Page 27 of Win a Date with a Baker

“That narrows absolutely nothing,” I mutter

“Oh! One more thing.”

I already don’t like the sound of that.

She pulls out her phone. “Smile.”

Before either of us can protest?—

Click.

Elizabeth laughs.

Rachel circles us like she’s photographing celebrities. “I’m documenting.”

“Stop.”

“You’ll thank me later.”

I pinch the bridge of my nose. “I sincerely doubt that.”

She lowers the phone, looking entirely too pleased with herself. “I like her.”

Elizabeth smiles. “I like you too.”

Rachel beams.

“See?” She points at me. “I have excellent taste.”

I groan. “Please go on your date.”

“I’m leaving.” She winks at Elizabeth. “Good luck with him.”

“I think I’ll need it.”

“You definitely will.”

“Hey.” Neither of them pays me any attention.

Rachel disappears through the employee entrance, humming happily to herself.

A second later I hear her car start. Silence settles over the bakery. The kind that only happens after closing.

I walk to the front door. Turn the lock. Check it twice. When I turn back, Elizabeth has already tied one of my spare aprons around her waist.

She catches me looking. “What?”

“You found the aprons.”

“They’re where they’ve always been.”

“I never told you.”

She shrugs. “Everything is put away where it makes sense.”

I chuckle quietly. “You notice everything.”

“I try.”