Page 29 of Death and Donuts

I nodded before I realized what I’d given away—that I’d been so lost in Shepard’s kiss that I’d needed to be sprayed like a cat in heat.

“Do you understand why I’m in over my head?” I asked softly.

The black faded from his face as he nodded. “I understand why you think you’re in over your head, but I want you to know that I’m not asking you to choose between me and Shepard. Whatever time or affection you are willing to give me, I will gladly accept without any resentment. You have my word.

“Now, what are your plans for today?”

I hesitated before saying, “I’m going on a lunch date with Shepard.”

“Make sure he takes you somewhere with delicious desserts. Preferably, outrageously expensive, too,” he said with a hint of a smile. “He’s been neglecting you of late with all the vampire hunting.”

“Understandably, though,” I said.

Cross nodded. “Perhaps you would have time another day for me then? I would like to take you out as well.”

Remembering Vena’s comment about keeping it equal, I agreed.

He crossed the room, kissed my forehead, and opened the bedroom door.

“Text me when you’re available,” he said. “I’ll see myself out.”

I watched him leave, rubbed my hand over my face, then tried a few calming breaths before going out to check on Vena.

Her door was open, and her room was empty. When I checked the living room, I was expecting to see her all-knowing smirk. Instead, I saw the back of Doc’s head.

“Good morning,” I said, trying not to feel embarrassment or panic.

He turned slightly and flashed a welcoming smile. “Good morning. Vena asked me to tell you that she left with Anchor but will be back in time for her shift.”

“Oh. Okay.”

It was good that she was with Anchor. It meant she’d spoken to him about her odd behavior last night.

I checked her location on my phone and saw she was in the countryside. Likely another hunt. I wasn’t sure if I should feel relieved she’d gone out with Anchor or embarrassed since that meant Doc had been the one to warn Cross.

Rather than thinking about either, I headed for the kitchen.

Since I’d forgotten to take home a few of Blur’s appetizers the night before, I decided to use my creative energy on a creature-themed menu for the new business. The fairy trash was an easy yes. Opening my notebook, I looked at the possibilities I had jotted down. However, without input from Miles, I was a little unsure of what direction to go.

Thinking of Miles in lockdown sparked an idea for Blur, though. The dwarven regulars might need cheering up after their return from the mountain.

From what I knew, dwarves loved savory dishes like the lamb skewers with the herb dipping sauce. But they also loved Blur’s signature drink, Effervescence, which had a fizzy, foamy texture.

If I took those two as inspiration, I might be able to come up with a subtly sweet lemon cheesecake that would satisfy their taste buds.

As I gathered the ingredients, I also took out a few others to make breakfast for Doc. It was a perfect time to get insight into a wolf’s preference.

“Doc?” I called.

He stood by the counter in an instant.

“I’m making breakfast. Is french toast and bacon okay?”

“Of course. Thank you. Even regular toast is okay.” He eyed the many ingredients on the counter with an arched brow. “How much are you cooking?”

“Test baking,” I said as I pulled out a pan. “Are there specific foods wolves really like?”

He folded his arms and leaned his hip against the counter.

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