The scent of cinnamon rolls and sugared pecans clung to the air, warm and comforting against the bite of frost outside. Holly moved quickly behind the counter, her apron dusted with flour, her hair pulled back in a loose knot that had already surrendered a few strands to the day’s chaos.
The bakery had been buzzing since dawn. Word of Lee’s bold claim at the bakery door had spread faster than the rising bread, and Holly felt it in every glance, every whispered exchange from the townsfolk who came in for their morning coffee.
Mrs. Bea stopped by for her usual scone, her eyes twinkling as she said, “Good for you, dear. A man who stands steady is worth his weight in sugar.”
The younger girls from the high school giggled over their hot cocoa, sneaking glances at Holly as if she were suddenl
