Chapter 1
Brian
As if I didn’t already have a lot on my mind today. I have to spend the majority of my time listening to Andrew complain about his business and all the errands he has to run. I get it, he’s, my friend and we are in this business together, but still, you would think he could see that I am preoccupied right now. I mean, the door to my office was shut, and I haven’t answered my phone all morning. I understand we need to vent sometimes, but I dont have the time for this right now.
I sigh, as I listen to Andrew talk about the things he has to do. I stop paying attention when he mentions the words ‘flower shop.’ That is the absolute last place I want to be right now. “Fine, let’s go. ” I complain and grab my coat. I figure it’s easier to let andrew talk, then maybe he’ll get it all out of his system and I can concentrate on my problems. As we step outside, I am instantly reminded of where we are. I’m starting to dislike it here. I miss the hustle of the big city. I don’t know why Andrew decided to move our business here from the silicon valley.
There is no market in Bloom Idaho for a tech company. We were doing better business back in California. “So anyway….” Andrew continues talking as we walk. I look at him and feign interest in the conversation. “Not only do i need to get flowers for mom’s birthday”, he explains “I also need some for an employee who is back from maternity leave and needs a place to pump.” He admits, sounding a little ashamed. That gets my interest a little. There had been news going around the office that Andrew flaked out on getting a pumping room for her until now that she’s back. Apparently him and the HR MANAGER got into a big argument about it. “Even though I have to send her flowers as an apology, I still blame the HR manager for not reminding me about her needs earlier.” He complains.
I try not to laugh at him as we continue walking. His story has lightened my mood a little. Andrew drones on about the business, but I’m not in the mood to hear it. Being in this small town is kind of depressing. I’m a man that’s used to the big city life and all the distractions that it offers. Especially those of a kinky sexual type. Whenever I had a long day at work, or needed to let off some steam, I would always go to an exclusive club for billionaires where you could buy dates or sex with beautiful women. I would always buy a dominant/submissive relationship and be in them for a while until I got bored and moved onto the next one. It was an easy way for me to have my fun without any strings being attached. Emotionless, and no one gets hurt. I’ve preferred to have them that way ever since back in high school when the girl I liked dumped him for his friend.
I was devastated and vowed that I would never allow myself to feel that pain again. That’s why I don’t do traditional relationships. I’m growing restless in this small town. I miss the club. I’ve had an idea in my mind the past few weeks. I would like to start doing auctions like that here in Bloom, but I’m not sure how to get it started. I wonder if I should ask andrew. He’s always been the brains when it comes to the business and legal stuff. I wonder how he’d react to it? Maybe I’ll talk to him about it.
He’s busy talking about the business, and how great the tax incentives are for it in this small town. He has a lot of Hope’s and ambitions for himself. I’m sure he will turn it into a big success, I just wish I didn’t feel like we were stuck in the middle of nowhere. “Yeah, it really was a great decision to move out here. I think a lot is going to happen to the company this year, I mean a lot of great things.” I encourage him. I’m trying to soften him up, for when I tell him about my auction idea later. “Yeah, I feel the same way.” Andrew replies with a smile.
“I still can’t believe the nerve of that HR guy. Arguing with you like that.” I shake my head, acting as if I’m on his side. Andrew shrugs, “It will be alright I guess. He just needs to learn his place.” He replies. “Yeah, but at least you had the guts to tell him off a little. ” I laugh. We slow our pace as we near the flower shop. Andrew laughs. “You sound like you want something? What’s with all the compliments?” He asks, good naturedly. “Just trying to be a good friend.” I Reply with a shrug. I’m not ready to tell him about my idea yet. I want to do a little research on my own first and present him with something he won’t be able to refuse. He gives me a doubtful look, as we both walk into the flower shop.