Not Your Doormat Anymore

Kourtney looked at me with such sincerity that I couldn't bring myself to blame her. As her voice gradually faded, I shook my head. "It's normal for me to be busy since I work in a hospital. You don't have to worry. If something like this happens again, just text me. I'll reply when I can."noveldrama

She nodded. "Dr. Ranford, are you done for the day? Can you go home now?"

Her voice was soft, and when she said the word "home", it stirred something in me. Since I had nothing else going on, I stretched. "Let's go."

On the way back, Kourtney had her usual smile again. When we arrived home, she even went into the kitchen and came out holding a bowl of soup.

"I got paid today, so I took the day off to buy some groceries. I made soup and cooked a few other dishes, hoping to invite you home for dinner. But I couldn't reach you by phone, and you weren't replying to my messages, so I decided to go to the hospital myself."

She untied her apron. "Everything's been cooked and kept warm. Not too much time has passed. Dr. Ranford, try it and tell me if my cooking has improved."

Seeing the anticipation in her eyes, I took a bite. Compared to the first time I tried her food, it had definitely improved in every way. I nodded, saying, "Not bad."

"It's good that you like it."

She smiled happily, but just then, someone knocked on the door. Before I could move, she jumped up. "Maybe it's my package!"

But when she opened the door, she froze.

Hearing the silence, I turned to look. Standing in the entryway was Mom, looking equally stunned. She stared at Kourtney, too shocked to even close her mouth.

I walked over. "Mom, what are you doing here?"

Kourtney snapped out of it. "Oh! Hello, Mrs. Ranford."

Mom looked Kourtney up and down, then nodded in approval. "What a lovely young lady."

Then, she turned to me, smiling wide. "How many days has it been since you came home? Your father told me to bring you back for dinner today. Now, I see why you've been staying away-you're getting fed here."

She nodded toward the apartment, clearly having caught the scent of food from inside.

I felt a little awkward. "She's a good cook. I think I'll stay here tonight."

"Alright, but don't forget your father's birthday the day after tomorrow. He's inviting some friends, so make sure you come back-and bring this young lady too." Mom beamed at Kourtney. "Kourtney, right? Please take good care of my son. He may seem easygoing, but he's stubborn. You'll have to keep him in check."

Kourtney's cheeks flushed. "Mrs. Ranford, you've misunderstood. I—"

"Alright, you two go ahead and eat. The food will get cold. I won't bother you young folks any longer."

In a hurry to share the good news with Dad, Mom left straight for the elevator after giving her instructions, not giving either of us a chance to explain.

Back in the living room, Kourtney and I just looked at each other. Her face was completely red.

Clearing my throat, I said, "I'm at that age. I broke up recently, so my parents are concerned about my marriage. When my mom saw you, she jumped to conclusions."

Kourtney nodded. "I understand."

"My dad can be really stubborn too. If I don't bring you to his birthday party, he might blow up. So, do you have time that day?"

"Huh? I... Yes, yes!" Kourtney hadn't expected me to actually invite her. Her eyes widened in shock, and she was clearly caught off guard.