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My eyes actually tear up, so I blink hard and smile. “Thanks, Michel. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m really glad to be home.”
He nods. “So am I.”
ChapterFour
MICHEL
“Um, so, about rent…”
“I won’t hear of it.” I shake my head. “The place is paid in full. I will not accept money from you.”
“I can’t just live here rent free.”
“Yes, you can. If it helps, I’m so happy. This place is obviously too large for one person. Having someone else here, a friend, is perfect. I won’t discuss it any further.”
Eli nods, his brow creased.
“Do you have plans for work or do you just need time right now?”
Eli shrugs. “I don’t know yet. I came here because I didn’t know where else to go. When I quit my job, I lost my apartment and car. Everything I own is packed in the trunk and backseat of a beater car I bought with cash.”
“Well, when you’re ready, I’m sure I could find something for you. I’m still working on filling many positions.”
“I don’t know if I want to be in sales.”
“That’s fair. Think about it. I have everything from manual labor to office work.”
“But you have sales jobs?”
“I will as more properties open. One thing I really need is help scouting potential businesses to move to Neubrook. The other thing I want is to do something to get more people within this community to open up local businesses. I haven’t had time.”
“Hmm.” Eli taps his fingers on the table. “I might be good at that.”
“I think you would, but again, no rush.” My phone buzzes again, annoying me. I’m with Eli Julius, the man of my dreams who just told me he dates men. Could the universe possibly be more generous? I answer in my typically cold voice.
“Michel.”
“Hi, Michel, it’s Crystal. So sorry to bother you but I wanted you to know that the mayor’s office called to tell you that Landon Facilities filed for bankruptcy protection today, and there’s talk of layoffs.”
I find myself smiling. “Ah, worthy of the interruption. So he is failing.”
“Seems to be the case. Mayor George would like your thoughts when you have time.”
“Thank you. I’ll stop by on my way back.” After ending the call, I return my gaze to Eli to find him studying me. I couldn’t possibly be more different from the boy he remembers.
I might have a chance with him, but I would have to come out too, so to speak. Could he accept what I had to do to become the man I am today? Would he join me?
“Good news?” he asks.
“Something like that. Garrett filed for bankruptcy protection today, which means I may be able to swoop in and save the day.”
“Nice.”
“Would you like to walk back with me? You could get your car and settle in a bit. Then if you’re up for it, I’d like to have dinner tonight to catch up more.”
“That sounds great. I gotta go see my folks before they hear it through the grapevine.”
“Good call.”
