Timothy skipped between Bella and Jake, his small hand clutching Jake's like he'd known him forever. Bella tried not to stare at the way Jake held onto Timothy's hand so naturally, like he'd done it a hundred times before as they headed to the car.
She walked on the other side, her eyes scanning the street, pretending she wasn't painfully aware of Jake's presence beside her.
Timothy swung his free arm with delight. "Mama, Mama! Ice cream first, right?" Timothy asked, and Bella couldn't help but turn to Jake.
Jake chuckled, understanding that the question was meant for him to answer. "Yes, Timmy," he said softly, squeezing his shoulder.
Timothy jumped in excitement as they got to the car.
Jake glanced down at him with a faint smile as he lifted him and carried him into the passenger seat. "What's your favorite flavor?"
Timothy's little face scrunched up as he thought hard. "Um… chocolate! No, wait… strawberry! No, no—" He gasped, as if the thought had just struck him. "Both!"
