"Just kidding! Just kidding! I'd rather keep chatting. Maybe I could help?"
"Big mistake, Russ. Wash your hands. You are going to work, after that little woman crack."
Although the kitchen was small, they managed to work together well. Before long they were seated at the table, wine glasses refilled and dinner under way. Russ had been intrigued by the fact that she had grown the Mung bean sprouts in her kitchen. When she explained how easy it was, and that there were a variety of seeds to choose from - like cress, radish, alfalfa, arugula and various mixtures - he decided it was something he could do as well.
"Just be sure the seeds are organic. After the first soaking, make sure they stay damp. Rinse them at least once every twelve hours, or more often when you think of it. There's nothing like fresh sprouts on a sandwich."
When it was time for dessert, Melanie brought her ice cream pie from the fridge. His eyes lit up and a wide smile brought his dimple out when he looked at the pie.
"Wow! Where did you buy that? I've never seen anything like it!"
"Want the recipe? I can give it to you."
"You made this? You missed your calling, girl!"
"Wait until you taste it. Chocolate mint is my favorite, but you can make it with any flavor of ice cream or frozen yogurt." Handing him a knife, pie lifter, plate and fork, she said, "Help yourself."
Russ had seconds and declared it the best dessert he'd ever had.
"So the way to a man's heart truly is through his stomach." Melanie grinned at him.
When the table was cleared, they took coffee back out on the balcony, knowing their stay would be short because of the mosquitoes, but determined to enjoy the last rays of the setting sun, and each others' company. After another enjoyable chat, they slapped mosquitoes simultaneously, and laughed as they rose to go inside.
"Melanie, I have enjoyed this evening more than I can say. You are a great cook, an interesting conversationalist, and you have a terrific sense of humor."
"Careful, Russ. I might get a swelled head. By the way, don't forget to take your book with you."
"Sounds like that's my cue to leave."
"Not at all. I just didn't want you to forget the book. We don't have to work tomorrow, so there's no rush." Melanie was loath to have the evening end.