Page 70 of Tiers of Joy

“Jesus Ruth, you ordered the cupcakes on purpose didn’t you?” Bob chastises.

“I don’t know what you're talking about. I just thought it would be nice to have some special cakes. That’s all.”

I haven’t moved or said anything. My eyes are still firmly fixated on Gaige. He is wearing smart jeans boots and a fitted jumper that clings to his delicious body.

“Esme.” He says, his voice gravelly.

“I have to go.” I rush out.

I walk to my truck but before I make it Gaige grabs my hand. I snatch my hand back.

“Don’t touch me.” I fume.

“Esme, I'm sorry I left without saying goodbye and telling you what was happening. I didn’t think I would be gone this long.” He apologises.

“I trusted you! I let you worm your way in. I had feelings for you. After our night together I came to tell you but you were with Amy. I saw how happy you were and I thought I couldn’t ruin that for you or her so I never said a word. That was a lie though, wasn’t it? You and Amy! I carried on feeling guilty about it, thought I had done the right thing. It was all a bloody lie!” I seethe.

I jump into my truck.

“I'm glad you sorted crap out with your mum. Just do me a favour, do not come near me. Stay away from me and the bakery. You’re not welcome there.” I state before slamming the door shut.

I speed off, gripping the steering wheel tight.

“Hey Esme, I'm back. Sorry I just fucked off and left you hanging. Sorry I gave you the best sex of your life then made you feel like a home-wrecking whore afterwards for no fucking reason at all.” I yell angrily in the car to myself.

“I’m sorry I ever let myself fall for you Gaige fucking Knox!” I yell and sob.

I pull up at the bakery and storm through the door. All eyes come to me and all conversations stop.

“Amy, I don’t feel too good, I’m going upstairs. Can you close up for me.” I say, not giving her time to answer.

I shut myself upstairs and sit in the rocking chair; his fucking beautiful rocking chair.

“Cock sucker!” I yell randomly.

There's a knock on my apartment door. I get up and open it to see Amy with a box and the keys to the shop.

“Here, there were a couple of cakes left. I figured you might want them. Might make you feel better. I have cleaned up as well, so you don’t have to worry about that later.” She smiles kindly and give me the box.

“Thank you Amy. I will pay you for your overtime.” I state.

“Don’t worry about it, just see it as one friend helping out another. Plus I’ve got your back. We won’t let him in the bakery, I promise.” She smiles.

“How did you know he was back?” I ask.

“Ruth came to see if you were okay and to apologise.” She shrugs.

“Ah okay.” I nod.

“See you tomorrow.” Amy says, walking down the steps.

I shut the front door and go to the kitchen and pour myself a large wine. I open the box and there is a mini Victoria sponge cake inside.

“Son of a bitch.”

I pick it up and open the window and throw it onto the street, narrowly missing a person walking past.

“What the?!” The guy yells, looking around.

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