“If you move out of state, how does that affect Jed?”Hazel asked, aware Jed was listening.
“It’s something we’d have to work on,” said Lisa.She, too, was aware of Jed’s presence.
“So, no matter what, it would be a matter of time.Is that right?asked Hazel.
“Yes, I will keep you informed,” said Lisa.“Jed, can you please go check on Harry?It’s getting awfully quiet in his room.”
Jed left them, and Lisa said, “If we move out of state, we may or may not be able to take Jed with us.It has to be arranged between the states.It’s something I worry about.”
“If necessary, would you be amenable to my becoming his foster parent?”Hazel asked, surprising herself.
“Or me,” said Mike.
“You’d both have to be certified.All the information is online,” said Lisa, turning as Jed approached, holding onto the toddler’s hand.
“Here he is,” said Jed.
Harry looked up at them and grinned.
“Jed, we’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”said Mike.“We’ve talked with Lisa.You won’t be left out of any information.”
“We’re here to help if you need it,” said Hazel.
Jed studied their faces and then nodded with satisfaction.
“You two are the kindest couple,” gushed Lisa.“We appreciate all you’re doing for Jed.Isn’t that right, Jed?”
He smiled and waved as Hazel and Mike prepared to leave.
As they walked away, Mike and Hazel were quiet.
Lisa had called them a couple.Hazel surprised herself by liking the idea, then told herself to be realistic.Mike had said he was too busy to think of anything like a relationship.
Finally, Hazel said, “I’m going to find out exactly what I’d have to do to become a foster parent.I believe they let single people become foster parents for children.I’ll check on it.The cabin has plenty of room for Jed.”
Mike gave her a steady look.“Let me know what we have to do.I’ll sign up for any classes and do whatever it takes.We can’t let Jed go into another foster home.Even an acceptable one.He needs stability.”
Hazel heard the determination in Mike’s voice and knew he was remembering his childhood.
###
As soon as Hazel went to her office, she looked up information online.
She learned that it typically takes sixty days or more to become a licensed foster care provider.There’s no minimum age.A home study is required, and a 21-hour course completed.Background checks and medical records are required.
Hazel sat back in her chair and let out a long sigh.There was so much to think about.She wouldn’t mention this idea of hers to anyone else but Mike.It would be their secret until or if it became time to act.
Following another busy day, Hazel drove home.She was going to take her mother to Jake’s tonight, and they had enough time before then to sit with a glass of wine.Tomorrow, her mother was leaving for home.Hazel wanted to make sure her mother was satisfied with her short visit.
Later, after an easy discussion between the two of them, they got ready to go to Jake’s.
On the way downtown, Hazel explained that those who were free met for drinks and dinner once or twice a week and caught up with the news.
“It’s an interesting group of people who are very active in town with their businesses and influence,” said Hazel.
“Like having Ross Roberts so much a part of the town?”asked her mother.
“Exactly.It was helpful to have names like Ross Roberts and Mike Dawson behind the Sports Center for local and state support.But shopkeepers and small business owners all play a part.And it is these friends who make such a difference in the success of the town.”
