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As usual, the diner food was incredible, and the girls gobbled up everything. Once they were fed, they asked to play at the playground.

Gabriel couldn’t sit still and I figured something was on his mind.

“Do you need to handle something?”

“Some stuff with work. I rarely get time for it with the girls around.”

“I’ll watch them.” I waved a hand. “You go do what you have to.”

He opened his mouth, no doubt to ask me if I was sure. All I could do was roll my eyes and push him away.

He laughed and pulled out his phone.

“Thank you. I appreciate all that you’re doing for me.”

“Remember me when you make your next big game and get even richer.”

“Like I ever forgot you.” He muttered it under his breath, making my own hitch. My cheeks warmed as I turned to watch the girls.

If he kept saying things like that, I would make even more mistakes.

Or maybe I would make them anyway.

24

GABRIEL

Dad Company (But Sometimes Good Advice)

Robert Colt: Sound off, men! Who all has kids going to school this year?

Comments:

Oliver Brian: I do, but it’s my third. I’ll be fine.

Robert Colt: Bets on Oliver crying again like he did with his second?

Oliver Brian: It was only a few tears!

Dean Briggs: You all are stronger than me. I can’t imagine sending my Sammy to school yet. I get emotional just thinking about it.

Oliver Brian: I think @G Singh has the twins going in.

Robert Colt: Anyone heard from him? I bet he’s the one person looking forward to it . . .

Hi, Mr. Sinclair,

Usually, we do not approve requests like this. Our curriculum is strict and we want our students to be here from day one. However, considering your story and the status you hold, we are willing to reconsider.

We would like to set up an in-person meeting to discuss timelines and what education the girls will need upon joining the school. When are you available?

Thank you,

Director Smith

I stared at the email for a long time, trying not to feel disappointed. Breakfast had been great, and the longer I stayed in Strawberry Springs, the more it grew on me.

The school was willing to work with me, which was something I should have been happy about. Alice wanted this. She had worked so hard to get them in, and I knew I needed to follow what she wanted.