Emily: He doesn't even know me that well and he's looking out for me? Marry him immediately.
Chloe: Pretty sure that's the plan eventually.
Emily: EVENTUALLY?! Chloe, that man is GONE for you.
Chloe: I know. It's still surreal.
Emily: Enjoy the surreal. You deserve it. Now tell me about this weekend with his kids.
Chloe: They're 8 and 6. Emma and Jackson. Coming Friday through Sunday.
Emily: And you're meeting them?
Chloe: Not this weekend. Tyler wants to prepare them first. But maybe next time.
Emily: Smart. Gives everyone time to adjust. What's Tyler saying about it?
Chloe: That they want him to be happy and I make him happy so they'll like me.
Emily: He's right. Kids are perceptive. They'll see how he looks at you and know you're good for him.
Chloe: I hope so.
Emily: Trust the process. And text me if you need pep talks.
Chloe: Always
The rest of the afternoon drags. By the time Tyler shows up at six, I'm exhausted from a long day on my feet. We drive to his apartment in comfortable silence. Once inside, Tyler orders dinner while I change into comfortable clothes, leggings and one of his t-shirts that I've basically claimed as mine.
"So," he says once we're settled on the couch with food. "This weekend. The kids and I will do our thing. You'll do yours. And we'll check in throughout the weekend."
"What if they ask about me?"
"I’m planning on telling them about you on the drive from the airport. I’ll tell them that you're kind and funny and you own a coffee shop. That you make me happy." His hand finds mine."I'm not hiding you from them, Chloe. You're a part of my life. They need to know that." He squeezes my hand. "Emma's been asking when I'm going to have a girlfriend. Jackson just wants to make sure whoever I date likes Legos. I think we're good."
I laugh despite myself. "I do like Legos."
"See? Already winning points."
My phone buzzes with a group text.
Madison: Book club Friday night. My place. 7pm. Who's in?
Lily: I'll be there.
Holly: Justin and I have plans but I'll try to sneak out for an hour.
Amber: I'm in.
Maya: Me too.
Emily: Can't. Driving to Grand Ridge to pick up equipment.
Madison: By yourself?
Emily: Yeah. It's fine. Three-hour drive, pick up the stuff, drive back.
Chloe: Tyler has a friend up there who's going to keep an eye out for you.
