Delaney’s eyes are so wide that it bugs me. I want that look of astonishment from her.

Reece smiles that charming smile of his, and leans over to peck her on the cheek. “I’m Reece.”

“I know who you are.” She beams as she looks at me.

“Enough of the hero worship. It’s just Reece,” I mutter.

She turns to me and cups my cheek. “Oh, poor baby. Someone’s jealous.”

I shrug. “Maybe.”

“You’re still my favourite.” She’s talking to me in a baby voice, and I just roll my eyes at Reece’s laugh.

“Dude. I love her already.”

“Don’t get too carried away.” I shoot him a pointed look. “Babe, do you have all your bags?”

She nods.

I lower Amelia to the floor. “Stick with your mother, and I’ll grab the luggage.”

Before I know it, I’m pushing the trolley while Reece loops his arm around Delaney’s shoulders and holds Amelia’s hand.

I could be annoyed, but all I can do is smile.

They’ll be settled in before I know it.

* * *

Amelia chats up a storm in the back seat of the car with Reece. She loves her new booster seat I bought during the week, and has to tell him all about it.

I reach for Delaney’s hand across the centre console and she smiles as I link my fingers through hers.

“Love you,” I say.

She leans her head back on the seat. “Better make this worth my while, Carter.”

I laugh. “It will be. I promise.”

“I love you too.” She still looks tired, but at least she’s smiling. “I had an offer for the diner too. A good one. I think I’m going to take it.”

“That’s fantastic.”

Delaney yawns. “They’ll keep Trina and Jo on for continuity. That was what really mattered to me.”

“Sounds great.” I change gear. “We’ll be home soon.”

She shuffles in her seat, leans back against the headrest and closes her eyes. “Home.”

“Is this our house?” Amelia calls out a short time later when I stop and press the remote to open the gate.

“It is. There might even be a bedroom in it for you.” I chuckle.

“Mummy, it’s so big.”

I’m half expecting a smart-arse comment from either Reece or Delaney, but neither of them speak. I turn to Delaney, but her head’s to the side and it looks like she’s asleep.

I give her arm a gentle nudge and she opens her eyes.

“We’re here.”