Page 41 of The Dating Prohibition
“Thank you,” she murmured, finishing off her drink and taking in their surroundings as he grabbed a clean glass to make afresh cocktail. “You guys own this building, don’t you?”
“Yep, we bought it a few years back, completely gutted it and renovated. It was expensive, but we make it work and we’re busyall the time.”
“I remember the old spot and y’all moving over here. I’vedefinitely noticed how many people come in here so regularly. My hope is that once I’ve set up my business that it will have some of the success that you all do.”
“Definitely. We build regulars over time and we support each other. Word of mouth and community are everything. So, if youneed anything, just call me. I’m happy to talk through logistics and all the back-of-the-house things.”
“I really appreciate that, D.”
“Of course. And I’ll get that gin and tonic started for you.”
She nodded and turned her attention back to her MacBook. She copied the link to the short sale listing and iMessaged AuntieMack from her computer.
Kendra:Hey, Auntie. This is the one that I’ve got my eye on currently. I think that it could be exactly what I’m hoping for.
Auntie Mack responded almost immediately.
Mack:Wonderful. Let me know how it goes, and I’m praying for you.
Kendra:Thank you for being so supportive through all of this.
Mack:Always, my love.
She sent a text to BJ with the same listing.
Kendra:Hey, check this place out.
Ben:Hey. Oh, are you looking at bidding on this?
Kendra:Yes, it’s a short sale that’s going to be at auction next week.
Ben:I know that building. It’s got a really special history in DC.
Kendra:Really?
Ben:Yeah. You know what, are you free tonight? Maybe we could go grab a bite and strategize for your auction.
Kendra paused, her mind swirling around whether the conversation would also take them back to the other night and what theydid.Maybe he wants to do this again? But what about Katie?There was too much to unpack to think that conversation would be productive. She exhaled deeply through her nose, drawingher shoulders down from her ears.
Kendra:I’d love to, but I actually have plans tonight with the girls. We’re going out.
Ben:Girls’ night, huh? Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.
She smirked as she started to type her response––tempted to allude to Shonda wanting to set her up with someone, but she decidedto leave him guessing.
Kendra:No promises.??
Chapter 10
“Ooo, girl, look at that one right there.” Lani tipped her chin to gesture at a sexy bearded man eyeing them.
He nodded in their direction, his smooth bald head catching the light.
“Something about DC bachelors is a sight to behold. I meannn,” Shonda said, dragging out her last word. “He is a fine littlechocolate drop.”
Kendra’s eyes widened.
“What?” Shonda asked coyly. “I’m married. I can still look.”
