9
Patsy was unsure if she was disappointed that the fire season was off to such a slow start, or pleased that it allowed her to pursue her new morning ritual.
That second morning, returning to the bakery, had caused her to hesitate. She didn’t hesitate around men, but Sam Parker’s kiss the night before had been as sweet as his confections and as powerful as his flavors. It was the power of him that had surprised her, baker’s arms and hands meant something, as much strength as a firefighter.
Like a good hotshot, she’d forged ahead through the door and Sam had put her at ease with his immediate smile.
Their initial greeting had been interrupted by an early jogger wanting their coffee fix.
His invitation to come to the back door the next morning had her climbing out of her bunk while the
