Page 25 of The Grump

I wanted to outright ask what she meant, but I didn’t want to put her on the spot. Not right now. I’d have plenty of opportunities.

“I’ll be there this year,” I decided on the spot.

She whipped her head up to face me again, eyes wide. “Wh-Why?” she stammered.

“Because, as you correctly pointed out, I’ve missed it far too often. It’s a pity, don’t you think? Besides, I want to see how people react to the pralines after everything you’ve told me tonight.”And you’ll be there.

Her shoulders sagged a bit. “Oh, so that’s part of your observation strategy.”

“That’s right.” The truth was, I was simply longing to see her again, and this seemed like the perfect excuse. Being around Bailey and my family at the same time might be tricky—they were giving me enough grief about her as it was—but I could handle them.

“Then I guess I’ll see you tomorrow, Xander.”

“See you then.”

After I stepped out of the house and she closed the door, I took in a deep breath.Mission accomplished.Unfortunately, I was more attracted to her now than before I’d stepped foot inside the house. I had no idea how, but this woman was growing on me despite her obsession with Christmas carols and good vibes.

I wanted to call Isabeau on the way to the car, then realized it was far too late, so I just went home instead. However, I called her first thing the next morning.

“Hey,” she greeted.

“Hi, Isabeau.”

“To what do I owe this pleasure?”

“I always like to check in.”

“True, but you’re always busier this time of year finalizing books. Or at least that’s what you tell us.”

That earned her a chuckle. I adored my grandparents, and Isabeau might be my favorite.

“I have a surprise for you. I’m going to drop by the open house event this evening.”

“Goodness. Are you serious?”

“Yes, I am.” I could hear the joy in her voice, and I suddenly felt like I’d neglected my family. Was I focusing too much on work?

“Oh, wonderful! Is this Bailey’s doing? Did she convince you?”

That caught me off guard. “Why would you say that?”

“Because we’ve never been able to get you away from your office.”

I cleared my throat. “I want to see how people react to the pralines she’s bringing and so on.”

“Uh-huh. Is that so?” I could practically hear her smiling.

“By the way, I wanted to ask you for a favor.”

“Sure.”

“Could you make your famous jambalaya? I dropped by her place last night with some jambalaya, and it was nowhere near as good as yours.” I realized my mistake immediately, but there was no taking it back.

“Why exactly did you go to Bailey’s?” she asked in a stern tone.

I quickly explained about their production issues earlier in the day, skirting around thewhyI went there in the first place. Isabeau didn’t need to know that I wanted to get back in Bailey’s good graces. That would kick-start another round of questions altogether that I didn’t even have answers for.

“Of course I’ll make jambalaya.” Her tone was completely different now, softer. “What time are you stopping by?”

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