The First Noel by Joe Cosentino

Author:Joe Cosentino [Cosentino, Joe]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: gay romance
ISBN: 978-1-64080-772-3
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Published: 2018-12-07T06:00:00+00:00

THE NEXT morning, while Paolo made breakfast—vanilla buckwheat waffles, I did Geoffrey’s nebulizer with him in silence and then he dressed for school. He also didn’t speak as I straightened out his lime dress shirt and black slacks. Then as I watched him tie his shoe laces, I brought up Calista. His response was the same: “She’s not my mother.”

After breakfast, I wished Paolo a good day, and then walked Geoffrey to school. He held my hand tightly all the way, and he didn’t wince once when I kissed his cheek near one of his classmates.

Upon reaching the gym, I tried to get in some swimming before work. The visions of Calista in my head psyched me out and I gave up after two laps. At my office, I hung up my coat and looked through my mail. The first Noel had sent over Paolo’s contract. Upon perusal, it seemed quite generous to me.

Then I noticed the letter from Judge Stoll’s office:

Having received the briefs from both parties, the custody hearing of Geoffrey McGrath Mascobello is scheduled for December thirtieth at three p.m. in the judge’s chambers. Counsels are welcome to bring witnesses. The child’s presence is required as are the presence of the birth mother, Calista Simon, and the adoptive parents, Robert McGrath and Paolo Mascobello. Until that time, the child will remain with the adoptive parents. The birth mother will have visitation rights any evening or evenings of her choice from seven p.m. until eight p.m.

I sank into my chair feeling sorry for myself—and for Geoffrey. I texted Paolo the date and time of the hearing. Then I opened my laptop and emailed my parents, Cynthia Hamilton the social worker, Rev. Jillian, Geoffrey’s teacher, and Geoffrey’s doctor, requesting them as witnesses. When I looked up, Jared was standing over my desk. “The custody hearing?”

I nodded. “It’s set for December thirtieth.”

“I’m not surprised Judge Stoll put it on the fast-track. Hopefully he won’t let his narrow-minded conservative beliefs cloud his judgment.” He smirked. “If he does, I’ll pay him a little visit, give him a big kiss, and take a selfie for the internet.”

Even Jared couldn’t make me laugh. “If Stoll follows the ‘family values politician’ mold, he’ll be caught in a public restroom with another man.”

“Or a young boy.”

I changed the subject. “How are things going in Santaland?”

“Amazing!” His creamed complexion glowed. “Having an audience has invigorated the second Noel. And being with Santa is truly a winter wonderland for me!”

I smiled.

“How’s your dad?”

“Fine. Thanks to you.”

“Thank Santa.” He winked at me. “I do often.”

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