Page 6 of Flowers Near Me

Laura held Persephone’s phone in her hand, swiping through the products. “Won’t florists hate it?”

“No, because they can list on there as well. It’s meant to help them offload surplus stock. In fact, I got Helena those peonies from a local florist who had leftovers from a custom order.”

Laura handed Persephone her phone and asked, “Are you an early investor then?”

“More like a partner and brand ambassador.”

Laura’s brow pinched. “Does Mom know?”

Pulling a glass from the cupboard, Persephone filled her cup with water from the fridge. “I’m going to surprise her with the signed contract.” She almost couldn’t believe her luck. To acquire technology like theFlowers Near Meapp was a feat for the gods, let alone a simple mortal like her. Demeter would be proud.

Laura set plates and forks on the counter and opened the satin ribbon tied over the black to-go box.

“You won’t believe which god showed up at the restaurant, though,” Persephone said.

“Who? Poseidon?” Laura cut a slice of cake, setting it onto a plate.

Persephone was quick to shake her head. “One of the brothers but not that one.”

“Zeus?”

Persephone took the offered cake slice from Laura. “No.”

Laura’s knuckles turned white as she gripped the cake knife. “Hades?”

“Yes.”

Mouth agape, Laura asked, “Did he talk to you?”

“Get this, he sat at the table when Eurydice left to take a phone call.”

Laura’s hazel eyes stared back. “What did he say?”

“Not much. It seemed like he just wanted to introduce himself. He asked what I thought about Olympus and how Mom’s doing. He knew who I was. I’d thought for sure he didn’t know me or would pretend he didn’t.”

“What makes you say that? Aren’t you famous now as Demeter’s business-savvy daughter?”

“Demeter’s shadow is more like it.”

Laura laughed. “Have you read the articles about you?”

Persephone shook her head. “I’ve tried not to.”

“Awe, maybe you should. They’re calling you Olympus’ newest sweetheart.”

“Oh Fates. That makes me sound annoying.” Persephone rubbed the bridge of her nose.

“I don’t think so. Everyone assumed you’d be cold like Mom but you’re not and they’re surprised.”

Persephone’s shoulders slumped. “They just don’t know me yet.”

“True, but Mom can be a real bitch.” Laura’s expression turned sly. “Anyway, is Hades handsome in person? Or just photogenic?”

“No, he’s handsome and knows it.”

Laura scrunched her face then with a loud exhale said, “Well, if you said anything he didn’t like, I’m sure you’ll hear about it from his team.”

Laura was right.They’d run an article claiming Demeter’s daughter had said something offensive or unsavory to the mogul. Baldfaced lie or not, whatever served their purposes, they’d publish it.

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