Page 49 of Power Play

“I know someone with her own flower business. She’s a florist.”

Her face lights up, and she starts swaying her hips and wiggling her shoulders, dancing in place.

“I’ll give you her number. Call her in the morning and tell her I sent you. She won’t say no.”

“Oh my God, Clay, you’re the best neighbor in the world!” She steps closer, and I stiffen a little, not sure what she’s going to do. I’m being friendly, that’s all, and I hope she sees it that way too. When she reaches over and pats my hand, I subtly sigh in relief. “Thank you. It means the world to me.”

“Of course. I’m happy I can help you and my friend. It’s always great to have a new client.”

We talk some more after I give her Layla’s number, and then I head inside. I’m tired but happy…so damn happy, I’m fucking bouncing with every step.

Calling Ava and asking for her advice is my top priority for tomorrow. Layla and Maya deserve only the best.

Chapter 17

It’s a No for Me

LAYLA

Now, September

My phone starts ringingas I climb out of my car. It’s barely 9:00 a.m., and I just dropped Maya off at preschool. A panicked thought zips through my brain, and I hastily pull my phone out of my purse, expecting to see the teacher’s name, but instead, it’s an unknown number. Relief washes over me. It’s most likely not someone from the preschool.

“Hello?”

“Hi,” a woman’s voice says. “I’m sorry for calling you so early—I really hope I didn’t wake you up.”

“No, um, you’re fine.” I pause, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “Sorry, who is this?”

“Oh God! I’m sorry. My brain isn’t braining yet.” She laughs; the sound is melodic and bubbly. “My name is Dylan. Your friend gave me your number and said you could help me with a bouquet. It’s my friend’s birthday, and I forgot to order something for her.”

A new client? This is awesome! I have a few big orders for this week, but I can definitely sneak in one or two smaller ones.

“When do you need it?” I ask.

“Tonight? Is that possible?”

“Sure,” I confirm, heading to my front door. “Send me some examples of bouquets you like. Or you can tell me which flowers you want me to use, and I will figure something out myself.”

“I have two pictures saved! I’ll text them to you,” Dylan chirps excitedly. Then I hear my phone ding with an incoming text. I remove it from my ear and check the pictures she sent me. Roses, lavender, and white carnations. Well, I can definitely make this work. “What do you think?” she asks.

“They’re beautiful.” I start opening the door. “I should have it ready around five p.m. Will that be okay? Or do you need it earlier?”

“Five is great. I’ll come pick it up on my way to my friend’s birthday party.”

“Okay.” I step into the house, then push the door closed. Excitement brews inside me, a giddy smile pulling at my lips. I have a new client. Maybe if she likes it enough, she’ll spread the word about my little business. Today is going to be a great day.

“Can you please text me your address? Clay only gave me your number.”

My smile dies, and my heart painfully squeezes. “Clay?”

“Yeah, Clay Rodgers. Do you…know him?”

“I do.” I clear my throat; my thoughts are in total disarray. I was so happy to land a new client, I didn’t even bother to ask who gave her my phone number. It didn’t occur to me that it could be Clay because I didn’t think he had any female friends here. “Erm, yeah, I know Clay…I’ll send you the address, and the bouquet will be ready for you at five.”

“Thank you so, so much! You’re a lifesaver! Can’t wait to see the bouquet,” she singsongs. Her voice, which sounded so nice earlier, is now grating on my nerves.

“Hope you like it. See you.”

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