Joe's pov

I was finally able to see Doc, but I was not sure if I was ready to discuss everything. I was only sure that I had to. He smiled softly

"Hey, Joe."

I returned the small smile

"Hey, Doc. I need some help. My ex-girlfriend Taylor was killed by Los Lordes. But we had had quads, they're 7 now, and in my custody. Well adjusted, they love my side of the family, that front is all good. But, I need to be fit to take care of them, and I'm drowning, Doc. My Mom last summer, then I was the one at the scene to identify Taylor, now raising the kids under a high risk job... And the latest development... When I was sick recently, my partner Angela Romano came with a basket of goodies and remedies, but she confessed her love for me and kissed me, and the kids saw it. They accused me of forgetting Taylor, they were crying... Everything is fresh, and Tay left video diaries for them and me. I wasn't even ready for a new love, and I'm still not! But the main thing is I just need to be able to function. For the kids. Please, help me."

Taking a deep breath, I drank some water to try to calm myself down. Doc spoke

" I'll do my very best to help you, Joe. Did you talk to the kids about how you were not dating your partner?"

I nodded

"Right away, I set the record straight with my kids and with Angela. She, to her credit, also squared everything away with the kids straightway. They forgave her. I'm just... I guess I'm just afraid of misstepping with them again, or if there's something I should know after missing on seven years of their lives..."

Doc nodded

"You and Angela handled that perfectly. And parenting will have missteps, whether you're there from the start, or picking up a bit down the road. Tell me about meeting Taylor , and then later, Jojo, Dan, Em and Will."

I did as he requested, all the stories bringing a smile to my face. We set up more regular sessions, every Monday at 6PM. I was just glad my head was starting to get the help it so desperately needed.