Page 59 of Three Rules I'd Never Break

“So far, I like you more.”

“Is it because I said you were beautiful or because of the homegrown tomatoes?” He glanced toward the back door. “Hang on.” He ran outside. “Mom, don’t give Sherlock a hamburger. I don’t want him learning to beg.”

“It’s just a tiny piece. Watch this.” She held up the meat, and Sherlock perched on his haunches.

I eased up beside Eli and rubbed his back. “That’s some pretty impressive begging.”

“He’s such a smart dog.” Eli’s mom laughed. “Come on. Let’s eat.”

Eli pulled out a chair at the patio table. “She’ll feed anyone who comes within a hundred feet of her.”

“I like her.”

“She’s pretty great.” He beamed.

I loved that Eli had grown up with lots of space to roam and parents who adored him. He’d turned out pretty great as a result.

Mr. Gallagher strode over and stuck out his hand. “David Gallagher. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Delaney.”

“Thank you. It’s very nice to meet y’all.”

He set a tray of burgers and toasted buns on the table, and Patsy set out platters and bowls with everything I could possibly want on a burger.”

“There’s lettuce, tomato, cheese, onion, grilled onions, mushrooms, bacon strips, guac, and pickles. Am I forgetting anything?” She clapped her hands together. “Condiments. Be right back.”

Eli put a burger and bun on my plate. “Here, you’ll never go hungry.”

“When do I get to see your room?”

He shot me a side glance. “Later.”

“And yes, I have my swimsuit on under my sundress. You did say by the pool.”

“Good.”

We all built our burgers, and Sherlock curled up near Patsy’s feet.

“Eli dear, I put your laundry on your bed. It’s folded, and the shirts are ironed.” She handed Sherlock a chew bone.

Later, I’d be teasing him about the fact that his mother did his laundry.

At the end of the meal, Eli stood and stretched. “I’m going to give Delaney a quick tour.”

“Is there anything I can do to help clean up before we do?” I stacked my plate on top of Eli’s.

“Oh, no. I’ve got it.” Patsy gathered the plates. “And just so you know, Eli usually offers to help. He’s a bit distracted today.”

“As long as you don’t pull out my baby book, I think I’ll be okay.” Eli looped a finger around mine.

His mom laughed. “It’s on the coffee table.”

I dashed toward the door, and Eli played along until we were inside. Then he scooped me up.

“Eli!”

He strode down the hall, turning sideways so that I didn’t bang my head or feet against the wall. “They like you.”

I slipped my arms around his neck. “They’re sweet. And I like that you’ve mentioned me to them.”

---