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But the woman he’s talking to catches my eye. She’s gorgeous. Long auburn hair. Full lips. Striking green eyes I can make out from a few yards away. Exactly the type of woman I’ve seen him flirt with on more than one occasion.

But he’s not flirting with her. His expression is somber. Almost painfully so. Whatever they’re discussing, it’s serious.

The woman says something, and Bennett drags a hand through his hair. He tries to respond, but she shakes her head, then spins on her heel.

Bennett keeps his eyes on her as she stalks away. Then his shoulders slump, and he hangs his head.

It’s a strange look for my brother. He’s usually laid-back and carefree. Which is why I head toward him instead of the candy booth.

“Everything okay?” I ask Bennett, keeping my voice gentle.

He whirls around, his blue eyes widening before he schools his expression into his usual easygoing smile.

“Of course.”

I study him. “You sure? Who were you just talking to?”

“No one.”

“It didn’t look like no one.”

“I…” His smile falters as he stares at the spot where the woman disappeared into the crowd. Then he releases a long breath. “I met her a few years ago when I went to Hawaii for a wedding.”

“Okay…” I draw out.

“She was also there for a wedding.” He huffs out a laugh. “Her wedding, actually. Or what was supposed to be her wedding. Her groom broke things off a week before, and she decided to go to Hawaii anyway. We sort of hit it off.”

“Don’t tell me. I’ve already read this book. You just ran into her again after all this time, and she has a kid who looks just like you.” I throw my head back and laugh, expecting Bennett to do the same. Roll his eyes and tell me I’m being ridiculous. Remind me he’s allergic to commitment.

Only he doesn’t.

He doesn’t even smile.

Just looks down at the ground and shoves his hands into his pockets.

“Oh, shit.” My stomach drops. “Really?”

“I always wore a condom. I guess they’re not lying when they say they’re not a hundred percent effective. And since we never exchanged phone numbers or even knew each other’s last names, she had no way of telling me.”

The guilt and regret in his voice make my heart twist.

“Who is she?” I ask softly.

“Her name’s Natalia. She’s one of the contestants on that cooking show they’re filming here this year.”

Right. The Holiday Bake-Off Challenge.

Joshua told me about the production crew taking over a good portion of Holley Ridge this holiday season. Apparently, having one of the most popular cooking competitions film its Christmas season here is a big deal.

It also means Joshua has been working more hours than usual. But we’re making it work. Thankfully, I’m surrounded by people who are ready to help with Hannah whenever I need it.

“What do you plan on doing?”

“I have no idea.” He scrubs a hand over his face. “Nat says she’s fine and doesn’t need me to be a father or anything. But every time I see that little boy, I see four missed birthdays. Four missed Thanksgivings. Four missed Christmases.”

My heart hurts for him.

He might joke about being allergic to commitment. Might pretend he doesn’t take anything in life seriously.