Page 21 of Gabriel & Skye

It’s not often I see my brother in a tangle, so I know this must be serious.

“Jesus Christ. It’s been five years. Of course she’s had sex!”

“Yeah, let’s not go there. I don’t want to think about it.” He seems to be really struggling with it.

“Fuck, Brooklyn.”

“I know. Trust me, it’s come as a shock to me, too.”

“How did this all start?”

“Well, Blake said they were all meeting up last weekend. She gives me a full report on what’s going on when she’s at her mom’s place.”

I chuckle. I have no doubt that’s true.

“And things apparently went well. Blake said he was nice. Can you believe this shit?”

“Fuck, you’re jealous!” I laugh.

“No, I’m not fucking jealous. I’m just protecting my ex-wife and my child.” I never thought I’d see the day when Brooklyn was this agitated, especially over Eden. “What do we even know about this guy??

“I’m sure you’ll be able to get to know him if things keep going well with him and Eden.”

“Would you please shut the fuck up?”

I pat him on the back. “Sorry, bro. I actually am trying to help.”

“I’d prefer it if you kept your opinions to yourself at this particular juncture.”

I hold up a hand in surrender. “Look, if you have feelings for Eden, you need to address them. Possibly even to her. That might be a good place to start.”

“Yeah. That’s probably the last thing I’m gonna do.”

I’m about to ask him why the hell not when Blake and Trinity come running up to us.

“Uncle Gabe?” Blake pants, her cheeks pink from exertion. They’ve been chasing each other around the stalls.

“Yeah, honey?”

“Trinity says you’re getting a dog?”

“That’s right, sweetheart. We just have to find the right one.”

“Can I help pick one out?” She looks up at her dad, hopeful. “Dad, can we get a dog?”

“Your mom has little Noodle, sweetheart.” The little white Maltese Shih Tzu that barely leaves her side.

“I know, but I meant a dog at your place, too, Dad. Please, please can we?”

“Now that’s not a bad idea,” I laugh, giving Brook an elbow in the ribs.

“Don’t give her any ideas,” he mutters. “One dog is enough.”

“How old is Noodle now?” I ask Blake.

“She just turned five.” Blake still has hope in her eyes. “She’s so sweet Uncle Gabe!”

I chuckle. “I’m sure she is.”

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