Page 49 of Heart of the West

“Yes, normally. Bakeries open early and the prep work takes a couple of hours.”

“I’m meeting Dustin in town in a few hours. Do you need anything from town?”

I shake my head. “I was going to town,too. I need to pick up a few things.”

“You can ride with me.”

“Some of the things are delicate. Why don’t we take my Suburban? It doesn’t matter who drives. I already have the second and third rows folded down.”

“Sounds like a good plan. Can I help you make breakfast?”

“If you’d like.”

We spent the next two hours talking. Dalton tells me stories about his Dad. A few about his mom, too. She sounds like an amazing person.

Out of the blue, he says. “Mom would’ve liked you. Dee is amazing, but you bring something back to the house we’ve been missing.”

Tears prick at the corner of my eyes. “I’m only helping your dad out, but it’s nice to be surrounded by family during the holidays.”

Even if they aren’t mine, I add silently.

“Consider yourself adopted. I haven’t seen Dad smile that much in years. The snowball fight was epic. I’m glad you’ll be around town. You're good for him.”

“Thank you.”

If only he knew how much his father would say those words to me. I knew coming here would be hard. Sleeping with him only solidified my feelings for him. Being here in his house with his family is making it grow. I’m going to get my heart broken, but I don’t know how to stop this runaway train.

With breakfast finished and set-up, I hurry to get my things and meet Dalton in the foyer.

Jessi told me last night she’s taking the King’s out sightseeing. They’re eating lunch out and won’t be home until late, so a light supper is all that’s needed. After grabbing my purse and coat, I head to the foyer. Dalton is waiting for me.

“Hope I didn’t keep you waiting long.”

“I only arrived a few moments ago. Why don’t you drop me off, then I’ll walk down to the bakery and help you load.”

“You’re a gem.”

“I’ll remind you of that come next Christmas. By then, I’m sure to have half a dozen or so faves.”

I laugh. “I’ll keep that in mind next Christmas.”

The rest of the trip, we kept the banter light. He begged me to make fried pies for dessert tonight. I told him I have a new order put in and we’d pick it up from the McGraw’s on the way back to the ranch.

Cece updated me on the festival idea. It’s set for January twentieth. The first annual North Star Cherry Festival. We’re having a cookoff and all things cherry will be sold in multiple shops on festival day.

I’m excited to be a part of the day. I’m planning on coming up with several new recipes, including the fried pies and cherry rolls. I drop Dalton off at the realty office and head to the bakery. I park the SUV by the back door for easier loading and head inside.

The workers won’t be here for another hour. I head into the front first. The bakery walls already sport a fresh coat of cream paint. There's still a slight paint smell in the air. Satisfied with the progress, I head back into the kitchen to gather all my supplies.

I have to dig through a few boxes to find my candy molds. I add them to the growing pile of pans and assorted instruments I’ll need for the next two weeks. I hadn’t packed them before because I wanted to check out Effrem’s kitchen. It’s homey with professional grade appliances.

The back is mostly loaded when I remember the candy recipe book I want is upstairs. I hurry up the backstairs to the apartment, taking out my keys. I reach for the knob and notice the door isn’t fully closed. I push it open with the heel of my hand.

I almost call out but think better of it. A noise comes from somewhere. I slowly peek my head around the door. I don’t seeanyone. whoever it is, either in the bathroom or closet. I eased the door closed and hurried down the stairs to the bakery.

I pull my phone to dial 9-1-1 when a hand grabs me.

“Give that to me.”

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