Page 63 of A Shore Fling
“That sounds amazing.”
I spend the next ten minutes jotting down things for Reed to do. To make it as easy as possible, I list them in order of importance.
“You’ve given me so much to work on and consider. It’s exciting to think about all we can offer by this time next year.”
“We didn’t discuss what you do in the off-season. Does this place stay open year round?”
“I’m planning for that, but I expect business will fall way off.”
“Are there any places to ski or snowboard nearby?”
“There’s Green Hill in the next town over. My brothers and I go there every winter to snowboard.”
“That’s perfect.”
He tilts his head. “How so?”
“What if you sell snowboarding and skiing gear during the late fall and winter months? Then you’d maintain your business year-round.”
His eyes come alive with excitement. “You’re a fucking genius.”
I wave my hand. “Not at all.”
“You absolutely are. Don’t even try to disagree. I feel like a dumbass for not already thinking of doing this.”
“You’re too close to the situation. It’s easier for someone with a set of fresh eyes to see what needs to be done.”
“Would you be willing to help me pick out some of the winter gear items? I think it would be wise to get a female opinion. Otherwise, everything I’m choosing will be black or navy blue.”
I wrinkle my nose. “I think it’s imperative for me to help you with that.”
He laughs. “I can’t thank you enough. What can I do to repay you?”
I shake my head. “I don’t need a single thing, and this was fun for me.”
He stands. “We'd better put my brother out of his misery.”
I slip from the stool and take in Travis’ grumpy countenance as he watches the two of us. “Why’s he look so miserable?” I ask.
“Because he doesn’t like me spending time with you.”
“No. That can’t be the reason.”
“I promise you it is. Watch this.” Reed steps forward, drawing me into his arms.
I catch Travis’ scowl just before he hurries around the counter and starts toward us.
“Is he coming over?”
“Mhmm.”
Reed releases me, and a grin spreads across his face. “Told you so.”
“Can we get out of here now?” Travis asks as he approaches.
I glance at him, noting the stern set of his mouth. “Yes, we can.”
“Thanks again, Nina. You’ve blown my mind with your ideas.”
