Page 35 of Win a Date with a Baker

“I brought dinner.”

Normally, Tyler would immediately appear from the kitchen. Tonight... Nothing.

That’s strange.

I round the corner. He’s elbow-deep in dough, shoulders rigid. He doesn’t look up.

“Hey.”

He grunts in response.

Oh no. Something’s wrong.

“Long day?” I ask.

“Mhm.”

Not good.

Tyler isn’t usually talkative. But he’s never cold. I set the food on the prep table.

“I brought your favorite.”

“Thanks.”

Still no smile. Still no eye contact.

I move closer. “You okay?”

“I’m fine.”

He’s lying. “We both know that isn’t true. Start talking.”

His hands stop kneading for just a second. “You’ve known me a week.”

“I still know when something’s bothering you.”

He starts kneading again. Harder this time.

“Tyler.”

“What?” His tone makes me blink.

“I was just asking.”

“I said I’m fine.”

“No.”

I fold my arms.

“What’s. Wrong?”

He finally looks at me. His eyes are tired. Not angry. Exhausted.

“I’ve got fifty wedding desserts to finish.”

I blink in surprise. “I know.”