Page 86 of Solid Ground

“Right here.” I say.

She rounds the car and clasps her hands together. “Oh, she’s so precious.”

“Why don’t we all get inside, Mum?” Zoe smiles.

“Of course. I’ll make coffee. And then cuddles with the baby. How was your flight?”

“It was fine. Daisy slept for a lot of it, so I’m not sure how tonight will go.”

They chatter as they walk into the house, and I trail along behind them.

“That was your grandmother, little one. Now to see if your grandfather likes me better than last time.”

Daisy stares at me.

“I think you’re the key to my full acceptance. Not going to lie—I’m going to use you to maximum effect.”

She beams a brilliant toothless smile at me as if she knows what I’m saying.Yeah, we’re a team.

“I’d high-five you if you were old enough to understand what Daddy’s doing.” I wink at her, and she keeps on smiling at me.

Taking a deep breath, I walk into the living room.

“Declan.” Brian holds out his hand, and I give it a firm shake. “It’s good to see you.”

“I almost believe that, Brian.” I chuckle.

He grins. “I’m glad you’re all here. I can’t wait to meet my granddaughter.”

“She’s amazing. I’ll get her out of her capsule and you can hold her.”

“Let’s catch up. How long are you staying?”

I shrug. “For as long as Zoe needs to.”

He laughs. “Good answer.”

This is nice. The atmosphere is much different this time. I place the capsule on the floor and unclip Daisy’s harness. After lifting her gently, I rock her before I place her into her grandfather’s arms.

Brian’s facade cracks, and his eyes give away how emotional he is as he breathes her in.

“Aren’t you beautiful?” he says, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he swallows hard. “Thank you, Declan.”

“She and her mother are everything.”

He meets my gaze and nods in understanding.

“Dad. What do you think? She seem to be taking after Declan so far.” Zoe places a hand on my arm and leans her head on my shoulder.

“You did well.” He beams with pride. “Oh, she smiled at me.”

Zoe squeezes my bicep, and I press a kiss to the side of her head.

Brian makes his way to his recliner chair and sits, cradling Daisy and talking to her the whole way.

“Here’s coffee and some biscuits. Let me know if you want anything more to eat.” Serena comes into the room with a tray and places it on the table. Her eyes light up. “Oh, Brian. She’s beautiful.”

“Isn’t she? Look at that smile.”

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