Page 57 of One Golden Summer

“Open it and see.” Saffron took a seat in one of the metal chairs with plastic blue slats.

“Let me guess. You panicked and got one of everything.”

“Close, but not on the money.” Saffron sipped her drink, enjoying the fact Kirsty got that about her.

“Out with it.”

“I let Joe select the treats. I just supplied the number.”

Kirsty, shaking her head, laughed. “You really are used to having everyone do everything for you.”

“Hey now. Joe wished every customer was like me.”

“Because you probably bought out half of his stock for the day, and he can close up early.” Kirsty picked up the box. “Given the weight, you supplied an outrageous number.”

“A dozen.”

“I can’t eat that much!”

“I’ll take what we don’t eat over to Ginger’s. Are you going to see what’s inside?” Saffron scooted to the edge of her chair.

“Probably a million calories.”

“I was gunning for a billion. Go on.”

Kirsty lifted the lid, her eyes growing large. “Oh, wow. I think you nailed the billion mark.”

Saffron leaned over to eye the goodies. “Who doesn’t love a fruit tart for breakfast?”

Kirsty placed the tart on a paper plate, giving it and a plastic fork to Saffron. “Me, I like something with a bit more class.” She winked at Saffron, putting an iced bun on her plate.

“Yes, dough with icing on top is the pinnacle of class.”

“Don’t be a hater. Even Paul Hollywood ofThe Great British Bake Offfinds the simple delicacies scrumptious with a touch of nostalgia.” Kirsty kissed her fingertips with a flourish.

Saffron wiped her brow and ditched the fork, picking up the tart for a bite and moaning in delight. Washing it down with coffee, she said, “You have to eat my tart.”

“So early in the day.” Kirsty arched an eyebrow.

Saffron, her cheeks burning, held the tart for Kirsty, standing her ground. “You know you want to.”

Kirsty met Saffron’s gaze. “Just for you.” She took it and bit into it.

Saffron widened her eyes. “Well?”

Kirsty swiped crumbs off her chin, handed it back, and mumbled, “You’re right. It’s to die for.”

“Why didn’t you have trust?”

“Oh, I do.” Kirsty added, “In Joe.”

Saffron laughed. “Ouch, but considering you had to select the gift for my sister, I can’t really defend myself.”

“I think she’ll like the necklace.” Kirsty licked icing from a finger.

“Are you kidding? She’s going to love it.” Saffron sighed. “I need to spend more time with Ginger. It’s one of the reasons I’m here.”

“Do you have another reason?”