Page 22 of Caffeinated in Amesbury
”You are in the business of gathering people. And if there's one thing people love around the holidays, it's a good story."
"Go on," Cole urged, his hazel eyes lighting up with a flicker of hope.
"Think literary events—author signings, readings, maybe even a holiday-themed book club or two," I pitched, blue eyes gleaming with the reflection of string lights that hung limply from the ceiling.
"Those things cost money, Felicity." Thomas's practicality was a splash of cold water.
"True," I acknowledged, "but think about the foot traffic, the sales... You create an experience here, something unique."
They looked at me, then at each other, a silent conversation passing between them.
"Can you pull it off?" Cole finally asked, a mix of skepticism and excitement wrestling in his voice.
"Let's just say I know a few people who owe me favors," I winked, confidence ballooning. "And I'm pretty persuasive when it comes to throwing a party."
"Okay, let's hear it," Thomas relented, leaning back into his chair, arms crossed as if bracing himself for a gust of my New York bluster.
"Consider Caffeinated Bliss the setting for our very own winter tale," I smiled, "one where every chapter brings new faces and fatter wallets."
"Sounds like quite the narrative," Cole mused, his smile spreading to his brother.
"Every good story needs a little conflict," I said with a laugh, "and hopefully, a happy ending."
"Alright," Thomas nodded slowly, "we're listening."
11
Felicity
My gaze roamed over the half-filled bookshelves that lined Caffeinated Bliss's walls, my mind alive with visions of holiday cheer and literary charm.
"Picture this," I began, my hands illustrating the scenes as I painted them in the air, "a '7 Days of Christmas Books' event. Each day leading up to Christmas, we feature a different genre. Romance, mystery, fantasy... you get the drift."
"Like an advent calendar, but for book lovers?" Cole arched an eyebrow, his skepticism fading into intrigue.
"Exactly!" I clapped my hands once, excitement bubbling within me. "And we'll deck out the place to match the theme of the day—paperback snowflakes. The whole shebang!"
Thomas scratched his jaw, considering. "And how do we get people through the door?"
"Discounts, giveaways... Think signed first editions as prizes. Who wouldn't want to win a piece of literary history wrapped in a bow?"
"Alright, so far so festive," Cole admitted, a reluctant smile creeping onto his face.
"Then there's the pièce de résistance," I continued, leaning forward, blue eyes alight like the glow of fairy lights. "A Christmas Eve reading marathon. Celebs, the mayor, maybe even the high school drama club acting out scenes from classic holiday stories."
"Celebs?" Thomas snorted, unconvinced. "We're not exactly Hollywood."
"Every town has its stars," I countered. "Think bigger, Thomas. It's about community spirit."
"Okay." Cole nodded, his business sense piqued by the novelty. "And the nuts and bolts? Dates, themes, promotions?"
"Let's break it down." I pulled out my planner, its edges worn from ceaseless use, and flipped to December. With meticulous care, I penciled in events, handwriting a blend of artistic flourish and editorial precision.
"December 18th to 24th, we host the '7 Days.' We'll need a calendar of genres and corresponding decorations. Social media teasers starting next week," I mused aloud, tapping the pen against my chin. "Hashtags are a must. #ChristmasAtCaffeinatedBliss, perhaps?"
"Sounds catchy," Cole acknowledged, warming to the idea.
"Promotions will be key," I added, tucking a stray auburn lock behind my ear. "Buy one, get one half-off for featured books. Loyalty cards for frequent visitors—fill up your card during the event, get a free drink in January."
