But they’re doing just fine without me. Wrapped up in their new bestie, Princess Luna.
And I won’t pull them out of that.
Especially if she’s leaving in the morning.
So, before my kids turn feral, the world catches fire, or these clothes fuse to my skin, I turn on the shower and claim ten blissful minutes for myself.
CHAPTER 28
Harrison
“In-con-theeev-a-bul,” I declare, dragging out each syllable out.
The kids dissolve into tired giggles, collapsing over each other on the sofa in a heap of blankets and limbs.
For storytime, Connor insisted on action. Ollie wanted pirates. Snooki demanded princesses. And, a wedding.
The Princess Bride is the only story that satisfies every last demand.
I’ve been reading it for so long I don’t need the book anymore. The words live in my memory now, tucked somewhere between tying shoes and packing lunches.
And when Snooki’s laughter slips into a yawn and Ollie slumps sideways, I know I’ve got maybe twenty minutes before they’re all out.
Connor pretends not to be interested, eyes glued to his phone, yet he’s quick to correct me when I say Inigo. “I think you mean Fezzik, Dad.”
He’s right. But I can’t say that and risk his head consuming the room. “I was just testing you.”
Pix is curled into my armchair, surrounded by things from Snooki’s closet my daughter outgrew but couldn’t part with.
A tulle skirt becomes two frilly sleeves. Mismatched satin ribbons twist into a crown. I’m not sure what Fraulein Maria raided for the long cape, but the result is unmistakable. Every stitch says princess.
Her smile goes wide when I slip into my best high-pitched royal voice, and Snooki spins like she’s already wearing the crown.
“We must not begin with secrets from each other…” My words trail off.
Because I am keeping secrets from Pix.
And it’s wrong.
Her doe eyes meet mine. “Everything okay?” she asks, a faint frown pulling at her brow.
I paint on a smile. “Peachy-keen.”
Another half hour of reading passes, and two of my three are asleep.
Pix rises on cue. “I’ll take Snook?” she offers.
I pull Connor into a quick bro hug. “Night, man.”
“Night, Dad.”
Ava kisses his cheek, hugs him goodnight, then scoops up Snooki with ease. Yeah. She got the easy one. Snooki weighs about as much as a slice of bread.
I grab Ollie, grunt as my back pops, and carry him down the hall. I’m fairly certain he gained another five pounds overnight.
What’s he eating? Cereal laced with lead?
I tuck Ollie in and check in on Snook.
