The Bakery
The bells above the door chimed just as I turned the corner to see who my next customer was. It was him. He’d only been in a few times since the bakery opened, but his presence was unforgettable. “Good afternoon, welcome to The Bakery” The words flew out of my mouth on autopilot. He strolled to the counter and smiled. He was taller than most, his face was worn from years on the ranch, and his beautiful blue eyes captured you instantly. I peeled my eyes away when I realized I was staring at him. He let out a chuckle and stuck his hand out to shake mine. “I’m Luke Anderson ma’am”. Jesus, even his name was gorgeous. I took his hand in mine, “Paige Kinsington” I replied. He smiled and held my hand a few seconds longer than normal. When he let go, he wiped his hand on the thigh of his jeans, leaving white powder in its place. “Oh, I am so sorry, I was baking when I heard the door chime and forgot to wash my hands.” Wow, great job P, I thought to myself. He laughed it off and strolled over to the case of freshly baked cakes. “Are these made fresh daily?” He questioned. My feet were stuck to the ground, this man had me in such an awe, I was frozen. “Um..I...Yes, I make them every morning.” I finally choked out. Geez, why did he have such an effect on me, this never happened to me. Especially after the tragedy of a relationship I’d left back home in Boston. Texas was my fresh start and no man would make me feel that way again. But he was different, the feeling was different, I was captivated by his charm, his looks, and God that accent. “Amazing!” He paused and bent to get a closer look. “I’ll take your favorite of the bunch” he exclaimed. My brain finally came back to reality and got my feet moving. “That would be the Death by Chocolate, Mr. Anderson” I smiled as I made my way behind the counter where he was standing. He grinned and pulled out his wallet, “I’ll take it”. I continued to box the cake and ring up his total. He paid and turned to leave, my head willing my mouth to say something, but when I opened it, nothing came out. He stopped just short of the door, turned “see you tomorrow Ms. Kinsington” he muttered with the tip of his hat. I smiled and waved softly as I watched him walk out the door.