Page 28 of Lemon Cake

“Even better.”

They switched over, and Rider’s warm chocolate eyes and curious smile filled the screen. She held the phone up and tilted it so her whole body came into view.

“You look like a treat.”

“Let’s hope the fathers don’t see it as such,” Gemma laughed.

“They can look but no one touches what’s mine.”

“So, I’m yours, am I?” she giggled, butterflies swirling in her stomach.

“I sure hope so, ‘cause I’m definitely yours.”

“I’m yours too.”

“So, it’s official: you’re my woman?”

“Yes.”

Rider’s mouth widened, splitting into a heart-stopping smile. “Now you go and rock this.”

“Are you relaxing tonight?”

“I might think of you while I’m in the shower.”

She bit her lip, heat washing over her face.

“But don’t think about that while talking to those parents,” he chuckled mischievously.

“I don’t like you right now.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll make up for it.”

“I’m hanging up because you’re making me think all kinds of inappropriate thoughts.”

Rider’s brown eyes sparkled when he laughed. “You’ll do amazing!”

“Thank you.”

As much as she wanted to sit there and stare at Rider all night, it was time to leave. They ended the call and she collected her things. The evening went by easily. Some parents brought their little one, so Gemma had the chance to meet them before their first day.

Wednesday, as predicted, was a big, loud mess. The kids were screaming, and the parents were worried sick, with some refusing to leave the building.

By the time she left work to pick up Dan, she had a pounding headache. Though, another call from Rider would be enough to lighten her mood. Hoping she caught him at a good time, she dialled his number.

“Hi there,” she said cheerfully, happy he answered.

“How does it feel to be surrounded by silence?” he chuckled.

“Freeing.”

“What time will you be back home?”

“Eight-ish?”

“Perfect. My surprise will arrive at eight-thirty.”

“Surprise?”