Page 26 of King

She narrowed her eyes at him. “If you take me somewhere weird, I’m calling the cops.”

He barked out a laugh. “You’re a menace.”

“I’m just saying. I watcha lotof true crime,” she said, crossing her arms.

“Noted and slightly concerned. Little girls shouldn’t be watching shit like that. But don’t worry, I’m taking you somewhere withrealfood. None of that candy salad nonsense.”

Ella gasped, clutching her chest dramatically. “How dare you disrespect candy salad like that.”

King shook his head, chuckling. “It’s not food, Little one. It’s sugar in a bowl.”

“Psshhh, whatever.You just don’t appreciate fine cuisine.”

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” he muttered, making her giggle.

When they arrived at the restaurant, he led her inside, escorting her toward a booth near the window. It was a laid-back, local steakhouse, not too fancy, but it served good food and was quiet enough that they could talk without shouting over the noise of other customers. As they sat, he wondered if it was too casual for her. She had told him she’d grown up wealthy, so this was probably a major step down from the expensive restaurants she was used to. Then he remembered that she left New York for a reason.

Once the menus were in front of them, King glanced at Ella. “You know what you want, or do you want me to order for you?”

She bit her lip, then smiled softly. “You can order for me.”

“Yeah?”

“I trust you.”

Something warm settled in him at that. It was a big deal to him that she trusted him. Especially after the incident with Janelle. Even if it was just to order her dinner.

When the food arrived, he caught the way Ella’s eyes lit up at the plate in front of her. A perfectly cooked steak, mashed potatoes, and roasted veggies. She wiggled a little in her seat, clearly excited.

King chuckled. “See?Realfood.”

Ella huffed. “Fine, I’ll admit it looks good.”

He grabbed his fork, speared a piece of steak, and held it out to her. “Want me to feed you?”

Her eyes went wide, and she let out a nervous giggle, shaking her head. “I—no, I can feed myself.”

The want was there, but they were in a public space, so he understood her hesitance.

King leaned in slightly, his voice dropping. “Next time we’re alone, I’m hand-feeding you.”

Ella’s breath hitched, and she pressed her thighs together, her blush deepening. She didn’t argue, though.

Dinner was easy. Filled with laughter, teasing, and stories about their lives. King hadn’t felt this light in years. Being with Ella was effortless, like she was meant to fit into his life. Nothing like how it had been with Janelle.

After dinner, he drove them to the drive-in theater outside of town.

Ella practically bounced in her seat when she saw where they were. “A drive-in? Oh my gosh, I’ve never been to one!”

King grinned. “Figured you’d like it.”

He parked the truck with the bed facing the screen, then hopped out, grabbing a blanket and a few snacks from the back.When he pulled out a small baggie filled with colorful candy, Ella gasped.

“Youdid not?—”

King held up the bag and winked. “Candy salad, just for you. For dessert.”

She let out a delighted squeal and launched herself at him, throwing her arms around his neck. He caught her easily, laughing as she squeezed him tight.

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