It tastes better than that because he made it for me. It’s the little things that he does without even knowing it. How he texts me during the day, worries about my feet, touches my belly, and is just . . . perfect. I’m used to men who have to go overboard to prove they’re so great. But Wyatt doesn’t do that. He’s just him. God, I’m in trouble.
We arrive at the bakery, and already the town is alive. Everyone is setting up their tables, running around, and chatting with each other.
“Hey!” Presley comes over with Zach.
“Hey, guys.” I smile and give them each a hug.
Presley looks at the cupcake display with a smile. “You ready for today?”
“We are,” Wyatt says as he carries another tray of cupcakes down.
“Well, if it isn’t, Betty Crocker, or are you Duncan Hines?” Zach takes a crack at Wyatt.
“Like you should talk,” Wyatt scoffs. “I’ve seen you do far more embarrassing shit than make some cupcakes for Presley.”
Zach rolls his eyes. “Looks like I’m not the only whipped one here anymore.”
“You two will never change,” Presley scolds. “You’re like infants.”
They remind me of what my brothers used to be like before Josh became a dick.
Wyatt throws his arm around me. “It’s fine, Pres. I’m used to him crying like a little girl. He’s mad because Trent took all his money in poker the other night.”
Her face falls. “You didn’t tell me you were playin’ poker with Trent. You said you had to help your brothers.”
Zach flips Wyatt off. “Thanks, asshole.” He turns to Presley. “I did help my brothers, darlin’. I helped them take my money.”
“They always take your money! It’s why you said you weren’t going to play anymore.”
Oh, shit. He’s in trouble. I’ve seen Presley when she gets like this. I lean against Wyatt with a grin. This is going to be comedic gold.
“Don’t be too hard on him, Pres,” Wyatt tries to interject. “He did win a hand or two. Plus, Trent did call us over to move some stuff for Mama. It wasn’t until after we were done that he sucked both of us into a game. You know us Henningtons can’t resist the urge to compete.”
“Yeah, Pres.” Zach agrees. “It was supposed to be in fun.”
She glares at Wyatt and then huffs. “You’ll pay in other ways, Cowboy. Many other ways.”
“I look forward to it.”
“I’m going to be sick,” I say while shaking my head.
Presley looks at me, realizes I’m only being metaphorical, and she laughs. “We better be gettin’ back to our booth before they send out a search party.”
“Have fun!” I say with mock enthusiasm.
Wyatt and I go back to setting up the booth the best we can. I have no idea how Mrs. Kannan typically runs things, so I’m winging it. Of course, Wyatt can’t remember either, so he does whatever I ask. It’s a flawed system, but it’s working for now.
About an hour later, the streets are packed. People come from all over. Everyone is courteous, everyone is nice, and it’s . . . surreal. Definitely nothing like back home.
We move around the tent, selling cupcakes as Wyatt flirts with the women, who then buy more cupcakes. It’s hilarious to watch them fawn over him, and I have to admit that he’s adorable.
“Angie! You’re a lifesaver!” Mrs. Kannan rushes over, clearly not under the weather.
“Mrs. Kannan, you look like you’re well.”
She laughs. “Must’ve been one of those twelve-hour bugs or something. Funny how quick it cleared up with a little bit of rest. You really saved the day, dear.”
I shake my head with a smile. “I’m happy to help.”
“Why don’t you let me take over? I’m sure you’re just exhausted. I remember all too well when I was pregnant. I could sleep for days!”
“I don’t mind.” I really don’t. It’s been really fun. I’ve met pretty much every member of Bell Buckle and the surrounding towns. They all talk about how excited they are to meet me and throw in a good word for Wyatt.
“I insist.” She pushes both mine and Wyatt’s backs. “Go on now. You know, Wyatt? Your mama was looking for some help at her booth. I think Trent has had enough.”
Wyatt’s eyes bug out. “I doubt she would want me there.”
“You know?” She taps her lip. “I remember now, she told me that you were required down there.”
I laugh. Payback. “Wyatt.” I touch his arm. “You wouldn’t want to not help out your mother when she needs you. It wouldn’t be very Southern of you, would it?”