Page 78 of My Turkish Fling
“Wow. Great teamwork!”
Josh’s proud smile shone like a beacon, even across the distance.It was the first one I’d seen on his face since he’d arrived.
“Are you hungry?” I asked. Come up and I’ll fix us something.”
“I think Emir’s cooking. But I told him I’d be back in fifteen, so I’ll see you soon!”
Emir’s cooking? I glanced at the digital clock on the dashboard. 12:04 p.m. I’d told him I’d be back around lunchtime to feed Josh. I’d even picked up some groceries on the way, to make sure I had ingredients for my son’s favorite meals stashed for the week.
An uneasy feeling brewed in my stomach. Looking after my son was my job. I couldn’t let Emir settle in and become someone we relied on, only to leave behind a crater when he left.
Chapter 32
Emir
I set down the blender pitcher as I heard the door, wondering what it would be like to be a husband. A house husband. Far from home, with no one around to cast judgment, it didn’t feel that odd. I wasn’t embarrassed. I only wanted to make her smile. Nothing could beat that feeling and I kept seeking it like a high.
“Lunch is served,” I announced as I met her at the doorway.
That definitely sounded odd.
“What?” She blinked at me, dropping her handbag and a bag of groceries next to her shoes.
She wore a pale purple wrap dress I wanted to unwrap like a present. But her expression told me she wasn’t in the right headspace for any of that. So, I picked up the groceries before Gru could investigate them further.
As she saw the bread and dips on the table, she turned to me. “This is too much.” Her gold earrings swung as she shook her head in disbelief.
“It’s just lunch.”
“Emir.” Eyes wide, she took a step closer, examining the hummus and beetroot dip. “You made these? You made these!” Her voice rang with warning.
I shrugged. “I found chickpeas in your pantry. There was beetroot in the garden. It’s no big deal.”
“This is so nice, but you can’t… I can’t…” Her face contorted in pain and eyes filled with tears.
I heaved the groceries on the counter, crossed the floor and pulled her into my arms. “If I could have one wish, it’d be to keep cooking for you until you take it for granted. Until you just smile, sit down, and eat.” I stroked her hair, feeling like I’d won every contest on earth, only to be told I had one day to live.
“Nobody should ever take this for granted.” She hiccupped.
“Maybe not but imagine being able to rely on someone to be there. With no end in sight. No sadness.”
“When’s your flight?”
I tensed, despite my best efforts. “Next Sunday.”
“Are you going to take it?”
My jaw tensed. “I have to.”
There it was. Our end, very much in sight. I released her and pulled out a chair. “Josh should be back soon. He’s great with Molly.”
Janie wiped her eyes and smiled. “I know! I’m so glad you foundher! He said you got her out of Mr Pattison’s garden without him noticing.”
“He’ll notice the damage, but unless he has cameras pointed that way, there’s no hard evidence.”
“I guess we’ll see.”
The front door clicked, and Josh appeared, hovering over the table. “Wow! What’s this?”
