“I can’t wait to meet him when we come out in three weeks.”
“I hope while you’re out here, you’re able to meet everybody in the group.”
“Yeah, I would like that. You talk about them all the time. I’m happy that you have such a close-knit group of friends who support you. Olly, I know it’s been hard since Grandpa’s been gone and I’m across the pond.”
“I know and it’s ok. I got pretty lucky in finding them.” Of course, I’ll say it again. “Even if I didn’t have a choice.” I laugh.
“Does he know yet?”
“No, it just came in. I’m going to show him today. It turned out so good. I hope he’s okay with the name.”
“I’m sure he’s gonna love it, Olly. It was very sweet of you. Listen, I have to go, but please let me know how it goes. Send pictures. And preferably not one with an ass in the background.”
Ugh, the one time I don’t double-check the photo before sending it and she gets to meet Jasper’s ass before his face. It’s a nice ass, but I would like it to be for my eyes only.
“Love you.”
“Love you too. Bye.” I slide my phone into my pocket and head back up front to find my boyfriend… who’s presently covered in more paint than he started with, which is in typical Jasper fashion. I’ve seen his apartment. His studio space is full of color.
Now it’s my turn to lean against the door frame and admire the view. Jasper, deep in the throes of painting, is sexier than fuck.
I’vebeenabundleof excitement all day. I was practically bouncing off the walls at Ink Me. So much so, that Jaxon put a lock on the coffee. Which is just ridiculous. I need that afternoon cup. But caffeine had nothing to do with it. I can’t help it if I was excited to get to the bakery.
Staring at the blank wall in front of me, I have so many ideas running through my mind. I want to do something nice for Olly, something special. I want to paint something that means something to him, something that, when he looks at this wall every day it makes him smile… and I know just how to make that happen.
Getting to work, I quickly grab the supplies and the powder-blue paint I had Spencer order for me. I’d dropped it off last night when I came to pickup Olly.
I lay down a painter’s cloth, so I don’t get paint all over his brand-new floors, and then I get to work. I lose myself, just like I do every time. It’s euphoric, honestly. It gives me a high, and not just on paint fumes. Painting takes me to a place where all the fucking worries tumbling around in my brain vanish.
I take a black paintbrush and start with the outline of my design. I don’t get too far when a warm set of arms wraps around me.
“What are you painting, baby?”
I breathe him in. “Oh, nothing, just a little surprise.”
“Today is filled with all kinds of surprises,” he whispers in my ear.
I turn my head and look at him. “Life is full of surprises.”
He kisses me lightly. “When do I get to see it?” he asks.
“I’m just getting started, but this area is off-limits to you for two days. No peeking until I’m done. I want it to be a surprise. Promise me you won’t peek. I don’t stand for cheaters.”
Olly laughs. Who doesn’t love that sound? “I promise, I won’t peek, but I also have a surprise for you.” This time, I turn all the way around in his arms.
“You have a surprise for me. Why? You’re the one opening the bakery.”
“Because everyone deserves a surprise every once in a while.”
“Yes, surprises are good. I agree. Know what’s even better? Not having to wait for surprises. There is something to be said about instant gratification.” I have no patience, never have. It’s been an issue my whole life.
“Okay, stay right here. I’ll be right back.”
“That’s just ridiculous. You’re bringing me a surprise. Why would I go anywhere?” Olly just shakes his head. But the best part is the soft sparkle inhis eyes as he smiles. He’s not laughing at my ridiculousness. He’s enjoying the ride.
I don’t want to change who I am at my core, but I want someone who canseeme at my core. Olly has always done that. I know I frustrate him with some of my more excitable choices. But that did not stop him from seeing past all that. He put in the work instead of tossing me aside.
I turn back to continue my mural, careful not to give too much away before I get this area blocked off and covered. I want to do something that will represent his grandparents. Their influence on his life is profound, and seeing him today, he mirrors both of their best qualities. I think they would burst with pride at his accomplishments.
