Page 70 of Aiden

I put it on with a smile, reaching around awkwardly to tie it.

Avery takes the strings from my hands. “I’ve got it.”

I’ve heard horror stories of chefs who yell at their assistants. From the looks of it, I think Avery will be a nice boss. He looked so intimidating at first, maybe I shouldn’t judge someone so quickly.

“Thanks!” I wait for instructions, dancing impatiently on the balls of my feet.

He laughs, tying his own apron, “Eager, are we?”

I nod. “This is my dream. I can’t wait for you to teach me everything you know.” I smile.

He places a hand on the small of my back and guides me over to a working station. I shift from his touch, he’s friendly by nature I guess but I hope he gets the hint. “First step. Always wash your hands when you enter the kitchen.” He turns the water on. “After you touch anything, you always wash your hands.” He checks the temperature.

I do as instructed.

Avery shakes his head. “You need a better lather. Here, let me help.” He reaches out, bringing his hands under the water, and rubs the soap up and down my arms.

I instinctively pull away, a little uncomfortable with that type of hands on learning. I don’t want to think too much on it, I’m sure he’s just a nice man who gets excited about baking.

The day goes by fast, as I learn everything about the kitchen as well as a new technique on kneading dough.

“I know you just started, but as you can tell by the oven, we are in need of upgrades. A company is coming in over the week to install new appliances.” He smiles.

I can tell how excited he is. Everything looks beautiful and new in the polished kitchen, but it takes thirty minutes to start and preheat the oven. That won’t do when we are busy.

“That’s awesome. I bet you’ll love having it preheat quickly. So, when will I come back?”

“Friday.” He decides after a while.

We continue to work until my hands are sore from kneading dough.

When I slide into the back of the SUV and check my phone, there’s one text from Aiden.

I’ll be home late. Don’t wait up for me.

Again?

Wonderful.

Twenty-One

It’s Saturday night and I’m sitting alone on the couch, waiting for Aiden to get home. Howard is at the kitchen table, deep in work on the laptop and quiet as usual. The elevator dings and Ashley burst through the apartment.

I’m happy but my body sighs, I really miss Aiden.

She rolls her eyes as she stands in front of the couch. “Hoping I was someone else?”

I shake my head and feign a bright smile. “Aiden’s just been busy. But I miss you too! Come sit so we can catch up.” I pat the couch.

A sinister smile takes over her features.

I instantly shake my head, taking her in. Hair done, make up perfect, short dress on.Oh no.

“No club,” I warn her.

She grabs my wrist, pulling me towards the bedroom to change. “No clubs. Ricky’s throwing a party. Come on!”

An idea pops into my head. I want Aiden’s attention. I’m too chicken to tell him that. He’s busy with work while trying to keep us safe with the new apartment and all. But I miss him.

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