“Hey, something wrong?”
He met his son’s worried gaze.
“I could pay if you want, since you’ve been treating the whole time,” Kendrick added.
“No, I don’t care about the money.”
“What’s wrong? You looked…strange for a minute, like you were upset.”
“I’m not upset, and believe me, a seventy-five-dollar tour is not going to break me. I was thinking about something, but…never mind.”
“Jackie?”
Tyson’s chest deflated, and he handed back the flyer. “Am I that obvious?”
“Most of the time you’re present, but every now and again you go somewhere else in your head. Last night at the restaurant, I had to call your name twice before you noticed the waiter was ready to take your order.”
“I hope I’m not spoiling your time here.”
They started strolling down the avenue.
“Nah, I’m good. But I understand. Jackie’s quite a woman.”
“Don’t do that shit,” Tyson groaned. Kendrick had already teased him several times about Jackie.
Kendrick laughed, a welcomed sound despite the reason for it. The past two weeks, his son had become more relaxed around him. They’d shared plenty of laughs, engaged in thoughtful conversations, and he’d learned more about Kendrick’s dream to become an actor. A teacher had initially stoked his interest by pointing out his innate talent, and he’d secretly taken acting classes two years ago to work on his craft. What Tyson had assumed was an impulsive hobby, his son had clearly put a lot of thought into and was very serious about.
“But it’s true, she is an amazing woman. Fine, smart as hell in business. Definitely driven. The two of you are alike in that way.”
Tyson came to a stop with the other pedestrians waiting to cross the street. “Yeah, she’s something,” he murmured, thinking back on the night at the beach, when she looked up at him and he saw the promise of a future together in her eyes.
“So what happened? Because it’s obvious something is wrong,” Kendrick said.
“Let’s grab a bite here,” Tyson said, pointing. “They’re supposed to have great cheesecake.”
“So you’re not going to tell me?”
Tyson didn’t answer right away, but a side glance at Kendrick made it clear that his son expected an answer. “All right, I’ll tell you, but let’s have a seat first.”
They were lucky enough to get a table outside so they could people watch. While they waited for their coffees and cheesecake to arrive, Tyson opened up and told Kendrick about Jackie’s adoption plans and the last text he received from her.
By the time he finished talking, they had their food in front of them. Kendrick dived into the New York cheesecake with cherry topping, but Tyson couldn’t touch a bite of his strawberry cheesecake.
“I have a question for you,” Kendrick said, putting down his fork.
“Shoot.” Tyson sat back and readied for an inquisition.
“Do you love Jackie?”
“Yeah, I do. I fucking do.” He rubbed both hands over his bald head to stem the pain that overcame him at the thought of losing her again—this time for good.
“So why are you willing to walk away?”
“I’m not willing to.”
“You are. You told me—”
“I’m not the type of man she needs. I’m letting her go because I suck at being a parent. Never mind I’m old and set in my ways. I can’t raise a kid now.”
He watched pedestrians rushing by—some laughing together, others alone, head down or head high as they barreled toward their destination.
In a low voice, he added, “I’ll probably mess up her kid and mess up the life she has planned raising her.”
“Is that what you’re worried about?” Kendrick asked quietly.
Tyson swallowed past the lump in his throat. His chest hurt. He couldn’t look at his son right then and kept his eyes on the black coffee in the white cup on his side of the table.
“You and I just started getting along. I don’t want to screw up any more kids in this lifetime.”
Silence filled the space between them, and Tyson’s gut burned with shame. He had a good life now and had finally achieved a lifelong dream of financial success, but at what cost? He’d alienated his kids and only established a decent relationship with them as adults.
“I don’t have a clue how to be a father. I’m just winging it right now.” He lifted his gaze.
“Does any man really know how to be a father? I figure everybody’s just winging it and hoping for the best. Personally, I think the most important part of being a parent is showing that you care. For the longest, I didn’t think you cared, and um…it hurt, you know? That you could just set me aside and focus on whatever you thought was more important—business, women, my sisters. Even Jackie.” He swallowed. “Paying for this trip wasn’t necessary. Don’t get me wrong, it’s nice, and I appreciate it. But for me, the best part of this whole trip is that you came with me. You chose to be here when you could be anywhere else in the world doing a million other things. You waited in the lobby for two hours while I went on an audition because you knew I was nervous. You went over my lines with me. You helped me map out my day, and in between all that, hit sightseeing spots. I just wanted your time, Tyson. That’s it. If you have time to give to Jackie’s kid as her stepdad, then…I think you’ll do just fine.”
Warmth expanded in Tyson’s chest. His kid had dropped some knowledge he could appreciate. “You trying to make me cry or something?”
“No,” Kendrick said with a laugh.
“Thanks. I didn’t realize it, but I guess I needed to hear that.”
“You’re welcome.” Kendrick picked up his fork and placed a big hunk of cheesecake in his mouth.
“You think you’ll ever be able to call me something other than Tyson? Like Dad or Pops or something?” Tyson picked up his fork, too, and waited.
Kendrick finished chewing, and the corners of his lips tipped upward. “Maybe. Let’s see how things go.”
So that wasn’t a no. Tyson’s mouth curved upward into a smile. “Okay, let’s see.”
More progress.
16
Jackie froze with her eye against the peephole.
Tyson stood on her doorstep, looking as scrumptious as ever in a dark pullover that clung to his biceps. He’d adhered to the request in her last text, sending a single word later that night—OK. She hadn’t heard from him since then, and she sent the text seven days ago.
The bell chimed again, and she rested her forehead against the door, biting her upper lip. Could she handle talking to him? Why was he here?
Finally, she smoothed her hands down the front of her denim dress and wondered if she should close the top buttons she’d left undone. Deciding against it, she swiped her tongue across her mouth to moisten her lips before opening the door.
“Hello, Tyson.”
“Hello, Jackie. Mind if I come in?”
God, his voice. She hadn’t heard him speak in so long, and that deep voice of his had her ready to dump all her reservations, throw herself at him, and beg for a reconciliation.
“Sure, come in,” she said, keeping her tone even.
Tyson walked ahead toward the living room, and she indulged in watching him move across the floor with measured steps. Tall, great ass, and his deep brown skin tempting her to run her fingers over his bald head and bare arms.
To keep from whimpering, she bit the inside of her cheek.
“I know you’re probably surprised to see me.”
“I am. How did you even know I was home?”
“I didn’t, but I stopped by the main store first, and they told me you had taken the day off. I hoped you were home and not out somewhere. I got back to San Diego last night and couldn’t wait to see you and talk to you. You look great, baby.”
As usual, he ate her up with his eyes, gaze spanning the length of her body from top to bottom—on the way down idling
for a breath-stopping moment at her bosom, before continuing the descent to her feet and then climbing back up to her face.
Her skin singed wherever his gaze touched, and heat rose to her cheeks. She needed to calm down and keep a straight head, because she could easily lose herself with him.
“Don’t do that, please. Say what you came to say and leave.”
“I can’t pay you compliments anymore?”
“What do you want, Tyson?” she snapped.
His brow furrowed. “We’re not enemies, Jackie. Are we?”
She immediately regretted the sharp tone. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t expecting you, and I want to get this over with.”
“I guess I should be glad you answered the door then.”
“I don’t hate you, but as I pointed out in my last text, I don’t think it’s a good idea for us to stay in touch.”
She sat down on the sectional and tensed when he sat down a couple feet away.
“I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the conversation we had before I left, and I came here to tell you that I changed my mind. I believe there is a future for us—one where we could raise a child together. I love you, Jackie, and I don’t want anything to stand in the way of us being together. I screwed up letting you go before, and I can’t do that again.”
She rubbed her trembling hands together, queasy from the opposing forces of elation and anxiety that raged a war in her abdomen. “You’re saying everything I want to hear, but you and I won’t work. You know it and so do I.”
“I don’t know that,” Tyson said quickly.
She stood and faced away from him, assembling her thoughts. When she swung around, he was standing too, but had moved from in front of the sofa.
“Tyson, I know how you feel. Some days I don’t want to get out of bed because I miss you so much, but I have responsibilities. Employees, bills to pay. I make myself get up because I have to. I miss you, and I’m a little angry that you made me realize how much my life has been lacking. I’ve enjoyed the times we’ve spent together on dates, talking, the general companionship, the sex. But there’s something else I’ve been missing for years, and that’s motherhood. I’m not willing to give up being a mom for you.”
That’s basically what her decision had boiled down to at the basic level. She’d had to make a choice, and she chose motherhood—the same way he’d chosen to sow his wild oats and pursue his dreams of entrepreneurship ten years ago. Once again, their timing was off.
“I’m not saying you should—”
“I wouldn’t dream of asking you to be a father again because the last time we were together in this living room, you were very clear. So if you think you can convince me—”
“Woman, would you stop talking for five minutes!”
Tyson walked over and took both of her hands in his. Shocked by his outburst and hypnotized by his warm touch, Jackie fell quiet, focused on his eyes and the impassioned expression within them.
“I love you, and adopting a child is not a deal breaker for me. I was worried because I want to spend the rest of my life with you, and the idea of being a father again scared me.”
“Scared you?”
“Yes, scared me. I screwed up big time before, but Kendrick and I talked one night, and he made me realize that I didn’t have to be afraid. Kids need love and attention and time, and I can offer that.” He brought the back of her hand to his lips. “We can do this, you and me. Raise a little girl. I think about my grandkids and how much I enjoy spending time with them. Kids are precious. They give so much more than they receive, and I’m ready to be a dad, stepdad, whatever you need me to be. I’m still scared as hell, baby, but I’m a different man than I used to be, and I’m looking forward to it.”
“Are you sure? I’m going to adopt. I’m not changing my mind.”
“I don’t want you to, and yes, I’m sure.”
His words sank in. “So you’re still talking about a future together, and some day getting married?”
“Absolutely.”
“And you don’t mind being the oldest parent at the PTA meeting?” She grinned.
“Nobody better say shit.” Tyson came closer, his black eyes soft, his enticing mouth close enough to kiss.
“Tyson, I’m scared, too,” Jackie admitted, whispering as if someone could overhear them. “I’ve always been an overachiever and been successful at every venture, so I’ve never felt as if any goal was beyond reach. I simply set my mind to it and worked my butt off. But being a mom is—whew, a nerve-racking concept. My parents think I’m crazy, but they also thought I was crazy for starting my own business.”
“And you showed them.”
“I sure did.”
“And you’ll show them again by being the best mother on the west coast. Listen, if nothing else, I can make sure you know what not to do as a parent.”
She laughed then quickly sobered. “Just so you know, I found a girl I’d like to adopt. She’s nine years old, but she has an older brother who’s thirteen. I told my caseworker I want to keep them together, so I’m going to adopt them both.” She waited for his reaction.
“That’s great.”
“They’ve been in the system for a while, and it’s possible that one or both of them come with some challenges,” she warned. She’d already made up her mind to meet any difficulty head-on and give those kids the most supportive, loving home she could.
“Nothing you can’t handle, you and me. Together.”
Tension eased out of her muscles. Jackie gave Tyson a hug and rested her head against his chest. He kissed her temple, and she closed her eyes.
“Together.”
Epilogue
I’m a graduate!
Hand in hand with Hector, Adelaide practically skipped into the restaurant on a cloud of happiness. Located above La Jolla Cove, Beach Dream was a popular spot that offered dining on a large patio overlooking the ocean.
She and Hector took their time through the crowded restaurant, winding past tables toward the back. Murmured conversations filled her ears, and the scent of spices and fresh seafood dishes perfumed the air around her. They walked toward the private dining room, where friends and family awaited their arrival.
At the doorway they stopped, everyone sprang to their feet and started applauding—even the attending servers.
Junior, her eldest, stood tall and handsome in front of her. He stuck two fingers in his mouth and whistled. Beside him, Karen—whom everyone said was Adelaide’s twin—yelled, “Yeah, Mom!” Beside her, looking a lot more mature nowadays with a shorter haircut, Daniel grinned while cradling his sleeping son strapped to his chest. In a few weeks he’d be taking over management of Solar Beams III in Carlsbad. Jamie stood beside him, her long blonde hair hanging over one shoulder.
Adelaide walked farther into the room with Hector right beside her. The applause died down as she surveyed the room, grateful to see all the familiar faces.
“I don’t know what to say. You all know I’m better one-on-one, instead of having to do a speech in front of a group, so I’ll keep this short.” She took a deep breath and released it. “First of all, thank you to my wonderful husband, Hector, who has been very supportive during the past year. He’s been so patient, giving me room when I needed to study and making me go to bed when I stayed up late stressing about one thing or another. Thank you, honey.” She raised up on tiptoe and planted a kiss on his soft lips.
“Aww,” the crowd said. Then low chuckles rippled through the group.
“Te amo. I’m proud of you,” he whispered in her ear.
“I love you, too, honey.” She returned her attention to the guests. “I’m not finished! Thank you to my kids and every single one of you who encouraged me. I’m so glad you’re here—my goodness, I didn’t expect to see so many people!”
She laughed, her heart full, and cleared her throat of emotion. Her eyes searched the room, and she found the two people she was looking for. Renee and Jackie were with Clive and Tyson, seate
d near a gift table piled high with bags and wrapped boxes.
“A special thank you to my best friends, Renee and Jackie. You wouldn’t let me have doubts and insisted I could complete the coursework, even when I didn’t believe I could. You’re the best friends in the world. I did it!” Adelaide held up her diploma and the group cheered and clapped again.
She visited each table, saying hello to everyone and giving hugs and kisses. Then she finally sat down with Hector, her kids, and Jamie at the front of the room.
The buffet menu offered plenty to drink and eat—seafood salads, shrimp and scallops with pasta, sea bass, chicken dishes, rice, and a potato dish. Adelaide chatted and laughed, sipping wine and savoring the meal as she celebrated with family. At the end of dinner, with a slice of coconut cake and an espresso before her, Renee and Jackie came over out of the blue.
Renee placed a hand on Adelaide’s shoulder. “Can we borrow the graduate for a little bit?” she asked the family.
“What’s going on?” Adelaide asked, even as she rose to her feet.
“We’ll show you in a minute,” Jackie replied, placing her hand in the middle of her back to shove her toward the door. “We won’t be long, and we’ll bring her right back,” she promised.
They went to Jackie’s BMW, and she pulled out a basket and blanket. “We’re going to do your favorite thing. Watch the sunset.”
“Did I mention you two are the best friends ever?”
“We know,” Renee said.
Laughing, they made their way down the steps to the beach. Adelaide trailed behind her friends, stepping carefully across the sand as strands of hair blew across her face and the hem of her dress flapped in the cool breeze.
They settled onto the blanket with Adelaide in the middle, Renee to her left, and Jackie on the right. Jackie poured them each a glass of white wine and they sat in silence while sea lions barked nearby and a group of older teens yelled at each other over the sound of loud pop music.
Renee finally spoke. “We knew you wouldn’t want to miss this.”
Seasoned Page 28