Page 43 of Finding Redemption

“Lachlan pulled out the big guns,” she says, scanning the menu again.

“Yes, well, I suppose we should buy whatever we want.” The waiter returns with the wine. “Thank you,” I say as he pours our glasses.

“Are you ready, sir?” He looks expectantly at me.

“Reese?”

“Do you have any suggestions?” She raises her brows in question.

“May I?” She nods, giving me my opening. “We’ll have the polenta in roasted pepper sauce and the shrimp san Marzano. Thank you.” I take Reese’s menu, handing it over with mine.

“Thank you. I had no clue what to order,” she says as the waiter walks away.

“Well, you should thank my mother.” Her eyes snap to mine. “She taught me well.”

“I suppose that’s what you do when you have boys.” She smiles at me until she reads the frown on my face. Always there the minute I think of her. “Did I say something to upset you?”

“No, I’m okay,” I mutter. Her eyes search mine and before I realize it, I’m telling her everything. “I have a sister, Sallie.”

“Oh, I didn’t know. Is she older? Younger?” Reese smiles at me, ready to hear anything I’ll share. Except this. No one likes to hear this story, so I’ll keep it light.

“Sallie’s the oldest… was the oldest. Then me, and Riley’s the baby, and he damn well rides it.” Her brow furrows and I know what’s coming, so I answer without hesitation. “We lost Sallie years ago.”

Reese lays her hand on mine, slightly squeezing it. “I’m so sorry, Walker.”

I brush my thumb over her fingers, enjoying the warmth of her touch. My eyes flicker to hers, brimming with tears. “Thank you.” I hold her hand tightly before letting it go, silently admonishing myself for holding hope, even if for a moment. “So have you had a chance to read through our offer?” I change the subject so fast, I think her head spins. When she narrows her eyes, I know I’ve hurt her feelings, but Sallie doesn’t get shared.

“I have a few questions.” She pulls the file from her chair where it’s been tucked.

“I thought you might.” I see the waiter coming our way and hold my hand up to her. “Let’s eat first.” I incline my head to our appetizer.

“Of course.” She lays the file to the side as she stretches her neck to examine the polenta. “I’ve never eaten this before. Is it good?”

“It’s wonderful. The roasted peppers set off all of the flavors.”

I offer her the first taste. She leans in, wrapping her crimson-colored lips around the grilled triangle of bread, grazing my fingers with her tongue. Licking my lips, I watch as she savors the taste. “Good?”

A smile spreads across her face as she savors the food. “The caramelized onions are to die for.” She sips her wine as she watches me finishing the polenta. “I’m impressed.”

“Why do I get the feeling you don’t like trying new things?

“No, more like change is my issue.” She glances at me. “My mother and I had a rough time after my father left.” She shrugs.

My chest constricts at the thought of her not having what she needs. “Single parents are the most unheralded heroes.”

“Agreed. That’s why he left us for another woman with a child.” Her lips flatten into a thin line, her face flushing with anger.

“I can understand why you’d be angry.” I spin my glass, trying to not pry.

“Angry? No, my mom is angry. I’m hurt, confused even, but not angry.” A tear escapes from the corner of her eye. I fight to keep from catching it.

“Reese, you confound me.” My heart ramps its beat, making me pray it doesn’t jump from my chest.

“Are you surprised?” She grins coyly.

“Intrigued would be the word, Reese. Captivated even.” I fight leaning in to kiss her as she sinks her teeth into her lip. Her eyes flutter to over my shoulder.

“Our meal is here.” She points to the approaching plates.