Ivy.
She beams the second she spots me.
“Maggie!” She darts through the diner before Alexei can stop her.
My heart melts instantly. I slide out of the booth just in time for Ivy to launch herself at me. I laugh as I catch her against my chest.
“Well, hey there, sugar bug.”
She wraps both arms around my neck tightly.
“I missed you today.” The simple honesty in her voice squeezes directly around my heart.
“I missed you too.”
I smooth my hand gently down her dark hair before looking up. Alexei stands several feet away, watching us.
Heaven help me.
The sight of him sends heat racing through my veins. His face brightens while he watches Ivy cling to me. Relief moves through me before I can stop it, which ought to concern me more than it does.
“What are y’all doing here?” I ask.
Ivy gasps dramatically. “Papa said it was a surprise.”
“Well, then I suppose I ruined it.”
“You did a little bit,” she says seriously.
Alexei gives me a small smile. That look sends wetness pooling between my legs.
“We were nearby,” he says. “Ivy was disappointed she couldn’t visit the shelter today.”
Ivy nods quickly. “I wanted to see Elvis.”
“Elvis is currently stealing blankets from every dog in kennel three.”
Her eyes widen. “He’s being naughty again?”
“He wakes up every morning and chooses chaos.”
Ivy giggles.
Mama slides out of the booth and directs her attention toward Alexei. Her expression changes immediately.
Ah. There it is. The suspicious mama stare.
“Mama,” I say carefully, “this is Alexei and Ivy.”
Ivy immediately smiles up at Teresa.
“Hi.”
Teresa softens so fast it almost gives me whiplash. “Well, aren’t you precious.”
Ivy beams.
Alexei steps closer and extends his hand politely.
