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“No.”
Vivian laughed, bright and beautiful.
Chapter 37
Vivian
“Well,” Wally said, clapping his hands together. “This is it. What do you think?”
Jesse and I stepped into the apartment. It had two bedrooms with a shared bathroom at the end of the hall and a cozy living room that opened into the small kitchen. Video game and movie posters decorated the walls. The furniture was all mismatched, likely purchased over time from different places —garage sales, picked up off the side of the curb— but that’s what gave Wally’s apartment so much charm. A definite bachelor pad, but there was a spark of pride in his eyes.
I recognized it, that look. I’d felt the same about my own apartment. It was his, something he could have all to himself. And, of course, his roommate with whom he split the rent.
“It’s lovely,” I said. I nudged Jesse in the ribs with the tip of my elbow. “Right, babe?”
Jesse nodded slowly. “Yes. Lovely.”
I cleared my throat. A warning.
Jesse brightened his tone. “I’m proud of you, son. How’s the new job treating you?”
Wally smiled wide. “Really good, actually. Long hours, but it pays great. I’ve already got enough saved for my flight to Paris next year. In the meantime, it's a great learning experience.” He waved us into the kitchen. “Please, have a seat. Dinner’s almost ready. I just need to add the final touches to a couple things.”
“Thank you for inviting us,” I said as Jesse pulled my chair out for me, ever the gentleman. “I’ve been looking forward to tryingyour cooking. Oh, did you remember the thing about the tuna?”
Wally nodded. “Yes. Tuna’s not on the menu tonight. Dad made sure to remind me.Twice.”
Jesse shrugged as he sat down next to me at the table. “I thought it needed repeating.”
Although the kitchen was small, Wally moved fluidly around like it was his own kingdom. His knives were sharp, his timing impeccable, his measurements precise. The way he plated made our meals look like edible works of art. He wasn’t shy about the seasoning, and he delivered our food piping hot and ready to be devoured. It was quite literally dinner and a show.
And Jesse looked like he couldn’t be prouder.
“Dig in,” Wally said. “Tonight we’re having pan fried halibut in a buttered panko crust with a side of scalloped potatoes and sautéed vegetables. The omega-three in the fish’ll be good for you and the kiddos.”
I took a bite and practically swooned. The halibut was delightfully crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, practically melting on my tongue. The potatoes were creamy, and the vegetables offered an earthy finish.
“This is amazing,” I mumbled, not the least bit concerned that I was talking with my mouth full.
“Five-star worthy,” Jesse said, nodding in agreement.
Wally smiled, clearly pleased. “Thanks, Dad. Thanks, Viv.”
“How long is that culinary program again?” Jesse asked.
“Two years, give or take.”
“You must be excited.”
“I am.”
“My offer still stands, you know. I don’t mind paying for the flight. You might as well save your money and use it on whatever supplies you need when you get there.”
“You’ve already paid the tuition, Dad. I think I can handle the plane ticket. Besides, the school pays for our things. It’s built into the program.”
“Well, I’m here if you need anything.”
“I know,” Wally said meaningfully. “Thank you. Really.”
