NOT JUST A GIFT

Chapter 10

It's been hours of thought without answers but Vera broke the silence between them. Vera took a deep breath, her expression thoughtful. "We can co-parent, I want a better life for Ariel and I need us to be in her life."

Charles nodded, his face serious. "it's a good idea. Thank you very much, Vera, I owe you my life, Vera." He looked at her enthusiastically, "So how are we going to do this?"

"I think we'll have to decide on custody and figure out a schedule that allows us both to spend quality time with Ariel."

"Okay, he sounded satisfied and with seriousness "What about communication? How are we going to keep each other informed about Ariel's needs, and make decisions together?"

Vera's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. " We can use a co-parenting app, or a shared calendar to keep track of our schedules, appointments, and important dates. And we can also make a list of important decisions we need to make together, like education, healthcare, and other extracurricular activities."

Charles's face lit up with excitement. "That's a commendable idea, Vera. I like the way you think."

Vera smiled, her eyes warm. "Thanks, Charles. We can make this work if we try."

Charles nodded, his eyes filled with determination. "we will, Vera. We will make this work, for Ariel's sake."

"Okay, I believe the basics are covered. What about discipline? How are we going to handle that?"

Vera smiled faintly "Hnmm that's a good question" she replied as she took a deep breath "We'll have regular checks with her, separately and together then build the Wall of open communication."

The past few days had been filled with planning and suggestions from both ends. There had not been a day Charles or Vera hadn't got a plan to be added.

But as they sat for lunch Charles's face was wanting more so he had to request

"Vera." He called as he moved his fork close to his mouth. "We're making a good plan I can tell, but there's one more thing I need from you," Dropped the fork and held Vera's hand tightly.

Vera eye's widened with anxiety and curiosity. "Okay" she could manage to let out

Charles looked down, with the burden and pain of asking too much on his mind. He had never planned for most of what had happened but he enjoyed it. The joy he had gotten was undeniable "I was thinking if Ariel can have you stay here with us, till she's one year old." He said with his voice shaking.

Vera was proud of herself, for being able to have Ariel. And Charles's undying love for Ariel, She had wanted nothing more for Ariel than the parental love she was denied. She had. Nobody. To care for her or love her.

"I'll think about it, Charles. But I can't promise anything yet."

Two days later, Charles settled down on the couch in the living room. Vera walked in, straight and sat opposite his chair, she smiled and beamed straight in his direction.

Charles's face lit up with surprise and delight. "Really?! You'll stay till Ariel's first birthday?!" He exclaimed, his eyes filled with gratitude.

Vera nodded, her smile growing wider. "Yey! I've given it a good thought, and I want to see her reach that milestone, it's worth it. Plus, it'll give us a chance to solidify our co-parenting plan and make sure we're doing our best to have a remarkable start in Ariel's life."

Charles's face with delight. "Thank you, Vera. I appreciate this so much. This means everything to me." He paused, his voice cracking slightly. "You're an amazing mother, and Ariel is blessed to have you."

Vera's smile filtered for a moment, her eyes building up tears. "Thanks, Charles. That's nice, coming from you makes it mind-blowing." She cleared her throat, her voice was steady again. "So, what's your plan for Ariel's birthday, party?! It's going to be a big one!, Right?." She couldn't hold her joy as she ran up to meet Ariel already.

The doorbell rang, and Vera rushed down to the door, wondering who could have come to visit, Charles. Who was still in his room probably sleeping. "Hi, good morning, come in." Not knowing the reason for her excitement that moment she called out Charles with a loud voice. "Mr. Charles, someone is here." She ran back upstairs to meet Ariel.

Charles's heart skipped a beat as he saw his younger brother, Alex, walking into the house. He hadn't seen him in almost a year if not more than already, and the sight of his bright smile and ever-sparkling eyes was a welcome relief.

"Alex" Charles exclaimed opening his arms wide. "It's so great to see you!"

Alex grinned, dropping his luggage and embracing his brother. "Hey, big bro! It's great seeing you too! You look like you've been through hell."

Charles chuckled, feeling a sense of peace with his brother's presence. "I've had a fair share of battles, Alex. But I'm glad you're here."

As they hugged, Charles couldn't help but notice the curious glance from Vera, who was walking down the stairs. He smiled at her, feeling a sense of gratitude for her warm welcome.

"Thanks, Vera," Charles said, nodding in her direction. "This is my brother, Alex. He's going to be staying here for a while."

Vera's eyes lit up more with curiosity, why would Charles explain that to her, she smiled. "Nice to meet you, Alex! Welcome. Can I get you something to drink?"

Alex's eyes sparkled with amusement. "A cold beer would be good, thanks!"

Charles playfully rolled his eyes. "you're yet to change right, Alex?"

As they walked into the living room, Charles couldn't help contain the joy his brother's presence had brought him. He knew that with Alex here, he would see someone he could discuss the challenges ahead.

Vera returned with Alex's beer and a glass of water for Charles. "Here you go, Alex. And Charles, I'll attend to Ariel while you too catch up."

Charles nodded, grateful. "thanks, Vera. I appreciate it."

Vera smiled and headed upstairs, leaving the brothers alone. Charles watched her go, feeling a Sense of appreciation for her thoughtfulness.

Alex took a sip of his beer, his eyes never leaving Charles's face. "So, big bro, tell me what's going on. Are you adopting my child?" he said sarcastically with a wild smile.

Charles sighed, rubbing his temples. "It's just that I'm planning to disown you, to avoid any more form of Mockery from you." He said with his head to the ground.

Alex's eyes narrowed, his expression faked. "Oh, mine. I'm shivering, anyway that aside." His face turned serious, concerned this time. "you guys are cool, right?