Page 33 of Tangled Trust

"You’re a nutter."

"I’m not joking. We’re done, Parker. I may even hate you now."

"It is rather distracting at times."

"Distracting! How are you not all up in this? Ugh! The restraint you must have. You poor girl."

"Perhaps in another life," I sigh.

"I say, screw the job. Bang him, and we’ll make a plan to smuggle you back into London."

"Oh, Anna. I’m going to miss you."

"Oh, rubbish. The second he’s back, I’m a distant memory. You lucky tart!"

10

CARTER

"Ihaven’t seen Jagger this tired since the first few days we got Dash. He looks like he’s running on fumes."

"Well, I’m not surprised. Ollie and Garth are keeping him pretty busy," Sophie laughs. "It’s so good to see the cousins together."

"Yeah, I miss this. We don’t see enough of each other, Sis."

"It’s been a crazy year for you with the divorce and all. How are things with Amanda? Is she playing nice?"

"She’s alright. It’s been an adjustment for all of us, especially Jagger. I feel rotten about it."

"Why? You didn't do anything wrong?"

"I know. But, I can’t help feeling that Amanda and I have made his life more difficult than it should be."

"There are plenty of divorced couples in the world, little brother. Kids adapt. Jagger is more resilient than you give him credit for. Come on, don't beat yourself up. I know you’re doing the best you can. You’re a brilliant father."

"Can’t I bottle you up and take you home with me? You always know just what to say to make me feel better, Sophie."

"It’s my job. I’m your big sister," she smiles, squeezing my hand. "Jagger sure talks a lot about Ella. I take it she’s a nice girl."

"She’s lovely. Just what we needed. She’s very good with him."

"I see. Where’s she from?"

"London."

"Age?"

"Twenty-eight."

"Is she cute?" Sophie smirks.

"Yes, but that has nothing to do with it."

"Oh, dear. I don’t imagine Amanda is too impressed. She always did have a case of the green-eyed monster where you’re concerned."

"Yeah, she did give me plenty of lip about the Au Pair, and then some."

"Carly says she’s very nice."

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