One Boy's Journey Chapter 22

Written by Brianna Demonet

We were lined up, the music started, and we started dancing out and onto the stage. We formed up and danced, we were in sync. Shelly came out and performed flawlessly. Myself and Mickey were right beside her.

We performed one number after another. The younger girls did great. Julius' little sister Suzy was great. She smiled the whole time. When Shelly did her solo, she nailed it. Shelly was so flawless it almost looked like she was gliding across the stage. When she did her jumping split, she soared through the air.

We finished our numbers, and we came out for our bows. The crowd went wild with applause. We all bowed, and Shelly, Mickey, and I blew kisses to the crowd.

My mom, Aunt V, and Taylor walked backstage to assist the dancers. I didn't notice until the last second the flowers were marching towards me.

All of a sudden, the flowers were handed to me; it was John dressed in a dark gray suit.

These are for you, Ree!

I teared up almost instantly.

Thank you!!! I squeaked. I kissed his lips right then.

Ohh!! Mom I'm so sorry. Mom, this is my boyfriend, John Park.

Yes, we met; Caleb introduced us, my Mom said.

Mom was all smiles. I was blushing through my stage makeup.

Ree, you were terrific tonight, my Mom said, I am so proud of you, sweetheart.

Thanks, Mom.

John, promise me you will look after my daughter. Yes, Ms Stevens, you can count on me.

John, would you give us a few minutes to get Ree dressed?

Of course, I'll be waiting outside.

I hugged him before he left.

He's a very handsome boy Ree.

He's the best mom.

Rianna Stevens, are you in love?

Yes, Mom, I think I am.

You need to be careful honey.

I am mom

Mom helped me with my costume and makeup. I put on my pink DKNY sheath dress and matching 4" heels. Mom gave me three braids for my hair. She did my makeup too.

I walked out carrying my pink roses with a smile that would not go away. I was hugged by everyone even Jii and John's sisters, Nari and Dae.

Aunt V, being the organized leader she is, stated, let's load up everyone; it's time to celebrate. We went to Ruth Cris Steakhouse. My entire family, the Parks, Taylor and Lexi, and Linda and Emma. Martina and her husband Jose. We had a private room reserved.

We chatted, ate, and celebrated until almost 8 pm. John sat on my left, my mom on my right.

John and I locked ankles for most of the dinner. Everyone had a great time. John made me order a steak. I had the tenderloin medium with a Caesar salad and an Iced tea. John had a Cowboy Ribeye.

When the check came my Mom insisted on paying. Jii insisted on paying for his family. My Mom was as smooth and charming as ever to address him.

Mr Park, it's my pleasure to treat you and your family to dinner. Consider it respect and my gratitude, as well as my thanks for your help and support with my daughter.

Ree has told me how much everyone here has supported her in my absence. I can't thank you enough for befriending and supporting my daughter. You may not realize this but you were helping me as well. My mom started to tear up.

Aunt V held her hand. I held the other one.

You've no idea what it means to me. Everything you have done or how much everyone here means to me. I have no words except thank you, I love you all.

Aunt V and I hugged Mom tightly. We were all teary. Everyone was smiling and thanking my Mom for her appreciation. My Mom shook everyone's hands and kissed Mr and Mrs Park's cheeks. John's sisters hugged my mom.

Mom settled the check; it was over $2000 for dinner, and she left a $ 500 tip on top of the 18% service charge. We wished everyone a Merry Christmas and started heading out.

I told Lexi and Emma about my birthday party plans. They said they would spread the word.

Everyone left John and me alone for a few minutes in the dining room. I told him I would miss him and I would be thinking about him. He said he would miss me too.

We kissed deeply and I kissed his cheek. We walked out holding hands in front of our family. We kissed softly on the lips and waved goodbye.

I was mostly packed for tomorrow's flight. We had an 11 am flight in the morning.

When we got home. Cathy asked if we would roll her hair again. Mom and Aunt V rolled mine and Cathy's hair. We slept in rollers all night. Caleb rolled his eyes again.

Cathy and I giggled.

I was up just before 6 am; I did my therapy and enema went downstairs, and started the coffee and hot water for Tea. Dan was the first one downstairs. Morning kiddo! He affectionately said to me. I liked the way he looked at me when he said it; it felt very fatherly.

Coffee Dad, I mean Dan. He smiled brightly at me.

Please, Ree, Black, no sugar.

Eggs, toast, or English muffins?

2 eggs scrambled, please, and muffins. He said

Coming up! I said with glee. Thinking to myself If anyone asked me what I wanted for Christmas right now, it would be Dan as my Dad.

I started cooking, and he started talking. You were terrific last night kiddo. I wish I could have seen you cheer at your games.

Me too Dan, maybe next year?

Maybe he said to me and he winked at me.

I winked and smiled back.

Cathy came down. I handed her a cup of tea.

Eggs Cathy?

Two scrambled, muffins, too, please.

How far along are you, Cathy? Dan asked.

Cathy rolled her eyes; I can't hide it anymore, can I?

Not from me, said Dan. I raised two girls. Your glow gives you away.

Add the fact that you are half Italian am I right?

Cathy bowed her head slightly and half-Korean. She said.

How'd you know? I'm a retired cop, I don't miss much. I don't know many Italians or Korean people that drink tea.

We giggled.

I guess I am going to have to tell my parents today then. I wanted to wait for tomorrow. Cathy said.

Your parents will love your surprise today or tomorrow. It's the best gift a child can give a parent, trust me, sweetie.

Thanks, Dan. To answer your question 12 almost 13 weeks.

That's great!

Caleb came down, I served Dan and started on Cathy's and Caleb's breakfast. I handed Caleb his coffee. We heard giggling coming from upstairs.

Mom and Aunt V walked down. I poured two cups of coffee. I served Caleb and Cathy and started their eggs.

Wait a second, she cooks, too? Asked Mom.

She's pretty good at it, too said Aunt V.

I smiled. Is everyone ready for today? I asked I know I am!

Cathy said I wish I was. She padded her stomach.

We all laughed.

We got to figure out a way to hide my tummy long enough to get me into the house without my parents noticing. At least for a few minutes.

Leave that to me said Dan. I am sure Brenda and I can distract them for a few minutes, right, hon?

I can handle that, Mom said, smiling.

Just remember to walk in last Cathy.

We finished breakfast and started packing up for our flight.

Mom and Aunt V took out our rollers. Cathy was hoping that curled hair would distract her parents from noticing her stomach. Cathy did look great with curls. Caleb drove us. Dan sat up front chatting sports. I sat in the third seat with Mom.

The four of us talked about me, mostly my relationship with John. Mom wanted to know everything about him. I told her all about him. I was very proud bragging about him and his accomplishments and his family.

What I want to know, sweetie, is, how does he treat you?

Mom, I can assure you John is a gentleman, just like those two up front!

Dan was listening and looked back at us. Dan smiled and said he better be!

We all laughed.

Mom, seriously, John has been very respectful and very sweet to me.

John is very family-oriented; he has big goals for his future, like I do, and neither one of us wants to derail those goals. I told them about the diner scene after the homecoming game.

Dan again said he sounded like a smart young man.

Mom, everyone, I know he's older than I am. When we are together, he never leaves me alone, he doesn't look at other girls, and he always keeps me close. He is always very considerate of me.

Is he a good kisser? Asked Mom.

Mom!!!!!

From what I saw on the doorbell camera, he looked like he was, said Aunt V.

Aunt Veee!!!! Okay, yes, he's a very good kisser, but that's it, I swear!

Honey, I am just looking out for you.

I know, Mom.

I started blushing and was a bit frustrated. I got quiet for the last few minutes of the ride to the airport. We flew out of a private terminal. It cost about the same as commercial and was much faster than any airline. We loaded up, and 3 1/2 hours later, we were at the Napa Valley airport. Caleb rented a Suburban for us for the week.

We didn't talk much about myself for the rest of the trip. Mom and Dan were staring out the window at the scenery.

You were right, Ree, it's like a painting, said Mom.

Wait until you see the vineyard said Cathy.

You can watch the sunrise on the back patio and sunset on the front porch; it's magical, Mom.

Yes it is Ree, said Cathy.

I hope Brianna and Becky are still coming.

They are already there, honey with Ian and their children.

Terri and Steve are on their way too, Cathy said.

We're here! I cried!

Where is the house? Asked Dan.

A couple minutes down the road Caleb said.

Dan and Mom were amazed at the view. We rolled up to the house and Hank and another handsome man came out to greet us. Caleb started operation distraction.

Ian, Hank, this is Rianna's mom, Brenda, and her boyfriend, Dan.

Cathy quickly greeted her father with a kiss. The guys grabbed most of the bags, I walked into the house, and it smelled like I always imagined Christmas would smell. I took my Mom straight to the kitchen to meet Cathy's mom, May. Another distraction.

May!!!

In here, Ree Ree! May this is my mother, Brenda.

Welcome to our home Brenda. May was cooking Italian.

Smells great May! Said my mom.

Veal Parmesan May said.

Ree, will you watch the stove while I show your Mom around?

Sure May.

Thanks, sweetie.

Cathy was smart, she hid in the bathroom.

The guys put the bags in the rooms, and Caleb brought out the beer. I was stirring the tomato sauce when I heard the quads coming up the trail to the house. Bree was riding the first one with Caitlyn. Just then Becky rolled up.

When Bree got off she was wearing a baby harness. I opened the door. I hugged Brianna tightly.

It's so good to see you, I said. I hugged Bree being careful of the baby. Ree, these are our children. The oldest is Caitlin, Violet, and our son James. It's so good to meet you I said.

Everyone started to settle down. Ian said let me take over for you.

Thank you. I went into the living room and introduced everyone. May started looking for Cathy.

Where's Cathy? May asked

I'll get her, May!

Oh, thank you, sweetheart, she said. I kissed her cheek and gave her a little hug just like a granddaughter would.

I found Cathy in the bathroom still. Knock, knock, Cathy, it's Ree, the coast is clear. Cathy opened the door.

Come in, she said.

Are you ready Cat? I never called her Cat before but it seemed appropriate at the time.

I don't know why I am so nervous! Cathy stated

Probably because it becomes a reality when you tell your parents. It's like that for me too I said.

You are a very smart young woman Rianna Stevens.

It helps to have a great role model and mentor. She smiled and hugged me.

I prefer Big sister, Ree!

I love you, Cathy!

I love you too, Rianna.

Let's go, big sister. It's time to make a dream come true.

We straightened ourselves up. I opened the door to the hallway and it was clear. We made it to the kitchen. Ian was stirring the tomato sauce. I had Ian shut off the stove. Ian walked in front of us.

There's my girls, said May. Hank stood up to hug Cathy.

Mom, Dad she was rubbing her tummy as she spoke. Merry Christmas!

May and Hank's faces lit up. Is it true? May asked.

Yes mommy! said Cathy in a very girly voice of affection.

Ohhh!!! Sweetheart!!!! May and Hank hugged Cathy.

I hope you like your early Christmas present guys!

We love it said Hank it's the perfect gift.

Caleb! Get over here son! Hank called to him.

Thank you, son! Said Hank.

You're welcome, Pop!

There wasn't a dry eye in the room. I was very happy for everyone. But inside myself, I was hit with a new feeling of sadness. I would never be able to have a child of my own. I was crying for a few reasons.

I was crying tears of joy, but all of a sudden, I was hit with a wave of emotions. I became saddened because I couldn't have a baby. I said to myself that I should not feel so jealous of my friend and my newfound family. I was all kinds of mixed up in my head. Even though I knew about it ahead of time.

I was trying to hide my emotions. It shouldn't be a lot to get my head around, but it was. Aunt V saw the torment in my face. I touched her hand and walked out of the room. Everyone was still celebrating the good news.

Aunt V quietly followed me upstairs. We entered our bedroom and she closed the door. I softly cried on her shoulder.

Let it all out Ree, just let it out. I must have cried for at least five minutes.

Ohh! Aunt V!!!

Talk to me, sweetie, just talk to me; it's okay, baby girl.

Oh, Aunt V, I am so happy for everyone.

But I can't escape the thought I can't do that for my Mom. I know I am supposed to be happy for Cathy and Caleb, I am.

But the fact is I can't give my Mom a grandchild. I am so mad at myself!

Sweetheart, you don't have to be angry with yourself. Not every woman can bear children. You're not a boy anymore. You may not be able to get pregnant, but you have given your mother a daughter any mother would be proud of. Those people down there are your family.

Any one of us down there would walk through fire for you, Cathy included! Your mother loves you, sweetie.

I think you know how much I love you.

Aunt V! I exclaimed, lost in my thoughts.

I think you're smart enough to know that in your heart.

Come on, let's freshen up and join the party! She smiled that approving smile I loved.

When I saw that smile I knew everything would be fine and I was going to be alright.

Mom was coming upstairs as we started walking down.

Everything alright sweetheart. Yes, Mom. I guess I was a bit overwhelmed with emotions.

What is wrong, sweetie? I was excited for everyone, and then it hit me that I couldn't give you a grandchild.

Rianna.... Everything is going to work out for the best, you'll see!

7 months ago you were in a coma! Now look at all you've accomplished: Cheer Captain, perfect grades, ballet, friends, and a new family that loves and adores you.

We have so much more than ever before. You accomplished much of this on your own. Everyone that knows you is proud of you. I am overwhelmed with pride for you!

But I feel so guilty for feeling like this.

Honey every woman has emotions like this. It's okay to feel, it's okay to cry about it, cry it out, sweetie, but don't let it eat at you. You are a good person and a model daughter sweetheart.

Thanks, Mom, thanks, Aunt V.

Brenda, Vee, Ree!!!! Get in here! May called out.

May saw me and asked what was wrong.

I told her the edited truth.

Sweetheart, we are all emotional over the holidays.

Come here; I need a Ree-styled hug. I hugged her as tightly as I did Mom or Aunt V.

Ohhh!!! I missed that hug! As I released my hug, Hank stood up smiling.

Come here kiddo. Ohhh! That's what I call a hug!

After hugging them I instantly felt better. I felt my smile return. I started thinking about tomorrow morning, Christmas morning, I couldn't wait! Dan is going to give me the greatest gift a child can get, a real Dad!

Becky was breastfeeding; I played with Cat, as she likes to be called, and Violet.

Cat said you're very pretty Ree Ree.

So are you Kitten! Uncle Caleb calls me Kitten.

He's a smart man! Caleb calls me Vi! Said Violet

We played with the blocks and some dolls they brought. Bree was sitting on the couch chatting with my mom. Hank was setting the table. Caleb disappeared with Cathy. May and Ian were cooking and Aunt V was upstairs putting clothes away. Dan sat quietly, smiling next to Mom.

Hank finished the table, handed Dan a beer, and waved him out on the back porch. Everyone was doing their thing, everyone was smiling. May was especially proud. I think May was glowing more than Cathy.

Caleb came into the living room. Where's my girls? He exclaimed.

Cat and Violet ran to him fast. Caleb played like they knocked him over. Caleb made playful sounds of being tackled. He was very playful with them. Cathy sat next to me in the chair.

Did I ever tell you how I met Caleb?

No? Do tell! I said.

It was right after Caitlin was born. Becky, Bree, and Ian brought her home from the hospital, and we had a pool party at their place. Everyone was holding Caitlin. When Caleb held her I could see a special light turning on inside him. He fell in love with Caitlin the second their eyes met. She was cooing in his arms.

I sat next to him, I admired the way they looked at each other. I said she is very taken with you, he was looking at Caitlin and said the feeling is mutual. A moment later, we touched our hands together, we looked into each other's eyes, and we both fell in love almost instantly. Caleb was listening while playing with the girls.

That's so romantic, I said!

Yes, it was! Said Caleb. I have fallen deeper in love every day since.

Stop it!!!! Said Cathy giggling.

You know you love me more, too said Caleb, being playful.

That's not true!!! Said Cathy.

Then why are you blushing? Asked Caleb.

He came to Cathy and softly kissed her lips. Mmm, more every day! Said Caleb, smiling with a Cheshire grin.

Dinner!! Called May. I sat between Dan and Mom. We said grace before dinner. Hank said grace as we held hands. He spoke a small amount of Latin in the prayer, I thought it was cool!

The Veal Parmesan was excellent, with bread sticks, spaghetti with marinara sauce as a side dish, and salad. I was so happy I only had 2 eggs that morning. I ate like it was after a day of cheer camp. I had a glass of wine with dinner, mom just smiled about it.

After dinner, I started on the dishes. Bree helped me. We started chatting about anything and everything. I loved the way we chatted together. I could open up and never be judged. Bree wanted to know all about ballet, cheerleading, and especially John! John seemed to be everyone's favorite subject when it came to me.

Bree poured me another glass of wine while we did the dishes. May wanted to hear about the Korean boy who captured her adopted granddaughter's heart. It was fun sharing with them. I was sad about things earlier, but as I talked about my accomplishments and John, it didn't seem as important anymore.

May asked about Cathy's hair.

I said I rolled it. May was impressed.

Get some hot rollers. I'll do your hair, too. I didn't think she would have any.

May said I'll plug them in!

Looks like you got another client, Ree, Cathy joked.

Good word travels fast said Bree looking at me. Becky was playing with the girls. Ian was rocking James.

I looked for Mom; she and Dan were cuddling under a blanket on the porch, watching the sunset on the vineyard. I watched as they kissed. They were in love, I loved the expression on my mother's face when she came up from the kiss. It was a new expression I never saw in her, I liked seeing her that way.

I waited for them to recover before walking out. Magical isn't it? I asked. It sure is said Dan, but he never took his eyes off my mom. Mom looked at me slightly startled.

Oh Hi honey. Isn't the view like a painting? I asked.

It is beautiful, Mom said. You won't see that in Ohio! I said.

No, you won't, says Dan, and it's much colder too.

Tell me, honey, do you miss Ohio?

I only miss you, Mom. Ohio is my past, my future is here.

I hope you two will consider joining me. We are working on it, Ree.

I saw the pictures of the salon, it looks great! It's a shame I have to sell it now that I finally have it the way I always wanted it.

I am sorry about that, Mom.

Don't be a sweetheart.

I am going to go back to college and get my degree.

What will you do, Dan, if you decide to move out here? Nothing! My Mom asked.

Between my military service, my retirement from the police force, and my disability, I won't have to work. Keeping an eye on you two will keep me busy!

We laughed!

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