Page 27 of Hiding for the Holidays
“No, seriously. None of us would have ever thought about any of this. And I’m sure if we had hired a marketing firm, it would have cost way more than what we’re paying you. I hope you know how much we appreciate you, and that we know how hard you’re working.”
I smile as my cheeks heat. I was always good at my job, but in the past nobody really said much beyond the occasional ‘thanks’.
I clear my throat and straighten the stack of rack cards on the counter as I broach the subject of the event.
“So now, things are just about all organized in here, I was thinking we should run a Christmas event. I want to celebrate the holiday and get people in to see the renovations. What do you think?”
I glance up at him, and his eyes light up happily. “That’s a great idea!”
“Yeah, I think so, too,” Grant says as he and Asher join us.
“Really? I wasn’t sure if you guys liked Christmas. I thought I’d have to twist your arms a little more. I even had a whole speech planned.”
Leo laughs. “Well, you can still tell us if you want, but we love Christmas.”
“Okay, awesome! I can’t wait!” I say excitedly as my mind pictures where I can place the lights and Christmas tree.
“You already have a shopping list started, don’t you?” Leo asks with a grin.
“I do…”
“Alright, well why don’t I take you out shopping after lunch? We can get started on it straight away.”
“Yes!”
“What’s for lunch today?” Grant asks, glancing at Asher. They seemed to take turns bringing lunch in, and when I offered, they refused. They told me it’s a business expense, and they always buy lunch for all their employees. Of course, the three of them own the place, and I’m the only employee, so I didn’t know whether or not that was true.
“Pizza?” Asher asks, and we all nod in agreement. He leaves to get it as I grab a couple of items to put away in the back. While I’m back there, I organize the supply cupboard, making sure everything is easy to find.
When I come back out, I see Callum is here, and he’s chatting with Matt and Leo. I haven’t seen him since my first day here, and when he sees me, he waves me over.
“Hey, Clara, right?”
“Yeah, nice to meet you, Callum.”
His eyes widen, and his whole face lights up. “She remembers me!”
“It’s not hard to forget one of the only two customers I’ve met.”
“Ouch!” Leo says, placing his hand on his heart in mock hurt, making me grin at him.
“Don’t worry, I’m gonna change that.”
“You’ve done an amazing job in here, seriously,” Callum says, gesturing to the gym. “I’m actually going to start telling my buddies about this place now that it's not so embarrassing.”
“Hey!” Leo scowls at him.
“Just speaking the truth.” He glances at me as he adds, “Make sure you take good care of this one; she’s a keeper.”
“Trust me, I know,” Leo says, sounding more serious than amused.
“So, Clara, are you single?” Callum asks, making my eyes widen in surprise.
“Uhh…”
“Dude,” Leo punches him in the shoulder. “Don’t hit on the staff.”
“Why not? She’s hot… for an older woman.”
