* * *
Lori, Maddy and Kenny spent a glorious Sunday afternoon watching
the Eagles defeat the Vikings, 28-17. They'd all bundled up in ski suits,
gloves, scarves and hats, fighting a wind chill close to zero, thanks to
December's brutal winds. But not even the intense cold could break their
spirits as the three of them screamed, cheered and booed, along with
65,000 other rabid fans. And for Maddy, it seemed as if things were
blissfully back to normal; Ken appeared at-ease and just as crazy about her
as ever, occasionally kissing her on the head and staring at her in his
inimitable way. The only brief moment of tension had occurred earlier,
when Ken and Monica first saw each other, but Mrs. Rose had quickly
diffused that situation by offering a warm and sincere welcome.
More striking was Ken's instant rapport with the babies, Ava in
particular. She'd been crying profusely as they all shared an after-Mass
breakfast in the dining room, but when Ken lifted her in his arms and
began consoling her in a soft, comforting voice, her entire demeanor
changed immediately. And as the infant she smiled up at him with her big
blue eyes, Laura remarked, "Ken, I think we're gonna have to keep you
around for a while!"
Avidly desirous of a family of his own someday, Ken had always felt
comfortable with infants and children. And he knew if he was lucky
enough to produce offspring with Madeline, he would love them beyond
understanding.