Sleeping was unconscious, but she had no excuses for what had happened in the garden. She just knew that it couldn’t—wouldn’t—happen again.

“Is it too early for you?” Tessa asked Gia, who’d showed up with her hair in a ponytail, a Blossom Glen Track T-shirt, and yoga pants. She was fresh-faced and eager, and that made Tessa smile.

“I’ve already run five miles,” Gia said, setting down the menu and rubbing her stomach. “And I’m ready to order.”

It was definitely too early for Tessa, who was ready to mainline coffee after barely sleeping a wink last night. Viv was taking her shift today, but Leo was having his friends over tonight to play cards, and she wanted to surprise him by making them some food. Which was traditionally wife-y, but she just wanted to do it as a nice gesture. So she’d better wake up quick.

The waitress, Dee Williams, was an old friend of Tessa’s mom’s. As soon as Dee lifted her glass coffee carafe in question, Tessa turned over her mug.

“Fill ’er up?” Dee asked, already pouring. “You look like you could use a heaping cup today.”

“Or two,” Tessa said. “How are you, DeeDee?”

“Oh, nothing’s new. But everyone’s talking about you and that hottie Italian Stallion getting hitched. He keeping you up at night? If he is, I have no sympathy for you, girl.”

“Thanks, Dee.” She took a big gulp of coffee and smiled. “For the coffee, not the comments.” Which she’d made in front of Leo’s sister no less. “You know Gia, right?”

Dee waved a hand dismissively. “You’re eighteen, aren’t you, honey? She knows it all. Besides, the coffee costs money but the commentary is free. That includes any advice.” She chuckled at her own joke. “Leo is so much better than that idiot you were dating.” She put her fingers over her mouth. “Oopsie, shouldn’t have said that. But I’m really happy for you.” She gave Tessa a squeeze. “This one’s a keeper!”

“What makes you say that?” Tessa couldn’t help asking.

“Every time he comes in, he tips thirty percent. Plus he’s nice.”

Tessa took another gulp of coffee and dreamt of what it would be like to live somewhere where everyone did not know your business. “Remind me not to leave you a tip.”

“Ha-ha,” Dee said to Tessa. “Coffee for you, sugar?” she asked Gia sweetly.

Gia wrinkled up her nose. “Can you make hot chocolate when it’s hot out?”

“Aren’t you the cutest. Of course we can.”

“That sounds really good,” Tessa said on impulse. “Make that two, please.” Life was too short, right? “So, I’ve seen you running past the bakery some mornings.” Tessa closed her menu as Dee sped off. “You like it?”