Three days later.
Levi grinned as he sipped at his ice water. He and Ryan had come back froma jog. Despite not being much into sports, Ryan had proven to be into physical fitness. Lifting weights, jogging, and more, and Levi would often join him. Booker also got int on it as well.
Chelsea entered.
"You have fun?"
"Yeah."
"I'm so proud of you."
"Yeah?"
"You're giving him a chance."
"Yup. Just need a little more time."
She hugged him.
"I know it hasn't been easy, but, I don't think he'll act like dad did."
"I wanna believe that, trust me."
"I get it. He has to earn your trust."
"He's doing great so far."
She high-fived him as Nia entered, Booker not far behind.
Levi explained to the twins what was going on.
"Awesome, man."
"I know, right?"
"He might be the stepfather you need."
"Maybe."
Levi didn't doubt per say, but, he wanted to be sure Ryan could be trusted.
A few days later, Chelsea and Ryan came home from another dinner. The smell of steak and beer reached their noses.
"Seriously?" Levi managed.
"Relax, kiddo, it was just one." Ryan managed, sounding lucid. His mother had said he wasn't much of a drinker, and this appeared to prove it. Still, he wanted him to use mouthwash.
"Yeah, yeah." Ryan managed, laughing.
Levi later led him to his apartment.
"Glad you're not rushing her."
"I know she's been through a lot. It'll take time for her to open up to me, but, glad she is."
Levi smiled. He somehow knew Ryan wouldn't hit Chelsea, at least, not on purpose. Since he couldn't see, there might be times when he'd either grab her to keep balance, or accidentally hit her if aiming for someone else, things he knew he couldn't help. In spite of his loss of sight, he was certain Ryan would be the perfect second husband for his mom.