Page 65 of Hungry Hearts

“How did he handle you recanting the invite?” Juliana hops up on the counter and swings her legs, thoroughly enjoying this drama in my new love life.

“Really well. Like, amazing.” I can’t help my lovesick sigh. “I told him I didn’t want things to be uncomfortable or for the attention to be on us when it was Ruby’s birthday. He understood and said he’d do whatever was best for her. He was going to stop by this morning before the party but...”

“But we surprised Rubes with a salon visit. How did he take that rejection?”

Again, my eyes are as warm as my smile. “Sad he couldn’t give her his gift. He sounded really excited about it.”

“What did he get her?” Of course my sister wants to know the silly details. She’s always been big into gifts. She spoiled Ruby today with a trunk of dress up clothes, hats, and accessories. Which the girls are all dolled up in while in the bounce house.

“I have no idea. He asked if he could come over later after everyone leaves.”

“Wow. Persistent but not pushy. I like.” Juliana nods her head in approval.

“So he’s just sitting around all afternoon waiting for your call? What does he do for work?”

“Actually, I wouldn’t have met him if it weren’t for you, Laney.”

“Me? Do I know this guy?”

“The gift certificate to Red? I went last month. He was there. Working.”

“He’s a waiter? Decent job when you’re younger, but not necessarily to raise a family. Sorry, that sounded snobby.”

“He’s not a waiter.”

“Bartender?” my sister asks.

“He was bartending that night. That’s when we started talking.” I’m not about to tell them about my indecent proposal and our night of passion. Any of them.

“I’m not sure how my parents will feel about a bartender stepping into the role of stepdad to their granddaughter. No offense.”

“I wouldn’t care if he was a bartender full time, but he’s not. And I’m not asking him to be a stepdad. We’re dating. Having fun.”

“Is fun a euphemism for sexy times?”

I curl my lips between my teeth to hide my grin. My sister and Ryder will get along just great. It’s not my family I’m worried about accepting us, though. It’s Adam’s.

“He’s the head chef and owner of Red.”

“Holy shit.” My sister lets out a whistle. “I’ve seen him on social media. That man is a god.”

“What are you doing stalking his social media?” Laney asks for me.

“I’m not. I follow a lot of Boston businesses. He’s come up a few times. Nice job sis.” She holds out her hand for a high-five. I leave her hanging. “But I heard he’s a bit of a playboy. Guess he’s a good one to have some fun with. Get back in the game before you find someone to settle down with.”

“Like Flynn.”

“Why the sudden need to push Flynn and me together?” I ask Laney instead of defending Ryder. While I value their opinions and am sensitive to bringing a man into our families, I want to keep some sense of a private life.

“Mommy.” Ruby comes barreling into the kitchen. Her tiara is askew, the bounty of necklaces around her neck are colorful and chaotic, and her puffy yellow dress is stained with strawberry ice cream, but she’s still the cutest, prettiest little princess I’ve ever seen. “When is Prince Ry-Ry coming over? He promised he’d be here.”

“Prince Ry-Ry?” My sister chuckles under her breath.

Flynn stands in the patio doorway, eyes lowered and head tilted as if processing what Ruby just asked. A scowl takes over his face.

“Told you,” Laney whispers, nodding toward Flynn.

Ignoring everyone but Ruby, I kneel in front of her and lower my voice, hoping—because I’m delusional—that everyone will tune us out and we can have a private conversation.

---