Page 82 of Eleven of a Kind

“You did? Why?”

“Because I love her, and I’m not giving up.”

“What did she say?”

“She told me a few things she’s dealing with and that she needs time.”

“I really miss her, Dad.”

“I do too.” I sighed.

“Can I see her again?”

“Yeah. Of course, you can. She thinks you hate her.”

“I don’t hate her at all.”

“I told her that.” I handed her my phone. “Can you put her number back in my phone?”

“You deleted her number?” Riley’s brow arched.

“I was angry. Just do it, please.”

She put her number in my phone and handed it back to me. My brows furrowed when I saw what she put down for her name.

“Love of my life?” I looked at her.

“She is, isn’t she?” Riley grinned.

I chuckled and set my phone down.

* * *

It had been a week since I last saw Piper. I considered calling her but knew she’d reach out when she was ready. I took my bag and put it in the car and then stepped inside Grayson’s house.

“You be on your best behavior for Ava and Uncle Grayson.” I hugged Riley.

“She will be.” Ava smiled.

“I’ll be back in three days. Ava, I’m expecting a bunch of deliveries. If they come while I’m gone, have Grayson bring the boxes in and put them in the living room.”

“I will. Have a good trip.” She hugged me. “And don’t worry about your daughter. We’ll all take good care of her.” She winked.

“Do you think Kate can come out, and we can hang together?” Riley asked her.

“Maybe.” Ava smiled.

“I have to go, or I’ll miss my flight.” I kissed the top of Riley’s head and walked out the door.

On my way to the airport, I called my brother.

“Hey, bro.”

“Hey. I’m on my way to the airport. Riley is with Ava.”

“Okay. Have fun at the medical conference, and I’ll see you when you get back. It sucks that Shaun’s plane is being repaired, and you have to fly commercial again.”

“Yeah, I know. We’re spoiled now.”

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