Page 36 of Bake the Town Red

Being watched so intently feels dangerous. It’s also remarkable, being hunted by him.

While the older woman continues tooohandahhat the cupcake, I look outside. Look athim.

My master.

Tyler has always been it.

He might deny it. Lie to himself that we’re nothing to each other. Tell me life with him will end with my premature death.

False. He’s mine. And from the moment I saw him, I was his. Possessed. Owned. Loved in one capacity or another. One day, I’ll be collared.

The idea has me smiling. The idea has me waving and mouthing the word, “Hey.”

Tyler says nothing. Doesn’t wave back.

He hovers out there, hands in the pockets of his black hoodie. His pale blue jeans are torn at the knees and his boots give him an almost combative look. I can hardly see his expression. The hood of his hoodie is pulled over his head. I can only make out his eyes.

Sharp, inquisitive, and demanding eyes that flicker in the dark.

Tremors run up my spine. I shudder at his intense attention.

My sexy sleuth. My dominant future husband.

His silence and creepy stance call to me. I toss my apron on the counter. Push through the swinging door. Release the bun on the top of my head.

Tyler’s chin dips as his eyes rake my outfit. Long-sleeved, mini red T-shirt dress with black cobweb prints. I bet he likes it. Who wouldn’t?

The wind whips at my cheeks when I open the door, though I’m not cold. Tyler’s presence is the only warmth I’ll ever need.

“Oh, I’m sorry, dear,” the lady behind me says.

I hear her shoes scuffling on the tile floor as she rushes to my side. Her slender hand is on my shoulder, and I have to turn to her. Have to break eye contact with my man.

“I’ve been so enamored by the cupcake that I forgot to pay.” She hands me a ten-dollar bill. “Here.”

“This one’s on me.” I nod at her.

We’re about the same height, her blue eyes leveling with mine. “I couldn’t—”

“Yes, you could.” My hands grab her shoulders for less than a second. Reassuring her. “It would make me really happy if you did.”

It’d make me even happier if you could just go away and let me have Tyler until Timothy arrives for ourdate.

“Are you sure?” Tears well in her eyes. “This is more than a cupcake. This is art.”

“Absolutely.” I don’t want to be rude, but I can’t help but sneak a glance at Tyler.

What the hell? He’s gone?

Sneaky man.

In his place stands douchebag Timothy. The man who pushes bills into my cleavage. The man with mysteriously-shut-sexual-harassment charges. Some hacking and a lot of research later, and I recovered them.

Poor women who take the subway. I’ll avenge them.

“Thank you.” The woman who cost me Tyler leans in, pressing a kiss on my cheek. “Have a great night.”

This is all very awkward for me. The tightness in my heart loosens at her warmth. It reminds me of the people I lost.

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