But just for good measure, I put a heart on her “Night Jack.”
FOURTEEN
MARA
NOVEMBER
“I can’t believewe’re going on some behind-the-scenes extravaganza because Harper’s dad has a crush on you.” Gabi was enjoying our trip to the game a little too much, reading into every possible detail.
“He’s probably just horny,” I said, looking around to make sure the kids couldn’t hear.
Gabi guffawed. “If that’s all it was, he could probably just find some willing fan.”
I focused on loading the diaper bag with snacks and distractions, going through my mental checklist of every possible thing that could go awry at this game to make sure I had everything.
“Ooh! I think he’s pulling up now!” Gabi called from the window.
At the same moment, my phone buzzed.
JACK LEROY
Here
Be right down!
But when I swung the front door open, Jack stood leaning against the door frame—in a three-piece suit. “Hey.”
Had I swallowed my own tongue? “Hi!” I croaked. “I feel . . . underdressed.”
He lightly shook his head, surveying me from head to toe. “You’re not. Let’s go.”
“Aspen! Harper’s here! Are your shoes on?” I called out.
Aspen came skidding into the front hall and I opened the door to let Jack in. He held out a hand to stop me. “Kids are in the car. I don’t like them to leave my sight.”
“Oh, right. Duh. Makes me sound like a bad parent.”
Gabi cleared her throat behind me, and I turned back toward her while Aspen put his shoes on. “Hi, Jack,” she said with a smug grin.
“Hello.” Jack flashed his teeth with his grimace smile.
She was undeterred by his attitude. “Thanks for bringing me along! You know, even if I am just free childcare.”
Jack’s mouth flapped. “I . . . can pay you. I don’t want you to feel like?—”
Gabi waved him off. “No, no. Stupid joke. I’m excited for the game.”
Jack had his phone out. “What’s your Venmo?”
“It’s really fine,” Gabi assured him, scooping Hazel up and lowering her into her car seat.
“Ready!” Aspen chimed.
I squatted to fasten Hazel’s buckles, but Jack appeared at my side and took over.
“Hey, buddy,” he said to Hazel.
Hazel gave Jack a broad, toothy grin. “Hi.”
