Page 29 of One Whopper of a Love Story

“She also said you worked with her son, which confirmed that what you’d told me was true.”

“But then when I asked you out—”

“I kissed you before I even knew your name. I didn’t want to go out with you if you thought... if that was the reason. The only reason.”

I patted her hip. “Okay, we need to start with stretches. Those are important.”

She caught my hand. “Before we start, I want to say one more thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Tessa stopped by the doughnut shop today after you left. She’s back from her honeymoon and more in love than before she left. Anyway, you came up in conversation.”

“When I said those things—”

Layla pressed a finger to my lips. “She said that you were probably a diamond in the rough and that Garrett said you were a good guy.” Layla stepped away from me and put her hands on her hips. “Now, tell me what to do.”

I’d obviously downed a gallon or more of that punch because I was thinking of how amazing it was going to be working out together every day. Would I tone down my normal routine so she didn’t feel stretched beyond capability? Yes. Would I have to add an extra workout to my day to push myself when she wasn’t around? Yes. Would I enjoy seeing her in leggings and a tank top? Absolutely.

Chapter 15

Layla

I stared at the pen on the ground, trying to decide if it was worth the pain of picking it up.

“What are you doing?” Lettie leaned out of the kitchen, her eyebrows raised.

Bracing my hands on my thighs, I squatted and choked back a groan. “Just picking up a pen. Don’t mind me.”

“Worth it?”

“No. I should’ve left the pen on the ground.” I tossed it back beside the register. “I’m glad Tessa will be here today. That means I won’t have to do as much walking.”

Lettie laughed. “I meant the work outs. Are they worth the pain?”

“Totally, and I’m not saying that simply because Nico didn’t wear a shirt the last two days. Today we do more self-defense training. I’m way more excited about that than I should be.”

She disappeared a second, then walked out, carrying a tray of the pecan praline doughnuts. “I’m impressed that you are working out and doing the training. I can’t even imagine trying to fight off a guy his size, any size. I eat tacos and doughnuts instead. Makes me harder to drag.”

“Stop it.” I hobbled over to the coffee pot to prep it for the morning rush. “Have you given anymore thought to talking to Archer?”

“Some. I decided that he’s going to have to come find me. I’m here in town. If it’s meant to be, our paths will cross.”

“You moved all this way to settle for a maybe?” I walked closer to her.

She shook her head and backed away. “That’s the best I’ve got right now. The upside is that I get to make doughnuts.” Pointing at the door, she blinked away the threatening tears. “First customer is headed this way. You should unlock the door and tell Nico hello for me.”

“He’s here early!” I tried running to the door, and that lasted all of two steps.

When I flipped the lock, he pulled open the door. “You’re hurting, huh?”

“Is it that obvious? I’m in horrible shape.”

He glanced toward the kitchen, then leaned in close. “I happen to like your shape, darling.”

“Flattery will get you a doughnut and coffee.”

“Just coffee. I’m going to run home and sleep before it’s time for our workout. I’m sorry the schedule is so tight today.”

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