Page 16 of Dreaming Without Heartache

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“I’m so excited to grocery shop with you on a Saturday night.” Steven’s sarcastic tone echoes down aisle nine of the store.

“Like you had better plans.” I walk ahead of him as he pushes the cart, scanning the shelves for the bread that Maisie likes.

“Don’t act like I couldn’t have been at the bar tonight stylin’ and profilin’.” Steven throws his signature look over his shoulder.

“Okay, Ric Flair.” I laugh. Steven cuts his eyes toward me in that quirky way he does with his lips pursed together.

“I’m getting stuff for kabobs—steak and chicken, onions, pepper, zucchini, the usual, and you’re grilling.” It wasn’t a request but an order. He knows that I’d say yes anyhow.

“Fine, with a salad and what else?” I immediately fixate on what sides to have. Food is my favorite. I used to love to go to different fancy restaurants to try out new foods. My life has changed so much. I never imagined I’d be a parent living in the suburbs.

“Hey, you two!” Sam stops her cart in front of us. “I’m so glad you’re here. I needed someone to pick up my bill.”

“Oh, honey,” Steven says. “Anything for you.”

Sam smiles broadly. And it’s a really great smile. She looks at me with that gorgeous face, and I can’t help but smile back.

“I’ve decided that Allie is grilling kabobs tonight. Please join us.” Steven doesn’t hesitate to invite his new friend.

“Maybe I should do the grilling.” Sam looks at me. “Allie did warn me that she isn’t a good cook.”

“Oh, I’ve experienced it firsthand. But beggars can’t be choosers.” Steven shrugs.

“Hey, now!” I throw my hands up. “I can grill.”

“Okay,” Steven says, holding up one hand. “She’s right. She can grill and make fantastic cocktails. It’s everything else we should worry about.”

“Noted.” I shake my head and start to walk away, but Sam stops me, her hand warm on my forearm. Her smile is beautiful.

“The food was delicious last night,” Sam says sincerely.

“Oh lord,” Steven exaggerates. “We need our boots on. It’s getting deep in here.”

“I would love to join you both, but I told my brother we’d have dinner together tonight. He’s newly single.”

“Is he cute?” Steven chimes in.

Sam grins. “Um…well he’s my brother, so, no.”

“Okay, bring him anyway.” Steven winks. “It’ll be a good time as long as you help me with the sides.”

I shake my head at Steven. “Sam, you’re both welcome to join us. The girls decided to stay over with their grandmother. It’s just us two tonight. As you can see, he’s a handful.”

“That’s what he said,” Steven says playfully.

Sam shakes her head, though her eyes light up. “I think Luke would have a great time. Count us in.”

“Good,” I say. “Just please prepare Luke for all of this.” I gesture toward Steven.

“Moi?” He scoffs. “He’ll have the time of his life.”

“What time?” Sam looks between us.

“We’ll start cooking around six but show up anytime and we can have cocktails.” I hold her gaze, not expecting the connection I feel.

“See you soon!” Sam radiates as she pushes her cart down the aisle and out of sight.