AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“It’s okay, sir. I’ve got a bright future ahead.”
Mr. Willabee looked behind him at Hope and Bebe, then back to Jay. “That you do.”
“Look at you, Jahleel Walker,” Mrs. Willabee interrupted. She held out her hands. “Give me a hug, young man.”
“It’s good to see you, Mrs. Willabee.”
“Yes, it’s been a long time.” She stepped back and looked him over. “I hope that knee is treating you right.”
“It’s getting better.” He held up the cane. “And I have help.”
“Good, good.”
Bebe motioned to the couch. “Sit. We’re watchingThe Polar Expressand eating a snack. Join us?”
“That’s what we came up here to do. We couldn’t let another day pass now that Hope is on break.”
“So you’ll be here the whole time?” Bebe asked.
“Yes. Do you have everything finished with the ball?” Mrs. Willabee asked.
Bebe looked at Jay. “We crossed everything off the list, right?”
“Just about. Although May and Ryan might need help with decorating.”
Mrs. Willabee rubbed her hands together. “That sounds perfect. Just point me in the right direction, and I’ll be of use.”
“Talk to my mom,” Jay said. “I’m sure she knows where help is needed the most.”
“Great idea.” Bebe’s mother tilted her head. “How is she doing? And your father?”
“They’re great. They were dancing in the kitchen the other day.”
Bebe arched a brow. He loved the silent communication ofare you okay?He nodded, and she smiled.
“Bill, why don’t we dance in the kitchen?” Mrs. Willabee demanded.
“It’s a galley kitchen. There’s no room for that.”
Mrs. Willabee huffed. “Well, that’s going to be my Christmas wish from you.”
He laughed. “Keep wishing, honey.”
Jay tried to smother his laugh, but a snort came out. Bebe’s mother whipped her head around so fast he was shocked she didn’t hurt her neck.
“Are you laughing, Jahleel Walker?”
“No, ma’am.”
“Hmmph. You better not be.”
Bebe winked at him.
Soon they all settled down to watch the movie once more. Occasionally Bebe’s folks made eye contact with him, noting the lack of distance between him and Bebe, but they said nothing.
Unease coiled in his gut. Were they unhappy about their relationship? Did they wish Bebe hadn’t given him a second chance? After talking with Ryan, Jahleel knew convincing Bebe he was a better man and here for the long haul was something that had to be done. But he’d never factored in how her folks would feel about their relationship. His mom was happy that he was dating Bebe. She’d always liked her and had no qualms. Then again, Bebe hadn’t been the one to break his heart. He’d broken hers.
So have a conversation with her folks. Reassure them.
