Prologue
Tool Shed
Two Years Earlier
I blow a wisp of blonde hair, that’s fallen free from the disaster masquerading as a messy bun on top of my head, out of my face, while the dough I’m molding into scones sticks to my fingers. Over the speakers my phone chimes, interrupting the classic rock I have pumping through the coffee shop and bakery I own, aptly namedBuns & Roses.
“Hey Siri, read my text messages,” I call out as I continue to work.
“You have a text fromFiancé.” The robotic voice starts. “Hey Dee. Can’t make it to brunch this morning. I think I have food poisoning. So gross. I’ll call you later.”
Abandoning the dough, I use my elbow to flip the sink on and wash my hands so I can call Brad to see what’s going on. His phone rings three times before going to voicemail. I know he’s not sleeping since the text just came through, but I suppose he could be in the bathroom.
Delilah:
Are you okay? Can I bring you anything?
I’m sorry you’re not feeling well.
Don’t worry about brunch.
Brad:
I’ll be okay. Better stay away..
I don’t want you to get it if it’s something else.
Delilah:
You’ll call if you need something?
Brad:
Of course. I don’t want you to miss dress shopping with the girls this weekend. I know how excited you are.
Delilah:
Love you. Hope you feel better.
Brad:
Same, baby.
I pace the floor of the kitchen, nibbling on my thumb before I pick my phone back up and dial my long-time employee Mikey.
“Hey Lilah, what’s up?” he asks when the call connects.
“Hey Mikey, I hate to ask, but Brad’s sick and I want to go check on him. Are you interested in coming in early?”
“Sure. I can be there in thirty minutes.”
“Thanks Mikey. I owe you.”
“Don’t even worry about it Lilah, I know you’d do the same for me. See you soon.”
When the call disconnects I finish up with the scones so that all Mikey has to do is take them out of the oven.
“Hey Lilah, I’m here,” Mikey calls out as he pushes through the back door of the shop.
