That Old Black Magic by Mary Jane Clark Page B

the alarm and keys to get into the bakery. You should have a set while you’re here.”
    â€œThanks, Marguerite,” said Piper, pleased that the woman was showing she thought Piper trustworthy.
    When they went back out to the display room, Marguerite nodded to a stack of bakery boxes tied up and waiting on the counter. “Sabrina Houghton should be stopping by soon. Those are napoleons, éclairs, and jésuites for the restaurant.”
    â€œJésuites?” asked Piper.
    â€œThey’re triangular, flaky pastries filled with frangipane crème and sprinkled with sliced almonds and powdered sugar. They originated in France, and the name refers to the shape of a Jesuit’s hat. Bistro Sabrina goes through them very quickly.” Marguerite pointed to a tray in the glass display case. “There’s some in there. Try them.”
    Piper donned an apron and waited on customers who came in after Marguerite and Bertrand left. She sold two pecan pies, a box of petits fours, and a dozen chocolate croissants. As soon as there was a pause, Piper selected a jésuite from the case and bit into it. She was wiping powdered sugar from her lips when a smiling Sabrina Houghton entered the shop.
    â€œYou look so calm,” said Piper, returning the smile. “So many brides are going out of their minds the week before their wedding.”
    â€œI probably shouldn’t be happy, what with the horrible thing that happened down the block, but I just received the most wonderful wedding present, Piper.” She explained her boss’s gift.
    â€œWow! That was really generous of her,” said Piper. “She must love you.”
    â€œI think she does,” said Sabrina. “Her own daughter died when she was young, and Ellinore doesn’t have any other children. Though she has never come out and said it, I think sometimes that Ellinore considers me more than an employee. I know that I consider her more than a boss. I’ve learned so much from her, and she’s been so supportive of me and Leo and the wedding. Anyway, I’m just thrilled to have that chandelier!”
    â€œThat’s fantastic,” said Piper, looking upward. “If it’s anywhere near as pretty as the ones in here, you totally scored. Marguerite told me she got all of these from your shop.”
    â€œYou should stop by when you have some free time, Piper. I’d love for you to see the things we have.”
    Piper took the receipt that Marguerite had left on top of the bakery boxes and rang up the figures on the cash register. Sabrina pulled a credit card from her wallet and placed it on the countertop.
    â€œAnything about our wedding cakes yet, Piper? I know we only spoke about it last night, so it’s probably too early to ask, but I can’t help myself.”
    â€œActually, Bertrand and I were talking about them a little while ago. We have some ideas we’re playing around with, but Bertrand still wants to work on it some more with me.”
    â€œI’ll bet he does.” Sabrina rolled her eyes and smiled. “Has he come on to you yet?”
    Piper wasn’t quite sure how to answer. Bertrand hadn’t really done anything truly objectionable, but she definitely got uncomfortable vibes from him. He was too touchy, the look in his eyes too appreciative of her physicality.
    Sabrina’s question signaled that Bertrand was a womanizer.
    â€œNo,” said Piper. “He hasn’t really done anything.”
    â€œGive him time,” said Sabrina. “He will.”
    â€œWhy do you say that?” Piper asked.
    â€œBecause he’s come on to me. Leo would kill Bertrand if he knew. I haven’t said a word, because I don’t want to ruin their professional relationship. But, Piper, I just want to warn you. Watch out!”
    As Sabrina left the bakery, Piper’s iPhone rang. It was Gabe.
    The director had seen her audition tape and liked it. Could she