Book Excerpt from "Inspiring Adoptive Love"

Book Excerpt from "Inspiring Adoptive Love" (ISBN: 978-1-312-19215-7)

INT. - MICHAEL'S HOUSE - TWO MONTHS LATER, 4 P.M.

Michael watches as Ty walks over.

TY

You've been very patient with me.

MICHAEL

It isn't hard.

TY

Thank you.

MICHAEL

You are my son and I love you.

TY

I care about you.

MICHAEL

I know.

TY

Why can't I say it?

MICHAEL

Do not be hard on yourself. You have been through a lot.

Gabriel walks over.

GABRIEL

You show love with your actions. Many say it but how many show it?

MICHAEL

You are wise beyond your years.

Kye, Jye, and John James walk over.

MICHAEL

You all are.

INT. - MICHAEL'S HOUSE - THREE HOURS LATER

Michael watches as Kye walks over.

KYE

I'm sorry I have been such a jerk to you.

MICHAEL

You have nothing to be sorry about.

KYE

I've been a jerk to you. All you've done is try to help us but I've been a jerk.

MICHAEL

You have not been a jerk. The five of you have been through a lot.

KYE

I know I’m a jerk.

MICHAEL

You are not a jerk. Do not insult yourself. You have been hurt badly.

KYE

I should not have taken it out on you.

MICHAEL

Do not be so hard on yourself.

MICHAEL

(beat)

I love you.

KYE

I care about you.

MICHAEL

I know.

KYE

I trust you.

MICHAEL

I am glad.

Kye walks off.

INT. - MICHAEL'S HOUSE - AN HOUR LATER

Michael watches as Ty walks over.

TY

I hope one day I can say it back to you the way you say it to us.

MICHAEL

You will when you are ready. Do not be so hard on yourself.