On the Run

Family Time Pt.3

It should be smooth sailing from here. I think lol. Another long chap so I can wrap this up.

You smiled as you bowed your head, listening to Maya's father say grace.

Most of Maya's extended family were gathered in their large backyard, all sitting at different tables for themselves. The weather was warm, with a light breeze carrying the scent of food over.

The food was finally ready. From mac and cheese to candied yams and sweet potato pie, the entire front table was filled with pans of hot food prepared to be eaten. Your mouth watered, and you reminded yourself to take a few plates home for the others. 

As soon as he finished, family and friends were at the serving table, plates in hand. You stood in line with Kya, Oliver, and Daniel, guiding them through their choices. Kya had gone with a classic meal of mac and cheese, greens, cornbread, and chicken on her plate, while Oliver had rice and peas, chicken, greens, and ham on his. Daniel opted for hotdogs, for now, saying that he was saving space for dessert. 

You chuckled, getting your plate together as soon as they were done and situated. You greeted Maya's aunts and uncles, cousins of hers you hadn't seen since you were young, and gave a big hug to her grandmothers.

"It's been so long, baby. You can't keep leaving grandma like that," Grandma May pouted. 

You chuckled. "I'm sorry, Grandma. I've been so busy."

She huffed, crossing her arms. "At least bring my grandbabies around more. I missed lil' man and mama."

You chuckled again at the mention of Kya and Oliver's nicknames. "Ok, Grandma. I'll work on it."

"When are you having another?" Maya's aunt, Ms. Betsy, asked. She cradled her own grandchild as he slept. 

"I'm adopting another one," you deflected, hoping against hope she didn't mean something else. 

She waved you off. "While that's wonderful baby, when are you going to have a baby?"

Your cheeks flush. "I—"

"(Y/N)!" Tanya, Maya's older sister called out. 

You smiled, glad for the distraction. "Hi!"

You embraced her, whispering thanks. Another voice calls, and you quickly greet them as well. You greet Maya's large family, from nieces and nephews to aunts, uncles, and cousins. At one point, one of Maya's cousins handed over their baby to you, and you were feeding her milk. You swayed on your feet, cooing at the little babe.

"(Y/N)," Maya's father, Mr. Leroy Jackson, plants a hand on your shoulder. 

"Hi, Mr. Jackson. Congratulations! How's everything? Hope your feet aren't hurting as much anymore."

"I'm doing alright, thank you. Doc says I'll be back in a few weeks."

"Mhmm," Maya's mother hums in disdain, holding another pot of greens. "Doctor actually says that he needs to work on lowering his blood pressure before he goes to the upper room."

"Cora, I told you my blood pressure is fine."

"And the doctor told me it's not. Now, who am I gonna believe?"

Mr. Jackson rolled his eyes. "Me, old woman."

"You better watch yourself, Leroy, else blood pressure isn't the only thing that'll take you out."

"Is that a threat?"

"Oh no baby," she smirks. "It's a promise. Now come eat these greens and fish."

Mr. Jackson rolled his eyes, following her. "Yes, Cora."