Total pages in book: 122
Estimated words: 115288 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 576(@200wpm)___ 461(@250wpm)___ 384(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 115288 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 576(@200wpm)___ 461(@250wpm)___ 384(@300wpm)
After that we have to wait for it to be given a stamp and a seal, and for copies. But finally, finally they hand us the copy of the adoption papers. “That’s it?” I ask. “It’s official?”
“It’s official,” Mr. Rolph says.
I turn to Harley whose eyes are heavy and watery. “You’re my mom now? For real this time?” I ask.
Two tears track down her cheeks, and she nods, holding her arms wide. “I’m your mom.”
I step into her embrace and wrap my arms around her, and Dad engulfs us in a hug with me in the middle.
My aunts are standing a few feet away, hugging each other, smiling and dabbing at their eyes with tissues. I smile back and absorb all the love in the room. It’s a gift to have been given not just one mom who lives in my heart, but a second one who’s down here with me.
I turn my head, breathing in her familiar shampoo. “I love you, Mom.” I smile at the way those words settle in my heart.
“I love you too.” She kisses me on the cheek, and I feel the warm wet of tears with it. Happy ones, though.
“I love you, both,” Dad says, squeezing us tight.
I send a thank-you up to my mom in heaven for sending Harley to me and Dad, and for giving me a mom to love and take care of me, and the family I always wanted.