Chapter 128

Valerie stood up and said, "I'm going to take David home. You guys need some family time."

"Thank you for taking care of Christian while I picked Tabitha up."

"You're welcome. Tabitha, call me when you're ready to talk and hang out, okay?"

"Okay," Tabitha said.

Valerie left and Jesse locked the door behind her. He came back and sat on the other side of Renee. Christian had snuggled up to her side and she was absentmindedly stroking his hair as she looked around the room. She studied the pictures around the house. He watched her as she did it. He'd missed her so much.

"I know I said I wouldn't push but can I sit next to you?"

"You are sitting next to me."

"I mean, never mind."

"If you mean that you want to cuddle up with me, that's okay, I guess. Honestly, I feel a little overwhelmed. Comfort would be nice."