“I’m sure that’s a good thing, though. He seems like a pretty responsible kid.”
“Oh right. You met him the other day.”
Grant nodded. “He and Jenna seem like a good fit.”
“They are.” She didn’t give her niece’s disappearance any more thought, instead texting her to be back before eleven. “I really like Simon’s family. His mom owns Bragg’s Tea downtown.” She eyed him. “You and his stepdad have something in common.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah. Mitch and his brother both live in town, and they’re both ex-pro athletes.”
“What sport?”
“Football.”
“Eh. I guess that counts.”
Piper grinned. “Grant, be nice.”
“I am. I said ‘eh.’ I didn’t say football sucks or football’s boring.”
“This coming from a guy who plays in a sport where most of the team sits in the dugout during for half the game.”
“I... Well, that’s true. But baseball still rules all the other sports out there.”
“Whatever makes you happy.”
He opened his mouth and closed it, looking at her.
“What?”
“Best if I keep my mouth shut so I don’t get myself in trouble.”
Curious but not willing to encourage him, she nodded. “Good advice.”
After a moment, he said, “So it’s just you and me tonight.”
She didn’t know what to say but, “Yes, just us.”
His slow smile warned her to be wary. “You’re not going to be weird about last night are you?”
“You just had to bring that up, didn’t you?”
“Yes. I don’t want you afraid of me because of a few kisses.”
“Afraid? I—you—ridiculous,” she sputtered, annoyed to be thought of as less in any way. “It was an enlightening experience.”
“What was?”
“Kissing you.”
“You mean, I was so good lights flashed behind your eyes?”
“What? No.” Yes, but no way she’d tell him that. “I was surprised to see you had any real skill,” she taunted. “Typically, handsome guys are terrible in bed.”
“Huh? Who’s talking about beds?”
Her cheeks felt super hot. “You know what I mean. You good-looking types don’t think you have to work at it. Women fall at your feet.”
