“And you shouldn’t. You should be proud of that, and trust me, there’s not one single customer who gives two toots about some cooking degree. You’re an amazing baker with original recipes and more God-given talent than those fancy pastry chefs have ever learned. Don’t you freak out on me.” Sara placed her hands on Kelly’s shoulders. “Repeat after me. ‘I’ve got this.’”

“I’ve got this.” Kelly straightened her shoulders. “I’ve been hoping for this chance my whole adult life. I’ve totally got this.”

“That’s my pal.” Sara held the clipboard in the air. Right now it read,

Take care of Gray

Stay at Kelly’s

Cover Kelly’s shifts starting the 7th

“Can you approve payroll for me while I’m gone too?”

“No problem.” Sara added it to the list. “I’m putting this in your top drawer. Just add to the list when you think of anything, and I’ll divvy up the to-dos and get them done. No worries. Please promise me you’ll just concentrate on this amazing opportunity. It’s going to be the best Valentine’s Day ever. I know it.”

“At least I don’t have to worry about people talking about me not having a date at the Valentine’s Day steak dinner again this year. How am I going to come up with an excuse that will fool my parents?” Kelly had a feeling that might be harder than the competition. “I’m going to have to find a quiet spot to brainstorm on this one.”

The chimes clanked against the front door, followed by a friendly, “Yoo-hoo!”

Kelly followed the voice out to the counter. “Dawn?” It was just one surprise after another today. There was no doubt in her mind that Dawn had been playing matchmaker with that huge order for Andrew’s surprise party. She wondered what she was up to now. “Hey there. What brings you back twice in one week?”

“I just wanted to stop in and personally thank you for those amazing desserts. They made the party.”

“I’m glad you enjoyed them.”

“I really hope we can spend more time together again. It’s just been too long. I let life get busy, and I regret us not maintaining our friendship. I hope you’ll forgive me,” Dawn said.

“Forgive you? I let myself get busy too,” Kelly said. “It works both ways.”

“She works too much,” Sara butted in. “I’m always telling her that.”

“You still have your horse, don’t you?” Dawn folded her arms across her chest.

“Absolutely. Don’t ride her near as much as I should, though.”

“I’m going horseback riding this afternoon. You should come,” Dawn said with enthusiasm. “Nothing long, just a quiet ride through the old creek trail. It’s as good as yoga, but a lot less sweating. Better scenery too.”