She pinched her lips, then looked at him. “I don’t like people who hurt others for sport.”

Like Sean?

“I hate the smell of jasmine perfume.”

Because Sean came home smelling like it?

“I don’t like being stuck in traffic. I don’t like people who harm animals, or children. You could probably guess that one. I don’t like peas, cooked carrots, or tomatoes.”

“You don’t like tomatoes? Not even in spaghetti sauce?”

“Spaghetti sauce is fine, but I don’t like fresh tomatoes. They squish and squirt in your mouth. It’s gross.” She made a sour face and stuck out her tongue like children do when they don’t like something.

Luke laughed, loving her smile, and the way she made him relax and enjoy the moment.

They sat in the garden eating cookies, talking, and laughing together for the better part of two hours. They talked about everyday things and stories from their childhoods. They both avoided talking any more about work because they wanted to concentrate on getting to know each other aside from what they did for a living.

Sean didn’t come up again. He’d caused enough trouble between them, so Luke steered clear.

The sun set and the light faded. He helped Sarah pack up the leftover food and put the cooler back in her car. And when it was time for her to go, like always, he didn’t want her to leave.

She stood outside the driver’s side door. “I had a really good time.” She pressed her lips together and took a steadying breath. “There’s something I want to say.”

She stared at his chest for the longest time.

“You can say anything to me,” he coaxed.

She finally met his gaze again. “I have a complicated life. I know we’ve just begun to get to know each other, but . . . I’ve never felt this way about anyone. I hope we do this again.”

“I don’t just want to do this again, I want you to stay, even if we don’t know what that looks like right now. But I have four weeks to convince you.”

He closed the distance between them, pressed her up against the SUV, and kissed her until her hands wound around his neck, and she pulled him in tighter. They lost themselves in the kiss and each other. He savored the feel of her body pressed against his and completely lost his mind to her and the heady scent of her citrusy sweet perfume.

He broke the searing kiss, pressed one to her cheek, then whispered in her ear, “Stay with me.”

Her hands slid down his neck and shoulders and landed on his chest. “The boys will be home soon,” she reminded him.

Disappointed but understanding completely, he pressed his forehead to hers and stared into her gorgeous eyes. At least she knew he wanted her. “Promise me you’ll get some rest.”

“Are you trying to take care of me?”

“I’d like to, if you’d let me.” He brushed his hand down her arm and took her hand. “You haven’t given me your promise to rest.”