But since we’re all men it’s become something of a struggle. Women like to let it be known that they’re very interested in doing some baking of their own. And I don’t mean babies. They just want to get it on with a hot guy who knows how to cook.
I’m not interested. I’ve saved myself for the woman who’s meant to be my one since my ex left me and that’s what I intend to keep doing. I want forever this time.
It’s especially important to me because of Casey. She doesn’t the hurt that comes with getting her hopes up about having a whole family just to get the rug jerked out from under her when it turns out that the woman I’m seeing is only interested in me. Not the little kid that comes with me.
Sliding another try in the ovens, I set the timer and duck into the back to get a drink and drop off the stage for a few minutes.
Every minute of the day isn’t meant to be onstage. Sometimes take a little privacy.
Just don’t tell the guys that I said that.
Casey comes in the back and grins at me and my whole world brightens. Her pale blue eyes are the same shade as mine and hers glow with happiness and love as she launches herself at me for a hug.
I wrap my arms around her and breathe in the peppermint scent of her latest body spray that she loves. Tighter and tighter I hold her, more grateful than ever that this girl is mine.
Until she looks up at me and grins. “Any new mama candidates?”
Rolling my eyes, I back away. “You’re incorrigible.”
She takes a swig out of her water bottle and winks. She’s eight going on thirty. “I saw the blonde when I was walking to the back. She seemed like she liked you.”
“Not my type.” I turn back to the sink and wash my hands, avoiding her hopeful eyes. She’s going through some phase where every woman could be my newest wife and her mama.
I hate to disappoint her but I’m not seeing just anybody.
I want the one this time. And I’m taking nothing less.
Chapter 2
Lily
“Lily of the Valley!Hey, I love your podcast!” I smile as I throw another can of soup in my cart.
“Thank you! I appreciate your support!” Pushing my cart faster, I wince when the wheels behind me squeal as the woman pushes to keep up with me.
“Are you working on your next story yet? I’m so excited to see what you’re working on.”
Turning around with a wink, I tap my forehead. “Top secret info but it’s coming soon.”
“Awesome! I can’t wait.”
I turn back to my cart with a deep breath and then duck around the corner quickly, hoping to outrun the fan. I know that it’s necessary but I’m so tired today.
And really, I never thought my little podcast was ever going to get as big as it has. I love to travel around our area and feature new things to get people excited about but the people stopping me everywhere is driving me crazy. I don’t do this for the notoriety. I hate that!
But I needed a way to make money that didn’t involve going in for long periods of time to a regular job. My chronic fatigue syndrome means that sometimes I just can’t get out of bed and Ican’t go in to a regular job. I need something that is fewer regular hours so I can adjust my schedule as need be.
Most regular bosses don’t recognize CFS as a real illness. I’ve lost count of how many people think I’m whining or faking instead of struggling to keep up with my own body.
With a tired sigh, I push my cart up to the checkout, wincing when the cashier grins and waves.
Obviously another fan. With a huge grin, I force myself to step up to the counter and unload my groceries as she chatters a mile a minute about her favorite episodes.
I don’t mind the fans. Except when my body is starting to drag ass and it feels like I’m about to fall down I’m so tired.
And that feeling is creeping up on me. I know I’m going to need to go home and take a nap so I can actually go do my podcast at Spice Spice Baby tomorrow.
I’m looking forward to tasting some great baked goods and talking to some great kids.
