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I’ve heard of it, mainly from the ladies in the family talking about how each piece is unique and no matter what you buy from there, no one else will ever have the exact replica.
“She has people from all over the world, submitting online orders.”
I’m still not sure exactly why Leann is telling me this, but I continue to listen and wait. I’m sure there is a point.
I glance at Leann and she is looking over the menu, both Chloe and her father are chatting back and forth. It's then I know that Chloe expressed her concerns and this isn’t just a casual breakfast.
“I showed Margaret your mother and your aunts work.” Leann finally lifts her gaze to meet my own. “She was in awe.”
My mother has always loved quilting and crocheting but she's been more active with it now and I know it's to help with the fact that she misses my father so much.
“She is going to display both your mother and your aunts work. There is also a company that goes around to all the hospitals both here and in other states offering blankets to patients undergoing cancer treatments and dialysis. They are interested in working with them as well, after Margaret sent them images of the blankets they make.”
I feel my chest grow tight, knowing that this is Leann watching out for my mother too and I am so thankful. Ben and Leann are good people. They are kind and caring and I swear it makes me love them more. They are family.
"I know you worry about your mother.” This time it's Ben that speaks. “Hell, Landon, I know you worry about everyone and you push yourself to the point of exhaustion to make everything perfect for our daughter and granddaughter. That right there is why I don’t worry quite as bad about them. I know that you protect them and care for them like no one else could. But in order to continue to do that you have to take care of yourself.”
I nod, feeling like I can’t form words.
“You miss him all you need to,” Ben adds. “Don’t ever feel like you can’t give yourself that. You need to get rid of some anger and frustration you come find me. We’ll work through it together.”
It’s hard for me to accept defeat. But losing my father, it's gutting me, but something I can’t do is let it destroy me.
“Thank you,” I say looking at both Leann and Ben. “Both of you” I clarify and lean over to kiss Chloe on the cheek. I know it’s because of her I am where I am, surrounded by people that only want to support me. People that love me, and I need to let themdojust that.
* * *
I lookup from my place on the couch as Chloe walks out of the bedroom and into the kitchen. Wearing a pair of those tight leggings and an oversized sweater, comfortable but so damn beautiful.
Laya wiggles in my hold and I stand and make my way to the kitchen to join my wife.
“Are you sure this is okay?” Chloe asked and I can sense her concern, as she twists her hands in front of her and looks between me and our daughter.
“Yeah,” I lift Laya’s hand to wave at Mommy. “We’re good aren’t we baby girl?” I ask my daughter and she blows bubbles with her spit.
“I could tell them that something came up and just stay home with you two.” Chloe reaches out and places her hand on Allayah’s leg. “I think I should stay.”
She’s worried about me, I’ve never broken down the way that I did last night, but she was right I needed it.
“This is a yearly event with all you ladies,” with my thumb under her chin I tip her head upward so she is looking at me. “I’m good, I promise. It’s Laya and Daddy date night, we’ve got plans.”
“Plans?” Chloe smiles as I press a kiss to her lips. “Now I’m jealous.”
“I have plans for us later too sweetheart,” I offer a wink. “You go bake with the rest of the ladies, have a few drinks and call me if you need me to come get you.”
“I have Grace as my designated driver,” I keep forgetting Grace can’t drink. It’s still crazy that Terrance and her are gonna have a little one of their own.
“Miss me,” Chloe backs away, letting her hand drop freely between us.
“I miss you already.”
Allayah and I watch as Chloe walks outside and gets into her car. She backs out of the driveway and waves before pulling away.
terrance and grace
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ten
