Page 48 of Edward’s Bunny

Tensions

Edward

"Edward, I can't thank you enough. Your people really came through," Peter Danver said through the computer.

"I'm glad we could help. I'll admit that with the delay at the plant, I was worried we wouldn't be able to get your units out to you in time," I replied.

The engineer had taken three days to manufacture the part that was needed, but luckily, we were able to meet the deadline. It would've been a big hit if we couldn't pull it off. Our teams worked tirelessly, and their efforts had clearly paid off. Peter's appreciative tone was proof of that.

“Well, you guys did it. That’s all that matters. My team is happy, and we can get our orders filled, which makes my board happy, so they make money. You know how that goes, right Edward?” Peter grinned broadly.

Peter was an old corporate curmudgeon and had been in the automobile industry since what felt like the days of Henry Ford. He was hard as nails and knew how to make things work. That’s why his board kept him around.

I laughed. “Luckily, I own my company a hundred percent and don’t have to answer to a board. It’s one of the perks of staying private.”

My phone on my desk vibrated, and I couldn’t stop the grin that slipped onto my face at seeing the name displayed—Brian. It had been two weeks since my big date with Brian, and things couldn’t be going better. We had gotten closer, spending every free moment possible together.

“I know my wrinkly face and your not having a board isn’t making you smile like that. What’s going on, Edward?” Peter’s question pulled me from my thoughts.

“Uh, sorry, Peter. I got a little distracted,” I admitted.

Peter laughed a raspy laugh. “Edward, in all the years we’ve been in business together, you’ve never been distracted.” Peter leaned back in his chair and steepled his hands. “I heard you got divorced from that wife of yours. Have you found someone new?”

I felt my face heat. “I, maybe. It’s definitely new.”

“Ah, to be young again.” He leaned forward so his face filled his entire camera. “You know if you want to be romantic. Take them shopping in New York and ice skating at Rockefeller Centre. That’s how I got my third wife, Viv. The Christmas trees and lights, magic in the air, my friend.” He rocked back. “Works every time, promise you.”

I laughed. It wasn’t that bad of an idea. I never knew Peter had it in him. “Thanks, Peter. I may do something along those lines.”

“Do it, my friend. It will be worth it. I’ll let you go so you can chat with your new girl. Talk to you later.”

Peter disconnected the line before I could say goodbye or even correct his assumption. My new love interest was not a woman. It’s not his business anyway, I thought. I scooped up my phone and quickly unlocked it.

Bunny: Just got out of class, heading home. How’s your day going, Eddie?

I smiled. Over these weeks of getting closer, we’ve gotten in the habit of calling each other Eddie and Bunny.

Me: Just finished a meeting. How was your test?

Bunny: It was great. Got a ninety-eight. Stanton confirmed my scholarship with the dean. Guess who’s enrolled in med school for the spring term.

I quickly typed out a text, and I bit my lip for a moment before sending. Could I do it? I could probably move things around. I nodded to myself and completed the text.

Me: That’s fantastic, Bunny! We need to celebrate. I’ve got the perfect plan. Are you off at the Pavilion?

I lifted my head at the sound of a knock at my door. “Come in. “

“I’m sorry to interrupt. I was just going to stick my head in to see how the call was going,” Katie said.

“No problem at all. The meeting with Danver ended. In fact, I need to speak with you. So this is perfect timing,” I said, waving her in.

"Both Mr. Doys are also here," she replied before answering.

I motioned my head in a come-on-in manner. "Show them in."

Katie gave a quick nod. "Yes, Sire." Katie stepped into the room and gestured for Walter and Mike to enter.

“Good afternoon, Sire,” Walter said formally as he entered, with a bow of his head in deference.