Page 49 of Until You

“You opened up your own advertising firm?” she asked in surprise.

“Yes, but it’s more than that. We provide full support to small businesses and upstart companies, helping them with everything from finances to marketing to branding. Anything and everything to help them grow their business.”

She squinted up at him. “‘We’? You have employees?”

“I have three so far. To offer so many services, I need to have people on my team who know what they’re doing.” He paused. “And that’s why I’m here to recruit you.”

“Me?”

“Hell, yeah, Lanie. You’ve opened how many stores, in how many cities, over the past seven years? You know about zoning, and permits, and hiring contractors, and a whole host of crap I don’t even know about. You could be a consultant for retailers who are starting out or looking to expand their business.”

She snorted. “People are going to pay for that?”

“They already are. I have five clients, and it’s just the start. One of those clients needs exactly what you have to offer.”

Dazed, she sat back in her seat. “Wow. This is unexpected.”

“I know you, Lanie, you were born to be your own boss. And this opportunity would be just that. I’d be hands-off. Are you open to considering it?”

“Well, yeah…”

“Awesome! I thought I was going to have to give you the hard sell to make you jump ship. Thankfully, the hard work was already done for me. You’re unhappy with your job, and you’re looking for a change. This seems like divine intervention for both of us.”

He definitely had a point. “Do you think it’s a good idea for us to work together?” she asked. “Since we’re friends?”

“I’ll be focusing on branding and marketing, so I’m sure our work will overlap to some extent, but you would be autonomous. As long as you’re bringing in clients who are paying their consultation fees, you can do whatever you like. You’re answering to yourself.”

This seemed too good to be true.

“I know a lot of this hinges on salary,” Aiden said, talking over the rising cheers of the Royals fans when a batter hit a double. “And we can talk specifics after the game—salary, a bonus structure, benefits, a relocation package.”

“A relocation package?” She shook her head. “You know I hardly have anything to relocate.”

“I know, and I know you’re getting tired of your nomadic life. This will give you the opportunity to finally put down roots.” He smiled. “You can stop running, Lanie.”

“Stop running? What does that mean?”

He gave her a sad smile. “We’ve known each for twelve years now. I know why you’ve liked moving around, but it sounds like you’ve finally decided maybe you’ve had enough.”

She shook her head in confusion.

“Most people would hate your job. Little opportunity to make any kind of lasting relationships. Haven’t you ever wondered why you’re so good at it? But earlier you admitted that you’re getting tired of it. That you want a personal life. Come to Atlanta. You’ll already have a friend to get your personal life jump-started.”

His words stung, but she had to acknowledge that he spoke the truth. She had been running, but she didn’t know why. She needed to figure that out too.

“Don’t give me an answer, right now,” Aiden said. “I don’t expect it, and I wouldn’t trust it. I know you need time to analyze all the data, so after the game, we can go to an early dinner, and I’ll crunch the numbers for you. Then I’ll leave you alone to think it over.”

“It’s not like I have a string of job opportunities lined up, Aiden.”

“You haven’t even looked, and I promise you, I don’t want you working with me out of desperation. It’s only going to work if you really believe in what we’re doing.”

“I’m really flattered you thought of me. Came all the way here to recruit me.” She grabbed his hand and squeezed. “Thanks, Aiden.”

He leaned over and kissed her cheek. “Always, Lane.”

But when Aiden sat back in his seat, Lanie was shocked to see Tyler less than four feet away. He stood on the steps, staring at her with a blank expression.

“Tyler,” she gasped in surprise. “I didn’t know you were coming to the game.” She glanced around. “Are you here with Kevin and Matt?”

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