Rachel ate her oatmeal as Peter came into the kitchen. Hed gotten dressed and was working on his tie when he came into the kitchen. He straightened the knot, and went about his fast and furious routine: a bagel slammed into the toaster and a tall cup of coffee. Rachel took a moment to watch him move quickly through the kitchen. He seemed to be in a good mood, too, which was great. He was so much more handsome when he was smiling (but then again, werent all men?). He needed a haircut, but she didnt want to point it out. Besides, she liked it; his blonde hair hanging slightly over his forehead made him look boyish, younger than his thirty-six years. He needed a shave, too, but Rachel rather liked his five o clock shadow.

Peter worked as a software designer, and as of late he and his team and been working on a patch for an update that, if finished on time, would net his business a massive multi-million-dollar contract with the US government. Hed been working late hours and acted as if he were caught in a whirlwind when he was home.

After lathering his bagel in cream cheese and topping off his coffee, he kissed Paige goodbye, giving her a little raspberry on her cheek. Paige giggled as he also put a dab of cream cheese on her nose.

He then quickly came over and gave Rachel a peck on the side of her mouth. You ladies have a great day, Peter said.

You, too, Daddy! Paige said. Hey, I might get to ride Mrs. Dennings horsies tomorrow!

Thats fantastic, Peter said, already on his way out the door.

Paige frowned and looked down to the last remaining Apple Jacks, afloat in milk in her bowl. Daddy was in a hurry, huh? she said.

Yeah. But we talked about that. Hes been very busy with work. I think after another few weeks, itll be back to normal. Now…speaking of hurrying, we need to get you to school. You want anything else to eat?

Maybe a donut from Dunkin on the way? she asked with a devilish smile.

Only if we can be out the front door in less than two minutes, Rachel said.

Paige got up quickly and went screeching out of the kitchen and through the hall, looking for her shoes and bookbag. As usual, Paige was ready and waiting at the door before Rachel was completely ready. As Rachel finally fell in line and opened the door for Paige, her daughter beamed brightly and said, Im getting the Boston cream!

Sneering at the remnants of her smoothie and the rectangular protein bar in her hands, Rachel did her best to share in Paiges enthusiasm.

***