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At another time, she’d have to talk to her precious little girl. Sage lived such a charmed life. Princess didn’t even begin to describe it. Ivy would have to impart some home truths, but not today. “You didn’t eat. Want Momma to go make you a plate?”

“No, thanks. I’m not hungry.”

Sage’s response hurt her heart. This kid was always eating.

Emmanuel had been in awe when Sage had a high fever, and she scarfed down a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup.“I’ve never seen anything like that. Have you seen anyone eat like that with a fever?”

Ivy suppressed a smile at the memory as Sage squirmed in her lap.

“How about I bring you a snack?”

“Up here?” Sage lifted her head.

“Yeah.”

“That would be cool, but I don’t feel like eating. Can you cuddle with me?”

“Of course.” They settled in Sage’s bed and Ivy pulled her little girl into her arms.

Even though Sage yawned, she asked to watch the Gilmore Girls. Ivy wasn’t a fan of the ‘retro show’ as her daughter dubbed it, but she would do whatever she could to bring her daughter comfort. Halfway through the first episode, Benjamin knocked on the door.

“Can I come in Sage?”

“Bet you he stays once he sees the Gilmore girls are on.” Sage giggled. “Sure, come on in,” she called.

Benjamin came in and his eyes widened at finding his mom in bed with Sage.

“You both good?” Worry etched Benjamin’s face.

“Yup, we are watching the Gilmore Girls.” Benjamin stood by the bed for a while, then eventually made his way over to the love seat in Sage’s room.

Sage looked up at her mom and mouthed. “See?” Ivy shook her head and smiled.

It wasn’t long before Oliver joined them. He made himself comfortable on Sage’s floor. Ivy was surprised that he didn’t ask for the show to be changed.

As if reading her mind, Sage leaned over and whispered, “he loves this show too.” It was followed by a self-satisfied smirk.

It would have been a perfect moment; except they were missing Emmanuel. She hadn’t heard from him. What did you expect?

Fuck!Her phone was on silent. He’d messaged as he promised.

Manny: I’m at the Condo.

Of course he did. He was a man of his word. Oh no! That was over an hour ago. She could only imagine how he felt.

Me: Hey, sorry I missed your message.

Bubbles appeared… it took forever… but then she received the message…

Manny: It’s okay.

More bubbles… then they were gone, then back again.

Manny: I’m trying to get rid of an unwanted guest. Can you please message Frank and tell him I’m fine and to go home to his man? Fuck!

Ivy giggled, and all her children looked at her suspiciously. She waved them away.

Me: I’ll see what I can do.

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