Page 53 of Designs on You

“That’s what makes you both good swimmers,” Eugene said.

“Yeah. Because someday I’m gonna be a lifeguard.” Cammie paused to take a bite, chew, and swallow. “Or a scientist. Maybe a model.”

He nodded, impressed with her thought process. “Those are all awesome careers.”

“I’m gonna be a firefighter,” Christopher said. “Or a race car driver.”

“Both sound fun.”

The salad was amazing, and the fruit salad was bright and delicious. The kids finished eating, took their plates to the sink, and ran outside to play with Grizelda. They put the leftovers away and cleaned up the plates.

Eugene leaned against the sink. “This was all so good, Natalie.”

She smiled. “It’s a pretty simple dinner. Plus, you bought the pizza, remember?”

“I remember. But you made salad and fruit. And it’s more than I usually get. Single guy, ya know.”

She pointed her finger at him. “That is no excuse. You know how to cook, right?”

“I can cook some things.”

“And your new house will have an amazing kitchen,” Natalie said, “both indoor and outdoor. Being a single guy is no reason for not being able to whip up incredible meals. Or at least decent ones.”

He had been thoroughly chastised. “You’re absolutely right. Once my house is finished, I’ll start working on that.”

She shrugged. “Why wait? You can use my kitchen and practice here.”

Oh, now the gauntlet had been thrown down. “Sure.”

“Seriously?”

“You offered. Did you think I wasn’t up to the challenge?”

“I figured you’d turn me down.”

He laid his hand over his heart. “Oh, the lack of faith.”

She cocked her head to the side. “Yeah, I’m sure you’re heartbroken. So you’re going to cook for me, then.”

“I absolutely accept your challenge. You just let me know when you want to do this and I’ll be here.”

She looked up, thinking, then said, “This weekend. Kids will be at Sean’s.”

“Afraid I’ll poison them?”

“Not at all. I just want to watch you. Carefully. Can’t have you burning my kitchen down.”

“You’re funny.”

“I think so.”

“Consider it done.”

Now all he had to do was plan a meal, then figure out how he was going to cook it. “Then we’ll be alone.”

She leaned in closer. “Yes. We will.”

He took a peek outside. The kids were busy with Grizelda, so he took the opportunity to brush his lips across hers. “Can’t wait.”

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