Page 116 of The SEAL's Duchess
“Daddy, me help,” Ellie called when she spotted him.
“I can see that, bug.”
“Marsha-mallow, Daddy?” Her lower lip popped out as she tried to look serious.
A smile tugged at him anyway. “No, bug. Not for breakfast.”
Ivy glanced at him, grinning. “Someone has strong opinions about marsha-mallows for breakfast.”
He shook his head. “Wonder where she gets that from?”
He moved into the kitchen, reached for the coffeepot with his good hand.
Ivy got there first. “I’ve got it.”
“I can make coffee one-handed.”
“I know you can.” She poured two mugs anyway. Fixed his the way he liked it—black, no sugar and handed it to him. “But you don’t have to.”
Their fingers brushed, the contact sending warmth up his arm that had nothing to do with the coffee. He wanted to pull her close, kiss her till the world blurred and slide his hands under the warmth of his sweatshirt.
But Ellie was watching, and some things could wait until later.
“Thank you.” He sipped his coffee.
“You’re welcome.” She turned back to the stove and poured batter onto the griddle in neat circles. Ellie leaned over to watch, and Ivy put a hand on her back to keep her from tipping forward.
The doorbell rang.
Ryder set down his coffee as Ellie scrambled down from her chair and ran for the door.
He followed, catching her before she could yank it open. Sarah was visible through the glass panel. She had her sheriff face on and matching uniform.
He opened the door. “Someone die?”
“Not yet.” Sarah stepped inside without waiting for an invitation. “Mom wants you at dinner Sunday. I’m delivering the message in person.”
“You could’ve texted.”
“Where’s the fun in that?” She looked past him toward the kitchen.
Ivy stood at the sink, dishtowel in hand. “Sarah, hi.” She waved the dishtowel.
“Morning.” Sarah walked into the living room, her gaze sweeping the space.
Ryder followed her.
“So, Ivy’s still here.” Sarah lifted one eyebrow.
“Observant.” Ryder cocked his head. “I can see why you’re sheriff.”
“Wasn’t sure you’d actually tell her how you felt.” Sarah turned to face him. “Figured you’d chicken out.”
“I told her.”
“In a hospital gown. Caleb said.”
Ryder scrubbed a hand over his face. “Great. Good to know my love life’s a family group chat.”
