Most nights as we drift off to sleep, Bryan whispers the same sweet sentiment: “I love you.”

I groggily croak: “I love you more.”

But being the competitive sort, he trumps me: “I love you most.”

And so it has been for the last five years, until a few nights ago.

Vivi had charmed her way between us that evening, claiming her spot smack dab in the middle of our queen-sized bed.  You see, like the Veela from Ariana’s favorite Harry Potter books, Vivi has magical powers of persuasion over her daddy.  With a simple smile and the bat of her baby blues, she can pretty much get whatever she wants.  And in case you’re wondering, yes, I’m more than a little jealous.  And thus is was that evening.

Bryan whispers in Vivi’s right ear: “Tell mom: I love her.”

Vivi whispers to Mom: “Dad loves you.”

Mom whispers in Vivi’s left ear: “Tell Dad: I love him more.”

Vivi whispers to Dad: “Mom loves you more.”

Bryan whispers to Vivi: “Tell mom: I love her most.”

Vivi pauses and a shy smile creeps across her face as she catches on to our little game.

Vivi triumphantly whispers to me: “Dad loves me MOST!”

Yeah.  That’s what I thought! 😉