Apple Pie Promises (The Alphabet Sweethearts #1)

by Susanne Ash

"We should check on those apples," I say when I can trust my voice again. But before I move to the stove, I add quietly, "Thank you." She doesn't ask what for. Just smiles that sunrise smile of hers and says, "Anything for my favorite grumpy teacher." And that's what terrifies me most of all is the realization that I'd do anything to keep that smile coming.

"Well, Aunt Mae," I whisper to the quiet kitchen, "I think I finally understand what you meant about baking being an act of love. Sometimes the love is for someone else. And sometimes it's for yourself."

Remember,’”

that you are never alone in this fight. Your strength amazes me, but on days when you can't find it, I'll be here to remind you how remarkable you are.'"

When they announce the winners, I'm not surprised to hear Tessa's name called for second place. What does surprise me is the pride that swells in my chest. Not because I taught her a few techniques, but because she took what she learned and made it uniquely, beautifully her own.

Like the best recipes, some things need time, trust, and a little bit of faith to turn out perfectly imperfect.

And as the sun sets behind the mountains, painting the falls in shades of purple and rose, I hold her close and silently thank two remarkable women for teaching me that love, like the best pie crust, is worth the risk of getting your hands messy. Even if it means occasionally tolerating pineapple on pizza.

"But sometimes timing is everything." He looks down at me, his blue eyes soft. "Sometimes you have to wait for the right season."