Page 125 of Claim Me

“I don’t think things are what matter in my life.”

His grin was infectious. “I’ll keep that in mind. Now where do you want to park?”

After everything that had happened, the continued grief I felt about Charlie and my parents, on this beautiful early evening I felt nothing but utter joy.

All because we’d taken a chance on each other.

“Over there. Smack in the middle.”

“Perfect,” he growled and headed toward the spot.

“I’d wondered why you brought a bottle of wine with us.”

He grinned like some kid, his entire face lighting up. “We need food and beverages while watching the movie.”

“Are you planning on calling Door Dash?”

“Not a chance,” he replied. “Something much better.”

I waited as he climbed out, immediately heading around the front of the car and opening the door for me. When he extended his hand, I felt the heat rising across my face.

He was even wearing shorts and a polo shirt in a hue highlighting his soulful eyes. Who knew the man owned anything but expensive suits.

As soon as he guided me from the car, he pulled me close. “Are you hungry?”

“You did promise me dinner,” I whispered, trying to glance over his shoulder. “What’s on the menu?”

Kazimir took a step away, asking how I felt about slathered hot dogs and ooey, gooey French fries.

“I’d love them.” I never would have thought he’d remember that I loved drive-in theaters. Why should he? He ran a billion-dollar operation that employed hundreds of people.

When he took my hand into his, swinging our arms as we headed for the neon-lit concession stand, I realized I’d finally found the peace that I’d only discovered in music.

He’d brought out another side of me, sharing my love of music. He’d even purchased me the most incredible Steinway grand piano I’d ever seen.

The young man behind the counter was dressed the part, including the goofy red and white striped paper hat.

“Howdy, folks. What would you like?”

“How about one of everything?” Kazimir’s answer brought another round of laughter.

“Not unless you want me to sleep through the movie. A dog and spuds with the works.” As soon as I glanced at the sexy Russian, I realized he was confused. “Wait a minute. You’ve never had a hot dog?”

“Maybe not.”

“Oh, my God. Make sure his is smothered and covered. And two cherry lemonades.”

“You got it,” the young man said as he winked.

“You’re in for a treat.”

“Covered and smothered? It sounds disgusting,” he growled.

“You’re just going to need to trust me. Do you think you can do that?”

“I don’t know about if I can. I think you might need to convince me.”

I cocked my head, giving him a saucy look. “I think I can do that easily.”