Page 181 of Shades of Loyalty
A little bakery in the heart of the city, filled with the comforting scent of vanilla and chocolate. This is where we had our firstrealand quiet talk, where things truly began between us.
Sure, we’ve come back here since—sometimes for breakfast, sometimes to pick up pastries Andrew made for us. But today feels different. Today is special.
And while I love it when Daniel spoils me with luxurious things, I don’tneedthem. Not today.
This, right here—cozy, simple, and meaningful—is more romantic than any five-star restaurant.
The soft chime of ceramic cups brings me out of my thoughts, and I look up to see my husband approaching, a latte in one hand and a cup of black coffee in the other. He looks cozy today, in a thick black wool coat, snowflakes still clinging to his curls. He tied them into a slick ponytail, but a few curls are hanging out in the front.
This is my husband?Thissexy man? Oh my god. No wonder the grandmas sitting just a few tables away from us have been chit-chatting about us—or, well, about him.
The way he walks towards me with the drinks in his hands… It’s just like the first time. Only this time… we’re married.
And there’s something else going on as well.
“Does Andrew need a new assistant?” I ask with a teasing grin.
Daniel arches a brow. “Why are you asking, pretty?”
“He put up ahelp wantedsign on the door. One of my friends is searching for a job, that’s why I’m asking.”
He shrugs, not digging deeper, then gently places the latte in front of me. “No caffeine, just the way my wifey likes it now. Still don’t get how you enjoy coffee that doesn’t work on your body.”
I smile up at him.Therehe is—the man I love. “There are a lot of downsides to caffeine, you know. You should try a decaf life sometime, hubby. It’s good.”
He scoffs playfully and sits down across from me. “I don’t drink coffee for the taste, pretty. I drink it because I need it to survive.” He takes a long sip of his bitter, black brew.
Black, like his soul. How does someone drink that and still smile after? I’ll never know. I could never.
“I can tell,” I murmur, wrapping my hands around my warm glass.
We sit in quiet comfort for a moment, the snow continuing to fall gently beyond the window. The café is calm—just a few people here and there, including the three elderly women sitting by the fireplace near the corner,knitting and whispering like they’ve been friends for decades.
Whispering about Daniel and me, as well. Like mentioned before, I can hear them pretty well.
Maybe their ears don’t work as properly as they used to, or they just have no idea how quiet chit-chatting actually works.
Because the way they do it? God, I can hear every single word. Yes, one of them was just talking about their two cats. The other one mentioned her Chihuahua. And the other? I don’t know yet, but if I’d continue listening, I’d probably find out.
Maybe she doesn’t have a pet?
Just when I think it can’t get more peaceful in my mind, Daniel reaches across the table and runs his fingers gently over mine. “You look beautiful today,” he murmurs. “Cozy and glowing. Like… like you belong here. With me.”
Before I can respond, the jingle of a bell rings as Andrew appears from the back, a huge, almost scary smile on his face and two plates in his hands.
If I didn’t know he had just started dating Hayden, I’d think he was high on something. But no, that’s just love. Honestly, it’s adorable.
Daniel doesn’t know, though. Not yet.
“I thought you’d like some fresh, warm pastries,” he beams. “A pain au chocolat for the pretty lady, and some macarons for my dear brother.”
Daniel stares at him like he just offered him a kitten made of glitter. I try not to laugh, but the moment I hide my mouth behind my hand, a giggle escapes.
The side-eye Daniel throws me could kill a man. Uh, probably not the best way to word it. Not with him, anyway.
Andrew, however, doesn’t seem to notice—he’s too wrapped in his own joy.
“You’re glowingtoomuch little guy,” Daniel mutters, side-eying his brother.
