Page 2 of Silver Seconds (Tempted in Texas)

From the unpredictable hours to the stress of managing a staff, it's way more work than I anticipated. I've been working around the clock to keep Sugar Breeze going. But I just haven't had the success that my mom did.

The only saving grace is that I'm back in Barton Beach. It's a tiny little Texas town on the Gulf of Mexico with sandy beaches, charming shops, and friendly locals. And after everything that's happened, I can't imagine living anywhere else.

I also love having my sister Sheila and her family close by. And with Houston being only a four-hour drive away, I can still make day trips to see Lisa and my other friends.

"I wouldn't say it's bad, just... challenging," I reply, swirling the Prosecco in my glass. I offer them a smile that doesn't reach my eyes. "But I'm managing. It's all a process, right?"

Sheila gives me another concerned look. "Have you been able to reopen yet?"

I sigh. We had to close the bakery last week due to repair issues. And thanks to my tight budget, we still haven't reopened yet.

"Hopefully we'll be able to open tomorrow."

Lisa leans in. "Well, at least you have the Tinsley Simon thing to look forward to." She takes another gulp of her wine, her gaze not leaving my face. "Designing her wedding cake would be a game-changer for Sugar Breeze, right?"

Tinsley Simon is a pop star who is getting married to a hockey player named Ford Augustine in a few months. Ford is a Barton Beach native and has been very public about wanting to get married in his hometown. Since their engagement was announced, they have been actively searching for a local cake designer.

"I haven't heard back about the cake tasting yet," I remind her, setting my glass down on the counter with a little more force than necessary. The liquid inside sloshes dangerously close to the rim. "I sent in my proposal, but it's just a waiting game now." I force a brave smile, trying to project confidence I don't feel.

A devilish smile plays on Sheila's lips. "Well, I think I know just how to take your mind off this waiting game," she suggests casually.

"And what might that be?" I ask, bracing myself for whatever scheme she's cooked up this time.

Sheila glances at Lisa, who grins broadly in agreement. "A girls' night out," they chime in unison, their eyes sparkling with anticipation.

I groan. "No way. It's getting late, I'm tired, I smell like cupcakes, and in case you've forgotten, I'm old."

Lisa rolls her eyes. "You're not old. You're just getting started. And besides, there's nothing like a little distraction with good company to ease the stress, right?"

"There's a cute new bar that just opened up near the beach," Sheila says, nudging me playfully. "So, how about it? A few drinks, a little dancing? I think we should check it out."

It's true that I could use a distraction. And if I'm being honest, it would be nice to have some time with my friends to blow off some steam.

"We heard the owner is hot, too," Lisa chimes in with a smirk. "Rumor has it that he's a silver fox around our age."

I feel my stomach start to churn nervously.

Although it's been over a year since the ink dried on my divorce papers, my romantic life has been as barren as a desert. Lately, Sheila and Lisa have been encouraging me to put myself out there again. But to be honest, the idea of dating is frightening.

I've been out of the game for so long that the prospect of dressing up and the scrutiny from strangers feels overwhelming. It's not just the physical act of going out. It's the emotional burden of feeling like I have to have it all together when, in reality, I'm a hot mess and barely hanging on.

But then again…one night out won't change anything, right?

I bite my bottom lip. "Even if I wanted to go, I don't think I have anything to wear."

Sheila flashes Lisa a knowing smirk and nods to the hot pink gift bag on the couch. "You will after you open your birthday present."

I eye her suspiciously as I walk over to the couch. And when I pull the dress out of the bag, my jaw drops.

It's short, black, and clingy with a halter-style neckline and a hint of sparkle in the lace overlay. It's the kind of dress that I would have worn back in my early twenties.

It's also the kind of dress I would never have had the courage to buy for myself.

I feel a sudden surge of warmth flood through me, and I realize with amazement that it's not fear - it's excitement.

I'm looking forward to something for the first time in a while.

"See, Denise?" Sheila grins triumphantly. "Now you're ready for a night out."

Source: www.allfreenovel.com