"Go on."
I tried to gauge from his voice if he was upset about it, but I couldn’t tell.
"I think he might give you a hard time."
"He wasn't thrilled, huh?" Maddox asked.
"He's a dad, I guess," I replied. "He's very protective."
"That's a good thing, Cami. Don’t worry about it. As for the documents, Gabe and I will have them ready in two weeks, tops. I'll email you and your dad as soon as it's all ready."
“That’s perfect," I exclaimed. “When are you coming to Essex again?”
“Usually on Tuesday, but I want to focus on the contracts right now, so I’ll skip this week.”
I pouted but didn’t complain. Things were truly falling into place, and I was thrilled.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Cami
––––––––
Even though two weeks was quite a long time, I decided not to check other places while waiting for Bill to return. Essex was small, and I didn't want to waste people's time by asking them to show me around, since my heart was set on Bill's place. And besides, I had my hands full. The weather improved, and we were solidly booked, which was amazing for this time of year. I was honestly so busy that I barely had time to check my phone. But I kept it on me because Maddox was checking in from time to time, and I didn’t want to miss him.
Most days, I only had time to do it during my lunch break, such as today.
I was giddy when I saw a message from him.
Maddox: How are you doing?
Cami: Scarfing down my lunch. This week we’re so busy, you wouldn't believe it. I was in the mood for some of Ms. Walker’s specialty drink, and I didn't even have time to buy it. How’s your day?
Maddox: Gabe and I hit the ground running with the contract.
This is really happening! Not only was I on board with it, but I was looking forward to it.
I contemplated actually telling him my new business idea, but I wanted to see the space first and let it marinate in my mind some more.
Cami: That’s great!
Cami: Damn, my next group is already here.
Maddox: Go kick ass.
And ass I kicked. At three o'clock, I went back inside, yawning. I was ready for my afternoon coffee. To my astonishment, Miriam was here.
"Hey, girl," I said. "Did you mention you were coming and I forgot?"
She smiled, handing me a take-out bag from Ms. Hendricks. "No, I come with gifts."
"Want to go into the back?"
“Sure.”
“How did you read my mind?” I asked once we were in the back. "I was so craving something from Ms. Hendricks."
“That’s a funny story. I went there for my daily stop, and she asked me if I was going to see you today, because Maddox Whitley put in an order for you."