“You’ll need a few estimates for the labor and supplies. Find reputable companies to put in bids and then fax them to me, letting me know which one you’re choosing.” Gary hands his card to Cami, and she tucks it into her purse.
“Thanks. I’ll do that.”
“The damage is extensive, and since the Fire Chief ruled this as arson, there’s no need to provide proof that it wasn’t sabotage from the owner.”
Cami bristles. “My Granny would never do that. This is a second home for both of us. The Butter Bliss is our legacy.”
Gary rushes to make amends. “Of course. I just have to explore all options before I submit the paperwork. There’s no worry here. I’m in agreement with you.”
Cami relaxes. “Good. I appreciate that.”
“Rex? Did you hear me?”
No, I didn’t. “I’m a bit distracted. What do you need?”
Hannah blinks. “I don’t need anything.” There’s the attitude I remember. “I just want to invite you to the bonfire we’re having this evening.” She cuts her gaze to Cami. “You can bring Camille with you if you want.”
There’s no fucking way Cami will want to go to a party where she’s sure to run into Hannah. I try to be polite since that’s how my mama raised me.
“I’ll let her know.”
Hannah rips her gaze away from Cami, but not before I see the hate that lingers. It’s unjustified. Camille never did a thing toHannah. She just hates her for some stupid reason I don’t care to explore. “But you’ll come, right? Even if she doesn’t?”
Hell no.
“Possibly.” It’s the best answer I can give.
Hannah reaches out, lightly tracing her fingers over my cut. I’m tempted to smack them away. Instead, I take a step back.
“I’ll see you tonight, Rex.”
I don’t answer her as she leaves, trying her best to get me to stare at her ass. But there’s no way that’s happening with Cami watching. I also don’t have any interest in what Hannah keeps offering. She’s not the woman I’ve been obsessed with for years, much longer than the three we’ve been apart.
There’s only one woman I want in my bed.
As Gary wraps up his meeting with Cami, I join them.
“I’m happy to give a quote for Coleman Lumber. I can fax it straight to you if you give me your card.”
He almost hesitates before reaching into his clipboard and handing one to me. “You’ve got the best reputation and prices in central Ohio. I doubt anyone will beat your offer.”
They won’t because I’ll ensure that I get the job by underquoting the bid. Cami will have to go with Coleman Lumber once she sees how much cheaper it is for Granny Jo. I’ll take the financial hit because I can handle it. I’ve got a considerable savings account thanks to the success of our company and the stock I’ve invested in. It’s no hardship to help.
“Let’s hope so,” I say, reaching out to shake his hand. “Good to meet you, Gary.” I’m being obvious without saying a word as I step closer to Cami and end the conversation.
There’s no reason for Gary to linger, and he knows it.
“You’ll hear from me as soon as you send in the quotes. Have a good afternoon.”
Once he’s gone, I turn to Cami. “You get everything you need?”
“I think so.” She puts her cell away and gives the room one last perusal. “There’s nothing to salvage. Might as well leave.”
Her voice catches, but she squares her shoulders back and walks toward the door.
I join her. “You hungry? The food vendors have really stepped up their game this year. We’ve got the best barbecue in the Midwest.” I’m not sure if she’s going to refuse, so I keep talking, hoping I’ll get her to agree. “I need to eat first, but I’m going to be checking in with all the shops and asking questions about the fire. You’ll probably want to be with me when I do.”
“Okay. Yeah. You’re right.”
