Page 35 of Finding Redemption

“Sounds great. What can I do?”

“Get some paint and flooring picked out,” he says.

“This week. I’ll text you the information.”

“You’ll be ready for furniture by the weekend,” he says as we walk the room. “I have to say, I’m surprised you didn’t build.”

“One day.” I offer a tight smile, still not ready to admit my shortcomings.

“Hit me up when you get your order in.” I take his hand when offered, and he’s out the door.

I change clothes and head downstairs. I want to make the best possible proposal to Reese on Tuesday, and I need to make sure Lachlan’s on board. I rework every aspect of this deal until I know it’s the best proposition available.

I fax Lachlan the new suggestions for his consideration. I’m not at all surprised when my phone rings within minutes. “Lachlan. I see you have the new prospectus.”

“I do.” He pauses, making my stomach flip as I wait with bated breath. “I like it.”

“You do? I know this means an increase in cost, but I believe it’s the best compromise on the table.”

“It is. We both get what we want and the possibilities for additional sales know no limit.” I drag in a much-needed breath of air. “Great work, Walker. Now, seal the deal.”

“I plan to.” I smile. Not because of the deal but thoughts of seeing Reese.

“When are you meeting her?” he asks.

“Tuesday. Dinner.”

“Keep me up to date,” he says.

“Will do.” I end our call and immediately, my thoughts are with Reese.

“I should take her the new offer so she can look over it. Give her time to see if she wants addendums or changes.” I shake my head at the thought. “Her boyfriend will be there. Don’t do it, man,” I tell myself. I grab my phone and call the one person I know who will tell me what I should do.

“Hey, what’s up?” Riley answers.

“Bear with me, I had a stroke of genius and came up with a new proposal for The Historical Society. Lachlan’s on board, and I have a meeting with Reese on Tuesday.”

“Go on,” he says softly.

“I know I could wait until then to present it to her or even fax it over, but what if her Monday is swamped and she doesn’t get time to go over it?”

“It could happen,” he agrees.

“I was thinking of dropping it off to her.” I hesitate. “Today. Like, now.”

“Why are you waiting? I think it’s a great idea. Give her time to read over it.”

“I can’t. I just saw her at the gas station. Half-shaven, of course,” I spit at him, shaking my head.

“Oh, shit. So she saw you?” He snickers.

“Oh, yeah. Pointed out the obvious.”

“Doesn’t she have a boyfriend? Maybe today’s not a good idea.” He’s fucking confusing.

“It’s work related. I’m not at all interested in her, not like that. I mean, yeah, she’s gorgeous, but I’m not going over to bust up her relationship.” If she wanted me too, that would be a different story.

“For fuck’s sake, get your ass over there,” Ava yells through the phone. “And wear your blue Henley.”