Page 113 of The Wayward Son

He began removing the requested pastries from the case and putting them into a box. “Yes. The place is great. So much room. And I have you to thank for it.”

“I’m sorry it took so long. But I guess they had to make some upgrades before they could rent it out.”

“Well, I love it. And so do the kids. They all get their own room.”

“I’m glad it all worked out.”

He looked at her over the counter. “And what are you eating today?”

“Hmm.” She studied the pastries. “I want two blueberry muffins, please.”

“Brady assured me the blueberries are excellent.”

Sage smiled. “I like how you buy local.”

“Not a whole lot of choice. But even if I could find a reliable company to deliver my ingredients, I’d still buy local. It’s only right. They support my business. I should reciprocate that.”

“I’m glad you moved to Castle Springs, Xander. You’re a very welcome addition to the town. I don’t know what we would’ve done without a bakery.”

“How’s the Green Springs Inn coming along? Is Joey getting any more business?”

“Now that spring is on its way, she’s starting to get some reservations. She’ll be sending more business your way soon.”

“That’s good to hear. I could use it. Is she going to be offering a full breakfast to her guests?”

“That’s the plan. It’s a bed-and-breakfast, after all.” She took her debit card out of her purse and handed it to him. “She’s trying to convince me to be her cook.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Do you have experience with that?”

“Just at home, cooking for the family. And I help out the cook during summer camp sometimes. She’ll be serving family style, so there won’t be a menu. Just larger quantities of what I’m used to cooking.”

He nodded. “Well, I spent a few years as a short-order cook with a busy breakfast clientele. If you need any pointers, let me know.”

“I will. Was that before you became a pastry chef and bakery owner?”

“Yes. It was my substitution for college. Hands on learning.”

“Well, it seems to have worked.”

“If only I’d picked up the knowledge of how to raise kids somewhere along the way, I’d be doing okay.”

“I think you’re doing okay. From what I’ve seen, the kids are pretty happy and well-adjusted considering what they went through.”

“I hope so. I feel like I’m winging it half the time.”

“Well, it’s working. So keep it up.”

He handed the card back to her. “Enjoy your blueberry muffins.”

“I always do.”

When Sage knocked on the door forty minutes later, Sawyer kissed Jade, then got out of bed and put on his pants. “Go get dressed in the bathroom. I’ll get the door.”

Jade grabbed her clothes and headed for the bathroom, while Sawyer pulled a t-shirt over his head. He poured two half-cups of coffee from the freshly brewed pot, then set them on the counter before going to the door.

“Hey.” He took the bakery box out of his hands. “What did you bring? I’m starving.”

“The usual.” She looked around the loft. “I thought Jade was here.”

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