SHIFT EXCHANGE

Chapter 18

"Babe I am so sorry." Jake sounded just as sorry as he professed as he huffed out his frustration on the other end of the phone. "I called you just as soon as I knew. I hope I haven't put you out."

"Jake its fine. You have no control over your deputy's wife going into labor." She tried to sound reassuring to sooth his conscience. "Besides this is a joyous event. He's going to be a daddy. The least I can do is spare you so he can witness it."

"I really wanted to eat Greek chicken with you." He sounded like a petulant child.

"I can make the recipe anytime. I'll just have a quiet night here with my book. Not as good as with you, but not unpleasant." She glanced at the chicken defrosting on the counter. She might make it anyway. It still sounded good and the leftovers would keep. "Don't worry about me. Just keep yourself safe and text me when the baby is born. I am just itching to know if it's a boy or a girl."

"Will do. Maybe I'll even find time to stop by there." He sounded hopeful.

"Maybe. Seriously though, don't stress about it." She reassured.

"Good night babe." There as the sound of movement and drawers opening on the other line as he prepared to go into work unexpectedly.

"Good night." Kara disconnected the phone and looked around her. The plan for dinner was off. She might as well bake. Cream puffs sounded good.

Three hours later, every inch of her counter was adorned by a small golden puff of pastry filled with an assortment of different cream fillings. She'd started with a dozen simple vanilla creams and then decided to mix the remaining cream with the last of her homemade lemon curd. It turned out delicious. Then had come chocolate and hazelnut cream, followed by a strawberry shortcake creation that popped into her head at the last minute.

Kara cleared away the last of the mess and pulled out 4 lavender fold-together boxes. She filled each with an assortment of puffs before folding the lid down and sealing each with a shimmery silver ribbon bow. She wasn't quite sure who would be the recipient of her gifts, but she was sure she would find someone to provide them a home. There were still plenty to offer to her guests when they arrived tomorrow.

The door bell rang and her heart fluttered. He must have found the time to drop by.

She couldn't contain the grin that took over her face or the butterflies that went wild in her stomach. She couldn't help it. It was all still so new and who wouldn't enjoy having a sexy man making such an effort for her?

A quick check in the mirror assured her that after removing a smudge of flour from the side of her face, she looked fairly presentable. Or at least as good as one could expect for ten o'clock at night. She removed her apron and threw it down on the counter before hustling to the front door.

Kara took a deep steadying breath before flipping the lock and swinging the door open. The masculine grin on the other side was not the one she'd been expecting.

"Gavin?!" She hoped she didn't sound as confused and deflated as she felt. She tried to recover. "What a surprise. It's good to see you."

"I took a chance." He smiled and stepped over the threshold.

Instinctively she moved back. He took advantage of her reflexive movement and advanced further into the house. Trying to suppress her disappointment she closed the door and turned to face him. "What are you doing back in town? Visiting your parents?"

"Yeah. My plane got in this afternoon. After dinner I just decided to see if you were home." He looked at ease as usual with his hands casually stowed away in his pockets. "I never can keep track of what days you work."