Page 46 of Jasha
“I saw the two sides of him, and I love this side in Lake Tahoe.”
“It’s true he and Arlo are changing how they do business. I told them I would leave if they didn’t stop. Mr. Wells and Miss Nadia also told him that. And you’ve got to know they basically raised him and love him like a son. So, he got the message.”
“I’m glad to hear that.”
“I heard Arlo was upset he took you too.”
“It’s all over now.”
“It’s not all over for your father. He could file a complaint with the police and cause shit for all of us aiding in your abduction.”
“He’s gone. He won’t do anything. He got away with not paying Kaleb a lot of money,” Jasha said. “Thanks for having my back.”
“If Kaleb hurts you in any way and you need out, call me. I’ll help you.”
“Thanks. I don’t think he’ll hurt me. He’s too busy loving me to death.”
The door creaked open, with Daddy Kaleb standing there. “What’s taking you so long up here?” Daddy Kaleb asked Adam.
“We were just shooting the breeze,” Adam said.
“Frankie and Jasha want to go shopping tomorrow morning,” Daddy Kaleb said.
“No problem. Is that all?”
“That’s it.” Daddy Kaleb was curt with Adam.
Daddy Kaleb embraced Jasha tightly, his arms wrapped protectively around him as he gazed down into his face. “I’m so happy you’re here with me.”
“I’m happy too.”
“You were busy putting everything away.”
“I love all my new clothes. Thank you so much.”
“Are you excited about our surprise evening?”
“Yes. What should I wear?”
“Before we go, you’re going to get a present and you can wear it. Let’s go down for dinner first.”
Jasha watched as Kaleb invited Miss Nadia, her two nieces, Adam, and Mr. Wells to join them for dinner. The guests added a lively energy to the already bustling dining room.
Food platters covered the table as dinner was served. Miss Nadia had outdone herself with perfectly roasted beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and tender green beans. A basket of warm French bread sat in the center, inviting everyone to help themselves. Jasha loved all these home-cooked meals. After living with his father, who cooked little, Jasha was overwhelmed by all the food on the table.
“This looks absolutely delicious, Miss Nadia!” Arlo exclaimed.
“Thank you, dear,” she replied, beaming. “I hope you all enjoy it.”
Frankie scanned the festive decorations adorning the dining room. “Wow, the table looks so pretty!”
“Thank you, Miss Nadia.” Jasha felt emotional when he thought about all the fast-food meals he’d had with his father. He had missed a lot by not having a mother.
“I wanted to create a special atmosphere for Christmas Eve,” Kaleb explained. “We’ll be going Christmas caroling in the neighborhood.”
Adam’s eyes lit up. “That sounds like so much fun!” he exclaimed.
“And after that, we’ll have a big family dinner,” Kaleb continued, “then we’ll open presents.”
