Page 137 of Luci’s Lullaby

We begin to sway without thought, and Luci gazes into my eyes as I hold her hand. Charlee’s head is by my shoulder; she’s so close, and yet I can’t touch her. It’s wrecking me.

“Da-da. Da-da-dada,” Luci murmurs as my heart races.

“What? Did she?” I glance at Charlee, and her face is beaming.

She rubs Luci’s nose. “You just said da-da.”

“Yes, Luci I’m your da-da.” I kiss her forehead and fall in love all over again with this amazing gift. “She really said da-da.”

Charlee gazes at me, her face glows. “She did, she remembers you.”

“Thank you, Charlee.” My body quakes as it’s wracked with emotion. “For keeping her safe and taking care of her as a mother should.”

Her eyes search mine. “Welcome back.”

I lean in as her eyes widen. I’m mere inches from her lips, and she drops her head. Too soon, asshole. “Sorry, I’m all emotional today.”

She steps away. “Yeah, I guess I should get going. I brought a few things you were out of; that’s where we’ve been or I would’ve had her to Reese.”

“Actually, could you stay a little longer? We could use the help?”

Her eyes flicker to Luci and back. “Yeah, I don’t work today, but only for Luci.”

“Good, great.” I walk over to the door. “Chord?”

He pops his head in the door and his face lights up. “Hey, pretty girl.”

“She said da-da,” I announce with my chest puffed up from my heart being so big.

He looks at Charlee and back to me. “Wow, that’s great, man. ‘Bout time you get some good news.”

“Charlee said she could stay while we move things. Ya know, for Luci.” I twist my mouth.

“Good deal. How are we gonna pry her from your arms?” He laughs.

Charlee rolls her eyes. “I’m probably better help anyway. He’s an artist, they don’t work like the rest of us.”

Chord laughs his ass off as I scrunch my face up. “Y’all are so hilarious. I’m laughing… on the inside.”

“Come on, Luci. Let’s get outta their way.” Charlee reaches for her and brushes my hand, and the same ol’ current races between us.

An hour or so later, the new bed is in and Chord’s ready to go. “Thanks, man.”

“Always.” He drags me into a hug.

“Charlee, good to see you. I appreciate your help.” Chord gives her a side hug. “Bye, Luci.” He kisses her head.

“Good to see you Chord. Give Sarah my love.” Charlee’s the kindest person I know, always thinks of others.

“You need to come see Jordan,” Chord says.

“She’s beautiful, spitting image of her mother.”

Charlee giggles. “I’ll be sure to call her next week and run over.”

“Do that, we cookout and get our eat on.” Chord waves as he heads out the door. We stand there, awkward as hell.

Charlee kisses Luci’s cheek. “I guess I need to get going. You think y’all are gonna be alright?”