Page 70 of More Than an Ex-Girlfriend

Archer:Lettie’s pregnant, but we aren’t announcing it yet.

This is turning out to be quite the day. Archer’s news is unexpected as they’ve only been married a short time, but I couldn’t be happier for them.

But I answer Primrose first because she is one of the special reasons I’m at this party. I’d probably be here anyway, but still.

Me:Just pulled up. And is there any chance I could become your favorite person?

Primrose likes the message but doesn’t reply. As I tuck my phone away, it vibrates again, and I check for new messages.

She changed the like to a love.

I practically skip around the house.

When I step onto the patio, Bailey screams, “DeeDee!”

Wet hair plastered to her head, she races toward me, and her flippers slap against the pebbled concrete as she runs.

She’s always happy to see me, but this reaction is turned up to eleven. With goggles on her face and floaties on her arms, she launches into my arms when I lean down. “Uncle Parker said you were coming.” She presses her hands to each side of my face. “Mommy isn’t going to swim. Will you swim with me?”

“Sure thing, Munchkin.”

She wriggles until I put her down. “You can eat first.” After giving me permission to nourish myself, she runs to the edge of the pool and jumps in.

I scan the people gathered near the pool until I spot Primrose. Her arms are crossed like a shield, and her gaze is fixed on Bailey, who very clearly loves the water. Primrose must sense my stare. She meets my gaze.

I lift an eyebrow, and her lips curve into a smile.

We’ve been on two dates, but I’m still not sure if this woman even likes me. She’s guarded, but I don’t yet know why. What I do know is that dating her brother’s coworker makes her uneasy.

I’m trying my best to wipe away that uneasiness.

Parker nudges me. “Do you have any idea how hard it is to be the fun uncle with you around?”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t—”

He puts up a hand. “I’m joking. Completely.” He watches Bailey climb out of the pool. “It’s good to see her so happy. I’m glad they moved here.”

Me too. But I’m still careful about what I say to Parker.

“She’s a sweet kid.”

“She is.” He glances toward the large barbecue pit. “I’m glad you aren’t upset about the you-know-what.”

“The cactus? I hardly think about it.” I rub my backside. “Only a few times a minute. It doesn’t hurt anymore, so that’s good.” I play it cool as Primrose makes her way over. “Worth it though.”

Parker shakes his head, chuckling. “I could’ve just introduced you to my sister, Anderson.”

“That would’ve been too easy.”

Primrose stops beside me. “What’s too easy?”

Parker walks away, leaving me all alone as I try to figure out how to answer without putting my foot in my mouth.

“Remember what I said about my best asset? You just tell me when you’re ready for me to rip this shirt off.” Distracting her with muscles is my only hope.

She rolls her eyes, then grins. “You can eat first.”

“Like mother like daughter.”

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