Salome’s POV
“Salome, stay right where you are.”
I froze. My hand was already hovering over the door handle, but Jeremiah’s voice pinned me to the spot. I took a slow breath and turned around. He was watching me with an unreadable expression.
“Don’t leave yet,” he said. He didn’t wait for my answer. He just looked over at Arthur. “Arthur, go ahead and open that cake. It looks like it might actually be good.”
Arthur nodded. He reached into the paper bag and pulled out the container. He was careful, almost gentle, as he set the strawberry shortcake down on the table right in front of Jeremiah. The smell of fresh cream and sugar filled the small space immediately.
Jeremiah picked up his fork. He took a small bite and leaned back, closing his eyes for a second as if he were savouring it.
