Andre blinked a couple of times. But when Demetrius stepped closer, he stepped back.
Okay, so hugging is out for now. Maybe forever. Easy to respect that.I fervently hoped Demetrius would and, when he stepped toward the hall, my wish was granted.
“I’ll see you out.” I followed the man to the front hall and then out the door. We ambled to his car together. I glanced back, half expecting to see Andre in the doorway or at the front window, but I didn’t spot him anywhere.
Demetrius cleared his throat. “Is he really okay?”
Although I didn’t like the idea of talking about Andre behind his back, clearly Demetrius needed assurances only I could give. “I’m not going to lie and say this has been easy for him—you can see that for yourself. I will say it takes bravery to fly across the country to meet a total stranger. Especially when rejection was a real possibility.”
“I would never—”
“Yes, but he didn’t know that. He’d sent the text, but hadn’t found the courage to call. Jumping on a plane took guts. I want to say he’s strong, but at the same time, I’d say he’s vulnerable. As are you. This is tough for both of you.”
“We barely discussed our father.”
“He’s the initial tie that binds you—but it’s up to you to find more. To find common ground. To forge a path.” Again, I glanced back at the house. “You heard him—he’s been alone since his mother died. When he discovered he had family, that was a real shock.”
“Same here. I just knew my dad took off. I had Mom and Gran and a ton of responsibility. I didn’t really give the guy much thought. Was just grateful for the amazing women in my life.”
“I would love to meet Imani and Malaya. They sound amazing.”
“If you can convince Andre to let them in as well, I’d appreciate it.”
“It’s not my place to convince. He needs gentle understanding—not pressure from me.”
“You’re right.” Demetrius winced. “I was wrong to ask.”
“If he wants, we’ll have a debrief of sorts. I’ll make sure we talk about everyone who came up today—including your sisters. Rest assured, they won’t be forgotten.”
Demetrius held out his hand.
I pulled him into a hug. “I’m so glad I met Quinton. And that he introduced me to you.”
“Through Foster. So many great people in this community. I’m so glad Keegan and Alaina convinced me to move here. Well, and having Jai made things perfect.” Demetrius stepped back from the hug.
“Give them all my love. I’ll happily bring Andre and Daphne to your house tomorrow if that still works. Just text the time.”
“Okay.” Demetrius slid behind the wheel of his minivan. He waved as he drove off.
When I turned back to the house, Andre stood in the doorway. “You were talking for a while.”
Be honest.“He’s worried about you. I think he wanted assurance I’d take care of you.”
Andre scowled. “I don’t need a minder.”
“Absolutely not. But—” I hesitated. Decision made, I strode to him. “I’m not a minder—and Demetrius knows that.”He has no idea I used to be a Daddy, though.Yeah, probably best he didn’t know that particular fact. “I’d worry about him, if he didn’t have Jai. This is a huge life change you’re both going through. I think, as the older brother, he feels protective. Responsible. You have to understand that he’s been taking care of people since he was a child. He said asmuch—sisters, sick mother, ill wife… He even said his relationship with Jai is a bit of a departure because Jai’s healthy and not dependent on him.”Or something to that effect.
“You make it all sound so reasonable.”
I stood before him. “Maybe things are as simple as that. You made the leap, Andre. Demetrius is a good man. Maybe trust you made the right decision in coming here.”
Andre sighed. “I just don’t know.” He seemed to fold in on himself as he blinked repeatedly.
What have you got to lose?“Let’s go inside.” I gestured for Andre to go first. Which he did.
After I closed the door, he turned to me. “I don’t know what to do.”
“I have a suggestion.”
