"Well, this morning Miss Hilary brought some honey buns to school, and her teacher just called to say they were a hit with the children. She was hoping you could send more."
"Really!"
Patrick's heart leapt.
He had made those honey buns—a calculated move to win Hilary's affection. He hadn't expected such spectacular results.
Not only did Hilary like them, but all the other kids did too.
He could picture it now: Hilary handing out the treats, surrounded by adoring classmates showering her with praise.
She must be thrilled.
And once she was happy, a few well-placed words to Hildegarde, and his marriage prospects would finally gain traction.
"Got it. I'll buy more and deliver them myself."
Back on Wilfred's end.
After hanging up, a cold smile curved his lips.
He wasn't taking the fall for this.
If Patrick was so eager to play stepfather, let him clean up his own mess.
Knock knock knock...
Someone tapped lightly on the car window.
Wilfred turned, startled. A blonde woman in sunglasses stood outside.
He lowered the window.
"Hi, can I help you?"
She looked familiar, but he couldn't place her.
"Hey, Mr. Dickerson. Don't recognize me?"
Margery Finch tilted her head with a slight smile.
"You're..."
Still nothing.