Broken Pieces

Untitled Episode 4

On my way to my parents’ house. I didn’t call to let them know I would be early for once in my life. Totally want to see the shocked look on their faces. They will be proud I’m on time for dinner. Oscar, don’t forget to stop at a*****e, so I can get flowers and wine. Flowers for mom and wine for me. I truly love my parents for everything they have done for me. Sometimes it is hard for me to show them how much I love them.

Lisa and Nicholas Black are who I was placed with as foster parents when I was 9 years old. Growing up with them became an adjustment for me. When I was placed with them, I didn’t speak lots because I was a scared little girl. I had to learn to trust them to feel safe. It took me a year to feel safe enough and open for legal adoption. I was almost 11 years old when they legally adopted me. I became Reiley Black, a loved daughter of amazing people who took me in to love.

My parents didn’t have to love me the way they did. They taught me how parents are supposed to love and care for a child. The mother that birthed me was the devil. She would lie and steal to get what she wanted. The night that I was taken from my birth mother was because she was trying to sell me to get drugs to an undercover cop. I got lucky that night to finally be away from her. All I was to her was a ticket to use for what she wanted. As for the birth father, I don’t know who he is. My birth mother didn’t put a name because she didn’t know who it could be.

Reiley, you are OK back there. Why are you asking? Oscar I’m finding? I’m just thinking. Well, we are at the store you want me to go for you. No Oscar I can go in. Thank you for asking and always checking on me. I opened the door to walk into the store for flowers and wine. I stop at the flower to pick mom’s favorite. Walk to the wine and beer section to pick out wine. I’m standing there thinking if I should get dad some beer. Mom will more than likely kill me for it later. She isn’t much of a drinker, only on her birthdays and holidays mostly. So poor dad must follow mom’s rules at special times to have a beer.

I grabbed dad’s beer and headed to the checkout. Because this is a special day. I’m showing up early for dinner. Mom does dinner once a week, and I’m always late. She gets so upset I forget. It’s not that I mean to forget. I just get so caught up with work. Walking out to the car, Oscar takes the flower from my hand, so I can get into the car. We headed to my parent’s townhouse. Oscar looks at me through the rearview mirror and says," It looks like you will be there at 5. A whole hour and a half early. I laugh at him because he knows I’m queen of being late. What can I say: I’m an overachiever today.

Walking up to my parent’s door. I open the door quietly so I can surprise them. I hear mom in the kitchen. So, I tiptoed very quietly down the hallway to the kitchen. Never in my life have I ever sneaked into the house. I was the one to sneak out. Mom's back is turned to the stove. I put everything on the counter. I go and give a hug from behind her. She screams and turns around. Reiley, you are here already. Yes, mom, I brought flowers and beer for dad.

Reiley, I’m so glad to see you and super surprised. I can’t believe you made it early. While hugging mom again, I’m sorry mom, I’m always late. I have things I need to try harder to be present more for you and dad. I’m going to start working less, so I can have more time for my family and friends. Ava has been on me too about working too much. Reiley, that is amazing. I’m so proud of you. I know how it is for you to let people in. Just know I love you sweet girl and will be here always for you.