The Magnolia Sisters (Magnolia Sisters #1) - Michelle Major Page 0,61
it. Meredith wanted nothing to do with Niall’s legacy and Carrie had already given up so much for her father.
It would be easier for all of them to sell. Why not unburden themselves of the complicated history they hadn’t chosen to dictate their futures?
She forced a smile as she approached the table where the Realtor waited for her. Jacob Martin stood and held out a hand. “You must be Avery. It’s great to meet you. I’m excited about the opportunity to help you.”
“Me, too,” she answered even though her stomach twisted. “I’m going to order a coffee.”
“I’ve got a double espresso.” Jacob held up his cup. “Need lots of energy for this project.”
“Right. I’ll be back in a minute.” She turned for the counter, pressing a hand to her cheek.
Several people greeted her as she made her way to the register. They seemed genuinely friendly, which remained a revelation.
“Dirty chai?” the high schooler behind the counter asked. “With a shot of vanilla?”
“You remember my order?”
The freckled redhead grinned. “You’re kind of famous around here and you’ve got the best clothes. It makes you memorable.”
Avery glanced down at her simple drop-waist denim dress. It had always been a favorite of hers, although there was nothing notable about it. She’d never been described as memorable. Her superpower was blending in, at least in her former life. In Magnolia, she was unique, and not just because of her connection to the famous Niall Reed.
“Thank you for that,” she said, offering the barista a genuine smile. “I’d love a slice of banana bread along with it.”
“You bet.” The girl rang her up. “Can I ask if there are any special websites where you shop? I mean, I know it’s probably super exclusive and expensive stuff, but...”
“Let me think about that.” Most of her clothes came from high-end stores, but she figured she could find some places that sold more affordable styles and make recommendations. It was too bad Magnolia didn’t have any cute clothing stores.
She paid, and the girl handed her a small brown bag with her bread and she moved to the end of the counter to wait for her drink. As she did, she studied the bakery’s charming interior. The space was painted a sunny yellow with white trim around the windows and black café tables and shelves lining the far wall.
A shop like this—with the quality of products and personal service—would have been standing room only in her old neighborhood. She truly didn’t understand Magnolia’s dependence on her father. This place was special and not just because of Niall.
Downtown exuded a kind of picture-postcard charm. In addition to the dance school, hardware store and bookshop housed in the buildings she now owned, the other side of the street boasted a florist and an Italian restaurant and deli, complete with an awning-covered patio out front. Last weekend’s festival seemed to bring crowds into town. If they could capitalize on that, then maybe the economy could be reinvigorated.
She shook her head as she carried her tea and food to the table. Magnolia wasn’t hers to fix.
“Are your sisters joining us?” Jacob asked as she sat across from him. He looked to be about ten years older than her with dark hair slicked back from his round face. He wore a dark suit and sported a gold pinky ring, making him look more out of place than she felt. His office was in a neighboring town, and she’d chosen him precisely because he had no ties to Magnolia.
Avery glanced at the door once more. “Not today.” She plastered on a reassuring smile. “You and I will come up with a plan, and I’ll coordinate with them.”
He passed three folders toward her, frowning. “It would be easier if all three of you are in agreement with how to handle the properties.”
“Understood.” She traced a finger over his logo splashed in bold letters on the front of the folder. “Tell me about our prospects and how quickly you can make it happen.”
* * *
“SOMEONE WOKE UP on the wrong side of the fire pole again today.”