Page 102 of Johnathan

“Just like being a teacher takes a lot of time and dedication, or like how your dad’s job as a deputy takes a lot of time and dedication, being a parent is even more demanding than that. It’s really important that everyone in our family is ready for thatwhen it happens. You need to want me to be your mommy, but your dad has to also want me to be your mommy.”

“Do you want to be my mommy?”

“With my whole heart, sweet pea. Remember when we wished on stars earlier?”

“Yeah, I wisheded for you and Daddy to kiss, cause when princes kiss princesses, they fall in love.”

“Well, I’ll let you in on a secret. I already love your dad a whole lot.”

“You do?”

“Yep. And you want to know something else?” Abby leaned down and pressed a kiss to Katy’s forehead. “I already love you a whole lot, too. That’s why part of my wish was about becoming your mommy one day.”

“Really?”

“Mhm. But it’s not just as simple as wishing on a star. I want to spend some time showing you and your dad exactly the type of mommy I’d be if you decided to have me as a part of your family forever.”

“Otay.”

“So, while we figure it out, we can have days where we bake cookies, and watch princess movies together. We can go on picnics with your dad, and spend time with your grammy and grampy. We’ll work together to become a family. How does that sound?”

Katy’s whole face lit up. “Fun!!”

“There’s just one really important thing I want you to remember. No matter what, no matter how much time goes by, if you get to call me mommy next week or if it never happens, I want you to know that I will always love you, Katy. With my whole heart.”

“Otay.”

“Okay. Can I sneak a hug?”

Abby held her arms out as Katy sat up, wrapping her little arms around her waist. She let go, her body falling back down on the pillows.

“I know I can’t call you mommy yet, but I love you just like I’d love a mommy.”

Abby sat silently for a moment, gently stroking Katy’s hair as she let the little girl’s words wash over her heart.

“Are you ready to go to sleep now?”

“Yes,” Katy said through a big yawn.

“Alright. I’ll let your dad know he can come back in and give you kisses. Sweet dreams, kiddo.”

“Abby?”

“Yeah, honey?”

“You do my princess hair in the morning?”

“Of course I will, sweet pea.”

“I love you, Abby.”

“I love you too, Katy.” Abby fought to keep her voice steady as she turned the lamp off next to the bed. She walked quietly into the hallway, just in time to fall apart as strong arms wrapped around her.

“I hope I didn’t overstep,” she sniffled into John’s shirt.

“Baby, you handled it perfectly.”

Thirty-One

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