Chapter 0927

"Dad instincts, kicking in on day one," Mark says, laughing a little, leaning back in his chair and popping a mint cookie in his mouth.

Jackson sighs, thinking he's getting a bit too much credit for that. He turns his eyes back to Ella. "How do I do this?"

"Oh, it's not so bad when they're little like this," Ella says with a sigh, leaning forward to study Marigold. "She's what...four?"

Marigold's eyes flick up and she gives Ella a single steady nod before returning her gaze to her noodles, eating with gusto.

As one, all of the adults at the table break into a smile at that.

"God, she's like...a teeny tiny Jacks," Mark murmurs, leaning closer. Marigold ignores him but Rafe nods in agreement.

"So serious," Rafe says, laughing a little. "And intent on her food."

Jacks smirks, studying the girl, realizing that that's at least a little true, and thinking again that...well, that she looks like him. Sweeter, and softer, and - obviously tiny. But the stern set of her mouth, and her broad forehead onto which her hair flops, all dark and messy...

God, but she's...his little mini.

ever knew before

the girl. "They're potty-trained, so you don't have to deal with any of that mess. And they can talk

lifts his head and gives her a single nod. She smiles softly, trying very hard

Jacks. Keep her clean, feed her, educate her. Talk to her, make sure she's loved and engaged and getting a good start in life. And we'll

in surprise at this offer. Mark nods eagerly too, already

his mouth before patting his friend on the back. "You're my brother now, right? Which makes this little one my niece." He grins, leaning over on the table and

a bit at Rafe, still unsure about this big man grinning at her like

with a sigh,

little girl. "Regarding the

me?" a cheerful voice calls from the

still, his eyes opening wide as he

turning towards

going on?" Ariel

guys everywhere - Jesse's upstairs with a bunch of bags, he can't find you either, and he won't tell me

eyes finally settle on the little girl, who continues to

Ariel laughs a little, moving

"Who is thi-"

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