Page 103 of Chasing the Sun

“It’s about Chloe…Chloe and I.”

“Yes?”

Even though he couldn’t see her, he’d swear she was smiling. “We decided…well…she’s not going back to Michigan. She’s staying here with Molly and me.”

“Is she staying on as Molly’s nanny?” Victoria asked, sounding a bit confused.

“No. She wants to open her own dance studio.”

“I see. Is that all?”

He didn’t detect a single hint of jealousy. It was more like she was trying to hold back her enthusiasm until he told her the rest.

No time like the present. “I love her, Vic, and she loves me too.”

“Oh, Bryce. I’m so happy for you two! I had a feeling this might happen once you let your guard down.”

“You did?”

“Yes. Chloe’s a wonderful person, and I adore her. We all do, especially Molly.”

“And me.” I probably didn’t need to add that.

“Of course. I could tell right away. You two have that thing, you know— chemistry.”

He smiled recalling that chemistry was one of the ingredients Chloe had named when describing her ideal man.

“So, what happens next? Are you two getting married?”

He emitted a strangled laugh. “Why is everyone so anxious for us to walk down the aisle? My parents, Molly, and now you.”

“Sorry. I know it’s early days, but I could just envision Molly as a flower girl. I bet she’d love that.”

“She already mentioned it.”

Victoria giggled. “That’s my girl.”

He took a deep breath and continued. “I explained to Molly that the relationship she has with you is special and Chloe being here won’t change that. You’ll always be Mommy to her.”

Victoria was silent for a few beats, and he surmised she’d gotten choked up, so he sat quietly and waited for her to speak.

“Thank you, Bryce. I appreciate that, but I know Molly’s capable of loving many people, including Chloe.”

“Will you do me a favor?”

“Of course, anything.”

“Will you let me know if you notice anything worrisome about Molly’s behavior? Right now, she seems ecstatic, but the news hasn’t really had a chance to sink in yet.”

“I’ll be on the lookout, but I don’t think you have to worry.”

“Thanks. Do you have any news for me?”

“Actually, I do. Trace and I are going to have a baby. We just found out a few days ago.”

His mouth fell open, and he was glad she wasn’t there to witness it. He quickly collected himself and thought how happy Molly would be at the news.

“Wow! Congratulations.”