The bakery was quiet again after the morning rush, the scent of sugar and cinnamon lingering in the air. Holly leaned against the counter, watching Lee untie his apron with that easy grin.
“I should head back to the farm,” he said, brushing flour from his shirt. “Spend some time with Mom, Dad, and my brother before the day’s gone. But I’ll be back tonight—before closing.”
Holly nodded, her chest tightening just a little. “Okay. Thank you for staying this morning. You saved me.”
Lee leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to her lips. “Always.”
Just as he reached for the door, the bell jingled. The Chief stepped inside, his coat dusted with snow, his expression steady.
“Morning,” he said, nodding to Holly and Lee. “I won’t keep you long. Just wanted to stop by with an update. I’m still work
