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“She’s learning to control her voice,” Dad said proudly. “How to use it effectively.”
“She’s effective all right,” Andrew said, looking at his daughter with affection.
“This one is going to do big things. She’ll give a voice to those who have none.” My father’s eyes misted as he stroked Ella’s cheek.
“I don’t know what we’d do without you,” Trish said hoarsely. “Any of you.”
Baker hugged her in support. “We love both of you. But you already know that.”
The unconditional and easy way she cared for the people important to her . . . it was—she was—incredible.
“It’s nice to do this on a weeknight. Nice to be invited.” Dad glanced at me, gratitude in his eyes.
I should’ve invited him over for no reason other than his company. Andrew paled. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one feeling guilty.
“Mr. Dixon, you’re welcome here any time.” Baker beamed at him and what pieces of my heart I had left went to her. “You ever think about moving? From what I understand, there’s plenty of room in this building.”
“It’s a little out of my price range.”
Baker shrugged. “We’ve got an in with the guy who owns the place.”
“Speaking of,” I said, clearing my throat. I glanced at Baker who gave me a curious look. “I, uh, I bought a building.”
Surprise registered on his features. “You did?”
“Yeah.”
“I wish you’d come to me. That’s my business. I could’ve looked out for you. Made sure you didn’t get screwed,” Andrew said.
I stared at him. He was a real estate attorney, and a damn good one, but I’d needed to do this on my own. Irritation bubbled up inside of me. He was just being my big brother, looking out for me, but it stung that he thought I couldn’t handle myself.
“Shit,” he said, plowing a hand through his hair. “I didn’t mean it like that.”
The apology was written all over his face, and I relaxed. Baker pinched my side, an encouragement for me to let it go.
“You’re just looking out for me.”
He nodded.
“In New York?” The hopefulness in Dad’s voice clawed at me. “The building’s in the city?”
“Yeah. Not too far from here.”
“By building, do you mean an apartment?” Andrew leaned in with interest.
“It has an apartment, but it used to be a garage. Baker’s going to help me fix it up so it’ll be a place women feel comfortable to come to.” I looked down at her. “And if she wants, there’s space to work on her makeup line.”
Trish clapped her hands. “This is exciting. Can we see it? Maybe before Sunday dinner?”
“Uh, sure.” I hadn’t expected their enthusiasm. Didn’t know what to do with it.
“Just wait. It’s perfect. There are enough bays to grow. And Holt’s come up with the perfect place for a waiting room.” Baker spoke in a rush, her free hand gesturing wildly.
“And you’ll have room to make the cosmetics.” Trish’s eyes were bright. “You’ll be able to work together.”
“I haven’t taken him up on it yet,” she said quickly, though she seemed to be warming to the idea.
“What do you need me to help you do?” Andrew asked.
