Page 276 of Time Stops With You

My jaw drops. “Did you make all this?”

“Yes.” He rubs his beanie shyly. “It took me three days to learn. I kept burning the rice and beans and your mom said the stewed chicken tasted like ketchup.”

“No wonder mom kept complaining about eating rice and beans lately. I thought she was being overdramatic,” I mumble.

“What was that?” Cullen asks.

“Nothing.” I prance over to him, my earlier irritation forgotten now that I know why he’s been canceling dates. Slipping my hands around his waist, I lean into him. “I never thought I’d find a frilly apron so sexy on a man.”

He smiles and kisses me, but we’re cut short by the beep of the stove. Cullen jerks out of the kiss, murmuring, “My potatoes.”

I laugh and watch him peel the potatoes and create an impressive Belizean-style potato salad.

Mom and Josiah join us for lunch. The food is surprisingly good and even mom gives Cullen two thumbs up.

We eat together, chatting and enjoying each other’s company. As laughter rings around the table, I take a second to soak in how magical this moment is.

My family is safe and healthy.

Cullen is… well, he’s not healthy but he’s here. At least for now.

That’s all I’ve wanted.

My New Year’s wish come true.

“Anyone want dessert?” Cullen asks, pushing his chair back and looking over at my mom with a little nod.

“Me!” Josiah raises a hand.

I frown at my brother’s exuberance. He seems a little too excited for someone who doesn’t like sweets.

Mom clears her throat. “Did you make lemon pie, Cullen?”

“No. I tried, but I haven’t mastered that Belizean dessert yet. I got key lime pie from the store.” He returns with a plate for mom and Josiah.

“Where’s mine?” I ask.

Cullen slips a slice in front of me and hovers around my chair.

Mom and Josiah both stop eating and stare at me while I pick up my fork.

I squirm, uneasy. “Why are you guys being weird?”

Mom looks up at the ceiling. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“No idea,” Josiah says at the same time, his mouth trembling.

I push the treat away and I feel Cullen cringe beside me.

“What’s going on?” I demand.

“Just eat the darn pie, Nardi.” Mom shoves the plate at me.

“I won’t. Not until someone starts talking.” I push it back.

Josiah scowls. “Eat it!”

“No!” I argue.

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