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“Between the two of us we can,” Spencer said. “We also have a nanny who comes from time to time. We could ask her to join us, but I don’t think it’s necessary for a sleepover.”
I was ecstatic at the idea of these two spending time with Ben. I couldn’t believe that they were so willing to embrace us into their family. Hopefully, this friendship would continue after the divorce.
“I’ll ask the twins tomorrow, but I think they’d love it. When would be a good time for you?”
“This weekend, starting Friday evening, maybe, and then we’d keep them through the day on Saturday as well.”
“That’s perfect. I’m happy to host Ben at any time too.”
Spencer laughed and said to Penny, “He’s already been asking about that.”
“If you want to, we can have him here first.”
“Let’s start with the sleepover at our place,” Spencer said.
“Yeah, it’ll give you two time to...,” Penny started excitedly, but then her words fizzled.
I frowned. “What?”
“I think everyone needs a breather now and then,” Penny said, but I had the distinct impression that that wasn’t what she actually meant.
I glanced at Nick, who was simply shaking his head. His eyes were full of humor.
“We’ll let you know. Thanks a lot for suggesting this.”
“Sure. Have a great evening,” Spencer said.
After the call disconnected, I said, “That’s very thoughtful of them.”
“Yeah, it is.”
“Why do you have that expression?” I pointed at him. “Like you think I’m missing something.”
“Because you are. I think Penny’s doing some of my grandmother’s work.”
“Meaning?” I asked in confusion.
“Remember what I told you about her matchmaking games?”
“Oh. Oh!” I exclaimed, then covered my mouth. “I wasn’t... Okay.”
“So, while I definitely think they’re happy to have a playdate for Ben, I don’t think their intentions are entirely innocent.”
I swallowed hard as my entire body started vibrating all at once, everywhere. The prospect of a night alone with Nick was exciting. I didn’t even want to admit it to myself, but it was.
“First let’s see if the twins want to have a sleepover at all.”
They said yes before I’d finished asking the question, so on Friday evening after picking them up from daycare, I took them directly to Penny and Spencer’s house. It was a gorgeous place in Beacon Hill. I had a strange feeling when dropping them off andSpencer immediately took them to Ben’s room, leaving me alone with Penny.
“Any plans tonight?” she asked. We were both in their kitchen, enjoying a glass of fresh orange juice.
“No, it’s been a long week.” I’d been obsessively checking my personal email in case Hugo wrote back. He’d replied to my questions, assuring me the chances of actually going in front of a judge were minimal. But other than that, I hadn’t had any news from him. He’d also sent me and Nick a standard divorce document, which we’d use once all this was over. We both read it carefully. It already felt bittersweet to think about, which was ridiculous. It was simply a formality, and it was what we’d agreed upon, after all.
“So, you’ll be staying at home.”
I nodded. “Pretty much. I think I’m going to order something in.”
Penny frowned before taking a sip. “Nick’s not home?”