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because you think it’s cute and have fun with it. She’s a confused little girl who gets attached and disoriented when things are changed. We were there less than a week and she already thought of it and you as home. What’s going to happen if you get mad at me again, or it’s too awkward for us? It’s not fair to her. You aren’t her mother, Rosaline.”
    Though I know what he says is true, it feels like he slapped me. I’m not trying to take his or their mother’s place. Grace and I bonded, I do feel a closeness and responsibility for her, and I am in no way trying to take over.
    “How dare you, Dexter. I’m going to chalk that little rant up to you being exhausted and worried about your sister because I would never confuse her with a pet. I’m not playing house, trying it out to see if I like being a mother. I’m not that little girl’s mother and I know it, but let’s be honest—she needs one. She needs someone who loves her, shows her affection, reads her stories, and tells off her teacher when deserved. I’m saying I’d like to be there and help her. You can do as you think is best.”
    “Trust me, the last thing I need right now is you around constantly messing up my thoughts and focus, but Grace is worth it. The offer is on the table and you can take it or leave it. Either way, I’d like the contact information of her teacher. I refuse to have someone working in the Ministry who sees anyone, much less a child, as a lost cause. You can leave it with Judy if you like. Have a nice day, Dex.”
    With that I walk away. I am still fuming by the time I reach my office and decide I need a little impromptu party to get my mind straight. I buzz Judy.
    “Judy, would you mind getting Wes, Molly, and Tash in here please? Also, if you could set up a meeting with Andi and yourself for this afternoon I’d appreciate it.”
    I don’t even get the chance to raid the snack food drawer before Molly comes bursting through the door. I wonder if she has ever walked into a room. I’m pretty sure she has too much energy for a normal walk. She comes right up to me and gives me a huge hug.
    “I’ve decided the next tour you go on you are taking me with you. It really does make sense to be there and help you, and I can’t handle months without seeing you, you know!”
    “I missed you too, and we will see for next time. However, I’m not planning on going out again for a while.”
    Wes walks in, not half as excited as Molly, but his eyes light up. “Wesley Sanders, get your scrawny butt over here and give me a proper welcome.”
    He reluctantly gives me a hug, but I can tell he missed me.
    Tash comes walking in looking like a million bucks. “Dang girl, look at you. Hot date?” Molly asks her.
    She flashes her winning smile. “Not exactly. Masters’ first day back is today and it doesn’t hurt to remind him what he’s been missing,” she says with an impish smirk. “Roz, my dear, how are you? You look wonderful as usual.” She hugs me and I can’t help but sigh.
    “I’m exhausted and annoyed, but I missed all of you and had to take a little time out for my friends.”
    Molly squeals. “Oh goodie, gossip time. Wes, get the candy.” Wes glares but does as she asks anyway. Everyone joins me around the couch and Wes takes the chair.
    “So, spill,” Molly says.
    “The trip went great. I’m completely exhausted but I think I was able to really connect to the people. I met with the Council who, by the way, don’t like anything about my look, so they are sending me to an image consultant.”
    Wes scoffs. “What is wrong with your look? I think you look great. You look like you.”
    “Thanks, Wes. Apparently I look too young and naive or some nonsense.”
    “Oh don’t listen to them; you look fine. They are always going to find things they want to improve upon. It has nothing to do with you. They need something to complain about since you are doing such an amazing job at everything else,” Tash says,