“Well, I—I’d better be heading out,” Sam said, looking uncomfortable as he edged toward the door.

“The hardware store has a steamer you can rent,” Leo called as Sam looked back, and he made sure to cast an adoring gaze at Tessa.

“Why did you do that?” she asked once Sam was gone.

“Are you angry?” he asked in a low voice, in case Joanna happened to be listening.

“No— Yes— I don’t know.” It seemed like he wasn’t the only one who was a little discombobulated.

“I was just trying to let him know what he’s missing.”

“What’s that supposed to mean? Are you teasing me?”

That guy really did a number on her. “I’m not teasing you. I just hate assholes who treat people badly. And I don’t know if you want my opinion or not, but good riddance.” He dusted off his hands.

“Oh. Well, thank you.” She looked at him with a penetrating gaze. “I forgot to tell him about us getting the house they wanted.”

He realized with a start that he wanted to believe that he’d been the reason she forgot. “We were too busy pretending to act like newlyweds,” he said. “Besides, they’ll find out soon enough. And as far as I’m concerned, we saved that house from them.”

“I think you’re right. Anyway, your antics certainly got him out of here quickly.”

“Happy to help.”

“Oh, I nearly forgot.” She pulled out a brown bag and a coffee cup. “I hope you like this,” Tessa said. Then, she added, “I mean, I know you like a cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso and lots of whip.”

“Perfect,” he said, taking off the lid to find a steaming, cinnamon-smelling coffee with an intricate leaf design folded artistically into the foam.

“Did I guess right?” she asked in a whisper.

He smiled. “I’m used to plain black coffee, so this is a treat.” The paper from her mom felt like it was burning a hole through his pants. He wanted to toss it out right now and never mention it. Ever. Also, the scent of Tessa’s shampoo was still clinging to him, which was disconcerting. “What time are you coming home?”

“I get off at two,” she said, “but I’m going to stay and try a few new recipes, so it will be a late night tonight.”

“Okay, well, good luck. See you later.” Wait—did he just ask her when she was coming home? That was a weird thing to say. Over his shoulder, he called, “Bye, Joanna. I’ll bring Jack around later to help get those old doors out of your way, okay?”

“Thanks, dear. Appreciate it!” she called from the back room.

He did not want to tell his dad that Tessa’s mom wanted to sell the bakery.

And he definitely didn’t want Tessa to find out.