Lucy watched him walk away, then turned to find Mae and the Knitting Circle all pressed against the bakery window, watching.
She waved sarcastically. They waved back, grinning.
This town was impossible. But maybe Uncle Walter was right—maybe it was also kind of wonderful.
Thursday afternoon arrived with clear skies and Jake's stomach in knots.
He'd been to hundreds of important meetings in his life—contract negotiations, coach meetings, scout interviews. But somehow, sitting in his apartment at 1 PM getting ready to support Lucy through a potentially life-changing business meeting felt more nerve-wracking than all of them combined.
This wasn't his decision. It was hers. But he wanted to be there. Wanted her to know she didn't have to face this alone.
His phone buzzed. Marcus.
Marcus:heard you're going with Lucy to meet the developer. that's very boyfriend of you
Jake:I'm being supportive. That's what friends do.
Marcus:"friends" sure. that's why you haven't stopped smiling since Monday night
Jake:I smile sometimes.
Marcus:you literally never smile. now you smile constantly. it's creepy and also adorable
Jake:Shouldn't you be at practice?
Marcus:On a break. Tommy's giving us a lecture about defensive positioning. Anyway - good luck today. Lucy's lucky to have you.
Jake:I'm lucky to have her.
Marcus:awwww Reaper has FEELINGS
Jake:I'm blocking your number.
Marcus:no you're not. you love me
Jake pocketed his phone, smiling despite himself. He grabbed his jacket and headed downstairs.
The Bread Basket was busy with the afternoon rush—high school kids getting after-school snacks, people grabbing coffee before evening errands. Mae was at the register, Lucy was behind the counter, both of them moving with practiced efficiency.
Lucy looked up when Jake entered. Her smile was nervous but genuine.
"Hey. Give me five minutes?"
"Take your time."
Jake settled at one of the small tables and watched Lucy work. She moved through the bakery with such confidence—chatting with customers, making recommendations, handling three orders at once without breaking a sweat. This was her element. Her grandmother's legacy made visible.
Was she really ready to give this up?
At 1:30, Lucy emerged from the back wearing a navy blue blazer over her usual jeans and t-shirt. She'd put on makeup and done something with her hair that made it look professional instead of flour-dusted.
"Ready?" she asked.
"Ready. You look great, by the way."
"I look terrified."
"You look professional and capable and ready to make a big decision."
