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“Can I talk to you for a second, Dad?”

“I’ve always got time for you, Oliver.” Emmanuel meant it too.

“I know I said this before, but I am sorry for the way I spoke to you when I found out you were moving out…” Oliver stopped then. His regret was plastered all over his face. “I knew I could have handled the situation better, but I was still mad at you because I believed the worst.”

“I get it. This shit was hard on everyone. It was a hard ask for you to look past the results.”

“But I shouldn’t have doubted you, because I know what kind of man you are.”

“You were looking after your mother. It is what I taught you to do. It’s okay Ollie stand up son.”

As Oliver did what his father instructed, Emmanuel followed suit. He wrapped his son in what he intended to be a quick embrace. Instead, his oldest held on.

“I’m sorry, Dad.”

Emmanuel couldn’t be sure, but he thought he heard a sniffle. Although he was a grown man by the world’s standards, it didn’t matter to him. Oliver was his child, and he was hurting. Emmanuel held on tighter. Add this to the list of why Leonardo should pay. His awareness of others in the room resurfaced when he felt a hand wrap around him.

“Aww. This is so awesome. You two made up,” Sage practically sang.

Emmanuel opened his arms to include both his children. “Of course. We might have disagreements, but this family will always come together. No matter what life throws at us.”

“Okay guys, we should have refreshments in a few,” Ivy announced as she entered the room.

“Oh good! I hope there is enough. I’m starving.” Sage announced as they separated from the hug. It was good to hear his little girl’s appetite had returned. He looked up and shared a smile with Ivy. Her face was awash with relief.

Being with his family as they ate, talked, and laughed was what he desperately needed. Especially now their faith in him was restored. Emmanuel had never been unappreciative of his life, but at this moment, it overwhelmed him how truly blessed he was to be surrounded by so much love.

It became apparent to Emmanuel that he still needed to grow. The forgiveness and graciousness which he felt towards his children didn’t naturally extend to Kimberlin. She was there waiting when he came out of the washroom.

After a few false starts, Kimberlin got to the point. “I owe you an apology for doubting you.”

“It was a little more than doubting, but I know you were looking out for Ivy. But let’s be honest, you let your prejudices influence your… advice.”

Emmanuel could feel himself getting worked up. Ivy didn’t throw her friend under the bus, but he knew who planted the seed for the need for an STI test. Kimberlin had been through a lot in her past. This was something he’d work to remember. “Listen… I don’t want to dwell on it. Ultimately, you are family. You mean everything to my wife and children. I’m not holding onto anything.”

“Well. I appreciate your understanding,” Kimberlin told him. “I am happy about this outcome. I find it comforting knowing you have always been the man you said you would be to Ivy. This is something she deserves.”

She smiled and almost collided with Frank as she turned away.

“Franciscus,” Kimberlin sneered.

“Your edges are looking fragile, Kimmy,” Frank laughed at her outraged huff.

“Why do you let Kimberlin work you up?” Emmanuel asked. She was the only person who seemed to draw those kinds of reactions from Frank.

“Work me up? Nah. She and I are always good. It is all in love.”

“If you say so.”

Frank asked for a moment, and they went to Emmanuel’s office. It was surreal. It had been a while since he was in there.

“What’s up?” Emmanuel asked.

“No, what’s up with you? I can read between the lines. You guys have known for a bit. In which time, I am sure you have been plotting like a motherfucker. Now bring me up to speed, so I can make sure your revenge doesn’t land you on the wrong side of the law.”

Chapter Twenty

I’LL SAVE HIM THE TRIP.

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