You'll Never Stand Alone

Chapter 24

Whitney and Kevin's dating began to become even more serious once they realized that they loved each other. It had become evident that they enjoyed being around one another, were comfortable with each other and formed a bond that they never experienced with anyone else. They could talk to each other about any and everything, without any bars being held and they were there for each other in ways that they never had in their first marriages. Soon magazines broke out the news of their dating, putting them on the cover of all of the tabloids of their "steaming hot romance". In interviews, they both would admit that they were smitten with one another and that they were seeing each other. However, they didn't give the press too much detail. This is turn drove the media wild, to figure out the secret and any dirty details of the oncoming "it" couple of Hollywood. The speculating couldn't get any more intense, as everyone wanted to know about the gorgeous Black Pop superstar/actress and the handsome White actor/director/musician coupling up.

They had gotten so close that they decided that it was time to introduce each other to their families. Kevin arranged it to where Whitney could meet his children Annie (who was 11 years old), Lily (who was 9 years old) Joe (who was going on 7 years old). Whitney also brought along Bobbi Kristina, so she could meet everyone as well. Kevin arranged a playdate to where they all would go and create pottery. Whitney thought that it would be a good idea to where they all could be creative and in an informal environment. "Hi Ms. Whitney Houston," Annie shyly introduced herself once they all meet at the pottery barn. Whitney smiled, leaned down and gave the adorable girl a hug. "You all don't have to call me Ms. Whitney." She told her. "You can just call me Whitney, or Whit. Whatever makes you guys comfortable." Whitney also greeted Joe and Lily with hugs as well. Soon after, an instructor came in and taught Kevin, Whitney and the children a quick lesson on how to make pottery. Right after she left, everyone went to work on their masterpieces. Kevin took Bobbi Kristina from Whitney and helped her with her little creation. He also tried his best to make her laugh, tickling her side until she fell into a fit of giggles. Bobbi Kris instantly took a liking to him, as she liked anyone who could make her laugh. She instantly called him "Kevvy" and raised her arms to him so he could pick her up. Whitney was very impressed that her baby had taken such a liking to Kevin so quickly; she was very much like Whitney in not trusting people upon first impressions. However, Kevin seemed to have the exact calming effect on Krissy. Secretly, she knew that he had passed the litmus test. If her daughter liked Kevin, then he definitely was a true keeper, because Krissy did not click with just anybody.

As for Whitney, she was enjoying her time with Joe, Lily and Annie. She loved kids, and their everlasting energy, so she was able to bond with them right away. She started a race with them, to see who could finish their pottery the fastest. Between their race, she asked them a lot of questions, such as how they liked school, what their favorite foods were and what they liked to do for fun. Fortunately, the children realized how warm and sincere Whitney was and instantly clicked to her. They all chatted about a mile a minute, which was fine by her because she found it all to be hilarious and entertaining. Kevin watch from afar at times, smiling because he was glad that his kids were getting along great with her. He loved how Whitney was very nurturing, yet possessed a child-like demeanor that carried well with the connection she was gaining. He thought about how great of a mother she would be if they had a child together.

Once everyone finished their masterpieces, they all went back to Kevin's place. Kevin introduced Whitney and Bobby Kris to his four Labrador Retrievers, Daisy, Spinne, Wyatt and Jewel. An animal lover, Whitney immediately attached herself to the loyal canines. Her, Kevin and the children all played a huge game of catch with the dogs. The children all got along with other well and they all had a blast together – as a potential modern, blended family. The perfect day ended with homemade banana splits and watching "A Goofy Movie" on video until all the children passed out. Whitney and Kevin put them all to bed and had some "adult time", sharing a glass of wine. "You definitely were a hit." Kevin told her. "I knew you would be though." Whitney stared at him. "And how were you so sure about that Mr. Costner?" she asked him. She asked. "Because you are amazing. And you were only being yourself. My kids pick up easily on that kinda stuff; fortunately that got that trait from me. That's why they took a quick liking to you." Whitney smiled. "Well my Bobbi Kris loves you too, and let me tell you, it usually takes a lot to impress that little diva." Kevin laughed. "She's such a charming little doll, just like you. It's gonna be fun having her around." So he's thinking long term plans here. I like what I'm hearing. Whitney thought to herself. Kevin put his arm around her and kissed her on her forehead. "Now the next thing is to meet each other's parents."