Page 7 of Mister Curb Appeal
Brad
Who says that?
Me
Everyone
Brad
I want names
Me
You’re disturbing my peace. Did you want something?
Brad
Nope. Just wanted to annoy you
Me
I’m going for a jog
Brad
I smirk. Asshole is just jealous he didn’t get offered the cabin from Dad. Heck knows this place isn’t big for anything more than a couple. There’s only one bed. And I’m not sharing that with my brother.
Then again, everyone knows I’ve been stressed. As much as I try to hide it, we’re all in tune with one another, so hiding things is never easy. It’s why our family business works so well and hassince Dad paved the way for the next generation. I love my job more than anything. It’s the one stronghold in my life, the one thing I can depend on. It’s what I know.
When I feel like I’ve been slobbing around a little too much, I change into my sweats and take that jog around the lake. It’s so pretty this time of year; the end of summer, but not quite fall. Everything is still green, despite the dry spell we’ve had for a little while. Though, I’ve been told it rains here sporadically, and there was even a weather report this weekend for rain and a cold front. I didn’t let it deter me. In fact, it’ll be even more cozy with the fire on. I noticed the wood pile outside, and I’m not mad about it. The rain gently tinkering on the roof as I read a book, or catch up onGame of Thrones, or just look out at the lake and think. Some R&R sounds good to me. I realize how pathetic I sound, and by the time I’ve jogged right around the lake and back again, I’m famished.
I picked up a whole lot of stuff from the overpriced convenience store on the way in. Apparently they make the best chicken salad this side of California.
I strip off my clothes and jump in the shower.
Yeah. I think I could get used to a simple life, after all.
Chapter Four
LEXI
The long driveway definitely isn’t made for SUVs, but since it’s dry, I make my way slowly up the graveled, leafy road that leads to the cabin. I have to admit, it’s pretty out here in the wilderness. I had a pleasant drive, once we were off the freeway. Mr. Snuggles traveled without complaint. He can be a little particular when we’re in the car, but once we're through the worst of the traffic, he settled down in his bed and went to sleep.
I stopped at the one Lake Haven convenience store, aptly named Haven Quick Pick. It sells overpriced caviar, cheese and chicken salad — in that order — with condiments to die for, fruit so fresh it could run out of there, and organic crusty bread that will set me back a week on the treadmill. I didn’t care. I loaded up. This weekend is about indulgence of the finer things, and I deserve this. I’ve worked my butt off.
I grabbed a bottle of roséon the way out to have with the fresh fish I bought for dinner, along with a bouquet of butter lettuce that was begging to be bagged.
Mr. Snuggles was absolutely no help with the GPS, so I had to navigate and fend him off from trying to steal my chicken salad while driving.
Eventually, we found the address.
As we trundle up the steep hill, a vision of the lake comes into view. It’s spectacular. Chills run over my skin when I keep climbing and more of the wilderness appears before me, and it’s a good kind of chill. I’m a gal who likes to feel the vibes wherever I go. I can kind of sense when things feel off, and when they’re vibing. Very good choice, Ali. Gold stars for you. It’s a pity she got sick, but at least she has her silver fox Tristan making her chicken noodle soup at home. He’s a sweetheart, and he’ll take good care of her. And in the meantime, I get to enjoy this place all to myself for the weekend.
When the cabin comes into view, it’s everything I imagined it would be. Small, quaint, and literally built of wood. I can’t help but squeal because while I’m a city girl at heart, I’ve always wanted a getaway in the mountains. Somewhere quiet and secluded. Albeit, in my fantasy that may have included a hot, rugged, mountain man with too much to say for himself. Better still, he’s the maintenance guy for the cabin who just happens to come by and chop wood for me when I’m all out, and maybe even light the fire. Inevitably, the power goes out, and we’re stranded for days because there’s a wild storm and we can’t possibly leave. Nobody can get in or out. Blame my romance books. It’s not my fault. Ali did say there could be rain this weekend, so I can always pretend.
I pull up in front of the cabin and breathe a sigh of relief as I look up at the quaint wooden structure. I’m glad I stocked up with goods, because I don’t plan on going back into town until tomorrow for the viewing.
The realtor, Melinda Malone, seems chirpy and has sent me all of the information. Our client is making the trip over tomorrow morning. I phoned Monica before I left the office to explain I’d be the one meeting her at the house, even though I know for a fact Ali had already texted her to tell her she was sick. The private viewing will be at eleven. Monica Chase is a verypopular soap opera actress, and she just got her first big movie role. Yes, she’s particular, and she keeps us on our toes, but she’s also spending a lot of money on a second home. It’s a huge purchase. Monica has always been nice to me, in fact, I like her no nonsense attitude. So if giving it to people straight between the eyes is considered rude, or bitchy, sign me up.
