Page 58 of The Boss and the Adoption Mess
"Don’t be mad," Rosie mumbles, looking down sadly.
"I’m not mad at you. But I am angry with your mom for not cooking for you."
"If you’re hungry, we’ll eat together. How’s that sound?" I chime in.
"It smells really good," Rosie says as I set her on the counter so she can get a better look at what’s been delivered.
"Oh wow, what’s all this?" I ask, amazed, while Rosie perks up immediately. The whole kitchen is filled with the aroma of food, and it looks like a feast for the eyes.
"So, here’s the appetizer: saffron yogurt topped with sautéed shrimp and pistachios." Gabriel sets the dish aside. "She used a lot of garlic, but the yogurt and fresh herbs balance it out perfectly. A skillful combination," he raves.
"I love shrimp," Rosie says happily, then glances at me. "Do you like them too?"
"Oh yes. I could eat them every day." We both giggle.
"The salad looks delicious too." Gabriel nods with approval. "We’ve got a mixed salad here—pomegranate seeds, chopped pistachios, and a vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon juice, saffron, and honey." He tastes it, then nods. "Not too salty. Very good."
"And what’s that?" Rosie asks.
"Lamb chops with pistachio crust and saffron rice."
"I like saffron. It’s such a beautiful red," Rosie gushes.
"True, it does look very pretty," I agree with her.
"She even sent dessert: honey–pistachio baklava with saffron cream. Crispy phyllo pastry. Honey. Brilliant."
Gabriel is thoroughly impressed, and I have to admit—I’ve rarely seen so many delicacies at once. Everything’s arranged so beautifully that I can easily imagine him falling forMerzedes Gonzales.If he hasn’t already.
We eat and Rosie is so hungry she practically wolfs down her food. We have to remind her over and over that there’s plenty and she doesn’t need to rush but she’s so exhausted she nearly nods off between bites. Gabriel and I exchange knowing glances.
"Alright, bedtime. Tomorrow you’re back at school," Gabriel says. "I’ll drop you off before work."
"Kim won’t be here anymore?" Rosie asks sleepily.
"Yes, she will. Kim’s staying overnight with us." Her eyes flicker open with a brief spark of joy before they close again. Moments later, she’s out cold in Gabriel’s arms. She just couldn't stay awake any longer.
"It’s fine. Her levels are still normal." I’ll keep an eye on her meter along with mine and give us both an injection if necessary. "She’s just tired."
And no wonder—it’s pretty late. I take her from him and whisper: "Her mom’s coming over soon. Better make sure she doesn’t ring the bell, so Rosie can keep sleeping."
"Okay." Gabriel takes a deep breath and shuts the door. Shaking his head, he sets the document on the sideboard and turns back to me. I’ve already lowered my phone and stopped recording—he never noticed.
"At least she can come to Italy. Rosie’s going to be thrilled about that."
He looks drained, worn out from the endless arguments with his sister.
"I’ll teach her a few words. She’ll love that."
"Yes…" Gabriel’s still brooding but makes an effort to stay pleasant.
"You’re off duty for today. Let me finish up the rest, okay?"
He nods and heads upstairs while I pour the tea water and tidy up the kitchen. There’s not much to do, so I’m finished in a few minutes. Then I take a bottle of water up to my room and finally reply to Chloe, who’s been texting me.
Chloe:Should I be worried? You’re so quiet…
Me:No, everything’s fine :) Honestly, I’m just swamped. I’ll fill you in this weekend, promise.
