The Gift
Chapter 19
Andrea texted Mike mid-way through the day, knowing he would wonder all day. She wasn't completely sure what kept him at work, but he finally came through the door a little after seven pm. Ally was in the living room with Molly and Eli, and Mike looked at Andrea, who was standing in the kitchen.
"You're sure?" Mike asked.
"I am, but take it easy on her, Mike." Andrea said.
"Why? She lied for years." Mike stated.
"Because all she wanted was to be close to you. She thought what she did was so bad, that she had to lie. That you would never forgive her. Don't prove her right. Just hear her out." Andrea instructed.
"Doesn't it bother you? You hired her because you thought she had certifications." Mike asked.
"Yes, but I kept her on because of how much she loved Molly. Mike; just remember, this isn't a stranger that lied. This is your daughter that was desperate to be close to you and to have a home. A daughter you have missed, grieved for, and cried for. If I was given a second chance with Lily, I would forgive anything. Do the same for Ally…or Kaitlyn, whichever. You have a second chance. I realize what she said hurt all those years ago, but you aren't mad about that. You're mad because she lied, not for what she said. You love her too much for that." Andrea told him firmly. She could see Mike settling down.
"I remember her saying it, and I remember it really hurting; but it stopped mattering." Mike remarked.
"Just make sure she knows that it doesn't make her unlovable to you. I've seen how you have missed her all these years. Now you have a chance to give her a hug and make everything okay again. Go." Andrea said as she pushed Mike into the living room. She stood in the doorway and watched as Mike walked into the living room. She could tell how nervous they both were. Ally stood up, sucking her bottom lip. Finally, Mike pulled her into a hug.
"Its okay, sweetie; I got you. I'm so sorry I never realized it was you." Mike said as he held onto Ally. Andrea bent down and picked Eli up and led Molly out of the living room.
"Daddy was huggin' Ally like he hugs me." Molly commented.
"Yeah. He was." Andrea answered. He wasn't sure how to explain it to four-year-old Molly.
"I love his hugs second best. I love your hugs better." Molly remarked.
"Thanks, Honey. Let's give Daddy and Kait…Ally some privacy." Andrea said as she led Molly into her bedroom. Eli was happy to be held and Andrea enjoyed the sweet baby boy.