“I suppose we could,” Isla said as she sipped her wine.
“What else?” Percy asked, his face scrunching with curiosity.
Kirk thought for a moment. “There’s a stream that runs through the vineyard. My brothers, my cousins, and I played there all the time when we were younger. We had a rope swing and took turns on it. I could take you there…” He glanced at Isla, suddenly unsure if he’d overstepped.
“Yes!” Percy kicked his legs against the chair.
“I don’t want to impose,” Isla said as she finished her meal.
“I do,” Percy added, his cheeky smile making them both chuckle.
Before Kirk had a chance to persuade Isla, the courtyard door swung open and Matt emerged, wiping his hands on a kitchen towel.
Do you think he’s been spying on us to see if you like the food?Kirk asked his bear.
Either that, or he sensed when we put the last morsel in our mouths,his bear replied.
“So?” Matt asked, his expression hopeful. “Verdict?”
“Incredible,” Kirk said immediately. “That sauce on the fish—you’ve outdone yourself.”
Matt rolled his eyes. “You’re so predictable. You’d eat a boot if I put the right sauce on it.”
Turning to Isla, he added, “Kirk once made himself a snack of peanut butter and pickles, topped with chocolate syrup and hotsauce for good measure. It looked revolting, and even the dog turned its nose up at it. But not Kirk…”
Kirk felt his ears grow hot. “I was seven, and Caleb bet me I wouldn’t.”
“You still won’t back down from a food challenge,” Matt pointed out.
Isla laughed as she picked up her wineglass. “It makes me glad I’m an only child. And that you have better sense when it comes to flavors.”
Kirk watched her as she spoke, watched the way animation brought a flush to her cheeks.
His bear practically purred with satisfaction at seeing their mate relaxed and happy at their table.
Matt turned to her, his expression growing more serious. “Honestly, though, what did you think of the meal?”
Kirk held his breath, recognizing his brother’s genuine desire for feedback. Matt might joke, but he took his cooking seriously.
Isla considered for a moment. “The balance of flavors was exceptional. The heat built gradually rather than overwhelming the palate, and the acidity of the citrus cut through the richness perfectly.” She paused. “If I had one criticism, it would be that the fish was perhaps a touch overcooked. Although I realize that’s partly a matter of preference.”
Kirk watched his brother’s face, seeing the quick flash of professional consideration before Matt nodded.
“But truly,” Isla continued, “it was one of the best meals I’ve ever eaten. The attention to detail, the way the components complemented each other… it was masterful.”
Matt’s cheeks flushed with pleasure at the praise. “Well, the view must have helped,” he said, gesturing toward themountains. Then he glanced at Kirk with a mischievous gleam in his eye. “Along with the company.”
Kirk took a long drink of wine, avoiding his brother’s knowing look. The cool liquid did nothing to soothe the heat crawling up his neck.
“I hate to eat and run, but we should probably get going,” Isla said, reaching for her purse. “I still need to visit the pharmacy, and I’d like to get settled at Bear’s Rest before it gets too late. How much do I owe you for the meal?”
“On the house,” Matt said immediately, waving his hand.
Isla shook her head firmly. “I insist on paying. Please.”
Kirk caught the subtle tension in her voice, the pride beneath the politeness. He gave Matt a look, trying to convey without words that this mattered to her.
Matt hesitated, then nodded. “All right. I’ll have Rachel bring over the bill.”
