“One of the janitorial staff discovered it while cleaning your office. The staff at Yukon Cider are pretty incredible.” He handed the purse over to her. “I didn’t mean to intrude on your night, but have a good one.”
“Wait,” she said as he turned around to leave. “Are you hungry? Patience made ribs. The least I could do is feed you since you brought me back my purse. A woman’s purse is pure gold.” She waved him into her home.
Caleb grinned. “You had me at ribs,” he said as he stepped inside.
Sophia’s house was just as charming on the inside as it looked from the outside. What it lacked in size it made up for in coziness. From her yard one could catch a stunning glimpse of the lake area that was just beginning to thaw for spring. Heat embraced him as soon as he walked into Sophia’s house. Lights were gleaming in every room. The corridor had family pictures hanging on the wall.
The smell of the ribs was enticing. He couldn’t think of the last time he’d eaten some good down-home cooking. He hadn’t known that ribs were a thing in Alaska, but from the aroma floating around Sophia’s house, Patience knew how to throw down in the kitchen.
“Come in the kitchen and meet everyone,” Sophia said, beckoning him as she walked toward the back of the house.
Everyone? He had no idea who everyone was, but he was hoping to meet her daughter. Caleb wanted to know everything about Sophia’s world, and he knew Lily was at the center.
When they reached the kitchen, Caleb quickly scanned the room, noticing a little girl sitting in a breakfast nook playing with a doll. He spotted an older man at the stove while Patience was sitting at the table sipping from a goblet.
“Everyone, I’d like you to meet Caleb Stone,” Sophia said by way of introduction. “Patience, the two of you have already met. Caleb, this is my dad, Skip Brand.” Her father wiped his hands on his apron and stuck out his hand.
“Nice to meet any kin of Hattie’s,” Skip said.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir,” Caleb said, enthusiastically gripping his hand.
“Call me Skip. ‘Sir’ make me feel old,” Skip said.
“And this is Lily,” Sophia said, taking Lily by the hand and bringing her over toward Caleb. “Lily, this is my friend Caleb.”
Lily buried her face behind Sophia’s legs. “Hi, Lily. You have such a beautiful name. My mom is named after a flower too. Daisy.”
Lily inched away from her hiding spot until he could see her entire face. Looking at her was like gazing upon a pint-size Sophia. The same gorgeous mocha complexion. Big brown eyes that radiated pure innocence. Her hair was a mane of curls, while Sophia’s was straight. Other than that, they were doppelgängers.
Caleb stooped down so he was at her eye level. Lily took a few steps toward him.
“I like flowers,” she said, tugging at the hem of her sweater and looking down instead of gazing directly at him.
“So do I,” Caleb said. “Do you like forget-me-nots?”
Lily nodded, finally looking at him. She gifted him with a beautiful smile. “They’re my favorite ones.”
“I just found out they’re the state flower of Alaska,” Caleb said. “I think I might’ve known ages ago, but I’ve been gone from Alaska for a long time.”
“Mommy likes them a lot. Don’t you, Mommy?” Lily asked, turning toward Sophia for confirmation.
“I sure do, but I’m partial to all types of flowers,” Sophia said. “They make the world a better place.”
“So, Caleb, are you joining us for supper?” Patience asked. “Far be it from me to brag, but my ribs are to die for. Some have said they’ve actually brought tears to their eyes.”
Skip rolled his eyes. “Modest, isn’t she? Her ribs are amazing, but she learned everything from me.” He puffed out his chest. “I’m the original barbecue king.”
Sophia shook her head. “This isn’t a contest, Dad. I already invited Caleb to eat with us, so why don’t we get settled. I’m going to set the table.”
“Let me help,” Caleb offered.
“You don’t have to do that,” Sophia said.
“It’s a small contribution toward this amazing meal.”
“I want to help too,” Lily piped up.
“Okay, you two. Here are the plates,” Sophia said, handing them over to Caleb. “Why don’t you put out the napkins? Lily, show Caleb to the dining room, please.”
