Page 33 of A Cowboy Sugar Cookie Kiss
Sounds accurate.
“And you only agreed to get close to Maggie.”
I choke on my water.
“You’ve never been good at hiding your feelings. You wear them on your sleeve. Why you think the town sees you as a growly grump?”
“I didn’t realize the town saw me as a growly grump.”
“Hell yes, they do. Ever since you were dumped at the altar. She was stuck up higher than a light pole.”
I’m surprised when mention of a difficult time in my life doesn’t drive anger through my body. It took a lot of years to get to this point. And a promise to steer clear of women who affect my heart the way my ex did ... and the way Maggie does now.
Shit.
I rub my eyes like I’m trying to erase her. But I know I can’t. Not after making love to her.
“Quit arguing with yourself.” It’s as if my granddad can read my thoughts. “For years, you moped about like a lost kitten. Growly, grumpy Cole Gray.”
“It’s better than a recipe thief.” I grab a couple plates from the cupboard and pass my granddad one with Maggie’s cookie.
“What’s this?”
“Maggie calls them Dreamy Monster Cookiextreme’s.”
“She make these?” He spins the plate in a circle, admiring each side.
“Yes, sir.”
“Hmmm...” The huge swirl green and red cookie barely fits in his hand as he lifts it for a bite. The creamy frosting center oozes out the middle. My granddad chews. The corner of his eyes squint and his cheeks bulge as he debates the flavor like he’s judging the Whiskey Ridge Creek Bake-Off. He judges alongside Betty. It’s no surprise every year they get into one wicked argument.
“It’s good.” My granddad wipes his lips with a napkin. “Really good. Does she bake these in the city?”
“No.”
“She should. She should be selling them at Betty’s. They’re better than any sugar cookie either of us make.”
“I’m glad you think so, cause that’s what we baked tonight.”
My granddad’s shocked expression slowly unfolds into a smirk, reminding me of the Grinch. “Betty’s going to be pissed.”
