He smiled, like the idea that I enjoyed his cooking made him happy.
Shit, we were on a slippery slope here, but I wasn't sure I could stop myself before I flew off the edge.
"Want a job?" I joked with him once I'd swallowed that first huge bite.
"I have one."
"Yes, but I'd be willing to pay handsomely for you to cook for me every day. Maybe even more than you make now at with your current employer."
He leaned toward me. "Would it include benefits?"
"All sorts of benefits," I answered, staring at his mouth.
"Would I get to dictate the terms?"
"Absolutely not," I stated.
His lips curved up into a smile. "You drive a hard bargain. I'll consider it." He straightened and the distance between us suddenly seemed larger. "Let's pick out a movie. I don't want you turning into a pumpkin before it's over."
"Ha, ha."
We picked up our bowls and drinks and headed into the living room. I hadn't made it to the couch yet, but it looked comfortable and cozy and I wanted to curl up on it in the worst way.
Ben put his bowl and glass on the coffee table and went over to a low ottoman that sat in front of one of the chairs. He lifted the top cushion off and pulled out a blanket.
"Can I have one?" I asked. In nothing but my tee and panties, I was definitely chilly. He kept his house cool.
"This is for you," he commented. "You're cold."
How did he know?
His eyes lowered and I looked down. Oh, yeah. Nipples and no bra.
He waited until I'd found a comfy spot on the couch and settled in before he draped the blanket over my lap. I sighed with complete contentment. The throw was soft and fuzzy, like a hug in blanket form.
"Food and an incredible blanket. You know how to treat a girl."
Ben shook his head, handing me the bowl of jambalaya and my Coke. "You're easy to please."
I cocked my head to the side and studied him. "Not really."
Why had I said that? That wasn't smart. It opened the door to all sorts of questions and talking about personal stuff. Not a good idea. We were friends with benefits, nothing more.
"You'll see when we start looking for a movie," I said. "I'm picky."
"What aboutAltered Carbon? I've had the first season on my watchlist for a year and just saw that season two released not long ago."
He had to go and pick the one show that I loved and I'd been meaning to watch. I wanted to refresh my memory before the second season became available.
"Damn," I muttered.
"You don't like it?" he asked.
"I love that show," I admitted. "And youmustwatch it. It's imperative."
"And you're not easy to please?"
I scowled at him. "You got lucky."
