533 We Have A Winner

(Winona)

"To be fair," River says, "we didn't know why we were coming. Gus just said to meet some cool people."

"And hang out with some kids," Kit adds. "Mission accomplished."

I stiffen and I'm not sure whether to yell at Gus or just accept defeat.

"They're great!" Bobby exclaimed, looking up from the Switch. "Kit knows all the cool games. He's way better than you, Dad." "Thanks, son," Jayden mutters dryly.

"And River's an artist!" Abbey adds, holding up the sketch-a surprisingly detailed picture of Abbey wearing a glittery crown.

"It's beautiful!" I say, surprised.

"Thanks," River answers. "Your kids are pretty inspiring."

"They've been telling us all about their adventures in Europe," Kit looks genuinely amazed. "They've seen more of the world than we have. We love to travel. But funds are an issue. We find private gigs more profitable than formal teaching jobs. And less... regimented." "With all due respect, you might not be ready for the chaos these four cause."

River nods. "I come from a big family. Seven siblings. And Kit here has five. We thrive on chaos."

"Big families," Gus said with a wink. "Perfect for this one."

I'm not going to be swayed that easily. "Plus, Jayden and I have very busy lifestyles. It would need to be live-in the vast majority of the time... We can't have anyone who is going to jet across the world in twelve-months time."

"We don't have any other ties right now. Live in would be preferable," Kit adds.

from us travelling with you at times?" River

a

his hip. "Come on, troops. Let's go

with mock seriousness. "You aren't getting any

grins. "What's he talking about? I'm a spring

The kids all giggle.

can have a moment like that with Gus. They've never done that

they feel like

cracking a small smile. "Alright. Let's talk

to chat with Kit and River, I can't help but think Gus might've actually nailed it. "So you're both used to big,

with kids. I used to run a summer camp for underprivileged kids in Vermont.

And they're brutally honest, which keeps you

to River.

gardening and his cat. Abbey loves crafting, being adventurous, cooking and

over gaming. You name it-Minecraft, Fortnite, Mario Kart-I'm your guy. I've trained in cyber-safety too, especially

grins. "Crafting?

a

the kind of kid who loves storytelling. It really helps kids identify what's going on inside

dealing with

counselling qualifications focused on foster kids. She worked with me and my kids. Bobby and Sarah in particular. We've adopted them." River's eyes widen. "That's so cool. I want to extend my qualifications too. Anne, maybe

pad on

and I exchange a glance. That's the thumbs-up

nannying?" I

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