"Hello, it’s so nice to meet you. My mother sent these with some other little gifts." I motioned to the bag on my shoulder, and I couldn't believe how nervous I was. I knew Cole's mom used to be a model, and I've seen pictures of her around Cole's house, but seeing her in person was a completely different story. She smelled like cocoa butter and flowers. Her skin was flawless and seemed to be glowing. She looked like Kimberly's wiser and more regal older sister.
“Come in. Breakfast is almost ready.”
Cole’s father introduced himself and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
“Was your dad a model too?” I whispered to Cole as we walked to the dining room. Judge Simmons reminded me of Idris Elba.
“No.” Cole chuckled. “But I’m gonna tell him you said that.”
I narrowed my eyes at him and slapped him on the bicep.
Kimberly and Adam were already seated in the dining room, and I waved at them.
"Hey, Lisa," Kimberly said.
“Hey.” Adam waved back.
Cole's family was just as funny and sweet as he was, and I could see glimpses of his personality in both of his adoptive parents. He was patient and wise like his mother, and quick-witted and clever like his father. His easy rapport with the slight competitive edge with Kimberly made me miss my own brothers and sisters. And of course, they all adored CJ. He was like a little celebrity and definitely reveled in all the attention. His vocabulary had expanded to include the words ball, juice, more, no, and sleepy. And he recited each one to resounding cheers from his doting fan base.
"So, what kind of law does your father practice?" Cole's dad asked.
“He specializes in divorces,” I answered.
"How interesting," his mother mused. "Your mother creates love stories, and your father helps end them."
“Wow.” I nodded. “I guess I never thought of it that way.”
“Beverly will analyze everything to death. What you ate for dinner, why you picked your shoes…” he said.
“You better hush before I call Lisa’s father.”
The table erupted in laughter.
“Please, I’m not worried. You’d miss me after a day.”
“A peaceful day,” she quipped.
"So, are you excited about going to Barbados, Lisa?" Kimberly chimed in, changing the subject, making me wonder if Cole's parents were as uncomfortably flirty as my parents.
"Yes, I've never been, and I heard it's beautiful."
"It is," she mused. "There are gorgeous sunsets and pink sand beaches. Plus, the food is amazing."
“How’s construction coming along, Adam?” Judge Simmons called from across the table.
Adam started talking about breaking ground on the resort, and I wasn't aware until I felt Cole squeeze, but I had been holding his hand under the table. I quickly let go and tucked my hair behind my ear. I caught Cole's eye, and he winked at me.
Cole’s mom gave me a bemused look that made me blush. I rose from the table. “I should check CJ’s diaper.”
“It’s okay. Today’s your day off, I’ll go,” Cole said.
“I don’t mind.” I began to unstrap CJ from his high chair. “Is there a place where I can change him?”
“I’ll show you.” Beverly stood and led me away from the table.
“Are you sure you don’t want me to show her?” Cole gave his mom a pointed look.
"No," she responded with a sly smile. "We'll be fine." She put a hand on my shoulder and led me away from the dining room. We ended up in a small bedroom that was turned into a nursery.
