“Mom taught you how to cook.”
She flipped her hair over her shoulder. “I know, but who has time for that?”
“I’ve got you covered.” He pulled out the electric griddle Mom had given him and plugged it in. Once it heated, he laid the strips of bacon in rows.
He thought for sure it’s sizzle and smell would wake up Monica, but she remained in a deep sleep. Jenna ate her portion, then had to leave. He waited for Monica, but he’d have to leave soon, as well.
Had he told her that he had to work today? He couldn’t remember. Though he hated having to rouse her, he didn’t want to leave her alone without an explanation. He knocked on the bedroom door, but she didn’t answer.
Pushing it open a crack, he called in. “Monica, are you up?”
“Kind of,” a sleepy voice replied. “You can come in.”
He walked through the opening and stopped right inside. She had the blanket pulled to her chin. Her auburn hair stuck out on one side and matted against her face on the other. He suppressed his chuckle, doubting Monica would appreciate his amusement, but even first thing in the morning, before she’d had a chance to pull herself together, he found her beautiful.
“How’d you sleep?” The urge to go toward her grew stronger, but he resisted the temptation.
“Like a rock. What time is it?”
“Eight-thirty.”
“Wow. I must have been really out.” She sat up, revealing flannel pajamas with reindeer on them.
He arched a teasing brow. “Getting ready for Christmas?”
“Huh?” She looked down at what she wore, and a blush dotted her cheeks. “Oh. Carrie gave them to me last year. The nights were already cold in Pennsylvania, plus they’re insanely comfortable.”
“You’re cute in them.” He checked his watch, saw the minutes ticking. “I’m sorry to wake you, but I have to go to work.”
Her smile faded. “Still no Sundays off?”
He shrugged. “Today’s a rarity. I try to keep them free.”
“How long until you have to leave?”
“Twenty minutes, a half hour if I speed.”
She threw her legs over the bed. “I can get dressed and out of here quick.”
“Don’t worry about that. You can hang out here as long as you want.” He wouldn’t mind if she stayed forever, but that thought stayed to himself for now. “I just didn’t want you to wake with me already gone. Breakfast is ready whenever you are.”
A lazy smile tugged at her lips. “I’ll meet you in the kitchen in a few minutes.”
He left the room and gave her privacy. After returning to the kitchen, he brewed a fresh pot of coffee and made her a fresh egg, then tossed the bacon in the skillet to warm the strips.
Five minutes later, Monica strolled into the kitchen. She’d brushed her hair into a neat ponytail and wore a pair of jeans with a turquoise t-shirt. Her eyes scanned the plates full of food. “Did you run to the store this morning?”
“I had to if we didn’t want to starve.” He handed her a plate. “Jenna stayed behind in case you woke up.”
“I didn’t have a clue.” She glanced around. “Where is she?”
“At church with Mom.” He carried his plate to the table, and they both sat down. “Do you know this is the first time I’ve ever eaten breakfast with a female that wasn’t family or a co-worker?”
Monica’s eyes lit up at the revelation. He knew what she’d thought of him, but much of his reputation was undeserved. More than ever, he needed her to know that.
She opened her mouth, as though she wanted to reply, but she didn’t say anything. Instead, she reached for his free hand, entwining it with hers, letting him know how much that information meant to her.
Relieved that she’d understood, a weight lifted from his shoulders. “What will you do today?”
