Page 148 of The Love Operation

“Wait—you’re leaving?” Kate asks. “But we were going to do ice cream and a movie!”

Benedict wraps her in a hug. “I’m sorry to change plans, sweet girl. Something came up, but I promise we’ll do it another night.”

“Benedict,” I whisper. I can’t be responsible for ruining their evening. I already don’t like the feeling of disappointing his sister. “It’s okay. I don’t want to interrupt your family time—”

“We’re still having movie night,” Laura says firmly. “Kate, we’re going to have a great evening without Benedict.”

Kate is unconvinced. “But what about the foot soak?”

“Christina can help later,” Wilton says.

“But Cordelia needs a foot soak!” Kate insists, clearly distressed. “And Mom too!”

“Oh no,” I say, touched. “That’s incredibly thoughtful, but I couldn’t possibly. You should be the first to use it—it’s yours.”

Kate scowls. “But you look tired. You need water therapy.” She turns to Benedict. “Are you taking her to your house?”

He hesitates. “Yes.”

“Then she has to take a bath. His bathtub is amazing,” Kate says, eyes wide with delight. “It has jets. And rose petals. One time he set it all up for me when I had cramps.”

Benedict closes his eyes, his face reddening slightly. “Kate . . .” Benedict mutters.

“What? She’s a girl. She knows what a period is. And she needs a bath,” Kate insists. “Promise me you’ll draw Cordelia a bath,” she says.

“Just promise her,” Wilton murmurs, clearly amused.

“Okay,” Benedict says with a small laugh. “I promise she’ll take a bath.”

Kate instantly relaxes. “And make it one of your spa baths, okay?”

My stomach flutters like bubbles in a foot soak. But it’s fine because I am not going to actually take a bath at Benedict’s house.

“But you do need to help me before you go,” Kate adds.

“Now, Kate—” Laura begins.

“It’s okay.” Benedict cuts in. “I promised. And she’s been waiting for this thing. You ready too, Mom?”

Laura looks hesitant, unsure whether to give in.

“Do you honestly think I’m leaving before I set up this foot soak?” Benedict fights a smile.

“Get it done, then hit the road,” Wilton says.

Benedict looks at me. “Wanna help me?”

I push up imaginary sleeves. “Lead the way.”

Kate claps. “Squee!”

“You should’ve stayed in the car,” Benedict starts when we’re alone in the bathroom. “I’m sorry—”

“Why?” I stop him.

We exchange a long look that does things to my insides.

“Thank you,” he says when I finally glance away.