Instead of answering, my man pulls me in for a long, smoldering kiss. It feels passionate and heated, but also intimate and caring because we understand each other now. We’re on the same page with respect to what we want from life, and with respect to the family we’re creating together too. Maybe things aren’t perfect because Brian hasn’t found a resolution yet, but we’re on a good path and we’ll work it out. Somehow, Gary and I will find a way to create peace, harmony, and love with both his son, and also the new baby on the way.
EPILOGUE
Patty
Six months later.
“I swear, you’re the luckiest person I know,” Lorraine sings as she swoops into the living room. “Your toilet just cleaned my ass for me! I’ve never experienced anything like that in my life because who knew these Japanese toilets were part robot and part bidet? Every time I step inside this house, it’s seriously amazing. I can’t imagine what it must be like to live here every day.”
I laugh because I moved in with Gary after revealing my pregnancy. The handsome construction foreman wouldn’t take no for an answer. He convinced me to give up my cozy one-bedroom and promised to re-do a spare bedroom as a nursery, while also creating a special nursing nook for when I begin to breastfeed. It’s been pure Heaven, and I love having the run of the house.
Of course, Brian doesn’t live here anymore. Fortunately, the rehab facility Gary found in Michigan was able to take Brian immediately, and the young man was on a plane first thing Monday morning. It seems that Gary’s son knew that his obsession with virtual reality was getting out of hand, and readily acquiesced to in-patient treatment. I just feel lucky that we didn’t have to fight, and I sincerely hope that Brian’s improving.
But my friend Lorraine is visiting now, and I giggle as she looks about the airy space with wonder.
“Yeah, when I started getting huge from the baby, Gary started thinking of ways to make things easier for me, and a bidet was one of his solutions for one of my problems,” I giggle. “I won’t mention which because it’s gross, but it was a nice investment if I do say so myself.”
Lorraine sighs with envy.
“God, I want your life,” she says, spinning around a few times before dancing around the living room. “Now, I just need to find my very own DILF. One who also has a massive house with bidets and sunken bathtubs with spa jets. Hell, one who can build me my very own greenhouse to have sex in after a long day of attending mind-numbing classes too! You’re truly living the life, Pats, and I love it.”
I giggle even as my cheeks heat up, looking down at the large tray of snacks that I’ve set out on the coffee table.
“I know, right?” I muse happily. “I’ve really hit the jackpot. But thanks for being here for Brian’s visit because I’m kind of nervous to be honest. I mean, I know rehab’s been good for him, but I just don’t know what to expect. I really appreciate your support.”
Lorraine nods and slings an arm about my shoulder.
“Of course, girlfriend. You know I wouldn’t make you do this on your own.”
I grin.
“Well, I’m not on my own because Gary’s here too for his son’s visit. But do you think I should have made more cookies? I only made three different kinds, and what if Brian doesn’t like any of these flavors? What if he doesn’t like the way I’ve decorated them? What if he’s suddenly allergic to cookies? Ugh, maybe I should have made brownies instead.”
“You’re worrying too much,” Lorraine burbles, rubbing my shoulder. “And you need to sit down. Gary will have my head on a stick if he comes downstairs and sees you on your feet. Girlfriend, you’re preggo. Go easy on yourself.”
I smile.
“Don’t worry, I’m fine,” I say softly, although it doesn’t sound very convincing. After all, I am tired. I woke up early this morning from anxiety over today’s visit, and then started baking up a storm. Not only that, but I’ve done my best to clean the house until it’s spic and span, and even whipped together a nice soufflé just in case Brian’s hungry.
But obviously, I’m overdoing it. I doubt Brian will give a damn whether the house is clean or not, and I think it’s safe to say that I don’t owe him anything after what happened the last time I saw him. But still, he is Gary’s son and my child’s half-brother, and I want us to have a good relationship.
“Really, I’m fine,” I continue, trying to sound convincing as Lorraine pushes me down on the couch. “I’m totally okay,” I say, “even if I’m as big as a whale.”