She wrapped her arms around his neck. The scent of ylang ylang tickled his nose as he wrapped an arm about her waist.
“Thank you,” she murmured against his ear, her warm breath sending his heart pounding.
He stepped back, hoping she didn’t notice the boner he now sported by holding her.
“You’re welcome, Addy. Shall we go let out the brute and give him some exercise before we eat? While you drive us home, I’ll make reservations.”
She giggled as she climbed in and adjusted the mirror. Addy pushed the button, adjusted the seat, and leaned over to turn on the heat and massage options for both.
“I’m glad you went with me today. Despite the haggling, I enjoyed it and thank you for lunch,” she said, pulling out of the parking lot and heading toward Serenity.
“You’re welcome,” he said, watching her enjoyment as she figured out where she liked to hold the wheel. Her fingers caressed the leather interior, and she glanced at the mirrors reflecting her surroundings.
“I can’t believe I did it,” she admitted.
“Why? You’re a capable woman,” he said, confused.
“I never handled the big decisions. Sam picked out the cars and the houses we mostly purchased. It seemed every time we needed to move, he went on leave before me. I never really cared about it until I bought my home here.”
“Didn’t you own a car before you entered the military?” he asked.
“No. The college I attended used a bus system throughout the community. I didn’t see a reason to pay for insurance when I mainly walked or rode the bus. I joined the military immediately after my first year. I continued my education with them and advanced in my role.”
“How did you and Sam meet?” he asked, not wanting to dim her shining moment.
She smiled sadly. “I spent six weeks on a carrier in the Gulf. He came in with an injury, and they assigned him to me. Sam always teased me and used to say I only married him because the military ordered me to stick by his side.”
Liam smiled. “How long were you married?”
“Five years. We planned to retire and raise a family. We spent a month together before he spun up again, and two weeks later, the pastor visited me,” she said quietly.
“Since you’ve never visited Ty’s, let me tell you about the steaks,” he said, changing the subject.
“I’ve heard they’re the best for miles around Serenity,” she said. “Do I need to dress up?”
“No. You’re pretty in this. Your blouse complements your eyes, making them stand out. I don’t think I’ve seen you out of scrubs.”
“Yes, they definitely dominate my wardrobe,” she said, relaxing again. “What do you think? Did I pick a great SUV or what?”
“You did amazing,” he complimented her. “I may prolong finding my truck. Then you can drive me around in heated seats that massage my butt.”
Addy giggled, her eyes lighting up as she obviously enjoyed her first ride in a car she picked out. Liam sat back and took her in, watching how she blossomed over a few compliments. She seemed…lonely. He didn’t know if she desired friendship or a lover, but he’d be willing to start out with the first and work his way to the second. After months of watching her flit in and out of his room and avoiding him at all costs, she surprised him with a hug. Maybe today signaled the start of something new and something he wanted more than anything.
CHAPTER 9
Liam followedAddy to the back booth and took his position against the wall while he scanned the crowd.
“I see some things never change,” she said, sliding into the booth.
“Nope,” he said, handing her the menu.
“Oh, they have a farmer’s salad with French onion soup on special,” she said, reading the menu.
“Another nope. We ate healthy this afternoon; now we indulge,” he ordered.
“Oh, I didn’t know it worked that way,” she mused. “They have lobster mac and cheese.”
“I think they added it to the menu for Stormy, I mean, Hannah. Sorry, I forgot you’re not used to all the call signs,” he apologized.
