Page 95 of Loving Kai

“Definitely not coffee.”

“Water then.”

“I’ll get myself some water. You go get ready to leave. We’re going to be late.”

They left Maggie’s house fifteen minutes later and drove to Abe’s. His mother was still there, and he remained in the truck after Maggie got out. She went to his window.

“Come on. Your mother is the sweetest woman in the world. It’s going to be fine.”

“You’ve never made her mad.”

“I can’t even picture your mother mad.”

He got out of the truck. “It’s more of a simmering disappointment.”

“Ah…well, time to face the music. Do you want me to wait outside?”

He took her hand. “No. I might need backup.”

They went in the front door and found Kai sitting on the living room floor surrounded by large plastic blocks. Abe went to him, and Kai held out his arms.

“Papa.”

“Hey, kid.” He picked him up. “Look at you all better.”

Allie came from the kitchen. “He had a slight temperature this morning, but the Tylenol took care of it.”

Abe turned to her. “Hi.”

She went to Maggie and hugged her. “How are you, sweetheart?”

“I’m great, thanks. I’m glad Kai is feeling better.”

“Would you mind taking him to the room and getting him dressed? His clothes are on the bed.”

“No.” She went to Abe and raised an eyebrow. He nodded, then handed Kai to her. “Come on, sweetie, let's get you dressed.” She headed for the bedroom.

Allie looked at Abe. “You’re going to make mistakes, Abe. You’re going to make a wrong decision or say the wrong thing. You’re going to miss something you should’ve seen coming. Those are things all parents go through.” She stepped toward him and rested her hands on his arms. “But running away isn’t an option.”

“I didn’t—”

“I was partly to blame. I should’ve sent you to the backyard or the garage.”

“I just…”

“I love you, honey. Kai loves you. You need to be here for him, no matter how difficult that may seem sometimes.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She hugged him. “Did you eat breakfast?”

“Can’t really eat.”

She looked at him for a moment. “I’ll make you some toast, and you should eat a banana.”

“Mom, really.”

“It will help.”