Love Means Courage - Andrew Grey

come to the point.” Vikki reclined on the sofa and looked at Janelle. “The purpose of this family meeting is not to discuss this ridiculous notion of anyone trying to take away Cliff’s son.” She glared at Janelle, who 214
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unfortunately seemed impervious.
“I already have a lawyer who says I have a case based on moral grounds.”
    “You do not!” Vikki raised her voice only slightly. “What you have is a shyster who’ll take your money. There’s no way any court is going to take a perfectly happy child away from his father and give him to an unmarried spinster aunt. Particularly one with her own family testifying vehemently against her.” Len was surprised at her intensity, but he figured Vikki had put herself in Cliff’s place and it scared her. “And just so we’re clear, if you do this, you are no longer family. Testifying in court will be the last time we ever see or speak to you.” Vikki looked at Mari, who nodded her agreement.
    Janelle’s eyes grew big as saucers. That was obviously something that had never occurred to her. “But it’s immoral.”
“For God’s sake, Janelle, it’s 1984, not 1884. Who Cliff loves is none of your business, and while we’re on the subject, who died and made you the morality police?”
    Janelle’s hackles were up, and she bristled under their rebuke but held herself straight and tall in the chair. She obviously hadn’t given up, but Vikki didn’t give her a chance. “We’re here to discuss why you’re acting this way.” Vikki’s voice became soothing and soft, speaking to Janelle. “You’re obviously hurt and trying to get back at Cliff for something. And don’t bother denying it. I grew up with you, remember?” Vikki looked at Janelle, who flinched for the first time. “What is it, Janie?”
    Len looked at Cliff from where he sat and waited to see if Janelle would answer. He wasn’t so sure she wouldn’t just get up and leave. “How would you feel if you found out your boyfriend was in love with your brother?” She pulled a handkerchief out of her purse and dabbed her eyes, trying to keep herself from breaking 215
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down.
    “He was never your boyfriend. And if you look at it objectively, you know Len was just a friend.” Cliff kept his voice calm and did his best to mimic Vikki’s tone. “Janie, you should be happy for him and for me. After Ruby died I was so lost, and Len helped me find my way again.” “By turning you gay!”
    Cliff chuckled softly. “He didn’t turn me gay. I’ve been gay for a long time. He just helped me gather the courage to admit it to myself and to my family. He loves me, Janie, and I love him.” Geoff squirmed, and Cliff let him down. Janelle sniffled, and Geoff walked to her and patted her leg. “Is okay, Aun’ Nell, is okay.”
    “Janie, let it go.” Vikki squirmed on the sofa, making a face.
“You’ll be much happier if you just let it go and move on.”
“What is it?” Mari stood and took Vikki’s hand, and she knew.
    “Cliff, would you call Dan? Tell him to meet Vikki at the hospital; she’s going into labor.” Mari helped her sister to her feet. “Janie, get your car started and pull it around to the front.” She nodded and got to her feet, but before she took a step, she was engulfed in a hug. “You’ll be okay, Janie.” Vikki let her go and began waddling toward the front door. Janelle headed out to the car, pulling it around to the door, and Vikki got into the passenger seat.
    Cliff approached the car, and Vikki rolled down the window.
“Dan’s on his way.” He leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek.
“Thank you,” he whispered into her ear, “You’re going to be a terrific mother.”
Vikki slid her hand down Cliff’s cheek. “And you and Len are 216
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going to be terrific fathers.” She slid her hand away, and the car pulled down the drive and onto the street.
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    “CLIFF.” He turned at the sound of Mari’s voice. “You okay?” He nodded, not really seeing her, or anything, really. “Is anybody home?” She waved her hand in front of his face, “Earth to Cliff.”
    “Sorry. I was just thinking.” Geoff ran across the yard, grabbing Cliff’s leg, pointing at the pool.
“Simmin, Daddy.” His face was tilted up, those eyes looking almost mournful.
Len joined the group. “I’ve got some work to finish up.” He was about to walk away, but Cliff caught his eye, and he stopped. Mari picked