Page 110 of Crazy Love

Poppy

I know this probably only sounds good to me, but I’m craving those ham roll-ups that have cream cheese and pickles.

My friend Goldie always made those in college! I love those.

Poppy

When is she coming back? I knew she was a good time.

I wish I knew. I owe her a call, several calls.

I sigh. Everyone in my life has been put on hold while I’ve tried to get it together. Tomorrow, I’ll call Goldie and catch up with her.

Sadie

I’ll bring wine, and the only chocolate I have is chocolate-covered pretzels.

That works for me. And I’ve got all the drinks the kids could possibly want. Come on over. I can’t wait.

By the time they show up for the game, I’m bouncing along with Sam and Winnie, so excited for everyone to get here. We pile onto the couches in front of the TV and the girls dance around the living room. Sam tosses the soft football to Levi and Caleb.

Winnie goes spinning by, giggling until she face-plants onto the rug. I sit up, about to rush to check on her, but she rushes to her feet, arms wide like she’s sticking a landing.

“Ten out of ten!” Elle claps.

Winnie beams and launches herself at me, climbing into my lap and resting her head against my chest. My arms tighten around her.

Sadie is curled into the armchair with a glass of wine and she watches us with a soft smile. “She’s happy,” she says quietly.

“She is,” I agree, brushing my fingers through Winnie’s curls. “Hopefully we’re figuring it out.”

“And how are you?” Elle asks, tilting her head as she looks at me.

I let out a long exhale. “I think I’m getting there.”

“Well, you’re Wonder Woman in our eyes, I hope you know that,” Tru says.

“And I hope you know that we are here,anytime, for whatever you need,” Poppy adds. “You’re not alone.”

My eyes well up, again, ugh, and I smile around the room. “I can’t believe how lucky I am,” I say, my voice shaky. “You guys are so great. Thank you.”

It’s late when my phone buzzes.

The girls left an hour and a half ago, after they helped me clean everything up. The kids are asleep, and the house is a settled, content quiet.

I’ve just gotten into bed when I see Penn’s name flash across the screen. My heart does that ridiculous skip it always does when it’s him.

“Hey,” I answer, my voice soft.

“Hey, beautiful,” His voice is low and rough. He looks tired.

“You were incredible tonight,” I tell him.

“You were watching?”

“Of course. Wouldn’t miss it. The girls and the kids came over too. It was a lot of fun.”

“Tru sent me a picture of Winnie spinning in her ballet shoes.” Even if I couldn’t see it, I’d be able to hear the smile in his voice.

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