Page 62 of Loving Kai

Abe sighed. “I know that feeling.”

John nodded. “It never really completely goes away. But you learn to trust yourself a little more as each day passes, and the child keeps thriving and growing. That’s when pride starts to overpower the fear.”

“Are you proud of us, Dad?”

“Every damn one of you.”

“Some more than others?”

“No.”

“Hmm. I guess if you and Mom can successfully raise six boys into adulthood, I can manage to keep Kai alive and happy.”

“I have no doubt of that, son.”

Chapter fifteen

“A child. A kid. A son. I have a son.”

Abe was still sitting at the table munching on almonds along with a second beer when the phone rang. He got up to answer it, hoping it was Maggie.

“Hello?”

“Abe?”

“Hey. You got a minute to talk finally?”

“Yes. Not long, though. This day has been crazy.”

“I’ve got some pretty big news, but I don’t want to tell you over the phone. Can you come by my folks’ house tonight after work?”

“You’re going to make me wait another four hours?”

“Sorry. This really is in person news.”

“At least tell me if it’s good news or bad news.”

“It’s um…good. Yeah. Good news.”

“You don’t sound very convinced.”

“You’ll see when you get here.” He backed up to the counter, then pushed himself up and sat on it. “I’m really sorry about last night.”

“You told me Larry was a jerk for standing me up.”

“I did. And he was. As am I.”

“Luke is waving me inside. I need to go.”

“Okay. I’ll see you soon.”

“Bye, Abe.”

He hung up the phone, then sighed as he idly kicked the cupboard door with the heel of his boot. Allie came in through the back door with Kai in her arms.

“Abe, get off the counter.”

He slid onto the floor. “Sorry.”