Page 110 of His Secret Gift

He raises his hands and takes a few steps back.

After putting them down, I lightly test their consistency by tapping on the top. When they seem okay, I allow myself to breathe again.

“Well?” he asks.

“They’re perfect.”

But just to be sure, I allow him to try first after they cool down, and a garnish with the powdered sugar, strawberries, and a little whipped cream.

After he takes his first bite, I realize I’m holding my breath again.

“Oh, my god!” He lifts his hand up to cover his mouth as he chews.

“Yeah?” I’m grinning wildly.

He nods. “Yes. That’s delicious, Jack. A close second to the one we had in Fort Lauderdale.”

I will certainly take that.

While he retires to his cabin, I go bring my masterpiece into the bedroom and wait for her arrival.

However, once it starts getting closer to 8:05, 8:10, 8:15, and 8:20, I’m starting to worry that she’s standing me up.

I suppose I deserve this after everything I’d put her through.

But just when I’m about to throw the towel in, I see a shadow of feet approaching under the door.

When I open it, I see Kayla, who I was obviously expecting, dressed in tight, black yoga pants, a dark, skinny-strapped tank top, and a maroon, off-the-shoulder sweater. Her hair looks a little wet, and when she walks past me, I swear I can smell her shampoo, body wash, or both.

“I’m so incredibly sorry I was late. I lost track of time after cleaning the bathrooms which took longer than expected.”

“It’s fine. Really.”

Then, she seems to notice the soufflé out of the corner of her eye. She gasps and cheers with glee before pointing at them. “Did you make those?”

“I did.”

Her hands clutch at her chest. “For me?”

“Of course.”

She gives me a big hug, and I relish the feeling of her in my arms.

“Shall we?” I ask after we part.

Her hands wring together. “Yes, please!”

I’ve prepared a blanket on the floor, so after carrying the tray over and setting it down, I hand her a fork.

Before biting in, she shrugs and releases air from her nose. “Thank you so much again for doing this.”

“You’re very welcome. But maybe save the appreciation for after you try some.” Although, I already had it on good authority that they tasted pretty good.

She finally tries some, and her eyes bug out. “Oh, my gosh. That’s so good, Jack!”

“Yeah?”

I taste it for myself. Hmmm.Not bad. Not bad at all.

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