“And the baby was yours?”
“It was.”
“Is that the only time?”
“What do you mean?”
Cheyenne took a deep breath. “I recently found out through DNA tests that James Comfort is not my biological father.”
Wayne stared at Cheyenne blankly for several moments, he didn’t seem like that information was news to him. But then I watched his expression change as the implications of what Cheyenne was saying sank in. “Oh, and you thought that maybe I could be…”
“Yes.” She nodded.
“I’m so sorry.” Wayne shook his head. “I wish that I was your father, but that would be impossible. Sabrina and I didn’t start seeing each other until after Jimmy was born.”
“Did you know that James wasn’t my father?”
“I did.”
“Do you have any idea who is?” Cheyenne’s voice cracked and I wanted so badly to pull her into my arms and hug her.
Wayne inhaled through his nose as he leaned forward resting his elbows on his knees. “I don’t know his name. All I know is that they spent a summer together and that he was a kind man who loved your mother very much.”
“Did he know about me?”
“I don’t think so.” Wayne shook his head.
“What about James, did he know that I wasn’t his?”
Wayne sat back up, clearly growing uncomfortable.
“I’m sorry, it’s just, he’s gone, she’s gone, and my brothers don’t know anything. I don’t know who else to ask.” Cheyenne’s voice broke and I rested my hand on her back for support.
She sat up straighter and I let my hand drop.
“I don’t know if James knew. I think he had his suspicions, but from what I know they never discussed it.”
Cheyenne’s chin dipped in a sharp nod and her lips pursed together as she stood up suddenly. “Okay, well, thank you for your time.”
“Did you want to stay for dinner? Nancy and Rina will be home soon, they just went to the mall to get new tap shoes. I know that they’d love to meet you. Especially Nancy.”
Cheyenne looked up at me and I could see that she needed to get out of there.
“Actually, Mr. Lemont—”
He held up his hand. “Wayne, please.”
“Wayne, we’re headed to see my mom. It’s her birthday.” The day after tomorrow.
I could see the disappointment on his face, but he quickly tried to cover it up with a smile. “Oh, okay, well, tell your mama I said hi and happy birthday.”
“Will do.”
I placed my hand on Cheyenne’s back and we walked to the door.
“Thank you, for taking the time to talk to us,” she smiled.
“Of course!” Wayne exclaimed as we all walked out on the porch. “And please, come back anytime. If you have questions or if there’s ever anything you need, I’m here. And, Cheyenne, I really hope you find the answers you’re looking for.”