Page 26 of Finding Redemption

“All right, people. The baby wants to play her new game. Let’s eat,” Andi announces.

“Andi Jo!” Ava chastises her. “Enough being rude, young lady.”

“Yes, Momma.” I wait a moment before scooting her close as we eat. Yeah, I’ve got to stop spoiling her before she gets in trouble for being headstrong. Like her mom.

We finish our meal, and I help Riley clear the table. Ava helps Andi into a shirt she can play in.

“Hey, sis. Grab me a shirt too, please,” I yell up the stairs. “I didn’t think about bringing another one.”

“Why do you need one?” our mom asks curiously.

“You’re about to learn.” Riley laughs.

“I don’t think I’m going to play,” our father says.

“Grandfather, we’re all playing.” Andi slides in beside him. “Please?” She bats her lashes.

“Of course, we’re all playing.” He pulls her tight against his side.

Two hours and a few cans of whipped cream later, we’ve all had pie in the face and Andi lays passed out on the couch. “She’s a sticky mess. Look at her hair.” Ava’s eyes bulge at the hair plastered on her daughter’s face.

I can’t help my smile. She’s perfect. “I’ll carry her up. You want to try to wash her face off?”

“Yeah, I’ll get a warm washcloth and a clean nightie,” Ava replies.

“Oh, you kids go on. We’ve got her.” Mom shoos us with her hands.

“We’ve cleaned many sleepy faces. Sallie’s was always the worst with her hair just like Andi’s.” Dad’s face lights up as he remembers our sister.

“Hurry it up. We’ll get her to bed.” Mom stands, walking toward the stairs as our dad makes his way over to the couch where Sleeping Beauty lay.

“Where are we going?” Ava asks, standing. “Should I change?”

“Maybe the little silver dress, please?” Riley stares her in the eyes as some unspoken word is passed between them.

“I’m not sure you deserve that dress.” She leans in, nose-to-nose with him.

“I’ll be sure I rectify that situation before the night is over.” He brushes his lips against hers, and I turn my head. These two could make a hooker blush.

“Damn, come on.” I make a gagging sound, and they laugh.

A few minutes later, Ava saunters down the stairs looking as beautiful as ever. And Riley’s face tells the story of falling in love with her. “We’re leaving. Walker’s staying here tonight. Thanks!” Riley takes Ava by the hand, leading her to the door.

“Bye, y’all.” I kiss our mom’s cheek. “Love you.”

She grabs my hand, touching my face with the other. “Love you, sweet boy.” Leave it to my mom to make me tear up. I offer a tight smile and join Riley and Ava.

“Where to?” Ava asks as she slides behind the wheel.

“The Bowery?” Riley suggests.

“Sounds good. I’m ready for a drink.”

6

“Ican’t believe I let you talk me into this. I’m not one of your groupies.” I slump into the chair next to Alden.

“Stop your bitchin’.” Alden steps around me. “It’s been forever since you’ve come to hear me.”