By the time Kay arrives I’m still so frazzled that her soft knock on the door startles me, but her presence, nonetheless, has an instant calming effects on my nerves—like that first dip in the lake after dark.
“I waited an hour after I saw your mother’s car leave the lot. Not that I was counting down the minutes.” She holds up a bottle of champagne.
“Are we celebrating something?” I lean my hip against the kitchen counter and look Kay over. She’s wearing extra tight linen shorts and a halter top that accentuates her shoulders in a way that makes my mouth water.
“Our first date.” She steps closer. “I was expecting smoke in your kitchen and the irresistible smell of burning meat. Color me surprised.” While she hands me the bottle, she gazes deep into my eyes.
“My mom helped me cook.” I f
