Cherish Me (Rough Edges 3)

Chapter 11

Aiden

Things between Hazeland I have gotten better ever since the night of the wedding. I think getting all of my regrets and questions off my chest helped us move forward and connect on a deeper level over these past few days. Yet, she is leaving soon and now I find myself wanting her to stay, and be with me, but I’m not selfish and won’t do that. She has a whole life up there, and I can’t ask her to leave that behind, especially everything she’s worked hard for, and move down here with me.

I haven’t seen her in two days, and it’s probably for the best. My heart is wanting more and right now, but she can’t give that to me. We can see how moving on in the past hasn’t helped. One thing I’m hopeful for is now that I’ve spoken my truth, the drinking can slow down. There is no pain to numb anymore.

My grey sweat pants hang off my hips as I pop a sausage egg and cheese biscuit into the microwave for a quick breakfast before heading into work. Today, Liam and I are scheduled, which means I’ll be asked a million times if I anything has happened between Hazel and I since she’s been back. It’s none of his business, but he was there for me after she broke my heart.

I hear my phone start to ring from the kitchen, and I rush to it, hoping it’s her.

“Hello?”

An unfamiliar voice is on the other end. “Hi, my name is Mary. Is this Aiden Jackson?”

I take a minute before responding, thinking it’s probably a telemarketer. “Yes, who is this?”

She clears her throat. “We received your letter.”

Holy fucking shit. It’s Jake’s mom.

I fall to the floor, and gasp. “I’m so glad you called. Didn’t know if I would ever hear back.”

“Listen, my husband and I talked and we would like to meet you. You can bring Hazel along, too. We can’t make a decision until after that.”

They want to meet me? Does this mean they might consider us meeting Jake? A smile plasters on my face. “Just let me know when and I’ll ask off work and fly out there.”

“Is Tuesday okay?”

I technically work, but I’m sure Aiden would cover for me, but then I would have to tell him about Jake. Am I ready to do that?

“I’ll make it. Thank you so much. Let me know the details and we will see you Tuesday.”

The phone disconnects, and cheeks are wet. Never in a million years did I think they would call me. Yet, I needed to at least try. The state of shock has not worn off yet, and my hands are trembling. I might get to meet my son. The realization of this is overwhelming, but never would have happened if Hazel didn’t come down here and talk to me. I have her to thank for that.

I throw on jeans and a t-shirt and make a pit stop over at Hazel’s to let her know the good news before heading to work.

Me: Come outside. Got news.

The front door opens and shuts behind her, and then her arm hooks on my window. “What is it?”

“They called,” I say with a smile.

“Who?”

“Jake’s parents. They want to meet up on Tuesday. So, looks like both of us are heading to Massachusetts.”

For a minute, she doesn’t respond, almost like she thought I might be joking. “Wait? Are you screwing with me?”

“No, I’m dead serious.”

She spins around and her hands fly up in the air. “Thank you, Jesus.”

“So, I’ll go on and book the flights in a little bit. Can I stay at your place while I’m there or?”

“Of course. I can’t believe this is happening. I told you your letter was good,” She says, hitting me in the chest.

She sticks her head through the open window slot and kisses me. “Thank you.”