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“I don’t want to come around until he feels comfortable with me.”

Quinton smiled. “I think he’s adjusting. He asked me if I loved you.”

“And what did you say?” I quizzed.

“Well, first of all, the little snoop had already heard me telling his mama that I did. I just confirmed it. He said that he would be OK with you and the boys moving in, but I wasn’t sure if he was just trying to get himself out of trouble.”

“I hope you aren’t punishing that boy.”

“I’m not. I did let him know he was wrong though. My daddy would have busted my head to the gristle for talking to somebody grown the way he talked to you. I had to stop myself from snatching him up. I can only hope I’m getting through to him with this gentle parenting shit.”

“You’re a great father, baby. I hope you know that.”

“I pray on it daily.”

“Well, it’s working,” I confirmed.

“Now, I’m praying for us. Just because we hit a little bump in the road doesn’t mean we’re not made for each other. I’m not giving up on us that easy.”

“I’m glad you aren’t.” I smiled.

“I love you, lady. You’re not getting rid of me without a fight.”

“Good, because I love you too, and it’s all your fault.”

Quinton stuck around until he had no choice but to go to the shop to sign for a delivery. By then, it was close to noon, so I got up and got myself ready for the day. Before I knew it, Theo burst through the door, acting like he hadn’t eaten all day. Thankfully, I knew my son well and had already put together a snack to hold him until dinner, which was a one pot lasagna that was simmering and waiting for consumption.

By six, both of my boys were at the table, ready to eat. I put Trey’s little plate in front of him and moved to the oven to take out the breadsticks. Just as I was filling a shallow bowl for Theo, there was another knock on my door.

“Somebody’s at the door,” Theo announced just in case I was losing my hearing.

“I hear it, baby,” I said as I put his dinner in front of him.

“Can I have some tea?”

“Yeah. Pour you some and don’t get the biggest glass you see,” I said as I headed to the door.

When I made it to the door, I was surprised to see Victor. My brows knitted into a frown as I opened the door.

“Hey, sweetie. Where’s your dad?” I asked, noticing that Quinton’s truck wasn’t out there.

“He’s at the barbershop. I was done.”

“Did he have someone drop you off?” I quizzed.

“I came by myself. I needed to talk to you.”

“By yourself?” I asked, trying to understand how he ended up at my house.

“I told him that I wanted to apologize, but he wouldn’t bring me. He keeps saying give it time.”

“I appreciate it, Victor, but how did you get here?”

“I got my dad’s phone and used the app with the car on it like we used when we were out of town one time. I remembered your address. All I had to do is put it in, and when the lady came and said Quinton, I got in the car. It was only eight minutes away to your house.”

“Oh, baby, that’s dangerous. Get yourself in this house. I bet your dad is worried sick about you.” He followed me inside, and I closed the door behind him.

“I’m worried sick about him. After you dumped him, he’s been so sad. I don’t like that. He’s not laughing and joking all the time like he always does, and he hasn’t even made me pancakes. I told him that I was sorry for being mean. I wanted to tell you too. Please don’t be mad with me and my dad.”