Page 13 of Love's Home Run

“Yes. I was an only child and desperately wanted a sibling or two. I would never want a child of mine to be a ‘lonely only.’”

Dirk studied her. “Interesting. Many of the women I’ve met aren’t sure about having kids. Not a lot of them, anyway. Even my sister tells me she doesn’t think she wants kids, that they’re a commitment she doesn’t want to consider.”

“Sarah Bullard Miller, an old friend of mine, is a widow and is back home with 4-year-old twin girls. I see how adorable they are and think about a family of my own.”

“It’s nice to know not all women think like my sister,” said Dirk. He picked up a couple of pieces of shrimp from the bowl of ice onto which she’d placed them. “How did you become interested in becoming a chef?”

“My father is a chef, and I grew up thinking and talking about food. When I was young, he worked for a restaurant in Boston, and when I was eleven, he and my mother bought Fins. I grew up knowing I’d be there to help them. It was a vision we all shared, and I admit, it gave me a purpose in life.”

“I did the same thing with my career. My uncle, Rich, was someone I looked up to, especially when my father was unavailable because of work. I saw how happy he was living in Lilac Lake, enjoying sports in the area, and I knew I wanted a life like his. It is something better than the pressure cooker lifestyle my parents have always had.”

“Rich Robinson has always been a part of Lilac Lake,” she said, grinning. “Not that I wanted to go to the dentist that often. But he made it as comfortable as possible.”

“I like the idea of helping people,” said Dirk. “The hours are regular, much more than other medical services.”

“So, you’re looking forward to many years here?” she asked.

He nodded. “Yeah, as soon as I started working with my uncle, it seemed right.”

“Good. We need you,” said Melissa, beaming at him. He was perfect for her.

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It satisfied Melissa’s ego to see how enthusiastic Dirk was about her food. Like any chef, she enjoyed watching someone smack their lips and rave about her cooking. Wasn’t that what it was all about?

“Let’s enjoy the rest of the evening on the porch. It’s cooled off and is peaceful. Can I fix you coffee, get you a beer or water?”

“Water would be great,” said Dirk. “That was such a delicious meal; I don’t want to disturb my tastebuds too much.”

Melissa laughed. “Okay, water it is. Go ahead and get settled, and I’ll bring it out to you.”

Dirk left, and Melissa went into the powder room to rinse her mouth and ensure nothing was caught in her teeth. It had been a wonderful time so far. She hoped the evening would continue with kisses and wanted to be ready.

Satisfied she was fine, she carried their water out to the porch.

Dirk was sitting on the wicker couch. He looked up at her, smiled, and patted the cushion next to him. “Have a seat.”

She lowered herself onto the couch and handed him his water. “Here’s to an enjoyable evening!” she said, raising her glass in a salute.

He clicked his glass against it. “It’s been great. Delicious dinner.” He took a sip of water and gazed out at the woods behind her house. “I understand you still have a lot of wildlife visiting the neighborhood occasionally.”

“Yes, though my favorites are the little brown bunnies. With the tall fence I’ve put around my garden, they can’t get in, which makes them even cuter.”

Dirk laughed, then, becoming serious, set his water glass down on a nearby table and turned to her.

“Thanks for a nice time. I enjoyed the food and conversation and the music, of course.” He was giving her a look that sent tingles through her. His gaze went from her eyes to her mouth, and he reached for her.

She went into his arms and lifted her face in anticipation.

His lips met hers, and his kiss was warm and comfortable.

She gave an inward sigh and kissed him back.

He responded, and they continued kissing, learning the touch and taste of one another.

When they pulled apart, Melissa couldn’t hold back a smile of satisfaction.

“I’d better go.” Dirk sat up and checked his watch. “I didn’t realize it was so late.”

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