Page 76 of Lovestruck at Sundown
“Don’t worry. I completely understand.”
“Good evening,” Moira said as she walked out of the kitchen carrying our plates and setting them in front of us with meticulous care.
“Zara, this is Moira.”
“I … hi,” Zara stammered, offering her hand to Moira. Moira shook it and smiled, but I could see her eyes widen at the sight of Zara. I don’t think there’d be a person who wouldn’t have that reaction when Zara looked like a goddess.
“Nice to meet you, Zara.” Moira seemed to reel in her reaction quickly and returned to chef mode. “I’ll be right back with the tartar sauce.”
“Moira went to culinary school with William in Stockholm,” I explained. “He flew her in to cook for me because he thinks I’ve been eating crap, and he’s not entirely wrong.”
“You’re shitting me!” Zara brought her wineglass to her lips and took a sip. “The things William does for you.” But it sounded genuine, like she wasn’t offended by it, for a change. “He really loves you.”
“I love him very much, too.” I stared into her eyes when I said that so she could feel the devotionand conviction in my words. She probably feared that I would change my mind or hurt William as I did Nathan. But there was no way I’d allow it. I was crazy in love with William. Like I’d never been before.
“Tartar sauce and lemons.” Moira interrupted us by placing two small bowls between me and Zara.
“Thank you. This looks amazing.” Zara gave Moira a once-over. “I love your tattoos.”
Moira gave her a stiff nod. “Thanks.”
“Are you joining us for dinner?” Zara asked.
“I’m still not done in the kitchen, but please, enjoy.” Moira rubbed her hands and smiled. “Let me know if you need anything else.”
Moira walked away.
“Um, her number?” Zara whispered, and I laughed under my breath.
“She’s pretty awesome,” I added.
“And hot. Did you see those tattoos?” Zara grabbed the tartar sauce and served a few spoonfuls on her plate. “Do you think she might be …”
“She’s gay,” I whispered back. It was my turn to help myself to some tartar sauce. “I just met her today, but I really like her. She’s the coolest.”
“Such a lovely face.” Zara dipped the fish in the tartar sauce and brought it to her mouth. “Fuck me.” She slammed her fist on the table and moaned. “This is absolutely scrumptious.”
It was exquisite. Moira was right. It was, without a doubt, the best fish and chips I’d ever tried. The crispy batter was golden-brown, and the fish was tender and perfectly seasoned. The chips were thick and slightly salted—a perfect savory balance.
“Moira?” Zara shouted, relishing another bite.
Moira rushed out with a worried face. “Is everything okay with your dishes?”
“Depends,” Zara said. “Is there enough for seconds? Because this is divine.”
“Aw, thank you!” Moira smiled at the praise, looking relieved. “There’s more where that came from. I’ll bring out a plate with a few more pieces.”
“Seriously, this is the best fish and chips I’ve ever had.” Zara wiped the corners of her mouth with a napkin.
“Same,” I agreed.
“You have to give me the recipe.”
“Nope.” Moira crossed her arms at her chest. “William’s harassed me for that recipe foryears. So I would never share it with his sister.” She lifted a defiant brow at Zara.
Zara audibly gasped. A mix of surprise and amused delight escaped her lips, turning the sound into a chuckle. “Aren’t you cheeky?”
Moira shot that confident, sly wink of hers at Zara and said, “Most of the time.”
