Lucius (Acquisition Series #4) - Celia Aaron Page 0,63

chance’ as I’m going to get out of Sin.

“That smells amazing.” Evie leans over as Stella places the roast on the table. “Can I help you with anything in the kitchen? I’m happy to—”

“When are they going to be potty trained?” Teddy hustles in with Renee tucked under one arm and Rebecca under the other. “They just crop dusted me, then finished the job with a sprinkling of poop napalm. I almost vomited, and this is after my rotation in the ER.” He pauses when he spots Evie, then recovers quickly and hands Renee to Stella.

“They don’t smell that bad.” Stella takes Renee and kisses her nose before sliding her into her highchair. “They’re just well-seasoned.”

“You’re fooling yourself. It’s toxic waste.” Teddy puts Rebecca in her matching high chair, then turns to Evie. “I didn’t know you’d be here tonight, but I’m happy to see you and everyone getting along so well.” He gives her his Teddy smile, so genuine that I want to backhand him sometimes.

“Thank you. I know it’s weird—”

“Understatement,” Stella mutters as she heads back to the kitchen with Sin at her heels.

“But I’m just glad to be included,” Evie finishes.

“Stella’s a great cook. You’re going to love this.” He sits across from her and little Teddy as I pour drinks for everyone. I sneak a shot of bourbon, but then I catch Evie watching me out of the corner of her eye.

Without missing a beat, she says, “I know how to cook, but really only for one. I wouldn’t know where to start with making a meal this big.”

“I’m going to learn to cook,” little Teddy announces while staring up at Evie with what can only be described as heart eyes. “Whatever your favorite food is, I’m going to cook it.”

Big Teddy and I exchange an amused look.

“Easy there, tiger.” Teddy serves up a plate for him as I start cutting the twins’ food into tiny pieces. “I think Uncle Lucius already staked his claim.”

“Doesn’t mean anything.” Undeterred, my nephew keeps staring in adoration. “What’s your favorite food? I bet Uncle Lucius doesn’t even know.”

“Well, hmm.”

“I know what she really seems to enjoy. Tube steak.” I waggle my brows at her.

Teddy almost chokes on his ice water.

“Tube steak? I can make that. Easy.” Little Teddy gives me a challenging stare.

“No, but thank you for that, Lucius.” Evie shakes her head and somehow keeps a straight face. “It’s homemade macaroni and cheese, especially if it has bacon in it.”

“Mommy can teach me, and the next time you come over, I’ll make some for you.” He forks a piece of pork tenderloin and plops it into his mouth with pure satisfaction.

What am I going to do with this kid?

I scoop some mashed potatoes out for Renee and Rebecca who babble at me. Renee immediately grabs the potatoes with her meaty paw and smears some on my shoulder.

Evie watches, surprise twinkling in her eyes. “You really are all close, aren’t you?”

“We are, well, at least until Sin and Lucius get into a tussle, throw themselves out a window, and continue fighting on the lawn.” Teddy points his fork at me. “I still think you should get imaging of your ribs.”

“No thanks, Doc McStuffins.” I serve the twins who discuss the food options among themselves in cute baby babble.

Teddy sighs. “Never change, Lucius, you miserable jerk.” He can’t hide his smile at the end. He really is the nicest Vinemont. Freak.

Evie looks around for a while, then pushes back her chair and stands. “I’m sorry. Excuse me for a moment.” She walks out, and little Teddy stands to follow her.

“This one’s all mine. Sorry, buddy.” I tousle his hair and follow Evie down the hall to the powder room.

Sin and Stella pass me with questioning glances, but I just wave them to the dining room.

Standing right at the powder room door, I knock softly. “Evie, you okay?”

“I’m fine. Please go be with your family.”

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.”

“I can tell it’s something. Can I come in?” I can hear her sniffle, and a few moments later she opens the door a crack.

I push it all the way open and shut it behind me. “What’s wrong?” I cup her face with my hands and wipe her tears away with my thumbs.

“Nothing. Everything. I don’t know.” She sniffles again, and I pull her into my arms.

“Are you worried about Stella?” I kiss her hair. “She hasn’t thrown a knife at you yet. That’s a win as far as I’m concerned. I think it’ll just take