Chapter 24: The Discovery

Sunday Morning — Yenni’s Drive

Yenni tapped the steering wheel lightly as she guided her car through the familiar neighborhood streets. The bright morning sun lit up the quiet blocks as she wound her way toward Eli’s house, the pastry box balanced securely on the passenger seat beside her.

The idea had formed earlier that morning—spur-of-the-moment, but not entirely unplanned. She had been thinking about it for weeks now. If she kept waiting for an invitation, it might never come. But if she created the opportunity herself, maybe Eli would finally take the hint.

As she passed her family’s home a few streets over, she made a mental note to stop by on her way back. She hadn’t seen her father in a few days, and Glennys had texted her about lunch sometime soon. But first—this.

She glanced around as she turned onto Eli’s street. No sign of Carla’s usual Sunday run. She half-expected to see her pounding the sidewalks in her usual loop but saw nothing. Odd—but maybe Carla had gone earlier today. That thought gave Yenni a little boost of optimism.

Perfect timing. Carla’s out. Mama should be next door getting the binge snacks ready. Eli’s probably in the garage finishing his workout.

The plan was simple: casually drop by, surprise him with breakfast, maybe catch a glimpse of him post-workout—flushed, shirtless, vulnerable. Start a playful conversation, make him smile. Maybe—if the timing felt right—steer the conversation toward inviting her to stay for their Sunday routine.

Her stomach fluttered at the thought.

The Garage Entry

Yenni parked neatly along the curb, grabbed the pastry box, and made her way toward the garage entrance. The side door wasn’t locked—just as she expected. She had used this way in countless times before, especially back when she used to visit Mama on weekends.