Of course I can, she just doesn’t realize it yet. “Hell, yes, I can. I’ll be happy to show you. Actually, if you get up without permission, I’ll put you in our bed and keep you there.”
“You wouldn’t.”
I look over at her after flipping the last stack of pancakes onto the plate. “Try me.”
Her huff is adorable as she crosses her arms and sits back against the soft cushions, giving me the stink eye. I stifle my laugh at her expression. I really hope she tests me.
She managed to feed herself last night, but I saw her wince when she grasped the fork too tightly in her wrapped hands. I’ll be feeding her today to avoid it, and I can’t wait to see how she reacts.
I drag the coffee table closer to the sofa, dropping off my mug and the pitcher of maple syrup. Back in the kitchen, I stack a plate with blueberry pancakes and bacon, then carry it into the living room and sit on the edge of the coffee table.
My Raindrop looks from the plate to my face. Her deep blue-green eyes reflect her curiosity.
“Do you like maple syrup?”
“Yes. But where’s my plate?”
I don’t answer at first, I just cover the pancakes in syrup and cut them into bite-sized pieces. “I hope you’re hungry. There’s more if we finish all of this.”
My girl isn’t stupid. She’s already figured it out when I hold the fork in front of her lips.
“I can feed myself.”
“Yes, you can, but you won’t. Not until your hands heal.”
“But I did it last night.”
“Do you think I didn’t notice every time you winced from holding the fork too tightly or having to cut up the meatballs?”
“C’mon, Asher. Don’t you think you’re taking this a bit far?”
“I don’t. My brothers won’t either. Want me to call and ask them?”
She shakes her head and sighs. “Fine. But I want it noted that I object to your bossy behavior.”
“You object, huh? Are you an attorney?”
“Nope, but I’ve been taking care of myself for a long time without any help. I can do it now.”
“I know, but that’s the thing, baby. You don’t need to. Plus, it’s my fault you’re in this position. Let me help you.” I release the breath I was holding when she leans forward and takes the bite of pancake from the fork.
“Oh my God. These pancakes are delicious.”
I don’t hide my smirk as I pick up a slice of bacon and hold it to her lips. She takes a bite and closes her eyes.
“This is so good, but it tastes different from what I’m used to.”
“Because we make it ourselves, curing it with our special seasoning.”
I’m not going to lie. My chest puffs up when her eyes grow wide.
“You really are a mountain man,” she says with awe.
“Are you full or do you want some more?” I ask after feeding her the last piece of bacon.
“I’m stuffed. If you keep feeding me like this, I’m probably going to gain ten pounds before I get off this couch.”
“It won’t matter. I’ll still carry you around.”
