Chapter 9
Keira’s waiting in my office when I finish clearing out the restaurant after the event. We both look at the uncrated yellow monstrosity.
“Did Standish call you?” I ask.
She nods. “Only eight times. I sent them all to voice mail.”
“I’m so sorry.”
“It’s not your fault. In fact, it wouldn’t have happened if he’d shown up on time. If he gives us any kind of issue ... well, you know that will go over like a lead balloon.”
“I can imagine,” I say wryly. If Standish were to look cross-eyed at Keira, I doubt he’d ever make another sculpture again. “It’s probably better if I deal with him. We wouldn’t want him going missing or anything.”
She laughs, but we both know it’s not that much of a joke. “Did you find the bidder?”
I shake my head. “Not exactly. But I have the name of his company. He’s supposed to arrange pickup tomorrow. I’ll find him and give him the option to take the real piece or to cancel the bid.”
“And if he doesn’t go for it?”
I look over my shoulder at the melted cactus. “Then Standish can come get his masterpiece and take it home.”
Keira laughs. “I swear, I’ll never understand modern art. Honestly, I think your sculpture was a hundred times cooler. Plus, it didn’t remind me of a mustard mishap.”
Warmth curls inside my belly at her words. I know she means “my sculpture” only because I owned it, but I still hold the compliment close.
“Thanks.”
“I’m really sorry I screwed that up. If you can find another, I’ll pay to replace it.”
My lips press hard together. “Not necessary.”
“I mean it. It’s the least I can do.”
“I don’t think there’s another, but I appreciate the offer.” Wanting to change the subject, I add, “I’ll let you know when I get in touch with the buyer and deal with Standish.”
She gives me a kind smile. “Just so you know, I’m interviewing for more help after this vacation. I know event planning isn’t your favorite thing, so I’m going to look for someone to handle it.”
A pit of worry forms in my belly. “Oh ... Okay. I hope you don’t think I’m doing a crap job.”
“Definitely not. Don’t think that. I’m well aware that you’re buried beneath a thousand pounds of work right now, and I’ve relied on you because you’re like me—you keep pushing through, no matter what. You can only do it for so long before you burn out, and I don’t want that for you.”
“Oh, thank you. I appreciate that.”
“You can head out. I’ll handle the rest of this stuff tonight. You’ve worked your ass off on this event. Maybe go have some fun for once.”
“Are you sure?”
Keira nods. “Absolutely.”
“Okay, then. I won’t argue.” I grab my purse from my desk drawer, and the order I was given comes to life in my head as soon as Keira waves me off and I reach my car.
“Meet me again. Tonight.”
I unlock my Bronco and climb inside. For a fraction of a second, I consider turning away from town toward the winding country road that would bring me to the gate and the mansion.
But I turn right instead.
I make it through three lights before I whip my car around, pulling a U-turn in the middle of the road to the sound of blaring horns.