Page 498 of The Winslow Brothers

“She’s really pretty,” she says and looks up to search my eyes. “Her face is almost completely symmetrical. Don’t you think so, Uncle Rem?”

This kid. I swear.

“Yes,” I answer honestly. “Maria is a very beautiful woman, some might even say symmetrically so.”

“You should date her.”

I snort. “It’s not that simple, Lex.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s just not. Relationships are more complicated than that.”

“Doesn’t seem that complicated to me. You think she’s beautiful. You like her baby. You should date her.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” I say because it’s the only fucking way I’ll get out of this crazy loop of conversation.

Thankfully, my tactic works, and Lexi goes back to watching the game. Her eyes are fixated on the field as the Mavericks complete a first down.

While the nosy little eavesdropper’s eyes are busy, I snap a quick picture of her and send it to Maria.

Me: This is where the baby whisperer got all of his baby experience. Though, now, she’s a ten-year-old girl who is apparently noticing that football players have tight butts. Not even kidding. Those words were said to me today, and I think I died a little inside.

Maria: Oh nooooooooo.

Me: Yeah. Talk about a kick in the gut for her Uncle Rem. My sweet, innocent little niece is starting to act like a teenager more and more every day.

Maria: She’s gorgeous. It’s almost crazy how much she looks like Winnie.

Me: Definitely Win’s mini-me.

Maria: Now you should go back to enjoying the game. I promise all is well over here.

Me: You trying to get rid of me?

Maria: LOL. Just go enjoy the game with Lexi.

Me: Before I go, I want to remind you that you promised to call me if you need help. I’m expecting you to keep that promise…

Maria: I’m rolling my eyes at you right now.

Everyone is rolling their eyes at me today. I probably shouldn’t feel so damn amused by it.

Me: Because you’re stubborn.

Maria: And you’re relentless.

Me: Bye, Maria. ;)

Maria: GOODBYE, REMY.

A soft laugh leaves my lips as I shove my phone back into my pocket.

If I know Maria at all, I know that she’ll do just about anything to avoid asking for help.

Which is why I’m going to keep checking in on her until she gives in, instead of waiting for her to ask.

Tuesday, October 8th

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