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Alice nodded. “I could use the space as a store and a workshop. She’s willing to reduce the cost of the rent if I’m able to cover the counter a few evenings a week and a couple of weekends a month.”
“What do you think?” I asked, still holding her. I didn’t want to influence her decision, but this sounded perfect for her.
“I didn’t want to accept the arrangement without talking to you and seeing the space.”
“You should do what’s right for you.”
Her brow furrowed. “I still want to watch Maggie.”
“I think you can. Natalie needs someone to help her out on weekends and evenings, when I’m home to watch Maggie.”
“You think I should say yes.”
“People love your work. I’m confident in your ability to charm them.”
“You didn’t come to the workshop.”
“You forget I live with you. I’ve heard you talk about the mosaics. Your energy is contagious.”
“Thank you for believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”
I cupped her cheek, my heart squeezing in time with her words. “You were getting there. You didn’t need me.”
Her gaze lifted to meet mine. “Still. Thank you.”
I kissed her again. “I’m so proud of you.”
“You’re the one who made this happen.”
“I saw an opportunity and passed on your name.”
She squeezed her eyes shut. “I can’t believe all my dreams are coming true.”
Not all of them. I wanted us to be a family, married with the potential of more kids on the way. I knew she wanted the same, but it was too soon to pop the question. “I almost forgot to mention Amelia’s school called today. They have an opening in January.”
“Are you going to enroll her?”
“I paid to reserve a spot, but we need to decide on which class. It’s dependent on how many days and how long we think she should go. I wanted to check with you.”
“Is there an opening in Amelia’s class?”
“That was one of the options.” That class met from nine to three a few days a week.
“That would be perfect then. They’ve already become friends.”
“I think so too.” I kissed her again, wishing we had all the time in the world to reconnect. But we had guests. “Later,” I finally said as I tugged her toward the door.
Her smile was easy and carefree. We walked hand in hand down the steps and to the family room, where they were playing a game.
“Name three things that you love,” Elle asked Maggie.
“Daddy, Mommy, and Miss Alice,” Maggie said.
Alice covered her chest with the palm of her free hand. “That’s so sweet, Maggie, because I love you too.” Dropping my hand, Alice crossed the room to crouch in front of her and pull her in for a hug.
Maggie pulled away after a second. “Do you want to play?”
“Of course.” Alice looked over at me, her brow raised.
