My Best Friend's Father

Brandi's POV

My eyes snap open at 7:00 am sharp, as usual.

I don't have to look at the clock to know it's 7. I've been waking like this long enough to trust my body's internal clock.

I pull the comforter off me, slip out of bed, and begin my daily routine by making my bed. Pillows perfectly aligned, sheets pulled tight, and comforter folded just right. I nod when I see the finished outcome.

I walk to my bathroom for the next part of my routine: brush my teeth, wash my face, and shower.

I grab the outfit I put together last night and get dressed. Hair and makeup are last on the list. I complete my look-a high ponytail, light makeup-and nod, approving my work.

By now, it's 7:30 am.

I walk to my kitchen. The coffee machine turns on every morning at 7:25 am, so my coffee is ready by the time I get there. I pour myself a cup in my usual mug-sugar, a bit of cream-and then I stand by the counter and sip it.

"I have to visit grandma today," I note to myself as I take another sip of my coffee.

I smile. It's been a month since I've seen her. I've been too busy finishing the Klein hotel project.

I'm an interior decorator, mostly doing hotels and corporate buildings. I worked for a huge firm for the first 4 years after college. I started Marshall's Design 2 years ago, and it's been doing quite well. Thanks to my connections with Gianna and her father, who is a real estate investor.

I finish the last drop of my coffee, take a sponge and a drop of dish soap, wash it, and put it in the dishwasher to dry.

I make my way to the living room, grab my keys, and head for the door.

The drive to my office is the same as usual-mundane but pleasant. Once I get to my building, I scan my ID, nod my head to the receptionist, and make my way to the elevator.

The door opens on my floor. I share the floor with a dental and a law office. I walk to the door and pull it open.

Amber, a cute little redhead, my assistant and fellow designer, comes running up to me.

"You're here! Mr. Fennuchi called; he's worried about the budget for his office. The statues are over 500k, and he's complaining... I don't know what to do? This is what he asked for... He asked for three of them..."

I step in and close the door. This is her first solo design project, so she's a little frazzled, as can be expected; I was probably like that my first time.

I walk to my office, and she follows, still rambling. I empty my handbag on my desk and turn to her.

"Amber, first thing." she stops and turns to me.

"Huh?"

"Take a deep breath." She stops, then inhales and exhales.

"Okay, Mr.Fennuchi