86. Alice

ALICE

“ W ow.” I hold my hand over my mouth as I say it.

I’m not even mad that Amber made this. How can I be mad when this is the fourth cake I’ve tasted, and each has been just as delicious as the last? Even that weird-ass tomato cake.

Michael nods as he takes a bite.

After spending the challenge time sitting beside Michael while the bakers baked, I was able to look past my own tension to see his. And as much as I hate that his ex was somehow put on the show, I don’t want my man to have to deal with a woman he doesn’t like. And if that means taking the lead on this tasting, so be it.

“Seriously.” I keep going because fuck, this c-word can bake. “I don’t care where the recipe came from, the cake is moist and light. You managed to keep the orange flavor bright. And even with the cinnamon glaze, it still feels fresh.” I pick up one of the mini stars covered in edible glitter. “And these little spiced cookies are the perfect touch for New Year’s.”

I pop the cookie in my mouth and find Amber Addison gaping at me.

I pull my shoulders back a bit more as pride fills me.

Take that, soap opera writers! I know how to throw down a plot twist when necessary.

“Yes, well.” Amber blinks back her composure. “It’s always been a pleasure to make in the past.”

“I bet,” I answer cheerily as I pop another star cookie into my mouth.

I know what she’s trying to do.

And I want to pour the rest of her glitter into my hand, then blow it into her face for saying the word pleasure like that in front of my Michael.

But I’ll settle for moaning around my mouthful while I soak in the feeling of Michael setting his hand on my shoulder.

I don’t miss the way Amber watches the movement.

And I don’t miss the way her eye twitches.

And I certainly don’t miss the fact that Michael is keeping his hand where it is, making no move to lift his fork for a second bite.