Total pages in book: 79
Estimated words: 78054 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 390(@200wpm)___ 312(@250wpm)___ 260(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 78054 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 390(@200wpm)___ 312(@250wpm)___ 260(@300wpm)
“Okay,” I replied.
He winked. “Okay.”
I stared up at the tall building across the street. It felt strange to be in the big city again. I glanced around at the thousands of people hurrying toward the buildings, rushing for the subway, grabbing something in one of the many restaurants.
Were there always this many people?
And when did it get so loud?
I racked my brain. I lived here for years, and the noise never bothered me. Neither did the crowds of people.
What had changed?
I shook my head and headed across the street. I was right on time. Brett had made sure I was at the bus stop early and that I had gotten on board with no issue. He had sent me two texts checking on me. I had dressed with care this morning, and he had whistled when I came out of the bedroom. I wore my favorite dress, a mid-calf wrap-around in midnight blue. Paired with low heels, it was stylish, and I always felt pretty in it. I added a jacket and carried my tablet in a messenger bag. It was loaded with my photos that I had arranged by subject and date. Anything Mr. Holmes asked to see, I could find quickly.
I was ready.
I straightened my shoulders and walked in the door.
Here went nothing.
An hour later, I sat back as Garner offered me a job.
“Your photographs are distinctive. They’re unique. You highlight something small and make it stand out.”
“What would the job entail exactly?”
“Much the same as what you’re doing in Littleburn, but on a bigger scale. I want some different pictures for our Around Town section. We try to highlight local events.”
“I’m already committed on most weekends.”
He waved his hand. “Toronto has hundreds of events daily and almost every night. I want to feature some of those. And any weekend you aren’t committed to Rob.” He paused. “He says you’re one of the best photographers he’s ever worked with.”
I blinked. “Oh.” Then I frowned. “He knows I’m here?”
“I asked his permission. He said yes, but I wasn’t allowed to steal you away completely.”
“I don’t live in Toronto.”
“Smart girl. Crazy place to live,” he said with a chuckle. “We’ll cover travel costs. Put you on retainer at a set fee per month, plus additional monies for the photos we buy.” Then he named a figure that made me swallow a sudden thickening in my throat. I could be independent again.
We discussed timing and deadlines. Equipment and shared desk space for the times I was in the office.
“Well?” he asked when he finished. “Are you interested?”
I drew in a deep breath. “I am, but I have another job as well. I’d like the chance to discuss it with my boss. Give him time to find a replacement.”
“What is your other job?” he asked with a frown.
“I work at an auto shop, in the office. Reynolds & Co. Restoration.”
“I know that place. Great reputation. You talk to him. I’m sure he’ll agree you are wasted there.” He tapped my tablet. “This is your passion and what you should be doing.”
“I’ll call you tomorrow.”
He stood and shook my hand. “You do that, or I’ll come to Littleburn and talk to him myself.”
I smiled and laughed, but I had the feeling he wasn’t kidding.
I texted Brett on the way back, and he was waiting at the bus stop for me. I climbed into the truck, and he leaned over and kissed me. “Tell me all about it. How impressed was he?”
I clipped on my seat belt and gave him a brief recap. “He offered me the job.”
“When do you start?”
“I told him I had to think about it.”
He frowned. “Why?”
“Because of the garage and Charly—and the paper. I have commitments.”
He pulled over, turning to face me. “First off, you will figure out the paper. Second, Charly is way ahead of you. She spoke with Mary and Gabby. One of our class regulars is looking for part-time work. Charly thinks she’d be a good fit.”
“It better not be Michelle.” I scowled.
Brett laughed. “No. Morgan—she’s married to Riley, the cop. I’m perfectly safe, Shutterbug. So are all the other men in the garage.” He leaned over and kissed me again. “I like you jealous.”
“Whatever,” I muttered.
“Charly and Maxx are fine with you staying in the apartment. You can drive Charly’s car to the bus and park behind Dad’s store. Or I can drive you. Or you can drive into Toronto using her car as well. Or one of the garage loaners.”
“Anything else you guys decided on while I was gone?” I asked sarcastically.
He wasn’t at all worried. “Just a celebratory dinner at Stefano’s tomorrow.”
“Why were you so certain?”
“Because I know how talented you are. And now, others will too.” He squeezed my hand. “And your new boss is right. You are wasted in the garage. As much as I’ll miss you in the office next to me, you should be out doing what you love.” He paused. “Just come home to me when you’re finished.”