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We got our shopping trip done with minimum fuss from anyone who recognized me. I took a couple of pictures with people and signed a few things, but it went much better than I’d expected. We had lunch on our way back, having a lot of fun between the three of us. It didn’t feel as if Abi was there to do a job, and I found that I really enjoyed that, even if it was an illusion–of course she was working.

When we got back to BCR, Jenn went to unpack her purchases in the house, and Abi grabbed hers and left to drive back to the Springs. I took my haul and a slightly peeved Nyx to the Airstream.

I had bought her a bag of food, bowls, and a bed for the trailer, so I hoped she’d forgive me for leaving her soon.

She did wag her tail when I presented her with some treats and a stuffed toy alligator.

“It’s an inside toy for here, okay?” I told her as she gnawed on it very gently. “I should’ve bought you two.” One for each place she spent her nights.

There was an odd sort of joy in setting up my new toaster, kettle, and a pod coffee maker on the counter. There was just enough space for all three with some left over, but I sure wouldn’t be doing any real cooking here.

I had put everything away by the time I got a message from Jenn.

The kids are asking if we can come see the ponies?

I chuckled.

Of course. Head on over.

About half an hour later, I heard the van outside, and Nyx perked up from her slumber.

“Let’s go see the kids!”

She wasn’t the biggest fan of the smallest ones, but she didn’t dislike children. I… related to that. The Harrington kids were all great, but others? I wasn’t a fan.

I pulled on my coat and jogged down to the van.

“Hi, Wren!” Aria yelled from where she stood holding one of the twins’ hand.

“Hi, Aria!” I called out.

“We came to see the ponies!” she informed me in the same bright, enthusiastic tone.

“Awesome. Let’s wait for everyone and we’ll go see them.”

Funnily enough, her expression reminded me of Jenn when she did a happy little shimmy.

“Which one are you?” I asked the little boy.

“’M Em.”

“Do you want to come with me, Emerson?” I asked, smiling at him.

He thought for a moment, just enough time for his twin to appear from around the van’s corner with Payton holding onto the back of his jacket.

“Babies,” he said with feeling when he saw me.

I chuckled and held my hands out to Emerson who lifted his own so I could hoist him up.

Jenn emerged with Shiloh at her heels. “Sorry, we lost Shiloh’s beanie.”

“That’s okay!” I grinned, bouncing a little to make Baby Em, or well, Toddler Em, smile. “Ponies?” I asked.

Jenn grabbed Phinneas and lifted him to her hip with a practiced motion. “Lead the way!” she said brightly, as if we couldn’t all see the paddock from there.

The twins weren’t runners, but I’d clearly been right with my assumption of us adults wanting a bit more control. I was pretty sure Papa was on triplet duty, and I couldn’t blame anyone in the scenario for wanting them to stay at the ranch for this.

To my surprise, Shiloh fell into step with me while Payton and Aria went ahead of all of us.