Page 54 of Play With Me

And bad accidents.

He looked at me with surprise, and when I saw the question in his eyes, I continued, “So no airplanes. I’m curious to hear more what you think about Sophie’s upbringing.”

What I really needed was a change in the direction our conversation was going. In my mind, however, all I could think about now was that little girl, growing up in a house full of men and testosterone. Was Brook right about Evie and adding a little bit of pink to Sophie’s life?

“Why?”

“Because your brother may need some help with that kid.”

“You’re serious.”

“Yes.”

Brook pulled me onto the love seat and passed me a glass of sparkling water.

“What kind of help?”

With his interest piqued, I was glad we could move past Michigan. Perhaps I could sleep on the way over, so I’d miss the crash site.

“She’s got lots of energy.”

“She does.”

“She should join a soccer team or something.”

“Soccer’s not Sophie’s thing.”

“I think I know what her thing is.”

“You do?”

He seemed bemused, and joined me in observing Sophie, who was crouched on the grass, holding a peanut in her hand, trying to lure a squirrel. The creature hopped between the piles of leaves Sophie had scooped with her arms.

“Animals. She loves animals,” I said, remembering Sophie’s talk about dogs, parrots, and bears.

“That’s true. She does. She’s been at that squirrel every time she visits her grandparents.”

“So why doesn’t she have a pet?” I asked.

“Has she talked to you?”

“Well, yeah, in general. It really sounds like a dog would be good for her.”

“Jax is a busy father, and they’ve moved a lot recently. Sophie needs stability before pets. My brother’s been striving for that for a while, but it’s not easy when you have kids.”

“Exactly. Kids are like roses.”

“Not exactly what I would compare a child to. You’re going to have to explain that one a bit more, Lola.”

“Well, roses are all pretty and delicate when they begin growing, like kids, but then those thorns get stronger and longer and pierce right into your heart when you least expect it.”

“I hear what you’re saying, but to be honest with you, you don’t look as convincing as you sound.”

“Stop analyzing me, Madman. Couldn’t Sophie’s mother help care for a pet? It’s Evie, isn’t it? The woman I saw you with?” I asked.

Feeling an odd tightness in my chest, I grasped at my sweater. Then Mary’s high-pitched squeal drew our attention toward the reunited couple and Brook sighed with reluctance.

“Yes, that was Evie. Will you excuse me for one moment? I need to use the washroom and grab a map from my father before he steals Mother away for a quickie.”

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