Acceptance

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Sixteen

They could smell the grill when they got out of the car. Blair’s Lexus sat in the driveway beside Natalie’s car, and Jo parked behind Natalie.
Jo carried the bags of chips she’d bought on the way home from work, even though Mrs. Garrett had said not to bring anything. Jamie held McKenzie’s hand, and they followed Jo onto the porch.
Natalie answered the door with a giant grin and her happy hello.
“Hi, Nat,” Jo said, hugging her.
Natalie hugged her back and greeted her.
“Girls, you both look beautiful.”
“Thanks, Aunt Nat.” Jamie hugged her. “You remember McKenzie?”
“Of course. It’s good to see you again.”
“Thanks, you, too.”
Jamie squeezed McKenzie’s hand and let out a sigh of relief. She wasn’t sure if her palm was sweating or if it was McKenzie’s. Okay, that went well, she thought. Hopefully nothing weird will happen with Aunt Blair.
They followed Natalie into the kitchen, where Blair, Mrs. Garrett, and Julia sat at the table.
“Nat, wasn’t Snake supposed to come,” Jo asked after greeting everyone.
“He’s out back starting the grill,” Mrs. Garrett said.
“McKenzie,” Blair said. “That dress is gorgeous. You look adorable.”
“Thank you,” McKenzie said quietly. She’d chosen a light blue puffed-sleeve mini dress with embroidered flowers on the skirt. Jamie wore denim shorts and a blue floral tank top.
“You two are very well coordinated,” Blair said. “It’s very cute.”
McKenzie and Jamie smiled.
“Julia,” Jo said. “How’d things go today?”
“Good,” Julia said.
“She created a new croissant,” Mrs. Garrett said.
“Peanut butter and jelly swirled inside with peanut butter chips on top,” Julia said proudly.
“Sounds great,” Natalie said.
The doorbell rang, and Natalie volunteered to get it. Moments later, she and Tootie were squealing and giggling like they were still young girls.
Jeff trailed in behind them.
“Jeff,” Mrs. Garrett said happily. “It’s nice to see you. It’s been such a long time.”
“Mrs. Garrett, good to see you, too.” They hugged.
Everyone greeted Jeff.
“Jamie, how’s the summer treating you?”
“It’s been good, Jeff. This is my girlfriend, McKenzie.”
Jamie tensed as she watched the emotions crossing Jeff’s face: confusion, surprise, something that was a mix of anger and disgust, and, finally, thankfully, he smiled.
“Nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you, too.” McKenzie shook his hand and held tightly to Jamie with her other hand.
“Jeff, why don’t you go out back and see if Snake needs help with the grill,” Natalie suggested.
“All right,” Jeff said. “I can take a hint. See you in a few.”
“Tootie,” Jo hissed when Jeff was gone. “Didn’t you tell Jeff about McKenzie?”
“Of course I did,” Tootie said. “We talked about it. He seemed fine with everything.”
“He didn’t look fine with it,” Blair said. “We all saw the look on his face.”
“I didn’t,” Julia teased.
Everyone laughed.
“Julia, Jamie said. “Stop with the self-deprecation.”
“What? The tension in here was so thick you could cut it with a knife. I just wanted to lighten the mood.”
“McKenzie,” Tootie said. “I promise he’s fine with it. We all want you to be here.”
“Okay,” McKenzie said. “I don’t want to cause any trouble.”
“Nonsense,” Mrs. Garrett said. “You’re no trouble at all.”
They went outside to eat. Jamie lead McKenzie to the steps on the back deck.
“What’s up, Kenz? You haven’t let go of your death grip on my hand the whole time we’ve been here.”
“I’m just nervous.”
“Why? Everything’s going fine. I know Jeff didn’t seem okay at first, but if anything happens, Mrs. Garrett will ask him to leave.”
“I’m nervous about the food. You know I have to count carbohydrates and get insulin. The chips will have information on the package, but I might have to guess at the rest. I don’t want to guess wrong and feel sick later because I didn’t get enough insulin or have to eat later when I’m not hungry because my blood sugar’s low.”
“I know sometimes that bothers you. It’s a lot to have to think about all the time.”
“At school it was easier because there was a nurse and a nutritionist on staff who could help.”
“Mrs. G used to be a nutritionist. We can go talk to her.” Jamie stood and offered McKenzie her hand.
Jamie and McKenzie walked up to Mrs. Garrett, who was sitting beside Julia at the patio table.
“Mrs. G, can we talk to you,” Jamie asked.
“Sure. I have to go inside and get more buns. Why don’t you come with me?”
Jamie took McKenzie’s hand and followed Mrs. Garrett.
“Are those your home-made buns,” Jamie asked. Mrs. Garrett was pulling the last two buns out of a bag and putting them on a plate.
“They sure are. I might not have enough, though. I think there are some store-bought buns in the freezer.”
“I’ll look for them,” Jamie offered.
“Can I have one of the store-bought buns,” McKenzie asked.
“Well, sure, but you don’t want to try my secret recipe?” Mrs. Garrett smiled proudly.
McKenzie calmly explained her situation. Mrs. Garrett jumped into action and read the nutrition labels on the bag of burger buns and box of pasta she’d used to make the pasta salad. She took the buns and a 2/3 cup measuring cup outside so McKenzie could measure her pasta.
“We’ll be right out, Mrs. G,” Jamie said.
“Okay, honey.”
Jamie helped McKenzie add the carbs she intended to eat and waited for her to test her blood sugar and give herself insulin through her insulin pump. Jamie squeezed McKenzie’s hand as they walked outside with extra napkins and a jar of pickles.
“McKenzie,” Blair said when they were all seated with plates of food. “You shouldn’t be on a diet. You’re young; you look fabulous. Why are you measuring your pasta?”
“I have Diabetes.” McKenzie’s voice was quiet again.
“My aunt had that,” Snake said. “She was able to reverse it by watching her diet and exercising.”
“I have Type 1. It can’t be reversed. My pancreas doesn’t produce insulin anymore, so I have to get insulin through a pump when I eat, and I have to track my blood sugar.”
“How long have you had it,” Natalie asked.
“Since December,” McKenzie said.
“That’s not long,” Natalie said sadly.
McKenzie nodded and took a bite of her burger.
“Mrs. G, these buns are just as good as I remember,” Jo said.
“Thanks, Jo.”
“You know,” Tootie said. “I tried making them for Jeff for Thanksgiving one year when we went to his family’s. They didn’t turn out as delicious as these.”
“They were more like hockey pucks,” Jeff teased. Everyone laughed.
They continued to laugh and talk throughout dinner and dessert. After they’d cleaned up, they gathered in the living room.
“Jamie, I almost forgot to tell you,” Natalie said. “I applied for that creative writing instructor job at Langley. I have an interview on Thursday.”
“That’s great,” Jamie said excitedly.
“McKenzie, are you going to Langley with Jamie and Julia in the Fall,” Tootie asked.
“No,” Jamie answered for her. “She’s leaving me to go to NYU.”
“What will you be studying,” Blair asked.
“Well, I was going to study culinary arts, but now I’m not sure.”
“You’ve got time to figure it out,” Blair said.
Julia yawned from where she sat in an armchair.
“Mrs. G,” Jo said. “I think we should go soon.”
“We don’t have to leave on account of me,” Julia said.
“Sweetie, you’re practically falling asleep just sitting there.”
“It’s all right,” Natalie said. “It’s getting late. We should go, too.”
Soon they were all saying good-bye.
“McKenzie,” Mrs. Garrett said, hugging her. “I’m so glad you were able to join us. You come back any time, even if Jamie’s not with you.”
“Thank you for everything, Mrs. Garrett.” McKenzie said, returning the hug.
“Good luck getting her here without Jamie,” Julia said. “They’re practically joined at the hip.”
Mrs. Garrett laughed and hugged her. “Thanks for your help today, Julia.”
“Thanks, Mrs. G.”
Mrs. Garrett kissed them all good-bye and waved as everyone left.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Seventeen

“See, I told you it would be fine,” Jamie said as she changed into her pajamas.
“Yeah, everyone was nice,” McKenzie said, taking the sparkly barrettes out of her hair and placing them on the desk. She opened the bottom drawer of the dresser and took out a clean pair of pajamas.
“Thanks again for clearing out a couple drawers and half your closet for me.”
“Don’t even mention it. I love that you’re here and we get to share this time and space together.” Jamie climbed into bed. She hoped someday they could share an apartment or even a house together.
“I don’t think I realized how nervous I was about counting carbs tonight.” McKenzie got into bed beside her.
“Come here.” Jamie pulled her closer. “I know you were nervous, but we figured it out. You said your blood sugar was just 147, right? That’s good, isn’t it?”
“Yeah, it’s fine. We did. Thanks for taking me to talk to Mrs. Garrett.”
“Of course.”
McKenzie kissed her. “Did I tell you how beautiful you looked tonight?”
“Yeah, when we were getting ready,” Jamie giggled. “But I love hearing it.”
“That top fit you good.”
Jamie kissed her deeply. “You looked so hot in that dress.”
McKenzie laughed and kissed her back. “I love you, Jamie.”
“I love you, too,” Jamie replied. “Sleep well.”
“Hold me?”
“All night.” Jamie felt content holding McKenzie. This is all she’d wanted since they’d confessed their attraction to each other. She felt McKenzie tense.
“Hey, what’s wrong? You’re tensing up.” Jamie reached over and stroked McKenzie’s hair.
“Don’t let go.” McKenzie’s voice was tight, and she clung to Jamie.
“I won’t. Promise. What’s going on?”
McKenzie let out a long breath. “My family deserted me,” McKenzie spoke slowly and softly. “And you and your family have been great, but… Well, we’re so young. I don’t ever want to lose you, too…”
McKenzie started to cry.
Jamie brushed tears from McKenzie’s cheeks. “Honey, don’t cry. Shh. I’m sorry your family’s been so horrible to you. But, Kenzie, not everyone you love is going to leave you.”
“My own grandmother disowned me,” McKenzie said angrily. “Grandma’s aren’t supposed to do that. They’re supposed to just love you.”
“I know,” Jamie whispered. She stroked McKenzie’s hair gently and kissed her forehead.
“I know my parents love me, but they’re never around. Spending time with them after graduation was fine, but I just kept thinking about how they don’t really know me… Their idea of love is giving me a check.”
“Where’s this coming from?”
“I think just seeing your family together tonight. I don’t know…”
Jamie didn’t know what to say, so she gently rubbed McKenzie’s back.
A knock at the door cut through the silence.
“Come in,” Jamie called. She pulled away from McKenzie and held her hand tightly.
“Goodnight, girls.” Jo came in wearing her pajamas and slippers. ”Hey, McKenzie, what’s the matter?”
“I’m just missing my family, I guess,” McKenzie said, trying to wipe her tears.
Jo sat on the edge of the bed. “Oh, Honey, I’m sorry. One of the hardest things in life is accepting rejection, especially from people we love.” Jo wiped McKenzie’s tears.
“How do you handle it?”
“Well, you have to let yourself grieve what you lost. It’s okay to feel whatever you’re feeling.”
“I feel angry and sad, and I miss them. They disowned me, and I miss them!”
“That’s okay to feel that way. It’s part of the grieving process.”
“It hurts so much… How long does it last? Does it ever get easier?”
“Honey, there’s no time-table. But it will get easier; you’ll forge your own path, live your own life. You’ll find your chosen family.”
“We’ll be here for you,” Jamie said. “Mrs. Garrett wasn’t kidding when she said you could come over with or without me.”
“We already love you,” Jo said. “We’ll be your family.”
McKenzie sat up and hugged Jo. “You’ve already been so wonderful to me.”
“You’re a sweet kid. You help around the house; you’re a hard worker. You’re kind to everyone. It’s easy to love you.” Jo hugged her back. “Girls, get some rest, okay? Come get me if you need anything.”
“Good night, Mom,” Jamie said, snuggling under the covers.
Jo kissed both of them on the forehead and said good night. She gently tucked the pale purple comforter around them.
Jamie and McKenzie settled under the covers and fell asleep in each other’s arms.

[fol_fan1989]

Not sure if anyone is reading this, but I'm enjoying writing it. Here's more.

***

Chapter Eighteen

“Mom, can Lily spend the night?” Julia asked after breakfast the next morning.
Jo stood at the counter sorting through mail.
“Well, I already told Jamie and McKenzie that Sara could sleep over tonight.”
“But Sara’s Jamie’s friend.” Julia put her plate in the dishwasher and closed it.
“I know, but with Lily that’s five teenaged girls. Does it have to be tonight?”
“You won’t even know we’re here. Lily and I will just hang out in my room. Please?”
Jo sighed. “All right. We’ll order pizza. Maybe I’ll see if Blair wants to come over and keep me company.”
“See, you can have a sleepover, too.” Julia stood beside Jo.
Jo laughed.
“Thanks, Mom.” Julia hugged her.
Jo hugged her back. “Are Jamie and McKenzie still asleep?”
“Yeah, I think so. I haven’t heard them up.”

“Hi, Jo,” Blair stood on Jo’s porch late that afternoon.
“Blair, thanks for coming over.”
“Are you kidding? How could I resist spending the night with you and five teenaged girls.”
“Admit it, you’d rather be on a date.”
They laughed. Blair followed Jo into the kitchen.
“Hi, Aunt Blair,” Jamie trudged into the kitchen.
“Hey, sweetie, what’s going on.” Blair said, hugging her.
“Sara can’t come over after all. She’s sick.”
“Sorry, honey,” Jo said. “But we can still have a good time with McKenzie, Jules, and Lily.”
“Okay. I’m going to shower once Julia’s done. McKenzie’s getting ready.”
“How was work today?” Jo asked.
“It was okay. I had to keep telling these two kids to stop running.”
“Are you enjoying it,” Blair asked.
“It’s okay, I guess.”
“What are you girls planning for tonight?”
“We’re just going to talk and eat and hang out.”
“You girls going to play truth or dare? Give each other makeovers? Jo, do you remember that time you all were trying to distract me from my toxic boyfriend and Natalie suggested we give you a makeover?”
“No, I blocked that out.” Jo said dryly.
“We might give each other manicures,” Jamie said. “I’m going to go up and check on McKenzie.”
“All right, Honey,” Jo said, laughing.
“What’s so funny,” Blair asked.
“That girl is like me in a lot of ways, but then she gets excited about manicures.”

“How’s my girl,” Jamie asked McKenzie as she came into the bedroom from the bathroom. Her hair was leaving wet spots on her purple satin robe.
McKenzie finished tying her hair into a ponytail. She stood and put her arms around Jamie and rested her head on Jamie’s shoulder.
“You okay?”
“I don’t know,” McKenzie said sadly.
“How come? Is it your blood sugar?”
McKenzie shook her head.
“I’m bummed Sara can’t come, too, but we’ll still have a good time. I’ll still give you a manicure if you want.”
“It’s not that,” McKenzie said sadly. “I’m still thinking about my family.”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
“I don’t know what to say. I’m devastated, James… It’s taken a while for me to be able to talk about it.”
“I know.” They sat on the bed. “I didn’t want to push you if you don’t want to talk. I’m here, but Aunt Blair is downstairs if you want to talk to her. She might be able to relate better.”
“She’s still in contact with her family.”
“Yeah, but Her parents weren’t around, either. I’m just saying, she offered if you ever wanted to talk.”
“But I didn’t just lose my family.”
“What do you mean?”
McKenzie lowered her head. She stood and started pacing.
“McKenzie?”
“I can’t,” McKenzie whispered.
“Honey, you can tell me. Whatever it is. We’ve always been able to talk about anything. We talk things through and figure things out together.”
“I can’t go to school.” McKenzie burst into tears.
“What? Come here. Sit down.”
McKenzie looked devastated.
“I can go get Blair or my mom, seriously. You have to talk to someone.”
McKenzie sank onto the bed and started to sob.
Jamie put her hand on McKenzie’s shoulder and asked gently, “Do you want me to—”
“Stop!” McKenzie yelled. “Leave me alone!”
“Okay, fine!” Jamie dressed and slammed the door as she went downstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Nineteen

Blair helped Jo clean up after dinner.
“What’s going on with Jamie and McKenzie,” she asked as she put a plate in the dishwasher.
“I don’t know, but they barely looked at each other through dinner, and Jamie went downstairs and McKenzie went upstairs with Lily and Julia.”
“Do you think they had a fight?”
Jo washed the kitchen table. “They never fight. They haven’t so much as raised their voices at one another the whole time McKenzie’s been here.”
“Should we go talk to them?”

A few minutes later, Jo sat with Blair, Jamie, and McKenzie in the living room.
“What’s going on between you two,” Jo asked.
“McKenzie’s mad at me,” Jamie said.
“No I’m not. Not really.”
“But I pushed you to talk about your family… I’m sorry. I just want to help you feel better.”
“I know,” McKenzie shouted.
“McKenzie,” Blair said gently. “I know it’s hard when you don’t have supportive family. It can help to talk about your feelings.”
“I don’t know how to sort it all out.”
“I grew up with three fathers,” Blair said. “My mother was always off on some fabulous trip. My father sent a card on my birthday, but he wasn’t really around. I was raised by the help. Can you relate to that?”
“Yeah, I know exactly what you’re talking about. Both of my mothers are work-a-holics. I saw more of my nanny than I did them. I’d spend summers at my grandmother’s. I think she helped keep me grounded.”
Blair nodded. Jo looked at her steadily. Jamie held back tears.
“I never expected her to feel so strongly about me and Jamie. She was okay with her daughter having a wife, or at least she seemed to be. I don’t know what to believe anymore.”
“She wasn’t okay with Jamie specifically?”
“She wasn’t okay with how much money we don’t have,” Jamie said bitterly.
“Did you tell your parents,” Blair asked McKenzie.
“Yeah, they’re fine with me staying here, letting someone else take care of me again.”
“You sound disappointed.”
“I think that’s an understatement.” McKenzie’s eyes shone with tears. “I don’t know how to get through this. I feel like I’ve lost everything. Not just my family, but my future…”
“Why do you feel like you’ve lost your future,” Jo asked.
Blair’s heart ached for her. “Your future’s not ruined. Your life is just beginning.”
McKenzie started to cry, her face twisted in pain.
“It’s okay,” Jamie whispered. “Whatever it is, you can tell us. We’re listening.”
McKenzie started to cry harder.
“Take your time,” Jo said. “Breathe.”
“My grandmother was supposed to help me pay for college,” McKenzie spoke slowly. She took a deep breath. “When she disowned me, she didn’t just kick me out and take her car back. She made me quit school because I can’t afford it without her. I had to withdraw from courses on Monday.”
“Kenzie,” Jamie whispered, wiping her own tears.
“Oh, honey, I’m so sorry.” Jo rubbed McKenzie’s back.
“I don’t know what to do.”
“It’s going to be okay.” Blair took her hand. “But being upset with Jamie isn’t going to help. You need her now. Surround yourself with people who care about you. That’s how we get through the hard things in life.”
“I’m not upset with Jamie.”
“I was just there,” Jamie said matter-of-factly.
“I’m sorry, James.”
“We’re good,” Jamie assured her.
“I think I’m embarrassed by my family.”
“Well, they haven’t really given you a reason to be proud of them,” Jamie said.
“We’ll help you figure this out,” Jo said.
“Maybe you don’t have to go to NYU,” Jamie said, taking McKenzie’s hand in hers. “Maybe you could work for the fall semester and go to Langley in the spring. What about your parents? Would they help?”
Tears streaked McKenzie’s cheeks. “I don’t know. I’m so overwhelmed. I made my decision, and now it’s been yanked away like I don’t deserve it.”
“But you do deserve it.” Jamie wiped the tears gently from McKenzie’s cheeks. “If you still want to go to NYU, you can. There’s got to be a way.”
“We can’t make decisions for you,” Jo said. “But we’ll help you figure out your options. We can help you research, talk things through, whatever you need.” Jo hugged her. “You’re not in this alone, you hear me?”
McKenzie nodded and held her tightly. “I still don’t know what to do, but I feel a little better.”
“You don’t have to figure everything out tonight,” Blair said. “Why don’t you sleep on it?”
McKenzie nodded and thanked them.
“I told ya,” Jo said. “You’re important to Jamie, so you’re important to us. We love you.”
“I’m going to go lie down.” McKenzie hugged each of them and stood.
“I’ll be up in a minute, hon,” Jamie said.
McKenzie said goodnight and went upstairs.
“Poor kid,” Jo said quietly.
“Mom?”
“Yeah, honey?”
“I still feel helpless.” Jamie leaned against her mother.
“I know, honey. We just have to keep being there for her.”
“She’s very lucky to have you,” Blair said.
“I’m going to go up and be with her. Can I bring up some ice cream bars?”
“Sure,” Jo said.
They hugged and said goodnight.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty

Mrs. Garrett wasn’t expecting the doorbell to ring. It was Tuesday, and the shop was closed.
“McKenzie, what a nice surprise,” Mrs. Garrett exclaimed when she opened the door. She hugged her and ushered her inside.
“You said I could come over any time, even without Jamie,” McKenzie said, sitting on the couch beside Mrs. Garrett.
“Of course, Honey. What can I do for you?”
McKenzie fidgeted with the bracelet Jamie had given her. “Jamie’s birthday is next weekend.”
“Yes, I know. I’m making both of them birthday cakes.”
McKenzie sounded nervous. “I wanted to do something special for her. I know we’re having the party at Blair’s on Saturday, but I want to make a special dinner for her.”
Mrs. Garrett nodded.
“It gets kind of… We don’t always have privacy at home with Jo and Julia… I mean, I appreciate being there…”
“Are you trying to tell me you want to have dinner with Jamie alone?”
“Yeah,” McKenzie let out a breath. “But I don’t want to just take her out to dinner. I want to make her a nice dinner, and I was wondering if we could do it here?”
Mrs. Garrett smiled. “Have you talked to Jo about this?”
“I wanted to talk to you first, in case you weren’t on board.”
“Well, I am on board, but you have to clear it with Jo so she knows where you’ll be.”
McKenzie nodded. “I will. I promise. And I’ll make the food. You don’t have to cook anything.”
“What are you thinking of making?”
“I’m not sure yet. I’m torn between lasagna or chicken parmesan. She loves Italian.”
“Do you need anything from me?”
“No, I don’t think so. Could I come over early to make the food?”
“Sure. How are you going to get her over here alone?”
“That I might need you to help with. Could you ask her over for help with something?”
“Sure. I’ll think of something.”
“Thanks, Mrs. Garrett.” McKenzie finally looked relaxed.
Mrs. Garrett smiled. “You’re welcome.”

Jo stood in the storage room in her basement and slid the twins’ boxes of Eastland memorabilia onto a shelf beside her own. She sighed. This room was full of memories—from her daughters’ childhood years, boxes of photos from her own high school and college days, boxes she’d taken from her mother’s apartment after she’d died. She shook her head, trying not to think about her mother. Rose had been gone for almost three years, and she knew they all missed her, especially when the twins were having such big milestones this summer.
“Jo?” She heard McKenzie calling her name.
“I’m down here,” Jo called. She walked out to the family room. It had been a play room for the girls when they were younger, but a few years ago she’d turned it into a family room with couches and a television set.
McKenzie came down the stairs.
“Hey, McKenzie. What’s up?”
“Can I talk to you?”
“Of course.” Jo patted the couch beside her.
McKenzie sat down. “I want to do something for Jamie for her birthday.”
“What did you have in mind?”
“I want to make her dinner.” McKenzie explained her plan and that she’d talked to Mrs. Garrett.
“That’s really nice. She’ll really like that.”
“So it’s okay?”
“Sure. I know you two want some time to yourselves. And nothing will happen because you’ll be with Mrs. G.”
“Are you concerned something’s going to happen?”
“I know I shouldn’t be; you haven’t done anything to lose my trust. But you’re young, and I know feelings can be really intense, and you’re so serious about each other.”
“We are serious about each other, but we aren’t rushing anything. We just came out; we’re still getting used to being with each other openly. We just want to be together.”
“I know, but I almost married my boyfriend when I was 16.”
“I know. Jamie tells me all the time, and she doesn’t want us to end up regretting rushing into anything. I just want to be with her. We don’t have to be married or anything. We’re committed to each other, but we’re still getting used to each other as girlfriends.”
“Do I need to be concerned with how intimate you are? You two are joined at the hip.”
“What? We’re not… You don’t have to worry.” McKenzie blushed and lowered her head in embarrassment.
“What doesn’t she have to worry about,” Jamie asked, coming down the stairs.
“Your mom’s concerned we’re being intimate.”
Jamie’s face turned beet red. “What? You’re talking to my mother about sex?”
“Honey,” Jo said. “I just want to make sure you’re not becoming too serious. Sometimes, things can get too serious too fast, and then you can both end up hurt.”
“Oh, my God!” Jamie shouted. “I don’t believe you! I thought you trusted me! Kenzie and I aren’t you and your boyfriend you almost married. We’re not even doing anything!”
“Honey, I’m sorry. I do trust you.”
“Don’t talk to me about this ever again!” Jamie ran upstairs.
“I shouldn’t have said anything,” McKenzie said.
“It’s not your fault,” Jo sighed. “I shouldn’t have asked you about it. I trust you, but I’m still a mom. I still want to protect my girls.”
“But when Jamie goes to Langley in the fall—”
“I know. I can’t protect her from everything.”
“I’m going to go talk to Jamie.”
“I’ll go talk to her.”
“I’m sorry, but I don’t think she wants to talk to you right now. You heard her.”
Jo opened her mouth to protest, but the next thing she knew, McKenzie was running upstairs. Jo sighed and put her head in her hands.

“Hey,” McKenzie said when she found Jamie sitting at the desk in her bedroom.
Jamie looked up at her, hurt and anger evident on her face. She held a tennis shoe in her hand.
“I’m sorry. Your mom bought it up. I reassured her we aren’t doing anything. It was really—”
“I’m going for a run.” Jamie said, tying her shoe and walking to the door.
“Okay. Go clear your head. Maybe you’ll feel like talking when you get back.”
“You can go tell my mom where I’m going, since you two are besties now.”
McKenzie began to protest, but Jamie walked away.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-One

“Jamie, do you want me to pick up anything else from the grocery store,” Jo asked.
Jamie shook her head from where she sat scrolling on her phone at the kitchen table.
“I’ll go in the morning. Let me know if you think of anything before then.”
Jamie didn’t say anything.
Jo sat across from her daughter. “You want to go over the list for your party again? Julia okayed everything.”
Jamie ignored her.
“Hey, this silent treatment isn’t going to get you anywhere with me. I should have come to you with my concern, not talked to McKenzie about it without you. I’m sorry.”
Jamie set down her phone. “You shouldn’t even be concerned. Nothing is happening!”
“I’m your mom. I’m always going to be concerned.”
“I’m not the one you should be concerned about, anyway.”
“What do you mean?”
“Julia’s the one who could get pregnant. She’s totally boy crazy. She dates as often as Aunt Blair.”
“Is she…”
“I don’t know how far she goes with them. Obviously she hasn’t gotten pregnant. She just dates a lot.”
“Not now,” Jo said. “She’s grounded from dating for the rest of the summer.”
Jamie nodded.
“She’s not still sneaking out to meet guys, is she?”
“I don’t think so.”
Jo sighed.
“Mom, don’t worry. She’s smart. She has goals.”
Jo nodded.
“You said there’s a birthday list you want me to go over?”


Chapter Twenty-Two

“Blair, do you need any help before the party tomorrow,” Jo asked.
“I’ve got it all taken care of,” Blair assured her. “All you have to do is come over at one. The pool’s ready if anyone wants to swim, and we’ll just enjoy the day. We’ll have plenty of food.”
“Yeah, Mrs. G said she’s making two kinds of cake. I told her she didn’t have to.”
“You know Mrs. Garrett,” Tootie said, shouldering her purse. “I have to go. Jeff has a romantic evening planned. We’re picking out paint for the dining room.”
“What a hot date,” Jo laughed. “You two know how to have a good time.”
“Snake and I are going to have an actual hot date,” Natalie said. “He’s taking me to dinner at the place we reunited.”
“That’s sweet,” Tootie said.
“I should go, too,” Natalie said.
Jo and Blair said good-bye to their friends and sat in Blair’s living room.
“Jo, when was the last time you went out?”
“You mean on a date? Blair, you know it’s been years. My life’s been devoted to Jamie and Julia.”
“And tomorrow they turn eighteen. Maybe it’s time to get back out there.”
“What about you, Blair? When was the last time you were on a date?”
“Last week. Nathaniel and I had a lovely dinner.”
“You going to see him again?”
“I don’t know. He only brought up the green and gold flecks in my eyes once.”
Jo laughed and shook her head.
“Jo, I’m serious. You should put yourself out there again.”
“Blair, I don’t know. It’s been so long. I don’t even know how to date anymore. Plus, my track record isn’t exactly great.”
“I know things didn’t end well with Rick—”
“I told you to never mention him again.”
“Or Henry.”
“He neglected his children. I couldn’t stay with him when I came home and the twins were crying.”
“I’m not blaming you for what happened with him. What about the guy you were with when you were in California?”
Jo thought for a minute, trying to remember. “Polyamorous Paul?”
“Oh yeah,” Blair frowned. “I forgot about that part.”
“Blair, as much as I’d love to sit and rehash my past love life with you, I have to go home and wrap presents.”
“I’m sorry, Jo. You know I just want you to be happy. I’m worried that once the twins leave for college, you’ll be lonely. I don’t want you to be alone.”
“Being lonely and being alone aren’t the same.”
Blair nodded.
“I know you’re just lookin’ out for me. I appreciate it.”
“Don’t be mad.”
“I’m not.” Jo stood. “I should go, though. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Thanks for dropping off the snacks.”
“You sure you don’t need me to come over early and help?”
“No, I have buns, burgers, and hot dogs. Natalie’s bringing potato salad, and Tootie’s bringing fruit. I have soda and bottled water in the garage.”
“Thanks for doing all of this.”
“Don’t mention it. Go on, go home and wrap presents. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-Three

Jamie speared the last bite of French toast and swirled it in the remaining syrup on her plate.
“Thanks for breakfast, Mom,” she said, taking her plate to the sink.
“You’re welcome. McKenzie, are you sure you don’t want any more? There’s more sugar free syrup.”
“No, thanks,” McKenzie replied. “Can I help clean up?”
“I’ll help, too,” Jamie said. “Julia’s still in the shower.”
“Still? I’ll go check on her,” Jo said. She turned and went upstairs.
McKenzie stood beside Jamie at the sink. “Hi.”
“Hi.” Jamie smiled.
“Happy birthday.” McKenzie pivoted so they were facing each other.
“Thanks.”
“You’re beautiful.”
“I’m in my pajamas, and I haven’t showered.”
McKenzie leaned in and kissed her. “I owe you seventeen more.”
Jamie laughed. She set down the towel she was using to dry the counter and put her arms around McKenzie. They kissed again. “Sixteen,” Jamie said. “What if we lose track of the number?”
“We start at 18 again.”
They laughed.
“I’m so happy you’re here, Kenz,” Jamie said. “I love that I get to spend my birthday with you.”
“And you know there’s no place I’d rather be.”
They kissed again.
“Fifteen,” McKenzie said. They both burst out laughing.
“What’s so funny,” Jo asked, coming back into the kitchen.
“Nothing,” Jamie and McKenzie said in unison between giggles.
“Julia’s finished in the bathroom if one of you wants to claim it.”
Jamie volunteered and headed upstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-Three

Jamie speared the last bite of French toast and swirled it in the remaining syrup on her plate.
“Thanks for breakfast, Mom,” she said, taking her plate to the sink.
“You’re welcome. McKenzie, are you sure you don’t want any more? There’s more sugar free syrup.”
“No, thanks,” McKenzie replied. “Can I help clean up?”
“I’ll help, too,” Jamie said. “Julia’s still in the shower.”
“Still? I’ll go check on her,” Jo said. She turned and went upstairs.
McKenzie stood beside Jamie at the sink. “Hi.”
“Hi.” Jamie smiled.
“Happy birthday.” McKenzie pivoted so they were facing each other.
“Thanks.”
“You’re beautiful.”
“I’m in my pajamas, and I haven’t showered.”
McKenzie leaned in and kissed her. “I owe you seventeen more.”
Jamie laughed. She set down the towel she was using to dry the counter and put her arms around McKenzie. They kissed again. “Sixteen,” Jamie said. “What if we lose track of the number?”
“We start at 18 again.”
They laughed.
“I’m so happy you’re here, Kenz,” Jamie said. “I love that I get to spend my birthday with you.”
“And you know there’s no place I’d rather be.”
They kissed again.
“Fifteen,” McKenzie said. They both burst out laughing.
“What’s so funny,” Jo asked, coming back into the kitchen.
“Nothing,” Jamie and McKenzie said in unison between giggles.
“Julia’s finished in the bathroom if one of you wants to claim it.”
Jamie volunteered and headed upstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-Four

“You’re finally here,” Blair said. “Happy birthday, girls!”
“Thanks,” Jamie said. “We would’ve been here earlier, but Julia couldn’t find the right outfit.”
Blair smiled. Jamie sounded exactly like her mother.
“You’re just fashionably late to your own party,” Blair reassured Julia, gently putting her hand on Julia’s shoulder before pulling her into a hug.
“Don’t encourage her,” Jo said. She carried presents in her arms,.
Blair laughed and ushered them inside and through to the backyard. Natalie, Snake, Jeff, Tootie, and Mrs. Garrett sat around the large patio table. Sunlight gleamed on the pool water, and the landscaping against the back fence was impeccable as always.
“Can we get in the pool,” Jamie asked after everyone happily greeted each other.
“Whenever you want,” Blair said.
Jamie peeled off her grey Yankees t-shirt to reveal her blue bikini top, and stepped out of her denim shorts.
“Kenz, can you put sunscreen on my back?”
“It’s still in the back of the car,” Jo said. She had grabbed the presents and forgotten to ask one of them to grab the bag of pool towels.
“We’ll go get it,” Jamie said.
Jo handed her the keys, and Jamie and McKenzie hurried inside.
“I should have known she’d want to swim right away,” Jo said. She pushed her sunglasses up onto her nose and jiggled her black sandal on the end of her foot.
“She’s always been a water baby,” Tootie said.
“I still remember the time she cried because I made her come in for dinner,” Blair said. “Even though I told her she could get back in after she ate.”
“How old was she then,” Snake asked.
“All the time until she was about eight, but she did again once when she was about 13.”
“She always wanted to stay in the tub at bathtime,” Jo said.
“And one year for their birthday,” Natalie said. “Julia wanted to go to the movies, and Jamie wanted to sleep over here and swim.”
“Remember the year they convinced you to have a party at a hotel, and Jamie only cared if it had a pool,” Tootie asked.
“Yes,” Jo sighed. “That was one of the more expensive parties I let them have.”
“One night in a Motel Eight isn’t a big sacrifice,” Blair said. “It’s not like they were asking for trips to the city for Broadway shows, or jewelry from Tiffanies.”
“Blair, I know a night at a hotel is no big deal for you, but it was for me. I was raising two growing girls on my own.”
“The parties I remember most,” Julia spoke up. “Are the ones here or at our house or Mrs. Garrett’s. And I always tried to appreciate all of them.”
Jamie and McKenzie came back carrying the bag of pool towels. McKenzie had changed into her pink bikini.
“Julia,” Natalie said. “Do you want to get in the pool, too? McKenzie’s in her suit.”
“Not right now,” Julia replied.
“She just doesn’t want to change out of her cute outfit,” Blair said.
Jo laughed. “You can get in whenever you want, Jules. We’ll help you find your suit.”
“I’m fine,” Julia whined.
Jamie and McKenzie stood at the other end of the pool where McKenzie rubbed sunscreen on Jamie’s back. Jamie applied sunscreen for McKenzie.
Jamie whooped as she jumped into the water. McKenzie sat on the edge of the pool and slowly let herself in.
“You have to just jump in,” Jamie said.
Jo smiled as she watched them squeal and giggle in the water.
“Jamie, turn around,” Natalie said.” Jamie and McKenzie posed for the photo Natalie snapped.
“Do you guys need help with anything,” Jo asked.
“No,” Mrs. Garrett said. “Everything’s set up in the kitchen, and we can start the grill whenever.”
“Jo, relax,” Tootie said.
“Scoot closer to Blair for a picture,” Natalie said.
“When did you become the photographer,” Jo asked as she moved her chair beside Blair. “I thought that was Tootie’s job.”
“It’s still my job,” Tootie said. “Natalie’s using my camera.”
Everyone laughed.
Natalie took Jo and Blair’s picture and asked Julia to join them.
“I can’t believe you got a picture of Jo and Blair together,” Tootie laughed. “Remember when they couldn’t stand two feet from each other?”
“I still can’t stand her,” Blair teased.
Jo ignored Blair and put her arm around Julia’s shoulders. “Take the picture, Natalie.”

“Julia, this one’s for you,” Tootie said. “I’m passing it to you. It’s from Jeff and I.”
Julia reached out and took the rectangular box. She thanked Tootie as she unwrapped it. She was always more careful when unwrapping gifts than Jamie, who tended to eagerly tear the paper off.
Jo watched as Mrs. Garrett, who was seated beside Julia, quietly described Tootie’s gift. It was a patchwork jacket, made from various shades and patterns of pink fabric.
“I know you can’t wear it right now,” Tootie said. “But I saw it in a shop downtown and knew you’d like it.”
“I love it,” Julia exclaimed. “It’s so cool! Thank you.”
“You’ll be the best dressed girl at Langley,” Blair said. “You could even wear it with the dress you have on now.” Julia wore a rose pink dress with capped sleeves and a square neckline; her silver sandals complemented the necklace and dangling earrings she wore.
“Jamie, this one’s yours.” Tootie handed Jamie a gift bag.
Jamie gasped when she pulled out a New York Yankees baseball cap with a rainbow brim.
“It’s a Yankees pride hat!” She grinned and put it on, thanking Tootie. Natalie took her picture.
Natalie handed them identical envelopes, and they thanked her for the massage gift certificates.
They opened Blair’s gifts: a jewel-encrusted makeup bag for Julia with a pair of noise-canceling ear buds inside, and a necklace and bracelet set for Jamie featuring rainbow hearts.
Jamie’s eyes welled as she thanked Blair.
“Jamie, mine doesn’t have a rainbow theme, but I think you’ll like it,” Mrs. Garrett said.
“I’m sure I’ll love it, Mrs. G. Thank you.” She took the small gift bag from Mrs. Garrett. She smiled at the purple butterfly candle holder and scented candle from her favorite local candle store. “Thank you. I love candles!”
Mrs. Garrett laughed. “You’re welcome.”
“Oh, my gosh,” Julia said. “This smells so good. Thanks, Mrs. G.” She opened a candle and textured candle holder from Mrs. Garrett. Each girl’s gift was similar but unique to her in terms of candle holder design and candle scent.
“Last ones are from me,” Jo said.
Blair passed the last two gift boxes to Jamie and Julia. Jamie had hers open before Julia’s was halfway unwrapped.
“Slow down, James,” Jo said. “Did you even read your card?”
McKenzie laughed and handed her the card Jamie had hastily set aside.
Jamie tore open the envelope and smiled at the generic birthday card, knowing her mom wouldn’t pick anything mushy. She silently read the note Jo had scrawled inside:
“Happy birthday, Jamie. I am so proud of the woman you’re becoming. I hope this year is full of wonderful new adventures. Love, Mom.”
Jamie smiled and thanked her.
“Mom, you found a Braille card,” Julia exclaimed. “Thank you.”
“Why didn’t I think of that,” Natalie asked.
“Of course, honey,” Jo said to Julia.
Jamie gasped when she opened her box.
“Mom, it’s beautiful.” She took out the purple velvet journal with delicate flowers embroidered on the cover. “It comes with a pen. That’s cute.”
“Look at it more closely.”
“It has my name on it,” Jamie said, smiling. She looked down at the box and realized it wasn’t empty. She unwrapped a small keychain featuring a rainbow flag. “Thanks, Mom. I love it. I’ll put my dorm keys on it.”
Jo hugged her. “You’re welcome, sweetie. Julia, open yours.”
Julia was waiting patiently, the wrapping paper removed from her box.
“Yeah, Jules, let’s see what ya got,” Jamie said.
Julia lifted the lid from the box and felt inside. She explored the mug she’d pulled out. “It has Braille on it! It says my name. What does the other side say? She believed she could so she did. Wow, Mom. I love it. The Braille’s even correct.”
“The heart you feel looks metallic, so probably don’t put it in the microwave.”
“I won’t drink out of it; I’ll keep stuff in it.”
“There’s one more thing in the box.”
Julia found the small keychain with a fluffy pink pompom at the end of a string of various shaped beads; a silver bell was attached to the keyring. She shook it and smiled. “I love all of it. Thanks, Mom.”
After they finished opening gifts, Jamie, Julia, and McKenzie jumped into the pool.
“Jo, how did you find Braille gifts for Julia,” Jeff asked.
“Online,” Jo said simply. “You can find anything on the internet.”
Everyone laughed.

Later, they sang “Happy Birthday,” and the twins blew out candles. Blair served cake.
“Jamie, I forgot to tell you,” Natalie said. “I got the writing instructor job at Langley!”
“That’s awesome!” Jamie took a bite of her cake and let out a happy sigh.
Everyone congratulated Natalie.
As the evening passed, the air fell heavy with humidity and mosquitos bit at their knees.
“Let’s go inside,” Blair said. She started collecting the cake plates from the patio table.
“I can take them into the kitchen, Aunt Blair,” Jamie offered.
“Thanks, Sweetie.”
Jamie took the plates into the kitchen, grateful for the air conditioning.
“Jamie,” Mrs. Garrett said, following her into the kitchen with her hands full of dirty dishes. “I need some help hanging a few pictures at my house. Can you come over tomorrow to help?”
“Sure, Mrs. G. What time?”
“5:30?” McKenzie shook her head from where she stood a few feet behind Jamie; she held up one finger.
“6:30?” McKenzie nodded. “Yes, 6:30 would be fine.”
“Um, okay.” Jamie thought 6:30 was a weird time to hang up pictures. “Do I need to eat before I come?”
“No, I’ll feed you. Thanks, honey.”
“Sure.” Jamie said quietly. She took the dishes from Mrs. Garrett. “Thanks for making me a mint chocolate cake and for the gift.”
“Of course, honey,” Mrs. Garrett smiled. “Happy to do it.”
Jamie turned around and smiled when she saw McKenzie.
“Hey, birthday girl.” McKenzie smiled at her.
“How are you feeling?” Jamie knew McKenzie had guessed at carbs, and she’d eaten a small piece of Julia’s boring vanilla cake with buttercream frosting and sprinkles. Jamie started loading the dishwasher.
“Okay, I think.” McKenzie closed the gap between them and put her arms around Jamie. “Thanks for asking.”
Jamie stepped away from the dishwasher and kissed her. “Always.”
They separated when the adults came in the back door, chattering and laughing. Jamie thought these were the kinds of moments she’d think of when she missed her family after she went to college. Would she still make the biweekly dinners? Could she get into Natalie’s class? And what about McKenzie? What if—
“Jamie,” Natalie stood in front of her. “Is this your towel or Blair’s?”
Jamie blinked and took a deep breath. “It’s mine. Thanks, Aunt Nat.” Jamie folded the towel and held it against her chest. Natalie had interrupted her thoughts before they began to race, and she reminded herself to breathe.
“Jamie, I can take it,” Jo said. “I’m taking your gifts out to the car.”
Jamie thanked her and handed her the bright purple towel before she went back to the dishes.
“Jamie,” Tootie said. “I’ll do that. You don’t need to do that on your birthday.”
“It’s okay. I’m almost done.”

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-Five

“Mom, I’m going over to Mrs. Garrett’s,” Jamie said the next evening.
“Okay, Honey,” Jo said from where she sat on the couch.
“I can’t believe McKenzie’s not home yet.” Jamie stood beside her.
“She said she had to work late. She might have to help close.”
Jamie shrugged. “Yeah, that’s what her text said. She just doesn’t normally have to close.”
“Maybe someone got sick, and she had to cover for them. She’s fine. You’d better go to Mrs. G’s.”
“Can I take the tool box from the garage?”
“If you think you need to, but Mrs. G should have a hammer.”
“Bye, Mom,” Jamie said, bending down and kissing Jo on the cheek. “See you later.”
“Bye, Honey. Have fun. Drive carefully.”

Jamie held her mom’s metal toolbox as she stood on Mrs. Garrett’s porch and rang the doorbell.
“Hi, Jamie,” Mrs. Garrett said happily.
Jamie greeted her and followed her inside. She nearly dropped the toolbox when she saw McKenzie standing in the kitchen doorway. “McKenzie? What are you doing here?”
McKenzie grinned. “Surprise!”
“Mrs. G, you needed both of us to help hang pictures?” Jamie set down the toolbox.
McKenzie giggled.
Mrs. Garrett laughed. “No, Honey. I had to get you over here somehow. Tonight is just for the two of you.”
Jamie felt like she couldn’t breathe; her eyes welled with tears. “Really?”
“Uh-huh,” Mrs. Garrett grinned and nodded.
Jamie rushed to McKenzie. “Just us? Like a date?”
“Exactly,” McKenzie laughed. “Jamie, will you have dinner with me?”
Jamie threw her arms around McKenzie. “Of course I will. Yes!”
McKenzie embraced her.
Jamie stepped back. “You’re wearing an apron?”
“I made you dinner.”
Jamie sank onto the couch and pulled McKenzie down beside her. “You did?”
“It’s my birthday present to you. I can’t really afford a gift, but I thought I could make you dinner.”
“You gave Julia and I cards yesterday.”
McKenzie laughed. “I had to do something just for you.”
Jamie held McKenzie’s hand, thanked her, and kissed her. “You look so cute,” Jamie said. “If I’d known, I would have dressed nicer.”
“You look fine.”
Jamie frowned.
“But I did put an outfit upstairs in case you wanted to change.”
“You thought of everything.”
“I’m going to go check on dinner while you change.”
Jamie followed Mrs. Garrett upstairs. She thanked her and they hugged before Jamie slipped into the guest room.
Moments later, Jamie stood in front of the bathroom mirror and smiled. McKenzie had picked out her favorite purple dress and simple sandals. Jamie applied a little lip gloss before she went downstairs.
“You look beautiful,” McKenzie said when Jamie entered the dining room. “Are you more comfortable?”
“Yeah, you did perfect, Babe.” Jamie wrapped her arms around McKenzie, and they smiled at each other.
They sat at the table, which McKenzie had set with plates of salad and a vase of flowers.
“There’s garlic bread and pesto pasta in the kitchen when you’re ready,” McKenzie said. “And Mrs. Garrett kept two pieces of your cake from yesterday.”
“You two are sneaky.”
McKenzie grinned. She raised her water glass. “Happy birthday, Jamie. I can’t even tell you how much I love you. You’ve saved me, and brought me back to myself.”
“Thank you.” Jamie tapped her glass against McKenzie’s. “I love you, too.”
They chatted over the meal.
“Everything’s delicious, Kenz.”
“It was really simple. I’m glad you like it.”
“You know how I love Italian food.”
McKenzie couldn’t wipe the smile from her face.
“Hey, is that the necklace I gave you for your birthday?”
“Yeah,” McKenzie replied. “And you’re wearing the bracelet I gave you.”
“I never take it off.”
“I’m glad you love it.”
“You have great taste.”
“We have basically the same taste,” McKenzie laughed. “Did you notice your bracelet kind of matches my necklace?”
Jamie held up her wrist and looked at McKenzie’s silver necklace. Her bracelet featured clear and pale purple stones set in a silver tennis bracelet; McKenzie’s necklace featured a silver heart with clear and purple stones on a fine chain.
“It does,” Jamie said, smiling.
“Do you want to share a slice of cake,” McKenzie asked.
“Sure.”
McKenzie took a plate with a slice of cake on it out of the refrigerator and grabbed two forks from a drawer. She sat beside Jamie at the table and placed the plate between them.
“Thank you,” Jamie said.
McKenzie took a forkful of cake and started guiding it towards Jamie’s mouth.
“You’re going to feed me?” Jamie started to laugh.
“I thought it might be cute, but maybe not, based on your reaction.” McKenzie smiled.
“I’ll feed myself, thank you.”
McKenzie ate the forkful of cake herself.
“It’s just as good the second day,” Jamie said after savoring the last bite.
McKenzie smiled. “Yeah, it is.”
After McKenzie took the dishes into the kitchen., they sat on the couch in the living room.
“That was perfect,” Jamie said. “I’m so full.”
“Me, too.”
“Did you get your insulin okay?”
“Yeah.” McKenzie smiled and took Jamie’s hand. “I love how sweet you are about my Diabetes.”
“I always want to take care of you. I worry that your blood sugars are going to be out of range, or you’ll get sick. But I know you worry about that, too.”
“But I don’t want you to worry.”
“I just want you to know I’m always here for you.” Jamie took her hand.
“I know, and I appreciate that. Not everyone has someone so supportive in their corner.”
“I’m always in your corner.”
“And I’m always in yours.” McKenzie smiled and leaned in for a kiss.
They kissed, their arms wrapping around each other. Jamie held her close and kissed her deeply; McKenzie gently lowered her jaw, allowing Jamie’s tung to slip past her lips. Jamie clung to her, not sure if this was really happening. She moaned slightly before pulling away, breathless. She gently ran her fingers through McKenzie’s hair. “I’ve been wanting to kiss you like that for a long time.”
“It was worth the wait.” McKenzie smiled.
Jamie kissed her again.
“You’re beautiful,” McKenzie said, gently pushing hair behind Jamie’s ear.
“So are you.” Jamie kissed her tenderly.
“I love kissing you, but I told your mom we’d be home by nine.”
“It’s already after eight. Tonight was perfect, Kenz. Thank you.”
“It was perfect for me, too.” She took both of Jamie’s hands in hers and looked at her lovingly.
“It’s what I’ve wanted for so long, just to be alone with you, have a real date, and to be able to call you my girlfriend out loud.”
“Me, too.”
“It’s better than I ever imagined.” Jamie smiled contentedly.
McKenzie smiled back.
“So, when’s our next date?”
McKenzie laughed. “I don’t know. I think you should plan it, since I planned this one.”
“Deal.” They high-fived and laughed.
“Hey, this is like our anniversary,” McKenzie said.
“What?”
“Like today will be the day we celebrate our anniversary. It’s a month since we came out, and now we’ve had our first official date.”
“Yeah, I like that.” They smiled at each other. “We are officially official, baby.”
“I like it when you call me that,” McKenzie said.
“Baby? What else do you like me to call you?”
“I like it when you call me your girl, and when you call me honey, babe, your love.”
Jamie smiled.
“What do you like me to call you?”
“I like babe, sweetie, honey. I love it when you call me yours, and when you tell me I’m beautiful.”
“You are. Always.” McKenzie gently stroked the back of Jamie’s hand.
“Thanks, Darling. You are, too.”
“Oh, I don’t think I like darling.”
Jamie laughed. “What if I make it Country. Darlin’?”
“That’s worse.” McKenzie cringed.
They burst out laughing.
“Remember how Mrs. Edmonton read Romeo and Juliette in a southern accent?”
“McKenzie laughed. “You mean she tried. No one could pay attention because it was so funny.”
Jamie took McKenzie’s hand and smiled.
“What?”
“I just love being with you and being able to hold your hand.”
McKenzie smiled and kissed her. “I love being with you, too, and being able to kiss you whenever I want.”
“Like that Reese Witherspoon movie?”
McKenzie chuckled. “Yeah.”
“Julia always wants to watch that or Titanic when we have family movie night.”
“We should do that soon.”
“That’s right,” Jamie said. “Somehow we haven’t had a movie night since you moved in. We’ll do it soon.”
“deal.” McKenzie smiled.
Jamie sighed. “It’s 8:45. We should leave soon.” She leaned against McKenzie. “I don’t want to.”
“Me, neither.”
“This was perfect, Babe. Thank you.”
“My pleasure.” McKenzie smiled at her. They kissed. Jamie wanted to keep kissing her, but she knew they couldn’t be late.
“Hey, how did you get here?”
“Mrs. Garrett picked me up from work.”
“So I get to give you a ride home.”
“Yes, please.”
Jamie smiled. “We should load stuff into my car.”
“Don’t forget your mom’s toolbox. You looked really cute carrying it.”
Jamie grinned at her before she took the toolbox out to the car and helped McKenzie load everything else.
Mrs. Garrett came downstairs.
“Thank you again,” McKenzie said. “For everything.”
Mrs. Garrett smiled and hugged her. “Of course. I hope you had a good time.”
“The best,” McKenzie said. They hugged again.
“Thanks, Mrs. G.” Jamie looked at her seriously. “This was amazing, and it wouldn’t have happened without you.”
“Oh, it was really all McKenzie.” Mrs. Garrett hugged her. “But I’m glad you’re happy.”
Jamie hugged her again. “I love you.”
“I love you, too, honey. Drive safely.”
“We will.” They thanked her again and left.

“Hey, girls,” Jo greeted them when they walked through the front door.
“Hey, Mom.” Jamie couldn’t stop smiling. “That’s where you were when I left. Are you okay?”
Jo chuckled. “Everything’s fine, honey. I had dinner with your sister, and we’re watching TV. She’s in the kitchen.”
“Hey, James,” Julia said, coming into the living room. “How was your hot date?”
“It must have gone well,” Jo said. “They can’t stop smiling.”
“It was great, Julia,” McKenzie said.
“Couldn’t have been better,” Jamie said.
“Sure, ‘cause you get to go on a date.” Julia’s tone was suddenly bitter.
“You did it to yourself, kid,” Jo said.
“And I’ve learned my lesson. Come on, Mom. I’m booored.”
“I’m not budging on this one, Julia.” Jo put her arm around Julia’s shoulders. “And you’re bored hanging out with your mom?”
Julia sighed defeatedly. “I’m going to bed.”
“Goodnight, honey,” Jo said. “I love you.”
Julia trudged upstairs.
Jamie and McKenzie sat on either side of Jo.
“She’s still mad at you,” Jamie asked.
“Apparently.” Jo sighed. “She’ll get over it. How was your night?”
“It was great,” Jamie said, grinning. “McKenzie made me dinner,.”
“She didn’t suspect a thing,” McKenzie said proudly. “Thanks for letting us do this.”
“It was perfect,” Jamie said.
“You’re welcome. How’s Mrs. G?”
“Good,” McKenzie said. “I’m going to get ready for bed. Thanks again.”
“You’re welcome, sweetie.” Jo hugged McKenzie.
Jamie put her head on her mom’s shoulder when McKenzie went upstairs.
“You had a good time tonight, huh?”
“It’s all I’ve wanted for months and months, Mom. Just to be alone on a date with her.”
“I understand,” Jo said.
Jamie shook her head. “You can go out with any guy you want, and no one would bat an eye. McKenzie and I still feel like we have to pretend we’re friends and avoid PDA.”
“I’m sorry, honey.”
“Tonight we got to feel like a real couple. Thanks.”
Jo kissed her forehead. “I’m glad.”
“I’m going to go up and check on McKenzie.”
“Okay, honey. See you tomorrow.”
Jamie hugged her mom and went upstairs.

[fol_fan1989]

Chapter Twenty-Six

Jo stood in line with Blair at a coffee shop the next afternoon.
“I can’t believe you wanted me to meet you at this skuzzy diner,” Blair complained.
“It’s a coffee shop, Blair, not a diner. And it’s not skuzzy. Order so we can sit down. You’re next.”
“What can I get you,” the barista asked when Blair finally stepped up to the counter.
“A caramel macchiato. Your smallest size, please.”
“For you, miss,” the barista asked Jo.
“Oh, we’re separate.”
“I got you, Jo. We’re together,” Blair said.
Jo sighed and told Blair she’d pay her back before she asked the barista for a black coffee.
“That’s all you want,” Blair asked.
Jo nodded.
They sat at a table after getting their coffee.
“Should I be worried about Julia,” Jo asked.
“Why?”
“Jamie said the other day that I should be worried about Julia dating, not about her and McKenzie.”
“I thought you grounded Julia from dating.”
“I did. But should I worry that she’s sneaking out?”
Blair took a drink of her coffee before she answered. “Julia’s smart, Jo, and she loves you. She’s not sneaking out.”
“I guess I know that deep down.” Jo smiled. “You know Jamie compared Julia’s dating habits to yours.”
“Sure she did,” Blair said brightly. “We’re both gorgeous and irresistible.”
Jo chuckled.
“What about you? Have you thought any more about our conversation the other night?”
Before she could answer, Jo’s phone pinged with a text, then another, and another. She picked it up off the table and apologized to Blair.
“Shoot,” Jo said. “It’s McKenzie. ‘At work. Help. Please come. Hurry.’ I have to go.”
“I’ll go with you,” Blair said, quickly picking up her purse. “You gave me a ride, remember?”
Jo was already halfway out the door. She tried calling McKenzie, but she didn’t answer. She responded to her texts telling her she was on her way.

“Jo, you went so fast my life flashed before my eyes,” Blair said as they entered the AM Ice Cream Shop on 3rd Street.
Jo immediately saw McKenzie standing pale and frozen behind the counter. Two women, one older and one about Jo an Blair’s age, stood in front of the chest of available flavors. Another worker was at the cash register.
“McKenzie,” the elder female customer was saying. Jo thought she looked familiar but couldn’t quite place her. “Come on.”
“What do you want?” McKenzie managed to ask.
“We want you to come home, be with your family,” the younger blonde woman said.
McKenzie shot Jo a desperate look.
“Our flavor of the day is peanut butter fudge ripple,” the worker behind the cash register offered.
“We didn’t come for ice cream, dammit,” the older woman yelled. “You’re coming home, you’re going to NYU, and you’re going to forget about your little girlfriend!”
The worker behind the register, whose name tag read Kim, slipped through a door behind McKenzie.
The picture was clear to Jo now. “Excuse me,” Jo said, stepping up to the woman. “My friend and I just came to get ice cream, and we’re in a hurry. Looks like she’s the only one working the register.”
“Miss McKenzie,” Blair said. “That peanut butter fudge ripple sounds delicious. Do you offer samples?”
“S-sure,” McKenzie stammered. Her hands shook as she tried to retrieve a small spoon from behind the counter. She dropped the plastic spoon and tried to retrieve another.
Kim returned with a tall man in a collared shirt.
“Excuse me,” the man said. “Is there a problem here? My name is Andy Mauffett; I’m the owner.”
Jo stared at Blair in surprise. Andy?
“We just came to visit McKenzie,” the older woman said sweetly. “She’s my granddaughter.”
I knew it, Jo thought. She felt Blair’s hand on her elbow, a silent reminder to rein in her anger. McKenzie was already upset.
“Actually, we came to pick her up to take her home,” the other woman said. “I’m her mother.”
“Well,” Andy said. “It’s nice to meet you both, but I need McKenzie to stay and work the rest of her shift. She’s my best worker.” He put a protective arm around McKenzie.
Jo saw McKenzie blink back tears.
“We really are in a hurry,” Jo said. “Can we please get our ice cream?”
“We were here first,” McKenzie’s mother complained.
“Then order your ice cream and get out,” Jo said loudly. She was angry, and it was getting harder to keep her emotions in check.
“Are you going to let her talk to us like that,” McKenzie’s mother asked Andy.
“Actually, I agree with her,” Andy replied. “Kim, would you please get these ladies their ice cream? I need McKenzie’s help in the back for a minute.”
McKenzie’s grandmother slapped her hand against the glass window in front of the ice cream. “Never mind! Let’s go, Chelsea,” She turned on her heel, followed by McKenzie’s mother, who shot a look over her shoulder at her daughter.
After they left, Jo stepped forward.
McKenzie burst into tears and raced around the counter to throw her arms around Jo. “Jo, you came.”
Jo held her close. “It’s all right, Honey.”
“She drove so fast, I didn’t think we’d make it alive,” Blair said.
“Blair,” Jo said, annoyed.
“Jo? Blair?” Andy asked, realization dawning on his face.
McKenzie let go of her embrace and stood between Jo and Blair.
“How ya doin’, Andy?” Jo asked.
“You really grew up,” Blair said.
“It’s been so long,” Andy said, grinning. “It’s great to see you! How have you been?”
“Just fine,” Blair said.
“McKenzie here really one of your best workers?” Jo asked, putting her hand on McKenzie’s shoulder blade.
“The best,” Andy said. “How do you know her?”
“She’s my daughter’s girlfriend,” Jo replied. “She’s part of the family. You take good care of her, or else.”
Andy smiled. “I will. McKenzie, why don’t you take the rest of the day off? Get some rest. I’ll plan on seeing you tomorrow, but let me know if you need more time.”
“Thank you,” McKenzie whispered gratefully.
“Kim and I will close tonight.”
“Thanks, Andy. Come on, Honey, let’s go home.”
McKenzie was still trembling. Andy helped her gather her things from the back. McKenzie cried the entire way as Jo drove them home.
“Why don’t you go upstairs and try to rest,” Jo said gently.
“Can you stay with me? What if they followed us home? What if they know where I am?”
“I don’t think they know,” Blair said. “We would have known if they were. I saw their car. A 2012 Mersades in candy apple red.”
“How do you know it was theirs,” Jo asked.
“She’s right,” Mckenzie said. “That’s my grandmother’s car.”
Jo could tell McKenzie was still shaken. “I’ll go up with you.”
“Do you need anything else from me,” Blair asked.
“That’s okay,” Jo said. “Jamie will be home soon, and Mrs. G is dropping Julia off in about an hour. Thanks, Blair.”
Blair put her hand on McKenzie’s shoulder. “Take care, okay?”
McKenzie nodded weakly.

Later, Jo sat with McKenzie in the family room in the basement. McKenzie was curled up under a blanket.
“Thanks for coming today.”
“Don’t mention it.” Jo reached over and smoothed McKenzie’s hair.
“I knew Jamie would have come, but she was working and would have been beyond angry. And Mrs. Garrett was with Julia.”
“You know, it took a lot to hold in my anger.”
“Jamie wouldn’t have.”
“I wouldn’t have at your age, either,” Jo admitted.
They heard Jamie call out after the front door opened.
“We’re down here, James,” Jo called.
“Hey,” Jamie said, coming down the stairs. “Mom, what are you doing home so early?”
McKenzie tried to sit up. “She had to come get me,” McKenzie said tearfully.
“What,” Jamie asked, rushing to McKenzie. “Are you okay? Are you sick? Are you hurt?”
“Jamie, sit down,” Jo said.
Jamie sat beside McKenzie, who leaned against her.
“Your mom had to pick me up from work.”
“Why?”
“My mom and grandmother came into the ice cream shop.” McKenzie started to cry.
“What,” Jamie nearly shouted.
Jo explained what had happened.
“God, I hate them,” Jamie growled. “I can’t believe they’d do that!”
“You have every right to be angry,” McKenzie said quietly.
“Why aren’t you,” Jamie asked.
“I’m just really sad and tired.” McKenzie lowered her head onto Jamie’s shoulder.
Jamie held her and rocked her gently. She looked sadly at her mother.
“Why don’t you go lie down and rest,” Jo offered. “I’ll go start dinner. Do you want anything specific, McKenzie?”
McKenzie shook her head.
“Are you sure you’re okay,” Jamie asked once her mom left.
“I’m just tired of all of it. It’s bad enough they disowned me a month ago. They had to harass me at work, too?”
“I’m so sorry, Love.” Jamie kissed her forehead.
McKenzie moved so she was lying on the couch. “Hold me?”
Jamie lay beside her and held her tightly. They barely fit on the couch.
“Don’t leave me,” McKenzie whimpered.
“What? Baby, I’m never going anywhere. I promise.” Jamie kissed her mouth gently, then her forehead and the tip of her nose.
“My family doesn’t want me. Why would you?”
“Because I love you,” Jamie said firmly. “Because you’re kind and beautiful and you care about people. I know you’re not like your family; you’d never treat anyone the way they’re treating you.”
McKenzie buried her face in Jamie’s chest and continued to cling to her.
Jamie rubbed circles on her back and stroked her hair until she could tell McKenzie was asleep.