Calvin looked up immediately with surprise that quickly turned into satisfaction.
“Really,” he asked.
“Yes,” I replied. “You were right. Family comes first.”
His smile widened with pride. “I knew you would understand eventually.”
“Of course,” I said while placing my purse on the chair. “By the way, what time exactly does your mother arrive on Monday.”
“Early morning,” he answered.
“Perfect,” I replied with a pleasant smile. “That gives me the whole weekend to prepare.”
He frowned slightly. “Prepare for what.”
I looked directly at him. “To welcome your mother properly.”
He had no idea what that preparation truly meant. Two weeks later Calvin realized just how wrong he had been.
On Monday morning I woke before sunrise and left the house quietly while Calvin and Logan were still asleep. By seven forty five I was standing at Union Station in Chicago waiting beside the platform as Eleanor Whitaker stepped down from the train with a cane and a large suitcase.
“Natalie,” she said sharply. “Why did Calvin not come with you.”
“He had an important morning appointment,” I answered calmly. “Do not worry. I will take care of everything.”