Page 38 of The Red-Hot Stakes

My stiff body relaxed at his candor, and I melted against him, resting my head on his firm chest. I slid my hands up his back, returning the hug. And I felt another piece of me click into its rightful place.

It was nearly five-thirty when we made it back to the car. I felt the good kind of tired that comes from hours of being outdoors and wandering in the sunshine.

“You ready to go home?” His words didn’t quite seem final, ending with a hopeful but silent ‘or’.

So I waited.

“Or maybe we could go grab some dinner?” The words came out in a rush, as if he were nervous again.

“What is it about dinner that gets your panties in a wad? I mean, you couldn’t even ask me about it at the bar the other night. Then on the way here, you were nearly shaking when you thought we were going to eat first. And now, the nerves are back.” I sat up to face him. “We’ve eaten lots of meals together. What’s so different about this one?”

He searched my face, and the nervous tension melted away, replaced by a self-deprecating laugh. “I honestly don’t know.”

“As a matter of fact, I’m starving. I’d be happy to go somewhere just the two of us, or if you wanted to get back in time to watch some football, I’m sure Avery has enough food for both of us.”

“I know a great burger joint not far from here.” His gaze roamed over me, thoughtful and provoking. “I think I’ll keep you to myself a while longer.”

For once I didn’t mind someone not sharing. It didn’t take long to get to the restaurant, Eat at Joe’s. When we climbed out of the car, I couldn’t help a chuckle.

“It’s good, I promise.” He made an X over his heart, distracting me with his muscular chest.

It took me a second to respond. “Honestly, it’s a burger. The best burger I’ve ever had wasn’t that much better than the worst one.”

He clutched a hand to his chest, stumbling like I’d shot him. “Woman, that’s blasphemy.” But he winked and held the door open for me.

When we walked in, the waitress broke into a full smile, rushing over to greet him by name. She was older, seventies maybe, with gray streaks in her ashy blonde hair. Faint wrinkles formed around her eyes, kindness etched into each one.

Liam rested his hand on the small of my back. “Sally, this is Gina.” He stared down at me, saying my name like I was important to him.

I was startled by his intensity, but I had to look away to greet Sally. I reached out to shake her hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. Liam’s been talking up your burgers, and I can’t wait to try one.”

Sally simply beamed, grabbing two menus before leading us over to a booth with a cracked red leather seat. “What do you want to drink?”

The front of the menu had a huge picture of a milk shake, which nearly had me drooling. “I’d love a vanilla shake, please. And a water.”

Liam shook his head. “Vanilla, ugh. Chocolate is the only way to go, and I’ll take one of those.”

I stuck my tongue out at him while Sally chuckled at our antics.

“I’ll be right back with those waters.” She hurried off, giving us a chance to check out the menu.

For a divey diner, they had some interesting choices—not just the usual burger options. There was a whole page dedicated to different styles, even two vegan ones. I was impressed.

And in the mood for bacon.

When Sally came back, I ordered the bacon cheeseburger, no mayo, no tomato.

She glanced at Liam. “You having your usual?”

He nodded, handing her his menu. I gave her mine as well, watching her walk away.

“Usual, huh? You know the waitress, she has your order memorized…” I pretended to think for a minute. “So, do you come here often?” His laughter filled our booth, and I basked in its warmth.

Sally returned with our overflowing shakes, each piled high with whipped cream and a cherry on top. “There you are. Your food should be up shortly.”

“Thank you,” we chorused.

I slid my shake to me, not wanting to spill any. Gingerly, I plucked the cherry off and set it on a napkin, wrinkling my nose.

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