Page 27 of Unwrapping Love

“What was?”

“Telling your mother you loved her. At least I hope it was your mother. I guess I should know if you’re single, but I’m sure you are since you were traveling alone.”

“I am. I’m assuming the same with you?”

“Yes, I am.”

“I noticed you talked to your grandmother. Will you call your parents tomorrow or weren’t you going to see them when you were home?”

“I’ll call tomorrow,” she said. “I would have seen them for the day. They live in the same town as my grandmother.”

“But you stay with your grandmother.”

“I do now. There is no place for me to stay at my parents’ house even if I wanted to. My sister is back home for the moment. Her two oldest are in my old room and the baby, who is one, is in a crib with her in her room. She’ll be there until she finds another guy who will let her move in with all three kids.”

“You said different fathers. Do any of them see the kids?”

She shrugged. “I’m not sure. I stay out of it. I’m sure they do at some point. She gets support, but she’s got a history of hooking up with losers, so your guess is as good as mine. Sandy doesn’t care if I come home or not, only that I buy things for her kids.”

“You didn’t have gifts with you,” he said.

“I bought them weeks ago and had them shipped to my grandmother. She’ll wrap and bring them tomorrow. It will be a peaceful holiday for me here with you. Trust me.”

“That makes me sound boring,” he said.

“Nah,” she said, swatting at his arm. “I don’t think you’re boring.”

“What do you think about me?” he asked, his eyes opened as wide as they could go.

She laughed like he wanted her to. “I think you want compliments.”

“I’ll do the same for you.”

Might as well get some flirt on. It was all in good fun. She seemed open to it.

“That’s a given,” she said. “Let’s see. You’re very considerate. Kind of my savior today. What’s the frown for?”

“I don’t want to be a savior.”

“Why not? Women like men that are heroes.”

“Okay, a hero sounds much better!” He was rubbing his knuckles across his chest.

“You’re so full of yourself.”

“Keep going.”

She rolled her eyes. “That wasn’t meant as a compliment.”

“I still took it as one.”

“I guess I can see why. I don’t know if you’re a wonderful cook or not, but you’re a great host.”

“I’ll cook breakfast for you in the morning,” he said.

“You’ve got a deal there.” Her finger went to her chin. “You’re a decent hugger. And since I alluded to this earlier, I’ll say it again. You’re very good looking.” Her eyes were roaming from his face, down his body and back to his eyes. “Your turn.”

He slid his palms together. “You’re an excellent cook. You’re very calm under pressure. Why did you snort?”