“There shouldn’t be any further problems, but next time, Claire,” said Mason, getting to his feet. “Call me direct.” He handed her a thick white business card with embossed lettering that screamed money. “Who knows what kind of finder’s fee he’s charging.”
“Nice,” said Luke, shaking his head.
“Good luck with the new baby, Mr. Ramirez.”
“Thank you,” said Mike.
Mason gave Claire’s hand a squeeze, before hurrying out the door.
“Are you okay?” asked Claire.
“Yes,” said Mike with a nod. “I was worried, but Mr. Jeffries was great.” He turned to face Luke. “Thank you for sending him. I don’t know how I’ll pay you back, but I will.”
“No, you won’t,” said Luke. “I’m happy to do it. Put your money towards that baby you have coming.”
Claire reached under the table to catch Luke’s hand, grateful for the way he’d tried to put Mike at ease.
“Go ahead and take the rest of the day off,” she said. “I’ll see you on the job tomorrow morning.”
“Thanks, boss,” said Mike, sliding out of the booth. “And thanks again, Mr. Masters.”
“Call me Luke,” he said and Mike nodded, but he didn’t repeat Luke’s name, and Claire doubted he ever would.
“You said on the job. What job?” asked Luke when they were alone again.
“I’ve got my crew working on the flip while the Ashton Court job is shut down.”
Luke arched an eyebrow and Claire held up a hand to stop him from saying anything. She could only imagine what he was thinking after she’s massacred him for wasted money on added labor costs.
“Don’t say it. I know, but I couldn’t lay them off. They’ve got families to support. The bad news is, I’ll be lucky to break even on the Chestnut Street job. The good news is, I won’t have to work this weekend. I’m making lemonade,” she said with a rueful smile.
“I see that,” he said, brushing a kiss across her knuckles. “Now about those donuts.”
