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But I know my brother.

He loves hard.

And when he hurts, he hurts hard, too.

“I can’t speak for her or where her head is right now. She’s had four years to build a life without you. In that time, she’s learned to depend on herself and no one else. She might be scared about what happens if she does start to depend on you.”

“I just want to get to know him. I don’t even care if she tells him who I am. I just want to be in his life.”

“Then show her that. But don’t force your way in. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. Show up and let her decide what that means.” A small smile tugs at my lips. “That’s how Joshua and I got together. He didn’t force it. He let me make my own decision.”

“And you chose him,” Bennett says.

“I did.”

He presses his lips together as he considers my advice. “Thanks, Winnie.”

“Anytime.” I wrap him in a hug. “Just be patient and try not to fuck it up. Because I’d like to meet my nephew someday.”

“I’ll do my best.” He brushes a soft kiss to my cheek, then steps back, clearing his throat. “I should get to work. There’ll be lots of thirsty people here tonight. Plus, it appears someone’s been looking for you.”

I turn and follow his gaze, my heart expanding when I see Hannah toddling toward me, Joshua pushing an empty stroller behind her, Gary trotting beside him.

“Ma-ma!”

I drop into a crouch just as she reaches me and scoop her into my arms. “There’s my girl.” Straightening, I pepper kisses all over her cheeks until she dissolves into a fit of giggles. “Did you miss me today?”

“Uh-huh.” She nods so hard her curls bounce.

“How much?”

She spreads her arms as wide as they’ll go. “Much!”

Bennett makes an exaggerated coughing sound. “What about me? You don’t see me every day like you do your mommy. Don’t you miss me?”

Hannah wrinkles her nose and buries her face in my shoulder.

“Wow.” Bennett playfully clutches his chest. “Apparently I have that effect on all kids. But it’s okay, munchkin. I still love ya.” He ruffles her hair.

“Working tonight?” Joshua asks, extending his hand. Bennett takes it and pulls him into a quick bro hug.

“Of course.”

“I’ll try to stop by.”

“Don’t worry about it. Spend time with your family.” Bennett smiles, but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Is he okay?” Joshua asks as we watch Bennett walk away. “He’s seemed a bit…off lately.”

I hesitate, unsure what to tell him. This isn’t my secret to share, even with Joshua. If Bennett wants him to know, he needs to be the one to tell him. Not me.

“I’m sure it’s nothing,” I respond, keeping my voice light. “How did it go today?”

“Great. Your mom dropped off Hannah about an hour ago. They went to the library for story time this morning, then the park. She took two good naps, so she’s ready to party all night long.” He nuzzles her face. “Aren’t you, Hannah Banana?”

“Party!” Hannah squeals.

“You excited to see the tree?”