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Kaley could almost feel the man’s touch. Anthony had captured the moment perfectly.

“Then there’s this one.” He whipped off another cloth.

This one was his grandmother holding Nugget. “That’s beautiful.”

“Since Gran has been laid up, she finally allowed me to paint her.” He moved to the next canvas.

Kaley’s heart stuttered her in chest at the sensuality of the next painting. Two men in an embrace, both bare chested, but it was the way each held the other. The trust and love shining from their eyes captured her attention.

“Anthony, you are a fantastic artist. It’s no wonder Dane is showcasing you in his gallery.”

“I got lucky.”

She turned to him and put her hand on his arm. “Not luck. You are amazing. Until Dani took me into the gallery, I hadn’t realized how talented you are.”

“When did Dani take you to the gallery?”

“Right after we met. The day I came to groom Nugget.”

“You’re not offended?”

“What?” Her eyes grew wide. “This is beautiful art. It shows life. I don’t know how to explain it, but when I look at the picture of the two men embracing, I see the love they have for each other.”

“Some see my art and call it dirty.”

He watched her intently. Was he waiting for her to show contempt? No, she never would. Anthony’s art showed beauty and love and all things good. Anyone who didn’t see that was blind.

“They are small, jealous people.” She stepped closer and hugged him. His arms closed around her, and Kaley found herself cocooned in warmth.

“I’m asking again, will you allow me to paint you?”

Kaley tilted her head back and stared up at him. “I’m still not sure.” She glanced at the pictures he’d uncovered and then back at him. “I need to be totally comfortable with it before I make a decision.”

“I understand. But that doesn’t mean I’ll stop asking.”

“Pushy Dom.”

“Naturally.” He brushed his lips over hers. A chime sounded, and Anthony sighed. “That’s my reminder to get dinner started. You’re staying for dinner.”

“You’re telling me. Not asking?”

“Right. I’m feeding you dinner. Come along so you can sit and watch.”

Kaley gave the paintings one last look as Anthony pulled her from the room.

* * * *

Dinner was a lively affair. Anthony made spaghetti with meatballs and garlic bread. Kaley sat at the kitchen table, watching him work. They chatted about all sorts of things, and Kaley realized they had a lot in common.

When Clara came into the kitchen, Anthony rushed to help her. He was a good man. Nugget laid at Kaley’s feet as she chatted with Clara. By the time dinner was ready, Kaley’s mouth was watering.

“I know you don’t drink,” Anthony said, staring into the contents of the refrigerator.

“Water is fine.”

“Not with my food,” he said.

Kaley shook her head. He was trying so hard to find her something to drink.

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