“With that in mind, and because you asked me, I’m going to give you my truthful opinion. I think that, yes, there are some things best shared between males, that boys feel more comfortable talking about with another man. I’m sure there are secrets between Aaron and Michael that I’ll never know.”

“But Aaron is his father!”

“And for Justin, Jake is a father figure, someone he looks up to and respects. You may not want to hear it, Nikki, but I think you overreacted regarding whatever Justin shared with his coach. And I think that the fact that Jake wouldn’t break your son’s confidence, despite what I’m sure were some very persuasive arguments... well... that should speak for itself.”

“What about Justin wanting Jake to be his father? You remember how upset he was when Kevin walked out?”

“Got kicked to the curb as I remember, and rightly so. Kevin was an asshole and from what you’ve shared about Jake, there is simply no comparison. I understand your being cautious and wanting to spare Justin’s feelings but from the sounds of it, he’s already quite attached to his coach. Teachers come and go from our children’s lives and often leave lifelong impressions that serve them well. Remember Mrs. Ricci and how I cried because I couldn’t spend the summer in Maine with her and her family?”

Dominique laughed. “I remember.”

“There was a part of me that probably wished she was my mom, at least for a hot minute, especially once I saw how their summer cottage sat right on the beach!” Faith smiled, then continued, her voice softer, “Perhaps looking at Jake as Justin’s teacher instead of your man will change your perspective, so that you can view this as a positive experience for both of them.”

“You’re right, sister,” Dominique replied, her own voice filled with guilt and regret. “I’ve been both father and mother for so long and I admit... it bothers me to not be in control. But Jake doesn’t deserve the way I’ve treated him lately.”

“Well, darlin’, what are you going to do?”

“I’ve got to talk to him,” Dominique said as she looked out the window onto a picture-perfect day and wishing her life resembled it. “He may not forgive me, or want to see me again after our conversation. But I’ve got to apologize. I owe him that.”

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