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"I'd like to see her," I said, smiling at the thought of my niece.
"Anytime you want. We won't be going out for a while," Sadie responded.
"Why is that?" I asked, concerned.
"I feel funny leaving her with anyone but us," Sadie admitted.
"You need a break. We could watch her for you," I offered.
"When was the last time you took care of a baby?" she asked, doubt creeping into her voice.
"Trouble," I said, glancing over at the dog in his bed. He raised his head at the sound of his name.
"He's a dog, not a child," Sadie reminded me, laughing.
"I've taken care of children before," I insisted.
"Several years ago," she countered.
"I'm her aunt. I would treat her like gold," I promised earnestly.
"I'll think about your offer," Sadie said, her tone softening.
"Now you make me feel like a stranger. Does this mean you won't be coming to my bachelorette party?" I asked, a hint of worry in my voice.
"I'm coming. My mother will probably stay with Teagan," she assured me.
"Just keep me in mind if you want a night out," I said, hoping she'd consider it.
We chatted for a few more minutes before Sadie's yawning became frequent. I could imagine how it was having a baby who got you up several times a night. Eventually, I would have one and be in the same boat.
"Why don't you go rest?" I suggested gently.
"Thanks. Teagan had me up a few times last night," she admitted, her voice weary.
"I'll talk to you later. Call me when you get a chance," I said, feeling a pang of sympathy.
After hanging up, I slipped under the covers, the warmth enveloping me. Before I knew it, I had fallen asleep, only to stir when Oliver pressed his body against mine, his warmth a comforting presence.
Today, we were going through the invitations we had received. I had been so busy that I hadn’t opened any of the ones from before St. Croix, instead putting them into a box. Now we had close to four hundred. I got set up at the kitchen table, waiting for Oliver to get home from the office.
He walked through the door shortly before noon, dressed casually in a pair of slacks and a polo shirt. Oliver could easily be a poster boy for preppy. He put his black briefcase down next to the couch before approaching the table, tipping my head up for a kiss.
“You have everything set?” he asked, his eyes sparkling.
“Yes, just waiting for you. Can I get you something to drink?” I offered.
“I should be having a celebratory cocktail now that the contract is signed. I thought this would never happen,” he said, a triumphant grin spreading across his face.
“You’re a great negotiator. What are your plans for the property?” I asked, curious.
“I haven’t decided. Either luxury condos or a high-rise hotel. I have plenty of space for either a small park or a large pool,” he explained, settling into a chair.
“What does the area need more?” I inquired, leaning forward.
“Neither, but with more people migrating to the south, residences might be the better way to go,” he replied thoughtfully.
“You’ll figure it out. Let’s get started. We have a lot to open,” I said, handing him a stack of invitations.
