Page 24 of Summer Showdown
"I understand you're frustrated," Lark said, then turned to Marcus. "And you're dealing with natural materials that depend on seasonal conditions, correct?"
Marcus nodded, relief crossing his features at being understood. "The basket-quality reeds need specific conditions.With the late thaw, they weren't ready for harvesting on schedule."
Lark considered this. "Did the contract specify a force majeure clause—something addressing circumstances beyond your control?"
"It was a standard purchase order," Sandra said, frowning. "Nothing fancy."
"If I may," Lark said, "it sounds like you both want the same thing—quality merchandise and successful sales during the festival. Perhaps there's a middle ground?" She turned to Marcus. "When exactly tomorrow would the additional baskets be ready?"
"First thing in the morning. I'm working through the night to finish them."
Lark nodded thoughtfully. "Mrs. Fleming, the market is still open tomorrow during the regatta, correct? And many visitors will likely stop by the market either before or after watching the lake events. You'll still have a chance to sell the full inventory during the festival weekend." She glanced between them. "Perhaps Mr. Whitefeather could offer a small discount on this current shipment to compensate for the lost selling time today?"
Sandra hesitated. "I suppose that could work. We do get a fair amount of foot traffic from people coming to and from the lake events."
"And perhaps," Lark continued, "the contract could be amended for future orders to include contingencies for seasonal variations? I'd be happy to suggest some language that protects both parties while acknowledging the realities of working with natural materials."
Marcus extended his hand. "I can work with that. Five percent discount on this batch, and priority delivery for the holiday season order."
Sandra shook his hand, tension visibly leaving her shoulders. "Deal."
As they began discussing details, Lark stepped back, returning to my side. I stared at her, genuinely impressed.
"That was amazing," I said quietly. "You just resolved in two minutes what could have escalated into a serious rift."
She shrugged, but I could see the quiet satisfaction in her eyes. "It's what I do. Commercial contract disputes are actually my specialty, though usually with a few more zeros attached to the figures."
"You're really good at it."
"Thank you." She seemed genuinely pleased by the compliment.
As we continued through the market, I found myself seeing Lark with new eyes. The way she'd stepped in—confident but not arrogant, firm but compassionate—revealed aspects of her professional self I hadn't witnessed before. This wasn't the uptight city lawyer I'd initially imagined; this was someone who knew her value and used her skills to find solutions, not just win arguments.
We were examining a display of handmade pottery when an all-too-familiar voice called out behind us.
"What a coincidence running into you again today."
I turned to find Vanessa approaching, now dressed in a short white tennis dress that managed to look both casual and calculated. Her glossy hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, and her makeup was flawless despite the summer heat. Her smile widened as she took in Lark standing beside me.
"And you must be the famous Lark Hayes," she said, extending a manicured hand. "I'm Vanessa Mitchell. Wade and I go way back."
Lark accepted the handshake, her expression politely neutral. "Nice to meet you."
"I just moved back to Wintervale," Vanessa continued, flashing a perfect smile. "Well, temporarily at least. Just until I figure out my next chapter." She glanced at me with unmistakable meaning. "Wade's been kind enough to catch up a bit this morning."
"Is that so?" Lark's tone remained even, but her posture stiffened almost imperceptibly.
"Vanessa stopped by the workshop briefly," I clarified, stepping closer to Lark. "While I was doing inventory."
"Wade's always been so dedicated to that school program," Vanessa said with a dismissive wave. "Even when we were together, he'd spend hours working on student projects or curriculum plans."
"It's important work," I said firmly.
"Of course it is, sweetie." Vanessa's condescending tone made my jaw clench. "Anyway, I should let you two enjoy the market. Lark, it was lovely to meet you.”
With a dismissive flick of her wrist, she turned and strutted away, leaving us in awkward silence.
"Sorry about that," I said quietly.
