Page 24 of To Catch a Latte Thick as Thieves

“Can I help with the cleanup?” he asked.

“That’s why I’m here.” Denise hefted a broom and began to sweep around Fisher. “If you don’t mind.”

Fisher stepped away from her vicious whacks with the broom. Honestly, if Annie didn’t know better, she’d think Denise was trying to hit him.

Hopping over Denise’s maniacal broom wielding, Fisher grabbed Annie by the elbow and led her toward the door.

“What’s up with Stormy Weather over there?” he asked.

Annie winced. “She’s probably upset about the break-in.”

“I’d say it seems to be a chronic condition,” he said. “Are we still on for the wedding tonight?”

“If you’re willing,” she said, not wanting him to feel obligated.

“Of course I’m willing,” he said. “What time should I pick you up?”

“I have to meet Eve at the hairdresser’s this afternoon, and then we’re all getting dressed at her house. If you could just meet me at the church about five o’clock...?”

“Sounds good. Text me the address,” he said. “I’m going into the office for a bit. Are you sure you don’t want my help with cleanup?”

Annie glanced at Denise and back at Fisher. “I’m sure, but thanks for the offer. I really appreciate it, especially after last night.”

“Last night?” he asked. Annie felt her heart thunk in her chest. He was staring at her lips and she knew what he was thinking about. The kiss.

“Chasing away the burglar...and all,” she said, clearing her throat. “That was very brave.”

“‘And all’ didn’t require much bravery,” he said, still staring at her mouth. Annie felt her face grow warm and she cursed her pale skin. Dignity was lost when she knew she must resemble a tomato.

“Yes, well, thank you,” she said again, staring at the collar of his shirt. “I owe you.”

“No worries. You’ll pay me back,” he said.

Her gaze flew up to his and she was caught by his slow, devilish smile. The man could melt ice with a slow burner grin like that.

“With some Death by Chocolate?” he suggested.

She blinked. He was asking for dessert? She might have known!

“Sure. Anytime,” she said and stepped away from him. What did she think he was going to ask for? A kiss? Yes, a kiss! Leave it to her to find a man who valued her baking skills more than her body. Ugh!

“See you at the church,” he promised and disappeared out the door.

She watched it close behind him.

“Don’t tell me you’ve fallen for him,” Denise said from behind her.

“No, I haven’t,” she said, trying to convince herself. “He’s just helping me out by playing escort for Eve’s wedding.”

“Uh-huh.”

“It’s true.”

“Right. And the sparks flying between you are just static electricity.”

“Sparks?” Annie asked.

“Yes, sparks. The way you two are staring at each other, I’m surprised you didn’t torch the place.”