Page 45 of Espresso Your Love

“Like an eligible bachelor?” I nudge her playfully.

“There may be someone who’s caught my eye.”

“Really?” I say excitedly.

My radio comes to life. “Cass, can you come by booth 5?”

I let out a sigh before replying, “On my way.” I look at Ashley. “We’ll catch up later, okay?”

“Abso-pumpkin-lutely.”

“Squash you later,” I joke as I walk away.

I can’t help but laugh at her unique sense of humor. She’s unapologetically herself, and I love her for it.

14

Ryan

“Black coffee and a pup cup, please?” I ask the young barista, whom I’ve seen working at Coffee Loft before.

We’re a few hours into the festival, and it’s been smooth sailing on the security side. But we still have several hours so I’m keeping my eyes peeled. I haven’t seen Cassie since earlier, and hopefully, that isn’t a bad sign.

“Sure thing, Officer Hayes,” she says as she takes off the lid of the large can of whipped cream.

Max’s ears perk up, recognizing the sound.

“Thank you.” I grab the drinks and thank her before turning on my heel.

The smell of popcorn and cinnamon fills the air as my stomach growls. Maybe it’s time for that break. I scan the crowd until my eyes fixate on her blonde curls.

I make my way through the crowd as she turns around toward me now. Her smile is bright as she animatedly talks with a guest. As if on cue, her blue eyes meet mine across the blur of activity.

“Think you can take that break now?” I ask when I reach her.

She grabs her radio. “I’m going to grab some food. Only radio me if it’s an emergency.”

“Got it, Boss,” a young girl’s voice chimes over.

“You hungry?” she asks.

“Starving. You lead?”

“You’ll follow?”

She grabs my hand and leads me through the crowd to a vendor serving hot dogs and hamburgers.

“I know it’s simple. But I have heard rave reviews all day about them.”

“I’m down for a burger any day. Max?”

He lets out a bark.

“Max is in, too.”

We put in our order, and as I’m about to pay, Cassie stops me.

“It’s on the house. I can get anything from any vendor for free today.”

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