Love You Always

“I told you I was coming. I even asked what time you leave.” I walk over to her. She takes a step back. Usually it would bother me that she’s shying away from me, but this time it gives me the opportunity to step into her small office. I kick the door shut behind me. “I came early. Had a feeling you might try and sneak out on me after you let your head get the best of you.”

She looks everywhere but at me because we both know I’m right. When I’m in her space she doesn't have time to let shit blur her mind about us. She overthinks when she’s all alone and I’m sure she spent all morning overthinking everything while she baked.

I wrap my arm around her, pulling her into me. She doesn't resist, her curvy little body molding right into mine as I take her mouth in a kiss. I slip my tongue past her lips. The taste of her and frosting fill my mouth.

Damn, this woman always tastes so damn good. With every bit of strength I have I let her go, stepping back. I pick up her knit hat off her desk, putting it on her head and making sure to cover the tops of her ears so they don’t get cold.

“You eat anything besides sweets since I fed you?” She shakes her head no. “Then we’re going to dinner.” I hold her gloves out for her to slip her hands into.

“It’s too early for dinner.” She licks her lips and I wonder if she tastes me on her. If she craves the taste of me as much as I crave the taste of her.

“You can have dinner whenever you want.” I pull her from the office, heading for the backdoor.

“Wait. Let me tell the girls I’m leaving.” She lets my hand go, heading for the front of the shop. I follow her. The eyes of two girls behind the counter go wide when they see me come out the door with her.

“I’m leaving,” she tells them. “I’m not sure if Neily will be back, so make sure you lock up tight.” They both nod, still staring at me. One’s mouth hangs open. I am pretty sure the other asks if I’m the guy who owns the club next door. Alyssa gets an annoyed look on her face. She turns, pushing me back through the door into the kitchen.

“Everyone always stares at you.” She shakes her head, clearly annoyed.

“Trust me. I get as annoyed as you,” I admit. She stops to look up at me. I can’t stop staring at her. Why would anyone look at me when she’s standing right here? When she strolled across my club the other night, I don’t think she noticed how many men stopped to turn and look at her. She was a breath of fresh air. Her beauty is natural. She doesn't have to try to be sexy, she just is.

“Being handsome is a cross you have to bear?” She smirks. I’ll fucking take it. Annoyed is the last thing I want her to be with me.

“If it got your attention then I’m more than willing to bear it.”

16

Alyssa

We stand outside one of the most famous steakhouses in the city. I’m not sure how he expects to get in, since they don't open for another few hours. I’ve always wanted to eat here but I never felt like I had the right clothes to wear. I’ve looked at their menu online more than a few times. That’s another reason I haven't actually come to eat here. I couldn’t afford the menu. Not with opening a new business recently.

“Have you heard of this place?” he asks me as he knocks on the double glass door.

“Who hasn't heard of this place? I know they have a Crepe Cake on their menu. It’s one dessert I can’t seem to master.” I let out a sigh. I’ve tried so many times but I can never get it right.

“I’m sure Francesco will give you a few tips before we leave tonight. I hear it’s his mom's secret recipe. Yet, something tells me he’s going to have a sweet spot for you and spill all of his secrets.”

I look up at him, feeling a little hopeful. I am self-taught on most of my stuff. I went to culinary school but they didn't touch on everything. “You don’t think it’s rude of me to take someone else's recipe?”

“I have no doubt that you would change a few things and make it your own.” This is true. A moment later a tall brunette answers the door, letting us in. She takes my hand, pulling me inside the fancy restaurant.

“Sean! It’s been too long.” She goes in for a hug, but Sean pulls me in closer to him, cutting her off. He’s using me as a human shield against the woman.