It was the day of Allie's birthday party. Kim was freaking out because Eric's family had a big deal about coming to the party. And not just his parents, his brothers and their wives were coming, several aunts, uncles and cousins and his grandmother. It was strange as they never came out before. Kim had no idea why this year was all of a sudden so important but she was going to try her best to have a perfect day. Allie deserves it. Adams family was also coming as they had accepted Kim and Allie as part of their family now. They knew very well what happens when when families don't get along so they were all trying to put that aside for Adam and the family he was creating.

Adam was getting the kids ready for the day while Kim was making breakfast. Adam and Riley had moved into Kim's place over the last week leaving his place partially set up so Eric had a place to stay during the birthday weekend. Kim no longer has a guest room since Riley took over that room till they can get a bigger place. They had been looking for a new place but they decided to hold off for a bit to make sure they were truly ready to get a place together. Kim heard the knock on the door before hearing the key in the door. She knew it was Eric since he was arriving to eat with the family before heading over to the skating rink to decorate for the party.

"Hey good morning!" Eric announced as he entered. "Morning! Adams getting the kids ready. You can help him or set the table for breakfast?" Kim offered as she flipped more pancakes. "Well I will set the table and then head up." He as sweared but Kim rolled her eyes knowing he wouldn't get either done. He would start one and not finish and the other would never happen. He was slow about everything and work always came first. His friends second and his family last. Kim was used to it but she didn't feel like fighting about it. "Well just focus on the first task. You get side tracked easily." Kim told him as she continued to work on their meal. "I hear you. I know I suck and I know I let you down. But I'm trying to get better. I know I will never be good enough. But I am trying to be a better man and better father. You both deserve it." Eric stated as he set the table. Kim just nodded as she plated the meal.

Adam was on the stairs with both kids when he heard the conversation. He let them finish knowing it was a much needed conversation. Once he was sure it was over he let the kids run down the rest of the stairs to the kitchen. "Mommy!" Both kids screamed as they ran in. "Hi my babies! Are you ready for some breakfast?" Kim knelt down on the floor in front of the kids giving each a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "I hungry!" Riley said as he yawned a little. "Well Daddy is making your plate. And sweet girl look who's in the kitchen?" Kim pointed. "Daddy!" Allie went running into his arms as he picked her up for a hug. "Hey Allie! Are you excited for your birthday party?" Eric asked as he swung her around. "Yes! Daddy Adams family is coming, mommy's family is coming and your family is coming. They have never been here before. I think they don't like mommy or me." Allie said after he sat her down at the table.

Kim looked shocked and Adam looked horrified. Eric acted like he didn't hear it. And maybe he hadn't but Kim and Adam both heard it clearly. "Well I love Kimmie mommy! And I love Allie!" Riley had apparently heard it as well. "Well we love you too sweet boy! I'm always going to love you like my own son!" Kim ruffles his hair as she sit at the table again. Adam squeezed Kim's leg trying to reassure her that everything would be okay. "Look man. I hope today is all about Allie and whatever beef your family has with Kim and frankly myself needed to be left behind. I will not stand for my girls getting hurt. And clearly that doesn't just mean physically. Mentally is sometimes worse and I know you know that. So make a call, send a text whatever you need to do but do it." Adam all but growled out while eating his breakfast.

Neither Kim nor Adam mentioned it again. Neither wanting to dredged up past issues or confront the fact that they probably hated that Kim had moved on. But that always been the plan in her mind and she had always made it clear to everyone that she and Eric were over and we're staying over. No sense in rehashing something that wasn't really that great the first time around. After they finished eating Adam cleaned up the kitchen while the kids played and Eric made some calls. Kim had gone to their room to get ready for the party. She wanted to dress causal but nice since family would be there but it was a skating rink, she needed comfort first. She took a fairly quick shower and picked out a pair of skinny jeans. The shirt was sleeveless and looser so it was easy t9 move around in. She pair it with ballerina flats for comfort. Minimal jewelry and make up was applied before heading downstairs to join the rest of the family.

The boys had the cars packed with decorations and presents already. The paper goods had stayed in the car since Kim purchased them weeks ago. The drinks and pizza were being purchased at the rink. However Kim already placed an order for the pizza so it would be ready on time. As they all made their way to the rink Kim couldn't help but think about Eric's family. Did they really not like her anymore? Had she done something wrong? She was beyond stressed out about it. As they pulled up Adam already knew that Kim had spent the entire car ride stewing over the issue of Eric's family. "Let try not to think about it for now. We can deal with it when they get here." Adam had serious doubt about them even coming since they hadn't tried to arrange a visit earlier in the day but he stayed quiet and worked to help Kim set up the party.

It was straight forward enough in Kims mind but the boys were clueless about decorating for a party, especially one for a little girl. Allie wanted a whole beach theme so that was easy for Kim and Adam to handle. They had tons of shells, grass skirts, flower necklaces, fake palm trees and a beach back drop to take photos in front of. It truly felt like a beach paradise. As they finished up Kim looked around proud of this party they created. The guests started to trickle in, mostly Kim and Adams work family first. They all made sure to spend time with both kids and even taking them plus Drew out to skate while they waited for more people to show up. As all the parents started to arrive the air got tense but the families tried to make peace and keep a safe distance. Kim loved that the families were at least trying to get to know one another and trying to make the best of this crazy situation. Allie has three sets of grandparents without Adams family. And they accepted her as one of there own and since Adams parents are divorced that's two more sets of grandparents for Allie. It was a lot to say the least.

Adams sister Kate made a point to talk with Kim's sister Nicole. Both being single parents it was nice to have someone who understood the struggle. It was only when Eric's family arrived that the entire group felt the tension. Allie was thrilled to see them all but Kim just wanted to throw up. Eric made his way over with Allie to greet everyone as Kim slowly made her way to them. Adam not far behind. He was their as backup just in case things went sideways. As they came face to face Kim warmly greeted them all with a hug and some nice thing you feel obligated to say when greeting someone. Most everyone was lovely, it was just his parents who weren't. Most had even pulled Adam aside to get to know him and his son. Kim decided not to let two people ruin her day.

At one point Adam could see Kim needed a break and pulled her into the floor to skate. It had been years since she skated but he kept her upright. Her laugh was infectious and everyone was laughing at how silly they were behaving. Everyone except Eric's parents. They looked like they just sucked a lemon. But Kim couldn't care, she was with Adam and he made her incredibly happy. Nothing could bring them down. They only stopped skating when they noticed food had arrived and the group dug in. All the kids were thrilled and most of the adults too. Seriously who doesn't like pizza? But of course two people had to complain. Kim was about to flip when Voight stepped in. "Look I get it. You wanted Kim to end up with Eric. Well it's not happening. She is happy, they are happy. He healed her broken heart and her broken soul. He quite literally brought her back to life. Now you can do one of two things. Join in and accept this for what it is or not do that and keep it to yourself. You are not ruining this day for anyone. So you have a decision to make." He walked away winking at Kim letting her know he handled it for now.

The kids skated some more and so did the adults. After they all were exhausted they had cake and opened presents. Overall the day went well. Allie was thrilled with her whole family together but she was still confused and wanted answers. "Grandma Angi, Grandpa Tom why don't you visit? Do you not like me and mommy?" Allie asked almost scared of the answer. The adults around them looked shocked. Adam was one of those people as he stood with his parents and Riley. "Oh honey. We hate Chicago. It's a terrible city with nothing but crime. We love you so much and wish you would come visit us more often." Angi replied. "What about my mommy?" Allie asked scared almost ready to cry. "Well we don't like her job and we don't like her boyfriend. He doesn't seem like a good person. Who would have a child and other parent leave? Must mean he's a bad person." Angi explained. Adam was furious but remained calm till Allie burst into tears. "But I love daddy Adam!" Allie sobbed. Adam picked her up right away and placed her on his hip. "I love you so much Allie Cat! You have completed my life, you made me so happy." Adam kissed her cheek while rubbing her back.

"You two! I tried to be nice, Kim tried to be nice but you just had to ruin it. I don't care what you think of me, that's fine but don't you ever say shit like that to my children. You think mama bear is bad, I'm worse! I'm your worse nightmare! Now leave before I have you escorted out. Our daughter deserves a great birthday not one ruined by you two!" Adam turned to leave knowing his family would make sure Eric's parents left. Kim had watched the whole thing, well everyone had really. Kim was crying tears of joy as Adam stood up to them. To protect Kim and the kids. It was beautiful to watch. "Thank you for all that! I really appreciate it. Let's just try to enjoy the rest of her party and I promise to thank you properly later tonight." Kim winked before returning to the party.

The rest of the party went smoothly. The rest of Eric's family had been nice to everyone and some even joined in the fun. They were the first to leave as they all had flights to catch back to the east coast. Once they left the rest of the group helped clean up and pack up all of Allies gifts. It was insane how much stuff she had gotten and definitely wouldn't need new clothes for awhile. Kim was thankful for that. After it was all cleaned everyone departed and the small family was headed home. Eric was headed to the hotel his parents were at go talk about the incident at the party. As the family arrived home both kids were sound asleep. Adam took the kids to bed and then helped Kim bring in all the gifts.

"I'm gonna start the wash and then crash on the couch with you. I'm exhausted after today." Kim headed towards the laundry room with all of Allie's new clothes. Once she returned she found Adam laying on the couch half asleep, she took advantage and laid on top of him fall asleep right away. It had been a long emotional day and Kim needed a break. The kids woke before the adults but played quietly trying not to wake their parents. Even at 2 Riley knew it had been a rough day so he was okay playing with Allie quietly. When Kim and Adam woke they were pleased to see the kids happy and playing together. "Are you guys having fun?" Kim asked still laying on Adam. "Yeah! You guys were sleeping so we played here together." Allie explained. "Well thank you for letting us sleep some." Kim said as she started to get up. Adam trying to keep her on top of him. He was too comfortable like this and enjoyed her body pressed against him.

"Are you guys hungry or thirsty?" Kim asked walking towards the kitchen to grab herself a drink, "Yes pease!" Riley yelled excited for a snack. Kim got drinks for them all and made a meat and cheese tray for them all to munch on before returning to the living room. When they were finished Adam took the kids outside to run around for a bit. September was almost over so it would be getting cold soon. They needed to soak up as much warm weather as they could before it changed. Kim continued working on the wash. A lot needed to get done before she could head outside with the kids and Adam. Kim heard her phone ring several times declining the call each time. It was Eric and she couldn't be bothered today. She just wanted a fun and peaceful night with her family.

After the kids were in bed Kim headed up to shower. Adam was giving her some space to breathe. He heard the shower running and headed to the kitchen to grab a beer. It was that kind of night. He heard a knock on the door just as he started to sit. He sighed and headed for the door knowing who it was and knowing Kim was avoiding it. "Hey man. Come on in." Adam opened the door wider for Eric to enter. "Thanks. Didn't think walking in on my own would be a good idea after today." Eric looked down nervously. "Well she's not doing great now. But she's in the shower trying to relax. I'm not sure anything you say will correct this." Adam answered before heading back to his drink. He didn't feel the need to respond further especially because he wanted to get into it with Eric's parents. He was beyond frustrated himself but Kim was broken.

"I'm going try to fix this but I'm not sure I can. My parents really believe they are right and it's strange because they have never been like this before. I think they truly thought Kim would come back. I don't think they ever thought she would move on especially since they knew I was holding out hope. Plus there was no excuse for how they reacted either way. And I want to be honest with you, they don't accept you or Riley. The rest of the family does just not them. So at family Christmas if you all choose to come I will make sure he has presents. He won't ever feel left out, that's not right and he didn't ask for any of this." Eric sighed heavily. "Look man I get it. My sons not their grandchild, I wouldn't expect that but they need to be respectful at least. It's not fair to Kim, myself, Riley and most importantly Allie. She already thinks her grandparents don't like her. That's not okay. She's 6! No 6 year old should feel that way. She needs to know she's loved. My family has showed her that and accepted her with no issues. You saw how they treated her today. That's love. Your parents need to figure it out before they lose her forever." Adam huffed and walked outside. He needed fresh air before things got more heated.

Kim stood on the stairs hearing most of the conversation. "He's right you know. We all worked hard to make this family thing work. And the way your parents are going we won't be a family much longer. Allie needs to know that her family loves her. Growing up thinking her grandparents hate her and hate me is absolutely unacceptable. I can tell you that from now on it's up to her whether she sees them or not. And you better not force the situation. As for now I think it's best you leave. I need to calm down before I saw something I can't take back. I will make sure Allie calls you tomorrow. Goodnight!" Kim pointed to the door making sure the message was loud and clear. Once he was gone she made sure the doors were locked before joining Adam in the backyard.

"Hey baby! He's gone. It's just us and the kids now. Thank you for sticking up for us, for all of us." Kim leaned into Adams back pressing a kiss on his spine. "I'm glad he's gone. But to be fair he seemed troubled by his parents actions. But I don't want her around them anymore unless she specifically asks to see them. I can't watch her get a broken heart." Adam spoke staring out into the night. "Well great minds think a like because I said the same thing. So how about you finish your beer and we get some alone time." Kim whispered in his ear feeling him shiver against her. "Well how about we do that out here? You said we could do that one day after we talked about fantasies. So what do you think?" Adam asked as he turned in her arms. "Well I wish it was somewhere a bit more private. I would hate for someone to see." Kim blushed madly but smiled as she moved to kiss him.

"Well a couple of blankets should do the trick. Be right back." Adam kissed her lovingly before heading inside to get two large blankets that would cover them while they were naked. Adam returned with two beers and two blankets. "A little liquid courage. I know we don't normally with the kids around but I think we could use it tonight. Especially doing this outdoors." Adam wink pulling her closer and leading her further in the yard. "Here is good." Adam laid the first blanket down watching Kim drink her beer, her eyes sparkling. Adam helped to lay Kim down on the first blanket slowly undressing her body before undressing himself. Once they had only undergarments on Adam laid the second blanket over them.

He started to kiss Kim slowly, passionately. One hand roaming her body the other propping him up to hover over her. Kim's fingers were gliding down Adams body heading for his boxers. She couldn't wait to get them off and to feel him pressed against her thigh. Adam realized where she was headed and moved his hand to undo her bra. He needed to touch his favorite part of her body, her breasts. Once they were free from the confines of the bra Adams hand started to massage them as his lips started to work lower towards them. Kim's fingers wrapped around Adams erection stroking him softly. "Darling. This will end before it starts if you do that." Adam groaned. "Well then hurry up!" Kim bucked her hips harshly trying to get what she wanted and needed. Adam pulled her thong down quickly before he entered her in one thrust. Grunting when he couldn't go any further. Kim moaned contently before wrapping her legs around his waist pulling him closer to her.

Adam thrusted softly but powerfully. Each thrust filled with all the love he felt for her. Kim moaned at each thrust, her fingers clawing into his back. "God baby! You feel amazing!" Kim moaned out. Adam in turn started kissing her breasts before sucking on her nipples. They both knew they were going to come undone soon. Kim pushes her heels into his butt cheeks as Adam but down on her nipples. Kim bit into Adams shoulder to hold back to loud moans. Causing Adam to pick up speed thrusting harder and faster till Kim started to spasm. Her body shaking right before Adam pinched her clit causing her body to explode around him. Her release triggered his with a low growl throwing his head back in pleasure. "God that was amazing." Adam slumped down on Kim crushing her slightly. "Agreed! We should head inside soon and continue this." Kim whispered stroking his back.

As the couple headed back inside, partially clothed Kim stopped in the kids rooms first making sure they were still sound asleep. Allie however was still awake crying. "Sweetie why are you crying?" Kim asked rushing to her side. "They don't like me. I don't understand!" Allie sobbed into her mother's arms. "Oh sweet heart! I don't understand either but none of this is your fault. Your daddy, daddy Adam, myself we all love you so much. And you have lots of grandparents that love you to the moon and back. If they can't see that then that's their problem, not yours. I promise you will always be surrounded by love." Kim rubbed her daughters back as her tears started to fade. "I love you too mommy and daddy Adam. I love daddy too but I'm sad that his parents don't like me and I'm afraid he will stop liking me too." Allie whispered the last part shyly. "Well I can promise you your daddy will always love you, no matter what." Kim held Allie a little longer till she fell asleep. It broke Kim's heart seeing her daughter cry like that but she would move heaven and earth to protect her.

Kim slowly headed towards the door hearing Allies even breaths knowing she was fully asleep. As she closed the door she gave one last glance before whispering I love you as the door shut. Adam has heard the whole thing. He had been concerned when Kim didn't come to their room right away and went to look for her. His heart shattered listening to their daughter cry about someone, family not liking her. This was something he never wanted for his little girl. He wanted to protect her from all of this. He had moved closer to their room not to scared Kim but was still listening as she left the room. "She asleep this time? Not faking it?" Adam asked with open arms. Kim walked into his embrace nodding that she was in fact asleep this time. Adam held her close as he picked her up slightly carrying her to the bed. He watched as Kim went through the motions of getting ready for bed, her face blank, no emotions showing.

Adam waited for the dam to brake. He knew it was only a matter of time before the tears feel. The romance was over for the night. He just watched and waited, ready to bolt towards her before she fell. It was agonizing watching it tear her apart from the inside. Suddenly she just stopped moving, she looked at him before dropping to the floor in a pool of tears. Sobbing heavily letting it all out. All he could was hold her and rub her back. Nothing he could say would change anything, she already knew he was there for them, so he said nothing. Just held her protectively waiting for her tears to dry. It wasn't the first time nor would it be the last but he always hoped it was. For now they waited to see how life would handle this new set back that left his two girls heart broken yet again.