Michael’s Pov ~
Drumming my fingertips on my lap I looked across the table of the small booth for two to where Jess was sat, bobbing her head idly to the music.
I knew that there was a velvet box in my pocket containing a single silver band which would tie the two of us together, she did not.
I’d been trying to play it cool, however I’d already nearly run over a woman crossing the street, tripped over someone’s dog and spilled a glass of water on my pants.
“I like this place.” Jess announced at random, looking around the small outdoor patio of the Mexican restaurant where we were sat.
“Y-yeah.” I stammered, “It’s nice.”
“Are you okay?” she questioned, turning her attention back to me, and scratching the brunette wig which had come in the mail the day before.
“I’m fine.” I said quickly, forcing a smile, “Are you?”
“Yeah.” She laughed, “This stupid thing just itches.”
“It looks nice.” I assured her, “You’re a cute brunette.”
Smiling, she folded her hands in her lap.
“You don’t look too shabby yourself dweeb.” She laughed, reaching across the table and roughing the dirty blonde hair starting to grow back.
“I look like a Chia pet.” I muttered.
“My Chia pet.” She corrected.
Feeling my cheeks heat up I smiled.
“You’re cute when you’re embarrassed.” She informed me.
“I’m not cute!” I argued, “I’m sexy!”
Rolling her eyes she rose to her feet.
“Where are you going?” I questioned.
“Pee.” She replied, “That okay with you chief?”
Holding my hands up in surrender, I nodded.
Walking around the table, she gave me a kiss on the cheek before making her way to the bathroom and out of sight. Taking a nervous breath I reached into my pocket and wrapped my fingertips around the ring box which dealt there, making sure it hadn’t fallen out. Not wanting to mess with it and mess things up I rested my elbows on the table and supported my face in my hands.
I never really thought much about getting married, but I’d just sort of always amused my Dad and Stella would be there, knowing they wouldn’t be hurt. Running my hands down my face I straightened up so Jess wouldn’t think anything was amiss when she returned.
Scanning the crowded restaurant I tapped my foot idly until I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket. Removing my phone, I looked at the screen and not recognizing the number calling, hesitated before answering.
“Hello?” I greeted, pressing the device to my ear.
“Hello!” a woman’s voice greeted on the other end cheerfully, “Is this Michael Clifford.”
“This is.” I said slowly, “Who is this?”
“This is Nancy.” She replied, “From child protective services.”
Frowning, I reached up and pressed my palm against my other ear to block out the sounds.
“Yeah.” I said slowly.
“You and your significant other Jessica Heron have expressed an interest in adopting have you not?”
“Uh, yeah, we have.” I replied, “Why?”
