An Imperfect Love Story - Book 8

Family Meeting (Part Two)

STEF POV

"So babies, let's try this again.  Let's wipe the slate clean and try again. No yelling on my part, no cutting anyone off, no threatening to whip anyone's behind unless you disrepect Mama here. I will listen, we will listen because we are all we have and we love you all no mater what. And I will start by saying that I apologize for my short fuse, my temper, and above all my um...my past well...current struggles with alcohol. It's not something that I like to talk about with any of you, not even myself, but it's an elephant in the room." I say looking at all my kids as their faces soften and Stefanie wipes her tears.

This was not comfortable for me to speak about, not in the least as I clear my throat and feel my head pounding.

"I um, I'm learning slowly how to listen to you all better, maybe not as fast as I would like and my actions lately have not reflected any of that. So um, it's not just you all that need to do better, I need to do better myself so that I can treat you better. Now Corey, I am not happy that you lied again. And Jude had a point, as shocking as it was to hear him speak, that if you had showed me the Walkman and asked me there may have been a small chance that I would have said yes. Lying to Mama wasn't fair to her or me. And it doesn't help us with trusting you."

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be that way. I just really wanted my music back. It helps a lot when I'm stressed. And I'm sorry, Mama Dukes, but I have a hard time believing you had let me," he says sadly as I sigh and rub my forehead.

"You're right. I've given off that vibe, and I'm sorry. I want you kids to feel comfortable about talking to me and asking me things." I say as I look at Lena who is looking at Corey with concern.

"What has you stressed? School, honey?" Lena asks as I sip my water and look back at our son.

"I guess. Just trying to keep up with everything. The other guys on the team are so fit. And I'm trying to keep up with that and this math and school. So when I'm stressed out from that I like to put on my...my classical music." He admits as Frankie looks at him like he's nuts.

"Francesca, do not say a word." I warn her as she looks at me and her face softens.

"I know it's dumb. No one listens to classical music unless they're lame," he says, his head hanging down as I sigh and shake my head.

"It is not dumb, honey. Lame people don't listen to classical music. I enjoy it too, and if that helps you so be it. Mom and I want to know those things." Lena says as I look at Corey again and he shrugs.

"Corey, I didn't know that. And you tried to tell me and I didn't listen to you." I say as he looks over at me and I can tell by his face alone that he is hurt. "I just I can't tolerate disrespect my love, okay? The last thing I want you to feel is that I abuse you in anyway. That doesn't make me feel good to hear that you feel that way about me because I love you.  I've always loved you, and I hope you will forgive me for that. For making you feel as if, well not safe." I feel tears form in my eyes as I soon feel Lena gently grab my hand and hold it as Corey nods his head.

"Sure, Mama Dukes. 'Course I forgive you and I'm sorry for calling you both liars. I was heated."

"Forgiven. We'll pick you up a new Walkman that you will help pay for with your funds, and you may listen to your music if that helps ease your stress. But, you are still grounded, understood?" I wipe my tears with my free hand as Lena continues to hold my other hand.

"Yes ma'am.

"Ok, anything else you want to say, baby?"

"Um yeah, um, Mama I kinda signed up for football. I know you aren't liking that, but I really would like to play. I really would." He says as I glance over at Lena and I know she is not happy. Not at all. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier, but I'd really like to play."