Page 23 of Penalty Kiss
Despite everything, I find myself smiling back. There's something irresistible about his joy, the way he seems to find genuine delight in small moments. Even with a brain injury—especially with a brain injury—he's choosing happiness.
"Fine," I say, sliding into the booth next to Lily. "But only because Linden asked so nicely."
"So," Cam says, leaning forward slightly, “about your supernatural ability to remember everyone's order."
"It's not supernatural," I say carefully. "I just pay attention."
"Try her," Lily suggests mischievously, “with something challenging.”
"Okay." He pauses, considering. "Large coffee, but only filled three-quarters because I like to add half-and-half myself. One sugar packet and one of those little vanilla creamers. Wheat toast—not white, not sourdough—with butter but no jam. And..." He grins. "A side of whatever the cook recommends, but only if it doesn't have mushrooms because they're slimy and wrong."
Lily laughs. "Show-off."
"I'm comprehensive," he corrects. "Now, Tara—tomorrow morning, do I get my complicated order, or do you make me repeat myself like some kind of amateur?"
The challenge in his voice is playful, but there's something else underneath it. Something that looks almost like hope.
Like he wants me to remember him.
If only he knew.
"Large coffee, three-quarters full, one sugar, one vanilla creamer, half-and-half at your discretion." I recite. "Wheat toast with butter, no jam. Cook's choice on the side as long as it's mushroom-free because you have the palate of a seven-year-old."
Cam throws back his head with a guffaw—a rich, booming sound that fills the entire restaurant. "Perfect. Absolutely perfect."
Linden startles at the noise and lets out a small cry, and immediately calms down when Levi rubs gentle circles on his back.
"Sorry, buddy," Cam says softly, his voice soothing in a whisper. "Uncle Cam forgot to use his inside voice."
“Wow,” I mutter. “The NHL’s wrecking ball with an indoor setting. Alert the media.”
"Ha! I’ll have you know ALL babies love me," Cam says solemnly. "It's the face. Very trustworthy."
"It's the ego," Levi corrects. "They sense a kindred spirit."
"Harsh but fair," Cam agrees cheerfully.
I watch this easy exchange—the affection, the comfortable roasting, the way they include me without making me feel like an outsider—and something in my chest loosens slightly.
"So, what about you?" Cam asks, turning those big brown eyes on me. "What's your story, Tara? Cedar Falls native, or did you escape from somewhere more exciting?"
The question is casual, friendly—exactly the kind of small talk I've fielded hundreds of times. But coming from him, after last night, it feels loaded with significance.
"Transplant," I say carefully. "Moved here about two years ago for the charm and stayed for the coffee tips."
"And the people," Lily adds warmly. "Don't forget the people."
"The people aren't terrible," I agree, shooting her a fond look.
“Alright, troops. Time to show Cam around town properly. Shake off the hospital vibes,” Levi says, rubbing his non-existent tummy after breakfast.
He looks at Lily. “You good to head back with Linden? Or want to join the grand tour?”
Lily smiles, gently rocking her sweet baby. “You boys go ahead. This little prince and I have a date with his swing. Maybe I’ll even sneak in a nap if I’m lucky.” She leans over to kiss Levi. “Try not to get Cam into too much trouble.”
“No promises,” Levi grins, clapping Cam on the back. “Come on, LD. Let’s walk off those pancakes.”
Cam stands, pulling out his wallet. He leaves a tip far too generous for a small-town breakfast, then flashes me that easy, charming smile. “Thanks again, Tara. For everything.”
