KENDRA HAD PUSHED FOR THE MEETING. HER DAD HAD BEEN back only a day—not a long time—but too much time had already passed. A year and a half, to be exact. There was a little girl who needed to see her daddy, who needed to know her daddy.
Besides, this was Kendra’s wedding week. And this wedding week she was determined to enjoy as best she could. Which meant she wanted all her loved ones around. She’d figured after church would be a good time to bring it up. When Marlon returned with Lance and Trey, she said simply, “Brooklyn needs you. I’d love to invite her over today.”
Marlon had hesitated, and Kendra was certain his thoughts encompassed Ellen, whether he was ready to see her. But his response came quickly, and it was short. “Yes,” was all he said.
Ellen had been another story. When Kendra called, she wanted to know how things would go and what Marlon would say. Kendra tried to reassure her that he really did want to see Brooklyn. At least she thought he did, though he hadn’t outright said it. Next, Ellen asked whether an apology would be forthcoming, saying she couldn’t imagine a meeting without one.
Kendra suggested that both she and Marlon put aside their own issues and let Brooklyn be with her dad, and Ellen finally agreed.
Trey had Brooklyn’s favorite games at the ready. Kendra wasn’t sure if it was meant to help their dad or if her brother was preparing to step in himself, if need be. Kendra only had energy enough to hang on the sofa, but she intended to stay awake for that same reason. Brooklyn would have a good time regardless, if they had anything to do with it.
The doorbell rang a little past four o’clock. Kendra expected Brooklyn would ride her bike down as she always did when it was light out, but when Trey opened the door, Kendra heard both Brooklyn’s and Ellen’s voices.
When Brooklyn came into view, Kendra did a double take. She’d never seen the little girl in a dress. It was a chic-looking, green-and-blue, color-blocked fabric, with matching socks and navy ballet flats with glitter. Her hair was neatly coiffed, with a blue ribbon tied around her ponytail.
“Brookie, I missed you!” Kendra extended her arms. It had only been two days, but it seemed like weeks.
Brooklyn’s eyes darted around before she came running to Kendra for a hug.
“You look so pretty,” Kendra said. “Is that a new dress?”
Brooklyn beamed. “Got it today.”
Ellen walked over, giving Kendra a look. “She insisted we run to the mall.”
Something about that hurt Kendra’s heart. Did Brooklyn feel she had to look a certain way to be loved?
Heavy footsteps sounded on the stairway, and everyone seemed to pause. Ellen cleared her throat, bringing Brooklyn near.
Marlon walked into the living room, and Ellen stared him down. He approached anyway, and Brooklyn moved behind her mother, looking away.
“Ellen,” Marlon said, “there’s a lot we need to discuss. I’m sure we agree now is not the place or the time, but hopefully very soon. Is that okay?”
Ellen eyed him. “I’ve been looking forward to a discussion, so yes.”
Marlon took a floor seat next to Kendra. “Brooklyn, may I talk to you?”
Brooklyn shifted slightly, peeking out from behind her mother.
“Brooklyn,” Marlon said, “I haven’t been a good dad. I haven’t called you like I should. I haven’t seen you in way too long—and look at you, you’re so much taller . . . Brooklyn, I’m sorry . . .”
Kendra looked down, surprised by her dad’s tears, which started her own.
“I’ve asked God to forgive me,” Marlon continued, “and one day, I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me too.” He let the tears slide. “You’re my daughter, and I love you. I hope you’ll allow me to be in your life, to get to know you.” He glanced at Kendra. “When Kendra was your age, she used to beg to get ice cream from Maggie Moo’s or pizza from Imo’s. I want to learn the things you like and enjoy them with you.”
Brooklyn pulled on Ellen, and she bent down and listened as her daughter whispered.
Ellen looked over at Marlon. “Brooklyn says she likes Maggie Moo’s too.”
“Yeah!” Trey said, smiling.
“I don’t know if you’ve had Sunday dinner yet,” Marlon said, “but how would you like to go right now, with Trey and me?”
“Umm . . .” Brooklyn twisted around without moving from her spot. “I think I’d like it okay.” She looked at Ellen. “Can I, Mommy?” Ellen’s face had the makings of a no. “You haven’t eaten yet,” she said, staring into her daughter’s pleading eyes, “but go ahead.”
“Thank you, Mommy!” Brooklyn hugged her waist. “And I can just eat here.” She took her hand and led her to the door. “Okay, Mommy, I’ll be fine now.”
“Oh my goodness, Brooklyn, you’re ushering me out?”
“No. Just saying you can go home.”
Trey laughed. “I guess she’s back in the saddle, Ellen. We’ll make sure she gets home safely.”
“Thanks, Trey.” Ellen looked at Marlon.
“Call you tomorrow?” Marlon said.
“That’ll be fine,” Ellen said.
She walked out, and a moment later Brooklyn ran to the door.
“Wait! Mom? Can you bring me back a change of clothes? I can’t play right in this dress.”