“We went to college together,” I said, my eyes still transfixed on Danessa. She looked so grown-up in her sleeveless, flowy cream dress. Her naturally curly hair was silk pressed and swayed side to side as she stepped back from the entryway to let us in. I wanted to retreat. I’m talking full out sprint down the tree-lined street until I put some serious distance between me and this woman.
“Small world.” Nori chuckled.
Wasn’t shit funny. Danessa standing inches away from me was the worst-case scenario. As the new kid on the Ramblers, I would be navigating the complicated inner workings of an established team. Huge egos, lazy players, and a “this is how it’s always been done” mentality. I was prepared to diffuse some bombs, but Danessa was a landmine under my feet. “You have no idea.” Turning to Danessa, I said, “So you moved back home after law school?”
“Yeah, that was always the plan.”
“I remember.” I nodded thoughtfully, reminded of Danessa’s last words to me.
“You’re a native. Then it sounds like we are in good hands,” Nori said.
Danessa shook her head, probably shaking loose old memories. “So did you find the place alright?”
“Yes, the directions you provided were very helpful.”
“Great, well this is 4207 Timberline Way in the Canyon Gate community.” Danessa guided us deeper into the living space. Her mouth was moving, but I was finding it difficult to focus on the actual words. I hadn’t seen Danessa in over five years. We spent most of the summer together after graduation and then things deteriorated quickly. “Canyon Gate is in the southwestern part of Las Vegas, providing close proximity to the Strip. Which a lot of our younger and childfree clients appreciate.”
“So, you’re a realtor now?” I blurted out, clearly still stuck on her and me sharing the same air.
“Yes.”
“Your mother was a realtor?”
Her chestnut eyes sparked at my memory. “That’s right. I started Luxe Desert Dwellings with my mother and sister.”
“Wow, putting that business degree to use.”
Danessa offered me an are you okay smile. “At Canyon Gate you’re also close to the airport. But the best thing about this place is you never have to leave the property because this is a little community all its own with restaurants, a grocery store, gym, and other amenities.”
“I noticed a golf course when we drove in,” Nori said.
“Yes, that’s right, do you golf Aldridge?”
My nose wrinkled at the way she spoke my name. It was empty and devoid of emotion. I was just Aldridge, no longerherAldi. My name hit differently on her tongue when we were in love.
“I don’t.” And she already fucking knew that.
“Maybe you can learn,” Nori suggested.”
“This property has seven bedrooms and six and a half baths.” In the kitchen she pointed out the newest appliances and unique features and my eyes followed her hand, mainly her ring finger, confirming there weren’t any diamond adornments. The thought of running into Danessa and then finding out she was married was a blow I would never recover from. Luckily, she was ringless.
“The backyard is massive,” Nori said.
“Yes, great for parties. You have a pool, a spa, outdoor kitchen and a volleyball court that could easily be converted to a basketball court if you prefer.”
“Do you hear that Aldi?” Nori asked in hopes of getting me to engage.
“Yep. Danessa, would you say this is a family friendly neighborhood?”
“Yes, lots of established families live in the community.”
I tsked at the confirmation. “I don’t see it for this place. I appreciate the tour and your time. Thanks, but no thanks.” I prepared to head back the way we came.
Danessa’s lip torqued upward. “Thanks, but no thanks?”
“Yeah, I’ve seen all I need to see.”
“With all due respect, Aldridge?—”
