“Exactly like that,” Pen says. “The press would not be kind.”
“Is Dad the reason you and Kris split up?”
“No,” Pen and I say together.
“Just asking. And don’t worry, I’m happy to keep your secret,” Lottie says, shrugging.
Pen and my eyes clash.
What?
“It doesn’t bother you?” I ask slowly.
“No,” she says, picking up her drink. “Why should it? I know Aunty Pen. She likes me, I like her. Plus, she’s super cool. It’s not like I have to get used to a complete stranger being around. Not like Sadie. Her Dad divorced her Mum, and his girlfriend moved in two weeks later. She’d never even met her before. It was hell.”
I choke on my coffee, making Pen laugh.
“And Lottie’s right, Iamsuper cool,” Pen says, as Lottie fist bumps her. “But Lottie, it’s really important that this remains quiet. I’m sorry to ask this of you.”
“It’s cool, I’m cool. Honestly Dad. I’m happy if you’re happy. I must say I’m a little shocked it’s Aunty Pen…I thought she had more taste,” Lottie says, her face breaking into a grin, followed by a squeal, as I pull her into a headlock and ruffle her hair.
When I let her go, her laughter echoes around the room as she looks at us both.
“All I ask you is to keep the PDAs to a minimum. No kissing or sex when I’m around. Ew!” Her wrinkled nose lets us know all we need to know.
“Done deal,” we both say quickly.
The thought of my teenage daughter hearing me having sex is not something I want to contemplate. Back to sneaking around like naughty teenagers. Pen shoots me a sly glance, and I have a sneaky impression that her mind has gone in the same direction.
CHAPTER 48
PEN
My intercom chimes.
“Danika?” I say.
“Lottie’s here to see you.”
I smile. “Send her in.”
I get up and walk to the door, throwing it open as my goddaughter makes her way towards me. It’s been a week since she returned and when she said she didn’t mind about her father and me, it appears she meant it.
“Hey, this is a lovely surprise.”
She looks at me and grins.
I usher her into my room and close the door.
“Homework, advice, or just a can’t-stay-away from my favourite godmother trip?”
Lottie laughs, and the sound warms my heart. She’s been doing that a lot more easily lately.
“My art work has arrived, and I wanted to know if you would come and see it,” she tells me.
“Absolutely, count me in.”
Her smile widens.
