Hints of creativity had made their way into my chest. Short-lived tingles that sent me into the kitchen.
But none of those scenarios had happened while I was at Charred.
I glanced to my side, making eye contact with her. “I made breakfast for Alivia the other morning.”
“Jesus, I miss your pancakes.” She grinned. “How did it feel?”
“I loved every fucking second of it.”
She stood and put her hand on my shoulder. “I have a few thoughts, but I don’t want to plant any seeds. Whatever is about to happen is big. And until you ask for advice, I’m going to hold off on giving it.” Her fingers lowered a few inches, and she squeezed my biceps. “I’ll handle James if you decide you can’t do it. But I need a decision, Walker.”
“I hear you.” Once she walked past the couch and was heading toward the front door, I said, “Eden, why did you think a woman would pull me out of this? Or maybe I should say, reignite the passion I have for cooking?”
She stopped and turned around. “Passion fuels passion, doesn’t it?” She pursed her lips. “Besides, I think love has the potential of changing a lot of things for you.”
I half laughed, half coughed. “You, out of all people, thinkthat?”
“Just because I don’t practice what I preach doesn’t mean I can’t preach.” She gave me a smile and disappeared around the corner.
Me
Stop looking so fucking hot in that server uniform. I want to wrap your tie around my wrist and pull you toward me and kiss you so fucking hard.
Alivia
My boss would be extremely disappointed if he caught me texting on the job. Whoever this is … I’m ignoring you until the end of my shift.
Me
Your boss also demands that you stop smiling every time you pass him in the kitchen. You make his dick hard every single time.
Alivia
Then you’re going to be even more disappointed to hear that I have to leave the second I get cut tonight. The chef is still sick at the assisted living facility, so I’m on for breakfast again tomorrow, and I need to get there even earlier.
Me
You’re right, I am. I fantasized how I was going to spread you over my desk once everyone was gone tonight. But I’m happy as hell that you’re cooking there tomorrow, and you’d better bring me some to try.
Alivia
Are you kidding? Hehe. Of course I will.
Me
How’d breakfast go?
Alivia
They loved it, Walker. Some even asked for seconds. I can’t even believe it.
Me
Tell me what you made.
Alivia
An oatmeal-glazed breakfast cake, along with egg-and-cheese-stuffed muffins, and homemade granola that I served over poached pears and yogurt.
