Page 92 of Jaeda

“What’s that?”

“A new Lego set. It’s the McCallister house fromHome Alone. I figured we could watch the movie while we put it together.”

I had to laugh because that was right up my alley. “Bet.”

I leaned in to kiss her once again, when the door opened, and my parents stepped out. I was surprised to see my mom with a gentle smile on her face. I grabbed Jaeda’s hand and led her up the front steps.

“Mom, Dad, this is my girlfriend, Jaeda. Baby, these are my parents, Linus and Chandra Michaels.”

“It’s very nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Michaels,” Jaeda said, extending her hand.

My father shook it. “It’s very nice to meet you, Jaeda.”

“I’m a hugger,” my mother said, opening her arms.

Jaeda went into them, and they shared a warm embrace. When my mother pulled back, she cupped her face.

“You are so beautiful,” she said with a smile.

Jaeda blushed. “Thank you. You’re gorgeous yourself. I never would have guessed you have a son Quaid’s age.”

My mother playfully rolled her eyes. “You know, I have been told I could be his older sister a time or two.”

“Don’t drag it, Ma,” I jested.

She swatted my arm. “Oh, hush! Let me be great.”

Jaeda laughed. “I believe you. My mom gets the same thing.”

“That’s that black girl magic. Y’all come on in. Dinner is almost ready.” She looped her arm through Jaeda’s. “You like wine, baby?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She led Jaeda ahead of us and into the kitchen. My father chuckled.

“She won’t admit it, but she’s been anxious to meet her all day.” He pulled me in for a hug. “She’s beautiful, Quaid. I’m sorry about the way your mother and I reacted to the news of who you were dating. We had preconceived notions of her and her family. If you like her and trust her, it’s only fair we give her a chance.”

“I appreciate that, Dad. She means the world to me, and I really want y’all to like her.”

“I’m sure we will.”

We headed into the house to find my mom and Jaeda laughing and talking while sipping on her favorite wine.

“What are y’all in here cackling about?” Dad asked.

“I was just telling Jaeda about Quaid as a kid?—”

“Mama, please don’t start,” I begged.

Jaeda giggled. “You got to listen to my mom embarrass me. Let yours return the favor.”

“Quaid told me he met your family. We’ll have to make a meet and greet happen soon.”

Jaeda nodded. “I agree. Fair warning, you should probably meet my mom first. My dad has no filter, but Mom is a little more reserved. She loves entertaining. I just have to make sure she’s feeling up to it.”

“Is she sick?” Mom asked.

“Pregnant. She and my stepfather decided to start all the way over.”

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