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Cory knew there was something that drew her to Vi. It wasn’t that they both sold liquor or played volleyball. Vi may not be as outgoing as Cory, but she did have a soft side. Cory had only glimpsed it briefly. As much fun as it was to frustrate Vi, and Cory didn’t mean to but she usually did, when Vi let her guard down and let Cory in, it did something to Cory’s heart. That’s what kept Cory wanting to know more.

This revelation about volunteer work with kids didn’t surprise Cory, but she wondered why Vi hadn’t shared it with her. She had an idea that Vi would see it as bragging and that was something she did not do. Vi was professional and respectful.

Cory smiled as they wrapped up the deal and Vi finalized Sweetie Pie’s first order. If nothing else came from this, at least Cory knew she’d made Vi happy today.

“Cory, it was so good to see you again,” Freda said, giving her a hug.

“You two need to come have dinner one night soon,” Bob said.

Cory looked over at Vi and smiled. “We do. Thanks, Bob. It was so nice seeing both of you.”

Vi shook their hands before they walked them to the door.

Once they were back in Cory’s truck she looked over at Vi and raised her eyebrows. “Well?”

Vi chuckled and shook her head. “I will never doubt you, Cory Sloan. Thank you for introducing me to such nice people.”

Cory breathed a sigh of relief. “Honestly, I’m glad you worked out a deal with them that’s good for all of you.”

“I had my sights on this area and planned to explore it after I’d worked your area,” Vi said.

“I figured that. I’m hoping you’ll choose to work it now instead of later.”

“That’s one account, Cory.”

Cory glanced over at her as she pulled into the street. “I know, but—”

“Don’t say it!” Vi held up her hand before Cory could continue. She waited until Cory gazed into her eyes. “I do trust you.”

“Hallelujah!”

Vi laughed. “How would you feel about stopping for a drink to celebrate my new account?”

Cory gasped, pretending to be shocked, then looked at Vi with a grin. “I know just the place.”

She turned down the next street and pulled into the parking lot of The Neon Rose.

“Uh oh,” Vi said. “Is this a good idea? I’m not sure Talia would like you bringing me here.”

Cory chuckled. “Don’t you worry about Talia. I happen to know she stocks one of my favorite non-alcoholic beers.”

“I may want the real thing today,” Vi said, getting out of the pickup.

Cory held the door open for her and they walked inside.

“Do you want to sit at the bar or a table?” Vi asked.

“Your choice. We’re celebrating your success.” Cory smiled.

Vi walked to the bar and slid onto a stool with Cory right behind her.

“Well, well,” Talia said, coming from behind the bar. “What a nice surprise!”

She started to lean in for a kiss, but Cory stopped her, smiled and gave her a quick hug. Cory saw Talia raise her eyebrows in protest, but with a quick shake of Cory’s head, Talia seemed to understand.

“We’re celebrating,” Cory said, sitting next to Vi.

“Okay?” Talia said, returning to the other side of the bar.