When Hearts Collide

By Mary Gant Bell

Sandy was in trouble. Her ice cream shop was everything she ever imagined it would be. Except she didn’t have any customers. The viral video that put her on the map had faded into the past. Her business needed a future.
Once she found the courage to ask for assistance, Sandy got more than she bargained for. Suddenly her life, and her livelihood, became saturated with helpful and gorgeous men. Not only did they want to see her busines thrive, they also wanted to win her heart.
Her cry for help was also answered by Brett. No matter how far she ran, Brett followed her and appeared at the most inopportune times. She couldn’t shake him, or the lies and secrets that had destroyed their relationship like ketchup ruins an ice cream sundae.
But she couldn’t deny that it was Brett who rescued her from failure. Was that enough to give him her heart? Or would one of the other helpful men provide a firmer foundation for her future? One without secrets and mysteries.

When Hearts Collide is book 3 of the series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Feb 14, 2021
• ISBN: 9781716076312

Book preview

Chapter 2

Sandy shifted in her seat. Again. She glanced at her watch. Again. He was supposed to be here by now. Even though she wasn’t in a hurry to hear what he had to say, she wanted this to be over.

The waiter approached her table. Again. She almost asked him for a bottle of whiskey. But she didn’t drink. Tennis was her way of relieving stress. Envisioning all the anger and tension traveling down her neck, through her shoulder, into her arm and flashing from her fingertips. Smashing the ball and launching it across the court like a bullet flying from a gun. Whiskey only dulled emotions. Yellow balls sent problems soaring far from her orbit.

No thank you, Sandy told the waiter. I’ll wait until my friend arrives to order.

Friend. Sandy laughed. The man she was meeting, the man who was now thirty minutes late, was definitely not her friend. She couldn’t imagine any scenario when she would think of him as anything more than a traitor. Her enemy. A dream killer. The robber of souls.

Definitely not a friend.

Excuse me? Are you Sandy?

She did her best to paste a smile on her face and looked up. He was tall. Sandy liked tall men, but she quickly reminded herself he was a hatchet man. He was handsome, but that didn’t matter either. She hoped to never see him after today. And he was relaxed. How dare he appear calm when he was about to shatter her world. That alone solidified her decision to detest him.

He set his briefcase on the floor and made himself comfortable across from her. I’m Anthony. Sorry I’m so late.

The waiter arrived, allowing Sandy time to swallow her pride. She had asked him for this meeting. The things he had to say wouldn’t go down any smoother if she snarled at him until the check arrived.

Sandy tried not to squirm as he appraised her over his menu. After the waiter retreated back to the kitchen, she went on the defensive. Both of my ice cream shops in Seattle did an amazing business. I arrived here with enough cash for a down payment on any building I wanted. I know how to run a profitable business.

Anthony smiled through her speech. I’m glad you’re defensive and know how to be successful. That’s a great start.

I’m not defensive. I don’t know what you’re talking about.

Yes, you do, Anthony said, leaning back in his chair. I like that in a business owner. If you didn’t care enough to preserve your dream, why would you be paying me to help you turn it around?

It’s not like I’m incompetent. Sandy twisted her glass on its coaster.

Intelligent people know when to ask for help.

I don’t … Sandy’s thought was interrupted by the waiter delivering their food. It was probably a good thing. The rest of that sentence wouldn’t have demonstrated her willingness to work with this man. A man with amazingly beautiful bright blue eyes.

Need help. Anthony finished her sentence as he spread his napkin over his thighs. Then why am I here?

Sandy’s hands fell to her lap. She stared at the ceiling to stop the tears. Because I need help.

Anthony finished chewing the bite of roast beef sandwich in his mouth. There’s no shame in it. I’d be unemployed if no one needed guidance from time to time. Now, tell me why you left Seattle if your business was booming there.

Sandy’s face turned from ‘I just lost my puppy’ to ‘I can kill you with my bare hands’ in a single heartbeat. The answer to that is irrelevant.

Anthony’s sandwich stopped in midair. As you wish. Will you tell me why you invited me to lunch?

Sandy pushed broccoli around her plate, but nothing touched her lips. I was doing fine. Business was good. I had a steady stream of clients. And then the viral video circled the world.

I watched the links you sent me. I’m sorry that happened to you.

It was awful at the time, but I can’t deny it drew people in from far and wide. Everyone wanted to see the scene of the crime. And they all bought ice cream while they were there. It was great.

For awhile. When did it stop?

The wave lasted about a year. Then I did a wedding cake, which was new for me. I figured it would generate some unique clients. Branching out into something new.

Ice cream wedding cakes? Anthony’s eyebrows shot up. That’s a great way to diversify. How many nuptials did you do?

Two. Sandy gave up trying to eat and put her fork back on the table. They were sisters.

What did you do to spread the word? How did you advertise your wedding cakes? Anthony took another large bite of his sandwich. He was halfway through his meal, and Sandy had barely touched her food.

Nothing really. I wasn’t convinced I could accommodate many brides. Weekends used to be the busiest days in my shop. How could I keep things running smoothly there if I were someplace else? I didn’t really pursue it.

You don’t have any employees that you trust to hold down the fort?

Sandy sipped her tea. When I did the weddings, I had two employees. One I had to let go about eight months ago. There wasn’t enough business to justify her position. The second is Courtney. Let’s just say Courtney has come a long way since I hired her and leave it at that.

To summarize. Right now, it’s just you and Courtney, the questionable employee.

And no customers.

It’s really okay for you to eat. Your business will not prosper if you go on a hunger strike.

What will restore my dream? Answer that and I’ll eat.

Anthony wiped his mouth and retrieved his notes from his briefcase.

First of all, if you hire me, here’s a list of things I’ll investigate. Secondly, after I have the answers to these questions, we’ll develop a plan of action together. Third, implement the plan and enjoy your success.

Sandy glanced through the list. Some items she had already tried. Others were foreign concepts. By the time she read the last entry, she realized she should have called a real estate agent instead of a marketing expert. Is it more overwhelming to quit or tackle this checklist of unsurmountable mountains?

I don’t know how to do these things.

Which is why you hire me. Together, we can recoup your profits and reclaim the dream. Neither of us can do this alone, Sandy. Don’t hire me unless you’re willing to take some risks and interested in having me by your side through the process.

Sandy gazed into his eyes. He sounded so earnest and determined. It generated flashbacks to a time when she’d heard the same things flowing from another man’s lips.

Can I afford you? Will you work for sundaes?

Anthony’s smile almost made Sandy forget her troubles. My fee is based on your success. If you don’t make a profit, neither do I.

Sounds fair. Sandy sipped her tea and pretended to read the list again. If I say yes, what’s the first step? Are these in order?

First, finish your lunch. You’ll need plenty of energy to keep up with me.

He was right. Whatever came next would be easier if she was physically prepared. She picked up her fork and assumed he would continue discussing the steps while she ate. When he didn’t, she prompted him. What’s step two?

Step two is find a tennis partner and whack some balls.

How did you know I play tennis?

Pictures on your social media accounts.

You snooped me? Sandy’s glare didn’t appear to intimidate him.

I did my research and came prepared.

Fine. But how does playing tennis sell ice cream?

Anthony leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. First of all, it will make you happy. Customers don’t want their orders filled by a gaunt looking ghost.

Sandy unconsciously touched her face. Since her mouth was full, however, she didn’t scold him for his insult. Or was it an observation. Let’s go with prediction.

Secondly, you’ll be playing matches or sets or whatever they’re called wearing a custom-made t-shirt displaying your logo. It’s good advertising. You might just happen to have a few coupons in your bag if anyone has a craving.

Remind me again who’s manning the shop while I’m on the court indulging in a mental health break? Sandy had finished enough of her lunch to stop her stomach from grumbling. She would save the rest of her chicken and steamed vegetables for dinner.

Courtney. Trusting her to hold things together without you by her side is your third assignment.

Sandy wiped her mouth and signaled for the check. Do I get a report card when this is over?

Your monthly profit statements are your grades. Every penny in the black counts as an A. Anthony grabbed the check before it hit the table.

You have to let me pay, Sandy said, reaching for the bill. This is business.

For me, too. Anthony signed the receipt with a smile. You’re providing dessert.

Alright. Sandy shifted in her chair, hearing her credit card sigh in relief. When are you coming to the shop? I assume you want to see the place before implementing some of these ideas.

How does tomorrow at 10:00 am sound?

Perfect. We open to the public at 11:00 am. That will allow us an hour for the grand tour before the crowds walk past and ignore us.

Attitude is everything. Think positive. Are you parked in the back? I’ll walk you to your car.

If you’re so impeccable about manners, why were you thirty minutes late?

That, my friend, is a story for another day. Don’t forget your dinner.

Sandy reached for the forgotten to-go box as the blush crawled up her neck. Thank you.

Don’t worry, Sandy. In a short time, you won’t have to save half your lunch so that you don’t go to bed hungry. You’ll have plenty of cash in the bank to buy three meals each day.

This man is too perceptive. That’s not it. I just wasn’t as hungry as I thought.

Anthony was silent as they walked to her car. He didn’t speak again until she had opened her door. If this is going to work, we need to be honest with each other. Even when it embarrasses you. Okay?

Sandy looked at the white Styrofoam box to avoid his eyes. I haven’t trusted a man since my father walked me down the aisle.

Forget about men for now. Focus on rebuilding your clientele and mental health. Dating can wait.

Chapter 3

Courtney stood beside Sandy in the doorway to their miniscule unisex restroom. What are you doing?

Go back to the register. I don’t want the counter to be unmanned when he arrives.

You’re putting on lipstick.

Sandy turned from the mirror long enough to glare at her only employee. My lips were dry. I’m nervous.

You’re primping. Courtney pulled a couple strands of Sandy’s hair from her bun. This is going to be more fun than I thought.

I am not primping. Sandy return her hair to her tight bun with more bobby pins than necessary. I want to demonstrate that I take my business seriously. He’ll assume I put as much effort into my shop as I do my appearance.

I googled him. He’s a hunk. I’d make a move for him, but he’s out of my league. Courtney followed Sandy to the cash register where they could watch the front door.

Sandy smoothed the front of her apron and checked for stains. If I admit I noticed that he’s drop-dead gorgeous, can we stop talking about it?

I guess we’ll have to. Here he is now.

Good morning, ladies. Anthony’s eyes were glued to Sandy’s. Am I late again? You both look ready for your first customer even though you don’t open for another hour.

I’m Courtney. Nice to meet you. Since Sandy stood frozen and mute, Courtney took the lead. 

Courtney, it’s a pleasure. Anthony shook her hand but immediately returned his attention to Sandy. You’ve got a great location here. Lots of foot traffic and ample parking.

The movie theater is just a couple blocks down that way. Courtney said as she poked Sandy in the back. And the library is the other direction.

Let’s sit, and I’ll show you some ideas I have. Anthony gestured toward a chair near the window.

You don’t want a tour? Sandy finally recovered the ability to speak.

Actually, I’d rather watch the customers and see how they flow through the space. We can discuss other aspects until it’s time to open.

That’s fine. Sandy perched on the edge of her chair, ready to flee if he criticized her store. Or tried to kiss her. Where did that thought come from?

I’ll be over here, getting ready for the day, Courtney said, disappearing behind the serving counter.

Thank you, Courtney, Sandy said, wringing her hands together.

There’s no reason to be nervous. Anthony slid a dark blue binder across the table. Her company’s logo was displayed on the cover. The worst part is over. You already admitted there’s a problem. Implementing solutions is much easier than leaping that hurdle.

This graphic makes it look like I cater birthday parties for toddlers. A blush consumed her face. I never realized that until seeing it here. Like this.

Rebranding is one of my suggestions. I have a design team who can create an updated and dynamic logo. We’ll use the new one for your grand opening.

Grand opening? But I’ve been in business for years.

No matter. Customers no longer assume grand openings are actually the day you opened your doors. All they think is ‘discounts’ and ‘free stuff.’ We can work that to your benefit.

I need to increase profits, not give away product. Sandy stared at the binder but refused to open it. Her logo, the one she created herself and thought was so clever, had betrayed her. It was a difficult pill to swallow.

In order to put money in the bank, you need feet in the door. Anthony opened her binder along with his. Let’s start with what we know. Okay? I promise I’ll make this as painless as possible.

Courtney diced fruit while Anthony explained his plan. Sandy listened, but her defensiveness muted half of what he said.

It’s all here in the binder, so you can review it as many times as you need. Make notes in the margins so we can make revisions and add your ideas, too. Anthony watched Sandy’s face as she flipped through the pages.

It’s a lot to digest.

Yes. It is.

How much is all this going to cost? Sandy closed the binder. You don’t take a fee unless it works. But the new logo, decorations, advertising. All that takes money.

Not as much as giving up your dream, Anthony said. It’s your call. Invest and rebuild. Or close your doors now to stop the bleeding.

I think I’ll …. Sandy’s thought was interrupted by the bell above the door.

Welcome to Sandy’s, Courtney’s voice sang from the counter. Come on in.

Sandy hoped Anthony didn’t notice when Greta forced herself to walk toward Courtney instead of greeting Sandy. She was followed by Sylvia and her two boys, Matthew and Mark.

Hey, Miss Sandy! Matthew called. We want ice cream.

And lots of it! Mark added.

Indoor voices, please. Sylvia corralled her boys to the counter behind Greta. Sandy’s busy right now.

Sandy pretended to read the binder as Anthony watched the first customers of the day. As soon as they had their treats and selected a table, the door opened again. Tricia entered with her husband, David. Sandy hoped that Anthony’s keen eye hadn’t caught Tricia and Greta exchanging a tiny wave.

This place is adorable, Tricia said to Courtney. I’ll have a caramel sundae with nuts and whipped cream.

Same for me, David said, looking around as though it was his first time there.

Anthony watched Tricia and David select a table close to Greta and Sylvia. Sylvia scolded the boys when they tried to talk to the two new arrivals. Since he knew he couldn’t stare, Anthony turned his attention to the door. An older couple, clearly husband and wife, entered and hesitated. With Courtney’s encouragement, they made their way to the counter and ordered.

Anthony glanced at his watch. I’m impressed, Sandy.

We have customers. Sandy’s voice was tight. I told you it wasn’t that bad. We’ve only been open ten minutes, and already three tables are full.

Filled with your friends. A nice mix, I must say. Women, men, young kids, elderly. You went to great effort to show me a diverse clientele. Anthony shifted in his chair. Did you think I wouldn’t notice none of them paid? Or that all of them know each other?

That’s not so unusual for regular customers.

If this is going to work, we need to be honest with each other. Remember? I’m happy to see you made the effort to stage a good impression for my visit. That speaks well of your commitment. But the dishonesty will only hurt you.

The bell on the door jingled again as John and Kyle arrived. Sit with your wives, Sandy called to them. The cat’s out of the bag.

The men joined their families without ordering anything. Sandy leaned forward and buried her face in her hands. Maybe I should just quit. It all seems so hopeless.

We don’t know each other well, Sandy, but you don’t strike me as the type of woman who gives up so easily. Why would you throw in the towel without putting up a fight?

Because if I implement all these changes, everything you suggested in this annoying binder, it won’t be my dream any longer. It feels like I created a tennis racket worthy of the dollar store. You’d turn it into a higher quality version. But is that really me? Is it how I envisioned the dream?

Anthony ignored his own rule and rubbed Sandy’s shoulder. Let’s break it down. Are these decorations the dream? Or is owning an ice cream shop your desire? Is having a logo you created yourself the goal? Or is opening the doors and greeting happy customers what gets you out of bed in the morning?

Sandy reached for a napkin and dried her tears. I see what you mean. But still. It feels like failure to come to a place someone else created in order to sell sundaes a marketing firm predicted would appeal to people.

Then we’ll work together to find middle ground. We’ll discover what motivates the customers, what gets them in the door, and how to stay true to your dream.

Okay. I’ll try. Sandy sat up straight and smiled at Anthony.

The room exploded with cheers. Sandy stood and bowed. Since there were no legitimate customers in the room, she didn’t mind their unprofessional outburst. She glanced at Courtney, who gave her a thumbs up.

Sandy turned to Anthony and said, Let’s do this!

Much to her surprise, Anthony hugged her. He jerked away as though he hadn’t realized what he was doing. Sorry about that. I meant to shake your hand.

That’s okay, Sandy blushed. It’s good to know you care.

Chapter 4

I thought he was perfect for Sandy. Greta switched off the overhead light and joined her husband in bed. Didn’t you?

Don’t get your hopes up, John said, setting his alarm clock. It’s just a business arrangement, not a courtship.

You saw how they hugged before he left. That looked like a whole different kind of business to me.

Only because you have a romantic heart. John turned off his bedside lamp and rolled toward Greta. Are Sylvia and Kyle coming over for dinner tomorrow?

Yes. Maybe we should invite Sandy and Anthony, too.

It took me forever to convince you I was your soul mate and now you want to play matchmaker for Sandy? My heart!

Don’t be so dramatic. I think they stand a good chance.

Did you invite Tricia and David to dinner, too? John asked, nuzzling Greta’s neck.

I did, but I don’t think they’ll come. Tricia is so exhausted with school work, and David is leading the youth group this week.

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