Page 51 of Hungry Hearts

Talking about your dead husband, who you loved more than life itself, with your new maybe-a-boyfriend is an uncomfortable situation, at best. Throw in a five-year-old who doesn’t understand boundaries or social etiquette, and I’m pretty sure our night just took a nosedive before our dinners are even delivered.

“I’m sorry your daddy died, Rubes. It’s pretty special to have your own guardian angel though.”

“That’s what mommy says. Do you have a guardian angel?”

Ryder shakes his head. “Not really.”

The waitress comes over with our food and sets a platter of chicken fingers and fries in front of Ruby, a juicy burger for Ryder, and chicken alfredo for me.

As only a five-year-old can do, she switches to a new topic. “Barbie’s favorite food is ice cream.” She has a conversation with her dolls and sets them on the chair next to her.

Ryder quirks a brow and I lift my shoulder. “Don’t try to follow her train of thought. She says what’s on her mind.”

“Kinda like me with no filter?”

I snort. “Exactly. But her thoughts are more...appropriate.”

He leans back, pretending to be insulted. “My thoughts are always appropriate.”

“Not for present company.”

“Hey. Is that Olaf?” Ryder points across the room and Ruby spins in her chair. He swipes a French fry from her plate and slowly brings it to his mouth, wanting to get caught. As soon as Ruby turns around again, he shoves it in his mouth.

She tilts her head to where Olaf was supposedly spotted and Ryder swipes another fry. When she turns around again, she punches her fists on her hips while Ryder hides the food in his hand before shoving it in his mouth.

“I don’t see him.”

“Oh, my bad,” he says around a mouthful of food.

“Did you eat my fries?”

He looks over his shoulder, then the other, chews, swallows, and says, “Who? Me?”

Ruby giggles and points behind me. “Is that Mulan?” She doesn’t understand that pointing behind me won’t have Ryder turning his back to her, but he plays along and spins away from her, looking around the restaurant and giving her time to steal one of his fries.

He gives her plenty of time before turning around again. “I didn’t see her.”

Ruby can’t contain her giggles and a mush of food comes out of her mouth while she laughs. “Look again.” This time she points behind Ryder.

He turns all the way around but stretches his arm behind him, ultimately rubbing his bicep against Ruby’s face and shielding his plate. She pushes his arm away and squeezes her hand under his elbow, reaching for a fry.

I prop my chin in my hand and laugh at the two goofballs at my table. And here I was worried they wouldn’t get along or that Ryder would freak out being near her. I should have known they’d get along great. He’s a big kid himself.

When we finish dinner and the waitress brings the check, she sets it in front of Ryder. I reach for it, and he gently slaps my hand.

“I’m the one who asked you out for dinner.”

“Incorrect. I’ve been asking for weeks. You provided a date that worked with your schedule.”

“Mommy, I have to go potty.” Ruby slides off her chair. “I can go by myself.”

Since I can see the restrooms from our table, and Ruby is working on her big girl independence, I allow her. “Don’t forget to wash your hands when you’re done.”

“I know,” she says with a sigh, and no doubt, an eye roll.

I watch her disappear into the bathroom, and when I turn my head, Ryder’s mouth is inches from mine.

“Hi.” His gaze lowers to my lips. “This mouth has been tempting me all fucking night. Hell, I haven’t stopped thinking about how you taste since the last time I kissed you.”

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