“Where’s Dad?”
“Oh, putting in another round of gingerbread hazelnut tarts. We weren’t sure if they’d be popular, but they sold out by eleven if you can believe it.”
“One of your late-night creations?”
Mom’s delighted smile has me laughing. “Who else? Your father might have the technical skills, but the flavor is all your momma, and don’t you forget it.”
“I would never.”
We share another smile before she releases me to help get customer orders, and I get some waves and hellos from the people staying at the Lodge.
I boast about my mom, and my dad, and the hard work they’ve put in for this.
It’s nice to talk about the bakery with pride instead of resentment.
Maybe that means I am finally a full-fledged adult. It’s a nice change.
On my way out, I bump into a warm, broad chest and look up into Adam’s bright greens. His grin says it all.Caught you.
His arm comes around my waist in an instant, and I can’t help smiling up at him like a giddy teen. “Hey.”
“Hey yourself.” Adam tucks loose strands of hair behind my ear, his touch lingering at the back of my jaw for a long moment.
Then his gaze lifts to the bakery. “How are your parents faring?”
“Good. Busy. Mom’s super excited by the turnout.”
“Good.” His attention returns to me. “And you’re finally enjoying the fruits of your labor?”
I snort. “Sometimes, you sound so old.”
He scoffs, but it doesn’t dim his good mood one bit. “Well, it’s good that’s your thing then. I was going to the Root Cellar. Join me?”
“Sure.”
Adam takes my hand in his and leads the way across the street to the farm-to-table restaurant—one of the new editions since I’ve been gone—and opens the door for me.
His touch never leaves me for more than a second.
The big, open space is full of diners eating full meals, but the bar is set up for the tour.
I can’t get over how much of a success this is turning out to be.
More than the people from the Lodge have driven in to try our local fare and prepare for the fun and games tonight.
Maybe this can be my real job someday.
If I’m able to make this a success.
Something that can sustain me full time.
The thoughts fade as Adam guides me to the spread.
Someone else I recognize from high school is standing behind the bar, Amy Green.
She’s got a pleasant smile plastered on her face. I haven’t seen her since she tried to pummel me with snowballs with her friends.
The ones Gabe saved me from.
