Page 57 of Falling for Love

“I’m sure he’d like that.”

As I washed the dishes, I let myself imagine what that might look like—a world where Liam was more than just a visitor, where he became part of the laughter and chaos that filled our little home.

It was a beautiful thought, but it was also terrifying.

Because as much as I wanted to believe it could work, I knew the risks. And I wasn’t sure my heart could take another fall.

Chapter Thirteen

Liam

The kitchen at Honey Leaf Lodge was alive with its usual bustle—clinking pans, the hum of the espresso machine, and the occasional burst of laughter from guests filtering in from the dining area. Violet stood at the counter, camera in hand, angling her latest creation—a stunning slice of lemon meringue pie—so the light hit just right. She was in full blogger mode, her brow furrowed as she adjusted her composition.

I, however, was in full brother mode and leaned casually against the counter, waiting for my chance to strike.

“That pie smells amazing,” I said, eyeing the fluffy meringue peaks like a predator sizing up its prey.

“You touch it before I’m done, and I’ll break your hand,” Violet said without looking up from her camera.

“Wow, someone’s cranky today,” I teased, reaching for the edge of the plate.

Her hand shot out, swatting mine away with laser precision.

“Seriously, Liam, one more second.”

I held up my hands in surrender but didn’t move far.

“Fine, fine. But it’s like you want me to suffer. It’s the second time the idea of eating pie has been stolen right out from under me.”

“You’ll survive,” she muttered, clicking another photo before lowering her camera and stepping back to assess her work. “And what are you talking about eating pie?”

I shrugged. “You know Evie. Always…”

“Ew,” Violet interrupted. “Liam, gross.”

“What the heck are you talking about?” I eyed my sister in confusion.

“I don’t need to know about this stuff.”

“Uh, you’re the one with the icky mind, Vi.” I shook my head, trying to hold in a laugh, when it dawned on me. “I literally invited Evie out for pie. You’re the one with the filthy mind, sicko.”

She chuckled. “It’s what happens when we grow up with two brothers.”

Beck walked in and laughed. “What did we do now?”

“Your innocent sister has the mind of a dirty old man.” I scowled at Vi.

“Do not.” She stomped her foot. “It was an innocent misunderstanding. Besides, it’s not like you haven’t said things like that before.”

“That’s the old Liam.” I wiggled my brows.

“Whatever you say.” Violet snickered, backing away from the pie. “Okay, I’m done. Go ahead.”

“Finally,” I said, scooping up the plate like it was a trophy and grabbing a fork.

As I took the first bite, I couldn’t help but exhale an exaggerated groan of satisfaction.

“Mmm. Violet, this is incredible. How are you not running your own bakery by now?”

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