setting the cake down gently on the table before wrapping an arm around my waist. "Everything good, sweetheart?" he asked softly, his thumb brushing my side.

"Perfect," I replied, leaning into him. "But I'm going to need that cake soon."

Vanessa clapped her hands, drawing everyone's attention with a wide smile. "Okay, everyone, let's get started with the baby shower games!" she announced, her excitement infectious.

The guests cheered, gathering around as Vanessa began explaining the first game. "We're going to start with the classic 'Guess the Baby Food' game," she said, holding up a tray of small jars with mysterious labels covering the original names. "You'll each get a spoonful of baby food, and you have to guess what flavor it is. No cheating!"

Groans and laughter erupted from the group as Wade dramatically pretended to gag. "Baby food? Really, Vanessa? You know my delicate palate can't handle that!"

"Come on, Wade, just do it." Vanessa teased back, handing out small spoons to everyone.

Logan looked at me with a playful smirk. "I'll bet you I can guess more flavors than you."

I raised an eyebrow, my competitive spirit kicking in. "You're on, Logan. Loser has to change all the diapers for a week."

He chuckled, leaning in to kiss my temple. "Deal."

Vanessa went around, giving each person a taste of the mystery baby food. The room was filled with laughter and exaggerated reactions as people tried to guess the strange and often unappetizing flavors. Logan grimaced as he tasted something particularly unpleasant, while Wade loudly complained about the "green sludge" he was sure was supposed to be peas.

After a few rounds of guessing and lots of laughter, Vanessa revealed the answers. "And the winner is... drumroll, please..."

Everyone tapped their hands on their legs, creating a drumroll sound.

"Violet!" Vanessa announced, holding up a small prize wrapped in pastel-colored paper. "You guessed the most flavors correctly!"

I grinned, accepting the prize with a mock bow. "Looks like you're on diaper duty, Logan."

He shook his head, laughing. "I walked right into that one, didn't I?"

The games continued, with everyone fully immersed in the fun. We played "Baby Charades," where guests had to act out different baby-related scenarios, and "Pin the Pacifier on the Baby," which resulted in a lot of playful shoving and misplaced pacifiers.

As the afternoon wore on, the room was filled with the sound of laughter, teasing, and the warmth of friends and family celebrating together. Logan and I shared more than a few knowing looks, both of us grateful for the love and support that surrounded us.

It was finally time to cut the cake and reveal the gender of our baby. Vanessa, who had been waiting for this moment with barely contained excitement, brought the cake to the center of the room. The cake was beautifully decorated with delicate swirls of frosting, adorned with tiny baby-themed decorations, but it was the inside that held the real surprise.

Everyone gathered around, their excitement palpable. Logan stood beside me, his arm wrapped around my waist, as we both took hold of the knife. The room fell silent, the anticipation thick in the air.

"Ready?" Logan whispered, his voice filled with both excitement and nerves.I nodded, smiling up at him. "Ready."

Together, we slowly pushed the knife into the cake, cutting through the layers with ease. The moment the knife made contact with the center, the room seemed to hold its breath. Logan and I carefully pulled out the first slice, revealing the color inside.

A collective gasp filled the room as everyone saw the vibrant pink cake. "It's a girl!" I exclaimed, my voice filled with joy.

Cheers erupted around us, making me feel the love and happiness radiating from them. Logan's smile was so wide it lit up the entire room, and he pulled me into a hug, lifting me off the ground as he spun me around.

"We're having a little girl," Logan said, his voice thick with emotion as he set me back down. Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked around the room, taking in the faces of our friends and family who were all celebrating with us. It was a moment of pure happiness, one that I knew I would treasure forever.

Wade, who had been holding back tears himself, stepped forward and threw his arms around both of us. "A mini Violet! The world isn't ready!" he exclaimed, causing everyone to burst into laughter.

As we all dug into the cake, the room filled with chatter and excitement about the baby's future. Vanessa and Laura were already planning out the nursery, discussing color schemes and baby names with a level of enthusiasm that made me laugh.

Logan kept me close, his hand never leaving mine as we mingled with our guests. Every now and then, he'd lean in to whisper something sweet in my ear or place a protective hand on my growing belly. It was clear that he was just as overjoyed as I was, already embracing his role as a father with the same fierce dedication he showed in everything he did.

As the celebration continued, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. This baby was already so loved, and I knew that with Logan by my side, we were ready to face whatever the future held. Surrounded by the people who meant the most to us, I felt a deep sense of contentment and happiness, knowing that our little family was about to grow in the most wonderful way.

One month later

I woke up to an intense pain in my stomach, sharp and unrelenting. It was 1 a.m., and the apartment was eerily quiet. Logan wasn't here; he had gone on one last mission, promising to stay by my side for the final weeks of my pregnancy. I sat up, hoping the pain would ease, but it only grew more intense, radiating through my body in waves. Panic began to set in as I fumbled through the covers, trying to find my phone.

Another contraction hit, stronger this time, and I couldn't hold back the scream that tore from my throat. My hands shook as I finally located my phone, the screen glaringly bright in the darkness. I scrolled through my contacts, heart racing. Logan was out of reach, Laura was all the way at the mansion, and the pain was only getting worse.

Then it hit me-I wasn't alone. Vanessa and Wade were literally my neighbors. I quickly dialed Vanessa's number, praying she would pick up.

The phone rang once, twice, before I heard the groggy but concerned voice on the other end. "Violet? What's wrong?"

"Vanessa," I gasped, another contraction stealing my breath. "It's the baby. I think... I think she's coming. The pain-it's too much."

There was a moment of silence, then I heard the unmistakable rustling of sheets and the urgency in Vanessa's voice as she called out to Wade. "Wade! Get up! It's time!"

"Violet, hang tight. We're coming over right now," Vanessa assured me, her voice calm despite the situation. "Just breathe, okay? We'll be there in a second."

I nodded, even though she couldn't see me, trying to focus on my breathing as she had taught me during our many pregnancy chats. But the contractions were relentless, and fear gripped me as I realized how fast everything was happening. The baby was too early but the contractions were continuing in a rapid pace.

Within what felt like no time at all, I heard the front door burst open, and then Vanessa and Wade were in my bedroom, both looking wide awake and fully alert despite the early hour.

"Oh, honey," Vanessa breathed, rushing to my side. She placed a reassuring hand on my arm while Wade looked at me, eyes wide but determined.

"Alright, we're going to get you to the hospital," Wade said, his voice uncharacteristically serious. "Everything's going to be fine. I'm practically a trained midwife. I've seen like a hundred birthing videos."

Vanessa shot him a look. "Not helping, Wade. Grab her bag and let's go."

Wade nodded, quickly moving to grab the hospital bag I had packed weeks ago, just in case. Vanessa helped me stand, supporting me as we slowly made our way to the door.

Another contraction hit just as we reached the hallway, and I doubled over, clutching Vanessa for support. She held me up, rubbing my back soothingly. "You're doing great, Violet. Just a little more, and we'll be at the hospital."

Wade was already out the door, running ahead to start the car that Charles gave to them as a wedding present. Vanessa stayed with me, guiding me through each step, each breath, as we made our way downstairs.

By the time we reached the car, the contractions were coming fast and hard, and I could barely think through the pain. Wade helped me into the backseat, where Vanessa climbed in beside me, holding my hand tightly.

"Alright, let's get this show on the road!" Wade announced as he floored the gas, speeding toward the hospital. Vanessa kept her focus on me, her calm presence a lifeline in the chaos.

"Just keep breathing, Violet," she said softly. "We're almost there. You're so strong, you've got this."

I nodded, trying to focus on her words, on the fact that soon I would be meeting my baby girl. The thought filled me with a mix of fear and excitement, but I knew that as long as I had my friends by my side, I could face anything.

As we hurried toward the hospital entrance, each step felt like a battle. The pain was becoming unbearable, radiating through my entire body. I reached out instinctively, grabbing Wade's arm as another contraction hit me like a wave. My grip was tight, almost desperate, and I heard him let out a small wince, though he quickly tried to mask it with a reassuring smile.

"Easy there, Violet," he joked, though his voice was strained. "I need that arm to hold your baby later."

Despite the pain, I managed a weak smile, appreciating his attempt to lighten the mood. But the reality of what was happening was impossible to ignore. My breaths were coming out in short, frantic gasps, and I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes as the contractions came closer together, each one more intense than the last.

Vanessa, who was on my other side, squeezed my hand. "We're almost there, Violet. Just a few more steps. You're doing amazing."

I nodded, biting down on my lip to keep from crying out. The automatic doors of the hospital slid open, and the cool, sterile air hit me, a stark contrast to the heat radiating from my body. A nurse spotted us immediately, her eyes widening as she took in the scene.

"We need a wheelchair!" Vanessa called out, her voice firm but calm. Within moments, a wheelchair was brought over, and Wade helped me into it with surprising gentleness.

As I sat down, a sharp pain shot through me, and I couldn't hold back the cry that escaped my lips. Wade crouched down in front of me, his expression more serious than I'd ever seen it.

"Hey, listen to me," he said, his voice steady. "You're going to be fine. We're all here with you, and you're going to bring that little girl into the world like a champ."

I nodded, clinging to his words as the nurse began to wheel me toward the maternity ward. they both stayed right by my side, never letting go of my hands. The ride down the hallway felt both too long and too short, the fluorescent lights overhead blurring together as I focused on just getting through each contraction.

Finally, we reached the delivery room. The medical staff quickly took over, guiding me onto the bed. Vanessa hovered nearby, her presence a comforting reminder that I wasn't alone in this.

As the doctor came in and introduced herself, I felt a sudden surge of panic. Logan wasn't here. He should be here, holding my hand, telling me everything would be okay. The thought of doing this without him was terrifying, and I could feel the tears starting to fall.

Wade was across the room, pacing back and forth with his phone pressed to his ear. His usual joking demeanor was nowhere to be found; instead, he was dead serious, frantically trying to get in touch with Logan. Every time he hit a dead end, I could see the frustration building in his expression.

"Come on peanut, pick up!" he muttered, dialing yet another number. I watched as he paused, listening intently for a response. When none came, he cursed under his breath and tried the next number on his list.

"Wade, what's going on?" I managed to ask between contractions, my voice strained.

Wade looked over at me, his face a mixture of determination and worry. "I'm trying to get Logan here, but he's off the grid. I'm calling everyone-Scott, Storm, Peter-you name it. Someone's gotta be able to reach him."

Vanessa, who was still holding my hand, gave Wade a reassuring nod. "He'll get through, Violet. Wade won't stop until he does."

Wade gave a quick thumbs-up before turning his attention back to the phone. "Come on, Logan, pick up the damn phone," he muttered, hitting redial for what felt like the hundredth time.The minutes ticked by, each one feeling like an eternity. Wade's determination was unwavering; he was clearly willing to call every single X-Man on the planet if that's what it took to get Logan home.

Finally, I saw Wade's expression change. His eyes widened slightly, and he stopped pacing. "Finally! Logan, listen up!" he nearly shouted into the phone. "Violet's in labor. You need to get your hairy butt back here right now!"

I couldn't hear Logan's response, but the tension in Wade's shoulders eased slightly as he listened. "Yeah, she's in the hospital. She's doing great, but you better hurry up before you miss the whole show."

Wade paused, nodding at whatever Logan was saying on the other end. "Good. Get here fast, man. We've got this covered, but you need to be here." 

He hung up the phone and turned back to me, a wide grin on his face. "Logan's on his way. He's gonna make it, I hope."

A wave of relief washed over me, and I nodded, tears of gratitude filling my eyes. "Thank you, Wade. Thank you so much."

Logan was on his way, and with Wade and Vanessa by my side, I knew I could do this.

"Where the hell is Logan!!!???" I groaned, the pain making my voice sharp as I began to push. Wade and Vanessa were right next to me, each holding one of my hands, their faces etched with concern.

"I know, I know, but you've got this, Violet," Wade said, his usual sarcasm gone, replaced by genuine worry and determination. "Just keep breathing, okay? Logan's gonna walk in any second now, I promise."

Vanessa squeezed my hand gently, her eyes locked on mine, offering silent encouragement. "You're doing amazing, Violet. Just a little more."

The doctor at the foot of the bed, calm and composed, looked up at me. "Violet, you need to start pushing with the next contraction. You're doing great, but we need to keep going."

I nodded, trying to focus on the doctor's instructions, but the pain was overwhelming, and all I could think about was Logan. Where was he? I needed him here, now.

Another contraction hit me like a wave, and I gritted my teeth, gripping Wade and Vanessa's hands as I pushed with all my strength. The room was a blur of activity, nurses moving around me, the doctor's voice a steady guide through the chaos.

"Good, Violet, that's good," the doctor encouraged. "Keep pushing, you're almost there."I could barely process the words. All I could do was focus on the pain and the desperate need to see Logan walk through that door. My breath came in ragged gasps, and I pushed again, harder this time, feeling the intense pressure.

"Come on, Violet, you're doing it!" Vanessa cheered, her voice filled with pride and love.

"Logan's gonna kick himself if he misses this," Wade added, trying to keep the mood light, even as I squeezed his hand so hard he winced.

I took a deep breath, drawing on every ounce of strength I had left. I could feel the baby moving, the pressure increasing, and I knew it wouldn't be long now. 

"Push, Violet, push!" the doctor urged, and I did, giving it everything I had.

The room seemed to fade away as I focused on pushing, the pain intensifying with each wave that coursed through my body. Wade and Vanessa's voices were distant, muffled by the pounding of my heart in my ears. All I could think about was getting through this, bringing my baby into the world, and hoping that Logan would somehow walk through that door before it was all over.

"Just one more big push, Violet!" the doctor called out, their voice the only thing anchoring me to the moment.

I took a deep breath, gathered every bit of strength I had left, and pushed with everything I had. The pain was overwhelming, but then, suddenly, it was followed by a sensation of release. I gasped, my body trembling as I collapsed back onto the bed, my breath coming in ragged gasps.

There was a brief moment of silence, a heartbeat where time seemed to stand still, and then the room was filled with the sound of a baby's first cry. It was the most beautiful sound I had ever heard.

"You did it, Violet," Vanessa said, her voice choked with emotion, tears streaming down her face.

Wade let out a breath he had been holding, his grip on my hand loosening as he leaned over to kiss my forehead. "You're a freakin' superhero, Violet. You did it."

The doctor carefully lifted my baby, and I watched in awe as they gently placed the tiny, wriggling form on my chest. I felt a rush of overwhelming love and relief as I looked down at my child, tears spilling down my cheeks. My baby. Our baby.

"Congratulations, Violet," the doctor said softly. "It's a beautiful, healthy baby girl."I looked down at my daughter, her tiny face scrunched up as she cried, her little fists waving in the air. She was perfect in every way, and I couldn't believe she was finally here.

I kissed her soft forehead, my tears mixing with her own as I whispered, "Welcome to the world, little one. I'm your mama, and I'm going to love you forever."

The door to the room burst open suddenly, and there was Logan, his eyes wide with panic and relief, his chest heaving as if he had run a marathon. "Violet! I'm so sorry-"

But I didn't need to hear anything else. The sight of him was enough to make my heart swell with love. "Logan," I whispered, my voice trembling as I looked up at him, our daughter still cradled in my arms. "She's here."

Logan's eyes softened as he walked over, his gaze never leaving our baby. He reached out a tentative hand, gently brushing his fingers over her tiny head, his face a mixture of awe and pure love. "She's... she's perfect," he said, his voice rough with emotion.

He leaned down to kiss me, his lips lingering against mine as he whispered, "I'm sorry I wasn't here sooner, Violet. I tried to get back as fast as I could."

"You're here now," I replied, my voice thick with tears. "That's all that matters."

Logan sat down beside me on the bed, his arm wrapping around my shoulders as we both looked down at our daughter, who had finally stopped crying and was now gazing up at us with wide, curious eyes.

The nurse, who had been quietly observing, gave us a gentle smile. "What would be the name of your baby girl?" she asked softly.

I looked down at our little miracle, the name already forming in my heart, a name that felt right, that felt like it was meant for her. 

"Scarlett," I said, my voice soft but certain. "Scarlett Howlett Williams."

A/N: And that's the end! Thank you to those who have supported me throughout this story. I hope you enjoyed the ending. Thank you, thank you, thank you!