Page 21 of Flirting with the Stranger

“Fine then. At the very least, let me walk you out.”

“Such a gentleman.” She flashes me a sultry smile.

“If you knew the thoughts I’ll be having about you later tonight, you might change your mind.”

“I can’t with you.” She laughs and shakes her head. “I’m parked on the street, so I’ll leave out the front.”

“I’ll lock up the back and meet you there.” She saunters down the hallway toward the front of the bakery and I can’t help but watch her hips sway back and forth. It would be better if she were coming toward me instead of away.

A minute later, I’m meeting her at the front, while she stares out the large window.

“What are you looking at?”

“Huh? Oh. Nothing. Ready?” She grips her hands together. “Actually.”

My ears perk up. Maybe she wants to take me up on my offer to take her back to my place.

“Maybe we should swap numbers? You know, in case anything comes up…with the bakery and we need to get in touch with one another.”

And all my thoughts deflate like a popped balloon. “Yeah. That’s a good idea. That way, if I have any bakery ideas in the middle of the night, I can text you, or call, or FaceTime.”

She playfully laughs. “Give me your phone.” She holds out her hand. I dig out my phone, unlock it, and pass it over. Her fingers type away on the screen. A ding sounds from her bag. “There, now you have my number and I have yours.”

“Perfect.” I hold the door open and she steps past me. She waits on the sidewalk as I shut the door and turn the key in the lock when a deep, unfamiliar voice catches my attention.

“Hollyn. It’s good to see you again.”

I swivel around, and she gives the guy a small wave. “Hi, Lucas. How are you doing? How’s Lucy?”

He stands in front of Hollyn, too close for my liking. “I’m good. Lucy’s good. She’s excited for her party. I was at Posh and Peony confirming all the balloons and decorations for the party. You don’t want to know how much rainbow balloon garland costs.”

She reaches up and tucks a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she giggles. I glance to Lucas, and a sly smile covers his face. The way he’s ogling her irritates me. He takes a step closer.

“We’re excited to see everything. Van and I were finishing the cupcakes, which I’m sure will go perfect with the rainbow balloon garland.”

“Hi. I’m Van.” I step up next to Hollyn and hold out my hand to Lucas.

He glances down at my hand before meeting my eyes. “Lucas. Very nice to meet you.”

I squeeze his hand harder than normal, but he doesn’t seem to notice. When I release my grip, his hand drops to his side and he directs his attention back to Hollyn.

“So, I’ll see you at noon tomorrow?” Lucas asks.

“Yes. See you then.”

“Both of us,” I interrupt.

Lucas glances at me, then at Hollyn. “Great.”

He brushes his hand along her arm, and I’m tempted to shove him into traffic. I clench my jaw so hard I’m surprised I don’t crack a molar.

His gaze wanders up her body before focusing on her lips. “Have a good night.” With that, he’s strolling down the sidewalk.

Once he’s out of earshot, I turn to her. “What’s with that guy? I’m pretty sure he was undressing you with his eyes.”

“He was not. Lucas is a nice guy. I’ve done a couple of birthday parties for him.”

“He was one hundred percent flirting with you.” I narrow my eyes at her.

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