Seducing the Baker (At First Sight) by Janet Lane-Walters Page A

Grace waited for Charlene to spring into action.
    The bleached blonde’s eyes narrowed. She studied Jules from head to toe. She ran her tongue over her lower lip. “You’re too late, handsome. I have the last of the cupcakes.” She tapped the box she held and waved to her son and the girls. “Move it.” She sauntered to the door. Her tight jeans emphasized the sway of her hips.
    The door closed. Grace released a held breath. She glanced at Jules. She couldn’t believe Charlene hadn’t recognized him. What did the other woman plan?
    The story Charlene had whispered late one night flowed into Grace’s thoughts. Could Jules be the father of Charlene’s son? There’s been no resemblance she could see. Years ago Charlene had been a liar even when the truth could benefit her.
    Bonnie lifted the cups and bagged the garbage. She carried the three hot water pots to the utility room. “I’ll finish cleaning and lock up. You can make the bank run.”
    “Thanks.”
    “I wonder if Charlene’s anger over there only being eight cupcakes has anything to do with the call from Joe at the dinner. You give her at least a dozen every night.”
    “Why would you think that?”
    “Selling the extras would be easy money for her.”
    “What are you talking about?” Jules asked.
    Grace explained about the call from the owner of the diner. “He doesn’t have an account. I think he called the wrong bakery. We’re not the only one in the area.”
    “Either scenario could be right,” Jules said. “Another bakery could have used your name.”
    “I’ll handle this next week.” She went to the office for the deposit bag. “Let’s go.”
    Jules helped her with her coat. He held the door.
    Grace turned. “Thanks, Bonnie.”
    “No problem. Have fun.”
    “Where are we going?” Grace asked. “Should I go home and change?”
    “Might be a good idea.”
    “Why so mysterious?”
    “You’ll see.” His dimple appeared.
    After dumping the deposit she turned to him. “I need to take the van. Tomorrow I help out at the group home. You could come with me.”
    “Not on your life. “I’ll follow you to the condo.”
    At the van he waited until she started the engine. As she drove home she wondered where they would have dinner. She pulled into the garage and left the door open for him.
     
    * * *
     
    Jules waited until Grace ran upstairs to change before carrying the pair of Styrofoam containers, a blanket and the bag with the wine and glasses into the unit. He heard the shower. Flashes of her naked body lured him to the foot of the stairs. His hands itched to cup her breasts. A groan rolled from his chest. His throbbing cock urged him to climb the stairs and invade her space.
    Patience, dude.
    With reluctance he studied the living room area. He walked to the wide sliding door and found a stack of wood covered with dark plastic. After carrying in an armload he started a fire and spread the blanket in front of the hearth. He knelt on the carpet to open the container and place the dozen cold and dozen hot appetizers, the wine and the glasses on the newly created picnic place.
    When he heard Grace on the stairs he walked to the foot to intercept her. She paused on the landing. He caught his breath. His heart felt ready to explode. A bright blue dress hugged her curves. The side slits revealed the long line of her legs. She reached the bottom step. Jules grasped her hands and kissed the fingers of one and then the other. His erection pulsed.
    “You are beautiful.” The heels she wore added enough height for their lips to meet. The scent of vanilla wafted from her skin. The kiss rocked him. He felt a need beyond the desire for sexual satisfaction. What was happening here?
    “Where are we going?” She ran her hands down her dress. “I hope this is all right.”
    “You’re perfect.” He led her around the corner where firelight revealed the scene he’d set. “A winter picnic catered by Five Cuisines.” He crossed to the