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I pressed the call button for Ben. “I’d like to stop at the Cudahy house,” catching him just before he turned off to head toward downtown Milwaukee. Just that simple action was a change for us. Paul trusted my decisions, and I knew he’d always be there to support me.
My neighborhood had stayed the same. It was still beautiful rows of craftsman’s houses. The tree-lined street had leaves of all colors showcasing the fall. Ben stopped out front, and I gazed lovingly at our two-story home. Even now, I could see myself rushing down the road heading home, where Dad and I would enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. It was where I learned to knit and sew, where I dreamed. Where I ran to when I was afraid of my love for Paul, but now there was no uncertainty as I stepped outside the car with Miles in my arms. He was mine.
I kissed Miles’s forehead. “This is where I started.”
“It’s a lovely house,” Paul said, joining me on the sidewalk and rubbing my back.
I leaned my head on his shoulder. At one time, I couldn’t imagine him here, but now, there wasn’t a part of my life without him.
A couple of my old neighbors came out and over to us, where Paul took selfies, and they congratulated us.
“Tell your parents we miss them over here.”
“They miss you all too,” I told them, and we returned to the car.
We rode through the streets and back on the highway. And in a short time, we were on Lake Drive, pulling up to the gate of my parent’s new house. It was a neighborhood we drove through for many years to see the beautiful houses on our way to the beach, trailing, a show, or just a long walk.
Ben pressed in the code, and we drove up the circular driveway. It was a stone-pillared mansion with rows of windows and shrubbery. I’d thought it was too much, but then I saw the flowers my mom had planted. She had made it her home and was obviously relishing retirement and the ability to spend hours in her garden. It brought her so much joy, so I was thankful.
Mom was stacking flyers for the Birthday Wishes charity she and Dad had started to help kids in need. On seeing us, though, she threw up her arms and rushed towards the car. “You’re here.”
“We are,” Paul said as he climbed out.
She kissed and hugged him. “I’m so happy you’re here.”
My heart warmed at the sight of Mom with Paul. They had come a long way. I got out, Miles reached for Mom, and she immediately took him from me. “You’re growing up so fast, Miles.” She kissed his forehead. “Laurence, good to see you again.”
“How are you, Agata? He asked her.
“Great. We made plenty of food just for you.”
Laurence chuckled and rubbed his hands together. “I’m ready.”
Mom grinned, then went over to Ben. “I know you said you’re not dating, but—”
“Mom, come on,” I told her, and we all laughed.
“If she’s just like you, I’m interested,” Ben said, winking at her.
Mom blushed. “You go on in and relax. No one’s sending you out anywhere. You’re on vacation, too.”
“Where’s Dad?” I asked her.
“He’s helping your Uncle Jan babyproof everything.”
“Good plan. Miles is crawling everywhere.” Peering inside the foyer, there were many toys. “You’re going to spoil him.”
“He doesn’t have to play with them all, and most are for the charity.”
Dad appeared, and I hugged him. “How are you, Daddy?”
“Great now.” He walked over and kissed Miles. “Hello, little guy. I have so many jokes to teach you.”
Dad was doing okay, but he still had doctors and nurses around. He wasn’t completely well, yet, but he certainly had a new lease on life. He started baking again, something he’d missed, and it was a welcome scent that made this place feel like home. And had given Dad much joy.
“Come, Paul. Show me how to play ‘Heart and Soul’ on the piano.”
“You have a piano here?” Paul asked, surprised.
