Read Online Wildflower Wedding by Luann McLane - Free Book Online Page B

She’s had to step in for Savannah once in a while. If you could use a little part-time help, Joy would do a bang-up job. I know she’s too prideful to ask, but if we come in and help out would you consider offering her a small job? It’s not even about the money—she’s set with retirement—but I think just being needed would do her a world of good.”
    â€œMiss Patty, I really can’t afford to pay much until business picks up.”
    â€œShe wouldn’t need much. Just some pocket change. You know, for lunch and a martini at Sully’s now and then. Shew, we had a couple the other day and we were walking sideways too. Clint, that handsome son of Sully’s, had to drive us home and all but carried Joy into her house.” Miss Patty shook her head. “Poor Joy got the wrong impression and tried to kiss him! Can you imagine her thinking she was going to get lucky with that young hunk of man-cake?”
    Reese’s eyes widened as if picturing this happening.
    â€œThank goodness she doesn’t remember,” Miss Patty added. “Being that she’s already down in the dumps and all. But will you consider giving her a little work now and then?”
    â€œSure, Miss Patty, I’ll consider it. In truth I could use the extra help.”
    Miss Patty smiled. “You are such a sweetheart. We’ll come by later, if that’s okay?”
    â€œI’ll provide some pizza,” Reese offered. “And a sampling of my desserts.”
    â€œI won’t even touch that line.” Miss Patty winked at Gabby. “But listen, I really want to have some of your pizza at the dance. I’m thinking about ten or so, but we insist upon paying. The food is part of the budget.”
    â€œJust give me a call.”
    â€œCount on it.” Miss Patty gave them a wave and then headed out the door.
    â€œWell, she sure is a character,” Reese commented. “I’m thinking this party is going to be fun.”
    â€œLike I said, beware of the punch.”
    â€œDoes she always try to set you up on dates?”
    â€œOnce in a while. Now that Savannah is engaged, they seem to have set their matchmaking sights on me.”
    â€œSavannah?”
    â€œThe social director at Whisper’s Edge. I’ll be doing the flowers for her wedding. Miss Patty is one of the bridesmaids.”
    Reese chuckled, but he didn’t seem to like the matchmaking idea. “Hey, by the way, I want to let you know that I can make some deliveries for you.”
    â€œYou’re already busy. I can’t ask you to do that.”
    â€œYou didn’t.” Reese gave her shoulder a squeeze. “I offered.”
    Gabby nodded and felt a warm rush of emotion. She and her mother had spent so many years sticking together as a team. Having witnessed her mom getting hurt by seemingly well-meaning men had Gabby treading cautiously. This business meant the world to her—she’d invested everything in it, and she couldn’t trust it to just anyone.
    Reese must have sensed her sudden withdrawal. “It’s just an offer, Gabby. Keep it in mind and don’t hesitate to ask for help. I know firsthand how difficult it is for an established business to stay afloat. Starting a new one is even harder. Don’t be afraid to ask for a hand.”
    â€œI’m not afraid.”
    â€œYes, I think you are. But I know that where we come from, trust has to be earned.” His dark eyes captured hers. “I plan on earning it from you.” He walked closer, leaned down, and kissed her on the cheek. “Let me know what your lady friends want on their pizza, okay?”
    Gabby nodded and watched Reese walk out the door. Closing her eyes, she swallowed the moisture gathering in her throat. She knew that if she didn’t want to spend her days—and nights—alone, she had to let down her guard and open her heart.
    She only hoped she could dig deep for the