Chapter 73

Steve wrapped his arms around Stephanie and took the box in his hands as she giggled at being trapped on his lap. Her grandmother beamed at Diane as they both watched Steve and Stephanie interact.

“A sports watch? Thanks, Steph! Now I get to hug you,” laughed Steve as he pulled Stephanie tight to his chest.

To his surprise, Stephanie wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him quickly on the lips. Then she looked around at her mother and grandmother with a smile. “It’s okay. Gwen doesn’t mind, and I don’t think Steve does either. Do you, Steve?”

“Well, I’m a little worried about Gwen getting jealous when I have her beautiful cousin on my lap kissing me. I’d be even more worried if Gwen wasn’t around because then your dad would be after me. Pretty girls like you can be dangerous to the average guy. It isn’t easy to control myself. Fear is the only thing that stops me from kissing you a lot more, Steph,” admitted Steve as he released Stephanie.

“See how he