Page 46 of Deal with Mr. Cruel

“Actually, is there a manager we can talk to? We would like to discuss a potential business opportunity,” said Wendy.

“I’ll do you one better. The owner is back in the kitchen. I’ll be right back.”

A few moments later, a short, round man emerged from the kitchen and flashed them a smile. He held out his hand and Mae shook it firmly, followed by Wendy.

“I’m Rick, but you can call me Richie. I own the place. Chrissy says you’re here on business. What can I help you ladies with?” he asked curiously.

“We are with the Matthews Group. We are in a bit of a pinch and hoping you could help us out.”

“Matthews Group? As in our team’s owner?” He nodded toward a large photo of the city’s original team.

“That’s right.” Mae nodded.

“I’m all ears.”

Mae explained their predicament with the festival and the need for a vendor. Thankfully, Richie was eager to be a vendor, but not for a small fee. Wendy negotiated him down, but it was still beyond budget. With the festival approaching rapidly, they had no other choice. Plus, they needed a vendor that would impress their guests and Richie’s was clearly well loved.

As they drove back to the office, Wendy began drawing up a contract on her phone to get sent to Richie within the hour. Mae was thankful she had something to keep her busy so she wouldn’t ask any more questions.

Back in her own office, Mae shut the door and plopped down in her desk chair. She breathed a sigh of relief, not only for the new vendor, but to be away from Wendy. She thought back to the kiss. Jonas had looked so comfortable as he leaned down to kiss her. He looked so happy. It was like they were the only two in the room. It seemed so genuine. Mae smiled to herself as she remembered the look on Wendy’s face. She thought her jaw actually hit the floor. Mae laughed to herself, but then the doubt began to creep in.

Had he kissed her just for show? But why would he do it in front of Wendy, who had no idea? Braydon, it would be understandable. Wendy had no idea about them, though. So far, Jonas had been a pretty good actor. She’d tried her best to match him and play along. Maybe he was just preparing himself for when they went public at the festival. Then everyone would know.

Mae didn’t really think about it until now. She’d been so busy with work that she never realized that once everyone knew, kisses in public would be frequent. She wasn’t sure if she would be able to handle the intimacy without letting her feelings complicate things. Already, Mae had already let them get the best of her when she basically threw herself at Jonas.

Then, there was Nico to worry about. He still wasn’t talking to her, and his absence from her life was starting to dwell on her. They had never gone this long without talking. She hoped her parents weren’t looking down on them with sadness. Just thinking about it, she could cry. She put her face in her hands and tried to hold back tears.

A knock sounded at her door, breaking her from her thoughts, which she was thankful for. She cleared her throat and tried to compose herself.

“Come in,” she called.

Braydon entered her office. “I heard you landed Richie’s!” he said with an impressed nod.

“We did. I think it will be a welcome addition to the festival. Maybe it can turn into a long-term partnership.”

“We’re really changing things up this year with auctioning off the players accompanied by new food.”

“You think it’s too much?”

“No, I think it’s what the festival needs. It’s been the same thing year after year. While tradition is great, it’s good to keep people on their toes.”

Mae nodded.

“Plus, your husband needs to establish himself outside his father’s shadow.”

“Good point. I think he’s doing a good job so far.”

“You two make a good team.” Braydon winked.

“Yeah, we do.”

“Which is why I think you should work more closely with him. At least until the festival is over.”

“What? Won’t you need me?” asked Mae with surprise.

“Nah. I’ve been in this business longer than you’ve been born, my dear. Plus, I’m heading off to scout the day after the festival. You should stay back to celebrate.”

“Celebrate what?”

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