Page 83 of Just One Spark

Raymond cleared his throat."I thought it would be a good idea to get a fresh perspective.She's an outsider, so she won't have any preconceived notions on how things should be done."

It was clear that Judy and Raymond had already made their decision.But it seemed like most of the brothers were uncomfortable with an outsider evaluating the business.

"We want you to feel comfortable about retiring.And if this is what you need, then we'll support you," Rowan said.

Boone scowled."You're just saying that because you're in love with Hattie."

Rowan touched my shoulder."I am happy.And I want what's best for the business.If bringing in an outside consultant is what makes Mom and Dad comfortable, then why not?"

I smiled encouragingly at him.I wanted to support him in whatever he decided.

Judy and Raymond stepped down from the stage.

Boone leaned closer to Rowan."Mom and Dad were finally going to give me free rein to design new furniture for the inn.Do you think this city designer is going to be okay with homemade furniture?"

I winced."Probably not."

"She'll want to modernize everything with sleek, cheap furniture.The whole thing will be a waste of my time.My furniture will never be in the inn now.She's going to ruin everything," Boone stood abruptly, his chair teetering on two legs before it finally settled.

Then he was gone, pushing through the front door and into the cold night.

"Will he be okay?"I asked Rowan.

"I know how much he wanted to make his mark on the inn, but this is what Mom and Dad want," Rowan said.

I hoped he was right.I didn't want to see Boone's dreams crushed.Not after I'd just gotten everything I'd ever wanted.

Epilogue

Rowan

The brewery was buzzing every night with locals and tourists who were curious about the new brews and the bathhouse.

A large part of our clientele was guests from the inn, so that kept us busy most nights of the week.Eventually, we needed to discuss one day we could be closed to give everyone a break.

We'd hired additional employees to maintain the equipment and even a brewmaster to lead the brew making process.I was still in charge of new recipes, and I worked with Beck to plan seasonal options.

We served Hattie's hot chocolate at the brewery now.There was a stand set up outside for those who wanted to hang out by the fire pits we'd created.Music played over the speakers, and visitors could sample the brews or sip hot chocolate.

Her hot chocolate was also served in the afternoons at the inn.It was a self-serve option where guests could choose between flavored iced water and hot chocolate.

The added business allowed her to work less in the truck.Months ago, I'd promised Hattie I'd look for a storefront for her, and Beck found the perfect space.I couldn't wait to share it with her.

Her truck was convenient to attend festivals and events, but I wanted her to have her dream of a storefront.A space where she could create an experience for her guests.Once she had a store, she would probably be more motivated to create physical products to sell, like mugs and hot-cocoa kits.

Tonight, Hattie's truck was parked at the town square.A temporary ice rink had been set up to draw crowds after the holiday season, so Hattie's hot cocoa truck was busy.

She'd hired another employee, Stevie, to work evenings so that she could take time off.We had to be diligent about time off so that we could spend time together.It was our promise to one another once we decided that we wanted to pursue a relationship.

Tonight, Beck was managing the brewery so I could show Hattie the space for her store.I hoped she wouldn't think I'd overstepped.

Hattie's business had expanded in the last few months, and she was consumed with trying to maintain her supplies and manage her time, along with the added stress of hiring a new employee.I had a feeling this period of expansion was in the beginning stages.She had much more exciting things in her future.

Hattie's dream was about to come true, and she had no idea.

I rapped on the side door because the line was long, and Hattie opened it with a smile."Hey, you."

I stepped up so that I was level with her and kissed her softly."Are you ready to go?"