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It’s Friday evening and everyone’s off doing their own thing. Lily’s on a romantic date with Xavier, Ava and Aidan are at a charity dinner, Willow’s working on her app. Mom and Dad are out riding on his motorcycle, and Evie’s out with her friends. That just leaves me and Chloe.
She’ll be here any minute and we’re planning to watch at least three movies. I’ve got a selection picked out already—a little bit of everything. Romance, action, sci-fi. Although the sci-fi could technically be categorized as a thriller.
The doorbell rings and my legs flee down the stairs to open the door for Chloe. She’s standing there all bundled up for the January weather and she has a sweet smile on her face.
I chuckle. “Someone looks cozy. It’s just a short walk from your house to mine.”
She shivers as I widen the door for her and she steps inside. “Don’t make fun. It feels like my skin is frozen.”
Laughing again, I take her hands. “Man, your hands are ice even through your gloves. Come, the house is all toasty. Want hot chocolate?”
“Yes. Thanks.”
I wrap my arm around her, pulling her close to warm her up as I lead her to the kitchen. It doesn’t take long for me to make the hot chocolates and then we sit at the table, slowly sipping. The liquid feels great as it makes its way down to my stomach.
“Gosh, this is sooo good,” she moans.
I smile. “Yeah? It’s a new recipe.”
“Nice. I love it.”
I smile again. “Thanks. By the way, how did the fettuccine alfredo come out?”
“Delicious. The fam loved it. You’re awesome.”
I smile again as I wave my hand. “Nah. But I’m glad they loved it.”
She sets down her mug and playfully glares at me. “We need to do something about your recipe-writing skills, though.”
I groan. “I’m not that bad.”
With a determined nod, she heads to my cookbook and starts flipping through the pages. “Ah, here’s one for chili. What’s a TW of cayenne?”
“Teensy weensy. Evie doesn’t like spicy food.”
She turns to another recipe. “And SO?”
“Sautéed onions….”
“And CG?”
“Crushed garlic?”
She places a hand on her hip. “Sheesh, Liam.”
I throw my hands up. “Okay. Next time, I’ll write clearer notes so amateurs like you can understand,” I tease.
“Amateurs?”
I reach for my cookbook and put it back in its place. “You know I’m kidding.”
Her lips twist into a frown. “You’re lucky you’re my best friend.”
“Yep, I know. Let’s finish up our drinks so we can get our movie on. I hope you like the ones I chose.”
She waves her hand as she returns to her seat and lifts her mug to her lips. “You know I’d enjoy any movie as long as I watch it with you. I mean, with all you guys. But they’re not here, so it’s just us both…” She snaps her lips shut and takes a long sip.
“Right.” I shift in my seat. “I knew you meant that.” I take a sip, too.
