I had that kind of connection with Caroline, years ago. But I have no claim on her anymore. Though I keep fo
rgetting that detail whenever I’m around her; I can barely keep myself from flirting with her, touching her.
“Thanks for meeting with Caroline to take my shoes. Don’t back out. I do need them.”
“I’ll get them for you, you little schemer.”
“I love you too.”
I kiss her forehead, opening the car door for her. She wiggles her eyebrows as she slides into the driver seat.
“Have fun in LA.”
“Have fun picking up the shoes.”
Smiling, I shake my head as I close her door. So much for my sister keeping her promise.
***
Traffic in San Francisco is usually bad, but crossing the city at seven o’clock in the evening is a special kind of hell. I arrive at eight o’clock at the office, expecting to find the office empty, but Lena, our receptionist, is at the front desk.
“How did it go?” she asks.
“Nephew is perfectly healthy, and so is his mom. What are you still doing here?”
“The Tour Company of the Year award was delivered half an hour ago. Couldn’t leave before adding it to our Wall of Pride.”
Glancing at the wall in question, I immediately identify the newest addition. The award title is written in golden ink on a dark blue background, framed with a thin white rim. I’m not one to collect awards, but they motivate the employees big-time.
“The wall’s gonna collapse soon,” I remark with a grin.
“What a fantastic problem to have. Don’t spoil our fun. Even Justin likes it, and he’s the company grouch.”
“Make sure you don’t say that to his face.” Justin Hamel was my first employee, though mentor might be a better word. He knows this business inside out, but his harsh way of dealing with the other employees isn’t gaining him popularity points.
Lena snickers. “Of course not. How long will you be here? Do you need anything?”
“Just need to pick up the equipment for the group tomorrow. Go home.”
“You sure?”
“Yeah.”
“Okay, then I’m out of here.” She slings her bag over her shoulder, waving to me on her way out.
As I’m about to head to my office, the frame with the award shifts sideways, and I stop to straighten it. With a surge of pride, I have to admit, my team is right in hanging up the awards. It’s a nice reminder that hard work pays off.
My eldest siblings built an empire from the ground up—Bennett Enterprises is one of the largest jewelry producers. Joining the family company was always an option, but I knew it wasn’t for me. If I spend too much time behind an office desk, I become restless. I like being outdoors, which is why I set up an adventure center, and I’m out in the field with groups as much as possible. My family cheered me on when I announced I’d strike out on my own. I want to make them proud.
I’m on my way to the basement of the building where we keep the equipment when I receive a message.
Caroline: Hey! I can bring you Summer’s shoes on Monday if that’s okay?
Daniel: I’m out with a group on Monday, but I’ll be back in my office at six o’clock.
Caroline: Six works. Or I can just drop them with someone at your office.
Daniel: And risk Summer’s wrath? :-) She set us up, the least she’s expecting is a face-to-face meeting.