Page 5 of Gingerbread Hearts

Jake

It’s just after seven and I’m standing outside the bakery, freezing even with my heavy coat. I look down the street both ways before pulling my phone out. I’m about to call her when I hear someone shout my name.

“I’m here!” Violet hurries towards me.

I wave as she gets closer. Her face is flushed, her full lips a lovely red. Like ripe strawberries. I don’t usually crave sweet things, but I find myself craving a taste of her. As she gets closer, I can see she’s not quite dressed for the winter Maine weather. Clad in a coat and heels, I can’t wait to see what else she’s wearing.

“Good evening, Violet,” I say as she gets within earshot. “Do you want to walk or drive to the bistro?” I extend my arm to her in preparation of walking together.

“I wouldn’t mind driving.” She takes my arm. “It’s a little colder than I anticipated.”

It was pleasant chatter the whole way to the restaurant. After handing our coats over we get escorted to our table. I let Violet walk ahead of me, the dress she’s wearing is stunning. Her curves are highlighted in a subtle way. With each sway of her hips the fabric seams to shimmer in the mood lighting of the restaurant. It’s almost hypnotizing.

Now that’s a great ass.

We order drinks and continue to get know each other. Violet explains how she grew up near Kastle Harbor, went off to culinary school, and after some thinking took Bethany up on her offer to be her baker. I feel like there’s something missing from her story, but I don’t pry. The conversation flows effortlessly.

We bond over shared interests and she finds it fascinating that I’m not a sweets person. I tell her about my life in the city and some funny commute stories. I leave out details of my dating —or lack of dating— life and focus more on my work and hoping to become partner soon.

As the evening continues, I find myself thinking about the potential to have more than just a few dates with Violet. I try to squash those feelings down.

I’m a bachelor with a major promotion coming. My time here has an expiration date.

From our talk it’s clear that Violet never wants to live in a big city again. However, I can’t imagine myself resigned to a life away from the fast-paced city. I’m pulled out of my thoughts as the waiter asks us about dessert.

How is the date coming to an end? And why do I wish it would never end?

Time passed by so quickly. Violet politely declines dessert. She says she has to work at the bakery early, plus she eats pastries every day so she’s okay with skipping something I wouldn’t enjoy.

As I drive her home, we continue chatting. Violet makes me feel at ease, and I find myself smiling more tonight that I have in a while. Arrive at her home, I walk her to front door. I claim it’s to help her in case the sidewalk is icy, but I just want to be close to her for a moment longer.

“Thank you for the wonderful evening, Jake.” She leans in to kiss my cheek. “It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed a date.” Her smile lights up underneath the porch lights.

“Thank you for the delightful company, Violet,” I reply and as I go to lean down and kiss her cheek, she meets me in the middle. Our lips meet, the softness of hers against mine, a delicate moan escapes her mouth as I pull her close. After a few moments we pull away. Staring into her eyes, I gently tuck a piece of her hair behind her ear. With that she steps back, opens her door and wishes me a good night.

“I would love to do it again,” she says, leaving the ball in my court.

“Me too,” I reply before wishing her a good night and leaving.

I’m conflicted. I want a fling, something that purely physical, but there’s something special about Violet. I can’t quite put it into words. If nothing else, I want to take her to dinner again.

And… share another goodnight kiss.

FIVE

VIOLET

There’s something sort of magical about an effortless first date. Especially when you’re not looking for anything serious. Jake, dressed in a dress pants and a basic button down, looked polished. The crisp white shirt was just fitted enough to show off what had to be a very muscular body underneath it. I bet he works out multiple times a week.

He was polite and easy to talk to the entire evening. During dinner I disclosed a brief snapshot of my life, leaving out my dating history of course, and he did the same. I loved the way his voice sounded, just a little low and gruff. When he dropped me off at my home, we both lingered. There were things left unsaid.

But that kiss.

If a person could melt, I would’ve instantly become a puddle.

His touch electric. The kiss gentle but firm. When I closed my front door and watched him leave, I won’t be content without seeing him again. If anything, he promised a second date.

After a fitful night’s sleep, dreams full of what could have happened after that kiss, I’m back to my regular routine. Of course, Bethany eagerly greets me at the bakery this morning. She’s in right after me and after draping her neon green wool coat over the counter she heads for coffee. Her curly hair is held in place by a black velvet headband and her outfit is quite tame for Bethany. Only one pattern today. Her pink and white polka dot shirt is tucked into a hot pink velvet skirt.

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