Page 56 of Never and Always
Her nose wrinkled. “No.”
“You’ve been working all day, and no doubt worrying about your brother.”
“I believe you ordered me to stay in the hotel.”
“You’ll be with me, so you’ll be safe. This is your chance to get out of here, switch off, and relax.”
Her gaze moved over my face. “Okay, but only because I want to get out of the hotel.”
“Good. Grab a coat, it’s cold outside.” My gaze dropped to her heels “You got any boots?”
“Only boots with heels.”
“Why am I not surprised?”
Thirty minutes later, we were at my place. I’d poured Piper a glass of red wine, and was pulling everything out of the fridge to make my signature dish.
“What are you making?”
“Chicken Piccata with lemon caper sauce, orzo, and grilled asparagus.”
Her eyes went wide.
“You don’t cook?”
“Not really. I live out of hotels with excellent room service.” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Growing up, I made a hell of a grilled cheese sandwich. I often had to feed myself and my brother if Mom was working.”
I felt a spurt of anger at the father who’d abandoned them. Leaving Piper to take on too much responsibility too young.
“My mom liked to cook,” I told her. “I was an only child, so she had plenty of time to teach me. Plus, she said everyone, male or female, should be able to cook at least a few dishes.” I started chopping the vegetables.
“Can I help?”
“Nope. I want you to relax and drink your wine.”
Soon, the chicken was cooked, the sauce was simmering, the orzo was ready, and I just had to grill the asparagus.
There was a knock at the front door, and I saw Piper tense.
“It’s all right.” I dried my hands on a towel and headed over. I recognized the shape of the man on my front stoop straight away. I opened the door. “You just couldn’t stay away.”
My dad smiled at me. “I could smell dinner.”
I opened the door. I knew my dad had contained his curiosity as long as he could.
Bear bounded in after him. The dog butted my leg, looking for some love. I gave him a rub down.
“Hello, there,” Dad said, eyeing Piper.
“Hi.” She set her glass down.
“Dad, this is Piper Ellis. Piper, my father, Dale Murray. Piper is the chief operating officer for Langston Hotels.”
“Wow, you must be a busy lady.” He held out a hand.
“Busy is my middle name.” She shook Dad’s hand with a smile.
“Heard all about the improvements and upgrades you’re making at the Windward. Sounds exciting.”
