Maverick for Hire

“Well, you be careful. I don’t want you getting your heart set on him,” he warned.

“I’m surprised you’re so concerned. You told me I need to be softer and nicer,” she said.

“Not with the wrong guy,” he said then glanced again at the cupcakes. “Can I have just one more?”

“Okay,” she said in a mock grudging voice. “You are such a kid when it comes to sweets. While I’m at it, I’ll make an extra batch for the Duncan kids.”

“I’ll deliver them,” he offered, reaching for his second cupcake.

“That’s okay. I’ll find another way,” she said.

“Why?” he asked.

“Because I want the cupcakes to arrive intact,” she told him in a crisp voice. “Not half-eaten.”

* * *

The next morning, Cecelia crossed paths with Beth Crowder, the part-time cook at the rooming house, as Cecelia loaded her car with cupcakes for the elementary school.

“Hey there,” Beth said. “Those cupcakes look awfully good. You’ve been a baking machine.”

Cecelia smiled at the friendly middle-aged woman. “Last night I was,” she added. “I made an extra batch for the Duncans after I talked with Nick. Will Duncan sure has taken on a lot with his grandchildren. It may not be much, but the kids will enjoy these. Oh, darn,” she said. “Will has diabetes. What was I thinking sending these cupcakes to them?”

“The kids can have them,” Beth said and thought for a moment. “He can have fruit and nuts. He would be able to share those with the kids, too.”

“That’s a great idea. I just wish I had time to hit the grocery store today,” she said.

“I can do it. I’m going grocery shopping for Melba this afternoon,” Beth said. “I just need the address.”

“Oh, you’re an angel. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate it,” Cecelia said. “I’ll put a few cupcakes in for you and your son.”

“He’ll appreciate that,” Beth said wryly. “I drive a pretty hard line on healthy eating.”

“Thanks again. You’re the best,” she said and scribbled down directions for the Duncan house. “I’ll see you soon.”

Cecelia started running and didn’t stop until after five o’clock. She listened to a voice message from Brent Mullins inviting her to join him for a beer at the Ace in the Hole. Half-tempted to beg off because she was beat, she waffled over her decision for a moment then returned his call. She’d been wanting a date. Now that she had one with a nice guy, she shouldn’t turn it down. She told Brent she would meet him in a half hour and planned to grab a sandwich and freshen up. She supposed she’d better reapply her red lipstick. It had worn off long ago.

After scarfing down a half sandwich, then splashing water on her face, brushing her teeth and applying lipstick, she raced to the bar. She spotted Brent at a table with two beers. He waved and stood, and she walked to the table. “Hi. It’s been a crazy day. How about you?” she asked.