Chapter 9

Luke smiled wryly. “Sofia, get a plate first. And give him a chance to sit.”

Jamie caught his eye and smiled back. Sofia took the plastic plates out, and gave one to Jamie. He smiled at her too.

“Thank you, Sofia,” he said, and she wriggled in delight.

“I made the sandwiches!” she declared.

“And they look great,” Jamie said easily, and unwrapped his sandwich to take a bite.

Sofia was still hovering over him, clearly eager to see his reaction. Jamie seemed to realise this, as he gave a very pleased and exaggerated, “Mmm!” for her benefit.

And Luke’s mind did not wander off down more sordid paths at that sound and other places he’d like to hear Jamie make the same sound. Nope. Luke resolutely did not think about that right now.

“It’s delicious!” Jamie said, as Sofia bounced up and down.

“Sofia.” Luke reached out and tugged at her backpack, which she still had on. “C’mon and take this off, and sit down.”