Page 50 of Reckless Chance
“Thanks. I’ve tasted so many samples in the last few weeks that I’m starting to second-guess myself. Evan’s no help. He says he likes everything I make. It’s up to you to give me an honest opinion.”
“I’m with Evan. Everything you make is fabulous.”
“Thanks, but feel free to nitpick. I want everything to be perfect. Oh, I have other news too. I forgot to tell you that I officially resigned from the law firm yesterday. Can you believe it?”
Thank goodness I hadn’t taken a bite of the taco yet because I would’ve choked on it.
“Are you serious? You completely quit. You’re not working remotely or part time for a while?”
“Yes, I’m serious, and no, I’m not working remotely. I’m completely free of that life. It feels amazing.”
“I’m shocked, but I shouldn’t be. You’ve been burned out for quite a while, but this guest chef gig only lasts a month. What will you do afterward? Won’t you be bored sitting around all day in princess dresses?” I say, half-teasingly.
My mind races with worries for her. Cassie gets bored easily. She’s always been driven and busy. What if the engagement falls through? How will she pay her bills? It’s nearly impossible to return to a big law firm after leaving. Will this opportunity as a chef at the Athena be enough to open another door for her if she needs it?
“Quit squinting. You do that when you’re worried. There’s no reason to be concerned about me being bored. Evan and I will be incredibly busy with the new charities we’re working on. I’ll put my legal background to use with them and will be contributing to the community in a much better way than I ever could at thelaw firm. My life will be busier, and I suspect more fulfilling than ever. I couldn’t be happier about it.”
“I’m glad you two have thought this through, and Iamthrilled for you. Forgive me for worrying. You know me. I instinctively protect my friends, and you’re at the top of that list.” Before I say more, heavy footsteps are growing louder. Turning my head, I say, “Look who’s walking toward us.”
Cassie jumps up at the sight of Evan. He wraps her in a hug, kissing her thoroughly. Not what I expect of royalty in public, but it’s only us and twenty or thirty workers. Is it considered the public?
“You’re in time to join Lowri and me for dessert. We’re tasting my recipe for pumpkin pie cheesecake.”
“I won’t pass up a bite of pudding if you two don’t mind me joining you for a bit,” Evan says.
“Didn’t you say we’re having pie or cheesecake?” I ask.
“We are. To Evan, desserts are called pudding. I’m slowly acclimating to his version of English.” Cassie laughs.
An attentive server quickly sets another place next to Cassie, and we’re presented with slices of what looks like a thick pumpkin pie with a graham cracker crust and topped with whipped cream. The first bite has the tang and creaminess of cheesecake with the fall flavors of pumpkin. “Mmm. I’m in love with this. Can I get a whole pie to take with me?” I ask.
“I agree. This pudding is delightful,” Evan says, leaning over to give Cassie a quick peck on the lips.
“I’m glad you both like it. Even though the temperatures outside are still warm here, I want my menu to reflect the current season. Nothing signals fall better than pumpkin.”
“Your twist makes it special. But please don’t add a pumpkin coffee to the menu. That’s been way overdone,” I say.
“No worries. You know I don’t drink coffee. My special after-dinner drinks will go in a different direction.”
“The offer of food distracted me. I stopped by with news,” Evan says.
“What is it?” Cassie asks.
“Bri’s been invited to a Las Vegas charity gala and tennis tournament in a couple of weeks. She’s trying to arrange her schedule to arrive early to be here for your opening night. Wouldn’t that be brilliant?” Evan asks.
“It would be fantastic to have your little sister here,” Cassie gushes.
Turning to me, she says, “Lowri, you’re going to love Bri. I can’t wait for you to meet her. She’s full of sunshine and fun.”
Evan chuckles. “She is a ball of energy and makes us all smile. Then when she’s in tennis mode, she’s quite serious. It’s rather amusing watching her transform into the tennis professional when she steps onto a court.”
“Can we watch her play? Lowri and Sean could come too,” Cassie says.
“If you’d like, Bri should be able to secure tickets for us. I’ll ask.”
Taking a quick look at my phone, I’m surprised at how late it is.
“Sorry to leave this party. It’s time for me to get back to work. I’m running late for an appointment,” I say.
