Page 74 of Renegade Rift

This I can handle.

“It’s fantastic,” I gush. “The way you’ve paired the flavors and made the entire meal accessible for dietary restrictions is incredible.”

“Ford mentioned you’re gluten free.” She glances at him, but his eyes are on me.

They’re always on me. It’s both unnerving and sweet.

“I can tolerate many things, gluten is not one of them.”

“Neither can my partner.”

Partner? She’s married? I glance down at her finger and sure enough on her left hand, fourth finger, there’s a diamond clad band.

Well, I definitely read that interaction wrong. And with this new development, maybe I can see how she looks at Ford the same way he looks at me. Like someone she cherishes. And rightly so.

Ford might be my Hulk, but really he’s Captain America.

“She’s got celiacs disease, and so dietary inclusion has become a passion project of mine.”

My eyes go wide, and I’m unsure how long I sit with my mouth gaping like a fish. This woman is speaking a language I understand. One that is close to my heart and makes me want to get teary eyed and weepy.

“I would love to chat with you about it, if you’re open to it.”

“I—I’d love that,” I stammer, ignoring the way Ford laughs quietly beside me.

“Would you like to see the kitchen after you finish dessert?”

“I’m done.” I pick up the napkin from my lap and place it beside the sorbet I barely touched.

This gets a laugh out of both Sophia and Ford.

“Well then let’s show you around.”

I’m already out of the booth when I glance back and see Ford is still sitting.

My brows furrow. “You’re not coming?”

“I’m good. I’ve seen the stainless steel jungle.” I’m about to protest when he reassures me. “This is your moment. Enjoy it. Then come find me in the bar when you’re done, and we’ll have a nightcap before we go.”

I’m about to tell him a night cap is generally done long after dinner and right before bed, but I bite my tongue and thank him instead.

“You’re welcome, Juliet.” Is what he says before I turn and leave, but the hint of heat in his stare makes me wonder if I’m not the only one a little twisted on this thing between us.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

FORD

Fuck, I love making Juliet happy.

I stare at the texts from Sophia and read it for the tenth time.

SOPHIA: She’s going to be perfect for this.

FORD: I know.

There isn’t someone more qualified to help Soph open the new restaurant.

SOPHIA: Oh my gosh I swear if you don’t keep her, I’m going to petition for Sydney and I to adopt her. She’s funny and smart and how the hell did you get her to go out with you?

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