Page 70 of Manny's Surprise Baby

“My mommy was… different from the other moms.” She frowned. “Susan’s mom is like something out of a movie. She seemed perfect.”

“Not all moms are the same.” I thought about how distant my mother had been most of the time, especially after my dad went back to prison. I didn’t like to think about the day I’d found her hanging from the ceiling in her room. It made me sick and depressed because I hadn’t been enough to keep her here. Maybe experiencing that as a kid was why I’d never felt like I would ever be enough for anyone.

Emily covered my hand with hers. “It’s okay, Pierce.”

When I looked up, her gaze was warm. I smiled at her, finding it difficult to speak.

“Someday, when I’m grown up, I’m going to be a good mommy. And you’ll be a good daddy. Because we know whatnotto do,” she said firmly.

I laughed. “I guess that’s kind of true.”

She took one of the crackers and bit into it. “You’re a better cook than Susan’s mom.”

“Really?”

“Yep.”

“Huh. It’s nice to be good at something.”

She wagged her finger at me. “You’re good at lots of things. Don’t be like that.”

I grinned. “When did you become the adult and I became the kid?”

Giggling, she shrugged. “I don’t know.”

When we heard the front door open, we both looked at each other. “Is your dad home already?” I felt guilty about being in bed, and I started to throw back the covers, but Emily frowned.

“No. You stay in bed.”

“Emily—”

When Seth appeared in the doorway, my face felt like it was on fire. “This isn’t what it looks like,” I said.

He moved into the room, his brows pulled tight. “Are you okay?”

“He was green,” Emily said cheerfully.

“I’m fine. Really.” I laughed awkwardly.

“Good job getting him in bed, Emily.” Seth nodded approvingly. “I don’t know how you managed it, but bravo.”

Emily stood. “You’re home so early.”

I was pleased she seemed more at ease with her dad than usual. “What time is it?” I asked.

“Six forty-five,” Seth said.

“Since when do you get home this soon?” I managed to slip the blankets off without Emily noticing.

“I wanted to get home and see my two favorite people.” He smirked.

My face warmed, and Emily smiled.

“I haven’t made dinner yet.” I pressed my stomach, trying not to show that the idea of cooking made me queasy.

“No need. I thought we’d have Chinese delivery tonight, Seth said, studying me. “Give you a break from cooking for one night.”

I was surprised at his thoughtfulness. “You don’t have to do that.”