Page 50 of Pastries and Promises

She hugged him tightly. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"Being here. For being my best friend. And my wingman."

He chuckled. "I'd do anything for you, and you know it. You're my family. Now let's get back to work before your head gets any bigger."

She laughed. They worked together, talking and laughing until it was time to close up. The afternoon had been slow, but Eva hadn't minded. It had allowed them to talk and reconnect. As they were finishing up with the last minute tasks before they could close up the cafe for the night the rain started coming down. Thunder shook the building, making them both laugh.

"I think we're good to head out now," he said.

"Yeah," Eva agreed. She grabbed her things and headed to the door.

"See you tomorrow," Michael said. "Drive safe in this storm. It came out of no where. We weren't even supposed to get any rain tonight."

"You too." They quickly hugged then headed in opposite directions.

As she walked out of the cafe, the rain began coming down harder. She was soaking wet by the time she got to her car. She didn't want to impose on Claire, but the idea of spending an evening at home alone in her apartment didn't interest her at all. Not when her girlfriend was only a few minutes away.

She pulled out her phone as the rain pelted against her car. Would you like some company tonight?

I always want your company. Get over here.

Claire's text had been nearly instant, making Eva smile. On my way.

She drove carefully through the storm and pulled up beside Claire's car. From there it was a quick dash over to the front door.

"Hey," Claire said as she opened the door, pulling Eva inside. "You're soaked."

"It's raining out," Eva pointed out, smiling at her.

Claire kissed her. "I noticed that too. Here, let me get you a towel. Do you want something to change into?"

"I'd appreciate it," Eva replied. "My clothes are all wet."

Claire led her to the bedroom where she got a towel for her and a change of clothes, a comfortable tshirt and a pair of shorts. "Is it silly to like the idea of you in my clothes?"

"Not at all," Eva assured her. She took the towel and did the best she should with her hair and clothes as Claire left the room. When she was changed she put her wet things and the towel in the wash and headed into the studio where Claire stood in front of a large oil painting of boats tied to docks.

Eva recognized the setting instantly. "That's the view from the tree where I took you for the meteor shower."

"I've found a lot of inspiration in this little town." Claire glanced at her.

Eva moved closer to her, wrapping her arms around her waist. "I really love the way you've captured the light. The reflections in the water are breathtaking. You are very talented."

"I'm glad you like it," Claire said, blushing.

Eva leaned in, pressing her lips against Claire's, kissing her slowly, taking her time. “Do you want take out? I’ll order us some dinner.”

Claire smiled at her. “Yes please. I’ll just be a few more minutes in here.”

"Take your time," Eva told her.

"I'll meet you in the living room?" Claire asked.

"Yeah."

Eva watched her for a few moments, smiling as she went back to painting.

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