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"Why the hell didn't you tell me that in the first place?" Elijah asked, grabbing his third taco. I was only on my second, and so was Chase.
"Buying a company is a business transaction," Chase said.
"Yeah, but the store is my life's work. I've put my heart and soul into it too," Elijah said. "Knowing it will go to someone who appreciates it as much as I do, well, that's all I ever wanted."
Chase looked stunned. God, if I could, I’d snap a picture of him at this moment.
"Everyone else who's bid plans to change it. One guy even said he actually just wants the lot of land and intends to destroy the building. Why the hell would I sell to him? So send me all the paperwork over, and I’ll sign it."
"You're selling to me?" Chase asked.
Elijah narrowed his eyes. "Yes, that's what I said."
"All right," Chase replied, and I could instantly see him shift into CEO mode. "My lawyers will be in touch tomorrow morning, first thing. I think we can wrap everything up quickly."
"Sounds good." Elijah nodded. "I can't wait."
"What are your plans for retirement?" I asked him.
"First things first, I'm going to go on a cruise. I haven't gone on a vacation for the last twenty years. Saved up, God knows for what. Now I plan to enjoy the time with my wife."
"Good for you," I said.
We made small talk about cruises and vacations while we finished our tacos.
"Well, it was great meeting you—both of you," Elijah commented half an hour later as we walked out of the restaurant's yard and onto the street. "Pity you aren't a couple. You complete each other well."
I opened my mouth, but I had absolutely no comeback. My body felt like a live wire.
"My lawyers will be in touch" was all Chase said.
Elijah shook hands with me first, then with Chase before turning around and walking away at a brisk pace.
I was still flustered from Elijah's parting words. I had to pull myself together.
"Congrats on sealing the deal, Chase.” I turned around slowly, buying myself time.
“You’re still blushing.”
"I am?" I put both palms on my cheeks; they definitely felt hot. When I glanced up at Chase, he had a teasing smile on his face.
"Is it because of what Elijah said?"
"I mean, I don't understand why he said that."
"I do."
"Want to enlighten me?" I asked.
"I'd rather not. Opening Pandora's box and all that."
I didn't just feel like a live wire now. I was burning up for this man.
"Thank you for tonight, Hannah," he said.
"Sure, my pleasure. I'm really glad it worked out."
"What do you say we go out and celebrate? A little champagne?"