Page 18 of Working For Her Sweet Treats
“You can?”
“A three-tier display. Reclaimed wood with dark metal supports. I can make it in sections so you can transport it and use it again.”
The image forms immediately: muffins arranged at different heights, handwritten flavor cards tucked between the trays, cinnamon rolls displayed across the top. It would be perfect.
“How long would that take?”
“I can bring it here in two days.”
“Two days?”
“I have reclaimed boards at the shop. One of my guys can help me carry it over.”
I look at him, trying to determine whether he is exaggerating. His expression says he is discussing an ordinary piece of work.
“What would you charge?”
“Nothing.”
“No.”
“Ava …”
“I will not let you build something for my business without paying you.”
“I already have the wood.”
“There will be other materials.”
“A few.”
“I insist on paying for them.”
Jake studies me for a moment, then nods. “You can cover the materials.”
“And your labor.”
“No.”
“Jake.”
“If you insist on paying for the labor, I’ll charge you in muffins.”
“That is not how businesses operate.”
“It’s how this one will.”
I should argue. Instead, relief and excitement swell inside me until I cannot prevent another smile.
“You can really have it here in two days?”
“I said I could.”
“That would solve everything.”
“Not everything.” His gaze shifts toward the front door.
I point at him. “Do not ruin this moment by mentioning the hinge.”
