Chapter Sixteen
Maeda
We had moved into our house the night before the Pride Parade.
It was a very busy week. Lucky Lanes had to make a float for the parade, which, thankfully, the Kingpin Killers took over as the tournament champions.
Maeda had agreed to march in the parade with the Center’s Queer Parent Support Group, advocating for equality for queer couples hoping to adopt.
“I have my own bathroom now, but Mama said I have to share it with people when they come to my house,” Dolly was telling Gene.
“We’re going to finish unpacking next week,” Maeda said. “I already know I’m going to be too tired tonight.”
“I’m happy for you, Maeda!” Gene smiled. “You’ve come a long way since your first group meeting.”
“I’m happy,” Maeda said, catching my eye.
The parade went around its usual block without a hitch. The route ended at the Center where food and drinks were provided. This time, my pasta was being served by other volunteers as I told them I wanted to spend the day with my family.
Dolly was getting face paint, while Maeda and I drank some wine and watched. She sighed and leaned into me. “I want to go home.”
I kissed her on her hair, the vanilla scent wrapped up in my senses. “Home is wherever we are together, but I like our house, too.”
“You’re so cheesy,” she teased. The late afternoon sun illuminated her hair in a golden glow.
“When we get home, I was thinking we could finish setting up Dolly’s room first?
Then, we can do ours tomorrow? I know you probably want your stuff set up, but I want to make sure Dolly is comfortable too. ”
“Sounds wonderful.” I smiled. She was just so beautiful. “You are extraordinary.”
“Nikki Thomas,” Maeda smiled. “Would you do me the honor of being my wife?”
The End.