Page 42 of Working For Her Sweet Treats
I take a step back because that hurts more. Ava’s eyes shine, but she does not look away.
“I kissed you tonight because you asked me what I wanted,” she says. “Because you stopped assuming. For a few hours, I thought you understood.”
“I’m trying to.”
“You only understand when my answer agrees with yours.”
“That isn’t fair.”
“No. It isn’t.”
The softness in her voice is worse than anger.
I look down at the phone on the counter. “I’ll cancel the inspection.”
“You should.”
“I still think the panel needs to be checked.”
“I know what you think.”
“And I’m not wrong about the risk, Ava.”
Her shoulders tighten. “You really can’t stop, can you?”
I should apologize. I should tell her the inspection was not mine to arrange, regardless of why I did it.
Instead, concern and frustration twist together until I hear myself say, “You don’t understand what can happen with wiring this old.”
Silence fills the bakery. Ava stares at me. The second the words are out, I want them back.
She nods once.
“Ava, I didn’t mean …”
“I think you should leave.”
“The event is tomorrow.”
“I’m aware.”
“I can still help with setup.”
“No.”
“The display …”
“I know how it comes apart.”
I look at the woman who kissed me less than an hour ago and realize I have managed to erase every bit of trust she offered.
“Ava.”
“I said leave.”
Her voice does not tremble.
Mine nearly does when I answer. “All right.”
