“But your sister stayed?”
“Let’s just say that lifestyle suits her just fine.” Cal grabbed another piece of chicken. “Anyway, enough of that. How was your day?”
“I stopped by to see my friend Bella. She’s newly pregnant and having a bit of morning sickness. Then I shopped and cooked and got caught up on things around my house.”
Cal looked over at Scotty who was just about to fall asleep in his chair. “Hey, kiddo. Why don’t you go get ready for bed and I’ll come and tuck you in?”
Without any argument at all, Scotty picked up his plate, set it on the counter, and headed down the hallway.
“I think the full day of playing with Josh wore him out.” Becky Lee smiled.
“I’m glad to see him having fun. It’s been tough on him.”
They finished eating and cleared the table. “I’ll be back to help with the dishes. Just need to get Scotty tucked in.”
Cal went down the hall to Scotty’s bedroom. The boy was already in bed. Cal went over and sat on the bed. He saw the familiar look of pain in the boy’s eyes. He’d do anything to take away that look. “You okay, kiddo?”
“I miss my mom and dad.” Scotty’s lip trembled. “It’s better when I’m playing with Josh and I’m busy.”
“I know it’s rough. I’m so sorry. Hopefully, your mom will wake up soon.”
“But Dad is gone forever. I miss him.” Tears filled Scotty’s eyes.
“I do, too, kiddo.” Cal leaned over and hugged the boy. “Try to get some sleep.”
The boy dashed away his tears. “Night, Uncle Cal. Will you leave that light on?”
“Sure thing, kiddo.” Cal left the lamp on and walked to the doorway. He glanced back at the boy curled up in bed. Scotty looked small and vulnerable. The weight of responsibility almost crushed Cal. He couldn’t mess this up.
~ * ~
Becky Lee tiptoed down the hallway to the kitchen. She’d gone back to say goodnight to her nephew but had paused when she heard Cal talking to him. She didn’t want to interrupt. She’d watched as Cal brushed a lock of hair back from Scotty’s face. The lamplight illuminated Cal and she could see the concern etched on his face. For a man who had never taken care of a boy, he was doing a great job with Scotty.
She returned to the kitchen and stood by the kitchen sink, staring out into the night. The poor kid. So many changes. A few minutes later Cal came into the room.
“Here, let me help.”
“You sit down and eat the pie I cut for you. I’m almost finished here. Join you in a sec.”
She finished loading the dishwasher and sat down beside Cal.
“This pie is great. Got any more?”
Becky Lee laughed. “Sure do. Help yourself.”
Cal got up and cut another generous slice and sat down. “I swear, I’m going to gain ten pounds with your cooking.”
Becky Lee doubted he’d gain that weight. His lean, muscled body bespoke a man who could eat huge meals and still stay in shape.
“I wanted to ask you something.” Cal put down his fork.
“What’s that?”
“Well, Scotty is having a sleepover at Josh’s on Friday. That’s all right don’t you think? To let him sleep over at Josh’s?”
“I’m sure it’s fine. He’ll have a good time.”
“I wondered if you wanted to go out while he’s gone. I mean, since we’re supposed to look like a couple and all. I could take you out to eat. At least that way I could feed you for a change.”
“I guess we should be seen out together.” Becky Lee fought off the momentary flick of excitement when he asked her out. It wasn’t like it was a real date.
“I’ll pick you up at six? Where should we go?”
“We could go to Sylvia’s Place. It’s nice. It’s owned by Bella’s husband’s brother, Jake, and Jake’s mom, Sylvia.” She laughed. “Did you follow that?”
“Got it. Sylvia’s it is. It’s a date.” Cal attacked his piece of pie again.
But it really wasn’t a date, was it?
CHAPTER TEN
Becky Lee flung another dress on the bed in exasperation. Nothing looked right on her. Nothing. She had a pile of skirts and sundresses on the bed. When was the last time she’d gone out on a date? She couldn’t even remember. Her dating wardrobe was sadly lacking.
And this technically wasn’t really a date.
But, no matter. She needed to find something to wear. Unfortunately, she didn’t have time now to go buy something new. She’d gotten hung up at work and only had about fifteen minutes to decide on an outfit and finish getting ready.