Nope. You owe me, Sebastian. I'm collecting now.
Another pause, longer this time. I could practically feel his irritation radiating through the phone.
Damn it. Fine. I'll set something up. Give me an hour.
You're the best brother I have.
I'm your only brother.
Details.
I slid the phone back in my pocket and returned my attention to Zoe's pancakes. By the time Kim emerged from the bedroom, sleep-rumpled and gorgeous in my oversized shirt, breakfast was ready, and Zoe was on her second helping.
"Morning," Kim said, her voice still husky. Her eyes found mine, and something warm passed between us. "You made breakfast?"
"I make an excellent pancake. It's one of my many hidden talents."
"Mommy!" Zoe waved her fork, flinging a bit of whipped cream onto the counter. "Xavier was your blanket last night! Because you were cold!"
Kim's cheeks flushed pink. "Is that so?"
"That is absolutely so." I handed her a cup of coffee, letting my fingers brush hers. "You were very cold. Practically hypothermic. It was a medical emergency."
"A medical emergency."
"I saved your life, really."
She took a sip of coffee, hiding her smile behind the rim. "My hero."
An hour later, Evie appeared at our door, looking slightly nervous but determined.
"My dad said you needed someone to watch Zoe?" She glanced at the little girl, who immediately perked up. "I thought maybe we could go to the kids' club? They have a tide pool exhibit today. And face painting."
"Face painting?" Zoe was already scrambling off her chair. "Mommy, can I? Please, please, please?"
Kim hesitated, looking at me.
"Go get dressed, munchkin," I said. "Evie's going to show you all the cool stuff."
Zoe disappeared into the bedroom at top speed. Kim turned to me, eyebrow raised.
"What are you planning?"
"Nothing nefarious. I promise." I stepped closer, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I just want to spend the day with you. Is that allowed?"
Her expression softened. "I suppose I can permit it."
"How generous of you."
Zoe returned in record time, dressed in a sundress covered in tiny pineapples, practically vibrating with excitement. She hugged Kim goodbye, then surprised me by hugging me too—atight, fierce squeeze around my legs that made something crack open in my chest.
"Have fun being Mommy's blanket!" she called as Evie led her away.
Kim buried her face in her hands. "I'm going to have to explain that to your entire family, aren't I?"
"Probably." I grinned. "Now go get dressed. Wear something comfortable. And bring a swimsuit."
Whatever Sebastian had arranged, I trusted it would be impressive. Say what you wanted about my brother—and I had plenty to say—but the man didn't do anything halfway.
