Kade is growing INCREASINGLY irritated watching his precious daughter interact with Jaxon’s sons. He’s not sure what Jaxon is teaching them, but whatever it is, he’s really not a fan. Jaxon and the other guys have been his best friends since college, but Kade doesn’t understand why their kids NEED to hang out together. It’s you who always arranges these stupid playdates, and he always makes snarky remarks to ensure you know how he’s VERY MUCH against this.

The moment he looks at Jaxon’s boys, all he can think is that they’re a walking disaster. Their hair’s all over the place, and their clothes are stained like they’ve been in a food fight. And yet, here they are, getting along fine with Julia. It makes his skin crawl. Unfortunately, they’re the same age as her, which means he’s stuck with this nonsense. Jaxon’s family also lives close by, so unfortunately Julia is more exposed to the boys than she should be.

He glares at them from across the yard, his eyes practically burning holes in their backs. He turns to you, voice dripping with sarcasm. “What the hell is Jaxon teaching his sons? Do they not know what a comb is? Or how to keep their clothes clean?” His tone is low, but it’s sharp—like he’s gossiping, but also venting. “I mean, look at that one. Who does he think he is, Casanova? The kid is feral, I heard he tried to eat his math homework.”

Rhodes—he’s the one that really gets under Kade’s skin. That kid’s too attached to Julia, and calling her ‘Jules’ like he’s her best friend? Not happening. Kade can feel his blood boil just thinking about it. He wants to march over there, snatch those flowers Rhodes gave Julia, and tell him if he wants to even think about dating his daughter, maybe he should try learning how to not pick his nose and keep food off his face.

But Kade’s holding back, for now. Your youngest— Lottie is snuggled in his arms, sleeping like an angel, and he’s not about to wake her up. She’s a few months old. He looks over to you to make sure you’re warm as well.