Baker's Dozen

by Wendy Smith

  I sit on the couch, and pat the seat beside me. “That’s the life of a baker.”

  “I guess I never thought about it.” She sits, and smiles at me.

  “Truth is that I probably don’t quite live the life people think I do. I have to get up way too early to do half the things I’m supposed to have done. This business means everything to me.” I nudge her arm. “I’m only sorry you’re not one of my customers.”

  “Well, maybe I can be if you start selling something I eat.”

  Our gazes are locked, and for the first time she doesn’t blush and look away.

  “Thank you for coming home with me,” I say.

  “I wanted to make sure you were okay.”

  I lean back and close my eyes. “Today was rough. Cara and I, we were together for a while a few years ago.”

  “Oh, Owen, I’m so sorry.” The sympathy’s clear in her tone.

  “It is what it is. She was happy with Ryan in the end.” Tears well, and I can’t help it. This whole thing has me rattled. Life’s so short as it is, but Cara and Ryan makes me look at my own mortality. What do I have to show for the life I’ve led other than the bakery?`

  “Hey.” When Ginny reaches for me, it’s tentative at first, but she slowly slides her arms around my neck, and I rest my chin on her shoulder.

  “I’m sorry. I think I’m going to be okay, and then it hits me again.”

  “There’s nothing to be sorry about. You’re human. It’s okay to hurt.”

  I close my eyes. It pains me to think of what happened to Cara. That her life could end that way hurts more than anything. She and Ryan should have been able to grow old together.

  “To be honest, I don’t know how to feel. I’m sad she’s gone, and I’m devastated for her little girl. What happens to her?” I open my eyes.

  Ginny shrugs. “I don’t know what the authorities do in these circumstances.”

  “Neither do I. I do know I’m going to put in a complaint about today. That woman was awful.”

  She nods.

  “Thanks again for your help with Ava. I was so angry.”

  “I could tell. But you did good. You didn’t make things worse for her. I hope she enjoys the cookies you made her.”

  I smile. “Me too.”

  Exhaustion hits me. I’ve been running on adrenalin since the night of the accident. Between not sleeping well and my early-morning starts, I’m more tired than I have been in a long time. I yawn. “Sorry.”

  Ginny smiles. “It’s okay. I should get out of here.”

  “Stay for a bit longer?” I can’t deny I like her company.

  “Sure. Maybe you should see if you can sleep.” She pats her lap, and I smile, stretching out on the couch and laying my head on her knees. It’s intimate, but reassuring. Just what I need. “Tell me about you and Cara.”

  “Really?”

  She runs her fingers across my forehead. “It might help.”

  It won’t win me any brownie points, but for some reason, I feel I can talk to Ginny about this. “She chased me. I gave in eventually even though she was married. We had fun together, although for a while I thought it was a little more than that. Ryan caught us once.” I smile. “It was such a cliché. The only way out was the window, and he caught sight of me from behind. I was naked and clutching my clothes, hoping I didn’t drop anything identifiable.”

  Ginny laughs. “Did he ever work it out?”

  “Pretty sure he was suspicious. Cara called it off shortly after, said she wanted to work on their marriage. Later on, they had Ava, and they seemed really happy after that.”

  I close my eyes as Ginny strokes my temple.

  “You know, I could get used to this,” I say.

  “What?”

  “You taking care of me.”

  She lifts her hand. “I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

  I open my eyes. “I think I am now, thanks to you. Are you going to let me take you out to dinner to say thanks?”

  Ginny shakes her head. “That’s not necessary.”

  I sit, and look into those gorgeous green eyes. “I want to. Not just to say thanks, but because I want to take you out.”

  “Owen, you don’t have—”

  “I know I don’t have to. The truth is that I have been thinking about you since the day of Drew’s wedding.”

  Her cheeks flush with colour. “I’ve thought about you, too. I’d heard stories about you, but that whole reception you spent all your time with Max. There were some beautiful women there, but you stayed with your nephew. It was sweet.”

  “Max is easy to spend time with. That kid is the best.”

  “He is.”

  “He led me to you.” I swallow hard. Other than with my family, I’m rarely earnest. I joke and I flirt and I tease, but no one gets the sentimental part of me. Ginny’s done nothing but show me kindness and give me hope. I’m an open book to her.

  “Owen—”

  “Just say yes.”

  “I can’t. I told you I heard the stories, and I work with someone you went out with, slept with, and then moved on from. She’s still hurt, even though it was a while ago.”

  “Becky Lake.”

  Ginny nods. “I work pretty closely with her, and even though she sometimes talks about how being dumped by you led to her finding true love with her husband, Glenn, being with him doesn’t stop her from being bitter about the way you treated her.”

  “You know all that and you still came to keep an eye on me today?”

  She licks her lips. “I think you’re a nice guy. But I have to be wary. My heart’s been battered before, and I don’t want to do that on repeat.”

  I take her hand in mine. “I wouldn’t do that to you. Becky isn’t the easiest person to be around. She got … clingy.”

  “Who’s to say I wouldn’t do that?”

  “Would you turn up in my shop and harass an innocent customer because she was dressed for the beach and ask her if she was my latest whore?”

  Her eyes widen. “Really?”

  “Yes. The poor girl was a tourist, not even a local. She only came in for a croissant. I had to knock that on the head pretty quickly.”

  Ginny’s expression tells me she’s torn, and I understand that. She’ll have listened to what Becky’s had to say, and anything I say to contradict it may not ring true. Finally, she shakes her head. “I won’t be another notch on your headboard.”

  I nod. “I understand. Doesn’t mean I’m not going to chase you.”

  The corners of her mouth turn into a smile.

  Game on.

  6

  Owen

  A splash of liquid hits me on the cheeks.

  Waving my hands in front of my face, I try and stop the water being flicked on me. “Cut it out.”

  Ginny.

  The last thing I remember is my head on her lap, her fingernails raking my hair.

  Opening my eyes, I expect to see Ginny standing there. Instead, it’s Mel, smacking her chewing gum, just like I hate, and standing over me.

  “Mel?”

  “It’s five in the morning. and I’ve been in that kitchen for an hour by myself.”

  I sit up. “Shit. I fell asleep.”

  “Yeah, your girlfriend left like twelve hours ago. Probably just as well, as you were snoring your head off. I think someone had a bit too much to drink.”

  I bury my head in my hands. That’s not a look that’s going to impress Ginny. My head thumps from the half a bottle of whisky I consumed before lying back in her lap.

  “It’s okay. I think she still likes you. She told me on the way out to keep an eye on you, but when I came in here, you were fast asleep and burbling some crap about how nice she was.”

  Shit. “I’ll just jump in the shower for five and come out.”

  “Do you know what I think?”

  I shake my head and wait for her words of wisdom on my potential relationship.

  “You need to get your shit together and get
someone in to work afternoons. I’m over this twelve –hour-day bullshit.”

  I chuckle. Mel’s always been upfront with me. I think that’s why we get along so well.

  “Okay. I’ll put a sign up. We’ll find someone.”

  She crosses her arms and nods. “I’ve already put one in the window.”

  “See? I knew there was a reason I liked you so much. You complete me.”

  Leaning over, she cuffs me on the ear. “Stop being a smartarse. You must be losing your mojo. She didn’t stay the night.” Mel’s lips twist. “Mind you, you don’t usually bring them home with you.”

  “I was a bit of a mess after the funeral. Did you know Cara and Ryan’s daughter nearly missed the service?”

  “Really?”

  “You know she’s in care? The woman she’s staying with ran late, and they arrived just as the service started. I’m not impressed.”

  Mel takes a seat beside me on the couch. “That’s so shit.”

  “Yeah, but what do you do? It’s none of my business, but I’m so angry about it.”

  She squeezes my shoulder. “Maybe you should talk to Graham Taylor about it. He’s got to have contacts that he can pass that onto.”

  I nod. “You’re right. You’re always right. If you weren’t already married, I’d ask you to marry me.”

  Laughing, she rolls her eyes. “If only I was into men.”

  “Well, technically, you don’t have a husband, you have a wife, so maybe there’s hope for me yet.”

  She stands, cuffing my ear again.

  “Ow.”

  “Get your arse in the shower and into the bakery.”

  “Yes, boss.”

  She laughs as I walk down the hallway, waggling my arse as I go. “Owen Campbell, I don’t know how your mother ever put up with you.”

  “Neither do I,” I call over my shoulder as I get to the bathroom.

  I’ve never worked with a hangover, and it shows. I drag my way through the day, and even take a break after the lunchtime rush to have another shower.

  I’m dead on my feet by the time we close the door. It doesn’t help that a coachload of tourists on a day trip wiped us out. We’ll be extra busy in the morning replenishing stock, but that’s tomorrow. Today is over and done with.

  “Good night,” Mel says.

  “Did you get any bites for your ad?”

  She shakes her head. “Maybe tomorrow.”

  “We really could use the extra help.”

  Poking her tongue out at me, she waves as she leaves. It’s something she’s been telling me for a while, but I haven’t stopped to listen. I should have.

  When I get into my flat, I collapse on the couch and close my eyes. My stomach grumbles, but getting up requires energy I don’t have.

  A tap on the door makes me open my eyes.

  “Who is it?” I yell.

  “Ginny.”

  Tiredness forgotten, I leap to my feet and get to the door.

  “Hey.” She smiles. “I wanted to check up on you.”

  I laugh. “I’ve got a killer headache still, but I’m okay.”

  “That’s good. I stopped on the way and bought some fish and chips, if you’re interested. If not, I’ll take the leftovers home.”

  “Grease would probably help my head.” I smile. “I thought you didn’t eat gluten. There’s got to be some in the fish batter.”

  Ginny shrugs. “It’s not very much, and I could do with something different after the last few days.”

  I nod. “I know what you mean.”

  Stepping back, I usher her into the living room, and she opens the paper parcel on the coffee table while I grab a bottle of tomato sauce from the kitchen.

  “Tough day at work?” she asks.

  “It was okay once I got going. I was late. Mel came in and flicked water at me to wake me up at five.”

  Ginny laughs, sitting on the couch. “You were that sound asleep?”

  “I was out to it.”

  She grins, shaking her head. “I guess you deserved it after the funeral.”

  “It wasn’t an easy day. That’s for sure. How about you? How was today?”

  Her expression drops. “Up and down. I’m glad it’s over.”

  “Me too.” I pick up a piece of fish and bite the end off. The deliciousness that is beer batter and fresh fish greets me. The Copper Creek fish and chip shop makes sublime food. Everything’s so fresh, and I eat far too much of it. Thankfully, I was blessed with good genes, though working out helps, too.

  “This is so good.” I look across, and Ginny’s got a piece of fish of her own. “It’s really going to hit the spot. A feed of this and some painkillers before bed, and that headache should clear up overnight.” I smile. “Thank you for coming over. I meant it yesterday when I said I wanted to see more of you.”

  She bites down on her lower lip. “I’d really like that too. I’ve struggled with this, I really have. My head keeps telling me that I’m an idiot, but I think I saw a side of you yesterday that you don’t let a lot of people see.”

  I look down to spy an onion ring at the top of the food, and smile.

  Picking it up, I drop to the floor, kneeling before a bewildered Ginny. Her eyes are so full of confusion, but her lips twitch like she’s amused. At least, I hope she is.

  “Will you, Ginny Robinson, do me the honour of having dinner with me tomorrow night?”

  She laughs, holding out her right hand, and I slide the onion ring on one of her fingers.

  I swallow. “So, is that a yes?”

  She grins. “Don’t make me regret this. Yes.”

  My heart leaps at her words. From our conversation yesterday, I knew she was interested but had her reservations. I have to keep working at it and showing her I mean it to break through. This is a start, though.

  I’ve got my chance.

  Now, to not screw it up.

  Our first date is the following night.

  I’m nervous like it’s my very first date, and I’m pulling out all the stops to make this special.

  I pick up Ginny from her place, letting out a low whistle when she appears in the doorway. Her long, auburn hair is hanging loose around her shoulders, and she’s wearing a yellow dress. She looks like summer.

  She’s beautiful.

  “Owen?”

  “Sorry, what?” I realise I’ve been staring at her, and haven’t moved from the same spot for I don’t know how long. “It’s just … you look gorgeous.”

  Her cheeks go pink, and I reach for her hand. “Ready?”

  Ginny nods, and we walk to the car together.

  “Where are we going?” she asks.

  “To the cove. I have a place in mind.”

  There’s a little bistro at the cove. It’s small, quiet, and intimate. Perfect for a first date when all you really want is to be alone with someone.

  When we get there, we’re ushered to our table. I’m trying my best to impress Ginny tonight. Nothing will go wrong if I can help it.

  With our food ordered, I smile at Ginny. “How was your day?”

  Her happy expression falls. “It was okay.”

  “Only okay?”

  She shrugs. “I’m just tired. It was a long one.”

  “I promise I won’t keep you out too late.”

  Her eyes widen. “No, that’s fine. It was just a long day at work. I’m glad I’m with you.”

  “I’m glad I’m with you, too. I’ve been thinking about this since yesterday.”

  She smiles. “Me too. I’ve been a bit nervous.”

  “Me too.” I reach across the table and take her hand in mine. “I want tonight to be the beginning. Of what, I don’t know yet, but I know I don’t want it to be our only date.”

  Ginny nods, and my heart feels light. “That’s what I want too.”

  Our chicken and salad arrives, and she lets go of my hand.

  “Owen?” The waitress’s gaze is on me.

  I look up. Shit. “Uhh hi, Alicia.”
>
  This is not what I wanted to happen. I’d hoped that if I ran into anyone I’d slept with before, they wouldn’t come near while I was obviously on a date. No such luck.

  She smiles. “It’s been a while. I was kinda hoping you’d call.”

  I flick a glance at Ginny. Her expression is tight, and I can’t read it. Given how open she is, I hate it. “I’m on a date, but it was good to see you.”

  It’s like Alicia suddenly sees Ginny, and she narrows her eyes. Over the years, I’ve been quite good at picking up the odd woman who said she wanted something casual, but after hooking up wanted more. Alicia was one of those.

  “Oh. Sorry. Do you have my number?”

  Are you for real? “I’m not sure, but like I said, I’m on a date right now.”

  She leans over, picking up a napkin from the table and scribbling a number on it. “Well, here you go if you need it.”

  “Thanks, but I’m sure I won’t.” Should I be even ruder to get rid of her and hope it doesn’t upset Ginny? Here I am trying to make a good impression.

  Alicia leans closer. “I always wished we could have had more than one night.” She shifts her gaze to Ginny before moving it back to me.

  “Well, clearly that’s not going to happen. So, how about leaving us alone to enjoy our evening? I’m sure if Owen wants to, he’ll call you.”

  I look across the table at Ginny. She casually takes a bite of her food, and smiles. She’s so sweet and gentle, but the way she maintains her demeanour while telling Alicia to go away makes me hotter than the middle of summer.

  Alicia straightens up and glares at Ginny. “I’m sure we’ll talk again.” She turns on her heel and walks across the room.

  “That was amazing,” I say.

  “I’m guessing you didn’t know whether or not to tell her to piss off.” A smile crosses Ginny’s lips.

  “Your guess is right. I’m trying to impress you tonight, not look like a complete arsehole.”

  She shrugs. “It’s okay. I knew all about this before I agreed to tonight. I’m not as fragile as you might think.”

  “I don’t know what to think about you.” I grin.

  Ginny takes a sip of her drink. “I have two older brothers who still treat me like I’m made of china. The reality is that there have been things in my life that have made me tougher than I look. Plus, I had to be tough, having two older brothers.”