Dinner over, Liam’s mother had retired to the living room to watch her favorite Sunday night show. In the kitchen, Liam helped Angie with the dishes. Once in a while, he looked up at the window above the sink. Out in the yard, Rye, Will, and Kieran were playing soccer with the boys. Kieran was apparently outrunning Rye and Will, causing Liam’s nephews to cry out in joy with every goal their team scored—both boys thrilled to finally beat their father at something.
“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” Angie asked, taking a dish from Liam’s soapy hands. She dried it and put it away. “Your mother sure warmed up to him pretty fast.”
“Yeah, but I’m not surprised.” Liam couldn’t help staring out the window at Kieran. “Mom’s always had a soft spot for men who compliment her every few minutes.” Liam lau
