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She tilted her head and I swear I saw her eyes threatening to spill over. This was too much. I set the knife down, dried my hands, and rushed over to her. “What?” She blinked back tears.
“Don’t.” I used my thumbs to wipe away her sadness. “Please don’t. I’ve watched too many chick flicks and I’ll just end up kissing you if you don’t get happy.”
Immediately, Kate sucked in a breath. “You’re right. That would be silly. Would you excuse me a moment?” Then she disappeared down the hall.
In her absence, I managed to finish slicing the broccoli and carrots, and I made potatoes two ways, baked and sliced with onions, garlic, butter, salt, and pepper. What can I say? I’m a simple man.
When she finally reappeared, I was back to manning the grill. I’d placed the vegetables above the heat and I’d flipped the chicken. I smiled at her and she actually grinned. “Worried I’m ruining your meals?”
Kate shook her head. “Actually, no.” She took a deep breath, like she was building up to something. “Any chance you’d be interested in joining me for a late lunch?”
I swear she half expected me to decline. “Absolutely. Food will be ready in another twenty minutes.”
“Great. I’ll set the table.” Kate sashayed into the house. She had these amazing hips. All she seemed to be wearing was a bathing suit and a sarong, which with the palm trees and pool gave her backyard a very tropical feel.
For some reason, I felt right at home. I watched her return a few minutes later with plates, silverware, and napkins. “This place is beautiful. It’s so relaxing here.”
“It is when I’m not ducking golf balls.” She laughed. “I swear, Doug seems to end up in my yard every Sunday. If I didn’t know better, I’d think he did it on purpose.”
“Oh, it was intentional, alright.” I sighed. “I seriously watched him change the direction and intensity of his swing the minute he saw you walk through the doors.”
“Is that so?” She sounded surprised. “I wonder why…”
“Could he have a crush on you? He did this with all the finesse of a twelve-year-old boy.” I chuckled.
“Doug? Nah.” She shook her head emphatically at first, then slowed. “Aw hell, maybe. I’m lousy with guys.”
“And compliments,” I added.
“Thanks.” She jabbed me in the shoulder as she walked past to set the other side of the table.
“Hey. You should be kinder to the cook.” My brow rose.
“Oh, and why is that?” She smirked in challenge.
“Well, I could ruin your food.” I licked my lips. I couldn’t stop staring at hers. Before I left, I vowed to have at least one kiss.
“You wouldn’t do that,” she murmured. She seemed mesmerized at the moment.
“Why’s that?” I stepped closer to her.
She stepped back. “Because for now, it’s your food too.” Then she giggled and rushed into the house.
Damn, but I wanted to chase after her. This woman was different. As fake as Paisley had been, Kate was equally as real. When she returned, she was carrying a three-ring binder and looking incredibly shy.
“So, whatcha got there,Kate?” I emphasized her name and waited for her to correct me, but she didn’t. Instead, she moved closer.
“There’s something I thought I’d like to show you. After we eat.” She moved and set it on the end of the table, as far from me as possible.
“You’re cruel. You’re also lucky.” I grabbed a platter she’d brought out.
“How’s that?” Kate looked at me curiously.
“Well, you’re lucky because lunch is served. And I’m a very patient man.” Then I loaded all the pouches and chicken onto the huge plate and set it in between our place settings.
“Fantastic. What would you like to drink?” She moved toward the door, ready to serve me.
“I saw a two liter of Pepsi in there. Could I have a glass with a little bit of ice please?” I marveled over how easy the conversation felt with her.
