Under the Influence

Chapter 71

Kyle's POV

"I'm nervous, K."

"So am I, but we have nothing to be nervous about. There is no reason the papers couldn't have went through."

"I know, I just don't want to get our hopes up or Amalia's."

"I get it, baby."

Mia and I were patiently waiting for the social worker to let us know if our adoption papers have been approved. The long journey was easily cut in half due to having the best help, but it was still a scary process. We were so ready to take Amalia home. But even after the approval, we had to wait a little while longer for her to make the move. It was going to be difficult because all of her medical care has been based in New York, so I desperately hoped we could find an even better doctor in Chicago to care for her and her condition. None of that mattered right now though because we still get to see Amalia in a few short hours and that was everything.

I was certain she was our daughter. From the moment I met her, I knew she would always be in my life. Now I knew why.

Though Mia and I had spoken of Amalia to our parents, they didn't know how serious we were about going through with adoption until now. Even more so after losing Angelo, I think it made us realize that we were ready for a family and we could never give up on Amalia. Not after everything.

There were a lot of things we still needed to figure out. Mia and I both work, so we don't know who would be able to take Amalia to school and back home. I could probably drop her off, but we would need a babysitter. Then there are her weekly appointments, and sometimes, she needs even more appointments depending on her state that week. Mia and I had a lot to learn about Amalia's condition, and that alone, pushed us back a little further.

She has been in the same care for all of her life, these people know her routines, what can spark a trigger to her heart, but Mia and I don't. As a parent, I think that is the scariest thing. Not knowing what to do for your child or when to do something, but I was sure we could learn. Unfortunately, we could only stay the weekend, but in another few weeks, Amalia was cleared to spend a week with us in Chicago.

Hopefully by then, we will have chosen a house so her room will be ready.

"Ms. Cruz, Mr. Wells, you can come into the office now."

I took Mia's hand and we walked into the office, taking our seats.

"I'll just come out with it. We have good news. Everything is on track for the adoption. You have been approved, it all looks great."

"That is such great news," Mia and I shared a hug.

"There are a few road blocks. You have to take a few classes due to her medical condition."

"When? Where? We are down for everything."

"I appreciate your enthusiasm, but unfortunately, the nearest openings are this weekend. I know you had a visit planned, but it would be best if you got it done as soon as possible."

"So we have to wait a few more weeks to see her?" I asked, heartbroken at not getting to see Amalia. I missed her so much.

"Yes. I'm so sorry. The doctor just cleared you guys yesterday, so it only just processed."

"Luckily, we didn't tell her. It was supposed to be a surprise, but we were really looking forward to it," Mia said, looking down.

"The next few weeks will be here before you know it."

These past few weeks had been difficult enough, and I know Mia was really stuck in mommy mode. The pregnancy really struck something inside of her and ever since, I could tell she was craving that mother-child bond. Her therapist had mentioned it a few times. It doesn't just go away. One of our missing pieces is lost and the other we don't even get to see for a few more weeks.