Chapter 42 First Date

“Come on in,” Carson greeted when Serena and the kids showed up at his door. “It is good to see you again,” Serena said, smiling. “This is Olivia and Oliver.” She introduced the twins. “Hi,” they said together. Olivia grabbed the back of toys Serena had on her arm and they took off. “Play quietly,” Serena called “Remember we are inside!” She sighed and gave Carson an apologetic look. “Don’t worry,” he said. “I’ve removed everything breakable from this floor.” He was teasing her, and Serena laughed lightly. At least he was realistic about the twins. “I brought them enough toys and games to keep them busy while I make dinner,” she said. “The kitchen is this way,” Carson said. He put his hand on the small of Serena’s back and started guiding her into the kitchen. She felt her cheeks redden with a blush from the contact “Thanks,” she said. “What are you going to make?” Carson asked. Serena shrugged, going to the refrigerator and cabinets, seeing what Carson had in the house. “I’ll throw something together with whatever you have,” she said. Carson laughed. “Not following a recipe. That is risky, I love it,” he teased her. Serena smiled pulling some things out of the refrigerator and cabinets. “Would you like help?” “Sure, I need a sauté pan and a knife,” she said. “Also, where are your herbs?” Carson got up. He put a pan on the stove, handed Serena the knife she’d requested, and brought a spice rack over from the opposite counter. “Well, you look like you know what you’re doing,” Carson said. “I don’t,” Serena admitted. The twins ran into the kitchen, Oliver carrying a plane and making engine sounds while he chased after Olivia. “Eww, Mommy is cooking?” Olivia asked, forgetting all about her need to escape her brother,