The Apple Of My Eye by Christine McGreggor Read Free Book Online Page A

only been here a few times, but the food was incredible on both occasions. Do you come here often?”
    Hayes shook his head ruefully. “No, I’ve only been here a few times myself. You’re right it is beautiful, but not as lovely as the company I’m keeping.” Hayes warm smile sent a thrill up Michelle’s back.
    A tall man with graying hair, dressed in black pants and a black dress shirt came striding over to their table from behind the bar. “Hayes! Have you finally decided to call in that favor?”
    Hayes chuckled and nodded. “I certainly have. John Cooper, meet Michelle Perry. Michelle, John is the owner of The River Bell.”
    Michelle’s eyebrows shot up in surprise as she took John’s proffered hand. “Welcome to The River Bell, Miss Perry. We are delighted to have you this evening.”
    “Well thank you. I’m delighted to be here.” Michelle shot Hayes an inquiring look.
    “I did some work for John last summer. He wanted to improve the look of the outdoor dining patio.” Hayes indicated a window behind her. Turning, Michelle saw a graceful cobblestone patio, lit with Victorian style iron street lamps and surrounded by small dormant trees and shrubs. Michelle could just barely make out the glint of water beyond. Greenville had been built on the elevated banks of a local river and was famous for its romantic river scenery. Warm weather diners would be able to sit outside and enjoy the river from the patio.
    “He did a fabulous job, and luckily for me, Hayes allowed me to pay partly in trade. The staff and I can hardly wait for spring. You two will have to come back for our ‘Tea Beneath the Blooms’ event.” John looked behind his shoulder to where a black clad server stood, waiting respectfully for his employer to finish. “Here’s Andy, he will be taking care of you this evening. Feel free to order whatever your heart desires.” John clapped an appreciative hand on Hayes’ shoulder and then walked back to where his server stood waiting. He whispered something into the young man’s ear and then disappeared into the back of the restaurant.
    After the waiter had taken their drink orders, Michelle turned back to Hayes. “So you work in trade?”
    The handsome man nodded his head. “Occasionally I do. Especially in situations like The River Bell Project. John has sent a few referrals my way since I finished the work for him. Plus I get to enjoy an amazing night out with you. That’s well worth a discount in my book.” He pulled an envelope from the inner pocket of his coat. “Would you like to get the business portion out of the way?”
    Michelle nodded vigorously. “Yes, please. Then I can relax and enjoy the evening.”
    Hayes handed her the envelope, and she removed the contents. Michelle unfolded the paper and read Hayes’ precise, masculine script.
     
    Remedial tree pruning- McIntosh apple tree               $250
    Remedial tree pruning- Fireside apple tree               $200
    Preventive pesticide application                             $75
    Tree litter removal                                                         $50
    Top soil and mulch replacement                             $50
    3 year old apple tree x2                                           $160
    Estimated Service Total                                         $785
     
                  Michelle let out a tiny dismayed squeak when she saw the total at the bottom.  That was over a half of the total money she had saved up for the repairs on the house. She covered her consternation by sipping the glass of wine which had just arrived at the table.
                  “Michelle? What’s the matter?” Hayes frowned at his date’s discomfited expression.
                  “Oh.” Michelle looked away