Lee stepped out of the bakery, the warmth of Holly’s smile still lingering with him as the crisp morning air hit his face. The scent of sugar and fresh bread clung to the street, mixing with the chatter of the town ladies who had witnessed his claim only moments before. He felt steady, certain — Holly knew where he stood, and so did everyone else.
He was halfway to his truck when Crystal appeared, leaning against the corner post with a smile that was more calculated than kind.
“Lee,” she called, her tone dripping with false sweetness. “You don’t waste time, do you? Playing Holly’s hero. But you could do better.”
Lee didn’t slow his stride. “Not interested.”
Crystal pushed off the post, heels clicking against the pavement as she moved to block his path. “You think she’s perfect, but she
