"I have a meeting."
"It’s never a good thing when city folk show up in town. The last one wanted to do something with resort condos.”
“How do you know I’m a city girl?”
“The way you’re dressed. No one around here dresses like that.”
I cock an eyebrow at her.
"Maybe I dressed this way to purposely intimidate the other person?"
I know how this small-town works. The moment I’m out the door, everyone will be on their phones spreading the news, and I lose my upper hand. Tough. I don't like to lie, but it might be for the best.
"I have a meeting with a rancher outside of town. I'm just stopping for coffee to kill a bit of time."
"Mmm," she says, handing me my coffee, her tone letting me know she doesn't believe me.
"Thank you." I smile, and as I make my way out of the diner, I decide to have a bit of fun.
"When you all make your calls about me, be sure to mention that the shoes are Jimmy Choo, Give them the really juicy gossip." With that, I wink, then head out the door just as a truck pulls into WJ's parking lot.
Game time.
I get back in my car and check my makeup. It’s still in place. Then I drink some coffee and reapply my lipstick before backing out of my parking space and driving over to WJ's. As I park, a second truck pulls in right behind me and a guy gets out. I recognize the guy from my research. It’s Nick, the chef who won all the awards.
"We aren't open yet," he says, sounding mildly irritated as I step out of my car.
"I'm Kayla Bartrum. I’d like a moment to speak with you and Jason," I say holding out my hand.
Nick doesn't move. He just looks me up and down before nodding toward the door.
"It’s only a handshake. I promise, I’m friendly,” I smile.
"You’d better tread carefully. My wife would beat you down with those fancy Jimmy Choo’s if you touch me."
Damn, news travels fast here–faster than I was expecting. At least he holds the door open for me as he gestures for me to follow him inside.
This is the first time I've been inside WJ’s, but I've seen photos and videos of it online. Plus, earlier this month, I sent one of my employees to check the place out.
The place has an authentic Texan feel. There’s a stage for live music and a dance floor. Worn wooden planks line the walls bearing the brand marks of local ranches. Wooden tables and chairs fill the space, and there's also an outdoor seating area as well. When WJ’sthey started serving Nick's food, the place became more family-friendly and began to make a name for itself. Which is why I think it’s the perfect place to franchise out.
"Jason!" Nick calls as he enters the bar behind me.
The man standing at the bar–Jason, I assume–is huge. Behind him is an American flag made from red, white, and blue beer cans.
"Who's this?" Jason asks as I approach the bar with Nick.
"Kayla Bartrum," Nick replies, joining Jason behind the bar.
"We say no, so they send out some chick to seduce us? Save your time, sweetheart. We’re both very happily married and not interested in anything you have to offer."
I take a deep breath. I wish I could say this is the first time someone has had this reaction but I’m aware that many companies employ the tactic of sending the hot girl to stroke a male ego or two to secure a potential business deal.
"I'm insulted that you think my company would do that. I’m the CEO, and I can assure you this is not a method we employ. If a company has to stoop that low, they don't deserve your business." I say, keeping my chin held high.
Jason and Nick glance at each other before returning their gazes at me.
"Then, why are you here?" Jason asks.