Page 99 of Enzo

I hesitate. The thing about Enzo is that he always listens, and he always knows when I slip up, and I’d rather he didn’t.

“ … ever since I was young enough to.” I flash him a smile before moving towards the refrigerator and looking inside. It’s not empty like mine, and there’s enough here for me to cook up a little feast.

“Do you like eggs?” I ask.

“Yes.”

“Good. We’re having an omelet with every vegetable I can find in here, and a salad. It’ll be simple.”

“You sure?” He leans against the counter and watches me, as if he’s not entirely comfortable with the idea of letting me loose in the kitchen.

“I’m positive.”

I'm in New York.

I'm in with Enzo Knight.

I have a week off work, and I'm living in an amazing apartment with the most amazing views.

I am absolutely sure I want to make an omelet.

“'ll help you,” he offers suddenly, then goes to washes his hands.

I'm about to tell him that he doesn't have to, that it's just an omelet, but I like the idea of him being here. I don't care whether he helps or not, I just like him being around.

“Thanks.”

I wash my hands and crack six eggs into a mixing bowl.

“All the vegetables?” Enzo asks, holding an assortment of peppers, mushrooms and an onion in his hands.

“It's one way of getting them down you.”

He starts chopping, and I season the egg mixture. He adds in the chopped vegetables. I stare in amazement at how well he's chopped them.

“That's impressive.”

“Thank you. I always liked helping my mom.”

His voice softens whenever he talks of her.

“You turn all soft and gooey when you talk of her. You must love her very much.”

“I do.” He mixes the egg mixture, and after a few moments, asks, “Doesn't everyone love their moms?”

I nod. “Yes.”

“The fathers are something else.”

“Yes.”

“You've met mine ... what’s yours like?” he asks.

“Hmmmm.” I press my lips together. “My dad is … perfect. He’s funny, and big and kind and cuddly. He’s always looked out for us.”

Enzo nods reassuringly. “He sounds like the ideal dad.”

I look through the cupboards, glad to have something to keep me busy as I search for a large frying pan.