Page 118 of Tiers of Joy

She sighs and turns back around to face me.

Gaige comes in behind me a moment later.

“Oh thank god. I was worried you’d be here throwing cake at her or something.” He sighs.

I turn to him and raise an eyebrow in question.

“Why on earth would I be throwing cake at her?”

“It could be a sexual fantasy of his. It’s quite common to fantasise over your loved one with food substances.” Eric interjects.

We all turn and stare at Eric with a what-the-fuck expression on our faces.

“Nellie, why did you tell the whole town about what you saw in Gaige’s garden?” I ask.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” She says, trying to play it coy.

“Like hell you do! Gaige has been molested by senior citizens because of you running your mouth off.” I fume.

“Oh my god. Gaige, is this true?” Nellie asks.

“Well, I w…” I hold up my hand, halting Gaige.

“Yes it is. That elderly lady got a right good handful of his behind. If she had reached under any further she would have had more than just a handful of butt cheek!” I point out, crossing my arms over my chest.

“I…I am so sorry. I shouldn’t gossip I know, but, well, I just was so shocked. It was shocking, walking in and seeing you both in that way.” She apologises.

“Oh come on Nellie! What do you think this is? Immaculate conception?” I say, pointing to my bump.

“Now we know that’s not true. You need the man to ejaculate his sperm to fertilize the egg to conceive a baby. Although some women claim they fell pregnant from swallowing the sperm.” Eric snorts to himself.

“Jesus Christ.” Gaige mutters.

“Just in future Nellie, if someone doesn’t answer the door, don’t just walk in. There’s probably a good reason those people aren’t opening the door. You also shouldn’t go around the town telling everyone about our private life!” I finish on a huff.

“I’m sorry, it won’t happen again.” Nellie apologises.

“Thank you.” I mutter. “That being said, your casserole was lovely and I will bring the dish back.” I rush out before turning and storming out.

Gaige is hot on my heels trying to catch up with me.

He opens the truck door.

“Esme, get in the truck.” He points.

“I left my bag at the bakery.” I point out.

He points to the back seat and there in the back is my bag.

“Fine.” I huff.

Gaige gets in and starts the truck up.

“So is it just the pregnancy hormones or are you always this crazy?” He asks.

I look at him with a raised eyebrow, challenging him.

“Right, got it. Shut up Gaige. Do not poke the bear.” He mumbles under his breath.

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