Page 38 of Whisper Sweet Nothings
“I sure did. I heard you two were here, and I came right over.”
My uncle disappeared into the kitchen and returned with another hot chocolate.
And the three of us sat there talking about our days. We filled him in on what had happened at school, and I watched with absolute awe as he smiled at his daughter and told her that she’d done the right thing, even if it meant having to deal with a consequence that she didn’t like.
He didn’t disrespect her teacher.
He didn’t scold her for getting in trouble.
He just loved her.
I knew that kind of love from my own father.
Archer didn’t try to talk us out of stopping at Strawberry Fields for gift wrap. In fact, I caught him looking around as if he was actually interested.
And when we arrived home, they both said how good it smelled in the house, because I’d left a roast in the slow cooker.
“Admit you were wrong about the slow cooker,” I said with a laugh when Melody ran off to wash her hands.
“I didn’t say they weren’t good, just that I hadn’t used one.”
“You said they were ‘weird in concept,’ yet every meal I’ve made in this thing you’ve devoured.”
“Listen, you’re basically a gourmet cook. If you were cooking in an old-school hearth, it would still be good.” He laughed. “I don’t think it’s the slow cooker that’s making magic. That’s all you, Winnie.”
My breath caught in my throat at his words as he turned to grab a beer from the fridge.
When was the last time a man had made me feel like I was talented or special?
It had been a long time.
He held up a bottle for me, asking if I’d like a beer, and I shook my head no.
Alcohol did not mix well with the hot single dad in the house.
I knew myself way too well.
eleven
. . .
Archer
I’d tossedand turned all night.
Christmas was around the corner, work was crazy busy, and my nanny was consuming my thoughts.
I was horny as hell and tempted to take a shower so I could give myself a little fucking relief.
It was the one place I let my mind wander about the beautiful woman who was living in my home.
The woman who was great with my daughter, even getting defensive about how tough her teacher was.
Winnie was funny and witty and didn’t hesitate to give me shit when needed.
I couldn’t remember the last time I’d actually looked forward to spending time with a woman.
And this woman wasn’t mine.
