Navigates the highs and lows of both career and personal life. Glimpse into the world of professional sports. But beyond the confines of the basketball court, the journey is also filled with a cast of characters, from loyal friends and relationships.
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"Nae, we'll only be gone for a maximum of four hours," Jermaine reassured as we got dressed in the walk-in closet.
"He's really attached to us. I just don't want him to realize we're not there and get upset," I pointed out.
"I'm sure your parents know what they're doing with a newborn, attachment or not," he replied, sounding annoyed.
"Why are you getting irritated? This is difficult for me, he hasn't been out of our sight since he was born. Is it wrong to feel this way?" I remarked, with a touch of sarcasm.
"You know what, I've said all I can about this night out. Let's just call it a night and not worry about it. We'll give the tickets to Evie and Dan, I'm sure they'll enjoy them," Jermaine sighed, clearly frustrated.
As he left the closet, there was tension between us. His words made me question if I was overreacting. Maybe he was right, and I was being too emotional about leaving our son for a short time. But the idea of not being there for him tugged at my heartstrings.
Completing my preparations and looking in the mirror, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that it was okay to take a break.
Heading out of the walk-in closet, I found Jermaine downstairs chitchatting with my parents with a smile on his face as he held Keoni. Our early bicker had faded.
My mother spoke as she notice me from the doorway. "Renae, wow, no one could have guessed you gave birth three months ago with how you look tonight," she remarked.
"Thanks, Mom. I guess the stress of leaving my little muffin behind for a few hours did wonders for my figure," I joked, trying to lighten the mood.
I notice Jermaine kept his focus on Keoni, my dad had wandered off into the kitchen to get a bottle of milk for him.
I made my way over and planted a kiss on keoni forehead, and quickly headed to the car not wanting to linger around too long and risk him getting upset when we left.
As I exited the house and entered the car, I found myself getting teary-eyed. My mother must have sensed my emotions as she came up to the car window and handed me a tissue, giving me a reassuring smile.
"I was the exact same with you and your sister when you were babies. It's completely normal to feel this way, Renae. But remember, it's important to take care of yourself too. Enjoy your night out with Jermaine, you both deserve it," she said softly.
"Thanks mom," I replied, taking the tissue and wiping away my tears. Her words provided me with comfort and reassurance.
She went back inside, leaving me to sit in the car and collect my thoughts. As soon as Jermaine entered the driver's seat, I spoke. "I'm sorry for snapping earlier. I know this is hard for both of us. Thank you for being patient with me."
Jermaine smiled warmly and placed a hand on mine. "I'm sorry too. I should have been way more understanding."
We drove off into the evening, the tension between us now replaced with understanding and love. Our drive to the harbor was quiet but comforting as we both reflected on the evening ahead.
