Page 35 of Perfect Strangers

Crew runs off toward his room. “Come on, we can play together. Mom got me another controller today!”

Major stands, watching Crew run off toward his room. He glances at me for a brief second and removes his jacket. I take it from him and nod with a smile as he heads down the hall for a little play time with Crew.

Major disappears as I fight the urge to follow. They deserve their time together. I return to the kitchen, plating salad and dinner. About ten minutes later, I call the boys telling them it’s time to eat. Crew races toward his seat with Major following close behind.

“Having fun?”

Crew beams with joy. “Yes! Major taught me some cool fighting codes for the game. Now I can beat the boss level.”

Major chuckles at Crew’s enthusiasm as I pass the napkins and bread rolls. We eat together, watching and listening to Crew talk about a new video game that he’s just dying to have.

“It’s going to be the next big thing. Mommy, can I get it, please?”

I nod, “Soon sweetie. I just got you that new game and controller. Maybe you should try beating that one first and then we can think about getting another game.”

Major chimes in. “I’ll get it for you.”

Crew beams with joy. “Really, thank you!”

We finish up dinner and as I take everyone’s plates, the boys go missing in action. After I finish washing the dishes, Crew’s laughter echoes down the hall. Curious at what they’re doing, I quietly inch toward the room and peek my head in.

The two of them play fight as I watch Major lift Crew in the air, pretending he’s laying some hard wrestling moves. Tears fight to spill down my face as I watch the two of them bond in front of me.

Crew catches me spying on them and exclaims. “Hey mom, I like your friend. He’s nice!”

My eyes glance at Major for a quick second before I respond in a deep tone. “He’s not just a friend.”

I step into the room, looking at Crew as he sits on the floor, wondering what’s the reason for my sudden seriousness.

“Crew, he’s also your father.”

I watch as his face grows with shock, joy, excitement, and happiness all at once. His eyes dart from me to Major multiple times before settling back onto me.

“He’s my father?”

I nod as a single tear trickles down my face. “Yes.”

At that moment, Major bends down next to me, facing Crew with open arms. I watch as Crew stands and steps into his arms. Th

e two of them share a silent hug.

Moments pass as they embrace and Major finally lets go. I catch him wipe away a tear as he stands next to me. Crew invites him to play another game and I leave them to it.

An hour passes before I realize it’s almost time for Crew’s bedtime. I hate breaking up their newfound relationship but he’s got to get up early for school in the morning and he needs his rest. I head back down the hall, to hear them talking and my name comes up.

Crew’s voice vibrates throughout the room. “So, you like my mommy, right?”

I cover my mouth, holding my breath as I eavesdrop on their conversation. Major responds quickly. “Yes, I care for her very much.”

“So, does that mean you’re like gonna get married?”

My body freezes still as I wait for Major to answer. “Wow, you don’t hold anything, back do you? Well, I haven’t thought that far. Right now, your mom and I are in a weird place and it’s going to take some time before things get worked out.”

“I don’t understand. If you like her and she likes you, what’s stopping you?”

Before he could respond, I step in the room, not wanting to hear his answer. It’s bad enough that I overheard the conversation and I can’t help but feel a hint of sadness as I look at Major for that split second.

“Crew, it’s time for bed honey. You have school tomorrow.”

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