A Dream of Family

by Jill Weatherholt

  “Good morning,” he sang out and passed her the cup. “I thought I’d get your day started with one of my new drinks. I need someone to sample it before I present it to the public. Would you mind?”

  “So you want me to be your guinea pig?” Molly ran the beverage underneath her nose. She had to admit, the aroma was enticing. “It smells so yummy. What is it?”

  Molly watched as Derek removed his coat and hung it over his muscular arm. Did he plan to stay? She had more important things to accomplish, and on top of her list was to keep as far away from Derek McKinney as possible.

  “It’s a snickerdoodle latte.” He sipped, made a slurping sound and followed it with a boyish grin.

  Molly stifled a giggle.

  “Sorry. Try it. I’ve been experimenting with some new recipes this morning.”

  Molly took a drink. The flavors exploded in her mouth like she was sinking her teeth into a hot, syrupy cinnamon roll, fresh out of the oven. “Mmm...this is the best latte I’ve ever tasted. I’m serious.” No wonder this guy had customers swarming his store. She licked the creamy froth from her upper lip. “Is that caramel I taste?”

  “Yes, but only a dollop. It’s not too much, is it?”

  She shook her head and took another sip. “Oh no. It’s perfect. If I knew this was waiting for me each morning, I’d spring out of bed without ever hitting the snooze button.”

  Derek laughed. “Well, feel free to pay me a visit anytime. I’ll have it ready for you. Or I can hand-deliver it, if you prefer.” He winked.

  Was he flirting with her? No. He couldn’t be. Whatever his intentions, she needed him to leave. She felt light-headed. “Well, thanks again for the coffee. I need to get back to work.”

  “It’s not even seven thirty. I hoped we could visit for a while. You know, talk shop.” He strolled toward one of the tables with two club chairs. Pulling out a seat, he motioned for her to sit down. “Please, let’s relax and enjoy our coffee. I like to ease into my day.”

  With a daunting list of things to do, Molly had no time for small talk. This was not what she’d expected when she’d arrived at the store earlier. He was the reason she’d been left at the altar. Kicking back and sipping a latte with him wasn’t on her schedule. “I don’t mean to be rude, but I don’t have time for this.”

  “Please, sit. Just for a couple of minutes.”

  Against her better judgment, she plopped down in the seat. Determined not to lose herself in his handsome good looks, she kept her eyes on the hairline crack on the brown wall behind him.

  Derek took a seat, folded his hands and rested them on the table. “Let me guess. You’re one of those people who schedules everything—even a coffee break.”

  “Is there something wrong with taking control of your day?” Molly took pride in her excellent time management skills. She found pleasure in checking things off her to-do list each day. Sometimes she would write down tasks she had already accomplished if only for the satisfaction of making a red check mark.

  “No, but you need to have some downtime. You know...to enjoy life.” He leaned back in the chair and clasped his hands around the back of his head.

  “Not all of us have the luxury to sit back while the money rolls in.” Molly couldn’t remember the last time she’d had a day off.

  Derek’s brow arched. “So you think I don’t work hard?”

  Heat prickled her face. “No. I’m sorry. I guess I assumed since you’re so successful, you have other people doing the work for you.”

  “I’ll let you in on a secret. The more successful you are, the busier you become.” He half smiled. “But it all comes down to time management.”

  Molly released a heavy sigh, and her body went limp. “How is it I can be so busy but not generate a profit?” The minute she said it, she wanted to take it back. He was the last person she wanted to discuss her dire financial situation with. But he was known in the business world. At least, that was what she’d heard from others in the community. Since she couldn’t get a loan, he might be her last hope at keeping her shop.

  Derek studied her before speaking again. “Can I ask you something?”

  “Well, I guess it depends.” She wiggled in her chair and wished she hadn’t decided to come in early this morning.

  “I know the big chain bookstore has had an impact on your sales. How bad is it?”

  Molly was unable to make eye contact, and she wished she’d never confessed her financial woes. The last thing she wanted was pity—especially from Derek.

  “Look, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Big chain stores have been swallowing mom-and-pop shops for years.”

  “Well, that doesn’t sound encouraging,” she croaked.

  “I didn’t mean to sound so pessimistic. I want you to know your financial struggles are not all your fault. You’ve got some tough competition, but I can help you.”

  “With Rusty wanting to sell, I don’t know what’s going to happen.” A lump started to form in Molly’s throat. It was only a matter of time before the tears would follow. “I need to get back to work. Thank you for the coffee. People will love it.”

  “I’m sorry, Molly. I shouldn’t have said anything. Look, I know people are funny about money. It’s not something most are comfortable talking about, but ignoring the facts could have major repercussions for your business.”

  Molly knew her business was failing, and if she didn’t do something soon, she’d have to close the doors. With no income, how could she proceed with the adoption process? What would happen to Grace? She needed advice, but why did the one person who could save her bookstore have to be Derek McKinney?

  * * *

  Unsure what to say, Derek remained silent as Molly dried her tears. Was her financial situation worse than Rusty had disclosed? Did he know how serious the situation had become? As Derek scanned her store, he saw the potential. Sure, the big chain stores might offer discounts to entice shoppers, but Molly could give her customers so much more. From the moment he’d walked inside, it smelled of books with a hint of freshly cut lemons. The atmosphere in her shop was warm and welcoming.

  “With a few changes, your store could be what shoppers escaping the city for a peaceful visit in the mountains would love. Why would they go to the big-name bookstore when they’re on vacation? They could do that at home.” The more time he spent inside Molly’s shop, the more he realized this place was a hidden gem.

  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to have a complete meltdown.” Using her fingers, she blotted her eyes. “It’s hard to lose something that’s been your dream for so long.”

  Derek chewed his lower lip in an attempt to silence the thoughts racing through his mind. Thanks to him, Molly had already lost one desire. Most little girls dreamed of getting married and raising a family. How could he allow her to suffer disappointment a second time? “You have to fight for it. You don’t have to lose anything. Let me help you.”

  “Why would you want to do that? You’ve got a new store you’re getting off the ground. I know how much work goes into an opening. Besides, what makes you think I’d want your help? In the past, you weren’t my number one fan.”

  Point taken. “Look, I know we were never great friends.”

  Molly huffed. “You can say that again.”

  How could he convince her? The potential he saw for his own business in Whispering Slopes was too great to walk away from. If he could help Molly succeed, he’d have the opportunity to get some prime real estate at a great price. But it was equally important for him to keep his promise to Rusty. Going back on his word wasn’t an option. He wasn’t like his father, a man who’d made his own son and wife feel like they weren’t enough. “Rusty isn’t going to make any major decisions anytime soon. Give me at least the same amount of time Rusty is allowing. It’s all I ask. I won’t make any more surprise visits to your store. If I don’t increase your sales an
d get your store turning over a steady profit, you can continue to despise me and pretend I don’t exist.”

  * * *

  Molly pulled the cuffs of her angora sweater over her hands and crossed her arms. “Why would you believe I despise you?”

  Derek shrugged his tense shoulders. He didn’t know if Ryan had mentioned his name when he called off the wedding. “Just a hunch, I guess.”

  “So why do you want to help me? Especially if you think I don’t like you.” Her eyebrows peaked.

  “At the risk of sounding too confident, I’m good at helping struggling business owners. I can turn a business around and make it successful.” He paused and looked around the room. “Consider what you have here. It’s not just a room full of books, Molly. I see real potential. By implementing some new marketing strategies, your store could be a big success. I mean it.”

  Her eyes sparkled with a glint of hopefulness. “You think so? I guess all I see is a dream I worked countless hours to build slipping away.”

  Molly flinched when the store phone behind the counter rang. “Excuse me for one second.” She pushed herself away from the table. Next to the telephone was a box of tissues. He watched as she snatched one and wiped her eyes before answering.

  Derek sipped the latte, which had gotten cold. It still tasted pretty good to him. He observed the books lining the shelves and looked down at his cup. Offering a free specialty coffee to anyone who had a receipt from a book purchased at her store might help to boost her sales. Would she go for his idea? Rusty was right about her. The woman was stubborn. She liked to do things on her own. It was an admirable trait, and he had his work cut out for him if he hoped to convince Molly he could help.

  Molly’s phone conversation ended and she returned to the table. She took a seat and looked more distraught than when she’d left. How was that possible?

  “What’s wrong?” Derek leaned toward her.

  “The teacher who planned to bring the children over next Wednesday for Book Buddies, my book club, has canceled.” Her eyelashes fluttered as tears brimmed the lids.

  “Did she say why?”

  Molly nodded. “Something about having to go out of town and she can’t find a replacement.”

  “I’m sorry, but they’ll come the next time.” Derek wasn’t quite sure why the phone call had sparked such a reaction. Did Molly think there might not be a next time for her club or for her store? “It’s not the end of the world,” he said, hoping to sound encouraging.

  “You don’t understand. On the days the kids are here, I have some of my best sales, since the kids come in with parents or other family members. They browse while the children and I discuss the book. They often make purchases before they leave. We already missed this week because of a teachers’ workday.” She covered her eyes and wept.

  This was worse than he’d thought. Derek wasn’t sure how to respond, so he sat in silence.

  After the last whimper, Molly removed her hands from her face. “I’ll never be able to pay Rusty the money I owe him.” She paused, and her eyes glazed over with fear. “Or the pile of bills multiplying each day. I’m going to lose everything.”

  Derek reached across the table and covered her hand with his. “You need to trust me, Molly. Please, let me help you. I know how to generate a profit.” Derek would never forget how incredible it had felt to tally the sales for the year from his first store. He had a head for business and had found his calling. The four years he had studied marketing in college had paid off. Each store he bought had turned into a moneymaker. Could this be the way to make things right with Molly?

  Molly remained silent. Would she refuse his offer and decide to handle the problem on her own? If she failed, they both failed. Rusty would sell to the developers, and both of their businesses could become office space. Derek had no doubt he could help Molly, and then he’d be able to get the space for the lower price. But she would need to put their past behind them. He watched as she glanced around the bookstore before turning back to him, her face void of expression. “This is all I have. Please help me, Derek.”

  Chapter Four

  Molly shelved the last book from the shipment that had arrived after Derek left her store. She tilted her head from side to side in an attempt to work out the kinks in her neck. She glanced at her watch, and her stomach twisted. Why had she spilled her heart to Derek? What was she thinking asking him for help with the bookstore? After her total and complete meltdown in front of him earlier, he’d suggested they go on a field trip this evening. Feeling desperate, she’d agreed. Was she a glutton for punishment? From the moment he returned to his shop, she’d second-guessed her decision.

  “Is there anything else you need before I head out to class, Molly?”

  Caitlin Dickerson, a high-energy college student who had worked part-time for Molly since last year, breezed in from the back room. Unable to afford a full-time employee, Molly had sought assistance through the local community college and received a major blessing when they recommended Caitlin. She was enrolled in a work-study program offered by the school and earning credit toward her degree, so Molly didn’t have to pay her a salary. The girl loved books and was a hard worker. It was the perfect combination. Caitlin reminded Molly of herself in her late teens. Molly couldn’t devour books fast enough. Of course, once she got bit by the writing bug, she had to cut back to one book a week.

  “You’ve done more than enough today. Thank you so much for completing the inventory. It’s a huge load off of my plate. You did a great job.”

  Caitlin beamed. “You’re welcome. Working here is the best part of my day.”

  The front door chimed, and both women turned.

  “Wow,” Caitlin leaned in and whispered to Molly. “Bookworms are getting better-looking.”

  Derek. Molly’s stomach went into a double knot.

  “He’s our new neighbor,” Molly responded.

  “Good evening, ladies.” Derek sauntered toward the back of the store, commanding Caitlin’s full attention. Molly wasn’t surprised. In college, when Derek entered the classroom, female necks stretched like elastic bands. He still had that power.

  Molly managed to find her voice. “Derek, this is Caitlin Dickerson. She’s an employee here at the store.” Of course, soon he would discover Caitlin was her only employee. Molly had hoped to have several employees, people who shared her love of books, but she could hardly pay herself, much less a staff.

  “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Caitlin.” Derek extended his hand.

  “You’re the coffee mogul.” Caitlin’s cheeks reddened.

  Molly considered her assistant. How had she heard of Derek and his success?

  Caitlin pivoted to Molly. “We studied Mr. McKinney in my marketing class last semester.”

  “Please, call me Derek.”

  “You’re a great example of how hard work and dedication pay off.” Caitlin paused for a moment. “You’re famous in my class.”

  Molly’s brow rocketed into an arch at her employee’s statement. Famous? Really?

  “My professor has lectured about your business plan. Most of my classmates have dreams to open businesses of their own. You’re a real inspiration.”

  Derek listened as Caitlin continued to sing his praises. Molly fought the urge to roll her eyes, but Caitlin sounded sincere.

  When the young girl stopped to catch a breath, her eyes widened. “Maybe you could speak to our class?”

  “I’ve spoken at several schools in the state. I’d be honored to visit yours, if invited.”

  “You would? That’s so cool! I’ll send my professor a text message. He’ll be thrilled.” Caitlin snatched her canvas book bag from the counter and flung it over her shoulder. “It was great to meet you, Mr.—Sorry, Derek. Thank you again for your generous offer. I’ll come by your shop once I hear from my instructor. See you tomorrow, Molly.”

&
nbsp; “Thanks again for your help today, Caitlin.” Molly watched as Caitlin floated out of the store. She turned to Derek. “Are you sure you have time to speak at Caitlin’s school? You’re just getting your new place up and running.”

  “I always make time for young and motivated entrepreneurs. My success can be credited to a mentor in the restaurant business. He gave his time and advice freely, so I try to do the same when I can.” A silence lingered before Derek spoke again. “Are you ready to head out?”

  Molly had no idea what he had planned, but if it would help save the bookstore, she couldn’t allow their past to get in the way. She straightened her shoulders. Grow up, girl. This is your business. Put your feelings aside and go along. “So, will you tell me where we’re going?”

  “Lock up and grab your purse. You’ll find out soon enough,” Derek said, flashing a smile that had always made Molly’s college classmates swoon. But not her. Never.

  Thirty minutes later, Derek navigated his SUV into the strip mall parking lot. Molly’s jaw tightened when she peered out the window. The large glowing green lights of her competitor’s sign taunted her. “Why did you bring me here?”

  “As a business owner, it’s always a good idea to check out your competition.” Derek winked before he unfastened his seat belt.

  Molly followed his lead. They stepped from the vehicle, and Molly turned to Derek. “I’ve been in stores like this millions of times.” Before opening Bound to Please Reads, she’d loved traveling to neighboring towns and visiting bookstores. She’d peruse the aisles with a coffee in hand before curling up in a comfy chair to work on her novel.

  “True, but you visited as a customer, not as a business owner.”

  Molly scratched the back of her head. “I don’t understand why it would make any difference.”

  Derek nodded in the direction of the store. “Let’s go inside. I’ll show you.”

  The moment they entered the store responsible for slowing her sales, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee teased Molly’s nose. Her heart sank as she took in the surroundings. “It’s so crowded in here.” She hadn’t meant to say it out loud. The customers buzzed around and scanned the end displays that held the most recent bestsellers. Giant colorful posters covered the walls. She hung her head. How could she ever compete with such a successful business model?