Page 28 of Delayed Penalty

It’s impressive, especially because Stella did this pretty much on her own. I mean, her family has obviously helped her out whenever they could, but she’s been extremely independent when it comes to the business aspect of everything. I think it drives Rex a little crazy because he wants to help her, but she rarely takes help, and now she can say she runs a successful bakery in New York City, all by herself.

It really is impressive.

“If I would’ve known you’re wearing your pissy-pants today I would’ve stayed my ass at home,” I spit back as he joins me in line.

“Not my fault you’ve given yourself a bit of a shitty track record.”

“You’re ridiculous,” I tell him, shaking my head.

Miles is a goof more often than not, but it’s what makes him so loveable. He’s happy, always there for his friends, and although he’s a flirt with his fair share of hookups, he’s hands down one of the most respectful men I know, and I’m almost positive the women he’s slept with would agree.

I don’t mean this in a weird way either, I mean this in a way as a guy with two younger sisters means it. Like, I wouldn’t go on a murder rampage if Miles dated one of my sisters. I’d prefer he didn’t because hell, they’re only nineteen and twenty-one but at least I know he’s a good guy.

“Good morning, boys,” Mrs. Lockwood says from behind the counter as we get up to order, coming around to give us both a quick hug. “How are you doing? It’s been too long since I’ve seenyou guys here, and don’t tell me hockey is the reason, I know y’all were finished in April.”

Mrs. Lockwood is feisty, it’s what we love about her. She may be Rex and Stella’s mom, but she’s always treated her kids’ friends as if they were her own kids and it’s one of my favorite things about her. Especially because that’s how the moms were back where I grew up, and being so far away from my own mom, it is nice to have her around.

“Sorry, mom.” Miles smiles. “It’s been hard to make it here. Plus, anytime I’m here your daughter just ignores me.”

I look over at Miles who winks playfully at Mrs. Lockwood, knowing he’s just working Stella up, something he’sverygood at doing.

“I wouldn’t have to ignore you if you just found a new coffee shop,” Stella grumbles as she walks over with our usual drinks and sets them down in front of her mom. “I’ll be back with your sandwiches, are you doing your usual?”

“Yes, please,” I say, grabbing my Americano and passing Miles his who’s still watching Stella.

“Yes. But I’m not interested in finding a new coffee shop, I rather like this one. The coffee is delicious; the pastries are to die for. The only thing that could use some help is the high level of sassiness, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think it was cute.”

Stella just glares, scrunching her nose up at Miles in disgust, which he replies by blowing her a kiss.

“You two are ridiculous.” Mrs. Lockwood laughs as she rings us up. “You fight like cats and dogs, worse than Stella and Rex ever did.”

“It’s all bark, no bite, Mrs. Lockwood. All for fun.”

“Mrs. Lockwood, could I also put in an order to go?” I ask with a smile, an idea forming in my mind.

“Of course, what would you like dear?”

“Could I get a bowl of chicken soup and a side of Stella’s fresh bread?” I say, trying to figure out what the hell to order for someone with possible food poisoning. “And I guess maybe a tea if you have something that would help a stomachache.”

“Are you feeling okay?” she asks, concern written on her face.

“Yes, it’s not for me. I was going to drop them off for a friend, she’s not feeling well.”

“Oh?” She smirks. “Who is this girl?”

“Just a friend. Her name is Avery,” I tell her, seeing Miles grin out of the corner of my eye, knowing I’m about to get a load of shit from him too.

“Well, Miss Avery must be a special lady for you to be making a house call when she’s sick.”

I feel my cheeks blush as I smile. “She is a very special lady, but right now she’s just my friend.”

“Well, I hope yourfriendenjoys her food, and I hope you boys enjoy your drinks. The food will be out soon,” she says, passing us our receipt before turning to smile at the next customer.

The walk to our usual table is quiet, but the silence is loud as we sit down, and Miles has his shit eating grin on his face.

“Bringing her food now? I thought she was engaged?” he questions, knowing that’s a hard line for us. If someone is with someone, regardless of if they are married or just dating, they’re off limits.

“She was.”

---