Free Better Than Chocolate by Pat Amsden Page A

course.” As simple as that.
     
         

 
    CHAPTER SIX
     
          Vancouver was a different story. Even as they drove off the ferry she could feel herself changing. Vancouver took her back, made her a different person.
          It took her back to being a child in a larger than life family who used her art as a way of coping. She looked at Brad now. “Are you sure this is necessary?”
          He just nodded. “You need to know who you’re doing business with.”
          “But you said they’re both good.”
          “They are,” he said without hesitation. “But it’s good to learn to trust your gut too. And it’s always better to deal with people directly. That way you’re not just a number to them.”
          “I’m not having dinner with my family or staying overnight.”
          “I’m not asking you too.” He paused for a minute. “I do have to meet with your dad at some point today. It might be nice if you could say hello.”
          “Hello, maybe coffee,” she said firmly. “That’s it.”
          “Your choice,” he said shrugging. He still didn’t understand Elena’s relationship with her dad. But it wasn’t up to him. Could they have a relationship while he worked with her dad? He looked at her now. Somehow she was smaller, more vulnerable. He reached over, squeezing her hand, wanting to give her strength, give her courage.
          She smiled back, tremulously as they drove into Vancouver. She like who she was becoming. Yet somehow the farther they drove into Vancouver the more she felt herself becoming the shy, timid Elena she had been growing up.
          Yet, nervous as she was, Brad couldn’t help but notice she looked as if she belonged here. Her long hair was smooth perfection topping a white trench coat perfect for Vancouver rain while classic black pants fitted to perfection gave way to what were probably hideously expensive Manolo Blaniks or some other equally expensive designer shoes in a bright red. Underneath she wore a simple black suit jacket. Only the jewellery said artist. Hand done enamel earrings and a necklace from an artist friend complimented her outfit perfectly and gave her a touch of individuality.
          Hans Helgensen, the first potential investor, nodded approvingly as he greeted them. “So you are Elena. Brad’s told me so much about you and your gallery/coffee shop I almost feel I know you.” He was charming in an old world fashion and she felt herself relax as she took the pro-offered seat.
          The terms Brad had gone over with her were very favourable and she was totally charmed. “But in fairness I must at least listen to the other proposal,” she protested.
    “After all Brad has gone to all the effort of arranging it.”
          “Don’t wait too long then,” Mr. Helgensen had said without rancour. “The deal won’t be on the table long.”
          “I expect to know by the end of today,” she said. “I’ll let you know either way.”
          “Ah, a woman after my own heart,” he said approvingly. “Then I look forward to hearing from you.”
          “I like him,” she said , as they left the building.
          “Good. More important, do you feel you can trust him?”
          “Of course I do,” she said looking at him as if he were insane. “You told me it was a good deal.”
          “That’s true. But even I make mistakes. Not about him,” he said hastily. “But it’s good to meet these people yourself, make your own decisions.”
          “OK. Can you tell me about the other one?”
          “Their terms are both pretty close. I’ve worked with both before and found them reliable. Really it’s up to you. I’m sure you and Karen will get along well.”
          She felt a stab of pain. “Karen?”
          “Surprised? More and more women are in business and banking. That might work to your