Harold cleared his throat. “Come on now, we’ve got shit to do, and I’m not getting any younger.”
“Pops,” Gavin groaned.
“I know, I know. Language.”
Remi smiled. “Anyone want a muffin before we start?”
Williams’s hand shot up. “I love muffins.”
“I hope you like banana,” she said, pulling the clear wrap off the top.
Just as I went to reach for one, Harold caught my eye behind Remi’s back. He shook his head frantically, mouthingNo. Gavin covered his mouth to hide his smile. My brow furrowed, hand frozen mid-reach.
Remi glanced back, and her grandfather’s face smoothed out. He patted his generous stomach. “I’m still full from my afternoon snack, bug, but thank you.”
Remi shrugged.
“You know, I’m good, thank you,” I answered carefully, giving her grandfather another curious look. He nodded like I’d made the right decision.
Williams popped half a muffin into his big mouth, took a few bites, and then froze. He tried to chew, his mouth moving even more slowly.
“It’s a new recipe,” Remi said, watching him closely. “I hope it’s okay.”
“Gweat,” he said, mouth still stuffed full of muffin. “Reawy gweat.”
She exhaled. “Good. Okay, let’s get to work.”
Harold motioned for us to hang back as Gavin and Remi walked into the house.
Williams was still trying to chew. Unsuccessfully, by the looks of it.
Harold pulled a napkin from his pocket and handed it to him. “Here you go, son.”
The muffin came out as soon as the napkin was up to his mouth.
“That bad?” I asked.
“Like trying to eat glue,” Williams answered gravely.
Harold sighed. “I love that girl, but she is the worst cook I’ve ever met in my life.”
I laughed quietly. “Good to know she has a flaw somewhere.”
Harold gave me a sharp look.
Williams whistled. “I’m gonna go help inside, I think.” Then he nodded at Harold. “Thank you for the napkin, sir.”
He patted his pocket. “I always carry some, just in case she springs something new on me.”
After the rookie jogged into the house, Harold laid a hand on my arm to hold me back, and we were left alone.
Based on the scrutiny in his weathered face, there was a good chance I was in for awhat are your intentions toward my granddaughtertalk. My entire body braced for impact.
Harold pursed his lips before he spoke. “She told me your secret.”
Okay then. Maybe not.
When my brow furrowed, he held up a hand. “Now, don’t get mad at her.”