Page 30 of DadBod

“No need.”

“I’m sure the rest of the house is perfect.”

“I’ll give you a tour after we eat.”

That certainly catches my attention. That and the fact that he’s pulled out a bunch of fresh vegetables from the fridge and placed them on the counter.

Be still my heart.

My dream has come true.

I get to watch Rome cook.

For me.

I smell something delicious floating in the air. Since nothing is on top of the stove, I have to suspect it’s in the oven. What could it be? “What are you making?”

“I’m preparing you a baby-animal-free lunch.” He does two of the sexiest dang things I’ve ever seen; he raises his left brow and smirks.

Not wanting to sound ungrateful, I smile, closed mouth, and say, “I appreciate that.”

When Rome chuckles, my panties melt. Well, they get a bit moist, because one, he rarely laughs, and two, it’s deep and sort of raspy sounding. See? Sexy.

“I’m making a simple spinach salad with feta, roasted pine nuts, and cranberries. I made the dressing myself. Of course.”

Of course.

He smirks again. “In the oven I’ve prepared my own version of macaroni and cheese.”

“What?” I squeak. “Seriously?” That’s my all-time favorite meal. All. Time.

“I knew you’d like it.”

“How? How did you know?”

“Because I’ve overheard you ask chef to make you pasta with cheese sauce on more than one occasion. But I’ve put my own twist on it, of course.”

“Of course.”

I don’t know what I’m most excited about, being here with the man of my dreams, or eating the mac and cheese prepared by the man of my dreams.

Can it be both?

I watch him tear the stems off the fresh spinach one by one, placing each leaf into our bowls. As he does, I notice how quiet it is. “Wait.” I pause and lift my ear to be sure it’s truly silent. “Where are the kids?” It’s Saturday. Strange that I don’t at least hear them. Calvin for sure.

“Mom’s for the day.” Sliding the salad bowl in front of me topped with a fork, he adds, “Food is almost done, but you can start with this.” Rome goes on, “I wanted a chance to talk to you without my nosey children listening in.”

“I see.”

I don’t argue with him because at that moment, he opens the oven door, and the most delicious aroma makes its way to my nose. Mmm. Cheese. I practically salivate from the smell alone.

Rome pulls the perfect dish from his cupboard and spoons out a generous portion of noodles. He drops a few green flaky things on top and sets it in front of me. “Buon appetito.”

I know what that means. I’ve heard him say it before. It means enjoy your meal or something like that. “Thank you.” Sure, I know I should eat my salad first, but that’s not happening. I dip my utensil deep into the dish of pasta and lift a forkful of cheesy goodness. As I lift it to my mouth, cheese is pulling along with me like it just can’t let go. I feel the same. Opening my mouth, I slip the bite in and close it.

“It’s hot,” Rome warns.

I couldn’t care less. I chew slowly, savoring the flavors of multiple cheeses. Because of course Rome wouldn’t bother with just one kind. I squeeze my eyes shut so I can memorize the flavors. When I open them, Rome’s staring at me. He looks almost expectant. “Well?”