Page 15 of Maverick

The cooler air made her sigh. She walked to and from work since it was only a few blocks away, but she knew she’d drive in colder weather.

Once inside, she hung her purse on the hatrack, kicked off her sneakers, and walked to the bathroom to shower. Then she would settle in for the evening.

Later, after eating a salad, she called Shay to ask about the restaurant and what to wear. She told her basically the same thing Maverick had, that there was no dress code and women would show up wearing jeans, slacks, dress, or skirt.

Parker walked to her bedroom, opened the closet door and stared at the clothes hanging on the rack. As she pushed them along the rod, she shook her head at each item.

“Well, damn. Now what?” She nibbled on her bottom lip as she thought about wearing a dress, but none she had appealed to her. “Looks like another trip to Walton’s is in order.”

With a sigh, she closed the door, headed back to the living room, took a seat on the sofa and watched TV until it was time for bed. She hoped the week went by quickly. She couldn’t wait to see Maverick again.

The following morning, Parker unlocked the door to the shop, entered, then locked it behind her. She liked to come in early to get the place ready. She made herself a cup of coffee, then carried it around with her as she dusted the shelves and glassware. She absolutely loved working here, although she didn’t need to work. Brad’s insurance policy, along with the money she was awarded in the lawsuit against a bar, she was pretty much set for life. She just wasn’t the type of person to sit home and do nothing. Just as she put the supplies away, she heard the key in the door and knew Shay had arrived.

“Parker?”

“Hey, you’re a little early today.”

“I forgot to tell you that I’ll be leaving today around one. Connor has a doctor appointment and I have to order more from Uncle Lou, so I wanted to get that done before the day gets busy and I have to leave.”

“Is Connor alright?”

“Oh yeah, just a check-up.”

“Oh, good. Well, that’s fine. Don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of the place.” Parker smiled.

“I have no doubt about that. I’m going to get busy. I’ll be in the office if you need me.”

“Okay. Oh, I’m going to have to make a trip to Walton’s to find something to wear for Saturday night.”

Shay laughed. “Of course, you do. I’m sure you have absolutely nothing to wear in your closet, do you?”

“How did you know?” Parker laughed.

“I’m the same way. What do you want to wear?”

“I haven’t dressed up in years, so I’d love to wear a dress or skirt.”

“How about a nice halter dress with wedge sandals?”

“That would be comfortable too.”

“Are you going anywhere after dinner?”

“He didn’t say. Maybe he’s going to see how dinner goes first. If he doesn’t like me, he can take me home.” Parker grinned.

“Please. What’s not to like? You’re a beautiful woman and have a great personality. I asked Wes about Maverick back when we first met and he said Maverick rarely dated, but he did know he’d been in a serious relationship at one time. I have no idea what happened and when I asked Wes, he said he didn’t ask.”

“Men. How can you not ask?” Parker laughed.

“Right?” Shay joined in the laughter. “Anyway, you can go to Walton’s tomorrow during lunch if you want. It shouldn’t take you long and even if it does, you don’t have to rush. You know, I’m thinking about hiring someone. For reasons like this. We’re so busy but when I have to leave early or you do, I’d like an extra person here.” Shay frowned. “What do you think?”

“I think it couldn’t hurt.”

“I could hire them full-time for the summer months, but just let them work part-time during the winter when business is slow.”

“I think it’s a great idea.”

“I’ll definitely give it some thought. Well, I believe it’s time we got our butts in gear and open the door.” Shay grinned as she headed for the office to place orders while Parker unlocked the front door.

---