“Here. I’ll help you put these in your car,” Kiki said, already walking toward his Jeep Cherokee.

“Thank you.” He popped the hatch and they placed everything inside. Within minutes, everything was safe and secure. “Would you like to help me shop for my mother?”

Kiki smiled. “I really should be going. I have a party to go to tonight.”

Taren laughed as he wrapped his arms around her waist. “Oh? And who’s this party with? Anyone I know?”

She shook her head. “No. He’s a handsome firefighter who saved my life. No one you would know.”

Taren nodded as his face grew serious. “I know you’re teasing, but I...