With the baby’s arrival approaching, the support system that had formed around Kiki had turned into an inner circle, a family of sorts. They all shared in not just the secret of the baby’s paternity and adoration for her and Kiki, but also in genuine comradely and friendship towards each other. When Lynn and Paul came into the folds they were welcomed with open arms and met with no ill will for their son’s actions. The future grandparents actually clicked well, Nina and Lynn especially found that they had a lot in common besides their shared first grandchild. They became the two mamas of the circle, being respected and revered by all. Together they really cemented the sense of unity among them all, specifically with their idea of Sunday dinner. Both women loved cooking and feeding their families, so now that they were all becoming one big family, they thought why not do it together. Every other Sunday, alternating between the Lewis house and the Harless house the inner circle got together to have a good time and enjoy a home cooked meal.
There were also the big events that they celebrated together like the day Ms. Marissa Miller becoming Mrs. Marissa Tanner. The ceremony was beautiful and the group of friends managed to turn the reception into quite the party. Joey caught the garter and being the flirt that he was, he put on quite the show slipping it on the woman who caught the bouquet. She was a trainer at Key West and coincidently an ‘N Sync fan. All the guests, including Tami, were cracking up as the woman turn beet red from his teasing. The party went on well into the evening, but for the first time in her life, Kiki left a party before it was over. She was too exhausted to keep up, but she might as well get used to it, her partying days were over. Not that she mind, she had much better baby days ahead.
Her second baby shower, her family shower, being one of them.
With the possibility that people knew who Lynn and Paul were, Kiki had to have a separate shower for friends and co-workers to attend along with her family who were there more for appearance’s sake. It was a fun party that Maya, Tami and Marissa hosted at Joey’s house for her and she got a plethora of gifts, but her family shower was more special and intimate for Kiki.
On this go around it was the Lewis house’s turn to host a gathering and they all met up there for a barbeque. Paul and Frederick were manning the grill while Nina and Lynn were in the kitchen preparing the side dishes for the meal. Like usual, the guys were outside with the patriarchs shooting the shit and playing ball on the court that Frederick had constructed on the property for the kids years ago. The girls were in the kitchen with the matriarchs, surrounding Kiki as she went through a Babies R Us catalog showing them all the items she was buying with the arsenal of gift cards she had gotten at her first shower. Yes it was late in the game to be buying baby supplies, but Lynn and Nina had asked her to wait until she got her gifts from them. Apparently she had some good stuff coming and she couldn’t wait to find out.
The room was loud and boisterous with their chatting and laughing until the girls went outside to see what the guys were up to, maybe challenge them to a game. Kiki choose to stay inside with her mother and Lynn as they gossiped about their work week, interjecting every once and awhile. A lull had hit the conversation and Lynn used the opportunity to bring up a subject she had been feeling awfully guilty about. Kiki had all of her family celebrating with her today, but there were other people, family of the baby’s who would have loved to be here. Two people in particular and she wondered if Kiki would ever feel comfortable with anyone from Justin’s side other than herself, Paul, Randy and Lisa knowing about the baby.
Setting down the tongs she was tossing the salad with, Lynn said. “Kiki honey, I have to ask you something.” Mouth full of pilfered raw cauliflower from the veggie platter, Kiki signaled for her to go ahead. “I know that its safest if only your family and your friends know about the baby. But there are some family members of mine who would like to know her too.”
Kiki smiled when she realized who Lynn was hinting at. “Like your parents? How are they by the way?”
“You’ve met them?” Nina questioned. She had no idea Kiki and Justin had gotten serious enough for her to have met his parents and grandparents.
“Yeah I met them at our stop in Memphis.”
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Kiki was putting her hair in a top knot when she heard someone knocking to a beat on her hotel door. Knowing exactly who it was, she made him wait until her hair was in place and then she answered the door.
“What the hell are you doin’ answering the door without asking who it is?” Justin chastened her with a teasing grin when her figure came into view.
“Oh shut up.” She left him in the doorway to finish getting ready in the bathroom.
Rushing up behind her, he grabbed her hips and pulled her back to lay a raspberry on her cheek. She squirmed and batted at him. “Get away.”
Laughing he released her into the bathroom and stood against the door frame, watching her. “So you ready?” He grinned almost goofily. He was so excited about her agreeing to tag along with him to breakfast with his grandparents so they could meet. It would have been too overwhelming for her last night with his whole family at the show, so he put off their meeting for this morning with just the four of them. He could sense her apprehension as he watched her shift around uncomfortably. “Don’t worry baby. They’re my mom’s parents, so they’re going to love you just like she does.”
Kiki smiled at that. Lynn did make it clear that she like her a lot and hinted at her approval should she decide to pursue a relationship with Justin. Too bad she was in LA this weekend or else she would have been in for a treat.
Screwing the cap of her mascara back on, she faced Justin. “I’m not gonna spazz. I’m fine.”
“Good.” He leaned in and kissed her forehead. “Let’s go then before you punk out.”
He laughed out loud when she pushed him towards the door and again told him to shut up. He grabbed her hand, she strapped on her purse and they left the room.
Descending ten floors to the lobby, they stood side by side in the elevator, Justin’s arm slung over her shoulder. “I wish we weren’t leaving in a few hours. I’d take you for a ride, show you my house.”
“Really? Well that’s reassuring to know.”
“What is?”
“That you would voluntarily take me to your house. It means you probably don’t have another chick living up in there.”
“Oh no.” He denied. “She’s at my house in LA.”
His smirking was met with an icy glare that was quickly wiped it off his lips with a backhand to the stomach.
“Oomph. Ey! You little-“ He growled and grabbed at her, but the elevator bell dinged and the doors slid opened.
Kiki giggled as she dodged him and jetted out the car. In the lobby with plenty of people milling around, in a teasing manner, she reminded a vengeful Justin. “We’re in public now. Be good.”
“Keep actin’ up and I’m gonna get your ass later.”
Subtly, for his eyes only, she wiggled her butt as she walked ahead of him. “You can try.”
Entering the Bob Evan’s that was connected to the hotel, Justin saw the restaurant’s lobby was empty so he used the opportunity for payback.
“Ow!” Kiki yelped when she felt the sting of his slap on her rear. The hostess’ attention was drawn to them preventing her from retaliate with anything other than a scowl and hiss of “asshole”.
Ignoring her, Justin walked around her to the welcome podium. “Hi.”
“Hello welcome to Bob Evan’s. Can I get you a table for two?” The older woman asked.
“No we’re meeting some people and-“ He looked past her onto the main floor and saw his grandparents seated at a table, talking. “I see them right over there.” He pointed.
“Oh yes, you can go right in. Your menus are already waiting at the table with your party.”
“Thanks.” Justin and Kiki both replied.
“Enjoy you’re meal.”
Walking through the restaurant, they heard a few gasps and whispers when Justin was noticed. He ignored it hoping if he didn’t acknowledge them, he wouldn’t be bothered while eating.
“Hey Granny. Hey Pa.”
“Hi son.”
“Hey sugah.” The couple greeted their grandson with happy smiles.
“I hope you guys weren’t waiting long.” He kissed his grandmother on the cheek and hugged grandfather before pulling a chair out for Kiki.
“Only about 10 minutes.” Bill shrugged.
“Cool.” He nodded. “Well guys this is Kiki. Kiki this is my Granny and my Pa.”
With a confident, bright smile on, Kiki stuck her hand out to Mrs. Bomar first, followed by Mr. Bomar. “Hi it’s nice to meet you Mrs. and Mr. Bomar.”
They each returned the welcoming warmly before Sadie began the inquisition.
“So you’re the young lady my daughter has told me about.” Lynn had been vague only telling her that when Justin came into town, she would probably be introduced to a very nice and quite impressive young woman who he was rather smitten with. “You sure are a pretty little thang. No wonder you and my grandson move so well together.”
Kiki’s eyes widened as she blushed furiously; partly from embarrassment and partly from amusement. Rather obvious insinuating was apparently a Bomar family trait.
“Granny.” Justin admonished to which she just waved him off. “Pa..” He looked to his grandfather for some help.
Bill chuckled as he looked at his menu. “What do you expect me to do? You know how your grandmother is.” His wife was a very independent woman who did and said what she wanted. He stopped trying to censor her ages ago.
“Oh don’t mind me honey.” Sadie reached over and patted Kiki’s hand. “I’m just messin’. I’m one of those grandmas’s who likes to tease her family, especially this one.” She thrust a thumb at Justin. “I gotta make sure that fame and fortune doesn’t go to his head. Although I’ve heard you’re doing a pretty good job of that.”
“Well you gotta keep ‘em on a short leash or they run wild.” Kiki quipped and a peel of laughter came from both Sadie and Bill.
“Oh I like her.” Bill replied casual, still trying to decide what he wanted to eat and Sadie agreed whole heartedly.
Kiki beamed under their approval while Justin pouted. “Oh this is just perfect. I’m keeping you away from the rest of the family so you can’t corrupt them too.”
By the end of a very enjoyable breakfast, Sadie and Bill were hugging Kiki goodbye and ordering Justin to bring her home with him when the tour was over.
***********************************************************************************************
“Your parents are so sweet. And your mom probably makes the best peach cobbler I have ever had. But don’t tell my grandmother that.”
Lynn laughed. “I’m surprised Justin shared.”
“Uh…yeah. I think he was in one of his rare ‘sharing is caring’ moods.”
More like he was in the mood to use her as a plate once he wrestled her to the floor of his bus, pulled her shirt off and slathered a piece of the pie all over her bare stomach before eating every bit off.
Feeling herself blush at the memory, Kiki dismissed the not only hot, but at this point forbidden thoughts out of her head. Justin is the enemy no sexy thoughts about him Kiki. Damn these hormones!
“So it’ll be okay if I tell them?” Lynn asked anxiously. Her mother of all people would be crushed to find out that she had a great grandchild kept secret from her.
Kiki sighed. “You know that sometimes family can betray you the worse and because of that you can’t tell them anything right?”
“Yes and unfortunately there are a few of us Bomars who would blab in a heartbeat if they had any gossip on Justin.”
“Well then if you know which ones can be trusted, feel free to tell them.” She really had no problem with deserving, trustworthy family knowing the truth. “I’m big on family, you know that and I want to pass that on to my daughter, but how do I do that when part of her family doesn’t even know she exists?” She emitted a harsh sigh, once again feeling frustrated with the situation.
“It’s a raw deal that you and especially the baby have been dealt. Hopefully it won’t be forever.” Nina tried to assure her daughter.
“You know I wish I could be as positive as you two, but let’s be real here for a minute. It just might be forever because Justin may never accept our child.” The spotlight was finally shone on the reality of the situation. Kiki had been hopeful that something would change on Justin’s end, but the baby would be here soon and he was still AWOL. If he couldn’t grow a pair by now, she doubted he ever would. “I’ve come to realize that I’m going to have to either lie to my daughter for her entire life or at some point tell her the truth and force her to live like some disgrace that no one is aware of. Its cruel and unfair and I swear I almost hate him sometimes.” A flare of intense anger came over Kiki’s whole demeanor, disturbing the positivity she’d been trying to keep her mind frame and emotions under.
Nina and Lynn shared a disheartening glance. Kiki had brought up a good point that until now they never considered and it disturbed Lynn the most. Maybe this situation was impossible and her son would never do right by his daughter. How to explain that to a child?
“Ugh.” Kiki groaned in anger. Damnit once again because of him, she was getting so upset she could feel tears building in her eyes and even better while she was at her baby shower. No this was not going to happen, not now. “You know forget it. I’m not going to lie to my child that’s for damn sure. I don’t know how I’m going to tell her, but that day is a long way away. I’ll decide when I get to that crossroad.” For now she figured she had well over a decade until her daughter was old enough to know the truth. In the meantime she had to concentrate on making her child so happy and feel so loved that she wouldn’t even know what she was missing. Letting it all go with a smile, she declared. “I have better things to do than dwell anyway - like enjoy my baby shower and getting more presents.”
Nina and Lynn watched the distress melt off Kiki and turn into genuine giddy joy. Her never ending strength that kept her focused on being happy and taking care of herself and her baby throughout all this drama was something they were proud of her for, especially as women and mothers themselves. With that they followed her lead and changed the subject to more mundane topics.
Lunch was served and once everyone was pleasantly stuffed, it was time for the big gift reveal and she found out why agreeing to wait to buy her baby supplies was a smart move. Between her parents and Lynn and Paul, they had brought all the furniture for the nursery, a baby carrier, swing, stroller, high chair, etc. All she had to do was go and pick out the ones she wanted and she was all set. All the essentials she needed, she now had.
And by the end of the following week, a nursery across the hall from her bedroom with a mix of pastel pink, purple, green and blue was complete and wait for a newborn baby girl.
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The bedside clock read 2:37AM and the Lewis house was cloaked in darkness and silence. At the end of the hall in Kiki’s childhood bedroom she slept soundly until a jolt of pain from her abdomen woke her instantly. It was pain unlike anything she’d ever experienced and she knew from her talks with her doctor and other mothers in her Lamaze class that it was a contraction. Lying on her side she froze, eyes searching the darkness of her room in fear. This couldn’t be it, she wasn’t ready, the baby wasn’t ready. She wasn’t due for another two weeks. Maybe this isn’t real, maybe it was the Braxton-Hicks contractions that her doctor warned her about closer to her due date. Lying propped up against her headboard, Kiki stayed awake, cell phone poised at her side, waiting for another contraction.
The sharp bit of pain never returned and the next thing Kiki knew she was waking up at 11AM later that morning, surprisingly feeling quite rested. She was convinced the single contraction was just a case of BH and she got out of her bed to start her day. A day that lately consisted of her relaxing around her parents’ house, catching up on her leisure reading or daytime soaps, all while unsuccessfully trying to stop her mother from waiting on her hand and foot. At Nina’s insistence, she had moved back home for the last month of her pregnancy so she would have someone around to help if she ever needed it.
She was in the kitchen making a sandwich when that sharp undeniable pain rippled out from her stomach and through her entire body. It was another contraction like the night before, but not like the night before. This one was so painful it forced her to drop the knife she was using and grab a hold of the counter’s edge when her knees buckled. She had a feel that this was labor, not Braxton-Hicks at all.
Pushing through the pain, Kiki was able to stumble over to one of the kitchen chairs. Holding onto the seat of the chair, she did her Lamaze breathing until the pain ebbed away. This was just the beginning and already she wasn’t so sure she wanted to do it anymore. It was far too late to change her mind though, so she braced herself to get up and go tell her parents that the time had come. Rising from her seat, she took two steps and another contraction seared through her body again. Luckily she hadn’t gotten to far from her chair or she would have fallen to the floor.
“Oh God.” Kiki moaned in agony before she let out a quiet sob. She was in an incredible amount of pain and scared to death, but she had to be strong now more than ever. It was time for her to bring her little girl into this world so she focused herself and began to breathe rhythmically again. When the pain faded this time, swiftly, but gingerly she waddled outside where her parents were doing yard work.
Walking through the sliding door, she stepped onto the patio and saw her mother was in her rose bush pruning and cultivating the soil while her father was mowing the lawn. Luckily he was at the back of the yard so the noise wouldn’t overpower her voice.
But all she could get out was “Mamí,” before she felt a warm gush of liquid run down her leg.
“Oh God my water broke!” She looked down to see tracks of fluid running down her bare legs to a little pool at her feet. Oh God, oh God. I’m having a baby. I’m having a baby! She began to panic and couldn’t seem to move or call out for help again.
Fortunately she didn’t have to. Nina had heard her and turned her attention to her daughter’s frozen form. When Kiki’s head came up from staring at her feet, Nina didn’t even bother to ask what she needed. The terror on her face was a look that she was familiar with, she remembered feeling the way Kiki looked right now. Ripped off her gardening gloves and smock, she ran across the backyard to her daughter’s side. Her sudden retreat got Frederick’s attention and he cut off the mower.
“What’s wrong?”
“She’s in labor.” Nina yelled over her shoulder as she helped Kiki back inside.
Wasting no time they set in motion their plan of action. Frederick followed them into the house and ran down the hall to Kiki’s room to get her overnight bag while Nina was putting her in the car. Sitting in the back seat keeping her calm, she started making phone calls, first to the doctor to let her know Kiki was in labor and on the route to the hospital. Within seconds, Frederick was jumping into the driver’s seat and they were off to welcome the newest member of their family.
Pulling up at the hospital entrance, there was a nurse waiting at the curb with a wheel chair. With contraction that were now 15 minutes apart and pain that had only gotten worse since her water broke, Kiki was too happy to accept the ride. Being wheeled into the maternity wing, she briefly caught a glimpse of Lynn, Paul, Maya, Derek, Tami and Joey sitting in the waiting room. She gave them a tight smile as she was whisked away with her mother at her side. Frederick stayed behind to do all the necessary paperwork and waited with the others until she was situated in her birthing room.
After examination, Kiki was told she was over 8 cm dilated, but her doctor was going to wait until she was farther along to give her an epidural as not to slow down her labor. Initial, she was understand about it, but then another contraction hit her and for the first time she cried out as she held on tight to the bed rail with one hand and her mother’s with the other. She didn’t know how much longer she had to go, but she knew she’d be thanking Jesus when they did administer those drugs.
After the doctor left the room to check on another patient, her entourage was allowed into her room and each took a turn at trying to help soothe her and keep her mind off the pain. She appreciated their efforts and loved having them all there, but it really wasn’t doing a damn thing to help her. Still, it was touching to having their constant support even when she was snapping at them. Of course they understood that her anger was pain induced and she didn’t mean anything she was saying. They actually found it amusing especially when she got on Joey, but he deserved it for bringing up a touchy subject at the wrong time.
“Decision time Kik: is it going to be Justine or Justina?” He let out an obnoxious laugh that no one copied.
Kiki was panting harshly, her face sweaty and her hair was all over her head. But she still managed to direct a death glare at him. The longer she stared, the angrier she got as his comment course though her mind. Before anyone could stop her she grabbed the plastic pitcher next to her bed that was filled with ice chips and flung it across the room, right at his head. Luckily Tami saw it coming and pulled her idiotic boyfriend out the way so that it barely missed him.
“Do you really think reminding me of the asshole who did this to me is conducive to your health?!” She hollered and Joey shook his head adamantly with abject fear in his eyes. “Then SHUT THE FUCK UP! AAH!” She screamed as another contraction ripped through her body.
Joey did exactly as he was told and stay silent, only speaking words of comfort and encouragement to her from that point on.
Finally it came time for her epidural and soon after Kiki was ready to give birth. With the exception of Nina and Lynn who she asked to be by her side, the doctor and nurses ushered everyone out.
It took a total of 16 hours of labor before Cheyenne Jocelyn Lewis was born on April 12, 2004.
Kiki’s tears of unbearable pain changed to those of overwhelming joy the second she heard her baby crying out her arrival into the world. After a quick check up and clean up, a nurse placed Cheyenne into her mother’s arms for the first time. Kiki was in complete awe as she stared at the most beautiful thing she had ever seen in her life.
Little Cheyenne had an elven-like face with full head of curly dark brown hair, cute little ears that stuck out slightly “ like her father, unlike him - thank God - she had a small button nose, and full lips. As expected she was tiny, but it only made her even more adorable and it was love at first sight for Kiki.
Lynn and Nina stood to the side holding hands with tears in their eyes as they watch Kiki and Cheyenne, each reminiscing on their own experience with the most joyous day of a mother’s life. After sharing a few moments together, mother and daughter were briefly separated so they each could be thoroughly examined and Kiki could be settled in her hospital room. Assured that Cheyenne would be perfectly safe with a nurse and her grandmothers escorting her to the nursery, Kiki let herself be succumbed to her exhaustion.
Waking up an hour later, she was still tired, but too anxious to see her baby again. Before she called the nurse, feeling sore and grimy, she slowing got out of her bed and took a warm, relaxing shower. After changing, feeling clean and refreshed, she settled back into her bed and finally called for her little girl. She didn’t have to wait long for the nurse to walk in with a little pink bundle in her arms.
“Hi Mommy.” The woman greeted Kiki as she placed the baby in her arms.
“Hi Cheyenne.” Cradling her sleeping baby in her arms, Kiki kissed and nuzzled her face. She felt tears of joy well in her eyes when Cheyenne snuggled back into her, sensing her mother’s presence.
The nurse interrupted briefly to inform Kiki that after a complete physical, despite being a little premature, Cheyenne got a clean bill of health. All the little one needed now was to get a full tummy so she helped Kiki get situated to nurse her for the first time. Once she was sure they were all set, she left mommy and baby to themselves.
As Kiki nursed, she held Cheyenne close, stroking her soft cheek and watching her the entire time. She could feel her bond with her daughter deepen and she knew feeding time was going to be one of her favorite times shared with her little girl.
When Cheyenne was full and burped, Kiki cradled her in the dip of her thighs and unbundled her to give her an exam of her own.
“Well kiddo you got all your fingers and toes-ys.” She played with her little feet, jiggling them around and kissing the soles. It was then that Cheyenne let out a soft, content coo. “Oh look at that. I got you talking to me already. That’s because you know my voice don’t you, don’t you? Niña bonita de Mamí.” Cheyenne cooed again as if she knew exactly what her mother was saying to her. Leaning down, Kiki peppered her face with kisses. “Now all you have to do is open those eyes so we can finally see each other. Cómo sobre él, mi amor.” She took hold of one of her hands and smiled wildly when her fingers wrapped around one of hers in return. Kiki kissed her little knuckles and when she pulled back, she saw her wish come true.
Cheyenne’s little eyes cracked open and Kiki wasn’t surprised to see that they were blue. “Looks like those cute little ears aren’t the only thing your Daddy gave you.” She sighed and said mostly to herself. “I just can’t get away from those blue eyes can I?” Taking a good look at her baby’s blues, she beamed. “But guess what? They’re more beautiful on your precious face.” She tickled her tummy and got another gurgled coo.
Enjoying her one on one time for a little longer, Kiki finally relented to sharing Cheyenne.
“Okay sweetheart, I think its time we let your family come visit. Are you up for some visitors? They’re probably foaming at the mouth waiting to see you.” She felt a chill in the air so she bundled Cheyenne back into her blanket. “As soon as you get sick of them you let me know okay? And let me tell you, you will get tired of them.” she cooed again and Kiki was so happy to see how responsive and interactive her baby was. It was going to be so much fun watching her grow up and experience the world around her. Stroking her soft curls, she kissed Cheyenne’s nose before calling the nurse and telling her she was ready for visitors.
Not five minutes later, Kiki sat in her hospital bed laughing as she watched the anxious group practically charge into the room. They may have already seen Cheyenne through the nursery window as they waited, but it only made them antsier to see her in person.
Nina, being the first to enter, wore a wide and proud smile as she looked at her glowing daughter holding her granddaughter. “Hijita you’re glowing.” She gushed.
Kiki laughed softly, feeling the glow her mother referred to. “Hi Mamí.”
“Hi Mamí.” They both giggled and Nina came to the side of the bed, lying a kiss on Kiki’s cheek. Frederick soon joined his wife on one side, while Lynn and Paul were on the other, giving her hugs and kisses. The end of the bed was circled by her siblings and friends. They were all leaning over the bed trying to get a peek so she positioned Cheyenne in her arm in order to give everyone a decent view of her.
“She is absolutely gorgeous.” Tami beamed.
“Yes she is. You did a beautiful job baby.” Frederick leaned over Nina and kissed Kiki’s forehead.
“Thanks Daddy.”
“So what’s her name?” Maya asked the question they were all anxiously waiting to get an answer to.
“Everybody meet Ms. Cheyenne Jocelyn Lewis. Cheyenne meet your family.”
“Oh cute name Kiki. I like it.” Maya, Tami and Marissa all agreed as if their opinion really mattered. Kiki rolled her eyes at her lifelong peanut gallery.
“So who wants first dibs?” She looked between the two set of grandparents.
They looked at each other from across the bed, both sets wanting to be the first, but also wanting to give the other the honors.
“Go ahead, go ahead.” Nina and Frederick offered the Harless’.
“You sure?” Paul asked even as Lynn was reaching for her.
Nina laughed at Lynn’s eagerness, knowing the feeling. “Yes. You two go first ‘cause I might not give her up.”
Kiki passed Cheyenne to Lynn and she gently pushed the blanket that blocked her face from full view. As soon as she saw Cheyenne she was momentarily started. Concerned about the brief tension Paul sensed from his wife, he rubbed her shoulder, soothingly. Lynn looked up at him with watery eyes and smiled. “I’ve seen this beautiful face before.” She said low enough that only he could hear. Paul nodded knowingly and kissed the side of her head to comfort the sadness she was feeling even though this was a happy occasion. She let herself feel sorry that her son was missing out on seeing this precious miracle come into the world before she squashed it and basked in the joy of having her granddaughter in her hands.
“Hi Cheyenne. Happy Birthday darlin’.” Paul shook one of her little hands. She wriggled and made little noises in response that overjoyed the grandparents.
Meanwhile, Nina and Frederick were fusing over Kiki, making sure she was okay. She assured them that she was tired but she was fine, they both were fine. Next she let her siblings and friends fawn over her and tease her about how she resembled the chick from the Exorcist while she was in labor. Kiki blew them off, but then put JC, Rhea, Marissa and Trent on blast for their absence.
“And look at you punks showin’ up after the hell I went through.” She joked, understanding they were probably tied up doing their own thing. All that mattered was that they were there now.
“From what I hear I’m glad I wasn’t here.” JC patted Joey on the shoulder. “Right Joe?” He laughed at his friend’s sneer.
“Aww yeah.” Kiki winced.
“’Aww yeah’? That’s all I get? ‘Aww yeah’. You almost took my head off.”
Kiki gave him a pointed look that reminded him of what brought on her wrath.
“Right, you’re right.” He nodded and cheesed at her. “You did an awesome job though Kiki.” He clutched her hand as the others proclaimed their agreement.
“Thank you.”
On the other side of the room, Lynn was passing Cheyenne over to Nina and Frederick and the four grandparents were all huddled together, doting on the infant.
“She is going to be a spoiled rotten brat. Just like her mama.” Derek teased from his perch at Kiki’s side on the bed. She nudged him and he hooked an arm around her neck to kiss the top of her head.
After the grandparents had their fill, Cheyenne was passed off to Tami who was surrounded by Joey and JC and then off to Maya who had the two married couples hovering over her. Kiki could see the affection towards the baby was pouring off of each of the new aunts and uncles. Every single one of them was making fools out of themselves as they goo-gooed and ga-gaed to Cheyenne.
“She’s a little bit. How much does she weight?” Maya asked, gently bouncing her in her arms.
“5 lbs. 11 oz. and 18 inches long.” Kiki announced proudly.
“A 5 lbs. dumbbell huh? I could do a decent workout with that.” Derek joked as he reached over Maya’s shoulder and tickled Cheyenne’s chin. “Let me borrow her when I go to the gym tomorrow.”
“Oh whatever Derek. She may be little, but she’s perfect.” Watching everyone bask in her baby, Kiki started feeling a little possessive and decided she wanted her baby back. Reaching out for her, Maya put her back in her mama’s arms. Kiki gazed down at her, the most beautiful and perfect thing she’d ever done. We’ve ever done. “Lynn.” She called to her, but with her eyes still glued on her little Cheyenne. She just couldn’t take her eyes of her.
“Yes, honey?”
“You can go call him if you want.”
A silence fell over the room and everyone peered at each other, wondering if Kiki was serious.
Lynn’s face lit up with hopeful anxiety. “Really? You don’t mind?”
With a 100 watt smile on her face that seemed permanent, Kiki told her. “There’s not much that I do mind right now.”
Lynn nodded and excused herself to go make the phone call. Finding a cell phone friendly area she dialed his number, but got his voicemail so she left a message before returning to the baby huddle.
“I thought you might like to know that you have a beautiful, healthy baby girl.” Lynn gushed over the line. Remembering why she was making this phone call in the first place, she paused to let out a dismayed sigh. “I know you’ll do the right thing one day honey. I love you. Bye.”
An hour after the call was made, Justin sat in his living room listening to the message, alone and crying. The constant regret he felt was bearing down on him now more than ever. His daughter had been born and he didn’t even know what her name was, what she looked like. What was worse was that all he has to do was make one phone call to change that and end his misery, but he was still so afraid that he didn’t have what it took to be a father. He was letting his fears cripple him and now all he had to live with was knowing once again, he’d let the best things that ever happen to him slip right through his fingers, first Kiki and now his little baby girl.
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Cheyenne had been home for three weeks and Kiki had yet to have an empty house. Someone was always at her condo, stopping by after work to “check” on them “ more like slobber all over Cheyenne. Her mother and Lynn were the worse, but they always came with a home cooked dinner for Kiki so she kept her mouth shut about their pestering. She knew a part of their frequent visiting had a lot to do with her being a first time mother, but it wasn’t long before they realized she knew exactly what she was doing and need no real help. Motherhood turned out to be second nature to her.
Within their first week out of the hospital, Kiki and Cheyenne did have one visit that was greatly anticipated for both good and not so good reasons. Sadie and Bill were on a plane to LA the day after they were released and Kiki was nervous about how the encounter with the Bomars would go this time around.
Lynn called before they were due to arrive to confirm the plans for dinner at her house the next day and she swore to Kiki that she had nothing to be concerned about. Her parents knew the truth about the whole situation since Kiki had given her the green light to tell them and they understood.
“I bet that understanding came after they called me a liar, right? Like you basically did?” Kiki laughed, only half joked.
“Tssh.” Lynn replied in mocking offense. “I apologized for that and no they-“ She knew that Kiki knew bullshit when she heard it so Lynn didn’t even bother to finish that lie. “Okay they did, but I assured them that Cheyenne is 100% my grandbaby.” Kiki snorted dubiously. She and Lynn had discussed Justin’s “golden child” status in his family and how it blinded them to the more negative aspects of his personality. It was hard for her to find out her son wasn’t as perfect as she wanted to believe he was and the same when for her parents. This whole mess was a rude awakening for them all. “They are going to take one look at that pretty little face and fall in love.”
“I hope so Lynn. I hope so.”
On the day of the lunch date, Paul answered the door for Kiki and as she expected, just like everyone else, he greeted the baby before greeting her.
He took the carrier from her and moved the blanket out of the way to see Cheyenne’s sleeping face. “Hey they’re darlin’. How’s grandpa’s little princess doin’?” Turning to Kiki, he leaned in and hugged her. “How are you doin’ darlin’? You’re lookin’ good.”
“I’m doing very well, thank you.”
“That’s great to hear.” The smile he was giving her was not just an empathic one, but one of reassurance as well. She was good, but not that good at hiding her nervousness at the moment. “Well everyone is in the living room. Don’t be scared. I can tell you that Sadie and Bill aren’t angry or resentful towards you. So relax okay?” He rubbed her shoulder comfortingly.
“Yeah. Okay.”
“Follow me then.” Walking behind Paul through the foyer, they made a right into the spacious, yet inviting living room. “Look who stopped by to say hi.”
“Hi sweethearts.” Lynn came right out of her seat, making a b-line to Paul and stole the carrier from him. She took it back to her seat smoothly removed her granddaughter.
While she was hogging the baby, Sadie and Bill approached Kiki with soft smiles, trying to ease any tension she might be feeling. Before she arrived, Lynn had told them about Kiki’s concerns that they would be upset or distrusting of her. Sadie would admit that initially she was suspicious, but common sense kicked in and she realized the girl had no reason to lie. She wasn’t demanding anything from Justin or dragging his name through the mud. By proxy she was actually protecting him with her secrecy. If anything they should be thanking her from allowing them to be apart of their great granddaughter’s life despite their grandson’s actions.
“Well I think being a mama has made you even prettier honey.” Sadie pulled Kiki into a hug and releasing her, she cupped her face. “Welcome to the club.”
“Thank you Mrs. Bomar.” Just as it was in the past, Kiki’s nerves dissolved and she immediately felt comfortable in their presence. “Hi Mr. Bomar.” She moved over into his open arms and they shared a hug as well.
“It’s Bill and Sadie young lady.” He corrected and Kiki smiled. “Congratulations.”
“Thank you.”
“Mama, Daddy come meet your great granddaughter.” Lynn called to them now that she and Paul were ready to share.
“Excuse us sweetie, but you understand that you don’t exist anymore right?”
Sadie was laughed and so was Kiki, knowing exactly how it was. “Oh yes I am well aware that I don’t count to anyone anymore.”
Sadie and Bill went to join the doting grandparents and Lynn passed the baby into her mother’s arms.
“Mama, Daddy meet Cheyenne Jocelyn Lewis.”
Holding the tiny infant that was now awake, Sadie let out an awed sigh as she peered at her precious face. “My God, she is beautiful and look Bill she’s got your blue eyes too.” He reached over and stroked her downy curls as she squirmed and yawned softly. “Hi there dumplin’.”
They all eventually spread out around the living room, Sadie and Bill taking turns hold Cheyenne as they all talked and got reacquainted.
It was a warm night so while the men were in the kitchen - for a change - cleaning up, the women were out on the deck eating dessert and talking, Cheyenne nodding in the sling strapped across Kiki’s chest.
Lynn had made a cherry pie that was to die for and Kiki had no shame in her game when she went for a second piece. The pie was closest to Sadie so she offered to get the piece for her.
“Now honey before you dig into this pie. There’s something I want you to understand and clear the air about right now.”
Putting her dessert off to the side, Kiki gave Sadie her undivided attention. Lynn had also turned all her interest onto the imminent conversation.
“I want you to hear it directly from me that I’m not angry nor do I blame you for this predicament that my grandson has created.” Kiki nodded her comprehension of the truce. She was happy to have confirmation from the horse’s mouth that Sadie would not be an enemy for wrongly faulting her. “In fact I respect you for the way you’ve handled this. You could have taken your revenge by exploiting the situation or keeping that precious baby away from us. Instead you were a lady and an adult and that is something to be proud of.”
“Thank you. I’m glad there aren’t any bad feelings between us over this. Not only because I think you’re a great person to know, but for Cheyenne’s sake, I want us all to be able to get along.” She looked over at Lynn who took her hand and gave it a supportive squeeze.
“And we do, don’t ever worry about that. You’re family now.” Kiki smiled at the matriarchal acceptance and Sadie reached over to hug her.
“I’m just sorry you have to go through this. It’s sad, ironically sad actually. You know with Justin himself having an estranged relationship with his father.” She looked over at her daughter who agreed whole-heartedly which made her son’s behavior so upsetting and confusing. “He’s always felt like Randy had somewhat abandoned him and now he’s turned around and did the same to his own child.” Sadie shook her head pitifully. “I just don’t understand it.”
Taking a sip of her white wine, Lynn shrugged. “I guess the cycle won’t be broken this generation around.”
“What did Randy have to say about all this?”
“He’s disappointed like me and Paul and apparently he and Justin got into an argument about it. One that didn’t go well at all and they haven’t talked since.” It had been almost 2 months since father and son talked and as stubborn as they both were, their standoff probably wouldn’t be coming to an end anytime soon. “I don’t know all the details. You know I took myself out of Justin’s affairs with his father years ago after he got mad at me for ‘meddling’ so I really don’t know.” What she did know was that when Randy tried to berate Justin for being a bad father, Justin came back with “it takes one to know on Dad.” Lynn could only guess that was probably the last thing said between the two.
“Hmmph. I can tell you this much I had to say a prayer on the plane over here so I didn’t go straight to that boy’s house and whip his tail.” Kiki choked back a giggle as that image ran through her head.
“Now Mama we talked about that.”
“I know and I didn’t come out her to talk about him or see him. He’ll have to come back home for his talkin’ to. I want him on my turf when I remind his lanky ass just where the hell he came from.” Kiki was barely holding it together listening to Sadie’s rant. It was petty, but satisfying thinking about the punishment Justin still had coming to him from his grandmother. “Now I have said my peace in present company. Let me see that baby again. She’s the best thing to come out of this mess.” Kiki took Cheyenne out of the sling and handed her over to her great grandmother for what seemed like the hundredth time today.
For the rest of Sadie and Bill’s week visit, Cheyenne was spoiled with affection and gifts, like the shopping spree that Sadie took her on with Lynn and Kiki accompanying them. That same night the Bomars came with Lynn and Paul over to the Lewis’ so everyone could meet. Once again the families proved to be able to mesh well together and share in an enjoyable evening.
Sadie and Bill’s last day in LA came with promises from them to visit often and from Kiki, to keep them updated in between that time via videos and pictures. Although, the new great grandparents were going back to Tennessee with a slew of picture taken over the week as is. By any means necessary the couple was determined to be a part of Cheyenne’s life and Kiki was just as set in her decision to let as much family as possible into her little girl’s world. Despite all the past, present and future bullshit and drama between the adults, love and support would be the only thing to touch Cheyenne Lewis.
