Page 11 of For the Promise

“Which is why the operations manager is here this morning to oversee this project.”

“The construction isn’t Kai’s responsibility. It’s mine.”

“It should be his. He’s in charge of logistics and supplies.”

Eli holds up a hand. “I’m not having this argument with you again. I’m handling the construction. We’ll be finished in a day.”

Because tomorrow Paisley arrives to set up theFive Fathomsbrewing facilities.

“I expect you to be nice to her.”

My brow furrows. “I’m not a mean person.”

He chuckles. “You weren’t exactly welcoming when she and her assistant were here last week.”

“You didn’t warn me they were coming. You told me they were here and rushed off to greet them. I don’t enjoy being surprised.”

He studies me for a moment before giving in. “You’re right. I should have kept you informed.”

Someone hollers his name and he rushes off. I contemplate the situation for a moment. I don’t want the brewery here. I don’t want people I don’t know running around the distillery. It’s why I don’t give tours.

But I’m not stupid. I’m well aware there’s no way I can change Eli’s mind. He’s determined to help Paisley even though she obviously hates him. Those two are on a collision course. They better not collide near any of my precious whiskey.

Since there’s nothing I can do here, I return to my office.

~~~

When I walk into the breakroom the next day, practically every surface is covered with food. I scowl.

This breakroom is not the one in the offices, which anyone at the distillery can use. It doesn’t have Baccarat crystal or a refrigerator full of the fancy water Eli prefers. This is supposed to be the breakroom for the people who are working in the distillery every day – the two distillery assistants, the cellar worker, the cleaning and maintenance person, and the packing and bottling team.

The door flies open behind me and the smell of cherries hits me before Blossom comes into view. Her blonde hair is piled up on top of her head but a few strands have escaped and areclinging to her forehead. I can’t help but wonder how her hair would feel if I sifted a hand through it.

The collar of her t-shirt falls off her shoulder, revealing a pink bra strap. She’s wearing a pair of shorts showcasing her long, tan legs. I bet those legs would feel fantastic wrapped around my waist while I pound into her.

I frown. I don’t wonder how soft a woman’s hair is. My cock doesn’t twitch at the sight of a woman’s long tan legs.

“What’s wrong, nerd boy?”

I scowl at her. “Nerd boy?”

She indicates my t-shirt with a flick of her hand. “If you don’t want to be called nerd boy, you probably shouldn’t wear a t-shirt declaring you’re a proud nerd.”

I glance down at my t-shirt. I’d forgotten I’d worn this one today. “Oh.”

She giggles and happiness lights up her face while her light brown eyes sparkle. Add in her high cheekbones and there’s no denying Blossom is beautiful.

“And?” She drums her fingers over the table. “Why are you scowling at the food? Do you believe workers shouldn’t be fed? Are you one of those weirdos who follows a longevity diet and sticks to 600 calories a day?” She grimaces. “No, thanks. I’d rather die early with the taste of chocolate on my lips.”

“I do not follow a longevity diet. And I have no problem with workers being fed.”

“Is it the food itself you have an issue with? Do you avoid cheese? I’m sorry to say this but I don’t think we can be friends if you don’t eat cheese. Cheese is nearly as heavenly as chocolate.”

“I eat cheese.”

She throws her arms in the air. “I give up! Why are you scowling at the food?”

I purse my lips. “I wasn’t scowling at the food.”

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