Page 33 of Espresso Your Love

“Something like that.” I can’t help the cheesy grin that slides across my face.

She’s half asleep, and I want wide awake Cass before I ask her this. I need her fully aware of what I’m asking.

She takes a sip of her coffee and hums. “You got good taste, Ryan.”

“I can’t take the credit. I asked Ashley. She said it was a safe choice.”

“She’s right. It’s been my go-to this season. She’s always making me try new combinations. I’ve had this before, but the way she makes it is so much better.” She closes her eyes to savor the taste.

She looks adorable bundled in her thick robe, both hands cradling the to-go cup as she holds it close to her. Every time I see a new side to her, I’m amazed. She’s a wonderful woman.

“What did you get?”

“Black coffee, a dash of cream.”

She scrunches her nose. “Just plain? That’s no way to live.”

“What can I say? I’m a simple man.”

“C’mon. Here.” She holds out her cup to me. “You gotta try this.”

I shake my head. “I don’t like a cup of sugar for breakfast.”

“Says the man eating a donut.”

“I don’t like to drink my sugar,” I clarify, but she still holds her cup out to me. I roll my eyes at her. “Okay, fine.” I grab the cup from her hands and take a sip.

“See, I told you it’s good.”

“I didn’t even say anything yet.”

She shrugs. “I could read your expression.”

“Oh, can you now?”

She nods. “Mhm.”

“Maybe you should consider a career as a detective then.”

“I’d like to think I’d be good at that, but I’d be the worst one on the force. I’m awful at watching my surroundings.”

“Guess it’s a good thing you have a cop for a neighbor now, huh?”

“Meh. I guess it could’ve been worse,” she teases.

“I bring you breakfast, and you insult me. I’ll just show myself out.” I pretend to get up from the table.

She laughs softly and reaches for my arm. “I’m only kidding, Ryan. I really do appreciate the coffee. It was very nice of you. Thank you.” She smiles at me.

“Anytime,” I respond back. “So, I better get working on that taillight of yours before you get pulled over again.”

“Yeah, of course.” She stands, cleaning up the table. “What all do we need?”

“I have everything already. I grabbed a new lightbulb after my shift yesterday.”

“You shouldn’t have; I’ll pay you back. How much was it?”

“You don’t owe me anything.”

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