Page 125 of How to Break My Heart
“Of course, Miss Woods.”
“May I ask what it’s in regard to?”
“It’s best we talk about it when you have time. How about you drop by my office when you’re done?”
“Sure,” I tell him.
At the end of the day, Chloe closes the door as the three of us collapse on the chairs. I don’t think, in the entire time I’ve been open, this has ever happened. My entire body is throbbing in pain, and my feet are swollen even in my sneakers.
“I’m exhausted.” I almost cry from tiredness. “How do you do this every day?”
“Well, I have a team of about ten kitchen staff, so that’s the secret,” Elliot answers with a cocky grin.
“Right,” I barely manage to reply. “I can’t even talk. I’m so tired.”
“I heard them say they’ll be back tomorrow.” Chloe drags out her words. “Plus, this famous influencer is driving here, too.”
“I don’t even have enough supplies to deal with this,” I say loudly, jumping to my feet in a sudden panic, only for my phone to ring with Mr. Fenech’s number flashing on my screen. “Shit, I promised to meet Mr. Fenech at his office.”
“I’ve got this,” Elliot informs me. “Go do what you need to do.”
“But how do you know what—”
“Two words for you—”
“If you sayMichelin star…” I interrupt with a grin. “I swear to God I will—”
“Do what?” Elliot teases. “Just go, you’re being a pain in my ass.”
“Do you see how my brother treats me, Chloe?”
She laughs, sliding farther into the chair from exhaustion. The store is still a mess, so Chloe offers to clean up the diningarea before leaving. I thank her, then reach over to hug Elliot. “Did I say thank you for coming back to Cinnamon Springs?”
“Yes, but for my ego, please say it again.”
This time, I pinch his cheeks like I used to when we were kids. He scowls, annoyed by my show of affection. I love having him back and hope he’ll change his mind and want to stay longer than the summer.
I decide to walk to Mr. Fenech’s office, since it’s only one block away. However, halfway there, I realize it’s a stupid idea because my body feels like jelly.
The moment I enter his small office, the receptionist greets me and offers me a beverage.
“I’m fine, thank you. Is Mr. Fenech available?”
“Yes, please enter his office.”
The office is small, with papers scattered all over his desk. Organized chaos, I assume. It smells like cigars, a scent I’m not overly fond of, and his furniture is vintage.
“Miss Woods, please take a seat.”
“So, what is so important you needed to see me today?”
“The owner of the land you’ve wanted has decided to sell. Naturally, I knew you were interested, so before it is placed on the market, I thought I would ask you if this is still something you want.”
I shake my head in shock, pressing my hand to my chest. “Um… yes. I think. I’ve been so preoccupied and haven’t had a moment to think about it.”
“The owner is asking below market, but I will let you know there are conditions for the property.”
“Right, conditions…” I trail off, then release a breath. “So this is a big surprise. I mean, I have to speak to the bank again, but surely it won’t be a problem. At least, I hope it’s not. Business has been slow, but after today, I think we’re on a winning streak.”
