I turn my head just enough to catch Cormac’s expression out of the corner of my eye.
He doesn’t look angry. Instead, he looks like a worn-out father who hasn’t slept in days. “I told Fiona to give you space. I’m sorry if that was the wrong call, bud.”
Scout’s head snaps up.
I look questioningly at Cormac.
Is he saying what I think he’s saying?
Cormac catches my eye and subtly nods his head in Scout’s direction.
Realizing what he’s suggesting, a huge smile breaks out over my face. “Hey, Scout. Why don’t we go downstairs and make some cocoa for everyone?”
Scout’s eyes brighten just a little. “Really?”
“I’m sure everyone could use a little chocolate fix.” I bend down to whisper in his ear. “Especially your dad.”
Scout nods enthusiastically before sliding his hand into mine like it’s the most natural thing in the world.
The three of us head downstairs together, Scout already chatting away about the ratio of marshmallows to whipped cream.
I let him ramble, grateful for the distraction not just from Lorcan but also from my conversation with Cormac.
For now, I think a sense of normalcy will be good for all of us.
The low lights of the kitchen feel warm and inviting.
Scout immediately darts into the pantry so he can sneak some extra marshmallows when he thinks I’m not looking.
Cormac takes up a position at the island, leaning against the counter and watching with quiet curiosity. His gaze flicks between Scout and me as we get to work, pouring the milk into the pan, but he doesn’t say anything, though something in his expression softens.
I’m acutely aware of where I stand in this space now, like I’m not fully welcome but I’m not blacklisted either.
Once the cocoa is ready, Scout clambers up onto a stool and lines up all of the mugs.
“Dad, Fiona said we could have whipped cream too.”
Cormac huffs out something that might be a laugh. “Of course, she did.”
I bite the inside of my cheek to stop myself from smiling as Cormac pretends to be annoyed.
That’s when Ciara appears in the doorway. She takes in the scene in one quick sweep, clocking Scout on the stool, with Cormac searching the fridge for cream, and me at the counter.
Her eyebrows lift slightly, surprise flickering across her face before she quickly schools it into something neutral. “Well, this looks cozy.”
“We’re making cocoa.” Scout drops a handful of mini marshmallows into a mug.
“Or rather, marshmallows with a side of cocoa.” I raise my brows at Scout, who smiles sheepishly as he stuffs some extra marshmallows into his mouth.
“Obviously.” Ciara chuckles.
She comes to stand beside me, leaning her hip against the counter. Her shoulder brushes mine, and I feel the silent acknowledgment in it.
I glance over and meet her eyes and offer her a small smile.
“Want any help?” she asks me.
“I’ve got it,” I say, then hesitate. “But you’re welcome to join us.”
