A smile tugged at my lips. “I think I like that,” I confessed.
Des taught me something different in every conversation. In college, she’d majored in environmental science, but she was well read and knew something about everything from plant biology to marketing to sustainability. Since she started working for me, we increased our social media engagement, improved the energy efficiency in our properties, andreduced waste by implementing recycling and composting programs.
“Let’s use it in the next IG and TikTok campaign.”
She jotted a note. “You know I got you.”
I knew Des wanted to do more than work for me, but I selfishly hoped she’d stick around a little longer. I had to fight the urge to throw more money at her because I didn’t want to tempt her to stay if her heart was pulling her elsewhere. “And you don’t have to pay to stay here.”
Her eyes snapped to mine. “What?”
“Consider it a perk of your employment. And payback for giving your mother that edible.”
“Thanks.” She walked around the bar and gave me a hug. “My friends are going to be so excited.”
The front door opened behind me, and I turned in time to see Alaiya step inside. When she spotted us, she smiled. “Hey. Hope I didn’t get here too early. I know you two had a one-on-one.”
“Mom.” Des rushed over to her mother, giving her a hug. “Mr. Spencer is going to let us stay here next month.”
Laiya’s gaze locked on mine. “That’s good. I don’t have to disappear in my bedroom now.” She walked toward the table, dropped her bag on the sofa, and took a seat. “Thanks for saving me.”
I sipped my coffee. “Always.”
Clearing her throat, she announced, “Allow me to make your day, Spence.”
I gave her a sidelong glance. “What’s up?”
“The seller accepted your offer on the Pineview building.”
Des grinned. “That’s great. Isn’t that the one Taylar was eyeing for her event venue?”
I held up my hand, and Alaiya gave me a high-five.
“Yes,” I answered. “She’ll be happy to hear that.”
“I think it’s awesome you’re helping her with this,” Des mused.
“She’s putting up most of the capital. I just helped a little bit.”
“A lot,” Alaiya corrected. “But you rarely take the credit.”
I hunched a shoulder. “It’s not mine to take. It was a group effort, and this deal helps us all. A building for Taylar, an investment opportunity for me,” my eyes connected with hers again, “and a hefty commission for you.”
“He’s right, Mom,” Des agreed. “This is a win for AY Realty.”
“More money? No problem,” I teased, calling back to the number-one item on her checklist.
Alaiya averted her gaze, obviously catching the reference. “What’s this?” She grabbed an acai bowl, changing the topic. “Looks delicious.”
“Wait,” Des shouted.
Pulling the bowl away from Laiya, I warned, “That’s probably not a good idea.”
Laiya snatched it back. “I don’t like it when people tell me what to do.”
“I didn’t just meet you yesterday. I know you. Andthis,” I slid the bowl back to Des, “is not for you.”
“Mom, it has weed in it,” Des explained.
