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“That’s sucks, El. You must feel awful.”
“I haven’t told Cole. I can’t bring myself to.”
“How are things with him?”
“Somehow even more confusing than the interview situation.”
Lily grimaced. “Did you catch feelings?”
“I don’t even know. Feels like I’m riding some horrific rollercoaster I can’t get off. Maybe I have. But he hasn’t. He can’t wait for me to leave town. Only problem is, if I don’t get into the pastry school, where am I meant to go?”
Another hug. It felt good, but I knew that the moment the hug ended, all my worries would come rushing back.
Another knock at the door. This time, it was Jenna.
Lily squeezed my arms and said goodbye. “We’ll catch up more later, okay?”
“Right.”
“Sorry things are hard.”
Lily left for her store, and Jenna stepped in, looking as well-groomed as always.
"Sorry that I’m a little early—I actually have some exciting news for you.”
"Really? What is it?"
"Believe it or not, we've already had an offer to buy the place," she revealed, grinning widely.
"Before it's even on the market?" My heart pounded.
"Oh, yes. We speak to select clients about upcoming properties now and then. There's a company that's started showing an interest in Bluehaven Beach lately. They've offered ten percent over the asking price."
"Ten percent? So—"
"$330,000."
My jaw dropped to the floor. This offer was unbelievable—more than I ever thought possible. Not only could I attend pastry school, but I might also afford to put down a deposit on a New York flat. No more renting! It was all I’d ever wanted.
"So? Who is it?" I asked.
Jenna hesitated, her smile faltering slightly. "That's the complicated news. It's 7-Eleven."
My stomach churned. 7-Eleven wasn't just a local chain—it was as big as they came. The thought of this corporate giant invading our quaint little town made my heart ache.
Jenna must have picked up on the fact that I was less than thrilled. "Think hard about it, okay? It's way above the market rate.” She paused. “They also said if the property goes to market, they'll withdraw the offer."
My head spun. "Thanks for letting me know, Jenna," I said quietly, my mouth dry, barely able to talk. I reached out instinctively for the spot where the bar used to be, as though grasping for support.
I chewed my lip as I thought about Dad. My father had always championed the little guy, believing in community and supporting local businesses. If he’d known that his beloved bar would have ended up as a 7-Eleven, well, I’m not sure he’d have jumped at the idea.
And as for Cole . . . his love for this town was undeniable. He basically was the town. Of course, he hadn't balked at the idea of a local chain taking over the place. Or someone turning it into a residential unit. But this was a very different proposition.
"Tell 7-Eleven I'm considering their offer, but I need time to think it over."
Jenna searched my face for doubt. "Are you sure? You want me to hold off listing it for now?"
"Please, Jenna. I just need a little time. This isn't an easy decision."
