“I don’t care how great the coffee is, Ellie Mae!” the man yelled. “You can’t stand in the middle of the street hollering at folks!”
“He’s right, Ellie Mae.” Abigail put her arm around the woman’s shoulders. “You’ll have to stay on the sidewalk.” She glanced at the irate driver. “Sorry, sir.”
The man muttered something under his breath and got back in his car.
“He should have paid attention when I hailed him on the bullhorn,” Ellie Mae said. “He ignored me. Didn’t turn his head or wave. No acknowledgment whatsoever. And we used to date, too. That stuck in my craw.”
“I can tell.” Abigail gave her a squeeze. “Promise me you’ll stay on the sidewalk, okay?”
She sighed. “I will, but it won’t be as much fun.”
“Want to trade off with somebody? I’m sure Kendra or Deidre would—”
“No, I want to stay out here for a bit. It might not be as much fun, but it’ll still be fun.”
“Okay then.” Shivering, she hurried back inside where everyone was peering out the window watching the action. “She’s promised to stay out of the street.”
“Good,” Kendra said. “But I can’t imagine what made her think she could go out there in the first place.”
“An old flame came by and ignored her when she called to him on the bullhorn.”
Doug just about killed himself laughing until Yolanda reminded him they had work to do and hauled him back behind the counter to get started.
“I understand why she’d be upset,” Deidre said. “But we’re here to help the cause, not fight with old lovers.”
Kendra gave her a light punch on the arm. “So we can count on you to stay out of the street if one of your old lovers ignores you?”
“Ha! They wouldn’t dare. But what should we do while Ellie Mae’s out there flagging down customers?”
“Drink coffee?” Ingrid stood by her precious machine looking eager.
Kendra slapped her forehead and almost dislodged her giant heart. “Duh! Yes, please!”
“I might take my coffee for a stroll,” Deidre said. “These thermals are heating up my girls.”
“Mine, too,” Christine said. “Since Ellie Mae has the bullhorn, what if the rest of us walk around town drinking coffee and spreading the word?”
“I’m so videoing that.” Kendra brought out her phone. “It’s not every day you see three pink coffee cups parading down Main Street.”
Luke got to see the whole show, although he didn’t stop at Pie in the Sky. He had Delilah in the truck and the bakery was a zoo. That was great, though. A line out the door, Ellie Mae Stockton wielding the bullhorn like a film director, and three coffee cups sashaying up and down Main Street accompanied by a giant coffee bean.
He figured Kendra was the one wearing the big heart over her head and taking the video. That red parka and ski pants looked familiar. Either she had the exact same set or his mom had loaned out hers.
He had an early appointment with the owner of the feed store. For years, the guy had kept track of inventory old school and was ready to computerize. He didn’t mind if Luke brought Delilah to the meeting.
That was convenient, because Kendra wasn’t available to dog-sit this morning. Luke didn’t want to take advantage of her generous nature, either. Fortunately, most of his clients were fine with him bringing Delilah. Some seemed happier to see the dog than they were to see him.
The meeting went long, nearly two hours. When it was over, the mob scene at Pie in the Sky had calmed considerably. The Whine and Cheese ladies had left and there was no line outside.
Luke figured he could stop by and take Delilah in without causing a problem. He even found a parking space in front. Leaving his hat on the dash, he clipped the leash on Delilah’s collar and made sure she didn’t step in any puddles before he took her inside.
The bakery was still humming with activity. This was his first glimpse of the two younger employees, Yolanda and Doug. They were clearly earning their wages today. They appeared tired but happy.
Ingrid looked completely exhausted, but she gave him a bright smile when he came in. “There’s the man of the hour!”
“Oh, I’m not—”
“The heck you aren’t. If you hadn’t suggested specialty coffee, we wouldn’t have this.” She swept a hand toward the coffee machine like a game show host showing off a prize.
“It’s a beauty.”
“Tell me about it! Performs like a champ, too. Want anything?”
“I—”
“Here you go, Ingrid.” Yolanda handed her three paperboard cups. “Two medium peppermint lattes and a double shot espresso.” Then she glanced at Luke and smiled. “Welcome to Pie in the Sky. Can I get something for you?”
“Thanks,” Luke said. “Maybe later. I’m here to see Abigail.”
“She’s in her office taking a break. I can go tell her you’re—”
“That’s okay. I’ll just go back.”
“But—”
“It’s okay, Yolanda,” Ingrid said. “This is Luke, the business manager who’s helping Abigail.”
“Oh. Pleased to meet you. Sure. Go on back. Although I’m not sure about your dog…”
“Oh, right.” Delilah had become such a part of him that he sometimes forgot that she couldn’t go everywhere he did. Taking her through the kitchen would break health department rules. “I’ll put her in the truck for a few minutes.”
He turned around and there was his mother. Lately he’d noticed how much Hayley was like her—blond, slender and vivacious. Whereas he took after his dad, which meant he could look forward to a receding hairline and a highly developed sense of humor. He’d take it.
“Hey, Mom! Here to get coffee?”
She smiled at him. “Yes, I am. But I overheard what you said about putting Delilah in the truck. It’s chilly out there.”
“I know, but—”
“Why don’t I take charge of her while you go see your client?”
Client. It was the right word but sounded wrong. Abigail was so much more. “That would be great.” He handed her the leash. “Was that your red parka and ski pants on Kendra this morning?”
“Sure was. I missed seeing how everyone looked, though. I had a consultation with my contractor.”
“Those ladies were amazing. And they brought in tons of business.”
“That’s great!”
“How’s the barn coming along?”
“It’s going to be fabulous. But I’ll tell you about it later. Go ahead and have your business discussion. Delilah and I will wait here.”
“I won’t be long. Just want to check to see how she’s doing and what the receipts look like from this morning.” He hoped that sounded official and businesslike. He had no intention of looking at receipts. Mostly he wanted to see Abigail’s happy smile.
“Take your time. I’m in no rush.”
“Thanks, Mom.” He walked through the kitchen and tapped on the office door. “It’s Luke.”
“Luke!” She flung the door open. “Did you drive by? Did you see the line?”
“I did.” He couldn’t help grinning. “I saw it all, the coffee cups, the giant coffee bean, Ellie Mae—”
“I know! It was epic!” Her gaze dropped. “Where’s Delilah?”
“Couldn’t bring her through the kitchen.”
“Oh, right.”
“My mom happened to show up. She has Delilah up front. Listen, there’s something I want to discuss, if I can come in.”
“Of course!”
He walked through the door and closed it behind him. “You did great!” And he swept her up in a hug.
She didn’t seem to mind. She gazed up at him, eyes sparkling. “We did great. All of us, you included.”
Now that he had her in his arms, he hated to let go. She looked so pretty, flushed and proud of herself.
Her breathing grew shallow. “We probably shouldn’t be doing this.”
“Probably not. Look
s like I’m going to, anyway.” Lowering his head, he captured those smiling lips. Ah, so sweet. Shouldn’t stay long…but he lingered and she let him.
He’d never held her like this, cushioned against her soft breasts while exploring her warm and tasty mouth. His body warmed, especially the part below his belt. The kiss was going great until she braced her palms against his chest and pushed gently.
He lifted his head a fraction. “Don’t make me stop yet. You taste delicious.”
“Chocolate strawberry tart.”
“Baker ladies are awesome.” He nibbled on her lower lip.
“Your mom’s out there holding your dog.”
That doused his fire in no time. With a sigh, he let her go and backed toward the door. “See you Saturday, right?”
“That’s the plan. Luke, wait. You—”
“I need to go before I grab you again.”
“Yes, but—”
“See you Saturday.” He left the office and walked to the front of the shop to retrieve Delilah. The dog was enjoying herself. She sat regally beside his mother and allowed herself to be admired and petted by anyone who happened by.
“Ah, there you are,” his mother said. “She’s been a very good dog.”
“Glad to hear it. Thank you for hanging onto her for me.”
“You’re welcome.” She peered at him. “Come over here for a minute.”
“What?”
She took a tissue out of her pocket. “Hold still.” She dabbed at his mouth. “Lipstick.”
His gaze met hers.
“You can’t fool your mother. I knew you weren’t going in there to discuss receipts. You had that look in your eye.”
Chapter Fifteen
The coffee business continued to be brisk through Saturday afternoon, and most customers wanted a bakery item to go with their brew. The shop ran up some impressive sales numbers. Abigail hoped that success would offset the disorganized state of her records when Luke arrived to delve into them today.
Since their first meeting she’d kept better track. She’d bought some stacking trays and cobbled together a crude filing system for the past two weeks’ worth of receipts. Prior to that, though…
It was only paperwork, right? The important thing was cash flow, and it was flowing faster than an open spigot on the new coffee machine.
A knot of anxiety tightened in her stomach, though. She liked Luke and didn’t want him to think she was an idiot, especially because he liked her back. His kiss on Thursday had left no doubt.
Would he have kissing on his mind this afternoon? Probably not after she brought out that cardboard box bulging from what she’d stuffed in there since last February.
As four o’clock approached, she and Ingrid were the only ones left in the shop. She’d sent Yolanda and Doug home after praising their dedication. While she closed out the register, Ingrid cleaned her new toy in preparation for shutting it down for the weekend.
“I love this darned thing. So do Yolanda and Doug. They’re catching on quick, especially Doug.” She polished the brushed chrome surfaces. “I’m so glad you got it.”
“It’s done a job for us. I had no clue the population of Eagles Nest was so eager for designer coffee.”
“Me, either. Otherwise I would have suggested it. I figured most folks in cowboy country liked their coffee strong and black.”
“Maybe that’s why espressos are outselling lattes. Those rough, tough cowboys discovered the miracle of a double shot.”
“Speaking of cowboys, Luke just drove up.”
She glanced out the front window. “Yep.” And she wasn’t ready to face him alone. “Do you have anywhere you need to be right now?”
“Not really. Why?”
“It’s been a while since we took out the shelves in the display case and cleaned in the corners.”
“I thought Yolanda and Doug did a pretty good job yesterday afternoon.”
“They cleaned the case? Where was I?”
“In your office sorting receipts. And muttering.”
She swallowed. “I’m so nervous about this meeting, Ingrid. My records are a hot mess.”
“He’s a nice guy. He’s not going to yell at you. But I’ll stay if you need me to. I’ll find something to keep me busy.”
“No, don’t stay. I’ll handle this.”
“Sure you will.” Ingrid gave her an encouraging smile. “But if you need backup, text me and I’ll come running.” Her gaze flicked toward the door as it opened. “Hi, Luke! I see you brought your partner along.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He took off his hat and laid it on a nearby table. “She was so excited when she figured out where we were going.”
“That’s nice to hear.” Abigail gave him a quick smile as she walked around the counter. “How’s my favorite doggie?” She buried her fingers in Delilah’s luxurious ruff. The dog wouldn’t care if her paperwork was orderly.
“Can I give her a treat?” Ingrid asked. “Abigail bought dog biscuits.”
“One’s okay.” He put down his laptop case and unhooked the leash from Delilah’s collar. “I was just out at Wild Creek Ranch and Kendra has biscuits for her, too. Don’t want to spoil her.”
“I understand,” Ingrid said. “But that face just makes you want to give her stuff. She’s so cute.”
“Yeah, she is.” Abigail stepped back as Ingrid came over with the biscuit. “And so happy.” Petting Delilah had improved her mood considerably.
“But I want her to be mannerly, too.” He unbuttoned his jacket, took it off and laid it over a chair. “How about if you tell her to sit before you give it to her?”
Ingrid held the biscuit up. “Delilah, sit.”
The dog’s haunches dropped instantly.
“Good dog!” Ingrid gave her the biscuit. “She minds so well, Luke.”
“She does most of the time. But once in a while…let’s just say she’s got a mind of her own.”
Ingrid laughed. “An independent female. I like that. Well, I’m off. Errands to run before the weather changes.” She peered out the window. “Assuming it does. Think it’s gonna snow?”
“Depends on which forecaster you listen to,” Luke said. “Just now on the radio they said it would pass us by.”
“I hope so. See you two later!”
“’Bye, Ingrid!” Abigail turned to Luke. “I take it no other lost dog flyers have shown up?”
“No.” He heaved a sigh and glanced toward the corner where Delilah had curled up the last time he was here. “You put out water for her. Thanks.”
“And bought dog treats. I hope that’s okay.”
“Ah, why not? Like Ingrid said, nobody can resist that face.” He glanced down at the dog. “Okay, girl, go lie down.” He pointed toward the corner with the water dish.
She headed right to it, circled and flopped down.
“Ingrid’s right. She really does mind.”
He chuckled. “Except when she doesn’t want you to leave. And after you did, she refused to play fetch.”
“Really? That surprises me.”
“I think she was mad at me because I let you go.”
“Nah. She was just tired.”
“If she was, that would be a first. There’s no off switch on that dog.” He smiled as he said it.
“You like that about her, don’t you?”
“I do. I can’t imagine anyone feeling down when they’re around Delilah. She’s like a furry bundle of optimism. Listen, before I forget, would you like to go for another ride tomorrow?”
“I’d love to.”
“If that storm hits, we’ll have to cancel, but I’m going with what the guy on the radio said. It’ll pass us by.”
“Then let’s plan on it.” She liked talking about the dog and a potential horseback ride. These were cheerful topics. Non-threatening topics.
“Great.” He rubbed his hands together. “Let’s dive into those records. I’m ready to power through them.”
“Right! But wouldn’t
you like some coffee, first? I’m not going to mess up Ingrid’s precious machine, but the old model still works.”
“Maybe later, after we’ve made some progress.”
“Okay, some cookies, then. I held back some oatmeal raisin ones just for this occasion.” Ha. Bribes R Us.
“That sounds great, but let’s get some work done and then take a break.”
“All right.” The knot in her stomach was back. “I thought we’d start with the past two weeks. Those are better organized than—”
“I’d rather see it all at once. That way I can get a better idea of what we’re looking at. Is everything in your office?”
“It’s…um…yes.”
“Would you rather work in there or out here?”
“Out here. We’d be crowded in that small office. I’ll bring the box out here where there’s more room to spread out.”
He brightened. “A file box?”
“Not quite. I got a shipment of napkins in it.”
“Oh.” He started toward the office. “I’ll bring it out. It’s probably heavy.”
“Not really, and I’m familiar with it.” She hurried to get in front of him and backed toward the office. “Better let me get it. The bottom’s…we had a small leak…never mind. I’ll be right back.” She made a shooing motion. “You can go sit down.”
“Thanks, but I’ll stay here.” He crossed his arms.
“Okay.” The box was on the floor. She’d thrown a holiday tablecloth over it so she didn’t have to look at it every day. But knowing what was under there was about as bad as staring at the contents.
Whipping off the tablecloth decorated with poinsettias, she crouched down and shoved her hands under the box. Still a little damp. A pipe in the wall had sprung a leak in December.
Luckily when she lifted the box, it held together. But it was heavier than she remembered and she staggered a little. Once she was balanced, she walked out of the office.
Luke’s eyes widened. “That’s…that’s…”
“My paperwork. Except for the last couple of weeks.” She carried it through the kitchen. The bottom started to give way as she rounded the counter. Moving faster, she made it to one of the bistro tables, set the box down with a thud and turned around.
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