Page 74 of A Play for Love

“That’s a great idea. My mom just told me today that she’s moving to Los Angeles.”

“That’s fabulous, Rose. Welcome to California.”

“Can I come with you?” Ella asked.

“Of course, darling.” Aunt Barb handed Nicholas to Sofia and grabbed the color book from the table.

When they walked out the front door, I looked at Sofia.

“I think we just witnessed a new friendship blossoming.” The corners of my mouth curved upward.

“What the hell am I supposed to do, Nathan? I honestly don’t think I can handle her living here.”

“You’re going to take it one day at a time, babe. I have an idea. Let’s have a big barbecue this Saturday and introduce her to the family.”

“You are certifiably crazy, Dr. Kind.”

“Maybe just a little.” I winked at her. “It’ll be fun.”

The front door opened, and we could hear laughter coming from Aunt Barb and Rose.

“You should see Grandma’s new house. It’s so nice!” Ella exclaimed. “I’m so excited she’s moving down the street!”

“I better head home,” Aunt Barb said. “I’ll be by the hotel in the morning to pick you up, Rose.”

Sofia and I looked at each other.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Barb,” Rose said. “What a fabulous woman.” She smiled when Aunt Barb left.

“Why is she picking you up tomorrow?” Sofia asked.

“We’re going house hunting. You’re more than welcome to join us, darling. I would like your opinion.”

“If you find something you really like, then I’ll go take a look at it,” Sofia said.

“Where are you staying, Rose?” I asked.

“The Four Seasons.”

“Nice. Just so you know, I’m taking you and Sofia to dinner tomorrow night.”

“You are?” Sofia shot me a look.

“Yes. Just the three of us. It’ll be fun.” I grinned.

“That sounds lovely, Nathan. I look forward to getting to know you better.”

“Excellent. We can have dinner at Four Kinds. You’ll love the food. My cousin Sebastian owns it. I’ll call him now and reserve us a table.”

“I want to go, Dad,” Ella whined.

“Sorry, sweetheart. Adults only. But I know you’d rather have Uncle Conner babysit you so you can make more TikTok videos.”

“Nah. I’d rather play Call of Duty. I’ll run over there and ask him if he can watch Nicholas and me.” She flew out the sliding door.

“She has the potential to become a prima ballerina.” Rose smiled.

“She’s very good at ballet,” Sofia said. “But her interests lie in the field of Science.”

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