Rubbing her back, I look between them. He looks so lost, and I know he’s not the type of person who likes to feel like he’s helpless. “I could help,” I offer.
“What?” Misty asks.
I shrug. “Inventory is nothing new for me. I can do it. And you only have one more employee than I do, so I think I can figure out the payroll situation. And bills, well, I pay them for both the bakery and my place. Granted, I don’t really live there right now, but you don’t need to worry about the extra stuff right now.”
She lets out a sob. “You’d really… You’d do that?”
“You’re growing a human inside of you. You have much bigger things to focus on. Like… the fact you’re growing a human inside of you.”
“That would be such a big help, Phoebe. I… I don’t feel right asking.”
“You’re not asking. I’m offering. And I know someone who would be a great hire if you’re looking for another person. She’s been asking if I need someone else at the bakery, but I only really need Sarah.”
Her mouth opens in disbelief. “I’ve been looking for someone in the afternoons and weekends.”
“I’ll call Tabitha. And any paperwork you have that I can’t figure out, I’ll bring here. We’ll do it together.”
She wraps me up tightly in her arms. “Thank you, Phoebe. You don’t know how much this helps.”
“Get her to bed,” Tucker says. “We’ll see ourselves out.”
Moving away from Misty, I smile. It’s rewarding being able to help out a friend in need. Sure, it’ll be extra work, but she needs help. And I can help her. It’s what friends do. I’ve always wanted friends.
Zep pulls me into a big hug, and I can feel the relief in his grasp. “Thank you,” he whispers.
I just smile and nod as I follow Tucker outside. He pulls me into his arms, and he kisses me. “You’re pretty fucking amazing.”
“I can do inventory in my sleep. It’s not that impressive,” I say, waving my hand in the air.
I hate compliments.
But I also love them from him.
“I hope you realize this solidified you in the family.”
If only he understood I’ve wanted nothing more than a family since I lost mine. But before I can tell him, the front door opens, and Bernie runs out in footie pajamas, her small hand shoving her glasses onto her face.
“Phoebe!”
“Hi, Bernie. Why aren’t you asleep?”
“I heard Mom come home. I have an idea, but I need your help.”
My heart could float me away right now with the wings it has with the trust they have in me. “What can I do for you?”
“Mom’s favorite food right now is peanut butter. She puts it on a banana and sprinkles on chocolate chips. Can you make a cake like that?”
I haven’t experimented recently because I’ve been conservative with my ingredients, but this is for a good cause. “I think I can come up with something. But you have to help me make it. Because all the best desserts are made with love.”
“I’m so excited!” She jumps up and hugs me. “Don’t tell Mom or Zep, though. I want it to be a surprise.”
Nodding, I wink at her. “Got it. Now go to bed. It’s way past your bedtime.”
She slips back inside, and I smile after her. When I turn, Tucker has a knowing smirk on his face.
“What?”
“Family, baby. You are in the family. For life.”
