She'd chalked it up to the work, but she'd been thinking about Brody since he'd left her in Kay's care. Remembering how he treated Chip, but also the look in his eyes when he looked at her.
She knew she may have been misreading things.
There was no way that Brody had looked at her like he thought she was pretty.
That was just wishful thinking on her part and even that was crazy.
There was no way that she was going to ruin her working situation by entertaining that idea.
Her mouth twisted a little at the corner.
She didn't think Brody would be interested in something like that either.
He likely had his pick of women, including that pretty brunette at the clinic. The one who'd kissed him.
Yeah.
She let those thoughts wash over her.
Helene was waiting for an answer and if Rhea was honest with herself. The last thing she wanted to do was pick up Chip and go somewhere else today.
"We'd be happy to stay the night if that's okay with you." She felt the muscles in her neck tighten a bit. "I don't want to overstay our welcome."
Helene's smile was infectious. "There's not a huge housing market in Fallport, but there are apartments and I know we'll do our best to help you, but for today, at least, please, let us help."
How could she say no?
"Thank you. Thank you for the offer. We're really fortunate to have your help."
"And we," Helene lowered her chin and looked Rhea right in the eye, "are fortunate that you were there to help when you did. This is the least we can do."
* * *
Brody walkedacross the green from his home and walked up the steps to the deck of his aunt and uncle's house. Thomas met him at the sliding door, with Jack in his arms, the baby's legs kicking out and a bright grin on his face. "Hey, buddy!"
Jack laughed and Brody reached out to pick up the edge of the cloth that Thomas had in his hand and wiped at Jack's face. "Droolin' like a champ."
Thomas sighed, rolling his eyes. "More teeth."
Brody winced. "Looks like he's happy."
"He's been biting everything he can get in his mouth. Watch your fingers."
Brody looked at Thomas. "Really, man? You couldn't warn me before I wiped his mouth?"
Thomas shrugged. "You still have all your fingers. He's a baby, you should know what that's like by now."
Brody snorted at that. "Just because you got Kay knocked up twice doesn't mean that I know the ins and outs."
Thomas opened the door. "Better wash up. Dinner will start as soon as the kids are bathed and dressed."
Kids?
Brody looked at Jack in Thomas' arms and wondered why he'd used the plural. If Sarah was in the bath.
Huh.
Maybe he was just too tired to get it.