Tarnished Armor

Like Mother, Like Daughter (Chapter Forty Three)

Maxie met up with her mom as I met up with mine. Jess came as a complete shock to me.

"I saw that kick, Child. I can't believe you did that."

"I'm taking after my dad."

"I see. I'm scared."

"You should be."

"Where are the girls?"

"They're with Candy and Maxie."

Jess walked with me to my dressing room and saw Maxie, Candy and off all people, Tamina sitting with my daughters.

"Your girls are cute."

"Thanks, Tamina." I said.

"Actually, it's Sarona. I think they're the sweetest babies I've seen next to Maya."

"How do you know Maya?"

Tamina looked at me.

"How do you know her?"

"I'm friends with Chel and I travel with Joe." I said.

"I'm Joe's cousin."

"Well, that explains it."

I smiled.

"Can I give you a hug, Sarona?"

"Sure, why not."

I hugged her.

"Have you talked to April, Sarona?" I asked.

She sighed.

"Since her pregnancy, she hasn't spoken to a soul, not even Phil."

I looked shocked.

"Where is he?"

"As far as I know, he's still in Chi-town."

I wanted to call him. I wanted my closure. I wanted to love him...I couldn't.

"I should call and ask if he's training."

"He might like that."

I smiled. I wanted him to find me. I don't know why. Tamina looked at me.

"Stay with your husband. Phil uses women. You don't want that."

I looked at her.

"Thank you."

I smiled and Sarona left. I looked at Candy.

"Your mom is floating around here somewhere."

 "I know. I just came to say hi to you and my cousins."

I smiled as Niella reached up for Maxie. Elena clung to Candy like a sock in the dryer.

"Hello..."

Max looked at me.

"Ella."

Max looked at her.

"Hello, Ellabean. I'm Maxie, your cousin and closest cuddle buddy."

Max gave Ella a kiss on her chubby baby cheek.

"They're both so big since I saw 'em last."

"I know. They'll be ten months at the end of May. Can you believe it?"

"Nope but then again, my little cousins amaze me."

Ella started to squirm.

"Ma." Elena said.

"Yeah, Leniboo?"

"Oo dis?" she asks.

"This, Leniboo, is Maxie Jerrett Spradlin. She's your adopted cousin."