"And," James added, reaching out and taking my hand in his, "it means your mama doesn't have to do all of this by herself, because I love her too."
I could never have imagined something so perfect in my wildest dreams. My life may not have gone exactly as planned, but that was fine. Because it was already starting to turn into something pretty amazing. Of course, this was unexpected. But amazing nonetheless.
*********
A few weeks later, a family dinner. This time, it was my turn to ask if anyone could join us.
"Seriously, Diane," my mother said as she shook her head, "you've always been on my side in this." It's family dinner time, not time for friends or anyone who isn't a member of this family -"
"Just this once, mom," I said, trying to keep my cool. "You always let Luke's friends c
