“Shoot.” Autumn picked her weights back up and started doing a set of shoulder presses.
“Does this woman seem eager? I mean do you think she’ll be willing to listen to your ideas?”
Autumn paused between sets, considering the question.
“Yeah. I think Quinn seems very eager. The most eager.” Autumn had to chuckle at the reality of that statement.
“Then I say, give her a chance. You’re excited about the potential of this project. It’s written all over your face. Come up with some amazing mockups and see if this Quinn woman is willing to give you some creative freedom.”
Even as Piper said the words, Autumn knew the answer. Quinn would absolutely listen to her. Therein lied part of her fear. What if Quinn did everything she suggested, and the bar still wasn’t a success? Autumn swept the thoughts from her mind.
“You’re right. I am fundamentally excited about this project. There’s no harm in putting some mockups together and getting Quinn’s reaction to them.”
“Good. I have a feeling that this is going to be an amazing experience for you. And for your career.”
Autumn smiled to herself. Yes, there would be challenges. Then again, Autumn had never been the type of woman to run from a challenge. Designing a trendy and chic new beach bar for WaterColor was her dream project. Add to that the fact it would be a lesbian bar, and it was the kind of project that Autumn simply couldn’t say no to.
“Tell me about your life,” Autumn encouraged.
“There’s not much to tell. Things have been feeling a bit stagnant lately.”
“Stagnant in what area?”
“All of them.” Piper pursed her lips together and frowned.
“What do you mean?”
“I’m just always doing the same things. I’m still on dating apps having meaningless dates with casual people. My career feels like it lacks the fulfillment it once did.”
“Good thing you have amazing friends,” Autumn chuckled.
“Yes, that is an area where I’m very happy. I think I’m just searching for more.”
“I understand. I felt that way before I started my business here.”
“Was it easy to get started?”
“In some ways, yes. In other ways it was hard. Leaving things behind to start new somewhere else wasn’t easy. But I’m glad I made the move.”
“I don’t think a move is in my future. But I do think maybe it’s time to shake things up a bit.”
“You know what you need better than anyone else,” Autumn suggested.
“You say that, but I’m clueless. And that’s just for the career. Forget trying to figure out the love department.”
“The love department always feels difficult. I may just give up on love.”
“Oh, come on. You literally just met someone.”
“Who did I meet?”
“Seriously? Quinn. The cute and quirky bar owner. She’s frustratingly optimistic and completely your type.”
“She doesn’t count,” Autumn stated simply.
“What do you mean she doesn’t count?”
“She’s a client. You know I don’t mix business with pleasure.”
