The papers crunch into a ball in my hand, as I try to calm the anger surging through me at this woman.
“And what would you consider asuitablebusiness, hmm?”
She studies the store, almost as if she is going to be the next renter of this space. “I think a craft store would fit in here nicely.”
“A craft store. How does that help support tourism?”
“It doesn’t need to support tourism. It can support the town.”
“And I don’t support the town by providing clothes?”
“Not the kind people should be wearing.”
This conversation is getting us nowhere. She makes it sound like people are gallivanting around town in just their underwear.
Anger courses through me. I hate how small-minded this woman is. I have been nothing short of an upstanding business owner. With the town owning half the buildings on Main Street, I go to every meeting, volunteer to be on committees I don’t want to be on—all in the name of supporting the town and my business.
“Fine. Then I will be sure to be at the next meeting.”
Mrs. Bush’s lips pull into a thin line, practically disappearing into her face. “We will see you there.”
There’s a pep to her step as she leaves the store. I look down at the outfit I’m wearing—a skinny-strapped leopard-print camisole with ripped black jeans. Maybe if I dressed more like her, acted more like her, she would deem me suitable to run this place.
But one thing is for sure.
I’m not backing down without a fight.
ChapterFive
SIMON
“Everyone has their assignments?”
I look around at my team of five that I brought over for the month to provide security for the Davies families. Two are new hires, but the rest are my most trusted men.
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. I’ll keep you posted of any schedule changes.” I check my watch. “They’ll be arriving any minute, so head to your posts. Keep your radios on at all times.”
We were given a suite in the main lodge to be on-site twenty-four seven. It’s one of the smaller rooms, but it will fit all of the equipment we need for added security.
As my eyes do one final sweep of feeds from the security cameras I set up, I can’t help but laugh when I get to the ones of the barn, remembering my first day here.
I can’t say I’ve ever been accused of being a paparazzo before. Although I wouldn’t mind another run-in with Gemma’s sister.
I knew who she was before she introduced herself. I ran background checks on everyone so I was aware of exactly who we would be dealing with. It’s standard protocol for any job I take.
I just never expected Layla to be as fiery as she is.
Grabbing my own radio, I head downstairs. The noise that greets me tells me the guests have arrived. With so many arriving at different times, a gourmet buffet of sorts was set up in the main restaurant before cocktails later tonight.
A group of children are munching on snacks on the couches while the adults are sipping drinks near the bar.
“Simon. How are you?” Charlotte calls me over, greeting me with a kiss on each cheek.
“Good. How was the flight over?”
“Harder with kids. Neither one of them likes to sit still.”
