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Dad takes in a deep breath as he stops pacing, sighs, and looks between me and Bast. “It’s obvious how much you care for each other, and you deserve happiness after...”
He stares at Marie who grimaces, but she says to Bast, “He does. And the children do too. It’s time for you to be happy again.”
A single tear slips down my cheek as I wait for Mom’s approval.
“What am I going to tell Daniel? He really thought you and him...”
“That’s your problem,” Father says. “You should have stopped your meddling ways.”
I don’t know if she’ll ever come around.
Chapter 11
Bast
“You really love me?”
The door has only just shut, and she’s staring at me with hopeful eyes.
“Yes. I love you. You’re hard not to love.”
She bursts into tears. “You’re the only one who does.”
I hold her against me and softly kiss the crown of her head as it rests on my chest.
“That’s not true. I think your father came round and your mother just needs some time.”
Marie and James walk out of the playroom with Hettie and Havana. I’m still not sure how Marie is taking the news. But when she smiles and presses her hand on my shoulder, I think we’re going to be okay.
“Are you okay?” my ever thoughtful daughter, Hettie, asks, siding up to Bree and patting her back.
“Of course, darling.” Her eyes are red and puffy as she turns to Hettie and smiles, trying to act normal. “These are happy tears.”
“We’ll let you talk to the girls,” James says. He squeezes Bree’s shoulder. “Welcome to the family.”
Bree looks at him with watery eyes. “Thank you,” she chokes out.
“You’re in our family now?” Havana asks. She’s always the one to pick up on any snippet of information she shouldn’t. “Are you Daddy’s girlfriend?”
Bree’s gaze lands on mine as she wonders how to answer.
“Let’s go,” James says to Marie. “And thanks for letting us take them for the night. If you want date nights, we’re always ready.”
Marie smiles. “Maybe you’d like a couple of hours tonight?”
Bree glances at Hettie and Havana and says. “Would it be okay if we had a family night tonight?” My heart sinks because I’d really love some time with just me and her.
Her teeth dig into her bottom lip before she asks Hettie and Havana. “Would you like to sleep at Nanny’s and Gramps’ house next weekend?”
The girls squeal. “Can we go to the cinema and watch a Disney movie?” Havana asks.
Marie grins. “Absolutely. And how about pizza too?”
“And ice-cream?” Hettie mumbles, her eyes wide and hopeful.
“Would you like the ice-cream now, so Daddy and Bree can have a chat?” Marie asks.
Hettie drags Havana by the hand, and both girls get their coats. Obviously, ice-cream always wins.
