Page 42 of Make You Mine

Did I just invite him to dinner? What the hell is wrong with me?

For someone determined not to get into another relationship, when it came to Ren, it felt like I was practically throwing myself at him. Whatever.

“I’m getting a BLT,” I declared. “I’ve never had one here, but I’ve had the bacon and it’s excellent. In fact, I sometimes come here just for the bacon. I’ll order breakfast with extra bacon and just eat that, then take the scrambled eggs home for Nimbus and Smog.” I grinned, looking up at him through my lashes. “Look at me revealing shameful secrets.”

“Next time, just get a plate of bacon.” His eyes were earnest, then he winked, and I swear my heart stopped beating for a second. “Never let anyone bacon shame you, Piper.”

“You’re right. But I’m starving and I want extra crispy tots, so I’m going for the whole shebang.”

“That sounds good. Sign me up.”

We ordered our food—both of us getting BLTs. He asked for extra bacon on the side and gave me half of it. Was he trying to make me fall in love with him? Because, hello? It was working.

We made small talk while we ate, chatting about Honeybrook Hollow, places he wanted to try and hadn’t yet, the events the town had listed on the marquee in the park, and oohed and ahhed over our new shared favorite: The Pennywhistle Pantry’s BLT.

But I hardly remembered any of it when all I could think about was that I was sitting with the sweetest, kindest, sexiest man I had ever met in my life.

I was in trouble—big fat trouble shaped like tall, dark, and handsome Ren.

“This is my new favorite place. Sorry to your grandparents and the Honeybrook, but I love it here. I might see if I can rent a booth and move in.”

“Told you.” I grinned at him. “It’s all about the bacon.”

“How is the dessert? Want something?”

“I have a better idea?—”

“Immediate yes,” he cut me off with a huge smile. “After the BLT, I trust you implicitly.”

As I laughed, I felt something change inside me. The sound of my own laughter—real and not forced or faked to make someone feel good—was like an old favorite song I hadn’t heard in far too long, and it was all Ren who was bringing it out of me. I glanced at him, and my heart fluttered with unmistakable attraction. His smile was infectious, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he talked about the bacon that had become our inside joke.

Every moment spent with him felt like discovering a new favorite song, each note sweeter than the last. I wanted more of it—more of him. My laughter wasn't just an expression of joy; it was a bridge to something deeper, a connection that was growing stronger with every shared smile and every playful tease.

I was beginning to like him more than I ever thought possible. His charm was undeniable, and the way he made me feel was something I couldn't ignore. Spending time with him was wonderful, and I found myself wanting to linger in his presence, soaking up every bit of this newfound happiness.

I was drawn to him, not just by his looks, but by the way he made me feel.

“Come to Something Sweet with me,” I invited. “I’ll show you around, and we can make cupcakes for dessert. Any kind you want.” Was it stupid to invite him deeper into my life like this? Probably, but I wanted to see how he would react.

Would he realize I was bringing him into my dream with me?

Would he grasp the importance?

Like a fool, I was testing someone who wasn’t even mine, but it felt right, so I brushed my fears aside and went with my gut.

“I would love that,” he said, his voice steady but betraying a hint of enthusiasm, like he didn’t want to appear overly eager.

“Okay then.” I nodded, trying not to be too eager as well.

We paid the check and then made the short drive to Something Sweet.

When Ren and I walked inside, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I saw his reaction. The bakery was decorated in pink and white, charming, and pretty in every corner.

The kitchen, my pride and joy, was immaculate. Gleaming countertops reflected the soft light from the pastel-painted walls, and everything was in its perfect place. The scent of sugar and spices lingered in the air, making the space feel warm and inviting. Ren's eyes widened slightly as he took in the surroundings, and I could tell he was impressed.

“This is amazing, Piper,” he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

“Thank you.” I smiled, feeling a flutter of happiness. “It turned out exactly as I envisioned. Let's get started on those cupcakes. What’s your favorite?”

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