I want to believe him.Want to trust that this will work out.
But I've learned the hard way that promises don't always hold.
* * *
By eleven thirty, the house is spotless.The kids are dressed in clean clothes, hair brushed, looking like the well-cared-for children they are.
I've changed three times, finally settling on something that says responsible guardian without trying too hard.Dark jeans and a soft sweater that hides the last of my bruises.
Hades looks good in anything, but he's wearing a button-down shirt instead of his usual cut.He’s making an effort.
"You're pacing," he observes.
"I'm nervous."
"I know.But we've got this."
The doorbell rings at exactly two o'clock.
The social worker is a middle-aged woman named Mrs.Grant.She has kind eyes and a clipboard, which somehow makes her both less and more intimidating.
"Thank you for having me," she says as Hades shows her in."I know these visits can feel invasive, but they're an important part of the process."
"We understand," I say, managing a smile."Would you like to sit?"
She does, settling into the living room couch and pulling out her notes."I've reviewed your application thoroughly.Everything seems to be in order.Today, I just want to see how everyone's settling in and make sure the children are adjusting well."
"They're doing great," Hades says."Better than we hoped, honestly."
Mrs.Grant smiles."That's wonderful.Are they here?I'd like to speak with them briefly."
"Of course.I'll get them."
Hades disappears upstairs and returns with all five kids.They file in quietly, suddenly shy in front of the stranger.
"Hello," Mrs.Grant says warmly."I'm Mrs.Grant.I work with the court to make sure children are happy and safe in their homes.Would you mind talking with me for a few minutes?"
The kids exchange glances.Then Mason steps forward, always the brave one.
"What do you want to know?"
"Well, let's start simple.Do you like living here?"
"Yeah," Jake answers immediately."It's nice.It's our home now."
"And how are your aunt and uncle treating you?"
"Really good," Sophie says softly."They take care of us.Make us breakfast and help with homework and everything."
Lily toddles forward, less intimidated than her siblings."Uncle Hades makes pancakes!With chocolate chips!"
Mrs.Grant laughs."That does sound good.And Evangeline?What about her?"
"Aunt Evangeline reads to us before bed," Emma offers."And she helps me with my math."
"She's nice," Sophie adds."She gives the best hugs."
I feel tears prickling at my eyes.These kids.God, these kids.
