Page 62 of Tangled Trust

"Fine," he says, bravely attempting a smile but failing dismally. "Can Dash come?"

"Of course."

"When will Daddy be home?"

"He should be home the day after tomorrow. We can call him a bit later if you like."

"Okay."

Jagger, Dash, and I climb into Carter’s king-size bed. I fiddle with the remote and flip through the movie selection until I find Avatar. Jagger loves the blue people. It’s sweet how involved he gets in the plot.

But today, he is less interactive than usual. I end up watching the movie alone while he lays fast asleep next to me with Dash snuggled up at his feet. I wish Carter was here with us. I’ll call him a bit later, when Jagger is awake.

I think I’ll close my eyes for a bit. I’m bushed.

Jagger is awake and pokes me until I open my eyes.

"Can we call Daddy now?" he whispers.

"Sure, sweetheart," I smile and sit up.

I dial Carter’s number and switch the call to speakerphone. I hope Carter doesn’t say anything saucy, thinking it’s me. We did talk about that once, so hopefully he remembers not to.

"Hello."

"Daddy, I’m sick."

"Hey, buddy. What’s wrong?"

"I’ve got a tummy bug."

"Oh, dear. That’s not good. How are you feeling?"

"Yucky."

"Oh, no, my boy. What are you doing now?"

"Ella and I are in your bed. Dash is here too."

"That’s good. Are you watching movies?"

"Yes. When are you coming home?"

"Two more sleeps, my boy, then I’ll be home. I’m sure Ella will take good care of you until I get there."

"Yeah. I know."

"Can I talk to her quickly?"

"Sure."

"Hi," I say. "Let me take you off speakerphone."

I take the phone from Jagger and switch.

"Hi, there."

"Hey. It sounds like you have your hands full on that side."

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