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“Why don’t you eat now, and then shower before going to bed. It might relax you more,” Cade suggests.
Jake pauses.
It’s obvious to anyone watching how much it’s hurting Cade to see his son in pain. It’s clear that Cade is trying so hard not to jump up and help him.
Without a word, Jake limps over to the table and drops into a seat.
Jumping up, I caress Cade on the back to keep him in his seat.
I smile at Jake. “I’ll go and warm your food.”
“Shit, Rona. You’re a guest here.”
“Oh, stop. It’s the least I can do.” I dash off to the kitchen before he can complain.
As I fiddle with the dial on the microwave, Cade and Jake talk softly while Jake rubs his hip.
I wish there was something I could do to help him. He’s been so kind to me and watching him in pain makes my heart bleed for him. Being a guy, he probably wouldn’t accept help if offered.
The microwave pings just as I’m pouring a glass of water for Jake. Removing his plate with a towel, I take it back into the dining area. “Here you go.” I lay the plate in front of Jake.
“God, that smells good. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
Walking behind Cade’s seat to get to mine, I press my hand against his back—out of view of Jake—in an effort to comfort him.
I’m delighted when I hear his quiet gasp. It’s good to know that I affect him as much as he does me.
I glance at Cade as I take my seat, but have to look away when I see the hunger shining back at me.
I need to change the direction of my thoughts, so I turn to Jake and catch the wince that crosses his face. I find I can’t stay silent anymore. “Jake, can I get you something for the pain?”
He stops eating, wipes his mouth on a napkin and after a drink of water, he says, “I have meds in my room. I’ll be good.” He drains the glass. “Thanks for asking.” He smiles.
In the silence that follows my offer, I get the feeling Jake wants to talk to his father so I decide to excuse myself. “That was a wonderful meal, but if you’ll excuse me, I hear my bed calling.”
“Are you sure you won’t join us for coffee?” Cade asks.
“I’m sure.” I stand and offer a smile. “Thank you for a lovely meal and company. Goodnight.”
“Goodnight, and you’re welcome,” Cade replies.
Jake sounds tired as he says, “Night, Rona.”
“Night, Jake.”
“I’ll see you around eleven tomorrow to take you into town,” Jake adds as I head toward the stairs and my room.
Chapter 4
Rona
At eleven, I find myself running downstairs to meet Jake for our outing into town and I can’t wait. I’m excited if truth be told. My only wish is that Cade was free to come with us. We spent yesterday afternoon together so I know he has work to catch up on, but I have a feeling he’s going to be distracted with me being out with his son. I don’t believe Jake is really attracted to me. I’m more like a distraction from his troubles, I think. Cade most know this as well.
Like yesterday, I meet Cade at the bottom of the stairs and a bolt of longing shoots through me. My heart melts as he smiles and wraps the same purple-colored scarf around my neck. This time, he pulls me against him. I tip my head back as his lips descend on mine for a brief, but very possessive kiss.
“Mmm, I’m becoming addicted to you,” he whispers against my lips as he breaks from the kiss.
