Page 46 of 7 Miles High
Chapter 15
Parker
When Natalie came to stay with me a few weeks ago I introduced her to the parents and she met more of my friends. This trip to Santa Barbara will be more about her life apart from her family. We’ve only got four days before I have to be back for work.
Even though I decided to drive instead of fucking with the hell of flying Southwest, I’m self-contained with one carryon. It’s all a man needs for anything under a week. That’s my rule of order. Try to bring as little as possible. We will be naked most of the time anyway. What a plan.
Weather wise it’s such a great day. Perfect for driving Pacific Coast Highway and the 5. California puts on one of its best shows between my place and Santa Barbara. The ocean, the Santa Ynez Mountains, a dramatic backdrop on either side. It’s really the American Riviera. No wonder the prices of real estate are in the stratosphere.
As I drive through the downtown the Mediterranean style stucco buildings set a mood I’ve always liked. Red-tiled roofs, pristine streets, perfect weather. It all makes for a postcard scene. No wonder that missionary built the Mission here. How could you be in this spot and not want to stay?
And now, decades after consistent growth, the wineries and restaurants have drawn even more people looking for Paradise. This place looks an awful lot like it.
Okay, I’m getting close. Three hundred feet ahead. She sent me a picture of her place and I think that’s the building on the right. Siri’s voice telling me I’ve arrived confirms it. Natalie said to drive into the underground lot and park in the guest area. As I do that I’m texting her.
Me: I’m here. Parking.
It takes a minute before she responds.
Natalie: I can hardly wait to see you!
Me: I’m coming. Don’t keep your pants on.
Natalie: Unfortunately I have company. Neighbor. Just get your ass up here!
Fuck. That’s a cockblocker. Maybe we can get rid of her. She should figure the situation out on her own. Boyfriend arrives, horny lovers, get the hell out of the condo.
I grab my roll on, lock the truck and head for the elevator. As I’m pressing the Up button another car pulls into a nearby spot for residents. The guy gets out and moves quickly to join me.
“Hold it!” he calls and lifts an open palm.
I oblige, even though I’m imagining pretending not to have heard him. No.Don’t be a dick.
The guy slides in to the small elevator and we’re both conscious of invading each other’s personal space.
“Thanks, man. I’m going to four,” he says.
Unfortunately that’s the floor I’m going to too. I’m sizing him up and for some reason he’s doing the same to me once he saw four is the only floor pushed. I caught him looking at my luggage. My radar goes up. This guy is good-looking and he’s straight. Wonder if he lives here? If he’s seen Natalie there’s a one hundred percent chance he’s tried to fuck her. Now I’m pissed. Asshole.
But I can’t let him know. So I smile and he takes the bait.
“Visiting Natalie?”
Fuck me.
“That’s right.”
I offer no other details. Let him twist.
“We’re neighbors. She’s a great girl. But I don’t have to tell you that. You her brother?”
Ha! Okay, now I see you’re interested and hoping I’m not a threat.Sorry to burst your bubble, but I’m your greatest threat, shithead.
The door slides open and we exit the elevator. I wait for a few beats before answering his question.
“No.”
That’s it. One word and a grin confirming his worst nightmare. He nods and turns toward his condo.
