I blink. “You speak Greek?”
Worth laughs, shaking his head. “Don’t get too excited. That’s about the extent of it. Greetings, thank you, and whatever helps me get fed faster.”
Brianna giggles, and I grin.
We order mezze to share—warm pita, tzatziki, dolmades, grilled halloumi—followed by souvlaki for Brianna and lamb for Worth. I let him order for me, something I don’t usually do, and I don’t miss the satisfaction in his expression when I ask him.
Midway through dinner, Brianna launches into an excited explanation about her school hosting an art show next month.
“I’m showing one of my wolf drawings,” she says proudly. “I really want you both to come.”
Worth looks at me. “Are you in Mya?”
“I’d love to come,” I say without hesitation.
Brianna beams, practically vibrating in her seat.
The rest of the evening blurs into easy conversation and laughter.
When we’re finishing up, one of the owners comes by.
“Dessert is on us.” He ignores Worth’s protests, as a waiter brings out loukoumades—golden and warm, drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon.
Later, Worth excuses himself to use the restroom, and the moment he’s gone, Brianna turns to me, her expression suddenly serious.
“I’ve never seen my dad this happy. I’m really glad that you’re in our life.”
Emotion swells in my chest, sharp and sweet all at once. I reach for her hand, squeezing gently. “I’m really glad too.”
And I am. Which makes it hurt all the more knowing it’s temporary.
Does it have to be?my mind wonders.
In the privacy of Worth’s home, we fit effortlessly.
Out there, though? Worth is the blue collar playboy.
And I’m just… Mya.
A nobody.
I shake off the intrusive thoughts just as Worth reappears, and somehow, he immediately senses the shift.
“Are you okay, Kitten?”
“EW!” Brianna exclaims. “Why would you call herthat?”
I burst out laughing. Worth’s expression doesn’t falter, though I know he’s fighting a smile.
“Because she’s?—”
Brianna holds up a hand. “Please spare me the explanation. I might gag.”
That finally does it—Worth chuckles. “I just love getting you riled up, Piglet.”
She groans dramatically, but she’s smiling.
After a good fifteen minutes of lingering goodbyes with the owner, we head back to Worth’s place.