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MAC
For the next week, we stayed at Natalie’s on weeknights and at my place on the weekend. We attended family dinner at my parents’ as a unit. It was nice, and everyone adored Rocky. Sometimes, I think they liked him better than me.
But I was ecstatic to get a weekend away from everything. Carter was still hovering, asking when he could see Delaney, but so far, she wasn’t interested. She was confused about the situation, and I couldn’t blame her. I would be too.
Sam and Alice offered to watch Rocky while I was gone, so I didn’t need to worry about him. I was fairly sure that either Maggie wouldn’t want to give him back or she’d convince Sam to get her a puppy too. I was secretly hoping for the latter so Rocky would have a playmate.
On the plane ride, Delaney sat between us, and it felt like we were a family. Everyone assumed we were, and even though Delaney wasn’t technically mine, I wanted her to be. Being with the two of them was everything I’d ever wanted.
In Baltimore we rented a car and drove to Annapolis. As we rode through the historic area of the town, Natalie and Delaney exclaimed over the cute shops and historic buildings.
“This place is adorable,” Natalie said when we pulled up in front of Juliana’s B&B.
It was fairly similar to her place in that it was within walking distance of the restaurants and shops. We got out, and I pulled out our carry-on luggage.
When we checked in, the woman at the front desk promised to get Juliana for us. Then she took our luggage and directed us to the living room, where there were drinks and pastries.
“This is a nice touch,” Natalie said as she filled a plate for Delaney.
“You’re here,” a blonde woman said as she came into the room and hugged Natalie. “I’m Juliana.”
“It’s so nice to meet you. I’m Natalie. This is my daughter, Delaney, and my friend, Mac.”
We’d never discussed any labels, but we were more than friends at this point. I’d have to discuss that with her later.
“My daughters are a little younger than Delaney. Maybe they can get together while you’re here. There’s a nice playground across town.”
“That would be great.” Natalie beamed at her.
“Eat a snack, and then I’ll give you a tour. I can tell you my story while you relax. I’m a realtor, but I always wanted to own a B&B. My divorce was the push I needed to take that first step. How about you?”
Natalie waved a hand at her. “Oh, it’s nothing like that. After my divorce, my friend, Kylie, sent me a picture of this old Victorian for sale in my hometown and told me I should buy it, move home, and renovate it. It’s been a crazy few months.”
“When do you plan to open?” Juliana asked.
“In a couple of months if everything stays on schedule.”
“It should be earlier than that. We’re just doing the finishing touches, and my brother is designing the outdoor space.”
“Can I see pictures?” Juliana asked, sipping her tea.
Natalie moved to sit next to Juliana on the coach and pulled out her laptop so they could flip through them. They oohed and ahhed over the pictures documenting the renovation while I kept Delaney entertained with my phone.
Juliana looked up from Natalie’s computer. “You do amazing work, Mac.”
“Thank you.”
The door opened, and Juliana said, “That should be my husband, Nolan, and our girls.”
Two identical girls flew into the room, blonde hair flying. One was in a dress and the other in leggings and a sweater. Juliana greeted them with a hug and introduced them to Delaney. They ran off to play in the backyard while Nolan greeted me. “Nolan. Nice to meet you.”
I stood to shake his hand. “Mac. Thanks for bringing them.”
“They were excited to meet someone new,” Nolan said warmly.
Juliana raised a brow as we took our seats. “Mac is the contractor renovating Natalie’s B&B.”
“Huh. That’s how we met,” Nolan said, his voice full of affection.
