“I’m going to be a private chef. My client just wants me to deliver the meals twice a week, so I can do it from home and still be with all of you. It means Mia can do her gymnastics, and Will, we can start saving for college.”

Will’s face hardened. “I don’t want you working yourself to the bone to pay for college for me. I’ve been looking around town for a part-time job. I can pay my own way. You’re already wearing yourself out with how much you do. You’re gonna get sick.”

Mia tugged on my hand, eyes shining. “I don’t want you to get sick. I don’t need the extra classes.”

I lifted Mia into my arms, sending a stern look in Will’s direction. “You guys, I’m fine. This offer is kind of my dream job. I get to create fun menus for someone. And I cook a ton around here anyway. Why not get paid for doing a little more? I’m not going to get sick, Mi.”

“Promise?” she whispered, burrowing her face in my neck.

“Promise.” I adjusted my hold on Mia. Soon, she would be too big for me to even lift her.

“Who’s the client?” Kenna asked.

I swallowed hard, avoiding Kenna’s gaze. “It’s Griffin Lockwood.”

“Oh, hell no,” Will cut in.

“Will! Language.” I set Mia down on the floor but kept an arm around her.

Will gripped the back of a chair. “He probably just wants in your pants.”

“Why would Mr. Griffin want your pants? He wouldn’t fit in them. He’s a giant,” Mia offered helpfully.

I rubbed my temples. This was not at all how I’d imagined tonight going. “You guys, stop. I want this. It’s a great opportunity, and Griffin is really nice.” I met Will’s stare. “I would think we would know better than most not to believe island gossip about someone. He has been nothing but kind to me, and this job is going to change things for us.”

Will looked down at the floor, but his tight grip on the chair remained. “Sorry.”

“Apology accepted. Now, can we please, for the love of all that’s holy, stuff ourselves silly with pizza and ice cream?”

“Yes!” Mia shouted, running for the dinner table and plopping down.

I glanced at Kenna. “You joining us?”

“Why not? Crosby’s getting in some climbing and grabbing beers with Ford and another friend. I think I’ve earned some pizza with my favorite people.”

I wrapped an arm around her. “I think so, too.”