The Baker and the Blacksmith by A.J. Shay

Author:A.J. Shay [Shay, A.J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: JMS Books LLC
Published: 2022-09-09T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 8

As soon as Daniel stood, Adrian placed a guiding hand on his bicep. “My place isn’t that far from here, just a few blocks.”

Daniel nodded as they stepped out into the street. Though the original crowd of onlookers had dispersed, he felt as though everyone was watching him. Which, to be fair, they were. Still shaken from Exavier’s visit, and Adrian’s apology, he kept his face towards the ground, finding the dusty road extremely interesting. Adrian’s face remained upwards. He was doubtlessly giving venomous glares to everyone they came across. Surely, it was why no one had approached him yet. He focused on the warm touch of Adrian’s hand while Exavier’s words replayed in his mind.

You’re just embarrassing yourself.

It’s time for you to give up this fantasy.

He’d never gained his brother’s approval before; how could his words still affect him so deeply? Not much time had passed before they reached a small cottage at the very edge of town.

“Here we are.”

Daniel took in the sight. He wasn’t sure what he’d expected, but it certainly wasn’t this. He’d never seen such a picturesque place. A white picket fence surrounded the property, complete with an archway covered in tender vines. The front yard was completely brimming with life. A veritable array of flowers bloomed around a healthy-looking vegetable patch. Bees buzzed happily, pollinating the rainbow of vegetation planted there. The brick home itself was also painted in dark, green vines that wrapped around bay windows, contrasting with large, fuchsia hollyhock flowers planted near the door. Daniel felt as though he’d stepped into a painting.

“Oh, Adrian, this is absolutely lovely.”

“It’s nothing.”

“Hardly,” Daniel said as he was guided onto the property. “This place is on par with the garden of Eden. I wasn’t even aware you gardened.”

“Yeah, it’s a relaxing hobby. You should give it a try.”

For the first time since the incident with his brother, Daniel huffed a small laugh. “I feel like my terribly small living space and black thumb thoroughly prevent that.”

“Then you can come here whenever you like,” Adrian said earnestly. He gestured to a cushioned, iron bench that sat by the front door. “This is where I do my reading for our book club. I’ll give you privacy if you want to be here in the future.”

“I hardly think that’s necessary.”

“Still, the offer stands.”

The sincerity in his voice brought a smile to Daniel’s lips. “How about I enjoy the garden later? I rather think I’d like something to drink.”

Adrian strode before him, thick boots thumping on the stone pathway, and opened the door for him. Daniel stepped inside the cottage, jarred by the stark contrast he saw. Compared to the lush yard, which teemed with life and color, the inside was nearly Spartan.

The living room consisted of a couch, a chair, a coffee table, and a fireplace. Adrian gestured for him to sit while he ran off to the kitchen to put on the kettle. Now that he was by himself, Daniel was able to reflect on the turn of events.

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