“Not today,” I say as Zoey leans into me. I look down at her, and with only my eyes I tell her what happened. She gives me that same smile Izzy gave me moments ago. I grab Zoey and sit her on the kitchen island, retrieving her mug she left by the sink.
Noah and Izzy join us a few minutes later. Everyone starts arguing over what we should eat, which rolls into another fight about if this is breakfast or lunch. I drink my coffee, enjoying every second of it. Again my wife’s eyes meet mine, telling me she’s enjoying it too. Our girls might be growing up, but as Zoey said, our family is growing too.
“Love you,” Zoey says next to my ear. I turn my head to look at her.
“I love you too. Forever.” I drop my mouth to hers.* * *