Chapter Ten

Drew really did miss his parents. But his mother's offer of "apology" and its rules attached made his blood boil, especially when they extended to Brianna and Avery. Maybe he didn't need her. The text on his phone read.

I want to come see you and meet the girls. But I have a few rules.

No PDA (or pet names) between you and YOUR PARTNER in front of me or the girls. No one needs to see THAT.

Since Brianna is the only one who can talk right now, I would like for her to refer to only YOU as DAD while I'm there. And Rick to not to himself as "dad" to the baby while I'm there.

Let me know when it is a good time to visit. Mom

Drew replied and meant every word.

Reading your "rules", MOM, you are not welcome here. So NO TIME is good.

Let me set you straight (pardon the pun). Rick is not just my PARTNER, he is my HUSBAND. He and I express affection when and where we please. Inside the walls of our own home, I assure you the affection in plentiful. Our daughters see it all the time and Brianna will tell anyone it is a comfort.

Last and most importantly, Brianna would NEVER refer to her other dad by his first name! We would never ask her to do that. She is a child who has been through more than you will ever realize and because you refuse to acknowledge the extent of her trauma as long as Rick and I both live, you NEVER MEET HER OR HER SISTER. Rick is DAD to our daughters just much as I am.

I am more in love with my husband every day (let me add that just to piss you off). He is my other half. The family he and I created mean everything to me. They will forever outrank you and dad and your attitudes. Sadly it took me this long to realize neither of you know true parental love. I or Rick will not expose OUR CHILDREN to this treatment.

You are not welcome in my home and don't waste your time in trying to contact me again. Drew

"Whoa, that was harsh," Jordan Alexander said.

She couldn't help but read the text exchange over Drew's shoulder in the breakroom.

"Tell me you're not talking about my reply," Drew said.

"No! I was talking about your mother. I am sorry she is so pathetic and delusional, Drew. You don't deserve that."

"Thank you. That's two new words to describe it. Nicer ones."

"I'm glad you're standing your ground as a dad and husband. But I know you; I wouldn't expect you to do anything different."

"I should take that as a compliment?" Drew smiled.

"Yes. I hope Rick knows the catch you are."

Rick did, for sure. He was uncertain how he had got so lucky. He was grateful for every bump along the way in their relationship. It had only served to make them stronger and fall more in love. Not many couples could survive and thrive though all they had. Drew's parents would have admired that if Rick wasn't a man.

Drew's mother sent the text conversation to Rick later that night. Adding I hope you two are satisfied. Happily ever after doesn't exist with people like you.

Rick replied with You would be surprised. I don't know how you did it or maybe it was in spite of you and Drew is a wonderful man. I thank you for that. As for our happily ever after, I assure you, it does exist. I would love for you to see it frankly just to piss you off. But you wouldn't and it's on you. If you show up on our property I will have you arrested. Now, kindly FUCK OFF!

Rick thought Drew's words about him and their children very sexy. Come hell or high water baby Avery was going for a nap this afternoon. Drew was so getting laid when he got home. He grabbed Drew and kissed him passionately the second he stepped inside the door. Avery was content in her swing.

"Whoa!" Drew smiled. "What was that about?"

"For your words about us and our family. Your mother sent me the whole show. Very sexy. I just fed Avery and put her in her swing. C'mon, we're going to the bedroom," Rick said, grabbing Drew by the hand.

Sleep and breakfast can wait! Drew thought.