The bell chimed as Max guided Millie into the bakery. Holly looked up from wiping the counter, her brows lifting in surprise. Lee, seated at the corner table, straightened but didn’t rise, his gaze narrowing slightly as he studied the newcomer.
Max cleared his throat, his voice steady but carrying a note of anticipation.
“Uh, Holly, Lee… this is Millie.” He placed a gentle hand at Millie’s back, encouraging her forward. “She’s someone you guys need to meet.”
Holly’s smile was polite, curious. “Welcome. You’ve come at closing, but there’s always room for company.”
Lee leaned back in his chair, arms folded. His tone was measured, not unkind but cautious.
“So you’re Millie.”
Millie met his eyes without flinching, her voice calm but earnest.
“Yes. And I know there’s been talk—about marr
