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“So, you’re ready to see me go up against A & S?”
“I never did like them, so yes, it’s very welcome.”
“Me either.”
“I hear Andrews is holding a conference in town.”
My fist tightens. “I heard it, too.”
“You gonna go?”
I nod. “I need to know what he’s planning to pitch.”
Carl gives me a long look, then he says, “Don’t do anything stupid, Ian.”
I shrug. “I won’t.”
He holds my gaze again for a longer moment, before he nods. Then, I ask, “So you honestly think I have what it takes to start this company?’
“I believe I do.” He pauses, an amused glint in his eyes. "Do you even have to ask me that? I should be asking if you’re prepared for the forthcoming rivalry. You know Andrew doesn’t exactly like competition.”
Well, he better get his A-game on because I’m bringing a lot of it.
With a smirk, I answer, “Trust me, I’m looking forward to it.”
“Perfect. Hell, look at you, you're already ripped times two. Georgia must be a nice place."
A ghost of a smile plays on my lips. A notification alert pings my phone and it's a text from Kaylee.
–Are we still doing lunch later?
I quickly send her a thumbs-up. I look up at my computer screen. “Carl, what do you know about A & S’ upcoming business event?”
He frowns slightly. “I’ve heard a bit about it.”
“Is it legit?”
“Definitely. If I, uh, remember correctly, I think it’s about funding small-scale businesses. You know, folks in the trade.”
“So, like a grant?”
“Looks like it. The winner also gets to be placed on other benefits. Exposure, PR deals, stuff like that."
The thought of Kaylee winning anything sponsored by Andrews & Sons makes bile rise to my throat. Grimacing inwardly, I swallow my disgust and clench my jaw hard.
“Basically,” Carl is still speaking, “the major incentive is just to support the town folks, give them a bit of financial support.”
“Do you know someone on the inside that's involved in this?"
He frowns. "At A & S? I have a couple of friends in, but I can't be sure they're involved in planning the event.” Then he tilts his head, regarding me with a puzzled expression. “Why’d you ask? What's this about?”
On the other hand, Kaylee will never forgive me if I sabotage this for her. Knowing how much she's willing to sacrifice for her bakery shop, I can't bring myself to be selfish. She needs to win this.
I tap my pen against the side of my desk. Clearing my throat, I begin, “So, I’ve got a friend who’s hoping to win it…”
“Thank you.” Kaylee’s eyes are swimming with gratitude. “Thank you so much.”
“Don’t.” I rest a hand on her thigh. “Don’t do that, really. I didn’t do anything.”
