Yesterday Without Time in the amazing life of Kali

Chapter 41. Surprise for ruby

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the neighborhood as Brittany left Impresso Espresso she slid into her car, her heart brimming with excitement. She had just enjoyed a delightful afternoon with her daughters, Kali and Missi, and now she was on her way to pick up her granddaughter, Ruby. The thought of spending time with Ruby filled her with joy, especially after the heavy conversations of the past few days. Brittany turned the key in the ignition, the engine humming to life as she adjusted the rearview mirror. She was determined to make this visit special. Ruby had been through so much recently, and Brittany wanted to ensure that her granddaughter felt loved and cherished. As she drove through the familiar streets, her mind wandered to the plans she had made with Ruby’s other grandma, a plan that would add a dash of excitement to their day.

Meanwhile, Ryan and Jojo were at home, tidying up the living room after their heart-to-heart with Ruby. The atmosphere was still heavy with the weight of their earlier conversation, but they were grateful for the openness that had allowed Ruby to express her feelings. Jojo was putting away toys while Ryan flipped through the channels on the television, searching for something to lighten the mood. “Do you think Ruby is okay?” Jojo asked, glancing over her shoulder at Ryan. “I hope we didn’t overwhelm her with everything.” Ryan turned off the TV, his expression thoughtful. “I think she’ll be fine. It’s a lot for her to process, but we’re here for her. We’ll keep the lines of communication open.” Jojo nodded, her heart still aching for Ruby. “I just want her to feel safe and loved. She’s been through so much, and now with the news about her biological mother... I just hope she knows she can talk to us about anything.” “Of course she does,” Ryan reassured her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “We’re her parents, and we’ll always be her safe space.” As they spoke, Brittany pulled up to the curb of Ruby’s school, excitement bubbling within her. She had planned a little surprise for Ruby that she hoped would lift her spirits. After a quick phone call with Ruby’s other grandma, they had decided to take Ruby to a concert that evening an event that featured one of Ruby’s favorite bands. Brittany could hardly contain her enthusiasm as she parked and made her way inside to pick up her granddaughter. “Hey, Ruby!” Brittany called out, spotting her granddaughter at the end of the hallway, her nose still buried in a book. Ruby looked up, her face lighting up with a smile that made Brittany’s heart soar. “Ready for some fun?” “Grandma!” Ruby exclaimed, dropping her book and rushing toward her. Brittany knelt down, enveloping her in a warm hug. “I missed you!” “I missed you too, sweetheart! I have a surprise for you,” Brittany said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

“A surprise?” Ruby’s eyes widened, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”

“Let’s just say it involves music and a little bit of adventure,” Brittany teased, her smile widening. Ruby’s face lit up with joy, her imagination racing. “Are we going to a concert?” Brittany chuckled, nodding. “You got it! Your other grandma and I have planned a special night out just for you. We’re going to see your favorite band!” Ruby squealed with delight, bouncing on her toes. “Oh my gosh! Really? I can’t believe it! I’ve always wanted to go to one of their concerts!” “Then tonight’s your night!” Brittany declared, her heart swelling with happiness at Ruby’s excitement. “We’ll grab some dinner first, and then we’ll head to the venue. It’s going to be a night to remember!” As they made their way back to the car, Ruby chattered excitedly about the band and the songs she loved. Brittany smiled, her heart warm as she listened to her granddaughter’s animated voice. She couldn’t help but feel grateful for this time together, especially after the emotional weight Ruby had been carrying. Meanwhile, back at Ryan and Jojo’s house, the couple was still unaware of the surprise that awaited Ruby. Jojo was busy preparing a cozy dinner, while Ryan was tidying up the living room, both of them focused on creating a comforting environment for their daughter. “Do you think we should do something special for Ruby tonight?” Jojo suggested, glancing at Ryan. “Maybe a movie night or some ice cream?” “Those sound great,” Ryan replied, nodding. “But we should also give her some space to process everything. She might need some quiet time after what we talked about earlier.”

Jojo agreed, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that Ruby could use a little extra joy in her life. “I just want her to feel happy and loved. Maybe we can do something simple, like bake cookies together or play a game?”

Just as they were brainstorming ideas, Brittany pulled into the driveway with Ruby in tow. The two of them hopped out of the car, Ruby bubbling with excitement as she rushed toward the front door.

“Surprise!” Ruby shouted as she burst into the house, her eyes sparkling with joy. “Guess what, Mom and Dad? Grandma Brittany is taking me to a concert tonight!” Ryan and Jojo exchanged surprised glances, their expressions a mix of shock and delight. “A concert?” Jojo repeated, her voice filled with surprise. “That sounds amazing, Ruby!” “Yeah! It’s my favorite band, and I can’t believe I’m actually going!” Ruby gushed, her enthusiasm infectious. Brittany stepped inside, a proud smile on her face. “I thought it would be a fun way to celebrate and lift Ruby’s spirits after everything. I hope that’s okay with you two?” Ryan and Jojo nodded, still processing the news. “Of course, it’s okay!” Ryan said, his voice filled with warmth. “We want Ruby to have fun and enjoy herself.” Jojo knelt down to Ruby’s level, her eyes filled with love. “Just remember, sweetheart, we’re here for you. If you need anything or want to talk about anything, we’re always just a hug away.” Ruby nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. “I know, Mom. Thank you! This is going to be the best night ever!” As Brittany and Ruby prepared to leave, Jojo couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief wash over her. She was grateful that Ruby had this opportunity to let loose and enjoy herself, especially after the emotional rollercoaster they had all been on. “Have fun, you two!” Jojo called as they headed out the door. “And be safe!” “We will!” Ruby shouted back, her excitement palpable as she hopped into the car with Brittany. As Brittany started the engine, she glanced over at Ruby, her heart swelling with love. “Are you ready for an adventure, kiddo?” “More than ready!” Ruby exclaimed, her face beaming with joy. “Let’s go!” As they drove away, the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. The evening held a promise of laughter, music, and memories waiting to be made. Little did Ryan and Jojo know, this night would not only be a celebration for Ruby but also a reminder of the strength of family bonds and the power of love to heal and uplift.