"I can't promise that it won't happen, but I'll start with inspections and make a plan to tackle the repairs. I'll keep you updated every step of the way."
"I appreciate that, because people are worried and stressed."
"You still want me to complete Angela's repairs as soon as I can?"
Eve's expression was determined. "Angela is the priority no matter what other people might tell you."
From her tone, I assumed there were several people giving her a hard time. "I'll work as quickly as possible."
"I'll handle the complaints from other shop owners. You just worry about the inspections and the timeline for fixing the plumbing."
"I can do that." That made me think that Eve was getting the brunt of the other owner's anxiety.
"How's Angela holding up this morning?" Eve asked.
"She likes the house, and she's working on setting up an online shop."
Eve's face softened. "Thanks for offering her a place to stay. I was worried she wasn't going to take you up on your offer. She doesn't like to accept help. She thinks she has to do everything herself."
"Yeah, I'm getting that," I said dryly.
"We'll both be working around the clock until this thing is resolved."
I had a feeling it was a good thing for my business. I was going to finally have to hire more crews and not on a subcontractor basis. If I was going to take on large scale projects, I needed one I could count on. One that worked directly for me.
"Please let me know if Angela needs anything. I have a feeling I'm going to be busy with the other business owners' concerns and holiday issues for the next week or two."
I didn't want to be the one to keep an eye on Angela because I needed to create space between us. Especially now that I'd met her daughter. I had no business getting closer to them.
I needed to focus on this project. Nothing could distract me. But I couldn't say no to my boss.
CHAPTER 5
HUDSON
Ineeded to start a list of businesses for inspections and figure out a schedule. I was almost to Angela's shop when I noticed a few people standing in front of her door.
Angela stood next to her daughter balancing a pizza box and a sub.
She was talking to Bill, the owner of the puzzle shop. I think someone had mentioned he tended to be cantankerous, but I couldn't remember why.
"If you have a problem with the way the inspections and repairs are being handled, you'll need to talk to Eve," Angela said firmly.
I approached, taking the carry-out containers from her hands. "What's going on?"
Bill frowned. "Her shop shouldn't be allowed to reopen. No one wants an underwear shop in town. It's not family friendly."
I couldn't believe he was attacking Angela on the sidewalk in front of her daughter.
Irritation made my chest tight, and I asked Angela, "Why don't you take Ayla inside, and I'll be in shortly?"
Angela nodded gratefully.
Once they were inside, I said, "If you have a problem, you need talk to Eve. Keep Angela and her daughter out of it."
"No one wants an illicit store in town."
From what I could see, Angela sold lingerie, panties, and bras. Some of it was cotton with gingerbread men and candy canes, and others were silk or lace. All were sexy, but I hadn't heard any complaints about her business around town. "It's hardly illicit."
