Page 21 of Never Kiss Your Brother's Best Friend

"Thanks,” she says, coming out of the kitchen and walking over to my table. “I've worked hard to keep it simple, but I like a bit of flair and color. It's my happy place, you know?"

"Yes, I do," I say with a nod. "It's nice. Very sleek and modern. Did you design it yourself? Or did you hire an interior decorator?"

"I designed it, yeah," she replies, her eyes sparkling. "But I have to give credit where credit is due. This place was a wreck when I bought it. The previous owners had closed down, and the building was a mess. It had been sitting empty for years, and I got a deal on it. It took a lot of elbow grease, and our favorite realtor helped me out a lot, but the payoff was worth it."

"Our favorite realtor?" I ask.

"Yeah," she says with a smirk. "Zoe, naturally. She helped me with the loan, the renovation, all the legal stuff. She's my secret weapon. I would've never gotten this place if it wasn't for her."

"Zoe is a real whiz," I agree. "She has a knack for finding great deals. It's no wonder she's so successful. She's a hard worker, and she gets results."

“I agree,” says Mia. “Now let me go get those cupcakes.”

As if my compliments have summoned Zoe, the soft jingle of the bell above the door announces her arrival. She walks into the shop, dressed in a tailored blouse and slacks. Her dark hair is tied back in a sleek ponytail, and a pair of gold hoop earrings hang from her ears.

"Hi, Zoe," Mia calls out as she appears from the kitchen with a tray of heavenly-looking cupcakes in hand. "We were just talking about you."

Zoe's expression brightens as she glances between us. "Oh, yeah? In what way?"

"I was telling Emma how awesome you are," Mia replies, setting the tray on the table.

"It's true," I agree, nodding. "A regular powerhouse. The both of you. Which is why I wanted to meet with you guys today. I've got a project in the works, and I need the dynamic duo's expertise and enthusiasm."

"We're listening," Zoe says, taking a seat beside Mia.

"Hold that thought." I grab a cupcake and close my eyes as I take a bite. Mia has always been a good baker, ever since we were little kids. But as she's grown, so has her skillset, and I can't stop myself from groaning.

"Oh, this is amazing. I have died and gone to heaven. Okay, where were we?"

Mia laughs. "You were about to tell us about your project."

"Oh, right. You two won't believe what Sterling and I are cooking up," I begin, excitement bubbling in my voice.

Mia wipes her hands on her apron before she leans across the table. "You and Sterling? All right, Em, spill the beans. What's got you all fired up?"

I lean in, lowering my voice conspiratorially. "We're talking about a community-driven animal shelter right here in Cedar Creek, the current one is way too small and overrun. We want to kick things off with some events that'll have the whole town buzzing."

Their eyes widen, and Mia leans forward, her apron dusted with a hint of flour. "An animal shelter? That sounds incredible. Tell us more."

I start painting the picture for them, describing the vision Sterling has for the shelter and the impact it could have on the community. As I speak, their expressions shift from curiosity to genuine interest, and by the time I finish, they're both grinning like Cheshire cats.

Zoe crosses her arms, a playful look on her face. "Em, this is big. I can see the gears turning in your head. What do you need from us?"

"So, we’re thinking about three events, one being a raffle. Mia, you're the queen of baked goods," I say, nudging her. "I need your magic touch for that. Can you whip up some of your famous desserts that we can sell?"

Mia beams, her eyes twinkling. "Consider it done."

I turn to Zoe. "And you, my real estate guru. How about using some of your connections to offer free staging or appraisals for the silent auction?"

Zoe grins. "Not only will I do that, but I'll also help you find the perfect spot for the event. We want this to be a massive success, right?"

I nod, grateful for their support. "Absolutely. We want the town buzzing about this."

Mia leans in, "We can also get some of our friends involved. You'll have the whole town backing you up, Em."

The warmth of their enthusiasm and willingness to help fills the bakery with positive energy. "Thank you both so much. This means the world to me."

Zoe playfully nudges me. "Anything for you. Besides, it sounds like a fantastic cause."

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