Page 69 of Babies at Coconuts

Chapter 49

The next day, Suzy texted Hope and explained the situation. After getting the number for Paul Taylor, Attorney at Law, she called, gave him the name of Vanessa’s parents, the link to their obituary, and the late reverend’s church name.

The attorney listened to her elongated story without interrupting. After Suzy finished, Paul Taylor said, “I see. This is an intricate situation. Let me check some records. I’ll call you back this afternoon. You said you’re Hope’s friend?”

“Yes. We went to high school together. Hope, Alex, and I go to Coconuts nearly every week, or as needed, which is sometimes often.”

Chuckling the attorney said, “Of course, now I remember. She has mentioned you both many times. I didn’t recognize your last name at first. I’ll be happy to do some research and will call you back this afternoon.”

Within two hours, Suzy learned from the attorney that Vanessa’s parents, in fact, did have a will. They also owned their house. It was not retained by the church. Paul Taylor offered to represent Vanessa at the office of her parents’ attorney later that week.

Suzy breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank you very much. I’ll call Vanessa and coordinate a time for the meeting.” She hung up and started dialing.

~ ~ ~

A day later, Suzy, Jon, Fernando, and Vanessa went to the attorney’s office. Ken stayed home to babysit baby Violet.

The drive over was somber without much conversation. Suzy could only imagine what was going through Vanessa’s mind. After she parked in front of Williams & Williams, a short, friendly Paul Taylor met them on the sidewalk. Suzy noticed he shared Hope’s big, brown eyes.

After introductions, Paul escorted them inside a small office with a stark, nondescript boardroom. Mr. Williams, Attorney at Law, shook hands with everyone but focused on Vanessa. “I’m sorry about your parents. What a tragedy.”

Already sniffling, Vanessa nodded as a tear trailed down her cheek. Both Jon and Fernando flanked her and offered tissues.

The attorney opened a manila file. “The good news is your parents left their house to you, Vanessa. You’re the sole beneficiary. You can either keep the house or sell—”

“They did?” The young mom’s eyebrows shot up. “Dad always said he’d leave it to the church.”

Mr. Williams flipped a page. With his index finger, he scrolled the document with his finger. “Ah, here it is. They revised their will six months ago. I made a note in the margin about a newborn.” He stared over his glasses at Vanessa. “Did you have a baby? Their grandbaby?”

Fernando leaned forward. “She did. Actually, we all sort of had the baby. It was on our wedding day.” He clamped his hand over his mouth. “Sorry. Vanessa can answer for herself.” Reaching for his phone, he asked, “Want to see a picture?”

Both attorneys smiled.

Fernando’s excitement made Vanessa relax. “He’s right. We had a baby. Violet Grace is the granddaughter of Suzy”—she pointed to Jon’s Mom—“and also of my parents.” She swallowed. “My late parents.”

“I’d love to see a photo,” the attorney said.

Fernando thrust his phone in Mr. William’s face and started scrolling. Jon reached for Fernando’s arm. “He probably doesn’t want to see all five hundred photos.”

The happy baby news made everyone at ease. Reaching into a drawer, the attorney retrieved a small envelope. Vanessa’s name was on the front. “This contains their house keys. They had a duplicate set made for you, just in case.”

Vanessa’s voice cracked. “I can’t believe this. I thought they hated me.”

Paul Taylor spoke up. “Why in the world would you think that?”

“Because my dad is . . . was a preacher. I had Violet out of wedlock. He feared he’d lose his job at the church, so I laid low.” She wiped her eyes. “I wanted to protect them. I didn’t want to embar—”

“Damn shame,” Jon muttered. He reached for Vanessa’s hand. “Looks like they made it up to you, though.”

“I’d rather have my parents, but I guess you’re right.” Vanessa reached for the envelope.

Mr. Williams studied the young mom. “Any questions?”

“Can I go there any time?” Vanessa peered from Mr. Williams to Paul Taylor. Both men nodded.

“It’s your house now. Do whatever you want with it.” Standing, Mr. Williams said, “Feel free to use the conference room. I’ve got another client unless you have more questions.”

Vanessa’s voice rose. “Can I sell it if I want?”

“Certainly.” The attorney smiled. “It’s yours. In many cases like this an auctioneer is called to handle the estate sale of the house and contents, but that’s up to you.”

Nodding, Vanessa said, “This is a big decision. I’ll consider all of the options.” Clutching the envelope, she crossed the room and wrapped her arms around the surprised attorney’s face. “Thank you.”

He teared up. “I’m glad there’s somewhat of a happy ending here. It seems odd to give you my condolences and congratulations in the same sentence, but there it is.” Mr. Williams, her parents’ attorney, picked up the legal file, shook hands with everyone, and left them alone in the conference room.

Vanessa placed her hand over her chest. “I wondered how I was going to pay my rent, car payment, and afford diapers. She glanced toward the sky. “Thank you, Mom and Dad.”

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