Page 64 of Yours and Mine (Friends with Benefits)

“Sorry not sorry. I can’t help myself. But seriously, you should look into the delivery idea.”

I couldn’t help but gloat on the inside. I didn’t realize that it would feel this good to talk to Carter about my life – about Nick and Daisy and my plans as a baker.

“You know, people could get addicted to your cupcakes once they try them.” He took another swipe of fresh frosting with his finger and stuck it in his mouth. I was beginning to learn that Carter favored the toppings over the cupcakes.

He then shot off his chair. “Oh, my God, Jo! You should send mini-samples to bigger businesses with your site information. DELIVERED FRESH.” He made a gesture with his hand as if he were writing a sign. “People will go nuts for them.”

I felt my eyes grow wide and stood up in my excitement, throwing my arms around his neck. “That’s a great idea! Thank you.”

When I realized that I was standing against him, chest to chest and heart to heart, and he was holding me by my hips, I slowly let go, slid down his hard body, and straightened my dress.

“I’m sorry. That was inappropriate.”

“What are you talking about? We’re friends, right? Besides, I’ve known you from way before you had boobs, Jo.”

That wasn’t helping, because now he was actually staring at them.

“Stop that.” I pointed my finger at him. “I should get going anyways. I’m sure those buns aren’t going to bake themselves.”

I turned around and headed for the gate. Feeling his stare on my behind, I stopped and turned once more. “And stop staring at my butt.”

“Hey, you said buns – and I’m a guy. It’s impossible not to stare.”

Carter walked me out the back yard, as any gentleman in Hope Bay would have. I waved before heading out.

“Jo?” he called behind me.

I swiveled on my heel, expecting another sleek comeback.

“Thank you for coming over. I mean that.”

“You’re welcome. And I’d like to see your face at the bakery a little more often as well.”

“It’s not because I don’t want to. I gotta watch my carbs if I’m going to stay strong and lean for the firehouse.” He lifted his white shirt, showing off his six-pack again. Wow, I definitely didn’t remember Carter having perfect abs. Thank goodness he lowered it; otherwise, I would have stood there until someone smacked me over my head. “But I’ll definitely drop in for some of your cupcakes.” He winked, wiggling his brows, and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

Today had been a good day, and when I saw a falling star on my rooftop that night, I secretly wished for more good days like this one.

Dear Nick,

We’re slowly moving on from the horrific nightmare. I visit Daisy’s grave every few days. Carter lingers around the cemetery most days. He’s lost, and I don’t blame him. He runs by the bakery sometimes, then stays at his new garage, fixing cars. I think he finally broke through, though, because now he’ll wave to me when he sees me. I guess that’s good. We had a nice chat at his house the other day and he even fed Betsy a cupcake. Oh, yeah, Carter bought Mr. Grafton’s house. I can feel that he’s slowly coming around. I hope I never lose somebody I love, but of course, that’s just wishful thinking because no one lives forever, right?

Dad and Marge have agreed that it is best if we don’t rebuild our house and instead focus on building a new bakery — one that’s large enough for both of them, and me. Once it’s done over the summer, I hope to get the business going online as well. I have so many ideas! Carter said I should send out samples when we’re ready.

I’m holding onto our memories together like they’re gold. I never thought that a year could go by so slowly, yet so fast. I dream about you every night and yes, more often than I feel appropriate to admit, I do touch myself thinking about you. When I pretend that it’s your hands on me, it’s much quicker and fiercer. I bite my covers in fear that I’ll scream. Should I even be writing this? I can’t wait to touch you and to kiss you and I can’t wait for you to touch me again as well. I feel like my cheeks are being set on fire just thinking about our reunion.

Last night I saw a falling star on the rooftop and made a wish. I know it will come true, because I know that soon I’ll be in your arms.

Counting down the days.

Yours always,

Joelle

Chapter 16

My Dearest Joelle,

One more month and you’ll be in my arms. Thirty more days and I’ll kiss you until my mouth is sore and touch you until I have all the curves of your beautiful body memorized.

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