Page 501 of The Winslow Brothers

He just can’t help himself.

Remy: How are things going today?

How are things going today? Ha. That’s the question of the hour.

I consider lying, but as my anxiety sucks at the organs inside me, I think better of it.The truth will set you free.

Me: It could be better.

Remy: Uh-oh…what’s going on?

I sigh and snap a quick picture of Izzy and send it to him.

Me: Client hates babies. Fingers crossed she just thinks Izzy’s a really tiny adult.

His reply back is instant.

Remy: Holy hell, Ria. LOL.

Me: I KNOW. It’s so ridiculous it’s comical, but I’m trying to juggle all the things today. And, well, juggling all the things when you have a baby to take care of ends with you having to go to a showing with said baby, even though the client loathes kids.

Remy: Still staying strong on your “No Nanny” rule, huh?

There is no way I could ever get a nanny. I just…can’t do that to my sister. It was one of two things that were important to her when it came to raising her daughter.

The other one was breastfeeding her, and that only panned out in failure. I can’t disappoint her again.

Me: Staying strong? The jury is still out on the official verdict, but I’m definitely trying. Does that count?

Remy: You’re doing awesome, Maria. Don’t forget that. And…don’t be jealous, but I happen to be heading to an appointment with an investment client who LOVES babies…

I am most definitely jealous.

Me: Ugh. Can we switch clients?

Remy: How about we just switch Izzy? I can come over and pick her up and take her with me.

Dammit. I should’ve known he was gearing me up for something.

Me: Remy, don’t be ridiculous. You don’t have to do that.

Remy: I know I don’t. But I WANT to do it.

I look at Izzy and back at the screen of my phone.Can I really let him do this? Take Izzy with him to a meeting?

No. I can’t. That’s asking for way too much.

Remy: Don’t overthink it.

Me: I’m not. It’s just too much, you know? You shouldn’t have to bail me out all the time.

Remy: I’m not bailing you out. I’d say you’re doing pretty damn well managing right now. Plus, this is really for me. I could use a distraction with this client, and Izzy is the cutest distraction I can think of. I’m coming over to get her.

Me: REMY. No. We’ll be fine.

Remy: It’s happening. I’ll be there in about 10 minutes.

I sigh and even try to call him, but all I get back is his voice mail and another text.

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