The Indie – Summer
THE INDIE
SUMMER
My savings account actually had a comma in its balance.
A real-life, there’s-a-couple-thousand-dollars-in-here-now comma.
My “Two Weeks of Ultimate Indies” were the most profitable weeks I’d had at my store since I opened, and I was kicking myself for not doing it sooner.
“To be honest, Miss Connors, I’m shocked you’ve been able to stay in the book business this long…”
I brushed away the thought of Adrian’s words as I pulled into my parking spot. I’d scheduled a team strategy meeting for ten o’clock today, and I wanted to get a head start on drafting ideas for our next event.
I slipped inside the store and hit the lights, noticing a crowd of people outside my front windows.
What the…
“Did someone schedule another event without telling me?” I muttered.
I walked over and opened the door, quickly realizing they weren’t lined up for me.
They were lined up for Sinclair Street.
It’s not even open yet.
“Excuse me.” I looked at the guy blocking my door. “What’s going on over there today?”
“The first five hundred customers are getting free lattes and discounted memberships.” He beamed. “Plus, we get early access to the new reading lounges in the basement.”
“Reading lounges?”
“State-of-the-art, ma’am.” He showed me his phone. “Look at the private reading pods, the adjustable lighting, and the—”
“I’m good.” I shook my head. “Thanks for letting me know, though.”
“Uh, well, since I helped you out…” He smiled. “Want to return the favor?”
“How so?”
“Let me take a twenty-minute power nap in your store while you hold my spot?” he asked. “It’s not like you’ll be that busy today.”
I stepped back and slammed the door in his face.
This round goes to you, Adrian.
Asshole…