Prior to my adoption by the Belkas, Children’s Network placed me with my only foster family, the Sakers. Although I wanted to stay with the Belkas, my social worker had to take me to the Sakers. Christmas break of my fourth-grade school year was my first holiday as a member of the Belka family. Then my tenth birthday, January 15, 1998, was incredible and unforgettable, and was similar to every birthday and holiday since my adoption by the Belka family.
My adoptive parents, Benjamin and Elizabeth Belka, met while attending the University of South Florida in Tampa. Benjamin studied architecture and Elizabeth studied interior design but minored in property law. Elizabeth is a Tampa native, unlike Benjamin, who is a third-generation Naples native.
In the spring of 1992, Benjamin’s grandmother became ill, and Elizabeth agreed to temporarily move to Naples. They planned to return to Tampa, but if they had, who knows where I’d be.
Benjamin and Elizabeth’s USF attendance secured their children’s legacy status. Jade studied marine biology and Adrian studied family medicine. I followed in Benjamin, Elizabeth, and Violet’s footsteps and completed my Master’s in Architectural Science—those were a lovely six years in Tampa.
After my adoption, Benjamin and Elizabeth accepted Amber and Grandma Lucy into our blended family. Knowing Grandma Lucy couldn’t afford to send Amber to college, Benjamin and Elizabeth offered and paid for her early education degree from USF. She enjoyed Tampa so much that she stayed and rented an apartment with Grandma Lucy until Grandma Lucy thought it would be best that she be among the elderly. Benjamin and Elizabeth pay for Grandma Lucy’s senior home. Honestly, Amber’s income leaves her without much, but she loves being a kindergarten teacher.
“Well?” again, Violet inquires what’s bothering me.
I stare out the window to watch as cars pass then respond, “Sorry, I was just thinking about Amber. I’m all right, just tired from lack of sleep.”
“Let’s make the best of your anniversary,” Violet says as she reveals a radiant smile.
Every June, we all unite to celebrate the anniversary date of my first encounter with the Belka family. It’s a tradition I have grown to adore. As this year’s anniversary grows near, I thought we’d all get to celebrate it together. I’m truly happy to see Amber, but I’m bothered that Grandma Lucy is missing our family celebration. For an eighty-year-old woman, Grandma Lucy is a riot. However, she often overexerts herself and induces weeks of bed rest.
Benjamin is sixty-eight, and Elizabeth is now sixty-six. They’ve lived in Quail West since the community’s establishment in 1992. After relocating from Tampa, Benjamin and Elizabeth had enough financial resources to buy a home, and then their architecture and realty firm. Thanks to successful planning, faith, and a hefty inheritance from relatives on both sides, Benjamin and Elizabeth have had successful careers, have a long and loving marriage, and have nurtured healthy, successful children.
Jade, the oldest at forty-five, acquired tenure as a professor of Marine Biology for USF. Shortly after graduation, she married Ander, a fellow marine biologist, and together they parent three daughters ranging from 11-15 years of age: Kayla, Kristin, and the youngest, Kristal. They’re sweet girls, and, like their parents, they also enjoy marine biology.
My only brother, Adrian, is forty-three-years-old. He is the founder and owner of several lucrative family practices in Naples, Tampa, and Fort Myers. His wife, Carina, is thirty-nine. Together they parent six children whose ages range from 6-17: Vida, Theo, Kara, Nadia, Anderson, and the youngest, Elle.
Violet is forty and has been unlucky with love. When the Belka family found me, Violet was engaged to Peter Carter, a successful Naples photographer. After four years of marriage, and years of trying to start a family, Violet was diagnosed with a reproductive condition that made her sterile. She had a monthly cycle, but her eggs were too weak to join with Peter’s sperm.
At first Peter was supportive, but the year they sought adoption possibilities, Peter was caught sleeping with his assistant, Maryanne. He later informed Violet that Maryanne was pregnant. Violet was beyond distraught and divorced Peter immediately.
After Violet’s divorce, she said she needed to leave Naples. So, we spent June and July of 2002 spa-hopping in South America. Violet and I spent time at La Posada de Qenti Spa Resort in Argentina, then Maruba Resort Jungle Spa in Belize, followed by the Four Seasons Resort Carmelo in Uruguay, and later Kurotel Clinica E Spa in Brazil. We ended our summer at La Samanna de Margarita Hotel and Thalasso in Venezuela. I’ll always remember that summer fondly. We spent our days sightseeing and our downtime receiving pampering massages and beauty treatments. After we’d enjoy our dinner, we’d spend the night dancing.
Before we left Naples, Violet somehow acquired a fake ID for me. She said, “You’ll be a junior in high school; why not enjoy a fun summer as a junior would?” Following Violet’s insinuation, I drank tropical alcoholic beverages and danced with South American hotties.
When we returned to Naples, Violet wasn’t one hundred percent back to normal. The trip distracted her from her divorce, and she felt ready to return to her reality: Thirty-year-old sterile divorcee with a diminished likelihood of ever becoming a birth parent. The only thing she had going for her was her career.
Violet wanted children, but her sterility would keep that from happening. I sympathized for her situation, and on our flight back from South America I let Violet know, “We can share my children, and until then you have me.” Ever since that summer, our relationship has been impenetrable.
“How was your session with Dr. Sanders?” Violet’s always polite when asking about my therapy appointments.
“Eh… you know, we giggled and shared life stories.” She gets my sarcasm.
Quail West is like every luxury subdivision in Naples: Lots of palm trees and greenery galore. My adoptive parents’ property is a little over an acre. Their house and lot are the largest in Quail West. An assortment of tropical trees and plants surround their home located at the end of a cul-de-sac. My parents’ home is a two-story, Spanish- inspired, ten-bedroom, six-bathroom luxury home, with a large pool and guest cottage.
As we pull into their wrap-around driveway, Violet’s car joins Jade’s Toyota Highlander and Carina’s Honda Pilot that are blocking Benjamin’s white, and Elizabeth’s red Lexus CTs. All the kids walk over to greet us just as Violet shuts off the engine.
“What took so long?” Elle blurts out. Her brother, Anderson, is mean to her and pokes her arm. Elle’s lips form into a pout. She grabs her arm then runs away, crying.
After greeting and hugging all the kids, minus Elle, I notice my parents and other siblings waiting their turn. Love is abundant in this family.
Violet and I are also Quail West homeowners. Additionally, we’re co-CEOs of Belka Designs and Realty. We live together, work together, and even share an active social life together. Oh, and I can’t forget, we’re also jogging buddies.
I could tell from their demeanor that Jade, Adrian, their spouses, and kids are exhausted from traveling to Naples. “I’m glad you guys could make it.” I cherish them so much. Just as we’re walking toward the house, Amber drives up in her Toyota Prius. Everyone stops to greet her.
Later, the kids splash and play in the pool. The men talk sports and economics while Benjamin keeps an eye on the grill. The ladies and I gather utensils and beverages as well as side dishes.
“All right, kids, ten more minutes and dinner will be ready,” Benjamin announces as the kids cheer.
“How is the business at Belka Design and Realty?” Amber questions in almost a whisper.
“Great,” Violet answers with confidence. Violet and I have maintained a partnership ever since Elizabeth and Benjamin retired almost immediately after my graduation from USF.
“We have various projects in the works, and some possible out-of-state clients. In two years, Scarlet has significantly increased our client list.” Violet beams as she gives me a wink.
Violet has always taken an
interest in my upbringing. During my first few years with the Belka family, after my twelfth birthday, Benjamin and Elizabeth decided to share legal custody with Violet. I had the choice of living in either home. As a result, I spent my weekends with Violet, and school nights with Benjamin and Elizabeth. Once Violet’s divorce was finalized, we deliberated and agreed it’d be best if I lived with Violet.
“Wash up, it’s time to eat,” Benjamin’s dinner announcement startles me. Elizabeth and I notice our similar reactions; she takes a moment to hug me tight.
“I know it has taken some time to overcome Clara leaving you, but not a day passes that I don’t thank the Lord for her selfishness.” Elizabeth stares into my eyes then continues, “If she hadn't left you, we wouldn’t have you with us. I love you so much, Scarlet.” She kisses me all over my face, which makes me blush like a small child would. My eyes begin to tear up.
“I love you, too, Mom. You guys are the family I always prayed I’d have.”
Adrian chimes in from the kitchen door, “OK. OK. Let’s leave all the sappy talk for after dinner.” On cue, we move with haste to settle into our seats at my parents’ outdoor table next to their pool. Benjamin beams from the head of the table, with Elizabeth to his left and Elle to his right; she’s such a grandpa’s girl.
“Here we are, fifteen years later, to celebrate Scarlet’s...” Benjamin pauses, then swallows. Elizabeth, Jade, and Violet were already tearing up. Adrian offers me a wry grin.
“From an adverse decision by Clara, our opportunity to have another daughter, sister, and aunt materialized.” Benjamin stops to reveal a mischievous smile. Several family members begin to whisper.
“What’s going on?” I ask. I dislike being out of the loop.
“Hello, darling,” Grandma Lucy whispers into my ear.
“Grandma!” I turn to see Grandma’s soft face smiling at me. I search for Amber and give her a grin.
“The doctors said if an attendant came along, she could have the weekend, but she has to return Sunday night. So, we decided to surprise you.” Amber shrugs, with guilt in her eyes. She always disliked lying, especially to me. I embrace Grandma Lucy tightly; she returns my affection with a tighter hug.
“Hello…” I utter to the handsome attendant behind Grandma Lucy. His lips lift into a soft smile.
“So, how are you, young lady?” Grandma inquires as I offer her my chair. Everyone greets Grandma Lucy. Adrian retrieves a chair for the attendant as Carina prepares plates.
“I couldn’t miss your fifteenth anniversary,” Grandma Lucy declares.
“I’m thankful you could come.” I give Grandma Lucy’s hand a squeeze.
“Thank you for accompanying Grandma Lucy. I hope we haven’t disturbed any plans. I’m sorry, what’s your name?” I inquire then wait for the tall, dark-haired stranger’s response.
“Greg. Greg Amilo,” he states then reveals a radiant smile.
“Nice to meet you, Greg Amilo. I’m Scarlet Rodrick, and this is my family.” I introduce everyone, but, as I get to Amber, Greg interrupts me.
“I know her.” His lips spread into an infectious smile. Amber smirks then rolls her eyes before glancing down at her plate.
“Now that the introductions are done, let’s commence the celebration.” Laughter follows my sudden outburst, but frankly, I don’t care. I’m delighted to be surrounded by my loving family.
We make the best of our time, and enjoy several family fun days. On Thursday we lounged and relaxed at the La Playa Beach and Golf Resort. Friday we traveled to Universal’s Island of Adventure in Orlando. Saturday we marveled as we were soaked by the show mammals at Sea World. Sunday, after church, we relaxed and prepared for everyone’s departure.
“Thank you so much for visiting,” I tell Grandma Lucy and Amber. Amber thought it best to leave with Grandma Lucy and Greg, so that she could get a head-start on her training week. She’s on summer break, but still has lesson plans to prepare and training sessions to attend before her new kindergarten class kicks off.
“I appreciate your family’s hospitality.” Greg shakes my hand with gratitude.
“Anytime,” Benjamin interrupts our small circle.
“If I left something behind, you know where I live.” Grandma Lucy winks at Benjamin. He winks back.
“We’ll have to plan another reunion soon.” Elizabeth hugs Grandma Lucy and Amber. We help Amber and Grandma Lucy load their bags.
“We’ll see each other soon.” Grandma Lucy’s eyes mist with tears as she lowers herself into the passenger seat of Greg’s older Honda Accord.
“Let me know when you have a weekend to spare. I’ll come up for a visit,” I tell Amber as she starts her car.
“We can do something next weekend if you want,” she offers.
“Sounds like a date,” I agree, but I’m not ready to say goodbye. I start to choke up. A group of us watch and wave good-bye as Amber, Grandma Lucy, and Greg leave the cul-de-sac.
The house I share with Violet is on the newer side of Quail West, on Brynwood Drive. Violet and Peter had a four-bedroom, three-bathroom, spacious ranch-style home constructed during their engagement. Peter felt guilty about his infidelity, so during their divorce, he agreed to give Violet their home.
While we were on our spa trip to South America, Violet had the lawn re-manicured with an array of floral bushes and palm trees. Peter disliked grass; he wanted a rock lawn due to his allergies. On the other hand, Violet loves all plant life, so she changed the landscape and the interior. What was once a boring house of navy blues and beiges is now shades of yellow, green, purple, and turquoise. According to Violet, our home is a textbook Florida home.
“Were you expecting anything?” Violet says as she shuts off the car engine.
“No,” I answer as we exit the car to check out the large box waiting on our doorstep.
“The return address is from Chicago, but there’s no name. Weird.” Violet wrinkles her nose in distaste.
“Well, who is it for?” I probe as I peer over her shoulder.
“It’s addressed to you. Let’s unload the car...” Violet instructs as she sets the box aside.
“All right,” I agree as I follow Violet to her car. We grab our luggage, walk inside to set our bags in our rooms, then meet in the kitchen. After sliding the box to me, Violet maneuvers through the kitchen to prepare a kettle of hot water for tea.
She grabs two boxes of Triple Leaf then turns to ask, “Would you like Jasmin Green Tea or Mint?” She displays the boxes one at a time, making both options enticing.
“Jasmin Green, please. Could you hand me the scissors? I don’t know anyone who lives in Illinois…” I ponder out loud as I make a mental list of my out-of-state friends.
Violet retrieves the scissors from their drawer and hands them to me. As I slice open the box, I graze my left hand. It’s not bleeding, so I ignore my injury.
“What is it?” Violet peeks into the box. We look at the contents of the package, then at each other.
“Eagle Wood Resort and Spa offer package?” we question simultaneously. Violet moves to the loud kettle teapot then she removes it from the stove. I observe as she collects two tea cups from the cabinet, drops in two tea bags, and then pours in the hot water. I redirect my attention to the unsolicited spa packets.
“Did you order any of it?” Violet questions as she balances our hot tea cups.
“No, I’ll call tomorrow to see why they sent it,” I reply from behind a brochure.
“I want to soak and enjoy my tea.” Violet places my tea cup in front of me then continues to her room.
“I think I’ll do the same…” I respond to an empty room. I lock the front door, grab my cup, and walk toward my room. The moment I step inside, my phone begins to buzz. I glance at the cell screen. Unknown number. I toss my phone on the bed and let it go to voicemail.
Once I’m in my bathroom, I bend down to start the bath. I turn to retrieve my bath items then jump when I spot my reflection. My hair is a fright a
nd my makeup is overdue for removal.
I’ve had admirers, even a steady boyfriend during college, but, I’ve never thought myself to be as attractive as the Belkas. Benjamin’s wavy, mostly light brown hair, hazel eyes, and flawless skin always causes heads to turn. The Belka offspring are all copies of Elizabeth, each with thick, straight, raven-colored hair, unlike my wavy, dark auburn hair and hazel eyes that have more blue than green flecks. The Belka males are all over 6’3”, and the females are 5’11” or taller. Jade hated her height, but came to terms when she met Ander, who is 6’5”.
Each Belka has a thin, but muscular, build. Active lives and healthy eating habits are what Elizabeth notes as significant factors to their youthful appearances. Unlike the Belka family, I’m a mere 5’7”. I consider myself medium framed, at a healthy 140 lbs. I have hips, thighs, and breasts that fill in summer dresses nicely—so I’ve heard, anyhow. Regardless of my appearance, my love life is non-existent.
Graduating high school at sixteen, then grad school at twenty-two, was accomplished by staying goal-oriented. I never made time for romance, until I met Tim. But we didn’t work out as a couple. Thankfully we’re still friends. To be honest, I wasn’t surprised when he revealed he was gay. Two years together and the most we ever did, sexually, was make-out. A few times we gave one another manual and oral pleasure, but that was about it.
I shut off the hot water, then remove my makeup. I add bath oils before slipping into the tub; the water temperature burns my skin and singes my lady bits. As the water engulfs me, I take in my surroundings. I’m blessed to be a member of the Belka family. How different my life would have been if Clara had kept me, or if a less loving, less wealthy family had adopted me. Would I even be an architect? With these thoughts swirling through my mind, I lie back, close my eyes, and doze off.
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