The Harder They Fall

Chapter 3: Adopting

Jasmine

I punched the dismiss button on my phone and stretched lazily. I did not know what this day would bring from Gracie, but I was up for the challenge. So last night, I set up an alarm to wake up an hour earlier than her.

After taking a quick shower and doing my hair and makeup, I threw on a light green dress and headed downstairs. The fridge was stocked with a lot of food. I mean a lot. But I had seen what Gracie ate throughout the day, and I wanted to add a little change. Instead of the regular Lucky Charms on her schedule, I decided to make something different. After grabbing the pancake mix, I headed for the pots and pans.

''Geez, where do they keep those things?''

''What are you doing?''

''Woah!" I shrieked, frightened by Cole's mysterious entrance. I accidentally dropped the pan that I had managed to find before he scared the crap out of me.

I exhale out loud as he walks over to me, concern coloring his features. ''Are you okay? I didn't mean to scare you.''

Don't look him in the eye. Don't look into those beautiful gray eyes.

All night. All freaking night. All I could think about were those gray eyes. They weren't really all the way gray. Kind of light, a mix of light blue and gray. But I needed to get a grip, and fast. This is a job. Nothing more.

Even as I told myself no, I couldn't resist staring as I answered, ''No, you're good. I just wanted to try something different and a little healthier. They're gluten free, of course, but I get it if you don't-''

''Jasmine, that's fine. I like that you're trying something new. I can't guarantee it will prevent Gracie from throwing things at you, but I have to go. Please, feel free to call if something happens or you need anything. I hope today's a better day. My number is on the dining room table and thank you again.'' He said, grabbing his gym bag and running out the front door.

''Okay, bye!'' I chirped as he walked out.

Not long after Cole left, the queen herself came wobbling down the stairs. Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, she sat down at the table and put her head down. Smiling at how adorable she was, I turned back to the pancakes.

''What's for breakfast?'' asked Gracie.

''I'm glad you asked. I'm making blueberry pancakes,'' I replied proudly. I looked over my shoulder, keeping most of my attention on the pancakes, but still wanting to catch Gracie's reaction. The child simply rolled her eyes.

This is the most adult-like child I have ever seen.

''I don't want to eat that. Daddy always gives me lucky charms. I want lucky charms.''

''Well, your daddy said it was okay if I made pancakes for you, so, no.''

''Huh?''

''No. You've never heard that before, have you?''

She didn't answer and instead walked out of the kitchen. When I didn't hear any noise for more than five minutes, I decided to check around. Almost identical to yesterday, I felt a sharp pain hit the back of my skull.

''Oww!" I shouted, feeling dizzy. Gracie appeared in front of me with blocks all around the floor and one in her hand. Not today. I refuse to be bullied by a five-year-old again.

''No! Not again, Gracie. We are not doing this again. Just because you don't get your way does not mean we have to fight. ''

''I want Lucky Charms!''

Not wanting to have a melding headache like yesterday, I put my hands up and slowly walked toward her. If I made her mad, she was not afraid to strike again. One thing I can say about her, she sure is strong.