Page 34 of Even Ground

I look at Melly. “That’s right. She helped roll the meatballs, didn’t you, sweet pea?”

Melly beams and holds out her dirty hands. “Now I have to wash it all off.”

She runs off, leaving me with Reece.

“You look rested,” I say.

“I just took the longest shower. Don’t be surprised if there’s no hot water left.” He shrugs.

“Dinner will be ready soon if you’re hungry.”

He steps around the bench and looks over my shoulder, and all I can smell is sandalwood and soap. Damn he smells good.

“Need any help?” he asks.

“No. Melly made the meatballs, and now I just have to cook them and make the sauce. Won’t take long.” I turn my head. “Why don’t you go and watch cartoons in the living room?”

He laughs but says nothing else as he turns and walks away.

For a moment, I’m lost, standing in the kitchen because what I was about to do has completely slipped my mind.

I close my eyes and take a deep breath. Reece’s scent lingers, which doesn’t help my addled brain.

Bubbling water snaps me back.

“The spaghetti.” I fist my hands and punch the air, congratulating myself for remembering.

If only Reece wasn’t so distracting.

* * *

“That was great, Pania.” Cal leans back in his chair and pats his stomach. “You could give Delaney a run for her money with that meal.”

I grin. “Well, we did do our cooking training together. I’m only sorry you didn’t get to eat at our diner. You would have loved it.”

“I wish I’d been able to,” Reece says. “Sounds like the two of you had a great little business going.”

“We did until Josh turned up.” I let out a dramatic sigh. “But I wouldn’t change things for the world. Delaney and I are both doing what we love now.”

“Delaney said you’re learning fashion design?” Ros asks.

I nod. “It’s always been a hobby, but I took a chance on it when Delaney decided to sell the diner.”

“I hope it works out for you. That wedding dress was something really special.” Her smile’s so kind, and again it makes me think of Mum. “We’ll sort out the dishes, Pania. You sit back and relax.” Ros stands and walks around the table, patting me on the shoulder as she passes.

I look over at Melly. The poor kid’s so tired, her eyes are closing on her before she sits up with a jolt.

“Hey, sweet pea. How about I help you get ready for bed?”

She gives me a tired smile. “Okay. Can you read Hairy Maclary?”

“Sure thing. You still reading that old book?”

Melly laughs. “Daddy reads it to me. It’s my favourite.”

“I think I still know it off by heart.”

I turn to look at Cal and Ros. “I’ll pop Melly to bed.”

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