Page 38 of Wynns of Change
“I avoid it as much as possible. Unfortunately, because we booked a flight on such short notice, our options were limited.”
“You can have it,” Birdie sighed. “This is for the birds.”
Finally, they reached Malibu Hills, the exclusive enclave movie stars, ultra-wealthy Californians, including tech industry execs, called home.
Reaching the security gate, Harlow entered the code. The gate swung open, allowing them to continue up the winding driveway.
Aunt Birdie let out a low whistle. “You have an impressive chunk of real estate here.”
“By necessity. It gives the security guards a head start in stopping unwanted visitors from reaching the house. We’re here.”
First things first. They grabbed their carry-on bags and climbed the steps.
Using her e-key, Harlow unlocked the door. She stepped inside, bracing for a rollercoaster of emotions. Instead, she felt strangely detached, as if she was entering someone else’s home.
It looked exactly the same. Ostentatious, over-the-top works of art adorned the walls. Many of the pieces were ones she and Robert had purchased during their world travels.
“This place looks like a museum,” her aunt said.
“Translation for not cozy, warm or welcoming.”
“It reminds me of your New York apartment, but on a larger scale. Let me guess…Robert handled the decorating.”
“Yep.” Harlow wheeled her bag away from the door. “Selma, our housekeeper, is waiting for us. She’s probably in the kitchen.”
With Aunt Birdie trailing behind, Harlow trekked down the long hall to the family room. On the opposite side was the massive kitchen, a state-of-the-art showpiece the couple had hardly ever used.
Clank.A dull clanking echoed from the pantry.
“Selma?”
A small woman with dark hair, pulled back in a bun, appeared. “Harlow.” She hurried across the kitchen. “I’m so glad you’re home.”
Harlow eased her suitcase off to the side and gave her a warm hug. “It’s good to see you.”
Selma stepped back, holding her at arm’s length. “You look well, healthy with a nice glow, like you’ve been getting lots of fresh air and sunshine.”
“We went fishing yesterday in my dad’s boat.” She introduced her aunt. “We’ll be here for a couple of days to pack up my belongings.”
Selma sobered. “I’m sad to hear about the sale. I will miss you.”
“I’ll miss you too.” Selma had worked full time for the couple for several years. She was one of Harlow’s favorite employees, having met her family and even her grandchildren.
Selma was a loyal employee and one of her staunchest supporters. She’d finally phoned Harlow a few weeks after the accident, apologizing and telling her what Harlow had already suspected, that Robert had given her strict orders not to call. Despite being warned, she went against his wishes and tracked Harlow down.
“Robert, Mr. Barbetz told me you are selling. I’m sorry to hear about your divorce, although I…” Her voice trailed off.
“You what?” Harlow prompted.
“I’m not surprised,” Selma blurted out. “Between you and me, he wasn’t always nice to you.”
“No, he wasn’t. I only wish I could take you with me.”
“My family is here,” Selma said. “I may have found another position. I was hoping you could write a letter of recommendation.”
“Absolutely. Of course. I’ll put one together before I leave,” Harlow promised.
“Thank you. Mr. Barbetz has given me time to find new employment. He said you would be okay with me staying on until then.”
