Chapter 51: A Decree
Callie stared at the bench. Everything about this place was the same as she remembered—the guards with their handheld metal detectors, the bright white overhead lights that buzzed, and the stench of stale bleach mixed with commercial cleaner. Having appeared before court as a defendant and found guilty, she didn't have particularly fond memories of the courtroom and wasn't thrilled to be back.
Admittedly, this time it was for a much happier occasion and she wasn't alone. Moms had helped her and Jude go through security, then walked with them to the first table where they were sitting. Then, Mom reminded them again about what would happen after the judge came in and counsel finished assembling: the swearing in and testimony, which meant a lot of talking and answering questions. Once settled, it was a quick hug and a kiss before Moms took the table behind them. She'd been disappointed they couldn't sit together, but all she had to do was to turn around to see that they were right there. And if she looked way to the back, there were the rest of her siblings and grandparents. Everyone who was backing them up on this, ready to welcome them into their family.
Beside her, Jude rubbed his hands on his pants. Her brother was always sweaty but whenever he was nervous, normal sweaty became sweaty sweaty. By now, his palms were leaving streaks on his tan pants that Lena had ironed all nice for him. She didn't know why he was so anxious. Moms had told them some of the questions they might get asked so there wouldn't be any surprises. None were meant to be hard.
At least she was keeping it together better than Jude was. Counting one…two…three…she tried to move the air from her mouth into her lungs, all the way down to her stomach. Lena called them belly breaths. To do them right, your stomach had to expand. But without Lena there, it wasn't working well and her chest only felt tighter. Giving up, Callie slid down the stiff upholstered chair. His-honour-the-majesty hadn't arrived yet, anyway.
She scoffed at hearing Stef clear her throat, but immediately sat up. Cop Mom never let her get away with anything. Needing distraction, she fingered the row of smooth, pearly button snaps on her new top. Lena had bought it after their argument over the one with the frills down the front. Together, they'd washed and put that one away in case she changed her mind. But Callie knew she wouldn't, because she liked this blouse more. The navy fabric was printed with little white flamingoes perched on one leg, a touch of hot pink for the beaks and legs. There was no collar and the front was plain except for a pocket on the left with its matching white button. Paired with light-coloured capris, she coordinated perfectly with Jude. Lena had even removed all the labels so there was nothing scratchy. She loved everything about this outfit Mama had picked out, so much so that she'd been in it ever since her shower first thing that morning. Thinking back on how she had nearly beaten sunrise, Callie cursed herself for waking up so early. The day was not half done but she was exhausted.
Everything so far had been a non-stop blur. After she'd gotten dressed, Stef had towel-dried and combed her hair in the kitchen while they waited for the coffee to finish. Then it was up to the master bedroom with a mug for Lena, who'd been so surprised to see her in her clothes that she had cried. While that was happening, Grandma, Grams, and Grandpa had arrived and set up breakfast like a buffet so they could graze in between family photos.
But now, time dragged as they waited for the hearing to start. She was getting bored.
Noticing that her brother's leg was bouncing, Callie leaned over and elbowed him gently. "Everything's gonna be fine. Moms are right behind us." She was anxious, too, but at least could fake it to make herself feel better. "What's wrong?"
Her brother shrugged. "Thirsty," he mumbled.
"You know they're not gonna let you have water, right?" Callie pointed out. Moms had repeatedly asked them before they came into the courtroom if they had had enough to drink since they weren't allowed anything inside.
Sighing when he simply stared with a downtrodden expression, she turned around for Lena.
'Everything okay?' Lena mouthed at the eye contact from her daughter. Concerned when Callie shook her head and gestured to her youngest, she went to investigate. Making her way to the front, she crouched down by his chair. "Hey, bud. What's up?"
Afraid Lena was mad at having to come over, Jude's shoulders sagged. "I want water," he said, repeating his excuse.
Lena sighed inwardly at the slight whine coming from her son, curious if this was really about thirst, or if it was boredom combined with nerves. He had had plenty to drink in the lobby. "Already?" She winked as his gaze met hers, guilt etched in there. "There's been a bit of waiting, hasn't there?" Not saying anything, Jude slid off his chair into open arms.
"It will be over soon. I promise," Lena reassured, rubbing his back. As her baby boy snuggled up her, it dawned on her that she would miss this once he hit those preteen years and would be more selective with being affectionate in public. At eight, he didn't think twice about giving hugs or holding hands, and she cherished it.
"There's not enough time to leave and come back in," Lena explained; security protocol took time. "But once we're done and can leave you can have as much to drink and anything you want. You'll be okay until then," she said confidently to keep his hopes up. There were snacks and water in the car, and they'd be heading home as soon as they could for the reception, which would have light refreshments.
Jude easily acquiesced, giving her another squeeze before hopping back up onto his seat. "I can wait, Mama."
"That's probably for the best." She waved at Bill as security escorted him in. Given his long term relationship with the children, he would give formal testimony as well.
Noticing counsel assembling, Lena pressed a kiss to Jude's forehead. "Everyone's taking their seats. We'll see you both soon."
"Bye," the siblings chorused as the court registrar began to speak, signalling the start of proceedings. "All rise for the honourable Judge Douglas Matheson."
Relief and pride filled Stef as Callie and Jude snapped up in their seats and looked forward. They'd taken heed of her warnings to pay attention and not fool around. Generally, court staff were patient and forgiving with children but she was always cautious with them in an administrative setting.
Even with the knowledge that Moms were there, Callie found it hard not to fidget. She was buzzing with anticipation. Today was a huge deal and one they'd waited a long time for. And while little would actually change by getting adopted, that they were making this permanent meant the world to her. She and Jude would no longer be wards of the state. Most importantly, no one could take them away from Stef and Lena. They'd be together, forever.
"Case number A996374, Stefanie Adams Foster and Lena Adams Foster versus the State of California. All parties, please enter your appearance."
Perplexed, Callie watched as people began to introduce themselves and take the oath. That was what Moms had told them to do if they didn't understand what was going on: to pay attention and follow the others. When it was her turn, she stood up, gave her name, and listened to the oath she was supposed to repeat. Failing her first attempt, the registrar started over from the beginning and coached her in parts so she had less to remember each time.
"I solemnly, sincerely and...truly..."
"...declare and affirm."
"declare and affirm," Callie recited after her. The typing from the secretary was distracting.
"That I will tell the truth, the whole truth..."
"That I'll tell the truth, the whole truth,"
"And nothing but the truth."
"And nothing but the truth."
Jude was then walked through the same process before Moms did their oaths. Once everyone had finished, their attorney walked a folder over to the bench and began proceedings.
"Your honour, Mrs. Stefanie Adams Foster and Mrs. Lena Adams Foster are here today to seek approval in their petition to adopt Mr. Jude Jacob and his sister, Miss Callie Jacob. If successful, this would transfer custody of Jude Jacob and Callie Jacob from the State of California, as contracted to the Department of Social Services, to Mrs. Stefanie Adams Foster and Mrs. Lena Adams Foster. The four month revocation period has passed, and the children's birth father, Mr. Donald Jacob, no longer maintains rights to the children. There is the potential for the relationship to be maintained, thus, the petitioners are not seeking a closed adoption. The children's Case Manager is able to provide collateral."
Bill stood and cleared his throat, taking his turn to speak. He was thrilled for these kids to get their forever family. It'd been a very long road and for a while, things had been bleak as he struggled to find a living arrangement for them that would surpass the six month mark. Those days, adoption had seemed impossible. "Your honour. Stefanie and Lena Adams Foster are highly experienced caregivers who are familiar with fostering and adoption. Over the course of this placement, the prospective adopters were committed to the children's health, well being, and socioemotional development. They quickly developed strong rapport with Callie and Jude, which eased the transition into their home. The children have made incredible gains while in their care and without a doubt, I attribute their success to their current environment.
"Copies of the initial and follow-up assessments are enclosed. I had no concerns in the post-placement visits. Given that reunification with the remaining biological parent is not a viable option, the Department of Social Services has deemed that permanent placement of Jude and Callie with Stefanie and Lena would be of significant benefit to them.
"Thank you for your testimony." The judge peered through his glasses at the paperwork laid out in front of him. "When did the state become the legal guardian of Callie Jacob and Jude Jacob?"
"2007, your honour," Bill replied.
"Thank you." There was a pause as the judge rifled through the stack to find what he needed, mumbling as he read to himself before addressing the court. "Jude and Callie have been moved through six homes in the span of five years. In every situation where children and youth are part of the child welfare system, the goal is to achieve permanency as early as possible. That ensures that harms and disruption related to repeated removals and resettlement are minimized. This case is no different." Skimming the sentencing document for the older child at the juvenile facility, he noted harm had aready been done. "Given some of the...complexities that are likely present, I imagine there is a support plan in place to serve both the children's and adoptive parents' needs?"
"Absolutely, your honour. A permanency plan has been developed and will be rolled out immediately."
"Thank you. Counsel may continue."
The attorney turned towards the back row to call upon his clients. "Mrs. Stefanie Adams Foster, how long have you resided in the State of California?"
Stef stood up. "For twenty two years, your honour."
"What is your occupation?"
"I'm a Police Officer with the San Diego Police Department."
"How long have you been in service?"
"Twenty-four in total, but twenty-two with the department."
"Thank you for your service, Officer. I understand you and your wife are legally married. What is your date of marriage?"
Stef felt tears prick her eyes as she recalled that day. "October 12th, 2008." It'd been less than a year after the twins had come along. Mariana had thrown flowers...B and Jesus had been their best men.
"What does your wife do for a living?"
"She's Vice Principal of Anchor Beach Charter High School."
"How long has she held that role?"
"Five years," Stef answered. "Prior to that she was in private practice and was with the Department of Education." Their attorney hadn't asked for that information but she wanted to clarify that Lena's career had began well over five years ago.
"Thank you. I understand your home is in the Pacific Beach area."
"That's correct."
"Can you tell the court a bit about the neighbourhood your home is located in?"
"We're on a quiet street that's family-friendly. There hasn't been a lot of turnover, so Lena and I know all our neighbours. We're close to the children's school and our workplaces, about a ten minute drive for each of us. We're just west of the I-5," she explained, "so really convenient if we need to go further for an appointment, or to the airport."
"Would you say you and your wife have a reliable support network?"
"I would say so, yes. Our parents are involved in their grandchildren's lives and visit several times a year. My ex-husband cares for three of our children on a fairly regular basis. The children's Godparents live just north of us; we see them for holidays." Stef paused, wondering what the judge might want to hear. "With five kids, we'd be of course looking to increase the amount of instrumental help we receive to keep our household running smoothly. My mother is considering reducing her hours at work so she can visit more often and give us a hand."
"I imagine that would be helpful." The attorney chuckled. He had two of his own; they were school-aged now but he remembered joking that that was two too many when they were younger. "Could you describe a typical day in your household?"
Stef had to laugh. Their attorney had done the twins' adoption and she remembered how flabbergasted he was when he learned she and Lena intended to adopt again. "It's a tight ship. The kids have a wake up routine on weekdays; we have breakfast then it's a mad dash out the door. They're able to walk to school but most days they're driven because we're running behind. When their day is over, they either walk back together or come home with Lena. Then it's homework, dinner together, and getting them outside for a bit of fresh air before bedtime."
"Do you or your wife anticipate any major changes in your careers over the next five years?"
"Lena does not, no. At least not while the kids are still in school, since the current arrangement allows her days to align with theirs very well. There are some long days but we get her schedule a year in advance so it's easy to plan for them," she explained. It was the reason why Lena had turned down the administrative position with the school board; they needed one parent with consistent hours. "My days are much more unpredictable. I end up picking up a second shift or working later on more days than not...but I do have more flexibility to take off early if staffing allows, or stay home on short notice if someone's sick. I'm hoping to eventually transition into a new role to give me more structure at work and time at home." The kids didn't know yet but she was after a schedule that would allow her to work three or four longer days so she could have the rest of the week off.
"What is your financial plan to provide for Jude and Callie Jacob long term?"
"Lena and I are financially secure. We have permanent positions with pensions with our employers, in addition to extended health coverage for everyone. Callie and Jude will be added to the plans once we provide adoption paperwork. Educational investments for post-secondary have been set up for each of our children; Callie and Jude's just need to be finalized. I also have the option to retire at age fifty if I want to with full pension."
"Thank you. No further questions," the attorney concluded before returning to his seat.
It was the judge's turn now. "Thank you to all parties for your testimony thus far. Mrs. Adams Foster, I understand that you and your wife have already been through one successful adoption in 2007. What made you decide to do it again?"
Stef cleared her throat. She and Lena had expected to be asked this so they'd rehearsed their answers. "Lena and I always planned on a big family. Our experience fostering and adopting our twins, Mariana and Jesus, was nothing short of wonderful. Afterwards, we took a break so all of us could settle down into a new rhythm...but we never felt our journey as parents was done. When we met Callie and Jude, they'd been waiting for a permanent placement for such a long time. We felt strongly that they deserved the security of a family and a home to call their own."
Her voice wavered as she pushed herself to continue. "We were convinced we could provide that for them. They weren't any less deserving of stability because they'd been in foster care for a while. We wanted them to have a solid shot at a bright future with a family that would stand with them no matter what. From the beginning, we intended our home to be Callie and Jude's last stop—we didn't want them moving anymore. Or to be put in different homes when they only had each other."
She remembered Lena telling her about a conversation she'd had with Bill before they accepted the placement. Due to Callie's age and history, DSS had been having difficulty finding a home that would take them as a pair. They had offered to only give them Jude if it'd be easier for them, despite acknowledging the strong attachment between the siblings. But she and Lena hadn't had the conscience to separate them.
Judge Matheson nodded. It was always promising when foster parents had adoption as their ultimate goal from the beginning, rather than taking a wait-and-see approach. Adoption was more likely to be successful in the former because caregivers regarded the fostering period as a vehicle to get them to their endpoint. "What has it been like having Jude and Callie join your family?"
"Oh, absolutely crazy. Our kids are always scheming to keep us on our toes, it seems, and some days all they do is argue with each other. The laundry is always on and our utilities bill is proof of that. Thank goodness we don't have real winters." Laughter emanated from the audience at her quip.
She struggled to keep tears at bay over the little things about having Callie and Jude she could not share. All the experiences that were special and meaningful simply because they were new. Books they'd started together. The inside jokes they shared. The first time each of them referenced the shared bedrooms as theirs. All the I love yous.
"But welcoming Callie and Jude into our lives, watching them grow—no, thrive—has brought us tremendous joy. The two of them teach us so much every day, and Lena and I are so proud of them. What's been the most special has been the relationships that have formed between them and our other three. They're inseparable. It's hard to remember what life was like without them".
"Thank you. I hope all five of them will always have those relationships to rely upon," the judge said. "Mrs. Adams Foster, is it your intention to provide Jude and Callie with a stable and loving environment in which they will be able to enjoy the freedoms of childhood, have their needs met, and be free from mistreatment on a consistent basis?"
"It is, your honour."
"Is it your intention to maintain a parental relationship with Jude and Callie, not only until they turn legal age, but beyond that into adulthood—emotionally, instrumentally, and financially—in the way a parent would be expected to?"
"It is, your honour."
"Do you and your wife agree to maintain a functional coparenting relationship based on the best interests of these children and be equally responsible for them in the event of marital dissolution?"
"We do, your honour."
"Mrs. Lena Adams Foster, do you agree with your wife's answers?"
Lena stood. "I agree, your honour."
"If asked the same questions, would you answer them in a similar way?"
"I would, your honour."
Judge Matheson thanked them, dismissing them to take their seats. He scribbled notes before looking over his glasses at the youngest individual in his courtroom. "Jude Jacob. Are you aware that Stefanie and Lena would like to adopt you and your sister?"
"Yes, sir—I mean, your honour."
"And do you have any objection to this?"
"No, your honour."
"That's good. Why do you want to be adopted?"
"Because Stef and Lena love us, for real," Jude began tentatively. "We always get to do fun stuff together and there's always someone to play with at home and so many things to do. When I need something all I have to do is ask and they help." His voice climbed in the annoying way it did when he got nervous. "They're not mean to us. Even when I'm in trouble, Mom and Mama always forgive me."
The women placed their hands on their hearts at his reasoning. Jude had his insecurities too, but they were easier to shoo away than Callie's.
The judge smiled. "That sounds like a wonderful family to get adopted into," he said. "I'm happy your mothers are forgiving when you get in trouble. But that doesn't happen very often, right, Mr. Jacob?"
Jude shook his head, incredulous. "No, your honour!" he insisted as soft laughs echoed behind him. "But maybe you need to ask my Moms because they might have a different answer than what I think."
"That's very insightful. But I don't think that will be necessary. I can tell when someone is telling the truth." Judge Matheson winked at the boy's relief. "That's all. You may take your seat."
Now it was Callie's turn.
"Miss Callie Jacob. Are you aware that Stefanie and Lena would like to adopt you?"
"Yes I am, your honour."
"And do you have any objection to this?"
"No objection your honour."
"Your brother has shared with the courtroom his reasons for wanting to be adopted by Stefanie and Lena. I'd like to hear from you as well. Why do you want to be adopted?"
Callie cleared her throat, trying not to think about everyone else there. She didn't often share much with people—sure, with Stef and Lena she did but not strangers. But the whole reason they were here was to build a case about why the adoption should take place. "Ever since Stef and Lena were raising us, everything's gotten better," she began. "From day one, they included us in their family and always treated us like their kids. They make time for us and give us the chance to do all these things we didn't get to before. They care about what we need and usually know what it is before we do. Even when they found out we'd been through a lot of homes, Stef and Lena, they still wanted us. They said their place was going to be our last stop and I don't think they're gonna change their mind anytime soon." She grinned, realizing that if Stef and Lena did change their mind they'd be stuck with her and Jude forever. "They're always there for me and make me want to do better.
"Also, I...I want to do stuff other kids my age can do. Like go on a field trip or make friends I don't have to say goodbye to in a few months. I just don't want to be in the system anymore, your honour," Callie faltered. About to disregard Mom's instruction to only give answers to questions that were asked, she deliberated if what she had to say would be worth the trouble later. When he didn't stop her, she pushed on. "It's broken. The system housed us but couldn't give us a home. People put up with you. They don't treat you the same as their other kids and they don't bother hiding it. They remind you they're doing you a favour like it's some excuse to treat you bad." Convinced he needed to know, her words tumbled with more confidence. "And when things get awful, you get moved. Which is good, but when you keep moving, people want you even less. You start to think something's wrong with you. Then it's too late. You're aging out so no one can have you." She shrugged over the awkwardness of talking to silence. "I want a family that I can be part of, for real. That's Stef and Lena."
The judge gave a nod to the proud parents. He was impressed; Callie was more articulate than he had expected for her age. "Miss Jacob, thank you. That was very courageous of you to share your experiences to give a voice to other kids who are in a similar position." Learning from those who had been through the system was key to fixing it. "Keep it up. You have a lot of potential."
"Yes, your honour," Callie replied. She'd sworn to herself that she'd do better. She'd remember to because not only did she owe it to all her Moms but she owed it to herself, to make something of herself.
"It sounds like it's been a bit of a tough road for you, but I understand you've been in a good place since you started living with Stef and Lena."
"Yea—yes. It's been great. I'm really happy living with them, your honour."
"That's a very important consideration in the ruling. Perhaps the most," Judge Matheson supplied before directing her to her seat.
Callie's eyes widened at noticing the new booklet being opened—one with little coloured tags sticking out. They looked like the official papers. Wanting to know if her brother has seen it too, she elbowed him, causing him to jump. She froze when Mom cleared her throat.
The judge, detecting some impatience, explained as he signed and initialled the relevant boxes. "Everything is almost done. I'm finishing the adoption orders that your parents will need before you leave. You two have done a wonderful job waiting and answering the questions asked of you today."
The siblings stared at him and each other before slowly turning around to face their Moms. If they could, they'd jump up and start screaming but Stef and Lena would surely kill them and then there'd be no cake because they'd be dead, and dead people couldn't eat anything. But really, neither were interested in having a problem with Moms on Adoption Day.
The women nearly snorted. The kids looked maniacal. Eyes wide and mouths dropped, their expressions matched in the carbon copy way siblings often did. Stef smiled tightly as she gripped her wife's hand under the table. 'Soon,' she mouthed before pointing at Callie and Jude to turn back around.
"Now. Jude Jacob. Was it Mom and Mama that I heard you use to refer to Stef and Lena?"
"Yep! Mom and Mama. But Jesus sometimes calls Stef Mommy when he thinks no one's listening," he confirmed, ever helpful. His addendum caused a commotion in the background: Jesus' spirited protest, drawing a swift reproach from Grandpa.
Callie nudged her brother again. She also called Stef her own names—but she didn't need the whole world knowing that!
"Alright, Mom-sometimes-Mommy and Mama Adams Foster! I usually ask the court to issue three certified copies of the decree. The reason for this is that it's extremely difficult to obtain additional copies if ever lost. One is kept in my office; the other two go home with you. I recommend you leave one copy in a security deposit box at the bank since you only need one original to file for health insurance, social security, and passports. Our office provides a copy of the order to the Superior Court to update the birth certificates. You receive those in the mail in four to six weeks," the judge explained.
His attention returned to the kids. "Have you two given any thought to your last name?"
Callie and Jude nodded enthusiastically. Had they ever! "Adams Foster!" they chorused. It'd been a no brainer. They wanted a new name to signal a new chapter in their lives.
"Adams Foster it will be, then. The change will be reflected on your new birth certificates." He made the notation on the relevant line item to have that updated. "I assume you'll want to help issue my findings?" he asked, chuckling when the younger boy's eyes bugged out. That was a yes.
A guard stepped forward, gesturing to the kids to come with him. Callie and Jude followed him past counsel. At the bench, he held the gate open as both of them climbed up, squishing in on either side of the judge.
Butterflies stirred in Callie's stomach when she saw her entire family from up there for the first time. It felt like she was far away, outside of herself, watching this unfold. A gavel and sound block were placed in front of her, and the realization that she and Jude were going to finalize their own adoption made it even more surreal. She waved at Stef, receiving two thumbs up. Moms looked sad in the happy sort of way.
"When I reach the end, you may hit your blocks. It doesn't have to be very hard," the judge pointed out though he expected once they got started, restraint would be a forgone thought. "Think you can do that?" The children armed themselves with their gavels, telling him they were ready and were taking their jobs seriously.
It was over almost as soon as it began.
"After taking into account the testimony provided by all parties today, it is—without a doubt in my mind—in the best interest of Mr. Jude Jacob and Miss Callie Jacob to remain in their current living arrangement permanently. The petitioners have demonstrated their commitment to nurture all aspects of Jude and Callie's health and well-being while the children have been in their care. I have full confidence they will continue going above and beyond to do so." He signalled to the kids that he was about to issue the decree. "Therefore, on this date of the eighteenth of August, two thousand and twelve in the State of California, I declare the adoption of Jude Jacob and Callie Jacob—hereby known as Jude Adams Foster and Callie Adams Foster—by Mrs. Stefanie Adams Foster and Mrs. Lena Adams Foster as complete."
He erupted into laughter when the newly minted adoptees slammed their gavels down hard and kept going. As if on cue, a ruckus ensued: kazoos from those he presumed were the other siblings, followed by panicked rebukes from grandparents in charge of them. This was his favorite part of the job.
"I thank you all for attending!" He was now shouting above the gleeful shrieks of Jude and Callie, and the incessant banging of the sound blocks. "This may feel like the finish line—and it is in its own merit—but in many ways it is a return to the starting line for another marathon! Congratulations to the new family!" he finished before ushering the two of them down from the bench.
Callie raced down those steps to meet her Moms, who were coming just as quick to meet them. Mom caught her just in time as she tripped on the last step, lifting her up into a hug so big that her feet barely grazed the floor. Once set back down, she found herself in the best Mama sandwich of all time, the reality of what'd happened hitting when thank yous and congratulations were exchanged.
Beginning to cry out of sheer relief, she couldn't turn towards Grams and Grandpa calling her to look at the camera. Instead, she buried herself in Mom's arms where she was safe and could hear the quiet words meant only for her.
"You're home…
Oh, you're home..."
Lena tried not to let her disappointment show as Callie picked at her pasta. She had slow roasted the tomatoes for the sauce, which had been quite the process, so the lack of appetite was a little disheartening. She wondered if it had to do with her daughter being overwhelmed with the number of guests who were over. People had been dropping by all afternoon. Right now, all three grandparents, plus Jenna, Kelly, and Garrett brought the total number at their table to twelve. Getting food served had been slightly rushed and later than planned by the time everyone arrived. Since they were celebrating Callie and Jude's adoption, each had been allowed to pick one main course. Together, they had come up with smoky mac n' cheese with kale, and spaghetti and meatballs. Carb overload, but the options were crowd pleasers so she didn't object.
Wanting Callie and Jude to have their undivided attention, she and Stef sat with them at one end. She had Jude beside him, with her Dad on his other side. Callie was seated directly across from her, between Stef and Sharon.
"Honey, are you not very hungry?"
"What? Our Bug not hungry?" Stef asked, overhearing.
Callie smiled shyly at the concern in her mother's voice. "I am. It's good," she denied as she wound noodles around her fork.
Stef gave her wife a quizzical look. This was a favourite, but Jude also wasn't eating with his usual gusto. The reason for this soon became clear when his fork accidentally slid down the steep sides of his plate into his dinner. It was the second time that had happened, and she sympathized. His face reddened and he glanced around to see if anyone had noticed before attempting to fish out the utensil. She wished she had stood her ground on using their usual dinnerware. Dana had insisted on laying out a fancier set that matched for the occasion, but it wasn't child friendly.
Jude's frustration peaked when the fork slipped again, it's clang against the china bringing unwanted attention his way.
"Here, honey, let me get that," Lena offered, grabbing a napkin to wipe his fingers and utensil down.
"I need you to help me!" Jude snapped, his tone lodged between a whine and a bossy demand. He was starving and all he wanted was to eat, but the noodles weren't cooperating and the bowl was impossible. Frustrated when his complaint earned a raised eyebrow from Mama, he booted the table leg. An uncomfortable silence fell as wine glasses rattled.
Lena pursed her lips, unimpressed with his sour attitude. As for the behaviour, she was torn between ignoring it for the time being or dealing with it while her parents were present. Her mother had already offered some unsolicited advice so she felt some pressure to do the latter. Not wishing to embarrass him however, she leaned in towards him. "Thank you for using your words but we do not kick the table. Is there a specific way that you would like me to help, different than what I'm offering?" she questioned. "I'm happy to, but it's hard to when I don't know exactly what you want." Her exasperation rose when Jude ignored her and went to kick the table a second time. This time, she caught his calf.
Sensing that the situation was unravelling, Stef intervened. Their youngest had had more excitement for one day than he could handle. "Hey. Do we need to go have a talk?" she warned. She and Lena never liked taking their kids away from dinner but they did if that was what they needed. He refused to meet her eyes, but she could see him think things through before deciding that wasn't what he wanted.
"Please I need help with my spaghetti," he tried again, forcing a happier tone.
Lena frowned at his way of showing he was working on his attitude. It was a good start but nowhere close to being as sincere as she'd hoped. Jude had been whiny for most of the day and she and Stef owed it to being tired from the non-stop festivities. After all, he was eight, and his emotional regulation wasn't that great to begin with. Like his sister, he had also gotten up very early—before seven—even though the hearing wasn't until the afternoon. "Alright," she conceded, reaching for his plate.
"Mom?" Callie whispered, tapping Stef on the arm. "I need help, too, please." Head resting against her arm, she showed her how the carefully wound pasta around her fork unravelled when lifted.
She shared in Jude's annoyance; she also hadn't gotten through her dinner and was hungry. She looked longingly at the mac n' cheese, regretting her choice to start with spaghetti. Macaroni she could shovel with a spoon but she wouldn't be allowed another helping because she hadn't finished her first. "Never mind..." she mumbled, pushing the plate away.
"Hold on a sec, you love this dish," Stef said, pulling the plate back and handing her daughter her fork. Wrapping an arm around so she could place her hand over Callie's, she guided the utensil into the pasta, rotating its prongs against the spoon held ready. "The trick is to pick up less than you think you need." Once the spaghetti was compact, Stef transferred it over to the spoon. "The rest of it is to just get it neat enough so it stays together."
She pressed a kiss to her girl's temple as shoulders slouched. Callie tended to be self-conscious over being helped so this had been a big ask. "Yeah, yeah. This much work for just one bite," she teased, drawing on previous bellyaching when their daughter had been encouraged to practice. Callie gripped her utensils overhand, which made it difficult when eating certain foods that required more dexterity. "It'll get easier, I promise. But if you're starving, do what Jesus is doing," Stef said as her son dipped his head to meet his food halfway, emerging with a mouthful of pasta. He slurped loudly and Callie giggled as it all disappeared in one go. "Not that part, though. JESUS!"
Her son grinned at her from across the table, sauce all over his mouth and face from where noodles had slapped him in the face. "Sorry Mom," he apologized at being scolded.
"What was your favourite part of today?" Sharon asked her youngest grandson. Now that the heated exchange from earlier had been successfully diverted, it was time to offer a fresh start.
"Mm...when the judge let us hit the hammer and he said all that stuff about me and Callie being Adams Foster and that we belonged to Moms forever and ever," Jude chattered. His heart had pounded wildly at the announcement and he remembered running from the bench to Moms. Mama had caught him in her arms in the best hug yet, lifting him up and spinning him around.
"I liked getting my new name, too!" he exclaimed. The truth was that he was also a tiny bit sad about it. His old name had been the only thing tying him to his biological parents. At the same time, he didn't have Mom anymore and he wasn't sure if he'd ever get to meet his Dad. It felt okay to let that part of his life go.
"My favourite part was the cake!" Jesus piped up excitedly.
Stef guffawed. "I bet it was, baby."
"Which one?" Jude demanded. There'd been two at the reception: a chocolate one for him and Callie that said Happy Gotcha Day! in bright purple icing and flowers, and a white one with yellow lemon dots for their Mom.
Jesus thought about it. "Your Momma's cake was prettier," he said, "and I like lemon…but your's and Callie's tasted better." Both were special to his brother and sister and that was his attempt to be diplomatic.
"I liked both! But Momma's cake had candles to blow out," Jude said.
Callie giggled at her little brother, whose happiness had made his voice go shrill. Blowing out the candles had been her favourite. There's been six—one for each year after thirty, the way she remembered her Mom saying she wanted to celebrate birthdays past her third decade. Everyone had erupted into Happy Birthday when Mama came into the family room carrying it, all the candles lit. She'd stopped Jude from blowing them out before they made their wishes, and then they blew them out together. Moms handed out hats and with the extras, they made funny arrangements: Jesus wore three on his head like a dinosaur, and Mariana had hers like a unicorn.
"Yeah, buddy, that was pretty sweet!" Brandon agreed. He reached around Grams to tousle his little brother's hair in an affectionate gesture.
Stef and Lena looked at their children with pride. When they just had Brandon and were considering adopting the twins, they had worried about how he would deal with going from being an only child to one of three. Then with three kids, they worried about how each would handle the adjustment to two more siblings. But as Stef had mentioned in the hearing, the kids were inseparable. Even Callie and Mariana had bonded, despite having few mutual interests.
They were relieved at how well the post-adoption reception had gone. Organizing that had been tricky at times. Understandably, Callie and Jude wanted to honour their mother's birthday with a cake, but they'd argued when Jude wanted to display a photo of their parents together. With some gentle negotiation, Callie had agreed to a couple portraits of Colleen that Donald had taken. That would include both, which Jude was satisfied with.
"How about you—what was your favourite part of today, sweet pea?" Sharon asked Callie. She couldn't wait for the many adventures she knew she'd have with her new granddaughter. It would take time but they would get there.
"Momma's birthday cake, too, 'cause everyone was singing," Callie said without having to think about it. "And when we got home, seeing all the flowers and cards and presents. I liked that." There had been so many. And she and Jude had been so surprised because neither had realized there'd be presents for getting adopted. Each of them had been able to pick one thing from a cabinet in the courtroom before they'd left and that had been enough for them. The majority of items had been for little kids but she had found a brand new sketch pad—the kind with thick, textured paper—and a set of charcoal pencils she couldn't wait to try out.
"I'm sure you did! That must have been a some surprise, hey?" Sharon wrapped an arm around the child, bringing her close. "There's more," she whispered.
"More?" her grandchild asked incredulously.
"Ma!" Stef griped. Their parents had initially agreed to keep gift-giving to an acceptable level but in the days leading up to the adoption, they'd apparently panicked they didn't have enough. As a result, both kids had received more gifts than she and Lena were comfortable with. As expected, Callie and Jude had been overwhelmed and had politely declined most of the presents. Even after many reassurances that everything was meant for them, the children only opened a couple presents each. Together, they'd unwrapped the largest gift for Callie, a joint effort between the grandparents, herself, and Lena: her own bicycle .
"Just some clothes and shoes," Sharon defended, putting up her hands.
Stef rolled her eyes, though she appreciated her mother's efforts to clothe their children. Keeping up with clothes for five growing bodies was a challenging, time-consuming task that she didn't have the patience or skill for. Although Lena she enjoyed it, she did not have enough time either.
"What? What is so funny, missy?" she demanded when Callie giggled.
"Nothing, Momma," Callie replied quickly. Seeing her Mom's stern expression, she bit her lip to hide her amusement. It was funny to see the cop argue with Grandma.
"It'd better be nothing. Are you up for more presents tonight?"
The girl considered before letting out a grin. "Yeah, think so. Can we do cards together after?" she asked. Most had nice messages written in them and she liked reading them with Moms.
Stef smiled, grateful Callie was interested. Almost all of them had money or a gift card tucked in them and when the kids had first discovered that, they had shied away from those as well. "Definitely, sweetness," she agreed, not caring that it would mean a late night. She and Lena needed to make this happen because at the heart of it, the kids still felt undeserving. It was the whole reason why, despite marvelling at the wrapped presents, they didn't want to actually open anything.
"Can I say something?" Callie asked. Over the last few days of waiting, she had mulled over how to express her gratitude to Moms for everything they'd done for them. And though the idea had been daunting, she knew how special it'd be if she managed to do it with the whole family there. After some deliberation, she'd written out her thoughts and rehearsed the points she wanted to cover until she felt comfortable. Jude was in on it, too.
"Of course, love. You want to make a toast?" Stef clarified, in awe when her daughter nodded and picked up her wine glass and spoon. She cringed when Callie tapped the glass none too gently.
"Oops..." Callie said apologetically when it clanged much louder than she intended. "Uh. Hi…" she stammered, trailing off as a hush fell over the table again. She suddenly felt very self-conscious.
"Mom..." she said as Stef took the glass and spoon from her. "I just want to say something, but I don't know if that makes it a toast or not." All she could think of was that she was toast.
"Go ahead, it's alright. We'll appreciate whatever you have to say," Stef reassured, giving Callie's arm a squeeze.
Callie nodded as anxious feelings dissipated. "I...I just wanted to say to everyone, on behalf on me and Jude, thank you so much for coming to our Adoption Day. I know some of you had to take a plane or drive a long way, and stuff like that costs money and takes time. So we appreciate that." She cleared her throat, courage returning. "And for the party. No one's done that for us before but I guess we haven't been adopted before, either."
She waited for Jude to nod in agreement before addressing Stef and Lena. "Mom...Mama...thanks for not letting us get put in different homes. It'd be so hard if we lived apart." Tears pricked her eyes and she stalled, trying to keep it together. The hardest part about juvie hadn't been being in there, but having to be away from Jude and not being able to look out for him.
"Thanks for taking a chance and not turning us down because we'd been through a lot of homes and because we're older," she continued. "Waiting for a forever family for so long...I think at some point I gave up. I was tired of getting disappointed every time we thought we'd found a home, and then it wouldn't work out for whatever reason. I started telling myself it wasn't in the cards for us. It just felt like our time had run out, you know? Everyone had given up on us, so I gave up on me, too," she admitted, choking up as Mama began to cry. "But now I'm glad we had to wait, even though it was hard. Because if we hadn't, we probably wouldn't have met you guys."
Her little brother smiled broadly. "Yeah! You guys were the first to want us!" he said enthusiastically. "And it's way better to wait longer for a family who wants you, than shorter for one that's just like meh!"
Callie beamed. That was always what she told Jude whenever he became impatient and discouraged about not being adopted. When she didn't have an answer why but needed a reason so that he wouldn't lose hope. "And, I also wanted to say...Mom? Mama? Thanks for being patient and for being there for me...and believing in me, even when I screw up. For raising me and teaching me right from wrong, and wanting me to do my best. For loving us..."
She looked at Jude to give the go ahead, and together they repeated cheesy words of Stef's from a conversation a while ago—one she wouldn't be forgetting anytime soon. "We know that even though we didn't grow under your heart, we grew in it!" they chorused before squealing with laughter.
"Stop that!" Stef scolded in mock outrage. "Cheeky, cheeky things!" This wasn't the first time Callie had poked fun at her over her affectionate expressions, but that she had roped Jude into this was too much.
Chin trembling, she looked at her wife who was in tears. "What do you know, Lena? Our children really do pay attention," she managed, unable to hide the tremor in her voice. Overcome with emotion, she clapped a hand over her mouth as she felt Callie's arms encircle her. She could not imagine life without either of these children after having them for a few short months.
"Did Mom really say THAT?!" Jesus ribbed. Elbowing Brandon in the arm, the two of them joined in the laughter. Their Mom—the tough cop who he knew could beat their ass any day was pure mush when it came to loving them. Even when she was giving them a hard time, they all knew it was out of love and concern.
"Enough! I will neither confirm nor deny I said such a thing," Stef pouted as her children crowed with laughter. Standing up next to Callie, she hugged her as tight as she could.
Callie reciprocated, happy for the safety she always felt in the shelter of her mother's arms. And grateful, because she wanted what she said next to remain only between them. "Mom? I'm gonna try really hard to make good decisions."
She felt herself well up as she considered the sort of person that would make her Mom proud if she were still here. It wasn't who she was now. She'd been fighting a lot with Stef again lately and giving her a hard time though most of the time it was undeserved. "I'm going to listen and follow the rules, and not talk back. I promise not to grow up too fast." She fingered the paper she'd been carrying around in her pocket all day—the one she had taken out to practice whenever she had a chance—hoping she'd remembered it all.
"Thank you, sweetness. I appreciate hearing that from you," Stef replied, tucking the moment into her memory.
"So, Callie. What sorts of things are you looking forward to doing now that the adoption is sorted?" Stuart asked. Him and Dana were impatient to share in some of those interests so they could begin bonding with their new grandchildren.
"Uhm, so much!" Callie conceded, barely knowing where to start. "I want to do more art." She'd always wanted to paint but couldn't because there was no good way to store and transport brushes and paint, and canvas. With a forever home came the ability to keep stuff associated with some of the things she wanted to do.
"And do more music and go see a movie, and read…" Not only could she take library books out but she could buy some if she wanted. Or...could she buy another instrument?
"I want to go on an overnight field trip with school…" Without needing permission from DSS!
"Okay. We'll talk about that one," Lena interjected. They weren't comfortable with that level of independence yet.
Although she was disappointed by the lacklustre reaction, Callie didn't let on. She'd expected as much. "I want to start a multilevel adventure game and be able to finish it."
Stef and Lena grinned at each other. Mike had bought her and Jude Super Mario Galaxy or World or whatever. The kids had no clue!
Callie's self-consciousness crept back when she noticed how disinterested Grams was. It wasn't surprising; Dana wasn't easily impressed by simple things. But just because they were simple didn't mean they weren't special or important. She was really looking forward to getting to do them. Catching a glimpse of the large shipping box sitting by the door, she became emotional. The present from Moms, Grandma, Grams, and Grandpa had been covered in a patchwork of newspaper comics and topped with an oversized purple bow. Ripping away the homebrew wrap job had revealed a plain, slightly dented box. Inside was a bike—mint green with dark purple flowers on the frame. Her bike. Mom had put the wheel and seat on for her so she could try it out. And it'd fit her, perfectly. Somehow, they'd known what size to order.
It was then she knew exactly what to say to get Dana's attention while rankling her nerves. She wasn't sure if she'd be able to pull it off with a straight face but it was too good an opportunity to pass up without trying.
"This is going to be the year I put some fun between my legs," she deadpanned.
"I beg your pardon?" Stef asked, not quite sure she had heard right. She wasn't able to get clarification, however. Chaos erupted when Dana inhaled her water and began coughing. Stuart thumped her on the back rather loudly, which only caused her to cough even more. In the panic, cutlery crashed against the table and chairs scraped across the floor as she and Lena ran to Dana's side.
In the commotion, Callie gestured at her bike box without any of the adults noticing. Jesus and Brandon started to laugh uncontrollably all over again, amidst Mama scolding them for being inconsiderate. Jude and Mariana, who by now had realized they'd missed something and not wanting to be left out, demanded an explanation.
"ENOUGH!" Stef bellowed once her mother-in-law recovered.
Callie gulped as a pointed glare was sent in her direction. She had definitely courted attention, but more than she originally intended.
"Young lady, you'd better start explaining yourself. Now."
Slowly, Callie met her gaze. Mom was so furious that her voice was a whisper, meaning she didn't have much time to come up with something. "Uhm. Well, I was thinking, I'm thirteen. Thirteen-and-a-half, pretty much," she said casually. She hadn't planned this far, but now that her brothers were in on the joke and had her back, she could wing it. "I've been focusing on taking better care of myself, 'cause like Mama says we only have one body and we need to take care of it and all that. It's going well and I think, maybe, I'm ready to share myself with others," she continued, ignoring the disapproving frowns from Moms as they tried to follow. "Only with people I love, of course—"
"—because it's only special when it's with people you love," Jesus added as Brandon snorted. This was payback for all the incredibly awkward sex talks Moms had given them.
Somehow Callie managed to keep a straight face as Stef's eyes widened. "I'm okay doing it with more than one person at once. As long as it's not too stressful and they treat me nice, maybe we could make it a regular thing."
"How regular?" Brandon asked, getting in on the fun.
"Dunno, a couple times a week? Don't worry, I'll use protection." Her lips twitched up into a smile but she forced it away before being noticed. The look of horror on Moms' faces was priceless; they were totally fooled. By now, Jesus and Brandon were losing it so hard they were grabbing their stomachs and howling with laughter. Giving up on trying to find out what was so funny, Mariana pouted. Jude, too little to care, shovelled spaghetti enthusiastically into his mouth.
"Wh—what on earth—" Stef sputtered, barely able to grind out her words. She and Lena tried to be as open minded as they could be, but this? This was not okay, especially at family dinner. "This discussion right now is beyond inappropriate. Some things are for private and this is one of them," she admonished. "If you want, you, Mama, and I can continue this discussion later. But it is not happening here."
Stef's annoyance finally got to Callie and she broke into a smile. The joke was up.
"What Callie?" Stef snapped. She wanted to shake her child.
Callie pointed past the adults—who were still crowded around Grams—to the parcel her bike had come in. Her new helmet was perched on top. "Why is it inappropriate to talk about learning to ride my bike?" she asked sweetly, faking naiveté as they all turned around. Frankly, she was impressed with how far she'd gotten. It was her best one yet. "I can't wait so I can go with everyone else. I'll make sure to wear my helmet," she continued, snorting when Mom's mouth fell open.
It took a moment for Stef to put two and two together. Eventually, she broke into nervous laughs over the childish prank she had fallen for. It was a good one, but also one of those times where she had no idea if she should be praising Callie for having them all fooled—or telling her off for bringing toilet humour to the dinner table.
Taking advantage of Stef's inability to talk, Callie ran with it. "Momma. I do not know what's going on with you, but if you're thinking about what I think you are, that's beyond inappropriate. Honestly, I expected better from you," she said, mimicking the way their Mom sounded whenever she reamed them out. "Some things are for private and this is one of them. If you really want to, we can continue that discussion later."
As Callie and her two eldest boys high fived each other, Stef could only give her head a shake. Fearless and bold and resilient, her daughter was going to be the end of her sanity.
"Callie ADAMS FOSTER!"
Callie's grin grew wider at hearing a name she never thought would be her's. The one that symbolized where she belonged.
She was Callie Adams Foster.
Author Note:
Merry Christmas, everyone. There's so much I want to say but for now, felt it important to update. Love, ~b.
Amended AN (Dec 30): There is an inaccuracy in this update: as petitioners, Stef and Lena should have been sitting together with Callie and Jude. I tried to change it but in the end chose to keep it that way to make room for antics.