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But instead, I remained diplomatic. “I do. Because of my travel, my time with family is limited. Now, with Chi-Chi being here, she’s been my priority when coming home. Having Noelle with me, in my home, with Chi-Chi, I can divide my time a lot easier and with equity when I’m home.”
He remained calm, moving slowly about his plate. “But you’re gone sometimes for months at a time. Wouldn’t that mean Ines being the primary caregiver?”
I cleared my throat. “I’ve spoken with Ines about this.” My nod was slow as I explained, “She thinks it’s a great idea. She’s known Noelle since she was a grasshopper. We both think we’d make a great blended family.”
He placed his utensils down and took in a deep, audible breath. Then he hiked his chin over his meaty knuckles while peering me in the eyes. “I’m not sure how your mother will feel about that, honey.”
Stunned, I struggled for a rebound. Then, eventually gathering my bearings and smiling, I reminded him, “I’m not sure what business, if any, this is of hers.”
“Mommy, more!” Chi-Chi tapped my arm, her volume lower this time.
My father beamed at her while I ripped off another piece of bread.
“Celestine may be back permanently—I hope permanently.” He chuckled to himself, and I caught a glimpse of his enduring love and desire for her. I could see how this news tickled his senses. And those damn butterflies erupted in my belly, but not for my parents. It was because I now understood the special weakness a man could have for a woman. “Eh—I just want to be sure she’s comfortable with the situation.”
My face hardened. “Why?”
“Because…” He gestured with his hand toward Chi-Chi. “…she’s her only grandchild. Celestine adores her company. I wouldn’t want to isolate her by creating a scenario in which she doesn’t feel comfortable visiting her granddaughter’s home.”
I was stunned. Absolutelystunned. Noelle’s head hadn’t come up from her plate, and it wasn’t for loving the food. She had to feel incredibly sad.
“Hey, there! I thought that was my niecey-pooh.” I turned to my right and glanced up to find Lex Carmichael beaming brightly. She looked good and worldly feminine in a sleeveless floral maxi dress with a tease of her cleavage. Her wild mane was pulled back from her face, the top portion in a ponytail.
“Hi,” Chi-Chi performed shyly, something she was known to do.
I only gave Lex a simple “Hey,” then glanced around her, past the other patrons, and saw Ezra at the other side of the room with the host, likely being escorted to a different dining room. Their beautiful girls were with him, all waving sweetly.
“I’m going to get my ‘W’ next time!” my father shouted across the room, laughing.
I knew he was referring to their chess game played at Chi-Chi’s party back in March. My dad loved the game.
“You got it!” Ezra rasped back with a stunning smile.
“Chi-Chi! Chi-Chi!” one of the girls called. “Come with us!”
When my attention rolled back up to Lex, her smile wasn’t as bright. “Is it okay if she comes to sit with us for a few minutes? Her auntie misses that cupcake face.” She smiled at a giggly Chi-Chi.
“She’s already eating with her aunt,” I informed her.
Lex stood straight, face drained of merriment. “Does that mean we’re not her family, Shi-Shi?”
The entire table froze. The glacial tension was now established.
My eyes burst wide. “Family? Oh.” I paid a glance to a clueless Chi-Chi. “Is that what we are, or just the parishioners of your church you try to hook up with a certain person in Chi-Chi’s family?” My lashes clapped with emphasis. “All families matter, Lex. Even those struggling to find their way.”
Her head whipped, eyes narrowed. “You mind if we speak in private, Shi-Shi?”
“Actually, that’s not a good idea right now. I’m in a heavy conversation with myfamily. Kiss the princesses for me, though.”
Her neck rolled, and Lex blinked deeply before twisting her lips and walking away. “Good night, everyone.”
“Goodbye.” I turned my attention away from her energy. “You want more water,” I asked Chi-Chi who shook her head.
“That was rude. Isn’t she the first lady of that mega church?” my father inquired.
I shrugged. “She’s a woman from Harlem. Humanly flawed just like me…and you,” I explained. Noelle was all wide eyes and a collapsed jaw. “But back to the subject at hand, I know you’re the only person who can make this happen as her legal guardian.”
“As a father, Shi-Shi…” he exhaled, frustrated by the conversation. “As the man of this family, I have to do what’s best for everyone.”
