I pulled back, laughing. “Just for that, I’m giving you the burned ones.”
Liam’s expression was crestfallen. “I take it back. Please, oh goddess of baked goods, would you honor me with one of your delicious concoctions?”
I shook my head, backing away to the kitchen. “That’s a little better.”
I got to work on the dough for scones and the early morning rush passed quickly with no photographer sightings or ominous messages. Things almost felt normal. Well, other than the rock star who had planted himself at the only table that had a view of the kitchen.
I grinned down at the marionberry muffins I had cooling. It was a recipe of Sarah’s, and I knew Liam loved them. I popped one on a plate and headed out to my guard dog.
I was stopped on my way by our new regular, Al. “Good morning, Miss Tessa. How are you today?”
“I’m good, thank you. And you?” There was just something about this guy that didn’t sit right with me, but I couldn’t put my finger on why.
Al gave me a kind smile, and I instantly felt guilty for thinking poorly of him. I guess it would just take a while for my paranoia to ease. “I’m doing just great. I’m liking Sutter Lake so much, I decided to extend my trip.”
I returned his smile. “That’s great. I hope you enjoy the rest of your vacation.” Liam eyed me and the muffin in my hand. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to deliver this.”
Al stepped aside. “Of course. You have a good day.”
I nodded, and Al’s gaze tracked me all the way to Liam’s table. I could have sworn there was a look of concern on Al’s face when I swept my lips against Liam’s. I had to be reading that wrong.
I shook off those thoughts and focused on Liam. “Sarah’s marionberry muffins, hot out of the oven.”
Liam grinned and rubbed his hands together like a little kid. “You know the way to my heart.” He broke off a piece and popped it into his mouth. “This is amazing.” He eyed Al over my shoulder. “Who is that guy?”
I shrugged. “Just a new regular. He’s been vacationing here for a few weeks, said he liked it so much he extended his trip.” Liam nodded, suspicion filling his gaze. I ran a hand through his hair. “I’m fine. You’re here. Jensen’s here. Nothing’s going to happen to me.”
Liam took hold of one of my apron straps and pulled me towards him. “Damn straight.” He took my mouth in a slow kiss, one that bordered on indecent for my workplace but I didn’t give a flip.
The bell on the door sounded in the background. “You have got to be kidding me.” I snapped up to find Bridgette with a look of disgust on her face. She looked from me to Liam. “This is who you shack up with? Really? A plain Jane with those freaky eyes?”
Liam started to rise, and I could feel the anger rolling off him in waves. But I held up a hand to still whatever he was about to say. I looked at Bridgette. Taking her in, I realized that all her anger and bitterness made her ugly. It didn’t matter how perfectly styled her hair was, or how expensive her designer outfit was, that soul-deep ugliness had a way of seeping out.
I almost pitied her.Almost. But I was done taking her shit. “Can I help you?”
Bridgette’s eyes widened, clearly not expecting my retort. “Yes, you can take your gross make-out session somewhere I’m not planning to eat. I’m not sure how you conned Liam into what I’m sure was a pity date or two, but he’ll see the error of his ways soon enough.”
I started to laugh, couldn’t help it. I could barely get my words out, I was laughing so hard. “And what? He’ll come begging to take you out?”
Bridgette flushed. “I’m not interested in a washed-up rock star. I need someone who actually has a respectable job. Arealman.”
Jensen appeared at my side. “Suuuuuure, Bridgette.” Bridgette’s face got even redder. “Can you taste the BS coming out of your mouth? I bet it’s bitter. Because that’s what you are, bitter that the guys you’re so eager to sink your claws into, see right through to your ugly core.”
Bridgette’s mouth fell open, no words coming out. Jensen pressed on. “You know one of the best things about owning your own business?” Bridgette said nothing. “No, you wouldn’t because you haven’t worked a day in your life. One of the best things is that I have the right to refuse service to anyone I dang well please. Well, congrats, Bridge. You’re banned.”
Bridgette sucked in a sharp breath. “You wouldn’t.”
Jensen’s hands came to her hips. “I just did. Now, get out.”
Bridgette huffed, turned on her heel, and stomped out. The entire shop erupted in applause.
Jensen threw her arms around me, and we dissolved into laughter so strong, we had to hold each other up. When we finally calmed down enough to catch our breaths, I glanced up to see Liam with a smirk on his face. He shook his head. “You two are dangerous.”
Jensen straightened. “Damn straight. Ugh, I can’t stand that girl. I should’ve banned her a long time ago.”
I wrapped an arm around her. “But then we would’ve missed out on this spectacular show.”
Jensen chuckled. “Fair point. And our customers would have missed out on their small-town entertainment for the week.”
