Stenton then amended, “Pastor, I appreciate your service in christening my son and the hospitality shown to my friends and family today. Although I know you’re not in the business of making money, I insistent on speaking with Zoey’s parents to discuss an appropriate donation to your congregation. With the years I’ve missed in tithing, I know I can cough of something to show my appreciation.”
“Well, you don’t have to do that, Mr. Rogers, but we would appreciate what you do give, even if it’s only your time for the Word.” Pastor Whitaker extended his hand again. “Thanks.”
“Yeah, well, I appreciate the support you’ve given Zoey during a time when an unexpected decision had to be made. Thank you for not being as critical as the masses.” Stenton gestured to the church and I died a thousand deaths. Again! “That went a long way with me.”
I noticed Stenton never referred to Jordan as a mistake. No matter how unexpected, Jordan was a blessing from God.
“We love Zoey. And we now have Jordan to love as well.” Pastor Whitaker nodded. “God bless your family,” he spoke to both of us with a gleam in his eyes before walking off.
Stenton directed me down the church’s steps, to the sidewalk, and almost to the corner before he stopped. I noticed Rob and Barry trailing a few feet behind us, but distant enough to give privacy. With each step, my heart almost raced from my chest in anxiety.
He then abruptly turned to me, placing his fists on his waist. “Let me tell you something. I don’t know what the fuck you thought you were doing today by not—”
I sucked in a breath as my eyes felt like they were being pulled from their sockets. “Stenton!”
“Don’t fucking Stenton me! Zo, you know you could have told me that my fucking son was going to be christened today—”
“Stenton!” my throat shrieked in alarm. “You are in the middle of the championship!”
“FINALS!” he shouted at my ignorance. “They’re finals! And yes they are important, but nothing is more important to me than my son and supporting you.” He pointed his long finger over my shoulder towards the church. “If this is the shit you’re into then I’m into it, too! It means something to me!”
“Well, Stent, it’s not like we’re together.” That felt juvenile as soon as it left my lips. I tried amending it. “I know you have a life.”
“Yeah, and I’m putting myself and several of my teammates, who came today to support me, at risk of being fined for showing up late to practice. A practice in Boston we may not even make! But I’m here for my son. It’s not just you, Sarah, Michael and Karen!” His face morphed into a grimace. “And then you had the nerve to have that…Bernard…” Stenton turned and punched the air as he mumbled a string of expletives. He returned to me. “I don’t know what type of feminist bullshit you’re on—”
I gasped. “Stenton, you know I’m no feminist!”
“Bullshit!” He drew closer to me. “You’re so fucking independent. Zoey, you may be a single woman who’s a mother, but you’re no fucking single mother. I’m his father. I’m an equal partner in this! When you make decisions like this, you need to involve me!” Stenton took a moment to breathe. And just when I thought he was done, he continued, “Let’s not act like I’m not footing the bill for the food they’re in there partaking of right now. Let’s not act like I’m just a sperm and financial donor. I am Jordan’s father!” he stabbed his chest with his index finger. “I am here. I am your partner…whether you like our setup or not, we’re going to make the best of it. You will not pull shit off on me like this. And if you continue to, Zoey, I swear to fucking god you will feel every bit of it! I will not tolerate it. I’m. Here!”