Page 75 of A Play for Love

“I know. She told me. She also told me she’s in high school and taking online college classes. She’s quite the little genius. From what I can see, Nathan, you and Sofia are doing an excellent job of raising her.”

“Thanks, Rose.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Sofia spoke.

“I’m going to head back to the hotel. I’ll see you both tomorrow evening.”

As she started to walk out the door, Sofia called out to her.

“Mom?”

“Yes, darling?” Rose turned and looked at her.

“I’ll look at houses with you and Aunt Barb tomorrow.”

“I’m happy to hear that. I’ll see you in the morning.” She smiled and walked out the door.

I stared at Sofia with a grin on my face.

“What?” she asked.

“Nothing.” I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her into me.

CHAPTER27

Sofia

It was the day of the barbecue, and I took my mom and introduced her to the entire family. Shaun walked over and hooked his arm around me.

“So, I hear that Rose made an offer on a house.” A smirk crossed his lips.

“Yep.” I popped my lips.

“Don’t you think two streets over is a little too close?”

“I certainly do. We can thank Barb for finding it for her.”

He let out a sigh. “Rose and Barb living so close to us. Who would have ever thought?”

“Right? It’s crazy. I know it’s only been a few days since she’s been here, but she’s a different person and really trying. So am I.”

“I’m happy to hear that, Sof.” His grip around me tightened. “She’s your mom, and life’s too short. “I wish I had my mom here with me.”

“Aw, Shaun. I’m sorry.”

The corners of his mouth curved upward. “Could you imagine if she were here? Imagine the tension between her and Barb.”

“That would be something to see.” I grinned.

“Bro, grab your surfboard. We’re surfing,” Stefan shouted as he ran past us with his surfboard.

“Go on.” I patted Shaun’s chest.

“You good, babe?” Nathan asked as he and Ella ran by with their surfboards under their arms.

“I’m good.” I smiled.

My mother walked over with Nicholas as I stared out at the water.

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