A driver slams on the car horn, drawing our attention. When I turn back, I confess, “No one knows. This isn’t about getting any glory. I’m handing it off to be managed by a leasing company out of Austin. I’ll have some say when they get offers, but I’m not looking to run it day-to-day. I just want to be a part of reviving it.” Cocking my eyebrow, I laugh. “Any interest in running a pizzeria in the Texas Hill Country?”
He chuckles. “My born-and-raised Manhattan wife isn’t looking to move to the country. But I’ll keep it in mind.”
“You do that,” I continue teasing as we shake hands. When we part ways, my phone vibrates in my pocket. I pull it out to read while heading to the corner to catch a cab. My feet stop as soon as I see it. “Holy shit. Mickey was right.” I grin so fucking big seeing the Westcott Enterprises stock take off.
I throw my arm up and hop in the first cab that stops, give them the address, and sit back.What a fucking day.I spent a million on a real estate deal after a tense negotiation, but just made back double on the market.
Back at the office, I call Mickey in. “You’re not gloating, are you?” I ask when he comes in and closes the door with a grin so big, he might crack his cheeks wide open.
“Might be.”
I stand and hold out my hand. When he shakes, I say, “You made me a lot of money today.”
“You bought the stock?”
“Of course, on good advice. I hope you scored a win.”
He nods, sitting on the other side of the desk. “I made more money today than my dad made in a year when I was growing up on Staten Island.”
“I love a success story. Congratulations.” I start typing a reply to an email, but stop to add, “I submitted it in the stocks to watch to Taylor and Goodman. I listed you as the adviser.”
He leans forward like we might be overheard even though my door is shut. “I’m not an adviser, though.”
“Not yet, but you have talent and deserve the recognition.” I angle to face him. “This is how you move up. It only takes one surefire hit, and you’ll have your own office soon.”
“Thanks. I appreciate you putting it in the ledger.”
“You’re welcome. Now go find your next rec.” I turn back to the email I’ve started.
“For you or for the company?”
I chuckle. “Both. I’m always up for making money.”
“It does have a good taste to it.” He stands to leave. “You still leaving tomorrow for Texas?”
“I am. I’ll be back on Monday before noon.” Just as Bob requested.
“Well, you’re booked for the flight, and a short-term rental will be ready. Let me know if you need anything else.”
“Thanks, especially for making me money.”
He laughs as he leaves. “Anytime.”
I finish the day, wrapping up work here so I can get home and start packing. Tucking my phone in my pocket, I tap the last key to shut down my computer before walking around and turning off the TVscreens. Although I can’t escape checking in regularly while I’m traveling, I’m more than happy to leave the markets behind for today.
On my way home, I stop at a deli to pick up my favorite Italian sub for dinner. But while I wait for it to be made, I start thinking about Lauralee and the Sundries shop. She has the small café and bakery, which are her pride and joy from what I’ve seen. I wonder if she’s thought about expanding to a full deli or restaurant. I don’t know her mom’s or her finances, but food is what brings people together and to town. A bar and a few other stores, so even locals wouldn’t have to travel to Dover County anymore, would be a good addition.
I get my sandwich and head home with more ideas, though I really need to be hands-off. Ultimately, it’s an investment to make money and not a side project I need to take on.
I know a little brunette I wouldn’t mind taking on. I just don’t know how she will feel about me being back in the Pass tomorrow. Hopefully, she’ll be grateful since she’s making bank off me on that rental. But we’ll see. Lauralee is nothing if not spirited. I’m just hoping some of the energy can be expended in bed like last time.
I will either be welcomed with open arms and kisses or have the door slammed in my face. I shouldn’t be looking forward to finding out as much as I am. But I can’t wait to see her again.
The instructions were clear.Go to the counter in the Sundries shop to retrieve the key. I park therental car out front on Main and check the mirror like a teenager going on his first date. I slam the visor up. “What the fuck am I doing?”
I could pat my face or douse myself in cologne, hoping I don’t look as tired as I feel and don’t smell like the stuffy air of an airplane, but I don’t. A shot of adrenaline is running through me because I’m about to see her again. It’s noticeable because I haven’t felt like this about someone in a long time. Hoping for the best, I run my hand through my hair and get out.
Opening the door, my gaze travels to the bakery counter first. Disappointment is quick to set in. The bell already alerted my entrance, but I still don’t hear a welcome or announcement coming from the back kitchen. I look around and walk to the register. “Hello? Hey Shortcake?”
