Page 34 of Her Movie Star's Secret Plan

“I just think it would be strange to have people waiting on me like that. Was it ever weird for you?”

“Maybe a little at first, but I was young. I got used to it fast. I was still used to having my mom around to cook for me.”

“You ate over at our house a lot back then too.”

“When my mom wasn’t home, I lived off ramen noodles.”

“Has it been weird here without a cook?”

“It’s been an adjustment, but I’ve eaten out a lot.”

“That would explain why you keep coming in for muffins.”

Owen pointed to a container on the countertop. “I have my stash right there.”

“Aren’t you worried about putting on weight?” Alexis asked.

“I’ve been running it all off.”

“You run?” Alexis asked.

“Yep.”

“So do I. We should meet up and go running together sometime.”

“Sure. We can do that.”

“Unless you don’t think you can keep up with me.”

Owen laughed. “Probably not. I’m not the fastest runner, but it lets me eat muffins.”

“I’m assuming you lift weights too?”

“I’ve been slacking off since I’ve been here. Usually, I work with a personal trainer. He’s going to kick my rear when I get back to LA and he sees how I’ve let myself go.”

“Don’t you have to get pretty in shape for some of the movies you’re in?”

“Oh yeah. When I have a movie coming up, my training schedule is intense. But I’m on a break right now. I decided to take some time off to open the restaurant.”

“It must be nice to be able to choose your own work schedule.”

“It can be tough, too, because you’re under contract, and you have to follow certain stipulations.”

“Like getting super in shape.”

“Exactly.”

Owen snapped the laptop shut. “I think I’m ready to put these on the grill.”

“Let’s do it.”

“Do you know much about grilling?”

“Not really. I’m afraid I’m not going to be much help. My expertise is limited to bakery stuff. I never ventured to the grill. My dad was always the grill master growing up, and I live in an apartment with no space for grilling.”

“Let’s go outside.” Owen grabbed the plate of steaks. “Can you grab the door for me?”

“Sure.” Alexis opened the patio door for Owen and then followed him outside. Katie trotted along at her heels.

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