Page 46 of Hot Stuff
I have to step back or get smacked in the face with the door when he yanks it open. He picks out a tray of two steaks, New York cut, and drops it in the basket.
“I’m thinking grilled zucchini and eggplant plus a Greek salad. Do you want baked potatoes to go with it?” he asks over his shoulder as he heads off again.
“Um, sure.” Looks like I shouldn’t have bothered writing a list. Walker has it all sorted.
I follow him through the store and watch as he carefully picks two zucchini then an eggplant before moving on to the potatoes.
When he heads toward the front of the store, away from the fresh veg I ask, “Don’t we need stuff for the Greek salad?”
“No, I have all that at home. The dressing too. It’s one of my staples. I’m not a big salad fan but I can handle a Greek one. Sometimes I bastardize it but it’s still kind of the same.”
“Bastardize?”
“Yeah, it’s where you twist something from its original form. This time it means a change of ingredients.”
“You are full of surprises.”
He grins at me. “Do you like surprises?”
“It wouldn’t matter if I didn’t because I like you.”
His grin softens, more of an affectionate smile now instead of a cocky smirk. “I like you too, Oak.”
“Hello, Mr. Walker.” The teenager behind the counter smiles with worshipful eyes at Walker.
“Hey, Danny. How’s your mom doing?”
“Better. She should be back at work soon. Once she gets her walking cast on, she can handle the register. Grandpa won’t let her even enter the shop before then.”
The kid grins and the love he has for both relatives is evident in his eyes.
“Is this it or do you want to keep shopping?”
“This is it. Oh, and can I put a hold on my next delivery?”
“Sure.” The kid starts to run everything through the scanner. “Oh, I forgot to tell you last time, Grandpa said to thank you for the tickets and for the word of mouth.”
“Anytime. Tell Grandpa I’ll come see him soon.”
“He’s in back now but he’s arguing with a supplier so I don’t want to disturb him.”
“No, don’t interrupt him. He’s fierce as a shark when he’s haggling.”
“He’s trying to teach me, but I don’t want to work here forever.”
“You still want to play pro?”
“Of course! It’s all I’ve ever wanted.”
“How are you doing on the ice?” Walker pulls out his wallet and hands over a card.
“I’m the fastest on the team.” Danny’s chest puffs out. “And my coach said I’ve got talent.”
“I know you do. How about I hook you up with some guys to show you some pro tips?”
“I, you, huh?” Danny’s mouth flaps as he tries to get words out and I have to hide my smile by turning away.
“I’ll get you set up soon.” Walker takes the bag of groceries from Danny. “And keep doing those exercises I taught you for off ice.”
