Broderick stepped in front of Leslie and, without a word, scooped her up into his arms.
"Ah-"
Startled, Leslie instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck.
Broderick nudged the bedroom door open with his foot, carried her over, and gently laid her on the bed. He tucked the quilt over her and said stiffly, "Leslie, just sleep, okay?"
Leslie lay there, smiling up at him.
"Mm-hmm. Goodnight, Ricky."
"Hey, aren't you gonna give me a goodnight kiss?"
Broderick didn't respond-didn't even look back-but his steps on the way out faltered slightly, like his legs made the decision for him.
Leslie's lips curled into a knowing little smile.
Her Broderick... such a softie.
Back in his own room, Broderick reached up and rubbed his ears. Yeah, they were warm.
A faint
