Page 48 of Pretty Baby

Caleb whimpered and tried to grab it back.

“Hold on boy. I’m not taking it from you. The next gift is bigger. It’s for both girls.”

“Okay,” he managed. He was already so overwhelmed.

Grant pointed to the last bag, the biggest.

Caleb slid off his lap and stood in front of the coffee table staring down at the bag. “What is it?”

“Open it, baby.”

Caleb’s fingers shook as he reached out. He pulled the plastic down from another box. He gasped.

“I thought we could leave Lizzie out of the chest. The cradle should fit both girls and we could put it next to the bed in your room.”

Caleb turned and threw himself at Grant.

His Daddy grunted but gathered him up in his arms.

“Shh,” Grant soothed. “It’s okay.”

“Y…you…got…got…me…babies and stuff!” he wailed.

Grant rubbed his back. “I was driving back and saw the toy store. I’d forgotten it was even there.”

“Thank you, Daddy.”

“Your very welcome pretty baby. I’m glad you like them.”

“No one’s ever bought me anything. Not even for Christmas or anything.”

“Baby,” Grant said with a sigh. “It’s okay. Daddy is here. It’s all going to be okay, I promise.”

Grant held him as Caleb tried to come to terms with the fact that his life was changing. He was wearing one of his pretties and could play with dolls and Grant supported him. More than supported but encouraged him. He was finally accepted.

Caleb cried harder but Grant didn’t get mad. He just held Caleb tighter. Caleb’s lips naturally found Grant’s nipple so he could suckle.

Eventually, his cries stopped and he felt like he’d been put through the wringer. Grant used his own shirt to wipe Caleb’s face, nose, and eyes. Caleb had to giggle.

“Feel better?” Grant asked.

“Yes, sorry.”

“Nothing to be sorry for,” Grant assured him. His Daddy said that phrase a lot. “This is a lot for you. You’ve had to hide for so long."

“Yes.” Grant understood.

“But not anymore.”

“Not anymore Daddy.”

“Now would you like me to open up your new presents?”

“Please Daddy, please can I play?”

“Absolutely,” Grant said. He kissed Caleb and Caleb melted against him. He didn’t know how he got so lucky but he was going to do everything possible to make sure Grant never left him.

Grant pulled away and patted Caleb’s thigh. “Let’s get this party started.”

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