AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Do you mind if I have a moment with my grandson?” His face is masked from emotion so he gives nothing away.
She hesitates for a moment but then agrees to his request. “Sure.” She scoots out of her seat and goes over to the bar.
“Don’t you think you have enough to do with the farm without taking on a bar too?”
“It’s a good investment. I’ve looked at the figures.”
“Be truthful with me. Is there some other reason why you like Sweet Cocktails?” Even though I try to fight it, I look over at Nellie. My grandpa follows my gaze. “Is this about a woman?”
“It’s true, I like drinking at this bar. I’ve got to know some of the staff and I’ve been told about possible improvements that could increase sales. If we served food, especially through the day, we could open up to more customers.”
“What if things end with this woman and you’re left in an awkward spot? It’s not a good idea to mix business with pleasure.” Just like Nellie, my grandfather has reservations about us working together. I understand them, but I’m not ready to forget the idea of being a joint bar owner yet.
“I won’t let things get complex. We’re both adults. If I put Nellie in charge of Sweet Cocktails, I’d practically be another silent partner. I’ve been coming here long enough to know she can deal with what’s thrown at her.”
“Why can’t she buy the place herself?”
“Not everyone has that kind of money.” I shrug. I’m an impulsive person, and my grandpa knows this. Making fast choices has never let me down before.
“Bring her over here. I want to meet her.”
I rub the stubble on my chin. “She might be nervous at that idea.”
“Where has your confidence in her gone?” He gives me a stern look.
He’s testing my faith in her, and I have no choice but to bite. “Fine. I’ll call her over.”
When I catch Nellie’s attention, I wave her over. “Hi. What can I get you, boys?” She pulls out her notepad.
“It’s been a long time since I was called a boy,” my grandpa says.
“Sorry. I meant gentlemen.” She touches her pen to the paper.
“Actually, we’d like to talk to you. Please take a seat.” My grandpa is full business right from the start.
She looks between us. “Sure.” She hesitantly takes a seat opposite us.
“What does Sweet Cocktails mean to you?”
“Is this a job interview?” She laughs nervously.
“Humour me.” He smiles for the first time since she came over.
“I’ve worked here since I was seventeen. I know all the cocktails we serve by heart. I enjoy mixing with people and surprising people’s taste buds. Overtime is something I want, and I’ll smile through any situation.”
“What about running the bar?”
She swipes her hand over the front of her hair. “I’ve opened and closed. I can deal with difficult people.” Her tone is unsure, and I’m not used to seeing her nervous.
He nods. “School?”
She frowns. “What do you mean?”
“What qualifications do you have?”
“I finished high school. Nothing significant.” She shrugs like education isn’t that important to her. Unless she intended to do something with a degree, I guess she doesn’t need any more qualifications.
“And what about my grandson?”
