IN FOR A SURPRISE

chapter eighteen

James ease Gwen a side and walk towards the bed,
Gwen came and hug him from behind kiss his neck, "make love to me"
"I'm not in the mode Gwen" james said
"But the baby wants it" Gwen said
James look at her and shook his head he was growing tired of this nonsense everything she's saying that the baby wants this frequent saying the baby wants, the baby wants is giving him a headache he hissed and climb into bed,
It's been a while since he touches her almost two whole weeks she haven't gotten another portion from the woman who refused to deal with her anymore and the man she haven't seen the girl that pee on the pregnancy test for her introduce her to her doctor he had told her she can conceive naturally but he gave her some pills to free her up though it says she's not to have alcohol she have a scotch the pills did make her feel free especially on drinking the scotch her hormones rages but james wasn't loving her at all,
Friday night Leona was allowed to go to the movies with Abigail and her boyfriend Dale, Christel and Denoy Jayden and Kayla who decided to come a long,
James was at his house with Gwen they sat in the living room, Gwen was going through a book of names "what do you think we should name the baby?" Gwen asked
James look at her
She got up to sit next to him
"We need to decide this together" she said
"You name the baby anything you want" james said he look at his watch and got up he went into the kitchen to have a cocktail the bottle of scotch he noticed seems smaller but he wasn't sure why he took it up and check if it was leaking and put it back,
It was close to eleven and his daughter said by that time she would be home,
He came back into the living room when he heard the car he look out the window and saw the blue sports car that he didn't recognize but he saw Jayden got out and held the door for his daughter he walk her up to the porch and they share a slight hug "good night" he heard his daughter said and the keys coming into the door he step away and she opened the door stood in the doorway and wave, Leona close the door and turn into her father
"Dad!" She said
"Why did he have to drop you?" James ask
"Who Jayden?" Leona asked
James nod
"Ahhh mhm well he had to passed this way so he drop me" Leona said
"No more movie nights" james said
Leona look at him he look serious Leona didn't say nothing she hug him"love you" she said
He kiss her forehead and send her off he watch her off he smile to himself thinking of the beautiful little girl that he father he wants to know someone loves her as she out to be love Leona was at the top she look down and saw her dad watching her she wave and he wave james sigh he thank God that he get this changed to see his daughter dating he might miss her growing up but this was a good part he wasn't going to chose for her but to be there to guide her is enough, james took a drink and went into his gallery the envelope with the book his daughter had made for his birthday with her growing up it was so unique and lovely he had decided to make a coppie of it and bring to his gallery for a display piece he thought to discuss it with his daughter to see what she think,
Isabelle put another piece of paper a side the fifth for today, she's been painting nothing but james face
Ralf was on the road when he stop by to see her "Isabelle" he call when the door push Isabelle tries to hide the painting Ralf walk in and look around
"You're here?" Isabelle ask
"What you hiding?" Ralf asked
"Nothing" Isabelle said
Ralf look behind her and caught the painting of the face that became known to him, he look in her trash and saw a lot of them he look at Isabelle took the one she held behind her, "this is all you do when you come here for the last two weeks paint picture of him?" He asked
"It's not what you think"
"I thought you said you're over him" Ralf said
"I am over him" Isabelle said
"Yeah" Ralf nod and threw the painting on the floor then walk away
"Ralf stop" Isabelle said but Ralf kept walking away Isabelle sigh she knew Ralf will never understand that what she has with James is special and it's hard for her to get over him like that, she's been back for four weeks and it make her miss him more than she did in over fifteen years
"Hey" James text Isabelle
"Hey you" Isabelle reply
"How are you?" James text
"I'm holding it in" Isabelle said
"I'm longing to hold you close to me, and kiss you deeply" James text
Isabelle bite her lips
"Tell me you don't miss   the way I make love to you" James text
Isabelle didn't reply
"Please baby let me come see you if only for one night "
"James you can't"
"Because of him?" James ask
"Because of her" Isabelle reply
"We can make it work" James text
"It's going to be too hard" Isabelle told him,
"Isabelle I need you in my life"
"James let's talk about it another time" Isabelle said
"Alright" James said
"How things with your family?" Isabelle asked
"They're all good
"I'm glad to know you and your daughter getting a long" Isabelle said
"Your daughter is great, caught up with her boyfriend, but great" James said
Isabelle send a laughing face,
"Don't worry  dad, she's not going to get more caught up in him than in you, she adores you" Isabelle said
James chuckle to himself
"I have a feeling" he said
Ralf come and Isabelle said goodbye
They talk tow days later and James mentioned again about their daughter being caught up with her boyfriend, "that was how I was with you I still don't know why I left wish I haven't"
"Come back and let's fix it"
But could it be fix again Isabelle didn't see that happening,
She sat in the kitchen with her palms press to her cheeks ralf walk in and saw her he came and stand facing her,
"What you thinking now?" He asked
Isabelle shook her head
"You're not thinking about nothing and your hands at your cheeks?" Ralf asked
"I'm resting" Isabelle said
Ralf went to catch some water and stand by the sink looking at her he wonder for someone to say they're over someone and yet they constantly think on them, he didn't mention it and he stay with her for the night they have sex and he left in the morning around the time she was going to the studio,
Isabelle went to look on a car the money that James had given her she plan on spending it on a car she want to get by easier than have to be taking the cab or riding the bus,she bought a fancy red color one comfortable and affordable and with that a full year service free she sat in and relax loving the feeling her legs wasn't fully one hundred fit so she had to be careful of how she used it,
Ralf saw the strange car when he comes over Isabelle's place and have the feeling it was some one visiting her, him he thought the man from Atlanta Leona's father he pushed the door and went in Isabelle was in the living room putting up her drapes she turn and look at him
"Where is he?" Ralf asked
"Who?" Isabelle asked climbing off the chair "no one is here but me" she told him,
"And the car?" Ralf asked
"I bought it" Isabelle told him,
"You?" Ralf asked
"Yes"
"With what money?" Ralf asked
"From the bank I was saving " she didn't tell him she didn't mention that James had gave her the money for he was thinking on it already she told him she is over him but she didn't think he believes that
They were almost at the end of the first week of April getting close to the last semester already Leona was interesting in getting a summer job she saw the add in the photo studio and became interesting she went and inquire and they told her that they could give her a job they pay extra with equipment and she did have equipments she was told she could sign up but she wanted to talk with her parents first,
Later that evening she talk with her parents her Mom on the line and her dad standing next to her in the kitchen,
Gwen sat across from them looking at them,
Ralf saw the way Isabelle's face changed when she took the call,
"Hey baby" Isabelle said "how was school?" She asked her daughter,
"It was quite good" Leona said
from the sound of it it was her daughter and it make ralf believe she was a long with her dad
"So mom I want to get your opinion on a summer job" Leona said
"A summer job?" Isabelle question
James look at her
"They're hiring at the photo studio and with my own equipment I'll be paid more"
"And this is what you want?" James question from over her
Leona look up on him and nod
"I think you can do a summer job" james said
"Mom what you think?" Leona asked
"I'm sure it's ok to have a summer job and your dad agrees right, but baby if you work in the summer how will I get to see you?" Isabelle question
"Oh mom I promise to come one day"
"Ok" Isabelle chuckle
"I long to see you" Leona said
"Same here" Isabelle said
They hang up and Isabelle look at ralf for a minute she forgets he was in the room he was looking at her why she wasn't sure for she was talking to her daughter and not to James he was there until he took up his jacket and turn towards the door, he didn't say anything he didn't come back and Isabelle didn't call next day she was back to painting face face of James
Today after school was Leona's first driving lesson James decided to teach her himself what he admire about the girl she's quick very quick, Saturday he took her to take the test for her learners permit and the man conducting it was please with her,
"I got my learners license today mom" Leona told Isabelle
"Isn't that nice honey" Isabelle said
"Yes and dad going to get me a car" Leona said
"He's going to?" Isabelle asked
"Mhmm" Leona said
"I got myself a new car the other day" Isabelle told her daughter
"Is it a nice one?" Leona asked
"And affordable" Leona said
"How is painting?" Leona asked
"Oh child, I can't seems to get enough " Isabelle said and giggles the only thing she paint from she got back was James and she can't stop it was as though she refused to, "what about you how is your art work coming along?" Isabelle asked
"I'm striving " Leona giggles
"And your dad?"
"He really knows what he's doing " Leona said"yeah that's your dad" Isabelle said
James look around
"He wants what he wants and goes for it too, your determination has always remind me of him" Isabelle said
Leona look at her dad and grin
"Dad said my head is better than yours with maths" Leona said
Maybe with everything even with choices" Isabelle though for she was wise not to leave James but she ran before and ran again knowing how much she wants to be with him,
"So how are you, and that guy what's his name your dad mentioned you being caught up in him" Isabelle said
"I'm not caught up in him" Leona said to her mom, she frown at her dad "dad I'm  not caught up with him" Leona said
James widen his mouth
"Your dad is close, why didn't you say so?, Oh my I'm hanging up" Isabelle said
"When you're already caught?" James asked
Isabelle grin
"What I had said wasn't for her to hear" James said
Isabelle laugh "sorry, I promise not to say nothing the next time"
"What next time woman?" James hissed "I'm not saying nothing more"
Isabelle laugh
Leona listen to her and look at her dad the smile that was on his face, he was always this happy when he talks to mom and with her laughing like that it was more pleasing to him,
Ralf lean there and listen to Isabelle laughing and believe he haven't heard her laugh like that before he knew she's not over that man he doesn't know her long but when someone make you happy it's obvious,
Gwen was drinking more than usual for she ran out of options for James just wasn't getting any closer it's been over three weeks since that last encounter and nothing since, she still took the pills hoping for him to get desperate while she's there,
Isabelle was a lone in the studio everyone had gone home and she sat resting back she did nothing except to make circle with her paint brush all was there was a mark up canvas and waisted paint, a long hour with James on her mind she pick up her phone to text him longing for a little conversation with him,
James work over time his daughter went from school to the mall with a few friends the school was having a dance this Friday and they went looking for outfits to wear James had given her her own credit card but she was saving too and didn't want to give her dad a big bill so she didn't do much, he was going to get her a car and she want to be sure to urned his trust,
James was considering to text Isabelle took his phone out but she messaged before he did,
"Hey" Isabelle text
"Was about to text you" James said
"What for?" She text
"Same thing you sent " James reply
Isabelle send a smiley face
"Missing you alot" James text
"Ahhh!" Isabelle text and send a sad face
"Let's keep loving each other " James said
"It's hard to stop loving you James, as much as I had stayed away my heart always kept you in"
James wanted to jump to the roof,
"How is the baby mother?" She asked
"Sigh" James text without explaining
"Later" Isabelle text
"Yeah" James text back
He put the phone away and rest back again he can't remember hearing Gwen mentioned about the appointment she was to make with the doctor three weeks now and more, he call her but got no answer
Gwen watch the phone rang and left it she sat drinking from her glass of scotch thinking if she didn't answer James would just come home, she wonder why he wasn't and she came to notice the little brat didn't come either, since of late she comes at time with out her father
James hissed he call his daughter,
"Hey dad I'm just on my way going home with Abigail she had come to pick me up at the mall"
"Are you sure you're not with him?" James trouble his daughter
"I'm positive " Leona said
"Remember I'm watching you" James said
I don't forget" Leona said she giggles
"And who's taking you to the dance on Friday?" James asked
"You dad" Leona said made a face when she looks at Abigail
"hey uncle" Abigail said
"Hey baby" James said
The two girls giggles
"What so funny?" James asked
They grin and said nothing
"See you later" James said
"Daddy where are you?" Leona asked
"I'm at the gallery" James said
"Ok I'll see you at home, love you" Leona said
"Love you" James said
"Are you going to go with him?" Abigail asked
"With dad to the dance?" Leona asked
"Yes that I'm talking "
"I will I love hanging out with him he's pretty cool, when my step mom don't bother him" Leona said
Abigail nod she can see that she enjoys being a round him and yes true her uncle is pretty cool
"Are you going to stay for a while?" Leona asked
"I can" Abigail said
Leona let them in Gwen was in the living room "good evening " Leona said Gwen turn and the girls look at each other she wore her open shirt and the see through underwear Leona wonder if she has many for it can't be the same she's in it way too often,
They both turn and went up to Leona's room, both talking and grinning,
"Put yourself together" James said when he walk in the house to find Gwen in that half naked condition
Gwen fix her blouse and stood folding her arm
"Where are you the playboy station?" He asked
Gwen made a face,
"Honey I'm home" James called
"Abigail i see you're still here "
Leona and Abigail were still in her room they came down when they heard him Abigail was leaving now
"Hey" Leona said hugging him
James pulled her tightly to him pull in her scent "ah baby" he said
Leona look up at him and he smile "how did it go at the mall?" James asked as he lean over to hug Abigail
"It was good" Leona said
"Did you find something perfect"
"A nice red dress" Leona said
"I hope it fits as well as it would your mom, red was always her dainty color" James said
Leona smile,
"That's what my aunts said" Leona said
James nod
"I finished my work and have nothing to do right now" Leona said
"And I'm going " Abigail said
"Be careful" James said
"Thank you " Leona said
They hug and James walk Abigail to the door he send hello to the family,
Leona sat at the piano playing softly it feels like a while since she did this and find it smoothing James went to fix dinner and Gwen sat listening
She believes that she really can play not that she's as talented as james but she holds her own,
Leona called Jayden and talk with him she told him that it seems she's going to the dance with her dad after all,
"You don't want to?" Kayden asked
"I don't have a problem" Leona said
She really didn't for if her dad was taking her he's who she's going with
"Look as if I'm going to the dance with my dad" Leona email Jayden
"You're?" Jayden asked
"Yes" Leona said
"I understand" he said
Leona told her mom about the dance she tried on her dress for her and Isabelle believe she was pretty as a princess,
"So he's the one taking you?" Isabelle asked
"Who?" Leona asked
"The boy you're caught up with?" Isabelle asked
They both grin
"Dad is just spreading rumors" Leona said
Isabelle smile,
"Dad is taking me" Leona said
"He is, and you're alright with that?" Isabelle asked
"I am" Leona said
"Ok all the best do have fun" Isabelle said
They bid goodbye and she got ready for bed
Thursday the talks goes on about the dance and who was going with who and so on,
"My dad is taking me" Leona said
"You not going with Jayden?" Christel and Kayla asked
Leona shook her head
They decorate the hall on Thursday for Friday school dismissed early,
Leona have Abigail drop her she walk in the house and didn't hear Gwen she peek in the kitchen to see her drinking her father's liquor she didn't believe that she should be drinking while she's pregnant she didn't go in and Gwen didn't see her she went to her room to do a research on pregnant woman and liquor drinking, she was astonished of what she discover on how harmful that can be to a baby it can cause premature birth brain failure, lungs damage to name a few, it make her worry about it for she didn't want to see her brother or sister going through that
James ran into Jayden at the store,
"Jayden" he call
"Mr James" Jayden said turning into James
"How are you?" James asked
Jayden knew James all is life and suddenly he became nervous around him,
"I'm grabbing some things for my mom" he said
James nod,
"What time are you picking her up?" James asked
Jayden look as if he was confused
"What time is it you're picking up my daughter?" James rephrase
"She already said you're taking her" Jayden said
"I was only testing her but she's all yours for the night as long as you take care of her" James said
"Yes sir" Jayden said grin widely
They shook hand James walk away leaving him
"Will seven be alright?" Jayden asked
"Seven will be fine " James said
Jayden grin
James pick up his phone on seeing Isabelle calling
"Ready for the dance handsome, picked out your tuxedo already?" She asked
"I'm not going to the dance" James said
"Your daughter said you're taking her" Isabelle said
'i'm not I was just pulling her, and if you remember I'm not so much a dance fan" James said
"Isabelle laugh "you never could dance" she tease
"I remember" James said
Isabelle grin
James chuckle
"He's the one?" Isabelle asked
"He's the one" James said
"You trust him don't you?" Isabelle asked
"I've known the kid a long time and the boy didn't get into trouble" James said
"Them you don't have to worry" Isabelle said
"I'm not going to worry" James said
"I bet you won't" Isabelle said laugh "bye James" she said
"Bye babes" James said
They hang up both left with a smile,
Isabelle got home to find ralf waiting he's been so in and out these days but she sat for a while with him then when and fix something to eat she call Marsha and had a long conversation with her, she them call her family and call her daughter who was getting ready to leave,
"I hope you have fun" she said she didn't mention to her that her dad said he wasn't the one taking her to the dance,
At five minutes to seven Leona came down to find her dad in the kitchen he wasn't dress,
"Dad you're not ready?" Leona asked
James turn and was amazed "Is-isa-isa-abelle" James said
"Le-leo-leona" Leona said
"Baby you're pretty" he said coming to hug her, he smooth her hair, "you always look just like her when your hair is like this" James said
Leona smile, "why you not ready?" She asked
"I'm having a drink" James said and it's not seven"
It was three minutes to and Leona didn't have a problem waiting
"Alright I'm not in a hurry" she said
"Don't be the dance won't finish before you got there" James smile
"I know" Leona said
Gwen look at her then to James
The doorbell goes and James went to get it, Leona follow him
"Mr James" Jayden said
Leona look at her dad and to Jayden
"Madam your date await" James said
Leona look at him then to Jayden once again,
"Have fun" James said hugging her
"Thanks Mr Benjamin" Jayden said
James shook his hand
Leona open her mouth at her dad but didn't get to say anything for he was already sending them off
"Be careful" he encourage
And watch them off he went back to the kitchen where Gwen still sit James went back into the refrigerator and took out the bottle of scotch to put on the counter he check for an expiration date but it was a long way from expiring and it wasn't leaking
"Have you by any chance been drinking?" James asked Gwen
"What you're accusing me?" Gwen asked turning to look at the bottle on the counter she's been drinking a lot from lately
"I'm pregnant James how can I drink that? Maybe it's your daughter" Gwen throw the blame Leona's way
"My daughter isn't drinking nothing" James swear
"Why can't she do nothing wrong,? Maybe it's on those days when she's over with friends" Gwen said
"My daughter come home with friends?" James asked
Gwen nod
James leave the kitchen and went out
He call Isabelle
"Hey" Isabelle answer surprised she's hearing from him again tonight
"What things not going according to plan?" She asked
"Your daughter is off to the dance if that's what you're asking
"Yes it is, ok so you're worried now ah?" Isabelle asked
"I'm not I'm tired I'm just going to go to bed" James said
"Alright then tough guy" Isabelle said
"I need to know something " James said
"Alright what?" Isabelle asked
"Your daughter drink?" He asked
"She never before has she started drinking now?" Isabelle asked
"My liquor is going down and three of us in this house and I don't drink from that bottle
"And it's not leaking?" Isabelle asked
"I checked for that" James said
"Expiration date?" Isabelle asked
"I checked for that too" James said
"Then maybe you have to talk with her for if your woman is pregnant she wouldn't be drinking shouldn't be drinking it means it has to be your daughter" Isabelle said
"I hate to go to her with that but I'm going to just check" James said
"She's not going to be mad at you if that's why you're worried" Isabelle said
James sigh and smile "thanks I'll let you know" James said
James went back in, to Gwen
"I'm getting an appointment for Monday with my doctor" James said
Gwen look up at him
"I already make one with my doctor" Gwen said
"For when?" James asked
"Monday" Gwen answer
James left her and went up to the room
Gwen was devastated she had to find away to ditch James to get him from going with her to his doctor, she can't let him know she's not pregnant, he's going to know once the visit the doctor with her he's going to know anyway for she's to start showing by now but if they weren't having sex how will she becomes pregnant
James went to bed and Gwen remain in the living room as her mind was going crazy to even try to get with James tonight
When Leona came in from the party she was sitting in the living room and she didn't see her dad
"Hi where's dad?" Leona asked
Gwen point up she didn't really talk to her but Leona didn't less than talk to her "goodnight" Leona said she went up she look in to her father's room to see  he was sleeping and she figured he was tired
It was almost midnight but Leona text her best friend they could talk about anything at anytime he asked about the dance she told him that it was Jayden who took her and she had fun
"I saw my step mom drinking from a strong bottle of scotch" Leona said to kayden "she's going to have a baby and I saw where it's wrong for it can cause great damage to the baby"
"Did you tell your dad?" Kayden asked
"I'm afraid to" Leona said
"I'm sure you can talk to your dad"
Kayden said
"I can talk to him"
Leona didn't want to let it look as if she's trying to get her into problem just so her mother can come back,
"Hey you" James smile at his daughter
"Dad" Leona smile hugging her dad James kiss her forehead
"How was it?" He asked
"Fun" Leona said
"He didn't touch you inappropriately did he?" James asked
Gwen look at him
"What's inappropriately dad, if it's holding my hand inappropriate then yes" Leona said
James laugh he hug her and kiss her again,
"I'm hoping you could drop me off I'm going to my family" Leona said
James nod
"Staying over?" James asked
"Not tonight"
James nod
They left at nine and Gwen was a lone when she believes that they were gone far enough she put on some very loud music that shake the neighbors,
Mrs thousend heard the music and know that James didn't really play music this loud she never heard her daughter playing this loud music and she figured it must be the woman she went over and knock but Gwen couldn't hear a thing, she climb up on found James with a bottle of gin way up on his liquor shelf
Mrs thousend was around back when she peek in and saw her taking it down he saw her drink out of the bottle before pouring some into a glass she went back in to a place Mrs thousend couldn't see, she went back to her house
"Dad yesterday when I got home early from school I saw my step mom drinking" Leona said
They were parked in front the store Leona was getting things to take to her family
"What you mean drinking what?" James asked
"From the bottle of liquor in the refrigerator dad I'm only saying because she's pregnant and I look it up and it says drinking strong liquor can harm the baby"
James didn't bother to say to his daughter that Gwen said it was her,
"I'll talk to her and talk to the doctor" James said
Leona smile "ok dad but dad you won't tell her I saw her right"
"What you afraid of?"
"I don't want to be a telltale" Leona said
"When the truth is told it's no tale, I'll talk to her" James said
Leona nod
James kiss her and they hug
They finish at the store and left
"So when did you have friends over?" James asked they were driving again
"You mean I can actually have friends over?" Leona asked
"You never did?" James asked
"Except for that day when you came and Abigail was there and Abigail isn't friend, and I couldn't just invite anyone, I know how you feel about your space" Leona smile
"You live in my space now so it's ok to have a friend over as long as nothing inappropriately is done" James said
"Inappropriately is done" Leona finished with him,
James laugh"you got it" he said
"I'm catching on" Leona said
James laugh,
"You're funny like your mom that's what she would say" James chuckle
Leona smile he was ever finding something to compare her to her mom he just so want to have something to remind him of her,
"They got to the house shelly Earl and Anna came to the door the others were in the kitchen when they walk in they all greet her,
"For a minute there you look just like your mom" Keith said
"Uncle Keith" Leona said hugging him
"She does look like her mother " James said as he greets Keith
"How are you?" Marlon asked
"I'm good I'm good, adjusting " James said
"You're adjustable just look at you" Carmen said touching his shoulder "I don't know why my sister is always running if it's the heat she's afraid of or what"
Jeana giggle
"I want to bet my last on the or what" Carmen said "whoo!" She said
James shook his head and smile
"A drink?" Keith asked
"A martini" James said
Keith hand it to him,
"You staying dad?" Leona asked
"Not today sugar "
Isabelle call home she was driving to the beach taking a beach trip to herself she was on video when Jeana took her call
"Heyyyy!" Isabelle said
"Hey you" Jeana said
"It's Isabelle" she announced
"Hey sis" Carmen said
"Hi Carmen I'm going to the beach" Isabelle said
"With Ralf?" Jeana asked
"I'm to my lonesome self"
"Why Ralfy felt like a third wheel?" Carmen asked
"Did you get a new car, the insurance company came through?" Jeana ask
"Yes I got a new car, but no the insurance company sucks" Isabelle said, "how's everyone?" She asked
"They're all good say hello to Isabelle" Jeana said
"Hello" they all shout"
"Hey mom, hey dad grandma aunt Betty, auntie pat, uncle Rowey, hi Shelly hi Anna hi Earl, hey fire guy" she said
Keith laugh
"Hey Marlon miss you all" Isabelle said
"Nonsense" Carmen said hissing
"Hush up Carmen of course I miss you guys" Isabelle said
Carmen giggles
Isabelle park and was walking to the beach side
"You're staying the whole day?" Carmen said
"I just need a little outdoor I'm going to swim find something to paint have lunch and then go home" Isabelle said
"Well have fun" Carmen said
"I plan to, later you all" Isabelle said
"Later" they all call back
"Your daughter is here" Jeana said
"She is? Hey baby"
"Mom" Leona said
"How are you sugar?"
"I'm fine mom" Leona said
"I am glad you're taking time out to visit your family that's nice" Isabelle said
"I promise I would and I'm living near" Leona said
"I'm so please of you my baby" Isabelle said
Leona smile
"You didn't tell me about the dance, how did it go with what's his name?" Isabelle said
"It was fun" Leona said "how did you know it wasn't dad who take me?" Leona asked
"It wasn't a father and daughter dance sweetie and James doesn't do much dancing" Isabelle said
"He can't dance?" Leona asked
James turn around to look
"Not really, he maybe multi talented, but not where dancing is concerned" Isabelle said
Leona grin
"So what time did you got home?" Isabelle asked
"At midnight" Leona said
" oh yeah?" Isabelle said
"I had fun" Leona said
"I'm glad I hope the next dance I'll be there" Isabelle said
"I hope so too" Leona said smiling, "dad Mom told me your secret you never know how to dance" Leona grin
"Your father is there?" Isabelle asked
"Yes I'm here" James said
Isabelle grin
"I never had to be perfect for you on the dance floor you always choose the time and the place for me to be perfect and prove my talented to you and the dance floor wasn't one of them place" James said
Isabelle frown "what ever" she said
Leona look up at him saw him smiling whatever make him say that her mom knew. and the smile on her dad face make her wonder,
"I'll call later" Isabelle said "bye love you honey"
Love you Mom" Leona said
Right as Isabelle hang up someone called her from across from where e she was
"Isabelle" a woman call
"Mrs Jefferson" Isabelle said as she greet the woman,
"You were back home? I don't know"
"Yes man"
"So how's the family?" She asked
"They're doing great"
"And miss Benjamin how is she and school?"
"She doing extremely well"
"She go it in her I pray for her every day she's such a talented young child the school will never see again" Mrs Jefferson said
"Thanks Mrs Jefferson" Isabelle said
"My daughter send me this tape she visits the opera house last year and she said to me mom isn't this your students, when I saw it it was Leona performing at the opera house, I didn't know she play I was so surprised if I didn't hear it myself" Mrs Jefferson show Isabelle the video on her phone, "she said everyone was talking about it"
Isabelle watch and smile
"She's pretty amazing" Isabelle said
"She said she didn't want me to not see it, I'm so proud of her Isabelle I'm sure she's going to excel like a eagle she's going to sore so high"
"Yes Mrs Jefferson"
"Her friends at school always say she said hello but tell her I miss her and to visit soon"
Isabelle nod, I'll tell her Mrs Jefferson" Isabelle said she turn and walk away
"Mrs Jefferson I don't mind if you send me that video I actually don't have one" Isabelle said
"If course dear why wouldn't I" Mrs Jefferson said
She sent it as Isabelle asked
Isabelle sat on the beach and for a while she watch the performance it was forty to forty five minutes and it was really delightful she appreciates the fact that James took her and gave her such a chance to show her talent she was pretty good and Isabelle felt proud of her daughter,
James didn't stay he left when Isabelle hang, he was on his way when the cop call and told him a report of a commotion heard coming from his house he knew if there's a commotion it has to be no one other but Gwen causing it
Gwen after having three glasses of the liquor put it a side turn the music off it was Saturday and James didn't have a set time and she didn't want him coming to see him doing this she went up brush her teeth and fresh up drink some mint tea and have a mint for her breath James can never tell,
James got in the yard Mrs thousend called to him from the fence,
"Your misses has gone crazy the music and I saw her climbing up to get liquor and she drank" Mrs thousend said
"You saw her drinking how?" James asked
"I went knocking when the music came on and she didn't hear me I went around from the pool I could see in your dining hall and I saw her a bottle of gin"
James bit his lips
"Believe me sir I would never lie"
James nod he went around back and look he could see the liquor shelf in the dining hall as Mrs thousend said and a chair was out from the dining table and he didn't left any out he went in and find her sitting on the sofa
"You're back?" She asked
"I heard that a commotion was going on inside here" James said
"What commotion?" Gwen asked
"It was just music"
"I don't want to have you ruining my relationship with my neighbors or my reputation" James said
"It wasn't loud for it to bother anyone" Gwen said
James pull her up and smell her she didn't really have liquor on her breath but he smiles smell mint "were you drinking?" He asked
"Why would I be drinking?" Gwen asked
James ignore her questions and sat a cross from her,
"When is it you're seeing the doctor?" He asked
"Didn't we talk about this the night before I  tell you I did make the appointment the  other day and I'm to go on Monday" Gwen said
James for got they did talk about that, he then remember and got up and went to the kitchen he knew neither his neighbor or his daughter was telling a lie but because he didn't smell her drinking he thought of catching her in the act,
After the beach Isabelle head home she call home a gain and her daughter was still there she told her about running into Mrs Jefferson at the beach and send her the video she share with her Leona didn't get to see it and was surprised her past teacher has it, Isabelle explain how Mrs Jefferson daughter was at the opera house and remember her to be her mother's student and sent it to her
Leona show it to the family and they were amazed at her performance
"When James came to get her at six she show it to him and tell him, James didn't realize that they didn't get a copy of the performance
"You're pretty amazing"he said
Leona smile
"And keep practicing for soon opera house is having their anniversary I'm pretty sure you're in the line up" James said
They both smile,
He hug her shoulder
"We should be going"
"I'll come again soon" Leona said hugging around
They left and went home Leona wanted to ask about what she told her dad but didn't bother to they got he and she went to her room she clean up and message Jayden doing that for some time, she call denoy after talking to him she talk to kayden that conversation last for a long time she send him the video and he got excited for her,
Sunday James and his family went to the beach and Gwen tag a long
"How are you?" Carleen asked looking her over,
"I'm doing find" Gwen said
"And the baby?" Carleen asked again
Gwen hold her belly "the baby is fine" she smile as she wanted to die inside she need to be pregnant before James know she's not she was considering going to get a downer get a implant and this she'll need to do pretty soon,
"You're still looking the same" Luna said
"What you mean?" Gwen asked
"As if you're not pregnant" Luna said
Gwen heart thrump
"How many visits have you gone already?" Luna asked
"Two, three" Gwen said
Luna frown
James look at her then to Gwen
"Morning sickness must be terrible on you" Carleen said
"It doesn't bother me" Gwen said
"You must be lucky" Luna said
Gwen side look her hissing deep inside "the heat is a bother so I'm going for a swim" she left them there and went to the beach
Luna watch her "is she really pregnant for nothing about her change"
James look at his sister in law then back to Gwen he said nothing
They drove home later after having dinner on the beach Leona went to her room and send a few messages she send her teacher Mrs Jefferson a message and Mrs Jefferson who was glad to hear from her talk for a while encourage her and pray for her Leona thank her and they promised to keep in touch,
Monday when it was time for James and Gwen to go to the doctor she found some excuse James didn't push it for today he had somethings he has to take care of after dropping his daughter he went to do his business
James went to look at car for his daughter but the colors got him confused he wasn't sure if he had learned her color as yet and rather her to chose so instead of buying he wait for a day she could go
She hang out with friends after school so James made it home a head of her,
Jayden brought her home James went out on the porch when they got there and exchange greetings with him, his daughter came towards him and Jayden drove away
"You didn't told me he was going to hangout too" James said
"Maybe I did and it slipped your mind" Leona said
"A thing as that would never slipped my mind you said a few friends " James said
"You didn't say be specific of who would" Leona said
James nod "ok so next time e I'll ask for more details"
Leona smile at him,
Tuesday morning he drove her to school and collect her in the evening on her request
He was in the kitchen with Gwen on Wednesday when his daughter comes in "morning sunshine" James said
"Morning dad, Jayden is picking me up is it ok to go to school with him?" Leona asked
"It's not ok" James said
"Ok I'll text him" Leona said
"Just this once" James said
Leona smile
"Ok dad"
James nod
"Breakfast" he said setting her plate on the table
"I would love it if you pick me up today" Leona said
"Don't bother let him take you" James said
"Dad!" Leona said poke her father
James giggle
"I'm having a hour practice so after the school concert is a week before school breaks that is soon"
James nod "and your summer job?"
"I'm waiting for them to call" Leona said
"So you did sign up?"
"Right after talking to you guys
James nod
Jayden came and Leona said goodbye to them and left with Jayden
James leave out the house right after
Soon as he close the door Gwen got up James was getting in his van when she came and peek out James drove out and park two house down and walk back Gwen put the music on and got some gin from the shelf she pour enough in a tall glass and put it back then went back to the living room James went in through the dinning room door and saw the chair he had fix it the other day he fix it again he went in to the pantry for his top shelf stick and took the bottles he couldn't see from behind for the others were still full and the gin bottle to the back was down pretty down, he took it with him and went to look for Gwen she went to the kitchen to get ice
The neighbors has reported it again this time the cops decided to come by
James turn the music off alerting Gwen she push her head out and saw him quickly she dash to the sink and empty the glass and rinse it and drank water
"What you doing?" James asked
"Wa-wat-ter I'm drinking water" she said
Cames took the glass smell her smell the glass and smell the gin
"How can you drink when you're expecting a baby" James said
"James I'm not, I'm not drinking"
James held up his hands
"You know what we're seeing the doctor today" James said
"But why today James can't we make another appointment?" Gwen said
"I made up my mind I want to do it now" James said
"I'll call my doctor to see if she's available" Gwen said
"Mine is I paid her to be" James said
"James don't go today" Gwen beg but James was determined to go to the doctor and nothing Gwen could say to change his mind he pulled her up stairs to the bed room he hand her a dress from her bag and let her change he find what she came here with and put them inside her bag everything together he toss them in the car and let her in
Just then the cops came James apologize and assure it won't happen again for he's sending Gwen home pregnant or not he's not lettimg her stay another day,
"Can you be kind enough to watch her for me just going to park my van" James said
"James" Gwen called "James please" she said James went and park the van thank the officers they drove to see his doctor,
"James please not today" Gwen said when James came to a stop in front the building his doctor office is,
"It's today or no day Gwen and we're talking to the doctor about your drinking habits"
"I haven't drink anything how could I I don't want to harm our baby" Gwen said
"Good so getting a check up should be no problem" James got out the car and took Gwen's hand
"James wait I'm having cramps I can't see the doctor today" Gwen said
"Well tell the doctor about it" James said
They enter the building and Gwen heart race she didn't know that James would drag her to see the doctor
"I'm scared to see any doctor but mine" Gwen said stopping
"What that's ludacris" James said hissing
"Mr Benjamin" a nurse greet
"Hey I'm here for doctor warminton with this woman" James said
"Yes I know she'll be a minute just sign in"
"James James listen" Gwen said
But James didn't need to hear from her let her sign the papers for he didn't know what to write about her,
He call in at the gallery and let them know he might not make it to work
He call Abigail and told her if he's not there in time to pick up his daughter she's to explain to her something urgent came up
The doctor said it was time for them to go in and Gwen had to be pull inside, "James please you don't understand" she said
"Relax miss Brooks no one is going to hurt you" the doctor said
"She's drinking and I'm afraid the baby will be harm" James said
"We'll run some test and see what is happening to the baby kiss Brooks come with me" the doctor said
James wait
The door close behind them and the doctor a long with her nurse got some blood sample
"please stop" Gwen said holding on to the doctor
"You have to be still miss Brooks the needle will break" the doctor said
Gwen sit still but she beg
She was send in a room to pee
The doctor did the test but nothing was showing that Gwen was pregnant the found some form of thing in her urine and blood showing alcohol but nothing at pregnancy
"How you feeling?" The doctor asked
Gwen sat and start shaking and crying they let her do another pregnancy test but still nothing,
"I'm not pregnant I was trying to get pregnant I don't want h to leave me please tell him tell James I'm pregnant I can pay you" Gwen said
The doctor and the nurse look at each other they neither cold tell James such lie and decided to tell him
James look up at Gwen when they come out
"Is the baby alright?" James asked
"Mr Benjamin afraid there's no baby miss Brooks wasn't pregnant" the doctor said
James stand up
"She's not?" James question the doctor
"You're not pregnant why what happened did you lose the baby?"
Gwen look at him and the doctor
"Miss Brooks was never pregnant and we found trace of something in her urine something she was trying to used to get pregnant" the doctor said
"You snake" James cringe "you trick me into thinking you're with child to control me you snake" he repeat shook his head
"James" Gwen said
"Thanks" James told the doctor he titn and left the room
"James please" Gwen said running after him
James call ivano and asked that he picked him up he cry explaining it to ivano ivano pat his shoulder "I believe this is your chance to get Isabelle back don't call her find her"
James wipe his tears and grin Ivano nod ivano drove him to look for Marsha who's dance studio was across from the museum she was dismissing her class it was fourbin the evening and she was heading home
"James! what brought you here?" Marsha asked with a chuckle they hug and she hug ivano "how is everything?" Marsha asked
"We're great" ivano said
"yes" James agrees nodding
"I need an address for Isabelle" James said
"Oh wow you would have to ask your daughter" Marsha said
Ivano look at James ivano nod he could ask his daughter she'll know exactly where"
"What happened?" Marsha asked
"Gwen isn't pregnant" ivano said they both explain to her Gwen trick,
"oh" Marsha cover her mouth she knew it but didn't say I knew it,
"James want to explain to Isabelle" ivano said
Marsha look at James
James nod
Marsha grin
"All the best sorry I can't give you an address but your daughter knows so you'll have no trouble"
James and ivano nod
They walk down together then bid good bye Marsh wish him luck again
Marsha could pinch herself she told her friend the other day that it was her daughter that cause the pregnancy and it was so shevfake it all a long to keep James such a conniving woman deceitful and selfish Marsha thought of her with a frown she could call her friend and tell her but she let it be let when James find her and she get a surprise,
"Dad" Leona called when she entered the house "dad are you home?" She call but got no answer "Gwen are you here?" Leona asked but got no answer she look out the driveway and noticed Gwen's car wasn't there her dad's van was and she wondered if something had happened to her with vthe baby she didn't get to her dad and became worried she call her mom but didn't get her she look around but the house was empty she remembers the time she came here and her father call her Isabelle saying that it was a cat turns out he didn't have a cat she sat to do her home but couldn't concentrate on nothing she was hoping that Gwen and the baby was ok she wait for her dad who came late and with out Gwen
"Is she alright dad?" Leona asked
James hug her and sigh he let her sit and explain to her what happened Leona didn't see this coming v"I'm sorry dad"
James shook his head "don't be baby " he said hugging her again
"I'm sorry I didn't make it today " James said
"Not to worry dad you and I can take time together if not today then another day I'm not going anywhere"
"Ever?" James asked
"I might go to college" Leona said
"You not going to be married"
"I would love to" she said
James kiss her
"Go go get your homework"
Leona nod she got  up and ran up for her books she and her dad did them all together and play some dice she was send off to bed after
Thursday he drop and pick her up at school and they took that walk in the park
Friday afternoon he took her to get the car of her choice she chose a green color like the one he has at home but in a different style "have you told me your favorite color?" James asked
"Green, I'm not sure if I had learned your's " Leona said
"Green" James said they smile at each other
They drove home behind each other,  she wasn't completely a driver but she  could drive she was still doing the learning process with another month to go she promised not to be a lone in the car before she got her permanent license
Saturday morning early Leona was in her room when James came,
Leona look his way
"I need you to go to your family for a day or two" he said
"Is something wrong?" Leona asked
"I want to go see your mom" James said
"New York?" Leona asked "cool so why can't I come?" She asked she held her arm up "ok daddy I'll give you the address" Leona said "
James nod
"And I'll pack a few things" Leona said
James nod he went to his room and put his things together a pants and two extra shirts he drop his daughter at her mother's family as she chose to stay the time over there, he greets the others from his van and kisses his daughter  saying that he'll call her,
"Your dad going on a business trip?" Jeana asked
"He's going to new York to see my mom"
"Ooh" Jeana and Carmen said
"My step mom wasn't really pregnant and dad break up with her, he's gonna convince my mom to come home"
"She's not what happened?" Jeana asked
Carmen look at her "you didn't hear she wasn't pregnant "
"Oh" Jeana said
"How long will he stay?" Carmen asked
"I don't know not too long I hope they both hurry and fix it" Leona said
The others smile
James had explain to the family before now but he was just telling them about the new York trip as he was going to see Isabelle
Saturday was hardly a day that Isabelle went to her studio but she did today not for no special reason but she needed to lose herself in something and painting was that something she was there until five and start putting stuff away but five thirty she haven't left
James found the way to the house and some one across the street said she left this morning he call his daughter who told him she must be at the studio and gave him the address James got to her studio just then Isabelle was about to leave she heard footsteps
"Ralf" she call but got no answer she look and James was in the doorway
She drop her bags
"James you're here?" She asked
James walk to her she met him and they hug and kiss it didn't took them long to be making love they stay the night at the studio
Ralf call Isabelle and got no answer he check the house but she wasn't home and went to the studio
James and Isabelle was up early making out ralf pulled the door to her studio and walk in to see them in heated romance Isabelle moaning from enjoyment the sounds she made and the way she seems into it
"Isabelle" ralf said James and Isabelle jump  "ralf" Isabelle said
James got up and pull on his pants
"I knew it" ralf said and shook his head
"I'm sorry" Isabelle said
Ralf held his hand up and left
Isabelle sigh at James when the door closed James hug her from behind, "don't worry baby" James said he  kiss her shoulder she turn to hug   him and he kiss her hard they finish loving as it was interrupt by ralf unexpected visit,
"I'll take you to my place and I'll get you something to eat" she said
"Yes and I need a shower then  we'll talk" James said
They were at the house when Leona call her mom and she told her that her father was there he only said hi for he and Isabelle sat down to talk he told her everything and she couldn't believe but it is good it turns out this way
"I'm sorry James sometimes I think it's my fault" Isabelle said
"I wouldn't put all the blame on you" James said
Isabelle giggles
"Let's go home let's get married and maybe you'll have a baby one we can both watch grow" James said
"A baby at my age sounds sounds"
"Good" James finished
"I was going to say too out of my age" Isabelle said
"Come on baby we'll try" James said
Isabelle hug him and they share a long kiss half the day they spent catching up talking making out but Isabelle needed to  talk to ralf she went to his house  and apologize ralf had the feeling it would go this way for from the minute he met the man he knew he wouldn't be able to compete with him for Isabelle for he saw that she love him
Isabelle has to do some things before they could go to Atlanta and it took them a week they paid her mortgage after selling the house donate something to shelter and to her neighbors move out the studio Friday afternoon they drove to Atlanta behind each other it was late when they got back Leona didn't see them them until in the morning when she walk in the kitchen at her family home she was so happy to have them both here she hug them both as she grin happily
They went on Saturday to James place
"Welcome home" James said
"It's nice Isabelle said looking around she saw the neighbor looking and wave the woman wave back with a smile
"That's Mrs thousend the neighborhood's watch committee" James whisper
"You have a watch team?" Isabelle asked
"Just Mrs thousend" James said as they entered the house
They laughed
"I hope you get comfortable" James told her
"I'll definitely " Isabelle said
"I'll show you around mom" Isabelle was drag away by her daughter soon they were going up the stairs
Isabelle did like the house it was fancy fit for a  king the pool side was great she love his gallery he has at home the entire setting was nice
"I paint those" Isabelle said pointing to a few of the painting on the wall
"Yes you did" James said
"Who did that?" Isabelle asked seeing the one of James Leona gave him for Christmas
"That's my Christmas gift from my daughter" James said
"Oh yeah baby that's nice your first official work" Isabelle said
Leona grin
"I can't believe you paint that" Isabelle said looking up on the half naked picture of herself on James wall
"I have more I want to keep" James said
Isabelle grin as they share a kiss
"I'm right here guys" Leona said
"Go to your room" that both said
Leona grin
"So your mom and I are going to get married soon" James said
"Really" Leona asked looking at her mom
"We're doing it this time" Isabelle said
"Yeah then we can really get a cat this time and name her Isabelle after mom right dad" Leona told her dad Isabelle frown but James agree that they should
They later bid goodnight and Leona went off to her room James and Isabelle went to their bed room they fall a sleep talking
Isabelle got up very early and went out before the sprinkler came on as it did five to six each morning for five minutes the at six twenty she only just stepped out when it came on soaking her James heard her screaming with laughter and knew it has to be the sprinkler he took a towel and went down she was standing in the middle trying to block it from her face it went off after five minutes and James went to her "I should have warn you about that miss early morning" James said with a giggles
"Maybe you did not warn me on porpoise" Isabelle said they giggle and share a kiss "I'm glad you're here" James said
"I'm glad to be" Isabelle said she wrapped her arms around him and they share a long kiss
The sprinkler was to go off another time but as James was about to say it it came on and they both got caught they ran grinning
Leona got up and look out smiling at them it was so good seeing them together they look so happy and it makes her happy,
Things feel better now that they are together and this time they're going to be the family they were longing to be
Marsha was very happy to have her best friend home now they can spend more than the enough time together  the family were all  so happy to have Isabelle home James family was glad to see  it was working out for them both and for their daughter
Leona started her summer job and finally she went on a real date with Jayden Isabelle was delighted to see her daughter she was beautiful going on a real date her very first official date
"I want you to have fun" Isabelle said
"I promise" Leona said
"Not too much for remember I'll be there when you think I won't"
"Dad" Leona said
"Don't listen to him honey" Isabelle said
Jayden smile
They saw them off before closing the door and went in to spend time with each other
Isabelle and James  finally got married not long after  and they  got a cat and they did name her Isabelle and Leona call her bella for short
"I think your wife is a nice person" Mrs thousend said
James nod
Isabelle was always talking to her and not acting like Gwen who didn't try to be nice,
James made way for Isabelle in the studio and they now work together like partners Isabelle felt better for now she didn't have to do things on her own she has him to guide her supervise her and motivates her she really did admire him he was brilliant with everything he did and his daughter was the same together they made the best music together and it trills Isabelle to listen to them both they perform together at the opera house anniversary and two days later at a grand annual,
they play and joke and it was magical having the chance to watch them doing things together,
Isabelle help James to support the community center she can't believe that he was the one who bought it and is now running it she knew James love the center but to take it on himself was something she never thought he would but it was good for the community center was like a place of refused and strength not just for young but for older people too, and their daughter love it there just the same as Isabelle used to, it was actually so good to be back home and Isabelle make every moment counts she spent time with family and her best friend her husband and daughter it was just a blessing having back this life with James now everything was going right as it should be,
Isabelle open the envelope and look inside she saw the book that marks happy birthday day she opened it and saw what her daughter did and how she made it to look like James was in the pictures all through growing up it makes her cry,
"It's a mazing isn't it" James said
Isabelle nod wiping the tears
"I'm thinking of making a copy  for my gallery display" James said
"I'm sure it will he eye catching " Isabelle smile
James pull her to him,
"Let's dance" he said
"You know how?" Isabelle tease
"The way I do in bed isn't that where you like us to dance" James said and giggles
Isabelle slap him they both grin
James ease in and kiss her as they rock to their own ridym
"You know I hope you get pregnant soon" James said as he held Isabelle closer  to him
Isabelle grin
"Are we really trying?" She asked
"Are we?" James asked
"I think you're too caught up with your daughter to think about that so maybe you should give it time and get enough of your daughter then " Isabelle said
"We can when she is gone to college" James said
Isabelle agrees he lift her to him taking her to the bed they might not be thinking about baby tonight but they sure has love on their mind and they both decided to give it all and what ever the outcome is tonight that they will both accept.
                THE END