“You’re a professional athlete.”
“I’m still capable of carrying metal rectangles.”
Her eyes narrow slightly, but there’s warmth underneath it. “Cooling rack by the back wall.”
“Yes, boss.”
Jillie giggles. “Mommy is the boss.”
“I gathered.”
“Sometimes she uses her scary voice.”
“I’ve noticed that too.”
Sadie points a flour-covered finger at both of us. “My scary voice keeps this place functional.”
“Your scary voice is very effective,” I say.
Her eyes meet mine, and for one second the bakery goes quiet around us. Not actually quiet. The ovens hum. Trays clatter. Jillie taps her heels against the cabinet. Outside, delivery trucks rumble faintly through Briar Cove’s snowy morning streets.
But inside me?
Quiet.
Which is new.
And worse, I like it.
Then my phone vibrates on the counter.
I glance at the screen and instantly regret owning friends.
BLIZZARDS GROUP CHAT: 47 MESSAGES
Toby:Is that flour on his face?
Liam:no way
Caleb:Why are there photos already?
Jamie:Because none of you know how to ignore the internet.
Toby:
HE’S IN A BAKERY
WITH A CHILD
AND A WOMAN
WE HAVE TO DISCUSS THIS
Liam:Colby Reid, domestic king.
Toby:Colby Bread
Liam: Colby Knead
