Page 99 of Tiers of Joy

Gaige kisses my head.

“How did you know where I was?” I look into his deep brown eyes.

“Amy said you’d gone to talk to someone you haven’t spoken to in a long time. I guessed you’d come here to talk to Jay.” He smiles.

I lean up and kiss him.

“Ready to head back?”

“Yeah.”

Gaige walked down to find me so he drives my truck back.

“So Bob fired Tanner today.” Gaige states.

“What?! You're joking?” I ask. I’m stunned.

“Nope. He heard what was said at the bar and he cares a lot about you. No way would he keep someone after that.” Gaige points out.

We pull up at the bakery and walk in. Amy is dealing with a customer.

“I’m sorry sir, we don’t have that.” She apologies.

“It’s okay Amy, I can deal with this. What can I help you with sir?” I say, looking up from tying my apron.

“Oh for god’s sake! It’s you!” I say exasperated.

“Well that is no way to treat a customer. I’ve come back to give you a second chance.” He states while pushing his thick framed glasses up his nose.

“Everything alright?” Gaige asks, crossing his broad arms across his chest.

The man turns round and scrunches up his nose.

“Who’s this? You brought in muscle to get rid of customers like me?” He asks.

“Sir, I don’t need to bring in muscle to deal with customers like you, I am quite capable. Now, what can I get you?” I pause.

He goes to speak.

“Uh-uh. Just remember what happened last time.” I warn.

“Do you have any gluten free, sugar free, vegan friendly cupcakes?” He ask.

I hold out my hand and Amy gives me a piping bag filled with strawberry buttercream frosting.

“Now don’t start. I am well within my rights to ask for such a cake.” He says, holding up his hands,

“You want me to deal with him?” Gaige offers.

“Nope, I’m good.” I say holding out my other hand.

Amy hands me a piping bag filled with chocolate frosting.

I have a bag tucked under each arm and I walk slowly around the counter. The guy steps back with his hands up in surrender.

“I can see that you don’t seem to have updated your policies.” He points out.

“No we haven’t. I’m locked and loaded. What's your next move?” I ask, smiling. I make the noise as if I’m cocking a gun.

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