"Any of us?" Leo asked.
"Maddox said Diane wasn’t coming alone, but I figured—”
"That maybe just one of us would tag along," Nick added, playing right off me.
"Something like that," I admitted.
"One thing you have to learn about us is that we do a lot of things as a group."
"We're easily influenced," Leo said. "One of us says something and suddenly everyone decides it's a good idea."
Diane laughed. "Guys, don't overwhelm Cami right away."
"I can keep up," I said, although I wasn’t quite certain about that. Growing up as an only child didn't prepare me for the dynamics of such a huge family.
"Ever since Maddox and Gabe set their eyes on Essex, it started to give me ideas too," Leo said.
"And now he’s corrupted me," Diane added. "I took a tour of the town. It's lovely."
I looked at Nick. "And you want to open a fitness branch here?"
"Oh no. I just tagged along because it seemed like a cool thing to do on a Saturday. And I’m looking forward to trying the zip line."
"Sure," I said with a nod.
Spencer kissed Ben's head and told me, "Penny and I are actually staying at the Gris."
"It really is lovely," Penny added.
"I’d love to give you a tour of the town myself, but we’re crazy busy today and tomorrow. How come Gabe didn't join you?" I asked as I looked into the distance for my group. I didn't see them yet. The zip line was long, leading all the way to the gate of the park, so walking back always took some time.
"They're cooped up with the architect and the lawyers, drawing up the papers," Spencer said.
"Oh."
I didn't realize the architect had been involved, too, but then again, I didn't have a ton of experience with contracts.
Ben started fussing.
"I'll take him," Penny said, kissing his head as Spencer transferred him to her arms.
"The little guy is so adorable," I said.
He began wailing louder.
Penny grimaced. "Okay, and that's our cue that he wants to leave.” She glanced at Spencer. “Should we go back to the hotel?”
He nodded. “Sorry to cut this short, Cami. It was great seeing you again."
"Yeah, and you," I said.
Once they left, Diane sighed. "You know, Jeannie's abilities will never cease to amaze me."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
Nick and Leo groaned in unison. I frowned, looking from one to the other.
"Let's not talk about Gran's skills, okay?" Leo said.