Chapter 3

Unfortunately, life had a way of making other plans.

A ghost of a smile graced Belle’s lips and sorrow clouded her eyes. She drew in a deep breath. “You’ve been baking.”

“Yep.” She led her girlfriend toward the kitchen. “The gingerbread should be done here in a minute or two. Do you want to help me decorate them when they cool down?”

“Sure.”

“So how was your day?” Julie asked as she resumed her baking venture. She started by doling out the spice cookies and then adjusting the temperature on the oven. She had a little secret, one she was bursting to share, but the moment had to be just right.

Belle, meanwhile, leaned against a nearby counter. She dipped her pinky in the cream cheese frosting Julie had whipped up earlier. All it needed was to be separated and have a few drops of food coloring added. Instead of giving a verbal answer Belle shrugged, pinky in her mouth.