“Andy?”
“It’s good seeing you,” he says.
I frown. “I wish I could say the same.”
Breathe in. Breathe out. You can do this.
Of course, I run into the guy that sold me out my first few days back home. Why would I expect any different with my luck?
He calls for me, but I ignore him, getting into my car and pulling out my phone to send a text to Jake.
My mind suddenly goes blank. How does one ask a grown man to come mow their lawn?
This is all business. Act professional.
Ashlyn:Hey, Jake, it’s Ashlyn Reed. Casey gave me your number. Anyway, Ineed a handyman that can also do yard work. If you’re interested, let meknow.
Before I leave the parking lot, he responds with:
Jake:Long time no see. I hope you are doing well. While I would love tohelp, a fire ravaged my apartment, and I have to look for a new place to stay.
Without thinking, I reply with:
Ashlyn:I have a spare room you’re welcome to.
No, no, no—you didn’t just invite a man you haven’t seen in a decade to come live with youand your granny, you stupid introvert!
Jake:Wow, that would really help me out, actually. With the way things werelooking, I didn’t know if I was going to be sleeping in my car.
There’s no turning back now.
Ashlyn:When should I expect you?
Jake:Would tonight work?
Ashlyn:Sounds perfect.
Chapter 2
Jake
After suffering the worst month of my life, it looks like I’ve finally caught a break.
An old girlfriend took me to court for child support. I had no idea the child existed, but when I found out, I damn near drained my bank account, making sure they were in a good place, and he had toys and clothes, and all of his needs taken care of…only to find out the child is not mine. Shortly after that, my dog died. I had to buy a new set of tires for my car. Then I got arrested for trying to stop my neighbor from beating on his girlfriend. Of course, when the cops came, she defended him up and down, swearing that I barged in and started the ruckus. Luckily, everything was dropped. On top of all that, another neighbor burnt the apartment complex down cooking meth.
I’ve literally lost everything.
At least now I have a place to stay for the summer.
After I’m buzzed through a gate, I park my truck on a circular driveway. The Reed estate is nice, though a little old. More room than any two people need.
I knock on the door with all my worldly possessions in a bag slung over my shoulder.
The door opens, and a sultry brunette greets me. She clears her throat, smoothing back her hair only to have it fall over her eyes again.
Fuck me.
I’m a blessed man, born with both charisma and a body women can’t keep their hands off of—
