Page 14 of Sweetly Yours

“All of the above,” I admit, laughing as I shut the trunk. “It was... incredible. He’s incredible. I didn’t think guys like him actually existed.”

“You deserve this, Willow,” June says, her tone softening. “Seriously. I’ve never heard you sound like this before. You’re glowing through the phone.”

“I don’t know about that,” I mumble, feeling my cheeks heat. “But... yeah. He makes me feel different. Special.”

“As he should. Now, go wow them with your desserts, and don’t let him out of your sight.”

I laugh, thanking her before hanging up and heading into Brock’s new showroom with a cart full of pastries.

The space is stunning. High ceilings, exposed wood beams, and gorgeous handcrafted furniture on display. Brock’s touch is everywhere, from the live-edge tables to the intricate shelving units. It’s warm and inviting, just like him.

I arrive early to set up the dessert table, wanting everything to be perfect for his big event. I arrange the cupcakes, lemon bars, and cookies with precision, making sure everything looks just right.

But as I step back to admire my work, something—or rather,someone—catches my eye.

She’s tall and thin, with sleek blonde hair that falls perfectly around her shoulders, and she’s wearing a dress that probably cost more than my monthly rent. She’s standing close to Brock, her hand resting lightly on his arm as she talks to him, laughing at something he says.

I don’t like it. Not one bit.

The way she looks at him—like he belongs to her. The way she tilts her head and touches his arm, leaning just a little too close.

My stomach twists as I stand frozen, unsure whether to interrupt or stay out of it. Before I can decide, the woman notices me staring. Her bright blue eyes narrow slightly, and she straightens, walking toward me with a smile that doesn’t reach her eyes.

“Hi,” she says, her tone polite but sharp. “Who are you?”

I blink, scrambling for words. “I’m Willow. I’m just here to set up the desserts for the event.”

Her smile sharpens, and she crosses her arms, her gaze appraising me. “Oh. Desserts. How... quaint.”

I bristle at the condescension in her voice but force myself to stay calm. “Who are you?” I ask, folding my arms over my chest.

“Oh, I’m Tessa,” she says, her smile turning smug. “You know Brock?”

I nod cautiously.

Her eyes light up, and she leans in slightly, her voice dropping to a giddy whisper. “He’s my ex. He invited me here today, told me it was important I was here for his big day. I think he wants us to get back together.”

The words hit me like a punch to the stomach. I stare at her, my mind racing, my heart sinking. What? “Oh,” I manage, my voice tight.

Tessa doesn’t seem to notice—or care—that I’m standing there like someone just pulled the rug out from under me. She glances back at Brock, her expression smug. “It’s just like him to plan something big like this to make a statement. He was always so thoughtful.”

I swallow hard, forcing myself to keep my expression neutral. “Right. Well, I should get back to work.”

Before she can say anything else, I turn back to the dessert table, my heart pounding in my chest.

Brock invited her? And she thinks he wants her back?

I don’t know what to believe, but one thing’s for sure—this day just got a lot more complicated.

CHAPTER TEN

BROCK

The event was a success. The showroom was packed, the furniture got more compliments than I could keep track of, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. But none of it felt right when I looked around at the end and realized Willow wasn’t there.

I thought I told her I wanted her to stay. I was sure of it. But with everything going on—the handshakes, the small talk, and Tessa showing up—I can’t remember if I actually said it out loud or if I just thought it.

Now I’m standing in the middle of an empty showroom, the energy of the evening fading, and all I can think about is Willow.

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