Page 63 of Autumn Kissed

“They’re so pretty,” I say. “We’ll make sure to give you a good chunk of space because I’m sure this activity will be a hit. I’ll get back to you about⁠—”

A soft tapping sounds on the glass outside, and I jump, looking outside. Archer’s smiling eyes greet me first, and I stare, stunned into silence.

Juliet

“A friend of yours?” Genevieve asks.

I’m still frozen. Archer leaves the view of the window, heading in the direction of the door to the shop.

“Um...” I say, trying to respond to Genevieve, but the door jingles as it opens, and Archer walks into the room.

He’s not wearing his hat today, his thick hair smooth and natural with just a slight wave to it. The light catches on the tips, causing it to appear golden, despite the usual dark brown shade.

“Afternoon, ladies,” he greets.

I blink, trying to pull out of my surprise. How many more times is this guy going to show up at the places I least expect him? And when am I going to learn to expect him?

“Hi,” Genevieve greets, “I’ll be right with you, Mr...”

“Kade,” he says with another tip of his head, as if he thinks his hat is still on. “Archer Kade, ma’am. Please, don’t let me interrupt.”

I shake my head. He doesn’t need to be here any longer than necessary. “It’s fine. I’ll wait.”

“No, I insist,” Archer says.

“I insist,” I say with a pointed look.

Genevieve looks back and forth between us with humor before I motion for her to help Archer, then she finally acquiesces.

“What can I do for you, Mr. Kade?”

“Archer, please. I just saw my good friend here and wanted to come say hi. And, of course, to tell you how great your window display looks.”

“Oh, thank you,” Genevieve says.

“I also have an odd request,” Archer begins. “I’m hosting a wedding at my stables in a few weeks, and I’ve had a bid from the bride for the venue to not smell like...” He cuts me an amused look. “Horse.”

Leave it to Landrie to deliver such a request. I got to meet with her the day after we’d postponed our lunch, and she spent the entire hour speed-talking about the wedding prep.

“Can you believe I’m getting married at Archer’s stables? Archer, of all people? It’s gonna be the best. You literally cannot miss it.”

She’d eventually managed to ask me about my own dating life, but she’d had her phone up when I told her I’d broken up with Blake, so I’m not sure if she heard me or not.

This is par for the course with Landrie, though. She’s a friend to have a good time with—and that’s about it.

“Quite the request,” Genevieve says with a little laugh.

“My thoughts exactly,” Archer continues. “Anyway, I was hoping you could help. Candles might work, but I’m thinking I might need something stronger.”

Genevieve rests elegant fingers on her chin. “I think you’re right. I’ve got reed diffusers they could put along the outside of the aisle. Potpourri could be given as wedding favors. Linen mists could even be sprayed on the chairs beforehand or any fabrics they’re draping.”

“Do you maybe have some samples I can take to the bride to calm her...nerves?” He casts me another amused grin.

“Of course. I’ve got some in the back. Just give me one minute.”

“Thank you, ma’am.”

She glances between me and Archer, then leaves the two of us alone.