Turning at the same time, we part ways, back-to-back, armed and ready, like a duel in one of my hist-roms. Except while our personalities will always be at odds, now we’re no longer in opposition, no ready, aim, fire. This fake relationship is our shot in the sky, weapons set down. Now, somehow, Jamie and I are on the same side. No longer me versus you but us against them.

I remember the brush of his thumb down my wrist, the warmth of his touch as I kissed the corner of that hard, uncompromising mouth.

Us against them is going to take some getting used to.

—

Walking down the street as fast as my legs will take me, I’m aimless and buzzing.

Where should I go, jittery from a flimsy kiss and hug goodbye, red-hot humiliation from being duped still burning in my chest? I could catch a train to Mom and Dad’s. The house is empty. I’d have it to myself. But the thought of a train ride right now—the foreign smells, the constant stops and starts, the threat of a crowded car—rules that out. I couldn’t handle it, after such an upending morning. It’s not like I can go to the apartment, either. I risk running into Jules, and I’m not ready to see her yet. I’m too upset.

My feet have a mind of their own, and soon I’m a block away from the Edgy Envelope. I come to a stop after crossing the street. Should I slip into work? Sula and Margo won’t be coming back. Toni runs the place on the weekend along with a revolving door of college temps, so Sula and Margo can have some work-life balance.

That answers my question. None of the meddling matchmaker crew will be at work. The Edgy Envelope is the perfect place to be.

Opening the door, I’m greeted by the overhead bell’s familiar tinkle as I step inside. Toni doesn’t glance up, focused on a customer, with six more in line behind them. I glance around, searching for any of the college weekend crew, but quickly realize Toni is on his own.

Crossing into the back area, I ask him, “Want help?”

“Are my white chocolate macadamia cookies the stuff of pastry legend?”

“That would be a yes.”

Toni hands our customer a large paper bag, with one of his beautiful, intricate bows binding the twisted paper handles. Giving her one of his megawatt smiles, he says, “Thank you so much! I appreciate your patience.”

I step in beside him and unlock the other iPad, punching in my employee ID, then password. After ringing up the remaining six customers between us, Toni and I slump against the glass display.

“Oof,” he says. “Thanks for the help.”

“Sure. Why are you here by yourself?”

“McKenna’s out sick.”

“Why didn’t anyone text me? I would have come in to help.”