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9
KNOX
“You live over here?” she asks as she peers out the passenger side window.
She’s been avoiding my gaze ever since that kiss, but I’ve noticed how her cheeks are still a warm pink and the way she touches her mouth every so often in a sort of absentminded way—as if she’s remembering how my lips felt on hers.
“Here? No.”
“So …” She finally looks at me. “What are we doing by City Hall?”
“You’re hungry.” I pull up in front of Ms. Minnie’s Kitchen.
Her eyes widen. “Is this the Ms. Minnie who had that little cart at the—”
“Christmas tree lightings every year? Yeah, it’s her.”
“Oh my God!” She clasps her hands. “She always made the best little sandwiches with the ham and the melty cheese and that sauce. Waffle fries were always—” She does a chef’s kiss on her fingers.
I can’t help but smile. She’s seriously too adorable, and I want to kiss her so badly right now. But she’s hungry, and there’s no way I’m going to make her wait another second to get comfortable.
“Don’t forget the funnel cakes.” I step out of the car and go around to help her out.
“She makes funnel cakes here? In this fancy spot?” She looks up at the façade with Ms. Minnie’s name in bright lights.
“She makes whatever she likes.” I lead her through the door.
When the scent of powdered sugar hits us, Ruby leans against me. “This is heaven.”
Minnie is in the dining room speaking with a table full of customers, but she comes toward us the minute she sees me.
“Partner!” She strides up and catches me in a bear hug. Minnie is the tallest woman in town, not to mention the strongest. I swear she almost breaks one of my ribs.
“Hi, Minnie.” I groan.
“Partner?” Ruby asks.
“Is this Ms. Ruby Lane?” Minnie releases me then takes Ruby’s hands in hers. “I remember you, little thing. You used to always order double funnel cake.”
“Yes!” Ruby smiles big. “That’s me.”
“I’m glad you’re back in town.” She cuts a look at me. “And I’m certain I’m not the only one.”
I clear my throat.
“And by partner, I mean that this business savvy young man helped me get set up in this fabulous space. A little capital goes a long way.” She smiles, her eyes bright. “Now come on, you two. The best table is waiting.”
Ruby looks at me, confusion and amusement playing across her face as we’re led to a cozy booth in the back near the kitchen. Ruby sits, and then I scoot her in against the wall and sit beside her.
“Get comfy. I’m bringing out the big guns.” Minnie heads to the kitchen, and her booming voice is lost in the sound of pots, pans, and a busy staff.
“This place is packed.” Ruby looks around. “You did this?”
“I saw an opportunity to help someone.”
“You saw an opportunity to help someone?” She stares at me in disbelief. “You? A Lovejoy? You wanted to help someone?”
“That name isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.” I thank the server who brings our drinks.
