“Katie suits me more. I’d work anywhere in the world if it made her happy.”
He didn’t doubt Peter’s devotion. When he was with Katie, it was as if the rest of the world didn’t exist.
David thought about Andrea and her dream to open a café. He’d seen how committed she was to making her business idea a success. She wanted to create a better future for herself and her children. It reminded him of when he’d started working with Peter. He’d wanted to be part of a team that made it easier for people to do everyday things. The only difference between him and Andrea was that she had two children to think about.
“Do you remember me talking about Andrea Smith? The woman who’s starting her own café.”
Peter nodded. “I know Andrea. She’s Katie’s friend and works with Shelley and Pastor John in the church.”
“I offered to be her business partner. She needs some expensive appliances and can’t get more money from the bank.”
“Is this your way of telling me you’re resigning?”
David smiled. “Don’t look so worried. I asked Andrea if she wants me to be her silent partner.”
“That’s good because I’m having a hard time imagining you in an apron.”
“Don’t let my suit fool you. I make a great spaghetti bolognese.”
Peter laughed. “And banana cake. Your mom’s recipe was such a hit it’s made it onto the menu at The Lakeside Inn. So, apart from providing some capital, what else will your silent partnership involve?”
“I offered to keep an eye on the café’s cash flow and look at ways it can be more profitable.”
“Does Andrea want a silent partner?”
“She sounded interested. I’m waiting to see what she thinks of the draft contract I sent her.”
“You could talk to her in person when you’re working from Sapphire Bay.”
David was confused. “I thought most of my work there was finished.”
“It was, but there’s been a change of plans. The board of directors want you to make sure the redevelopment runs smoothly.”
“I’m not a project manager.”
“You don’t need to be. All they want is an update each month to make sure the budget and construction targets are met. Think of it as being the middle-man between the project manager and the board. You’ll only need to be in Sapphire Bay for a couple of days each month.”
Instead of thinking about the impact that would have on his other work, David focused on what it would mean for Andrea. “You don’t mind if I use some of my time to check on the café?”
“As long as you write the reports for the board, that’s fine. The board trusts you and so do I. If Andrea wants you as her silent partner, it could work out for everyone.”
David hoped so, but he wouldn’t count on it. He glanced at the clock on the wall. “Don’t you have a wedding suit fitting booked for six o’clock?”
Peter checked the time and frowned. “How did I forget?”
“You have a lot on your mind.”
“And it isn’t getting any better. Are you doing anything tonight?”
“Apart from eating pizza in front of the TV, no.”
“Do you want to come with me? It could be interesting.”
David grinned. “Is your brother still insisting on wearing a top hat?”
“He thinks it makes him look distinguished. I just wish he’d leave it until he gets married.”
He knew how stubborn Peter’s brother could be. “I’ll go, but I’ll leave the persuading to you. Jarred’s more stubborn than you are.”
