Raspberry Kisses (The Bakery Romance Series Book 1) (30 page)
Read Raspberry Kisses (The Bakery Romance Series Book 1) Online
Authors: Cecelia Dowdy
“Having Linda in your church was hard, but, I can see how the Lord led her there for a reason.”
He spotted the bag on the floor. “What’s in the shopping bag?”
“Oh, I bought you a graduation gift.” She popped off of the couch, grabbed the bag, presenting it to him. He pulled out a brightly wrapped gift. Intrigued, he ripped off the paper, staring at his gift, slightly confused. “A photo album?”
She sat beside him, leaning toward him. “Open it.”
He flipped the album open, spotting a picture of the Chesapeake Bay Christian resort and a photo of her re-done café. “Martin, I love you and I’ve just found the courage to tell you that. I purchased this photo album to let you know that I’m open to creating new memories with you. I want to fill this album with pictures of special times we’ll spend together.”
“Oh, Rhea.” He gently set the album on the coffee table, pulled her into his arms, kissing her cheek.
She then gestured toward the bakery box. “Open the box. I want you to try something.”
He ripped off the bow, popping the box open. He sniffed. The tangy, sweet scent of raspberries surrounded him. He grinned. “Are these the cupcakes you showed me earlier this summer?”
“Yes. I perfected the recipe. I’m going to call them Raspberry Kiss Cupcakes.”
“Raspberry Kiss?”
“Yes.” Her voice softened. “Every time I eat one of these, I think about how much I like being with you, hugging you, kissing you.”
His heart skipped. He removed a cupcake, peeled the paper off. He bit into the treat, closed his eyes. The sweet taste of berries, sugar and preserves exploded in his mouth. “These are incredible.” He pulled her into his arms, kissed her soft neck, leaving a trace of icing on her smooth brown skin. Cupping her face, he kissed her beautiful lips. She opened her mouth, moaning, as the taste of raspberries and Rhea filled him with joy.
Epilogue
Six months later…
“In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Martin finished his prayer and Rhea opened her eyes and looked up at the pulpit. Their eyes locked. He smiled, and she smiled back. He came down the steps to the first pew and Rhea stood. They shared a brief hug, before he whispered in her ear. “After I shake everybody’s hand, I want you to meet me in my office.”
She entered Martin’s large office, staring at his divinity school diploma on the wall. Since they’d decided to date, Rhea had found that she’d fallen even more deeply in love with him. It had been hard to remain celibate, with their attraction so strong.
Her thoughts were interrupted as the door opened on rusty hinges. Martin strolled in, removing his jacket and tie. His eyes twinkled as he beckoned her over to his leather chair. He sat, and he playfully pulled her onto his lap. His lips grazed her earlobe, making her giggle. “Martin, stop! What if somebody walks in on us?”
He chuckled. “I’ve already told the staff that I don’t want to be disturbed.”
Curiosity filled her soul as he squeezed her hand before opening the small drawer of his oak desk. He pulled out a box and pressed it into her palm. She gasped. “Open it,” he urged.
She popped the velveteen box open and gazed at the most exquisite diamond solitaire ring she’d ever seen. “Oh, Martin,” she breathed.
“Will you marry me, Rhea?”
Tears came to her eyes, but she wiped them away with shaky hands. She sniffed as he gave her a tissue from the box on his desk. “Yes, I will marry you.”
“I hope those are happy tears,” he said, kissing her cheek.
“I’m very happy.” She pulled him into a hug, squeezing his solid body as hard as she could.
He took the box from her hand, and removed the ring, and slid it on her finger. “I’m looking forward to being married to you.”
“And I’m looking forward to being married to you,” she responded before his lips locked with hers.
When they ended the kiss, Martin gazed into Rhea’s eyes. “I notice Raven has been coming to my services lately.”
“She’s still dating Adam. This is the first time in years that Raven’s dated somebody for so long. I’m not sure why she’s been visiting your church lately. Maybe she wants to be supportive of your new role as head pastor.”
He shrugged. “Maybe.”
A knock sounded at the door before it burst open, and Raven strolled in. “Did I hear you guys talking about me?”
Rhea grinned, jumping off of Martin’s lap. “Raven, hi!” After they hugged, Rhea flashed her ring at Raven. “I’m so glad you came by! You’ll be the first to know—”
Raven shrieked, not giving Rhea the chance to finish as she pulled her into another hug. Raven beamed as she took Rhea’s and Martin’s hands into each of her own. “I’m sure both of you will be happy.” Raven gazed at Martin. “You’ve got a gem of a woman here, Martin, so you better be sure you take good care of my sister.”
Martin chuckled, his eyes full of warmth as he gazed at his future sister-in-law. “Don’t worry, Raven. I plan on loving your sister as long as I’m on this God-given earth.”
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Other Titles by Cecelia Dowdy
Loving Luke – a Christmas novella:
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The Bakery Romance Series:
The Chesapeake Wedding Series
John’s Quest:
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Milk Money:
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Bittersweet Memories:
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First Mates – A Love Inspired Title:
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