Page 22 of Full Strength

“You sure you want to cook?”

I shrugged. “I want to impress her but maybe I shouldn’t risk it.”

He nodded slowly. “Just to be safe.”

That’s not necessarily what I wanted to do. I wanted to make the effort and show Addison she was worth me stepping out of my comfort zone, but I also didn’t want to give us food poisoning or have to force down a gross meal. Maybe after some practice I’d cook for her. Tonight had to be perfect.

“You’re right. Maybe after some cooking lessons I’ll try.”

They seemed to agree with that. I decided to skip a shower so I could get home faster and start setting things up. “See you guys tomorrow.”

I waved on my way out and started listing things I needed to do on my walk home. I had a cleaning service come once a week and they’d been in while I was out of town so my house was clean. I’d just have to make sure there weren’t any dishes in the sink. I didn’t have any candles, or even a lighter, so I needed to head to the store and decided on where to get food.

I probably should have asked the guys for recommendations. Good thing I knew someone that had tabs on everything going on in the city and could pull any string I’d need.

I pulled out my phone clicked on her name.

“Hi Grant.”

“Hey Chole. I need your help with something.”

“Your date with Addison? I was wondering when you’d call.”

I could practically hear her prideful smirk.

“I wanted to cook for her but Reese said I should be safe this time and order in.”

“He’s got a good point. Plus, it’s one less thing for you to worry about.”

“So, do you have any recommendations?”

“We just tried this pub down on Main street. It’s amazing. I’ll call in an order and you can pick it up or have it delivered. If you want me to drop it off for you just let me know.”

“Thank you, Chloe!”

With that taken care of, all I had to do was not make a fool of myself tonight.

I parked in front of Addi’s house right on time. I checked my reflection in the rearview mirror to make sure I was clear of anything embarrassing before opening my door. It felt like every action was significant. I felt the weight of each step toward her door. I lifted my hand and knocked against the solid door.

I held my breath until I heard the locks turn. This was really happening.

When the door opened wide enough for me to see her, I sucked in a breath.

I wasn’t prepared for this.

I’d never seen her look so...so hot?

She was sweating.

Well, glistening. I’d heard from the Pride that that was what they preferred.

Her hair was pulled up in a pile on the top of her head and she was wearing a t shirt that had to have belonged to a large man at one point. Her sweat pants were uneven, the right leg pushed up her calf while the left swept the floor.

“Addi?” I didn’t know what to say or do. I knew I needed to help but had no idea what the first step was.

She tilted her head and leaned against the door. “Grant. I’m so sorry. I meant to call you.”

I looked behind her to the stack of blankets on the sofa and pile of tissues on the coffee table. She was obviously ill. Like super sick.