Page 19

Instead, I ask, “How you doing? How’s the wrist?”

“It’s good. I’m pleased it’s only a microfracture. It’s been a little tricky resting it, but awkward is my middle name.”

My lips curve as I drink in the sight of her.

Swallowing hard, I motion to the crumpled bag in my fist. “Phoebe and Kayla love this stuff. I’ll put it inside before turning in for the night.”

“You mean you went out drinking and didn’t even get drunk?”

I chuckle. “I’m a little too old for that now, don’t you think?”

“I don’t know, sometimes it’s fun to let your hair down.”

I imagine running my hands through her hair. Those long, silky tresses that shimmer mahogany in the sunlight. Jesus.

“I like to make sure I’m not inebriated, just in case the girls need me.”

“That’s sweet of you.” A small smile permeates her beautiful face.

“I don’t know about that, but I’m not a big drinker, anyway. I can’t say the same for Leroy and Dallas, however.”

Now it’s her turn to laugh. “Yes, I’ve seen Leroy in action. That man can drink a Russian under the table with his own vodka.”

“That is true. But when it got to the end of the night, the two of them were looking to hook up. That’s when I left.” And I have no idea—as long as I live—why I just said that.

I admire the sparkle in her eyes when I pause. “Oh? A good-looking guy like you? You know–just between us—you’re the current catch of the county. You could hook up with just a click of your fingers.”

“I doubt that. Plus, it’s not my style. Most of them approach me like I’m a wild bear.”

“Well, you know what they say about choosing the bear over the man.” She laughs, and it’s delightful. I smile as she points at the rocker opposite. “Did you wanna stay and have a nightcap?”

My eyes widen slightly. Get your damn mind out of the gutter. Your grandchild is inside with her friend!

“You know what? That sounds like a great idea. Phoebe has some really nice scotch inside. Kinda moonshine. It’ll knock the wind right outta ya. Care for a glass?”

She nods. “I’d love one.”

I head inside. The girls are talking animatedly about the movie. When Kayla sees me, she jumps off the couch and envelops me in a big hug.

“Grandpa!”

I kiss the top of her head. “Hey, kiddo, I was dropping this in for you guys. How’s the movie going?”

“It’s really fun,” she says. “But we totally need more popcorn.”

“Hello, Mr. Sterling.” Mahini waves from her position on the chaise.

I give her a wave. “Hey, sweetheart. Good to see you.”

“Well, I’m just gonna have a drink on the porch with Pearl. You guys holler if you need anything, all right?”

“Okay!” Kayla rushes off to refill their bowls, and I head toward the top cupboard at the opposite end of the kitchen where the liquor is kept. I grab a couple of glasses and the bottle and head back outside.

Pearl hasn’t shifted from her spot.

I give her a chin lift. “What’re you readin’?”

She blinks for a second, looking at me blankly, then clears her throat. “Uh, I… My kind of novels are probably not to your taste.”