I listen to Zander talk quietly to the baby, and I peek out the bathroom door in time to see Jonah pull on a pair of jeans before meeting Zander in Daisy’s room.
“Let’s let Quinn sleep,” Jonah says. “She was up half the night.”
I put my hand over my mouth and stop a moan, as I think about the real reason I was up half the night, not the one he’s alluding to.
The three go downstairs and I dart back to my room. I look at my bed, one I only spent one night in, since I agreed to Jonah’s proposal. I shake my head. Honesty, what the hell am I doing playing house here? I’m getting in deep with this family. The one thing I swore I couldn’t do.
I grab some clean clothes and head to the bathroom for a quick shower. The last thing I want is to greet Zander with sex written all over me. I wash quickly, pull on a sundress, and pass Daisy’s room, glancing in. We’d picked out some paint, but we’ve been too busy to get it done. My gaze goes to the rocking chair. The room is going to be lovely for Daisy once it’s done.
I head down to say hello. Zander smiles when he sees me, but then he frowns, a change coming over him. Goddammit, does he know? I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t like the idea of me in bed with his best friend. Guilt niggles at me. I don’t like hiding things from my brother, and when it comes right down to it, I’m a grown woman, can sleep with anyone I want. Still, Zander might not see it that way, and I owe his so much.
“Zander,” I say and give him a hug. “What are you doing here today?”
“Wanted to check up on my little family.”
My heart jumps into my throat. “What do you mean?”
He gives me a look that suggests I’m dense. “My sister, niece and best friend.” Once again, he’s looking at me strangely, then he turns his focus to Jonah, who’s averting his gaze, staring at his daughter—an excuse not to meet his best friend’s eyes.
“It’s good to see you two haven’t killed each other yet,” Zander comments.
“Daisy is my focus,” I say.
Zander turns to the baby gobbling her bottle. “How is she?”
“She’s doing great. We have a good routine for her, and she’s thriving.”
“I was going to get Dad today, take him to the park. Why don’t you guys join us? I’m sure he’d love to meet Daisy.” He laughs. “He’s tired of waiting for us to give him grandkids. He’ll have to settle for Jonah’s child.”
My gaze slides to Jonah, and he nods like it’s a brilliant idea.
“I think we could all use some fresh air,” I say, considering the amount of time we’ve been spending in bed.
“Anything from Shari?” he asks, and tentatively looks at me.
“Nothing,” Jonah says. “Have you heard anything? Anyone talking about where she might be?”
“She has family in Georgia. That’s all I heard. Do you want me to try to get a number for you?”
Jonah goes quiet for a moment. “She just left her, Zander. I’m not sure I ever want to speak to her again. But on the other hand, she’s Daisy’s mother.” Jonah’s head lifts slowly, his eyes locked on mine. “A little girl should never grow up without her mother,” he says quietly, and my throat tightens. His gaze slides to Zander. “No one should.”
“Just let me know what you want to do. What about a nanny? Find anyone yet?”
“You’re full of questions this morning,” I say.
“We interviewed quite a few candidates last week. We’re still searching. Not sure any of them were suitable, though.”
“That’s because you got the best girl right here,” Zander says and pulls me to him. He rubs his knuckles along my skull like he used to do when we were kids.
“Cut it out,” I say, and pinch his side, like I always used to do, but he holds me a little longer and the guys laugh. I struggle to get free, and whack his arm when I finally do.
“I’m not twelve anymore, you know.” I smooth my hair down.
“You’ll always be twelve to me, kid.”
I fold my arms and glare at my brother, but I get that he’s just protective.
Zander checks his watch. “Okay, so I’ll go pick up Dad and meet you guys in say, an hour?”