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“Pancakes. Pizza. Pasta.” She rubbed her belly. “This little nugget likes carbs.”
“I’m happy for you,” he told her.
“I know you are. I’ve missed you.”
“What do you think your mom and Aine would like?” Razor hollered.
“They’re fine with whatever I want.” Ava moved closer to Gunner. “How’s Raketa?” she whispered.
“Stressed. Scared.”
Ava nodded. “I’d really like to meet her.”
Gunner hadn’t realized until right now how much the two women looked alike. Raketa was more petite than Ava, who took after her mother, but there were enough similarities that he might guess they were related if he didn’t know for sure.
“She wants to keep you safe.”
“But we’re both here, and so is Aine.”
“It isn’t my decision, sweetheart.”
“I know. I just—”
“Hi.”
Gunner looked up and saw Raketa in the doorway.
“Hi,” said Ava, standing.
Gunner could see Razor in the kitchen, behind Raketa, watching like he was.
Raketa came farther into the room; Ava met her halfway.
“I feel like I should thank you,” said Ava.
“What for?”
Ava smiled. “From what I’ve heard, you saved my life. Aine’s too.”
“I don’t really think so…” Raketa’s eyes met Gunner’s. She was way out of her element. That was evident.
“I know Aine would really like to meet you too.”
“I…I…um…that would be nice.”
“I’ll go get her. I’ll spare you Peggy, though. I think she’s napping anyway.”
“You don’t have to do this,” Gunner said when he knew Ava was out of earshot.
“I do now,” she snapped. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have come in here. I thought I could but…”
“Come on. We’ll go for a walk.”
Gunner took her hand and led her outside.
“Talk to me, Rocket Girl.”
She smiled.
