She shook her head. “Not as long as it’s worth my time.”

She heard his breathing down the phone. Then he said, “Okay, deal. But if you write anything I don’t agree to, I’ll make you pay for it.”

The threat should have bothered her, but it didn’t. Perhaps because she’d seen him kowtow to his little sister only the night before, or because she knew the reason for his reluctance. “Agreed. I’ll help with your meal. I can be there at five and have dinner done by six-thirty. Does that suit?”

“Yes.” He exhaled softly. “Thank you. Is there anything I need to buy?”

“Two dozen potatoes and a block of cheese.” Deathly silence. Winding him up was such fun, but he clearly wasn’t in the mood for jokes. “How do you like Italian? I can cook pumpkin ravioli, risotto, and lemon cake for dessert. No need to buy anything. I have everything I need at home.” She’d have to sacrifice the family cake, but she’d happily give up ten such cakes to get the story she needed.

“That sounds fantastic.” His voice had warmed considerably, and she found she liked it.

Aria grinned. “You’ll make it worthwhile, I’m sure. Now, I’d better get back to work. See you later.”

At five o’clock, Aria turned up on Eli’s doorstep with several bags of food and a big smile. Eli wondered if she ever stopped smiling.

“One caterer, as promised,” she announced, pushing past him to unload the bags in the kitchen, her calves sleek as she bounced along the hall in chunky high heels.

“I’m so glad you could help,” he said, regardless of the price he’d pay for her assistance. He needed her on-side tonight. Family dinners were, frankly, unpleasant. Hopefully, she would cook a great meal and stay away from his parents. The last thing he needed was for her to bring up their kiss in front of them. On that note...

“I bought you some chocolates,” he told her, grabbing the box from the bench and handing it over.

“Do you think you can buy my goodwill with chocolates?” she asked, laughing.

“Of course not. I need to apologize for last night. I got carried away, and I’m sorry.”

“Wow.” Her eyebrows shot up as she scanned the box. “Good choice. Creamy and chocolatey. Perfect. How did you know?”

Eli smiled as her approval sent a tingle of pleasure through him. Most women of his acquaintance weren’t easily pleased. Many things about Aria were refreshing. She was colorful and cheerful and passionate. Nice to look at, too. The women he usually met tended to be elegant and sophisticated—tall and lean, whereas Aria was average height and delightfully proportioned. Today, a V-necked summer dress displayed her ample curves to perfection.

“They’re my favorite,” he confessed.