Page 47 of The Lyrics of Love

“It’s true. I’ve only started learning your body. I’ve got a whole lot more to check out.”

“Mmm. Maybe since I missed my morning workout, you could come over and give me one.”

He laughed. “I will be right over.”

Nash took the time to brush his teeth and comb his hair. He threw on last night’s jeans and a fresh T-shirt, grabbing his guitar case on the way out the door. His step and heart were light, lighter than they had ever been. He felt on top of the world.

All because he was in love with Rylie.

That thought caused him to come to an abrupt halt.

No, he couldn’t be in love. It was too soon.

But his heart told him otherwise.

Getting into his truck, he pushed those forbidden thoughts away and slammed the door on them. His stomach rumbled, and he decided to concentrate on that instead. Deciding to stop at Buttercup Bakery, he pulled onto the square and found a place directly in front. Well, it was only six-twenty. Still, inside he found two customers already in line ahead of him.

Nash decided to slip into the back and see Ainsley. He waved at the clerks as he stepped behind the counter and moved into the back area, where the real magic happened. He saw the older gentleman again, an intense expression on his face as he worked at a table.

Ainsley saw him. “Nash! I’m surprised to see you here this early.”

“Actually, it’s not early for me. I’m getting used to getting up before the sun rises. I’m sure you do the same.”

“I’m in the bakery by three every morning. I have to get all the breakfast items made, especially during tourist season. You wouldn’t believe how many donuts we put out.”

“I’m headed to Rylie’s now and wanted to pick up something for us to eat. What does she like?”

Ainsley looked thoughtfully at him. “She is very fond of cinnamon. So a cinnamon roll or bear claw. A cinnamon cake donut. Here, let me put a box together for you.” She reached for a flat and within seconds, it became a box. “What do you like?”

“Whatever you’ve made. I’m becoming a huge fan, especially after those dessert bars last night. It was a fun night.”

She began putting items into the box. “We’re all glad you could come. I’ll admit I was curious to see how you and my cousin would interact. You’re very affectionate with one another.”

Ainsley closed the box lid and handed it to him. “Will you be waiting for Rylie with these goodies when she gets home from the beach?”

“Actually, she’s home now,” he said carefully. “She didn’t go to work out this morning. I talked to her a few minutes ago and decided to surprise her with some treats.”

She studied him. “Rylie didn’t go work out. And she’s not sick.” Her eyes widened, and Nash knew Ainsley Martin had a clue where Ryle and Nash’s relationship had headed. She didn’t ask or comment, though.

“Thanks for putting this together, Ainsley.”

“Anytime, Nash. Maybe you and Rylie can have dinner with Jackson and me this coming week.”

“I’m free as a bird. But I’ll ask her about it. Any night good for y’all?”

“How about Monday? The bakery is closed that day. It would give me some time to cook.”

“I’ll tell Rylie and have her let you know if we can make it.”

Nash handed the older clerk a twenty as he left the bakery. She looked a bit starstruck as he grinned at her.

Less than five minutes later, he pulled up in front of Rylie’s house. He got the box of goodies and his guitar case and went up to knock. Before he could, the door opened, letting him know she had been watching for him. She wore a short robe of shimmering silver, belted at the waist. Her hair tumbled below her shoulders in messy, sexy waves.

“Are those donuts? I’m starving,” she said, taking the box from his hands and stepping aside for him to enter.

The moment he did, she grabbed a fistful of his shirt and pulled him down for a kiss.

“Definitely a great way to start my day,” she declared, sailing into the kitchen.

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