Love Notes

17- Tis the Season

As promised Tina flew into Charlotte two days later and couldn't be happier to spend time with her oldest daughter. She waited for about twenty minutes until Beyoncé got through the holiday airport traffic to pick her up. Tina had already told Beyoncé where to pick her up from. She had only brought one bag. Beyoncé got out of the car and greeted her mother. She didn't know how she felt it, it was a feeling that was hard to explain. She was happy but nervous and apprehensive. Since they had the room now, Tina would be staying in one of their guest rooms. Michelle and the kids were at home waiting for them to arrive. The ride was quick but they held small talk talking about everything and nothing at the same time. Nothing they said was of any significance.

Pulling into the driveway Tina looked at the large house that belonged to her daughter. It was large but not overly intimidating. She liked the style that was a mix of modern and country, if that's even a thing. The garage door opened and Beyoncé drove in, put the car in park and got out going to the trunk. She retrieved Tina's bag and led her into the house. Michelle was in the kitchen making lunch and the kids were in the family room watching tv. Michelle smiled at Tina and greeted her with a hug. She and Beyoncé switched places and Michelle showed Tina to her room.

"Michelle, how are you?"

"I'm great. Blessed and living. How about you?"

"To tell the truth, I'm nervous. I'm wondering if Beyoncé really forgives me."

"She does. If she didn't you definitely wouldn't be here. It's just going to take some time for her to open up. But don't be afraid to talk to her. She'll listen."

"Thank you Michelle."

"Towels are in the linen closet. Anything you need that you don't see in the closet let me know. We're just moving in and there are a few things we still need to get."

"Okay no problem."

"Once you get settled come down and join us for lunch. You've got to meet your grandkids."

Michelle left Tina to settle in and gather herself. About ten minutes later she appeared downstairs and formally met the children. Brielle was quite surprised at how much she, her mother and grandmother looked alike. Their genes were quite strong. Kaleb was being the little charmer as usual. There wasn't a woman he met that he didn't try to charm. Immediately Tina loved the two children. The family ate lunch together and then finished decorating the Christmas tree. Aunt Charlene came over for dinner and got to know Tina. They instantly clicked, having fun and joking with each other. Aunt Charlene had been kind of nervous to meet Tina but she could see the sincere remorse and guilt Tina held on to. Since it was getting late and it was already dark Aunt Charlene decided to stay over for the night.

Brielle and Kaleb began to fall asleep as the family watched Elf. Beyoncé gently woke them up and told them to go to bed. Once the kids were in bed the grown-ups talked.

"Beyoncé and Michelle, how long have you guys been together?"

"We've been together a little more than a year." Michelle responded.

"It's been the best year of my life." Beyoncé replied.

Tina asked more questions and she could clearly see how in love the couple was with each other. She loved what she saw of their relationship so far. Their love was genuine and meant to be.

"What's something that the kids want that you haven't gotten for them yet?" Tina asked.

"Kaleb wants this video game and Brielle wants an Ancestry DNA kit."

"Alright let's make it happen tomorrow. That's if you don't mind taking me to the mall tomorrow."

"Sure no problem. We can go."