Page 42 of Unexpected Kisses

“We’ve done the frame, now we need to add the planks for the walls. Do you think it will be big enough?” Theo asks.

It’s larger than I imagined, but it’s amazing and will allow me to attach a range of different holds to give Colton a variety of climbing experiences. I run my hand over the smooth timber frame in awe. “This is incredible. It’s bigger than I thought it would be. I think Colton will love it.”

Lachlan smiles, his body seeming to expand with pride, as Theo responds. “We can make it smaller if you want.”

I immediately shake my head. “No, this is great. I’ll be able to attach more holds for him. It will make it more engaging and hopefully keep him out of trouble.”

“How will a climbing wall keep Colton out of trouble?” Lachlan asks.

“Well, you see, he loves to climb, and he keeps climbing on stuff inside that he shouldn’t be climbing on and it’s a little dangerous. His moms are worried he’s going to hurt himself or break something. They don’t want him to stop climbing, but they want him to be able to do it safely,” I explain.

Theo looks at me with approval. “We should be finished by the end of the week.”

“Great. Then I’ll have to work out how to get it to my sister’s place.”

“Not a problem. We’ll deliver it on the back of my truck.” Considering the guy didn’t seem to like me when we first met, he’s being very generous now.

“Thanks, man. I appreciate everything. Let me know how much it all costs and I’ll transfer the cash for you.”

“It’ll just be for the materials. I’ll work it out and let Sarah know.”

“What about labor?”

He waves his arm through the air. “Don’t worry about it. It’s been a great summer vacation project for me and Lachlan.” Wow.

“Thank you. I don’t know what to say.”

“You already said thank you. That’s all you need to say.” Lachlan looks up at Theo. “Right, Theo?”

Theo runs his hand over the top of Lachlan’s head. “Right, buddy.”

Sarah steps inside. “Are you guys coming out? Lunch is almost ready.”

We move out of the workshop, Theo closing and latching the workshop door, then we head to the deck, my hand at the base of Sarah’s back. An older gentleman is standing at the grill and another couple has arrived. The woman has the most amazing red hair I’ve ever seen and the guy beside her is intimidating as fuck.

Sarah clears her throat and introduces me to everybody. No wonder the guy looks intimidating, he’s Oliver Stone, the billionaire. Grandfather rents a floor in his building in the city.

I reach out to shake the older gentleman’s hand. “Cristo. One of my favorite places to eat is a Greek taverna namedCristo’s.” I chuckle.

He laughs, loud and boisterous. “Ah, it’s always good to meet a fan.”

My eyes widen and I’m sure my mouth drops open a little. “You’re Cristo?”

“Yes. Next time, you must come and say hello! I’ll give you my best table,” he offers.

I glance at Sarah. “Wait until I tell Dylan. That’s our go-to restaurant.”

Cristo chuckles. “Bring all your friends. Bring my pretty Sarah here. I do not get to see her enough.”

“Oh, I definitely will.”

“Here, Dad. You can put the meat on this tray.” Emma slides in next to Cristo, handing him a large platter.

“Thank you.” He takes it from her and begins to stack the barbecued meat and vegetables. It looks heavy, so I take it from him to hold it with two hands while he finishes placing the food, then I carry it to the table and place it in the middle.

“We’ll serve the kids first and then the adults can dig in,” Theo announces.

The spread of food looks amazing and I feel obliged to try a little of everything, so I take small scoops from each dish, loading up my plate. Sarah leans in and whispers, “You know you can go back for seconds.” She chuckles close to my ear, her warm breath tickling my cheek.

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