Page 38 of Taking What Was His

They ordered a few pizzas and Jayden picked out Jurassic Park for the movie. Roman and Jayden made fun of Beth when she screamed.

By the time the movie was done, Roman’s stomach had hurt from laughing so much. He watched Beth walk into the kitchen with glasses before he turned to Jayden.

“Your mom is a riot to watch movies with.”

“We should watch a horror one next. It’s pitiful. She hides under the blanket most of the time.”

Roman threw his head back and laughed.

“What’s so funny?” Beth asked.

“Nothing,” they both said together, looked at each other, and then laughed.

Jayden stood up. “Hey, I’m going to head up to bed. I’m glad you came over, Roman.”

“Thank you for having me.”

Jayden stopped by his mom and hugged her. “Night, Mom.”

“Night, Pookie.”

Jayden snorted and rolled his eyes, making Roman laugh.

He pulled her into his arms. “I’ll have to go into the office for a bit tomorrow, and then I planned on working out with a few guys. I don’t want to go a day without seeing you. How about I make dinner here at your place? I’ll bring everything we need.”

“I’d love that.”

“Good.” He smoothed his thumb over her cheek. “Do you think Jayden would help me? It’s my grandmother’s secret recipe, but he’ll have to promise not to tell anyone.”

“Not even me?”

“Nope, not even you. It’s a guy thing.”

She snorted. “I’m sure he will help you. He likes to cook.”

“Good. I’ll be here around 5:00.”

“Okay. Be safe.”

He bent and pressed a kiss to her lips. “You, too. Lock the door after I leave.”

“I always try to remember that.”

“Do better than try, baby. I need you and Jayden safe, and since I’m not here full time, I want you to take every precaution.”

“I will.”

“Have you ever shot a gun?”

“Yes, but it’s been a while.”

“Do you have one here?”

“Yes, several. They’re in the gun safe.”

“I want to see them tomorrow, please.”

She shrugged. “Sure.”