7. Confections and Connections

Mid-recalling events of the past, I suddenly realized it was 9 AM, and I had to reach the farmhouse by noon. So, I begrudgingly decided to ditch my dream world and go get ready, as if adulting was my only superpower. I darted into the shower, attempting to wash away both the remnants of my dreamy reverie and the morning grogginess that still clung to me. The hot water provided a comforting wake-up call, and with each passing minute, I could feel myself slowly transforming from a character in my own head to a responsible, functioning adult. After a speedy shower, I threw on a flowy sundress in a floral print or pastel color is an excellent choice for a farmhouse gathering. It's comfortable and evokes a relaxed, rustic charm layering it with a cozy cardigan. Lastly I opted for ankle boots for a modern twist. In my tote bag, I packed all the necessary items I'd require for the farmhouse gathering. I then made the decision to make my way to the door. Considering the long drive ahead and my growing hunger, I opted to make a pit stop at the bakery, the very same one where I had previously purchased the cake for the party. The last time I visited, their tempting array of goodies had left me wanting to sample so many of their offerings. As I stepped into the bakery, the familiar scent of freshly baked bread and sweet pastries enveloped me, and I couldn't help but smile. The same friendly baker from my previous visit greeted me with a warm smile. I approached the counter, my eyes scanning the options before finally settling on a savory spinach and feta croissant, and a mouthwatering raspberry-filled pastry. I couldn't resist indulging in a little comfort food before hitting the road. With a bit of spare time on my hands, I decided to take a seat at one of the two small tables available, where I could relish my treats before resuming my journey. Just as I savored the first bite of the flaky croissant, fate decided to have a good laugh at my expense. Lo and behold, the door to the bakery swung open, and in walked none other than Jacob and his buddy Tyler, of all people. Oh, dear, I silently pray they won't spot me. However, much to my chagrin, it seemed my silent pleas went unanswered, as their attention inevitably turned in my direction. Tyler: (with a grin) "Well, well, well, look who's here! Fancy meeting you in a place like this, gorgeous." Me: (grinning) "Tyler, it seems like you have an uncanny ability to find the sweetest spots in town." Tyler: (winking at me) "Can't help it when I'm in the presence of such sweetness. I mean, you've got to be as sweet as these pastries, right?" Me: (playfully) "Flattery will get you nowhere, Tyler, but maybe a bite of this raspberry pastry." Tyler: (grinning mischievously) "A bite? How about a whole pastry and a seat at your table?" Tyler then confidently slid into the empty chair at my table and, without waiting for a response, reached over to claim a piece of my raspberry pastry. Throughout this entire playful exchange, Jacob remained visibly uncomfortable and unusually reserved. He reluctantly pulled up a chair and joined us at the table. ” Klutz”, he says acknowledging my presence. I can't help but raise an eyebrow, feigning offense. I retort, “Moring Grumpopotamus”. Tyler bursts into laughter at my nickname for Jacob and remarks, "That's hilariously spot-on!" We both join in, sharing a good laugh that echoes through the bakery. I can discern Jacob's annoyance from the corner of my eye. "Ayo Mark, the usual!" Jacob shouts to the familiar waiter, signaling their established rapport I inquire with curiosity, "What's 'the usual'?" Tyler turns to me with a half-smile, as if he's about to reveal a well-kept secret. "The usual," he explains, "is the bakery's legendary cinnamon roll. It's practically a work of art. You've got to try it." Intrigued by this newfound bakery gem, I nod enthusiastically. "Are you looking forward to the farmhouse trip?" Tyler inquired with a hint of anticipation in his voice. Surprised, I turned to Tyler and asked, "Wait, you're coming to the farmhouse too?" Feigning offended, Tyler, said, "Little J, how could you even think for a moment that I wouldn't be part of this family adventure? Am I not officially part of the crew yet?" Realizing my teasing might have been misunderstood, I quickly clarified, "Oh, that's not what I meant, Tyler. I was just confirming. But I'm genuinely glad you're coming. With your company, I won't have a dull moment, that's for sure." With a playful glint in his eye, Tyler responded, "Well, you know, I'm here to make sure your day is anything but boring." With Tyler's flirtatious comment hanging in the air, I could sense a sudden shift in Jacob's demeanor. His brows furrowed slightly as he interrupted in a sarcastic tone, "Oh, of course, because this bakery isn't exciting enough already." Amidst this awkward exchange, the waiter arrived with a tray carrying a colossal cinnamon roll. Its sheer size and heavenly aroma drew our attention away from the conversation as he placed it on the table with a grin. In mere minutes, we voraciously devoured the enormous cinnamon roll, its gooey sweetness and heavenly taste leaving us temporarily speechless as we indulged in the bakery's pièce de résistance. Out of the blue, Tyler leaned in with a sly grin and whispered, "You've got a tiny smudge there," as he delicately brushed his fingers against the corner of my lips taking off excess frosting. Blushing slightly, I replied, "Oh, thanks," Jacob, suddenly clearing his throat, interjected, "We should get going." I nodded in agreement, and the three of us made our way to the counter. Tyler, ever the gentleman, interjected, "I've got this one," as he gestured to the cashier. Jacob raised an eyebrow, "Are you sure about that?" to which Tyler chuckled and paid the bill for all of us. Jacob quipped, "You should come more often, Jenny, so I can witness Tyler's generosity on a regular basis." Tyler chimed in, saying, "You know, Jenny, since we're all headed to the same place, why don't you join us? It'll be even more fun with you around." Before I could respond to Tyler's inviting gesture, Jacob rudely interrupted, saying, "No, she can't come with us." Despite feeling hurt by Jacob's rudeness, I concealed my emotions and calmly responded, "Don't worry, Jacob. I didn't plan on it. I have my car, and I can drive myself just fine, thank you." Turning to Tyler, I smiled and expressed my gratitude, saying, "Thanks for asking, Tyler. I appreciate the invitation." Leaving the two men behind, I made my way towards my car, putting some distance between myself and the awkward situation at the bakery. With an exasperated huff, I grumbled to myself, "Seriously, Jacob? I'd sooner volunteer for a dental exam without anesthesia than spend another minute in his grumpopotamus-mobile. My car and I are about to embark on the most peaceful and drama-free drive ever!" I couldn't help but chuckle at the mental image of a "grumpopotamus-mobile," finding humor in the midst of frustration. I am so funny.