Page 37 of A Tempting Seduction
Ruby shifted uncomfortably in her seat.
“I just helped with her resume. She did all the hard work.”
“Ruby.” I kept my voice gentle. “Take the credit. You made a huge difference. Fiona told me all that you did, and it was a heck of a lot more than work on her resume.”
She turned to look out the passenger window, effectively ending the conversation. I recognized the deflection for what it was and let it go. Ruby Miller wasn't comfortable being the center of attention, even when she deserved it.
“How are things at Java Jolt? Still dealing with Jordan's attitude?”
Ruby sighed, some of the tension leaving her shoulders.
“I'm relying more and more on Kristin. She's got a great work ethic and actually seems to enjoy the job. Jordan does the minimum required and acts like I'm asking him to perform brain surgery when I request anything beyond basic coffee service.”
“Sounds like you need to hire more help.”
“I've been thinking about it. The morning rush is getting bigger every week, and I can't handle it all myself. Plus, I'd like to expand our food offerings. Maybe add some lunch items.”
“That's a great idea. You've already transformed that place once. Might as well keep improving it.”
Ruby smiled, the first genuine smile I'd seen since we'd gotten in the car.
“I have a lot of ideas. Some of them might even be good.”
“I'd bet money that all of them are good.”
We spent the rest of the drive talking about her plans for Java Jolt, and I found myself impressed by her business instincts. Ruby had vision and the practical sense to make her ideas work. She was wasted hiding behind a coffee counter, but I kept that observation to myself.
River Stone House sat on a hill overlooking the Little Pigeon River, its rustic exterior lit by strings of warm white lights. I'd chosen it specifically because I'd never been there with anyone else. No memories of other dates, other conversations, other disappointments. Tonight belonged entirely to Ruby and me.
The hostess seated us at a table by the window, where we could watch the river flow past in the darkness. Ruby studied the menu with the focused attention of someone who took food seriously.
“Everything sounds amazing.” She looked up at me over the top of her menu. “What do you recommend?”
“I've never been here before either. We're both flying blind.”
“An adventure then.”
The word hung between us, loaded with possibility.
Our server appeared, a young woman with a bright smile and the kind of energy that suggested she genuinely enjoyed her job.
“Good evening! I'm Sarah, and I'll be taking care of you tonight. Can I start you off with something to drink?”
Ruby ordered sweet tea, and I asked for a beer. Sarah launched into a description of the evening's specials with enthusiasm that was either genuine or expertly faked.
“The mountain trout is locally sourced and absolutely incredible,” Sarah finished. “And our chef's signature dish is the braised short ribs with bourbon glaze.”
Ruby and I exchanged a look.
“The short ribs sound perfect,” Ruby said.
“Make that two.”
Sarah beamed and hurried away to place our order.
“Ford Larson?”
I turned to see Roxie Laramie approaching our table, her husband Hart following close behind. Roxie ran the veterinary clinic in Jasper Creek, and Hart worked part-time with Onyx Security when he wasn't helping his wife with the animals. I didn’t know what he did, but Simon thought highly of him.
