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Cory laughed. “Not all of them, but you have to understand that I grew up around here. I worked in a lot of these bars in the summers while I was in college and at other times in my life while paying off student debt. That’s why I have relationships with these folks.”

“I get that. I’ve been with Spec’s since I was in college,” Vi said.

“I was in corporate sales for many years, but always loved creating drinks and helping people.”

“Why didn’t you open a bar?” Vi asked.

Cory smiled. “I didn’t want to work every night. I’d rather spend my evenings and nights with someone special.”

“Oh.” Vi nodded. “Like Talia?”

8

“Oh, no. I told you, Talia was a long time ago.”

“What about now?”

Cory shrugged. “I don’t have a girlfriend, nor am I dating anyone. I’ve been pretty busy with opening the store.”

“I can imagine. I work a lot of evenings too, especially when I’m exploring a new area.” Vi paused and took a deep breath. Opening up a little couldn’t hurt. Right? “I don’t really know why no one from Spec’s has been in this area before. We don’t have a store nearby, but that doesn’t mean we can’t sell here.”

“Maybe a smart salesperson noticed this and is hoping to capitalize on it?” Cory surmised.

“My territory is on this side of the metroplex, but doesn’t reach quite this far,” Vi explained. “I looked into the other sales reps’ areas and no one had accounts here.”

“So Violet Valdez, Spec’s salesperson extraordinaire, swooped in to snatch up this market.”

Vi smirked. “Not exactly.”

“Come on. I know how corporate works. The more accounts, the better commission and more money,” Cory said.

“That’s true, but for me, I need a few more accounts before I’m hopefully taking over as VP of Sales,” Vi admitted.

“Oh, Violet! That’s awesome!” Cory exclaimed.

“Why are you excited for me? You don’t even know me,” Vi said.

“I know you like good wine because of the bottle you bought from me,” Cory said with a grin.

Vi shook her head and chuckled. “I’ll let you in on a little secret.” Cory scooted a little closer and leaned in. “I don’t really like alcohol,” Vi said softly.

Cory leaned back and stared at Vi. “You’re messing with me, aren’t you?”

Vi shook her head. “I’m not. I always have a hangover.”

“What?”

“Yep. Do you remember when I saw you at The Neon Rose?” Vi asked.

Cory smiled. “Of course I do. It was my birthday.”

“I drank one beer and had a headache before I got home.”

“Well, I can fix that for you.”

“How? Do you have some magical hangover cure?”

“Nope, but I do know several very good non-alcoholic beers and spirits. I can make you a drink that will taste just like the others, but without the hangover.”