Page 7 of Wrong Number, Right Grumpy Silver Fox

"Sure, you can do that while I cook."

We both work in silence as if we were an old married couple. I might be fifty, but I've got some good years left in me that I can spend giving Sarah the world. Let's face it, I'm a grumpy billionaire with more money than I know what to do with.

"Dinner is served."

I sit down across from her at the dining room table. She looks so beautiful, I can't stop watching her every move. She serves me a plate with what looks to be a risotto and I wait patiently for her to sit down again so we can eat together.

These little things like eating together and going shopping give me comfort and show me a possible life for the both of us. I groan inwardly. I've known Sarah for two days, and I'm already making a life with her in my head.

"It's mushroom risotto."

"Where did you learn to cook?"

"My grandmother taught me the basics. Later I saved up for cookbooks. They're back there in the bookcase."

I take a bite, and the rice is creamy and flavorful. I could get used to eating like this every day of my life. Of course, I would offer to cook every once in a while, or rather, get delivery.

"This is delicious, Sarah."

"I'm glad you like it."

Her cheeks turn rosy as she blushes from the compliment.

"How long do you think it will take us to finish the kitchen, Mitchell?"

"If I can get away during the afternoons I think two, maybe three weeks. I can come around 3pm after I'm done with my other work. How does that sound to you?"

"Mmm, I'd only be able to help starting at five when my workday ends."

"That's fine. I think we're going to work well together."

"I think so, too. What got you into doing construction work?"

"Actually, I'm an architect."

"Really? That's so exciting. Is it hard work?"

"It can be demanding, but once you're doing better with the business you bring others on to help you out, and it's not so bad. That's why I'm able to spend my afternoons here."

"I think it would be cool to study architecture. I'm saving up to further my education. I've only got a Bachelor in arts."

"You can do it. You can do anything you put your mind to."

"You think?"

"I know. You're not scared of hard work and curious enough about things to teach yourself about them. Those are important things to get ahead in life."

"Sometimes I feel like I'm not enough. I should have been able to help grandmother with her bills, and I was a burden to her."

"Stop talking like that. Your grandmother appreciated everything you did for her, and she loved you exactly as you are."

I'm surprised at my harsh tone. She looks startled too, but I can't help myself. I don't want her thinking poorly about her life and her achievements. After a while she goes back to her smiling self.

"I appreciate that. I have this tendency for negative talk in my head and I need to figure out how to get rid of it or make it better."

"Just tell me when your thoughts go on a dark spiral and I'll set you right."

"Why are you being so kind to me?"