Chapter 30

“Are you sad, Daddy?”

“I am.”

“Why?”

He shook his head. “It’s nothing for little girls to worry about. Do you want me to read to you?”

She nodded quickly. “Yes, please.”

“Please? Grandma must be teaching you some manners.” He looked over her shoulder to his mother.

“Are you okay?” she mouthed.

He nodded slightly.

“Well, Grandma’s exhausted,” she announced. “I think I’ll be going back to the hotel.”

“Mom, you don’t have to stay there. You can stay here with us.”

“No, no. I’m not used to having you around anymore. I need my privacy.” She patted his shoulder. “I’ll be over bright and early tomorrow morning to pick up this one. We’re going to the zoo.”

“Sounds like fun. Say goodnight to Grandma.”

“Night, Grandma!”

“Goodnight, Mom,” he said, kissing her cheek. “Drive safely.”

They stood on the porch, waving until she was gone, too. “I love you, baby girl.”

“I love you, too, Daddy.”

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