Page 9 of Legally Loved

My daughter is turning her head, refusing what her Uncle Harry is trying to feed her. I told him she didn’t like it, to which he declared, “My niece is picky as hell.”

“She’s particular,” I say to which he chuckles and states it’s the same thing. Beth is eight months old and has my personality. Poor Caleb.

A few months after Sean confessed, my brother’s case was reopened and they let him go with their apologies while CeCe and Sean went to jail in his place. The year he spent there changed him and he struggled to adapt after being released. Caleb did what he could to help, as did I.

We bought a house down the street from Clive and Grace. Harry moved in with us and has been working with a local construction company. He was saving his money and recently found an apartment. I’ve gotten used to having him with us and it’s done wonders for our relationship, which makes me sad that he's leaving. Yet I’m happy he’s moving forward.

After my parole was up, the required hours of community service done, I put that life behind me. Caleb and I were married and had a fantastic honeymoon. Once we returned home, we decided to wait on having children, choosing to get established in our respective careers and enjoy some time together first. Caleb loves his job as I do mine. Being a troubled youth myself, I chose to work with Grace at the youth center here. I can relate to them better than most.

Caleb walks in the kitchen and puts his briefcase on the counter. "Hello, family."

"Hey, suit,” I greet him as he gives me a kiss. “How was work?"

"Good,” he replies. “We’re finally wrapping up a big case." Harry, frustrated with his stubborn niece, passes Caleb the spoon and jar of baby food.

"She won’t eat for me." Caleb eagerly takes over and asks where Harry is going.

"Probably to see his girlfriend." He thinks we don't know about her and we haven’t said otherwise. When he's ready, he'll tell us. I check on the pizza in the oven, my eyes going to Caleb, watching as he moves his mouth, mimicking eating to try and trick our daughter. He’s a great husband and father. Unfortunately, his parents never changed and are horrified at how his life turned out. They will never meet their granddaughter, and that’s their loss, not hers.

"Clive and Grace want to come over tomorrow with the kids." I remind him they know they’re always welcome. I’m so thankful for the many blessings I have and I know they’re because of Caleb. Who knew breaking the law would be the smartest thing I ever did?

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