The Boss

Chapter 27: Seven Years Later

7 years later

It was Christmas Eve and I was plating cookies while dinner was finishing up in the oven. The doorbell rang and I heard exuberant footsteps coming down the stairs.

Me: Careful son. I don't want you to fall.

He smiled at me and ran over to the door to let everyone in. His 5 year old eyes got huge seeing all the presents everyone was bringing in. Katri came out of the backroom and greeted everyone. She had moved in with me as soon as I moved into the new house. I figured it was big enough why should she have to pay rent too. Everyone else brought a dish with them so they brought them in giving me hugs and kisses on the way. My sister Saana was the last person to enter the kitchen. I smiled at her and pulled her in close. I could never thank her enough. She had volunteered to be a surrogate for me so that I could have a child. Having this precious little boy in my life had helped me heal a great deal. We all ate dinner and talked for a while. We were about to open presents when I looked next to me and saw dropping eyes.

Me: Say goodnight son. You can open your presents in the morning.

He walked down the line hugging and kissing everyone. He walked back over and I gently took his hand and led him upstairs. He got changed and into bed but then looked over at me with his sweet eyes.

Son: Will you read me a story?

I nodded and he pulled out the same book he did on every holiday ... the special one that Adam had made me. I read him two of the stories and then kissed his forehead. I was about to get off the bed when I felt his little arm on mine.

Me: What son?

Son: Would pa like me?

I paused for a moment and smiled, it was the first time he had asked that question. I had showed him pictures of his 'pa' ever since he was old enough to sit still. He was still so much a part of our lives. I looked him straight in the eyes and brushed back a lock of hair that had fallen in his face.

Me: He would love you so much.

Son: Good because I love him a lot. Can we light a candle for him?

Me: Yes tomorrow. Good night Aatami. I love you.

Son: I love you.

I stood there a few minutes and watched him drift off to sleep. I may have not found love in the romantic sense like Adam wanted but right then watching my precious child sleep, I couldn't feel more love even if I wanted.