Chapter 8

It was a long flight and a good drive before the three of them made it to Joe's parent's house.

Pulling up to the large country house surrounded by a gated estate that was even bigger, they made their way up the paved path. The lawn was freshly mowed and there were gardens taken care of by landscapers. The house was a pristine white and was well lit as Joe's parents were waiting for him.

Joe's father who was a handsome brown haired man answered the door when they knocked. He looked like he was in great shape despite no longer working in a field as the farmer he had been before he met Joe's mom.

Carl Richter was a simple man who had fallen in love with Delores Sinclair the most beautiful woman in town. Delores was part of one of the richest families in the state, but Carl never forgot simple pride he had felt raised as a farmer.

He was honest man who had been hard working before he had married her. Now he was just a trophy husband who wasn't allowed to do anything she felt demeaned him or embarrassed her.

"Hello son. Come over here and give your father a hug." Carl Frederickson said.

"Hi pop." Joe said smiling and accepting his father's warm welcome and hug.

Turning to Emily and Ki Carl said, "Well you told me they were beautiful, but I didn't think I would have the honor of meeting two angels."

Bowing he kissed their hands like an old world gentleman.

Ki blushed at the compliment speechless and Emily said, "Thank you."

"Please do come in. I know both of you ladies' parents will not arrive until tomorrow but I couldn't wait to meet you. My son has never brought a girl home let alone two." Carl said.

"It's an honor to meet you Mr. Frederickson." Ki said as they stepped inside while Carl held the door open.

"Please call me Carl or dad. We're practically family." Carl said, his usual jovial self.

"I think calling you dad already would be premature sir." Emily replied.

"Nonsense! I've been looking forward to this day for a long time. Now when can I expect my grandchildren?" Carl said with a grin as he leaned forward.

"Dad!" Joe said astonished at his father.

Both Emily and Ki had to bite their lips to keep from laughing.

"What? I won't be around forever and your mother is tired of listening to my stories or is too busy to go fishing with.

I need grandchildren to spend time with, maybe even bounce on my knee." Carl said.

For the women that did it as they burst out laughing.

"We'll see what we can do dad." Joe said realizing his old man wasn't going to let up.

"Where's mom?" Joe asked him.

Carl seemed hesitant to answer.

It was Ki who gently forced the issue as she said, "Is there something wrong dad?"

Carl smiled after being called that forcing away the sadness he felt and showing a brave face.

"She was being stubborn and difficult. Thing eventually came to a head." Carl said.

"Dad?" Joe asked not fully understanding.

"I'm separated from your mother son. It just isn't working out. I don't know if we'll get back together." Carl said.

"Is it because of me, because she disagrees with my marriage?" Joe asked his mind reeling.

It felt like a bomb had been dropped on him.

"This was a long time in coming son. It's not your fault. Some people said we were doomed from the beginning. Her father saw the truth and tried to warn me.

But enough of that this is supposed to be a happy occasion. Where are all the smiles?" Carl said putting one his own face.

Liking Carl Ki said, "So I understand you were a farmer."

Grinning Carl was happy to describe his life before meeting Joe's mother, though of course he steered clear of that particular path.

As Carl spoke Ki gently squeezed Joe's hand and leaned against him as she listened. Joe despite his sadness and shock put on a brave face but was comforted by her touch.

Ki could feel what he was feeling as was showing she was there for him. Sitting down they enjoyed a lovely dinner that everyone enjoyed.

The following morning Ki awoke early and headed out the porch wrapped in a green bathrobe. Sitting in a rocking chair watching the sunrise, Carl was drinking coffee while wearing a white t-shirt and comfortable jeans.

Ki guessed that he had probably been up for awhile. Joe said his dad was always an early riser.

Looking up Carl smiled at her while raising a steaming cup of coffee.