Page 37 of Just Desserts

I still had the key to Jonathan's house too. Maybe I could sneak in and surprise him with a romantic dinner. I would cook, bring wine and dessert. I could dress up in some of the new lingerie and costumes I had bought. I would apologize, I would play out any fantasy he wanted. He couldn't, and wouldn't resist me.

With that plan rolling around in my brain, I fell into a restless sleep where I was haunted by Isla. I was in a dark winding building full of dead ends and long hallways. I was running around trying to find Jonathan, only to be faced with Isla's beautiful serene face looking down on me from the end of each long corridor.

Chapter 29

Myles

I've been an early riser as long as I can remember. I always had chores as a kid and as an adult that transitioned into waking up early to fit in some of my extra curricular activities. That's how I find myself at 9am on a Saturday having finished my workout, breakfast, laundry and a shower. I thought I was doing a good job of keeping myself distracted, of convincing myself I was feeling low key when it came to Isla reaching out to me. I'm just glad Wes wasn't here to call me out on that farce.

We had been talking consistently since I visited her shop over a week ago. Isla had to postpone our plans for last weekend so she could help her mom with something, but assured me she was planning on going this weekend. I called her before bed a few times this week, using those conversations to hold me over until I could see her again. I was starting to fear she may cancel again, and was staring at my phone like it held the world's secrets.

As I was rinsing my dish, my ringtone started blasting. I looked over at it and saw it was a call from Isla. I dried my hands quickly and lurched for the phone.

"Good morning Isla" I answered excitedly.

"Hey Myles, you're awfully chipper this morning." She gave a soft laugh, her voice was different, scratchy and lower.

"Did you just wake up darling?" I couldn't help but ask.

"Yes," she replied shyly. "I'm in bed drinking coffee and looking up some shopping options for today if you're still interested in tagging along."

"I'm at your service, any places that look good to you?" I asked as I refilled my own cup of coffee. I tried to focus on what she was saying rather than trying to picture how she looked rumpled from sleep in her bed.

"There is a big outdoor flea market set up in Morrisville. I was thinking of checking that out, if I don't find anything for my apartment I'm sure I can find some pieces for the bakery. I wanted to add a few new ones."

"Sounds good to me, what time should I pick you up?" I replied quickly.

"Oh you don't have to do that, I can meet you there." Deliberately ignoring her, I continued to solidify the plans.

"Text me your address. I'll be there at 11, if that works for you? I'll take the truck so we can fit anything you find in the back."

"Okay, yeah that sounds good. I'll text you the address when we hang up. Do you want anything to eat? I stayed up late trying some new recipes."

I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face. Whether meaning to or not she was letting me know I was on her mind.

"You know I'll try anything you make. I'll call you when I'm pulling in. It’s gonna be a sunny one today, make sure you’ve got sunblock or a floppy hat. No sunburns on my watch.” I replied and was rewarded with a giggle. She confirmed she would use SPF then we hung up the phone.

Isla was a mix of contradictions. She was both incredibly fragile but had an unbreakable spirit. I couldn't help but feelprotective of her, even though she's proven she doesn't need anyone to take care of her. As I pulled up to Isla's apartment building, I was glad to see it looked secure and well kept.

Once I parked and exited the car, I made sure to take everything in as I entered the lobby. An older man in a uniform greeted me, and I let him know I was here to see Isla. He asked my name then had me wait while he called to confirm she was expecting me.

"Good morning Miss Isla, I have a gentleman down here by the name of Myles who says you're expecting him." I grinned at his protective tone, unsurprised to see Isla had managed to win the heart of this man too.

I was grateful that he was checking with her and not just letting anyone up. Knowing Isla, I'm sure she didn't warn anyone about Jonathan or Alyssa. I hated the idea of either of them catching her alone here.

I wasn't used to this feeling, this need to make sure Isla was okay at all times. The idea of any more hurt coming to her had red filling my vision. Sometimes, I find myself looking for her husband on the street or at the hotel, desperate for a chance to knock him the fuck out. He had no idea the damage he did to my girl.

"She'll be down in a moment." The doorman let me know as he hung up the phone.

"Thank you, Frank." I read off his name tag. Offering him my hand he gave it a firm shake as I introduced myself. We chatted amicably for a minute until I heard the slide of the elevator doors opening.

Isla stepped out, multiple containers in her hands and a slightly frazzled expression on. I walked over to her andimmediately relieved her of her packages. Her cheeks were flushed and her hair was in a long braid hanging over her shoulder.

She had a blue baseball hat on, making her eyes pop. I was glad to see she had heeded my warning and dressed appropriately for the weather. An oversized white shirt hung open over a tank top and covered her arms, protecting her delicate skin from the sun. Paired with leggings and sneakers, she once again had a bag that looked like it weighed more than her.

"You okay over there? Do you need a minute to sort yourself out?" I murmured, trying to keep any laughter out of my voice.

She scowled at me adorably before taking one of the Tupperware containers from my hand and rushing it over to Frank. He walked around from behind the desk to give her a hug and kiss on her cheek.

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