Page 18 of A Slice of Summer
A muscle ticked at Jayden’s jaw. “Not a good idea tonight.”
That was the out he needed, but that wouldn’t fly with his sister. Or him, if he were being honest with himself. He hadn’t made a name for himself by taking the easy cases. “Callie told me what happened.”
“Stay away.”
“Too late.” Garrett wouldn’t declare his innocence. He’d been the catalyst. “I want to apologize. Can I see her? Please.”
Jayden hesitated. “I thought you were a good guy and good for her, but the way you ghosted her and then just show up as if it was nothing was harsh, man.”
Garrett held up his hands, palms facing out. “I’m not trying to cause trouble or hurt her. But I messed up, and I need to explain why I never called.”
Jayden’s gaze traveled from Garrett to the hallway leading to the bathroom and office.
“Taryn’s had a rough year.” Jayden wiped his cheek with his forearm. “Maybe hearing your reason will help her move on, so she can focus on more important issues.”
Garrett read between the lines. The same way he did with clients. Taryn was in some kind of trouble. “What’s going on?”
Jayden’s nostrils flared. “You lost the right to know anything when you blew her off.”
“I—”
“Stop.” The word came out sharp. “I’m not the one who needs or wants to hear your excuse.”
Not an excuse. “Can I see her?”
“She’s in the office.”
Okay, now Garrett was getting somewhere. “Thanks.”
“Don’t thank me yet. You make her cry…”
His jaw tensed. “If I do, I’ll deserve whatever you want to do to me.”
*
In the office,Taryn sat at the desk, staring at the calendar hanging on the wall. The beautiful photographs of baked goods inspired her to create new products. Now, she hoped July’s fruit torte calmed her. As she focused on the image, the creamy custard filling slowed her pulse rate, and the bright colors of the fruit relaxed the tight facial muscles. She inhaled, taking the time to fill her lungs to the brim, before exhaling. The boiling of her blood cooled to a simmer.
Progress.
Taryn should go to the kitchen, but her bottom remained glued in the chair. She’d made a fool out of herself in front of customers, and that would take her a few more minutes—or longer—to get over.
She kept staring at the calendar.
Maybe she should add another torte to the menu. Hers was popular, but the Summit Ridge Bakery had added an almost identical one to their menu. A second flavor of filling might appeal to customers and differentiate Lawson’s from the competition.
The office door opened.
Taryn didn’t look over her shoulder. “I’ll be out in a minute, Jayden.”
“It’s not Jayden.”
Garrett’s voice slithered along her spine. Chills followed. Her hands balled into fists.
What’s he doing here?
“Are you okay?” Concern sounded in his voice.
All she wanted was for him to leave. “I’m fine.”
