She turned around to get the cups and I waved at Paxton, who was partially hiding in the back. He was shy, but went on a rant about coffee during his interview with Theo. He was so knowledgeable that Theo instantly knew he was the one.
Paxton gave me a short wave before going back to delicately cleaning the espresso machine. He went at it with such attention that I knew they’d be fine.
“Here you go.” Kelsey set down the two cups. “You can even try it to make sure I brewed his precious coffee right.”
I laughed and took a sip. “You brewed it perfectly.”
“Good. Now get lost. And give me a good report.”
“Did you forget the part where I pay?” I waved my card in front of her face. “I’ll definitely report that back.”
“Do you think I’m charging the owner of this shop and his girlfriend for coffee? He still undercharges you.”
I blinked. “Hang on, we need to back up. He undercharges me?”
She smirked. “He has since he first sawyou.”
My cheeks heated and she was about to laugh. “That’s a terrible business practice.”
“It always is when it comes to you.”
I shook my head and dug through my purse. “Here.”
“I don’t need forty dollars.”
“You’ll take it and like it.”
“You can’t talk to me like you do with Theo.” She whispered it just low enough so Paxton wouldn’t hear. “I’m not taking your guilt money. The price stays.”
“If it’s not for my coffee, then it’s a tip. I’m investing in your success. Buy more ice cream with it.”
“Take this back!” she yelled.
But I was already scurrying out the door with the coffees.
“Here you go.” I handed Theo his. “Everything is running smoothly, except for one thing.”
“Oh no, is Paxton being too quiet?”
“Kelsey is loud enough for them both. No, it’s you.” I pointed at him. “Are you undercharging me for coffee?”
He blinked. “Did Kelsey charge you the full amount? Dammit, I told her to?—”
“Theo! I shouldn’t get any special treatment. You’ve done that from thestart.”
“Well, I wanted to make sure you came back.” He said it lowly. “It worked, didn’t it?”
I let out a long sigh. “Yes, but it stops now.”
“Not a chance, love. You’re lucky it’s not free.”
Theo laughed at my offended noise and drove away from the curb.
I tried to pout as long as I could, but I broke the second we passed by two baby cows.
Theo’s grin only grew.
When the roads got bigger and busier, I was reminded of Knoxville.
