Page 23 of The Sweetmate
“What about the other room you claim to be skilled in?” She arches a brow.
“I devote as much attention to detail in there as I do in the kitchen. I’m also keen on prep work and seasoning while in there as well.”
Lisa licks her lips and sucks them in. She holds up a single finger. “Prep work, I get. Foreplay, right? What the hell do you mean by seasoning?”
I gasp. “Did you use a curse word?”
She throws a fry at me and laughs. “I’m going to bed.”
“Need me to come season you?”
“Good night, Casey.”
I watch her walk away until she closes the door. For a moment, I sit there completely still. She’s untouchable for so many reasons, but I realize something else. What if we did sleep together? It’d never work. I don’t have the first clue how to navigate an actual meaningful relationship. All my relationships are superficial, and she’s not like that. I do have the chance for a real friend. She’s different from the people I surround myself with. And for once, baking isn’t my only comfort. Sitting with her is, too.
***
Over the past two weeks, we’ve formed our own little routine. Eat breakfast together. Go to the set. Lisa takes photos,posts on my socials, and guides me through interviews and basic interactions. Yesterday I had my best interview ever, thanks to Lisa coaching me from the sidelines. We have a secret word she says when I’m going too far: apple. My choice, since it’s poison to her. My socials have more than tripled, and the show hasn’t even aired yet. Through it all, she’s maintained professional boundaries while still comforting and showing compassion. Being around her reminds me of roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. She’s a fire on a cool night. The flames dance and bring light and warmth as they wrap around the marshmallow. The best uncomplicated dessert that is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. I’m completely mesmerized by her. Inspiration strikes me so hard I yelp. Today is our last day in New York City, and I’m going to bake on a morning talk show. I know exactly what I’m going to make.
I call the network to let them know everything I need for the show. It’s last minute since I told them months ago I’d be preparing an apple pie for the fall season. However, now I’m concerned with food allergies for my new assistant. It’s a stretch, since she doesn’t have to come in contact with any of the baking supplies or said pie. But that sounds better than the truth.I’m trying to impress my assistant and make a foolish romantic gesture before we leave New York City.
“Are you nervous? This is a big network. Mainstream.” Lisa’s voice is full of excitement.
“I’m anxious. But it’s good.”
She waits for me to elaborate, but I honestly don’t have any more to say. I flash her a smirk that usually has women swooning, but she merely rolls her eyes. We sit in silence on the rest of the drive to the network. Out of the corner of my eye, I catch the tiniest of smiles as she looks over at me. A small victory.
Upon entering the station, we’re greeted with smiles and handshakes. “You’re going to do just fine. I’ve been watching your socials. It’s an honor to have you join us. I can’t wait to try what you bake for us today.”
I look over my shoulder at the source of today’s inspiration. Lisa is holding her planner and standing by my side. A wave of comfort comes over me, and before I can think about what I’m doing, I reach over and squeeze her hand. Her brow furrows but she doesn’t pull away.
Immediately, I go into my usually spiel. The interview is the same as all the times before, and I’m relieved when it’s finally time for me to step into the kitchen.
“Originally, I was going to bake an apple pie. But it turns out that my very own Snow White came with me today, and she’s allergic to apples,” I tease.
My hosts show their disappointment, and one cries, “Oh no. I love apple pie.”
“I can guarantee you’re going to love what we’re baking instead. This is a brand-new recipe from me. I’m eager for us to try it. Let’s see if it turns out as sweet as its inspiration.” I wink at the camera.
My host giggles. “I’m on the edge of my seat. Tell us what we’re baking.”
“S’mores cupcakes.”
“Interesting. Is this muse of yours a special lady in your life?”
“She is.” I wink over at Lisa, who simply shakes her head.
And just like that, I’m in the zone. I’m sharing my love of baking. I’m guiding and teaching others. I love all of it. Explaining the ingredients, how it works, what blends well together, and the delicate balance that goes into it all.
“We’re going to start with our graham cracker crust.” I demonstrate grinding the graham crackers until they’re fine.I combine butter and sugar and then line the bottom of the cupcake pan. “Now let those bake for five minutes. While we wait on our crust, let’s start the chocolate cake mix.”
As I whip up the chocolate cake mix, I make small conversation about the fall season and engage with the audience. “Who in here already has their pumpkin decorations out? Be honest. Oh, I can’t wait for pumpkins to be in season. I make a pretty darn good pumpkin latte and pumpkin roll.” The timer dings just as I’ve finished the cake mix. “Alright, let’s get this batter poured and popped into the oven.”
Of course, I’ve already baked some cupcakes, so we don’t have to wait and can skip to decorating. “We have our graham crackers and chocolate. What else do we need for s’mores?”
The audience calls out, “Marshmallows!”
“The best part, in my opinion. There’s something special about roasting a marshmallow over a fire. So we’re going to make a marshmallow frosting and then toast it with a blowtorch. Lots of fun!”
