Ben bumped the door shut with his hip, returned to the coffee table and set the tray down. The scents of fried chicken and sweet potato floated toward her, although as delicious as she knew the food would be, it didn’t inspire her hunger.
“I ordered a large portion, enough for us both.” He peered at her from the couch as he bit into his chicken. “You should try this. The chicken tastes almost as good as what you make.”
“The chef’s a trained professional. I’m sure his chicken is far superior.” She plumped her pillow and rested back.
“There’s blueberry cheesecake as well, another of your favorites.” He lifted the plate holding a large slice with a mound of fresh blueberries on top and several rolling freely beside it.
“It looks yum.” She slumped back down.
“Please, Saria. Come and eat something. It’s not like you to forego a meal.” He patted the space next to him. “And don’t make me come over there and get you.”
“I’d like to see you try.”
“That sounded like a dare.” With feline grace, he stood then prowled with complete silence toward her. He plucked the sheet away, slid his hands underneath her and stopped. His breath came harder as he gazed at the lacy silk outlining her breasts. “This wasn’t the best idea. I should have made you walk.”
“Since you’re here, you can carry me.” She wrapped her arms around his neck before he could let her go. He would worry if she didn’t at least try to have a few bites, and she could surely manage that.
He carried her to the couch and settled her next to him. After cutting a sliver of chicken, he forked it into her mouth. “I don’t want you to worry.”
“I’m worried when you worry.”
“What’s upsetting you the most?”
“Everything. Me. You. Particularly you.” She relaxed her cheek against his shoulder. He had the biggest heart and cared far more than he’d ever let anyone know. If only he’d let himself experience all life had to offer. He’d shared his past with her, Brigs, and Tyler. Now he needed to be pushed to take that next step.
Memories stirred of the first time she’d pushed herself in that way. She’d been young, just a child when she’d found an abandoned puppy in town. She’d adopted it as her own, and nothing had made her happier than watching the animal grow strong as she’d nurtured it back to health. That could be what Ben needed. Something to love and cherish, that wouldn’t encroach on his decision to go it alone.
“Why are you worried about me?” His words were whisper-soft as he stroked the back of her head.
“You’re so good at looking after others, but you need to have something that’s all yours. What about caring for an animal? Their companionship and love heals the heart.”
He snorted. “My heart is completely fine.”
“Your heart’s taken a beating over the years, and you should get a pet, maybe a dog. They are supposed to be man’s best friend.”
“Open up. You need to eat.” He fed her a forkful of sweet potato then scooped a mouthful for himself.
She held up a hand so he couldn’t force her to eat anything more until she’d said what she needed to. “I hate the thought of you being alone.”
“I’m never alone, and since I live in the city and I’m away from home most of the time, looking after a dog wouldn’t suit.”
“Then I’ll look after your dog whenever you’re away. I love dogs.”
“That doesn’t take care of the city part.”
“There are dogs everywhere, including the city.” Maybe he needed more than a small push. “I think either a Labrador or a German shepherd would suit you. Those breeds make great guard dogs. You could train the animal and take it on duty with you.” Stifling a yawn, she picked up the cheesecake and slid a spoonful into her mouth.
“If I got a pet, a goldfish would be my limit.”
“A goldfish is good. I hear they don’t argue back. You’d be in your element.” She yawned again, set the cheesecake down and stood. “I’ll get you one.”
“You’ve only had a few bites. Sit.”
“I really am tired, and I need sleep more than food, particularly if I want a clear head to keep up with you tomorrow.” She crossed to her bed and flopped down.
“It’s my job to ensure your welfare.” Ben thumped his plate on the coffee table and stomped after her. “You’re making that hard, Saria.”
“Why are you so angry?”
“I’m frustrated, not angry.” He pulled the sheet over her and hovered. “I don’t want you thinking too much about what’s happened today.”
“I’ll try.” She stretched her tired muscles and settled as he arched one brow. “Stay with me if it makes you feel better.”
He crossed his arms and tapped them as he eyed the other side of her bed.
“I promise not to pounce.”
“Ha. I’ve heard that before, but I’ll stay, provided you remain on your side.” He marched around the bed, kicked off his shoes and rolled in beside her. “This’ll be no different to the old times we shared.”