Page 27 of Quinton's Quest

My job was to be as supportive as possible. We’d agreed no rancor. As far as I’d seen, Gideon and Archer had lived up to their end of the bargain. I couldn’t find they’d said anything negative about me to the kids.

I straightened. “We have everything?”

Archer crouched. “Quick hugs?”

Both kids went into his arms and then, in turn, wrapped their arms around Gideon’s waist.

I wasn’t so selfish as to notice that he was stiff and clearly unable to bend today. I almost asked him about it but, at the last minute, checked the impulse. His physical well-being was no longer my responsibility. If he needed something from me, he damn well knew he could ask for it.

Really? After all the times you downplayed his suffering?

I told my inner voice to shut the fuck up. I’d pay for that arrogance and lack of empathy for the rest of my life. Beating myself up wasn’t going to get me anywhere. “Sunday night.” I held out my hands.

Both kids shoved their feet into winter boots, grabbed their backpacks, and then took my hands.

Archer wrapped an arm around Gideon. My ex-husband was shorter than both me and his fiancé. He’d always felt smaller in my arms—even though, back then, he’d had plenty of bulk. Working in the physical job as longshoreman had given him plenty of muscles. And had also been his downfall after a work accident.

Melodie opened the front door, and we three headed out. The kids knew the routine, and soon I had them secure in their car seats.

I waved to the men before hopping into the front seat.

“I’m going to miss Daddy.” Melodie’s soft words tore at my heart.

“Me too.” Trevor sighed.

“Daddy said you haven’t had dessert yet.”

“Nope.” Melodie popped thep.

“Well, I might have something special for you.”

Melodie squealed as I pulled out of the driveway and onto the road. She chatted the entire three-minute drive to our home.Sure, there’d been quite a few homes for sale in the area—and I hadn’t been obliged to buy this close to Gideon.

Except the house and yard were kid-friendly. More importantly, on nights like tonight, I was glad the drive was a mere five minutes.

We unloaded just as the first few flakes of snow fell.

Damn. Didn’t check the weather forecast. At least I don’t have anywhere to be.

Inside, I coaxed both kids to take their backpacks to their rooms and to change into their pajamas.

After shedding my coat, I examined the container.

Roast beef, asparagus, mashed potatoes, and a boatload of gravy.

My favorite.

Tears pricked my eyes. The men could’ve made anything for dinner—but they’d picked a meal they’d known I’d enjoy. Would appreciate.

“Papa!” Melodie bounced into the room, Trevor hard on her heels. Both wore their matching unicorn pajamas. I’d bought them at Christmas with the hope the kids wouldn’t outgrow them too quickly. They truly were adorable.

“Banana split?”

Trevor’s eyes lit with pure joy. “My favorite!”

“Yep. I bought the bananas yesterday.” I pulled out all the fixings.

The kids sat on the stools at the kitchen island to watch me prepare their favorite dessert. My adding the whipped cream and the maraschino cherry with a flourish brought smiles to their faces.