As the two adults gawked at one another, Teddy became anxious for them to have some kind of meaningful exchange.
At long last, his father used his gaping mouth to form words.
"You actually exist...I started thinking maybe I imagined you...What are you doing here?"
Ana laughed, probably from nerves. Teddy thought his father was acting silly and once again felt the need to step in and offer assistance.
Poor Dad. He really is clueless about ladies, he thought. I hope I don't take after him.
"This is Ana...Coffee Shop Girl. She's the lady I've been trying to get you to meet," Teddy said. He turned to his soon-to-be mother and explained, "This is my dad. I hope he's your Ginger Dreamboat...the guy you're so ga-ga over."
Ana beamed.
She has the nicest smile, Teddy thought. She's the prettiest mom in all the world.
"You're Teddy's dad?" She shook her head in disbelief and grinned from ear to ear. "How 'bout that? Teddy's dad is Hunk-in-Scrubs."
His dad and Ana appeared enthralled with one another. The moment was even better than what Teddy had imagined.
"Hunk, eh? I like it." His dad said, raising a brow and stepping closer to her. "Am I dreaming?"
"Hello," she said, standing to extend her hand.
His dad took her hand and acted like he didn't want to let go.
"I'm Christian Grey. I can't believe it's you."
"It's wonderful to meet you," she said.
"The pleasure is all mine," he said.
"Crazy amazing," she said. "I never would have thought the man I saw here that morning was someone's father. You look too young to be a dad."
It was crystal clear. She admired his father's appearance.
"What do you think?" Teddy whispered to Ana. "Does my dad make you wanna say hubba-hubba?"
"Yes," she said in half-whisper, half-giggle. "Yes, he does."
I knew it, he thought. She likes him and he likes her. They can't stop smiling at each other.
"What are you two saying about me?" His dad gave them a playful side eye, and looked down at himself. "Do I have something out of place?"
"No." Ana gave a quick shake of her head. "The opposite actually. Everything is in exactly the right place."
Tonya returned with two decaf lattes and set them down at the table she had decorated.
"Happy Valentine's Day," she said. "Teddy has planned a lovely evening for the two of you."
"Dad, it's time to give Ana her valentine presents." Teddy could see that his father needed a prod to action. The man was so enchanted by Ana that he couldn't seem to think straight.
"Right...yes, let's have a seat," his father said. Ana slid into the booth from one side and his father took the other side. They met in the middle, sitting close to one another, looking very much a couple.
Teddy decided his father needed more help. After all, his father really had no idea what Ana's gifts were.
"Open these first," the boy said. He placed the heart shaped box in front of her. "They're a mix of your favorites."
"Such a pretty box," she said. "This must be why you asked about chocolate."
Teddy watched with anticipation as she unfastened the silky red ribbon, hoping she'd like the contents.
"It's a mix of dark chocolate truffles and dark chocolate caramels," he said.
"Oh, my. They smell divine. Thank you." She reached out her arms and Teddy climbed into the booth next to her. Her hugs were everything to him.
"Thank you. Both of you," she said, turning to his father. "This is the first box of chocolates I've received since my dad gave me one in high school. I appreciate it very much."
"You can hug Dad, too," Teddy told her. "He likes hugs."
"Ted!" His father admonished him.
Ana giggled. She averted her eyes, fixating them on the heart-shaped box.
Teddy realized he'd embarrassed her and his dad.
"I'm sorry," he said. "I just really want you and Ana to be valentines."
"We've just met. Give us some time and space. Okay, buddy?" His father reached out and ruffled his hair.
Teddy understood that his dad needed some time alone with his mystery woman.
"Okay. But first I wanna watch Ana open her flowers."
His father and Ana nodded in perfect synchronization.
They're already agreeing on things, he thought. They look good together.
As the satin ribbon loosened under Ana's slender hands, father and son exchanged a look of love and appreciation. "Thank you," his father silently mouthed.
Teddy grinned, knowing he'd been correct in his choices.
"Oh, my," Ana said, her voice breaking just slightly. "I've never received flowers before. These roses are absolutely gorgeous. Thank you."
"You're welcome," father and son said in unison.
Teddy looked around to see people had their phones out. It seemed all eyes were on his dad and Ana.
They do look nice together, he thought. I have really good looking parents.
He moved back to his table and did his best to eavesdrop on the adult conversation.
They talked about their jobs and schedules and families, passing their phones back and forth to look at photos. It was a bit dull and frustrating for Teddy. He wanted to see some real progress, like a marriage proposal from his dad.
Teddy noted that he wasn't the only person interested in his father and Ana. The entire coffee shop seemed to be entranced with the attractive couple. Patrons were snapping photos of the scene. The old man, Burt, gave Teddy a thumbs up and an approving nod.
The couple smiled and laughed easily with one another, as if they'd known each other forever. Anyone could see they were into each other and completely comfortable. Clearly they'd established a friendly connection.
I don't want them to just be friends. They're supposed to get married, he thought.
As far as he was concerned they should hold the ceremony tomorrow.
Teddy watched hopefully as his father and Ana passed phones between them, presumably to exchange numbers. When his dad got his phone back he took a picture of Ana. She reciprocated by snapping a photo of his dad. Then the two put their heads together and took selfies.
It was a mesmerizing experience for the boy. It appeared that all of his hopes and wishes were being fulfilled right before his eyes.
He couldn't make out everything being said, just a word now and again, but he did hear Ana say, "I'm in the thick of it right now, trying to finish my thesis, but I can try."
"All we can do is try. Let's see what we're up against," his father replied.
There was talk of sharing Google calendars, holidays, and family obligations. Teddy wasn't sure what all of it meant, but he hoped they were making plans.
Monitoring the chat was frustrating and on top of it all, the kiwi-starfruit drinks had filled his bladder to bursting. He needed to use the bathroom, but couldn't leave the table without his father's permission.
"Dad." He approached his father's table, hoping he wasn't interrupting a proposal or anything else crucial to a successful coupling. "Excuse me."
"Yes?" His father and Ana both turned their attention toward him, looking concerned.
"I need to pee. Is it okay if I use the restroom?"
"Let me go in with you and check things out," his father said. Turning to Ana, he added, "Excuse us. Be right back."
Ana simply nodded, then gave Teddy a quick wink.
When they were about halfway to the restroom, his father turned to him. "How did you know Ana was Coffee Shop Girl?"
"The horseshoe charm on her necklace mostly. And the lady you described sounded a lot like Ana. I hope you're not too upset with me."
Teddy knew there would be some kind of punishment. He just hoped it would be over quickly.
"I'm very upset...Not about Ana, but about you sneaking out of the house. How did you get here?" His father went pale at the possibilities.
"Uber. Cal helped me. I had to do it. You had to meet Ana."
"The world can be a dangerous place, and as lovely as Ana is, my meeting with her could have waited until spring break. We'll more fully discuss the implications and consequences of your actions later, after we've both had a good night's sleep. For now I'm happy to have met Ana. I'm looking forward to getting to know her better." His dad had a goofy, lopsided grin.
The men's room was empty. Teddy didn't like urinals, so he took the stall, where he could enjoy more privacy.
"I'm going back out to visit with Ana," his dad told him. "I'll keep an eye on the restroom door. If you aren't out within a couple of minutes, I'll be back. Don't forget to wash your hands."
Worried about missing an important development, Teddy rushed through his toilet activity like it was a NASCAR pitstop.
As he dashed back into the sea of booths and bistro tables, he noticed that everyone seemed to be looking in the direction of his father and Ana. Some were holding their phones up, standing, craning their necks to get an optimal view.
His dad had fibbed. He wasn't keeping an eye on the restroom door.
Nope.
His dad's eyes were closed. So were Ana's.
Closed shut.
The two were clearly in a world of their own, turned toward one another, sharing a kiss in plain view of everyone in Seattle.
Teddy wasn't sure what to think about it. It was a foreign sight to be sure, but definitely a sign of progress.
Dad said he and Ana need time and space, so maybe I should stand back until they're finished, he thought. Maybe this is the part where he asks her to marry him.
The kissing episode was brief. After taking his mouth off Ana's, his father whispered in her ear. She blushed and nestled under his father's arm.
This is good. Very good, he thought.
Teddy sauntered back to his seat. Neither his father nor Ana seemed to notice his return.
He remembered that he'd promised to send Cal a picture of his dad and Ana. Before pushing send, he appraised the picture. The image had captured his dad and Ana mid-laugh. Their happiness and beauty was on full display.
"I think they're playing our song," his father said.
"Savage Garden. I've always liked this one," Ana said. Teddy noticed how her skin glowed and her eyes crinkled whenever she smiled.
"It's now become my favorite," his dad said, staring into her big, blue eyes.
Teddy listened carefully to the lyrics, something like, 'I knew I loved you before I met you.'
Wow, it's like Dad's telling her he loves her without saying the words.
"May I get you another drink or maybe a cookie?" Tonya asked.
"No, thank you," he said. "I've got treats for Dad and Ana back at the house, so I need to save room."
"You planned well," she said. "They look wonderful together, completely besotted."
"Does besotted mean Cupid shot them up with a bunch of arrows?"
"Yes." Tonya laughed. "Cupid has hit them hard. Congratulations. You did great, kiddo."
"Thank you. You helped," he said.
"My pleasure," she replied. "I hope to see them here for many moons to come. When we opened this little cafe, we always hoped it would be a place of celebration. It's heartwarming to see happy young folks court and spark."
Her eyes scanned the room. It appeared she was counting heads.
"Almost every table is full," Teddy noted.
"Your lovebirds have been good for business. Everyone in the place has been passing word about how you set them up. We're all rooting for them to be together. I'm dying to know things will go."
Me too, he thought. We all belong together. It just has to be.
Tonya approached the infatuated couple to see if they might need more refreshment.
"No, thank you. I should probably get my son home," the boy heard his father say. "It's past his bedtime."
As Tonya retreated to the kitchen, Teddy approached his father.
"It's too early to go home," he said. "Please, Dad."
"Time to go. It's nine o'clock. Ana and I have worked a long day." Turning to her, his father said, "I never asked how you got here and how you usually find your way home from work."
"I don't have a car, so I walk almost everywhere," she said. "I don't live far from here."
"You can't go home now. You have to come to our house," Teddy said to Ana. "I promised Gail she could meet you and I have valentines and treats for you. Pleeeez."
"Did you hear that? He promised. We don't want to let Gail down," his father said, a twinkle in his eye. Teddy noticed his parents were holding hands under the table. "Please come over for a bit. I have my car. I promise to get you home before you turn into a pumpkin."
"I accept your kind invitation," Ana replied. Turning to Teddy, she said, "I do love valentines and treats."
His dad stood up, extending a hand to assist Ana from the booth.
"Excuse me," his father said. "I need to thank Tonya. Back in a sec."
Alone again with Ana, he threw his arms around her. She reciprocated.
"I'm happy. Are you happy, too?" He asked.
"Quite," she said, pulling back a bit so she could meet his eyes. "Your father and I have decided to take things slowly. I hope you'll be understanding when he explains it."
"I'll try," he said, not bothering to contain his disappointment.
If they like each other, he reasoned, why can't they just get married right away?
"This will be good. You'll see," she said. She used her fingers to brush his hair to the side. It felt nice. "Things will work out best if we take our time and get to know each other well. If we want a happy life, we have to work for it."
"Uh-huh," he said.
I wish I could tie them up and force them to get married right now, he thought. I didn't go to all this trouble for them to be slow.
"Will you show me your room?" She asked.
"If you promise to read to me," he said. "I want you and Dad to tuck me in."
He had decided a year ago that he was getting too old to be tucked in. Sometimes his dad did it anyway, but usually Teddy would simply say good night and take himself to bed.
He was thrilled at the prospect of having Ana tuck him in. He wondered what it would be like.
"Ready?" His father said.
Ana pushed the tote up onto her shoulder. Seeing her hands were empty, both father and son took a free hand. His father handed the candy box to Teddy, who clutched it to his chest. His father took the roses, carefully managing with one hand.
As the trio walked out of the shop, the other patrons cheered, whistled, and applauded them.
"Good work, kid," Burt hollered.
"Come back soon," Tonya shouted.
"Thank you," his father answered. When they got outside, his dad turned to Ana and said, "We have our own song and also our own special place. It's a good start."
His dad pulled Ana's hand to his mouth for a kiss. Teddy, who was still holding her other hand, could have sworn he felt a shudder run through her arm all the way to her fingertips.
Upon entering the car, both father and son had to release Ana's hands. Teddy hated letting go and he wondered if his dad felt the same loss.
Teddy sat in the back seat with the flowers and candy, while Ana took the passenger seat.
He closed his eyes and imagined the car would always be like this, mother, father, and son. A family on the way to or from an outing. He couldn't wait to take his mom on adventures.
"Do you like to bowl?" he asked her.
"I'm not very good, but I do enjoy bowling," she said.
"Keep asking questions, son," his father whisper-shouted. "I'm taking notes. I have some dates to plan."
His father and Ana exchanged a knowing look.
"Do you ride?" Teddy asked her. "Aunt Mia has horses."
"I've never been on a horse," she said. "I'll need someone to teach me."
"Private lessons can be arranged," his father said with a broad grin.
Dad's acting so weird, he thought. His voice sounds different from usual and he's always trying to be close to Ana and touch her hands. This must be the way he shows a girl he likes her.
Teddy couldn't put his finger on it, but it was different from his Uncle El's flirtations.
His father turned onto Westlake Avenue, on the west shore of Lake Union.
"This is our street," Teddy told Ana.
Lights reflected off the water and shimmered in the darkness.
"I"ve never been in this area. It's charming," Ana said.
She likes the neighborhood. Teddy couldn't help but give himself a fist pump, feeling as if another small hurdle had been conquered. Let's hope she likes the houseboat.
"Yes, here we are. Home sweet home." He knew his father was talking to Ana, not him.
Teddy and his dad saw Mrs. Williams' car at the same time.
"Why would Leila be here?" His father wondered aloud.
The boy's stomach lurched at the reason for her visit. She'd never come to their house unannounced at such a late hour.
"Who's Leila?" Ana asked. Her voice was flat, devoid of its typical cheer. She folded her arms across her chest and leaned against the passenger door. "If you have a girlfriend or a crazy ex, you should have told me."
Uh-oh, Teddy thought. This isn't going right.
"Dad's never had a girlfriend," Teddy countered. "He doesn't know how to get one. You're our one and only valentine."
His father turned to give him a scorching look. He didn't understand why his father should be irritated with him.
I'm only telling the truth, he thought. Dad doesn't know how to get a girl.
His father turned his attention back to Ana, placing his right hand gently on her left shoulder.
"There's no girlfriend or ex. Leila Williams is a family friend. I went to medical school with her husband. Their son, Cal, is Ted's best friend. I can't imagine why she's here."
"I know why she's here," Teddy said. "I'll tell you, but you have to promise not to get mad."
"I promise not to get mad. Start talking," his father said sternly.
"She's here because Cal used her phone to pay for my Uber. He hid the phone from her. I'm sure she's very angry. I told Cal I'd pay her back."
"Now it's your turn to promise not to get mad," his father said. "I didn't want to discuss your punishment until later, but here goes. Not only will you repay Mrs. Williams, you'll also lose all phone privileges until spring break. Hand it over."
The phone pinged with a text from Cal.
"Please. I think it's something important," he begged, wanting to read the message before he gave up his phone.
I told Mom what happened and showed her the pics of your dad and Ana. Everything was fine until Dad saw the pics. He went on and on about how hot and fine Ana is. Then Mom started stomping around and fussing.
"It's from Cal. You should read it," he said, before placing the phone into his father's waiting hand.
His father chuckled and shook his head as he read the text.
"We'll get this straightened out," he said. "Do you understand how everything you do has a ripple effect?"
"I'm very sorry. I promise to never do anything else like this again. Never, ever."
"I accept your apology. Just to make certain you remember your promise, until spring break you'll also forego play dates, sleepovers, and video games. Do we understand one another?"
"Yes, sir." There was no point in arguing. He'd done wrong and needed to pay the piper.
Before anything else could be said on the matter, his father had made his way to Ana's door. He held his hand out to help her out of the car.
"The roses and chocolates," Teddy said as he exited the car.
"We'll leave them in the car. I'll carry them inside for Ana when I take her home," his dad said. "Are you ready to face Leila?"
Teddy nodded reluctantly. Ana offered her hand to him and he eagerly took it.
"It won't be so bad," she said in reassurance. "Surely this Leila can't be such a fearsome creature."
"She's alright," Teddy agreed.
Despite her reputation for gossip, he had to concede that Mrs. Williams had never been unkind to him. Cal said she nagged about chores, but all parents do stuff like that.
But she must be awfully mad about the Uber, he thought, if she came to the house so late at night.
"I have a strong feeling this has little to do with Teddy," his dad told Ana. "Apparently her husband saw a picture of you and he was highly complimentary. She likes to think of herself as the most attractive woman in our circle. She's been replaced."
"Dad's right. You're the prettiest mom of all," Teddy said.
"Oh, my," Ana said. She released his hand to wipe her eyes.
"Are you okay?" His father asked.
"Yes, more than okay. It's been a very emotional evening."
"I'll get rid of Leila quickly enough," his father told her. "Then the three of us can have a chat."
Teddy took Ana's hand and led her to the front door. His dad caught up to them and took Ana's free hand.
We look like a family, the boy thought. Anyone looking at us would know these are my parents.
He pushed the door open and pulled his mother and father behind him. Voices echoed from the kitchen. He really hoped Mrs. Williams wasn't munching on Ana's treats.
"Hello? We're back here," Gail called out.
Gail and Leila were both wide-eyed at the appearance of Ana.
"This is Ana," Teddy told them, racing to get the words out. "She's Dad's girlfriend, but they're getting married and she's gonna be my mom."
His father shook his head and frowned.
"Forgive Ted," his father said in exasperation. "One step at a time. Please allow me to introduce my girlfriend, Ana Steele." Turning to Ana, he said, "I want you to meet Gail Jones, who is a special member of our family, and Leila Williams, a family friend."
"It's a pleasure," Ana told the ladies. "I've heard such lovely things about each of you."
"And Teddy has spoken of nothing but you. I'm so happy to meet you," Gail said. "Happy Valentine's Day."
"Did you all have a good time?" Leila asked, looking at Teddy. "I trust the Uber ride met your expectations."
"Yes, ma'am," he said. "I'm very sorry for being so sneaky, but I really needed Cal's help. I'll pay back every cent, even if it takes me forever."
"Do you know how much the bill was?" Her voice had an accusatory edge.
"No, ma'am." He felt foolish for not checking with Rafe or Cal about the total.
"It's Friday night and it's Valentine's Day, so Uber surge pricing is in effect." Mrs. Williams sighed and rolled her eyes in dramatic fashion. "Add in the hundred dollar tip, and your little ten minute one-way ride cost $147.43. I am not happy."
"I can see why you'd be displeased," his father told Mrs. Williams. "That's a hefty charge, not to mention the deceit involved. Ted has apologized, but perhaps you need to hear it again."
With his father's hand on his shoulder, giving him a gentle nudge, Teddy once again expressed his remorse to Mrs. Williams.
"I'm very sorry for causing you such aggravation. It was...what do you call it...temporary insanity. I just had to surprise Dad and Ana. Please forgive me."
"Certainly," she said, looking to his father. "I've always thought of you as such a good boy, Teddy. I'm sure you'll make things right."
"Here you go," his dad told Mrs. Williams. He had his phone out and was pushing the keypad as he spoke. "I'm sending you the money now, so you and Ted will have your account settled. Ted will pay me back as soon as he can."
I'll be working until the end of time, Teddy thought. But it's better to owe Dad than Mrs. Williams.
"Thank you," she said. "It's not the money as much as it's the principle. As parents we have to teach our children accountability. It's wonderful to meet you, Ana. I hope Christian will bring you over soon for dinner. I'll be in touch about dates."
"That's very kind of you, Leila," his father said. "Ana's schedule is just as complicated as mine, so you'll have to be patient with us about dinner invitations."
"What do you do?" Mrs. Williams asked Ana.
"She's the producer for the Dr. Elena show," Teddy said, wanting to brag about his mother.
"That's right," Ana said. "And I'm finishing up grad school. Eventually I hope to open my own practice as a family therapist."
"That's wonderful," Mrs. Williams said. "I gave up a career in favor of my family."
Uh-oh. Teddy thought. Cal's mom sounds like she's challenging Ana to some kind of duel. Dad looks tense.
"We each have to make the choices that best suit our circumstances," Ana said. "And I'm sure you made the best choice, because I've heard you have a lovely family. I can't wait to meet them all."
Mrs. Williams lit up like a Christmas tree at Ana's generous words.
Crisis averted.
Teddy watched his father's shoulders relax. Gail released a sigh of relief.
"I can already tell. You and I are going to be great friends," Mrs. Williams said. "Get my number from Christian and call me anytime. If there's anything I can ever do for you, I'm more than happy."
"Thank you. You're so kind," Ana said. "I'm sure we'll be seeing each other again soon."
Mrs. Williams closed the space between them to give Ana a half-hug, the kind Teddy had often seen adults exchange in social situations.
"I'll see myself out," she said with a casual airy wave. "And I'll see you on Monday morning, Teddy."
As soon as they heard the door close and were certain Mrs. Williams was gone, his father said, "I thought she'd never leave."
"She was fuming when she arrived," Gail said. "That went surprisingly well."
"Who's ready for cookies?" Teddy said. He was impatient, ready for some milk and treats before bed. "Come look at what Gail and I made."
"These are perfect." Ana oohed and aahed over the cookies and brownies. When she spied the chocolate cupcake with her name on it, she asked, "May I eat this now? It's been a while since dinner."
"I'll fix everyone a plate," Teddy said. "Everybody sit. There's a special cupcake for each of us."
"I'll get drinks," Gail offered. "What does everyone want?"
"Milk, please," Ana said.
"Milk all around," his father agreed.
Teddy noticed his parents held hands as they sat at the breakfast bar. He fixed Gail's plate first, piling on a personalized cupcake, a brownie, and two cookies. He placed it at the end of the breakfast bar, so he could sit next to Ana.
He assigned the 'hubba-hubba' cookie to Ana and she giggled with delight when she saw it.
"What's that about?" His father whispered.
"I'll tell you later," she said. "It's something I shared with Teddy."
My mother and I have our own private jokes. He smiled inwardly at the thought.
"Happy Valentine's Day," he said as a toast. He clinked milk glasses with Gail and his parents.
Everyone was in a celebratory mood, chatting about everything and nothing.
"It's late, so I better get going soon," Gail said, attending to the now empty plates. The baked goods had been a hit with everyone.
"Please stay over," his father said. "I'll be driving Ana home after Ted goes to bed, so I really need you here."
"Of course I'll stay," she said.
Teddy knew Gail liked being needed.
With Gail tidying up the kitchen, he knew it was time to give Ana a house tour.
"Come see our place. I can't wait to show you my room," he told her. "You've seen the kitchen."
His father's fingers were entwined with Ana's. He marveled at how great his parents looked together. He couldn't wait for the rest of the family to meet Ana.
Nana will flip when she sees them together, he thought. She'll wonder why she never thought of putting them together. Uncle El and Aunt Mia will be shocked.
He laughed out loud at the anticipation of what they might say.
"What's so funny?" His father asked.
"Nothing," he said. "I'm just happy."
"Me too," his father said with a lop-sided grin.
"Me three," Ana said. Her admission earned a kiss on the cheek from his dad.
"This is where we watch TV and play games." The family room was the largest area of the house. "And that table area over there is supposed to be our dining room, but it's small, so Dad uses it for an office sometimes. There's a half bath right there off the entryway, in case you need to pee, and a full bathroom upstairs."
"No need yet," she said, trying to stifle a laugh. "But thank you for pointing out my options."
"Okay, now we're going upstairs."
Teddy led the way. When he reached the landing, he ran up and down the short hallway to flip lights on in the rooms.
"Is this who I think it is? Oh, Teddy, you were the cutest baby." Ana stopped to survey family photos displayed on the stairwell.
"Thanks. I'm glad you think so," he said.
He stopped in front of the small bedroom that Gail used when she stayed over. He pushed the door wide open so Ana could peek inside. The room was always tidy. The twin bed and window were bedecked in matching floral patterns.
"This is where Gail stays," he said. "It's the same size as my room, but she has a bigger closet. I have a better view, though."
"Very nice," Ana said. She closed the door behind her.
Teddy noted that his father wasn't saying much. He seemed transfixed by Ana's rearview.
Gross. Dad is so weird, staring at Mom's rear end like that, he thought. Why would anyone want to look at another person's butt? Ew.
"This is the bathroom I told you about." He stepped aside so Ana could look it over. "There's a shower and tub combined, so if your plumbing ever breaks, you're welcome to come here and use ours."
"Thank you." She smiled and playfully tapped him on the nose. "You're very thoughtful."
"And this is Dad's room. It's boring because everything is beige and brown, but he's hiring a decorator, so maybe he's willing to change things."
So much had happened in the past week that Gia Matteo now felt like a distant memory.
"Son, I cancelled Ms. Matteo's visit, so she won't be doing any work for us."
"That's awesome," Teddy said, high-fiving his dad. "Now Ana can help us decorate."
"It's true," his father told Ana. "I am open to change. All kinds of changes. Please share your suggestions."
Ana nodded as her eyes roamed the very masculine space. By houseboat standards, it was a large. Teddy took her by the hand and pulled her into the center of the room. His father leaned against the door frame, enjoying the tour.
"Dad has a big closet and a big bed, so there's plenty of room for you to move in."
Ana's eyes danced with mirth and she covered her mouth as if afraid to laugh.
"Ted," his father admonished through gritted teeth. "That's inappropriate."
"Well, if she can't move in, how about a sleepover?" Teddy countered.
Sheesh. I'm only trying to make Mom feel welcome.
"Subject closed," his father said. "Show Ana your room. Then it's bedtime for you."
"I saved the best for last," Teddy told her. Her hand found his. "My room is right across the hall."
"I can't wait," she said. She gave his hand a quick squeeze, prodding him to move quickly.
As he pulled her into his room, he watched her face for a reaction. She looked up, marvelling at the blue ceiling painted with constellations. She ran a hand over the blue sailboat comforter and looked out onto the inky dark water.
"You can sail under the stars from the comfort of your bed," she observed. "This is a very special spot."
He'd always liked his room. It was the only bedroom he could remember having.
She's right, he thought. It's a very special spot, especially now that she's here.
"From the window, I can watch boats on the lake all day and all night. I never get tired of the lights twinkling across the water. You're gonna love it when Dad takes you out on the catamaran."
He hoped his dad would get the hint and secure a date right on the spot.
"It's a bit cold right now, but as soon as it warms up, I'd like nothing more," his father said to Ana. "Do you enjoy boating?"
He was proud of his father for picking up on the idea of taking Ana sailing.
"I do," she said. "I've spent a lot of time fishing with my dad back home on Lake Sylvia."
"When can we meet him?" Teddy asked. "I want to fish on Lake Sylvia, too."
In truth he was most interested in meeting his new grandpa. Ana had made him sound like a very good guy.
Teddy climbed onto his bed, moving as far over as he could to make room for his mom. He patted the space next to him. Without hesitation she followed his lead and took her place.
"Ana and I are trying to work all that out. We want to meet each other's families as soon as possible," his father said. "Matter of fact, maybe it's time for the three of us to have that talk."
"C'mon, Dad, get in with us," Teddy said, motioning for his father to pile into the twin bed. "We can all fit."
Ana was in the middle, sharing a pillow with Teddy. His dad took a small throw pillow and pushed it behind his head. In order to fit, his father had to roll onto his side and slip an arm under Ana. The entire arrangement was very cozy and familial. Teddy relished the feeling.
"Well, Dad, are we gonna have a talk or what?"
He could tell Ana was holding back waiting for his father to lead any discussion.
"Ana and I are very happy to have found each other. We've decided to pursue an exclusive relationship to see where things lead. We're taking things slowly."
"What does exclusive mean? And by the way, slow doesn't work for me," Teddy said. "Ana's my mom and you guys need to get married right away."
"Exclusive means we only date each other," his father explained. "Ana and I are both marriage-minded, but we need a strong foundation before we can make a commitment to one another. We have to know if this attraction for one another can grow to become more. This is best for you in the long-term. I promise we'll never do anything that might jeopardize your well-being."
"It would be an honor to be your mother," Ana said. Her eyes glistened in the shadows. Teddy wondered if she was about to cry. "I couldn't ask for a better son than you. But your father and I just met. We've promised to talk to each other every day, even on days when our schedules won't allow us to physically meet up. It's important that we get to know one another fully before we get too serious."
"Cool," Teddy said. "So I'll get to see you almost every day."
"It probably won't work out that way," she said. "Your dad and I need lots of couple dates as well as family dates. Sometimes we'll take you with us, but sometimes we'll need to be alone. Is that something you can live with?"
He nodded. He was disappointed, but he understood.
"But you'll be coming here to the house?"
"Yes," his father said. "She'll come here and sometimes we'll go to her apartment. In fact, the three of us are going to the station tomorrow morning for the tour, then out to lunch, and then to see Ana's place."
It's really happening, he thought. He was proud of his father for making solid plans.
"Where are we going after that?"
"Unfortunately, I have a lot of school work," Ana said. "So I won't be able to spend the entire day with you tomorrow."
"But on Sunday afternoon the three of us are going out for pizza and bowling," his father said. "Then you won't see Ana again until next weekend."
"But you'll see her?" Teddy felt a bit jealous at the idea his dad would be able to hang out with her alone.
"Yes, she and I have our week planned out. Phone calls and dates."
"When can you come to my school?" Teddy dearly wanted to show off his new mom. "Moms and dads can come have lunch on Thursdays."
His mother turned to his dad and nodded.
"Ana and I have lunch plans on Thursday, but instead of Korean barbecue, we'll come have lunch with you," his father said.
"Thank you," he said. He threw himself on top of his parents and hugged them both at the same time. It was clumsy and awkward, but they all laughed in pleasure.
"Buddy, it's time to get ready for bed," his father said. "The shower's running, which means Gail might not be out of the bathroom for a while. Since you can't get to your toothbrush, I suppose you can skip your teeth tonight. One time won't hurt. We'll step outside while you put on your pajamas."
His father held out a hand to assist Ana off the bed and lead her out of the room. As soon as Teddy closed his bedroom door, he wanted them to come back.
He undressed in record time and threw on his plaid flannel pajamas. He fumbled through his books until he found an old favorite. He placed it on the bed, hoping a special person would read it to him.
When he opened the door to the hallway, he saw Gail, now dressed in robe and nightgown, speaking to his parents. Needing to empty his bladder, he squeezed past the trio to get to the bathroom.
"Since you can get to your toothbrush now, don't forget to brush," his father said.
Drat. Dad always remembers, he thought. I bet Mom will be the same way. Teeth seem important to her. After all, she does have very nice ones, so she's probably all about oral hygiene.
After making himself minty-fresh, he said good night to Gail, being sure to thank her for helping him.
"I'm ready for bed," he announced. "I need both of you to tuck me in."
His parents exchanged a look, letting him know they were pleased by his invitation.
"Would you read this to me?" He held the book out to his mother. "I like bedtime stories."
"I do, too," she said, holding the book open with both hands. She lifted one arm to circle it around him. The moment was everything he'd imagined. "Block City," she noted. "By Robert Louis Stevenson. I don't know this story, but I'm excited to read it."
"It's a poem about using your creativity to plan and build something,"he told her. "It's about a kid who builds an entire world with his imagination."
The words had never sounded as lovely as they did from his mother's lips. The cadence of her soft voice was comfort for his soul.
"Rain may keep raining, and others go roam,
But I can be happy and building at home.
Let the sofa be mountains, the carpet be sea,
There I'll establish a city for me…"
When she'd finished the read-aloud, she closed the book and handed it to him.
"I enjoyed that very much," she said.
"It was perfect," he said.
"Yes, it was," his father agreed.
"Now it's time to kiss me good night and pull up the covers," he said.
His parents got off the bed, so he could slip under the comforter. They took turns kissing him good night, first his mother, then his dad.
"Love you, buddy," his father said.
"Sleep well," his mother said. "See you tomorrow morning."
It was too soon for a brand new mother to tell him that she loved him, but Teddy knew that would come.
"Good night," he said.
They softly closed his door. He could hear their murmurings as they went downstairs.
It was very late and as much as his body wanted sleep, his mind wanted to replay everything that had happened in the course of the evening.
He heard the front door close, signaling their departure. He raced to the front window in his dad's room so he could watch them.
His father had an arm draped around his mother's shoulder, and her arm was around his waist. They walked to the car with as much familiarity as a couple who'd done it a thousand times.
I did it, he thought. They're together. We're together.
His matchmaking had been messy and fraught with little complications along the way, but he felt confident Ana would forever be part of their lives.
When his parents reached the car, instead of opening the door, his father spun his mother around and pressed her against the door, enveloping her in his arms. They kissed for a very long time.
Teddy didn't feel completely right about watching, but he couldn't turn away. He knew he was watching something important: the start of a new family.
A/N: It's Thanksgiving week here in US. As we count our blessings, dear reader, you are near the top of our list. With only one chapter left, we extend our thanks and appreciation for your generous support, reviews, and encouragement.
Special thanks to Ihootie! Her comments on the FSoG Fanfic Followers page (FB) inspired the Tonya character.
A big thank you to geneva3357! Her review suggested Ana and Christian's special song, Savage Garden's "I Knew I Loved You." It's perfect for our favorite couple.
To Krooela and snoopylover60 we send heartfelt appreciation for their endless support and friendship.
Happy Thanksgiving to all. We send you big love and best wishes!
Carmelita and Paula