Page 7 of Curvy Girl and the Single Dad Dragon
That explains the warmth I noticed during her hugs. "Anything else medically I should be aware of?"
"She's rarely sick, but when she does get a fever, it can spike quickly. There's children's fever reducer in the bathroom cabinet." He hands me a sheet of paper. "This has her pediatrician's information, my work number, cell phone, and Cole's number, my boss, in case you can't reach me."
"You're very prepared," I observe, taking a sip of my coffee. It's delicious, strong and rich.
A ghost of a smile touches his lips. "When it's just the two of us, I can't afford not to be."
There's something sad in his expression that makes me want to reach out and touch his arm, but I restrain myself.
"You're doing a great job with her," I say instead. "She's wonderful."
"Thank you. There's one more thing you should know," he says, his voice lower. "Ember sometimes has... episodes when she gets very upset or excited. She might get overheated or seem like she's having trouble breathing. It's not asthma," he adds quickly, seeing my concerned expression. "The doctor says it's a form of anxiety response. If it happens, just help her focus on her breathing. In through the nose, out through the mouth. She knows what to do."
"I understand," I say, though I make a mental note to read up more on childhood anxiety disorders. "Is there anything that typically triggers these episodes?"
He hesitates. "Strong emotions, usually. Talking about her mother can be difficult for her."
"I'll be careful," I promise.
Damon nods, seemingly satisfied. "Any questions for me before I have to leave?"
I have dozens, actually, but most seem too personal for our current professional relationship. "Not right now, but I'll text you if anything comes up."
"Good." He checks his watch again. "I should get going. Ember!" he calls. "I'm leaving for work now."
There's a thunder of little feet as Ember races down the stairs, launching herself into her father's arms. He catches her easily, lifting her high above his head before bringing her down for ahug. The absolute adoration in both their expressions makes my heart squeeze.
"Be good for Luna today," he tells her, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "Remember what we talked about."
Ember nods solemnly. "No accidents."
"That's my girl." He sets her down gently. "I'll be home by six."
I walk him to the door, suddenly feeling the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders. This man is entrusting me with his most precious treasure.
"She'll be fine," I assure him, seeing the reluctance in his eyes.
"I know she will." He pauses at the door. "Luna, thank you for this. Finding someone Ember connects with... It means more than I can say."
Before I can respond, he's gone, striding toward a large black pickup truck parked in the driveway. I watch as he drives away, feeling Ember's small hand slip into mine.
"Can I show you my room now?" she asks, looking up at me with those remarkable golden eyes so like her father's.
"Absolutely," I smile down at her. "Lead the way."
Ember's room is exactly what you'd expect from a six-year-old girl with a dragon obsession. The walls are painted a soft lavender, but dragons are everywhere. Stuffed dragons on the bed, dragon posters on the walls, dragon figurines on shelves.
"You really do love dragons," I observe as she proudly shows me her collection.
"They're the best," she says matter-of-factly. "They're strong and magical and can protect the people they love."
"That's true," I agree, picking up a beautifully crafted glass dragon from her shelf. "This one is gorgeous."
"Daddy made that one," she says proudly. "He makes things with fire."
"You mean like glassblowing?" I ask, examining the intricate details of the dragon's scales.
"Something like that," she answers vaguely, then quickly changes the subject. "Want to see my school books? They're in Daddy's study."
