Page 35 of One Weekend in Seattle

“How long have you managed The Vault?”

Surprise flittered across his face. “Since it opened five years ago.”

“You were in on the ground floor.”

“Yep.”

“Was it difficult to open?”

Sawyer shifted but didn’t move her from where she rested her head right below his shoulder on his chest. “Paperwork galore. Actually, there’s still paperwork galore. Seattle has some very strict rules.”

“I noticed you had five bouncers, one at the VIP door, two at the regular door, and two monitoring the lines.”

“We’ve had some issues with fights in line, so I have the bouncers there especially once we close them. We card everyone coming in.”

“I experienced that.” She had wondered about the requirement.

“This way, we keep minors out.”

“The Vault is twenty-one and over?”

“It was easier since we’re serving alcohol.”

Gabby nodded. She enjoyed being snuggled against Sawyer. It made her feel safe and secure.

“There are always inspections, both for the food and alcohol,” he continued. “They also make sure the building is up to code and in compliance with fire regulations.”

“I hadn’t thought about that.” Maybe she should go to work at an established place first. But she wasn’t sure that’s what she wanted.

“Why the questions?”

She bit her lip. Would he think her idea crazy? “I was curious.” This wasn’t the time or place to discuss her plans in detail. She tried to concentrate on the movie but couldn’t. Now that the idea had taken root, she wanted to explore it more.

Lindsay would be a great person to bounce this all off of. Her friend had lived here long enough to know which areas would be good and which wouldn’t. How large a place would she need? How much staff? Her mind was running away with thoughts and plans.

“Are you okay?” Sawyer asked.

Gabby blinked. “Fine. Why?”

“The movie is over, and you haven’t moved.”

“Oops.” Her cheeks heated. “I was a little lost in thought.”

“What else would you like to do?”

As much as Gabby wanted to stay and snuggle with Sawyer, she couldn’t. “I really should get back to Lindsay’s place.”

“I see.”

Coldness seeped from him making her shiver. “Don’t be upset. I ditched her all day yesterday and part of today.”

“I get it.” He removed his arm, and Gabby sat up.

Gabby was at a loss, so she let her heart speak for her. “I don’t want to leave, Sawyer, but it’s not fair that I flew up here to celebrate with Lindsay, and I’ve left her alone.”

He ran his hand through his hair. “You’re right. Let me put some clothes on, and I’ll get you back to her place.”

“You can go as you are. I don’t mind.”

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