He stared down at her, unsure.
She opened the top cupboard and lifted to her tiptoes to see inside. “I’ll bet my mixing bowls would fit here.”
He started to nod. “And I’ll plug into the house so you have enough power to run the microwave and your laptop.”
“I feel like making s’mores brownies.”
A smile cracked his lips. “I can’t wait to taste them. I’ll bet the guys will eat ’em up.”
“I didn’t tell them much.” Maggie dropped back to sound footing and turned to face him. The space was small, and their bodies were close. Cash glanced at her lips, wondering if she’d balk if he tried to kiss her again.
“I should probably fill them in.” He continued to watch as she moistened her lips.
“I’ll come with you.” She slipped her hand into his. “I’d like to know what’s happening too.”
“What’s happening” was a whole lot of changing course. “Come on.” He tugged her out after him, and they made their way over to the impromptu tailgate party. Only instead of laughter and joking, the guys were sullenly playing games on their phones and hanging their heads.
James was the first one to notice them. He hopped off the tailgate and approached. “I’m sorry, boss.”
“It’s not your fault.” Cash jerked his chin. “You’ve all seen the notice.”
“It’s bull-garbage,” grumbled Cal.
The others murmured in agreement.
Cash held up a hand to quiet them down. “I agree.”
“Me too,” Maggie piped in.
“I know you guys are expecting paychecks, and I called the Hansens and their place is ready to go. We can head over there this afternoon and get started.” The announcement felt heavy and landed with a thud in the middle of the group. No one moved to pack up their generator or tools.
“What about your house?” asked Timmy. “Maggie needs her kitchen.”
Maggie squeezed Cash’s hand.
He glanced down at her, grateful for her support, grateful she was there. She truly humbled him with her trust. “We’re going to stay here, and I’ll monitor the mold guys. As soon as they are out, we’re back in.”
The men nodded.
“And I’ll use the camper until then,” Maggie added. “I have recipes that I can work on in there. It’s not ideal, but this is a ‘make it work’ moment. I’ll send goodies with Cash when he goes to work.”
“If we can get the Hansen job done quick, we’ll hardly miss a step.” He prayed he wasn’t blowing smoke, that they’d be able to stay on schedule and be back here ASAP.
“We’re behind you, boss,” said James.
“Then get to it.” Cash waved them off, and they scattered, each guy going to a different piece of equipment. Packing up wouldn’t take long. “I don’t like leaving when it’s not finished.” Cash stared up at the house, rubbing his face with his free hand.
Maggie gave him a light shove. “You’re going to want to get out of here—me and that oven need to have a get-to-know-you session.”
He made a sour face. “Sooo there will be smoke.”
“Not if she’s an understanding soul.”
He chuckled, turning so he could draw her to him. Hugging her was wonderful. He hadn’t gotten a lot of physical attention growing up. “I never thought of myself as a snuggler,” he confessed.
“No?”
He nuzzled her neck. “But I think I might be.”
