Devory stopped chewing the apple she was eating and leaned closer to hear the voices on the other side of the closed door.

“Moshe.” Her stepmother’s voice sounded strained. “Why didn’t you ask me first? How could you have made such a big decision without telling me?”

“I thought it would be a nice surprise for you and Miri.”

“I know you meant well, but it was more of a shock. Miri is so not ready to be adopted.”

“I think it shows her how much I care.”

“Maybe, but,” her voice softened, “you and I should have discussed it first.”

“Leah,” he said firmly, “we’re a family now. I’d like us all to share the same last name. Is that so much to ask?”
“For a thirteen-year-old who is dealing with a second marriage, I think it is.”

“Being a Weiss will speed up the transition.”

“Is this only about a name? Is that what’s important to you?”

“How can you ask me such a question?”

“Because that’s the only reason you keep giving for wanting to adopt Miri. Moshe, do you want to adopt her because you want her to be your daughter or is it just easier for you if everyone has the same last name?”

Devory swallowed the apple in her mouth and leaned as close to the door as possible. No one ever questioned her father. Her own mother hadn’t.

“I want us to be a family. Don’t you?”

Devory was stunned by her father’s calm response.
“Yes, I do, very much. But give it more time. Miri doesn’t even feel comfortable in her own room yet.”
Devory’s mouth opened in shock.

“She has quite a bit to get used to. Not just a new father and family, but the house, the school, new friends, teachers, neighborhood.”

“Okay. I’ll give her more time.”

“Thank you.”

Devory took a step from the door, expecting it to open, but the sudden mention of her name by her stepmother drew her back.

“Devory and Miri are not really warming up to each other. I still don’t see any improvement in their relationship.”

“Don't worry; one of them will soften.”

“Which one? They’re both so stubborn.”

(Excerpted from Junior, Issue 792)