Free Tangled Up (Bachelors of Buttermilk Falls #2) by Robyn Neeley

didn’t give it away, the cameraman hovering over her did.
    He’d raced to get to the bar hardly having any time to shower and shave, but what had happened today was well worth having to hurry. He still couldn’t believe that by the end of the week, he’d be an inn owner.
    He couldn’t explain his rush purchase that would normally cause anyone to pause—including him. The minute he stepped into the old, musty inn, he knew he’d do whatever it took to own it. There was something enchanting about the place that overwhelmed all his senses. He could picture how it must have been back in the day—hearing the music, seeing its patrons laughing, eating, drinking, and having a good time.
    He had a large inheritance when his dad passed away that he’d use for the purchase. He’d never wanted to touch the money before given that his estranged father never gave his mother and him a dime growing up. The money had been sitting in his bank account for years after his father’s death. Brandon now had a reason to use it.
    With the inn paid in full, he’d then take out a loan to cover the renovations. He’d talk Jason into helping him and see if he could get some of the guys around town to pitch in as well.
    He loved the idea of Abby operating her new catering venture out of the inn. It would be good for business with potential customers hosting their events on the property.
    There was also something about the spunky redhead—he couldn’t exactly put his finger on it—but he liked having her around.
    Plus, it was her idea for him to open a lakeside bar. He believed in karma, and it was definitely good karma to invite her to use his space.
    Reaching the table, he put all thoughts of this afternoon aside and extended his hand. “Hi. I’m Brandon.”
    “Hi, Brandon. I’m Rachel.”
    “It’s nice to meet you.” He turned to the camera guy, who’d set up his tripod in front of the table. “You must be the one filming this experiment.” He paused, correcting himself. “I mean date.”
    “I’m Shane, but pretend I’m not even here. I’ll film you for a bit, and then we’ll take a break and let you two get to know each other before your task begins.”
    “About that.” Brandon pulled out the wooden chair and sat down. “Do you know what we’re doing?”
    Shane handed him a folded piece of paper. “It’s all here, but don’t read it right away. The instructions say that you should both order a drink first.”
    “Okay.” Brandon took the paper and put it aside. “So, Rachel. Are you from around here?”
    She nodded and pulled a strand of hair behind her ear. “Born and bred. I’m a florist. My flower shop is just around the corner.”
    “It’s across from the Sugar Spoon bakery, right?”
    She nodded. “Emma and Abby bring me cupcakes every Tuesday after Batter Up night, and I supply them with fresh flowers.”
    “Leftover magical cupcakes . . . sounds like a good trade. Why don’t I go grab us a couple of beers.” He hopped up and headed over to the bar where a grinning Mitch greeted him.
    “Cute.” Mitch glanced over at Rachel. “First date?”
    “Long story.”
    “What’s the camera for?”
    “Longer story. Is it okay that we’re being taped in here? We could go somewhere else if it’s a problem.”
    Mitch laughed and handed him two bottlenecks. “On the house. Make sure you put in a good word for the tavern.”
    “Will do.” He turned to head back to the table but paused, remembering he needed to talk to his boss. “Hey, I was wondering if I could pick up some extra shifts.”
    “I thought you were working on your book.”
    “I am, but I could use the money for a renovation project.” He didn’t really want to reveal his plans publicly until the ink was dry. He also wasn’t quite sure how Mitch would feel having competition.
    “I think that could be arranged. You know we always need the help.”
    “Great. Thanks.” Brandon sauntered back to the table. Now that he’d had a