Arizona
Before Annie drove over to Sunnydale, she phoned Theresa, introduced herself, and invited her to meet later in the afternoon.
The next steps were to find out what was behind the heavily guarded door and get a copy of Dottie’s medical records. Once that was done, they could track down the culprits and discharge the justice they most likely deserve, rescuing Aunt Dottie in the process.
Annie pulled into the main entrance, rolled down the driver’s window, and peeked over her round Saint Laurent sunglasses. “Hello. I have an appointment with a Ms. Turner.”
Annie was baffled when she was told she would be meeting with Nurse Ratched. Maybe she wasn’t really a nurse. Maybe she was simply the brute that ran things. She was about to find out.
The security guard made the obligatory call, nodded, gave Annie instructions, and pushed the button that opened the gate. Annie chuckled to herself. Anyone in a Range Rover could slam through that piece of wood hanging on a hinge. She supposed it made people feel more secure.
When she pulled in front of the main entrance, a valet greeted her. “Welcome to Sunnydale, Ms. Dresden.”
“Thank you.” She floated out of her car like any celebrity would. The young man scurried to the front door and opened it for her.
“Ms. Turner will be with you shortly.”
Annie entered the luxurious lobby. The sound of Native American flute music floated through the air. A perky woman behind a long, stone counter greeted her.
“Please have a seat, Ms. Dresden. Ms. Turner is on her way. She asked that I apologize for her delay.”
“No problem. I have loads of time.” She flashed a wide grin.
Several minutes later, a brutelike woman barreled toward her. “I am so sorry to keep you waiting. I have a new hire, and she doesn’t seem to know how to follow instructions.”
That would be Kathryn. Annie laughed to herself. “No worries.” Annie noticed Turner was not wearing a nurse’s uniform. Instead, she wore a sleeveless smock that was a tad too tight. She’d ask Kathryn later what Turner wore in the care unit.
“The grounds are beautiful,” Annie commented.
“Yes, we are very committed to maintaining the landscape, and all the other amenities here at Sunnydale. I understand you are interested in one of our villas?”
Annie and Myra agreed they would follow the same script. “Yes. I’d like to stay on the premises for a few days to get a feel for the place. Would that be possible?”
“Of course!” Turner was actually pleasant. “I can arrange for you to stay in the model I am about to show you. Shall we?” Turner motioned for Annie to follow her through the massive lobby that led to the outdoor palazzo. It was almost identical to the Florida version, except it had more of a Southwestern feel to it.
Turner pointed out the small shops, hairdresser, barber, shoemaker, and jewelry store.Jewelry. Interesting. She made a mental note to ask Myra if there was also one in Florida. Just as had happened with Myra’s experience, an attendant drove them in a golf cart to the far side of the complex where the villas were located. Annie could barely contain herself thinking how her souped-up version could blow past the rig they were riding in.
Annie listened intently while Turner pointed out the tennis and pickleball courts and their prized golf course. When they arrived at the enclave of luxury single-family villas, Turner pulled out a set of keys and opened the massive front door. “It’s on a pressure sensor. You barely need to touch it.”
“Everything is so high-tech these days,” Annie said in awe.
“We want to provide every comfort available. No need to struggle with a door when your hands are full. Am I right?”
“Indeed.”
Turner gave Annie a tour, pointing out more amenities, the lanai, patio, bathrooms, and laundry room. She also explained all the services that were available.
“Do you think I can send for my things and stay tonight?”
Turner was taken aback. “We must fill out the appropriate paperwork first.”
“Of course. Just tell me where to sign.” Annie could see that Turner was chomping at the bit.
“Splendid. Let’s go back to the main office, and we can get you settled.”
“Wonderful. I hope you can also make a few suggestions as to how I can keep myself entertained.”As if Annie needed to be entertained!
The two women climbed back into the cart. Annie would have sworn the attendant pushed the accelerator to the max. Either she wanted to get out of the heat, get rid of Turner, or was told to beat feet to the office.
