"Ethan, I don't know if you realize this, but Sterling Dynamics has been looking for a new automotive partner. Someone to maintain our company fleet, handle repairs for our employees' personal vehicles, maybe even consult on transportation logistics for our business clients."
Ethan blinked. "I'm not sure I follow."
"What I'm saying is that I'd like to offer Rodriguez Auto Repair an exclusive service contract, guaranteed monthly income, steady work, and enough of a retainer to help with your financial pressures."
The shop fell silent except for the hum of the air conditioner. Ethan looked at Victoria, then at Emma's hopeful face, then back to Victoria.
"Why would you do that? You barely know me."
Emma piped up before her mother could answer. "Because Mom says you're the kind of person who makes the world better, and because..."
She paused, glancing at her mother with a mischievous smile.
"Because I think you and Mom would make really good friends. Maybe even more than friends."
"Emma," Victoria gasped, her face turning crimson.
"I'm just asking," Emma said innocently, "because you both look happy when you look at each other, and isn't that what matters?"
Ethan stood up, meeting Victoria's embarrassed but amused gaze.
"She's got a point. I am happy to see you both again. And if you're serious about the business contract, I'd love to discuss it. But, Emma..."
He looked down at the little girl. "No more matchmaking schemes, okay? Your mom and I can figure out our own friendship."
Emma grinned triumphantly. "Deal. But can Mia still come to my recital as friends?"
Victoria looked at Ethan hopefully. "Actually, I'd love to meet your daughter, and the invitation to the recital is genuine. Emma's performing at a charity benefit for the Phoenix Children's Hospital. It's next Friday evening at the Orpheum."
"Mia would love that," he said, meaning it. "She's been working hard on her own performance, a dance recital tomorrow afternoon."
"Really?" Emma's eyes lit up. "What kind of dancing?"
"Ballet and jazz. She's been practicing for months."
Emma turned to her mother with pleading eyes. "Mom, can we go watch Mia dance, please?"
Victoria met Ethan's surprised gaze. "If it's not too presumptuous, we'd love to come support Mia. That is, if you don't mind."
Ethan felt something shift in his chest, a warmth that had nothing to do with the desert heat outside.
"I think Mia would be thrilled to have some new friends in the audience."
As they prepared to leave, Emma hugged Ethan again, this time whispering in his ear, "I'm not matchmaking anymore. I promise. But I still think you're perfect for my mom."
Walking them to their SUV, Ethan caught Victoria's arm gently. "Was she serious about you researching me?"
Victoria's cheeks flushed again. "Emma was serious about researching you. I may have supervised and what I found was a man who's been quietly helping his community for years, who puts his daughter first no matter what, and who has a reputation for integrity that's apparently legendary in this neighborhood."
"And that made you want to offer me a business contract."