Chapter 33

Victoria I stepped out of Tiny's sleek black SUV, the cool autumn air biting at my cheeks as we approached the small bakery that had been my refuge for years. The familiar scent of fresh bread and cinnamon wrapped around me like a comforting blanket. "Emma's going to be thrilled to see me," I told Tiny, who towered beside me like a protective shadow. "She always saves the cinnamon rolls with extra frosting for me." The bell above the door jingled as we entered, and Emma's head snapped up from behind the counter. Her eyes widened comically, a delighted smile spreading across her face. "Victoria Howlthorne!" she exclaimed, rushing around the counter to envelop me in a hug that smelled of vanilla and flour. "Look at you! Absolutely glowing!" She held me at arm's length, examining my face with knowing eyes. "I haven't seen you looking this healthy in years. Someone's finally being treated right." Heat rushed to my cheeks. "Emma," I warned, but couldn't help smiling. "What?" she asked innoc