Page 21 of Daddy's Little Dreamer

“Night, Daddy Jayger.”

“I’m your daddy now, so you can drop the Jayger.”

He bolted upright, eyes wide. “You’re keeping me?”

As if he was an old shoe on the verge of being tossed out. “You’re not an object to be kept. You’re a boy who deserves to be treated like a prince. But yes, I’d like for you to be my boy.”

“Your only boy?”

“My only boy for his only daddy.”

More tears. Would I ever get used to this gentle soul? This boy would be pleased with the simplest of things. Reading books, cooking, playing – all things we can and will do together. He just wanted to be loved, and love him, I will.

“Happy tears, I hope?”

“Very happy tears, Daddy.” There was that adorable blush. “Thank you.”

“You never have to thank me for taking care of you. That’s in the Daddy job description.” Another giggle. “Goodnight, sweet boy. Daddy will talk to you tomorrow.”

“Night, Daddy.”

Our new routine flawlessly fell into place. During the days we texted as time allowed and each night I read to my sweet little bee at bedtime. In between, I’d done a bit of online shopping and all Trevor’s gifts were due to arrive by Saturday. I might’ve gone a bit overboard with them, but he was more than worth it.

“Sweet Bee, would you like to sleep over at Daddy’s on Saturday night?” A big ask after only a week, but if I didn’t ask I’d never know. “I have a spare bedroom you’re welcome to.”

“But—but, I want to sleep with you, Daddy.”

“I’d like that too, but didn’t want to assume or make you uncomfortable. Just because we share a bed it doesn’t mean anything has to happen. Understand?”

“Yes, Daddy, and thank you for considering my feelings.”

To every so-called daddy who wronged this boy, I’m gonna line you up one by one and smack the shit out of you.

“Now, what would you like for lunch.” I’d cook a nice dinner for sure, but a littles lunch was in order.

“Mmm.” He thought long and hard. “Corn dogs. Have you ever seen the little ones? They’re so cute. I dip them in mustard and buzz them around cause they’re shaped like bees. Have you ever noticed that?”

“No, I’m afraid I haven’t.” This boy’s happiness was infectious. He spoke with his entire body and sucked you right into his world. “I’ll definitely look for them at the store.” Along with a few other things. It was like I just couldn’t help myself when it came to him.

“Yay! Can I bring Bumble to our sleepover?”

“Always. Anywhere we are Bumble is welcome. Okay, sweet bee, Daddy needs to log out at work and run a couple of errands. I’ll call you tonight for your story.”

“’K Daddy, drive safe.”

I might’ve overdone it at the store. Between corn dogs, pasta, salad and bread for dinner, plus snacks, juice boxes, and a few more goodies I couldn’t resist, the cart was full as was the back of my SUV.

“Good morning, little bee.” I was ready for it this time when Trevor launched himself at me. “Good morning, Lila. How are you this fine morning?”

“Morning, Jayger. I’m doing well, thank you for asking. Trevor mentioned a sleepover?” The cocked mom brow-- was it a warning or I know what happens at these things?

“We are. I have many fun activities planned and there is a giant gift bag sitting atop my dining table for a certain little bee. I wonder who that is?”

Trevor’s eyes widened as he excitedly danced. “I’ve got prezzies?”

“Indeed, you do. Grab Bumble and bring me your bag.”

He ran down the hall, allotting Lila and me a few moments alone.

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