Page 25 of Falling Again For My Best Friend's Brother

I nodded, not wanting to worry her, but the heat continued to build. I reached for my water glass, taking a large gulp to quench the inferno in my mouth.

Amelia, curious about my reaction, took a tentative bite herself. Her eyes widened, and she jumped up from her seat, grabbing the jar of spice she'd used.

"Oh no!" she groaned, reading the label more closely. "Spicy Garlic Blend? I didn't realize it had ghost pepper flakes in it!"

I tried to respond, but my mouth was on fire. I croaked out, "That's... quite a kick for garlic."

"I picked this up at the farmer's market last week. The vendor said it would 'add some excitement' to my cooking. I guess this isn't quite what I had in mind!"

My lips still tingled from the heat, but I couldn't help but chuckle at the crazy mix-up.

"Well, this is one dinner we won't forget."

Amelia sat back in her chair, looking defeated. "I'm so sorry, Trevor. I wanted everything to be perfect."

I reached across the table, taking her hand in mine. "Hey, it is perfect. A little spice never hurt anyone."

She squeezed my hand, her smile softening. "You're amazing, you know that?"

An idea struck me, and I stood up, pulling Amelia with me. "Come on, I know just the thing to cool us down. Let's go get some ice cream in town."

Amelia's face lit up. "That sounds perfect!"

I decided to leave Hero at home, so I ran upstairs and put him in his kennel, promising him a treat when I returned.

Amelia was waiting outside when I got back downstairs. Mayor Tom's booming voice cut through the evening air as we walked towards the ice cream shop. "Well, well, who do we have here?"

I turned to see him approaching, his colorful bowtie askew as usual. "Evening, Mayor," I greeted, straightening my posture instinctively.

"I saw Frances's photo of you two lovebirds. The whole town's buzzing about it!" His eyes darted between us, obviously hoping we would share some details.

I nodded, keeping my expression neutral. "News travels fast in Rivermint Cove."

Amelia chimed in, trying to change the subject. "It's a lovely evening, isn't it, Mayor Tom?"

"Indeed it is." He must have gotten the message because he didn't try to pry. "So, how's the butterfly project coming along?"

I answered promptly, wanting to get to the ice cream shop. "It's on track, sir. We're making good progress. If you'll excuse us, we're heading for some ice cream."

"Of course, of course," he chuckled. "Enjoy your evening."

As we walked away, Amelia giggled. "What's so funny?"

"Just you," she replied, looping her arm through mine. "So serious and formal with Mayor Tom. Is that your firefighter voice?"

I chuckled, shrugging my shoulders. "Old habits die hard."

We stepped inside the ice cream shop, savoring the sweet aroma of waffle cones and toppings.

After some deliberation, I chose a rich chocolate gelato, while Amelia opted for a bright green pistachio. We settled at a table by the window, enjoying our creamy treats and each other's company.

"So," I said between spoonfuls. "What do you say we go on a hike this Saturday? There's a place I used to go as a teenager with the most incredible view of the town."

"I'd love that, Trevor." Her forehead wrinkled with thought. "But I've never really gone hiking before. What should I wear? And should I pack a lunch?"

I smiled reassuringly. "Comfortable shoes are a must; wear something you don't mind getting dirty. As for food, leave that to me."

A blush colored her cheeks, making her eyes sparkle in the soft glow of the shop's lights. I found myself lost in their depth, wanting to explore more than just the scenic view of Rivermint Cove.

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