“Well, I was on the New York Otters for a brief time, and I got hurt during a game.”
“You were a hockey player?” Jacob’s eyes widened.
“Sure was. That’s why I’m a recruiter for the team.”
“What does that mean?”
“I help the team pick out the players they’re going to ask to join the team. I get to go to colleges and high schools, watch the guys play, and then report back to the higher-ups which players I think would be a good fit for the positions they need filled for the next season,” I explained.
“That sounds like a lot of fun.”
“It is, kid. Maybe one of these days I can take you with me.”
“That would be amazing.”
* * *
“Seemslike you and Stormi have really made this into a nice home for Jacob.” Cindy sipped her tea while sitting at the dining room table with me.
“We’re trying. He is a really great kid.”
“I’m glad to hear it. I am so pleased this has worked out. I do need to tell you Natty Fitton was released on bond yesterday. Depending on how everything goes, Jacob could be going home sooner than anticipated.” Cindy’s face was soft as she put her hand on mine. “I know it’s easy to get attached to children in situations like this, but we did know this arrangement was most likely temporary.”
“Will I still get to see him? I mean, he is my son, after all.” I couldn’t hide my disappointment. I had really grown fond of the little guy.
“We will have to work all that out when the time comes. I do think your case for visitation is strong since he seems so comfortable with you already.”
Visitation? Is that all my relationship with my son will be reduced to?
“I guess that’s a bridge to cross when we come to it.”
She pursed her lips. “Precisely. Mind if I say goodbye to Jacob before I head out?”
“Be my guest.” I led Cindy to his room, where he was nose deep in his history book again.
“It was nice seeing you again, Jacob.” Cindy waved as he glanced up.
“Thank you for checking on me.”
“Of course, sweetie. Good luck studying.”
Cindy followed as we walked to the front door. “Bravo, Cason. You have taken to fatherhood nicely.”
“I appreciate that.”
I heard Jacob come up behind me as I locked the door.
“Cason?”
“What’s up?” I turned to him.
“Can I call you Dad?”
There it was—the tug on my last heartstring that wasn’t already wrapped aroundtheboy’s finger.
“You can call me Dad if you’re comfortable with that.”
“I think it would be nice. Do you think Stormi will mind if I still call her Stormi since I already have a mom?”