Page 11 of Moonstruck Kiss

Dimple chuckles. “It’s nice to meet you, too, Ollie. And I’m very well, thank you. How are you?”

My boy’s eyes round in what seems like awe. He puts his hand up—telling us to wait—while he quickly chews, then swallows. “She understands me! I said mmmm nnnn mmmm rrr mmm rrr and she understands me!”

We all laugh—and my heart swells from his cuteness. “Yes, she understood you,” I correct gently. There. I’m really learning.

“Are you a mind reader?” Ollie asks Dimple.

“No. I’m an art teacher.”

Ollie’s jaw dropped to the floor. “There’s an art school here?”

“Well, it’s just my studio. One big room where people come to improve their painting and drawing skills.”

“I’m a great painter and drawer! Right, Dad?”

I nod indulgently. “Yes, Norah helps you create nice art, doesn’t she?” Ollie’s nanny is such a talented artist that Ollie always ends up creating great artwork—which is mostly Norah’s doing, of course. That’s why I agreed to pay her more when she asked for a raise.

“Norah watches TV when I draw and paint. I do it all by myself,” Ollie declares.

I don’t contradict him. It’s probably best to talk to him about this little lie when we’re alone.

“Can I go to Joey’s school, Dad? Please?”

Ollie’s begging look tugs at my heartstrings, but I’m pretty sure Dimple wouldn’t appreciate having to entertain an active four-year-old while she’s working with paid students. “I think Joey’s school is only for older kids and adults,” I say.

“But I’m really good!”

“I know you are. Maybe I’ll enrol you at an art school when you’re old enough.”

“But we’ll be back in Manhattan then, and I wanna go to Joey’s school.” His lips start to tremble.

Uh-oh. Tears incoming.

An out-of-my-depth feeling starts to creep into my chest. I haven’t figured out how to manage my own emotions when I see Ollie crying, and I glance helplessly at my mother.

It’s Dimple who steps in. “Tell you what, Ollie. How about you visit me in my studio one day? You can draw on abigsheet of paper.”

“Really?”

“Yes. By the way, I also brought these for you.” Joey puts three star-shaped chocolates in front of Ollie. “But you have to promise to only eat them when you’re allowed to, okay?”

“Thank you! I promise! And I promise to behave at your art school.”

“Okay,” she says with a laugh.

“Hey, it would be a great idea if Ollie comes tomorrow morning,” Candy interjects. “I’ll be there, too. Save a spot for me, will you, Joey?”

Joey’s brows rise. “I didn’t know you were interested in art lessons.”

Candy shrugs. “I’ve always been interested.”

“Sure,” Joey says with a smile. “I’ll book you in.”

“And me, too!” Ollie pleads.

“Come on, Brax,” Candy urges, squeezing my arm while batting her lashes. “Say yes.”

I run my fingers through my hair so that I can discreetly dislodge Candy’s hold on me. Then I turn to Dimple. “Are you sure he can attend?”

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