Chapter 28
Addy
“So, I think I’m going to give Trevor another chance,” I say as I remove the batch of cupcakes from the chiller next in line to decorate.
“Don’t rush into anything, doll. You’ve got a lot on your plate with the grand opening of your shop coming soon.”
“Well, he’s been really helpful with that. And other than some innocent flirting and innuendo, he’s been very respectful to keep things professional. Between him and James, I think I’m in good shape. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that we managed to get the vacant space next door.”
“Yeah, I heard the boys from station 12 took out the owner and convinced him over a few highballs that your offer was the only one worth considering.” Alden chuckles. “First order of business is to put a door between the two shops to let people come and go.”
“By people, do you mean potential customers or you and me?” I giggle.
“Both. Addy, are you sure you’re ready to take on a relationship on top of everything else?”
“She’s sure,” Cece chirps from the doorway, a big grin on her face. “I’ve got it.” She squeals as she shakes the shopping bag at me.
“What is that?” Alden asks, perplexed.
“It’s her delivery uniform.”
Alden looks baffled. “I’m taking some cupcakes to the boys. It’s Matthew’s birthday. Thought I’d tell Trevor I’m ready in not so many words.”
Alden still looks bewildered until Cece pulls out the T-shirt that reads, ‘I like Naughty & Nice.’ “I don’t even want to know.” He chuckles as he cleans up the prep counter.
* * *
“Addy!” the boys all cheer as I enter the firehouse.
“Whatcha got there?” Dave grins.
“Oh, I heard it was someone’s birthday.” I manage to place the hot pink bakery box with ornate chocolate-colored lettering on the kitchen counter just as Matthew swoops in for a big hug.
“You’re the best, sweets,” he says as he plants a kiss on my cheek. It’s then I notice Trevor watching us. “Sorry, man,” Matt acknowledges as he lets me go. “Got a little excited about her delivery.”
“I completely understand,” Trevor answers. His reply sounds flat. And unlike the rest of the guys on duty, he’s remained in his seat in the main room.
Walking in his direction, I take a seat beside him. “You okay?”
“Sure.”
“I have something for you, too. If you’re interested.” Why am I trembling? Heck, I hadn’t questioned this until now. Maybe I should’ve done this privately.
“For me? It’s not my birthday.”
“Well, it’s technically for me. But only because I don’t think it would fit.” I laugh nervously. I cautiously unzip my windbreaker to reveal my ‘I like Naughty & Nice’ shirt. I’m not sure if he’s reading it repeatedly or staring at my rack. But there’s been no change in his facial expression. “I just thought… since you had one made for me…” My stomach is doing backflips. This isn’t turning out as I planned.
“Yeah, about that.” His piercing blue eyes finally snap back up to meet mine. “I threw that out.”
I feel like I’m going to be sick. How is this happening? Feeling completely out of sorts, I barely notice he’s standing up from his chair. God. How did I get this wrong? Again? I need some air. Standing on shaky legs, I realize he’s taking off his shirt. What ?
“I like this one better,” he says as he puffs out his chest, modeling the tight white T-shirt with ‘I love a girl who’s a little sassy & a lot smart assy.’
“Oh, god.” I reread the word love now imprinted on his shirt, and my eyes well with tears. Covering my face with my hands in shock, I can’t help myself and practically knock him over, throwing myself against his broad chest.
“I’d be careful if I were you, Addy. He wears that thing every day. It probably stinks to high heaven.”
“I don’t care.” I giggle. I can’t remember ever feeling this happy.
“I love you, cupcake,” he whispers into my hair. “Think my shirt can take your shirt out to dinner later?”
“Where’d you have in mind?” I laugh.
“I was thinking they’d enjoy a picnic on my bedroom floor,” he says as he kisses the top of my head.
“Ha!” I guffaw. “It’s a date. How am I supposed to go back to work now?”
“Let me walk you out.”
As we reach my car, Trevor grabs my arm and pulls me into his strong, hard body just before cupping my cheeks and crushing my mouth with his. The taste of him is like an accelerant. My pulse is racing, and my nipples start to pebble under my shirt. His strong hands grab my ass, lifting me up so that my legs are straddling him as he pins me against the car.
“Oh, what I would give to fuck you on the roof of your car right now.”
“Trev.” I pant.
“I’m sorry, babe. I’ve just missed you. That one night has replayed in my head so many times.”
“Me too,” I add as I slide my hands over his rock-hard glutes and wish we could teleport back to his place. “I really should’ve told you I was ready for more privately. Waiting is going to kill me,” I manage to get out before he slides his tongue back into my mouth.
“Oh, for shit’s sake, you two. Just take your radio and respond from home. We haven’t had a call all day, and you’ll be worthless here now,” Jason yells from the door. The guys are all staring at us from the window. “And could you not reek of sex if you show up on scene.”
I barely hear the last crass remark as Trevor’s practically throwing me in his SUV before running around the car to his driver’s side. Reaching for his keys under the floorboard, he revs the engine. Thank god he lives so close.