Page 10 of Executive Benefits

“So,” I said, standing. He followed suit and came up behind me. His spicy and food scent enveloped me, and it was all I could do not to lean back against him and wait for his muscled arms to wrap around me.

That might be a little unprofessional.

I touched my forehead, trying to focus, then walked over to the table I’d stripped down of everything except the wood. “These tables are beautiful. Taking everything off them is a good and easy way to get the ambiance you’re looking for and be cost effective too.”

“I think that sounds incredible,” he said. Although he couldn’t see my face because he was still behind me, a pleased smile perked over it and I was happy he liked my idea.

I wrote down a few notes then pointed to the wall separating the kitchen from the dining room. I walked over, touching it. “What do you think about losing this and letting the people watch the cooking take place? I did some research, and modern, high-level restaurants have it. Even if it’s more upscale casual.”

He stood next to me and looked, rubbing his newly grown-in beard. He didn’t have it last time, but regardless of boundaries, it looked good on him. “That’s an amazing idea.” He looked down at me and smiled. “I wouldn’t put on a screaming, yelling show for diners like some other famous chefs, but that would be exciting.”

He stepped over to the wall.

“What would you suggest that I do with the space in between, then?”

“Brick.” I pointed to all the exterior walls too. “Right now, this is all drywalled. We can take it off and reveal the raw brick beneath, giving it the casual feel you’re going for and also saving you some money on paint or more sheetrock. We would have to add brick to a divider.” I walked over to him and put my hand up to about his hips. “Probably to about here, but there may even be someplace around where you can get old brick to reuse for free or a small fee, which can bring in the history of the town as well.”

“Wow.” He looked impressed. That made me happy, almost giddy because my mind was racing with ideas. “What else do you have?”

I dived in, explaining all the ideas I had brewing, and he seemed to eat them up. An hour later, I had several pages of notes and a firmer idea of what he wanted.

“I’ll have to crunch the numbers for the budget,” I said as I packed my things up. “But the list in the folder will give you a tentative number on what the total cost would be. I know we’re not doing everything on the list, but if you have any questions or would like a formal write up before the budget is set, just let me know.” I pulled the strap of my bag over my shoulder and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.

“I can have my assistant send something over to you quickly.” I smiled and started to head toward the door.

“It’s amazing you found an assistant so quickly,” he said, holding the door open for me.

“Ha! Yes. I didn’t find her. She came from Buffalo with me.”

“Oh,” he said, and something flashed over his eyes. “Is she your partner?”

We got to my car and I tipped my head. “Business partner, no… Oh! No.” My smile widened, finally realizing what he meant. “No, we are not romantically involved. But we’ve known each other since we were kids, so best friends and all that.” I laughed and shifted my bag from one shoulder to the other. “I’m not in a relationship. The move was a big one, and I wanted to make sure I was settled.” Did I have to say that? No. But I liked the way his eyes lit up when he heard I was available.

I took my keys out and began to unlock my door when I felt his fingers on my shoulder. I froze for a second, trying to figure out what was happening, but when I looked at him, he had a kind smile. “Your bag strap was twisted.”

“Ah, thank you.” I unlocked my doors, placing my bag on the floor in the backseat, and gave him a tight nod. “First, you asked me about my romantic partner, then touched me.” I laughed. “I wasn’t sure what the signals were.” My cheeks blushed. I could not believe I just said that. I flung the driver’s side door open and hit his shoulder in the process. “Oops. Sorry!” I scrunched my face up.

I was acting like an ass.

I had to get out of here.

Nick stepped back as I closed the door, and I buckled in with humiliation and when I put my key into the ignition, I could still feel his eyes on me. I hid my blushing cheeks from him and started my car.

It made a terrible noise but did not turn on.

“Crap,” I said. I turned the key and pumped the brakes. Still nothing but a growling coming from my hood. I lifted my foot off the gas and went to try again when Nick tapped on my window.

With a quick huff, I gave him a wary smile. I couldn’t even roll my windows down since the car wouldn’t start. “Need a hand?” he asked.

I opened the door a crack, and he backed away. “That would be great. Thank you.”

I got out of my car again and stood next to him, crossing my arms to cover up the fact that my nipples had hardened again. It was a direct result of his kindness.

“Sounds like your battery just needs to be charged,” he said and pointed over his shoulder. “I have jumper cables in my car andit’s right over there.” He reached over and squeezed my arm gently.

I stood straighter. I liked it when he touched me. I wondered if he was feeling something too?

I hoped not. I didn’t want to make Nick think I was coming across as unprofessional or swoony. Or maybe he was just one of those people who showed affection to everyone.

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