“Do you want me to see if my mom can bring Lydia over?”
I hate that my first thought is what if this is one of the last times we all have dinner like this together? All I know is, there is no way I’m going down without a fight.
“That’d be great.”
Sutton and I enjoy an hour of uninterrupted alone time before the sounds of happy kids burst our bubble.
“Daddy. Look how cool Lydia’s helmet is.”
Troy points out the helmet in Lydia’s hands.
“It’s good luck,” she tells me. “Unicorns are lucky.”
The white helmet has pink unicorn stickers stuck all over it. It’s the same helmet I got her when the kids started playing, just with a little more creativity taken.
“I love it,” I say. “Now, why don’t you both wash your hands before dinner.”
Dinner is a quiet affair. Lydia and Troy tell us about their respective days, but both Sutton and I are distracted. I know she’s just as worried as I am.
After dishes are cleared, Lydia sighs. “Do we have to go home tonight?”
“Do you want to go home?” Sutton asks.
Lydia shakes her head, her blonde hair falling out of her ponytail. “I want to stay here.”
“Well,” I start, “it’s a good thing we have sleeping bags for a sleepover.”
“A sleepover?” Troy asks. “Can we watch a movie before bed?”
“Absolutely. We’ll set up the sleeping bags if you two go and brush your teeth.”
“Okay!”
They hop out of their chairs and run toward the bathroom. Sutton and I had the foresight to pack a bag for Lydia because I knew I would want them close tonight.
Sutton is in the kitchen, rinsing off the last of the dishes. Wrapping my arms around her, I pull her back to my front.
“I know you’ve told me I don’t have to say thank you, but thank you.”
“You never have to thank me for loving you.”
“Well, forgive me if I want to show you as much as I can.” Sweeping her hair off her neck, I press quick kisses against her shoulder.
“Mmm, I wish we had more time.” The sound of feet has me pulling back.
“Later, Sutton.”
Latershe mouths as she backs into the living room to greet the kids, complete with sleeping bags and pillows.
With the four of us settled in, watching a movie about a dog that plays basketball, for the first time all day, I’m at peace.
Whatever happens tomorrow, I’m ready.
Because there is no way in hell I’m going to lose this without a fight.
Chapter Thirty-One
DEREK
