" Can I throw in a load of clothes for you?” she asked. “I’ll take care of that. Listen, you don’t have to clean up after me.” She laughed at him. “John, I spend all day in the kitchen, collecting your pots, pans and dishes. It’s becoming a habit.” She laughed at his shocked expression. “You look after my child all day long—you’re pretty much helpless, since he won’t leave you alone. The least I can do is help out.” “I’m not looking after him,” John said. “We’re buddies.” “Yeah,” she said. And thought, yeah—buddies. Lunch "

― Robyn Carr , Shelter Mountain (Virgin River, #2)