“And we didn’t lie to the babysitter,” Maddie adds quickly. “We just… assumed he’d agree later.”
June places her small hand over mine. “Our plan is so Dad doesn’t quit being happy.”
That one lands deep.
I ask why it matters so much. Their confidence softens.
“He’s been sad a long time,” Maddie says.
“He smiles with us,” Harper adds. “But when he thinks we’re not looking, he looks lonely.”
“He does everything,” June says quietly. “But nothing for himself.”
I recognize that loneliness. I’ve worn it.
They tell me their mom is a famous actress. They see her on TV sometimes. No anger—just facts. She loved them, but she loved acting more. People choose.
Then the café door flies open.
A man rushes in, tie crooked, hair a mess, panic written all over his face. His eyes land on our table and widen in horror.
“Oh no,” Harper mutters.
“He’s here,” Maddie says proudly.
“Mission accomplished,” June whispers.
He approaches, breathless. “I’m so sorry. I’m Daniel Brooks. I had no idea they—” He stops, staring at his daughters.
“So you’re the man who stood me up,” I say lightly.
His embarrassment is instant. Genuine. “I swear it wasn’t intentional.”
“She’s not mad,” Harper says.