Fairy Tales and Cappuccinos (Everyday Love #1) - Taylor Rylan Page 0,14

in college but still for the same company. I can run the coffee bar. You should consider it.”

“First, it’s an expense I don’t have the funds for. Second, I hired you for helping in the store.”

“Yes, but that would be helping in the store. And a coffee counter would draw in customers. I didn’t see one anywhere near here yesterday when I was walking down the street. Getting customers in the door is the first step.”

Sawyer had a point. There were two coffee places in town, and they were on opposite ends, neither on this street. One was the next street over, and the other was on the south side of town.

“I don’t know,” I said.

“Just keep an open mind. And give me…” Sawyer glanced at his phone before repocketing it. “About twenty minutes to get back. Chris doesn’t live far. But I can work on logos as well as other suggestions in between customers. We can call it my lunch break,” Sawyer said.

I shook my head. This was a small town, and although technically we could close the store for an hour for lunch like some places did, I didn’t. I usually just ate at the counter because the lunch hour was a busy time for me as the locals were able to come out and grab a few things on their own break.

“Not necessary. But don’t rush, and be careful.”

“Will do,” Sawyer said before he smiled and then left the counter. He disappeared down the hallway that led to the office and the stairs that went up to my place. He was back moments later, his coat on. “I’ll be back in just a bit,” Sawyer said as he walked by. He was gone before I could say anything else. And of course I just stood there, staring at the man retreating instead of rushing over to open the door for him like I probably should have.

He was gone though, and there was nothing I could do except wait, so I took the time to look at the website Sawyer had recommended for the new window signage. I agreed, there were several areas that had plenty of room for improvement, the storefront being just one. But I’d not considered a vinyl sign. It made sense, though, as it would be more at eye level rather than the top of the front of the building, as were all of the signs down Main Street.

But even I had to admit that there were several businesses that you could tell what they were simply by the ground-level display. Adding a sign to the window, as well as a front display would go a long way. It wouldn’t cost much, and the display would only require a bit of my time in order to set it up and take it down weekly. I just needed an idea as to where to start.

My phone pinging surprised me, but when I pulled it out of my pocket and read the message, I had to grin at my cousin.

Ford: How’s the new guy?

Me: Not bad. He ran home real quick though. Do you think he and his friend are more than just friends?

Ford: Already? He’s only been there what? An hour?

I glanced at the time and shook my head even though Ford couldn’t see me.

Me: Close but not quite. He ran home to get his laptop for the programs he has on it. He’s going to help with logos and stuff.

It was the “and stuff” that I was curious to hear about. I knew I was taking complete advantage of Sawyer by utilizing his experience in public relations and marketing. I’d discovered that he had a minor in marketing and that only added to how perfect he was for his field. Too bad I was a small-town bookstore that only needed a clerk. The idea of hiring someone for public relations and/or marketing was beyond my expense account.

Ford: You’ll have to let me know how things go. And no. You said he said they were friends. If they were more, wouldn’t he say so?

Me: Okay. I’ll try to remember to let you know. Gotta go. I have a customer.

I’d been watching the door, waiting to get a glimpse of that strawberry blond hair. I needed to remind myself that he was officially an employee now, and that meant he was completely off-limits. Even if he was cute and adorable. Were men adorable? I wasn’t sure, but I didn’t really have time to think about that