With each story, I felt myself being drawn deeper into their world. It wasn’t mere attraction anymore, though that was still there. It was something warmer, more substantial. The way his eyes lit up when he talked about Duke, how naturally his hand found mine across the table, the genuine interest in his questions about my life and career.
“It’s nice to know Duke’s not just skilled in the kitchen.”
Early chuckled. “Oh, honey. He’s talented inmanyways.”
“That’s the insider information I’m looking for.” I toyed with my coffee cup. “Any other skills I should be aware of?”
“There are a lot of reasons I married him.” Early’s smile turned wicked. “And it wasn’t only for his cooking.”
“Come on, you can’t leave me hanging.” I gave him my best puppy eyes. “Tell me more.”
Early pretended to consider it. “He’s verythorough. He takes his time making sure everything’s just right.”
The way he said it made heat pool in my stomach. “He sounds like quite the perfectionist.”
“You have no idea.” His fingers drummed against his cup. “Though I suppose you’d like to find out.”
“Can you blame me? I mean, look at him. And then there’s you.” I let my gaze drift appreciatively over Early’s lithe frame.
He laughed, bright and genuine. “Flattery will get you everywhere.”
“That’s what I’m hoping for.” I winked. “Though I have to ask why you seem open to exploring options when you’re so solid? Usually, it’s only bored couples who are interested in spicing things up. And something tells me you two keep things plenty spicy.”
“We’re devoted to each other, but we’re secure enough to have fun. But it’s been a while since we’ve had a third.”
My eyebrows shot up. “Really? You don’t strike me as the type.”
“What type is that?”
“The sharing type. Duke especially seems possessive.”
Early grinned. “Oh, he is. But that makes it more exciting when we find someone worth sharing.”
I swallowed hard. “And how often is that?”
“It’s rare.” He met my gaze. “We both need to feel that spark. That connection.”
Taking a deep breath, I laid my cards on the table. “And do you feel it now?”
“Duke’s intrigued, even if he’s playing hard to get. And I’ve been interested since the moment you walked in.”
It was hard not to get my hopes up. “What if I were to suggest we could explore that interest?”
He shrugged. “I’d say that’s worth discussing. Over dinner, perhaps?”
“Really?” I aimed for nonchalant, but my voice cracked. Clearing my throat, I tried again. “I mean, that could work. If you’re sure.”
“Your poker face needs serious work. You lit up like a kid on Christmas morning.”
He crossed his arms. “I did not. I’m a professional actor now, who has excellent control over my facial expressions.”
“Uh-huh. That’s why you’re practically vibrating in your chair with excitement?”
I forced myself to sit still. “I’m excited about the prospect of more of Duke’s cooking.”
“Sure,that’swhat has you all worked up. Nothing to do with the chef himself, right?”
Heat crept up my neck. “When should I come over?”
