Chapter sixteen
The day of the summerbarbecue at the farm had finally arrived, and Tammy found herself in the backseat of Mina’s car with her uncle in the passenger seat. Beside her were two large trays filled with cupcakes she had lovingly baked and frosted for the occasion. The early afternoon sun cast a warm, golden hue over the rolling fields, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of freshly cut grass through the open car windows.
Uncle Ben glanced back at her from the passenger’s seat, concern etched in the wrinkles of his weathered face. ‘You’ve been quiet all morning, Tammy. Is everything all right?’
Tammy forced a smile, her thoughts filled with the events of the past week. She couldn’t bring herself to tell Uncle Ben about the unexpected sighting with Richi at the farm shop, and she was yet to see Pharis and confront him about the meeting he’d had with her ex. Instead, she replied, ‘I’m just a little nervous my cupcake icing is going to melt in this heat Uncle Ben, that’s all.’
Mina scoffed, ‘Those lovely little pieces of sugary heaven won’t get a chance to melt Tammy. They’ll be gone within ten minutes.’
Her uncle chuckled. ‘Mina’s right. You’re going to do great with those cupcakes. Everyone’s going to love them.’
Tammy chatted more animatedly for the rest of the ride, pushing thoughts of Richi from her mind. She wouldn’t let him spoil this lovely event.
Ten minutes later, they arrived at the sprawling farm. The air was filled with the scent of mouth-watering grilled meats and the cheerful sounds of live folk music and laughter as they pulled to a stop.
Tammy got out and smoothed out invisible creases in her dress before reaching back into the car for the cupcakes. Mina stuck her head out of the window. ‘I’ll see you in a little while. I’ve got to go and fetch the hubby and the kids.’
Uncle Ben paid the fare. ‘Bye Mina, see you shortly.’
‘Yes, see you soon. Thanks, Mina,’ Tammy gave her a bright smile.
With music blaring, the excited laughter of children, and lots of people mingling, Tammy could see the summer barbecue at the farm was in full swing. Walking alongside her uncle, they headed into the throng of it, towards a long table laden with finger foods.
Tammy looked left and saw Pharis heading their way. He was wearing a chequered shirt and jeans, and Tammy couldn’t help but notice how the shirt strained tight across his exceptionally wide chest. ‘Tammy, Ben, glad you could make it.’ he said warmly, clasping Ben’s hand in his and shaking it heartily. ‘Great shin-dig, Pharis.’ Said Ben.
Pharis looked directly into Tammy’s eyes and she became quite taken aback by the intensity of his gaze. ‘Can I help you get those cupcakes set up on the food table?’
‘That would be so kind of you,’ Tammy replied, hoping she seemed normal. She was desperate to give him the inquisition about his meeting with Richi when she found an opportune moment.
Pharis took the trays and found a space on the table nearby. Within seconds, children appeared from everywhere and milled around the table to claim a cupcake.
‘Just take one each,’ instructed Pharis, ‘and don’t forget to thank Tammy for your cupcakes.’
Tammy’s heart melted when numerous sets of eyes looked up at her. The children nodded and thanked her, walking away with gleams in their eyes.
‘Awww, you’re welcome,’ Tammy called after them.
Ben leaned over, trying to look through the crowd. ‘I’ve just seen Ned. I’ll be back in a bit.’
‘Don’t rush back on my account Uncle Ben, you go and mingle.’
Happy families, couples, and friends were gathered everywhere for the fundraiser.
Relaxing slightly, Tammy allowed herself to take in the festive surroundings. Long picnic tables were laden with potluck dishes and freshly picked produce. Children frolicked with farm animals in a petting area while adults mingled, sipping cold drinks. Across the field, Declan was manning a beverage stand. Catching Tammy’s eye, he gave an enthusiastic thumbs up at the sight of her cupcakes being demolished by children. Tammy couldn’t help smiling and waving back, his cheerful grin infectious as always.
Standing amid the vibrant festivities, she thought it was an opportune time to speak to Pharis. Cupcake in hand and a forced smile on her lips, her heart felt heavy, a mixture of tension and anticipation swirling within her. She turned to him opening her mouth to ask him about Richi, but then Declan appeared to her left. Pharis’ smile faded. Tammy sighed, wishing the escalating rivalry between them didn’t make every interaction so awkward.
Declan’s eyes locked onto hers. ‘Wow! You look absolutely stunning.’
Tammy’s heart did a somersault. He was wearing a crisp white shirt rolled up at the cuffs and Tammy glimpsed strong forearms with tattoos peeking out just below.
‘Thank you. You don’t clean up too bad yourself.’
Pharis coughed. ‘I’m not interrupting anything here, am I?’ sarcasm dripped off every word.
Declan and Tammy shot each other looks just as Pamela, the gracious host approached, looking like an angel in a floaty cream dress.
‘Tammy dear! So glad you’re here,’ she effused, clasping Tammy’s hands warmly. ‘I have some news for you. The ladies and I have picked you for the fundraiser this year. It’s for a wonderful cause, the children’s hospital.’
