“You don’t understand, my head was up my ass, and I came across like a real shithead. She’s skittish around me, for good reason, but I’m trying to fix it. I thought maybe I did.”
“What could you possibly have done?” Raven asks.
I shake my head. “It’s too embarrassing. You guys are lucky. Love doesn’t always happen so easily for the rest of us.”
“Easily?” Cayden asks. “Did you forget that my father-in-law tried to kill me and almost killed Raven by mistake?”
Okay, he has a point. “No.”
“Yes, Raven and I love each other very much, and Drake found his mate. I see how you might feel left out, but who’s to say she’s yours? You probably haven’t met your mate yet.”
I stare at my friend, but I can’t stay silent. I can’t deny it, pretend that I wasn’t desperate to stop that man from moving into Camilla’s orbit. That I’m not frantic for a reassuring glance at her to know she’s safe.
“It’s her, man. I feel it. She’s the first female I felt compelled to protect. I spent the night priming her walls so that I could be close and keep her safe from danger. Then, this morning, some guy I’ve never seen around town stopped and looked in the storewindow. I almost shattered on the ground across the street from her apartment.”
“Is primed her walls kinky gargoyle talk?” Raven teases with a smile.
“Not funny.” I hold up my pointer finger at her, hoping to convey I’m not in a teasing mood.
“She’s teasing you, buddy. Trying to lighten the mood. I’m sure Cami’s fine. She’s a beautiful woman, and I’m sure you’re not the only male who’s noticed.”
“That’s what I’m afraid of.” My breathing becomes loud and heavy. I’m not in the mood for their needles and jabs. Not until I see for myself that she’s safe. “This isn’t a jealous tirade, Cay.”
“Could’ve fooled me.” Cayden teases. “Look, maybe the guy might have been interested in checking out the store to see if it’s still for rent.”
“Was she here or not?” With one arm crooked on the counter, I lean in and ask one last time. Before Raven can answer, I spot little signs made from paper and toothpicks in their display case. Cami’s Confections. “She was here, wasn’t she?”
Pulling away, I move so I can take a closer look. “These are hers?” I ask, pointing at the cake and pastries.
“Yes.” Raven smiles. “Those are leftovers from yesterday, but they’re still fresh. Have you sampled any of her desserts yet?”
“No.”
“Try this burnt cheesecake. It’s delicious.”
Raven reaches into the display case and pulls out a precut slice of cake with a brown topping. After plating it and grabbing a fork, she hands it over to me.
“What are you waiting for? Dig in!”
I let out a low growl. She’s a pushy little thing. I’m surprised my friend puts up with this. Probably goes back to his mommy issues.
I stick my fork into the pointy end of the delicious-looking triangle, gathering a good bite. I bring it to my mouth and am met with an explosion of flavor on my tongue. The thin top coating bursts with the sweet taste of burnt sugar, much like a creme brûlée. As I swish it around in my mouth, it’s met and complemented by the rich, velvety flavor of cheesecake.
“She made this?”
“Good, right?” Raven asks, leaning over the counter.
“Best I ever had,” I answer, taking another bite. Now I understand why she wants the crystal chandeliers and marble floor. They’re a representation of a superior product. Classy and beautiful, like her.
“I have to run, but Raven, if you see Cami, tell her I’m looking for her, and save a sample of anything else she brings for me.”
“You’re not even going to say goodbye to me?” Cayden asks.
“You’ll get over it.”
“Stone, don’t forget,” my friend calls as I open the door. “The dance off is tomorrow.”
I shake my head. “Sorry, man, I have better things to do.” Like winning Cami over.
