Page 144

"Can I have your address, please?" I ask again.

She picks up a pen, scribbles on the paper, and hands it to me. "You'll need the car seat."

"I know. Thank you."

"Don't thank me yet. You haven't met him."

"You trying to scare me again?"

"No. I'm warning you that Lainey inherited that stubborn streak from somewhere, and despite what her daddy claims, it wasn't me."

I laugh. "Sounds like he and my dad ought to get along great."

"Or kill each other."

"That too."

Lorraine points at me. "And I did not give you that address so you could go over there acting like some big-shot Cartwright."

"I'm not."

"I mean it. Dean has a lot of pride."

"I wouldn't disrespect him."

For several seconds, she says nothing.

"You think I would?" I ask, trying to hide the hurt in my voice.

She waits, then shakes her head. "No. I don't."

I release an anxious breath. "Good. That's not the man I am."

She nods, picks up the diaper bag, and sets it on the table. "Let me grab a few changes of clothes in case you need them."

"Thank you."

She disappears.

I bounce Charlie on my knee. "Are you ready for a road trip with Daddy?"

"Ga," she says, trying to grab my arm, but it's too large, and my hands are under her armpits, fingers stretched behind her head.

Lorraine reappears, warning, "You better take good care of my granddaughter."

I tilt my head. "Lorraine. She's my daughter. If you think I'm gonna let anything happen to her, you're crazy."

"Just saying," she says, then takes Charlie from me and hugs her. "You have a good trip with your daddy. Kiss Granddaddy for me."

I toss the diaper bag over my shoulder, grab Charlie's hat, and put it on. Then I get her into her coat. When she's ready, I assert, "Tell Lainey I'll meet her at the racetrack tonight. You both can go with Mom and Dad."

She nods. "Okay. Best of luck to you."

My pulse increases. "Gee, thanks."

A tiny laugh comes out of Lorraine.

"Let me get the car seat sorted." I step outside and decide it's best if I don't wake up Lainey. So I quickly switch the seat into my truck and go get Charlie. I buckle her in, put the directions on my navigation, and we get on the road.