Page 52 of Embracing James

“I wanted to get a better feel for the salon and speak with you about which students would be good fits for working here. I see Casey’s thriving. Adam and Doug have asked to be placed here. They’re both up-and-coming stylists. They’re eager to learn the business and could be perfect for booking appointments or clean-up.”

“I’d like to give them a try.” He nodded. “Casey is working out well, you’re right. I hope when she graduates, we’ll have someone just as capable to step into her role.”

“You will.” She patted him on the arm. “I’m satisfied with what I’ve seen and I’m thrilled to have the cosmetology school partner with your salon. We will be listing your business in our directory for students and on our information for parents. I’m sure they’d like to know their students are heading to satisfactory places to gain insight.”

“I’m sure.” He couldn’t wait to tell Paul the connection to the JVS would be longer-term.

“By the way, what made you want to set up a salon in the old theater?” she asked. “I love the atmosphere, but I’d never have expected this to be a salon.”

“It was available, it was cheap and they sort of had the set-up. All I had to do was install the various stations.” He hooked his fingers in his pockets. “That and I didn’t fiddle with the main room. The seats were removed because they weren’t in great shape, but the building’s owner rents the screening room out for large parties. It works out, even if it’s not still a theater.”

“At least we didn’t lose the building and history for Norville.” She nodded. “Thank you and if you would send me your logo, website information and anything else you’d like me to include in our advertising, that would be great.”

“I will. I’ll have Casey get on it today.” He walked with her to the door. “Thank you.”

“No, thank you. This is an opportunity our students wouldn’t always get.” She shook hands with him. “We appreciate it.”

“Likewise.” He waved as she left. At least the meeting had gone well.

James returned to his station and finished cleaning up, then checked the time for his next appointment.

Paul strode into the salon and tapped James’ shoulder as he passed. “I can’t stay.”

“What’s wrong?” James followed him to the office. “What happened?”

“Nothing concerning us or Doob. Doob was still happy and hanging out at the house. He discovered he could sleep on the bed and was stretched out there. Gave me heart failure thinking he’d somehow gotten loose, then I found him.”

“Ah.” James pushed the door mostly shut. “Then what’s wrong?”

“One of my apartment buildings in Shaker is right where a water line burst and the tenants are freaking out that they have no water. I can’t fix the pipe. The city is working on that. But I’m coordinating a shipment of bottled water to be sent there. I’d have my people do it, but I’m trying to expedite the situation.”

“You’re a good man.”The best, really.

“I have to go so I can handle it.” Paul placed the bag on the desk. “Sorry.”

“It’s work. You have to do it and I don’t mind.” James embraced him. “Thanks for being here and helping me. I don’t know how I would’ve handled that without you.”

“That’s what being a team is all about. I’m on your side.” Paul kissed him. “I need to go. See you at home?”

“You will.”Home. Damn, that’s a sweet thought.

Paul nodded to the side door. “I’m heading out that way. Need anything or want something special for dinner?”

“I’m in your hands and I’m good.” He’d been spoiled with Paul and he wanted everything to stay this way.

“I’ll see you.” Paul kissed him. “Love you.”

Fuck.“See you.” Why couldn’t he say it? He watched Paul leave, then hurriedly ate his lunch before heading back out for his afternoon appointments.

Five hours later, he finished his last cut and style. Casey locked the front doors and dowsed the lights in the foyer. Ky had gone home an hour before and Lance was in the midst of cleaning his area. James completed the appointment, then tidied his area while the woman paid and left. Once the customers were gone, James printed and saved the information for that day’s sales. Casey left first, then James switched on the security lights. Lance finished up and tossed his towels in the bin. He helped carry the bin to the office, then clocked out

James collected his things, the receipts and the bin of towels, then carried the lot to his car in two trips. He locked the building up the rest of the way, then left the salon. He drove right to Paul’s condo. His heart, his love and his dog were there.

He had everything he wanted with Paul.

He just hoped he could keep his eyes open long enough to enjoy their time together tonight. He hadn’t expected to find love with Paul, but damn, he was lucky.

Chapter Thirteen

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