“It was no big deal,” he backtracked, not wanting to take the focus off Callie.
His sister placed her hands on her hips. “So there’s no reason for you not to go.”
If Taryn were working, maybe she wouldn’t go out on the patio and even realize he was there. “Fine, I’ll go, but that means no bridezilla tantrums from you.”
“Yay. And you know I’m not the tantrum-throwing type.” Callie bounced on her toes the way she’d done since she was little, even though she was all grown-up and getting married.
His chest tightened, squeezing his heart tightly. Brandt had better treat Callie right, or he’d be dealing with Garrett, Flynn, and Keaton. No one would hurt their baby sister.
Ugh.The truth smacked into Garrett like a judge’s gavel.
No wonder Jayden acted protective earlier. Taryn didn’t have any brothers, but she had her staff.
Garrett respected that, but he wasn’t trying to hurt Taryn. That was why he wanted to keep his distance. As long as she didn’t see him, everything would be okay. “Okay, let’s go.”
*
It was anotherbusy night at the bakery. Taryn placed an éclair on a plate. She didn’t have to force a cheery mood. Not when tables on the patio and inside were packed on a Monday night.
This will work.
Taryn wiggled her toes before handing the dessert to a smiling customer. “Enjoy your éclair.”
For the first time that evening, no one stepped up to the counter. The lull let her take a break and a sip of water.
“They keep coming tonight,” Jayden whispered. “Not complaining, but we might need to add a person to this shift.”
Excellent customer service made a difference, according to Grandpa. But Taryn wouldn’t hire someone until she saw the numbers.
“If business keeps up next week, I’ll see who wants extra hours temporarily. If we sustain this level, we can make it permanent through summer.” Taryn removed her gloves. “You’ve worked long enough today. Go home to your lovely wife.”
“She’s on duty, and you need the help.”
Taryn recognized Callie coming from the back entrance and waved. “As soon as I can afford it, you’re getting a raise.”
“Good, because I deserve one.” With a wink, he headed into the kitchen.
Taryn smiled. “Welcome to Lawson’s Bakery.”
Callie’s complexion glowed. “The patio is amazing.”
“Thank you.” Taryn acknowledged Brandt and Margot, but she didn’t recognize the couple with them. The man, however, looked vaguely familiar. “I’m so happy with how it turned out.”
“The customers like it too,” Margot said.
As Taryn’s chest swelled with pride, she nodded. Now, all she needed was for her parents to acknowledge it. “That’s the best part.”
“Your brownies are the best.” Brandt stepped forward, putting his arm around Callie. “But the patio is a close second.”
“I don’t think you’ve met my parents, Tina and John Andrews.” Callie glanced at the man and woman. “Mom and Dad, this is Taryn Lawson, who makes the tastiest baked goods in the Pacific Northwest, if not the West Coast.”
“We ate a few of your desserts over Christmas, but tonight was our first time tasting your bread. Delicious.”
A thrill shot through Taryn. She stood taller. “Thanks. What can I get you?”
As they studied the evening specials on the board behind her, she readied her hand on the cash register. One by one, they ordered.
“Is that everything?” Taryn asked before she hit total.
