“Let’s go,” Kaden says, as he claps his hands together.
The two men head for the back of the truck while I circle around the front, making my way to the side gate and holding it open for them.
I watch as they carefully slide the bench out of the tray, lifting it effortlessly with just their arms. As they haul it through the gate, my eyes linger shamelessly on the way their biceps and forearms flex under the strain. I’m acutely aware of how obvious I am, my body betraying me as I take in the sheer marvel of the view.
“You can just set it against the fence over there, between the garden beds,” I instruct, pointing to where I want them togo. They nod in unison, then slowly walk over to the fence, easing the bench into place with care.
“This okay?” Kaden calls out.
“It’s perfect,” I reply with a wide grin. And it truly is. Seeing it on the screen was one thing, but seeing it here in person is something else entirely. “Kaden, seriously, this bench is just amazing.”
“Thank you. I’m so glad you like it.”
“Heard you saw the furniture he built at his place the other day. I’ve been trying to tell him he should start a proper business, but his stubborn arse won’t hear of it,” Jason quips.
“I did say something along those lines to him, but I can see where he’s coming from. I think it’s smart of him not to rush and to wait until he has a solid plan in place. Starting a business is always a big risk.”
“Thank you, Hope.” He gives Jason’s shoulder a playful punch. “See? Even she gets it.”
“I see your point. I know firsthand how big a risk it is to start a business. Just know, Kaden, I’d be happy to help you in any way I can,” Jason offers. “I’d hate to see such a remarkable talent go to waste.”
“Thanks. I’ll take you up on that offer one day. For now, I’ll see how it goes with the online marketplace first.”
“I think that’s a good idea,” I chime in.
Kaden nods. “Okay, enough of this talk. Miss McKenna, would you like to do the honours?” He gestures towards the lone bench with a wave of his hand.
“Gladly.” I lower myself onto the bench, leaning back against the fence and adjusting just enough to settle comfortably. Ilook up and catch both men watching me with expectant eyes. “Just perfect.” I praise with a wide smile.
Kaden sighs in relief, and Jason gives a half grin.
“I think this might just be my new favourite spot,” I declare.
Just then, Zac emerges from the back door, carrying a large packet of popcorn, and dressed casually in his Transformers pyjamas.
“Hey, Mum. I finished my homework. Can I have a snack now?” he shouts from the door.
“Honey, come here for a sec. I want to show you something.” I call out to him.
Zac takes his time, strolling towards us barefoot, pausing just beside Kaden, his eyes flicking between the two men. “Hello, I’m Zac.”
“Nice to meet you, young man. I’m Kaden,” he introduces himself. “And this is my friend, Jason.”
Jason nods and offers his hand, which my son shakes.
“How do you do?”
“Are you from the hospital too?” Zac asks.
“No, honey. I don’t work with them—they’re my new friends. And look what they brought over for us.” I tap the seat next to me on the bench, and his brows lift in surprise.
“That’s so cool!” he beams, and drops down beside me.
“Do you like it?” I ask.
He nods enthusiastically. “I love it! Are we keeping it?”
“Yes. It’s all ours now. And guess what?”
