Forgiveness and Second Chances by Ancelli Read Free Book Online Page B

up at him. “Please, Daddy.”
    He thought about the witch in the other room. “Okay.”
    They walked out to the dining room, and Alanie went out on the balcony overlooking the city. Mrs. Johnson sat down. Jeremy followed Malanie to the kitchen. “Lanie, she has to get used to you.”
    “She will, but this just makes it easier. Do you have plans tonight?”
    “No.” He just stared at her. “Do you need any help?”
    “Nope.” She focused on cutting carrots for the salad.
    “We went to see my parents. My dad said to tell you he’s happy we finally found you. He said he’s looking forward to seeing you.”
    “Your dad was always so sweet to me. What did your mom say?” she asked, grabbing the bowl.
    “You don’t want to know.”
    “You’re right. I don’t.” She chuckled, moving out of the kitchen into the dining room.
    He followed her out, staring at her tight, round ass. She’s all grown up.
    They sat and ate dinner together. Her mother hardly spoke, just kept staring at Alanie and Jeremy could tell his daughter was uncomfortable. Alanie talked about school and soccer practice.
    “Are you coming to my next game?” she asked Malanie.
    “Yes, I’ll be in the front row, cheering you on.” She pumped her hand in the air.
    Alanie chuckled. “Don’t be like daddy. He always gets mad when I’m fouled.”
    “No pumping in the air.” The three of them laughed. They finished eating and Alanie helped Malanie clear the table and wash the dishes.
    “Mrs. Johnson, my daughter is sensitive when it comes to strangers. Can you please be gentle in the way you speak and treat her?” he asked, getting up to say goodbye.
    “Wait a second.” She got up and stood in front of him, her lips forming a thin line. “You’re the one that kept her away from my family. Don’t tell me how to treat my granddaughter.”
    He felt his face getting hot. “You’re the one who kept her away from your family. I didn’t. My dad and I came to you, and you turned us away. I have the right to tell you how I want my daughter treated. You will not treat my daughter the way you treated yours. If Alanie tells me you abused her in any way, you’ll regret it. I really don’t want to leave her here with you, but I will not punish the two of them because of you.” Trying to remain controlled, he spoke the words barely above a whisper. When Mrs. Johnson pressed her lips even tighter together, he turned and entered the kitchen.
    They were laughing, sprinkling water on each other. He just stood watching his girls—yes, his girls. “Alanie, I’m leaving now.” She ran up to him and hugged him.
    “Bye, Daddy. I love you.”
    “I love you more, princess.” He kissed her, and nodded his goodbye to Malanie.
     
***
     
    They watched The Wizard of Oz together. After the movie they each took a shower and began getting ready for bed.
    “That man had the nerve to tell me how to treat my granddaughter. Who does he thinks he is?”
    Malanie checked quickly behind her and stepped out of her room. Alanie was still in the bathroom, brushing her teeth. “He’s her father, that’s who he is. He raised her alone because of me, and if he told you how to treat her, it’s because he picked up on the same thing I did. She’s uncomfortable around you, Mother.” She rolled her eyes at her mom. “I want her to feel comfortable.”
    “I hope you’re not thinking of getting into a relationship with him. He’s no good for you. He already messed up your life, getting you pregnant so damn young. He’s nothing but trouble.”
    “My dad is not trouble,” Alanie said, walking out of her room.
    “Little girl, this is grown folks’ business,” Mrs. Johnson snapped.
    “Mother!” Malanie said.
    “My dad is the best!” Alanie raised her voice, putting her hands on her hips.
    “How dare you disrespect me?” Her grandmother pointed.
    “You were saying mean things about my dad.” She gave Mrs. Johnson a dirty look. “You don’t know my