Chapter 28 - Twenty Eight
"Because I want to."
Those four simple words echoed through the sunlit kitchen, hanging in the silence between them. They were an answer that explained everything and nothing at all.
"What?" Delia asked, her voice barely audible, certain she must have misheard him. Was he admitting to feelings that went beyond their deal?
Eric’s serious expression suddenly broke, and a charming, teasing smile took its place. He picked up his spoon again. "You asked me why I’m doing all of this for you," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, it’s because I want to. To cook, that is." He gestured with his head towards the stove. "It’s been a while since I’ve had the chance to cook for someone else."
Delia felt a strange mixture of disappointment and relief. He was deflecting, keeping her at a distance, but also easing the sudden, intense pressure that had filled the room. She let out a small, pretentious smile of her own, playing along with his game.
"Eat," Eric told her again, his tone gentle once more. "The food is getting cold."
She nodded and took a small, hesitant bite. It was delicious. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the vegetables were cooked just right. She took another small bite, conscious of his eyes on her.
"Eat more," he urged softly.
"I might throw up," she replied honestly, the memory of the previous night still fresh.
"Then we start slow," he said, his voice patient and understanding.
They ate together in a comfortable silence. Delia ate more than she had in months, but she was careful, taking small portions and stopping when her stomach began to protest. Eric, noticing she was done, finished his own plate and then, without a word, reached over and pulled her plate towards him, finishing the food she couldn’t. It was a simple, domestic act, yet it felt more intimate than anything she had ever experienced.