Page 11 of Lemon Cake
“I’m horrible with names, but I’ll try to remember everyone.”
“Oh, don’t worry.” He opened the passenger door for her and watched her climb in before handing her the cake and taking his own seat.
“By the way, your favourite book is now mine too. The kids and I lovedEllison the Elephant.”
“Good, I always did love that story.”
“Do you have siblings?”
“No, I was the only child which means I’m ridiculously spoiled. And you? Was it just you and your sister?”
“Yes, just me and Gina.”
“Twins, I assume? Since you said no one could ever tell you apart.”
“Yes. We didn’t make it easier either by dressing the same. We thought it was hilarious.”
“Did you ever switch sports teams?”
“Oh, no! That’s where we drew the line. We were far too much in love with our sports to miss practice or risk ruining it for us.”
“Ah, so you’re very competitive.”
“Always,” she laughed. “And Gina wouldn’t risk ruining her skin with bruises like I did.”
When she started talking about being a safety, her facesimply brightened. Her love for the game was clearly still there, so Rider definitely needed to get her tickets for the next game—maybe.
Once they arrived at Braiden’s house, Rider took the cake from Gemma so she could climb out of the truck. After steadying herself on her feet, she gripped his arm just as she had leaving the bookstore.
“So should we have a safe word in case we want to leave?” he asked playfully.
“What’s your favourite dessert?”
You,he wanted to say but kept that to himself—for now. “Lemon cake.”
“Maybe lemon? It’s shorter.”
“Lemon it is,” he agreed with a bright grin.
“Then let’s hope no one asks either of us for lemons.”
Fuck, he liked her. With each passing minute, his adoration for her only grew. He led her around to the back yard, where everyone had gathered. Braiden was standing at the grill flipping burgers while Sarah was busy mothering the guests, making sure everyone had food or a drink.
The moment her eyes landed on the two newcomers, she rushed forward and spread her arms. “Hey, big man! Long time no see,” she greeted, pulling him into a hug.
“How are you?”
“Good, as always.” Then she turned to Gemma and gave her the same attention. “Hey, I’m Sarah.”
Gemma wrapped her arms around the woman. “Nice to meet you. I’m Gemma.”
“Come in and make yourself feel at home.” Her eyes fellon the cake in Rider’s hands. “You didn’t have to!”
“I can’t take credit. Gemma made it.”
“Unless it tastes bad,” Gemma joked. “Then it’s all Rider’s fault.”
“I already like you.” Sarah flashed them a wink and took the cake.