The shop is full of noise since we’ve hired more people. I don’t know what magic Kai has worked, but we filled every position we needed. We have two people who rotate working the counter and another driver that works along with Xander. They draw straws for who is going to take the route for Dallas. It’s funny watching them. Some days they even do rock, paper, scissors.
I had reservations about Xander working here, but he fits in with the team really well. More than I thought he would. Even Kai grabs lunch with him if they are here at the same time. I don’t know why it matters if my brother can get along with him. It’s not like we’re dating or anything. The stolen glances when we think the other isn’t looking is pretty telling, though. Weeks have passed and we’re in our busiest season of the year.
“Kate,” Caroline calls from across the warehouse, “where are the chrysanthemums? We need to get this order together for my brother.”
“They aren’t back there?” I’m working on Tonya’s arrangement. It’s a mixture of daisies, roses, and a couple of wildflowers. I wanted to keep it simple for her since that’s the vibe she gives.
“If they were do you think I’d be asking?” She’s never this short with us and I wonder if David’s dad is giving them problems. He cleaned up his act for a while, but I know he still likes to throw a wrench in their lives when he can. I wish he’d just let her and Carlos be happy.
“I’ve got it, Kate,” Xander rushes by me, “the delivery came in before you got here. I didn’t have time to put them where they belong.”
“Thanks, Xan.” Woah, when I did start shortening his name. That’s something for close friends or relationships. “But hurry, we’ve got deliveries stacking up.”
“You got it.”
I don’t think he was fully prepared for the chaos Valentine’s Day brings. Everyone tries to outdo previous years bouquets. Honestly, it’s a little sad that most of these people only show how much they love each other one day a year.
I glance at the monitor Kai set up on the counter in front of the white board. Last minute orders are flying in. There’s no way we’re going to get all these out before the end of the day. Turning around, I make my way to the office.
Kai is sitting behind the desk updating the romance playlist he has playing through all the speakers. It’s a wide range, I’ll give him that. “You’re going to be mad at me.”
“Why?” He glances up from the screen.
“We need help with deliveries.”
“Can’t we just cut off taking orders?” It’s a viable option, but not one I’m keen on taking.
“Nope,” I shake my head, “you can take my car if you want to keep the miles off yours. Paula and Winston have the counter covered. But I need to help put together orders.”
“Fine.” He grumbles. After pressing a few buttons, he stands. “We really need to think about getting a third van and driver. Maybe not all the time, but definitely for the busy seasons.”
“You’re right,” I clap my hands together, “but that will have to wait until our next meeting. Right now, we need to get these orders out the door.”
“Have Xander and Robert already chosen their routes?” He knows about the way they choose.
“Yes. Xander has all the deliveries in Asheville, and Robert has Dallas. I need you to hit up the western cities.”
“Okay.” He glances over at me as he walks out of the office. “But I shut down online orders. If people want to wait until the last minute they can come into the shop.”
Seriously, after I just told him no. I don’t argue, though. He’s the office manager and knows what he’s doing. I want to get them out of here as soon as possible so they have time to spend this day full of love with their respective people.
“Just get going.”
I follow him into the warehouse and Xander is waiting by the door. “I think Caroline is putting the last touches on her niece’s flowers. As soon as those are done, I should be good to go.”
“Do you have everything loaded?”
“Yep” he nods and gestures to the door, “both vans are ready to go. While Caroline is finishing up, I’ll help Kai load whatever car he’s taking.”
“How did you know he was doing deliveries?”
“His grumpy expression was a good indicator.”
“What guy your age describes someone as having a grumpy expression?”
“Um, I do,” he grins before opening the door, “it’s better than saying he looks bitchy.”
It may be better, but I guess both descriptors are accurate. “Okay, y’all.” Emily, Sam, and Caroline turn around. “It’s getting busy out there. We need to get some premade bouquets together quickly.”
