Three men sat around the gleaming table of polished wood. Dressed in suits and ties, they gave off the impression of sharpness and polish. They stood as they entered and nodded in welcome.
“Carina, this is Edward, Tom, and David. They’re our top regional managers, and we’re meeting to see how to increase sales in each region. Carina is my new assistant in training.” They greeted her warmly, and everyone sat down. Max immediately delved into a detailed discussion regarding quotas, outreach, and a variety of other methods she’d learned in school. She scribbled furiously in her notepad and took stock of their responses to Max’s suggestions.
Edward spoke up. “The main problem we’re having is separating ourselves from the normal competition. Panera is still huge. Other mom and pop stores in the area focus on bread. Of course, we have the supermarkets for the cakes.”
“Local is key,” Max said. “New Paltz may be a college community, but there’s an eclectic mix of new and old world. We’re buying up advertising in every local newspaper and magazine. We’ve used local community contractors and suppliers, so we need to find fresh ways of keeping the connection strong. We’re not looking to compete with the coffee shops or supermarkets. We want business functions, weddings, big parties. We push all fresh ingredients, variety, creativity. An artistic-type bakery will appeal. That’s our focus.”
Carina cleared her throat. “Excuse me, Max. Have you focused on events coming in spring? Fairs, tastings, outdoor markets?”
“There are a variety of places we can book booths, but we didn’t know if it would be worth it,” Tom said.
“It’s worth it,” Max said. “Set it up. Very good, Carina.”
She tried not to beam from the praise.
“The Farmers Craft Festival is two weeks from Saturday. It’s a little late, but if we have some taste samples and advertising, we may be able to squeeze it in,” Tom said.
“Do it. Find someone to man the booth. Remember to keep the menu a secret, though. We want to build surprise of what we’re offering so no one tries to copycat. Research shows more sales and word of mouth is gained by unveiling at the last moment.”
“Done.”
They spoke a bit more and Max pulled back his chair. “Tom and Dave—can I speak with you a moment?”
Carina gathered up her materials and Edward stopped beside her. “Great suggestion. Nice to meet you.”
She smiled and put out her hand. “Thank you. Carina Conte.”
“Michael’s sister?”
“Yep.”
He looked impressed. “Nice. You have a beautiful accent. From Italy?”
“Bergamo.”
“I stopped there years ago. It’s a gorgeous town.” His gaze was full of appreciation, and a tingle of warmth chased down her spine. He wore his hair longer than most, almost like her brother, and chestnut eyes held a hint of gold, giving him a mysterious look. He was only a few inches taller than her, but his body was solid under a pressed black suit. “Let me know if you need anyone to show you around. I’d be honored.”#p#分页标题#e#
“Thank you, I just may take you up on the offer.”
He smiled at her. “Good.”
“Edward.” His name cut through the air sharply. “I need you here.”
“Sure, boss.” He gave her a wink and left. Carina held back a satisfied smirk. Not bad. Her first full day on the job, and she had a possible date. There was nothing like a little male appreciation to help a woman focus on her new life.
She filed her papers neatly in her briefcase and headed for the door.
Max stood in front of her, arms crossed, blocking the exit. Irritation pulsed from him in waves.
“What’s the matter?”
“Don’t get involved with the employees, Carina. We don’t like to mix business with pleasure.”
Her mouth fell open. “Excuse me? I had a nice conversation. He offered to show me around. Lighten up.”
A muscle worked in his jaw. His disapproving stare set her off. Would he ever get over his instinct to protect her like some baby? “Edward is well known for his womanizing ways,” he said gently.
Humor and horror mingled. She settled on sarcasm and flung her hands out. “Oh, thank God you told me! Dating a man who likes to wine and dine women is a horrible fate. At least I know if I go out with him it will only be for a short affair.”
He flinched. “I’m trying to tell you he’s not your type.”
Carina glowered. “You don’t know my type anymore, Max,” she drawled. “And you never will. But thanks for the tip.” She pushed past him. “I’m taking a quick break for lunch.”