“Yes. I’m really looking forward to it.” Kelly hoped Mom didn’t notice her bottom lip quivered as she spoke. “It’s short notice. I entered a recipe in the quarterly contest. They’re paying for my airfare and everything. I can’t believe I won. I never win anything.” Why am I adding all this to the lie? I’m going to put my foot right in it. “I leave on Tuesday.”

“Kelly! That’s wonderful. Congratulations.” Mom and Dad both hugged her.

“We’re so proud of you,” Dad said.

“It’s too bad you’re leaving when Andrew just got into town,” Mom said.

They were more concerned about Andrew than the fact that she was doing something totally out of character. At least it was playing to her favor.

“He’s not sticking around long anyway. I heard he’s helping a friend open a restaurant up in New York.” A surprising feeling of disappointment fell upon her. How long would it be before she saw him again after that? If ever?

Mom pressed her lips together, then patted Kelly’s hand. “I’ve always told you I thought you should go to one of those baking conventions. I know you’ll come back with a hundred new ideas.”

“I hope so.” Here goes nothing.

Mom’s face lit up. “Is it in Atlanta? A bunch of them are there. That would be close enough to drive! Girls’ trip. Your dad could hold down things here on his own.” She turned to Dad. “Right, CB?”

“Sure,” he said. “Anything for my girls.”

This isn’t going according to plan at all. Kelly scrambled. “This one is in Orlando. They’re flying me.”

“Oh, darn.” Mom looked genuinely disappointed, then forced a smile. “I’m really proud of you for going. You never do anything for yourself.” She hugged her tight. “Which recipe?”

This was exactly why she didn’t lie. “I don’t even remember.”

“That’s so funny.”

As long as you believe it, and forgive me for the string of white lies when you find out what I’m really doing. I hope I’ll be laughing all the way to the bank.

She promised herself right then that if she won, she’d treat her parents to some upgrades at the diner. Mom had talked about new countertops for as many years as she could remember, but Dad was never willing to splurge on the upgrade. And for Dad, a new commercial range, like she’d splurged on for herself. It would be the best surprise ever, and that made her want to win even more.

She’d better get out of here before Mom figured out she wasn’t telling the truth. “I’ve got to get back. I’ve got to finish the cake for the Barco wedding.” Kelly practically ran for the door, but before she could get there, she heard her name called from across the room.