Page 20 of Summer Swoon
CHAPTER8
Eve
“This is delicious.”Aunt Winnie said before placing another piece of salmon in her mouth.
“Thank you. It’s been one of my go-to meals for years. It’s fast and the cleanup is easy.”
I learned how to make the dish at a cooking class I took years ago. You simply place
salmon and zucchini in foil, add seasoning, and toss it on the grill. I usually serve it with jasmine rice, but you can skip the starch and keep it low carb.
“It’s been a long time since I had a home-cooked meal.”
“Do you ever cook for yourself?”
“Not like this,” she said. “Easy things like sandwiches or in the winter I make a pot of chili or soup and have it for a few days.”
“I get that. I don’t cook a lot since Grace moved away. I usually snack during the day and go out with my pole friends or grab takeout for dinner.”
“I’m so happy you started taking those classes.”
“Me too. My friend Sophie tried to get me to go for two years.” I scooped up a forkful of jasmine rice. “Thankfully I finally gave it a chance.”
“It’s been good for you.”
I nodded as I chewed.
“Both physically and mentally. It’s a great workout and learning how to climb the pole and do all the tricks gave me something to focus on besides my divorce.”
“Are you going to miss it while you’re here?”
“I am, but the break is nice too.”
“Have you looked to see if there are any studios close by?”
“No, my plan is to stay active and exercise so I’m not totally out of shape when I get back. But I’m sure there’s a studio within a reasonable distance if I wanted to go.” I chuckled. “That or I can put up a pole in my room. I’m sure you’d enjoy it too.”
A smug smile spread across her face.
“I know a young handyman who could install it for you.”
I shook my head and groaned.
“You’re way too obvious, Aunt Winnie.”
“You never did tell me about your date Saturday night.”
“He took me to a cute Italian bistro and the food was amazing. I had a nice time.”
I’m sure she’d love to hear about the fantabulous kiss, but I’m not sharing that. I didn’t even tell my pole peeps details, even though they each texted and tried to pry them out of me.
“Any plans for a second date?”
“We’re going hiking Wednesday,” I said. “I should be home for dinner if you want to go somewhere.”
“Don’t rush home on my account.”
“I won’trushhome, but we’re going sometime in the morning, so I doubt I’ll be out too late.” I wiped my hands and placed the napkin on my empty plate. “Besides, I’m here to spend time with you.”