They worked in silence until Jace finally spoke near the stove. “What was your least favorite fancy meal that your parents served?”
There were a number of meals Bonnie couldn’t stand to this day. But one in particular stood out. “Sushi. My mom loves it, and we had it once a week.” She made a face and shuddered, still remembering the first time she’d tasted it. “Mom always figured if she could stomach something, the rest of us could, too. Alternative meals were never an option.”
Jace nodded, his face sympathetic. “I’m not a sushi fan, either. I’m not big on seafood of any kind, to be honest.” He put the lid on the pan containing the taco meat and turned the heat on low. “Noel and I liked most of what we ate as kids. But we had a nanny who was amazing and understood what kids actually preferred to eat.” He paused. “I appreciate that you are the same with Gunner.”
She dipped her chin in acknowledgment of his compliment. “My siblings and I didn’t have a dedicated nanny, but there were several women that came into our lives at different times. They were kind and fun. I guess that’s why I wanted to be a nanny myself.”
“How many brothers and sisters do you have?” The question came from Noel as she reentered the kitchen. Gunner followed her with a push toy that made popping sounds as he moved it across the floor.
“I have two older sisters and one brother. Wyatt and I are the closest, though. I spend a lot of time with him and his wife, Chrissy.” Bonnie smiled as she thought about them. “They are expecting a baby early next year. This will be my first niece or nephew that I’ll have the chance to be involved with. I’m looking forward to it.”
“That’s great!” Noel smiled. “Being an aunt is the best.”
Bonnie nodded. She had other nieces and nephews but only saw them once or twice a year during family gatherings. She looked forward to being a part of this new baby’s life on a regular basis.
“It looks like we’re about ready to eat,” Jace announced.
They all helped take food to the square table that was just big enough for the four of them. Bonnie ended up sitting with Jace to her right and Noel to her left. She waved to Gunner across from her.
“Let’s pray.” As soon as the words left Jace’s mouth, he hesitated.
Bonnie watched as Gunner reached for his dad’s hand and then his aunt’s. Noel held a hand out to Bonnie, who took it.
But it was the sensation of Jace’s strong hand clasping hers that had Bonnie struggling to focus on his words as he blessed their meal.
As soon as he finished, everyone said, “Amen.”
Jace released her hand and cleared his throat.
Bonnie tried to ignore the way her own still tingled even though he was no longer touching it. When Jace handed her a platter, she accepted it, thankful for the distraction.
* * *
Jace objectedthe first time Noel insisted they invite Bonnie for dinner. He didn’t want to blur the line between work and personal life. But the more Noel explained why she thought they should, the less he could argue.
He wanted Bonnie to see the ranch as home and to know that if she needed anything, all she had to do was call or come by. If it were Noel working in a similar situation, he would be happy knowing that she was well taken care of.
He hadn’t thought about their custom of holding hands while praying, though. They’d never done it at home growing up, but it was always something they did here at the ranch with their grandparents.
It’d been as natural as breathing. Until Bonnie’s hand was nestled in his as though it belonged there. He hadn’t anticipated the way his heart raced in response or the keen disappointment when she withdrew it again after the prayer.
Thankfully, everyone focused on filling their plates. Conversation stayed at a minimum, allowing Jace’s pulse to return to normal as he focused on something else.
Satisfied that Gunner had everything he needed, Jace filled three taco shells with the seasoned meat. His stomach growled in anticipation.
Partway through the meal, Noel patted her stomach. “I could eat tacos any day of the week.You know, maybe this could be a thing? We have tacos and eat together every Saturday night?” She looked from Bonnie to Jace expectantly.
Jace had no idea what to say. The fact that he immediately looked forward to seeing Bonnie again at dinner next week told him it was a terrible idea.
Thankfully, Bonnie spoke up. “I’m not sure I can promise that. I try to help out at my brother’s stables most Saturdays. And the guy I’m seeing usually likes to set up dates on Friday or Saturday nights.”
Jace immediately disliked the guy. He wanted to know more about their relationship, but Jace said nothing.
Noel took it all in stride. “Then you can join us on the Saturdays you’re here.” As though that settled everything, she changed the subject. “Your brother owns stables? Does that mean you ride?”
Bonnie nodded. “Wyatt and I have always enjoyed horseback riding. I don’t get to ride nearly as often as I’d like, though.” She wiped her hands off on a napkin and laid it across her plate. “He owns and runs Joyful Hope Stables. I like to help with some of the hippotherapy sessions.”
Jace tried to wrap his mind around everything he was learning about Bonnie. She was seeing a guy she didn’t call her boyfriend, she rode horses, and she volunteered to help in therapy sessions.
