"About damn time," Archer says with a smug grin.
Emmett hoots. Even Jameson looks mildly amused, which is saying a lot for his grumpy ass.
"No," I state firmly. The mythology of this town has everyone talking about the damn water and instalove. But that kind of stuff belongs in books. I am not going down as some star-struck, love-sick mountain man.
Even as I think it, my heart squeezes. Because deep down, I know that means I don't get her. Fuck.
My phone pings, and I grab it irritably, even though I'm grateful for the distraction.
Hayes
Did you get everything set up?
Oh, shit.
I'm leaving the farm now. I'll be home in about two hours, but I'm barely going to beat Sara there.
Double-shit.
"Hey, Jameson. I forgot to set up Hayes' anniversary present for Sara this morning. I have to go," I say, gathering my tools.
Jameson sighs. "Max, I need the electrical done in here and the annex space by tomorrow. Violet's friend is coming in, and she's staying here while we work."
"Really? In the annex? She knows we're still working on the building, right?" Archer asks, exchanging a look with Emmett.
"I've explained it to Violet and Brooks repeatedly, but they said she won't mind. She's going to be in charge of bridal experiences and wants to ‘become one with the place’ before she starts the job," Jameson says in disgust.
Jameson, Emmett, Hayes, and I have been friends since we were kids. We ended up in Duhring Park because our friend, Cole, fell in love here and we were in his wedding.
Jameson had his heart broken when his fiancée left him for his cousin three years ago. Cole's bachelor party wasn't too long after that, and I think Jameson saw a fresh start. He moved to Duhring Park and started DP Construction. The rest, as they say, is history.
We're growing so fast that we added Archer to the team, and we're looking for a few more to join soon. It's fantastic, and I'm happy for Jameson. But he’s thrown himself into work instead of dealing with his feelings. He certainly doesn't have much patience for people these days.
My phone pings again.
Will you be ready?
Hayes is bringing home a puppy, and I need to get the space set up. I can get it done, but I have to go now.
"Look, I'll come right back and work late tonight. And I'll come in early tomorrow morning. I can get the entire list done by tomorrow afternoon, and we can still make it to McGurdy's for a cold one." I grin at my friend.
Jameson sighs heavily. He's annoyed, but he knows I'll follow through. I'm a man of my word.
"Fine." He narrows his eyes at me. "But no Sugarplum tomorrow morning."
I consider crossing my fingers even as I nod in agreement. Maybe a sugar detox is what I need. "Thanks, bud."
I respond to Hayes' text with a thumbs up.
Headed over now. Plenty of time.
Thanks. You sure you don't want me to get you the sister?
"Fuck me. She's adorable," I mutter.
I’m the go-to dog watcher for Emmett when he needs one. I'll certainly help Hayes and Sara with the new pup if they need it, but something is holding me back from getting one myself.
"Who?" Archer peers over my shoulder. "Aww, is that Sara's present?"
