PATIENT LOVE

Chapter forty-one

"Oh, yes," Harry practically groans when he enters the kitchen to see that Anne made tacos for us to eat after the long drive.

"Smells fantastic," I say, right behind Harry as he washes his hands before taking out plates from the cupboards.

"These are his favorites," Anne says and soon after Harry replies with a, "Still are."

Harry moves around the kitchen like it hasn't been a day since the last he was in here, the two work well together. I stand back to just watch them, enjoying the mother-son interaction.

"Don't just stand there babe, come on," Harry calls me over once noticing how I stand next to the kitchen entrance. I blush kind of embarrassed that he called me babe in front of his mom but he doesn't seem to mind or care.

Anne sends me a knowing smile before going back to cutting up the rest of the lettuce.

"Sorry," I quickly apologize as I wash my hands and quietly ask what to do.

Harry gives me the simple task of getting the pitcher of lemonade and placing it on the table.

"Okay, Chef Harry," I jokingly salute and laugh right after when Harry scolds me with his hand on his hip.

In a short few minutes we have the table set for our early lunch. And while we jump into several different conversations, I finally get to meet Robin as he comes back from the grocery store with items that Anne will need for dinner.

Harry seems very close with Robin, despite the fact that he's his step-father. The man is hard not to love.

I find myself more observing the family more than anything but making sure to speak and add input when needed. They all aren't afraid to show affection and it makes me miss my own family, I should probably give them all a call soon.

The laughs and conversations are lively already on their own, I can't help but imagine how dinner will be when Gemma's here. I'm hoping she likes me.

Every time I look at Harry, he has a new taco in his hand and it makes me laugh. I guess tacos are a clear path to his heart.

"Save room for dinner," I scold him playfully and he makes sure his mom and Robin aren't looking before he flicks me off with an unwavering smirk on his lips.

"Seems like the weather is clearing out, we can finally go do that shopping I promised," Anne says as we all help clear out the table.

"I'm ready whenever you are," I smile.

"Wait, what?" Harry asks, drying off his hands.

I turn to him. "We're going shopping," I say.

"Really," he says. "And what am I supposed to do here while you go off with my girlfriend?" he asks Anne.

"Find one of your old mates, I'm sure they would be glad to see you and you have Robin to keep you company," Anne says as she brushes pass Harry to grab her coat and purse and I do the same.

"Ok, well we're off, see you later boys," Anne makes sure to kiss both Harry and Robin on the cheek before departing.

I face Harry to give him a quick goodbye as we step out onto the porch. Seconds later Harry opens the door and before we can say anything he hands us an umbrella.

"Just in case," he smiles, putting it in my hand and quickly kissing my lips.

The boutique shops that Anne takes us to are in the city. People swarm the streets and the inside of the shops. All sorts of things are on display to buy. I find that Anne has a particular interest in the jewelry and nail polish sections, finding rare ones that excite her.