Page 45 of Believing in You

“That’s all I ask. I love you, Mom.”

“I love you too, honey.”

Virginia Priestly might drive all of them nuts sometimes, but after hearing Harrison’s story, Nyla loved and appreciated her mother even more. She was truly one of a kind.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Nyla parked her car in the parking deck of Gordon’s lawyer’s office and grinned like she’d just won a million bucks. Today, after she signed a few papers and ensured the transfer of funds went through, she’d finally be a business owner.

She was early for the appointment and sat back in her seat to stare out the windshield. The view was of another office building, but she barely noticed, since she was just glad to take a breather.

The past month had been a whirlwind of activity, but it had also been the best month she’d had in years. Not only did she finally have a dependable vehicle, but she also moved into a one-bedroom apartment not far from Moody Days. More importantly, she could afford both.

It had been hard not to accept Harrison’s offer for her to move in with him. It would’ve been so easy, and she would’ve enjoyed them being under the same roof. But she was determined to start standing on her own. Besides, it was too soon for them to think about living together. Even if she was crazy in love with her man.

Joy bubbled up inside of her each time she thought about him. “I love Harrison Grant,” she said into the quietness of the car. Neither of them had spoken those three little words—I love you—to one another, but they showed each other how they felt in so many other ways. Whether it was him making sure she always had gas in her car, or her sometimes having a nice dinner prepared for him when he got home from work.

It was the small gestures of thoughtfulness that added to their dating life. They might not have been together long, but Nyla was learning that it was about the quality of time they spent with each other. Not the length of time.

She and Harrison saw each other almost every day, and when they didn’t, they called or texted. He was truly a gift from God, and she was grateful to have him in her life. There had been days when she’d been overwhelmed with all that she’d had going on, but a hug, a kiss, or just hearing his voice settled her down.

They were great together, and of course Jamie was taking all the credit. He claimed that he might start his own matchmaking business.

Nyla jumped when her phone alarm sounded, signaling she had ten minutes to get to the lawyer’s office. She grabbed her bag and climbed out of the car, hoping that Cree was either already there or on her way.

Nyla would’ve preferred having Harrison by her side today, but they had agreed that since he was a silent investor, it would be better if he stayed away. Instead, Cree would be with her, which was good. It made sense to have legal counsel with her.

When Nyla entered the building, Cree was waiting near the information desk.

“Hey, sis. Thanks for coming,” Nyla said as they shared a quick hug.

“Of course. I’m glad you asked me to come with you. I wouldn’t have wanted you to sign any papers without a lawyerlooking over them.” As they rode the elevator to the fifth floor, Cree asked, “Are you ready for this?”

Nyla nodded, unable to hide her grin. “I’m more than ready. I was born to own a jazz club,” she said and laughed.

Cree snickered. “I know I don’t say it enough, but I’m really proud of you.”

A warm glow flowed through Nyla at her sister’s heartfelt words. “That means a lot coming from you. After your version of a pep talk months ago about how I needed to grow up,” Nyla grinned when Cree groaned, “I had to agree. It was just the kick in the butt I needed to get myself together. So thanks for that.”

Smiling, Cree wrapped her arm around Nyla’s shoulder and pulled her close, giving her a little squeeze. “Anytime. That’s what big sisters are for.”

When they made it to the law office, Nyla was about to give her name to the receptionist, but they saw Gordon.

“We’re in here,” he said from down a short hall and pointed to an open door.

They followed him into a small conference room. After introductions, his lawyer went over the paperwork with them. Thirty minutes later, documents signed, and handshakes given, Nyla walked out as the new owner of Moody Days Jazz Club.

“I can’t believe it,” she squealed and threw her arms around her sister, laughing. “I did it!”

“Yes, you did, Ms. Business Owner. How are you planning to celebrate?” Cree asked as they headed to the elevator.

“I was thinking of closing the club one night and having a private party there just for family and close friends. I also thought that it could be a double celebration since Zion’s thirtieth birthday is coming up.”

“That’s a great idea. Let me know if you need my help. Oh, and there’s a reporter I know who would love to interview youabout Moody Days. I figured you’d be interested because it’ll be a way of getting some free advertisement.”

“Yes! I’m definitely interested.”

“Good, here’s his card. Give him a call when you’re ready to set something up.”

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