Page 40 of Headed for Home

“Yay!” Charlie eagerly replaces her, explaining his choice to the artist.

“You make a beautiful Elsa,” I tell my daughter as she does a twirl.

“Thanks, Mommy.” Her eyes slide to the man next to me before returning to her reflection.

A bubble expands in my throat and I suddenly lose traction in this situation. He’s just a guy. They don’t have to like him. My heart is far from invested. But a clench in my chest argues that the beating organ isn’t falling for lies.

Drake appears content to allow the scene to unfold naturally. His expression is relaxed and open for engagement. My kiddos exchange a silent glance that holds an entire conversation without a word.

“What’re they doing?” Drake asks from the corner of his mouth.

“It’s a twin telepathy thing. They’ve probably been doing it since they were wombmates. I think they’re feeling you out.”

“Ah, okay. I’ve got this.” He rubs his palms together.

“Should I be concerned?”

“Only for what you’re wearing under those shorts.” His left dimple blows me a kiss and I sway.

“Oh, my.” I haven’t regained my bearings when Drake spreads his arms wide in greeting.

“Mac and Cheese! Thanks for letting me tag along. I’ll make it worth your while.”

Kenzie squeaks and a sparkle enters her gaze. “Is that our nickname?”

“Absolutely, Mac.” The man responsible looks too pleased with himself, especially when my little girl begins bouncing in a circle.

“I love it!” Kenzie shouts.

“Me too!” Charlie cheers as the artist finishes his design.

“Is that a monster on your face, Cheese?” Drake motions to his own cheek.

“I’m Venom. Feed me tater tots and ice cream,” my son demands in a demonic tone while curling his fingers into claws.

“Whoa!” Drake stumbles backward. “Please don’t hurt me.”

“I’ll save you, Rake.” Kenzie flutters fake wings and zooms in front of her brother, tapping him with a pretend wand. “There. Now he’s frozen.”

“Save me,” Charlie wails. “I’m sooooo cold.”

“What should I do? I’m conflicted.” Drake hesitates, unsure whose side to be on.

“Don’t worry,” I murmur. “They’ll work it out.”

As predicted, Kenzie spins around her brother and boops him with her invisible magic. “You’re melted, Venom. But you better behave or I’ll lock you in the dungeon.”

“M’kay, promise.” Charlie smiles wide. “Let’s fight bad guys!”

Drake laughs as the twins whack and slice a fleet of villains into thin air. “Wow, you didn’t tell me your kids belong in movies.”

I roll my lips between my teeth but a giggle escapes. “They’re very theatrical.”

He applauds them. “I’m here for it.”

“Which reminds me…” My attention swings to the line behind us. “We should get out of the way.”

Before I can grab my wallet, Drake dumps entirely too much cash in the woman’s money jar. “That should cover it.”

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