Madeline had no idea what Julian was dealing with that day, but he came home earlier than usual. She was sitting on the sofa, mulling over the idea of taking the kids out for dinner, when he walked in.
He paused in the entryway, taking in the scene. Madeline sat in the middle of the couch with a kid snuggled up on each side. His eyes softened, but when he glanced over and spotted Luke, his face cooled instantly.
What is Luke doing here?
Luke noticed Julian right away. He was sharp, always the first to pick up on anything. With a knowing smile, he greeted him, “Mr. Grayson, you’re back.”
Madeline looked up then, and both kids lit up as soon as they spotted Julian. Oliver, full of energy, practically launched himself across the room and latched onto Julian’s leg, bouncing with excitement. “Daddy, you’re home!”
Luke stood up, still smiling, and said, “I’ll leave you guys to it. See you later, Madeline.”
She nodded. “We’ll text you once we pick a place for dinner.”
Luke grinned. “Sounds good. You know I’m always in for food.”
Julian watched Luke walk out, his expression unreadable.
Oliver tugged on his father’s leg. “Daddy, why are you staring at Uncle Luke? You’re not even looking at me. Do you like him too?”
Julian blinked. “Like him too? Who else likes him?”
Oliver answered without hesitation. “Me, Noah, and Mommy. We all like Uncle Luke.”
Julian fell silent.
Madeline watched Oliver cling to Julian’s leg, then glanced at Noah, who sat quietly beside her. Noah was always calmer, a little more reserved than Oliver. He liked to be close to her, but rarely showed that kind of open affection to Julian.
She could see he wanted to, though. It just wasn’t easy for him.
Madeline smiled and ruffled Noah’s hair. “Go on, Noah. Ask Daddy what he wants for dinner tonight.”
Noah nodded, slipped off the sofa, and padded over to Julian. He wrapped his arms around Julian’s other leg, copying his brother. “Daddy.”

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