I see that.
What time do you leave in the morning?
Eight. Want to stop for coffee?
Just because I didn’t love needing a bodyguard didn’t mean I couldn’t be polite.
Does anyone ever say no?
I laughed.
Then seven-forty-five.
See you then.
Jack did that thing guys do, saluting with the peace sign, to dismiss Matt.
“Before you yell, I came to see O.P.’s damage, not escort you in.”
I nodded as I got out, and we walked around together.
“You okay?” he asked.
“Yes, why?”
He raised an eyebrow.God, he looks more like Dad every day. Acted like him, too.
“I’m coping, that better?”
“It’s more honest.”
Changing the subject, I told him what the mechanic said about the damage being mostly cosmetic.
“That’s good.” He looked toward the door. “Mom’s here. She said you wanted to talk. Should Meg and I give you some space?”
“Thanks. I appreciate that.” The weather was gorgeous, so I figured we could sit on the back patio. “Do you mind if I use the fire pit?” I asked as we walked in.
“Of course not.”
“Thanks.”
Natalie’s too-cute-for-words giggles filled my heart with joy as we entered the living room.
“Your Aunt Madi is here,” my mom told Nat. “Say hello.” Mom turned Natalie, so she faced me and made her wave. When she blew a raspberry on Natalie’s neck, Nat broke into another giggle fit.
“Hi Natalie. I see Grandma is spoiling you.”
“It’s a grandmother’s prerogative.”
Jack whispered, “Just tell me when. I’ll spark up the fire pit.”
“Thanks.”
We played with Natalie until Meg woke up from her nap. After saying hello, she took Natalie and disappeared again to feed her daughter.
“Want some wine?” I asked.
“Sure,” Mom answered.
