Page 10 of Never and Always
My chest hitched. The renderings were beautiful. The sparkling pool was covered by an arched roof of glass. I already knew guests would love it.
“That’s going to be very popular,” Everett said.
Ro nodded. “Tessa is pretty excited. And Piper, I know you said the area where we’re squeezing in the spa is pretty tight. This way, we can expand the spa area while the pool is being constructed.”
“I smell a bribe,” I said tartly.
Ro smiled. “Yes, because this is going to be more work for you.”
I crossed my legs. My brain was already fast at work trying to fit this into the schedule. “I do have a demanding boss.”
“He pays you well.”
A thought occurred to me. “Why is Everett here?”
“Because the pool requires constant maintenance and care. I want his input on the design of the pool pump and heat system.” Ro glanced between us. “This is now a joint project between the two of you.”
My stomach soured. “What?”
“I want you two to work together on this. Go over the design, talk to the pool contractor that I have on standby.”
“When will construction start?” I felt a fluttery nervous feeling in my chest.
“As soon as we approve the designs. The contractor, Rich, had a job fall through and has a team ready to go.” Ro shrugged a shoulder. “And luckily, I can pay a hefty bonus.”
“Ro, it’s winter.” I pointed to the window. “There’s snow and it’s not above zero out there.”
He smiled. “Rich is based in the mountains and is used to winter work. He’s going to put up construction tenting.”
I blinked. “What?”
“They put a large frame over the construction site and cover it in heavy-duty canvas,” Everett said. “Adds to the costs, but means you can work through any weather. They usually have lights and heating in there too.”
“Rich said if we start now, we can have the pool operational for summer.” Ro leaned forward. “The contractor won’t be on standby forever, so I need you both to make this a priority.”
Great, just great.
“You can add the extra space to the new day spa.” Ro’s lips quirked. “And you must have thoughts about the pool.”
I huffed and crossed my arms. “We both know that pool will be amazing and guests will love it.” I could already see pictures of it all over social media.
“Good. So you and Everett look at the plans.”
Everett cleared his throat. “I guess we’d better get started. Come on, big city. Let’s go take a look at the site.”
Chapter 4
Everett
“I’m not going outside in this snow, Murray.” Piper set her hands on her hips.
Damn her for filling that skirt out the way she did. Today, it was dark gray and hugged every curve. Her blonde hair was up in a complicated twist.
“If you try to walk outside in those shoes, you’d break your neck.”
Her blue eyes narrowed. They were a beautiful shade of blue that reminded me of the columbines that flowered in the summer. Shame they were currently shooting daggers at me.
“Or you’ll freeze to death.” I grabbed her hand. “I won’t make you go outside. I know a place.”
