Page 39 of Raspberry Cake
“I could but might embarrass myself with my microwavable dishes and soda addiction.”
“I was addicted to fast food before I started meal-prepping. I’m far too tired after work and cooking for one can just be a hassle.”
“So, you’re not doing it for any kind of diet?” he asked, grabbing a shopping cart.
“Not really, I try at least one new dish every week, but not because I’m strict with my food intake. Do you watch what you’re eating since you work out?”
He shrugged and leaned on the cart, walking beside her as she began to fill it up. “Not religiously. I just try to get enough protein and not eat too much junk food.”
They followed her list, making their way through the store and talking more about their daily routines. Although he wouldn’t admit it out loud, he could see himself by her side in the future.
“What would you say if I asked to join you at the gym?” Eveline inquired once they were back in the car.
His heart leapt and he tried not to let his excitement show. “I would be very excited.”
“I’ve never worked out. I mean, I did physical therapy but I don’t think that counts.”
“What would your goal be if you’d tagged along?”
“Honestly? Just overcoming my fear of embarrassing myself.”
“You think I’ll let that happen?”
“No, but everyone will be looking at you anyway.”
“Ah, I see, I’m just the distraction,” he teased.
“Basically.”
Not wanting to scare her away from the idea, he didn’t press further. Secretly, however, he was already planning to research a routine.
Back at her place, Eveline instructed him to chop vegetables while she began cooking.
“Would you be open to talking about yesterday?” he asked.
She glanced at him, seeming to hesitate before nodding.
“I saw how upset you were, but I would like to let you hear my side of things. But if you’re not ready, we can talk another time.”
“I’ll listen.”
“I know you like your independence and I’m not here to take that away. When I don’t allow you to open doors or push your cart it’s not because you’re in a wheelchair. I would do those things no matter what, even if you were a bodybuilder and could lift me like I was a twig.”
She laughed, just as he’d hoped she would.
“I felt very blessed that you were comfortable enough to ask me for help. You could have just said you were ready to leave, but you chose to ask me, and I think that is very brave of you.”
“I don’t want you to think of yourself as my carer.”
“But I am, just as much as you are mine. If I were sick and puking my guts out, you’d hold my hair and offer me a wet cloth. If I had surgery and needed your help you would do it.”
“Yes, but yesterday was different.”
“How so, kitten?”
“Because I wasn’t sick or hurt, I was just incapable.”
He set the knife aside and turned to her, giving her his undivided attention. “Look at me, please.”
