Page 47 of Working For Her Sweet Treats

“You did the right thing.”

Her gaze meets mine briefly. I crouch and inspect the connection without touching anything. The coupling has split, and part of the older pipe behind it is corroded.

“It can be repaired,” I say. “But not with a quick patch I’d trust around food preparation.”

Her shoulders lower slightly. “What are my options?”

The question tells me she is giving me a chance. I choose my next words carefully.

“First option, I make a temporary repair. It might hold through today, but if it fails, you could have another flood during production.”

“No.”

“I agree.”

Ava’s eyebrows lift, but she says nothing.

“Second option, you stop production until a plumber can replace the damaged section properly.”

“That means missing the event.”

“Yes.”

“Also no.”

“The third option is moving the remaining production to The Foundry. Kayla said she can clear space if you want it. My crew can transport the equipment, ingredients, display, and finished orders. While you work there, I can replace the damaged section here.”

Ava looks around the kitchen. I wait. Every part of me wants to begin issuing instructions. Call Cole. Load the truck. Move the boxes away from the wall. Find the correct pipe fittings. Instead, I keep my mouth shut.

“What would the repair cost?” she asks.

“Materials won’t be much. Two hours of labor, possibly three if the corrosion extends farther into the wall.”

“I’m paying you.”

“We can discuss that later.”

“We can discuss it now.”

Despite everything, I nearly smile. “I’ll invoice you.”

“For the full amount.”

“Yes.”

“And you won’t repair anything else while I’m gone.”

“No.”

“Even if you notice it.”

“That condition feels deliberately cruel.”

“Jake.”

“I will only repair the plumbing.”

She studies my face, searching for some hidden qualification.