Spencer James
"You're not having a heart attack, Mr. James" the doctor said after he examined Spencer.
"I'm not understanding..." Spencer furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. "What are these chest pains I've been havin' then?" he inquired.
"You're psychologically stressed, Spencer" the doctor answered with a slight frown. "Would you mind telling me what's bothering you?" he questioned.
"I've experienced a lot of loss in my life. This time around it's finally starting to get to me" Spencer said and the doctor nodded his head. "Life in general hasn't been easy" he continued.
"Spencer, have you heard of broken heart syndrome?" the doctor questioned and Spencer shook his head. "The condition is called Takotsubo Syndrome, but everyone calls it broken heart syndrome. It's basically when your heart muscle becomes weakened. It is usually produced by an emotional, stressful, or traumatic experience. Grief and stress can cause chest pains and shortness of breath, which are both similar to a heart attack" the doctor explained and Spencer nodded his head.
"Well...how do I cure this broken heart?" Spencer questioned.
"Most people are prescribed medication for a few weeks. The medication will help your heart muscle to recover. It should take about two to four weeks" the doctor explained and Spencer listened. "However, it is your job to manage any physical and emotional stress to prevent this from occurring. You've got a long life ahead of you and you've got to do what's necessary to stay healthy" he continued.
"I hear you, Doc" Spencer agreed with the older man.
"I'm going to put in a prescription for you, alright?" the doctor said as he began to type on the computer. "I will go ahead and schedule your follow up appointment with a specialist in two weeks. How does the 15th sound?" he continued.
"That works for me" Spencer said as he marked the date on his calendar.
"I could also refer you to a therapist?" the doctor suggested. "The space would be safe for you to express your grief and what you're feeling, in addition to discovering different techniques and ways to cope with your grief" he elaborated.
"I would um...I would like that" Spencer answered and the doctor nodded his head proudly.
"You can give it a try and if it's not the right fit for you then it's okay" the doctor stated. "I've added the referral to your chart and you should be able to review in on the app" he explained.
"Thank you, Doc. For everything" Spencer said as he stuffed his phone back in his pocket.
"You're welcome, Mr. James" the doctor smiled. "Please remember to take care of yourself alright?" he said as he stood up from the chair and then exited the room.
Spencer put his shirt back on and exited the room. Soon as he made it to the waiting area, Olivia and Jordan approached him. Spencer greeted the two siblings and Olivia wrapped her arms around Spencer's shoulders.
"You had me worried" she stared at him with saddened eyes as she rubbed the back of his head.
"I'm alright" Spencer pecked her forehead and rubbed the sides of her arms. "Thank you for bringing me here" he glanced at Jordan and Jordan nodded his head.
"I've got to make sure my brother is good" Jordan said and Spencer smiled.
Spencer then interlocked his fingers with Olivia's and headed toward the front desk. After he paid for his copay, the three of them exited the building.
"So what happened?" the twins asked in unison.
"Fortunately it wasn't a heart attack" Spencer began to explain as the three of them headed towards the car. "The symptoms I've experienced are similar to a heart attack but it isn't one. It's this condition called Takotsubo Syndrome" he continued as he got in the back seat.
"That sounds concerning" Olivia said as she sat next to him in the car.
"It's nothing medicine can't fix" Spencer said as he placed his seatbelt on. "My heart muscle is weakened right now from the emotional stress and grief I've endured. The doctor urged me to manage my emotional and physical stress so the condition doesn't worsen" he continued.
"That's a good idea" Jordan said as he started the car and began to exit the premises.
"We also have to make sure we're doing our part by not contributing to it" Olivia mentioned and Jordan agreed.
"There's nothin' goin' on with Lauren and I" Spencer said out of the blue, catching the twins off guard.
"I...didn't think there was" Jordan said as he stared at Olivia through the rearview mirror.
"We met earlier to discuss some information we might've found about C's death" he began and Olivia stared at him. "I didn't want to get involved in it, I'm not involved in it, but I could've been simply by involving myself with what Lauren wanted to do. I took her to this location and it didn't go smooth. I took her back home and then this happened" he said and Olivia just listened.
"The both of you aren't taking this loss well" Jordan said and Olivia agreed. "I'm glad you decided to not get involved but it seems you've got other things to do" he said.
"Other things?" Spencer furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. "Other things like what?" he questioned.
"Perhaps...you should limit your contact with Lauren" Olivia suggested. "She feels the need to get involved because that's how she's choosing to grieve. I know the two of you are friends but it's not healthy for neither of you to be around one another right now" she continued.
"You've got kids" Jordan mentioned and Spencer stared at him. "Spence, I love you, but I'll be damned if something happens to Liv and my nephew because of your bullshit and the need to play law enforcement" he spoke honestly.
"I hear what you're both saying" Spencer said as he pulled his phone out. "I'ma tell her we need space to grieve in our own way" he said as he began to type on his phone.
"Or..." Olivia took his phone out of his hand and tucked it in her purse. "You don't owe her an explanation to anything. You'll be adding more stress trying to explain shit to her when you don't need to" she continued.
"I know I should limit the contact, but I can't just not say anything to her" Spencer said, causing Olivia to roll her eyes.
"I'm not trying to start an argument. But majority of the time, you feel so comfortable not telling me anything, so what makes her or this situation any different?" Olivia questioned and Spencer furrowed his eyebrows. ''You...failed to mention to me you were going to meet with her for lunch, so I'm not understanding the concern for her feelings'' she said.
"Liv" Jordan's said in a stern tone as he stared at her through the mirror. "Enough" he mouthed to her and she sighed.
Spencer didn't speak for the remainder of the ride back to the Baker residence, rather he rested his head on the head rest and closed his eyes.
***
"You're more than welcome to stay the night with us Spencer" Laura mentioned at the dinner table. The four of them were having dinner at the Baker residence. Spencer informed Laura on what happened with him today.
"I appreciate the offer, Mrs. B" Spencer said as he took a sip of water. "But I'ma go get Angel and go home" he mentioned and Laura nodded.
"That's understandable" Laura said and Spencer nodded his head. "I've been doing a lot of thinking actually" she began.
"Thinking?" Olivia stared at her mother and Laura nodded.
"We have more than enough space here, Spencer" Laura mentioned and Spencer agreed. "Why don't you and Angel move in here?" she suggested and Olivia widened her eyes.
"Mom-"
"Livvie you're still in school and you haven't worked since your freshmen year of college. Why put all the financial stress on Spencer when the both of you could stay here for free?" Laura questioned and Jordan agreed. "Spencer you'll be able to focus on your vision with your business without worrying about the financial burden. You'll have more people to help you with Angel. I don't see why this wouldn't be the ideal plan right now" she continued.
"That sounds like a great plan, Mrs. B" Spencer said as he sipped more water. "I just...I have my worries with what my presence may bring" he said as he looked at Olivia.
"The four of you will be fine here" Laura assured. "And if you're worried about alone time, you shouldn't be. Jordan's usually on campus and I work daily. Just give it a thought. Even if you decide not to, just know that it is always an option" she mentioned.
"I appreciate that, thank you" Spencer said and Laura nodded her head. "We've got a lot to discuss" he mentioned to Olivia and she agreed.
"There's definitely a-Oh" Olivia gasped as she felt a gentle jab in her stomach. "You guys...I think he's moving" Olivia smiled as she placed her hands on her stomach.
"Nephew might be agreeing with grandma" Jordan said as he sipped on his water.
"Oh...no. Don't call me that just yet" Laura said, causing Spencer to laugh.
"Feel him babe" Olivia grabbed Spencer's hand and placed it on her stomach. "It's coming" she beamed.
"There he is" Spencer said as wrinkles appeared at the corner of his eyes. He couldn't help but smile as he felt a gentle movement. "He's active in there for sure" he said as he removed his hand from her stomach.
***
"Have you given any thought about what my mom said?" Olivia questioned as she walked Spencer out of the home.
"I have" Spencer reached for her hand and kissed the back of it. "But I'd rather know what you would prefer to do" he said as he paused from walking.
"Having our own place does sound nice..." Olivia said and Spencer agreed. "But my mom does have a point. You shouldn't have to carry the financial stress of the four of us, it wouldn't be fair to you" she said.
"That's not an issue for me" Spencer said and Olivia shook her head.
"I want to do my part and contribute financially as well" Olivia mentioned. "I'm in school for a reason, studying to get my degree in what I love, I should be able to make use of it" she continued.
"That's fair" Spencer gently squeezed her hand. "But we're not doing 50/50 though. I want to at least wait until you're established in your career before we can have this conversation in full. In the mean time, I'd handle the large quantity and you could cover groceries and other small things" he said.
"I could work with that" Olivia nodded her head.
"The good thing is we wouldn't have to worry about that right now if we move in with your moms" Spencer continued. "She's...great for even offering this to Angel and I"
"I know it's not ideal but it would only be temporary. I mean we have the space here to add the both of you, I don't see why not. I'd be okay with that if you are" Olivia told him.
"I'm okay with it" Spencer said as he locked eyes with hers.
"Are you sure?" Olivia inquired and Spencer nodded his head. "Great! I can't wait to tell my mom and Jordan" she smiled as she pecked his lips.
"It'll be a minute before I move in though. I don't want to break the least yet since I just got the space less than three months ago" Spencer said and Olivia agreed.
"That's fine just break it when you're ready" Olivia nodded her head. "So what are your plans for the rest of the day?" she inquired as the two of them continued their walk to his car.
"I'ma go pick up Angel from my Pops and then chill with her for the night" Spencer said as he pulled his keys out of his pocket. "I'm not doing anything else for the business for the rest of the week" he continued.
"Rightfully so, you deserve a break" Olivia watched as he opened the door. "Speaking of break...how would you feel if you and I took a couples trip with Jordan and Simone?" she inquired.
"A trip with Jordan and Simone?" Spencer raised an eyebrow as he imagined what it would be like. "We'd have to plan it soon before the baby gets here" he said and Olivia smiled.
"I'm glad you're up for it" Olivia said as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. "So...I guess this is a goodbye?" she questioned and Spencer lightly chuckled.
"I'ma see you in a few days...for real this time" Spencer placed his hands on her waist. "I'm sorry about all of what happened today. Stressing you out with my chest pains...and Lauren" he said.
"I didn't say I was upset with you" she furrowed her eyebrows.
"You don't think I know you by now?" Spencer inquired. "You don't have to tell me a damn thing" he laughed.
"I'm sorry about earlier, babe" Olivia began. "Lately I've just...I've been in my head, you know?" she continued.
"In your head about what?" Spencer inquired and she sighed.
"I have my insecurities just as any woman would when their body is constantly changing" Olivia explained and Spencer listened. "My body isn't what it used to be and-"
"I'm sorry to interrupt you baby but I clearly haven't been doing my part to reassure you" Spencer slightly smiled.
"I have a feeling I know where this is going to go" she playfully rolled her eyes.
"I love you...and only you" Spencer clarified. "I love your heart and soul...I feel fulfilled knowing that I have you. I love your whole aura...baby you a vibe for real, you know that?. Yo beautiful ass face. Bangin' body, pregnant and all" he continued and Olivia laughed.
"I get it babe" Olivia smiled showing all of her teeth.
"I love how wet you be when-"
"Shh!" Olivia blushed as she shushed him. "I've heard enough, Spencer. Thank you" Olivia said as she felt her cheeks began to hurt from smiling.
"You know I had to let you know" Spencer locked eyes with hers. "I'ma get goin' now, aight?" he said and she nodded her head.
"Don't forget to pick up your medication in the morning" Olivia reminded him and Spencer thanked her.
"I'll holla at you" Spencer gently kissed her before he entered his car.
***
"Dada! Dada! Dada!" Angel yelled as she followed Spencer into the kitchen. She yanked at the bottoms of his sweats and Spencer picked her up.
"What's up baby girl?" Spencer pecked her nose and Angel laughed. "It's time to get you ready for bed" he said.
"No" Angel shook her head and Spencer's eyes grew wide.
"What chu just say?" he questioned as Angel put her hands on his face. "You don't tell Dada 'no', aight?" he corrected her and Angel just babbled.
"Mama" Angel said as she played with Spencer's shirt.
"I miss her for you too" Spencer pecked her forehead and then entered the bathroom. "Daddy's gonna figure it out...it's gonna take time but I'ma do my part to ensure you good" he said as he began to run bath water.
After Angel's bath, Spencer then put her to sleep for the night. Angel lightly snored as she slept next to her father, he adored her soft snores. He'd been on his laptop, searching through a variety of locations to possibly open his own shop.
"Hm..." Spencer thought to himself as he'd seen a potential location. He'd been interrupted from his thoughts as he received a text message.
From: Lauren
Hey! I heard about what happened earlier and I wanted to apologize for the unnecessary stress I've caused. You doing okay now?
Spencer read the message and debated on whether he'd respond or not. He then placed his phone on his night stand and continued searching on his computer.
***
Hi! Here's another chapter for y'all. I hope you enjoyed this chapter, please excuse any mistakes. I'm planning to update again this week, I want to hopefully get back into updating daily. Enjoy!