Page 202 of Almost Ours
Benny bustled out from behind the counter, his arms open like he was about to hug Ryan. “It has been ages! And look at you two, back together again. Be still, my heart!” He clasped his hands over his chest dramatically, his expression pure delight. “I’m living for this reunion.”
I laughed, shaking my head. “You’re too much, Benny.”
“Too much is my middle name darling.” He turned to Connor, who was already helping himself behind the counter. “And you, young man, better not be sneaking a cookie before your hot chocolate!”
Connor grinned sheepishly, holding up a chocolate chip cookie. “It’s just one, Benny.”
“Fine, fine,” Benny said with a wave, his tone affectionate. “You’re lucky you’re my favourite.”
“You tell all the kids that,” Connor quipped, taking a big bite of the cookie.
Benny clapped his hands together and turned back to Ryan and me. “So, tell me everything. How did this happen? Did she come to her senses? Did you sweep her off her feet? I need details!”
Ryan leaned against the counter, his smile easy. “Let’s just say, persistence pays off.”
“And patience,” I added, giving him a teasing look.
Benny sighed, a dreamy expression on his face. “It’s like a romance novel come to life. I’ll expect a dedication in the acknowledgements.”
“You’ll be the first name, Benny,” Ryan said with a chuckle.
As they bantered, I took a moment to take it all in. The smell of the bakery, the warmth of Benny’s antics, Connor’s laughter–it was more than just a workplace. Benny had become like family to us, always there to cheer us on, to make us laugh, to remind us that life was sweet, even when it wasn’t easy.
Gratitude swelled in my chest, and I silently promised myself I’d never take this for granted.
We pulled into the driveway, and before the truck had even fully stopped, Connor was already unbuckling his seatbelt. The second Ryan cut the engine, he was out the door, energy still running high.
“Connor!” Ryan called after him.
Connor skidded to a stop and spun around.
“If you’re gonna be playing hockey, you need to be responsible for your own gear. Your mom’s not carrying it for you anymore.”
Connor blinked, then nodded solemnly. “Right. Got it.”
Ryan leaned into the truck bed, grabbed the bag, and handed it off. Connor slung it over his shoulder like a pro, then darted toward the house.
I laughed softly, watching him go.
Ryan turned back to me, his face breaking into a warm smile as he stepped closer, his hands resting on my waist. Then he kissed me–slow and sweet–like we had all the time in the world.
When he pulled back, I blinked up at him, dazed. “What was that for?”
His smile deepened, softening his entire face. “Nothing. I’m just happy to be here with you both.”
My heart swelled as I leaned into him, pressing my forehead to his chest. His arms tightened around me, holding me close, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. Then reality nudged its way back in.
“I should text Nina,” I murmured, reluctant to pull away.
“I’ll let Shane know we’re home too,” Ryan replied, brushing his thumb along my jaw before letting me go.
A short while later, Nina and Shane arrived, and they didn’t disappoint.
“Honestly, Shane, you are so full of shit,” Nina announced as she stepped inside, Liam trailing behind her, snickering.
Shane shrugged, an annoyingly cocky smirk plastered across his face. “I’m just saying, my game plan was flawless.”
“You told Liam to stand in the crease and block shots like a human wall!” Nina shot back, glaring at him as she stomped past.
