"Hey, Shortbread!" He ruffled her blond curls, while she wrapped her arms around his legs and hugged tight. "Happy Birthday Lola."
She tilted her head back to beam up at him. "You came, just like you said you would."
Crouching down to her level, Ethan playfully chucked her chin. "I always keep my word, hun."
Her eyes sparkled in joy. "What's in the box, Uncle? What'd you buy me?"
"Lola, let your uncle come in first before you ply him with questions." Lola's mum appeared by the doorway, beaming at them both.
Scooping his niece into his free arm, Ethan ambled towards his sister-in-law, a wide grin splitting his face.
"Hey Jodie." He pressed a kiss to her cheeks, while handing over the box.
"You're late." Jodie scolded, though her tone was light and teasing. She stepped aside to let hi
