Page 96 of C is for Comfort

“Does Lexi talk about Caroline much?”

“No. When she started school, she came home and asked why she didn’t have a mummy like everyone else. That was the first time she even asked about it.”

“What did you tell her?”

“That Caroline loved her very much, but that she didn’t feel able to be a good mummy right now. What else could I tell her? I don’t really knowwhyCaroline left, other than what she put in her brief note. I don’t want to bad-mouth her in case she ever does want to be part of Lexi’s life.”

“You’re a good man, sweet boy.”

I choke out a laugh. “I’m not sure about that.”

“How did she react?”

“She seemed okay. She never mentioned it again. If she’s ever spoken to Caroline’s parents about it, they haven’t said anything to me. She has so many people in her life who love her—me, Archie, Blake, our parents, Caroline’s parents…” Hopefully, one day I’ll be able to add Spence to that list.

“It sounds like you’ve both got a great support network.”

“We do. How can I show her how amazing you are?”

“Time and patience,” Spence replies. “Shewillcome around.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Because most kids are incredibly resilient. Once she sees that we don’t have to compete for your affection, she’ll realise I’m not a threat. Who knows? She might even start to like me,” he adds with a chuckle.

“What about you?” I ask.

“Me?”

“Are you really up for dating meanda stroppy five-year-old?”

Spence laughs. “I knew you had a daughter from the night we met, remember?”

“Yes.”

“If I didn’t want youandLexi, we’d never have started seeing each other.”

That makes sense.

“Plus, I come with a crazy sister in tow.”

“She can’t be that crazy.”

“You haven’t met Emily.”

“I’d like to.”

“She’ll start planning our wedding the moment you do.”

“Wedding?”

“She’s been trying to marry me off for the last ten years. She’s convinced that happiness means marriage and two point four children.”

“Is that what it means to you?” I ask quietly.

“Maybe,” Spence says. “Maybe not. I hope I’ll know what feels right for me and the guy I’m in love with.”

My chest tightens. I hope he means me.