Page 37 of Rounds
“The tears were from me being overwhelmed emotionally and from being angry and having to restrain myself. It felt like my head was going to explode if I didn’t release some form of emotion.”
“I hate seeing you cry. The last thing I want to do is lose you or even upset you to that point. You’re my everything, Delaney, and I’m falling for you, baby . . . so fast.”
I closed my eyes, surprised that he admitted that so soon. “Wow. I know with time I’ll be in love with you too. I don’t plan to be without you. How are we here so soon?”
“Because we were made for each other. Despite the turmoil you went through with your ex, our souls were ready for something real. We were craving it. I believe you were craving it even more than me because of your vulnerability to the situation you were in. Now let’s go in here and put this man out of his misery. He’s called me twice and sent two text messages, trying to figure out what time we were coming.”
I giggled. “Not too much on my father-in-law, now.”
He chuckled and got out to help me out of the SUV. I could see how happy my statement made him. Mr. Israel represented the type of father I wanted growing up. He was very hands on. Maybe that was because Glover was his son. I wondered if he would have been different if he’d had a daughter.
After opening my door, I slid out with his assistance. He leaned over and kissed my lips. I could still see the torment in his eyes. He was trying so hard to be perfect for me, simply because of what I’d gone through with Jaunté. Truth was, some things were out of our control. He was a single man living his best life. He didn’t owe loyalty or allegiance to anyone. According to his words to Denver, he was upfront about what he wanted. Basically, he was saying that she was just a fuck, and she knew that.
Stopping him, I told him, “Despite what happened today, you are still perfect for me, baby. Let that go. Okay?”
He gave me a tight-lipped smile, then kissed my forehead. “Okay.”
“Idoneed to talk to my parents and explain my reaction to them trying to show love to me. I appreciate their efforts of change, and I want to embrace it. I want a closer relationship with them. Maybe we can have a do over with them. No significant others though. Denver owes you an apology.”
“I’m not worried about Denver. He clearly has on rose-colored lenses when it comes to his daughter. I can’t fault himfor taking his daughter’s side. He doesn’t know me. Clearly, he doesn’t know her as well as he thinks he does either.”
We continued inside the nursing facility, and Glover signed us in. Heading down the hallway, I felt light. It was like my soul was at peace, and I loved that feeling. I was right where I was supposed to be. When we got to the room, Glover knocked and opened the door. “I hope you got that bird chest covered, old man. Your daughter-in-law is here.”
I could hear Mr. Israel chuckle as I walked inside. He was sitting up in bed with a huge smile on his face. “Hey, Delaney. Your man better be glad I can’t get up and put him in a headlock.”
I giggled. “Hey, Mister Israel. How are you feeling?”
“I’m good. Actually, I’m happy. Seeing this makes me happy.”
Glover turned his head and looked out of the window like something was more amusing outside. I could see him slowly shaking his head. It bothered him when his dad spoke about him like this. I grabbed his hand, and he looked at me and kissed my head, then led me to the small couch next to his dad’s bed.
Changing the direction of the conversation somewhat, I said, “I heard you had a cheeseburger and fries! You were that sure I would give this knucklehead a chance, huh?”
He laughed and clapped his hands as Glover rolled his eyes. “I was! No matter how hard he tries to be, I know who I raised. He’s spoiled and likes getting his way. Although he was trying to convince himself to move on, I knew he wouldn’t rest until he had you. He’s stubborn that way too.”
I laughed as Glover said, “A’ight, a’ight. That’s enough. Y’all talking about me like I’m not here to defend myself.”
“How do you defend the truth though?” Mr. Israel asked. “No lies were told, son.”
I laughed more. This was what my soul needed. Mr. Israel was such a kind soul. “Well, I want to thank you for raising himright. He has been nothing short of amazing. He’s been perfect and everything I needed. He even enlightened me on things I didn’t know I needed. You did your big one with this man.”
It was like I could see Mr. Israel’s chest inflate with air. He was so proud in this moment. He smiled at me. “I’m glad those talks and lessons weren’t done in vain. He was listening even when I didn’t think he was.”
“You did a great job, Dad. Now release that air in your chest.”
He chuckled. “I’m proud of you. That’s all.”
“Yeah, I know,” Glover said and squeezed his hand.
“So, when do y’all plan to start trying for me a grandbaby?”
Glover nearly choked on his own spit as my eyes widened. Then, I thought about our quickie at work. Surprising them both, I responded, “We’ve, technically, been trying already, without realizing it.”
Glover’s eyes widened, like he was in disbelief that I’d said anything. Mr. Israel started laughing and clapping again as I shrugged my shoulders. Glover knew he shot the club up in that closet. When we got home, he wore a condom, but still, it only took one time for something to happen.
“Yep. My grandbaby will be here before you know it. Glover is an Israel. Our soldiers march with gusto.”
It was my turn to choke. This man was a trip. He and Glover laughed at my dramatics, causing me to laugh too. I loved their dynamic. I stayed quiet as Glover asked him questions about his health and checked him out. Apparently, he did this nearly every day.
