Page 95 of For the Promise

“Cherry?”

I nod. “Exactly.”

“But how do you add cherry taste to whiskey. You’re not going to add actual cherries, are you?” Her nose wrinkles in distaste and I tweak it.

“No, I am not. I have something better.”

“Don’t leave me hanging.”

I pause. “You’re serious? You’re interested.”

“Duh.” She rolls her eyes. “Have you met me? Chemical engineering degree and aspiring brewer who begged you for a tour of the distillery.”

“Sometimes I forget how smart you are.”

She frowns. “You forgot I’m a genius? Rude.”

I comb the hair from her face. “I’m used to smart girls who are similar to me.”

“Sexy? You don’t think I’m sexy?”

“Will you stop twisting my words?”

“Sorry. I’ll do anything for you but I can’t do that.”

“Are you quoting Meatloaf?”

“Would a smart and sexy woman like me listen to Meatloaf?”

I realize I’ve talked myself into a corner and give up. “I bought a few barrels from a cherry liquor producer a while back. I’m going to transfer the whiskey to those barrels for a finishing period. It will add a subtle cherry-like character.”

“It’ll add a complex flavor. Brilliant idea. For which I take the credit.”

I chuckle. “Naturally.”

“What are you waiting for? Let’s get to work.”

“You’re going to help?”

She narrows her eyes. “You better not say I can’t help because I’m a woman. Those are fighting words.”

“No. I…” I clear my throat. “I didn’t expect you to be this interested in the process.”

“You don’t get it, do you?”

“Get what?”

“I’m interested in whatever you’re doing. You are interesting to me.”

I study her brown eyes for any hint of deception. I don’t understand how this woman could possibly be interested in me. I’m a nerd who – according to my brothers – has the social skills of a sea cucumber.

But there’s no deception to be found in Blossom’s gorgeous eyes. She’s being genuine. She’s interested in me. My boring life doesn’t feel boring with her in it.

No wonder I’m falling for this woman. She’s not only perfect. She’s perfect for me.

Chapter 30

“Note to self. Always bring an umbrella if you’re meeting the Raider brothers.” ~ Blossom

---