Cinnamon Bourbon and Deception

By Nancy Deswik MacCreery

Sophia loves her job, her boyfriend Chuck and even his huge slobbering dog. But Chuck moves out of town to start a new company; and develops a strange addiction. Sophia’s life is further complicated by a new boss, an opportunistic former college roommate, and a wily new friend.
With a cast of loveable characters and entertaining dialogue, this third novel in the Scoop and Schemes series blends action, a bit of mystery, and romance into one enjoyable reading package. A perfect book for weekend reading!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nancy Deswik MacCreery
• Release date: Jul 27, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310280856

Nancy Deswik MacCreery

Nancy MacCreery writes for people who enjoy action mysteries. Her books feature complex characters with a propensity for jumping into action in situations (often serendipitously stumbled upon) where little is known but evil must be uncovered and corrected for good.If you are intrigued by the challenges of our complex geopolitical world yet enjoy a touch of irreverent humor, romance and the antics of a group of intelligent, caring, sometimes fumbling and fun-loving cast of characters, Nancy’s books will offer you a great escape into a world of intrigue, trade-offs, and the crusade against evil.The Scoops and Schemes series includes Book 1 - The Essence, Book 2 - Unexpected Impact, and Book 3 - Cinnamon Bourbon and Deception. Book 4 is in progress!Nancy can often be found hiking, swimming, obsessing over her garden, reading and studying the political landscape, or dreaming up intricately woven plots while drifting on a boat at Jordan Lake, North Carolina while her husband fishes for that elusive “big one”.

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Cinnamon Bourbon and Deception

A Novel

By

Nancy Deswik MacCreery

Smashwords Edition

*****

Published by:

Nancy MacCreery on Smashwords

Copyright © 2016 by Nancy Deswik MacCreery

Cover design by Brian Wagner

All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, brands, media, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

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Smashwords Edition License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with.

Thank you for respecting the author's work.

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Dedication:

Thanks to my family and friends for your encouragement, comments and proofreading. Your help was much appreciated!

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Sometimes you must make a choice, take a chance or your life will never change for the better…

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Clouds and Lattes

Ray’s assistant let Sophia into his office and closed the door. He was faced toward the windows, rubbing his chin as he listened to the conference call blaring from the speaker. Hearing the door close, he turned gave her a quick wave and held up two fingers.

Sophia nodded and plunked down at the round table. She opened her notebook, pretending she wasn’t tuned into the conversation and gazed out the window. Relishing Ray’s corner office view, she watched the towering cumulonimbus clouds approach, gigantic white puffs casting ominous gray shadows over Lake Michigan.

Ray walked over to his desk, his finger hovering over the phone console. Thank you, guys. I appreciate the update. Watch those quality numbers, I’d like to see them above the required range. I’m hopping off the call now, keep up the good work. He clicked the phone off, made a note on his laptop then looked up and smiled.

Think it will blow over? Ray’s aquamarine eyes sparkled like the lake behind him. Sophia relaxed, noting his mood -- it was always more fun to talk with him after a call with good news.

Ray walked over to the leather couch. Since I had my office re-arranged, I’ve gotten addicted to the view. It’s constantly changing — waves and boats when it's sunny, and if not, great cloud patterns and approaching storms. I can’t believe I worked with my back to the window.

Perhaps you wanted to get more work done before? She teased as she followed him to the couch, sitting next to him and crossing her legs carefully in her tight black skirt. The heel of new her beige pump slipped off and dangled, something her old shoes would never have done. These designer shoes were cheeky.

No doubt. He shrugged.

It was actually the opposite. When Sophia first met him, Ray had not been the most conscientious CEO. It was only after a perilous trip to Asia that Sophia had become a friend as well as his Account Exec. Ray had recently instituted sweeping changes to his organization and life; the layout of the CEO office was just a visible indicator.

How’s the family? She prompted, knowing Ray loved talking about the two girls whose pictures filled every spot on his credenza. She’d also spotted a new picture of Karen, his ex-wife.

The girls are doing very well. He paused. I didn’t think you’d miss the new picture! And yes, you can consider me a success in your advice giving statistics. In fact, I’m now an official Soccer Dad.

Really?

Oh, don’t give me that astonished look. He shook his head with a smile. When you have kids, you’ll get to enjoy all sorts of activities you never imagined you’d be a fan of! Anyway, I see all of them every Saturday, and not just for soccer. Karen and I are officially dating again.

Sophia eyebrows arched. Like high school or college? she asked playfully. There's a difference.

Sophia couldn’t resist her reporter’s need to dig, despite the fact that Ray often baited her by dangling information to make her curious before changing the subject.

None of your business, nosey. Speaking of dating, how’s your knight in shining armor?

Sophia re-crossed her legs; her shoe heel dangled again. He’s fine. She flexed her foot and slid the heel back on. I’ve been warned you only have a half hour, so would you like me to start with the monthly review statistics or contract renewal information?

Ray laced his fingers behind his head, leaning back against the sofa. Sophia noticed a hint of gray highlighting his jet-black hair.

My new assistant says that to everyone. She doesn’t realize that catching up with you is the highlight of my day. Now, how’s Chuck, your sister, and anyone else you have amusing stories about? His blue eyes were hard to resist, even though she knew she had more than a half hour’s material to discuss and a client contract renewal to be signed, all sometime during the next twenty-five minutes. And despite his bravado, his assistants usually kept him on schedule.

Chuck is doing well; the company he’s leading produced some samples and has gotten interest from manufacturers.

I thought they would, it’s a good product. I saw that coating in action when you crushed the side of my Porsche with your Prius.

You were chasing me!

Correction. I was driving with a gun pointed at my head; Drew was chasing you. He raised his hands dramatically. The good old days.

She paused, reflecting. There was certainly more action back then – more than there is in these reports.

He raised his eyebrows. So… Chuck is doing well? He pressed on.

Yes, He moved into a new house last week.

You don’t seem too enthused about it – there must be more to this story.

Sophia thought for a moment, flicking the heel of her shoe. It is a great opportunity for Chuck. I just wish he’d not been so quick to jump into it, as they are using some highly toxic chemicals in the process ... She pushed a stray hair behind her ear. Plus, when he sold his house in Minnesota and moved here to work with Tomas on the business plan, I enjoyed having him so close.

So you miss him. Congratulations, you’re human! Plus, it’s not that far. You’ve had longer distance romances.

She shrugged. I get spoiled easy. Six hours seems like a long way now. But I’m heading down Friday to take Euclid.

Euclid?

Chuck’s Lab/Saint Bernard mix. Chuck’s mom was taking care of the dog while he got settled down there, but Chuck misses him and he can’t get away to come get him.

You’re taking that dog in your Prius? His eyes reflected amusement. Isn’t that a large dog — how will you fit a crate that size into your little car?

It’s not that small! Anyway, he was never crate trained. He thinks he’s a passenger. I hope he’ll sleep most of the way, because it’s easier to keep him in the backseat then. At this point, she flicked her shoe again and it flew across the room into the potted fichus tree; Ray burst into laughter.

You’re thinking I’m crazy. She sheepishly retrieved her shoe and dusted the dirt off.

In more ways than one. He observed, amused.

These shoes always do that.

Then why do you wear them? Ray asked. I’m not an expert on women’s shoes but I’m pretty sure they don’t come with springs.

Oh, they’re some famous designer — I call them my latte shoes.

Ray raised his eyebrows. Is that a designer name for beige or is there a story behind them?

She nodded. Remember when you used your head injury to invite yourself to Anne’s engagement party?

Ray grinned. That was fun. As I recall, I saved you from the embarrassing dilemma of not having a date to your younger sister’s engagement party. And I knew the Dinwiddies – they’re prominent stockholders.

Sophia rolled her eyes. You did charm dragon-lady Celestia, Anne’s prospective mother-in-law, that part was helpful.

So explain what’s this has to do with flying shoes. He leaned back and folded his hands behind his head.

You said you wanted a story — so here goes. Three weeks ago, my sister Anne and I were invited to a charity event in New York and Celestia insisted we look at bridesmaid’s dresses. On the way, we walked by this little shoe boutique. Celestia urged us to stop; she wanted to check out a certain new style that had just arrived. It was fun, but we wasted about an hour trying on shoes. I really liked these but I wasn’t going to buy them, they were way out of my budget. Next thing, Celestia is insisting she needs coffee; she orders Anne and I to get her a latte at the coffee shop next door while she buys her shoes. Next thing I know, she’s walking in with three bags of shoes.

Ray nodded. Sounds like Celestia.

So, in effect, I traded them for a latte.

I see. He nodded. You buy her a latte and she gives you shoes. I should have you work in purchasing negotiations! He laughed. Well, keep your lattes on, and we’ll get to work -- starting with a review of anything interesting in the public relations world that might apply to Fensel Industries this month, which should take about five minutes -- then I’ll pick your brain for any new, un-vetted ideas you have rolling around in there while we watch the clouds.

Horse Whisker Springs and Flamingos

Chuck wished he could climb out the window. He tried to take a deep breath, but his chest was feeling tight. This always happened when he stood alone, drink in hand, trying to figure out who to talk to next. He’d tried walking over to the hors d’oeuvres table, but the chicken leather on a stick was hard to chew and now felt like a rock in his stomach.

It was an odious part of the job — he’d rather face a room full of investors behind a podium with a prepared presentation than make small talk. He was only attending the Horse Whisker Springs Chamber of Commerce business reception because his company was the guest company of honor. Preston and Tomas thought it was important for the CEO to make an appearance. The Chamber invite had also been extended to their board of investors; three had actually come down to celebrate the launch of the first commercial test, making it even more of an obligation.

The plan was that he and Tomas were to chat with the investors that had made the effort to travel down, introduce themselves to the local business leaders, and then slide out. It had worked well until the second investor had mentioned model trains and Tomas’ eyes had lit up. They were still absorbed in their conversation.

Chuck enjoyed Tomas and they worked together well, but he’d heard enough about model trains in the last few months to last him for years, which was about how long Tomas could go on about them.

He wished Sophia could have come down today; she was more at ease with this type of situation and might have made this event enjoyable. Of course, if he had lovely brown eyes and a smile that melted people into butterscotch, socializing would be much easier. He imagined them bantering about the food and crowd, smiling to himself as he remembered how her whispers felt on his cheek at a social event not that long ago.

But she wasn’t here and Preston was. Chuck squared his shoulders as he spied his VP of Administration. Preston Blakes had been standing with several of the local dignitaries and was walking toward the bar. Seeing Chuck, he waved him over.

Need a drink? He asked, then added quietly, Have you met everyone? Remember the city and county have provided some great tax incentives and were flexible with the zoning requirements.

Chuck nodded. You don’t have to remind me. He was well aware on how incentives figured into the decision to locate in this rural area.

Preston was in his early forties, a few years older than Chuck. He had a preppy quality about him, still sporting the build of an ex-tennis player under a golfer’s tan.

And the guy over there with the shock of white hair?

Chuck followed Preston’s gaze and smiled, remembering the most interesting conversation he’d had today. Yes, Ben the Bourbon maker. Fascinating guy, started telling me about his process for some of his specialty liquors and how the quality of the Kentucky water was a key ingredient. When I get a chance, I’ll have to take him up on his offer for a tour.

Preston nodded, as if he was checking off a list.

The mayor and county commissioners?

I’m as familiar with most of the commissioners as I care to be, but I have not met the mayor.

Well, then, let’s remedy that. Preston moved over towards a small group of men, waiting for a pause in the conversation.

Mr. Mayor, I wanted to introduce you to Chuck Smanderson, our CEO.

They shook hands. Delighted to meet you, Chuck! We were just discussing the new stoplight downtown, but I’d rather ask about your plans for future hiring. The mayor said, jovially.

That’s my area, I’m happy to say, and we are hiring, and hope to increase the workforce even more fairly soon. Preston interjected, raising his drink. I’m the ‘VP of everything but Technology’ — I leave the technology to Chuck and Tomas, who invented it.

Preston’s very excited to be here. A svelte woman with short chestnut hair joined the conversation, patting Preston on the shoulder. The golf season is much longer here in Kentucky than New York. She resembled a flamingo; her short pink dress topped long slender black hose that ended in the tallest shoes Chuck had ever seen.

Let me introduce you to my wife. Preston said as he put his arm around her. Liza, this is Mayor Diwick and Chuck, one of the gentlemen that is the brains behind our technology.

She extended her hand in manner that made Chuck wonder if he should shake it or kiss it. He opted for the handshake. Her hand was firm and businesslike, but she held on a bit longer than necessary while her dark brown penetrating gaze sized him up.

Tomas is our inventor and founder, and Chuck is a wizard at … everything. But I think you’d explain it better, Chuck. Preston winked at Liza. Excuse me, I see the daughter of one the investors heading out, and I forgot to ask her about her graduation.

Liza raised her eyebrows. Why, Preston, don’t forget you are not available. She said this with a honeyed southern accent.

How could I forget? Preston answered, but his skin flushed, apparent even under his dark tan.

Fifteen years and I still have to remind him  — by the way — that was my Scarlett O’Hara imitation.

After asserting she should be cast in Gone with the Wind, the Mayor excused himself and Chuck was left alone with the vixen. Liza sipped her white wine, seductively licked her full red lips and smiled. He noted she wore heavy dark eyeliner and sparkles on her eyelids. Her face looked late thirties, but her body, twenty. Her dress was molded on her; he had to admit the shape was alluring.

So what do you do? He ventured.

Her eyes lit up. He was relieved he’d hit on a good topic because the weather and the town had been worn to death in previous conversations.

Thanks for asking. So many people think I’m just Preston’s appendage. I’m a shoe rep for Spunky Slippers Shoes. Noting his blank look, she took the opportunity for a promotional message. Specialty high-end designer shoes, like these. She balanced on one leg and lifted up her shoe, increasing her resemblance to a flamingo. They are made of sustainable materials, so they can both look and feel fantastic with no guilt. She pointed to the inch and a half platform and ran her finger down the side of the shoe to the spikey heel, wobbling slightly and grabbing Chuck’s arm to steady herself. And they are made in the United States — in Asheville, North Carolina, by skilled artisans. Someday they’ll be in the Smithsonian, but for now, anyone can enjoy them.

Very nice. He said, admiring the shoe. He couldn’t help but notice the shapely length of her leg. Err, my girlfriend might like them. He added to clarify he had not been admiring her legs, although he wouldn’t have been human if he hadn’t.

She became even more animated; apparently he’d said the right thing again. Oh, you should get her some! I can give you a discount, if you know her size. They are so well made and comfy, though they don’t look it, that she’ll want to wear them to bed. She leaned in towards him and lowered her voice. Nothing makes a girl friskier than a great pair of heels. She winked. I think you know what FMP means!

Chuck didn’t consider himself a prude, but he could feel himself blushing. Her breath smelled like wine and garlic, so he took a step back and scanned for Tomas, hoping to turn the conversation in another direction. Well … maybe not, I don’t know her size exactly.

As if he had heard Chuck’s internal alarm, Tomas finally appeared. What’s this about size? He asked, blinking behind his thick round glasses. Tomas had a habit of jumping right into a conversation. Ring size perhaps?

We were talking about her shoes. Chuck felt the need to explain.

Apparently, his girlfriend doesn’t get the idea of this type of stylish shoes. She said with a slight wink at Chuck. I may have embarrassed him.

Toe - mas, have you met Liza, Preston’s wife? Chuck exaggerated the pronunciation; Tomas was very touchy about how his name was pronounced.

His friend’s eyes widened as he extended his hand to her. Liza, nice to meet you, Preston never mentioned he had such a lovely wife. But I don’t think you should underestimate Chuck’s Sophia.

Does she come to visit? She asked, this time a bit more casually. I’d love to meet her.

Yes, she’s coming down this weekend. Tomas answered for Chuck. Those are very nice shoes, though. And legs… Tomas tapped Chuck on the shoulder. Excuse us, we’re wanted in the other side of the room.

Liza quickly looked through her purse and pulled out two business cards. Nice to meet you as well, Toe-mas. Chuck, call me … if you need some shoes.

Chuck thought it best to take the cards. After all, she was Preston’s wife. Thanks. Tomas might look nice in them.

She laughed and Tomas shook his head.

As they walked away, Tomas remarked. I like her – not only is she a looker but she got my name right.

Chuck asked, Who did you say needed us?

Tomas said The exit.

Finally!

Contact from the Past

Sophia could hear the phone ringing as she stepped out of the shower and stubbed her toe. Ouch! She still wasn’t used to this shower. She was house sitting for Tomas while he was down in Kentucky with Chuck — the house had some quirks but he’d offered her it rent-free and it was really quite nice. Tomas figured he was going to be down there for at least two years, maybe longer if things worked out, but he wasn’t ready to sell his house in Park Ridge and didn’t want to leave it vacant or rent to strangers. Meanwhile, Sophia had been living with her sister Anne, but Anne’s finance had wanted her to move in with him. So far it had worked out well, except for the shower and dusting around Tomas’s ultimate train set.

Hopping across the room, she managed to pick up her phone.

Hello? Sophia? It’s Violet.

A blast from the past. Sophia had been trying to contact her first year college roommate, Violet, since Chuck had shared the location of the test facility. Last she’d heard, Violet lived in a town right near there.

Wow - it’s so good to hear from you! They’d been good friends, and Sophia had been one of her bridesmaids, but over the years they’d lost contact. Sophia luckily found an old email and physical address and had sent notes to both.

Thank goodness I never change my email! Violet laughed. Good old AOL, I don’t check it often, but I just saw that you’re coming down here. Such a small world! I know where your boyfriend is working, too. You remember Joe, my ex-husband? He just got a job there.

That is a small world — how big is the town?

I live in the metropolis of Hopkinsville, which is not far from Chuck’s office. I know you are a world traveler city girl, so it will seem pretty rural.

Chuck had already shared the ‘ruralness’ which seemed to delight him. Yes, I know. Chuck is thinking about getting a horse.

Lots of good places for one.

Apparently he lives next to a farm where he can see them. Of course the dog I’m driving down for him is often mistaken for a horse.

How nice! There are some picturesque farm properties around here. I hope we’ll have time to get together. I only have Friday evening off — would that work?

Sophia hesitated — that was her first night there, she wanted to spend it with Chuck by himself. How about lunch on Saturday?

Can’t. I have to work. I work in a bakery/catering company on the weekends and we have a big event all day Saturday. But I’m totally free on Friday, my daughter is at the in-laws so I don’t even need a babysitter.

She sounded so enthused that Sophia felt compelled to agree. I’ll talk to Chuck and call you back for the plans. Sophia’s thoughts turned to Chuck. She’d talk to him and get his thoughts; he usually was fairly flexible — maybe all three of them could go out.

Extra invitations

Chuck wasn’t enthused about sharing Sophia with an old school friend the first night he’d see her.

Couldn’t you guys just have lunch?

It’s the only time she has — she said she works two jobs.

He thought for a moment. How about if we ask Tomas? Then I’ll have someone to talk to.

Sophia laughed. We’ll talk to you!

I’m glad you’re laughing, but I can visualize how it would go with two women at a table, especially old friends. He knew this from experience — his ex-wife had abandoned him for her friends many times, one reason he reacted so badly to unstructured social situations. He was gradually gaining trust that Sophia wouldn’t do that, but he preferred to hedge the bet. Plus, it would be good for Tomas. He’s had a hard week and usually likes to talk on Fridays to unwind. He paused and imagined her head against the phone, considering. He wished she’d use the video chat option on her phone, but she refused, claiming it made her nose look disproportionately large.

"I can talk to Tomas so you can catch