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“I suppose you’re right,” Rose said with a sigh. “I’ll have to find something else I can do to get my body back into fighting shape.”
“Fighting shape?”
“Grannie was one of the first women’s kickboxers in the country,” Melly said. “That was years ago, however, and she only competed in a few fights.”
Grannie held up her fists. “Knocked ‘em out on the regular. Don’t let anyone ever tell you something different.”
“You’re amazing.” Would she find it patronizing if I kissed her on the cheek? Probably. But before this case was through, I was going to do it.
Color rose into her wrinkled cheeks, and I could see where Melly got her beauty. “You’re too kind.”
“I only speak the truth.”
She tapped my arm. “You’re a sweet ice lord. I hope you find someone soon who will thaw your heart.”
I thought that was my ex, but she hadn’t warmed me. My gaze met Melly’s. I was attracted to her, but that didn’tmean anything. I’d compartmentalize my growing feelings like I did with everything else in my life and that would put perspective on the rushes of heat I felt whenever I looked her way.
After asking a few more questions, I announced it was time for me to go. I could see Grannie Rose was tired, and I hated to strain such a sweet old lady. “I’ll stop by again tomorrow to ask more questions.”
Melly and Grannie rose when I did. Inching forward with her walker, Grannie insisted on going with us to the door. I wanted to pick her up, plunk her back on the sofa, and do everything for her. This frail woman had not poisoned anyone, and for a moment, rage flushed through me. I wanted to snarl at whoever tried to frame her for this, then make sure they were locked up for a very long time.
“I appreciate you coming by and sharing my tea and cookies,” she said in a chirpy voice. “And I look forward to your visit tomorrow.” Her rheumy gaze went to Melly. “Perhaps we can talk him into coming to dinner soon.”
“That’s up to Elrik,” Melly said.
I kept remembering her saying she enjoyed getting dirty, and that made me want to tease her about what she might serve.
I also wanted to kiss her.
Was I letting my simple promise to myself hold me back?
“I’d love to come for dinner,” I said. “I don’t get a home-cooked meal very often.”
“See?” Grannie nodded my way, her gray bun at the peak of her head bobbing along with the action. “We cancook him something special. Do you have any food allergies? Is there anything you dislike?”
“I love everything, and no, no allergies,” I said.
“I’m going to drive Elrik back to the office, and I’ll come right home after that,” Melly said.
“Don’t rush on my behalf,” Grannie Rose said. “I want to complete a few more rows on that mitten.”
Odd weather to be knitting mittens.
“I make them all year long,” she said as if she’d read my mind. “I donate them to the church for their annual fundraiser. My mittens are in hot demand. People literally fight over them.” She waved to a plaque hanging on the wall. “I’ve been honored with the church’s Good Citizen Award four years running for my mitten donations.” Her smile lifted. “Boy does that make Sue mad. She used to win with her prized wood carving ornaments, but once I started producing mittens, it was over.” She laughed, but her smile faded. “I hope she’s released from the hospital soon. I hate to think she could be in pain.”
“I called the hospital,” Melly said. “They told me she’s going home tomorrow.”
Grannie clapped. “Wonderful. I’m so relieved to hear that.” Pausing in the kitchen, she frowned. “You know what just occurred to me? I need to see if I can find some patterns online for monster-sized mittens. That’ll up my mitten game and ensure I win the award again this year.” Her gaze traveled to my hands. “Could I take some measurements? As a lord of the ice, you’re a chilly man, and I’m sure you like being cold, but I’d love to make you some mittens that match your eyes.”
“I’d love to wear your mittens,” I said, grinning along with Melly. “I’ll be happy to let you take whatever measurements you need. Just let me know when.”
“How about when you come to dinner?” She tugged out a kitchen chair and sat. “I could take measurements then.”
“Would the day after tomorrow work for you?” Melly asked. “I’ll make something special.”
“That sounds great.”
We left, Melly and I walking out to her car, where we got inside.
