A Starling's Awakening

Give Thanks With A Grateful Heart

We were sitting in the living room when Robert's family arrived on the morning of Thanksgiving. Bret asked his dad and his uncle Robert if he could speak with them in private. Josh followed them to Bret's bedroom. Moments later, Raina grabbed my arm. She put her finger to her lips, and motioned for me to follow her. She led me down the hall to her room. We stood inside her bedroom next to the door, and listened. Bret was speaking.

"Look, I think I might be in some real trouble here. I had no intention of falling for her. I know I should break-up with her sooner rather than later, but I can't bring myself to do it."

Josh said, "Dude, she's a starling. They are all bad news. The longer you wait, the harder it's going to be for you. Remember, she's only using you."

"That's just it – I mean, I'm not so sure anymore."

Robert stated, "I see three possible options going forward. First, you send her packing. Get it over with, and let your own heart begin the healing process. Second, ride it out, and wait until she dumps you."

"And third?"

"Tell her how you really feel. Have a ring in your pocket, in case she feels the same way."

Raina and I ducked away from the doorway as the guys walked out. Raina and I looked at each other. She looked stunned. I couldn't hide the joy I was feeling.

"Raina," I whispered, "he loves me!"

"You can't let him get away. Tell him how you feel."

We joined Ruby and Helen in the kitchen. Raina taught me a few simple tasks, and I was shocked to learn where stuffing got its name. I had never seen a turkey carved before. Barney used an electric knife. Robert prayed the blessing when we sat down to eat.

"Elise, we have a family tradition where we each state something we are thankful for. As our guest, you don't have to, if you don't want to."

"I want to. In fact, I wish I could express how grateful I am for each and every one of you. You all have taken me in and became like my surrogate family."

Ruby replied, "You've become part of our family, and we are grateful for your friendship."

When we finished eating, I asked Bret to join me in the living room. The rest of the family followed us. Bret and I sat on the sofa.

"Bret, you remember when we started this dating thing, we agreed not to form any attachment?"

He muttered, "Here it comes."

"I should have never entered into that agreement, because I don't want us to break-up. Not now, and not ever." Tears were streaming down my cheeks. He hugged me tightly.

He whispered, "I feel the same way." He held me until I calmed down. We repositioned so we were snuggled. He refused to let go of me until bedtime.