Page 53 of Bear Creek Valentine
“It will give us a chance to explain all of this to your mom and get you signed up for classes before they’re full. We’ll also set up an account for you at the campus bookstore so you can pick up whatever you need, and then take you car shopping for something safe and economical. Meanwhile, I want you here full-time.”
Aiden escorted a grinning Toby to the front so he could get to work. Blanche and Serena were introduced toDelicious’ new Assistant Confectioner and given a brief explanation of Toby’s situation. Hugs and laughter ensued as they rejoiced in the young man’s change of fortunes. Serena, of course, couldn’t resist teasing him a little.
“Now don’t get all uppity with your fancy new title,Mister Finch. You still have to work the register when we get busy!”
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The following week
About an hour after opening for the day, Aiden heard Blanche and Serena giggling up a storm, prompting him to investigate. Toby could be left alone for a few minutes, so he went up front to see what had amused the ladies. Serena held a clipboard between them, pointing out something to Blanche.
“August sixteenth is ‘National Tell A Joke Day’. I could totally do something with that. And look here, the twenty-seventh is ‘Just Because Day’—perfectfor giving chocolate gifts!”
Both women looked up as Aiden approached, grinning like school girls.
“I’m almost afraid to ask, but what in the world are you conspiring about?”
Serena was more than happy to explain.
“Before we decided to work the Pops Concert, I did some research on August holidays for a shop special. You won’t believe some of these. Did you know ‘World Mosquito Day’ is on the twentieth? Even better, ‘National Underwear Day’ was on the fifth—we missed that one, but maybe next year.”
Blanche covered her smile, but couldn’t hide the blush.
“Oh, my! Perhaps if we sold undergarments instead of sweets, we could give it a go. Whatever happened torealholidays?”
Aiden laughed right along with them, thankful that he’d already decided to forego the monthly special. Instead, he rented a food trailer for the grand opening of the Amphitheater, with plans to serve Purple Passion and a limited choice of chocolates—all at special prices. Aiden wagged his finger at Blanche.
“So much for your help keeping Serena under control. Do I have to get a sitter for you two?”
Blanche snickered and resumed processing online orders. Serena simply gave him one of her wide-eyed ‘who me?’ looks. Aiden threw up his hands in defeat and returned to the kitchen, only to find that Toby had overheard the exchange.
“National Underwear Day? If she tries that, I’m calling in sick!”
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August 20th, Bear Creek Park
The new concession area of the park buzzed with activity. Among the food trucks were several rented trailers, commonly found at every fair, midway, or craft show. Aiden had secured one designed for serving ice cream, with sliding windows and airconditioning. A largeDeliciousbanner adorned the front, and a wide striped awning provided shade for customers—already queued up before the celebration officially started.
Aiden handed over a customer’s order, dropped the cash in the drawer, and stepped back to allow Leo to take his place. He and Toby were working the trailer for the first half of the concert, while Serena and Skip were scheduled to take the rest. The only way for them to enjoy the celebration was to close the shop and D2 for the afternoon and take turns working the trailer. Aiden would be helping most of the day, except for attending the opening ceremony with Dash. His mate wanted a low profile, and Aiden promised to keep him company during the dedication.
“I’m heading out, guys. I should be back in a half hour, but call if you need help.”
Before leaving, Aiden scooped up a double helping of Purple Passion, grabbed a plastic spoon, and exited the trailer. Dash waited nearby, eyes wide and already purring when he spotted the yummy dessert. Aiden handed it over with a chuckle.
“You’ll have to eat fast out here in the sun. Let’s get moving so we don’t end up way in the back.”
Dash gave him a quick kiss and dug in as they walked towards the amphitheater. By all accounts, DeeDee Tillman had outdone herself. Even the weather was ideal, with clear sunny skies and comfortably warm temperatures. The long-awaited grand opening of the new park and Amphitheater attracted throngs of visitors from around the region. News media vied for the best spots from which to record their reports as people found places to sit, either on the grass or the concrete risers.
The locals were justifiably proud of their community on a day like this. Dash’s considerable donation made the project possible, and the first-class theater provided year-round opportunities for celebrations of all sorts. The orchestra begantaking their places as the couple continued searching for a good place to sit. A familiar voice on their left got their attention.
“Aiden! Dash! Over here. We saved seats!”
Levi and Knox McCoy stood waving enthusiastically until the pair started moving in their direction. Levi hugged them both, while Knox and Dash grunted politely at one another. The handsome blond was practically shaking with excitement.
“Dash, this place isbeautiful, and I can’t wait to experience the acoustics! In case no one else says it, thank you for donating this to Bear Creek. It means a great deal to a lot of people.”
Dash simply growled. Aiden elbowed him in the ribs, canting his head towards Levi. He got the message and complied to keep his mate happy.
