“Good, business was better today,” she says with a mix of relief in her brown eyes. She pulls off the apron that was wrapped around her and tosses it on the counter. “We almost sold out of the new pies I made.”
I smile. “That’s amazing, Suzanne!”
“Yes, I might actually be able to pay my rent this month and electric at the same time.”
“That’s a plus.”
“It’s a miracle. Honestly, if it weren’t for Veronica Stone, I don’t know that I would’ve been able to do it.”
I blink. “What?”
She pulls her lower lip between her teeth. “Don’t get all twisted, but Veronica is possibly starting some new business or something, so she came and bought a bunch of bread, pies, and a few other baked goods. She put in a custom order for next week, too, which will really help.”
I have no idea what the hell Veronica could be doing that she needs baked goods, but if it helps my best friend, I really don’t care.
“That’s great, truly.”
Suzanne sighs. “Thank you for not being stupid.”
“Why would I be stupid?”
We both know the answer to that. She was probably worried I’d be upset because of who is making a difference in her life.
Which is really unfair, because I try my best not to be mean just to be mean.
“No reason,” she says with a smirk.
“Uh-huh.”
“I’m so glad you’re here to help. I was told a few other volunteers are coming. Why are you here so early, though? We’re not supposed to start until six.”
Now it’s my turn to feel awkward saying something. In about an hour, I’m going to meet Jeremy and finally put an end to things. It’s time. I’m not happy with where things are or the road we’re going down. It’s just better for everyone if I end it now.
“I have to leave a little early to take care of something, but I wanted to help,” I explain.
“Take care of what?”
Just then the door chimes, and we both turn to see Tristan Stone enter.
My heart immediately starts to race. I haven’t seen him since our drive home. I’ve talked to him over text, dreamed about him,and imagined seeing him again, but my memory did nothing to prepare me for the reality of it.
He looks heart-stoppingly beautiful.
Do men look beautiful? I vote yes.
He’s wearing a plaid shirt and a pair of jeans that does his body good. His cowboy hat sits low, shielding his eyes and giving him a mysterious vibe.
Every part of me feels as though it’s come to life. My body is damn near vibrating, and I hate myself for it.
Slowly, his head lifts and he pulls his hat off. “Sorry to interrupt.”
Suzanne walks forward. “You’re not, Tristan. Are you here to pick up the order for your sister?” she asks, glancing at me and mouthing:Sorry.
I clear my throat and look down at my feet.
“Yes, I am…but also I was told I’m signed up to help with boxing something?”
“Oh! You’re volunteering?” she asks, and then, with wide eyes, looks to me.
