Page 31 of The Sweetest Ingredient

“I like that idea.” I retrieved my laptop from my backpack. “While you guys brainstorm ways to showcase our delectables, I’ll dive into the rebranding.”

“How do you know about this stuff?” Jordan asked.

“Because I’m more than just a pretty baker—I’m also an awesome graphic artist. I’ll start by getting our online presence sorted out. I’ve helped lots of businesses with this same thing,” I said.

Lucia arched an eyebrow. “Is that so?”

“Trust me, I’ve got this?—”

“Are you sure, young lady?” Her expression soured. “I mean, your baking skills have definitely gotten better, but there’s still room for improvement, and this is a different area of expertise.”

“Kenzi has proven herself time and again. I trust her completely,” Bishop said firmly.

Lucia clamped her mouth shut. Warmth bloomed in my chest at his steadfast faith in me.

“Not to worry.” I flashed my coworkers a confident smile. “Give me an hour, and I’ll have a kickbutt promotional plan for us. First, we’ll implement a targeted ad campaign to reach potential customers in Serenity Falls and the surrounding areas. We’ll advertise our unique flavors, our commitment to quality ingredients, and, of course, our legacy in town.”

“If it’ll boost our sales numbers, then go ahead.” Lucia gave me a begrudging nod. “Hopefully, you’re better at this than baking.”

While I got to work, the trio swiftly snatched up recipe books, scanning the pages for fresh additions to grace our menu. They settled at the table next to mine, as if poised for culinary inspiration.

Helping to rebrand Doughy Desires was my own subtle penance, a way of buttering up the universe—and Bishop—to forgive my tiny, itsy-bitsy deception.

My fingers hovered over the keyboard, itching to create graphics that would prove Maxwell wrong and save the bakery. I began by researching successful advertising tactics, scrolling through social media feeds and websites of popular bakeries.

As I clicked through images of mouthwatering pastries, clever slogans, and inspirational designed ads, I took notes on the most eye-catching designs and strategies, eager to combine them with the unique charm and history of Doughy Desires. My heart swelled with hometown pride as I read articles regarding the bakery’s founding, learning that it had been a staple in Serenity Falls for decades.

Bishop slid into the seat beside me. He glanced at my laptop screen, raising an eyebrow. “When you said you were a graphic artist, I thought you were joking. You sure you can do this?” he whispered.

I kept working on the new design. “Ah, Bishop, always so quick to judge.”

While I continued to immerse myself in the project, I stole glances at Bishop. He was deep in conversation with Lucia and Jordan, his brow furrowed.

A burst of creative energy surged through me as I incorporated elements of the bakery’s legacy into the website’s redesign. I even added a subtle nod to Bishop’s signature cupcakes and a swell of satisfaction struck me knowing I was helping to save the bakery.

“Okay, everyone,” I announced, pushing away from the table to show off my work. “Check out this marketing masterpiece.”

I selected the presentation file, but instead, a personal photo popped up on the screen with Mochi wearing oversized sunglasses, Bree holding a broom like a guitar, and me rocking a colander as a hat.

“Uh, that’s not it…” My ears burned as I frantically searched for the correct file. “Sorry. Technical difficulties.”

Finally locating the right folder, I clicked on the desired presentation. The group leaned in, their expressions shifting from skepticism to awe as they took in my designs, eliciting impressed gasps from everyone. A rush of pride built within me, and for the first time since joining Doughy Desires, I felt like I was contributing.

“Kenzi,” Bishop said, his voice soft and sincere, “this is incredible. And with your talent and our teamwork, Doughy Desires will rise again.”

“Ha, ha,” I said. “So, you do have a sense of humor.”

“On occasion.” He blew out a breath. “Okay, let’s do this, rebrand my bakery.”

“Yay!” I grinned. “You won’t regret it, Bishop.”

He rocked on his heels. “Let’s hope not.”

I opened my design software. “Now, we need a new logo that’s fresh and inviting.” I glanced up at Bishop, who stood beside me with crossed arms. “This will make the bakery standout from the competition.” My fingers flew across the keyboard. “A great logo can do wonders for branding and visibility.”

While I worked, colors, images, and shapes came together on the screen, forming a cute yet elegant design that encompassed the spirit of Bishop’s bakery. The new logo featured a stylized croissant intertwined with a heart, symbolizing the love and care put into each baked good.

“Ta-da!” I turned the laptop to face him. “What do you think?”

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