by L. P. Dover
Mom: We’re back in town. Hope everything is okay?
I can’t help but smile.
Me: All is great. Does Dad still have his chicken costume?
Mom: Yes, why?
She’s going to die with laughter when she finds out my plans for it. Greyson said he’ll do anything to prove how much he loves me, and soon he’ll get his chance. It’ll be the perfect payback and the media will get what they want.
Me: I’ll tell you everything tomorrow morning when I come to pick it up.
Greyson is nowhere to be found when I come out of my bedroom, but I end up seeing him through the kitchen window, sitting by the pool on one of the lounge chairs.
I can’t help but stare at him. The guy is insane. All of my friends at the hospital are going to talk about his little stunt forever. They loved him. The crazy thing is they think we’re actually married. Then again, it feels right. I don’t mind playing along.
I open the door and he glances back at me, smiling as I approach him. “Hey,” he says. “It’s a nice night.” The stars are out and it’s a little humid, but the slight wind makes it perfect. I sit down in my lounge chair and face him. He spreads his legs and places his hands behind my knees to pull me closer. “Thank you for letting me stay here tonight.” The lights around the pool twinkle in his eyes.
My lips pull back into a smile. “I couldn’t let you go home after what you did today. I think all the nurses on my floor are in love with you.”
He slides his hands up and down my thighs. “There’s only one nurse I care about.”
My brows lift. “That’s good. You can prove it to the world tomorrow too.”
He chuckles and pulls me over to his chair. “Oh yeah? How am I to do that?”
I lay beside him and rest my head on my elbow so I can look at him. “I have a plan. Just be ready to go first thing tomorrow morning.” Leaning down, I kiss him and giggle. “We have to make a pit stop at my parents’ house. There’s something I need.”
He groans. “Do I even want to know what it is?”
“You’ll find out tomorrow,” I say with a laugh. “Just be prepared for anything.”
Greyson cups my cheek with his hand, his expression serious. “What are we going to do, Leah? I know we haven’t been together long, but I don’t want to go back to Raleigh without knowing what we are to each other.”
“What do you want us to be?” I know what I want in my heart. It may be impulsive and crazy, but I can’t see it any other way. I love him. Heart racing, I wait for him to answer.
He leans up and kisses me. “You know what I want. I want us to be together. For real. None of this fake marriage shit. It doesn’t have to be right now, but eventually, I want you to truly be mine. To be my wife.”
The butterflies in my stomach swirl around inside me. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. I lean into his touch. “We could always plan another wedding and invite our family and friends? Until then, we could keep on pretending. I kind of like being your wife.”
His other hand comes up to my face. “And I love hearing you say it. I’ll do whatever you want.”
I straddle his waist and rock my hips against his. “Now we just need to decide the living situation.”
Groaning, he bites his bottom lip and grips onto my waist, pushing his cock into me. “You’re torturing me to get your way, aren’t you?”
“Is it working?”
He nods quickly. “Oh yeah. But you don’t have to do that. I am more than happy to move to Charlotte. I told you, I’d do anything for you.”
Slowly, I slide off of him and reach for his hand. “Good. Now let’s go inside. We have a lot of makeup sex to get to. Tomorrow, the world will get their first glimpse of Mr. and Mrs. Greyson Jennings.”
He jumps up and picks me up in his arms. “Sounds fucking perfect to me.”
The chicken costume is in a giant bag in the back of Greyson’s trunk and he has no clue what’s in it. My parents had brought our golf clubs back with them so they saved us a trip back to Charleston. Luckily, my dad was nice to Greyson when we stopped by. Of course, my father will always think no one is good enough for me. That’s a dad for you. But hopefully, after today, he’ll see how much Greyson loves me and how much I love him. I told them to get to the course soon so they can hear mine and Greyson’s first interview. I’m hoping it’ll ease the tension between Bryan and Greyson. My brother is my best friend. I don’t need his blessing to be with Greyson, but I do want them to get alone one day.
When we get to the golf course, Greyson opens the back of his SUV and I smile at the bag. He stares at it with concern. “Do I get to see what’s in there yet?”
“Yep.” I toss it to him, and he opens it. The first thing that pops out are the feathers on top of the chicken’s head.
His mouth gapes. “Holy shit. You want me to play golf wearing this?”
I shake my head. “Nope. You are going to caddie for me wearing it. I contacted every single news station in the area. They’re going to make sure to document this for the whole world to see.”
His head rears back and he laughs. “Fuck me, this is epic. I should’ve known you’d do something like this.”
I nod at the costume. “Put it on. My tee time’s coming up.”
He pulls out the entire costume and slips it on over his clothes. The chicken hat slips on over his head with the feathers flopping in the wind, but it’s open around his face. This way, everyone can see it’s him. By now, we’ve drawn the attention of everyone in the parking lot. Phones are out and people are snapping pictures. I’m loving every minute of it.
“Okay, caddie, you need to get us a cart,” I tell him.
He smirks at me and struts off. “You got it.” A couple minutes later, he walks out and gets in a cart, the chicken feathers flying all over the place as he drives it over to me. He gets out and straps my clubs to the back of the cart. “All right, we’re ready.”
“Did the guys in the clubhouse say anything to you?” I ask. I called them ahead of time and told them to expect a large crowd. They were happy to accommodate me, especially when I told them about Greyson being in his costume.
He laughs. “They asked permission to put a picture of me in my chicken suit on their website.”
Giggling, I get in the cart. “And you said?”
He slides into the driver’s seat. “I said yeah.” He leans over and kisses me. “I told them this is all my wife’s doing.” By now, there are more cars pulling into the parking lot. I told the news vans nine o’clock and it’s nine on the dot. Greyson points at the long line of cars coming into the parking lot. “Looks like we’re not getting any golf time in just yet.”
I pat his leg. “Oh, we will. I just figured you’d want the interview before you get all hot and sweaty in the suit.”
His grin widens. “I don’t care about that. You’re the one who has to be seen with me.”
A couple of vans pull in close to us and out come the cameras. Greyson waves and walks over to my side, taking my hand. All of the people who were in the parking lot come over to stand behind the cameras, curious to see what’s going on. My parents pull in and join them, along with my brother and his wife.
One of the reporters, Sherry Groves, hurries up and thrusts a microphone in our direction. She was one of the first reporters I contacted to give the scoop, and also a patient of mine from when she had her gallbladder removed two years ago.
“It’s good to see you again, Leah,” she says, giving me a quick hug. I know she wants to be the first person to interview us.
I hug her back and smile. “Same, Sherry.”
She turns to Greyson. “And Mr. Jennings, it’s an honor to formally meet you.”
Greyson nods and shakes her hand. “Likewise.”
A couple more reporters rush toward us, but Sherry moves closer. “I hear a congratulations are in order. You two are married now.”
Greyson drapes his arm over my shoulders. “Thanks, Sherry.”
<
br /> Sherry giggles. “The pictures are hilarious. You look so cute and in love. I know you broke a lot of hearts.”
Greyson holds me closer. “I knew this one was the one. I couldn’t let her get away.”
“What about your family?” Sherry asks me. “Everyone knows there’s been a rivalry between Greyson and your brother. How has this affected your relationship?”
I glance over at Bryan and I’m at a loss for words. He doesn’t look angry, but he doesn’t look happy. I’m sure my mother said something to him. Greyson clears his throat. “Sherry, if you don’t mind, there’s something I want to say.”
I look up at Greyson and his eyes are on my brother. “I have nothing but the utmost respect for Bryan Nelson. Yes, we’ve had some issues in the past, but I’m sorry for each and every one of them. Hopefully, one day he can forgive me. Leah is everything to me and I want to make her happy.”
Bryan’s mouth gapes in shock, but he pulls it together and nods at Greyson in reply. When my parents smile, I know everything will be okay. Sherry holds a hand to her heart. “That is so sweet. I just have one more question.” She waves a hand up and down the chicken suit. “Why are you wearing that exactly?”
It’s my turn to answer. “He said he’d do anything to prove he loves me, and this is the test. He’s done a good job, don’t you think?”
Sherry giggles. “I’d say so.”
Several more questions are asked about our time in Vegas and who I’m going to pull for during the tournaments, either Greyson or my brother. I happily said I’ll be pulling for them both. Once all the reporters leave, several of the paparazzi stick around to snap pictures of me and Greyson and my family.
My mother hugs me hard and whispers in my ear. “You got a keeper, sweetheart.”
“Yes, I do,” I agree.
As soon as she lets me go, my father takes her place and hugs me. “Now are you married or not?”
I burst out laughing. “No. You think I’d do that without letting you walk me down the aisle?”
He lets me go and winks. “That’s my girl.”
Greyson holds out his hand to my father. “I’m sorry for everything, Mr. Nelson.”
My dad shakes his hand. “Water under the bridge, son. Just make my daughter happy.”
“Always,” Greyson replies.
Now the only one left is Bryan. He walks over and shakes Greyson’s hand. “Did you mean it or was it just for show?”
Greyson stares at him, his expression serious. “I meant every word. I’m hoping we can move on and be friends? And one day, brothers?”
Bryan glances at me and then back to him. When I see him smile, it warms my heart. “Friends. And if you hurt my sister, I’ll kick your ass.”
Greyson pulls me in closer. “That’s not going to happen.”
Once everyone walks away, I take the chicken head off Greyson. “Looks like we got what we wanted. The world got their exclusive interview, you proved you’d do anything for me, and my family is starting to like you.”
He leans down to kiss me. “And most importantly, I have you. But there’s something missing here.”
“What?” I ask.
His fingers brush down my cheek. “I’ve proven myself to you, but have you done that for me?” There’s a mischievous twinkle in his eyes which I’ve learned means he has something up his sleeve.
I love that he’s spontaneous and adventurous. Sometimes I wonder if it’ll ever get me into trouble. The thought excites me. “What do you want me to do?”
Holding me around the waist, he bites his lip and grins. “Since the world already thinks we’re married, we could easily hop on the jet to Vegas to make it official.” His smile widens. “It’ll be our secret. At least, this way, you’ll truly be mine. No pretending. We could still have a wedding here for our family and friends.”
It's my turn to give him my mischievous smirk. Just last night, I did something he has no clue about. "There's something I should probably tell you."
His brows furrow, and I can see the curiosity on his face. "What is it?"
"Having an actual wedding here in town is a must. My dad won't be happy until he gives me away. But I should probably inform you that I've already proven myself. You see ..." I look away and giggle. "I am your real wife. I called the chapel and had them file our papers last night."
Greyson grips my face and anxiously searches for the truth in my eyes. "Are you serious? All kidding aside, are you really my wife?"
Lifting up on my toes, I kiss him. "For as long as you want me."
He holds me tight and lifts me in his arms. "I love you. I'm never letting you go."
"Good. I don't want you to." This time, he kisses me, and I smile. "I love you too."
THE END!
Praise for A Date with a Foodie
I’ve been left hungry, wanting for more. Deliciously romantic, and although it is short it will satisfy your appetite for romance.
—Yoneidis Martín Martínez
Ok as a foodie I loved this book!!!! A quick read as always and fun.
—Jennifer
This romance is one tasty morsel that will have you savoring every turn of the page.
—One More Chapter
One way to my heart is food...and this book delivers just that.
—Christina Wilson
One
Madeline
Growing up, I never imagined my life would be the way it is today. When people say they eat, sleep, and breathe their work, I can honestly say I believe it. I live it. Then again, it’s kind of nice living in the third-floor apartment above my restaurant. All I have to do is get ready for the day, walk down two flights of steps, and voila, I’m at work. Winning that cooking competition right after I graduated from culinary school really paid off. All I had to do was wait for the right piece of property to become available. It took a few years, but it all worked out in the end. My parents were both chefs and it was their dream to open their own restaurant, but they never did. I’m thankful I was able to do it, even if it did take me until I turned thirty-five.
Once I have my dark red hair pulled back and one of my white chef’s aprons in hand, I head out the door to go down to my restaurant, Maddy’s Tavern. We don’t open up for another three hours, but I like to prepare early. Our lunch shift is always busy, but our evenings are slammed. We operate reservation only for dinner. Maddy’s Tavern has only been open for a year and every day it grows. One day, it’ll be known as one of the best restaurants in Chicago. One day. The chance of that happening is slim, but I can still dream.
The staircase leading to my apartment is in the back of the restaurant and it’s only accessible with a key. I had the door put in to keep people from venturing up to my floor in search of the bathroom. It happened a couple of times before and that was enough for me.
When I open the back door to the restaurant, it just so happens that Katy, my best friend and restaurant manager, walks through the front door, holding the morning newspaper and dressed in a nice black pants suit with her sleek blonde hair pulled back into a low ponytail. Katy and I have been best friends ever since we were kids. While I went to culinary school, she got herself a Business degree. Now she works for me.
“Hey,” I say, locking the door behind me.
Katy waves and her engagement ring glitters. “Good morning. It’s such a pretty day outside.” She’s in a giddy mood and I love it. Her boyfriend finally popped the question a couple of nights ago. It’s about time too. Katy and I are thirty-five years old. She’s been dying to start a family. I, on the other hand, have only been able to think about my restaurant. I’m happy for her though. One of us needs to have the husband and kids. I’ll be the favorite aunt when she does decide to have some.
“Any plans for the wedding yet?” I ask, meeting her at the bar.
She beams as she sets her purse and newspaper down on the counter. “Of course. We’re thinking this December. I’ve always wanted to have a wintery wedding.”
&n
bsp; I laugh. “You’ll definitely get that. I’ll cater for you, if you want.” Then, I wink. “Free of charge.”
Katy shakes her head and sits down in one of the bar stools. “No, absolutely not. You are my maid of honor. I need you by my side the entire time. I can’t have you stressed about getting the food done.”
“Okay,” I say, holding up my hands as I sit down beside her. “The offer still stands.”
She bumps me with her shoulder. “I really appreciate it though.”
“You’re very welcome.”
The front door opens and in walk Noah and Camryn, deep in conversation about something. They both graduated from culinary school with me and we all became close friends. When I bought my building, I reached out to them to see if they’d work for me. They both have different talents in the kitchen. Noah is my sous chef and helps me with all the food while Camryn is my pastry chef. She handles all of the desserts.
“Hey guys!” I shout, waving my hand in the air. “What are you two talking about? And please tell me it’s not the nonsense of how bananas don’t belong in banana pudding or some other crap like that.”
Noah and Camryn are both in their early thirties. In school, they would get into heated discussions about what belongs in food and what doesn’t. I always find their debates comical.
Camryn tilts her head back and laughs. She’s five feet tall but also a firecracker. Noah never stands a chance against her. “No, that was last week’s argument. Actually, we’re not talking about food this time. We’re discussing different dog breeds. I’m thinking of getting one.”
“Oh, that’ll be awesome. Let me know what you decide. I love dogs.” I love them, but I don’t have the time to get one. Hopefully, one day I will.
They walk up to the bar and Noah pulls out his notepad. “Okay, boss, what are we thinking for our special today? Pork chops? We just got a shipment in last night.”
