“He smiles a lot when he talks about you, too. I’m very happy to meet you and have heard so many great things.”
Noah smiles and lets his eyes wander.
“I’ll go start dinner.”
“Thanks, babe.” I watch her walk into the kitchen before giving Noah my full attention. “How about a tour and then we’ll start some homework?”
I show Noah around the loft and let him take in the room that Aubrey made up for him today. I’m not sure if Josie and Liam will let him stay over, but if they do, I want to be prepared. I’m going to take whatever they are willing to offer.
“Your wife is really pretty.”
“Yeah she is. She’s great. I think you’ll like her a lot. She’s very excited to watch you play baseball this spring.”
“That’d be cool.”
“Hey guys, dinner is on the table.” Aubrey stands in the doorway, looking at Noah with a grin.
Noah and I follow her and sit at the table. Small talk is made, mostly between Aubrey and Noah. I love sitting there and listening to them as they get to know each other. Every so often Noah brings up something about me and his mom, but Aubrey is a champ and acts like it’s no big deal. It shouldn’t be a big deal; she’s wearing my ring.
After dinner, Noah and I sit at the table and do homework. I don’t miss these days. The curriculum has changed so much from when I was his age; they make it impossible for parents to help.
“Can I ask you a question?”
“Of course you can.”
“Would you be mad if I changed my last name to Westbury?”
I wanted to adopt Noah more than anything. I wanted him to have my last name, but Josie was always hesitant. I knew she was always holding out hope that Liam would come back. I just didn’t want to believe it. Noah has every right to carry his dad’s last name whether I like it or not.
“I think your dad would like it if you did.”
“Would you be mad?”
I shake my head. “No, Noah, I wouldn’t be mad. Besides, I like the way Noah Westbury sounds. You should definitely change it.” I wink at him.
Noah gets up and gives me a hug. “I’m really glad you’re back. I missed you so much.”
“I missed you too, bud.”
I want to add that I’m never going away, but I think he knows that. From this day forward, I’m going to live my life with no regrets.