Page 45 of Let it Breathe
17
Chai
Iwashappy I gave the money back. I needed a fresh break and motivation not to be a lazy bum for too long. Sitting in my townhouse feeling sorry for myself got old quick. I ventured down to Mathew's for lunch, figuring everyone could see at one time that I was all right. Those who didn't see would hear once the gossip made its way around town.
I bypassed the hostess and took a seat at the bar.
"Hey, Chai, long time," Max, the bartender, said.
"Hey, Max. How are you?" I asked.
"I'm good." He tilted his head. "How are you? You okay?"
"I'm good. Can I get the flank steak sandwich?"
He nodded and smiled.
"To go."
"Sure thing. You want a glass while you wait?"
"Oh, God no." I made a face. "I'm sick of wine."
He chuckled.
"Give me a beer instead."
He put in my order and grabbed my beer out of the cooler.
"I sure hope you're kidding?" a deep voice spoke behind me.
I turned my bar stool around.
"Mr. Hennings." I jumped off the stool and hugged him.
"Hello, Ms. Darielle."
"When did you get back in town? How long are you here for?" I asked.
"Just a few days. Closing on a purchase." David Hennings and his family ran the vineyard near our property. One of only a few family owned vineyards left in the valley. His competed with the big boys and had offices and land all over the world growing grapes and making wine. I grew up with his sons and had even dated his middle son.
"You're buying our land?" I asked.
"I am. I'm sorry." He faked a frown. I appreciated the effort.
"No. I'm glad. I was scared someone would turn it into a bunch of houses or something."
"Not on my watch. That land will grow grapes as long as there is a Hennings alive."
Mr. Hennings had three sons and three grandsons. His name was going to live on for quite a while.
"I'm glad I ran into you." Mr. Hennings stood and peered down at me. "I have a job for you if you want it."
I narrowed my eyes, crossed my arms, and stared up at him. "I'm fine, Mr. Hennings. You don't need to create something for me."
"Believe me, I'm not. I'm a businessman; I don't throw my money into stuff that's not going to make me money." He set his jaw and waited for me to challenge him. I didn't have the energy.
I exhaled.
