CHAPTER 9

As they approached the pool Tempe noticed how peaceful it was. No screaming kids, no yelling parents. The white lights on the trunks of the palm trees looked like tiny stars.

"Daddy, I want to close my eyes first, get in and I will try and find you."

"Buddy, remember, the water is higher than your head. Why don't I put you up on my shoulders?"

"OK daddy but you have to close your eyes too so we can find Tempe and Rosa."

He listened to his son and off they went searching for Tempe and Rosa under the moonlit night. They found Tempe first and as she closed her eyes, Seeley looked over and noticed how happy Tempe looked as she moved around the water with her arms stretched out trying to find them. As she kept repeating "Marco", he snuck up behind her as Parker was now with Rosa and very quietly said "Polo."

Knowing she was quick but not anticipating her to be THAT quick, she darted around and grabbed his arm. He pulled her closer, kissed her wet lips then said "I think it is time for bed. I know you and Parker can keep on going but this old guy is ready for bed."

Tempe chuckled. "OK, pops, whatever you say."

They stopped for a slice of pizza at the Pizza "Hut" literally a hut that makes homemade mini pizzas) for slice and some cold iced tea. Even though it was almost 10 o'clock and the sun had been down for hours, the days heat was still prevalent in the air.

Rosa said goodnight and went to her room.

Tempe, Seeley and Parker changed and slid into the bed, Parker on one side, Seeley in the middle, and Tempe on the other side.

"Tempe?"

"Yes Parker?"

"I'm glad that you are my second mommy."

Tempe froze for a moment. Seeley turned his head to face her, smiled and whispered, "Well, answer him."

"Thank you Parker. That is the sweetest thing for you to say. I am happy that I am your second mommy too."

"Good night daddy, good night Tempe, I love you."

"Good night Parker, I love you lots and lots," his dad replied as he kissed him on the forehead.

The tears started to well as Tempe swallowed hard and tried to hold them back, but another smile from Seeley and they started to flow.

"Good night Parker, I love you too." Good night Seeley, I love you."

He leaned over, wiped a tear from her cheek and whispered, "I love you Temperance."