He looks up at me, eyes full of mischief. “It’s a little sweet,” he says with a kiss. “A little salty,” he says with another.
I’m so far gone for this man. There’s no coming back. “Mmm, my favorite flavors.”
“I was hoping you could make me another batch. I just can’t get enough of your warm filling…”
We both tilt our heads and Jasper scrunches his nose. “Too much?”
“Too much,” I agree, nodding my head.
The ringing of my phone cuts through our laughter, echoing through the empty kitchen.
“It’s my sister. I should take this.”
“Yeah, go take it. I’ll start the painting. You left me that section we talked about?”
“Yes, I did, along with the edging.”
“Ohhh, I’m very good with edging.” Jasper winks, then heads to the front.
“Hey sis, what’s up?”
“Oh, nothing. Just called to check on my brother, who’s just about to open his very own bakery. I mean, it’s the least a favorite sibling can do.”
“Wow, just wow. Dramatic much? Again, you’re my only sibling.”
She chuckles, then lets out a sigh. “I’m so proud of you, Olly.”
“Thank you.”
“So, are you excited?”
“Yeah, I’m starting to be,” I say, looking around the kitchen. “It’s beginning to feel real.”
“Is the building done? Is it ready to go?”
“No, not yet, but hopefully by next week. All the construction is done.”Much to Jasper’s delight.“I just have some painting and decorating, you know, the finishing touches.”
“And howisJasper?”
I laugh. I told her about me and Jasper. She’s my sister. How could I not? Plus, I want them to meet. I genuinely want Jasper to be a part of my life. No hiding, no playing games. I realize that it wasn’t easy for him to let me into his real world and not the one he pretends to live in for those of us around him to see.
I laugh. “He’s good. In fact, he’s here now, painting.”
“He’s so talented. I loved the pictures you sent me. Don’t be mad, but I may have sent them to a couple of artists I know. They think he’s extremely talented. He has something special.”
“That’s what we all keep telling him, but I don’t think it’s setting in.”
“Is he gonna paint you a mural?”
“I don’t know, but he told me to leave him a wall so I’m letting him have at it.”
“Are you happy?”
“Yeah sis, I’m really happy.”
“And he treats you well.”
“He’s amazing,” I gush. The warm, gooey feeling invades my senses.
