At least it was the weekend. A few days ago, my step daughter, lover, and now fiance, tearfully told me she was pregnant. I know she was extremely upset to have this happen out of the blue. It wasn't anything we had planned on. As a matter of fact, we hadn't really discussed our future together. We were simply enjoying our relationship. We had been 'together' as a couple for a while now, and I'm confident what we have is genuine, and life long. Never the less, she is pregnant, and we are extremely happy and blessed.
A year ago I was in rough shape. I had gotten over the death of my wife to the point where I decided to try dating again. It was one disaster after another. Finally, Lexi had the courage to confide the fact, that her feelings towards me had gradually changed to the point where she was in love with me. I will be forever grateful to her for making my life full again.
Lexi was in her senior year of high school, and had recently turned eighteen. Spring break was approaching, and to me it seemed like the perfect time for us to go to Las Vegas and get married, but first, we had to talk to her grandparents. Alexis' maternal grandparents were Rick and Kaye. We had arranged to visit them on Saturday afternoon.
On the way over, Lexi and I discussed how we would approach this. It was decided that Lexi would try to call me Jake, rather than Daddy, and I would start the conversation off. Lexi would contribute as she saw fit. We were both nervous as hell when we pulled into their driveway. Although I had always gotten along really well with them, this had the potential of being a disaster.
Kaye greeted us at the door, and gave us both big hugs. Alexis was their only grandchild, and they loved her dearly. We went into the living room. Rick greeted us there, and also gave Alexis a huge hug. Rick and Kaye sat on the couch, I sat in the other chair, and Alexis sat on the floor next to my legs.
Kaye said, "We were thrilled when you called to arrange a visit! We haven't seen nearly enough of you two since Megan passed away. We need to keep in closer touch."
We sat around, catching up. We discussed how Alexis was doing in school, my new company, and more. Finally, I couldn't delay any longer, so I decided to just plunge ahead.
"Kaye, Rick, I know the past couple of years have been really difficult for all of us. Losing Megan like that was devastating to Lexi, and me as well. It took a long time for us to learn to cope with that loss. I can't tell you how much Lexi has helped keep things in order. We have relied on each other, more than you can imagine. This is difficult for me." I looked down at Alexis, and she looked back up and nodded in encouragement.
"Over this past year, Alexis and I have grown quite close. I don't know how to say this, so I'll just come out with it. We have fallen in love with each other."
You could have heard a pin drop in the room.
Finally Kaye said, "Jake, I know you loved Megan with all your heart, and I realize that this darling little girl has been by your side through it all. Surely that's what you mean. You can't possibly mean anything else!"
Lexi responded, "Grandma, I'm not a little girl any longer. And what Jake said is true. I am totally in love with him, and he loves me too." She wrapped her arm around my leg as she spoke.
"This can't happen!", exclaimed Rick. "Are you having sex with her? You're her father for God's sake. How can you do this to her, you bastard!"
Rick rose to his feet, and I thought he was going to attack me. I got to my feet too, unsure of what was going to happen. He was red in the face with anger. His fists were clenched and shaking.
"Grandpa! He didn't do anything to me, except to take care of me, and to love me. Please sit down, please!"
After a few moments, Rick relented and took his seat again. I did as well. Alexis was visibly upset, and I put my hand on her shoulder. "You know, I'm not biologically Lexi's father, so there is legally nothing wrong here. It might be morally questionable, but I love her with my heart and soul, and she loves me too. I'm not expecting your blessing on our relationship, but it would be wonderful if we had it. I would be happy with acceptance, but either way, Alexis and I are together."
I think the reality of what I was saying was sinking in.
It was Alexis' turn. "There's more. Grandma, Grandpa, I'm pregnant too. You're going to be great grandparents. Also, we are planning to get married in a few weeks in Las Vegas. I know this is a shock to you both, but I would like to have you there to support me. Grandma, I don't have a mother to be there for me, and I would like you to be, if you want to. If you love me, you'll understand."
"Alexis, of course we love you sweetheart," said Kaye. She stood, and opened her arms for Lexi. Lexi rose and the two embraced.
Rick looked at me, "Well Jake, I suppose we have no choice but to accept this. I want you to know, that our priority is our grand daughter. You better not hurt her."
I walked over to shake Rick's hand, "I promise to love her and make her happy. I'm sorry this has upset the two of you, but I think in time, you'll see how happy I can make her."
We promised to let them in on our plans.