Page 97 of My Greatest Joy

“We both know I’m leaving and are enjoying each other while we can. That way there’s no pressure. Doesn’t mean it’s the end of the world.”

“Did you fall and hit your head or something?” Taryn asks.

“No, but I don’t want to get my heart broken,” I admit, sucking in a deep breath.

“Well, I support whatever you decide,” Taryn tells me. “My moms group has still been asking about your relationship, though. Might have to give them a juicy update.”

“Gah, Taryn. Why don’t you write a book about it and use me as character inspiration?”

Her eyes light up with excitement. “That is the perfect idea. And apparently writing runs in the family.”

I snicker. “I’ll be your number one fan.”

“You better,” she tells me. “Because I’m gonna tell everyone it’s my little sister’s love story.”

I laugh out loud. “You better not.”

“I can do whatever I want,” she teases, and we both smile wide. “Thanks for calling me today.”

“Always, sis. I love you so much.”

“I love you, too, Fallon. Please take care of yourself,” she says.

“I always do,” I tell her. The back door opens, and Dasher gets up and runs toward Levi, who’s carrying at least ten bags of groceries. “I should probably let you go,” I tell her.

“Okey dokey! Have fun banging the hot lumberjack,” she says, and I try to turn her down, but Levi bursts into laughter.

“Bye,” I say between gritted teeth and end the call.

“Shoulda let me chat with her,” he says.

“Oh, God no. I’m not stupid. My sister would embarrass the fire out of me.”

“Damn, missing my opportunity.” He snaps his fingers.

“Need any help?” I ask, shutting my laptop, knowing I’m done for the day. I walk into the kitchen and see all the ingredients he’s taking out of the bags.

“What are we baking?” I ask.

“Gingersnaps,” he explains, and I search his eyes.

“But it’s a secret.”

“Yes. But these will be slightly different because I’m making them gluten-free, so technicallynotthe same. After we make them, though, you’re sworn to secrecy for life.”

“So I guess that means no publishing it in the magazine?”

Levi growls. “Woman.”

“I’m kidding. I’d never do that. I’m more scared of your mom being disappointed than any punishment you’d give me.”

He lifts his brows. “As you should be.”

I look at the coconut flour, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Then there’s this weird jar of something that doesn’t have a label.

“What’s this?” I ask, picking it up, studying how thick it is.

“That’s the secret ingredient.” He takes it from my hand and sets it down on the counter. “Don’t drop it.”

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