Page 26 of Falling for Love

He grinned. “Comes with the job.”

“What job?” I teased. “Being ridiculously charming?”

“Exactly,” he said, raising his coffee cup in a mock toast. “And I take my job very seriously.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “You’re something else.”

His eyes held mine for a moment, and I felt that familiar pull again—the one that made me question every wall I’d ever built.

Before I could overthink it, Hayden stirred on the couch, his sleepy eyes blinking open. “Mom?”

“I’m here, sweetheart,” I said, setting my coffee down and moving to his side.

Hayden looked at Liam, his brow furrowing slightly. “You came back?”

Liam leaned forward, smiling. “I brought snacks.”

Hayden gave a small, tired smile.

“Thanks.” He tucked his head into the pillow and closed his eyes again.

I tucked a blanket around my little guy and glanced at Liam.

“Mind if I stick around for a bit? Just to make sure you don’t need anything,” Liam offered.

I hesitated for a moment, then nodded.

“Sure. But don’t say I didn’t warn you about the stomach bug. It’s super contagious.”

“I like to live dangerously.” He wiggled his brows.

And just like that, the day felt a little brighter. I stood and motioned for Liam to follow me into the kitchen.

“So, is this how you woo all the ladies?” I teased.

“I try not to woo anyone, to be honest.” He grinned and took a seat at the table.

“Oh, come on.” I laughed. “You know exactly the right things to say and exactly how to say them.”

“Maybe that’s because you’re the right person to say them to,” he offered.

I smiled and nodded. “Maybe.”

“Mommy, I’m hungry,” Hayden’s voice echoed into the kitchen, and I smiled. “Duty calls.”

“Would you like crackers or soup or…” I peeked my head around the corner.

“Grilled cheese.”

“Are you sure? That might be a little adventurous.”

“Mom,” he whined. “I’m fine.”

“Okay, we will give it a try.” I chuckled and grimaced at Liam, who was already melting butter in a skillet.

“Boy, you’re quick.” I smiled at the man suddenly making himself at home in my kitchen.

The smell of butter melting in the pan filled the kitchen as he swirled it around, preparing a simple grilled cheese sandwich.

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