by Wendy Smith
Baker's Dozen
Wendy Smith
Edited by Lauren Clarke
Cover Designer Sprinkles On Top Studios
Photography by Furiousfotog
Cover Model Wen Ross
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, including electronic or mechanical, without written permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews.
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. Ariadne Wayne is in no way affiliated with any brands, songs, musicians or artists mentioned in this book.
This book is written in New Zealand English.
Created with Vellum
Contents
Glossary
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 30
Also by Wendy Smith
About the Author
Glossary
Moko - Short for Mokopuna. Meaning grandchild.
Weta - A sometimes large insect, native to New Zealand
Ute - Utility truck
Nappy - Diaper
If there are any other words in here that you need help with, contact me and I’ll translate. ;)
1
Ginny
“Do you, Drew Jason Campbell, take Hayley Louise McCarthy to be your wife?”
Drew grins. “Oh yes, I do.”
I chuckle, along with the rest of the congregation. Even though I’ve never met them before, I can feel there’s so much love in this ceremony. It’s probably the biggest wedding Copper Creek’s ever seen.
“Do you, Hayley Louise McCarthy, take Drew Jason Campbell to be your husband?”
“I do.”
Wiping my eyes, I look around. Max waves from his post on the groom’s side. He’s standing with his father, and the two of them have the biggest grins on their faces. It’s a beautiful ceremony. I give him a small wave in return.
Next to them are the other three Campbell brothers: Owen, Corey, and James. Max has told me all about them at school, and I think I know far more of that family than I should.
I look a little too long, and Owen’s eyes meet mine. Blushing, I look away. I can’t help it. I’ve heard all about the reputation of the town baker, and I’m not interested in just a hookup, but he’s still heartbreakingly hot.
I’ve been so pre-occupied looking around, watching the family I know so much about, I miss the rings being exchanged, but I don’t miss the celebrant holding out her hands and smiling. “Go on, Drew, kiss the bride. We know you’ve been waiting.”
Drew pulls Hayley into his arms, and my grin grows bigger watching him kiss her. Love is a beautiful thing, and when it radiates from two people like it does from them, it’s something special.
When he leads her out and the wedding party follow, it’s like Owen Campbell’s noticed me for the first time, and maybe he has as he fixes his gaze on me while trailing along behind his brothers.
The bakery isn’t a place I visit. Health issues keep me on a gluten free diet. It eases the symptoms. Doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy the view of the baker. Maybe I could eat a little.
I stand, and follow the rest of the congregation to the massive marquee that’s been set up near the trees. The cove is a beautiful place for a wedding, and it’s such a lovely sunny day with no wind. The conditions couldn’t be better.
There are a lot of out-of-towners at this wedding, and the businesses in town have geared up for a big weekend. From what I’ve heard, Hayley’s dad is some bigshot, and a chunk of Auckland has relocated to Copper Creek for the wedding.
When I find the little card with my name on it, I sit at the table. The bridal party are having photos down near the water, and I can see them posing from a distance. Laughter floats through the air from them, and it makes me smile.
The water glitters in the sunlight, and I take a deep breath. I come from a small town, but there’s something special about this place.
I pick a glass of sparkling wine from a tray and take a look around. The table I’m at is all names I don’t recognise, but I’m not far from the bridal table which makes me feel incredibly honoured.
Big social situations make me nervous. I might be a teacher and surrounded by kids all day, but they’re easy to deal with compared to a lot of adults.
The chatter increases as the bridal party makes it into the marquee, and I smile as I catch sight of Max.
“Ginny, I’m so glad you could make it.” Lily greets me as she approaches, the bride beside her. “I’m not sure if you two know each other. Ginny, this is Hayley. Hayley, this is Ginny. She used to be Max’s teacher.”
Hayley’s eyes widen. “The famous Ginny who Max wanted desperately on the guest list?”
I laugh. “I guess so.”
“We told him he could invite one person thinking he’d invite a school friend, but you were the only one he wanted. It’s great to meet you.”
“You too. It’s been such a beautiful wedding.”
She grins.
“There she is.” Drew draws up beside her, wrapping his arm around her waist. He gives Hayley a lingering kiss that makes me blush.
“Babe, this is Ginny. Max’s teacher.”
He raises his eyebrows. “The Ginny?”
Lily laughs. “Stop it you two. You’ll give Ginny a complex.”
“Oi. You lot. Time to get seated.” Owen walks over and ushers Drew, Hayley, and Lily back to the main table. He shoots me a grin over his shoulder, and I swear I melt into a puddle.
“Miss Robinson.” Max comes running over, and I can’t help but smile at his infectious enthusiasm.
“Hey, Max. You did well today.”
“Did you know there’s chocolate cake?”
I laugh and shake my head. “I didn’t, but I guess I do now.”
“Max.” Adam beckons his son.
“See ya.” Max runs to him, and I watch as he’s led to his seat, a huge grin on my face. He waves at me again, and I can’t help waving back. Of all the kids I’ve taught, it’s Max who makes me proudest.
Owen Campbell’s looking at me again. I blush as I meet his gaze, but then it could be someone behind me he’s smiling at. Among the congregation are some pretty gorgeous girls. I don’t recognise any of them as being locals, but then again, I do tend to keep to myself.
Today I made an exception for an exceptional boy.
When the meal’s nearly over but the wine’s still flowing, Drew taps the side of his glass with a spoon. A hush falls over the tent, and I turn my chair to get a better view of the bridal table.
Drew smiles. “We’re going to make this quick as I’m sure everyone wants to get back to the food and drink. I just want to thank my brothers for standing with me today, and Maxxy. You’re the bomb.”
I grin, and Max cheers.
“A special t
hanks to Owen for the wedding cake. Hayley knew exactly what she wanted, and you did such an amazing job.”
The cake’s wheeled in, and it’s gorgeous. Intricate patterns in the icing make it way too pretty to eat, but given that it’s chocolate, I might break my own rule and have a tiny piece.
“I want to thank Hayley’s parents for this amazing day. I’m so proud and happy to be part of your family. And last, but most important of all …” He pauses, and looks down at his bride. “Meeting you is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. My heart wasn’t whole until now. I’m the luckiest man on the planet to be married to you, Hayley, and I promise to love you each and every day for the rest of our lives.”
I pick up a paper napkin from the table and wipe my eyes.
“Now, get back to eating and drinking, and we’ll start the music shortly.”
At one end of the marquee is a temporary dance floor, and when the food’s been eaten, we all make our way over to see the bride and groom’s first dance.
The band plays something sweet and slow as Drew and Hayley lose themselves in each other. I’m a little envious of their locked gaze. Surely nothing and no one can break that, and although I don’t really know them, I hope it continues the rest of their lives.
Slowly, the floor fills with other couples, and I find a seat nearby and sip my champagne.
I can’t complain about being lonely when it’s my choice, but seeing so much love in the room leaves my heart aching a little. Though, that could be the wine.
The music speeds up, and I close my eyes.
“Dance?”
I open them to see Drew standing over me, his hand extended.
“Me?”
He laughs. “Hayley’s taking a break, and she spotted you here by yourself. Thought you might fancy a spin around the dance floor.”
I grin. “Why not?”
Taking his hand to stand, I follow him to the centre of the dance floor. Adam and Lily are there, along with Drew’s oldest brother. He’s really tall and a bit scary, but he has a big grin and a gorgeous blonde hanging off his every word.
“Do you know everybody?” Drew asks.
“I know Lily and Adam.”
He nods. “This is Corey, and …” Leaning over, he places his hand to cup his mouth. “I have no idea what her name is. I think he just picked her up.”
I laugh.
“Having fun?” Lily takes my hand, and I nod.
We dance for a while before I excuse myself to get some more wine. One more is my limit. Any after that I’ll be walking home.
Hayley joins her husband again, and leads him to the cake. Another tap on a wine glass quietens everyone down.
“I just wanted to say thank you again to everyone for coming, and to Owen for this magnificent thing that Hayley doesn’t want to cut,” Drew says.
Laughter fills the large tent.
“Make sure you get some.” I look up to see Owen walk past as he shoots me a wink. I nod, and laugh as he takes the knife from Drew’s hand. “I’ll cut the cake with you if Hayley doesn’t want to.”
Hayley laughs, slapping him on the arm.
He holds the knife up as if in surrender. “Okay. You do it. But I want a big piece.”
After they make their slice and feed each other cake, Owen takes over and slices pieces from it, giving small plates to Max to deliver.
Max heads straight for me. “Owen said this piece is for you.”
I nod. “Thank you, Max.”
He beams before heading to the next person, and I get a better look at the icing. Tiny swirls form hearts all over it. It’s so delicate and light, but exquisitely detailed. It’s a work of art.
I take a tiny bite. The chocolate mud cake melts in my mouth, and I can’t help but groan at the taste and sensation. This is a cake made with a lot of love and care. I eat it slowly, savouring each bite. I can’t remember the last time I ate cake. It’s not part of my strict diet, and I rarely break it. This is worth it.
The music starts back up, and I look over toward the cake. Owen’s not standing beside it anymore, and all I’m left with is the hope I can tell him what an amazing job he’s done.
Then I spot him.
My heart melts at the sight of Max and Owen in the middle of the dance floor. Max is full of life and laughter, and his uncle seems to have just as much energy.
Max’s eyes light up when our gazes meet, and he makes a beeline for my table.
“Come and dance with us, Miss Robinson.”
I grin. “I don’t know, Max. Looks like you two are having a lot of fun already.”
Owen comes up behind him. “What are you doing, Max? Abandoning me in the middle of a dance?” He shoots me a smile. “Hi.”
“Hi. Max is just trying to convince me to dance with you guys.”
“You totally should. Owen Campbell.” He holds his hand out for me to shake.
“Ginny Robinson.” I take hold of his hand, and he pulls me to my feet.
“Now you’re standing, that’s halfway to the dance floor.”
Max giggles. “Come on.”
“Okay.” My hand is still in Owen’s as he leads me back to the empty spot, and he reaches for Max’s with the other.
Max resists taking Owen’s hand, twisting and turning. His excitement is contagious, and I find myself sneaking peeks at Owen who’s smiling just as much as Max is.
“Are you having fun?” Owen asks.
“It’s been a lovely wedding. The cake was wonderful.”
“Thank you.”
“I invited her.” Max pokes his tongue out.
“Did you? Am I holding hands with your date?”
Max laughs and shakes his head. “Miss Robinson was my teacher.”
“Ohhh, so this is the famous Miss Robinson. Max talks about you all the time.” I laugh, as Owen twirls me under his arm, and I swing one way and then back again.
“Max was one of my best students. Weren’t you, Max?”
He nods. “Mum says Miss Robinson is the best teacher I’ve ever had. But she’s not my teacher this year.”
Max left me at the end of last year to go to high school. When I came to town three years ago, he was struggling, but I don’t think anyone had dealt with a child like him before. Max was behind in his learning, and from what I could see of his school records he’d had difficulties all the way through.
From talking to Lily, he’d had a premature and difficult birth which had influenced that. I took Max under my wing, and we made more progress in two years than he had since he started school. I worried he’d slip at high school, but from the sound of it, he’s showing everyone what he’s made of.
“You two should get married,” Max declares.
My mouth drops open, and all Owen does is chuckle.
“Why’s that?” he asks.
“Because then Miss Robinson could be my auntie.”
Owen’s eyes sparkle, and my stomach flips. I didn’t come to Copper Creek looking for a hookup. I kept to myself after a bad breakup. But maybe he could be the man to make me change my mind.
“That’s not quite how it works, Max. Miss Robinson and I don’t really know each other.” He ruffles Max’s hair. “Thanks for looking out for me though. Maybe when you’re older, you can be my wingman.”
“What’s that?” Max asks.
Owen grins. “Go ask your father.”
Max disappears in an instant, and I gape at Owen. “Poor Adam.”
He shrugs. “It comes with the territory. He’s just lucky I don’t explain sex to Max.”
I laugh. “I’m pretty sure he’s got some ideas about that. He is in high school.”
“Sometimes I forget how old he is.”
Owen’s phone beeps and he pulls it out of his pocket. His eyebrows dip.
“Is everything okay?”
He shakes his head. “There’s been an accident just outside of town. Car versus truck. I’ve got to go.”
“Is it someone you know?”
Owen shrugs. “Not sure, but I’m a volunteer for the fire brigade. If they’re paging us, it’s got to be bad.”
I nod. “Go.”
“You owe me a dance, Miss Robinson.” He takes a step back and turns before I can say anything further.
I’m left standing by myself on the dance floor, with people still dancing beside me.
I look around the room. How many women has Owen been with here? His reputation precedes him, and I’m not sure what to think about that.
If he really meant anything by his words.
2
Drew
“Louise? I didn’t know your middle name was Louise.”
Hayley reaches up and locks her fingers in my hair. “You never asked. And you clearly didn’t look at the marriage license application when you signed it.”
I grin. “Even after this past year, I still have so much to learn about you.”
She shrugs. “You know all the important stuff.”
Her grip loosens and her hand drops as we drive past that damn community on the mountain. We’re headed to Corey’s place for the night. He’s staying at Adam’s and lending us his house for our wedding night to give us some privacy.
It’s not easy when the town is full of family and Hayley’s parents’ friends.
As it is, her parents are staying with Mum and Dad. God knows what our mothers will get up to, though judging by the way Mum looked by the end of the evening, she’ll be home and in bed. We’ll go by and visit tomorrow before we head home and then onto our honeymoon.
