Today, I’m starting with all the baking that needs to be done, and tomorrow, I’ll work on frosting them, so they will be ready for the carnival the next day.
Now here I am trying to carry six bags from the car to the house without cutting off the circulation in my arms or the contents spilling all over the ground.
The fact my keys are still in my pocket when I reach the front door triggers a wave of panic.
“Fuck.” Smart move, Olly.
My panic increases when I realize the door is ajar. I scan the driveway and street, finding no extra vehicles. Shit, I should call the cops. But I don’t because that would be way too smart and wise. Look who’s being reckless now, I think to myself as I slowly open the door.
I’m expecting to see furniture overturned, potted plants shattered with dirt all over the floor.I mean, I don’t have any potted plants, but if I did…
The further into the house I go, the more I realize everything looks just how I left it.
“Jasper?” I call out. “Are you here?” It’s a logical question considering his habit of breaking and entering.
No response.
Huh, ok.
I make my way into the kitchen, and that’s when I see it. All dressed up with a cute bow, a shiny new mixer sits on the counter. I set the bags on the counter, grateful to have the feeling back in my arms again and take in the beauty.
It’s a teal color, a vibrant, almost turquoise, with a recognizable brand name clearly displayed. This brand is not cheap, especially with all the accessories included.Spendy.
I spot a handwritten note sitting on the counter.
Olly,
I hope this helps you on your mission to make 150 cupcakes. I know this will never replace Juan, but just maybe Ricardo can come in a close 2nd.
Jasper
I wipe away the wetness I’m pretending is not leaking from my eyes. Oh, my; that sweet man. Every day, I see different sides of Jasper, each one just as amazing as the rest. It still baffles my mind that I even cross his mind.
Filled with a new sense of excitement, I unload the grocery bags and gather the ingredients, including bowls, utensils, and baking tins, all the while eyeing my new toy.Ricardo.
I can get behind Ricardo. To ensure a positive working relationship, it’s wise I make a good first impression, so I rub him gently and whisper sweet nothings in his ear.
“Listen, you sexy beast. I need you to mix today like your life depends on it. I know it’s going to be hard. It’s 150 cupcakes, for fuck’s sake, but you can do this. I know you can. Especially with this sleek new body you have.”
The ringing of my cell phone cuts my sweet talk short. I smile when I see my sister’s name light up on the screen.
“Well, at least it’s not three a.m. this time. How’s my girl doing?”
“I’m doing just fine. Thank you for asking.”
“Hardy-har-har. I meant my favorite girl.”
“Wow. Fine! Mom and Dad found you in a ditch on the side of the road and felt sorry for you.”
“What the fuck, Emma? With how Grandpa always described them, that could very well be true. They had a thing for strays.”
“Oh, calm down. I’m joking. Maybe, honestly, we don’t know.” We both laugh. God, I miss her.
“So, how’s it going? Any updates on the bakery?”
“Umm, actually yes. There’s a building up for sale right on Main Street. I checked it out the other day and made an offer.”
“Olly, that’s amazing. I’m so happy you’re doing this for yourself. You know Grandpa never wanted you to give up your dream for his.”
