"We don't leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight," I said firmly, turning my back to continue washing. This was Dad's rule. As a food scientist, he'd lecture about overnight mold growth, bacteria, and statewide foodborne illness statistics. Mom tugged Andrew away, and I expected the twins to follow. I nearly jumped when Jack appeared beside me, rolling up his sleeves to reveal tanned, muscular forearms. "What are you doing?" He shrugged, expression serious. "You wash, I'll rinse." Frowning into the soapy water, I continued despite the Williams' dishwasher. Jack's unexpected kindness unsettled me. We worked in silence until the last plate was rinsed and I drained the sink. Swallowing hard, I turned to face him. "Thanks... for helping. You didn't have to." Jack's dark look intensified. "I know I didn't have to. I wanted to." His fingers brushed soap suds from my cheek, leaving tingling skin in their wake. "Hey you two!" Phoenix wedged between us, hanging the dis
Last Updated : 2025-05-14
