Hunger eventually forces us to leave the confinement of the bed. We get dressed and make our way down to the kitchen where I rummage through the fridge and cupboards in search of something to cook.
Willow: El Torito chicken salad or chicken tacos?
When I didn't hear Liam respond I wander out of the kitchen to find him staring at the picture on the mantel.
His eyes were glossy and full of sympathy.
He walked to me with determination wrapping me in his arms.
Liam: The pain you keep is too much for one person to bare Willow. Let me help you.
I stand frozen in a whirlwind of emotion wanting the ground to open up and swallow me so I wouldn't be tempted to bare my soul. My dark wretched soul to this beautiful man.
Finally catching my breath, I pull away putting all my focus on dinner.
Willow: So, what will it be?
He shakes his head letting out a frustrated huff.
Liam: Salad.
While I prepare everything for dinner Liam disappears then comes back with my tablet to continue reading my story at the dinner table.
I finish preparing the chicken and let it cool while chopping the lettuce.
Loki: Meow.
Loki is determined to win a piece of fallen chicken running hard against my leg as if trying to knock a price out of my hand.
With his still kitten sounding meow I give in tossing him a piece before setting the table complete with restaurant quality salads.
Liam pulls himself away from the story and looks at me.
Liam: Willow you are a damn good writer. I'm not much for picking up books but I honestly don't want to put this down.
Then he looks at the bowel in front of him. Remembering his hunger, he sets the tablet down and digs in.
Liam: Wow. That's better than the restaurant.
I smile and dig into mine.
He gets up to help clean.
Willow: NO go ahead and finish reading.
I clean up the kitchen and dishes then return to the table next to Liam. Hugging his arm, I lean on his shoulder.
When he finally finishes the story, he looks at me with an unreadable look.
Willow: What?
Liam: I did not see that coming.
I giggle at the cute surprised look he gives me.
Liam: You are an amazing writer, and an amazing woman.
He reaches over cupping my face with both hands.
Liam: Do you trust me?
I give him a sideways look of confusion.
Willow: I trust you.
Though I spoke hesitantly it was more out of curiosity rather than distrust.
Liam: I need you to promise that you will trust me.
Willow: Ok I promise?
Liam: Good let's go.
Willow: Where are we going?
He shoots me a serious look and I follow without further question to his car.