3. Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Sam

" A nd that's how I ended up paying for a Christmas Mixer."

My best friend, Brandy, looks at me funny from the computer screen. We FaceTime once a week since she moved to Miami to be with the love of her life. I miss her terribly, but they were meant to be together. Their story was a long time in coming, and I couldn't be happier for her.

"I don't understand."

"What don't you understand?"

"Why you're paying for everything."

"Didn't I mention the smile and the touching? There were dimples, too."

"Sam, that guy is a jerk. He's totally taking advantage of you. Tell me you can see that."

"I already said I would do it. I can't take it back."

I don't think I could stand the disappointment in the mayor's eyes if I went back on my word—even if that word was given under duress. But was it duress? He touched me. I don't think he's ever done that before. He smiled at me, too.

"Want me to go there and beat him up for you?" Brandy suggests.

"No, but thanks for offering. Worst part was that someone was there at the shop to witness the whole encounter."

"Who was it?"

"One of the Hoffer brothers. The handymen."

"Oh, they're hot. You should be asking one of them out for a date, not Mayor Douchebag."

"Don't call him that."

"Can you have the coffee shop ready by that date?"

"This close to it, I'll probably have to pay extra for someone to come in and add the booths. They got here two days ago. They are so cute, Brandy."

"How much is this event going to set you back?"

"Can't we talk about something else?"

I love my BFF, but she is like a dog with a bone when she doesn't like something or someone. Her crosshairs are on the mayor and I have to do a lot of maneuvering for her to switch to another topic. I'd rather just be straight with her.

"Promise me you'll talk to his assistant about some money for the decorations or, at least, the catering."

"That's a good idea. She's not as sneaky as he is. But maybe he blindsides her just like he does me."

"Tell me about the Hoffer boys. Do they go to the coffee shop often?"

"I guess? I haven't really noticed."

"I think we should make a plan."

"Brandy, not one of your schemes, please."

"Listen, I'm going to be there for two whole weeks. We can get shit done in that time. Put me to work as soon as I get there."

"What's Erik going to do?"

"His mom wants him to help her clean and organize the garage. He's going to be busy."

"Oh, you just want to get away from all the cleaning."

"I'll admit that's part of it, but I've really missed you, bestie. We need some quality time together."

"That's what's up, bestie."

We say our goodbyes, and I close my laptop. Today is going to be a long day. I've got to find someone to install the booths for me and do some other adjustments in the coffee shop. I get up and get dressed for work. Maybe I can drop off some coffee for the mayor and touch on the topic of funding for the Christmas Mixer.

Who am I kidding? I can't even say a word to him when he looks at me, much less when he smiles. This whole ordeal happened because he touched me on the shoulder. I cringe and get my stuff together to go to my shop. I get to work and start prepping for the flow of customers that will come in about one hour. My business is not the only coffee shop in Woodland Falls, but I pride myself because it has the most loyal customers in town.

Thirty minutes before opening, my server Amy arrives. Damn, I might have to hire one or two more people for the Mixer. When it's time to open, I flip over the sign and prepare for business.

The handyman is back with one of his brothers. They both smile at me and sit at one of the tables. When I approach to get their order, I notice that the one who was here when the whole Mixer debacle happened is frowning and seems angry. I guess I'll give them some more time to themselves. I need to get the nerve up to ask them about their services.

After a few minutes, Amy takes the initiative and goes to get their order. Honestly, I don't know what's wrong with me. Ever since I agreed to host that Mixer, I've been all over the place.

When their order is ready, I decide to take it to them myself. I go with my tray and stand before them.

"Hello there," I say, giving them my brightest smile.

"Hey, Sam." He knows my name?

I place their coffees in front of them and the pastries they've ordered. I look at the grumpy one who is always frowning and try to recall his name. Nothing comes to mind.

"This is my brother, Danny," he says.

"Hey, Sam. Ben has been nagging me to come for coffee here forever. He just raves about your shop."

"It's nice to meet you." I hesitate and look at Ben. "Um, when you're ready to go, let me know because I want to talk to you about something."

"Sure thing, Sam."

He gives me a big smile, and I swear it changes his whole demeanor. Now, that is an attractive man. No wonder I see women of all ages flirting with him all the time. I give him a smile back, drop a flier for the Mixer on their table, and return to helping Amy with the pastries. Would a man like that be able to help me with my flirting? Or even get me to a point where I can talk to a man without losing my shit?

It's worth a try—if I can get him alone to talk.