Turn Around {Sequel to Where the Lights Are}

Chapter 5

Luke and Joel drop me and the kids off on their way home. After thanking them, I lead Stephen and Ariel to their new home. I show them their bedrooms, and leave them to get settled in for a bit.

About twenty minutes later, I grab two cans on root bear, and knock on Stephen's door. "Come on in," he says. I walk in, closing the door behind me, and hand him the soda. He nods in appreciation, and I pat the bed next to me.

"Stephen, you don't have to answer this question if you're not comfortable. I was just wondering how you got into so much trouble, you're a good kid," I say. He sighs, "Ariel. People at our schools always picked on her. Sometimes the other kids at home would pick on her because she refused to leave my side. I just couldn't stand seeing anybody pick on my sis, I love her to pieces."

"You're a star, Stephen, you really are. You won't have to worry about any of that here, I promise," I say, placing my hand reassuringly on his knee. He nods, "I can already feel the love in this family." I smile, "I know you and Ariel will be happy here." He nods again, "I know we will be."

"Stephen, I'll let you get settled in," I tell him. He grabs my arm, "No, how about we get Ariel and watch a movie?" I nod, "Okay. What kind of movies do you guys like? I've got tons of Disney ones."

He smiles, "Of course Ariel's always liked The Little Mermaid." I nod, "Of course, I kinda thought she would. Have you guys seen Aladdin?" He shrugs, "I don't think so. Do you have it?" I nod, "Of course! Lets go get. Ariel and watch it."

He walks to his sisters room, while I pop the popcorn and get the candy. I grab another can of root beer, and settle in on the couch.

Ariel sits on one side, and tells Stephen it's okay to sit on my other one. I hand Ariel her soda, and give them each some snacks. I press play, and we all snuggle together as the movie starts.

Before I know it, the credits are rolling. Ariel's head is on my shoulder, and she nods sleepily. Stephen munches on the last pieces of popcorn.

"Did you guys like it?" I ask. "I loved it! The carpet is my favorite," Ariel says, coming to life. "Yeah, pretty good movie," Stephen adds.

"Have you guys ever played XBox?" I ask curiously. They shake their heads. "We were never allowed to play video games," Stephen says. I nod, understanding.

"Well, I can teach you. We'll start out with something easy. Maybe first we'll do Wii, and play MarioKart," I say, cleaning up from our movie escapade.

Stephen pushes his glasses up, and grins, "You're going down Ariel!" She looks shocked for a moment, then shakes her head, "No Stevie, I'm going to win."

I take the dishes into the kitchen, and set the Wii up. The kids smile, as we play a couple rounds. By the time we're done, I think they've finally got the hang of it.

I look at the clock, it's getting late, and I have an engagement shoot tomorrow. "Kids," I say. They turn to me. "Yes momma?" Ariel asks. I crouch to her level, and smile, "Tomorrow, Owen and I have an engagement photo shoot, so you'll be spending the day with Alan and Brycie. I totally forgot about it and it's too late to cancel," I point out.

"No, we'll be fine, right sis?" Stephen says. She nods, "Yeah." I help Ariel climb into her bed, and pull the covers up to her chin. "Sleep well, my little mermaid," I whisper. "Love you Stevie," she tells her brother, who's standing next to me. "Love you too, sis," he says, kissing her forehead.

"Have a good first night, Stephen. See ya in the morning, homie," I tell him. "Mom?" He asks. "Yes, what is it?" I reply. "Thank you. I know I have a label. But thanks for wanting us anyways, and thanks for giving me a chance," he says. I smile, "No problem Stephen. I'm so glad you're here right now." He nods, "Me too, night mom." He hugs me. I hug him back, "Night buddy."