A Flame From The Past

70: A Big Day

"It's a big day". I said to the class, looking at the sea of faces. Dressed in their best clothes, with adoring smiles and loveable personalities.

I had said the same thing to Luca this morning over the phone. There were four teams left in the gunning for the Super Bowl and two were supposed to be eliminated today.

But for these kids today was something different. The school funded picnics for prospective parents to meet foster kids. And today Noah had got the okay to come today, him and Renee were stopping by.

Renee had had some difficulties getting pregnant and they adore Ray, they figured adoption would fulfill their dreams of having a kid.

I was happy for them, as well as all the other prospective parents dropping by today. I wanted all these kids to find a home, a loving home. That was filled with happiness and joy.

"Just be yourselves, and whatever happens, happens". I announced, looking at everyone's joyful faces, except Rose's. She never had luck with these things. It wasn't everyday someone came in with the financial and emotional means to support three children.

But I had a dream for her that her and her siblings would be adopted. Because as much as she wanted all of them to be adopted it was hard for the family to not be separated.

The kids started their lesson for today as they waited with anticipation. We were supposed to be called to the playground area for the parents to meet the kids. And it was finally happening, Rose slugged behind as I locked the classroom.

"I know it's hard... but you can't give up". I tried to tell her as she tried to put a smile on her face, as we walked to the playground. And loud screams of excitement hindered our focus away from the conversation.

"They're here". I said, as Rose looked at who everyone was crowding.

"Who?" She asked, trying to look around the kids clamoring them. "Noah and Renee, from Luca's team. They're here to adopt kids". I said, as she nodded her head staring at them harshly.

"They look nice". She said, plainly as we walked over.

Renee saw me and stepped out of the huddle as kids pummeled Noah with questions. "Hey, how are you?" I said, hugging her with a bright smile across her face.

"Great... How about you? Ready for today?" She asked, as she looked back at the kids. I knew the whole environment was getting to her as she looked youthful, like she was ready to do this.

"Nervous... but ready". I said, as I eyed the crowd surrounding Noah.

"It's crazy right... they love him". She said, looking back at them. And I looked to find Rose who was standing next to me who had now disappeared to the swings.

Renee caught my view as she looked back at me. "Whose that?" She asked, pointing to Rose.

"Rose... she's a sweetheart. She reminds me of you a little". I said, looking at Renee's eyes as she stared over.

"Is she okay... should I go talk to her?" Renee asked, looking at me for confirmation. "Hey... today is all about yours and Noah's feelings. If you feel it, act on it". I said, reminding her. And she nodded her head as she looked over, and made her way to the playground.

More parents trickled in, as Rose and Renee kept talking. The kids dispersed one by one and migrated to each parent, searching for a feeling.

Noah slowly made his way over, as he looked at Renee.

"How's it going?" I asked him, as both of our eyes were locked on Renee and Rose. Smiling from ear to ear.

"Kids have lots of questions... I really need to come down here more". He said looking around. "They are obsessed with your boyfriend, though". He said, looking at me.