My father responded with cold detachment, his typical negotiation tactic, while my mother fretted about what her country club friends would think. I swallowed their disapproval along with two headache tablets, chasing them down with a glass of chilled Chateau d’Yquem.
Then, I quietly made my arrangements, packed my bags, and left.
Now, in a place where no one knows Alexandra Townsen—the former debutante, socialite, and heiress to Townsen Industries, I’ve forgone the shiny blow-outs, manicured nails, and contact lenses. I’m Lexie Monroe again, or trying to be.
I legally changed my name during my brief rebellion at eighteen. Lexie sounded fun and free-spirited, like someone who would dye her hair bright pink and not care what anyone thought.
Over the years, I’ve lost that girl. But I’m here to rediscover her. This is why I have a thousand-piece puzzle spread across the large oak desk by the window. The mess makes my skin itch, but I endure it. Hopefully, as I fit each piece together, I’ll get a clearer picture of who I am.
At eight minutes to five, I lock up. Waiting for Chaz on the porch somehow feels less date-y. I squeeze the ball I’d stuck in my jacket pocket, trying to calm my nerves. I’m not a fan ofsurprises. I need to know what I’m doing and where I’m going. I need to feel prepared—especially in new situations.
I should have told Dee and Jordyn about tonight. I usually tell them everything. Yet, I haven’t even mentioned Chaz. What would I say? That he makes me feel like another woman has taken over my body, and I’m on the outside looking in? I hadn’t wanted to voice any of that out loud, but I’ve seen enough thrillers to know that an attraction isn’t an excuse to toss personal safety and all good sense aside.
Jordyn was stalked last year by someone she knew, only to find out he had a criminal history of repeated offenses. She and another woman were set to testify last month, but he pled guilty to a lesser charge and took the prosecutor’s deal of two years in jail. It’s not nearly long enough and a grim reminder that dangers can lurk in unexpected places. Releasing the ball, I fish my phone out of my pocket.
SISTAHS4EVER Group Chat
Lex: Okay, so I met the Airbnb owner on Saturday. Chaz Delgado. He also owns a cute coffee shop called the Acoustic Café.We’re going out tonight. Just as friends!! A non-date. But since I really don’t know him, I’m telling you as a precaution, though I don’t think there’s anything to worry about. He seems very nice.
No point in saying more and giving them ideas. I hit send and share my location.
Jordyn, quick on the money, texts back as if the phone had been in her hand.
Jordyn: Looking him up now.
Oh God. My fingers squeeze the device, dreading what’s about to happen next. Sure enough?—
Jordyn: Girl, you were holding out on us. Gorgeous, tatted, and thicc AF.
Jordyn: Big dick energy, and the man can saang!
Lex: We’re just friends.
Jordyn: Friendship is wasted on a man like that unless it comes with benefits.
Lex:
I really don’t need to be thinking about Chaz’s benefits. I look down the street when I hear the roar of an engine and see two headlights cutting through the fall of evening.
Lex: He’s here. TTYL.
Jordyn: Do everything I would do and more! But wait for my green light.
I don’t have time to wonder what she means. Chaz pulls up to the curb on a sleek black and yellow snowmobile. Not what I was expecting. I tuck my phone inside my zippered pocket and descend the stairs, taking deep breaths as Chaz dismounts.He’s wearing black snow pants, a bomber-style ski jacket, and a helmet with a flip-down shield. When he lifts it, I’m struck right in the feels by that smile.
“Delgado Tours at your service.”
“This is a surprise.”
“One of many for the night.”
I tap my finger to my thumb. “Where are we going?”
“You’ll see,” he says, oblivious to my inner turmoil.
I should tell him. He seems the type of man who would want me to feel comfortable. But having him think I’m some Nervous Nellie or a killjoy stops me.
“Where should I put this?” I ask, lifting my camera bag.
