by Nesly Clerge
“She’s going to make an exceptional radiologist. Staying up nights with you when she was little, while you dictated reports, made an impression on her. Although, I think it was the MRI films. To think I fussed at you for bringing work home. I should have kept quiet about that, and so many other things, so you’d have come home more often.
“Kimmie told me there were two reasons she stayed up with you. One was that she was interested in whatever interested you so intently. The other was that she loved falling asleep in the chair so you’d carry her to bed and tuck her in. There was a third reason that showed up when she was a few years older. She wanted to be like you so you’d want to spend more time with her. You were absent so often, you see. The moments we waste, Garrett.”
Chelsea gazed into the distance for several moments before speaking again. “My small law practice is going well. But I intend to keep it as part-time as possible. For good reason. You see, I didn’t tell you about something I did, because I wanted to wait until I was sure I could give you a positive report.
“About a year ago, I took in a foster child. A boy. Five years old, with brown hair that sticks out no matter how often I comb it. His was a case I was handling. There was something about him that reached right into my heart and wouldn’t let go.
“He was removed—saved, really—from his mother, who was addicted to heroin. You know what else tends to go along with that scenario. She overdosed a few months ago. No other living relatives.
“He’s such a bright boy, and creative. You should see his artwork. Every kitchen appliance in my house is covered with his pictures. It’s the same at our parents’ houses. A budding artist. It’s about time we introduce someone with that talent into our family.
“And that’s exactly what I did, Garrett. I had a talk with him and he agreed to let me adopt him. It’ll be official next week. He wants to meet you, but wanted to wait until the adoption was final. He said he wants to stand here with me and say—wait until you hear this, ‘Dr. Hall, my name is Gary Hall and I’m your new son. I hope you’ll watch over me from heaven. If my mom’s feeling better, ask her to watch me, too.’ I catch him practicing it in the mirror. And his name—it’s as though he was meant to be a member of our family.
“Don’t worry about how Kimberlie feels about it. Those two fell into mutual admiration from the start. When Kimberlie’s around, Gary follows her like a baby duck. She loves it. And, he’s got two sets of grandparents spoiling him. I keep thinking I should to talk to them about that, but they deserve the joy it gives them.
“Anna and Jason are doing well. Of course they were at Chloe’s salon opening. Anna told me Jason isn’t Richard, but he’s so kind and loving, she’s sure Richard sent him to her so she wouldn’t be alone. She hasn’t said anything yet, but I’m pretty sure I noticed a baby bump. Another gift from Richard?
“There’s one more thing. I’m uneasy about telling you, but I can’t not tell you. Someone nice, respectable, asked to take me to dinner this week. I don’t want to say who, but maybe you already know and understand why I hesitate about that.
“Frankly, I’m anxious about it. My first date in ages. Your parents assured me that you’d want me to live my life. Yes, I asked them how they’d feel. Theresa reminded me about Anna, how she had a right, if not an obligation, to have the best life she can, and why was I supposed to be any different? I know you can imagine how your mother sounded.
“Kimmie and Dr. Moore think it’s a good idea, as well. I can’t believe I asked so many people what they thought. Now I’m asking you. Your opinion matters. That probably shocks you, but it’s how I feel.
“That’s all I have to say for now, Garrett.”
A breeze wafted across the gardenias. Chelsea breathed in the scent. She turned her face to the sunlight, closed her eyes and let birdsong soothe her. She stayed that way, taking in the quiet and peace of the place.
A half hour later, she inhaled deeply and opened her eyes. Two buds at the top of the sprigs had bloomed.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nesly Clerge received his bachelor’s degree in physiology and neurobiology at the University of Maryland, and later pursued a doctoral degree in the field of chiropractic medicine. Although his background is primarily science-based, he finally embraced his lifelong passion for writing. Clerge’s debut novel, When the Serpent Bites, has received exceptional reviews, as has the second book in The Starks Trilogy, When the Dragon Roars. The trilogy books explore choices, consequences, and the complexities of human emotions, especially when we are placed in a less-than-desirable setting. End of the World: The Beginning, is the first book in a new serial and became an Amazon #1 Bestseller two weeks after publication. When Clerge is not writing, he manages several multidisciplinary clinics. He enjoys reading, chess, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his significant other and his sons. For more information regarding his books, please visit Clergebooks.com.
