Peach Or Pear

Ellie sniffled and looked down, giving Digby a pet. “What is it, buddy?” she asked while she followed him over to the box, shocked to see that Blossom was alive. Her pink little nose twitched as shock grew across Ellie’s face. “W….what?”

“ I found her…. Um… yes” mumbled The Pie Maker, unable to make up a good excuse in time “ Your bunny”

“I thought she was….oh no…I was gonna bury her alive,” Ellie sniffled as she gathered Blossom into her arms and hugged her close. “I’m horrible, maybe she was just sleeping.”

“ N-no you’re not horrible whatsoever, it’s a weird…. Rabbit thing that occurs with her breed…. I had a friend who had the same thing happen to him” Admitted The Pie Maker whose hands were practically glued to his pockets

“R…really?” She asked softly as she stroked Blossom’s soft fur. “I’m glad your doggie came to let me know,” she smiled. “She’s my best friend, she’s kinda my only friend.”

“ I’m quite similar with Digby here” Admitted The Pie Maker, rocking on his heels “ I have more so, acquaintances than anything else… coworkers as well”

Ellie nodded her head as she slowly stood up. “Yeah, same here. Well I suppose I should get her back home. Thank you both…for letting me know,” she smiled.

“ Yes of course… be well Ellie, and remember the fact that you are indeed a wonderful person to be around and you are quite the opposite of terrible” Blurted out the Pie Maker

“Thank you, Ned, you’re so sweet,” Ellie smiled as she headed back to her apartment to put Blossom back in her cage, getting her settled before she headed back down to the Pie Hole.

The Pie Maker let out a long deep breath, glad he wasn’t discover by the shy young girl. As he got back to making his pies, he spotted her and tried to act cool and inconspicuous

She smiled and gave him a little wave, placing her order with Olive and having a friendly little chat with her.

The Pie Maker gave her a small smile and nodded, serving her pie and sending it to Olive and going over to sit with her “ Hello”

Ellie swallowed down her bite of peach a la mode and wiped at her mouth. “Hi Ned!”

“ How is your once dead but not dead bunny rabbit doing” Asked the pie maker with wide eyes “ and more importantly how are you feeling”

“She’s doing well, she’s upstairs in her cage now with a fresh carrot and some straw. Ummm….I feel a little off but ok,” Ellie told him.

“ Perhaps it would help to explain what a little off means in this context?” Suggested the pie maker, trying to find out if she had any suspicions

Ellie’s cheeks turned a little pink. “Oh just my mood, that’s all,” she said, not wanting to get into too many details.

“ You don’t have to divulge the full details, though my work with detectives tends to lend me to understanding people more” Blurted out the Pie Maker “ though as long as you’re feeling better”

“Wow! I didn’t know you work with detectives, that’s really cool! And I am, I decided to take a personal day from work,” she replied.

“ and your pie is on the house, I’ll have you know. See it as a pie on top of a pie as the shop is a giant pie. I wouldn’t want to have been the cause of any distress so this is rather important for me

“Thank you, that’s really sweet,” she smiled. “You’re so nice, and I can’t believe I haven’t come here before, it’s so yummy.”

“ I’m rather glad you think so, good reviews are good for business. Good Pies are good for the stomach. I just attempt to be good in these way” Ned shrugged

“You’re right they are…but these are better than good. I think this might be the best pie I ever tasted,” she grinned.

“ I’ll take that review to heart” grinned the pie maker “ I always take the reviews seriously whether they are from customers or friends”

“I’m glad cause I meant every word,” she grinned. “I don’t have a lot of friends, but I’ll tell the ones I do have about this place.”

“ an amount of friends doesn’t matter per say but I will say that having places for yourself that you enjoy is good. I suppose I meant that as you are both a friend and a customer at times”

She gave him a smile. “You’re right about that….on both accounts. Quality over quantity and yeah, I’m a customer and a friend now,” she replied. “I swear….you put magic in these pies.”

“ I suppose if that is one way you wanted to put it you could… though I do use the obvious flour and sugar and fruit as well”

“Of course, but there is something very special about these pies,” Ellie smiled. “I choose to believe it has some magic in it.”

“ As I said, I do not think I would render you entirely incorrect with that assumption, though I would say it is certainly not the magic of close up variety. I would say I abhor that magic” mumbled the pie maker “ that was rather a lot my apologies”

“No it’s ok and duly noted. I was referring to that magic you can’t quite explain, not the rabbit out of the hat kind. But that spark in your fingertips, fluttering in your heart, and colorful swirls in your head kind magic,” she smiled.

“ I happen to prefer that magic., though one of those examples tends to tickle my heart in a certain way, I won’t divulge into which, so do with that information what you will” murmured the pie maker.

Ellie leaned her chin on her hand. “I bet I could figure it out. You seem like…a romantic,” she grinned.

“ I’m certain definition of the world I reckon I could most certainly be described as such” grinned the pie maker

“You also have a way with words, they sound very pretty and smart,” she grinned

“ i simple speak as I wish to, I enjoy being able to express myself in however many words it may take” the pie maker laughed and smiled

Ellie giggled softly. “I like that. You’re really nice, Ned,” she smiled.

“ I try to be, when I Can that is” grinned the pie maker “ want some coffee?”

“I would love some coffee, thank you! I’m a big coffee fan,” she smiled.

“ of course, on the house again” grinned the pie maker as he poured her a mug

“Thank you,” she smiled, scrunching her nose as she added a little bit of cream.

“ you’re welcome Ellie, enjoy and let me know if you want more” said the pie maker softly.

“I will, thank you,” she smiled as she enjoyed her coffee and pie.

“ good, I’ll see you then” grinned the pie maker as he head to the back of his shop with more pies and her pet bunny on the mind

Ellie finished up and left a nice tip for Olive before she headed about her day, doing her little shift at the local bookstore before heading home.

Ned came into the book store later, checking out some of the vintage recipe books

Ellie hummed softly as she restocked some of the little bins in the front with various Knick knacks and smiled when she saw Ned. “Hi Ned!” She said softly as she approached him.

“ Good evening Ellie, how are things going here?”

“Kinda quiet, but that’s ok, can I help you find anything?”

“ perhaps, I was researching recipes from the fifties of you had any books from that era or inspired by”

“Oooo very cool! Yeah, hold on,” she said and pulled a couple titles out of the cooking section for him to look at.

“ Thank you, I’m looking to do more variations of Pies, I figured that it would be a good place to see”

“That sounds like a lot of fun, I can’t wait to see what you come up with!”

“ I’ll be sure to call you first to see what you think of my new recipes” grinned the pie maker

“Really? I’d love that…oh I love the pies back then that had the fancy crusts….always so pretty,” she smiled as she did a little twirl.

“ I am not always the best of artists but I know I will make my best attempt” grinned Ned.

“My mom used to make them that way, I wish I had learned more from her,” she said.

“ that sounds wonderful… my mother also taught me in my love for pie making. I suppose this place is a tribute to her in a way” explained the pie maker

“That’s really sweet,” Ellie said with soft eyes. “Is she….still alive? My mom died when I was ten.”

“ Unfortunately she is not…. She… when I was eight. This shop is my homage to her” explained the pie maker with a solemn look on his face

“I’m sorry, Ned,” she said gently, giving his arm a soft squeeze.

The Pie Maker looked over at the girl’s hand and gently smiled. “ Thank you Ellie, I appreciate it”

“You’re welcome, Ned, it sucks…being in the Dead Mom club,” she sighed.

The Pie Maker gave the girl a small smile and Pat her shoulder “ At least it’s not a lonely club”

“True, I’ll be at the register if you need anything else!” She smiled as she headed back to check out a few guests.

“ Thank you” whispered the pie maker, choosing a few of the books and bringing them up

Ellie gave him a smile as she rang them up and put them into a cute paper bag for him. “Here you are!”

“ Thank you Ellie, say hello to your bunny for me” grinned the Pie Maker as he paid

“I will, Ned, have a good night. I’ll see you around!” She chirped happily after him

“ I’ll see you around” grinned the pie maker who took his bag and went back to his apartment

She gave him a wave then headed home once her shift was over. The next afternoon, she headed into the pie hole for a slice before work.

Digby was sat at the door way, his tail wagging as he saw you. The pie maker turned around and grinned as he saw the girl “ good afternoon Ellie”

“Hiya Ned, hiya Digby,” she grinned and gave Digby a few pets. “I thought I’d treat myself to a slice of peach before my shift!”

“Funny enough I just finished a Peach Pie ready for eating” grinned the pie maker as he strategically cut into the pie

“I got super lucky then, maybe I have it a la mode please? Ice cream makes everything better,” she smiled.

“ I have some vanilla freshly churned” grinned the pie maker as he served the girl a large slice with ice cream

“Whoa….that’s awesome, thank you,” she beamed.

“ only the best at the pie hole” grinned ned who gave her a small wink

“You’re very right about that, have you tried out any new recipes yet?” She asked curiously

“ i have only tried out one thus far, wasn’t the biggest fan of it though so back to the drawing board for me” explained the pie maker with a shrug

“Well that’s ok, sometimes it takes a few tries to get what you want,” she smiled.

“ I’ll let you know when I get it down pact” grinned the pie maker “ you’ll be the first taste tester”

“I can’t wait,” she grinned as she ate up her pie and ice cream.

“ please enjoy, you deserve it” grinned the pie maker

“You’re so nice, Ned,” she smiled as she finished up and patted her tummy.

The pie maker took the girl’s plate and gently pat her head as he went back to the kitchen

Ellie scrunched her nose, smiled then left some money on the counter before skipping across the street to the bookstore to start her shift.

The Pie Maker chuckled as he saw her, looking over at Digby who barked happily. “ what a kind girl”

Ellie headed back to the apartments after her shift, humming to herself as she headed up the stairs to her place, tripping on the last step and landing onto the floor with a hard thud. “Ow,” she mumbled.

The Pie Maker opened the door of his apartment after hearing the thud, growing when he saw the girl “ Ellie? Are you hurt?”

“Just my ego,” she admitted sheepishly as she slowly stood up. “I missed the top step,” she explained.

The pie maker went and helped her stand up “ do you suppose you need some ice?”

She let him help her up and smiled, shaking her head. “No….unless it can soothe a bruised ego,” she giggled.

The pie maker held her hand gently and gave her a small smile “ I suppose that feeling can cause some distress, while ice may not help a bruised ego, perhaps a slice of pie might?”

Ellie scrunched her nose and smiled. “It’s hard to turn down pie, it wouldn’t be causing too much trouble would it?”

“ i would not offer if it did cause me any trouble, please come in” the pie maker smiled

“Thank you, that’s really nice of you,” she smiled as she followed him.

“ it’s no problem, please come inside” the pie maker said with a small smile

Ellie trailed in behind him and gave Digby a pet when he approached her.

“please give him all the attention you desire… more so that he desires” chuckled the pie maker who went to retrieve some pie for the girl

“Oh I will, don’t worry about that, you’re such a good boy,” she cooed as she fussed over Digby.

“ I am a bit allergic so i don’t touch him…” the pie maker mumbled and put the pie in the microwave

“Oh no,” she pouted. “That’s kinda sucky for both of you, but I’m happy to give him plenty of pets whenever he wants!”

“ You’re more than appreciated” grinned the pie maker who put down a piece of hot cherry pie for her

She kissed the top of Digby’s head. “Mmm wow that smells so good,” she grinned as she sat down to eat it.

“ i have ice cream as well if that’s what you want” grinned the pie maker

“I would love some, please,” she smiled.

“ of course, no problem with that” grinned the pie maker who gave her another scoop

“Thank you,” she grinned and slowly ate her pie. “So delicious,” she mumbled.

“ You already look to be feeling better” grinned the pie maker who cleaned up a bit in the kitchen

“I am, thank you. Pie really soothes the soul, huh?” She giggled.

“The soul and in your case, the ego it appears” noted the pie makes

“You’re right about that,” she smiled, shaking her head. “A truly magical dessert.”

“ Magic may very well be a part of them” the pie maker teased softly

“You’re right, I think there always is in baking,” she said.

“ That and a very intrinsic chemical science” chuckled the pie maker “ magic is perhaps easier to understand than that”

“Perhaps,” she shrugged. “I just find baking really lovely.”

“ I wish I could bake something other than pies, I’m only good at those”

“You’re amazing at pies though. I can do cupcakes,” she smiled.

“ Perhaps one day you’ll be the one making me a baked good” teased the pie maker with a smile

“I would love to! I could even make you some dinner too,” she smiled.

“Now you speak on spoiling me” the pie maker laughed a bit and shook his head “ you’re too kind to me Ellie

“You’re really kind to me,” she smiled. “Plus it’s nice cooking for me than just me!”

“ You really think so?” The pie maker asked softly “ I suppose I concur seeing as I also enjoy serving others food”

“I do! I always loved doing it with my mother and I don’t have…a lot of friends so it’s nice to have someone to cook for. My d…father always has us eat at a restaurant when it’s meeting time,” she sighed.

The Pie Maker felt his face fall and a certain ache in his heart, sitting across from her and giving her a soft look “ I suppose I understand a bit better than I initially anticipated… you’re free to cook here whenever you’d like”

“Really?” She asked in surprise as she lifted her head. “In your fancy kitchen?” She smiled.

“ My kitchen is not that fancy… but if you want to cook here you always are welcome” laughed the pie maker

“It is compared to my little one,” she giggled. “And thank you, Ned.”

“ You’re very welcome, you’re not too far away so just knock and you’re welcome”

“Thank you, Ned and thanks for the pie, it was really yummy,” she smiled.

“ You’re very welcome Ellie, you’re always welcome” the pie maker gave her a big smile

She stood up and gave Digby a few pets then gently touched Ned’s arm. “You have a good night, ok?”

“ You as well Ellie, take care now and call of you need anything” the pie maker said softly

“I will, thanks,” Ellie smiled before she headed back to her apartment and cuddled with Blossom.

The Pie Maker watched as the girl walked back to her apartment, turning to his faithful dog with a smile “ she is such a character”

The next day, Ellie wandered into the pie hole with wide eyes and holding a stuffed rabbit.

The Pie Maker blinked as he looked over at the girl, giving her a small frown “ Ellie, you look odd what’s the matter?”

Ellie hugged her rabbit close and gave Ned a shy wave. “Is so pretty in here,” she murmured.

“ Ellie, are you doing okay? Your demeanor has me a bit concerned. Perhaps you did gif your head yesterday” whispered the pie maker with concern, approaching he slowly

She gave him a shy little smile then rubbed her head. “Mmm no bump and it no hurts, I think I ok,” she smiled.

“ You don’t seem okay… perhaps that is not the right turn of phrase… you do not seem… yourself” whispered the pie maker as he brought her to the kitchen

“I tinie, I not ‘posed to leave the apartment but I smelled the pie!” She said excitedly.

“ But what do you mean tiny? I suppose it does not appear that you have shrunk at all physically” the pie maker said softly and had her sit down in the back

Ellie smiled and hugged her bunny tightly, thinking a bit. “Big Ellie and little Ellie, I little Ellie,” she tried to explain as best she could, figuring big Ellie could explain better once she was out of little space.

The pie maker blinked as he began to understand the circumstances, patting her head gently and humming “ would you like ice cream little Ellie?”

Ellie’s eyes lit up and she nodded her head. “Yes pease!!!”

“ Perhaps that is a good start” whispered the pie maker, who served her a scoop of vanilla ice cream with sprinkles

“Thank you,” she cheered and began to eat her ice cream happily.

The Pie Maker leaned back on the counter and hummed to himself, observing the girl as she ate “ you’re very welcome”

Ellie was very content to eat her ice cream, finishing every last drop. “Yummy.”

“ Now, could you tell me a little more about… Little Ellie?”

“Mhmmm! I wike to color and pway wif my stuffies!! And sometimes cartoons!”

“ and perhaps we can find something for you to do with that here” murmured the pie maker as he looked around, finding a piece of paper and some old crayons in a drawer

Ellie’s eyes lit up and she took the things happily. “Tank you,” she smiled and started to color and doodle.

“ you’re welcome” the pie maker said softly, watching over her closely

Ellie gave him a little smile, her tongue poking out of the corner of her mouth as she colored.

“ at least you’re a happy child” murmured the pie maker with a smile

Ellie finished up her drawing then covered up a yawn. “I sleepy….I go back to take nap,” she told Ned.

“ do you need me to take you back to your apartment?” Asked the pie maker with a bit of concern

“Yes pease!” She said and stood up, reaching her small hand out to him.

The pie maker looked down at the girl and gently held her hand in his big one “ alright, back we go”

Ellie beamed up at him and swung their hands as they went back up to her apartment and she used the key around her neck to unlock the door.

“ That’s very smart of you to have that” whispered the pie maker with a grin. “ do you need me to grab anything for you”

She shakes her head as she unlocks the door. “Nope, I gonna take a nap,” she said softly then wrapped her arms around Ned’s waist.

The pie maker lifted his arms in surprise and wrapped his arms around the small girl “ oh okay… as long as you’re okay”

She looked up at him with big eyes before she nodded her head and held a thumbs up for him. “Mhmmm, I pwomise!”

“Don’t be afraid to let me know if you need anything, little Ellie” whispered the pie maker

“I won’t!!!!” Little Ellie promised as she crossed her heart.

“ I’ll close the door for you, you get to napping little one” the pie maker said softly

“Tank you, Ned,” she smiled and snuggled under her blankets.

“ You’re very welcome” whispered the pie maker, who closed her door and left her be for her nap

Ellie had a good nap, waking up later to play with Blossom, feeling happy

The Pie Maker went back to his shop until closing, coming back up and knocking on the door to check in Ellie, his hands in his pockets

Ellie rubbed her face and opened the door. “Hi Ned!” She smiled up at him. “You can come if you’d like.”

“ Good Morning Ellie, how are you feeling?” The pie maker asked softly

“Much better, thank you,” she said with warm cheeks. “Sorry about that.”

“No worries, I just wanted to make sure you’re okay” the pie maker said softly

“I am, thank you,” she smiled. “Just need a good nap.”

“ sometimes that’s is all it takes, though I am so glad you are found well” grinned the pie maker

“I am indeed, thank you for looking after me,” she smiled up at him.

“ Of course, I’m not too sure whether or not I’m qualified to help, but I will always try my best” the pie maker whispered

“Thank you and well I’ve gotten a system down for when I go into that headspace so I can usually look after myself, but sometimes little me wants company,” Ellie admitted. “She very much enjoyed coloring and having pie.”

“ Well i suppose I don’t blame her, I think most would enjoy it as well if offered the opportunity to”

“You’re right about that, it can be very freeing,” Ellie smiled. “Do you want some tea?” She offered.

“ I think I would enjoy a cup greatly actually” grinned the pie maker “ thank you for offering”

“Of course,” she smiled and skipped over to the put the kettle on to boil. “I have earl grey or green or oooo a jasmine one!”

“ Green Tea sounds lovely” the pie maker grinned as he walked in with her

Ellie smiled and got down two mugs along with two bags of green tea while they waited for the water to boil. Blossom twitched happily in her large cage.

The Pie Maker looked over at the bunny, a small sad smile on his face as he looked at her. “ How has the rabbit been? well i hope”

“Oh yeah, she’s been great, I was lucky you two found her!” Ellie smiled, filling up the mugs with hot water once the kettle whistled.

The Pie maker gave a small smile and nod, keeping an eye if ur for the bunny “ I suppose it was a rare stroke of luck on my end”

“It really was and I’m glad you noticed,” Ellie smiled, letting the bags steep in the hot water. “Almost ready!”

“Thank you for this Ellie” The Pie Maker grinned holding his hands close to his chest

“I would absolutely love that,” Lennox grinned. “I try to open myself up to new things.”

“Something tells me you’ll catch onto it quite nicely” grinned the pie maker

“I usually pick up pretty fast,” Lennox teased.

“ It’s a helpful skill to have in life all together”

“It can be, plus the elfy blood helps with it,” they smirked a bit.

“ I’m sure it does, I couldn’t imagine the little differences” murmured the pie maker in thought

“It takes some getting used to, and it’s a plus that you’re kinda already familiar with our world,” Lennox said. “Saves a lot of awkward conversations.”

“ I suppose it is a perk of being a friend of the family” chuckled the pie maker with a grin

“Very true, just makes it easier,” Lennox said. “And you really do make the best pie, by the way.”

“Thank you” blushed the pie maker and scratched his nose “ I appreciate it greatly”

“You’re very welcome,” they smiled. “I’m glad I could partake in them, although I might become addicted,” they teased.

“ You find a way to avoid it… Atleast I did” whispered the pie maker “ dead fruit helps”

“Makes sense, fresh produce can be very pricey,” Lennox said. “And then of course….with your power, keeps you from overindulging on the pie.”

“ You’ve got a business mind, I like it…. I tried doing fresh fruit only… I ate a large sum of pie to say the least” chuckled the pie maker

“Oh I bet, it’s too tempting to resist,” Lennon grinned. “Although it wouldn’t matter, you’d still be you, skinny or not.”

“ that is very true” grinned the pie maker with a small blush “ I did fear for my blood sugar levels however”

“Very true, that is a lot of sugar,” Lennon laughed.

“ it’s a good portion of my expenses” teased the pie maker with a wink

“Oh I bet, you gotta have sweet pies,” Lennox said.

The pie maker blushed softly and cleared his throat “ y-yes indeed, I don’t dabble in the savory department”

“Savory pies are very….hit or miss, I think chicken pot pie is the only one that truly got it right,” Lennox teased.

“ Im a vegetarian, though I’m sure it’s rather tasty” chuckled the pie maker

“I don’t eat a lot of meat myself, chicken every now and then,” they replied.

“ I don’t think it’s exactly a good idea for myself considering my… condition” chuckled the pie maker

“That makes sense actually and don’t worry I tend to stick veg most of the time,” Lennox grinned.

“ I’d just rather not find out” the pie maker laughed and sighed “ vegetables are tasty anyways”

“That’s true, if you know how to work with them, you can make some good stuff,” they said.

“ Perhaps a veggie pie? If that a thing? Though people prefer the sweet as do I” the pie maker wondered out loud

“Oh yeah a veggie pie! That would be good if you wanted a little more savory, but sweet pies went hands down,” Lennox grinned.

“ I tend to prefer the sweet, it tends to brighten people’s days which I enjoy” chuckled the pie maker

“I can tell that, it’s a nice quality to have,” Lennox said with a smile.

The Pie Maker blushed softly and chuckled a bit “ thank you, it’s very sweet of you”

Lennox gently toed the ground with their shoe. “Thanks, I suppose I do try to be sweet.”

“ Perhaps… if it’s not too late… after this we could go to my shop? We just fixed the espresso machine?” the pie maker offered

“I would love that, I’m a big fan of coffee,” Lennox grinned.

“Olive is the one who has figured it out the best, I could have her make us cups” grinned the pie maker. “ That is if she is still there, we may have the shop to ourselves”

“That’s fine too, I’m sure the two of us can look after ourselves just fine,” Lennox grinned.

“That i am most certain, though i hope that my espresso is tasty at the very least” the pie maker gave them a wink and warm smile

“Oh I bet that it is,” Lennox grinned, “I’m looking forward to give it a try.”

“ I suppose that we should ensure a time and date for this… not that i am immediately assuming this is a date, i was rather referring to the numerical value denoting the lunar and solar placements…. my apologies…”

“I think you’re incredibly wonderful too,” she breathed out happily.

“ How lucky am I to live in a world in which you think that” murmured the pie maker with a huge grin

“I count myself very lucky as well,” she whispered.

“ I don’t think I’ve ever thought myself as lucky until just a few moments ago” mumbled the pie maker

“I’m glad I’m changing your way of thinking then,” she teased.

“ already changing things for the better” murmured the pie maker

“That’s good to know,” she said and gently rubbed her nose against his.

“ it’s even more encouraging for me” whispered the pie maker

“I’m glad, I really like making you feel good,” she grinned.

“ I’m sure I’ll find more than one way to do the same for you” whispered the pie maker with a grin

“You already do, just simply looking at me,” she teased.

“ Im rather glad I kissed you” the pie maker whispered “I would do it again”

“Me too, and you’re welcome to kiss me whenever you’d like,” she smiled.

The pie maker gave her a big goofy smile before leaning in to give her another kiss

Eliza cupped his cheeks as she kissed him back, feeling floaty and happy.

“ Perhaps I should close the shop as I’m unsure of my ability to focus”

“Oh my, look at me distracting you from work, how naughty,” she giggled.

“ some welcome mischief isn’t the worst of fates, perhaps I’ve wanted to give in this whole time” murmured the pie maker who left briefly to turn the sign

“You’re right about that, it can be very fun sometimes,” Eliza swooned.

The pie maker approached once more and picked her up, setting her on the counter

She squealed softly. “Whoa, strong, big man,” she whispered, a goofy grin on her face.

“ I suppose at my stature I am a bit above average” teased the pie maker who smiled

“You are, and I like it. Very swoon worthy,” she giggled.

“ I’m not sure I’ve had many people outright swoon for me” the pie maker chuckled “ it’s quite nice”

“Well I’ll be swooning over you a lot,” she smiled.

“I suppose I’ll have to get much more used to that, huh!” The pie maker laughed and smiled

“You will,” she said and made grabby hands, pulling him down to kiss her again.

Ned laughed and flossed her back, humming so happily

She ran her fingers through his short hair. “Ned, Ned, Ned,” she whispered.

“ Eliza Eliza Eliza” whispered the pie maker who picked her up again “ I love your name”

She squealed softly and blushed. “I love it when you say it!”

“ I won’t stop it then, Eliza, Eliza, Eliza” whispered the pie maker, stroking her cheek

She leaned into his touch and sighed happily. “I feel like a little kitten.”

“Would you say that’s a good thing, or rather something less fun?” Asked the pie maker curiously

“It’s a very good thing,” she smiled. “Kittens always seem so delighted.”

“ so you’re saying you’re delighted?” Ned beamed and leaned in to kiss her

“I’m very delighted and very happy,” she whispered against his lips.

“ Perhaps would you like to go up to my apartment? Might be comfier than the shop”

“I would like that very much,” she smiled.

“ Lucky for us I live right above here” teased the pie maker who helped her hop off the counter and go towards the back “ right this way”

“Lucky indeed,” she grinned and took hold of his hand as she let him lead her up to his place.

The pie maker took her up to his apartment, Digby greeting them with a happy bark “ welcome”

“Hi sweetie,” Eliza cooed as she bent down to pet him. “You have a nice place.”

Digby leaned up into her pets excitedly, nuzzling her hands. The pie maker stepped all the way in and smiled “ why thank you, it’s quaint but what I need”

Eliza kissed the top of the dog’s head and smiled. “It’s just perfect, mine is the same way, small, but perfect.”

“ Sometimes cozy is a much better thing than general size” chuckled the pie maker

“I agree, cozy is what makes it a home,” she smiled.

“ Not that I wouldn’t enjoy something quite like a mansion or other, this is simply different” grinned the pie maker

“I know what you mean,” she said softly as she gave him a soft smile.

“ I supposed I just appreciate what I’ve been able to have here” whispered the pie maker who gave her a soft smile

“I’m the same way,” she smiled as she took his large hands into her smaller ones.

The pie maker watched as she took his hands, feeling a strange electricity run through him “ hmm”

“Look at that…we had a little spark,” she beamed.

“ do you happen to be magic at all?” The pie maker asked with a small smirk

“I don’t know, perhaps I do and just don’t know it,” she giggled.

“ perhaps we can find out, because I know what I feel when with you is not mundane whatsoever”

“I’m glad!” She smiled. “I feel the same way with you, perhaps we both have a little magic inside us and together, we make it a big spark!”

“ i think that is perhaps the most splendid way of putting things” the pie maker whispered and smiled

“I’m glad you agree,” she smiled and leaned in to give him a kiss.

The Pie Maker leaned in and gave her a soft kiss back, stroking her cheek and humming

Her nose gently rubbed against his own as she kissed him back.

“ You’re truly a wonderful kisser Eliza” whispered the pie maker

“I think you are too, my love Ned,” she grinned.

“ i could get used to that” ned whispered and give her a soft kiss

“Yeah? Good,” she smiled and kissed him again. “I plan to spoil you with love.”

“ spoil me? I’m not sure I deserve all that” chuckled the pie maker, humming agaisnt her lips

“You absolutely do deserve it, you and Digby,” she smiled.

“ hmm he absolutely does, he’s been with me through thick and thin”

“He really is the best boy,” Eliza beamed.

“ No other title could fit him best, best boy and best friend” whispered the pie maker with a grin

“Those are very befitting titles for him, although I think you are the best boy too,” she smiled.

The Pie Maker blushed deeply and gazed down at her “ you flatter me Eliza”

She gently cupped his cheeks. “I like flattering you, I’m just being honest really.”

“ You’re too sweet” chuckled the pie maker who melted in her touch

“I’ve been told that,” she smiled as she stroked his warm cheeks.

“ Oh have you been? I’ll have to think of something new” teased the pie maker with a big smile

“You don’t need to, I like it when that comes out of your mouth,” she replied.

“I’ll keep saying that and add something new” the pie maker teased and smiled

“I look forward to it, a nice surprise every day,” she beamed.

“ That certainly is life with me I think” the pie maker murmured

“That sounds wonderful to me,” Eliza hummed as she swung her legs.

“ I believe that I could get used to life with you” whispered the pie maker

“That’s very good, because I could do the same,” she smiled.

“ I’m glad we’re in agreement on this particular topic” grinned the pie maker who gave her a soft kiss

“Me too,” she purred as she kissed him back.

The pie maker kept his hands behind his back, though his lips took hers happily

Eliza closed her eyes, her forehead gently pressing against Ned’s.

The pie maker hummed lowly and leaned in more to give her another soft kiss

She purred happily against his lips as her hands wrapped around his biceps.

The pie maker opened his eyes a moment and felt his cheeks flush at her touch, blinking slowly as he looked at her

She gently pressed her forehead against his. “Mmm Ned,” she hummed happily.

“ Yes, Eliza” the pie maker whispered and gently pecked his lips

“I just like saying your name,” she giggled. “Ned, Ned, Ned.”

“It sounds like honey from your lips” he whispered and smiled

“Oh my, that makes my lips sound very nice indeed,” Eliza grinned. “Honey lips.”

“ it sounds lovely and tastes even better” chuckled the pie maker

“Now you’re making me crazy something sweet,” she smiled.

“You are the something sweet” The pie maker grinned and gazed at her lovingly “ Totally and entirely”

Eliza blushed and smiled. “Well now that is one of the best compliments coming from you.”

“ I don’t even believe i could make you a pie, the customers would simply complain that the pie was too sweet, though i think that i would enjoy the pie very well” the pie maker mumbled, partially to himself

Eliza smiled as she listened to his words, stroking his cheeks. “I would love it, with a nice cup of tea or coffee, I’ve never met a treat that was too sweet for me!”

“I suppose it makes for the perfect balance of flavors… perhaps…perhaps i find myself to be the coffee to your pie” The Pie Maker said softly

Eliza couldn’t help, but giggle softly, her cheeks flushing pink. “I love that, that’s such a great analogy!”

“ I am inclined to believe so as well, besides, i also think pie is lovely without coffee… that is to say it is not needed but does make the experience even better when you are together” The Pie Maker chuckled nervously and scratched the back of his head

Ollie grinned. “Yes he is! Wow what a good boy!” He praised as he bent down to rub Digby’s ears before hooking up his leash to his collar. “You ready to go, buddy? Wow it smells so good in here. I’ll have to get a pie to go after our walk!”

“ You’re more than welcome to enjoy a slice, I probably have your favorite” said the order maker with a smile, Digby barking with excitement

“I’m a fan of anything with peach or cherry,” Ollie grinned as he patted his tummy. “It will be my reward after our walk, I don’t want to keep Mr. Digby waiting.”

“ Of course, thank you again Oliver” Grinned the pie maker to the dog Walker. He went to the back to ensure that a delicious peach and cherry pie are made fresh for when he got back

Ollie headed out for the walk, returning later and whistling the same happy tune as he returned with Digby. “And we’re back! I wish all my clients were like Mr. Digby here,” Ollie grinned as he unhooked his leash.

“ Everything went well then I presume? Why of course Digby is usually consider amongst the best of the good boys” chuckled the pie maker who presented Oliver a plate of pie

“Everything went great, and wow thank you this looks so good! Digby really is, he never pulls and he’s so happy,” Ollie grinned as he sat down to eat.

“ he’s gotten pretty good at being obedient her the years for an older boy… he does a lot without me guiding him” explained the pie maker

“I bet, he’s a real pleasure,” Ollie grinned before he took a big bite of pie. “Oh my god….that is just heavenly.”

The Pie Maker couldn’t stop the small grin from forming on his Face and held his own hand behind him “ thank you”

“You’re very welcome, wow, the best pie I’ve ever had,” Ollie grinned as he finished it up.

“ I’m glad to be maintains that title henceforth from any judges on the matter, which includes yourself” chuckled The Pie Maker

Oliver chuckled softly. “Heck, I’ll even make a hand written note for you to display if you want…best pie ever!”

“ You don’t have to go through that, hearing it enough for me” grinned the Pie Maker

“Just saying, I’ll be all over yelp or anywhere else if you need to be…I‘ll shout it from the rooftop!”

“ I won’t deny you the pleasure of sharing the delicious pastiest wealth that confines of the Pie Hole has to offer” chuckled the pie maker

“Now I want to try all the pies you make,” Ollie grinned.

“ I’m sure you will have the opportunity to do just that, with you now being Digby’s regular dog Walker” grinned the pie maker

“Lucky me! I get a great new client and access to delicious pies,” Oliver grinned.

“ I believe the feeling in mutual in a way, so cheers to that”

Oliver’s cheeks are a pink with a big smile across his face. “Cheers then, I will see you both tomorrow then! Thank you for the pie!”

“ Good Bye Oliver, and you say goodbye to him too Digby” grinned the pie maker as the dog let out a friendly bark “ we’ll see you then

“I’ll see you then, have a great day, both of you,” Oliver grinned, giving Digby a pet before he left, whistling his little tune.

Ned turned to Digby and smiled “ What an interesting dog-walker, you seem to enjoy being around him”

Oliver showed up the next day around the same time to pick up Digby. “Hello hello!”

Digby trotted over at a steady pace “ I’m on the back, be right out!!” Called out the pie maker as he removed a tray of pies from the over, bringing them out to the front “ Hello Oliver the Dogwalker”

“Hi there, Ned the pie maker!” Ollie grinned. “I’m here for Mr. Digby, do you need any help with those?” He offered.

“ I believe I am all good with this thank you. I’ve become an expert at dealing with pies” chuckled the pie maker and Digby brought Oliver the leash once more

“I bet you are,” Ollie smiled as he took Digby’s leash and hooked him up. “How’s my best boy doing today?” He coos at the dog.

Digby barked happily at the Dog-Walker and spun, happy to be on his walk. “ I believe he’s taken a liking to you”

“I have to admit that I’ve done the same, he’s definitely my favorite customer,” Ollie whispered with a big smile on his face.

“ already? I suppose that we should feel honored” grinned the pie maker. “ maybe extra pie to go along” the pie maker offered

“I’ll admit that’s a nice perk, but Digby would still be my favorite even without the pie,” Oliver grinned.

“ Interesting conclusion to make, I’m sure he’s glad to hear it” grinned the pie maker. “ I’ll see you in just a bit then”

“We’ll see you soon!” Oliver grinned, whistling happily as he and Digby headed on their way.

The Pie Maker smiled and started to prepare a nice apple pie for Ollie

They returned a little bit later from their walk, Oliver unhooking Digby’s leash. “We have returned!”

“ and I have a seasonal treat for you” grinned the pie maker, sliding over a fresh slice of apple pie

“Oh that smells just heavenly, thank you, Ned,” Oliver smiled as he sat down to eat it.

Ned came over just a tad closer and gave him a scoop of ice cream in a separate bowl “ just in case”

“It’s like you read my mind, thank you, this is great,” Oliver grinned before he took a couple of big bites.

“ I cannot in fact read minds but perhaps I just have some sort of pie intuition” grinned the pie maker, watching as Ollie ate the pie

“Pie intuition! Goodness me, I like that! Very clever,” Ollie chuckled.

“ I suppose you may have a similar thing with dogs” grinned the pie maker

“I definitely do, I understand those furry babies very well,” Ollie smiled.

“ I appreciate it very much when it comes the services you provide” chuckled the pie maker

“Why thank you, and I appreciate yours….I’m going to get a tummy from all this pie,” Ollie grinned.

“There is nothing wrong with a little tummy, it just shows you enjoy life” grinned the pie maker who blushed at the thought of the dog-walkers tummy

“You’re right about that,” Oliver said, his cheeks warm and pink. “You know…you might be my favorite dog owner too, but don’t tell my other clients.”

“ it’s simply because I butter you up with a buttery crust” teased the pie maker

“Oh my. You Mr. Ned are always a sweet talker,” Oliver blushed.

“ I suppose it is in my nature as a proprietor of sweet things” chuckled the pie maker

“That’s very clever and I suppose you’re right that,” Oliver chuckled.

“ I also tend to have playing with words, though I suppose that could be just a me thing”

“You’re very good at it, and I like it,” Oliver smiled.

The pie maker flushed deeply and smiled “ thank you Oliver, I appreciate it”

“You’re very welcome, Ned. Now I’ll see you both tomorrow yeah?”

“Yes, I will see you” the pie maker grinned “ a new flavor of pie to come with it”

“Ooooo mark me down as excited and happy to try it out!”

“ marked down and noted one might say, I’ll see you Oliver”

“You two have a good day,” he smiled, giving Digby some pets before he left.

“ you as well, be safe now please” grinned the pie maker

“I will, I promise,” Oliver smiled, giving him a wave.

The pie maker waved back and thought to himself, his cheeks turning rosy as his mind filled with thoughts of the dog Walker

Oliver found himself thinking about Ned most of the day, a big smile was on his face when he returned to walk Digby and had Buttercup with him.

The Pie maker raised a brow and smiled “ it appears you have a friend now Digby, how fun”

“This is my girl, Buttercup, she’s a sweetheart! I thought you’d both like to meet her,” Ollie grinned.

“ it is quite lovely to meet you buttercup” grinned the pie maker, though he dared not to touch her

Butter cup yipped and wagged her tail before giving Digby a curious sniff. “She said nice to meet you too,” Oliver joked.

Digby sniffed her back, whining curiously and I smile “ good to know, perhaps a treat is in order for her”

“Oh my goodness, did you hear that girl? Those are her weakness,” Ollie grinned at Ned before giving Digby a pet.

The pie maker took a few out of the container and gave them to Ollie “ for your girl”

“Thank you, very much,” he grinned and Buttercup sat, wagging her tail as she received them.

“ she is very cute , adorable little buttercup”

“She’s a sweetie for sure, my best girl, just like you have your best boy.”

“ i do for certain, and she’s very adorable, her coloring is wonderful”

“Right? When I found her, I though this special lady is for me,” Ollie said.

“ it’s a wonderful thing when you’ve found the one for you” teased the pie maker

“Nothing like it in this world,” Oliver smiled, his cheeks going pink as he looked at Ned.

Ned felt his cheeks flush at his gaze “ agreed”

“I’ll take them both for a walk and we’ll be back soon,” Oliver smiled as he took hold of Digby’s leash.

“ sounds appropriate to me” grinned the pie maker, who watched the dog Walker go off in awe

Oliver returned about an hour later with both dogs in tow, the furry tails wagging happily.

“ Everyone have a good walk?” The pie maker asked curiously

“We did, we did, even found some birds to chase after. In a very friendly way of course,” Ollie smiled.

“ I would expect nothing different from Digby, he’s quite peaceful”

“He is indeed, Buttercup too, both are very gentle,” Ollie grinned.

“ a small jog chasing the the birds, I’m glad they’ve made such good friends”

“Me too, they seem to get along well, like you and me!”

“ I would have to agree whole heartedly. I have a few pies ready to be taken out soon, you can take your pick”

“Oh wow, lucky me! I get my pick,” Oliver grinned.

“ I just have to keep you a few more minutes so they’re ready” chuckled the pie maker. “ what brought you to the world of dog walking then?”

“Well it’s my side gig, I love being around them. I’m working as a vet tech and assistant and that side gig helped me earn money for the school. I couldn’t give it up after,” Ollie smiled.

“That sounds really interesting, it takes a special heart to be able to do something kind that, I just make pie” the pie maker chuckled

“Perhaps, but pie makes everyone happy,” Ollie grinned. “Your place is really cozy.”

“ I suppose it does, unless someone happens to not enjoy a slice of pie” murmured the pie maker with a furrowed brow “ and thank you”

“True, and hopefully if they don’t like pie, they just walk right on past,” Oliver teased.

“ Most of the time they do, perhaps once or twice we had major disruptions from those not too fond of our pies…”

“Mm I see, but perhaps they should have avoided coming in a place called the Pie Hole,” Oliver said.

“ It was strange indeed, actually trying to drive business away from us” chuckled the pie maker “ long story”

“Well boo to them,” Ollie frowned. “What a miserable grump.”

“ Indeed… what a strange day that was” whispered the pie maker before shaking his head “ enough of that though, never good to dwell is what they say, as difficult as it may be to achieve”

“Exactly, besides this place is amazing,” Ollie said. “And I”m sure you have really great guests who appreciate it.”

“ i do have some repeat offenders yes, and I appreciate their business whole heartedly”

“Like me!” Oliver smiled and gave Ned a cheeky wink.

“ ahh yes, I do believe you do fall into the category of repeat offender” the pie maker laughed and shook his head

“I like that, a repeat offender of pie,” Ollie laughed.

“ It make you sound like a pastry criminal, but I enjoy it”

“That’s me…Ollie Jones: a vet tech, dog walker and pastry criminal,” he laughed. “I should get business cards.”

“ Wearing many hats is a very wonderful thing, perhaps business cards would be quite the efficient venture” the pie maker chuckled

“I have a feeling I’d forget them at home,” Oliver laughed.

“ perhaps, but perhaps the people who needed them the most would be the people you encounter with them on you” noted the pie maker

“You know that’s a very good way to think about it,” Oliver said as he tapped his lips in thought.

The Pie Maker watched his finger rather closely, his cheeks going flush as he tried to ignore the thoughts he was having

“I like you Ned, you have really great ideas, run a great business and have one of the best dogs around.”

“You’re too kind to me” the pie maker chuckled and his cheeks darkened “ thank you, very much”

“You’re welcome and I believe in being kind, always,” Oliver smiled, finding himself taken with this tall drink of water.

“ there are many who don’t, it’s valuable have that” whispered the pie maker, finding himself just as taken if not more by the dog Walker

“It absolutely is,” Oliver grinned. “Say do you ever wanna grab some dinner with me sometime?”

“I would be most enthusiastic to take you up on that offer” blurted out the pie maker who blushed furiously

Oliver beamed. “Great! Good, I would have felt like an idiot if you hadn’t said yes!”

“ Well you don’t need to feel like one whatsoever, I would be the fool had I said no”

Oliver felt his cheeks grow warm and pink. “Well I guess neither of us are fools then!”

“ We are infact quite wise at this time” grinned the pie maker, who gave him a shy smile

“Yes we are,” Ollie agreed and rested his chin on his hand, his cheeks flushed pink.

“ i may be speaking frankly but I would like to say that you look rather… handsome at the moment” whispered the pie maker

“Gosh,” he mumbled and covered his warm face for a moment. “Why thank you, I was thinking the same thing about you.”

“ I don’t believe I am the best at thinking of fun compliments, but rest assured what I cannot come up with in mere thoughts are reciprocated through feeling”

“Sounds good to me, I know that sometimes words are hard to find,” Ollie said kindly.

“ They are… but now when I do have the right ones, they’re only saying the best of you” the pie maker whispered

“I believe it,” Ollie smiled. “And well I can’t wait to hear them and share mine with you.”

The pie maker gazed down at the dog Walker, feeling a surge of boldness and tilted his head up to give him a quick peck

Ollie felt his cheeks go warm and pink, a soft smile on his face. “Wow,” he whispered.

The Pie Maker gazed down at the Dog Walker, his own cheeks rosy “ wow indeed, though I hope it is a more wonderful wow than a different wow”

“Oh it’s a wonderful wow….a take your breath away wow,” Oliver assured him.

“ That is the best kind of wow, i hope the breath does return to you though as I quite like you breathing” chuckled the pie maker

Oliver chuckled softly. “Yep don’t worry, I have oxygen flowing back through me, all good!”

“ Breathing does suit you quite well” grinned the pie maker who moved some hair from his face

“I suppose it does…I need it to keep alive,” Oliver joked as he looked at the other man.

“ you certainly do, you wear life beautifully” chuckled the pie maker

“I try my best to! I do really enjoy life,” Ollie beamed.

“I can tell you do, not everyone has such a love written on their face quite like you do”

“Yeah, yeah, I do wear it all out there,” Ollie said with a blush on his cheeks.

“It’s something I’m sure many are envious of…. Love is a rare thing to feel in such earnest”

“You’re very right about that, when it is a good love, it’s worth pursuing.”

“ Good love is always worth pursuit, even if it’s incredibly difficult” whispered the pie maker

“I agree with you, as would Jane Austen I think,” Ollie grinned.

“ You’re a reader?” The Pie Maker asked, a new softness in his voice