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“Look who’s here,” I whispered, stroking his hair.
“Uncle Boone!” He threw himself into Boone’s arms the moment he saw him, curling against his chest.
“What were you dreaming about, big guy?” Boone asked, cradling him.
“A monster.” Joey’s voice broke. “It was big and black with red teeth. It was chasing mommy and she was running and crying.”
“It’s just a dream. Mommy’s working on something important, remember? But she’s fine. And she’ll be back before you know it.”
“Promise?”
“I promise.” Boone’s eyes met mine across the bed and I nodded encouragement, thinking what a great dad he was going to be someday.
“I’ll get his backpack,” I whispered, sliding off the bed.
I’d already gathered Joey’s things earlier in anticipation of Boone’s late arrival, so I was surprised to feel his hand on my back a moment later.
“Date night,” he said under his breath. “As soon as we can make it happen between practice, games, camp, your schedule, and Joey’s.”
“We’ll figure it out.”
He stroked his knuckles across my cheek. “You can count on it.”
“Good night, Boone.”
“Good night, gorgeous.” He threw Joey’s backpack over his shoulder and then scooped the boy up as he padded out of the bedroom.
“See you tomorrow,” I called to Joey.
“Bye, Jolie.” Joey’s eyes were already closing as his head landed on Boone’s shoulder.
“Soon,” Boone mouthed to me.
I leaned against the door after I’d closed it behind them, taking a moment to let the evening’s developments wash over me.
I’d kissed Boone.
Then he’d kissed me back.
And we were going out on a date.
“Thanks, Grandma,” I whispered.
CHAPTERTHIRTEEN
Boone
Andy pickedup the phone on the first ring, sounding more like himself than he had in a long time.
“Hey, Mikey, how are you?” he said.
“Can’t complain. You busy?”
“Not really. Carrie’s still at work and Mom took Mason to the grocery store. We’re making lasagna when they get back.”
Dishes clinked in the background. That meant he was out of bed, which was great.
“What are you doing while they’re gone?” I asked.
