Page 9 of Power Play

“They live in Florida with our abuela. They came for a visit over the summer, but the winters are too harsh for them.” I chuckle. “You’re going to need a coat.”

Cari’s eyes ping back and forth between us, then land on the suitcase in the corner.

“Why does she need a coat?”

“I’m from Arizona,” Riley says easily, but her shoulders can’t hide the tension within her. “I’ve never actually seen snow before.”

“You’ll see a lot this winter,” I promise.

My sister glances at me again. “Al…”

“Riley’s moving in with me,” I announce. “She’ll take care of Emmy during the day and while I’m on road trips. Basically, she’ll be my new nanny.”

Cari laughs. Full-on belly laughs, shoulders shaking. I swoop in to take Emmy, but she clutches her tighter.

“You don’t do anything by halves, do you? Next thing I know, you’ll tell me you’re getting married.”

I freeze. “Why would you say that?”

“Because all you’ve ever wanted was to settle down with a family,” my sister says, as if it’s obvious. “Boom, instant family for you.”

“We are not getting married,” Riley blurts out. “I was planning on going back to Phoenix until he made me an offer I couldn’t turn down. I don’t want to leave her, not if I don’t have to.”

My sister laughs again. “Of course he did.”

This time, when I go to take Emmy from her, she lets me, and I’m instantly settled by holding my kid in my arms.

“What am I going to do with you?” I murmur, taking in her sweet, chubby cheeks and innocent brown eyes.

“Love her,” Riley says, stepping beside me. She wipes a spot of drool off Emmy’s chin. “All you have to do is love her.”

“I already do.”