Closing my eyes, I take a deep breath. “It’s okay. I have tonight to give them the head’s up and if they’re not ready, I’ll let you know tomorrow.”
“That sounds fair.”
After I’ve told them, I almost wish I hadn’t.
From the excited chatter and bouncing around the living room, anyone would think it was Christmas.
“Noah’s Dad is going to be here? Tomorrow?” Kiera asks.
“That’s right.”
“He wants to meet us?”
I lick my lips. “Well. We’ve all been invited to a barbecue at his sister’s house. That’s Noah’s aunt.”
“Does she have kids?” Jason asks.
“She does. She has twin boys who are nineteen and two little girls.”
“How old are they?” His eyes are big.
“I’m not sure, but they’re younger than you.”
“Oh.” His face falls.
“But we’ll find out when we get there. If you want to go.”
“Duh,” Kiera says.
“You really want to meet him?”
She nods. “He’s Noah’s Dad. He’s family.”
My heart.
For the millionth time, I wish my children had a normal upbringing. Despite Malcolm’s resentment, Noah was surrounded by other children at first. Bailey, Kiera, and Jason missed out on that, even if I was glad we left the church.
“Well, he’ll be here tomorrow when you get home from school. I’ve told him about you, but you’ll be able to ask him anything you like.”
By the time the excitement dies and they’re all in bed, I’m wiped.
This whole thing is running away on me, and it’s mentally exhausting.
But I’m not sure I’d have it any other way.
“So, there are just the two windows left to be done. They need new putty to fill those gaps and then you won’t get the drafts through them. I’ve got some in the van so I can get it done today if you want?”
We’ve been through the list. Caleb’s ticked everything off except for one small job.
I’m going to miss his presence during the day.
But I knew this wouldn’t last forever.
I shake my head. “Don’t worry about it today. It’s not urgent. Just fit it in when you have time.”
He cocks an eyebrow. “Are you okay? I thought you’d be glad to get me out of your hair.”
“We need to talk.”
